What I Got For My Birthday | Just Add Ginger

What I Got For My Birthday posts are some of my favourite to read. But up until last year I never felt very comfortable doing one myself because, well, I didn't want anybody to think I was trying to brag. But I had so much fun doing last year's post that I wanted to continue on the tradition - not only to express my thanks to those of my nearest and dearest who kindly bought me gifts, but also to provide a little bit of present inspiration - just in case anybody reading this is trying to think what they should get that someone special for their birthday.

My birthday falls the other side of the festive season when everybody is feeling low and lethargic after a couple of weeks of indulgence so the only thing I look for in my birthday is a day full of things I love doing. And because this was my first as a mummy I was extra excited to spend it with both of my boys. But as ever, I was blown away by the kindness of my friends and family and just wanted to say thank you to all of those who sent me cards, bought me a gift, and sent good wishes to me on the day.

After getting me such an amazing hamper filled with my favourite food and beauty treats for Christmas, I didn't think Ryan could do anything to top it. But he completely blew me away this year. Not only did he buy me a wall lamp for our bedroom (which I asked for) but he also surprised me with tickets to see Legally Blonde in the summer. I mentioned wanting to go and see it again a while ago so he must have really been paying attention. I absolutely love that musical and am so excited to take him along this time because I think he'll really enjoy it (he wouldn't want to admit it, but the film is one of our go-to feel good favourites). But the most special present was getting to spend the day with him. I'd asked him to book it off as holiday and we made our time really count with a lovely dinner the night before at Yukti, a yummy breakfast, and then a day busy doing nothing. 

After a good portion of last year being spent trying to snatch time to create content I've been really wanting to get back into practising good time management and organisation when it comes to blogging and filming for my channel. So with that in mind I asked my parents for a planner from Dot Creates. I had seen Louise Pentland feature them in one of her videos and knew that having a designated place to jot down ideas and keep track of where I'm up to in terms of blog posts would be ideal. And so far it's really helping. I've got enough ideas written down to take me up to May and I love the layout of the planner, with both overview and more detailed pages. Plus the design so darn cute. If you're in the market for a blog planner, I'd definitely recommend going to check out Dot Create's collection

Ryan's parents very kindly got me a snuggly blanket shawl and a new set of make up brushes. They know me really well because after spending most of my pregnancy feeling warm I am now back to really feeling the cold. Having a portable blanket to hand means that I am prepared for when the chill creeps in (it'll also be really handy to have in the car for longer journeys). I also can't wait to get stuck into using the make up brushes. I get into such bad habits when it comes to washing my brushes that having another set to use is really useful. Now with two sets to hand I can no longer make the excuse of not being able to clean my brushes because I wouldn't have any to use. 

My sister and brother in law treated me to a voucher. And I love a good voucher. Having options and indulging in a little online shopping makes me really happy, especially nowadays. I wasn't able to find any clothes I wanted or needed but I ordered four Disney Princess sheet masks by Mad Beauty. They are absolutely adorable and perfect for setting aside for pamper evenings. I've used one already in preparation for a night out and I was really impressed so I have high hopes for the rest (I'll be sure to do a blog post on these once I've treated my skin to some tlc. 

Little Eric also decided to surprise his mummy with a bouquet of flowers, a box of chocolates and a balloon. He also slept pretty well the night before so I managed to have a little bit of a lie in before we headed out to his class in the morning. 

I had an absolutely fantastic birthday. I was quite lonely on the day last year but this one totally made up for that. And now I just can't wait to see what lies in store for my thirty first year. I have a feeling it's going to be awesome. 

Say It With Songfinch | Just Add Ginger

When it came to thinking about what to get Ryan for Christmas I knew it had to be something really special. We had been through an incredible amount together in the space of a few years, with him basically holding me together through some of it, and I wanted a gift that showed him not just how much I love and apreciate him and also how amazing a father he is too. 

I first heard about Songfinch through Jo's blog and I was really drawn to the whole idea of what the website offered - the opportunity to capture your stories and memories and create a personalised song. For what I was looking for this sounded ideal. So I hopped on to the Songfinch website, a million thoughts spinning round my head, and my heart fluttering in a mix of terror and excitement. 

Now I may be a blogger and lover of all things creative, but whereas I'd normally let my inner voice dictate what I write, leading my fingers in a dance across the keys and not really paying much mind to whether there is a structure until after a post is complete, I knew that with this process I had to do things slightly differently. 

Songfinch breaks the process down into really manageable stages. You get to tell you story, then pick the genre, mood and vocalist you think would suit your song's message best. It was a really easy process to use. But being the perfectionist I am I was having trouble collating my thoughts into succinct pieces. So I reached out to the team via a contact email address for direction. A few days later, after receiving some guidance from Songfinch, I was ready to put fingertips to keys and get started. 

The whole process of song creation took about a week. You wouldn't think it was possible to take something so special and do it justice in just seven days but the minute I tapped the play button on Just Us Three I was blown away. Rose Betts (our vocalist) had taken all of my words and created something so beautiful that it made my heart swell with love and my eyes fill with tears. I could not have been happier with the outcome, and as soon as Ryan heard it he felt the same. It was perfect.

Once the song is completed it can be played on computer, tablet and mobile and is easy to download. Having the option to have your song with you wherever you go is a really lovely touch as part of the reason I wanted to do this for Ryan is that he has a constant reminder of how much we love him.  

If you are on the hunt for a truly bespoke gift for someone special then you should look into creating your own song with Songfinch. Start to finish I was incredibly impressed by the service and the support I received and the end result is more special than I had ever hoped. 

If you like the idea of creating your own personalised song, you can find out all about Songfinch here.

Valentine's Day Gift Guide For Her | Just Add Ginger

Valentine's Day is a mere week away. Not just a celebration for if you are in a relationship, it can be a time to treat all your loved ones, be it a boyfriend/girlfriend, husband, wife, best friend, or even yourself!

If you are still trying to think of a last-minute gift, are in the mood for a little pamper session, or are just in the mood to treat yourself, here are my top gift ideas:

Pampering

The biggest idea selection I have by far because taking some time out to relax is one of my favourite pastimes, the first few gifts are just perfect for those who love nothing more than to switch off and soak in a roasting hot bath.

In December, I reviewed a bath blaster from SoapBombs. Having been so impressed, when it came to collecting my thoughts on gift ideas, theirs was the first website I visited to see if they were bringing out a Valentine's Day collection. With a tab dedicated to products suitable for the day of love, I was instantly drawn to the Love Cloud Gift Pack. The perfect gift for bath lovers, and containing five of their pretty products, it looks gorgeous and does not break the bank (it retails at £13.99). This is one of those presents that will go down a storm and inject some extra girly vibes into anybody's beauty stash.

For those looking for something a little more high-end, then one of the Laura Mercier Bath products would go down a treat. A frequent feature on any of my wishlists, I just love their luxe look and the added feature of a honey dipper for a novel and quirky touch. Plus all the scents smell amazing. And what better way to add to the atmosphere than burning a beautiful three wick candle from The White Company? With a number of different fragrances to choose from, these again would be an ideal choice if you really want to splash out and spoil that special someone.

And once she's had some time getting comfy and cosy in the tub, then in my opinion you just can't go wrong with a luxurious body lotion. The ESPA Bergamot and Jasmine fragrance is one of my all-time favourites. Spicy, warm and incredibly comforting, lathering the body lotion on will help skin smell sensational, and keep it feel super-supple too. And if you fall in love with the smell of it too there's a bath foam, body wash, hand wash and  hand lotion to match!

Food and Drink 

Another regular guest on many of my gift wishlists, in my opinion any of the Charbonnel et Walker truffles are the ideal chocolate for Valentine's Day. My ultimate favourite are the Strawberry truffles, which, for some reason I can't find on the website but I have spotted in John Lewis (they're also on the website). If you can get your hands on these, definitely consider picking some up and try to sneak a few whilst she's not looking - you won't be disappointed. Wash down with a glass orc two of your favourite tipple (nothing says love like a bottle of Veuve) and you're all set for a romantic and incredibly decadent day.

Fashion and Beauty 

Want to say it with flowers in a really un-traditional way? I spotted some embroidered ankle boots on the New Look website and instantly fell in love. I think these would make the perfect Spring accessory for any fashion lover, and even if she doesn't wear a lot of colour or likes to be outlandish when it comes to style, these would make a subtle talking point that would look great with any outfit. I think this style has been really popular on the website, but there are other variations available that are just as pretty!

More into lipstick bullets than block heels? Say it with Charlotte! Again inspired by my magpie tendencies, one of these stunning shades in sumptuous rose gold packaging would no doubt take centre stage on her dressing table or in her make up drawer. A little bit splurgy, but what better excuse to treat the one you love than Valentine's Day?

Stay Traditional

You can't go wrong with flowers. A huge fan of fresh bouquets, I always get so sad when those pretty blooms start to wilt and have to be thrown away. I think investing in a beautiful arrangement is a great alternative. Yes they can be a little bit expensive, but they will last and last and act as a constant reminder of the day. Next have got some really pretty options at the moment, ranging from minimal to magnificent, and suitable for a range of budgets - big or small.

What will you be treating your loved ones - and yourself - to this Valentine's Day?

Dear Santa... | Just Add Ginger

Christmas is a little anti-climactic this year. Normally, the house by now would be decorated top to toe in all things festive, but with a new baby on the way and a potential move on the cards, our priorities are elsewhere, and all my excitement, along with the Christmas tree, are still packed away in the loft.

Meaning I haven't really thought about what would go on my Christmas wishlist this year. To me, the baby and all the things he'll need come first, and any goodies I've been eyeing up take second place. However, there are of course a few little bits and pieces that I would be delighted to see under the tree (or receive for my birthday, which is two weeks after Christmas). It's impossible not to write a little dream list at this time of year, isn't it?

Beauty: With clothing items being firmly off the cards for the time being, over the past few months I have been a sucker for all things beauty related. The idea of an evening of pampering well overtakes even the thought of a night out on the town nowadays, and in the phase of being responsible for a child, having some little luxuries in which I can (hopefully) have time to indulge really fill me with joy. 

The main indulgence being a new foundation. My skin at the moment is a nightmare when it comes to oxidising my base, and after having a few hormone-induced breakouts, I think the time is here to make a splurge and sort the situation out. And it's the Nars Sheer Glow foundation that's been on my radar of late. I've heard a lot of good things about it, and am hopeful there'll be a colour out there that really matches my skin. It's been a constant on my wishlist, and something which I plan to treat myself to once January comes around. With dark circles and sleepless nights on the horizon, I don't just owe it to myself, but to the rest of the world! 

Alongside foundation, maintaining a sense of normalcy when it comes to complexion also comes in the form of lipstick. Every time I walk past the Charlotte Tilbury counter in John Lewis, my beauty blogger senses go crazy. The packaging alone is the stuff dreams are made of, and being able to slip one of those shiny lipstick bullets into my handbag would be the ultimate in #bloggergoals as well as the answer to my flawless complexion dreams. 

I haven't had a roasting hot bath in months. Literally. Long hot soaks in the tub seem like a distant memory, along with super-splurgy bath products. The Laura Mercier Coconut Milk Honey Bath is just the epitome of bath time luxury in my eyes. From the packaging to the scent this has been something I've dreamt of having for ages and ages and ages. I can just envisage myself handing over parental duties for am hour to Ryan, running the hot water to roasting, and languishing with this in the bath for as long as I can. Not much to some, but as an avid bath fan, this is what dreams are made of for me right now. 

Fragrance: If you follow me on Instagram then you will know our house is undergoing a makeover. Downstairs the walls are now 90% brilliant white. It was a choice made to brighten up the space, and it has really worked. However, the crisp cleanliness has now meant Ryan has forbade me to burn candles anywhere than the bathroom for fear of getting soot marks everywhere. Well, in the new house, I want to go candle mad. And both the Jo Malone Peony and Blush Suede and The White Company Winter candles are first on the list. I cannot and will not go all year without cracking out some of the scents I just love and filling the house with a cosy comforting smell that just makes you want to stay snuggled up in your pyjamas all day. 

Miscellaneous: I'm so late to jump on this wagon, but with a new house on the cards, I am totally lusting after a set of Ikea Alex drawers to house my beauty stash. I've pruned it down quite a lot, and the thought of my own little place to store all my favourite products, with a cute little Pinterest-worthy display housed on top is just really setting my heart a-flutter! 

No wishlist of mine would be complete without featuring my favourite chocolates. When the sleepless nights, hair-tearing moments and stressful situations arise, what better way to alleviate the tension than knowing there's a box of my fave Charbonnel et Walker Strawberry Truffles in the cupboard?

Mother's Day Gift Guide 2015 | Just Add Ginger

If you live in the UK, you will know that Mother's Day is fast approaching (it's on Sunday 15th March - just in case anyone had forgotten!) Now, if you're like me, and find it particularly difficult to buy a gift for your mum, I have put together a last-minute gift guide to hopefully give us all (me included) some well needed inspiration.

A present that pampers is always a good place to start. And if you have been following my blog lately, you will know just how much I love ESPA. I have loved everything I have tried from the brand and think something from the range would make for a gorgeous gift. My top two recommendations are the ESPA Bergamot & Jasmine Foam Bath, or one of the ESPA candles. I am a huge advocate of the foam bath (you can check out my review of it here,) and the candles just exude opulence and luxury. I have one from the winter collection, and once lit, it fills the room with the most gorgeous scent. Even though the one that I have isn't available any more, it's definitely worth checking out the rest of the collection. ESPA is on the more high-end side of beauty products, but it is well worth the investment, and I wouldn't ever sing the praises of a brand I didn't believe in.

Mum not a bath or candle fan? Not to worry. How about indulging her in a brand new perfume? You can either be brave and guess on a new scent for her to try, or you could go for a perfume you know she already loves. Either way, with so many pretty packaged perfumes and so many different scents, you can't go wrong.

For a twist on a perfume-y gift, why not go for a reed diffuser instead? There are so many different scents to choose from that - like with the perfume - you can't really go wrong. And some come in really pretty bottles too! I've tried one from The Body Shop before (a Christmas-sy Gingerbread one) and it made the room smell absolutely delicious. For a more opulent, luxurious option, I'd have no hesitation in heading to Jo Malone. The Peony and Blush Suede cologne scent is one of my all-time favourite fragrances. So long-lasting and yummy-smelling that I can only imagine how amazing the diffusers are!

Say it with chocolate. MG and I share the biggest sweet tooth, and I know she would love to tuck in to her own box of luxury chocolates. The Charbonnel et Walker chocolate truffles are always the first place I look if I'm in need of a chocolate-y gift to give to somebody. There are a lot of different flavours of truffle on offer, but my favourites are the Strawberry and the Pink Marc de Champagne, but I am gradually going to sample my way through the rest (for gift research purposes of course!)

What goes well with chocolate? A nice cup of steaming hot tea. If your mum is a big tea drinker, how about adding a "tea for one" set or beautiful teacup to her collection? I found a gorgeous Tea for One set on the Tesco website and I think it's just beautiful. So understated and chic, and the perfect addition to any tea-lover's collection.

And whilst your mum is settling down over a cup of tea, why not give her a new book to read? This could be a book that is new to your mum, that has sentimental value, or that you think your mum would like. As a big fan of Philippa Gregory, I would pick a book that MG has not read with a Tudor-based storyline. The Tudors is my favourite period in history, and something that I like to share with my friends and family. Gregory makes for a brilliant author as well and depicts Tudor life to perfection.

I am totally in love with my Chanel lipstick. By far the most expensive make up item I own, wearing it just makes me so happy and feel so beautiful. If I was going to treat MG to a beauty gift, it would be something high end. If your mum doesn't wear a lot of make up, then a high end piece would be a real investment, and something that would bring a little luxury in to her beauty regime - an exciting branch out from drugstore brands. If your mum is a make up lover, I'm sure there is a product out there that she has been itching to get her hands on. Why not treat her to something she loves from a favourite brand?

Last but by no means least, we can't forget about jewellery. Whether it's an investment piece or just something you think your mum will love, jewellery can be the perfect way to say "I love you."  Jewellery can hold a lot of sentimental meaning, and a piece carefully chosen by you means that every time your mum wears it, she will think of you.

Last-Minute Valentine's Day Gift Ideas (For Her) | Just Add Ginger

With Valentine's Day being less than a week away, it seemed only fitting that I put together a little Valentine's Day Mood board. 

As I am getting a bit older, I am quickly discovering that it is the more personalised gifts that mean more, For example, Boyfriend this year is getting me something that I have been longing for for ages. It ties in completely with one of my biggest passions in life, and I am going to get so much joy out of it. For me, it is the most thoughtful and romantic gift because it means he knows me. 

But if you are in a bit of a pickle trying to think of what to get for that special lady in your life, then here are my thoughts. In my honest opinion, you can never go wrong with flowers, chocolates (Charbonnel et Walker are my absolute favourite special occasion chocolates,) and - if you are of the appropriate, legal age - a lovely bottle of bubbles. A candlelit, romantic, home-cooked meal is another great gift. So what if you can't wrap it up in a box, and tie it with a red, sparkly bow, but it will be a memory that you can both look back on with love and happiness. 

If you are confident you know your girl well enough, a carefully selected beauty or fashion themed present could be a good option. Try looking on the ASOS website for some ideas - ASOS is my go-to place when I'm looking for a certain dress, bag, or pair of shoes, and they never fail me! It is  really good place to hunt for an affordable gift that you know she'll love. Jo Malone is also a good place to look if you're on the lookout for a perfume that is completely luxe. They do an extensive range of fragrances, and if she's not really into perfume, there are home scents and candles to boot!

Something home-y can be spot on too. At the moment, I am obsessed with home décor, and the rose pictures above epitomise what Valentine's Day is about, and also fulfil my love for all things pretty for our home. Of course it won't be to everyone's liking, but you can always find the piece of art you know she'll appreciate. 

Whatever you do for Valentine's Day, I hope you have the most amazing day. It's a day for sharing and celebrating love in all shapes and sizes - new, old, love between friends, family....and ultimately, taking time out to celebrate the love you have for yourself. And that's the greatest love that we all should praise. So even if you don't have an exclusive Valentine this year, make 14th February a day about pampering yourself and taking some time out for an indulgent bit of TLC. 

Gift Guide For Mums

MG's birthday is coming up soon. And she won't be upset if I admit this but she is notoriously difficult to buy for. You go to suggest something and she turns it down, or, you try and hunt for clues as to what she might want, and she immediately thwarts your attempts. It can sometimes be a nightmare.

If, like me, you are always pulling your hair out trying to decide what to get your mum (or another female relative) for their birthday, I thought I'd put together a little collection of ideas that will hopefully give some inspiration and make the process a bit less tricky.

1. Afternoon Tea: I did actually buy this for my mum one year, and she really enjoyed it. She pootled on down to London to The Ritz and enjoyed a day out and a bit of afternoon tea and cake with one of her friends. Sometimes it's not about actually giving somebody a gift, it can be about giving them a memory that will stay with them. And particularly if your mum is the type that doesn't really spend time treating herself, a gift like this is perfect to give her a little bit of a pamper.

2. Ted Baker iPad Case: PG actually treated mum a bit earlier this year and bought her an iPad Mini, I think he was a bit tired if her wanting to steal his tablet all the time so bought her her own (I'm a bit jel!) So an iPad case is actually something that I wad really considering getting her for her birthday, and the Ted Baker ones are so cute that it was hard to resist. They are such a pretty accessory to carry your iPad round in, and the assortment of colours mean there'll be one to suit every mum's taste.

3. Lolita Wine Glass: I just think the glasses by Designs by Lolita are gorgeous. They've been a constant presence on any mental gift list (although I only own one myself...I need to look in to that.) They come in so many different designs, and the brand also does shooters, pilsner glasses and champagne flutes, so regardless of your mum's tipple of choice, there's bound to be a glass and style that suits her personality.

4. Make Up: MG's never been a big make up wearer, but with mine & Boyfriends nuptials peeking out from the future, I think it might be time to help mum invest in a beautiful high-end lipstick so that on the big day she feels like a D-iva! Every time I walk past the beauty counters in the department stores in town, I am dazzled by the pretty packaging and sumptuous shades of lipstick that I see. If your mum deserves a bit of a pamper, and she's not normally a make up wearer, a designer lipstick is a really lovely present for her to pull out on special occasions, and enhance her beauty.

5. Scarf: Scarves are brilliant. They come in so many different shapes, sizes and design that you can never have too many (in my opinion.) Even if your mum doesn't war that many scarves, they are a brilliant piece to add to her wardrobe. Not only  do they accessorise an outfit, but they can also be tied round the handle of her favourite handbag to add a bit more Ooomph. 

6. Sweaters: Now if ther's anything my mum loves, it's a sweater. And especially if that sweater has a cute picture, or some embellishments. In her job, she likes to be as comfortable as possible, whilst still looking smart and fun. There have been quite a few years where a cute sweater has featured as part of her birthday present, and if I'm ever out/online shopping and spot one, I just can't help but pick one up for her.

7. Theatre Trip: This is actually something that MG,PG, Boyfriend & I are doing already. For her birthday, MG really wanted to see Les Mis. I - of course - agreed immediately, hand flying in the air "pick me, pick me," but PG & Boyfriend weren't so keen. So, for her birthday outing, me and MG are going to see Les Mis, and PG & Boyfriend are going to see The Woman in Black. Then afterwards we are meeting up for tea. Just like the Afternoon Tea option, going on a trip, whether it's to the theatre, or the zoo, or for a picnic in the park, memories can be such strong gifts to give.

Any gift ideas for mums? Share them in the comments below.

Anniversary Gift Ideas (For Him)

On 1st May, Boyfriend & I will have been together for one whole year. 

I can hardly believe it. Where has this year gone? 

Because it's our first anniversary of "togetherness," I knew I wanted to get him something special. And of course, me being me, I couldn't wait to give him his gift... 

...So he's already got it. 

I think a first anniversary gift should be something memorable, or that can be turned in to a memory. When it came to deciding what to get Boyfriend, I knew exactly what to do (don't worry it's one of the ideas above!) But I thought that for those of you out there who may need a bit more help, that I'd put together a list of my top 5 gift ideas for your guy on your special day. 

1. A Jar Of Love: This is what I made for Boyfriend. The concept is simple. A jar of love is a symbol of all the things that make up your love and affection for the person that you are with. I bought a simple mason jar from a local shop, and filled it with notes of what I love about Boyfriend, inside jokes we have, memories we share....So that when he is having a shitty day, or there are times when we are away from each other, he can pull out a "love note" and read it. It's a really inexpensive, but really personal way of expressing your love, and means that he always knows he is in your heart.

2. Going Away: Planning a trip so that you and your other half can spend quality together time is a perfect way for you to celebrate your relationship. Especially if you don't see each other that much. It doesn't have to be an expensive trip. It could be a day out at a museum, a picnic, a weekend away....Tailor it to your budget. Boyfriend and I are actually doing this as our big anniversary celebration and having a staycation in Liverpool the weekend after our actual anniversary date. Time together is precious. And with a weekend away or day out, a heap of new couple-y memories can be made. 

3. Dressing Gown: Some of you might think this is a bit of an old man gift, but I believe in the power of a really cosy, good quality dressing gown. They come in all different shapes and sizes and a good one can last you years. And every time your man goes to wear it he will think of you (especially of you give it a quick spritz of your perfume beforehand.) 

4. Watch: Like the dressing gown, I think watches can be a great gift. Especially because they are an accessory that can be worn with anything. Getting a beautiful statement timepiece is wonderful. But it's even more personal if you get it engraved with a message. It could be a special date. It could be a quote. Heck it could even be a stupid made up word or phrase you share. Whatever it is, make it personal to your relationship. That way every time he put it on, he think of you and the time you share together...! 

5. Tickets: Does he love a particular band? Want to see a certain show? What better way than to make it an experience you can share together. It may not be going to see someone you've ever heard of, but by sharing something that he enjoys, you are understanding more of his world. I bought Boyfriend Brit Floyd tickets in the summer, knowing not much about Pink Floyd music and now I love them. Every time I hear a Pink Floyd song I'm taken back to being at that gig and seeing how much Boyfriend was loving being there. Those memories are priceless! 

What would you recommend as a first anniversary gift?