How to Bring Festive Cheer Into Your Home This Winter

Winter is right around the corner and as the clocks are turning back this weekend, the days are getting shorter and the temperature is dropping. Before you know it, Christmas will be here! Christmas is a favourite holiday for many and there is always much Christmas cheer to be spread around the festive season. If you are planning on setting the winter and Christmas mood in your home very soon, then you have come to the right place. Below, you can check out our top tips as to how you can bring festive cheer into your home this winter season.

Put Christmas Music On
There is one sure fire way that you can bring some festive cheer into your home and that is by blasting your favourite Christmas music. There is nothing like hearing a soundtrack filled with the classic holiday music to put you in an amazing mood and filling your home with festivities. There are plenty of options to do this including buying a Christmas CD, finding a playlist online or finding Christmas music on one of your local radio stations.

Play Christmas Movies
Getting tired of hearing the same Christmas songs? Why not switch things up, pop on the television and have Christmas movies playing in the background. Most television stations will have Christmas classic films playing throughout the winter period and this can really help to set the mood in your home. Some movie channels will even be playing Christmas films all day long, so make sure you watch out for them playing your favourite Christmas films.

Enjoy Christmas Baking
While your Christmas music or films are playing in the background, another brilliant way to add some festive cheer to your home this winter is to fill it with the gorgeous smells of baking. Winter is the perfect time to indulge your sweet tooth and forget about the diet for a few weeks to enjoy all of your favourite baked treats. Gingerbread houses are a staple when it comes to Christmas baking and you can make them pretty easily from scratch. Pop some icing and candy on them and create a sugary roof and pathway. Cookies are another great option over the winter season as they can be enjoyed warm out of the oven. Make a batch on Christmas Eve and have the children decorate them with icing and sprinkles to leave out for Santa. We’re sure he will appreciate it!

Display Your Presents
If you want to enjoy the winter festive period and remove as much stress as possible, make sure you start shopping for your Christmas presents early. As you start buying your presents, wrap them up and pop them under the tree to bring some Christmas spirit into your home. There are lots of amazing wrapping option to choose from now, so why not go all out with gorgeous wrapping paper, bows, tags and ribbon. Presents under the tree will instantly make everyone who comes into your home feel much more Christmassy, however, if you have young children then leaving presents lying around may not be the best idea.

Transform Your Bedroom this Winter
Don’t forget to update your bedroom this winter season! While we tend to focus on creating a warm and cosy environment in our living areas, we can often forget to update our bedrooms too. While many people like the lighter bedding over the summer months, once those colder months hit there is nothing better than updating your bedding with some wintery designs and putting some throws over the top for the ultimate cosy bedroom that you won’t want to leave. If you’re looking for more inspiration, these bedroom transformation tips from Fishpools will give you some great ideas as to how you can make your bedroom cosy for the winter weather.

Put the Fireplace On
If you are lucky enough to have a working fireplace, now is the perfect time to get that fire roaring. This is an easy way to set the tone for a cosy holiday gathering and it will encourage family members and friends to gather around and enjoy some quality time together over the winter period. Add a few festive scented candles to your fireplace and you will have the perfect Christmassy display.

Set the Table
If you don’t often eat at your family dining table, why not set it for Christmas to help transform your home over the winter season. This is super easy to do and all you need is some holiday table runners, festive placemats, glasses, silverware and other fun festive ornaments for the table. This will instantly add some festive feeling to your home.

Spread some festive cheer this winter season by trying out some of our top tips.

What To Wear To A Winter Wedding

When you get invited to a wedding in the summer, choosing an outfit is easy - summer dress & heels! Winter wedding outfits are slightly harder to plan sadly as you’ll need to think about the weather, your shoe choice and much more. Staying stylish is always important and so to help you with this big decision, we have put together some tips on what you can wear to a winter wedding. Keep reading if you are expecting that dreaded winter wedding invite any day now.

Long-Sleeve Dresses
The winter is the perfect time to break out that long-sleeve dress that you haven’t had a chance to wear yet. We love flowery patterns on long-sleeve dresses so make sure to choose one that is going to make an impression. This outfit will keep you warm and look stylish at the same time so make sure to invest in a long-sleeve dress or wear one of your favourite summer ones!

Velvet
As it gets closer to Christmas, more velvet is appearing in our favourite stores and we are loving it. For your next winter wedding, try some velvet as it is warm and looks amazing as it sparkles on you. You could have a velvet dress or even just warm yourself up with a velvet jacket. If you’d like to keep the velvet to a minimum, then maybe just opt for a velvet bag.

A Statement Coat
If you are going to a wedding in the winter, then you are probably going to need to bring a coat. Of course, it is really easy to make your coat the main attraction so why not invest in a nice statement coat? Try a leopard print coat or even a brightly coloured one in contrast to the darker weather. This is great for those weddings where you know that you will probably have to keep your coat on the entire day anyway.

Wear A Suit
Suits are in this season and they look amazing when they are tailored perfectly. Of course, you don’t want to wear your standard business suit to a wedding, but you’ll find plenty of bolder, fitted suits that will look amazing. Make sure to pair your suit with a nice ruffled shirt or blouse underneath to show that this is fancy and not just another day at the office. This look is very chic, and all of the celebs are donning suits over dresses this season.

Ankle Boots
Depending on the location of the winter wedding, you might find that it is way too cold to wear any open-toe shoes. Don’t worry because there is a perfect solution to this – ankle boots! The black ankle boots by Dune will look amazing with almost any winter outfit you wear to this wedding and you’ll feel comfortable and warm throughout the day.

Sequins
If you head to any of your favourite clothing shops this season, you’ll see plenty of sequins on dresses, jackets and bags. This is the perfect season to wear sequins so why not wear them to the next winter wedding that you have been invited to? You’ll love hitting the dancefloor in your sparkly dress or jacket and you’ll impress everyone there.

A Jumpsuit
Another great outfit to wear to a winter wedding is a nice jumpsuit. Many of the jumpsuits that are in shops right now are very flattering and you’ll love how it makes you look. On top of this, you only need to buy one piece and it will keep you warm throughout the day. You might need a matching jacket of course but the jumpsuit will do all of the work in terms of your outfit. Some jumpsuits come with long-sleeves so stay on the lookout this season.

All-Black
Our final tip for those who are looking for something to wear to a winter wedding is to try out an all-black outfit. You’ll find that in the summer, all-black outfits are generally not really worn but, in the winter, you’ll see them all over the place. Pair a nice black lace dress with some ankle boots and a black jacket and you’ll look amazing at the next winter wedding you go to.

Final Thoughts
Choosing an outfit for a winter wedding is never easy as you have a lot of different things to think about. If you want to look amazing at the next wedding you go to, you should make sure to take all of the advice that we have given you in this article on board. When you do, you’ll have the perfect outfit and you won’t be cold throughout the day. go on a shopping trip and buy yourself some amazing new winter pieces and you’ll be ready for any occasion.

4 Steps for Planning an American Road Trip

It is a dream of almost everyone to one day participate in the great American road trip. Whether this is your home country or not, it cannot be denied that there are some impressive landmarks that must be explored at some point during your life!

Unfortunately, the glamorous depiction of road trips is not an accurate one. While there will be some unforgettable moments on your trip, it can also be a stressful experience if you don’t plan well before you set out. Armed with the right tips and some useful advice, you can depart knowing your trip will be one to remember.

1. Make sure your vehicle is safe

First and foremost, you must find out if your vehicle is safe to drive through diverse terrain and across long distances. If you have been experiencing trouble while driving recently, you cannot be sure that your car will last the journey. One of the worst outcomes of taking an unsuitable car with you is breaking down in an unsafe and unfamiliar location. It means you should make all the repairs necessary before you leave. However, some people choose to rent a car during this time, which gives them more space to store their belongings, and more safety when driving over rougher roads.

2. Plan your route
One of the most appealing aspects of a road trip is that you don’t know how long you will be staying in one place before moving onto the next. In some cases, you might not even know where your next stop is! This will seem like a romantic idea at the time, but you may find yourself lost if you don’t plan some of your route. For example, you can choose to plan a rough state-by-state plan, which allows you to decide the specific details as you move along. Luckily, there are a variety of apps which you can use to help you map out your route.

3. Make the most of nature

People from all around the world know about the beauty of the American wilderness, which is one of the main reasons why people set out on road trips. Often, key attractions are what defines the road trip, as there are many dotted around the country that draws people in. Among the most famous are the sparkling blue waters of Lake Tahoe, the rocky coastline of Maine, and the unique red rock structures Zion National Park. When visiting, you should book a hotel near Zion, where you can relax in luxurious surroundings in the heart of the wilderness.

4. Take enough food

Despite only setting out with a car, you will need to spend lots of money on eating as you go drive. It is an essential part of your trip because without the right food and drink, you may struggle to stay focused at the wheel. Though you should always aim to get at least one wholesome, hot meal a day from various locations, you should also make sure to pack lots of food to take with you. Some of this food you can make yourself to ensure the healthiest balance of nutrients, but having infinite amounts of water with you is the most important part.

12 Items You Should Have in Your Fall and Winter Wardrobe

As the seasons change, so do fashion choices. Too many people put away their stylish summer wardrobe and slide into the warm, generic layers, assuming they don’t have any other options. However, nobody said you have to sacrifice your fashion sense while bundling up for the cold. Here are 12 essential items you need for fall and winter. We’ll focus on staples that are as cool as the weather while keeping you comfortable.

The Classic White Button-Down Shirt
A classic white button-down shirt is the foundation of so many clothing styles. You can combine it with denim jeans and flats for that European chic look. Or combine it with your skirt or suit for work. When things get cold, you can pull a lovely sweater over it or put on a wrap-around scarf.

A Plaid Button-Down Shirt
Plaid is possibly the most autumn print out, unless someone out there has an idea for making a pumpkin-spice shirt. Plaid button-down shirts come in an amazing array of color combinations and styles. You can pair them with jeans or work pants. And you could supplement it with a pull-over sweater or wrap-around scarf.

Skinny Jeans
Skinny jeans have a number of benefits when winter hits. Their streamlined silhouette lets you put several layers on top of them for warmth without becoming too bulky. You can wear them with flat heel boots or high heels, a leather jacket or silk drape top. You’ll look great if you wear a long coat or leg warmers over them.

Cashmere Sweaters
Cashmere crewneck sweaters are a chic item you can dress up or down depending on the occasion. This type of sweater readily pairs with a collared shirt underneath it. You could easily pair a wrap-around scarf with it. You really need one of these in addition to the chunky knit sweaters that keep you warm all season long.

Turtleneck Tops
Turtleneck tops are a good alternative to crew neck sweaters. A St-Laurent turtleneck will keep your neck nice and warm. The look can be paired with a sweater (even a crewneck one). You can wear them on their own with jeans or pair it with a sleeveless dress.

Knitted Jumper Dress
A knitted jumper dress is essentially a sweater so long that it counts as a dress, and it is one of the most versatile essentials in your closet regardless of which style you buy. You can find knit jumper dresses that end above the knee, below the knee and almost go down to the ground. Form-fitting and relaxed styles are available. You can wear them with tights or over-the-knee boots to keep your legs warm.

A Fleece Hoodie
Fleece hoodies aren’t for the gym anymore. Fleece hoodies have become a warm, fashionable outerwear. And if you want to take things up a notch, brands like Off-White offer a wide variety of hoodies and sweaters that you can choose from. And you could always layer your hoodie with a Saint Laurent T-shirt and jeans for that extra oomph.

A Statement Coat
A statement coat is the opposite of the classic black or white winter coat. They’re a great way to stand out when wearing a simple or layered outfit. If you don’t know where to start, SSENSE are home to some of the most luxurious designers and offer a variety of statement coats, whether you are looking for a classic wool coat, a designer Chloé trench coat or an off the wall Balenciaga jacket, don’t be afraid to look around and see if you can find one that suits your personal style.

A Leather Jacket
A good leather jacket is a staple for any winter wardrobe. It makes any outfit seem edgy and hip. You can put it on over a T-shirt and jeans for a casual look. Or wear it over a sweater and pants to take your outfit to a new level. If a leather jacket is too much for you, consider getting a cargo jacket instead. These jackets with military style details turn T-shirts and jeans into a chic look.

Blanket Wrap Scarf
A blanket wrap scarf is far more than a standard scarf. These wrap-around scarves are bigger and better in every way. You can throw it over your shoulder or wrap it around your body multiple times. Once you’re inside or things warm up, you can take it off.

Ankle Boots
Ankle boots are a wardrobe staple. They’re versatile and timeless. Ankle boots are an ideal choice for footwear if you’re wearing a dress and a pair of tights. You can also wear them with jeans, and they won’t get in the way of layerable leggings. A side benefit of ankle boots is that they can give your outfit a pop of color even if they can’t see anything else under your long overcoat.

Layerable Leggings
You can’t get through the winter comfortably without layerable leggings. These leggings can keep your legs warm under a skirt. They can be worn under jeans for an extra layer of insulation. Or combine them with a short skirt and sweater or sweater dress.

Fall and winter can be a fashion lover’s delight if you know how to combine your need to keep warm with your desire to look cool. Stock up on these essential items and you’ll be able to achieve the perfect look no matter the weather.

Modern Wedding Trends That You Need to Know About

With 2018 coming to a close, and 2019 soon to begin, now is the perfect time to take a look at the wedding trends that are currently doing the rounds. Whilst there are many wedding traditions that are sticking around for the long-term, there are some new trends emerging that will set your big day apart from the rest. If you’re tying the knot next year, there are plenty of things you need to know and many things that you can do to remain ahead of everyone else.

Although we don’t like to admit it, we all know it’s true – your big day is your time to shine and show your friends and family what you are made of. Weddings can be very competitive, in a friendly way of course, and by being aware of what’s going on in the world, you get to keep a competitive edge. It’s important to make sure that your wedding day is just as exciting and current for your guests as it is for you, and you are not going to achieve this by going with the grain and sticking to old wedding traditions. Whilst some older traditions are welcome, it’s important to embrace the modern wedding trends that we commonly see today.

It can be hard to keep up with what’s going on though, we can appreciate that. Trends are constantly evolving and changing, and what was in this year may not be in next year. With that being said, there are some modern wedding trends and habits which aren’t going to change and are likely to stick around for the foreseeable future, especially as the younger generations start coming of age and tying the knot.

#1: Weddings Taking Place Abroad

It is becoming much more common for couples to head abroad with their wedding parties to destinations such as Greece, the Caribbean, and Italy. Italy is one of the more popular destinations as it is regarded by many as the world’s most romantic country. It is no surprise that thousands of people head out to the home of pizza and pasta each year to get married in some of the world’s most romantic and formidably dramatic landscapes. Whether you want to get married on the Amalfi coast, have a wedding on a yacht or are heading north to tie the knot near a lake beneath the Alps, Italy is a solid choice.

One of Italy’s best wedding destinations is Tuscany, and it is by far one of the most popular, too. Located in central Italy, away from the coast, it is a short distance from Florence and is a stunning destination home to some of the world’s most recognisable Renaissance architecture and art. When you consider the potential for some beautiful wedding photographs in such a location, it is no surprise that wedding parties flock out to Tuscany in their herds each year to participate in some of the world’s best wedding ceremonies. If you are planning on getting married out in Tuscany or want to learn more, you should definitely look into an experienced Tuscany wedding photographer and example would be vittorebuzzi.com who has a range of locations and shots displayed online. The portfolio will give you an idea of what sort of moments the photographer has captured.

Getting married abroad provides you and your wedding party with the opportunity to not only get married, but to spend some time out there and see the country you are in. Although getting married in a church is very nice and special, the younger generations are deciding to skip church-based ceremonies in favour of something more exciting. It’s not surprising either, given that most young people these days openly refer to themselves as non-religious or atheist. Although church-based weddings once did have their place, and they still do, they are no longer the most popular places to get wed.

#2: Copper Furnishings, Violet Flowers and Bitesize Dessert Tables

We all remember how rose gold took the world by storm a couple of years back, but today it’s all about copper. It’s similar to rose gold in that it’s metallic and it is being used in weddings to create a tasteful “rustic” and industrial look. The great thing about copper is that it’s both cheap and very effective, especially when it is reflecting lights from candles. You can get all sorts of copper wares to decorate your wedding venue with, from tea light holders to cups and cutlery, and everything in between.

It is very easy to pair other colours with copper and one that goes very well is violet, and you are in luck because “ultra violet” is a colour that is very much “in” now. Although this colour is subject to change after 2019 – as it does every year – ultra violet flowers and other accents such as table décor and bridesmaid dresses will pair very well if you decide to go with a copper theme.

Whilst your wedding cake will always take centre-stage, we are starting to see smaller bite-size “tapas style” dessert tables hitting wedding venues. Doughnuts, macaroons, and fondant fancies are all starting to appear at weddings and this is news that you are probably happy to learn! This means you can get experimental with the desserts you offer as you are no longer restricted to the typical wedding cake and pick n’ mix arrangement. Cookies, trifles, meringues… what’s not to love about a large selection of desserts at a wedding? It’ll go down a treat with the guests no matter what you decide to go with.

#3: New Food

Forget typical wedding food (how many times has chicken been a part of the main course at all the weddings you’ve been to? Probably most of them!) Modern couples are beginning to embrace new styles of food at their weddings instead of a traditional 3-course set menu. Food vans, pizza ovens and sharing plates are in, and boring pre-determined meals are out. Some people are even offering full on street food options at weddings, and instead of a sit-down meal, they bring their guests outdoors in the blazing sunshine for some tasty food, beer and wine.

The types of cuisine that you can offer when you opt for this new style of wedding food is huge. Mexican, Japanese, Peruvian, Italian, the choice is yours and you are sure to provide offerings that will suit all the tastes and dietary requirements of your guests. What could be better than tacos and beers at a wedding? Not much, and then you’ve got your dessert table ready to be devoured afterwards. If you decide to go for this style of wedding dinner as opposed to the typical 3-course meal, you are sure to be the talk of all your friends.

Although a sit-down meal can be nice, they do get boring when you have been to a few!

Weddings are changing, and it can be hard to keep up with the latest wedding trends. Although some of these trends only stick around for a while, the nature of modern weddings means that there are some changes that are here to stick around for the long run. Younger couples are getting married and their influence is completely changing what we are seeing with weddings. From excursions abroad to street food dinners, there’s a lot you need to know if you plan on throwing something new and fresh.