Romantic Reveries – Volume Dix

We are halfway through February now, and although the weather doesn’t seem to want to pick up, the days are gradually getting longer and I welcome the extra bit of light in the afternoons.

I love February. It’s the month of the Oscars, Fashion Weeks around the world; and of course it plays host to Valentine’s Day. I had the most beautiful Valentine’s weekend in Budapest with Ben – it was the first trip we had taken for a while just the two of us, and it was lovely to spend quality time together.

Seemingly channelling a French spirit wherever we are, serendipity took us to an absolutely stunning 200 year old Parisian café in one of the main squares, where we had delicious coffee and pastries. We couldn’t recommend Budapest more - it is hugely fun with its incredible spas and thermal baths, hugely romantic and beautiful beyond words!

Budapest is certainly a city of two halves. Buda is the more exclusive and expensive side of the city, perfect for walking and relaxing. Pest is the fun, younger sibling – full of nightlife, restaurants, and exciting things to see and do. Both are separated by the beautiful blue Danube (as per the Waltz by Strauss.)

We are both huge fans of the opera and had hoped to see some at the Budapest Opera House but unfortunately, it was closed for renovation. Instead, we indulged in an uber romantic meal in a castle overlooking the parliament buildings – an evening we won’t forget.

Valentine’s Day itself was spent ice-skating on an enormous outdoor rink. During the following days we enjoyed the thermal mineral springs in their elegant outdoor baths (something you MUST do if you visit Budapest!) and dipped our toes into their wild night life at the famous ruin bars in the Jewish quarter.

Of course, no trip is ever complete for me until I’ve sourced props and artefacts for our next photo shoot at The FBC. This trip saw me come home with antique books and bunches of fluffy yellow mimosa flowers.

The children have been lucky enough to enjoy the company of both grandpas over the past few weekends, and we have done so many exciting things. We visited London to go to the new French Zedel restaurant in Piccadilly (formerly Atlantic Bar). We also finally got to see Hamilton on the West End, which even surpassed our expectations - highly recommended if you’ve not seen it. So entertaining and so emotional, as well as educational.

At the house, we have some redecoration planned for the end of February. We are looking forward to embracing a bit of colour again and currently on my desk are sample pots of sage green, French blue, and rich chocolate brown paint. So, watch this space! Although it does mean the manicures are on pause.

With that note, onto this month’s Romantic Reveries where we bring you our favourite Sunday discoveries, winter health hacks and Brunch with Alice – our brand-new starter.

Enjoy x

SUNDAY DISCOVERIES

Sunday discoveries are our favourite, as it gives us the opportunity to share all the wonderful hidden gems we love – so you can love them too!

WEAR

Although it may only be February, it’s never too early to bring a pop of spring colour into your wardrobe. The new dresses by ME+EM are just spectacular: bright pink, jewel green, and fun, contemporary stripes.

ME+EM was founded in 2009 by Clare Hornby, who wanted to create a brand that meant women didn’t have to choose between quality and cost. They handle everything themselves in-house, which means no unnecessary mark-ups from middlemen.

READ

There is nothing nicer than curling up on an evening with a good book and we absolutely love Underbelly by Anna Whitehouse (@mother_pukka). This book talks about two mothers leading drastically different lives and the effect that social media has on them as they entwine with devastating consequences.

USE

We are all trying to be a bit more environmentally and ethically conscious, especially with the products we buy and use. At The FBC we were lucky enough to recently meet the owner of Naturally Tribal Skincare. Naturally Tribal is a proudly British skincare brand born from personal experience with purpose and impact in its DNA. Their multi award winning ranges are kind to the planet and use ethically sourced ingredients from Nigeria.

Multi-award winning skincare from Naturally Tribal

PODCAST

We’re currently enjoying the sage, empowering advice dispensed by Alain de Botton, as he shares his thoughts on stoicism and life philosophy. He encourages you not to be afraid and sweep issues or important discussions under the carpet, but instead embrace them and use them as a force to power you.

HEALTH

Our immune systems all need a bit of a boost in the winter months. We’ve recently discovered the powerhouse combination of effervescent tablets with vitamin c, zinc and turmeric. After one of these, you’ll be ready for whatever the day throws at you!

BRUNCH WITH… Alice

This week we are catching up with our brand-new starter Alice, who has joined our Customer Experience team. Alice will be looking after our customer happiness, and we are really looking forward to getting to know her a little better.

Describe your perfect Sunday

My perfect Sunday consists of a lay in and a home cooked breakfast. I am not much of a early riser so any chance to laze in bed til 10am, I’m all for it! My go to Sunday breakfast consists of avocado and bacon on a wedge of sourdough.

If I had the choice, Sundays would be for relaxing and catching up with friends and family. However it usually consists of running errands and a weekly food shop.

My favourite new FBC product

My favourite new in item is the Ubuntu Large Vase. I love how this beautiful vase celebrates the natural female form. I can see it sat on my bedroom shelf with a bunch of pastel coloured dried flowers.

How do you take your coffee?

I have a sweet tooth, whether it be a slab of chocolate cake or a jar of dolly mixtures, the sweeter the better. My coffee order is a vanilla latte, a touch of sweetness but still allows you to get a punch of caffeine.

Which book have you read the most?

I am a sucker for a good rom-com. I have just finished “if I can’t have you” by Charlotte Levin. One of the first books in a long time that I was unable to put down. Nothing beats a good book, a glass of wine and a bubble bath.

What’s your favourite family memory?

One of my most special family memories is sitting in my granny’s house eating fish and chips, with all my family. Family time is so important to me and I really cherish my memories of us. Over the past two years, life has told me to appreciate the little things, whether that’s having a cup of tea with my granny or having my whole family around for dinner.