Our Wedding!

After a lengthy 2-year engagement (or at least I thought it was lengthy!) we finally tied the knot last Friday!! The day was truly perfect and everything came together beautifully, just as I imagined it. I was very relaxed right up until it was time to walk down the aisle – then all the emotions took over! Despite this, I wish I could relive the moment over and over. I am so grateful to everyone (suppliers and family alike) who helped me make the day so magical. Photography credit to our amazing photographer Martin Ward. 📸

Wedding Details:

Piper- Jimmy Banks
Ceremony Location – The Long Gallery @ Balbirnie House
Chairs – Balbirnie’s Limewash Chiavari Chairs decorated with pink sashes supplied by Style A Chair 
Drinks reception drink - Bellini
Photographer- Martin Ward
Cake – Fantastic wedding cake supplied by Cherry on Top
Evening Entertainment – “ NOTHERN STAR “
Bridal Make-up- and Bridal Hair- Pouts and Pinups
Favours – Personalised Shortbread
Flowers- mixed cream roses and cream blooms, blush pink avalanche roses, florets of blue hydrangea, white bouvardia & gypsophilia filler
Florist- Green Room florists
Sweetie Buffet- Supplied by Bride and Groom
Post Box- Balbirnie’s vintage post box

xx

When In Rome...

Last year myself and my fiancé Scott headed off on a 4-day trip to Rome. We had never been to Italy before and it had long been on my bucket list of countries to visit!  We were also there over my birthday which made the trip extra special!

I wanted to share some photos and helpful travel hints as well as our hotel, restaurants we visited and what we got up to. So, let’s start with day 1…

Day 1: Arriving in Rome

We caught a direct, 3-hour flight from Edinburgh to Ciampino airport in Rome and arrived into the city at 10.30am. We had decided before we left the UK that we would take a cab to our hotel as we knew that there was a fixed fee of 30 euros imposed on cab companies for airport runs into the centre of Rome. Just a word of warning here, some cab drivers are trying to negotiate higher fares (a bit cartel style) with tourists – but if you know your hotel is in the centre of Rome – an area known as the Aurelian walls please stick to your guns! We did have one taxi driver trying to charge us €50 before a second driver agreed to take us for the fixed fee of €30. Also, you are not expected to tip in Rome so unless your taxi driver has done something exceptional – keep your cash.

We were staying at the Tribune Hotel, a beautiful hotel in the historical centre of Rome. Let me start off by saying that I am in no way sponsored by the Tribune Hotel (God I wish!!). It’s just a hotel that I bloody loved! The hotel was so modern and beautifully styled with mustard gold velvet seats and deep purple walls, high ceilings and a grand staircase that sported some very elegant tubular ceiling lights.  One of the best features of this hotel was a complimentary smart phone that comes with every room. This wasn’t so appealing to us as coming from another EU country (although not for long ☹) as we could use our own phones for 3G free of charge. However, this would be very useful for anyone coming from outside the EU as it comes preprogramed with maps and restaurant recommendations etc.

We used the phone given to us to find a restaurant for lunch. We went to a place called Harry’s which was very nice although it was a little on the pricey side – perhaps just the area as it was just around the corner from some very nice hotels.

After lunch we headed off to the Spanish steps and the Trevi fountain two very popular tourist sites. Luckily for us we had very nice weather and we could sit, people watch and enjoy the views around us.

For dinner that night we headed to Pizzaria da baffeto – a pizzeria close to Piazza Navona. This pizzeria is very popular with tourists and locals alike (even a few celebrities such as actor Jeff Goldblum). The pizzas are very cheap and very good (two things that aren’t often associated together) but trust me they are good – thin, crispy and traditional, just the way they should be! The only thing I would say is that it has a very simple, convivial style where you could be sharing a table with strangers. So, if that’s not your thing you might feel uncomfortable.

Day 2   - My Birthday!

Whist we didn’t go away specifically for my birthday it was very nice to be on holiday and enjoy turning 25 in a beautiful city. I chose to go to the Colosseum for my birthday - and it did not disappoint. I was blown away by the history and grandeur of the Colosseum and really enjoyed learning some fascinating facts. For example, did you know that the Colosseum was once filled with water to stage a mock see battle for spectators? Nope, me either!

For lunch we stumbled across a café called Antico Forno Al Serpenti. It was perfect for a quick snack as there was a little seating area and it felt very local rather than being swamped by tourists. It was also very reasonably priced - which is a nice little bonus.

For dinner we went to Cul De Sac - a wine bar and restaurant close to Piazza Navona. This was one of my favourite restaurants of the trip. I had a pesto pasta and the best wine I’ve ever drank in my entire life – but I can’t remember what the wine was called! I’m sure all their wine is delicious…

 Day 3 – Vatican City

On day three we took a cab over to the Vatican City. Unfortunately, this was on a Wednesday in high season and apparently this is one of the worst times you can visit as it is so busy! The Papal audience occurs on Wednesdays, giving tourists and pilgrims a chance to see the Pope. We didn’t know this – and experienced crowds like we have never experienced crowds before. However, it was a good trip and is a must see if visiting Rome. Just avoid a Wednesday (or Sunday – another chance to see the Pope) if you can – unless you specifically want to see the Pope that is.

For lunch we visited Alice Pizza – a little street pizza café in Rome where pizza is served by the kilo and cut into rectangular slices. It was DELICIOUS!

 Dinner was spent at Osteria Barberini – not too far from our hotel. This restaurant specializes in truffles and OMG is it incredible. I had black ruffle bruschetta as a starter and the ravioli with sage butter as a main – it was heavenly. If you decide to go here, you will have to book as its very popular with locals and tourists alike.

Day 4 - Last Minute Shopping / Time to Fly Home

Day 4 left us with just a little time to pick up a few souvenirs and goodies before flying back home including this cute little decoration for our Christmas tree so we could treasure our trip for years to come. 

Thanks for reading!

M x

❤

13 Reasons Why – Netflix’s Newest Mystery Series with a Twist

I have a lot of admiration for 13 Reasons why, Netflix’s recent adaptation of Jay Asher’s bestselling novel. I finished watching the series yesterday and I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it since. Any story that can capture an audience whilst bringing hard issues such as bullying and suicide to light deserves a lot of praise in my book! For those of you haven’t read the book or watched the series, the basic plot follows Hannah Baker, a 17 year old high school student who makes the tragic decision to end her own life. Hannah leaves behind 13 tapes outlining 13 reasons why she decided suicide was her only option. The series was a tough watch and I experienced a roller coaster of emotions whilst watching it. However, I believe the series impacted me in a positive way.

 I think one of the main reasons why I was utterly gripped by this series was because the characters are so relatable. Hannah Baker is a very normal teenager - as are the other characters featured in the 13 episodes. I think, regardless of who you are or your background – you will relate to at least one of the characters at some point. 

 The series also deals with a lot of difficult themes, which we are perhaps not always used to seeing on screen. As well as suicide and bulling we also see themes of rape, drug abuse, peer pressure and homosexuality. These themes grip the audience and make Hannah’s story feel very real. 

After watching I was reminded how important it is to show kindness to others. It seems so simple but I think it’s something we can often forget. We can get so caught up in our own lives and issues that we can forget to look out for others. I think Netflix have done a very good job of highlighting metal health issues among adolescents through the series. Do you agree? I’d love to hear your opinion in the comments.

The Loveliest Surprise

I am currently writing this post with the biggest smile on my face because, as of yesterday, I am engaged! It still hasn’t completely sunk in yet, but I have been on a high all weekend and I could not be happier. It started off just like any other rainy/miserable Saturday. It was half snowing, half raining, yet Scott insisted on trekking up East Lomond  (a hill in Fife, Scotland). I did think this was incredibly bizarre considering the murky weather but, he kept going on about wanting to be healthy and get fit so I went along with it, none the wiser.

Disaster did strike half way up the road leading to the visitor car park. Snow on the road meant my little 1.2 Corsa wasn’t having it and refused to drive, getting stuck on a windy dirt track road. I started to panic (anyone who knows me, knows driving is not my forte!) and had to get Scott to reverse back down the hill for me. I was still none the wiser when Scott suggested we walk round a local loch instead. So off I drove, still slightly confused at this sudden desire to go out walking despite our earlier hiccup!

By the time we got to the loch the rain had subsided so it was just the cold we had to contend with as we made our way round the foggy loch. On the way back to the car Scott asked if I could take his photo. This did confuse the hell out of me because there was nothing to really take a photo of as it was so dark and misty. Puzzled, I pulled my phone out and clicked the camera icon but as I looked up I noticed he had his back to me. ‘What?! You want me to take a photo of your back?’ I exclaimed. I was utterly confused. It was at this point he turned around and produced the most beautiful ring.

I honestly don’t think I’ve ever been so shocked. I’m sure I looked ridiculous as I’m pretty sure my jaw was on the floor. He even got down on one knee. And so, I’ve been in a complete state of bliss ever since…who knew he could be so romantic?

Apologies in advance for the wedding/house posts that will no doubt dominate the blog over the next little while as I start to plan. Hopefully you will enjoy reading these. Of course I will still post about beauty, travel, lifestyle etc.

Top Tips for Newbie Business Travelers

This year I embarked on my first experience of business travel – a six week secondment just outside London for some training. As this was my first experience of business travel – I really didn’t have a clue what to expect! But now, two weeks in I am ready to share what I have learnt so far…

Take some home comforts with you – a blanket, hot water bottle or your favorite mug. 

If you are away for any length of time it may bring you comfort to have your favorite throw or blanket with you for cuddling up and watching TV. It’s the little things that can often bring you comfort and minimize the risk of feeling homesick. I realized after my first week that I wish I had packed some extra crap home comforts.

Hotel restaurants are brilliant

Providing that there is enough to keep you satisfied on the menu, hotel restaurants can be the perfect alibi for a weary business traveler. You can often get heather meals than you would from a fast food joint and there are often other business travelers eating alone to minimize the feeling awkwardness. Many hotels also offer room service if this still fills you with dread (providing you can afford this as part of your meal policy).

Think about your essentials 

Are you a gym buddy who can’t cope with the idea of not working out? Or, does the idea of having to get a new WIFI code each evening scare you to death? Think about the things that really matter to you. For example, a Holiday Inn may have a good central location with lots to do but lack a gym or pool. Again, after week one I realized that I should have thought about staying in a hotel with a gym. Luckily I am staying in a different hotel next week!

Location, location, location

If you are away for a week or more think about your location. As an example, if you know you will get fed up of the hotel restaurant, make sure you have other options for food close by. Alternatively, if you think you will be bored in the evening choose a hotel in the city centre where you can access shops, cinema or even a gym (pure gym doesn’t require a membership so you can join up for a short period of time). 

Keep a note of key phone numbers and names

Being alone on business travel can be nerve wracking when you are in a brand new city or town. Keep a note of key numbers such as your travel insurance, home office, taxi / rental car etc. Having these scribbled close by can keep you at ease.

Claiming expenses can be time consuming so do it earlier rather than later 

Make sure you can clear an hour out of you diary to sort through expenses as this can take a while. I have actually got into the habit of doing this at the weekend so I have my week to concentrate on actual work rather than bloody expenses. Also, check to see if there is an app you can use for uploading your receipts as this will save time scanning P.S. Keep receipts for everything – and I mean everything! 

Hopefully these tips will be of use for anyone new to the business travel game!

❤

Body Shop

A couple of weeks ago I went to a Body Shop party and splurged out on a few goodies. If you have never heard of a Body Shop party you are missing out big time! It's the perfect excuse to invite all your friends around, enjoy some nibbles and shop until your little heart is content. 

What I Bought:

Pinita Colada Gift Essentials

Pinita Colada Shower Gel

Vitamin E Skin-In Moisture Sleeping Mask

Vitamin E Eyes Cube

Rainforest Radiance Shampoo For Coloured Hair

Rainforest Radiance Conditioner For Coloured Hair

Rainforest Radiance Detangling Spray For Coloured Hair

Skinny Thin Felt Eyeliner

Super Volume Mascara

Pinita Colada Gift Essentials:

As soon as I seen this gift set I just knew I needed it for my Summer holidays! The products smell amazing (major plus in my books) and have bright tropical packaging that just screams Summer. The gift set comes with a mini sized shower gel which will be prefect for traveling, as well as a body butter, body scrub and bath lily. As I am really pale I often get a spray tan before jetting off on holiday, so when I seen that this gift set contained a scrub and body butter I thought, perfect! Just what I need for maintaining my tan on holiday! 

Because I loved the gift set so much I also bought a full sized shower gel too to carry on the Summer vibes log after the holiday ends...

Pinita Shower Gel:

Vitamin E Sink-In Moisture Sleeping Mask:

Next on the list was this moisture sleeping mask. I love using this product as a  treat for a pamper session once or twice a week. It has a light, gel like formula which is very hydrating and moisturizing when left on the skin over night. I definitely think this product will work well in all seasons - especially winter (even though I hope winter is a very long way off!)

Vitamin E Eyes Cube:

I also bought the Eyes Cube from the Vitamin E range. This product has a very nice cooling sensation which is great for tired eyes. Much like most anti-fatigue products, it won't actually make you look 100% more awake but at least you will feel a bit more refreshed and rejuvenated after applying it.

Rainforest Radiance For Coloured Hair:

It was the detangle spray in this collection that really caught my eye as I have naturally tuggy hair that demands a lot of care and attention. The products have no silicones, parabens or colourants and my hair has really thanked me since buying these products.  

Skinny Thin Felt Eyeliner/Super Volume Mascara:

Along with the Pinita Colada Gift set, these two little products are my favorite! I wasn't 100% keen on the mascara to begin with as I found it a little bit messy as it has quite a wet consistency. However, the mascara has grown on me and now that I used to applying it - I love it! The Skinny Thin Felt Liner is also a really great product as it has a super thin tip which makes application really easy (even for a novice like me!).  

❤

New York Photos

I have been back from New York for a week now, and it has taken almost all this time to get over my jet lag! I wanted to create a little blog post to share my photos and happy memories....enjoy x

These are some of my favorite photos from the trip! I loved every second of five day stay and can't wait to go back. Until next time NYC...