Tag: Home Decor

Elemay Starry Nights Luxury Refillable Ceramic Candle

Autumn, Christmas, Fragrance, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Home, REUSABLE, Stocking Fillers, Vegan, Winter, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

When it comes to candles, I’ve found it’s worth paying a little more for a better quality candle. While cheaper ones will flicker away quite happily, many are made with paraffin wax, which can release soot and toxins into the air. Spend a bit more, however, and you get something altogether different. Natural wax candles burn more cleanly, with a steadier flame and the scent actually smells like what it says on the box.

Which brings me to Elemay candles – they’re made from 100% natural soy wax with lead-free cotton wicks, making them just as as kind to the air as they are beautiful to look at. The brand was dreamed up by Ellie while she was on maternity leave. And you can tell – this isn’t some faceless corporation churning out identical jars of wax. Every scent has been chosen with care to bring a sense of calm, joy and a little bit of luxury into your day. And I think we can all agree, we need more of that.

With notes of jasmine, zesty citrus, sweet musk and vanilla, the Starry Nights fragrance is inspired by Steephill Cove on the Isle of Wight with Ellie wanting the candle to capture the magic of a clear summer night under a starry sky.

In my opinion candles should look as good as they smell and Elemay certainly delivers on that front. The luxury refillable ceramic candles are in handcrafted ceramic pots, made exclusively for the brand by Sussex-based artist Beth. Each pot is uniquely glazed and the Starry Nights pot has midnight blues and dusky purples to reflect the starry sky above the coast. Mine even arrived with a photograph of the cove taken by Ellie’s dad, and it’s incredible how Beth has echoed the image in her design.

I was surprised to discover that in most areas of the UK, candle jars can’t be recycled, so Elemay’s refill option is such a great idea. It’s not only a more sustainable choice but also a more cost-effective way to enjoy their candles. Refills are priced at £15, while the Starry Nights candle itself is £35.

The 220g candle has a burn time of around 40 hours comes with a care card and refill guide, and is packaged in a reusable linen gift bag, making it a perfect treat for yourself or a lovely Christmas gift.

Bedsure Sherpa Fleece Throw Blanket

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, camping, Christmas, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Home, Home & Garden, Winter, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review but all thoughts and opinions are our own.

A cosy blanket is one of those gifts that you don’t realise you need until you receive one and then wonder how you ever managed without it! There’s nothing better than snuggling up on the sofa, watching a festive film, whilst snuggled up in a cuddly blanket. And they’re not just for the sofa – pop one on the bed and it’s perfect for keeping the chill away on those frosty winter nights.

Bedsure recently sent me one of their Sherpa Fleece Blankets which are available in four sizes – Throw/Single, Twin/Double, Queen and King. With an impressive 22 colours to choose from ranging from soft pastels like pink, cream and lilac to bolder shades like navy, black and dark grey there’s a colour to suit all tastes whether it’s for a Scandi-style living room or to add a pop of colour to a bedroom.

The Throw/Single size measures 130 x 150cm and is the perfect size for sharing on the sofa or layering over the bed. It’s also reversible, one side is silky-soft 220 GSM flannel, while the other is a wonderfully plush Sherpa fleece. It’s incredibly warm but surprisingly lightweight and if you’re of those people who feels the cold easily then you definitely need one of these blankets on your Christmas list this year! Although summer might not seem the perfect time to test a blanket, I took mine on a caravan trip and was very glad I did. It was perfect for wrapping myself in when we were sat outside chatting with friends and it kept me lovely and snug when the temperature dropped.

The blanket is machine washable between 30°C and 60f°C, although 40°C is recommended to keep it in top condition. You can also tumble dry it on a low heat, which helps maintain its softness after washing.

Some people are more difficult to buy for than others, but this year I’ll have them covered – quite literally – with a Bedsure Sherpa Fleece Blanket. It’s the kind of present that’s practical and indulgent and I can already picture them curled up in it on Boxing Day, cup of tea in hand, feeling toasty and very pleased with their gift.

RRP £25.99 available from Amazon

Catherine Lansfield Zero Twist Six Towel Bale

Birthday Gifts, Family Life, Father's Day, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Home, Home & Garden

Disclaimer: we received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

There’s something quietly satisfying about a fresh set of towels, so I was really pleased to get my hands on the Catherine Lansfield Zero Twist Towel Bale. New towels are one of those little luxuries you don’t always think to buy for yourself – but once you have them, you wonder why you ever put up with those thin, tired old ones in the first place!

The towel bale is available in ten different colours and I opted for classic navy blue as it’s a great all-rounder- stylish, practical, and ideal for a house full of boys. Navy goes with almost anything, and it’s brilliant at hiding the odd splash of mud or DIY-related grime making them perfect for dads who spend their weekends in the garden, tinkering with tools, or elbow-deep in the shed.

Now, let’s talk texture, I like my towels soft and absorbant, there’s nothing worse than a towel that looks great on display but does nothing when it comes to drying. These ones though are just right, they’re soft and cosy without being too plush, reasonably thick, and best of all, properly absorbent. They feel lovely to use and do the job well.

I’ve washed them a couple of times now on a standard 40°C cycle and they’ve come out brilliantly – no roughness, no colour fade, and no shrinkage. Just the same soft, reliable towels, ready to use again.

The bale includes two bath towels, two hand towels, and two face cloths and are ideal for giving your bathroom an instant refresh without costing the earth. The towels actually feels much more expensive than the price tag suggests.

So if you’re looking for a Father’s Day gift that’s practical with just ahint of indulgence, this set is a brilliant choice. It won’t make any noise or need charging, but it will make Dad’s mornings that little bit nicer – and really, isn’t that what it’s all about?

RRP £56 but they are currently on offer at £26.92 which is an absolute bargain.

Wade Fish Jug

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Home & Garden, Valentine's Day Gifts, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own

Who had a Wade Fish Jug when they were growing up? They’re one of those nostalgic pieces that instantly add a bit of character to any home. These jugs have been around for over 150 years, and I recall lots of my friends having one in their homes when we were growing up. Mum has a pale green one that she still uses as a vase, and I have one that belonged to my grandma, so it is nice to see that they are still just as popular.

The jugs are made from high quality earthenware at the Wade factory in Stoke-on-Trent, and the iconic fish-shaped jugs are also known as Gluggle Jugs – thanks to the gurgling noise they make when you pour the liquid out. It’s such a quirky feature and a guaranteed conversation starter!

One of the first things that really caught my eye with this particular jug is the colour. The shade of cobalt blue is absolutely gorgeous – deep, rich, and instantly reminiscent of the sea. The fish shape is fun and quirky, yet it manages to look elegant and sophisticated too. It looks fabulous in all kinds of interiors, it will really stand out in a minimalist setting, where the bold colour takes centre stage, or sit just as comfortably in a more traditional home. Whether you fill it with fresh flowers or display it on a shelf as a decorative piece, it offers endless styling possibilities.

What I also love is how sturdy and well-made it feels and the opening is wide enough to hold anything from delicate spring flowers to larger floral displays.

The Wade Fish Jug is available in two sizes, medium (0.6L) and large (1.2L) and there are  six fabulous colours to choose from – White, Sage Green, French Grey, Cobalt Blue, Forest Green, and Teal so there’s one to suit every home.

So if you’re after something that little bit different that combines history, craftsmanship, and good old-fashioned British charm, you really can’t go wrong with one of these beauties.

RRP 0.6l £34.99 and 1.2l £44.99

Woodwick Candles

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Family Life, Fragrance, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Home & Garden, Mother's Day, secret santa, Spring, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, Winter, Women

Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review, but as always, all thoughts and opinions are our own!

I love candles, my house is filled with them, and I can’t resist the candle section in shops, spending ages sniffing every single one before convincing myself that I absolutely need another one (or three!) Over the years I have discovered that it is worth spending money on decent candles, if you don’t, you may be disappointed as candles do tend to vary from brand to brand. Some barely give off any scent, while others burn unevenly and leave you feeling totally disappointed. That’s why, once you find a good brand, you stick with it – and for me, that brand is Woodwick.

Now, I’m a firm believer that a candle isn’t just about the scent – it’s about the whole experience. It needs to look stylish in your home, set the mood, and actually make an impact. And trust me, Woodwick candles tick all those boxes. Not only do they look fabulous, but the fragrances are divine and last. Plus, they have that signature Pluswick® Innovation wooden wick that crackles like a real fire making the room feel nice and cosy when they’re lit.

I like to change scents depending on the time of year and my current favourites are from Woodwick’s Haze range – Terra Haze and Solar Haze.

Terra Haze is a gorgeous grey candle with a deep, earthy fragrance that reminds me of that fresh smell after rain – you know the one? It’s got hints of cedarwood and moss, and it just makes everything feel warm and inviting. Perfect for those chilled-out evenings with a cup of tea (or a glass of something stronger!).

Then there’s Solar Haze, which is completely different but equally gorgeous. This one is all about fresh, uplifting citrus – think grapefruit, lychee, and a burst of morning sunshine in candle form. It’s fresh, zingy, and ideal for brightening up your mood and your home.

The best bit? These candles are designed to burn evenly, so you don’t get that annoying wax tunnel, and the scent actually lingers – I can still smell it in my living room the following morning! Plus, the jars are so pretty that once the candle’s finished, you can upcycle them into a vase.

And here’s a little hint hint for anyone struggling for a Mother’s Day gift – because let’s be honest, what mum wouldn’t love a luxurious candle? Whether she’s into relaxing, refreshing, or just making her home smell amazing, a Woodwick candle is a guaranteed winner. It’s like gifting an entire vibe – and at £32.99, it’s a little touch of indulgence that she’ll love.

So, if you want to create a cosy, welcoming feel in your home (or treat someone special), these candles are an absolute must-have. Light it, sit back, and let the gorgeous scent do the rest!

The Copenhagen Company Grapefruit Candle

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Fragrance, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Home & Garden, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, Vegan, Winter, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

Candles have a magical ability to transform any room into a cosy, inviting retreat. The gentle flicker of the flame, combined with a beautiful fragrance, creates an ambience perfect for unwinding after a long day. Whether you’re curled up with a book, soaking in a bath, or listening to soothing music, candlelight helps relax both body and mind.

The Copenhagen Company have a fantastic range of candles, diffusers and room sprays with a great range of scents including classic florals like French Lavender and Peony and my all time favourite – Grapefruit. The family business was established in 1999 and draws inspiration from founder Bo’s Danish roots and love for fine fragrances. Their collection captures the essence of Hygge, offering products that bring warmth and comfort to your space, and are perfect as we head into autumn with the longer, darker nights.

The grapefruit-scented candle has refreshing top notes of grapefruit, blackcurrant, and passionfruit, with a rich base of vanilla and sandalwood. Once lit, the fragrance quickly fills the room and the beautiful scent lingers long after the candle has been extinguished – in fact I can still detect it the following morning.  

The grapefruit’s zesty aroma is uplifting and energizing and perfect for brightening your mood and refreshing your space. Whether it’s your kitchen, living room, or home office, the scent brings a revitalizing touch to any room. The candle’s double wicks ensure an even burn, consistently releasing fragrance while providing extra warmth and light, enhancing the cosy atmosphere for those peaceful moments of relaxation.

The 600g candle has a burn time of 60-65 hours so my home is going to be smelling lovely in the run up to Christmas!

Not only is this candle a wonderful treat for yourself, but it also makes a thoughtful Christmas gift. The bright, citrusy scent is a refreshing change from traditional holiday aromas, making it an ideal gift for anyone looking to elevate their home with a warm yet invigorating fragrance.

RRP £17

Bruler Bergamot & Oud Luxury Soy Candle

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, Fragrance, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Home, Home & Garden, Mother's Day, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, Winter, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

Lighting a scented candle is a simple way to create a cozy and relaxing atmosphere in any room and with Valentine’s Day coming up, make the perfect gift for a loved one. For a special occasion it’s lovely to have a luxury candle but premium scented candles, whilst smelling amazing, can be a little pricey so I was really pleased to discover Bruler Candles whose mission is to make premium scented candles at an affordable price. With over 15 scents and a choice of candles and reed diffusers there is a great selection to choose from.

In my experience the sign of a good candle is always when you can smell the fragrance before you take it out of the packaging and the Bruler candle did not disappoint on that score! After unwrapping the Bergamot & Oud luxury soy candle l couldn’t resist lighting it straight away and within minutes the sublime fragrance was diffusing around the room.  The balance of bergamot and oud is perfect, the fragrance is noticeable but not too overpowering and it fragranced my room beautifully, lasting long after the candle had been blown out. With the 30cl candle having a burn time of 40 hours my home is going to be smelling lovely for the next few months.    

The design of the candle is nice and simple, a solid glass jar with a white label meaning it will suit any style of décor and not look out of place. The 30cl glass candle costs a very reasonable £23 and there is the option of adding a gift box for an extra £2.  Standard delivery is £3 and orders over £50 (with standard delivery) are free.

So if you want a candle to create a romantic ambience this Valentine’s Day then take a look at Bruler candles, they will add a luxurious feel to any home without an expensive price tag. And if there isn’t anyone special this year then why not treat yourself!!