Bring valentines back into focus

I dont know about you, but I feel there is a bit of pressure put on us around valentines, to show the best expression of love we have ever given. But that doesnt mean buying the biggest bouquet of roses or box of chocolates. Here are a few ideas from Oliver that bring it back to basics...

Romance is about:

Surprise
It's great to have be given an exciting surprise that shows that your partner cares enough to plan and keep a secret. It shows a sense of life and passion that we all hope will be with us for life.

The details

Sometimes it's the little things that count; a romantic note stuck to the fridge door, a chocolate on your pillow (providing it hasn't melted!). There is a delicacy and intimacy that tells your partner that you know this will make a difference to their day. Think of the possibilities of chocolates, candles, notebooks or even post it notes!

Nostalgia

Remembering a special moment that you shared- it could be a photo, a simple train ticket from a treasured journey, or an object thy you bought together such as an antique. Why not present some of these memories in a scrap book or photo frame.

The senses

Bring the sense bubbling back to life - it's all about the juxtaposition of relaxation and of course stimulation! Anything that feels, smells, tastes, sounds or looks lovely will do the trick. Often it's the senses that get overlooked on a daily basis that make a difference. Share an evening with some indulgent bath products, chocolate & candles. Snuggle together under luxurious fabrics such as organic cotton bed linen or luxurious pure silk blanket. Or if you really want to make a more permanent statement, why not paper one wall with this evocotive burlesque wallpaper...

Vintage for kids

We love this ingenious idea for using vintage wallpaper - you know those designs you see in classic 70's films but would never cover a whole wall with...

Dutch design company Inke have a huge range of retro designs cut into shapes of animals or trees - ideal for the kids room. Thay have giraffe, lion, alligator, elephant, birds trees...and the best bit (but possibly the most difficult) is choosing which design of wallpaper you want for each shape... I love this classic combination:

No need to throw out those old rolls, and even a reason to snap them up when you find them in the corner of a vintage store - have a go at cutting your own shapes to create nature montages for a playroom. I know Oliver is already planning a mural for his 2yr old daughters room...