September 11: Always Remember

2016: what a year!

2016. Where should I begin? In between Brexit, Trump and a steady stream of celebrity passings, 2016 has, in many ways, has seemed rather unreal. Who could have predicted this time last year that we would be on the cusp of immense political and social change?

For me, 2016 has been a year of great personal and professional change. I am now working as a consultant full time, and this level of freedom has given me the opportunity to explore new work streams and travel the world. The loss of family members and friends against the many highs has been poignant, but it has focused the mind and put many things into perspective.

So without further ado, here was my 2016!

I started the year with the news that I was one of Wales Online's 16 in 16 entrepreneurs to watch! A nice way to begin January.

During February and March, I began to shift my energy to consulting full time.

In April, I packed my bags and headed off to Australia and New Zealand for a month. Staying with friends in Sydney, I explored one of my favourite cities, met up with long-last family members, saw the awesome Lego exhibition at the Powerhouse, finally saw the Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries costumes (fangirl,) and travelled to Canberra to visit the Australian Parliament and National War Memorial. In New Zealand, I went back to Christchurch to see friends and see how much the great city has changed since the dreadful earthquakes.

In May, I was back to London to start work on a pilot digital project with Parliament and doteveryone. This was a fascinating experience, and working with MPs, I investigated how they use digital technology and social media to communicate with their constituents, tackle their workload and generally encourage digital democracy and political engagement. The three month project overlapped with the historic vote to leave the European Union, and to be in the UK Parliament at an immense time of political change was something which we couldn't have predicted. I stood in Old Palace Yard as David Cameron left Parliament as Prime Minister, and watched from the Speaker's Gallery as Theresa May took part in her first Prime Minister's Questions. I visited the HQs of Facebook and Twitter, and attended the American Ambassador's 4th July party at Winfield House. So many great moments and experiences that I won't forget and so many great friendships formed.

Downing Street just after David Cameron had resigned

Ambassador and Mrs Barzun

During the summer I fit in my first trip to Dublin  - such a great city! I also spent time rediscovering London and indulging in some quintessential sites including Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey. I was also asked to be a godmother to my friend's little girl Emily! Such a privilege and responsibility!

The Liffey!

As we entered the autumn, I received a nomination in the Entrepreneur Wales Awards and headed back over the Atlantic to New York. Walking the Brooklyn Bridge, visiting Tory Burch HQ and returning to the World Trade Center Museum and Memorial were some of the highlights of the trip. I also won't forget the mood of anticipation by many that America was on the cusp of making history with the possibility of electing its first female President. How the mood had changed merely a week later.

One of the successes of 2016 has been writing about our new Prime Minister, Theresa May for Political Style. The interest in coverage has been fantastic, and personally, it has been great fun to keep tabs on what she is wearing and create fun content! It has also been amazing to be recognised in the press for my blogging - something which I couldn't achieve without the support of my fabulous readers. Thank you!

Crown Copyright

The end of a year is always a reflective one, and as we head towards 2017, I feel truly blessed and privileged to have had such an extraordinary year. 2016 has taught me to grab all opportunities that come my way, trust my gut, and importantly to try. If you say no you'll never know!

Here's to a successful, positive and prosperous 2017 for us all. Make it yours! 

November through Instagram

Avenues of Christmas trees | Taking out the Twisters | Crisp autumn mornings on Whitehall | Festive adornments at Ede & Ravenscroft | Crunchy leaves and New Balance | Colouring in New York | Cardiff does Christmas | Vintage Hermes scarves | Vivacious in Russell & Bromley

Follow me on Instagram here!

October through Instagram

Finally watching the HBO Ethel documentary | Colourful sips with Kate Spade | Nominated for Young Entrepreneur of the Year award | Clutches on clutches | Getting into the Halloween spirit | High sparkle with Dior | Kate Spade rocks leopard | Reading First Women | Hi, New York!

Follow me on Instagram for more of my adventures. 

Fall trip to New York

New York. A city I've visited more times than I can count, and a destination that is good that they named it twice. This trip really didn't feel like a vacation (even though it was,) and I guess I've got to the point where I know it so well that visiting the city now feels like catching up with an old friend!

In town for a mix of business and pleasure, the temperatures were in the high twenties (the eighties for my lovely American readers,) when I arrived, but slowly, and wonderfully dipped to a more acceptable fall climate.

On the first full day, we woke up early and headed to the National September 11 Memorial and Museum for an early access tour. Visiting the Museum and paying my respects has been something that I have wanted to do for a long time, and seeing the new World Trade Center complex was a restorative experience. Booking a place on the early access tour is something I would highly recommend. You start your tour at 815am, an hour before the Museum is open to the general public which allows you to see artefacts and experience the exhibitions before it gets busy. Our guide Victor was exceptional, and made the tour even more poignant and powerful.

The tour and the Museum is moving and emotional, and powerfully transports you back to the events of that awful day in September. Only 12 at the time, this experience made me realize that I am likely one of the few youngest of generations who will truly remember the events of 9/11. This makes the Museum and Memorial even more important to honour the victims, heroes, first responders, families and friends.

We didn't visit the observatory of One World Trade Center, and I think that I will be unlikely to in the future. The new tower is awesome in its size and presence, the design echoing elements of the original towers and rising to new heights. It's a beautiful building to look at and I imagine being inside looking out at New York and further afield would also be a special experience.

The rest of my trip was filled with meetings (including a trip to Tory Burch HQ!) and catching up with friends. But I also made time to revisit some of my favourite New York sites including Rockefeller Center, Grand Central Station, Central Park, the Met (the Psycho house roof installation was awesome,) Flatiron and Brooklyn. A bracing walk across Brooklyn Bridge was the main part of our final day in the city - and braving the cold was well worth it!

Take a taxi or a ride on the Subway to Brooklyn Heights (getting off at City Hall or Borough Market) and walk along Brooklyn Heights to take in the magnificent skyline of Lower Manhattan. Soak up the walk back into Manhattan over the Bridge, it truly is a special view.

Along with stock up stops at my favourite shops (J.Crew, Ann Taylor, LOFT, Banana Republic, Target and CVS!) it was nice to spend some R&R time in New York. I'll be back next year!

Check out some more of my photos from my New York trip here.   

Theresa May at the UN General Assembly

The PM travelled to her first UN General Assembly in New York earlier this week. Addressing delegates, Theresa May spoke about the refugee crisis.

The PM also met with the Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon and other world leaders including the Prime Minister of New Zealand, John Key.

Number 10 Flickr

The PM wore a black tailored skirt suit by Amanda Wakeley, a white shell top and oversized chain necklace. The look was completed with a pair of jewelled buckle black flats from Russell & Bromley.

Our City, Our Story: September 11 Memorial Podcast

Our City. Our Story. profiles engaging New York personalities, from the everyday to the very well-known, examining the place that 9/11 has taken in the greater context of their lives. Through these stories we see how New Yorkers, and the city itself, responded, coped and persevered. The series is hosted by Jenny Pachucki, an oral historian, and is produced by the National September 11 Memorial & Museum at the World Trade Center.

With testimonies from survivors, reporters, elected officials and filmmakers, this is one podcast you should be subscribing too.

Happy Weekend!

Happy Weekend everyone! I'm frantically working hard this weekend to finish off all my tasks before I head to Australia on Monday! In between the late nights and early mornings here are some links that I have been reading.

Sydney could become another London or New York for property investors

Hotel guests can't go more than seven minutes without connecting to wi-fi

Tips for sleep and night time rituals

Bonjour London, New York and Paris!

London, New York and Paris are three of my favourite cities and with the arrival of the Bonjour New York: The Bonjour City Map-Guides (Bonjour City Guides), a revisit is definitely on the cards!

As portable as a map but as informative as a guide, the hybrid Bonjour City Map Guides provide a refreshing look at this three popular cities. Written by filmmaker Marin Montagut, the guides offer his recommendations for shopping, dining and attractions in each of this cosmopolitan cities.

The pocket sized guides are water resistant and tear proof (perfect for a klutz like me...) and feature rare places that you'll want to visit in a heartbeat. I love to venture off the beaten track, exploring places that locals use and rave about. These Map Guides will certainly be a pick help in tracking down these spots!

From the Monmouth Coffee Company in London, Merci in Paris and the Milk and Cookies Bakery in New York, the Map Guides will be my essential travel item on my next trip!

Check out my Flickr page where you can see photos from my various jaunts to these three awesome cities! 

The Greene Door

The Greene Door

Once in awhile, I'll come across a blog that blows it out of the water. A perfect mix of fashion, food and fun, The Greene Door ticks all of my boxes.

Established by the utterly chic Catherine Greene, The Greene Door is a place for people who want to be in the know. A spirited and exciting look into Catherine's life and loves in New York, every post is more amazing than the last! I caught up with Catherine to chat about why she started blogging, what inspires her and what are her hopes for TGD's future.

Why did you start TGD? 

I had the idea to do a lifestylish blog several years ago, but work and life (oddly enough) was so busy, there just wasn't the time for it. I was always drawn to other bloggers that shared similar interests, in style, adventure, sports, theater, arts, etc. and I benefited so much from the information that they shared. I finally decided to take the leap of faith, about 8 months ago, came up with the name and then just started writing.  The references to the word green (ie. Elizabeth Arden's The Red Door, Broadway's The Green Room and The Red Carpet were inspirational innuendo - I love fashion and styling, I am a huge theater goer and I love all things pretty.)  And since green living is all the rage, I had a little fun with it being my last name.  I got lucky with branding it, though, as my surname ends with an 'e.'

How did you select which topics to write about?

I was shopping with my small niece, my running buddy and we landed at Lilly Pulitzer.  I shop and wear the brand, but my niece was not so familiar with their clothing.  When I took her into the flagship on Madison Avenue, her eyes lit up with excitement. It is a small paradise in this hard edged city, and she was so delighted to be there.  She tried on a few of the kids items, and I took some pictures of her.  The sales person asked if I was a blogger and I said no, I was just having some fun with my niece.  And then it hit me, this pretty little child was inspired by an idea that I had, experienced a new form of dress, soaked in all the colorful fun and could not wait to see the pictures of her in her new Lilly togs when we got into the taxi.  I thought it so similar to the reasons I follow certain bloggers.  And so, just like that, and still, today, I write, by chance, moment to moment, about what makes me happy, what I think is a little new and different, what makes my day and work, and how I am so fortunate to reap the benefits of a living a great life in NYC. So I think the topics, like the occasion, just happen.  And then I take a few pictures, get inspired and share.  It is a random presentation, but people seem to like it.

What’s the best thing about blogging?

Aside from being able to get out of my head for a bit, I like the platform very much. There are no demands, or speculation or deadlines.  And, it's not necessary to get attention or to necessarily know who is reading about what I am writing about.  That is a lot of fun, once you let it go, it takes on wings.  People have begun calling and emailing me like crazy about new items they have purchased, events they have gone to, art they have become interested in, races they have run, restaurants they have tried etc- all as a result of reading The Greene Door.  How terrifically cool is that to hear that my journey is now being shared by others.  The ultimate high and I am very humbled by that.

What are your favorite types of posts to create? 

I do enjoy a tiny tale - even if it becomes composing an article about something as small as a particular piece of clothing or an event as big as attending the Papal mass.  When something (or some event) stimulates me, and the surroundings are beautiful, and I think others would enjoy them as much as I do, it becomes less about creation than translation.

What does your ideal NYC weekend look like?

Well I live in town and at the shore, so any weekend will be that much more different, even though it all happens in the same city.  I love a great morning run, along the ocean or across the Brooklyn Bridge, then a brunch date, or a boat ride, matinee or a cultural visit or shopping, and, of course, a great dinner.  I am afforded the luxury of weekend bliss just by living in New York.  There is never enough time to do it all, so I just take it as it presents itself.  (I will say that I don't waste my weekends, ever, on chores!) That seems such a waste, when the days and nights can be so full of life, so magical.  The glorious part of down time in New York is that it is always available and I do try to make the most of it.

What advice can you offer to those thinking of starting a lifestyle blog? 

I know that it has helped me to just write about what I like, what makes me happy.  Everyone's lifestyle is different - in any form, any city any culture.  Those differences are what make for a great read, and they are the very reason that I admire so many different types of blogs, websites, online magazines.  It is wonderful to be transformed, inspired and educated - whatever the platform.  My advice to a anyone that may be interested in sharing - creating a blog is to be generous.  Don't hold back.  Don't be intimidated by naysayers, furled foreheads, negative comments, opinions or analytics. Life is in the living and everyone's life is full of meaning.  I am so fortunate to have a great career that has afforded me much success, and  since I started writing The Greene Door, (and entered into a new online sphere)  I realize the importance of being true to my own mission statement. Honesty in any form, enhanced by a fervor for living a wonderful life, and the willingness to share daily (that can be tough, for sure) is a recipe for success.  And the best part is that it is unimportant if anyone gets any joy out of it, as long as you do.

Which bloggers/sites do you admire? 

I have followed Ariana Huffington, well, forever, it seems.  I was taken on her amazing journey, and committed to reading her thoughts daily.  I continue to read The Huffington Post daily. On a smaller scale, I like Cupcakes & Cashmere and Classy Girls Wear Peals for big fashion blitz and preppy sophistication, in that order.  I also like Design Darling, Summer Wind, College Prep and Corals & Cognac.  I could go on and on, but in being true to the bloggers that kept me interested, kept me coming back and kept me informed, I think that list says it all.  I do read a ton of Broadway blogs, and retailers blogs and restaurant blogs - however, in no particular order.  I think it fun to pay respect to the sites that really are the reason that The Greene Door has gotten any attention at all. These business women, these entrepreneurs also seem to share my core values and are dedicated to writing positive pieces that are classic, fresh and fun.

What are your plans for TGD?

I think since I have opened The Greene Door, and have had a few people take a peek inside, I will just embrace these moments of grace and wait and see what is in store.  Truthfully, I never expected to have as much fun, in life, as I am having today.  Who knows, maybe one day, another woman may be given the good fortune to be interviewed about her work and would include The Greene Door in their list of websites that inspire. Yes, that would be wonderful.

The Greene Door

Rear Window in miniature

Rear Window is one of my absolute favorite films, and one which I probably rewatch every other month!

I always get that 'Rear Window' feeling when I'm in New York, and even in other cities (notably Toronto) when you're looking out on the world and people going about their daily business all from the security of one room.

So you can imagine my delight when I learnt that Hitchcock's Rear Window had been made into a prize winning installation by D. Thomas Fine Miniatures! Renowed anthropologist and artist Louise Krasniewicz created the replica of the main movie set in 1/12th scale for inclusion in 'Celebrating the Movies' at the 2015 Philadelphia FlowerShow. Her creation achieved First Place and Best of Show, and it is on display until November 25th 2015 at D. Thomas Fine Miniatures in Hastings-on-Hudson.

Every fine detail of the movie set is present from the lonely woman's dinner party to the precarious ladders Lisa (Grace Kelly) climbs up to find out the truth about the man in the apartment opposite. It's like stepping into a different world, albeit one which you may be very familiar with if you're a fan like me!

Louise Krasniewicz

For further details on the Rear Window miniature visit Louise's website.

A trip to the BG Restaurant

Searching for a chic place to catch up with friends and enjoy some delicious cuisine? Take a trip the BG restaurant at Bergdorf Goodman.

When I was in Manhattan last month, I headed to the Seventh Floor of this American institution for fun and fine food on a Friday night. Designed by renowned interior designer Kelly Wearstler, the four  room space has glorious views over Central Park, and is the perfect place to spy on what's happening at the Plaza!

To eat, I had the amazing Oven Roasted Scottish Salmon and the deliciously naughty BG- a flourless hazelnut cake with white and dark chocolate mousse, raspberries and a caramel drizzle. Well worth flying over 3000 miles for!

There were plenty of people still enjoying afternoon tea when we arrived, and the restaurant took on a cozy feel as the crowds left. In fact, we were the last to leave (and I know that we didn't want to really!)

The service was exceptional, the staff friendly and I couldn't have asked for a more memorable and special evening with dear friends.

For further details on BG click here. Reservations are recommended. 

Rifle Paper Company

From postcards to prints, exhibition posters to personal memories, my walls are adorned with lots of things! I'm fast running out of space to hang things, but these Manhattan and Washington DC prints from Rifle Paper Company will receive pride of place.

Rifle Paper Co. is a stationery and gift brand based in Winter Park, Florida founded and owned by husband and wife team, Anna and Nathan Bond. The company officially launched via riflepaperco.com in November 2009 and what began as a small business based out of Anna and Nathan's garage apartment has quickly grown into an international brand over the last four and a half years.

All of Rifle's paper products are printed in the USA and assembled by hand. Rifle Paper Company uses FSC certified paper stocks and environmentally responsible printers, ensuring that sustainability is at the heart of everything that they produce.

The company has recently partnered with the amazing blogger Garance Dore, and if that wasn't enough to tempt you, Rifle also produces wallpaper, apparel and home goods!

Check out Rifle Paper Company for a range of amazing treats and gifts- whilst you do that, I'll be writing my thank you notes on my Pony Express Stationery set!

Lareymondie: Footwear for Guys and Gals

Lareymondie

Androgynous fashion continues to be a strong choice for many women. YSL’s ‘le smoking’ suit is as popular now as it was in the 1960s, and designers continue to look to androgyny for inspiration.

One of these designers is Maylis de Lacoste Lareymondie. Her range of bespoke loafers, boots and shoes is a hit with men and women alike, and people are flocking to her showroom in New York to get fitted.

Lareymondie

Maylis started Lareymondie to create bespoke boots for women. As her business has expanded so has her line of unique creations. Since launching her line of loafers for men, Maylis is finding that women also want a pair!

The most popular styles are oxford or the tassel loafers, with customers ordering patinas including brown caramel, brown honey, and mahogany. A big part of the process is being able to customize the shoe. Customers can choose the color of the laces, the type of leather and even have their monogrammed engraved for all of time.

Lareymondie

Bespoke shoes take five weeks to be made, and they are created in France to the highest standard of craftsmanship.

Maylis shares why she thinks her shoes are such a hit!

Why do you think women are so excited about the masculine style of shoe? 
There has been a real change of status in society, and these shoes are a new and pioneering way to assume your sex appeal and power.  Wearing flats is a break from 'tradition' when women had to wear heels to be seen. Today this is the opposite, and women in flats and a 'tomboy look' are much more remarkable because they attract, surprise, and create interest.

Where and how could you style these shoes? 
You can style a pair of Oxford, Derby with pretty much everything!  You can achieve a very tomboy look with a suit, and white shirt, or even a tuxedo! You can pair them with a mini skirt, or a long skirt.

Lareymondie

I recently ordered my own pair of shoes from Lareymondie and I can’t wait to share them with you all! Stay tuned for the big reveal!

Lareymondie