It's simple, and humble in its appearance. But, done right, it will blow anybody's socks off [this coming from a non-coffee drinker]. So we thought it could perhaps offer some inspiration for the forthcoming New Year's Eve celebrations. You can make it in advance, you can upcycle any stale biscuit ends, fruit - poached/canned [the Italians might disagree here, but I was once served a white chocolate and berry version and it was pretty excellent], and bottom-of-the-bottle booze. It really is the ultimate, bestover celebration dish.
Meredith is a qualified Meditation teacher, and holds regular Chocolate Meditations. And only this month, launched the incredible hot chocolate brand that is Calm Cocoa. Encouraging us all to take our Calm Cocoa moment. And when it comes in the form of hand-grated, British-made dark chocolate, recycled glass jars [or home-compostable bags], it is what we want to be drinking this, and every winter.
Journal etc.: December, Celebration
December is a period of indulgence and huge expense. Often getting caught in the trap of having the 'perfect' gifts, extravagant parties, new outfits and endless trays of food. We can forget to make the most of what we already have.
Travel etc.: The Pig Hotel in Combe
The Pig. Two words that have been circling my subconscious since I first planted them upon discovering them 4 years ago. I longed to go. And now I long to go back.
Upcircle have been at the forefront of the upcycling beauty revolution. They epitomise authenticity, and really, their products speak for them selves. To see how far they have come, so quickly - they even appeared on Dragon's Den last year - is hugely inspiring. Whether you are an aspiring/existing entrepreneur, customer of theirs, passionate about skin care, avid sustainability advocate, or never even heard of them (have you been living under a rock), UpCircle are the ones to watch.
Collections etc.: Top 10 Christmas Markets in London
So, if your heart is set on buying a gift for a certain someone and you've not found what you're looking for in our Gift Guide, then we'd highly recommend the following: 10 Christmas Markets in London you don't want to miss this festive season. Nothing typically commercial or mainstream about these, and all mission-ed to support local and small businesses.
Journal etc.: November, Making
I find, that a 'Zero Waste' or 'Sustainable' christmas means a reductionist way of thinking; and that perhaps it can come across repeatedly negative, and off putting for many. No this, and don't do that. And while it is true, it is encouraging minimising our consumption, of everything from energy, to christmas presents [though let's be real, did we really need all that stuff to begin with..]. But perhaps by having a more positive language, we might inspire more people to try?
Over the course of this nibs etc. journey, I have spent days and days and days, researching; the 'most sustainable'...
Recipe etc.: Apple + Caramel Slab
Journal etc.: October, Traditions