Playing House- the art of the orchid

I may still live with my parents but that doesn’t mean I don’t enjoy choosing things for the house and looking at home ware. Another new feature for the blog is going to be interiors, alongside my ventures in beauty and (to come) the re-introduction of foodie posts. I’m kicking off my series with a little bit of an info-post about orchids,
one of my favourite plants to have around the house.
Orchids remind me of my family. My Nan loved them and so does my Mum so it kind of goes without saying that the love of them came to me, too.
A few weeks ago Art of Life got in touch with an e-mail about this beautiful bloom and offered me one to keep for myself. I jumped on the chance as I don’t have one of my own and when it turned up the other day (for the record, beautifully packaged and in excellent condition) it was instantly decanted in to a pink pot and given pride of place in the conservatory.
Art of Life are seeking to raise awareness of  the Orchid in the UK so I have a few little snippets of information to share with you
Orchids are known as the ‘Queen of the Plants’ and make for a stylish and elegant home accessory. There are more than 25,000 varieties and they come in a range of colours.
Contrary to popular belief, orchids are extremely easy to care for and are perfect for those who love having flowers in their home but struggle to look after them (this would be me!)

Caring for an Orchid really couldn’t be any simpler, they only need watering every 5-12 days which is perfect as I’m prone to forgetting until the boy asks “have you watered your plant lately?” (he’s been blessed with green fingers)
They love well lit areas- but not direct sunlight so thrive well in Britain I find!
When finding the perfect home for an Orchid remember not to place it close to the fruit bowl as apparently this can cause premature aging and when watering the plant remember only an egg cup sized amount is needed.
Finally, when buying an Orchid look for one not yet in bloom to enjoy the flowers for longer.
My household has great success with Orchids, I’m not sure whether this luck will extend to myself but time will tell.
In the mean time, what’s your favourite flower to have around the home? 
xxx

Daisy Chain Dreaming: Dream Duvets from Palmers

A couple of weeks ago I was very kindly gifted my dream Cath Kidston Duvet from Palmers, I’ve seriously lusted after one of these for so.long. and I was far too excited to go to bed last night and snuggle up under it (heat be damned).

I confess, before they got in touch, I hadn’t actually heard of Palmers before; turns out it’s a pretty damn awesome department store that stocks all manner of fabulous things for the home- pretty china, amazing coffee machines…as well as a stunning range of bedding from designers such as Kirstie Allsopp, Kylie Minogue at home and V&A

(this is how I can tell I’m growing up, getting excited about duvets and homeware)

The second I am in a position to move out on my own, you can bet I’ll be ordering this little lot for my bed…

Those of you that have moved in to your own place, did you go home decor mad?
What’s your favourite ever duvet? I have fond memories of some of my childhood ones such as care bears and my little pony!

Had you heard of Palmers before today?

xxx