TABLE TO RESERVE : THE IVY SOHO BRASSERIE

image credit theivysohobrasserie.com

We celebrated Valentines early with dinner at the new Ivy Soho Brasserie

Perfect food, well made drinks and a buzzy, upbeat atmosphere with a DJ spinning out a soundtrack to supper, I would definitely recommend this place.

Regardless of the quick succession of new 'Ivy' establishments that have been popping up in almost every neighbourhood recently I think they successfully manage to feel un chain like with each restaurant possessing it's own unique character and decor to match.

Soho, you are my new fave!

The Ivy Soho Brasserie, 26-28 Broadwick Street, London W1F 8JB

TheIvySohoBrasserie.com

PLACE TO DISCOVER: THE SCHOOL OF LIFE

image credit theschooloflife.com

On my way to visit a client a few years ago I walked past The School of Life in Russell Square. 

I often pass by cafes, boutiques, billboards etc when I am on my travels about town and keep a never ending list of anything curious that has caught my eye, to google when I next get a spare 5 minutes.

The School of Life is devoted to developing emotional intelligence with the assistance of culture.

With headquarters based in London, they operate around the globe through a host of channels from classes and therapies to self published books and movies, objects and tools, to help achieve the quest for a more fulfilled life.

A dear friend of mine bought me one of their books as a gift recently which reminded me of their existence, I have since in turn consulted them to buy presents for my friends too.

A gift from The School of Life feels like a very special and personal offering for anyone who appreciates psychology and literature.

The School Of Life, 70 Marchmont Street, Kings Cross, London WC1N 1AB

TheSchoolOfLife.com

The Book of Life (an offshoot website) is also well worth a read and covers constantly updated chapters on topics including capitalism, work, relationships, self, culture and curriculum.

HAIR HEROES : MARIA NILA HEAL RANGE

I am big fan of Scandi haircare line Maria Nila and their latest launch - the Heal range is a great addition which I think many of my clients will love.

I would say that the biggest hair concerns I get asked about are dry scalp/dandruff and hair thinning. The Heal range is designed to address both hair and scalp and has some pretty impressive ingredients to tackle some of the most common issues.

For a healthier scalp . . .

Aloe Vera For it's emollient, moisturising, calming and healing properties.

Piroctone Olamine creates a balance in the scalp by preventing the excessive bacteria and fungus that causes dandruff.

Vitamin E An antioxidant that increases the skin's moisture capacity, prevents skin damage and makes skin softer.

For stronger and healthier hair . . . 

Peptides Increase the blood supply to the hair follicles, which stimulates hair growth and improves the quality of the hair shaft.

Reinforces the structure of the hair shaft to better withstand mechanical and thermal stresses such as using a hair dryer, straightner, curling iron or other hot styling tools.

Apignenin & Oleanolic acid Transfer nutrients and active ingredients to the hair follicles.

Reduce the generation of Dihydrotestosteron, a hormone commonly known to cause hair loss.

Accelerate the hair growth and increase the anchoring power by promoting adhesive proteins.

There is a shampoo, conditioner and mask available within the Heal range and like the rest of the Maria Nila products they are all paraben/sulphate free, colour safe and 100% Vegan.

Available at sallyexpress.com in a range of sizes, 

£24.98 for 350ml shampoo and £25.99 for 300ml conditioner.

Thanks for dropping by, I hope that you found something of interest!

H x

PLACE TO DISCOVER: MAISON ASSOULINE

image credit assouline.com

One of my most favourite recent finds.

Following a nightmarish 30 second error of judgement that was walking into Fortnum & Masons at Christmas time, stepping into Maison Assouline was like passing through the wardrobe to Narnia.

Leaving behind the hustle and bustle of festive frenzy on Piccadily Circus and into the elegance of the cool, calm flagship store we were greeted with a tasteful selection of stylish coffee table books, candles and gifts and Swans bar where a man in a white jacket mixed drinks.

I  must have walked past this building a thousand times and had no idea what was hidden behind it's doors.

Recognised as the first fashion publisher in the world, Prosper and Martine Assouline founded the luxury brand Assouline publishing in 1994 and have since created over 1,500 titles on subjects including art, fashion, beauty, design, architecture, gastronomy, photography, travel and lifestyle.

Whilst there were already a handful of stores in cities around the world, this flagship store, which opened in 2014 to celebrate 20 successful years of the brand, aimed to showcase the complete Assouline world under one roof for the very first time.

So if you fancy grabbing a few moments of quiet contemplation, searching for a unique gift or perching at the bar for a cocktail, this place is perfection!

Maison Assouline, 196A Piccadilly, St James's, London W1J 9EY

Assouline.com

SITE TO KNOW: BLOOMON

image credit bloomon.co.uk

On arrival at one of my clients homes recently I spotted a gorgeous arrangement of flowers. 

They were from a company called BLOOMON, a floral delivery service offering beautiful, fresh flowers directly from growers in the Netherlands.

The concept is simple, you choose your preferred size and how often you would like to receive your bouquets with freedom to pause and reactivate your account at any time or gift to a friend. 

Deliveries can be made to all mainland postcodes in the UK.

The flowers are seasonal and the style is simple and delicate resembling a hand picked arrangement fresh from the garden.

You can click this link to receive one of their signature recycled glass vases complimentary with your first order and are rewarded with bouquets for every friend you introduce to sign up.

Bloomon.co.uk

INDIE TO DISCOVER: RESORIA 

Sticking with a floral theme, how sweet are these little beauties that I found in RESORIA, a teeny little flower shop located just before Richmond Bridge.

They sell succulents in various shapes and sizes and sweet little pots in unfinished stone and shiny copper, I particularly love the miniature ones!

Resoria, 410 Richmond Road, Twickenham TW1 2EB

Resoria.com

PRODUCT TO TRY: AESOP GERANIUM LEAF BODY SCRUB

Like many, I am partial to a bit of AESOP in my bathroom and recently discovered their Geranium leaf body scrub which is pure heaven!

The texture is pretty coarse and granular to begin with, becoming softer and foamy when water is added and the scent is just so beautiful.

Geranium is a mood elevating ingredient commonly used in the treatment of depression so this fast track to super soft skin will benefit both your body and mind.

£25 | spacenk.com

On the subject of Aesop, have you ever checked out their offerings aside from products in terms of their exploration into culture and the arts?

Did you know they curate A-Z city guides?

Currently covering Seattle, Zurich, Geneva, Toronto, Hong Kong, Seoul, LA, Miami, Portland, Brooklyn, San Francisco, Boston, Sydney, Tokyo, Canberra, New York, Melbourne and Paris, they are worth a perusal before setting off on your travels, offering tips on all the treasures each city has to offer.

You should also check out their monthly newsletter with recommendations to listen, read, watch, visit and stay as well as their digital literary offering

The Fabulist featuring fiction and non fiction from emerging and established writers across the globe.

Thanks for dropping by, I hope that you found something of interest!

Hx 

PRODUCT TO TRY: HOURGLASS LIP TREATMENT OIL

A combination of 14 essential oils, 10 plant oils and 4 vitamins help to elevate moisture levels and act as a barrier to protect against the elements.

The tip is plated in 24kt gold to provide antibacterial benefits as well as a cooling, soothing sensation upon application.

The most luxurious lip balm I have ever used!

£34 Space Nk 

ALBUM TO HEAR : AGNES OBEL, CITIZEN OF GLASS

The new album from Danish singer/songwriter Agnes Obel. 
This is such a beautiful album, goose bump inducing with haunting vocals, it's the perfect soundtrack to an afternoon nap or a soak in the tub on a grey Winters day!

BOOK TO READ : ESCAPE LONDON BY YOLANDA ZAPPATERRA 

A collaboration between Yolanda Zappaterra and Kim Lightbody, packed with tons of inspiration for lovely places to visit when you feel the urge to temporarily leave the capital in search of a day trip or weekend away.

I bought my copy from Oliver Bonas £9.99

POTION TO SIP : ECHINACEAFORCE DROPS

A.VOGEL'S ECHINACEA FORCE DROPS the ultimate secret weapon against fighting cold at this time of year!! Add 15 drops to a shot glass of water, down in one and allow it to work its' magic. Take at the first tickle of a sniffle and this powerful potion will nip bugs in the bud before they have a chance to take hold!

PUB LOVE : THREE HORSE SHOES, LALEHAM

I squirreled this enthusiastic recommendation into my iphone "to visit' list during a Summer BBQ Party and it has remained safely in my archives until now.

Always on the hunt for a super place for Sunday roast we recently visited with friends and it was wonderful.

Cosy interiors, great food and good service all within the pretty setting of Laleham village, with the riverside close by for a post lunch stroll. 

Definitely one to try!

The Three Horseshoes, 25 Shepperton Road, Staines, TW18 1SE

ThreeHorseshoesLaleham.co.uk

SITE TO KNOW: 

An online magazine providing all of the latest up to date news and views on the most desirable fashion, beauty, wellness and lifestyle products and destinations - It's my new obsession!

I'm a fan because it looks great, is enjoyable to navigate and intelligent, striking  the right balance between providing savvy awareness of topics such as politics, world issues and culture in the regular 7.30 am morning mail out 'The Brief',  as well as the fluffier stuff like the latest IT bag or health food trend. 

Sheerluxe.com

Thanks for dropping by, I hope that you found something of interest!

Hx

QUEUE WORTH JOINING : RILEY'S FISH SHACK

[mackerel, roast potatoes, salad, flat bread]

While visiting my hometown of Newcastle I  spent a gorgeous sunny afternoon at the coast and stopped by Riley's Fish Shack. 
Nestled snugly on the beach in the shelter of King Edwards Bay in Tynemouth, Riley's is a hidden gem serving up locally caught fish and seafood cooked over hot charcoals. 
It can take a little while for the food to arrive but it's sooo worth the wait, the flavours are incredible and we were more than happy to pass the time drinking prosecco in the sunshine, taking in the fresh sea air and gazing out at the beautiful view!

Riley's Fish Shack, King Edward Road, Tynemouth, North Shields, NE30 4BY

RileysFishShack.com

TABLE WORTH CHANCING: 10 GREEK STREET

For my Birthday lunch we visited 10 Greek Street which had been on my hit list for ages. 

No reservations so be prepared to wait to be seated.

A simple, unassuming little restaurant set amongst the hustle and bustle of Soho, great food and a great atmosphere, the place is small, the tables close together. 

Don't come here for a private conversation, do come here for delicious food and a little black book of rarer wine gems!

10 Greek Street, Soho, London W1D 4DH

10GreekStreet.com

BAR TO VISIT : SEYMOUR'S PARLOUR AT THE ZETTER TOWN HOUSE

image credit thezettertownhouse.com

In the evening on my birthday we found ourselves here quite by accident, but a happy accident it was!

This was my first visit to the newer Zetter Town House in Marylebone, a 24 bedroom Georgian abode with the same kind of kooky, eccentric decor as its sister, the original Zetter Town House in Clerkenwell.

Seymour's Parlour is the resident cocktail lounge on the ground floor and it was here we wandered and perched at the bar discovering delights such as le sphinx cocktail - neroli infused honey, ambrette bitter and champagne over ice, a heavenly combination.

The cocktail list has been designed with the help of bartender, master mixologist and author Tony Conigliaro, the man behind 69 Colebrook Row and 

Bar Termini - if you haven't had the pleasure of enjoying a cocktail at either of these teeny weeny establishments I would highly recommend that you do, but book ahead to guarantee yourself a space!

The Zetter Townhouse Marylebone, 28-30 Seymour Street, Marylebone, London W1H 7JB

TheZetterTownHouse.com

SPECIAL PLACE TO DISCOVER: SPIRITLAND

image credit spiritland.com

An impromtu night out lead me to discover this super cool place and it has quickly become one of my new fave London hangouts!

By day a cafe/workspace, by night a cosy bar serving food and cocktails to the beat of a world class bespoke sound system.

It's all about the music here with regular DJ sets and album play backs, interviews and Q&A's as well as a radio production/recording suite and shop selling vinyl/cd, equipment and accessories.

Spiritland, Granary Square, 9-10 Stable Street, Kings Cross, London N1C 4AB

Spiritland.com

PODCAST TO TUNE INTO : THE PANDOLLY PODCAST

A little late to the Pandolly podcast party, I've been making up for lost time by catching up on all of the previous episodes presented by Sunday Times Style columnists Pandora Sykes and Dolly Alderton. Witty, intelligent and guaranteed to make you smile, the hilarious duo debate a range of topics and news stories for around half an hour each and every Friday. It's become my end of week guilty pleasure.

Download from itunes here 

NESTING ESSENTIALS: DIPTYQUE AMBRE CANDLE

One of the benefits of the darker evenings is more time to bask in candle light.

This month I am obsessed with burning Diptyque Ambre. 

It has been accompanying me on hair colouring appointments and flickering away on cosy nights in.

Warm and woody it is the perfect scent for Autumn.

£42 spacenk.com

PRODUCT TO TRY: AROMATHERAPY ASSOCIATES DEEP RELAX BATH OIL

With temperatures beginning to decline I have been stepping up my bathing game and soaking away in Aromatherapy Associates bath & shower oils, they are AMAZING! 

I was never a 'bath person' until I tried these, If you have never experienced them, you must!

Currently Deep Relax is the one for me, with notes of vetivert, camomile and sandalwood.

The high concentration of essential oils relax and revive instantly and the delicious, slightly masculine scent drifts through the entire flat and lingers on your bed sheets, sending you well on your way to a restful nights sleep.

£45/55ml spacenk.com

Thanks for dropping by, hope that you found something of interest!

Hx 

TABLE WORTH CHANCING: SHAWARMA BAR

Shawarma Bar, the newest offering from the folk behind Berber and Q specialises in Middle Eastern rotisserie chicken and lamb shawarma, slow cooked over charcoal.

Compact and rustic you will find Shawarma Bar nestled amongst the myriad of enticing indie eateries along Exmouth Market.

We ordered half roast chicken, cauliflower shawarma and short rib rice bowl, the flavours are out of this world! 

This has to be one of the best dinners I have ever shared in the capital to date!
Reservations at lunch for any group size, dinner bookings for tables of 6-14 only with set menu. Walk-Ins encouraged.

Shawarma Bar, 46 Exmouth Market, London EC1R 4QE

ShawarmaBar.co.uk

PUB LOVE: THE EXMOUTH ARMS

At the end of the street and totally worthy of a pre or post dinner drink is the Exmouth Arms.
A Victorian boozer in all its emerald tiled splendour, it has the most beautiful stained glass windows and and serves up a mean gin and tonic!

INDIE TO UNCOVER : GELATERIA DANIELI

I recently had my first ice cream from Gelateria Danieli on Richmond Green- how had I never been here before?!! 

Not overly generous with portions but it's a case of quality over quantity here so totally worth it, the coconut and pistachio flavours are divine!

SITE TO KNOW :

A client introduced me to Oh What's This a visual lifestyle market place where you can shop the latest homeware trends, find interiors inspo and keep up to date with all the latest brands that should be on your radar.

Thanks for dropping by, hope that you discovered something of interest
HX 

AUGUST 2016

Recently I had my first taste of Taiwan courtesy of the recently opened branch of BAO on Windmill Street, Fitzrovia. It's all about the buns (gua bao) little fluffy steamed white buns with various fillings, my fave was the classic - braised pork, coriander and a sprinkling of peanut crumb, no reservations, expect to queue!

My love for OLYMPIC STUDIOS is nothing new so I am always surprised by how many of my clients know not of its existence, if Barnes is on your doorstep or within easy reach, in fact even if you have to make a pilgrimage across town, it would be absolutely worth it to catch a movie here.

Previously a recording studio, some of the biggest names in musical royalty have made music under this roof including The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Queen, The Small Faces, Jimi Hendrix, David Bowie, The Jam, Pink Floyd, Duran Duran, Oasis, Barbara Streisand, Nick Cave, Madonna, Prince, The Spics Girls and U2 ...phew!

Needless to say, sound quality in this 2 studio cinema is the best I have ever experienced thanks to wall-to-wall luxury carpet and their swanky Dolby Atmos 3D sound system. 

Attention to detail is top notch too with the comfiest reclining seats, footstools and cute little candy striped snack shack as well as award winning cafe and dining room, I truly cannot fault this place, it's awesome!

I just can't stress enough how fantastic the NAILS INC PRO TOPCOAT is!!!
Designed for the professional market it dries to a self curing gel-like effect, high shine finish and is super durable, each time giving me at least 7 days immaculate wear without the slightest hint of a chip! 
Containing acrylic and shellac for colour protection and extreme longevity, it is designed to be used as part of a 3 step programme, however I have found that it works equally as well over any branded polish as it does over one of the 36 shades available in the Pro colour range.
Available at Sally stores nationwide as well as sallyexpress.com salon-services.com and beautyexpress.com

If you have a sweet tooth and like a gooey treat then make some time in your life to visit a BAYLEY & SAGE delicatessen to try the salted caramel gluten free brownie - they are out of this world! You can cut through them like butter they are so soft.
With branches in Wimbledon Village, Parsons Green, Turnham Green and soon to be Fulham, their stores are stacked with THE most luxurious, seasonal produce from world famous European markets and specialist suppliers as well as products prepped by their in house butchers and bakers.

A wander around one of their stores is sheer foodie heaven, but seriously the salted caramel brownies. . . You can thank me later!

If, like me, you have a penchant for all things interiors then HOUZZ could be a whole new world of inspiration for you.
One of my clients shared this site with me and I have been recommending it non stop!
A platform for home renovations and design connecting homeowners with pro builders, designers, gardeners and artisan craftsmen in a visual community.
You can browse and save pictures to create a visual moodboard, find the right design and construction professionals for your project and connect with others who have already undertaken home design journeys for recommendations and tips.

"MY FAVE SOURCES OF FOODIE HOTSPOT INSPO IN LONDON,TERRIFIC THAI,A VERY PRETTY PUB,STARGAZING,ROOFTOP BOOZING,THRIVING SELF HELP AND GLAM LEATHER GOODS"

Anyone who knows me well, knows that I really love to eat. With new restaurants opening their doors every week in the capital we are utterly spoilt for choice! My clients often ask me for foodie recommendations so I thought I would share some of my fave websites for keeping up to date with whats happening on the ever evolving London restaurant scene. 
HOT DINNERS is my fave. You can sign up for regular newsletters by email so you don't ever miss a new opening again, this site is also a great source of dining inspiration whatever the occasion, from cosy romantic dinners for 2, to a boozy birthday lunch with friends, the Hot Dinners Recommends features are particularly useful offering tips such as "the best places to eat outdoors in London this Summer" or ''where to eat on your Summer holiday from the London chefs who grew up there". A few other sites of note for new foodie finds as well as bars, special events and general goings on in London town are 
THE NUDGE, JUST OPENED LONDON and LONDON ON THE INSIDE. 

A place I have visited a couple of times lately and definitely worth a mention is 
SOM SAA, a predominantly "walk ins" regional Thai resto that opened its doors back in April on Commercial Street in Spitalfields, East London after a successfull run as a pop up residency near by. The concept is to order like tapas and share a selection of dishes with your table. My faves are the Pad Prik King- a dry red curry of crispy pork, kaffir lime leaf and snake beans, the Gaeng Gaeng Neua Kem - 'panang curry of braised salted beef cheeks and thai basil and the Muay Thai Kick gin cocktail! 
Just a minute's walk away you have THE CULPEPER pub on the opposite side of the road, one of the prettiest boozers I have visited in a long time.
Architect and designer Gareth Roberts has done a sterling job of renovating this old 3 storey corner building with curved bar, restaurant, 5 bedrooms, a roof terrace and green house.
We had cocktails on the roof surrounded by the very herbs and flowers grown and picked to feature on you plate or in your glass, you can't get fresher than that!
The pub is fittingly named after 17th century botanist, herbalist physician and medical astrologer Nicholas Culpeper, look out for the monthly astrology nights hosted on the rooftop including snacks, drinks and star gazing.

image credit theculpeper.com

And here are some tips I collected from clients this week . . .

Pergola On The Roof seems to be a big hit this Summer with many clients flocking to the Old Television centre to enjoy rooftop drinks, food and music.

Looking for some reading material as you jet of on Summer holidays? Thrive by Arriana Huffington has been recommended to me - encouraging a positive approach to living a healthy, productive, meaningful life through the transformative effects of meditation, mindfulness, unplugging from technology every so often and giving to others.

Looking for a special gift for a loved one or even a treat for yourself? Australian accessories brand tde (The Daily Edited) offer a stunning selection of leather goods which can be personalised with your own choice of monogram or word, they can even create the text in your own handwriting!

A PLUSH PAMPERING PARLOUR IN PUTNEY, THE BEST PIZZA IN TOWN AND A BRILLIANT LITTLE EAST LONDON HANG OUT 

London Grace a sweet little nail bar and coffee shop in one, located near Putney Bridge.
The perfect pampering pit stop for a catch up with friends.

image credit londongrace.co.uk

Pizza Pilgrims when nothing but cheesy, mushroomy, truffley goodness will do! 

Napoli inspired pizza with the softest, squidgiest sourdough base.

Brilliant Corners this great little place in Dalston feels like hanging out at a friends house.

Small and laid back, with a friendly crowd, sushi menu, great music and a top sound system.

tunes and tipples by moonlight

Every dj set is live streamed and then stored in the archive (click here) so you can listen to it at leisure back home. 

Dare you to resist a shimmy around your living room! We've been playing some of the mixes during hair appointments!