Sweet, Sweet Things #1

Hello Sweet Friends,

To say it’s been a helluvah week would be an understatement, but we’ve managed to end it on a high note, friends. I wonder how it’s been for you?

With all the chaos, anxiety and stress of this week whirling in my mind, I thought it might be a good time to introduce a new feature to you today. My new favourite offering to you is a curation of Sweet, Sweet Things : a collection of articles, notes and treasures that will hopefully bring you a little bit of something good - whether that be a slice of joy, a little inspiration, a dose of creativity or maybe just some harmless distraction.

I hope there is something lovely here for you today.

Take only what you wish:

• A new art gallery in Manchester, England, has a free, open air, walkable art show you can attend, even in Lockdown. Mancunians: if you only have one more walk left in you for 2020, make it this one. (The Guardian)

• I’ve been a fan of Frances Palmer’s deliciously seductive pottery for some time now, and I was wholly captivated by this interview on Erin’s Floret blog. Dive on into the goodness, friends. (Floret)

• Something quite wonderful and wonderfully floral is coming very, very soon.

• “I’ve Decided To Give Myself Permission To Focus On My Joy” - you are cordially invited to join Beyoncé and Edward Enninful for a pretty special conversation at British Vogue, discussing the events of 2020 and more. (Vogue)

• PANTONE 19-4052 “Classic Blue” is the Colour of the Year for 2020 - “Instilling calm, confidence, and connection, this enduring blue hue highlights our desire for a dependable and stable foundation on which to build as we cross the threshold into a new era.” Also particularly suitable given the events of this week.

•  My long lost Australian sister, floral designer and snackfluencer Matthew Landers, has finally launched the product line that literally every florist has for sale (not) : their own merch. It’s camp, irreverent and funny as hell. Frankly, I am Shook. Shop yours now.

• Ever wondered what Zandra Rhode’s house is like? Life Meets Art in this delicious new book by Phaidon, as we get to creep around some homes of the World’s leading artists, designers, architects and creatives. It’s firmly on my Christmas list this year. Meetcha there. (The Guardian)

• Due to the pandemic, this year marks the first year that the Royal British Legion have been unable to send out their volunteers to raise money for The Poppy Appeal via face to face collections. Every Poppy Counts - find out more, and donate here.

• Here in England, the frosts will be here soon, which will spell the end for our incredible Dahlia season. Indulge wildly in the last of the growing season with my Foam Free Dahlia Wreath.

• If you’re a fan of memoirist Cheryl Strayed, you’ll be delighted to know she’s bringing back the phenomenally successful column, Dear Sugars, via her newsletter. I promise you it’s a tonic for the heart and mind.

• Last week I had a sweet career highlight, as we launched my first ever collection of fine art prints, and I can’t thank you enough for both your support and your kind words! Have you had a chance to check them out as yet?

• One of my favourite floral designers and teachers, the World famous Gregor Lersch has started a Patreon account. The weeks I spent studying at his Studio in Germany were some of the most formative weeks of my entire career, and if you haven’t explored his work as yet, girl, you are in for a treat. Dive on into his monthly offers here.

• Bryan Boy has always been one of my favourite fashion influencers. He recently hit 1m followers on Tiktok after only being on the platform for a few months, and robbed PRADA last week. Peek behind the scenes at his business model right here. (Business of Fashion)

• “Divorce is cruel, but some parts are to be recommended.” Welcome to the fabulously original world of Helena Bonham Carter. (The Guardian)

Thank you for spending a little time here today.

Happy Sunday.