Last Minute Mother's Day Gift Ideas

Are you feeling indecisive about what to get for Mother's Day? I’ve rounded up a selection of beautiful pieces from some of my favourite local haunts, including a few coveted pieces from my personal wishlist. Whether you're seeking last-minute gift ideas or simply looking to indulge yourself, I hope this curation inspires... 

Clockwise from Top Left

'Farmhouse in Basque' by Phillipe Long (1872-1957) from John Stephens & Company

Freddie Crew Sweater in wool cashmere by Juliette Hogan

Milly Bag in aubergine lambskin by Yu Mei

Neue Pearl Earrings by Sophie Buhai from Simon James

The Design Chaser x Città Terrace Vase in beige from Città

Solitary Set 07 in moss by Baina

Warm Nordic carved wood tray in walnut from Good Form

Motomu Oyama Plate with foot large & medium from Public Record

Eight Homes: Clements Design from Lamplight Books

Incense Burner in blackened bronze by Studio Henry Wilson from Simon James

Black Anise Eau de Parfum 50ml by Abel 

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Baina | Organic Towelling that you and your Bathroom will Love

Baina is a new antipodean brand of curated organic towelling designed in Melbourne by New Zealand founders Bailey Meredith and Anna Fahey. Taking a modern approach to design anchored in craftsmanship and consideration, the new brand sits within a category of elevated necessities. Which, when broken down, means basic retail needs are ethically produced, aesthetically pleasing and quality-made, resulting in less frequent repeat purchasing. Perfect for those looking for timeless design and longevity, the launch collection of hand, bath and pool towels are set in muted earthy tones of sage, chalk and ecru.  

I love the simplicity of the designs, each one featuring subtle detailing and finished with the Baina terracotta ribbon. Made in Portugal from GOTS certified organic cotton, the towels are a result of Baina's mindful approach to craftsmanship and materiality, produced with one of Europe’s most established mills.

Anna and Bailey each have strong design backgrounds in fashion and both found inspiration for Baina while working together at sustainably-led interior specialist, Jardan. “Jardan’s strong ethos of sustainability to inform all business decisions from who they work with, to the materials they source, had a profound effect on both of us. For Baina we have replicated that same focus in everything we do,” says Anna. Ideal for bath and beach, Baina also answers all your gifting needs. “Towels are an everyday essential that are normally gifted or reluctantly purchased,” says Bailey. “We wanted to create a collection of unisex towels that everyone would love to own and elevate every style of bathroom.”

Photography by Daniel Walker 

Discover the inaugural Baina collection online at shopbaina.com, and at selected stockists. 

Images courtesy of Baina 

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Christmas Gift Guide for Design Lovers

When I started putting a design-focused gift guide together last week, my approach was to instinctively start thinking about what was on my own wish list, and where possible sourcing local finds. As it started to grow, I quickly realised I needed to break it down into categories. But rather than the standard ideas around 'gifts for her' and 'gifts for him', I could see three clear groups emerging. The first is a range of interior products, and includes a selection of furniture, lighting, textiles, art and object. Authentic, thoughtful pieces for considered spaces, these are ideal for design lovers and those who seek sustainable style. 

Interior Gift Ideas 

Blind Love No.1 limited edition art print by Kristina Krogh - kkrogh.dk

Bulawayo Gourd basket - twentyonetonnes.com

Kristina Dam decoration circle - capricho.co.nz

Arnold Circus stool by Martino by Martino Gamper - threaddesign.co.nz

Vintage linen throw - aurahome.com.au

Tom Dixon Rock candleholder, set of 5 - simonjamesdesign.com

Astep VV Cinquanta twin wall lamp - goodform.co.nz

First Light ceramics - thefuturekept.com

ferm Living Balance candleholder - slowstore.co.nz

The next category is a range of beautiful and inspiring coffee table books that are also on my current wish list, including The Eye by Kinfolk founder Nathan Williams and a collection of works by renowned Belgium architect Vincent Van Duysen. I really hope my husband is checking this out!

Coffee Table Books 

The Eye by Nathan Williams - sundayhomestore.co.nz 

Cereal London City Guide - readcereal.com

Vincent Van Duysen Works 2009-2018 - shopbetaplus.com

Casa Malaparte by Karl Lagerfield - shop.tessuti.co.nz

Do Inhabit by Sue Fan & Danielle Quigley - paperplanestore.com

Grannmarkt 13 Book by the makers for Cereal Magazine - shopbetaplus.com

Lastly, I have created a selection of beauty/wellness products. Some of these were inspired by beautiful gifts I have received in the lead up to Christmas, so you may have caught glimpses of them on my Instagram page and stories. Brands that I truly love, there are also plenty of ideas here for treating yourself! 

Beauty + Wellness 

Curionoir Handblown glass Parfum bottle with adornment (sold in store only, 50ml & Pocket Parfum available online) - curionoir.com

Sans [Ceuticals] DIY Spa Kit - shop.sansceuticals.com

Austin Austin Neroli & Petitkgrain body soap - fatherrabbit.com

Rose beauty pillow - penneyandbennett.co.nz

Jo Malone London limited edition cologne collection - smithandcaugheys.co.nz

Stonewashed linen robe - alexandcorban.co.nz

Yolana pure NZ wool practise mat (formally Fifth Breath) - yolana.co

Aesop Atlas of Attraction gift sets - aesop.com

Lumira Home fragrance and Glass dome (see this handy guide How to Choose a Candle as a Gift) - atelier.lumira.com 

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My Christmas Gift Guides for BLOC

For today's post I've teamed up with BLOC to curate two Christmas Gift Guides, one For Her and one For Him. Set with the task of selecting products from each of the BLOC collaborators; BoConcept, Città, Father Rabbit, Tim Webber Design and Alex and Corban Home, I felt right at home amongst these beautiful brands! BLOC has long been a favourite shopping destination because of its focus on great design and ease of shopping under the one roof. There's a real sense of community for those who appreciate design in all its forms, and the BLOC Cafe provides a great meeting place for lunch, or a coffee on the run. When it comes to Christmas gifting, I can't think of a better place to get it all sorted... in a  beautiful space away from the crowded malls! Here are my two gift guides showcasing a small taste of what's on offer. 

FOR HER 

Father Rabbit Linen Duvet Cover and Linen Kisses Pillow Cases, Linda Tahija U Necklace - fatherrabbit.com

Linear Grid Side Table, Compagnie de Provence Hand Balm - cittadesign.com

Candle Holder & Icelandic Sheepskin - boconcept.com

Kimberley Ring Bowl & Cluse La Bohème Gold Mesh Watch - alexandcorban.co.nz

Good Thing Clear & Frosted Vases designed by Sam Anderson - timwebberdesign.com

FOR HIM

Jet Chair by Tim Webber, Menu Carrie Lamp by Norm Architects - timwebberdesign.com

Linear Two-Tier Side Table, Vitra L'Oiseau Bird by Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec - cittadesign.com

Status Anxiety The Void Bag, Made of Tomorrow 2018 Daily Planner - alexandcorban.co.nz

Vifa Helsinki Wireless Speaker, Cut Tealight Holder - boconcept.com

Bellroy Coinfold Wallet, Sent of Home Mr Rosado Candle - fatherrabbit.com

Christmas Decorations - cittadesign.com

Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC

This is a sponsored post. I only work with products I love and all opinions are my own. For more information please visit my About Page.

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Sans [ceuticals] | The Alchemy of Giving

In the past I've curated Christmas gift guides, but this year I'm taking a more selective and organic approach, looking out for gifts that really resonate and offer something unique and special for loved ones. The Alchemy of Giving by Sans [ceuticals] is a great fit in that it centres around the idea that giving can be a transformative experience, something deeper than a material exchange. Their beautiful Gift Set Series was created to foster a sense of connection - a moment of solitude or time with a loved one.

For those discovering Sans [ceuticals] for the first time, this NZ-based company is close to my heart. I first met with with founder Lucy Vincent over a year ago, and the beautiful products have since become part of my daily ritual. A former hairstylist, Lucy's remarkable career (she established the Stephen Marr hair salons, Lucy and the Powder Room and Auckland shopping destination, The Department Store) and fresh uncontrived approach to hair and beauty has made her an influential and pioneering innovator here in New Zealand. 

Unable to find the type of products she wanted to use - clean, natural products that were highly active, well designed and sustainably minded - Lucy set out to create her own. Working with a team of New Zealand’s top scientists and cell biologists, Lucy developed a range of products that are a convergence of everything that is important to her. "I want to use products that are natural, environmentally responsible and sustainable—but they also have to perform and be effective.” I've spoken out on Instagram about the changes I've seen in my hair and skin since using the products, and I love that the brand's ethos feeds through to the Sans [ceuticals] way of life. Passionate about nature, whole foods, native New Zealand plant extracts, biochemistry, neuroscience, art and design, Lucy is also an advocate of diverse beauty in all its shapes and forms, at any age. A constant source of inspiration, the Sans [ceuticals] Journal features like-minded inspiring women from around the globe (Sans Woman), Lucy's delicious plant-based recipes (Sustenance) and product how-to videos (Tutorials). There's also a beautiful film series, A Quiet Observation. Featuring a cast of amazing women directed by Veronica Crockford-Pound, the film presents a change from the traditional representation of women in beauty messaging, with a study of the female form that doesn't objectify or idealise.

Designed to elevate the everyday essentials range, each of the Sans [ceuticals] gift kits are accompanied by an experiential ritual, incorporating cleansing, touch and repair. Exquisitely presented, each set encourages ‘scheduling time’ and comes with an artist drawn ritual card, detailing steps to perform a head massage, reflexology or hair treatment.

My beautiful DIY Spa Kit includes two of my favourite products, the Bio Active Body Exfoliant, and Activator 7 Body + Hair + Face + Oil, together with two gorgeous luxury samples. I'm looking forward to following the Self Care Ritual (including a glass of wine and bath) very soon.

Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC

Available to purchase online with worldwide shipping, see the full range of gift kits here. 

This post was created in collaboration with [Sans ceuticals]. I only work with products I love and all opinions are my own. For more information please visit my About Page.

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New + Noted

A new discovery, Made by Morgen is Melbourne-based design studio specialising in handcrafted furniture. Maintaining traditional workmanship and quality, with materials that support this standard, the beautifully refined products are made to age well but they also embody a story. With inspiration from mid-century Scandinavian design, Made by Morgen work by hand to create refreshing, unique and individualised pieces for people, places and spaces. Here are some pieces from the stunning new collection, which you can see in its entirety here. 

Styling by Bek Sheppard / Photography by Lillie Thompson

Recently launched, Nordiska Kök is a new Swedish brand producing beautiful customised kitchens. Showcasing an unmistakable Nordic style with simple design, clean lines and the use of natural, quality materials, the kitchens feature appealing combinations of muted toned cabinetry and marble stone bench tops.  

Styled by Sundling Kickén / Photography by Fanny Hansson

Aesop have launched a new range of Gift Kits for 2017-18 which pay homage to ground-breaking studies on human behaviour, and feature curated skin and body care products to suit a range of recipients. The six kits are collectively titled, The Enigmatic Mind, with each kit celebrating an influential social psychology experiment that rose to prominence in the 1950s, 60s, and 70s.

At a time of year when we consider what generosity means, the experiments shine a light on how humans interact with each other, whether working together, helping others, establishing connections or social conformity.

I was very lucky to receive the beautiful Sway Gift Kit which references the Asch conformity experiments, and how we adapt to accommodate those around us. It comprises of a group of agreeable formulations for hand and body care: Resurrection Aromatique Hand Wash, Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm, Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser, and Geranium Leaf Body Balm. Packaged in a practical, reusable amenity case, the kits are wrapped in sleeves inspired by social psychology books of the era; the design subtly referencing the experiment behind it.

Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC

An intriguing concept, I have found reading about the experiments for each kit so fascinating and I know they will make beautiful Christmas gifts. The collection is available from all Aesop signature stores and select stockists across the globe, and at aesop.com.

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Give Swedish this Christmas

You may have seen my Instagram stories and post sharing the incredible gift box I received yesterday all the way from Sweden. The box came from the newly launched gift guide Give Swedish, an exciting collaboration by seven young Swedish design brands. All small, up and coming boutique brands, their range of products are simply amazing in terms of quality, style and innovation. To say I was blown away by my beautiful, handpicked collection would be an understatement! I've provided an overview below but I also recommend you check out the the fun promo video here. 

Some of the amazing art on offer from Absolute Art 

Sneaker perfection by CQP

I'm a huge fan of TID whose incredible watches I featured on the blog earlier this year 

One of my favourite Swedish brands, HEM offers a wonderful selection of homewares and furniture by top designers 

A new discovery, Asket is a menswear brand that focuses solely on providing better fitting, premium wardrobe essentials


A great gift pack idea including the gorgeous UNO Red & Snow unisex Pyjamas by loungewear label Nufferton

Images via Give Swedish 

Here's the photo I shared yesterday of the products I received including two stunning pieces from Hem - the carved wooden Turned Kiwi by Lars Beller Fjetland and Punched Metal Candle Holder by Julien Renault. I'm simply in love with the sunglasses by Nivadas and what's more they are unisex so I can give a pair to my husband, along with the Asket t-shirts. To me Give Swedish embodies what Christmas gift-giving should be about - quality over quantity and choosing special pieces that will last for a very long time. 

Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC 

This post was created in collaboration with Give Swedish.  I only work with products I love and all opinions are my own. For more information please visit my About Page.

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Father Rabbit Opens Flagship Store in Orakei

When I heard that Father Rabbit was opening a store close to where I live at Orakei Bay I was over the moon! The largest and now flagship store has just opened its doors and I'm thrilled to share the first look at the incredible new space. Housed within the lofty heritage warehouses of the Orakei Bay Village development, the store showcases Father Rabbit's beautiful wares as well as his expanding furniture collection. White and bright with a clean, contemporary aesthetic, the expansive interior features charmingly curated shelves and beautifully styled pieces for every room of the home. 

The wonderful new Father Rabbit store is soon to be joined by The Botanist and various foodie’s including Brother’s Brewery, and Farro. Perfectly positioned on the Orakei basin and train station, it’s all set to become a must-visit summer destination! 

Located at 228 Orakei Bay, Father Rabbit Orakei Bay Village is open Monday - Saturday 9am-5pm and Sunday 10am-4pm. 

Images courtesy of Father Rabbit

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