Mediterranean Honeysuckle

As I’m sure you’re all aware, Summer has long been a bit of a obsession of mine; something to plot, plan and daydream about all winter long – anything to get through those cold snaps and head colds. When people ask when I feel at my best, the first thing that comes to mind is denim shorts, bikinis, freckles and little else and the majority of my core memories revolve around long summer days too. Sand between toes, salty skin, the smell of cut grass and the sound of crickets in the air… They’re cliches for a reason peoeple. When I imagine my ideal vision of summer, the Mediterranean definitely springs to mind. Greek salads with feta the size of your face, balmy scooter rides and turquoise-lined coves are just a few of the things conjured up when I first smelt Aerin’s latest fragrance Mediterranean Honeysuckle. So when Aerin asked me to host a little get together for some favourite people in London to celebrate this new scent, I was all for the chance to get into the swing of my favourite season.

The incredibly chic granddaughter of Estee Lauder herself, Aerin and I share a love for travel (and shells, straw baskets and dogs but I’m getting carried away) and I immediately connected with how every one of her fragrances is inspired by her personal memories and travels. Mediterranean Honeysuckle is based around bergamot and pink grapefruit so it smells incredibly fresh and citrusy, exactly the kind of uplifting scent you want to spritz on post-shower after a day on the beach. In order to really bring what it’s all about to life, I decided to host a lunch at one of my favourite London spots Petersham Nurseries, and turn a bright Spring day into the height of summer. Petersham’s greenhouse made our table into a proper sun trap as we were treated to plate after plate of delicious (and seriously photogenic) food. Rhubarb bellinis, crab and radiccio salads, roasted potatoes with aioli and the prettiest proseco jelly were just a few elements of the seasonal feast. If you haven’t been to Petersham before please go and check it out. I’ve long been a fan both of its amazing food and its shop selling seriously aspirational interior bits and pieces.

A long lunch with some of my favourite people, sipping rose, eating crab and surrounded by olive trees and lemons… It might not be bikini weather just yet, but it definitely felt like we’d managed to bring a little slice of the Mediterranean to London for the afternoon.

Jeans | Mother
Shirt | Sandro
Loafers | Gucci
Belt | Frame
Necklaces | Lucy Williams X Missoma (large horn necklace back in stock!) 

Poppy is one half of the clever duo behind the label Ascenco – amazing prints on silk PJs and swimwear.  Both Poppy and Lauren have been great friends since our university days too.

You might remember Poppy from a little health and fitness post I did way back… Anyone with a bod/skin/hair like that I am ready to listen and learn from!

My guru when it comes to eating and living naturally and well, Xochi has a book coming out next month that I’m super excited for. Look out for The Naturalista for amazing, glowy recipes and natural concoctions for skin and hair  – its out April 21st.

Alice of Blade LDN (that amazing jumper on her shoulders is one of her designs) and Lissy who works at Larsson & Jennings (best watches in the business) never fail to make me want their jeans, hair, jumper, jewellery… the list is endless.

The lovely Alex, stylist and blogger from The Frugality, and my hilarious pal Jules who makes brilliant Youtube videos and a podcast that’s forever keeping me company on trains, tubes and planes.

Thanks to all my lovely guests for coming and making it so fun;

Poppy S-W
Lauren
Julia
Marisa
Kelly
Jules
Alex
Anneli
Lissy
Alice
Poppy C
Xochi
Katherine
Hattie
Charlie

Huge thanks to Aerin for inviting me to organise this very special lunch. 
Check out the new Mediterranean Honeysuckle collection by Aerin here.