Home sweet home: bookshelf styling and cosy throws

Good morning!

I don’t know about you, but I love starting the day in a clean, organised flat. It makes me feel like I’m setting the tone for the rest of the day – 100% necessary when you have a long, stressful to-do list.

I’ve recently moved into a new flat – on a dreamy cobblestone mews in London (how appropriate for the blog?!) – and home decor and styling has been on my mind. The other week I channeled that energy into my bookshelf.

Photo by McKenna

I love a mix between new and old, high street and vintage. Some of my items are decades old – from my wooden elephant from India, a present from my dad, to a handmade vase. I love finding gems in markets and charity shops, like my white Vogue prints and candle holder.

Little hints of gold are my weakness, from my Joy pineapple candle to my fab lantern, gifted from my dear friend Hayley! Flowers and greenery are also a must!

As you’ll see, I have a grand total of 12 books (didn’t bring my collection when I moved from the states!) so I’m completely open to recommendations!

I’ve been in my flat for six months now so I’ve been taking my time finding the perfect additions to our new home.

Photo by McKenna

I love all white everything, with hints of charcoal grey and pastels – mint and light pink are my favourite! I’m also all about FLUFF. The more throws and pillows the better – this tribal pillow was only £5 at Tigre. What a steal! The faux fur throw was a gift that I will be eternally grateful for!

Photo by McKenna
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Photo by McKenna

I’ve discovered that peacock feathers are a cheap and easy way to add a little something extra to any surface – only £2 on Amazon!

What are your favourite go-to home accessories on a budget?

“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.”  

– William Morris 

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Columbia Road Flower Market in London: the ultimate Sunday Funday

There’s something so dreamy about freshly cut flowers.

Columbia Road Flower Market in East London is a green fiend’s paradise. You’ll find an entire street boasting the stands of local farmers and florists, offering everything from impressive peonies and succulents to palms trees and cacti. They even have lemon trees… yes, I repeat… lemon trees!

Every Sunday morning, rain or shine, the market is on in full force – and it’s calling your name. After all, a Sunday well spent brings a week of content 🙂

Photo by McKenna

Now, I’m just going to warn you. You may get overwhelmed your first time at the flower market (or second or third visit to be honest). There are just SO MANY FLOWERS (obviously!). Can’t decide between hydrangeas or tulips? No problem! You’re getting both because the option to mix-and-match is always a good idea.

Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna

Once you’re done perusing the flower stands, be sure to stop into one of Columbia Road’s quaint antique stores, cafes or pubs for a shopping browse and a cappuccino. Then, if you get lucky, you’ll stumble across one of the market’s street performers – last time there was an amazing accordion player. It made me feel like I was on vacation!

Bottom line: Columbia Road Flower Market is always the right move. Always be blooming!

McK x

Cue the food coma at Camden Market

Every now and then, you just CRAVE a certain snack – come on, I know YOU know what I’m talking about.

Sometimes you just won’t stop until you find that cheesy burrito or perfectly curated bento box you’ve been dreaming of.

Well, for all of those foodies who can relate to your girl – cue your one-stop shop for all things delicious and wonderful in London: Camden Market.

Photo by McKenna

Situated along a bustling canal, you’ll find an endless supply of street food vendors – selling everything from savoury snacks to sweet treats. Bring on steamed buns, quesadillas and donuts 🙂

Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna

Situated just a short five-minute walk from Camden Town station on the Northern line, the market is a perfect lunch spot for anyone visiting central London.

Foodies, prepare to indulge!

McK xx

Croatian charm in Zadar – a dreamy city break

Looking for an amazing weekend city break in a not-so-well-known European destination? Well, I have your spot.

Zadar, Croatia.

Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna

I cannot recommend this tiny seaside city enough. Not only is it drenched in culture, history, delicious cuisine and dreamy weather, it’s one way to explore Croatia off the beaten track. Zadar, which is Croatia’s oldest continuously inhabited city, is not too big, not too small – the perfect size for thorough exploration within three or four days.

You’ll find quaint cafes, bustling restaurants, vibrant markets, a darling marina and quite a few historical attractions. The city is home to the beautiful Zadar Cathedral and an impressive Sea Organ, where crashing waves spark musical notes.

Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna

Now, on to the yummy stuff. Zadar boasts a selection of Italian-influenced dishes – from seafood linguini to pizzas and caprese. Cue the food coma. The coffee is also to die for – heaven in a cup.

Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna

As far as accommodations go, you’ll find fab apartments and hotels right in the city centre – perfect for wandering its cobblestone streets. We stayed in an Airbnb – for… drum roll please… £26/night! What a steal.

Photo by McKenna

Will Zadar make your travel bucket list?

McK x