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Tuesday 23 October 2018

DIY Diaries- The Dining Room


It's been a long old time between posts on doing up the house I bought last year and to be honest, I don't know why!


The dining room has been finished for quite some time and has become a space where both Chris and I really enjoy entertaining people over a glass or two.


As you can see the space was a rather neutral magnolia room before which to Chris and I translated as bland. We were desperate to inject some colour as well as some character and we fell in love with the colour navy blue- something that worried close family. We got remarks such as "you do know that's a very dark colour" and "that colour will make the room look smaller you know", but despite this we still wanted to go for it.



Yes a dark colour can make a room look smaller but as you can see from these photos, light spills into this room (which is rather annoying for photographing!) and we feel it makes for a cosy room, especially on old winter nights.




To us it's our little den for drinks and conversation, served with hearty warm meals and memories and we are over the moon with it.

Dining Table  - Next
Dining chairs- Next
Black shelves- The range
Table lamp- Next
Ceiling light- Next
Rustic lantern- Antique family heirloom
Copper lantern- The Range
Hogwarts potions box- Gift (similar here)
Candelabra- Next
Cycling statue- independent gift shop (similar)

Being the first room in the house to have paint and paintbrush applied, we were a little dubious- especially after picking such a bold colour. Any errors would be painfully obvious and what didn't help with this process was the paint we chose...


Dulux Paint- Sapphire Salute

Having been to B&Q we'd been recommended Valspar paint as being the best on the market and eagerly purchased the paint but we found that it went on streaky and horrid- something which really knocked our confidence with decorating. Thankfully Dulux saved the day and went on the walls like a dream to achieve the finished look which is what we had desired all along so in our experience we'd recommend steering clear of Valspar paints!



I hope you like what we've done with the space. Personally I don't think the photos do the room justice. We are always getting comments on how lovely the room is; even from the sceptics who said the colour was too bold. The main thing is we've made this space a place we are proud of and truly enjoy entertaining people in as well as ourselves. A date night in the dining room is one of my favourite pastimes and I'm forever telling Chris its the best place in town and they know our music tastes so well!


We've now done the bedrooms upstairs and are about to embark on the hallway soon so keep an eye out for more DIY diaries coming up on the blog.





In the meantime, what's your favourite room of your house and why?


Tuesday 16 October 2018

Getting my Autumn hair on at Michael John*

Like a lot of us, I tend to switch my hair up for the seasons. In spring and summer I’ll go lighter and brighter in shades and come autumn winter I'm craving richer, deeper tones to my Barnet. Every time I’m due that change, I’ll head to none other than Michael John Hair Artwork for premier hairdressing in Peterborough and this time around I thought I’d take you with me!

Michael John Hair Artwork


The salon is located at the back of Queensgate next to John Lewis and is really easy to find, plus they have such good opening hours! Working full time I’ve been limited in the past with salon appointments but Michael John has you covered with late night appointments up to 8pm on a Thursday and early bird appointments from 8:20am. I have been known to head there on a Thursday evening for a perfect way to unwind and relax whilst getting pampered and equally heading there first thing on a Saturday morning to get weekend ready and still have a full day ahead of me. You can also book your appointments online which again is perfect if the thought pops into your head that you need a haircut and its out of opening hours. I’ve been known to book online at 9pm on occasions and it’s brilliant that there’s the facility to do that!

Michael John Hair Artwork

I’ve been coming to Michael John since March last year and every time I visit the staff are incredibly attentive and friendly and this visit was no different. My stylist at the salon is Amy- a Creative Designer and master colour technician who I trust implicitly with my hair. She rescued me from a balayage disaster last year and with her magic she restored my hair as well as my confidence as you can see below!

Michael John Hair Artwork
My balayage from my last visit by the lovely Amy!

So with autumn being here, I wanted to add some auburn tones and richness into the mix with my hair colour and showed Amy some images of what I had in mind. Once we’d set out what Amy thought was best for my hair, she worked her magic and I sat and relaxed whilst the Wella colour did its thing. Sitting in the comfy chairs of the salon whilst the colour develop is oddly one of my favourite parts. I’m given an abundance of magazines to flick through at my leisure along with a coffee whilst I sit back and relax. It’s proper me time and I relish it every time I visit the salon.

Michael John Hair Artwork

Once the colour is developed, I’m guided over to the basins for the dye to be washed away. I’m always treated to a head massage which is honestly so good, I could melt into the basin and I tend to be in a bit of a daze afterwards! Like I say, the staff really know how to look after you at the salon and make you feel special.
Michael John Hair Artwork

The final part of the pampering is a good cut and a blow dry. I’ve changed my style up slightly in that this time around Amy popped some layers in, to frame my face and give a lovely soft look when my hair is curled. My fringe has been kept long as I’m in the process of growing it out slightly into more of a split fringe ad she tidied up my very silly self fringe cut. Note to self: cutting your own fringe is never a good idea and I’ll certainly be booking in for fringe trims from now on!! As Amy was drying my hair, I could see the colour come to life and I could feel my excitement brewing. It’s so cheesy but I always find it hard not to sit with a beaming grin on my face when my hair is being styled at the end as I’m always just so in awe of how Amy does my hair! And this is what she created this time...

Michael John Hair Artwork

Michael John Hair Artwork

We didn’t go for your typical balayage technique and came up with the name “Autumnal balayage with a twist” as Amy created something new and original, steering away from the typical balayage that everyone now seems to have. Being a creative colourist and with her years of expertise, she worked with the existing tones in my hair and the blonde balayage to create this Autumnal balayage effect that melts from auburn highlights down into a caramel auburn mix at the bottom. I am beyond happy with it and feel like a new woman!!

Michael John Hair Artwork

To keep my hair in tip top condition and as part of this blog post, I was kindly gifted some products to try out that are best for my hair colour and hair type so I’m really intrigued to use those and will report back on those very son!. Michael John also have a new loyalty card available. Each time you attend for an appointment, you get points added to your card and over time they add up to free products at the salon which is another lovely bonus for being a loyal customer.

Have you been to Michael John yet?


Tuesday 9 October 2018

How I Edit my Instagram Photos | She's A Gentry

How to edit Instagram photos on iPhone


This year I feel like I've finally nailed my IG feed and got it looking how I want it and with my photos edited in the style I like- plus I do it all on my phone, making it way more convenient than editing on a laptop and transferring them across. Result!

How to edit Instagram photos on iPhone

How to edit Instagram photos on iPhone

How to edit Instagram photos on iPhone by She's A Gentry

How to edit Instagram photos on iPhone by She's A Gentry

With all this being said, I've had quite a few people approach me and ask how I edit my photos, what apps etc etc. I could write on and on and try to explain it in words but to be honest, it's better if I show you so without further ado, I've made a video!




The link is as follows in case you'd rather watch it straight on YouTube: https://youtu.be/EuA41Qqk2xA

I really hope it helps those of you that want to get this kind of look with your photos. I know it's not everyone's cup of tea but I personally really like it and its made Instagram a really fun platform for me this year! 

Also shameless little plug but I've got some really exciting videos and content in the works for my channel so be sure to hit the subscribe button so you can see when I've uploaded and if you can like and share my videos I would sooo appreciate it!

In the meantime, I'm intrigued to know how you edit your photos for the gram. Are you an in app editor? A DSLR and edit on a laptop kinda person or are you like me, phone and twenty million editing apps?


Sunday 30 September 2018

Autumn Winter Fashion at Queensgate | AW18 Blogger Challenge*

Last week I had the pleasure of attending the latest Q Blogger event at Queensgate; this time celebrating the autumn trends that have landed. 

#autumnatqueensgate

We were all invited along to Carluccio's restaurant to begin the evening, where were met with our envelopes detailing our individual challenge and platters of the latest starters on the Carluccio's menu.


Carluccios, Peterborough

Being the foodie I am, I was super thrilled to sample the starters and had a soft spot for the chicken liver paté on ciabatta and the mushroom bruschetta which were just gorgeous with a glass of red wine and good conversation. 

After a good natter over fine wine and food, I was off to do a spot of shopping and I have to say the centre is looking fantastic after some revamping. I am loving the fresh new look of the shopping centre and have always loved the fact that it is open late on a Thursday and Friday until 8pm!

Queensgate Shopping Centre

There are lots of exciting things happening at Queensgate over the next coming months, from the Christmas lights switch on being done in a new and exciting way, plus there's new shops coming into the centre; being both permanent and pop up stores. Keep an eye out on all of the Queensgate_PB social platforms as well as my own for more information!

So onto my challenge.. I was tasked to find five staple pieces for this season at Topshop, H&M and River Island. 

Queensgate Shopping Centre

My first stop was River Island and I was instantly drawn to the tan and leopard pieces in store.

#autumnatqueensgate

#autumnatqueensgate

#autumnatqueensgate

This coat spoke to me instantly- I mean look how cosy it is! I could see it being worn with a casual tee, converse and ripped jeans whilst the weather is milder, then layered up with black jeans, boots and a turtle neck come the winter months. A coat in this colour is definitely a staple piece for your autumn wardrobe and the borg fabric gives it a modern twist. Love!

Queensgate Shopping Centre

My next stop was H&M and I felt as though the mustard colours were following me around the store.

#autumnatqueensgate

The fluffy coat trend was also following me, with this H&M version being even fluffier than the River Island version but is more of a cropped cut. If mustard clothing feels a bit much for you but you're a fan of the colour, adding a piece such as a mustard beret can be just the right amount to give you the autumn feels and nail the colour for this season. This colour is also fab paired with burgundy! 

#autumnatqueensgate

The next thing that caught my eye and is a staple with a twist was this gorgeous grey knit jumper embellished with pearls and small diamantes. I love being cosy during the colder months but this knit is just that bit extra and could easily be dressed up with a white shirt underneath, black jeans and heeled boots for a more dressed up casual look that is still comfy and warm! Style and comfort? That's a win win in my book.

Queensgate Shopping Centre

My final stop on the challenge was Topshop and I fell in love with something everything.

#autumnatqueensgate

Topshop have always been known for their boots to die for and every year they deliver. I am in love with these March boots, being incredibly soft leather and giving all the Western vibes. A good boot is definitely a staple for Autumn and I'm definitely going to be getting my hands on these babies in the near future!

#autumnatqueensgate

And then I saw this... Drapped on a mannequin in all its animal print glory- I just had to try it on...

#autumnatqueensgate

This zebra print pinafore dress is just perfect for this season and as I was very kindly gifted a voucher for Queensgate for the challenge, I bought it instantly! A gift card for Queensgate also makes for the perfect present for anyone who loves shopping.

 A good dress for autumn winter is my final staple to tell you about. With animal print being the pattern for this year, you'll be sure to hit the trend and with this particular dress you can dress it up or down! So far I've worn it with a sleeveless body and strappy heels for dinner but I'm also planning to wear it with a long body (like the one I'm wearing above), tights boots and a leather jacket for a day look.

So coming away from this challenge my top five staples for your autumn winter wardrobe is:

- A camel coat
- A flash of mustard: A bag, a beret or whatever takes your fancy
- A western boot
- A cosy knit
- An animal print dress that you can dress up or down

Thank you so much to Queensgate for inviting me along to do this challenge. It was so much fun and you can see more of what I got up to on my Instagram stories highlight under Q Blogger!

Where do you love shopping in Queensgate? I'd love to know your staple style pieces for this season!



Tuesday 18 September 2018

Bumbling in The Lake District | Why Van Life is perfect for a festival wedding*

Bumble Campers review

The beginning of September marked an exciting time for Chris and I. Not only were we going to a wedding in one of our favourite place in the UK- The Lake District, we were visiting campervan styley which meant we could really get in tune with the stunning scenery of the lakes.

Bumble Campers review

We rented from the fabulous Bumble Campers who you may remember I did a post with last October on discovering the Peak District (here). Having had such a great experience and making lots of awesome memories travelling in their campers, it seemed only right that we used them again and so off we went in another of their campers, bumbling about in the beautiful hills of Cumbria.

Bumble Campers review

Bumble Campers review

The Lake District is a fair old trek from where we are in Lincolnshire but thankfully the journey was made really easy for us; having comfortable captain style chairs on board and the van itself being an automatic so Chris could just put his foot down and cruise all the way there. The automatic engine was also a god send when it came to the hills meaning we didn’t have to worry about what gear to be in or worse- stalling on a steep incline!

Bumble Campers review

Once we reached our destination we were greeted by the stunning scenery and views over Lake Buttermere- something you just cannot get from a hotel here so we felt very lucky to have a home on wheels to take in the views over the weekend. We could see why our friends have fallen in love with the lakes and this was the perfect location for a festival come village fete wedding and to take some amazing photographs- so much so I may have twisted Chris' arm into doing a little photo shoot with me...

She's A Gentry and Beersbikesandbistro

She's A Gentry and Beersbikesandbistro

She's A Gentry and Beersbikesandbistro

She's A Gentry and Beersbikesandbistro

I mean, do I really have to explain why I wanted to take photos here!?

Bumble Campers Review

The campervan was totally perfect for this style wedding as being in the middle of nowhere and with non-existent phone signal, we didn’t have the worry of sorting taxis or feeling like we were leaving the party too early. The van was parked behind the marquee meaning we could dance the night away then curl up in the full size double bed in the back- bliss! With posh porta loos, we had access to washing and toilet facilities just like you would on a normal campsite and with the back of the van consisting of a fridge, gas hob and sink with running water, we were good to go an everything we needed to feel fresh as a daisy and ready for the day. The day after the wedding we may not have been fresh little daisies thanks to alcohol but our wilted selves were so thankful to be able to cook up a bacon butty on site when we awoke!

She's A Gentry and Beersbikesandbistro

The journey home may have been long with a hangover but I was perfectly happy and entertained thanks to the leisure battery with plug socket and USB plug in space so I could watch a film, edit photos and even start the write up on this blog post! It was a total life saver for both Chris and I being technology addicts knowing that we had fully charged phones and devices on the go.

She's A Gentry and Beersbikesandbistro

Yet again we had another fantastic adventure thanks to Bumble Campers. If you’re looking to hire one and seek adventure, I’d highly recommend coming up to the Lake District. The scenery is just phenomenal and unlike anywhere else I’ve been in the UK. I’d also recommend a camper for a festival wedding over a hotel anytime. It’s less stress and you are free to come and go as you please plus both Chris and I agree it’s a lot cheaper than mucking about with accommodation and taxis! Our next venture will most likely be to a festival but whether it’s a bumble rental or one of their vans for sale? Who knows. We are teetering on the edge of getting one eek!

She's A Gentry and Beersbikesandbistro

After this trip I feel truly buzzing about Bumble Campers all over again and feel so fortunate to have had experiences on our trip that you'll only get in a van/ camping setting rather than a four walled hotel room. I also think it just makes a trip that bit more exciting and more of an adventure so what are you waiting for?

If you want to see more of what we got up to on our adventures, I also did a vlog!



When are you booking to #bumbleabout ?


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