5 Ways To Upgrade Your Rented Home

This post is sponsored by Leesa

I have lived in rented homes for as long as I remember, and ever since I moved out from my family home I have been the same - but the real question is how do you make a rented home, FEEL like home still abiding to all of the guidelines? So we're talking no paint, keeping that grotty bathroom situation as is and not being able to hang pictures up on the wall with nails and screws etc. but trust me, with a little effort you'll have your home feeling like home in no time at all! 

Right this way for a few ideas... 

Making your bed feel like the comfiest hotel bed you've ever slept on (or better!)

I've always had this thing about hotel beds. I mean, definitely not all of them, but why do we put up with something fairly mediocre at home but dream about those odd nights of absolute bliss when you are away. I had this realisation fairly recently and so it became my mission to upgrade our bed situation. Now we are around halfway there, but already we can feel SO much of a difference.

We started by upgrading our pillows. We got our hands on a pair of Goose Down pillows after several squishes of lots of lots. We fell in love and OMG does a comfy pillow make all of the difference. Now just to get a second pair as I am an absolute comfort fiend...

Then came the mattress. I had never thought about getting my own mattress as for ease there is always one that comes with the flats we rent, but enough was enough and it was most definitely time to wave goodbye to the lumpy old one we had been sleeping on for the past year. We upgraded to a Leesa mattress. I am not going to lie, I had always been a bit sceptical by the whole 'Mattress in a box' trend - I mean, how good can it really be?

We have a Double Leesa Mattress, and you may have spotted its arrival on my Instagram here. Obvs, I had to get that classic shot with the box. I mean, did you really get a 'Mattress in a box' if you didn't Instagram it first? The UK Double Mattress comes to £650 and spoiler, it is TOTALLY worth the money. I had always thought that a hotel style mattress (in fact, we have stayed in a few hotels recently and this one is more comfortable than those there) would cost the earth, hence why I hadn't ever contemplated it but considering the amount of your life you spend in your bed, it is well worth the investment (and it lasts!).

Now I am no mattress specialist, but I do know a comfy one from an uncomfortable one, and seriously you can really tell the difference. The Leesa mattress is created with a unique combination of three foam layers and what makes it different from other foam mattresses, is the top layer - the 'Avena foam'. This is a responsive material that allows airflow through the mattress for a cooler nights sleep and provides enough bounce for freedom of movement. One thing I would note, is that once you take it out of the box it takes a few days or so to really get to it's ultimate comfort. So don't judge based on the first few nights sleep. Trust me, it gets better! But if it isn't for you, Leesa also have a 100 night risk free trial. So if you're not happy within 100 days, they will come to collect it and donate it to a local charity. I LOVE this. No wastage at all!

They also plant a tree for every mattress sold and donate a further mattress for every ten sold. Purchasing from brands that try to do their bit, really make the difference for me.

The Leesa mattress is one of our favourite ways we have upgraded the bedroom of late, now just to get rid of our other mattress (Hello rented flat problems, our Estate Agent's still haven't decided what they'd like to do with it so it is currently sitting in our Kitchen until the decision has been made - why is everything so slow?!) and upgrade our duvet and bedding. Simple things, but we like to space it out so not to hit the bank balance all at the same time.

Purchase your mattress with the discount code STUDSANDDREAMS for £100 of your mattress.

Hanging pictures (and being able to remove them!)

I know, I know. Nails and screws etc are a no go but I was introduced to the Command Picture Hanging Strips a couple of years ago and they are a game changer! They are little strips that you stick to your picture frame and then the wall and they are strong enough to hang them while also being incredibly easy to take down when you move. You can pick them up all over the place in different sizes for different frames, but I usually pick mine up from Amazon or Ebay for ease. 

Hanging pictures on your wall instantly gives the place life. I try to buy my pictures already framed because I am queen of leaving a picture unframed for years, or I purchase the frame from Amazon or similar straight after purchasing the picture. Oliver Bonas is one of my favourites for affordable art already framed, I have one piece and am ALWAYS eyeing up others for my home. They have some in different shapes and sizes so are great for helping to create a gallery wall or can add a bit of colour and design to all of the nooks in your rented home. If you want to invest in some actual art, taking a trip to the Affordable Art Fair or my personal favourite, Jealous are great options. Jealous has some seriously cool pieces and they offer a monthly payment scheme as they think everyone should own some art. 

Pick up small ornaments and decorations as you travel to fill your home with memories

Everywhere we go, I like to try and buy SOMETHING for the house. Whether it's something simple like a small dish to pop bits and bobs in on the coffee table, a plate or bowl, or even something as functional as a magazine rack. I like to fill my house with memories and it also means the homeware expense is split out over a time so it doesn't hit your bank balance in one go. 

We also have a pin board in our kitchen filled with photo booth photos, business cards from our favourite restaurants, gig tickets etc. We add to this as we go too and it really adds a lot of personality to our space. 

Fill your house with plants

I am very quick becoming a bit of a plant lady. I already am very at my limit with the amount of plants I should probably have in my home, however I can imagine it just won't end here. It fills my home with life and I adore the look of all of the green! I have picked up my plants from all over the place - we have many but if you're willing to do some digging to find what you're looking for then I'd recommend checking out Columbia Road Flower Market to try and find some bargains, B&Q, Ikea and Homebase are also pretty good too. If you're all about speed and ease though, I'd highly recommend Patch Plants. I adore their concept and their site is so easy to navigate. They help you choose the right plants for your space and deliver them to your door. You can also buy plant pots that fit so it's all sorted in one go! They are affordable and the quality looks seriously great. 

Upgrade your TV situation

And I'm not talking about getting a better TV, because let's face it, we'd all love to do this but there are ways to make your TV watching situation better without it. I'm not talking about quality, I'm talking about content. Everyone has Netflix, but since we got Now TV and our Amazon Fire Stick our choices have seriously upped their game. First things first, I'm talking Now TV - get this in place of the expensive Sky or Virgin Media. You buy the box and with that you get access to all of the general TV stations and on top of that you can add packages. We pay for the Entertainment package every month which gives us access to channels like MTV and Sky Atlantic which is right up our street. You can often get deals for this and when you buy the box you usually get a few months free too. If Sports or Movies are your thing, these are also available too. If you decide you want to use it for a month or two, you can cancel super easily which I love. Sports is also available in one day packages.  The Amazon Fire Stick is great if you have Amazon Prime as it gives you access to SO many moves (so is perfect for this time of year!) and all of the Amazon shows. Great if you are looking for a bit more choice. 

We are very much still in the process of making little changes to our rented home (one step at a time right!?) so let me know if you have any tips in the comments below! 

Lorna x

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Reading Material: How To Find Time To Read & The Books I've Read Recently

I actually really never thought I'd get back into reading regularly but it's something I'm so glad I've found time for and would encourage everyone to do the same. In this digital age it is so important to take time away from the screen and the only time I find that I step away from a screen is when I'm reading.  

If you're like I was and didn't really think I had time for it, give it a go. Find the time in your day and make a routine of it. This is key. Perhaps that's in the morning when you're having your breakfast, try reading a book instead of turning on your TV. Maybe it's when your on your way to work, try reading instead of listening to music. Or on your lunch break - take time away from your desk and have a little read. Maybe before you go to bed? This is when I read every day. Go to bed 20 mins earlier or so and take that time to get your nose in the latest novel. Just take some time, whenever you can, and add that into your routine. I haven't looked back since... 

For me, I find it helps with so many things. It helps to calm me down after a busy day and take my mind off of daily stresses. These books transport me to another world, and I adore that part of my day as it really helps me to relax - and because of when I read, get ready for sleep. 

Okay, okay. So I've persuaded you to find the time and pick up your next book - but what should you read? 

Below I've listed a few books I've finished recently (and one I'm still reading!) to get you started... 

Final Girls by Riley Sager

If you're into crime shows or murder mystery's - this is a must read. A total page turner and if I remember right, I read this pretty quickly as I just had to know what happened. 

Blurb below: 

FIRST THERE WERE THREE
The media calls them the Final Girls – Quincy, Sam, Lisa – the infamous group that no one wants to be part of. The sole survivors of three separate killing sprees, they are linked by their shared trauma.
THEN THERE WERE TWO
But when Lisa dies in mysterious circumstances and Sam shows up unannounced on her doorstep, Quincy must admit that she doesn’t really know anything about the other Final Girls. Can she trust them? Or...
CAN THERE ONLY EVER BE ONE?
All Quincy knows is one thing: she is next.

Available here.

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

I adored this book, and the fact that it's being talked about everywhere at the moment, shows that I am not the only one. It was heart wrenching but so incredible, and you see familiarities to her world from the beginning. 

Blurb below: 

Eleanor Oliphant has learned how to survive – but not how to live
Eleanor Oliphant leads a simple life. She wears the same clothes to work every day, eats the same meal deal for lunch every day and buys the same two bottles of vodka to drink every weekend.
Eleanor Oliphant is happy. Nothing is missing from her carefully timetabled life. Except, sometimes, everything.
One simple act of kindness is about to shatter the walls Eleanor has built around herself. Now she must learn how to navigate the world that everyone else seems to take for granted – while searching for the courage to face the dark corners she’s avoided all her life.
Change can be good. Change can be bad. But surely any change is better than… fine?

Available here. 

What Alice Forgot by Liane Moriarty

If you've read or seen Big Little Lies and liked it, this is by the same author so I would 100% recommend it. I actually gave this a go about a year ago but didn't get very far, I gave it another go recently so I'd say persevere with it and once you get into it, it's an easy read. 

Blurb below: 

Alice can't remember the last ten years of her life. She doesn't recognise her children, her husband, herself . . .
Alice is twenty-nine. She adores sleep, chocolate, and her ramshackle new house. She's newly engaged to the wonderful Nick and is pregnant with her first baby.
There's just one problem. All of that was ten years ago . . .
Alice has slipped in a step-aerobics class, hit her head and lost a decade. Now she's a grown-up, bossy mother of three in the middle of a nasty divorce and her beloved sister Elisabeth isn't speaking to her. This is her life but not as she knows it.
Clearly Alice has made some terrible mistakes. Just how much can happen in a decade?
Can she ever get back to the woman she used to be?

Available here.

How To Stop Time by Matt Haig

This is actually the book I'm reading at the moment but I am enjoying it so much, I just had to include it. This book takes you through time, but through a really interesting storyline. I won't say any spoilers so I'd just recommend reading the blurb below and seeing what you think. But I'm about half way and so far, so good.

Blurb below:

Tom Hazard has a dangerous secret. He may look like an ordinary 41-year-old, but owing to a rare condition, he's been alive for centuries. From Elizabethan England to Jazz-Age Paris, from New York to the South Seas, Tom has seen a lot, and now craves an ordinary life. 

Always changing his identity to stay alive, Tom has the perfect cover - working as a history teacher at a London comprehensive. Here he can teach the kids about wars and witch hunts as if he'd never witnessed them first-hand. He can try to tame the past that is fast catching up with him. The only thing Tom must not do is fall in love.

Available here.

Hot Mess by Lucy Vine

This was probably the book I read the furthest of time ago, but I loved it so much it has stuck out in my memory and is a must mention for this book. An easy read, this chick lit is relatable to the T. It's a hilarious coming-of-age story that I'm sure you will relate to.

Blurb below:

Hot Mess [n.] - someone attractive, who is often in disarray.
Have you ever shown up to Sunday brunch still smelling of Saturday night?
Chosen bed, Netflix and pizza over human contact?
Stayed in your mould-ridden flat because it's cheap?
Meet your spirit animal, Ellie Knight.
Her life isn't turning out exactly as she planned.
She hates her job, her friends are coupling up and settling down, and her flatmates are just plain weird.
Some people might say she's a hot mess but who really has their sh*t together anyway?

Available here. 

I Heart Forever by Lindsey Kelk 

I have been reading Lindsey Kelk's 'I Heart' series for years. This is the latest book in the series, so if you haven't read the rest, make a b-line and head to the first in the series, I Heart New York. If you are looking for a super girly, easy-to-read number that makes you giggle, give this series a go. 

Blurb below: 

The day her husband Alex picks up a backpack and goes travelling, Angela Clark promises to stay out of trouble and keep both Louboutins on the ground. So when her best friend’s boyfriend confides in her, it can’t hurt to help him pick out a ring at Tiffany’s surely? And when her fashion magazine announces major changes, being terminally late and winking at your new boss in the lift isn’t that bad, is it? Then suddenly there’s another big secret Angela’s got to keep – and the man she loves is still thousands of miles away. As the wedding of the year looms, and Manhattan switches on its Christmas lights, Angela is going to need her friends by her side as her old life looks set to change forever.

Available here. 

Lagom: The Swedish Art of Balanced Living by Linnea Dunne 

If you are looking for something a little different from your standard novel, I couldn't recommend this book enough. It's a lifestyle book that takes you through the Swedish lifestyle, Lagom and I found it incredibly inspiring. It's comfortable, it's cosy and I adored it as a pre-bedtime read. 

Blurb below:

Step aside Hygge. Lagom is the new Scandi lifestyle trend taking the world by storm. This delightfully illustrated book gives you the lowdown on this transformative approach to life and examines how the lagom ethos has helped boost Sweden to the No.10 ranking in 2017's World Happiness Report.
Lagom (pronounced 'lah-gom') has no equivalent in the English language but is loosely translated as 'not too little, not too much, just right'. It is widely believed that the word comes from the Viking term 'laget om', for when a mug of mead was passed around a circle and there was just enough for everyone to get a sip. But while the anecdote may hit the nail on the head, the true etymology of the word points to an old form of the word 'lag', which means 'law'. 

Far from restrictive, lagom is a liberating concept, praising the idea that anything more than 'just enough' is a waste of time. Crucially it also comes with a selflessness and core belief of responsibility and common good.

Available here. 

When do you fit reading into your day and what have you been reading lately? Let me know! 

Lorna x

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Finding Blog/Life Balance: Getting your blog back up and running after a blip

You may have noticed that Studs and Dreams has been a bit on and off for the past couple of years, with a few gaps of no content, a little on the larger side than I would perhaps have liked - but I'M BACK BABY, I've got my mojo back and I've got a few tips for how you can get here too. 

I started this blog back in 2012 - just before I started Uni and just under 6 years later my life is completely different. And finding the place for this little space on the internet in my life has been super difficult hence the irregular content. Not for the lack of trying, but life gets blooming busy. I started this blog when I had a lot of time for it but for the past few years I've had a full-time job so finding time to blog, relax and socialise has been blooming tough. 

If you're reading this, then I expect you've got a blog too and are feeling the same... or perhaps are thinking about starting one and are a little daunted about the task at hand. But don't worry gals, WE'VE GOT THIS. 

Read on for a few tips to find your blog/life balance... 

Don't pressure yourself

I got myself into a bit of a pickle back when I was blogging regularly. The norm seemed to be to blog every single day and I tried to keep up with that. I'd find I'd blog in bulk and schedule it all only to find myself without time to keep up with it... and with that I always felt super negatively about getting on my laptop and writing something up. All that pressure does not make for good content. When you force yourself it's easy to feel uninspired, and if you're feeling uninspired writing it then whoever is reading it is bound to feel that way too. 

Take some time away from the blog

When you're ready to come back to it, you'll know. Give yourself time to rest and recuperate away from the internet. A social detox if you will. Trust me, you'll come back with a fresh mind and lots of things you want to talk about. And really don't worry if that isn't just a couple of weeks, if it's a couple of months or longer, that's okay too - I did it, and my blog is still here and waiting for me and I feel more inspired than ever. 

Take a couple of days off work

Now this has been the absolute game-changing factor in me getting my blog mojo back. I know not everyone will have the luxury to be able to do this, but if you work full-time alongside your blog like I do, it's perfect to give yourself some time to relax and solely think about what you're doing. For me, my job is very similar to my blog - I work in Social Media for beauty brands within a PR agency at the moment and I found it tough to feel inspired to come home and continue to think and talk about products. So finding that separation with a bit of time off to get some life admin done and work on my blog has truly inspired me. 

Go to blogging events and talk to other bloggers

With feeling so out of the blogging loop, I didn't really feel comfortable going to blogger events but lately I've forced myself to go out to a couple and I've been chatting to a few lovely girls at work that have inspired me (you know who you are!) and this has inspired me second to none. Chatting to others that are in the same position as you can help more than I can even tell you. If you can't make it to any events in person, get on Twitter and see who's out there, and see how that helps. 

Read through your previous blog posts

Have a look at the content you used to create. I adored looking through my previous posts and it truly made me feel inspired to get everything back up and running. Looking at the amazing experiences I've had, previous favourite products and everything I used to do gave me lots of new ideas and gave me inspiration to get creative again. 

Check out what your favourite bloggers have been writing

Seeing what other people are up to seriously helps to give me a boost to get involved. If you're feeling stuck in a rut, check out the other bloggers in the blogosphere and see how that makes you feel. Don't replicate what they're doing, use it to inspire you to create your own ideas and get your emoji back. Are there any new trends? New tags (do people still do this?!)? New products everyone is talking about? Seeing what else is out there can really make you feel back in the loop and ready to get your blog on. 

Don't say yes to everything

It can get incredibly overwhelming. Saying yes to trying all of the new products, going to all of the events. When you work full-time, it's impossible to do it all so try to be selective about what you agree to to ensure you don't burn out and end up doing nothing. You're hearing this from a girl who has been there time and time again, and trust me, it never works. 

Ease yourself back in with Instagram

If you've taken a bit of time out of the blogging world, it can be hard to jump back in and get back on with all of the channels. I found easing myself back in with updating my Instagram @studsanddreams  the best way to test the waters. Giving this a go again, really helped and it made me miss using my blog as a space to truly write all of my thoughts down. 

Write a blog post like this

It is so therapeutic and it makes you realise everything that has been going wrong with what you're doing. List it all out and perhaps you'll help a couple of people along the way too. 

Finally, you have got this! Don't feel like you have to do anything, as soon as you do everything can go wrong. Take it easy and get ready to get your blog mojo back! 

Lorna x

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The Ultimate Festival Checklist: What To Pack For Bestival

It’s Bestival next week and as you can probably tell I’ll be heading there this year - and I’m so blooming excited. I love writing festival content every year but this year, usually my favourite beauty products to take with me... but this year I’ve decided to take it a step further to write my ultimate festival checklist for girls.

I remember when I bought my first tickets to a festival where you actually had to camp – Glastonbury, in fact, you’ll probably remember from this VLOG, and I cannot tell you the amount of times I googled a billion different phrases to work out what on earth I should be taking with me. And for someone that hadn’t put up a tent or camped before, I pretty much had nothing to go on. That’s why after a couple of years of going, I feel like I’ve worked out the ultimate festival checklist for what you should take, but if I’ve forgotten anything – please do drop me a tweet or let me know in the comments  - I will thank you forever. Also, please excuse my excessive beauty list. I don’t pack light – not even for a festival, as much as I might try to.

Beauty Essentials

• Your usual makeup bag filled with your favourites

The first year I went to a festival I skipped out on some makeup favourites in fear I’d loose or ruin them but I missed them too much, so just take what you want to take. It can be replaced if it REALLY has to be. Essentials coming with me include my new favourite base, the IT Cosmetics CC Cream for a flaweless but natural coverage with SPF,  the perfect natural matte lip – the Lancome Matte Lip Shaker in Energy Peach and my new favourite KIKO lippy from theirFALL 2.0 range in Rosetto. 

• Additional makeup – bold colours, brights, sparkles...

I like to add in a few makeup bits that I wouldn’t necessarily wear on a day to day basis. I like to play with my makeup when I’m at a festival so like to make sure I have a few bits to play with. For eyes the Makeup Revolution Acid Brights palette is perfect for adding a pop of colour. I adore the Barry M Metallic Lip Kits for this too. Each kit comes with a lip liner and liquid lipstick and they last for so long which is key for festival season. There are so many stunning shades, but I think Prestige a gorgeous burgundy and 24 Carat, a golden copper might just be my favourites.

• Glitter and glitter glue 

This one is key this year. The glitter trend seems to be getting bigger and bigger every year, so don’t go without it. It’s your chance to get as sparkly as you want. Grab a mixture, Barry M do great fine glitters like their Glitter Rush Body Glitters or their Fine Glitter Dusts. They have an incredible shade range – I’m obsessed with Moonstone and Enchanted Forest. If you’re after something a little chunkier, then I’d recommend getting your hands on the Beauty Blvd Star Dust sets, they each come with a stunning glitter mix, a fixer gel and a brush to apply it with – great if you’re looking just to pick up one. Otherwise Ebay absolutely kills it. You don’t usually know about the quality until it arrives but if quantity is what your after for not much expense then your in the right place. If you want to add a little more glitter into your makeup look itself then the Stila Glitter & Glow Liquid Eyeshadows are perfect. They apply like nothing else and last all day long. 

• Coloured hair sprays 

I love to add a little colour to my blonde ends while I’m at a festival if I’ve got the chance. The Schwarzkopf blush sprays are perfect for adding a pastel hue to the hair before you go when you use shampoo and conditioner your hair or if you’re after something a little shimmery, the Clairol Color Crave Hair Makeup is perfect – plus they have it in rose gold, and rose gold everything is always great. If you’re looking for something a little more natural though, EVERPRObeauty have a great range of blonde and brunette shades to keep your hair looking fresh and vibrant while away.

• Spare nail polish and file

For nails I swear by getting gel or shellac done before you go, but pack a polish with you for any last minute touch ups. You want good nails and this is the best way. I am obsessed with the ESSIE polish in 503 right now. For gels however, I’ll be heading along to London Grace salon to get one of their glitter gel manis before I go.

• Hairbrush 

Get something portable like the Tangle Teezer or a fold away Denman brush. I can’t live without my Tangle Teezer though... 

• Dry Shampoo

A festival essential. Do not forget it. This year I’ll be bringing along the TIGI Catwalk Dry Shampoo – it gives volume and keeps my hair looking fresh at the same time. 

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

I adore taking a Sonic Chic Toothbrush with me. It comes with a lid and is battery powered and works perfectly for cleaning teeth at the campsite.

• Wipes

A key festival purchase for keeping fresh when camping. I usually grab a mixture – the Burt’s Bees Facial Cleansing Towelettes are great, as are just generic baby wipes. Ladies, pick up a pack of the Fem Fresh wipes too, they usually come in mini packs with a printed festival design on. 

• Deodorant, body spray and perfume

Anything to keep you fresh and smelling good. Whatever is your favourite works.

• Mini skincare items  

It’s super important to look after my skin as much as I can when I’m at a festival. With all the drinking and eating, I like to do what I can. I will be packing a Mini Garnier Micellar Water, the Mini Liz Earle Try MeKit which includes a few of my all-time skincare favourites including the Cleanse and Polish and Eye Bright. I’ll also be bringing the Nip & Fab Glycolic Acid Daily Cleansing pads for a skin boost. For a boost in the morning though, I love using the Merci Handy Refreshing Face Mist.

• Lip balm

Keeping your lips hydrated while sleeping often in the cold is super important. I adore the Liz Earle Superskin Lip Balm at the moment. It’s small and works perfectly.

• Hand sanitiser

This one is super important. You want it to be portable and you want it to work as there isn’t usually any hand washing facilities at festivals. I adore the Aesop Resurrection Rinse-Free Hand Wash. 

• SPF

This is super important, even if you don’t think it’s that sunny. Pop some on at the start of the day and keep a small one on your person while you’re wondering around. My favourite for this is the Elizabeth ArdenEight Hour Cream Targeted Sun Protection Stick.

• First aid kit

Stuff this with plasters, ibuprofen, berocca and hayfever tablets.

• Insect Repellent

If you’re camping in a field or near a woods, it’s a good bet to bring this with you unless you want to be bitten alive.

• Razor

Get rid of any unwanted fuzz quickly. I swear by the Gilette Venus Snap Razor as it comes in a handy case. 

• Hair ties and grips

For tying back your hair when you can't physically keep it down anymore... 

• Cotton pads/buds

For removing your makeup at the end of the day or sorting out any makeup mistakes.

• Mirror

I like to bring a big travel mirror. Getting ready in the morning is fun so I like to have a good mirror to see what I'm doing with. 

General Festival Essentials

• Tickets

Do not forget these...

• Portable phone chargers

An essential. I always bring a few so I can keep taking snaps and find my friends when needed without having to worry about running low on battery. 

• ID

For buying drinks etc. 

• Money/bank card

For food, drinks and god knows what else.

• Phone/Camera

 You want to remember it, no matter how many drinks you have... 

Camping Essentials

• Tent

I like to go for a pop up tent for ease. I’d just recommend making sure it’s definitely waterproof if you’re going to a music festival in the UK and also make sure it’s big enough, because you need to fit your stuff in there too. 

• Sleeping bag & travel pillow

You can get away with the travel pillow if you don't have the room. Just use clothes, but if you can find the space for a pillow lover like me, it really does make the difference. 

• Inflatable mattress and electric pump

Again something you can go without if you really don't have the space but it really helps with getting a good nights sleep. 

• Camping chair

Trust me on this one, I know it just seems like another thing to carry but having a chair to sit in is the best thing when your camping.

• Light/torches

For seeing what your doing in your tent without losing precious battery on your phone.

• Rubber mallet

This makes putting the pegs into the ground so much easier and quicker. 

• Bin bags and Gaffa tape

This is perfect for anything, they will come in handy.

• Trolley

These are incredibly useful for carrying heavy booze but also your too-big tent. If the floor is dry you can just drag it along, so helpful. If it’s super wet however, that’s just another story...

Fashion Essentials

• Enough outfits for the time your there & accessories

Bring a few extra tops etc. too just in case. Also think about layers. Bring jackets, jumpers and cardigans etc to keep warm at night. 

• Rain coat

Especially if you’re going to be in England

• Wellies and wellie socks

Don't forget the socks, if you don't have long socks your wellies will rub and they will be a nightmare. I have a cheap pair of wellies if the weather is that constant rain and the mud literally goes up to your knees. If you can get away with something shorter though, I love my Blundstone's. They're super comfortable and I love how similar they look to my usual Chelsea Boots. 

• Bikini

If you need to use the showers etc.

• Sunglasses

For when your praying for some sun... Your outside all day long so likely (or hopefully) you will need a pair

• Pyjamas and sleep mask/ear plugs if needed

Depending on how easily you get to sleep it depends on how much you'll need all of this, I'm good with sound but will definitely bring along my favourite Iluminage Eye Mask. 

• Small backpack or bum bag

 Big enough to put all your stuff in for the day but small enough to actually carry around. 

Food and Drink Essentials

• Snacks

Anything from crisps to cereal bars or brioche buns. Anything that is likely not to get too crushed but will keep you going when your at your campsite. Cream crackers for hangovers are a god send too.

• Alcohol

In cans or plastic. Whatever your choice, just decant it if needed. If you go for wine or a spirit and mixer make sure to bring plastic cups or bottles to decant it into. 

• Chewing gum/mints

For staying fresh. Essential. 

 And that's it.... Well, it's pretty much all I can think of anyway. I just wanted to say a little thank you to Push Doctor for sending me a brilliant package that inspired this post. Usually I just chuck a load of stuff into a bag and don't really think about making a physical list for others to read. They didn't sponsor this, they just sent a tonne of stuff that reminded me about what on earth I actually should be bringing with me. So that being said, you don't NEED to take all of this, it's just what I like to bring with me. I'm sure I've probably forgotten a few things too, so please let me know if you can think of anything! 

What are your festival essentials? 

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The best candles for your home

I feel like I write here too often that I'm obsessed with a certain thing. In fact, I'm currently drafting a skincare post alongside this candle feature and I've already written about my skincare obsession in that one but when starting this feature, it felt so natural to begin it by expressing my love of candles (and subsequently my candle obsession). There's just something about them that gets me. From the packaging, usually super luxurious to the scents themselves. 

There are so many candles out there - from brands, to scents and packaging that gives me the "gotta catch em all" kind of vibe which is where my hoarding comes into play. I wouldn't even want to know how many candles I have stashed in my current home. I'm moving next month, so I'm using it as an excuse as I'll need to fill a whole flat with them and not just my bedroom in my current shared house. Put it this way, if I look around my room right now, I can see 13 - and that's not including the ones I know are stashed away in other hidden places.  I just blooming love them. 

My favourite thing is trying out a new candle and with that, I've very much tried most of them out there so I know which are the best to pick up. From luxury to affordable and from enormous to mini, here are my candle picks. Get yourself a cuppa tea, I can feel a long one coming on. 

Jo Malone Green Tomato Leaf Home Candle, £44

Jo Malone candles are probably one of the candles I get the most excited about and ever since I first smelt the Green Tomato Leaf scent I have been in love. I'd heard great things, but you don't really know if it's going to be for you until you really give it a smell for yourself. This scent is fresh, fruity, earthy and so clean. I absolutely adore it - it's my current favourite day time scent. If you've tried a Jo Malone candle before, then you'll know about the incredible quality - but if you don't, the burn quality, scent pay off and packaging make the price so worthwhile. 

"Glasshouse tomatoes. Earthy, leafy and full of sunshine. Crisp with stem-green galbanum. Lively with artemesia, fruity with cassis, resting on a cushion of moss. Tangy and evocative."

Timothy Dunn Tiger Eye Home Candle, £36

If you're a candle fan, chances are you're always on the hunt for a new home fragrance brand and if you've not tried it yet, Timothy Dunn is the one. Their candles are so luxurious and the scents are different to what I've tried before. My absolute favourite is Tiger Eye. It comes in beautiful luxurious black packaging and feels like an absolute treat. It's quite a grown up scent and actually was one of the first I got my hands on since my Yankee Candle Apple candle days. Its warming and I adore burning this in the evening. The quality is amazing and I'm feeling the need to pick up a new scent as they all sound amazing!

Top notes: Orange Blossom, Petitgrain, Jasmine

Heart notes: Lily, Cyclamen, Sandalwood

Base notes: Vanilla, Amberwood, Patchouli

Cochine Saigon Scented Candle in Vietnamese Rose & Delentii, £45

The thing that first gets me about the Cochine Saigon candles is the beautiful packaging. It's a metallic silver glass candle and feels so so luxurious. I fell in love with this brand for the luxurious packaging and it's what's kept me going back to the candle I've got in my stash time and time again. I've got the Vietnamese Rose & Delentii scent and although it is nice, and I can appreciate it it's not really my cup of tea completely. I adore it for the packaging but this scent is not very me. If you love rose, you'll love this but if not I'd suggest giving one of the others a go. I am already eyeing up the other candles in the range, especially Vanille & Tabac Noir, Juniper & Ginger and Tuberose & Wild Fig - as I need to get this beautiful packaging in some other scents. Perhaps I could pick them up as a new house treat? 

Top notes: Rose, Bergamot

Heart notes: Violet, Rosewood

Base notes: Delentii

Annick Goutal Eau D'Hadrien Candle, £45

Again for this one, it was the packaging that got me. The branded gold embossing on the candle glass has an incredibly luxurious feel which is what I absolutely love. The scent of the candle is incredible. It's citrus-esque but with a slight spice it. It burns beautifully and 

Top notes: Sicilian Lemon, Grapefruit

Heart notes: Citron, Green Mandarin, Ylang Ylang

Base notes: Cypress, Bergamot

Liz Earle Eucalyptus and Rosemary Botanical Candle, £40

Liz Earle has been one of my favourite beauty brands for many years. In fact, probably since around the time I actually started getting into beauty and blogging. I fell in love with their Cleanse and Polish  ad have subsequently fallen in love with everything else I've ever tried from them since - candle included. The Eucalyptus and Rosemary candle is incredible. It has great scent pay off and if you love a clean, fresh scent this is perfect for you. It's inspired by the botanicals in the Cleanse and Polish, so if you love that then you'll probably love this. This one is going straight in my bathroom in my new place and I can't wait to find it a spot and relax in the bath with it burning.  

Top notes: Eucalyptus, Rosemary, Birch, Cypress, Pine Needle, Black Pepper

Heart notes: Amber

Base notes: Patchouli, Vetiver

this works Deep Sleep Heavenly Candle, £25

I've got into the routine of burning a specific scented candle in the evening before bed, and this is one of those. The calming scent really relaxes me before bed - especially when paired with their pillow mist. It's on the affordable side of the candle spectrum which is great considering I pretty much burn this every night. It's simple with its white packaging and looks perfect in the bedroom. It's a little sexier than the usual lavender-esque sleep candle. which makes for a nice change and is probably why I love it so much. 

Notes: Lavender, Chamomile 

Aromatherapy Associates Relax Candle, £38

Again, like the this works candle, this is one of my other pre-sleep candle go-to's. If you love the Aromatherapy Associates Deep Relax bath oil scent, you'll love this. It's intense on the relaxing front and is my favourite if I need calming down or if I've had a long day. It's luxurious, I adore the brand and my love of their products doesn't stop here. 

Notes: West Indian Bay, Myrrh

Orla Kiely Geranium Scented Candle, £25

I have loved Orla Kiely candles for so long. As a self-confessed big fan of Orla Kiely in general I had always dreamed of owning some of their pieces and in fact I think the now discontinued, Orla Kiely Rhubarb candle was one of my first, if not the first luxurious home fragrance buys I got my hands on. I fell in love with the beautiful Orla Kiely designed glass on the candle and that is what keeps me going back every time. Their packaging is iconic and their candles don't disappoint either. The one I got recently is the Geranium scent and it's beautiful. A little girlier, but fresh and a go-to day time scent for me at the moment. 

Notes: White Geranium, Eucalyptus and Clary Sage

Mini Moderns Paisley Crescent Candle, £24

Again, much like the Orla Kiely candles it's the unique design of the Mini Moderns candles that made me fall in love with them. The Paisley candle not only has a beautiful bold design but it smells incredible. It's a little more on the masculine side compared to some of my other favourites but that's why I love it so much. It's warming and so beautiful. Even my boyfriend loves it. 

 

If you're a gin fan or are after something a bit fresher, you need to smell the Mini Moderns Pavilion Candle, £24 - its light and fresh and so delicious and will be right up your street. 

Notes: Jasmine, Orange blossom and hints of Cardamom

Neom Happiness Scented Candle (3 Wicks), £45

Neom candles are some of my all time favourites and in fact, I couldn't even tell you when they first came into my life. I've had many Neom candles as generally they are some of the best I've ever burnt (plus they have great customer service if you have any problems)! Their scent range is always on pointbut my current obsession is the Happiness scent. It relaxes me but it's so uplifting at the same time. It boosts my mood and there's just something about the three wick candles that get me excited in their own right. 

Another of my favourites from the brand is the Neom Christmas Wish Candle (3 Wicks), £45. It's not currently available but it's been out for the last two years and is the best festive candle I've tried. Yes, I have a stock of it. Yes, I have two already stashed away for Christmas this year and yes, I can't wait to burn them. 

"A dew-carpeted garden on a fresh spring morning. A sparkling blend of white neroli, mimosa and lemon is combined with natural fresh grass notes to create a scent evocative of the awakening of spring."

Yankee Candle Linden Tree Small Jar Candle, £8.99

When it comes to Yankee Candle's, I hate to pick which is why I love their small jar candles. They are affordable and you can pick up a few to see which is your favourite before purchasing one of the larger ones. At the moment my favourite is definitely the Linden Tree scent as it smells like freshly washed clothes or a fresh summers day. If you're looking for a few others to pick up, I'd recommend the Yankee Candle Wild Mint scent or the Yankee Candle Cherry Blossom scent. 

Top notes: Hosta Leaves, Linden Blossom

Heart notes: Viburnum 

Base notes: Musk, Cedarwood

What are your favourite candles?

Lorna x

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