The worlds halted to a stop and its a tad scary and strange,

But I have seen little benefits that have come with this this sudden change,

We're more grateful for the little things like quality family time,

All of a sudden video technology has become a life line,

My nanas figured out facebook and my mams a computer whizz,

We all keep our spirits high though our weekly family quiz,

We also miss the little things like going to nans house for our tea,

But just think how great it will feel when you finally get to meet,

Children will surely look back on this in the years to come,

and be thankful for the time they got to spend with dad and mum,

We have finally seen the importance of our nations health,

We've seen those who prop up society and its not those with all the wealth,

I hope we continue our gratitude towards the people in our healthcare system,

It's not just during a pandemic that we truly couldn't cope without them,

I hope we remember this loneliness that we currently feel,

And channel it into kindness when the world finally starts to heal,

I hope we continue to cherish the little things that we so often take for granted,

That we continue to radiate positivity no matter whatever cards were handed, 

I pray we remember the little things that really kept us sane, 

I hope that in someways things don't go back to being the same.

Renovating your Kitchen for under £200

This is something a little different for the blog, but at your request via instagram I'm about to tell you how you can improve your kitchen on a very small budget. Before this whole quarantine malarkey my husband and I had priced up a brand new kitchen at B&Q. We were quite surprised at how affordable the quotation was. Then the world kinda of went crazy and that idea went right out the window. But my desire for a new kitchen was still very strong. I love to cook and the kitchen is very important to me, yet in our new home it was the one room I disliked the most. To put it plainly it was just outdated. So one night I plied my husband with a bottle of pinot and made him watch kitchen renovations with me on Youtube. Next thing we know, we have drunkenly ordered all the items to get the project on the go. Call it a moment of madness, but its actually the sanest thing we have done. We have saved a fortune DIY'ing the kitchen.  It came in at just under £200 but that included wall and skirting board paint of which we have plenty to do other rooms with.

I'm going to section of each part and list the products used incase you want to focus on a specific area! We purchased a lot of materials from amazon and wickes! unfortunately I can't link specific items as they have sold out!

Kitchen cabinets
Our old cabinets were those shiny laminate kind... yuck. They were outdated and the colour made the kitchen look so cheap. I was concerned that the plastic like coating would be an issue with painting but it was actually not that bad. You just need a bit of patience and some elbow grease.
You will need:

• Good quality sandpaper
• wood primer
• wood paint
• clear finish (optional)
• New handles (optional)
• Bodge or polyfiller (if your changing your handles) 

Remove handles if your replacing them. Fill your holes left from your handles with polyfiller and let set.  Sand till smooth and flat with door. Then you can move on to sanding the door itself. Good quality sandpaper is the key here. We at first used cheap finely milled stuff and it took ages. You need quite strong stuff to scratch off all of that protective finish. If you have an electric sander even better you will get through this process a lot quicker! Once you have roughed up the surface you then need to go in with your primer. This will give a better texture for your paint to attach to and will also just help achieve a more even finish. You may need to take the doors off the cupboards to reach all of the nooks and crannies. After creating a good base you can then go over with your choice of colour. Finish by sealing with clear protective finish and then reattach the new handles. 

Tiles

• Tile paint
• protective finish

This step is pretty simple, if you want to change your tiles you can simply use tile paint. A much less stressful experience than retiling and a hell of a lot quicker. It will take a few coats if your tiles are dark and make sure you get a finishing coat if you want them to be shiny. We also looked into stick on tiles, which is also a great option and can transform your kitchen in a few hours but paint was the more affordable option.


Worktops

• Vinyl wrap
• spray bottle 
• stanley knife
• squeegee
• Hairdryer

The principle of changing the work tops is a lot easier than the execution. We bought some marbled vinyl wrap but it comes in all different colours. This is a two person job, probably possible on your own but just easier with team work! To start spray your benches with water and fairy washing liquid in a spray bottle. This helps you move your vinyl around so it doesn't stick in the first place you put it. Because trust me it takes some moving around. Next is to map out your vinyl, we placed ours on the bench and ran the squeegee against the edges of the benches so we had creases in the vinyl as a guide. I did the same for around the stove and cut out this section leaving an inch gap from the actual marking of the edge. We then placed the vinyl on the bench and smoothed with the squeegee. When your happy with placement you can cut off your excess with the Stanley knife. We found it was also helpful to heat the edges with the hairdryer so they clung to the bench more firmly. If you get any creases you can heat them up with the dryer and for bubbles a small pin prick should solve the issue. 

This was probably the most striking part of our renovation and the cheapest three rolls of vinyl only set us back around £15. But remember you have to be careful it will scratch and mark easily, its also not heat proof. 

I've included larger pictures of before and after below. We are super pleased with how it turned out and we hope we've inspired some of you to get your DIY on during lockdown and be as productive as possible during these strange times! We still need to buy some black sockets and to paint our radiator black then the kitchen is complete. But I already have my eye on our next project and thats to up-cycle a pine wine rack we have that the dogs chewed to death! Please let me know if you enjoy these types of posts and if you'd like to see more!

stay safe,
Kels x

Femme Luxe UK collaboration - Party Pieces

Tonight I have something new for the blog, a little collaboration with https://femmeluxefinery.co.uk. I actually hadn't tried anything from the brand before they approached me, but after looking at their website, I knew that they fit my style perfectly. It was actually pretty hard to choose what I wanted to try! They have so many gorgeous dresses! I also found their website incredibly easy to navigate, the price of the clothing incredibly reasonable and they also have next day delivery for us impatient or unorganised gals (you know who you are). But every girl can relate to getting overexcited about clothes coming through the post, so naturally I couldn't wait to try these few items on. I went for 3 going out options, in a pretty neutral palette. You know that I love simple colours, less is more in my eyes!  SO I chose a one shoulder jumpsuit, a V neck midi and a One shoulder Knit dress. All very minimal and classy just how I like my outfits! 

Black belted shoulder jumpsuit - Evelyn

I'm having a real moment for one shouldered pieces as you will see further down. You probably know that I'm also a little sucker for a 70's vibe so a flared jumpsuit is also right up my street. About the actual jumpsuit, the material is pretty thick and stretchy which is really nice on a fitted piece, because it kind pulls everything in! Also it makes the boootay pop, which were all game for. I paired this with a pair of Dalmatian print heels. I think this is the best kind of outfit for winter, its still super figure hugging and sexy but also super warm! so if you are braving winter weather maybe consider this cute little number.  RRP £35.98 but they currently have a sale so you can pick this up at £15.99!!

https://femmeluxefinery.co.uk/products/black-belted-one-shoulder-jumpsuit-evelyn

 White ribbed V neck midi dress - Regina

Next on the line up this gorgeous figure hugging White V neck midi. Once again he quality of this item is really nice, its thick and form hugging around all the right places. I really like the neckline its very flattering and the straps sit really well which is always something I look out for.  I can imagine wearing this at so many occasions, but I think its great for this time of year if your hitting the town because its warm but still dressy! I wouldn't feel out of place going for dinner or clubbing in this with a statement shoe! I also think this is a fab dress for the summer too which is always good, when you get to use an outfit all year round. RRP £31.98 currently on sale for £11.99!

 https://femmeluxefinery.co.uk/products/white-ribbed-v-neck-midi-dress-regina

White knitted mini dress - Macie 

Last but certainly not least, my absolute favourite item! A one shoulder ribbed knit dress. (Yes another one shoulder) Perfect for the winter season! There are so many ways you can wear this dress, want to stay warm on a night out? add some killer heels. I have worn this out for my boyfriends birthday with a navy duster jacket and knee high grey suede boots. Which was such a power outfit. We had a meal in a pretty laid back restaurant and then had cocktails in a pretty classy joint. The outfit was perfect on both occasions because it can be dressed up or down! Its so versatile. I have to say its deffo a white underwear only dress but that's not a massive no no for me. RRP £29.99 but currently on sale for £10.99! 

https://femmeluxefinery.co.uk/products/white-knitted-ribbed-one-shoulder-sleeve-bodycon-mini-dress-tessa

Overall I'm so in love with the items I received they are all true to size, good quality and absolute steal prices at the moment! I will 100% ordering from them again, in fact I have a tab open as we speak perusing the bargains! I hope that you liked the outfits as much as me. If you happen to get caught up in the sale and make any purchases please let me know what you think. I love seeing your purchases!

Bottomless Brunch @ Sohe Jesmond

No surprise that I leaped at the chance to go back to Sohe for another delicious meal! Another visit another amazing deal.  Me and Nath were invited to try their bottomless brunch; that's 90 minuets of free flowing drinks, a sharing starter and a main for £25.95pp.  I think that a great price regardless but coupled up with the relaxed atmosphere of Sohe it's unbeatable. Every time me and Nath go to Sohe I instantly feel relaxed, the dim lighting comfy seats and smell of gorgeous food instantly makes you feel at home.  We settled into our nice plush booth and order our first (of many) drinks, I started off with a classic glass of Prosecco and then moved on to try their Yuzu spritz which I loved! If you like tarte drinks you'll adore the spritz! Nath was on the beer of course.

We then tucked into the sharing starter which consisted of: Chicken Satay, Veggie spring rolls, prawn crackers with tamarind dip and salt and chili squid. The dip that came with the crackers was a firm favourite of mine (only complaint is that I didn't want to share with Nathan) I also really enjoyed the chicken satay the sauce was so creamy! There's plenty food there for two, in all honesty I was actually pretty full. I then went on to have the Lamb Massaman curry, which I have to say is one of my favourites that I have eaten at many restaurants. This was definitely up there with some of the best and most authentic, I absolutely love crispy shallots sprinkled on my Massaman, the lamb was cooked to perfection it pretty much fell apart in the bowl! Certainly a dish I could wolf down again and again. Nath was so impressed with our last visit he ordered exactly the same meal King prawn vermicelli, he is a creature of habit after all. Nether the less he was more than happy with his meal! We had such a laugh, good food and we were never without a glass. It's available Friday and Saturday 12pm-5pm, so pretty much ideal for a girly lunch date fuelled by prosecco and gossip  Make sure you book a table if you fancy a tipple!

Visit https://www.sohe.co.uk/special-offers

Parichat @ Sohe jesmond

Is it completely shallow that the first judgment I make of a restaurant is its interior? I think its fairly common with the selfie generation to pick places based on it's 'insta hotspot photobility.' Before you exit this blogpost, I'd like to point out that I am mainly influenced by the menu but I'd be lying if I didn't say a good photo opportunity doesn't lure me in. I'm happy to point out that Sohe has the ability to boast both strengths; a beautiful menu that's  complimented by it's chic interior. 

Last Saturday I found myself seated in a beautiful beau window with the sun beaming in, sampling the set menu at Parichat at Sohe (as well as the cocktails). Purely on first impressions glancing around the room, I thought 

I am actually surprised these guys do a *happy hour* type menu and it's so reasonably priced. The decor feels very luxe and modern that you would naturally expect a luxe price tag. Yet three courses for £15.95 is incredibly reasonable, especially considering the quality of the dishes I experienced. 

To start I had Spring rolls with a homemade sweet chilli dip. My fella 

had the Steamed pork and spring onion dumplings which were accompanied by a soy, chilli oil and coriander dip.  Both were incredibly flavoursome, I had some of Nathans... purely for research purposes only of course. With five starter options in total,;I think its a brilliant set menu with plenty of variety. In fact it was quite hard to decide which one I wanted to try. I guess that just warrants another visit! 

Then along came the main meals, I chose Pan fried Sea Bass filet with a smoky curry sauce, Pak Choi and jasmine rice. I most definitely stand by my choice, I'm pretty sure Nathan had complete food evny over my dish. The smoky spiced sauce with the crisp salty skin of the Sea bass was an utter delight. The fish just fell apart if was so beautifully cooked and the accompaniment of my favourite chinese vegetable Pak Choi added a lovely crunch. I love a mix of textures in my food it adds so much to the experience. A dish that I would order again in a heart beat and honestly haven't really been able to stop thinking about since we left. Once again there was a nice variety of options meat, fish and a vegan dish.

In between courses I was obviously sampling the gorgeous cocktails. I love elaborate designs and fancy glasses when it comes to cocktails. Theres something about it that just makes you feel like you are in the lap of luxury, maybe that's just me? I have to also point out that these drinks are not style over substance they tasted amazing and were all made with quality ingredients. The drink in my first photo in the amazing glass is called Destination Unknown which was a gorgeous Gin tipple. I also sampled Noh Aku Aku which is Rum based and as I've heard a customer favourite. It's not hard to tell why, it comes in the most amazing novelty glass shaped like a face. Lastly I knocked back a drink called find your zen, which was another fruity number that came with a slice of watermelon and a sprig of lavender. I mean all are worthy of appearing on your instagram grid. 

Lastly we had desert, Nathan's favourite course. He had Salted caramel and peanut ice-cream which I didn't get a photo of because it was half way down his neck before I could even open my mouth. Apparently it was just too good to wait. I had Rum and Chilli roasted pineapple with coconut sorbet, which was just a lovely balance of sweetness and spice and a lovely way to end the meal. 

If you fancy a gander at the menu its available on their website under special offers  but you best be quick as this spring menu will not be around for long! Set menu is available Mon - Thur 5pm - close, Fri - Sat 12pm- 6pm and Sunday 3pm until close.  2 courses £13.95   3 courses £15.95

Moda In Pelle: Launch at Fenwick Newcastle

I still pinch myself that I get invited to these kind of events! What a dream to browse a gorgeous range of shoes from Moda In Pelle ( Prosecco in hand) and then get to pick out my very own pair. The event was to celebrate the official launch of Moda In Pelle in Fenwick Newcastle. I have to admit that I didn't know much about the Moda In Pelle before the event, but I always love discovering new brands!

A little Back story: The brand was was founded in 1975 by Stephen Buck, they have been crafting beautiful leather shoes for over 40 years! They aim to bring together British design and Italian quality.

Looking around the store I was quite impressed at what a diverse age range this brand catered for, they do everything from glitzy sandals, comfy trainers to going out heels. I could line up every single woman in my family and there would be something to offer her here! At one point I was wishing I had a 9-5 job with a suit and such, just so I had an excuse to wear their gorgeous brogues and loafers.

There were quite a few shoes that stole my heart so choosing a pair to take home was quite a task. So I decided to photograph my absolute favourites! I think my top picks show just how diverse of a range they have! First up we have the trainer. Now I am not stereotypically a trainer kinda gal, but these screamed all kinds of Gucci vibes at me. These are just the chicest little pair of trainers I ever did see. Black with a leopard print pop and a stripe of red, also the chunky sole is so on trend! AND if you aren't obsessed with animal print are you even in 2019.

Second runner up were these gorgeous Valentino-esque heels, completely more my usual style.  Not only do they resemble a very popular design of shoe, the colours are just insane. I'm really into a statement shoe and these would certainly turn heads. The only reason I didn't end up with a pair in this style is because I have a few shoes similar in shape (not colour) and I wanted to go for something a little different to what I already own.

Here we have it, the raining champion... the boldest pair of shoes in the store! A gorgeous glossy pair of patent leather orange heels, with a block heel featuring a gorgeous metallic finish. Not only do they look amazing but oh the comfort.  They have a full leather padded sock which means you can dance the night away and still be able to walk the next morning. I was inspired to buy these after speaking with Leanne who was running the event, she mentioned that Moda In Pelle want their customers to be bold, to try something they might not usually lean to. These shoes are most certainly bold and I feel like they really capture my style I can see a 70's influence in the block heel and the metallic has a very 90's vibe.

I'm going to link the website here so you can all browse their shoes https://www.modainpelle.com But if you can why not pop into Fenwick Newcastle because the shoe's really are worth seeing in person! To wrap this up I really just want to say one last Thank you to Moda In Pelle and Fenwick Newcastle and another Huge thanks to Leanne for organising the event and being a such great host!

Sometimes life just gives you Lemons.

Steal my style, as always items are linked. 

Bikini by Missguided

Light weight knit Pretty Little Thing