Showing posts with label Tried and Tested. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tried and Tested. Show all posts

Faraway Friends & UncommonGoods








Love, relationships, progress, joy... distance. Ah, distance my old friend. Why, is it that we find ourselves so far from some of the most important people in our lives? Separated by oceans and excessively priced air travel and often times tears too. We are spread across a globe so vast and yet our hearts can feel so close together. As a self-employed, hard working woman - very sadly I often find that my RSVP's to those dotted around the globe are of the negative type. No... sadly, regrettably, unfortunately, heart-achingly I will  not be able to attend your milestone birthday, your engagement to your true love, your beautiful wedding, the baby shower for your beloved bundle of joy. Of course these are not the words I use, but as a sentimentalist with many a faraway friend my heart feels these things when I can't jet across the ocean to celebrate with them. It is in those moments that I find it a close and comforting conciliation prize to send a special, heartfelt gift. However, I have found that sending something from South Africa often means it only gets there months later. Over time I have discovered a small batch of overseas stores and online sites from which to send that something special so it makes it in the nick of time. 

As I enter into a new chapter of my life along with many of my dear friends, there is so much to celebrate, but also not always a chance to hop or skip off to another country. Through searching and eventually finding I have become such a fan of UncommonGoods for spoiling those faraway friends who I can't see in person (must keep filling that piggy bank).  They do ship to South Africa, but you see that defeats the object (I must resist). Besides the above little shopping collection looking very suited to my tastes, I do assure you that it isn't for me (promise). A selection of perfectly found gifts and treats to spoil a few of my favourite people and there is even a chance for a touch of personalisation for a hint of extra love. Whether I am thinking of one of my best friends Tammy in London and her penchant for cats and fashion, or the most organised friend I have... Misha, in Colorado I know that each will receive something chosen with love by me, packaged up with care and posted off safely.

The bonus for my business brain is the handmade, artisanal approach of UncommonGoods. A selection of creative, carefully curated products that tell a story and in turn support makers, crafters and artists - just  a few of my favourite "job titles". 

"We're growing not only our artist family, but also a strong following of customers who celebrate artists and delight in surrounding themselves with creative design." 
~ UncommonGoods ~

Okay, but quick side note please look at the Llama purse, too good to not have and the kitty bracelet. That's all... I will stop, it's gift list after all.

Presents in the Post

Snail mail, surprises, pretty parcels - that sums up a few of my favourite things. I met Pammi-Joy the lovely owner of Presents in the Post when I hosted my creative business workshop in Cape Town. She is just as lovely as her beautiful name suggests.

"Presents in the Post is a subscription service and online store that introduces you to upcoming South African designers. We surprise you or a person of your choice with a custom present in the post."

I was delighted to be on the receiving end of one of the beautiful gifts on offer. I particularly like the process and questions in order to match you with your secret surprise which offers a girl and boy option... or shall I say masculine and feminine. The site prompts you with clues and you can select whether it's a personal pressie or one for a friend. I think it's the ideal gift option too, making things easy and convenient with the quirky wrapping and option of a handwritten note! Fun, local and ever so clever!

Inside my cute parcel was a limited edition print by Kirsten Sims which offers a whimsical scene with the deepest shade of navy and twinkly stars. Even Daniel likes it and he is a tough one to convince. I found a plain, white frame at MRP Home for around R59.99 (I think) and it fits nicely. I wanted to frame it asap so that I could really enjoy the print. I am ever so tempted to get in touch with Kirsten to understand the inspiration behind it, I have made up my version already. 

Whether you are in need of a personal spoil or an inspired gift for a loved one - head over to Presents in the Post and be charmed by a sweet concept that offers kindness, care and something special. 

Durban: Must-Visit List

I've tried out a few really great and fantastic Durban places lately and wanted to share them with you. If you live here then be sure to stop by or if you are here for the holidays then add these to your 'must-visit list'.

Daniel and I checked into The Concierge for a wedding anniversary 'staycation'. Quirky and fun... this hotel offers a good night's rest and a truly authentic local experience.

Afro's is opening their newest shop at 33 Churchill Road this week, which means their tasty chicken is easier than ever to get your hands on! If you haven't sampled this cool brand's food then make sure you dash there (right now).



The Hilton Hotel has long been a sparkly glimmer on our skyline and now you have the ideal excuse to visit. This iconic hotel serves high tea every Saturday and Sunday (2pm - 5pm at R195p/p) in their remodelled lobby. There is a hint of old world charm perfectly matched with luxury. To book call 031 336 8232.






I CRAVE Mexican food! Finally I can get my fix at El Hombre. This new addition to Florida Road is my current favourite stop. Their ordering process is fun and different. The food is a delicious array of flavours! Mmmmm...


Described as a premium bar The Dutch doesn't disappoint. Escape into a beautifully decorated space for a decadent night out. It offers the perfect excuse to don your heels and splash out on a glass of happiness.

Tried & Tested: MFM Series #3

m.studio Products
 *Quick Note: Yes, I know it is Wednesday and not Monday (insert unhappy face here). Last week and this week have just been beyond manic work wise. Yesterday, I had a stressful and rather big presentation and I had high hopes on Monday for posting MFM, but I had to focus on what lay ahead. I'm really trying to get round to more blogging - doesn't seem like it is working. Anyway... here is MFM on Wednesday! 

I'm having such fun testing out lovely stationery to share with you. Each and every brand that is part of the MFM  planning and organising series are awesome (obviously). I'm not bias or anything, but it is so great to have local creatives making wonderful things so we can get even more organised. There are some particularly delightful options available for SA stationery lovers or as gifts in preparation for the festive season ahead. I mentioned on Facebook last week, that I will share a review every second week so that I can make sure I actually get a gap to use the products for a week.

m.studio is a personal favourite - who is always creating and making beautiful stationery / useful crafty goodies. It's pretty difficult not to be tempted right! I have been fortunate enough to meet Mariaan several times and I've experienced her incredible stand at Kamers . She is a kind, happy soul who is always ready to help and of course a brilliant local business woman too. 

I tested out the Magnetic Checklist Notepad, Magnetic Groceries Notepad, Magnetic Things to Do Notepad and the Sunshine Tote Bag. I also got a sneak peek of a few other items that will be launched online - one of them being the colourful and useful heart stickers you might spot in the photos.

Overall Review:
Awesome, lovely, affordable products! It's that simple. I particularly liked the Things to Do and the Groceries notepads. Both have lived on my desk for the past week and have been well used to capture many a scribble and fleeting thought. I usually make shopping lists on my phone, but much prefer a papery option to take along on my aisle travels. The perfectly sized pages (90 mm x 200mm) are a perfect accompaniment to my planner, as I could slide in the to do pages and deal with extra tasks as needed. The bag was ideal as a holdall for meetings to carry my planner and iPad (and all the other paraphernalia I seem to require in order to function). I also loved using the tote to hold my packages to post on errand days . It would be ideal to use as a gift bag too - filled with beautiful presents.

Best Feature:
The prices! Useful, pretty stationery at low prices means you can get double as much (I'm not enabling you - I'm just saying btw). 

Useful For:
All your organising needs. I find the m.studio paper products, like the notebooks great to use for snail mail gifts. They are flat and lightweight, plus South African - so they are just lovely to share with faraway friends. 

Prices:
Groceries Notepad (Magnetic) - R32 (50 pages)
Checklist Notepad (Magnetic) - R32 (50 pages)

Where to Buy:
You can shop online on the m.studio shop or lookout for these lovely products at the next Kamers event (take plenty of money to spend - it's irresistible).






m.studio is giving away a R500 goodie pack of products to one lucky (damn lucky if you ask me) blog reader! How awesome is that.
You can enter below via Rafflecopter:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Note: Sometimes Rafflecopter experiences technical difficulties like all modern technology. If you can’t enter for some reason, try again later and it should work.
This is a local South African giveaway which closes on the 3rd December.

Tried & Tested: MFM Series #2

Elephantshoe Products
Hooray... finally it's time for the next MFM Review Series post featuring one of my favourite local stationery brands - Elephantshoe. Those in Durban will know that the weather has been all over the show which has made photo taking so difficult. Luckily there were a few gaps of fairly okay light to use for snapping these beauties. 

As the year wraps up and we look towards 2015 - it's the ideal time to get organised and ready for a productive new year! I reviewed three items from Elephantshoe and made good use of them! I sampled the following: 'My Weekly Planner' (a firm favourite), Let's Do This Notepad and the Meal Planner. 
Overall Review:
It's no secret... I already love the brand, but I really stress tested the products and they proved not only useful, but durable too. The monochrome designs offer a neutral look and feel to suit varying tastes. My personal favourite is 'My Weekly Planner' and I really got stuck into using it. The other products are lovely too and helped me in organising my work and personal life even further. The Meal Planner is ideal for working out weekly meals and creating a shopping list. It helped me to stay creative with my dinner meals and it allowed me to plan ahead and freeze certain meals for future (quick) dinners. The finely dotted lines on all the items are great for keeping my thoughts straight and I particularly like how the pages are bound to the pads. I have used items in the past that separate as you flip or turn pages. That's not the case with any of the Elephantshoe products - they stayed put until I was ready to tear off the top page. (Stationery nerds can relate - I'm sure!)

Best Feature:
It is difficult to select only one as the products are really wonderful. I would say that the clearly thought out design is possibly the best feature. I can feel and see the love poured into the design by the Elephantshoe team. There are ample lines to write on and it definitely seems as if the products where tried and tested before they were made available to buy. Good job Ellieshoe team!

Useful For:
Getting organised all round. I particularly recommend the 'My Weekly Planner' for business owners who want to get going on setting up an editorial calendar for their blog and social media. The layout is perfect for keeping track of posts.

Price:
My Weekly Planner - R95 (60 pages)
Let's Do This Notepad - R55 (50 pages)
Meal Planner - R95 (60 pages)

Where to Buy:
You can shop for all the featured products on the Elephantshoe site. I have bought from them and their delivery time is particularly good! I highly recommend stocking up or buying gifts from this beautiful brand!

You can also take a look at their lovely freebies - check out the Naughty or Nice Christmas printable.

Elephantshoe want to help you get organised and have very kindly offered THREE 'My Weekly Planner' giveaways. That means three of you can stand a chance of winning! To enter is really simple via Rafflecopter below...
a Rafflecopter giveaway


*Note: 
Sometimes Rafflecopter experiences technical difficulties like all modern technology. If you can’t enter for some reason, try again later and it should work.
This is a local South African giveaway which closes on the 17th November.

Tried & Tested: MFM Series #1

Olive Finch Notebooks
I mentioned in last week's post that I will be hosting a new Meet Free Monday series aimed at getting organised for year-end as well as for 2015. There are so many amazing stationery items out there, including diaries, calendars and a whole host of useful goodies. I have sourced a few that I think are lovely and will be reviewing and sharing them with you over the next few weeks. I hope these posts inspire you, as well as offer insight into what to buy or how to use certain items.

The series kicks off with a selection of beautiful notebooks by Olive Finch (previously Little Mud Hut).

Overall Review:
The notebooks are absolutely beautiful and the bright designs are so cheerful. The range of colours and patterns offer something to suit varied tastes. My personal favourite is the 'Choose Happy' black and white striped notebook with a hint of pink. However, my eye is drawn to all of them. The notebooks have a lovely design inside too which is repeated on each of the lined pages. I thoroughly tested the notebooks, I took them to meetings, used them in the office and they held up wonderfully. The lined pages are a great feature as they offer a neat option for hand written notes or letters (I love lined paper).

Best Feature: 
The quality! The paper quality is exceptional with no bleeding through from page to page. 

Useful For:
Letter writing, note taking, to do lists and anything else that needs jotting down. I would personally save these for letters and notes due to the wonderful quality. They also make fantastic gifts as you can pair them with the Olive Finch tags which match the range.

Price:
R50 each (what a bargain).

Where to Buy:
Venessa the lovely lady behind Olive Finch stocks several stores (click here to view). She isn't currently selling online, but you can order the notebooks via email and pay via EFT. She is efficient and helpful so don't hesitate to contact her.

I hope you enjoyed today's review style post. I would love to hear from you and feel free to let me know if I can include any additional facts.

Tried & Tested: Current Favourites #2

I've tried a few lovely things of a late. Of course there are a few that weren't so good, but that's bound to happen. I have a nice mix to share with you, from crafty things through to a few beauty bits and pieces.

Xcut Scalloped Palm Punch: I do so love a good craft punch. My sister recently saw my mini-collection which was in a drawer aptly labelled 'punches' and she burst out laughing. Craft nerd ahoy! Funny as it was to her... I know there are many of you who enjoy these too. They are useful for paper crafting and adding small decor elements to snail mail (see a pretty example here). The punches work well with paper, but not anything thicker.
It was R110 at CNA and they sell a variety of other patterns and sizes too.

Craftseller Magazine: Creative inspiration, business insight and good ideas... could there be a more perfect combo? I bought the mag for the creative business element and it was an added bonus that it came with a book of labels and tags. The stories within are interesting, but I do feel it is slightly similar to Mollie Makes. Nonetheless, it's a good read and the freebies add extra value. 
I found it a bigger CNA (Pavilion) and haven't seen it anywhere else. It was R159.90 and I would see it as a treat rather than a monthly purchase.

Palmer's Cocoa Butter Lip Balm: Time and time again I test different lip balms and each time I go back to buying this brand. I have very dry, flaky lips which can be very annoying when wanting to wear bright lipsticks, but this works by keeping the dryness at bay. None of my more expensive lip treatments from high end brands work as well. It's an affordable product, it smells delicious and has no taste. It also includes a SPF - perfect for our SA climate.
It usually get mine at Dischem (seems Clicks doesn't stock it) for R21.75.

Biologie Range by Rain: I have noticed that more and more brands are realising that natural is best and slowly but surely we are all becoming more aware of what we allow onto our skin. The products in the Biologie range are 100% natural and I have tried the hand and body lotion, hand and body wash and the shampoo and conditioner. You can definitely feel the difference as the products are lighter, but still do a great job. The shampoo is less foamy than the more commercial brands, but still offers clean hair. The smell is quite strong with Marula being the dominant fragrance and it almost appears to have a medicinal element to it. I'm using these rather sparingly, as the prices are higher than supermarket options, but the natural element is worth it. 
The prices range from R89 to R169. I would definitely recommend these, especially as gifts - they really are a lovely spoil and beautiful enough to display in your bathroom. 

Tea Tree Blemish Gel from The Body Shop: I have recently rediscovered my love for The Body Shop and their products. On a recent visit I had a voucher to spend and wanted to get something that I really needed. I'm fortunate as I don't have acne or major skin issues, but I definitely get blemishes, or let's be honest, pimples around stressful times. This product helped some recent ones to heal quicker. At first I didn't want to use the wand on my face, as I thought it might be unhygienic on the long term, but I did find that applying the product with my fingers did not have the same effect. It has a slight tingly feeling when you first apply it, which didn't happen sans wand application. It's necessary to use it often and to reapply it regularly. It's suitable to use under make-up (sparingly) as it doesn't have a typical gel like texture.
It costs R65 which is a fair price and it also lasts quite well.

Nestlé Hazelnut Hot Chocolate: As a non-coffee drinker this is probably the closest I will get to an early morning boost. It reminds me strongly of Starbucks and one of their holiday flavours called Toffee Nut. It isn't overly sweet and is very soothing and satisfying. I only need one cup a day. I'll be honest, I haven't taken a closer look at the ingredients and I'm quite sure it isn't good for you, but for now I'm just going to enjoy it. You need about four heaped teaspoons to get the right flavour and despite my one cup a day it seems to be running out rather fast. 
I've only seen it at Makro for R30.95 (250g) I'm in love!

Fresh Delights Sweetpea & Jasmine Hand & Nail Cream: Woolies usually don't disappoint and this affordable and cheerful buy is particularly nice. I received mine as a gift from a very sweet pen pal and definitely want to stock up on some more. It's moisturising and lovely to use before bed. It smells sweet, but not too overwhelming.
It's only R29.99 and the packaging offers a pretty pop of colour for your dressing table.

Get Big Lashes Volume Curl Mascara by Essence: I could rave about this mascara all day! Again it's a cheapy, but it works, which is the main thing! It offers a beautiful curl and when used with an eyelash curler the effect is even better. This is a great mascara to use and for only R44.50 it really is awesome!

I hope you've enjoyed my favourites! Have you tried anything new lately?

Tried & Tested: Lovely Things Tried in May

I love trying new things, but at the same time I really don't like wasting money. Researching and discovering the ideal product is always a small triumph and lately as I try things which work or that I enjoy - I thought it useful to share them. In May's batch you will see there are an array of items with one brand standing out as a clear winner and this is due to it working brilliantly for me. I would also love to hear what you have loved and tried lately - please leave a comment and share.
Ruan Hoffman Mug: I am a firm believer in the right mug making all the difference. I spotted this beauty ages ago and didn't buy it, but couldn't stop thinking about it. I finally made it mine and it's the perfect shape and size, plus the design is just darling. It's part of the Ruan Hoffman for Woolworths collection and was R39.95.

Dirty Works Face Wipes: I am fussy when it comes to face / make-up remover wipes as in the past they have dried out my eyes. I gave the Dirty Works wipes a try due to the price and I'm so pleased I did. They contain several natural ingredients and are free of 'nasties'! At R29.95 from Clicks they are wonderful!

Toy Nail Polish in Cherry Blossom:  I was very excited to try this Colombian brand and when it comes to nail polish I must be honest - I am usually disappointed. However, not in this case - it dried quickly and beautifully and lasted over a week with one or two touch ups. I'm trying a couple of other colours at the moment, including a very bright and cheerful pink and I'm suitably impressed by that too. Available via Toy South Africa for around R99.

 Frixion Pens:  I mentioned these in last week's MFM post as I use them daily. I just wanted to mention them again as they work so well and the fact that you can erase them makes them even more awesome. I often had to write in pencil especially on my calendar and now I can use these instead - neater and colourful. Sold at CNA, Waltons & some Pick n Pay stores for around R28.99. I use them fairly sparingly as I used my first one to write pages and pages of notes and it ran out quite quickly. However, for daily diary use and lists they seem to last well.

Eucerin Treatment Products: I have very dry skin and I suffer from Keratosis pilaris - which is when your hair follicles get blocked. This is mostly due to a lack of moisture and there isn't a cure. It isn't serious, but it can look horrible and in turn knock your confidence when it comes to wearing short sleeves (mine is on my arms). I did some research on it and there were all kinds of suggested treatments with Urea (an emollient) being the most popular. I found two really awesome products from Eucerin, one is a shower oil and the other is a lotion. The oil has more of a lathering feel when water is added which feels quite luxurious when used / rather than oily. I also use it on my face as a treatment now and again (not around eye area). It's gentle and has a very faint smell. I follow it up with the Eurcerin 10% Urea Complete Repair Intensive Lotion. I am so happy at how well it's working for me. The difference is very noticeable and it is the first thing to have worked for this problem! I have to use it daily as it is a treatment rather than a cure. The oil also works really well for shaving, especially if you are prone to itchy skin or bumps. I can't recommend these enough! The lotion is R159.95 and the oil is R139.95 from Dischem. Not cheap, but personally worth it.

Eucerin Q10 Active: Yes, another Eucerin product. What can I say - they work for me. I discovered this several months ago and am now on my second pot of this daily moisturiser. As mentioned I have dry skin with some combination areas, but this seems to cover it all. It doesn't mention a SPF, but my BB cream and foundation both contain one and if I leave the house make-up free for exercise or to be outdoors I wear a sunscreen. It has no fragrance and my make-up flows and blends smoothly over it. It's available at Dischem for R199.95.

Popcorn Indiana: I have a confession to make - I am ridiculously addicted to this brand of popcorn. I have tried other brands as well as homemade and nothing beats the taste or texture. I have to ration myself or else I will go through a pack a day (terrible of me). It's stocked at most Woolworths food stores (snack section) for R24.95 which is more pricey than other local brands, but truly nothing else compares! It's produced in America so not all the flavours are available here. The Aged White Cheddar and the Original Kettlecorn, a sweet and salty mix are my favourites. It's gluten free so I feel a touch better. I'm in love!

I hope you found my feedback on these useful and as mentioned let me know what you can recommend at the moment.
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