Welcome to Life Beyond — the first edition of my monthly newsletter!
I’m so excited to be kicking this off and welcoming you into a new corner of Beyond Nine. Come on in — it’s full of good things. Think of this as a personal dose of inspiration: my latest discoveries, the ones that stopped me in my tracks, put a smile on my face, made my heart skip a beat — and, sometimes, all three.
So, what can you expect? Each month, I’ll be sharing my current fixations and forever favourites — from books and podcasts to exhibitions, music, recipes, homewares… the list goes on. My hope? That some of my great loves might just become yours too (if they aren’t already).
So sit back, make yourself a cup of your favourite, and let’s dive in.
Image source: The tradition of living beautifully
FOOD AND DRINK
Dark Chocolate, Oat & Hazelnut Cookies – The Farm Table by Julius Roberts
First up: food. I can’t stop thinking about these cookies — and neither can the kids - they’re a regular make in our house. I mean it when I say they’re bowl-licking good. Go make them. Stat.
Image source: RWA
CULTURE
I’m eagerly awaiting the reopening of RWA’s main gallery for the Soft Power: Lives Told Through Textile Art exhibition. A collection of art that ‘highlights how cloth can play a unique role in telling our stories and how it’s used to communicate life’s journey’ — that speaks to me. After catching the annual open exhibition last month with my eldest, I know the next show will be just as inspiring.
Image source: Waterstones
CULTURE
This is the last book that had a deeply profound effect on me — so much so that it took me a few weeks to pick up another book. It’s a devastating depiction of a country torn apart by war, set in a dystopian Dublin, and a powerful portrait of a mother’s struggle to keep her family together. I think everyone should read this book, but particularly policy makers and those reporting on refugees.
OUT AND ABOUT
A visit to Bath obviously meant a trip to 8 Holland Street. I find myself leaving so much more inspired and excited after every visit — but be prepared to want everything. Their use of colour is on another level and it’s what inspired the sunshine-yellow stairs in our own home, leading up to the kid’s attic rooms. A bold choice? Maybe. But it makes me smile every time I walk past it. The Bath store is one of my favourites because it doesn’t feel intimidating like galleries sometimes do. It feels like you’re walking into someone’s house, albeit someone who has incredible taste.
My Wishlist
Image source: Meanforme
The best shoes I’ve ever worn — hands down. I’ve been living in the Risedale L Qs (not to bed... but almost), and I just bought my husband some Hambleton Suede in Taupe, and now he’s a convert too! Comfort and style? Yes please. Fingers crossed more ladies styles to come.
Image source: David Mellor
For the longest time, I’ve pined for a set of David Mellor Cutlery and finally becoming the proud owner of a full set felt like a real grown-up moment. I went for the Provençal — it’s added a little extra je ne sais quoi to every meal. It’s definitely ‘forever cutlery’ that feels totally timeless.
Image source: Plant people
Last month I was in New York celebrating a milestone birthday (still not sure how that happened so fast…) and while I tried to keep the shopping to a minimum, I couldn’t resist a little treat. I kept spotting these Plant People gummies all over the place — chews packed with ingredients that claim to boost calm and focus — naturally I picked up a few packs. Will they change my life? Who knows, but I’ll be sure to report back.
Jude Tee and Remi Jeans
On a recent shoot, we styled the Jude Tee in classic black with the Remi barrel-leg jeans in leopard print — and now it’s a go-to in my everyday wardrobe. It’s just a good, simple outfit that requires nearly no effort. I throw it on and tackle my to-do list — on that note, I should wrap this up and get on with that.
One of my favourite styles from this season is the Tabby tunic dress, which, since its launch, has become a serious staple in my spring wardrobe. I can’t wait to see how everyone wears theirs during the summer months.
So, there you have it — a little peek into what I’m loving beyond Beyond Nine. If you like what we create, chances are you’ll find something here that speaks to you too. If you try anything from the list, email me back and let me know what you think :-)
See you back here next month for more things worth sharing.
X Naomi
