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5 Bedroom plants that improve your sleep September 26, 2020
The joys of an Indian Summer and how to make the most of it September 19, 2020
In a way, the joys of an Indian Summer are more exciting than the Summer itself… Why? Because it lasts only a few days or weeks – so you need to make the most of it!
So, what are the joys of an Indian Summer, and what is it exactly, and where does the name ” Indian Summer” come from? The first time this was used in the UK was in 1916 when the first publication of Met Office described it as ’a warm, calm spell of weather occurring in autumn, especially in October and November.’ Over the years, the patterns have changed, only a few days ago, in the middle of September we were gifted with a scorching 30°C! But the origins of this event remain the same – mysterious and slightly confusing, to say the least.
One version is that Indian Summer comes from colonial times when Britain ruled India. Another theory claims that it goes as far as Native American heritage. Presumably, American Indians used mild autumnal weather to hunt and forage later in the day to build up winter food stocks. We will leave you to choose the story to believe, we have been inspired by the Native Americans and made a list of activities for you to enjoy and to fully experience the joys of this years Indian Summer.
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Have one last picnic
Who doesn’t love a picnic with your friends or family? September might be your last chance to take your little ones to the park for the whole day, grab a ball and play some grass volleyball or football with your friends, or simply pop a bottle of prosecco into your picnic bag and enjoy it with your girlfriends. Jazz it up with some rainbow gin glasses and raise a glass to the summer of 2020 and what a rollercoaster Summer it has been!
2. Take a road trip.
Enjoy a stroll along the beach before the weather turns. Take a road or train trip to some of the places you didn’t get to visit in the traditional summer months. It’s likely to be less busy and you can enjoy the area and scenery without the crowds. Depending on where you live, here are some ideas for a day trip:
- Bournemouth – beautiful beaches and less crowded than peak season;
- Surrey forest – an amazing day out for people who love long walks and nature;
- Cambridge or Oxford – two historic cities perfect for some cultural indulgence and punting;
- Whitstable – a traditional seaside town with the best oysters around.
- Epping Forest – we had to include another forest as this is our local one. Epping forest starts at the edges of Hackney and goes as far as Epping and beyond.
3. Water Sports.
A lot of people have discovered their passion for kayaking this year after Lidl released their inflatable £40 kayaks! Whether you were one of the lucky ones who managed to grab one, kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing or any other type of water sports has seen a huge uplift! Check out the canals around you and take your kayak out for the day. Alternatively, consider visiting local boat clubs, a white water rafting centre or The Wave.
4. Visit your local Lido.
There is nothing like one last dip in the water – Lidos are the ultimate Summer vibe spot that you can easily enjoy without travelling far or spending a fortune. Grab your tote bag, fill it up with Summer essentials such as shades, a good book, sun cream and a reusable water bottle, and go enjoy the sun and some pool action!
5. BBQ time!
The last but not least favourite of the joys of Indian Summer is a good old British BBQ! There’s something about that smell of fire and the excitement of preparing food outside that makes us tick! Before you get too excited, make sure to comply with all the secure government social distancing regulations at the time. Otherwise – an Indian Summer BBQ sounds like a great finish to the unprecedented Summer 2020.
Posted in Gifts, Homeware, Lifestyle, NEW, Uncategorized Tagged with: bbq, Indian Summer, picnic, road tripping, summer time, summer tips
All you need to know about the queen of Bohemia Frida Kahlo September 12, 2020
Interesting facts about the queen of Bohemia Frida Kahlo
Mexican surrealist painter Frida Kahlo was born 06 07 1907 and died 13 07 1954 at the age of 47. She would now be 113. Whether you believe in numerology or not, you cannot help but notice the re-occurring number theme in the inspiring, yet, tragic life of the queen of Bohemia Frida Kahlo.
If you are only just discovering the life of Frida, you may only know her for her iconic eyebrows, her flower-decorated hair, long skirts and that she loved to paint. Like many artists, her fame has only grown since her death. Now, she’s viewed as an icon of female creativity. But only a few know her story and why this eccentric woman is an inspiration to so many.
Tragic life that inspired great art
Her struggles began in childhood when she contracted polio at the age of 6. This caused her right leg and foot to grow much thinner, which affected her for the rest of her life and made her hide behind the long skirts.
Her father encouraged her to take on ‘manly’ sports with the hope of building up her physical strength, so from a young age, Frida played soccer, went swimming, and even wrestled – which for a girl was unprecedented. This only added to her outspokenness and bravery which is still remembered by the world and especially feminist movements.
However, the combination of a tragic accident, unhappily married life, two miscarriages and physical and psychological pain led the queen of Bohemia Frida Kahlo to be severely depressed and have suicidal tendencies.
But difficult life experiences have also inspired her to paint. To take her mind off of the pain, she started painting and finished her first self-portrait the following year after her accident. Frida Kahlo once said,
“I paint myself because I am often alone and I am the subject I know best”.
Through her life, Frida painted over 200 portraits of herself, family and friends. She loved to paint, cook and garden, and dressed every day as if she was preparing for a fiesta. However, there is much more to the queen of Bohemia Frida Kahlo, see below some interesting facts which you may not have known.
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One more interesting fact related to Frida’s date of birth and numerology:
Frida Kahlo was born on July 6, 1907, in Coyoacan, Mexico City, but she often told people she was born in 1910. This was 3 years after her birth so that people would directly associate her with the Mexican Revolution that began in 1910.
2. She had an affair with the founder of the Red Army.
The founder of the Red Army, the famous Russian revolutionary Leon Trotsky came to Mexico to receive political asylum from the Soviet Union. He first stayed with Rivera, Frida’s husband at a time. Rivera and Frida had quite an independent relationship, having their own studios and often staying apart. This freedom later resulted in Trotsky having an affair with Kahlo. Kahlo created a painting titled Self-Portrait Dedicated to Leon Trotsky to commemorate her brief affair.
3. She appeared in VOGUE.
There is an internet rumour that Kahlo appeared on the cover of Vogue Paris in 1939, but her first appearance was an article in 1937 for American Vogue. The featured article was called Senoras of Mexico. In reality, the artist wouldn’t make it onto the cover of Vogue until well after her death. The November 2012 issue of Vogue Mexico used famous photographer Muray’s image of Frida, taken in 1939, making her a cover girl almost 60 years after her death.
4. Her art sets records.
In 1939, when the Louvre acquired her painting The Frame, Kahlo became the first 20th-century Mexican artist to have their work enter into a major international collection. But that’s not the only record Frida broke. By 1984 her work was declared part of Mexico’s national cultural heritage, making it rare to find her paintings in international auctions. Still, in 1990 she was the first Latin American artist to sell at auction for over $1 million. Her work continues to gain value, with Two Lovers in a Forest selling for $8 million in 2016.
If you love the queen of Bohemia Frida Kahlo as much as we do, you’ll also love our Frida’s collection.
Posted in Gifts, Homeware, Lifestyle, NEW, Uncategorized Tagged with: art, bohemia, frida kahlo, interesting facts, self-portait
Back to work: 5 working from home tips September 5, 2020
Working from home tips
For some it’s back to school; for others, it’s back to work which means back to reality and some sort of normality. For many of you, this will involve working from home. To make the transition easier, we’ve compiled a list of working from home tips for you!
With the temperature falling, it feels like summer is over and Autumn is on its way. It’s time to pack away your summer dresses ready for next year and make some room for jumpers and dare we say it wellies. Most importantly it means an end to lie-ins for some, it’s already getting darker much earlier.
We are now in the next phase of the new normal. Schools are back which means for some there will be no more Zoom meetings where your little one runs into the room and steals the show; no more presentation preparations and toy theatres. Back to school means adult food, timekeeping, focus and time for yourself.
Here are 5 working from home tips for you to ease back into action and keep things under control:
- Set and stick to a routine.
If you have kids, you’ve probably mastered this already – but setting and keeping to a routine is the key to a successful, stress-free life. First, it frees up your busy brain from constantly thinking. Be sure to set yourself goals that are achievable, start the morning with exercise or meditation. Stop for lunch even if its enough time to read a couple of pages of your favourite book, But if you’re really determined, why not join the 5AM club, introduced by Robin Sharma.
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Make a dedicated workspace.
It’s easy to get lost in the comfort of your own home and work everywhere: in bed, on the couch in front of the TV, at your dining table, and in warmer times – the garden. We know – this freedom of WFH is liberating but the truth is that having your dedicated workspace is a must, whether it would be in your home or the office. It doesn’t have to be a separate room – it can be your dining table, but make sure you have a comfortable chair, add some greenery with a plant pot put then whatever stationery, pens, laptop etc you need around you to ensure a productive day as this is now the place where you come to work. Ross, the pet planter is actively looking for a friend. Find him here plus more home decor ideas in our homeware collection.
3. Give yourself a break.
Have you heard about the state of flow? That’s when you’re 100% focused on whatever you’re doing. It can last from minutes to even hours and that’s when your productivity skyrockets. If you feel like you’re ‘in the zone’ – then put off heading for the kitchen for a snack and work through it. However, to get to this state, you need to be in your best shape. This means getting enough sleep and taking a break during your workday. Instead of multitasking and sitting in front of your laptop for 8 hours straight – do short 45min intervals of proper work and take quick breaks in between to rest your eyes and stretch your legs.
4. Set boundaries.
If you’re home alone – this challenge is easier, all you have to set boundaries for is yourself. But if your other half is also working from home or you have an incredibly needy pet – be prepared. This might be one of the most important working from home tips. Keep getting distracted by someone else in your space can completely ruin your productive day. Make it clear that you are working on a schedule and which hours you are available. We know that your pet is smart, but probably not smart enough to understand the clock – so how do you set boundaries for your pet? Here’s a great article.
5. Be kind to yourself.
Finally – be kind to yourself. Working from home might not be as easy as you first thought and it took you by surprise, didn’t it? Balancing your personal life, career, family, friends and time alone for yourself – all in one space is challenging. The important thing is not to add stress to it by worrying about it. Take a deep breath, write down a plan and tackle it.
We hope our working from home tips help you to make your working and home life a bit easier as we head into Autumn.
Lessons learnt from Summer 2020 August 29, 2020
Lessons learnt from Summer 2020 by Source Lifestyle
What lessons have you learnt from Summer 2020?
It’s official – the Summer calendar is counting down the days. As much as the end of summer is never a thing we look forward to – this year there are some mixed feelings involved… We’re looking forward to what the new winds of Autumn will bring (better times for us all we hope). But there has definitely been some lessons learnt from Summer 2020 and we’d like to share them with you!
- How to surrender with grace.
If you’ve had your holiday cancelled this Summer – raise your hand. 
If you had plans to move house, change your career or simply carrying on with your daily routine, you most definitely had to go through some tough times of letting it all go. We’re there with you, as much as it all sucks – let’s be honest – it has all taught us how to surrender with grace. we can’t do much about it, only accept the change and try to make the most of it, even though it doesn’t seem like it has many positive sides at first. Firstly we panicked, but then – we’ve adapted. There will be other holidays; lots of us have spent more time at home and have decided to make it more homely or give it a refresh. Instead of changing career, spend time learning a new skill or skills; most importantly, create a new daily routine that makes you happy! Writing a journal is one of the new things that we’ve discovered – and we love it!
2. Practising self-care and appreciating your health.
We’ve learned a new affirmation during this summer: “I’m grateful for my health”. It’s simple as that – it’s easy to forget how lucky we are that we’re healthy… until we’re not. This summer has definitely shown us that health is a fragile thing and we should appreciate it much more while making sure to maintain it. After all these years, we’ve finally got ourselves into jogging, walking the dogs more and an occasional morning yoga session and some Joe Wicks action, if your feeling energetic. The challenge is to keep up with it – Autumn winds and cloudy days shouldn’t be an excuse to let yourself go. If you’re looking for some yoga motivation, check out our 30-day yoga challenge.
3. How to save money and the environment.
One of the perks of missing out on a holiday is all the money you have saved. In addition, all the travelling restrictions and instructions for staying at home has cut out a lot of transport expenses. On top of it all, preparing for the unknown is definitely motivation enough to save every money. And even if you do feel that you deserve a treat and shop online or your local shops – be sure to buy good quality, sustainable products that will last. Changing shopping habits has seen a huge shift as we all try and do more for the environment by purchasing good quality products not only saves you money in the long run but also much better for the environment. It’s one of the top lessons learnt from Summer 2020.
4. How to creatively use your space.
Finally, we’ve learnt that a small 1m2 garden can turn into an oasis, a studio can be transformed into a meditation centre, bedroom and office space all at once, and that your tiny living room can stretch so far as to accommodate two of you working from home. It’s all about being creative and the key is in the details. Home interior design and decor is a new hobby discovered by many. If you’re one of those who got ‘the bug’, head to our homeware categories and get inspired!
These are some of our lessons learnt from summer 2020. Share with us your experience!
Posted in Gifts, Lifestyle, NEW, Uncategorized Tagged with: creativity, health, journal, lessons, mindfulness, summer2020, yoga
How to make your indoor herb garden flourish August 22, 2020
Do you feel that you’re finally ready to commit to an indoor herb garden? If so, we’re here to give you some tips.
Kudos to you if you’re one of those ambitious people who keep buying potted Basil and hope to keep it alive for longer than a week. Failure is the first step in the process of making your indoor herb garden flourish. First of all, there are no shortcuts in growing your own herbs, so give up on the idea of bringing our Asda Ben the Basil back to life. Get some seeds and little pots and get stuck in!
You can either separate your herbs in individual pots or mix them all together in one big container. You can even get creative and use an old wheelbarrow – it’s up to you. The only thing to note is that not all herbs require the same care, which is why it is best to combine herbs with the same care regime in the same planter or herb bed. Mediterranean herbs such as rosemary, thyme, lavender, oregano and sage enjoy full sun and not too much water. Basil, chives, and parsley, on the other hand, prefer drinking a little more.
If you are new to herb-growing, we recommend taking it slowly and focus on one herb at a time. Here’s our list of the most usable herbs and tips on how to make them flourish.
- Mint
Mint is incredibly resilient and easy to grow, so it’s a great choice for any beginner. You can grow it from seed or from a sprouted stem – simply pop it in any soil and all you need to do is water. Regular watering is really the only maintenance mint needs, as with most plants its best to plant in the Spring. The only thing to note is that there are quite a few different types of mint: some of them don’t get along, some aren’t suitable for cooking, so it’s best to double-check the right mint before buying.
2. Basil
Basil must the most popular choice when it comes to having a little kitchen pet plant and giving it a name. Oh, this herb also goes well with salads, pasta, marinades, and almost everything else that involves cooking. This is one herb you don’t want to kill! The first tip is that basil loves the sun – it needs at least six hours of sunlight a day to reach its full Basilian potential, so make sure to place it in a sunny spot, preferably facing south. Basil is not tolerant of over watering, make sure the pot provides adequate drainage. Whilst the soil should be kept somewhat moist, it should never be soggy the roots are prone to rotting and your beloved Ben the Basil will die.
Read more re Gardening Know How: Information On How To Grow Basil Indoors https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/basil/information-on-how-to-grow-basil-indoors.htm
3. Thyme
Have you ever tried a fresh thyme tea with some honey? If you haven’t you’re in for a treat. Dried thyme is usually quite bitter and has a particularly strong flavour. However, fresh thyme has a completely different taste that reminds you of sweet summer days… Originally from the Mediterranean, thyme thrives in well-drained soil that’s low in nutrients. Planting it in full sun brings the essential oils to the surface of the leaves which helps give it a great flavour. Essentially drought-loving, thyme needs protection from cold winds and wet winters.
4. Parsley
No indoor herb garden is complete without parsley. First, you need to make a choice whether you want it to be the curly leaf or the flat-leaf. The difference between the two is curly-leaf parsleys work well for cooking and add a gorgeous deep green dimension to ornamental flowerbeds., while the flat-leaf parsleys include Italian types that taste sweet and strong, with a flavour recommended for cooked dishes. Place indoor parsley pots in the brightest light possible water is a crucial element for keeping parsley happy. If you let the soil go too dry, the plant withers and dies. But don’t go overboard with the watering or the roots will rot, best to water them little by little and see how they like it.
If you’re feeling particularly adventurous and want to have an indoor herb garden that stands out from everybody else’s – try our Hydro Herb Grow Kits!
They give you the chance to easily grow the herb in your own home without the need for soil, or even a garden. Stylish, functional, and eco-friendly. All the parts of the Hydro Grow Kit are either recycled and recyclable or biodegradable. All the nutrients your plant needs will come from the certified organic growth solution provided. Great-tasting herbs, whenever you need them.
Ultimate guide on how to cope with the British heatwave August 16, 2020
The Great British heatwave is a reality and you never know when to expect it and how long it will last! However, being prepared is the key to helping you avoid sweltering days and more importantly uncomfortable nights.
Have you noticed an interesting pattern? When it’s…
33°C in Greece – it feels like 33.00 °C;
29°C in Niece – it feels like 29.00 °C
33°C in the UK- it feels like mother sun is pouring hot lava right on your soul.
Are we being slightly overdramatic here? We don’t think so, but there might be a small chance that even scorching heat can be a pleasure if you’re well prepared for it. And we’ve got the ultimate guide on how to cope with the British heatwave.
1. Plan in advance
We’ve all heard on the radio and the news of the thousands of last-minute getaway sun-worshippers heading to the most popular beach destinations. Not only does this present the obvious health risks of overcrowding but can also lead to traffic chaos, over-heated cars, family arguments and bored children.
For this reason, we highly recommend that you try not to succumb to last-minute spontaneity. Instead, look out for hot weather reports and plan in advance. Consider targeting the less publicised coastal towns, travel off-peak, or stagger your journey by travelling on the A roads whilst taking some of our historic villages along the way.
2. Get creative.
One creative idea can be booking a slot in your local lido. Due to social-distancing measures put in place, this will need to be booked in advance. This will ensure that you feel safe whilst still enjoying the hot weather and keeping cool.
Another idea is to visit the ponds at Hampstead Heath or widen your horizons and check out wild swimming spots around the country one of which is the quiet village of Shalford. Just an hour from the centre of London – is a place of incredible natural beauty with an added bonus – a river where you can go wild swimming!
3. Stay hydrated.
Always make sure you drink plenty of water to keep hydrated. If you would like a fruit-filled healthy option be sure to fill your fridge with cooled goodies like sorbet, chilled lemon or cucumber-infused water and frozen smoothies. It’s not only a nice summer treat but it will cool you down.
Also, fill a spray bottle with fresh water and keep it in the fridge at all times! Use when needed to cool your face and body down.
4. Rise before the sun!
Another tip we’ve got for you is… to rise early before the ball of fire! That hour or two in the morning before the sun rises will offer some welcome respite with fresh, cool air that can be a game-changer when it comes to airing your house and your soul. Go for a run, meditate or just sit outside and enjoy the morning silence and prepare yourself for yet another day. If you have any important work to do – it’s the best time to keep your focus and patience on point, too.
5. Dresses are your best friends!
Let your body breathe! Lightweight, bright and breathable fabric dresses are the best thing to wear on a hot summer day. Source Lifestyle has you covered on this one – check out our colourful summer collection – all up to 50% off!
Our top favourite picks for a chic summer look August 8, 2020
Let August commence! It’s the last month of calendar summer, which means that you’ve got only limited time to show off your chic summer look.
When we say ‘chic summer look’ – what comes to your mind? We see it as the opportunity to channel your inner ‘diva’ – whether it would be a romantic wanderer, a vintage city slicker or a comfort looking fashionista. Any style it would be – we’ve got your covered! here are the four of our top favourite picks for a chic summer look!
1.Polka dot craze –
this trend is following us all the way from the 19th century. It originated in Germany when polka music and dancing rose in popularity. It’s a shame that polka dance hasn’t seem to come back with the fashion trend, but we still love the fun stylish graphic element it brings to any wardrobe.
2. Floral dresses –
You can never go wrong with a floral pattern dress. The beauty of it hides in its diversity – whether it would be a whole variety of colours in one piece or one-shaded contrast of many different sizes blooms, you’re doomed to stand out. Perceived as a romantic look, 2019 and 2020 has shown us that floral patterns can be adapted by various different styles. have you got your floral clothing piece yet? If not, head to our womenswear catalogue and shop for the gorgeous summer dresses – all up to 50% off!
3. Denim style –
The denim concept has long surpassed the notion of it being a simple pair of jeans. Although oversized denim jacket and ‘boyfriend’ jeans will always remain a classic, denim style has evolved into so much more! Most importantly, the fabric itself is very durable. It’s made from cotton, so is highly suitable for hot summer days, and its thick weaving of the threads makes it a warm option for the fresh summer nights.
4. Last but not least – jumpsuits –
If it was up to us, we’d never get out of them, and that is for a good couple of reasons. One of them – you don’t need to think about finding a matching piece of clothing to your top or your pants – it’s all in one! Another reason is that it’s super-duper comfy and stylish. Conveniently enough, here at Source you can find them in denim and floral patterns, too! How’s that for a double chic summer look?
Posted in Fashion Accessories, NEW, Womenswear Tagged with: chic dress, conscious buying, fashion, summer2020, sustainable
Fast fashion VS. sustainable clothing – an easy choice or a passing trend? August 1, 2020
Sustainable clothing is finally trending
One thing is clear – conscious buying has become a thing with more and more people choosing sustainable clothing over fast fashion items. The question is if it’s only a passing trend or the revolution of the fashion industry.
Current global events evidently show that our habits aren’t healthy for us nor the planet. As a result, people begin to wake up and re-think every aspect of their life and find ways of how to fulfil the needs without negatively affecting their health or the environment. Our diet, commute and daily habits are being called into question. Fashion is one of the main things that we’re so used to have barely ever thought of how the cheap, cute skirt has ended up in our wardrobe, barely worn.
For example, did you know that…
- In the United Kingdom, an estimated 350,000 tonnes (385,808 tons US), or about £140 million (USD 186 million) worth of used clothing, is thrown in the trash annually?
If you’re still struggling to make the decision between a slightly more expensive but better quality sustainable clothing item and a cheap, one-time peace of clothing that likely will never be worn again – here are 3 things to think about before you buy anything…
- Where did it come from?
Think about it – if you buy a dress for barely a fiver, what are the costs of making it? It is widely known that global brands use cheap workforce located in remote Asian regions. From one side, the constant demand provides much-needed workplaces in the poverty affected areas such as India or Bangladesh. Most would say that some work is better than none. But if the cute dress costs £5, have you thought about how much gets the person who made it? And have you thought about warehousing and factory costs, prices for the shipments across the world and the cost of the materials and eventually the profit that the global brands ads to the actual cost of the product? Yes – the workforce is last in line in getting their fair share. So, when buying a more expensive dress, remember that there is a family depending on it.
2. What is it made of?
Every year, 120 million trees are logged for fabrics including rayon, viscose, modal and other trademarked textiles. There is so much that we don’t know in terms of synthetic fabrics production, that if you want to feel good about purchasing clothes – you should avoid those materials altogether. Man-made fabrics like acrylic, polyester, rayon, acetate, and nylon are treated with thousands of harmful toxic chemicals during production. Do you really want to wear that?
Instead, choose clothes made of sustainable fabrics, such as linen, organic cotton, peace silk or recycled nylon. If you’d like to find out more about sustainable clothing and their fabrics, where they come from and what they replace, read all about it here.
3. Where is it going?
Finally, the question of the century – where is it all going? To a landfield? To the ocean? To the recycling factory or other consumer’s wardrobe? Needless to say, we’re all for the last to options! Clothing made from recycling materials have only recently entered the market and can be pricey to produce, meaning it will cost more for the end user. Whereas some of us are willing to pay for the peace of mind, quality clothing and some extra karma points – some of us will still choose the cheaper option.
That’s why second-hand shops are moving from the concept of being affordable just for ‘poorer’ people – to a heaven for consicous consumers. So, buy a new sustainable item, use it for as long as you want and re-sell it, or head straight to a second-hand shop for juicy bargains. Or…
Have a lookg at Source Lifestyle summer collection catalogue. We’ve got a large variety of great quality shirts, skirts, blouses, jumpsuits and dresses, all sourced from ethical brands. To make to more affordable to our loyal customers – all is for up to 50% off!
Posted in Fashion Accessories, Fashion Jewellery, Uncategorized Tagged with: clothing, conscious buying, fast fashion, sustainable, sustainable clothing
Top 3 natural beauty products that you can find in your kitchen July 25, 2020
Top 3 natural beauty products recommended by Source!
The middle of July means that we are already halfway through summer – but the good news is that half of it is still left to enjoy!
The sun is more generous with its warmth, reminding us to make sure to prepare our skin for that smooth summer tan. Here are 3 natural beauty products recommended by Source Lifestyle to help you to treat your hair and skin. The best thing is that you can find it all in your kitchen!
Lemon – it is widely known that the ‘morning ritual’ should start with a glass of warm lemon water – it helps to increase the body’s metabolic rate and maintain its pH balance. As well as for the inside, lemon is also good for your outside. Although it has been argued that acidic content eventually wears away the enamel on the teeth, you can still use lemon for teeth whitening. The next time you slice the lemons for your tea – save the rinds. Rub them regularly against your teeth, for a couple of minutes, and see the result in only a matter of days.
Avocado – a vegetable that recently caught the light of fame: from avocado salads and toasts to raw pies and ice cream – it is definitely one of the most popular new discoveries of the year. Rich in most abundant nutrients (vitamin K, C, E, B6, and potassium), it is loaded with powerful antioxidants and may help prevent cancer and lose weight. On top of that, avocado is extremely beneficial for skin care. Don’t be tempted to carelessly dispose of the peel – all the goodies are hidden in there. The inside of the avocado skin is a wonderful and mild exfoliant because of its unique texture. The flesh itself is rich in antioxidants, is anti-aging and works as a natural sunscreen, and reduces inflammation. Rub it in your skin, leave it for a few minutes and then wash it ff. Have a look in the mirror! You’re glowing.
Banana – the most popular fruit on this planet. The banana offers over 35 benefits of this universal fruit, from improving brain health, reducing fever, to promoting weight loss and to treat a hangover. Due to an incredible number of antioxidants and a nutrient called potassium, banana is used in masks, shampoos, body lotions, and other beauty products. A lesser-known fact is that it also significantly enhances hair health and appearance and is especially good for dry hair. A honey and banana mask humidifies and revives the hairs structure. For opposite results – mix mashed banana, some milk, and lemon – it will stabilize the sebaceous glands and absorb the excess fat. Make sure not to leave the mixture on the hair for too long! Recommended time 30 minutes.
Now, what are you waiting for? Go the kitchen and have a look for some fruit and veggies and turn them into best natural beauty products.
P.S. If you don’t feel like rubbing your hands with ground coffee and would like a smoother and more fragrant option, why not try our lovely Kew Gardens range soaps and hand creams.
Posted in Uncategorized Tagged with: beauty, cosmetics, lemon benefits, natural products, organic, summer2020
Unleash your inner baker: delicious apple tart recipe July 18, 2020
Nothing can beat a home-made crumpet or tart, so perhaps it’s time to unleash your inner baker with this delicious apple tart recipe?
Crumpets have not only become a new quarantine-related trend but are also incredibly easy to make and don’t require a lot of effort – which is even better.
The beauty of a crumpet lies in its simplicity. You can find lots of recipes online, including Jamie Oliver’s classic crumpets recipe, as well as some tips by Delicious Magazine, and Serious Eats.
The secret to the perfect crumpet – they must be filled with tiny crevices that, when warmed, become the ideal space to fill with butter. There are few things better first thing in the morning than a warm crumpet with butter and a pot of tea.
But if you’re looking for more of a challenge, we suggest moving to the making of the mighty tart with this delicious apple tart recipe!
Having cooked a number of tarts over the last few months, we’d like to share with you a lovely apple gouda and spicy honey tart recipe from Joy The Baker.
Ingredients
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1/2 Quick Puff Pastry Recipe
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4 Golden Delicious apples, peeled cored and sliced to 1/8-thickness
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2 tablespoons lemon juice
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2 teaspoons granulated sugar
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Spinkle sea salt
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1 teaspoon cornstarch
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1 1/2 cups grated gouda cheese
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1 large egg, beaten
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1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves
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1/4 cup honey
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1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- 1. Place a rack in the upper third of the oven and preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. - 2. Lightly flour the counter with flour and lightly flour a rolling pin, too.
- 3. Roll the chilled puff pastry into a 1/4-inch thick rectangle.
The size doesn’t really matter, just go for thickness.
Use a large knife to trim the edges to an even rectangle.
Transfer the pastry to the prepared baking sheet. - 4. Use a small, sharp knife to score a rectangle 1-inch inside the edge of the pastry.
- Lightly brush pastry with egg wash.
Sprinkle the pastry with half the cheese. - 5. In a medium bowl toss together apple slices, lemon juice, sugar,
salt, and cornstarch. - 6. Line apple slices in three rows down the pastry.
Sprinkle with the rest of the cheese. - 7. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- 8. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 15 minutes.
- 9. While the tart cools stir together honey and red pepper flakes.
If you like it spicy, add the 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes. - 10. Slice tart into generous wedges.
Drizzle with honey and dot with fresh oregano.
*Enjoy warm.*
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Wake up your inner baker by making this delicious apple tart recipe. We have one more cheeky idea on how you can enjoy your treat even more! Such a classic dessert requires being served up on Vintage inspired plates, check out our Yvonne Ellen cake plates set of 4 printed with Crumpet, Treacle, Cupcake and Tart. -
Yvonne Ellen Cake Plates
Posted in Lifestyle, Uncategorized
If you can’t go outside – go within: how mindful habits can improve your life quality July 4, 2020
Our Top 3 mindful habits
Even though the lockdown has eased, some of you will still have to self-isolate or feel that you are not quite ready. It’s been over three months already, so we understand that things can get tough, especially now when some of are about to enjoy their first drink at the local pub or go for a meal. But we’ve got your back! here’s one piece of advice: if you can’t go outside – go within. We’re not talking about diving into deep meditation for days but about small mindful habits that can improve the quality of your life!
Here are some tips on how you can explore that…
1. Begin your day in the right way by……. no, not having a cup of fragrant coffee! But with a glass of warm water with lemon and a pinch of pink Himalayan salt. Not only it will hydrate your body and refresh your sleepy mind but it will also clean & prepare your stomach for the most important meal of the day – breakfast! What perfect way to indulge than with our fun Wild Thing glass
2. If you haven’t picked up a running habit just yet, don’t worry, there are lots of other ways you can nurture your body and mind at the same time. We’d like to share a couple of our favourite yoga and meditation practices to give you some inspiration and motivation to develop these mindful habits!
- Yoga with Adriene is a great Youtube channel for beginners, as she takes you on a journey, step-by-step to mastering the movements of your body and connecting it to the mind.
- 6 Phase meditation is a brilliant 20min meditation on envisioning your perfect day, expressing gratitude and forgiveness – a quick and efficient recipe for a successful day.
3. One of the most influential mindful habits is writing a journal. It not only allows you to express your deepest feelings and emotions but also is a great way to express gratitude. Because it opens up your world for much more of what you are grateful for! It’s also an amazing practice to look back at the pages in a month or a years time to see how far you have progressed. Treat yourself with one of our journals and start your journey to mindfulness.
More than a lifestyle gifts boutique July 1, 2020
Hello to our lovely Source community!
Considering everything that has been going on lately, we’ve had some time to think not only about the new ideas for the store and our customers but also dive deeper into our foundations of what Source is all about. We’ve reached a unanimous decision which is source is more than a lifestyle gifts boutique. And we’d like to share it with you!
We still stay strong behind the idea that thoughtful, sweet and sometimes quirky gifts bring people together. Whether it’s a sign of affection, a gesture of care, or a moment of self-love. Who wouldn’t like our cute animal plant pots, a funny bath mat or scented candles? But we’d also like to share with you our mission, vision and our values, so you know what we stand for.
Our mission…
is to build a mindful and creative community by bringing everyone together with smart and original gifts.
Our vision…
is to be the place to go to when you don’t exactly know what you want – but always know that you’ll leave with something you exactly wanted.
Our values…
are community, creativity, personality, honesty, generosity, youthfulness, kindness, sense of humour and gratitude to all of our amazing customers that have kept us going whether they be new to source or have shopped with us for up to 18 years!
Why we’re more than a lifestyle gifts boutique
So, less talking – more doing! To show you that we’re not just an amazing lifestyle gift boutique, we’ll be more engaged in the topics relevant to you – our present and future customers. We’ll ask you questions and, more importantly, listen. We’ll write about the things that you care about in our weekly blogs, sharing tips, ideas, recipes, best London Source deals, and special offers we are promoting.
Also, keep an eye on our social media profiles for some motivation, fun competitions, and daily updates on life here at Source Lifestyle in South Woodford East London!
Stay tuned and stay safe x
P.S. If you want to get all the latest deals and be kept up to date with our weekly posts, don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter . Sign up to our list now and we’ll email you a 10% promocode for use with your first order online.
Posted in Lifestyle, Uncategorized Tagged with: Gifts, mission, Self-love, sustainability, values, Wellness
Love Yourself All Year Round February 16, 2019
The annual tradition of Valentine’s Day is over for another year. We most certainly hope you had a beautiful love-fuelled day!
Here at Source, we firmly believe that with 365 days in a single year to add a touch of love and magic into our lives, why stop with Valentine’s Day?
Whether it’s love for yourself or others, we’ve selected some of our products to help you keep the loving feeling all year round.
Love Neon Light (£63.50)
Light up your home all year round with this Love Neon Light which we have from Talking Tables. We love this gloriously neon pink light to illuminate your walls and sweet addition to any home. It’s plug-and-play with this piece and super-easy to assemble.
Zebra Cup and Saucer (£20)
A sip of something special in this delightful little teacup and saucer can have you feeling as though you’re stepping into another era. We love Yvonne Ellen’s zebra design, the contrasting retro style saucer with blue polka dots, the signature bee illustrations, all set on a white background and edged with a classy gold rim.
Happy Cushion (£36.50)
Add a bit of joy into your home with this ‘Happy’ embroidered pom pom cushion. We love the bright cheer this brings; with two pom poms for every corner, there’s double the happiness.
Bear Art Print (£25)
This adorable A3 framed bear print is one of many in the ‘Goldilocks and the three bears’ range, by Heather Alstead Design. This simple bear illustration with a single red heart offers a simple, nostalgia-inducing piece that can easily appeal to so many of your loved ones, that’s if you don’t choose to nab it for yourself first.
Happy Gold Necklace (£12.50)
There’s nothing quite like an affirmation around your neck in the form of a delicate, ‘Happy’ gold-tone necklace by Big Metal London. This beautifully crafted piece has small gold beads on the chain, and we love it! You can wear it with just about anything.
Thomas Street Room Diffusers (£20)
Our best-selling scent from the Thomas Street diffuser range is the ‘Thank You’. This elegant fragrance has a 12-week life, and contains the scent of bright hyacinth and shaded bluebells combines with white jasmine and lily of the valley. A great gift all year round – share the love!
We’ve plenty more treats sourced from far and wide; specially selected just for you all. With many more finds coming very soon. Keep those eyes peeled. And don’t forget to love yourself all year round.
Why not sign up to our newsletter to keep up with the latest news. Happy shopping guys!
Posted in Fashion Accessories, Gifts, Homeware Tagged with: Gifts, Love, Loving Feeling, Romance, Self-love, Valentine's Day, Wellness
One Hundred Stars Paris Kimono July 21, 2018
This summer, kimonos are a must have for an effortless boho chic look. The One Hundred Stars Paris Kimono will keep you stylish from a busy daytime to a relaxed night out.
This fab Short Kimono has large 3/4 sleeves and a gorgeous print of a retro inspired Paris map that makes the perfect cover up for summer and early autumn season.
As worn on Mama Mia 2 the Paris Map Short Kimono is also a great layering piece for your summer holidays.
Its one size fits all. You can now buy online the Star Paris Kimono £40 with Free UK Delivery.
Click here for more information.
A Crazy Christmas Bauble Bonanza December 13, 2017
We have been slowly gearing up to Christmas and with it our excitement has increased too! The main reason for our excitement is our collection of baubles and Christmas tree ornaments, because this year we have some real treasures, and here is the roundup of our favourites.
Just look at this little fella who’s got himself wrapped in some Christmas lights. Find the Christmas Dalmatian Bauble here.
But if you’re looking for something a bit more quirky to put on your tree then this French Fries bauble should do the trick! Find this one here.
Or if you’re looking for a festive friend but dogs aren’t exactly your thing, then why not treat your tree to this Llama knitted Christmas tree decoration from Meri Meri? Find this little one here.
Or if you’re looking to pay homage to one of the greatest cities on Earth then why not snap yourself up one of these London themed beauties by Gisela Graham. You can find the Postbox here, the London Bus here, and the Black Cab here.
And lastly but not least, you all need a Angel to go on top of the tree, so why not this knitted one from Meri Meri, its adorable and gold! Find this little one here.
So that’s it for our roundup of our favourite Christmas Baubles, we hope you find one you like!
Prosecco Pong Discount – Now £10 December 1, 2017
Now that Christmas is around the corner, Prosecco Pong is the perfect drinking game for a special evening with friends or family.
Talking Tables Prosecco Pong
The rules are easy : Two teams stand opposite a long table and line up the prosecco glasses filled with your favourite fizzy drink.
Each player takes it in turns to throw a ping pong ball with the aim of getting it in your opponent’s cup.
If the ball lands in the cup, your opponent has to drink the prosecco. This game is finished until one team has lost all of their glasses. The winner is the one that has glasses left.
The drinking game from Talking Tables includes everything you need to get the party started. Twelve plastic prosecco glasses and three ping pong balls.
If you are a prosecco lover or you know someone else who would love this party game we now offer a Prosecco Pong Discount. 20% off and Free UK Delivery. Use Discount Code : prosecco20
The offer is limited so hurry up!
Click here for our Special Offer.
Slippers To Keep Those Toes Warm October 27, 2017
Not sure about you, but every time the cold season comes round again I get searching for a new pair of slippers to keep my feet nice and warm.
Here are our three favourites from the shop at the moment.
The two pairs on the left are from Ruby and Ed, if you haven’t heard of this brand, well you should as they are known for making some of the cutest slippers around.
But I think the pair on the right are the real special ones. These are handmade, so each pair is slightly different and I think that’s half the beauty, but to be honest, the massive faux fur lining is a massive appeal too (as who doesn’t love faux fur lining?)
You can find these slippers over on our shop.
Posted in Gifts
Prosecco Pong is the Coolest Drinking Game of the Summer July 29, 2017
Spice up your summer with the new drinking game from Talking Tables Prosecco Pong.
The games rules are similar to beer pong but with prosecco. We know it’s a great idea for all those fizzy lovers out there!
Prosecco Pong by Talking Tables – Free UK Delivery from Source
The game from Talking Tables includes everything you need to get the party started. Twelve plastic prosecco glasses and three ping pong balls.
For a classy summer prosecco pong night we suggest you to try the Zardetto Prosecco Brut, the Mionetto Luxury Prosecco and the Martini Sparkling Prosecco.
To Buy Online the new drinking game click here.
We offer Free UK Delivery and 10% off your 1st order after you subscribe to our newsletter.
Our Top Pick of Unicorn Inspired Gifts July 20, 2017
A wise man once said “Life is always better when there is a Unicorn around” and this season luckily the magical beast is everywhere. Here at Source Lifestyle we have dedicated ourselves to ensure we are bringing you the best Unicorn gifts on the market. Here is our favourite Top 10 Pick: Read more ›
Posted in Gifts
Our Top Ten Pick of Flamingo Inspired Gifts This Summer July 4, 2017
Forget what the Chinese calendar says this is the year of the Flamingo! We are loving our pink feathered friends this summer and you can find them on a wide variety of our products this season. Here is our favourite Top 10 Pick of Flamingo Inspired Gifts. Read more ›
Posted in Gifts
Catherine Colebrook Quirky Wash Bags Rock! February 28, 2017
Catherine Colebrook Quirky Wash bags are great if you are looking for a sassy and stylish way to store your toiletries.
They are funny and have a great design with lovely glitter or metallic details for a hint of glam.
The Catherine Colebrook wahs bags are perfect for taking on holiday with you or for tidying up your lotions and potions at home.
We stock four different designs: The Pretty Hot , Red Lips, Make Mine a Gin and Make Mine a Prosecco.
For more gift ideas take a look at our website.
Posted in Fashion Accessories, Gifts
Christmas Gifts Special Offer – 20% OFF and Free UK Delivery on Everything December 2, 2016
Christmas Gifts Special Offer 2016 – Use Discount Code : santa16
Get your Christmas gifts now with 20% off and free p&p on all online orders.
Discover a lovely range of unique items – from gorgeous little treats and stock fillers to thoughtful gift ideas for your family and that special someone.
Christmas Gifts Special Offer
Hurry Up! Offer ends on December 7.
Posted in Gifts
Add a Touch of Magic with Adorable Christmas Decorations November 17, 2016
Decorating your house for Christmas can be almost as much fun as opening presents on Christmas day. We have a collection of adorable Christmas decorations to fill your house with Christmas joy and create a festive and cosy environment – perfect for those cold December evenings
Light Up Tree Lamp by Parlane – Buy Now £25 with Free UK Delivery
Bring a touch of warmth with the beautiful LED Tree Lamp by Parlane. This eye-catching Light Up Decoration makes a stylish twist to LED Christmas Decorations and it is elegant enough to keep it in the house all year long.
The LED Tree Lamp is also a lovely decorating idea for your kid’s bedroom.
Christmas Plaque with LED lights – It’s the most wonderful time of the year Buy Now Free UK Delivery
Andy William’s classic Christmas song is quoted on this light grey plaque, with the words It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year printed onto it.The plaque is then lit up by LED bulbs and framed with natural wood. This is perfect for hanging on the wall of your living room or sitting above the fireplace.
La de da Living created two festive scented candles with delicious aromas and cool quotes on the front of the tin. For the Gin lovers the ‘Merry Gin and a Tonic New Year’ candle it’s just a perfect gift idea- as for the Champagne lovers we have the ‘Merry Prosecco and a Champagne New Year’
Gin Christmas Candle by La De Da Living brought to you this Christmas by Source.
Add a dash or retro charm with the lovingly nostalgic Deer Christmas Decoration by Temerity Jones.
The Bambi inspired Christmas deer comes packaged in a vintage Christmas illustrated box making it the perfect gift to children and adults alike. There is also the Family version with Mother deer and her two little deer.
The Light Up Glass Dome with a Wonderland Scene is a beautifully crafted ornament that looks striking in any room. Inside the glass dome is a winter scene featuring an LED lit – influenced by the glass domes of the Victorian era.
Light up your mantelpiece with the cute Christmas Jar Light by Parlane. The jar is made of frosted glass, with a Christmas scene imprinted onto it.
The Disco ball fairy lights are a great Xmas decorating idea for those who are looking for a fun twist to the traditional Christmas fairy lights. These are also ideal for the New Year’s gatherings and ‘boogie’ nights in.
You can find more Inspiring Christmas Decorations on our Christmas Collection or you can read our blog about Quirky Christmas Light Decorations for a a unique and personal festive touch in your house.
Quirky Christmas Lights November 8, 2016
This Christmas make a statement with our Quirky Christmas Lights. From Cool Light Signs to Elegant Light Up Christmas Figures we have a lovely range of unusual light decorations for a personal festive touch in your house.
LED Christmas Figures – Angel. Star and Tree
Posted in NEW
