Shop Small this Xmas…

I always enjoying supporting small business, but this year more than ever they need our custom. If you’re after for some beautifully different presents for your loved ones, look no further.

Illustrated by Charlie can cover two Xmas needs, gift & cards. Their fun prints would make a fab present and humorous take on festive cards are sure to make everyone smile.

Candles can be a passé as a gift, but not if you find some that are really special. ESH do exactly that. All 100% soy wax, handmade beautiful designs. I have my eye on those pillar stars.

Jessica Jumpers creates beautiful prints, portraits and totes. Her work often features two of my favourite things, ‘kitties & titties’. She also takes commission for portraits. Her unique style ensures any purchase would be a delightful gift.

Tote bag  with ‘titties & kitties’ slogan Sms drawing of naked woman bending over to stroke  a cat.

If African prints warm you heart, My Ankara Love is the place for you. These fabrics are divine. They stock everything from interiors to jewellery. I would die if I found any of their pieces under my tree.

Lamp, bangles, dress &  cushion is African wax print fabrics

Hatch is a retail space in Glasgow that curates independent makers from throughout the UK. They have so many beautiful things that would make amazing gifts. If you’re local I definitely recommend you check them out.

Dried flower wreaths octopus plate, good posnt holder with ivy, stained glass robin window decorations

Curated by Girls have the most amazing feminist tees. All of which are already on my Xmas list. If you know a woman who takes no shit one of these would make the perfect present.

Women wearing t shirts with feminist slogans.

Portrait of me…

Last week I received a package that thrilled me. I commissioned a portrait from the incredibly talented Spunk Rock Star. She is an artist I discovered on Instagram & can not get enough of.

My portrait is, of course wonderful. I selected a picture of myself from a few summers ago. I had spent the day on the most beautiful beach with special people and felt completely content. Helen (aka spunk rock) totally captured that serenity. I can’t wait to get it framed & find it a perfect spot to live.

ly h Kerr
The original photograph

Having a stunning portrait of myself feels very decadent. I can’t recommend it enough. If you want to take my advice, Helen will not disappoint. She also creates super sexy kink art, which I just love. Her Etsy has great sales regularly, you can pick up originals, prints & even these very cool pins. The very best way to support independent artists is to buy their work. I think for a long time I was a little intimidated by the idea of commissioning art, but I am so glad I got over that. I’ve bought some brilliant & unique pieces from artists (mostly found on insta) this year. I definitely intend to continue because it’s doubly satisfying; you get an exceptional hand crafted item & you know you supported someone in doing the thing they love. It’s a good feeling!

ly h Kerr by Helen Aninety
Perfect portrait.

It’s coming on Christmas….

I’m beginning to feel quite festive. Being the superwoman that I am, I finished buying gifts weeks ago. So, now it’s time to turn my attention on myself. Beware, I’m about to get all wanty.

When buying presents this year I wanted to select really personal items & I think I’ve done well. I thought I’d use the same theory on my self & sought out some quirky trinkets. 

  
Klimt bangle – TimeMachineJewelry (Etsy)

Scarf – River Island

Gimme Brow – Benefit

  
Sampler – YesStitchYes (Etsy)

Jumper – Dorothy Perkins

Number 11 by Jonathon Coe

Intergalactic Bath Bomb – Lush
  
Pendant – HomeStudio (Etsy)

Clutch – Forever21

Notebook – JournalLandCompany (Etsy)

Flower Crown – Asos
  
Candle – The Skye Candle Company

They’re Real – Benefit

Trapper Hat – Forever21

Chocolates – Not on the high street.
I’ve gone for a number of things inspired by creatives who make my heart sing. Flung in some winter warmers with a little glamour. Added a pinch of operation pretty tools & garnished with something to make me chuckle. 

What will you be asking Santa for?

My funny valentine…

Forever a romantic, I am a valentine’s fan. As much as I love the mushy stuff the chances of my soppy side being indulged are slim. Nevertheless I have come up with a lovey dovey wish list just in case a certain someone is paying attention.

I’m more into quirky, thoughtful gifts than grand gestures or your standard valentine’s day fair. With that in mind I picked out a handful of items I’d love to receive & a spattering of things I’d choose to give.

Putting a twist on the traditional are these his & hers floral offerings. White flowers are guaranteed to have me swooning, so white roses seem appropriate. Orchids strike me as both sexy & romantic. This black variety hits a chord with me.

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If like me you’re looking for something a little different, but still sweet. These picks might float your boat.

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Matchstick Biscuits – Eat My Cake London £10
Message Beanstalk Seeds – BEEcycle ltd £3

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Personalised Soundwave Voice Art – Frenzy House on Etsy £19.

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Love Letters of Great Men & Women by Ursula Doyle – Waterstones £7.19
Tom Ford – House of Frasers £92
Raspberry Pi 2 – The Pi Hut £32
Irregular Choice – Schuh £80

What good would Feb 14th be if we didn’t get a bit dirty? Beautiful lingerie never fails to get me in the mood.

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Stockings – M&S £8
Lace Shelf Baby Doll & Thong – Oh La La Cherie (Curves)

I’ve already picked up my valentine’s card. It may give you a clue as to what keeps me smiling.

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Scribbler £2.65

Whatever your status & however you celebrate, I hope you have a wonderful day.