As you might know if you've been following me on social media, especially Instagram (@ofbeautyand) you might have seen that over the past two or so years, we've gone through quite a lot of renovations and redecorating with all three bathrooms and the kitchen too. We recently updated our upstairs bathrooms in the past six months which now look amazing (you'll have seen them in any of my bath bomb photos) but it's made the downstairs bathroom look very unfinished. Thankfully the lovely people at Tesa have very kindly sent me three of their bathroom accessories to help!

*Tesa Smooz Two Armed Towel Rail (£40.99)

Let's start with my favourite item that I was sent, the Tesa towel rail which is very unique in that it features two arms that can move! I haven't come across a towel rail like this, especially at the low price point too. One of the main things that stood out to me when the other bathrooms were being renovated is just how much not only the bathroom furniture and plumping can be, which you would expect but even simple bathroom accessories can be extremely expensive!
The entire Tesa 'Smooz' range of bathroom accessories is one of the most affordable ranges I've come across. The range varies from glass shelves, towel hooks, towel rails, soap dispensers and many more so there's any accessory you could want. Another advantage of this range is that it doesn't require a drill or any specialist tools to attach the accessories as everything you need is included within the box.

I like that the box is very clear as to what surfaces it can work on so there's no need to worry. I also love that the accessories can be removed without damaging the surface beneath. The style of the bathroom accessories is very simple, minimalist and modern so it will fit with the style of most bathrooms.

As I've said, the dual towel rail is my favourite of the three items I was sent as it's so unique, versatile and very practical with a modern, simple design that fits perfectly with our bathroom (but it would fit with any of them). The size of the towel rail is perfect, it feels very sturdy despite the price and the process of fitting it was very easy.

*Tesa Smooz Towel Hook (£13.65)

Next up is the Tesa towel hook in the large size which is something we needed in the downstairs bathroom as we didn't previously have one so this package came at a great time! The towel hook has the same chrome finish and the same simple but timeless style as the towel rail so all of the accessories from this range work perfect together.

The process of fitting the towel hook was very easy and as it was being fitted to a wooden door, it seems to have even more staying power. The instructions included for each item were very easy to follow and the process features an alan key and glue so you don't need any other tools to fit it which makes it very convenient. I think it would be an ideal range for new home owners, those who aren't used to DIY or potentially in rented accommodation.

*Tesa Smooz Toilet Roll Holder (£18.09)

Last but not least is the toilet roll holder which looks so much nicer than the one we had on the wall previously (it was very dated in it's design and this one is so much cleaner and sleek looking). As with everything else from this range, I like the simple design and it fits in the bathroom perfectly. Fitting all three of the accessories was a very quick process even with the 12 hour wait for the glue to dry. Additionally, if these items couldn't be more convenient, they are available on Amazon along with all of the other items from the range.

Overall, I'm very happy with all three bathroom accessories, all of which were needed but we hadn't got round to buying any so the timing was ideal for us. The fitting process was very quick, easy and mess free. I love the sleek and simple designs of this range, they fit perfectly within our bathroom and the price is fantastic for the quality.


*Gifted

Set your sights

There is no point vaguely thinking I want to learn to make the best creme brule or I'd love speak French without ever really having a goal in sight. Now, if we're talking about not making effort, yes, a little bit of effort does have to be made for this. But if you don't know where you're going then how will you ever set off? Make the conscious decision to achieve something to put it firmly in your mind, and make it a manageable target. I want to make creme brule for my friend's birthday or I want to order a meal in French at my local French restaurant.

Do it daily

If it's possible, whatever it is that you're learning try to build it into your daily routine. If you're brushing up on Excel skills, that could mean playing with a new formula each day. If you're learning guitar, even working on one chord a day is far better than doing nothing at all. If you are learning a new language, spending five minutes a day using the Duolingo or FluentU app will help you big time. And the thing with daily learning is that these small moments you are giving yourself will just get longer, because you'll want to take on a little more. Just be realistic with the time you have available, so your new skill learning feels like fun, instead of a chore.

Motivation

How do you motivate yourself to do anything? An episode of Game of Thrones after finishing paperwork, a bun from the bakery for doing all your laundry, or an extra ten minutes in bed just because you can? Use these little treats to keep yourself learning and see how much more you can achieve! Put the thought in your head I can have this if I do that and see where it gets you.

Multi-tasking

Okay, this won't work for every new skill you want to acquire but doing more than one thing at once can actually help you build your skillset. A recent blog post from Listen & Learn gives the following example: when you sit down to watch your favorite show on Netflix, if you're learning a new language why not put the subtitles in that language so you can read along?

Confidence building

If your goal is to become an expert in yoga but you don't have a clue where to start, the thought of a class might be daunting. If that's you, why not get in a little practice at home before signing up? This can be books, or blogs, but what might be even more helpful is finding a Youtuber whose style you like. Or if you want to learn a language, why not get the hang of that language before taking a class by using methods like Rosetta Stone or Pimsleur?

A little practice, even if that practice is just watching or listening to home-study courses - will give you a little confidence before taking that first class. Ultimately, what you need to pick up a new skill is what works for you. Realize first that you're not competing with anyone but yourself, and second that this new skill is a reward for you. So what lovely new thing do you deserve to learn?


*collaborative post

Image from Pinterest

It is starting to feel like spring is finally here and I'm so happy about the change in the weather and the lighter evenings! Spring is such a refreshing season and it's one that I always like to organise and change up my wardrobe, makeup and decor in more than any of the other seasons. While I love the cosiness of autumn and winter, it does feel so nice to bring out my spring wardrobe and new spring decor. Here's my dream spring home renovation wish list:

Helix Staircase 

First up is a helix or spiral staircase which is something I've wanted for so long but it isn't currently possible; however, I'm still hoping that in the future it will be something I'll have as I think they look classic and timeless and when they are minimal using lighter or white wood, they can look very modern.

Abbott Wade is an award winning supplier of staircases in the UK, it's a family run business and they have a wide range of staircases to choose from. They supply and fit everything from glass and oak staircases, feature steps and bespoke painted staircases to forged steel, stainless steel and traditional staircases. When scrolling through Pinterest I often come across images of gorgeous staircases with books all around them, in them or built into the walls and I can't think of any staircase/book storage that I want more! Check out Abbott Wade for gorgeous staircase designs, staircase renovations, their services and to make an enquiry.

Unique Book Storage 

Linking into my previous point, I would love more book storage and in particular, unique book storage. I love book shelves that are located under a staircase, along the wall of your staircase or even book storage that makes up the staircase! Check out the images above for the staircase designs of my dreams but also head over to Pinterest for inspiration and I'm sure you'll fall in love with these designs too.

White Walls + Hardwood Floors

Lastly, spring is a time for change, cleaning and a fresh new look, whether it's your wardrobe, makeup and home decor and to me, white walls are perfect for spring. I am a huge fan of minimal decor, lighter and neutral tones in the home and natural features such as wooden floors. The combination of clean white walls and light hardwood floors is the aesthetic I'd love to choose for spring! I also like the idea of white walls and white washed wooden flooring too!


*Sponsored Post

Image from Kiln Lane Dental

One of the most vivid and terrifying memories from my childhood has to be the terror of visiting the dentist! From that specific smell of a dental practice, the plethora of tools and the inevitable fillings, it wasn't a pleasant place; however thankfully the old archaic dental practice I used to be forced into is no more and more modern and less terrifying clinics are the norm for most. I don't personally have many dental issues but there are a couple of treatments and issued I'd like to address.

Teeth Whitening 

Teeth whitening at home is something I've tried on and off for years with only a few positive results so I've been considering a professional teeth whitening treatment. Kiln Lane Dental offers a couple of teeth whitening options including 'zoom' whitening and home whitening. Zoom whitening involves multiple treatments performed by a dentist with additional treatments you can do at home. Home whitening involves a kit provided by the dentist for you to use in the comfort of your own home. I'd personally love the 'zoom whitening' option and the results look very impressive.

Invisalign 

Another treatment they offer is Invisalign which thankfully is a treatment I don't personally need but it's a treatment my sister has gone through fully and it seems to be a very effective treatment for realigning the teeth through a very gradual process using clear aligners which are far less visible than traditional braces. From second hand experience watching the progress, it would be a great option to consider if you do need braces.

Dental Hygiene 

Lastly, basic dental hygiene including professionally cleaning your teeth (which is something that I think I could definitely benefit from), it's something I've wanted for a while but it is still difficult to put aside the childhood fear of the dentist and actually book an appointment. They offer a variety of other treatments at Kiln Lane Dental such as veneers, implants, root canal treatment, bridges and crowns, dentures and more, including facial aesthetic treatments too.


*Sponsored post 
please always do your own research before considering any kind of treatment anywhere or lifestyle change 

I adore receiving my DegustaBox each month and no more so the this year as the boxes have so far, included a large number of vegan items which is perfect for me as I made the permanent switch from a vegetarian diet to a vegan diet at the start of 2019. I'm so happy that brand after brand is switching to vegan options! To get your box for only £7.99, use the code: KVAA2.

*DegustaBox March 2019 - Spring & Easter 

The March box is themed around spring and easter which is perfect for this time of the year as the weather is *starting* to become spring-like, even in Manchester. The box contains a few very well known brands such as Costa, Green & Black's and Weetabix but also a few lesser known brands including Forest Feast, Chum and Moose Juice, among others.

There are so many items within this box, I was surprised by just how many items there were (I am a DegustaBox ambassador so I do receive more items). The items range from chocolates, snacks, coffee and snack bars to energy drinks and on the go meal options. I have four favourites from this box and I know I'll be buying some of them in the future.

*Green and Black's Praline and Truffle Bars (89p each)

As the box is spring and easter themed, let's start with a couple of the chocolate items. Chocolate and snacks make up the majority of the box this month and I'm not mad about it at all! There are two Green and Black's bars within the March box which seem to be fairly new products or at least they are new to me. I received two flavours and while they aren't vegan, they do look delicious (I used to love Green and Black's chocolate) and I know that my mum loved both of them!

*Moose Juice Passion Fruit (£1.59)

One of my favourite items has to be the Moose Juice drink in the passion fruit flavour. I haven't heard of this brand before but it seems to be quite popular. It's a zero sugar energy drink that can be purchased from Holland Barrett and selected Sainsburys stores. I love anything that is passion fruit flavoured and while this one is subtle, I did love it - it's the first item I tried from the box and it's something I'll definitely look out for in the future.

*Jubel Alpine Beer Cut with Peach (£1.80)

The second drink from the box is a lager which has been combined with the zest of freshly ripe peaches. It is gluten free and vegan which is good to know. I adore the packaging, I like that it contains a more unusual flavour combination and I can't wait to try it.

*Weetabix On The Go - Strawberry (£1.49)

The final drink is the Weetabix 'on the go' drink in the strawberry flavour. It is a breakfast drink that contains iron, fibre and protein in a very convenient bottle so it would be perfect for commuting, travelling, camping or school - I would have loved something like this in school.

*Red Red Super Stews - Black Eyed Beans (£2.99)

Another vegan item is a lunch snack pot that contains black eyed beans and tomatoes. All of their instant stews are natural, plant based, vegan and inspired by African flavours. I love the packaging of these items and I also love that it is labelled as vegan too - so I know that there's no doubt as to whether it is or isn't. I haven't tried it yet as I'm a little cautious about spicy food but I will give it a go soon.

*Forest Feast Chocolate, Mango and Coconut Fruit Balls (£1.29)

Next up is another healthier snack item and it's from a brand I haven't ever heard of before, Forest Feast. I received two of these packets which are great small sizes to add to your handbag, luggage or your car for easy, on the go snacking.

*Forest Feast Mango (£1.29)

Also from the Forest Feast brand were two packets of their fair-trade dried mango which I finished in one day as I love dried fruit snacks, especially if it's strawberry, pineapple or mango. I loved these packets, they were so delicious and I will definitely be looking out of these in the future for low calorie, easy and heathy snacks.

*Ballymaloe Original Relish - gift 

Unlike all of the other items in the March box, this one doesn't have a price on the leaflet as it's described as a 'gift'. It's a mini pot of the Ballymaloe original relish which is gluten free and suitable for vegans. I don't think a DegustaBox has included a 'gift' for a while so it was a very nice surprise addition!

*Kind Snacks - Dark Chocolate, Nuts & Sea Salt (£1.35)

I did make a mistake with this delicious snack bar as I thought it was suitable for vegans as on the packet it says that it's 'dairy free' but annoying the bars do contain honey so they aren't suitable for vegans. The bars are so delicious and last year I tried quite a few of them and I cannot recommend them enough as they're yummy, filling and healthy snack bars.

*Chum Fruit Bites (79p)

The final snack item are some of my favourites from the box, along with the dried mango, energy drink and the Kind bar. I received one packet of the strawberry and one of the apple flavours, both of which I liked and would buy as they're healthy, cheap and easy snacks. My favourite of the two is definitely the strawberry option.

*Willie's Cacao Single Estate Chocolate (£1.99)

Lastly for the chocolate items is one of the most delicious sounding chocolate bars and one of the most luxe looking bars from all of the boxes this year. I received two of the Willies Single Estate Chocolate bars in the passion fruit flavour. They are chocolate bars with a juicy passion fruit centre which is quite unique and something I'd love to try if it was vegan. I think they'd make perfect little easter gifts (or a DegustaBox subscription would make a great easter gift).

*Costa Signature Blend Coffee Ground (£3.70)

The final item (I told you there were so many in this months box) is from Costa. I don't think there's been a Costa item within a DegustaBox before so it was a very pleasant surprise when I unboxed the March box - as always I share my blogger mail on my Instagram (@ofbeautyand). I tried this coffee almost instantly as I've been on the hunt for a delicious coffee option to replace my beloved latte sachets which I've had to give up as they contain milk powder. This coffee does need a cafetière which thankfully I do have and while it's a little more time consuming and messy compared to sachets, it's so delicious.


*Gifted

The countdown to Mother's Day has begun! Mother's Day in the UK is this Sunday but don't panic as there's still time to get your gifts in time for the big day although you will have to be quick if you want to choose standard delivery as the deadline for some stores is today! Thanks so much to all of the wonderful brands in today's post including: Funky Pigeon, Dust and Things, Love Layla and Max Spielmann.

*Fave Child Bag (£2.95)

First up, an adorable gift bag from Love Layla. Love Layla is a great site for cheeky, rude, sarcastic and unusual gift bags, greeting cards and gifts for so many occasions, especially Mother's Day. They have a few phrases and designs with numerous products in that design. My favourite is definitely the 'fave child' design which comes in a gift bag, greeting card, print and wine bottle label form.

I opted for the cute 'from your favourite child' paper gift bag which is 31cm by 24cm with handles and a simple but cute design. I love the minimal design and while I thought might not be as strong as a 'normal' gift bag, it's surprisingly sturdy and a great size. I've filled mine already with a few easter gifts that I'm giving to my mum this year. There will be an easter gift guide coming soon so stay tuned.

*Fave Child Card (£3.75)

Also from the 'fave child' range is a very cute Mother's Day card which came really nicely packaged (as all of the items did). The card has 'I love how we don't have to say out loud that I'm your favourite child' on the front, along with 'happy Mother's Day mum'. I love the phrase as well as the floral illustrations on the card and the bright purple envelope. I never know what Mother's Day card to choose as usually they're all the same or quite tacky but I love this one!

*Organised AF Notebook (£9.95)

Last but not least from Love Layla is this cute and colourful notebook which unintentionally matches the Mother's Day card I chose! There are so many colourful hardback notebooks to choose from for all occasions such as Mother's Day, birthdays and more. I chose the 'organised AF' design as not only is it a cute, colourful spring notebook but it's perfect for my mum as she's one of the most organised people I know!

I love the simple design as well as the hardback format which makes it look more substantial and sturdy. I also like the ribbon bookmark within the notebook which is one of my favourite features of notebooks and books. I think it would make a great practical gift and you can choose from a range of phrases, from rude or cheeky options to more funny and sarcastic designs. They offer free delivery on all UK orders and there's free first class postage on most items (Monday - Friday).

*Toad Diaries Hardback - Bicycle (£10.96)

Another notebook that I cannot recommend enough is a cute personalised notebook from Toad Diaries. There are so many ways in which you can customise this notebook, from the size, line spacing, cover design and the message on the front/back of the notebook. I chose the hardback notebook with medium spacing and the bicycle design from the nature range. I added the messages of 'Susan's Notebook' and 'Happy Mother's Day' on the notebook.
I love the bicycle design of this notebook, I think it is such a cute and spring-like design that I know my mum will love too. I also think she'll love the personalisation, as who doesn't like personalised gifts, especially when they're this cute. We all know by now that I adore gifting and receiving practical gifts as well so this one notebook ticks all of my gift giving boxes.

As I've said, they have so many options to customise your notebook but they also have a range of diaries too which can also be personalised. I'm so impressed with the quality of mine, the design and the price is great! The only thing I wish I could change would be the front and the colour of the front but it wasn't possible (unless I completely missed it in the design process). The designing and ordering process was very quick and easy. Overall, I cannot recommend Toad Diaries enough if you're looking for cute new stationery for yourself or someone else.

*Ormonde Jayne Discovery Set (£60)

I adore all of the gifts within this gift guide but one of my ultimate favourites has to be this gorgeous fragrance sample set from the luxury brand, Ormonde Jayne. I've been very lucky to receive this beautiful set but I've also tried one of their mini candles - you can see my thoughts in my Christmas gift guide.

The Discovery Set contains 12 fragrance samples which are 2ml each and features fragrances from their various gorgeous fragrance collections. I think fragrance gifts are ideal Mother's Day gifts but they can potentially be a little generic so a discovery set is a great way for your mum, grandma, guardian or auntie, to try a new brand or new fragrances within the brand.
I tried a few of their fragrance samples last year as part of a mini set (again, you can read my thoughts within my beauty christmas gift guide) and my favourite of the four was the Osmanthus scent. There are so many to try from this set so it's difficult to choose just one favourite, therefore I'm going to choose my top three from the twelve.

My favourites include: True Love, Montabaco and Sensual Love, all three of which are very different and some of the most unique fragrances I've tried! Let's start with True Love which is a very creamy floral and powdery scent (can you tell I haven't read anything about these scents before writing this...), Montabaco which is quite a masculine, woody but fresh scent that I adore and lastly, Sensual Love which is sweet, summery and fruity.

Despite all of my wonderful descriptions...I hope you take away my genuine love for these fragrances as they're some of the most sophisticated, unique and almost 'worn in' quality to them, if that makes any kind of sense! They all feel as though they're instantly your all time favourites or classic fragrances with just one use. I also can't stress enough the uniqueness of all of the Ormonde Jayne fragrances I've tried. If you're looking for a very unique and luxe fragrance gift then look no further than this beautifully designed set from Ormonde Jayne.

*Dust and Things Personalised 'Mum You Are Tea-Riffic' Mug (£14.99)

Next up are a few wonderful personalised gift ideas, the first is from one of my favourite gift websites, Dust and Things. I've been lucky enough to work with Dust and Things last year and I love everything I've received - I can't recommend them enough for unique and gorgeously designed gifts. I was very kindly sent this cute, bright pink mug which is a great Mother's Day gift idea that can be filled with tea, coffee, chocolates or snacks!

You can personalise the mug in terms of the colour (I have the pink option which is very bright and great for spring) and with a name added to the mug. For the name I added 'mum' but you can add anything you want. The size of the mug is perfect, the font is so cute and I love the bright pink shade. Additionally, you can choose a free greetings card with your order - you have twelve to choose from! In terms of delivery, they offer free worldwide delivery and if you sign up to their newsletter you can receive a free personalised keyring.

*Best Mum In The Whole World Cushion (£19.99)

I love personalised gifts and I think the more unique the gift, the better! Some of the best gifts I've received have been personalised, unusual or unexpected and I think this gorgeous Mother's Day cushion ticks all of the boxes as it's cute, it can be personalised with a name and photograph and it's more of a unique personalised gift.

I've gifted my mum various personalised gifts but never a cushion and I think she'll adore this one as not only is the floral design so gorgeous but it's personalised with her name and a photograph that she loves which features my mum, grandma and great grandma all together. The floral design reminds me of the stunning Rifle Paper Co floral designs (I want to own their entire collection) and it's simple but beautifully designed. I couldn't be happier with this cute cushion and I know my mum will love it too!

Funky Pigeon offer Royal Mail first class delivery as well as next day guaranteed delivery so there's more than enough time for you to design and buy your mum a stunning Mother's Day gift in time for Mother's Day. Additionally, Funky Pigeon are running an amazing Mother's Day competition on their social media which you have until the 29th March to enter!

*Max Spielmann Gallery Canvas - 24x16" (£50)

Last but not least and one of the largest gifts in today's post! I love gifting homeware especially wall art and canvas as it's so nice to see your gift recipients face when they unwrap it. I was very generously gifted to 24" by 16" gallery canvas which features a wrap around design, 3.8cm deep wood frame and HD printed photograph of your choice. There are so many canvas size options to choose from including a few which can be ordered and printed read for collection in-store hours later which is amazing, especially if you are a last minute gift shopper.
I've been lucky enough to receive a few canvases over the past few years to review from various companies and this one has to be one of my favourites as the quality is fantastic and I'm very impressed with the image quality! For each canvas I've received, I've always been cautious about how the image will turn out but I didn't need to be with this canvas as the image came out so much better than I thought it would. I'm very happy with my canvas, it looks so nice in our living room and I know a cute canvas featuring a holiday or important memory would make a lovely Mother's Day gift.

I cannot recommend all of these companies and gift ideas enough and if you do want to order any of them, make sure you order very soon so that you will receive your order before Mother's Day this Sunday! Also make sure you enter the Funky Pigeon competition before Friday. Check out my video below for a close up of all of the gifts in today's post.


*Gifted