A Garden Party In Winter.

I recall sitting in bed on a stormy daydreaming about having a reason to create something magical. Don’t ask me to draw or paint you a picture – my creativity doesn’t lie there. But it lies within, brewing at the randomest of times.

I finally figured out what I could create – a beautiful boho Garden Party with some of my closest girl friends for my birthday, which was happening in a month. If you’re an August baby, you’ll know how challenging it is to plan an outdoor event for. You never know which season/s you’ll be getting on the day. But I remained hopeful, and started to create a concept board.

I had such a specific image in my head, and in all honesty, I wasn’t sure I’d be able to pull it off. With the event industry really struggling due to the Pandemic, I wanted to support them by working with some of my favourites, but I wasn’t sure they’d be able or willing to collaborate.

I was blown away by the enthusiasm and excitement in the responses I received. I’m always one to send out proposals confidently, but then I’m like, ‘crap, how am I actually going to make this happen?’, yet somehow I always do. I also usually work with someone who helps me make my concept a reality, but this time I decided to do it myself.

On set up day, I started wondering what on earth I was thinking. However, by the time the photographer had arrived, everything was exactly the way I had imagined it to be, and my heart was so happy. It looked magical. Just the way I’d promised it would be in my proposal to the brands.

Now part of why I do these collaborations is because I truly do believe in supporting local businesses. I love sharing the amazing experiences I’ve had with local creatives that deserve to be given some spotlight. I chose each of these businesses because, firstly, they’re owned & run by women, and also because of their amazing service. I’ll never share brands with you that I had bad experiences with – so trust me when I say that I was blown away by every single one of the following companies.

Balloons: Cape Town Balloon – over the years, I have formed such a wonderful relationship with Emma and her team. This year, I wanted something more boho inspired. They only use biodegradable balloons, which is the only reason why I use them. Before I had a balloon arch done by them at an event, I had no idea just how much of an impact it made on the overall décor. They were in and out within about 45 minutes, and they manage to make it all look so effortless.

Florist: Botanica Flowers – Rowenna was so quick to jump on board and after my initial conversation with her – just giving her a breakdown of the colour palette and spaces I needed filled, I left it in her hands. She arrived on the day with the majority of the arrangements already done and in the vases, and quietly worked on a few additional tweaks and arrangements. Her and her lovely Mom who assists her, even helped me finish off the table setting. Their work is just exquisite, and they just got it all perfect! The textures, colours, quantity, everything!

Décor: The Souk – I heard about The Souk years ago, and instantly fell in love. There have been so many events I’ve wanted to use them for, and just never quite got there. So I was over the moon when Emily, the owner was willing to trust my concept and jump on board. They have various curated packages you can choose from, or a catalogue with individual items which can be hired. I went for the Garden Birthday package which really comes with everything you need – the rugs, table, tablecloth, cushions, cane stool, gold table and it also comes with a bamboo tent and shepherd’s hooks, which I didn’t use. They are so punctual and reliable when it comes to delivering, if your car isn’t big enough to collect, which I found out the hard way. I loved finally having the opportunity to work with them – it was a dream.

Crockery & Cutlery: The Hire Haus – I indirectly used a few of their plates for our wedding in November last year, but this time I got to deal with them directly. The Hire Haus is owned and run by 4 lovely women who know the wedding and event industry inside out. I dealt with Cara who was so helpful in assisting me with making my selects for my event. It was all wrapped up securely and ready for me to collect on my day of collection. They have a stunning variety of table décor for any events – a birthday, special dinner, baby shower or wedding. They also have large quantities and are really affordable per item. It was an absolute pleasure working with them!

Candles: Amanda-Jayne Candles – I’ve been so lucky to have been gifted a few candles over the years from Amanda, and I am just so inspired by her. She is a wife, a boy mom and an incredibly talented Girl Boss. I currently have her Ginger Cake candle burning while I type this, because nothing leaves me more inspired on a gloomy Monday. All of her candles are hand poured in small batches. They are made with natural soy wax and scented with pure essential oil blends. Amanda assisted me in matching which scents to use together on the day – and we selected the Ginger Cake (my personal favourite) and Orange Blossom. The girls raved about what a special touch it was to not only be able to enjoy the visual aspects of the table setting, but to also have that scent and ambiance. I couldn’t have agreed more.

Savoury Platter: Plate & Platter – I was searching for a company that made beautiful platters that would fit the overall look and feel of the décor. I wanted something sophisticated, and also wanted a variety so that it could be our main snacks for the event. Linde was amazing, and recommended her Cheese Board which comes with 5/6 cheeses, preserves, nuts (guys, she does not skimp on nuts – there were even Pistachio nuts!!!), dried fruit, grapes, berries and crackers. I was blown away by the quantity, but also by how incredibly beautiful it gets presented! This was more than enough food for the 8 of us, and there was so much variety, none of us were left wishing she’d included anything else. Linde does a variety of platters – sweet, savoury, etc, and if you have a look at her Instagram page or website, you’ll know exactly why it didn’t take much for me to contact her. She knows what she is doing!

Sweet Platter: Roses Artisanal Confectionary – I discovered this incredible company when they’d reached out to me a few months back to send me a press drop to try out all of their delicious sweet treats. From truffles, to fudge to nougat and the best Turkish Delight I’ve ever tasted, they have the most delicious variety of decadent treats you’ll ever taste. It was a no brainer to ask them if they’d collab with me, and I was over the moon when they agreed. They sent me an abundance of their truffles from their Pick-a-mix range, and they added such a lovely touch. And they were enjoyed by everyone!

Cake: T Tarts – My dear friend, Tiana has baked a few cakes for parties over the years, and they are always such a treat! I had a very specific cake in mind this time, and sent her a picture of what I was wanting. I was blown away on the day, when she delivered it and it looked almost identical. Tiana is a Mom and also works at The Wedding Boutique – she was the one who did my wedding dress consults with me. But more than that, she is an incredibly talented chef and baker and just made the most divine cake that we all enjoyed for my birthday celebration.

Champagne: Graham Beck Bubbly – We all know that a Garden Party needs a Mimosa Bar. And a Mimosa Bar cannot be a Mimosa Bar without Bubbly. I was so excited to work with Graham Beck for my event, as I’ve always enjoyed their bubbles. Their Pinot Noir Rose 2014 was the perfect addition to my event. Honestly, I think the orange juice felt a bit left out, because after alcohol had been banned for so long, and the ban finally being lifted a few days before my event, nobody was interested in diluting this goodness. Not only does it look beautiful, but it tastes wonderful too.

Mimosa Bar Sign: Kikki & Franki – I cannot rave about this brand enough. I had sent an email through to Stacey and within an hour I had a response from her. But more than that, it wasn’t even a week and it had arrived at my doorstep – perfected. I was blown away by her efficiency and service. What a pleasure it is to work with a brand who just gets it done, and at a high standard. I loved the touch that this added to the Mimosa Bar, and I love that I can reuse this for future events too! They can custom make any vinyl & laser cut wall art for any occasion or space, but they also have a variety of other products available on their website, such as Mural Packs, lighting, an educational range, leather range, etc. I promise you, you can thank me later if this is the first time you are hearing about them!

Hair & Makeup: Makeup Mish – If you don’t know who Mish is by now, you clearly don’t take much notice of my posts from my shoots. Mish has become a very good friend of mine over the years – after she did my hair and makeup for my engagement shoot. She is such a talented makeup artist, and always gets it right! She is represented by Bird On A Wire when she works on set for commercials, etc. Ever needing a makeup artist for an event or shoot – her rates are so affordable for her skills. I also feel like I’m glowing once she’s done with me!

Photography: Life by Ayeh – I have known Ayeh for many years, and it has been so beautiful watching her talent unfold. Ayeh started out as a wedding photographer, and has traveled all over the world to photograph weddings. She has such a unique style, and just captures such raw and authentic moments and emotions. Ayeh has recently started photographing families, maternity, branding and portraits. I have no words for her talent and for the emotion that is portrayed through every single image. It was an honour to have her photograph my event, and she did such a wonderful job at capturing it just the way I wanted to portray it to you. If you are Cape Town based and need someone to photograph your products, or need a family shoot done – Ayeh is your girl!

I think after reading about all of these amazing businesses, it’s quite clear as to why and how this event turned out so beautifully. I love bringing creatives together to create a magical space. And I feel like that is exactly what happened. We have so many talented individuals in Cape Town, and it was an absolute honour to work with just a handful of them.

I’m still in shock that I managed to pull this off, but it wouldn’t have been possible without the help of all of the above businesses. I was also in shock that we had a perfect summers day for the first time in ages! I hope you feel inspired to create something beautiful, and to do it for you! For nobody else. We all deserve to be surrounded by a little bit of magic that makes us happy, even if there’s no reason for it!

You can have a look at some of the other images I have posted from the event on my own personal Instagram account too!

A Tropical Getaway Right On Our Doorstep – Banksia Boutique Hotel.

Earlier this year, Lauren and myself packed our bags and drove just 25 minutes from home to the beautiful Banksia Boutique Hotel. Located in Cape Town’s historic Rosebank, Banksia has the ability to make you feel as if you’ve jetted off to a luxury villa located on a lush, tropical island.

Banksia Boutique is an elegant eight room boutique hotel housed in a grand 19^th century Victorian-styled home. Part of the beauty and uniqueness of Banksia is seen in each suite as you take note of just how many features they have managed to save from the many years ago when the house was built.

As you pull into the driveway on arrival, you’ll find yourself blown away by the beautiful building standing before you. The breathtaking, grand entrance to this exquisite 19th century Victorian boutique hotel sets the stage. From the topiary lined entrance, perfectly manicured garden to the beautifully tiled entrance and woodwork- nothing has gone unnoticed, and no stone left unturned when it comes to preserving the property’s history.

We were greeted by Joy, one of the friendliest women we’ve met whilst doing a travel review, and she kindly took us around the entire hotel and gave us a breakdown of each room. Beyond the exceptional staff, there is so much love that has been put into restoring the old world charm and glamour to this incredible home turned hotel. We were shown all 8 well appointed bedrooms, each en suite, are comfortable, neutral and spacious with everything you need to have a luxurious stay. The linen is crisp and of the best quality. You are treated to the luxurious range of Charlotte Rhys bath and body products in your rooms, complimented by freshly picked blooms from the garden and fluffy bathrobes, perfect for relaxing in your room, cup of tea or glass of bubbles in hand.

 

The owner, Shelley Kingston, has made sure that all of the details of the architecture have been maintained from what it was when it was first built, and has done such a beautiful job.

I struggle to find the words to describe our experience, to be honest. We were given our own rooms, right next door to each other on the balcony, which meant that we were really secluded, and could sit facing the pool area from above. We felt as if we were in Bali in a private villa, and would enjoy our morning coffee or dinner from above.

The large glass conservatory houses a beautiful pool as well as Jacuzzi. Adorned with tropical plants and palms, it creates an old world and colonial look and feel.

Teak sun loungers surround the pool and are perfect for long lazy days spent relaxing. Just perfect after a spa treatment (right on the premises) or a slow, continental breakfast.

Before bed, we climbed into the Jacuzzi, which I’m sure most of us can appreciate – and the hospitality just showed when we came downstairs – they had turned the lights off, and lit some candles to make it peaceful and private.

We never once felt that it was too busy, and rarely even saw any other guests, apart from at breakfast or on the Sunday morning when a couple was using the communal pool area.

There wasn’t a moment where we weren’t in awe of how beautiful everything surrounding us was – when just sitting on our balcony and looking down at the same pool area we’d been looking at since the moment we arrived. Or even just sitting out front, enjoying the beautiful gardens.

On the Saturday, we were invited to visit the Spa which is located at Banksia. We walked over and were greeted by the lovely, gentle Stefanie. Don’t let her sweet voice fool you – she’s got a firm handshake and means business when you ask for a medium pressure massage!

She suggested the Rasul Treatment, which was something that neither Lauren or myself had done before. You use an exfoliator and mud mask on your entire body. You climb into the steam room, and the room fills with steam and then ends with a rain. I certainly felt the benefit of this treatment, however, it was definitely an experience, and I wouldn’t recommend it for someone who is claustrophobic. Our skin felt so fresh and soft and smelt divine after this.

We then had a 30 minute back, neck and shoulder massage which was everything we needed and more. Stefanie is the only therapist in the spa, but less is certainly more in this case. The pressure was perfect, she knows when a client just wants silence and doesn’t force sales in your face. 10/10!

Another lovely thing about the spa is that you don’t need to be a guest of the hotel to book a treatment. And when you book a treatment, you’re able to make use of the pool area.

We were absolutely spoilt by choice at breakfast each morning, as it is B&B. Not only do you get to choose from a buffet of fruit, freshly baked muffins, yoghurt, cereals and croissants with cold meats and cheeses – but you can also order from their menu for egg and bacon, salmon and French toast! You’ll also get fresh fruit juice and your choice of hot drinks. It was flawless!

The hospitality of Banksia is something I’ll never be able to speak more highly of. We met Joy and Tarryn who both treated us like queens. Not just because we were reviewing the hotel, but because they are both so good at their job. They are genuinely lovely women who care about their guests and just want them to have an amazing, memorable stay.

Our rooms were always cleared, beds made, duvet turned down before bed. Our snacks, fridge, etc, was restocked before we even had a chance to request for anything to be replaced.

As busy moms, this little escape was everything we needed, and more. It felt so great to climb into our car and drive down the road to this little slice of heaven. Sometimes it’s the places that are right on our doorstep that are the gems.

I’ll return in a heartbeat to get that feeling of having travelled abroad to a tropical island. If you’re Cape Town based – don’t let that put you off! Sometimes a little holiday close by is all you need. It’s the perfect anniversary spot or even a great place to escape to with a friend. Banksia is super close to some incredible spots in Cape Town. You’re spoilt for choice with coffee shops, restaurants and things to do. It makes a perfect place for foreigners too! You have many of Cape Town’s attractions right on your doorstep!

From the front patio, conservatory or the formal lounge- there is always somewhere other than your suite to catch up on some reading (or even work as there is Wi-Fi). Rosebank is a leafy and peaceful suburb, close enough to town or bustling restaurants, but Banksia is secluded enough to feel like you are somewhere far away.

We found that Banksia Boutique Hotel is really affordable, and the spa treatments are also really well priced. Don’t just go for one night though – you won’t want to leave! So definitely make a weekend or good couple of nights of it. You can thank me later.

My first reaction to Banksia was: “I can’t believe this is in Cape Town”. And I feel that that sentence in its own should be powerful enough.

You can make a reservation here, or simply follow their Instagram account to keep dreaming!

Thank you for having us! We will certainly be back soon!

Photography: Shante Hutton Photography
Hair & Makeup: Makeup By Mish
Wardrobe: My Scattered Heart & AP Jones
Jewellery: Spirit Jewellery

Words: Lisa Harrison & Lauren McCreath Interiors

Girls Weekend Away In Paradise: La Bella Vita Studios.

I think it is safe to say that all girls need a weekend away here and there. A few nights away from the kids and hubby makes a good opportunity to unwind and to go back home with a clear mind and ready to take on a new week.

Lauren and myself were invited to visit the beautiful La Bella Vita Studios out in Paarl. Now let me just begin by saying that the Winelands have never really pulled me in – I am not a huge wine drinker, and we normally head out to the seaside for family holidays.

But, this time around the Winelands caught me off guard. I think because we were staying at such a beautiful place – it set the scene and the mood. Also, being newly engaged, it was an opportunity to dream a little.

We drove up on the Friday afternoon, just a short drive from home – and checked in at the Studios. We were really lucky to be given a little tour of the 8 studios (as well as the two new studios that will launch THIS month), because it really showed us the full vision of the owners, as well as the talent of the interior designer, Elsje Schonken. So much love has been poured into each studio – but I am going to leave the interior talk to Lauren from Lauren McCreath Interiors who will cover it from every angle. What I would like to mention though, is that each suite has a huge bathroom with a shower and bath, a small kitchen which is well equipped with beautiful crockery and cutlery, as well as a fridge and microwave AND Nespresso machine – so you can bring your own food (there is no oven or stove though, so as long as it is food that can be heated/cooked in the microwave), as well as a fire place, TV, lounge area and balcony. So it is fully equipped, and we didn’t once feel that it was lacking anything.

You never tire of looking around the studio – each corner of the room is filled with high end finishes. The coffee table is neatly stacked with interesting books which are all relevant to the room. Nothing has been spared in terms of style. There is more than enough WiFi, and everything has been so thoughtfully done and considered which all adds to the overall experience.

I always get excited for a girls weekend – I know I can just let my hair down and relax. La Bella Vita Studios allows you to do EXACTLY that. It was quiet, and we were surrounded by beautiful mountains and nature. We’d wake up each morning and go out to our private balcony, and just sit and drink coffee while watching the ducks and birds on the pond in front of us. We honestly could have spent all three days just sitting in our studio or outside on the deck.

On arrival, we were gifted with a basket of delicious bread from Babylonstoren (literally a 5 minute drive away), some butter, jam, honey, cheeses, strawberries and wine. All fresh and divine. This allowed us to just totally chill on the first night with soup and bread, and we didn’t have to go anywhere.

 

I truly believe that hospitality is shown in the little details – in this case, the basket of treats, as well as the beautiful tray of bath salts, bath bombs and scents that they use in the studio (each studio gets a different scent).

We had a divine bath that night (they have their own water supply), and each climbed into our own bed, which was literally MAGICAL. I haven’t experienced such comfort in a bed! There’s nothing like bundling up between beautiful linen sheets and sinking into plush feather pillows after a long day of adventuring. We watched some TV, laughed and chatted and fell asleep quite contently.

The next morning we woke up, and had a slow start to the morning before heading out into the Winelands. Breakfast and some exploring at Babylonstoren, then off to a few other beautiful spots before heading to Blaauwklippen for a glass of wine, and then to Boschendal to finish off our day of adventures with a late lunch.

We headed back to the Studios, and it honestly felt like getting home after a long and busy day. That says a lot about a place. We finished off the day with a glass of wine and a bike ride around the estate. This was the most fun we had had in awhile!!! So much laughter.

 

On the Sunday, we decided that we would spend our last day just relaxing and hanging out at ‘home’, because we just wanted to absorb what was around us. It was also incredibly hot, and neither of us had thought to bring our costumes, not realizing that there is a gorgeous pool. We then booked a spa treatment at Sante Wellness Retreat and Spa which is right next door to the Studios, within walking distance, and in the same Estate. I found that this was perfect for a girls weekend, and was also a highlight of where La Bella Vita Studios is located. Note that there is also a restaurant based inside of the Spa, so you don’t even need to leave the Estate when staying at the Studios. My facial was amazing, and Lauren had a full body massage which she also raved about. There are also uncountable amazing places just a stone throw away which are begging to be explored. Mark my words, you won’t ever feel bored!

My mind keeps switching over to the beautiful interior and décor of each studio, but I know that Lauren will be covering all of that in the next article. But, I do need to say that it is refreshing to stay at a place that has put so much thought into creating each studio unique and totally different to the next. One studio may not be your ‘vibe’, however, one of them will be. I have about three others on my list for when I return, one of them being their brand new studio, which is breathtaking, and may even be my new favourite.

I love that each studio has a ‘theme’, the one we stayed in being the Mare Studio. Each theme represents a charity or cause that they support – so when you stay, 3.5% of their annual profit from each studio goes to that specific cause. This is really something amazing, and you don’t get many places that do something as selfless as that.

La Bella Vita Studios isn’t just a weekend away. It is staying in luxury, rebooting, and an experience. A perfect spot for a girls weekend, your honeymoon, or even the spot to stay the night before your wedding with your girls, as it makes for beautiful photos for getting ready. But mostly, it was the ideal place to escape to for me to chatter away to one of my best friends as a newly engaged woman about all of my dreams and visions for planning my wedding day.

 

I hope to be back soon with my maid of honour too for even more fun. This is one of those places that will never be forgotten. And I am excited to return to stay in one of the other Studios for a different experience! A few key words to describe La Bella Vita Studios in closing would be: Upmarket, contemporary, comfortable, and luxurious. It was such a treat being surrounded by the simple beauty that nature offers, and we were so sad to leave that we even stayed one extra night.

Thank you for having us! Your hospitality was refreshing and your Studios magical! Keep an eye out for the interior review by Lauren McCreath next week.

Do yourself a favour and head over to their beautiful social media accounts that are bursting with gorgeous photographs of their studios and also have loads more information on each Studio:

Instagram | Website | Facebook

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*Please note that the majority of these images were used from the La Bella Vita Studios website shot by Sheldon Moultrie Photography.

I decided to use their images because mine just didn’t do the beauty of La Bella Vita Studios justice!

 

 

 

A Girls Night Off The Grid & WIN A NIGHT At Copia Eco Cabins.

Before I even begin, I’d excited to announce that we are running a very special Father’s Day Competition where you can WIN a night stay at this beautiful place!
Enter here!

My dear friend Lauren McCreath, an incredibly talented local Interior designer and myself were recently invited to visit the breathtaking Copia Eco-Cabins. For those of you who have not yet heard of it – it is located on a private farm in Bot Rivier. With it being just over an hour drive from Cape Town CBD, we jumped at the opportunity to drive up for just one night. What could be more perfect than old shipping containers that have been carefully converted into luxury self-catering accommodation up on a hill in the middle of nowhere?

We had been awaiting this moment in anticipation for months, and being busy Moms – we were so looking forward to a girls night away to kick our feet up, enjoy some wine and to soak in the Wood Fired Hot Tub. We got to ditch technology for an entire 24 hours, which gave us the opportunity to truly absorb real silence, something this generation doesn’t fully understand.

Copia, without even trying, brings out real conversation, a connection between two people – friends or lovers. It allows you to escape from the hustle and bustle of the world and leaves you in a little world that belongs to just the two of you. Being surrounded by nature and having escaped from the tech world gives you a moment to look up from your screens, and instead of wasting time watching what the rest of the world is doing, it has you absorbing and really appreciating the beauty of the basics that surround you. I left understanding, that really, all one needs for true happiness is being surrounded by the ones that you love.

I have never, in my life laughed like the two of us did. We sat in the Wood Fired Hot Tub for hours, enjoying red wine and enjoying that blissful feel of the cool breeze brushing our shoulders.

Time. Every second is cherished when it isn’t wasted. In a way, one day felt like two, and I can vividly remember every step we took while we were there.

We arrived on a dirt road, with pretty much nothing surrounding us but mountains, hills and horses. We entered the farm and were greeted by beaming faces of the farm kids. ‘Shame’ was the first thought that crossed our minds – however, on departure we couldn’t believe our naivety of such an absurd thought. Shame? Far from. I’ve never seen kids laugh and play and use such imagination. Imagine living in such simple beauty every day.

Copia is so well equipped, with everything you could possibly need for the duration of your stay. There were rusks and fresh eggs awaiting us in the kitchen along with tea and coffee, etc. I love that they had a little jar filled with all of the things you may need while you stay. Panado, plasters, etc. This means that there really is no need to leave for any reason while you stay.

Night fell, and we enjoyed a dinner for two. Copia has really put in that extra special touch with providing little gas lanterns to create chemistry and beauty even when its complete darkness surrounding you.

We climbed into what must have been the comfiest bed I’ve ever slept in, and found ourselves chatting for hours. With no curtains, you find yourself staring at the stars, and the faraway farm cottage light, which really looks like nothing but a star itself.

It is truly something special being blessed with time away at such a unique place. I love that they promote an eco-friendly lifestyle. Providing people with an off the grid escape. However, they have done this in a way that is still comfortable for visitors.

I can’t wait to return, with my hubby in tow as it really is just the most perfect escape. Copia currently has two cabins – Copia Cabin, which is the one that we stayed in AND Lone Tree Cabin. They both cater for two adults.

I must say that many may be put off visiting in Winter – but it has to be the best time! We absolutely loved being there with the rain!

Please do yourself a favour and read what inspired Lucas to create Copia Eco Cabins here: https://www.copiaecocabins.co.za/our-story

I haven’t touched on anything decor wise as Lauren has covered this section (see below), as she has a phenomenal understanding of Interiors due to her expertise.

DO follow their social media accounts as they are always sharing beautiful images shared by their visitors and that’s also where you’ll see any last minute deals!

Facebook
Website
Instagram

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INTERIOR REVIEW: Lauren McCreath Interiors

When it comes to out of the box thinking, Copia Eco Cabins has taken this one step further. Who would have thought a mere shipping container could become a sophisticated and endearing little house on a hill.

Overlooking the beautiful valleys of Bot Rivier, this ticks all the boxes. The creators have seamlessly married the metal, boxy structure of the reinvented shipping container with the landscape. Using dark charcoal and organic tones of wood, it’s symmetry is juxtaposed with the rolling hills and mountains in the distance.

Once inside, you are immediately drawn to the large glass stacking doors which allows you to be fully aware of the stellar views outside. That’s the beauty. There is little distraction of the interior to the exterior. A carefully thought out colour palette of greys and neutral tones only enhance the beauty of what’s outside-fynbos and stone, fields of the working farm below and the mountains of greenery in the distance.

A simple yet sophisticated, minimalist approach to the choice of furnishings, allowing guests to truly relax, and focus on nature and each other. Being almost completely off the grid, there is every opportunity to enjoy the peace and quiet.

Copper tones are used throughout. From the shower fixtures, (that shower was absolute bliss) to smaller details seen in the kitchenware and cutlery. I love how this adds a warm element to the decor without making it obvious and cluttered- in keeping with the Scandinavian feel.

Wooden elements from the outdoors have been brought into the interior, and can be seen as bedside tables, and cleverly, as a basin stand in the bathroom. This creates a perfect balance of organic and industrial.

The bed was absolute heaven. HUGE pillows and lovely, crisp white linen on the king size bed says “let’s stay in bed all day! “ Again, a less is more approach works so beautifully against the backdrop. A huge window adjacent the bed allows you to take full advantage of the scenery outside. Waking up to the soft morning light, delicious,freshly brewed coffee and quiet.

Don’t stay for just one night- it’s so worth an extra day.

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*Please note that ALL professional images have been extracted from Copia’s website.

*Lauren & myself make a great team when it comes to reviewing beautiful places. We love travel and are adamant to find some of the best places to stay that tick all of the boxes (experience, hospitality and interior) to share with our readers. If you have a place and would like for us to visit – please email me a proposal to onemodernmom@hotmail.com

Sleep Soundly This Winter In Granny Goose Linen.

There’s nothing in this world like climbing into your cozy bed after a long day, especially in Winter. The crisp, fresh linen that’s ice cold as it first touches your skin that quickly warms your shivering body as you frantically rub your feet together.

I think back to my early teen years. I saved up for months to buy the perfect duvet set to match my baby pink room. Hot pink covered in daisies, reversible – the other side turquoise blue with hot pink polka dots. It was perfection to my thirteen year old self. But, did I love and look after that duvet set! You bet. The quality was so good that when I finally outgrew it, I passed it onto another girl who loved it just as much as I did, and she passed it onto someone else.

But, time went on and as I grew up and moved on, life changed a little. My double bed turned into a queen size bed to accommodate my man. And that turned into a King size bed… well, to accommodate a baby. And our choice of linen was just out of our reach financially. We settled for linen that was cheaper. The quality wasn’t great, and only now do I really understand how good linen can really impact your quality of sleep!

I vividly recall tossing and turning every night. Waking up feeling irritated, trying to adjust my duvet cover. That feeling of discomfort that you just can’t get rid of. Cold winter nights I would find myself shivering beneath my covers. Hot nights spent frustratingly attempting to stop our sheer covers from sticking against my body.

Making my bed was never enjoyable. It was boring. A chore. I would fight with my duvet cover to get it on, as the loose frayed threads would tangle around my fingers as I hurriedly tried to just get the task done as quickly as possible. Bed time would arrive and I’d wait until the very last minute to climb into bed hoping I would be so tired I’d fall asleep immediately.

I sound like I’m ungrateful, however, I never really realized that my linen was actually the problem until I started using linen from Granny Goose! This sounds like the perfect advertisement. Like, I found the cure to all of your problems! But, in reality – they honestly have been my perfect solution to a bad night sleep!

Criene Images

It created a cozy environment that very quickly became a place I felt I could escape to in order to reboot, to refresh my mind and to gain some sanity after a long day of motherhood. It has become a place that we snuggle up as a family to watch a movie. The perfect Sunday morning lie in spot that memories are created with my little boy finding his spot in the middle for tickles and stories. It’s become a place that my hubby has the desire to hang out in after a long day of work. Funny that something as simple as linen can have such a huge effect.

Their linen is obviously made from Cotton and the style we chose is made with their 200 thread 100% count cotton percale. I’ve noticed how warm and snuggly I feel even with the same duvet inner. The thread count & cotton has made the hugest difference for Winter. We also chose a gorgeous Herringbone Throw which we have been using at night too. It is a beautiful, soft throw spun from soft acrylic fibers and finished with a trendy blanket stitch. They are available in Mint & Cobblestone (and are actually on sale at the moment!). Sometimes, during the day, I will sit and work on my bed and just use it over my legs – and it warms me up immediately. Such a perfect buy!

I always thought that white would be such a silly colour to have on our bed due to having a toddler, but the marks that he has made have washed off without an effort. And, let’s be honest – there’s nothing better than fresh white linen! Right?

I have to be totally honest and say that I have truly been enjoying my sleep at the moment. I was worrying about winter creeping up on us with the thin linen we had before that just wasn’t going to cut it for the cold nights. And we managed to get our Granny Goose linen just in time. It has made the hugest difference, and we wake up well rested!

It was such a pleasure going through the ordering process with the Granny Goose team. They are so helpful, and are incredibly well educated on their products and what will work best for you! They have a gorgeous selection, and really are well priced for the phenomenal quality. You won’t need to be replacing your linen any time soon after investing in new linen from them.

I just want to add that the beauty of the Granny Goose linen is that it easily fits into your current bedroom style. No need to change things around for your linen – your linen fits in, yet stands out!

We obviously couldn’t forget about our fur babies either – so we decided to get one of the Pet Duvets for them. My female Alaskan Malamute is besotted with her new bed. It is super padded, warm and cozy for her, and I love it because it means I can put it on our bed or the couch and I know that the hair won’t be a problem. My Siberian Husky hasn’t had much of a chance on it yet, as Skye isn’t a fan of sharing her bed with hairy men. 😉

Criene Images

Criene Images

*I will be telling you a bit about my experience with their luxury Duck Down Pillows in my next blog post as they have totally cured the migraines that I used to wake up with almost every morning and have helped me sleep so much better at night. I’m really excited to share my thoughts and experience on this with you as I am sure that it could help a few other people too!

Have a look at Granny Goose’s social media platforms:

Facebook
Website
Instagram

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A huge thank you to the incredibly talented Lauren McCreath Interiors for helping style the room to perfection. She did such a great job, as per usual!

Bedroom Photographs shot by Seppi Hochfellner.
Lounge Photographs shot by Criene Images.

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