Culture and Cakes in London

I’ve already blogged about our afternoon tea at Soho’s Secret Tea Room, but whilst in London also found time to drop into The Hummingbird Bakery in South Kensington. I use their recipe books a lot in my baking, cupcakes in particular, and have always felt that mine are nicer than ones I’ve bought! I can now … Continue reading Culture and Cakes in London

London Hotel Review: Twenty Nevern Square

On our one night trip to London we stayed at the luxury townhouse boutique hotel 20 Nevern Square in Earls Court. I have some specific requirements when booking hotels for mini breaks – I’m looking for something around the £100 mark (which I consider pretty reasonable for most cities), something that’s pleasant to stay in, … Continue reading London Hotel Review: Twenty Nevern Square

Shhh… It’s a Secret!

One of my favourite lunchtime haunts in Manchester is Sugar Junction - think vintage styling, mismatched china, homemade cakes and tea! So when I heard about Soho’s Secret Tea Room (shhh, it’s a secret!) I knew I had to pay a visit on my trip to London. What I knew was that there would be … Continue reading Shhh… It’s a Secret!

Packing Light For a One Night Stay

This week I’m embarking on a teeny tiny mini-break to London. We’re staying just one night and will be taking in two shows (although we do also plan to fit a few other things in). And a bit of ingenious packing is required, as I do not want to be bogged down with heavy or bulky baggage. … Continue reading Packing Light For a One Night Stay

SS13 Trends From the Tweet Seat

Earlier this evening I was live tweeting from the Tweet Seat in Manchester Arndale where stylist Debs was presenting some of the SS13 trends and key pieces from Next, Bank and Superdry. Check out the funky Big Brother-esque chairs! (Thanks to Sarah from Fashion Dotty for sending this photo over) Here are a few of … Continue reading SS13 Trends From the Tweet Seat

A Night at the Ballet

For the last four seasons I have been to see Birmingham Royal Ballet’s touring productions at the Lowry Theatre at Salford Quays, and they never disappoint. I’ve become a bit of a ballet snob actually, and now only the most sumptuous productions will do. I want to see world class dancers, extravagant sets and unbelievably … Continue reading A Night at the Ballet

What I Wore: Cobalt Blue

This is what I wore for my friends’ birthday celebrations last night. I am so pleased with this amazing dress purchase – I found it hanging around the H&M sale racks for just £10! I love the bright cobalt blue colour, which is not only looking to be a big trend for summer but is also … Continue reading What I Wore: Cobalt Blue

Science and Industry, Cupcakes and Handbags

Yesterday my boyfriend and I had the unenviable task of entertaining a high maintenance seven year old girl (his niece). It was a sunny February day, and we decided to venture into the city to see whether she would enjoy some of the other things Manchester has to offer before the inevitable trip to The … Continue reading Science and Industry, Cupcakes and Handbags

Luxury beauty brands at Harvey Nichols

Earlier this week I got up close and personal with a range of luxury beauty brands at the Harvey Nichols Beauty Studio event, which meant trying out new products, watching demonstrations and speaking to the brand experts. It was nice to create a scent profile with Penhaligon’s, where we worked out which of the many … Continue reading Luxury beauty brands at Harvey Nichols

Romance that doesn’t break the bank

Ah Valentine’s Day. It’s a funny old day. I think it’s such a nice idea to celebrate love and romance (what could be a nicer thing to celebrate?), but when it comes with the pressure of spending money it does tend to make people cynical. There’s no denying that Valentine’s is very commercial, and while … Continue reading Romance that doesn’t break the bank