A lady has just walked into the coffee shop and told the barista that the pastries aren't suitable for her dietary needs. She followed a man who said the café window display is the weirdest he has ever seen: he’s referring to little clay models of elderly people sat in big armchairs chatting to each other. There must be a coach party in town today. I’m sipping maple syrup flavoured coffee but I’m not sure about this one - it’s an acquired taste I think. The dog has been given an espresso cup of free treats and much attention and now seems most pleased with herself.

Christmas seems to be taking over in the chain shops. It's always difficult to decide when to start it, too early and people get annoyed, too late and you miss the boat. I used to work with someone who would declare their shopping done by September each year!  And there have been bonfires this past week, although at Magpies and Diamonds HQ the season was marked with a chiminea, sparklers, and jacket potatoes in the back garden with family. A lovely cosy time.

An art deco festive theme is coming together in the studio. Next week, I’ll be photographing more dresses to go into the shop, I truly hope each one finds its forever home. Right now, the dresses are hanging everywhere—on walls, shelves, the wardrobe, and I must say they make for the prettiest décor. Normally, my inner neat freak would be stressed by this semi-organized chaos, but it’s hard to mind when there’s so much beauty to this mess—a vintage warehouse vibe that somehow works at this time of year. I am doing some deep breathing, but am also super excited about sorting through and photographing the collection. Sigh...I've got my work cut out for me, but it's a beautiful mess for sure.

Until next time

Collette x