Lifestyle - House Of Coco Magazine

Lifestyle February 22, 2021

How to Care for a Dog in Heat

All female dogs that aren’t spayed go through canine estrus, more commonly known as heat. It’s messy, uncomfortable, and comes with a range of behavioural changes in addition to high fertility. Dog owners who choose to keep their female pups intact have their work cut out for them, but armed with knowledge and the right helpful tools, they can keep their furry friends comfortable and themselves sane during this admittedly difficult time.

Keeping Things Clean

One of the first indications most dog owners notice that their beloved furry friends are in heat is blood on their floors and furniture. Some breeds leave a spot or two here and there, while others bleed prolifically enough that it can destroy lightly coloured carpets. Either way, pet owners who are worried about dogs in heat making a mess of their homes have a few options.

Doggie Diapers

Arguably the best option for pet owners is to invest in doggy diapers. It’s important to buy specialised products made just for dogs, as diapers made for people may fit okay, but they won’t be comfortable or stay in place.

Washable doggie diapers are the most economically and ecologically friendly option. Just make sure to remove and wash them frequently to prevent problems like rashes and bacterial infections, and keep in mind that diapers don’t constitute an effective form of contraception for most pups.

Designate a Special Blanket

If the dog doesn’t bleed much, it may be feasible to forgo the diapers and designate a specific blanket for the pup to use when she’s sleeping or relaxing on the floors or furniture. There are drawbacks to this approach, though. It requires constant monitoring of the pup to identify when and where she’s about to cuddle up, and it won’t address any spotting that occurs when she’s up and moving about.

Clean Floors Quickly

Pet parents who don’t want to use diapers should be prepared to clean up any messes as quickly as possible. It’s best to preclude female dogs from carpeted areas while they are in estrus. Cleaning up blood spots on a wood floor is a simple matter of keeping disposable wipes on hand while cleaning blood out of carpets requires more drastic measures.

Prevent Pregnancy

Dogs can only get pregnant while they are in heat. This simple fact of nature makes life easier for female dog owners the rest of the year, but it creates a huge challenge when that beloved family pet enters estrus and becomes fertile. Female dogs go through behavioural and hormonal changes while in heat that encourage unwanted encounters of both amorous and aggressive varieties. It’s up to the dogs’ owners to make sure nature can’t take its course.

Keep Her Indoors

If there are no male dogs in the home, preventing pregnancy may be a seemingly simple matter of keeping the pup inside while she is going through her estrus cycle. Keep in mind that both male and female dogs will do everything they can to thwart their owners’ best intentions during this time.

Female dogs emit pheromones that can be detected by males up to several miles away. They also become receptive to mating and will go out of their way to create opportunities for escape attempts. Even an otherwise secure backyard may not be safe for unsupervised time outside.

Don’t Rely on Diapers

Doggie diapers are great at preventing messes, but they’re not secure enough to stop unwanted pregnancies. Male dogs are very persistent, and even a well-secured garment can be torn off by a determined partner. By all means, use the doggie diapers, but don’t assume they’ll thwart all attempts at mating.

Know What to Expect from Other Dogs

Most dog owners can’t keep their pups locked up 24/7 for the duration of their heat cycles. They have to, at a minimum, take their furry friends out for walks to go to the bathroom or let them out into the yard. Knowing what to expect from other dogs can reduce the chances of something going wrong.

Female dogs aren’t the only ones who go through behavioural changes as a result of estrus. Male dogs who sense their pheromones become very excited, and they can also become more aggressive. Anticipate being extra-vigilant on walks, and never take a female dog in heat to a dog park, as it could create a difficult situation for all the pets and owners involved.

Keep Her Comfortable

Going into heat, especially for the first time, can be a confusing experience for dogs. They may need some extra care and attention during this time, so dog owners should be prepared to provide it.

Offer Extra Potty Breaks

Some female dogs feel the need to relieve themselves more frequently while they are in heat, so plan to offer extra potty breaks. The doggie diapers can prevent accidents, but most house-trained pups won’t be happy about relieving themselves in the diapers if they’re inside, so don’t assume that’s a good solution. Take the diapers off before she goes outside on potty breaks to avoid unnecessary loads of laundry.

Be Patient

Never scold female dogs for making a mess while they’re in heat. Remember, they can’t help it, nor can they help the behavioural changes. Now is a time for extra love and comfort, not scolding, even if the dog is behaving poorly compared to usual.

Give Tons of Love

Female dogs often become cuddlier while they’re in heat. They want the extra security of being close to their owners. Since most dog owners can’t be with their pups 24/7, many combine extra snuggles with a favourite chew-resistant toy and blanket for times when the dog must be left alone.

The Bottom Line

The easiest way to prevent pregnancy and all the many hassles associated with female dogs going into heat is to have them spayed. Pet owners who don’t want to alter their animals will have to be extra vigilant and very patient. Remember the condition is temporary and that beloved family pet will be back to acting like herself within a few weeks.

Lifestyle February 20, 2021

Spending Time with Girls in Sydney

Are you planning to visit Sydney for business, vacation, or work? Sydney is a big city in Australia and the capital of South Wales. It is vibrant and one of the things that you will enjoy are high-class Sydney escorts.

But before you book one, you need to understand some of the best services they offer. More often than not, they will meet your erotic desires and give you memorable services. These are the most common services to look for.

Endless Kissing, Romance, and More

Have you ever had a real French or deep kiss? Or erotic kisses all over the body? Or just good oral sex? Most Sydney escorts offer these services to their clients from foreplay to sexual intercourse. But if you just want to cuddle while naked, hump, or get a blowjob and nothing more, there is always an escort waiting to offer this.

All you need is to get the right model for the job through an online escort directory or escort agency. You can still hook up with girls in Sydney in bars and other social joints.

Sex Adventures

Do you fantasize about having sex with the hottest models in Sydney? The city has numerous models and you can enjoy moments with them whenever you want. Sex is usually the ultimate desire for many people who book escorts. If you are looking for any form of sexual adventure, you are likely to find a model who is comfortable offering this.

Most Sydney escorts using reliable and well-managed escort directories make their services clear on their profile to avoid misunderstandings when both of you go somewhere private to have fun.

Erotic Massage

Do you dream of rubbing your body all over an oily model? Yes, there are numerous models who are open to such services. Apart from reducing your fatigue and improving your health, an erotic massage is good to relieve your sexual desires.

Erotic massages are popular with Sydney escorts, but you have to agree if there will be extra services and how much any will cost. Most high-class escorts even spice up the massage beds and rooms with the perfect accessories and aromatic massage oils.

Companion for the Night

Do you want someone you can enjoy an evening with? You could have a romantic dinner, go out to a club, play at the beach, or just spend a night together. Most Sydney escorts are open to such services, but you may have to pay more for an entire night.

The good thing with having a companion for the night is that it can culminate into any other services we have mentioned above. However, it is better you agree to all of the services a model can offer beforehand. This will avoid any disappointment or disagreement in the middle of the night.

Final Thoughts

Sydney escorts can offer numerous services to you at any time. Now that you know what to expect, it is time that you try high-class models through the help of a reliable escort directory or agency. If you are the adventurous type, you can pick girls and models from various social joints.

Greece February 20, 2021

A Quick Introduction To Vaping For Beginners

This article will cover the basics of vaping and everything you need to know about it. Vaping can be an elusive topic and given its rise in popularity recently, you might be curious about the hype. And if you’re wondering where to get vape pens after reading this article, we recommend checking out disposable vape uk!

What is vaping

Vaping simply put is the process of inhaling vapour created by the electronic device which is typically known as a vaporizer or e-cigarette. Depending on what device you are using, you are vaporizing a kind of liquid or concentrate that contains the essence and flavour.

What are vaporisers

The device itself is electronic, meaning it runs on a battery and uses heat via its heating element to vaporize the liquid that is in the cartridge inserted. Alternatively, there is also something known as a dry herb vaporizer. This other method uses a heating chamber to obtain the vapour for you to inhale. If you are using a cartridge-based vaporizer, you are then able to change what you are vaporizing easily by switching the cartridges.

What is the vapour in a vaporiser?

The vapour is not something mysterious generated by the device but rather simply a substance that exists in a gaseous state. Even though the vapour looks thicker than smoke, it smells significantly more pleasant and will diffuse in its environment relatively quickly.

The street name of the liquid is known as e-juice or e-liquid. It contains a myriad of chemicals but usually consists of propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, flavourings and sometimes even nicotine. Because you can put almost any kind of flavouring, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to flavours. You can get flavours ranging from fruit-based flavours to more interesting and unique choices such as candies and desserts. This is what is the most appealing about vaping as compared to smoking as tobacco cigarettes leave an unpleasant scent whereas vaping can smell very nice.

A timeline of vaping’s history

Although vaping might seem to be a very new trend, it has actually been around for centuries.

In 440 BC, it was first mentioned by a Greek historian named Herodotus that there was a tradition by the Scythians where they would throw cannabis onto heated stones which would cause it to burn and release vapour in which they would inhale.

In 542 AD, Irfan Sheikh invented the Hookah which is commonly considered to be a primitive version of the vape. This invention was instrumental in the future of vaping as it set the stage for the consumption of vapour via a heating element.

More recently in 1960, a Korean war veteran named Herbert A. Gilbert designed and patented what is commonly known as the first modern vaporizer. Even today, the fundamental design principles of the device remain the same.

In the 80s and 90s is where vaping was introduced into the mainstream as Frank William Wood aka Eagle Bill Amato popularized the vaping of marijuana.

A Chinese pharmacist named Hon Lik in 2003 is heralded as the father of modern vaping as he invented the modern vaporizer.

This quickly gave rise to the mass consumption of vaporizers when they started selling well commercially.

How does it feel to vape

Vaping is usually seen as equivalent to smoking but its effects are quite different. Vaping generally feels a bit heavier and wetter as compared to smoking a tobacco cigarette. But definitely, the smell and taste of vaping are more pleasant as you are able to select from a wide range of flavours. You can also mix and match what flavours you want which gives you the convenience to change your preferences as you wish. Some stores might even provide a customisation service where you will be able to build your own personal flavour.

How to start vaping

If this appeals to you then you might be wondering how you can get started. Fortunately, it is quite simple and for first-timers, you can get a starter kit. The starter kit will come with the basic accessories on top of the vaporizer such as the charger and replacement parts. These starter kits will come with their own guide on how you can use and maintain them. Each vaping device is unique and has its own set of functionality. It is important then for you to learn about the settings and functionality that is specialized for the device you bought.

If you are transitioning from smoking or smoking regularly then you might consider getting electronic cigarettes. They are designed to look like a traditional cigarette which might be able to simulate the act of smoking. Likewise, for e-cigarettes, you can purchase a starter kit that will contain all the accessories and replacement parts you will need. The cartridges that come with e-cigarettes also usually contain nicotine which is the chemical compound found in traditional cigarettes.

Once you have gotten the hang of vaping you might be looking for something more. You will be able to find modifications that can cater to the vaping experience you might be seeking. It will give you the flexibility to vape a greater variety of substances ranging from e-liquids to dry herbs and wax concentrates.

A less common device used is a dab wax pen. The materials commonly used with this device are vaping wax and oil concentrates. The pros to this device are that it is small and has built-in batteries to power the heating element. This makes the device very portable and convenient to use.

If you used to smoke or still do, you must be wondering if vaping is safer than smoking. Due to the recent popularization of vaping, not much research has been done and the health effects of vaping remain inconclusive.

Conclusion

Vaping can be dangerous if you do not purchase from reputable sources as low-quality vaporizers can damage your health even more. Hence, you should always buy your vape pens from a reputable seller like the one we mentioned in the introduction of this article.

Vaporizers are also susceptible to electrical fire hazards as they contain batteries. Thus it is important that you practice safe charging practices and do not overcharge the devices.

Design February 15, 2021

Women Worldwide: Glim Studios is making a case for creative and sustainable denim

A thousand miles may stand between designer sister duo Lizbeth and Gianella Cevallos, but it certainly hasn’t stopped them from taking over the fashion world with their sustainable denim brand, Glim Studios.

“Glim Studios is all about celebrating style, creativity and personalisation,” Lizbeth and Gianella say. “We saw an opportunity to reinvent denim as a sustainable and ethical brand.”

Glim Studios offers high-quality denim garments, made from sustainably and ethically-sourced materials in small, locally-produced quantities. It is a denim brand with heart and one that stands firmly against the consumerism of the fashion industry.

In this interview, we sit down with Lizbeth and Gianella and talk all things fashion, the best and worst things about starting a business with your sister, and how Glim Studios is changing the fast-fashion tide, one impeccably made denim garment at time.

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background, what inspired you to start Glim Studios?

Lizbeth and Gianella: We were born and raised in Ecuador and grew up inspired in all the pop culture from the 90’s and the last of the 80’s, including art, architecture and music from the era.

Lizbeth is a Fashion designer, and Gianella is an Industrial engineer. We both love to travel and explore new cultures and moved oversees to live our dreams. Lizbeth lives in Madrid, Spain. Gianella lives in Miami, US.

Lizbeth: I went to study Fashion Design in Barcelona, and then moved to Madrid to work and study. I did an MBA in Fashion Management, and then a Master’s in digital business and Innovative Technology.

Gianella: I graduated as an Industrial Engineer in Ecuador and then moved to California to study an Applications Programming (Computer Science), and Design Communication Arts, then a Master’s in international business in Florida.

Even though we live in opposite sides of the world. We share the same values and found common ground by sharing the dream of creating a brand that reflects both, and their beliefs, founding Glim Studios in 2019.

2. What is the best and worst thing about working together as sisters? Why did you decide to focus on denim?

There isn’t a worst thing about working together because we really enjoy working together as sisters and business partners. It’s an exciting adventure for both us, a true discovery.

We know each other well enough to recognise our strengths and weaknesses in order to support each other. We may disagree, but then find a way to see each other’s perspectives. Most of the time we ended up combining our ideas. From the business point of view, we try to use every advantage to make things work in the best way possible.

We live in different countries, with different time zones and thousands of miles between us. This poses many challenges, but the passion and the dream we share for Glim Studios helps us overcome them.

We decided to focus on denim because we love denim. We saw an opportunity to reinvent denim as a sustainable and ethical brand. We decided to work very close with our partners to develop denim garments with the lowest impact on the production cycle and find ways to recycle the leftovers materials by only making limited quantities of each style. This is the quality of clothing we like to wear, and we want to share it with others.

We went one step forward by bringing the opportunity to customise our customer’s denim items using patches and pins from our ‘Customisation Bar.’ This makes every item more special and unique. At Glim Studios, we celebrate style, creativity and personalisation.

3. What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as businesswomen so far?

The global pandemic has been one of the biggest challenges we’ve faced as businesswomen. We’d never imagined that almost four months after we officially launched Glim Studios in November 2019, that we would be facing a global pandemic which has been lifechanging for everyone. The first three years of any fashion label are crucial and so we approached the situation in the best way we could, reinventing and adapting to changes we were facing with our community and our customers.

It was hard, but we have managed to keep learning from every little thing that was and is still happening around us. We are very lucky that we are a small business that can make changes fast and reinvent easily.

4. What difficulties do you face as a sustainable and ethical fashion brand?

As a sustainable and ethical fashion brand we believe fashion can be a force for good, and a vehicle for change. Nonetheless, on this path we have faced many difficulties on every level such as:

Finding the right partners. It has been a real challenge to find responsible businesses. Not just any person, or company, but certified businesses that support sustainable and ethical production with transparency. At the same time, partners that can provide us flexibility to order limited quantities.

Some of our styles come in very limited stock because we need to satisfy our suppliers, and at the same time, we try to maintain our sustainable ethos because we know that’s the best way.

Another difficulty has been to inform and reach our customers to explain why our garments have the value they have. We make high quality items, focused on detail, and responsibly-sourced materials, which turns our operations into more costly processes.

And finally, our surplus (items from past collections, and material from past collections), have always been in a part of our plans. So, we try to minimize them from production and reuse them in future collections. This part of a planning process and this takes time.

The contradiction is that we produce for consumption even when we do produce limited quantities. We recognise how this inherently contradicts the current fashion industry which thrives from newness and consumption. So, we are committed to making better choices every day across the business. Every small action matters.

On this front, we decided to work with small factories, most of them family-owned, where we are able to watch each piece be made. We have seen and met the workers who are hardworking people that create each piece of clothing for Glim Studios.

5. “Glim Studios is all about style, creativity and personalisation.” Tell us more about this ethos and what sets Glim Studios apart from other brands in the market today?

When we refer to Glim Studios ethos, we wanted it to represent young people at heart. We want to celebrate style, creativity and personalisation because we believe everyone is different and that make this life so wonderful. We believe that what sets Glim Studios apart from other brands today is that we don’t categorise ourselves and we welcome everyone, every individual.

We celebrate being different, being unique, we celebrate style and with it comes creativity and personalisation.

We create unisex pieces where our customer decides how they will wear each item. We produce limited quantities which means every style is unique in their own way. Beyond that, we also have our ‘customization bar’ where you have the opportunity to customise your pieces by adding patches and pins with freedom because we want to empower uniqueness and authenticity.

6. What’s next for you? Any new exciting projects in the pipeline?

That a good question! For sure, we will keep working hard and dreaming big with Glim Studios. We are very focused on the things we want to achieve and explore with the brand, for us there’s no limit so we are 100% excited for what’s to come. We have been working non-stop in a few projects all related to the brand that will come to light later this year.

7. What advice do you have for women who would like to become successful entrepreneurs like yourselves?

The best advice we could give any women out there fighting for their dreams is the same we received from our parents from the very beginning: Work hard, be consistent and believe in yourself and your dreams with all your heart and never take anything for granted. It may take a while to see the results you always dreamed of, just remember ‘the day you plant the seed it’s not the day you eat the fruit’, be patient and keep working hard.

Beauty February 13, 2021

Get into Galentine’s with Daisy London

Whether you are with your beau, your bestie or caring for your best self this Valentine’s Day, Daisy Jewellery is inviting us to lift our spirits by donning our best outfit and wearing a piece of beautiful jewellery for the day.

We might have to stay at home this year but that doesn’t mean we should not treat a friend, or ourselves, to a Daisy London jewellery piece that will elevate the everyday.

We love the idea of getting dressed to the nines on Feb 14 and showing off your style with your fave pieces of jewellery. If you are feeling really indulgent, you could even order yourself a brand new bracelet or earrings from Daisy London .

Check out our review of the empowering Daisy London Vita collection for inspiration. We also adore the new Estée Lalonde collection which features T-bar links, snake chains and organic wave designs.

Credit: @daisy_jewellery

Daisy London is also running an exciting Galentine’s competition on the Daisy London Instagram page. You have until midnight on Saturday 13 Feb to enter and just need to tag your best friend and tell Daisy what piece of jewellery you would both love.

For more info: visit daisyjewellery.com.

Denmark February 13, 2021

Belated Valentines Gifts

So, you’ve left it too late (again)! Not all is lost, just get online and order some of these fabulous belated Valentines gifts.

It doesn’t really matter what day of the year it is because it’s always wonderful to send someone a gift to let them know that you love them. Even, if you are sending a little something to your mum, dad, best mate or your lover, these little treats will go down a storm.

Skandinavisk, Sense Candle Gift Set, £49, Skandinavisk

Three candles are included in this gift set, and each has a special meaning of love. Rosenhave is Danish for ‘rose garden’, and Nordic rose gardens are precious places. RO is Scandinavian for ‘tranquillity’ bringing peace and calm from the kingdoms of Norway, Sweden and Denmark. LEMPI is Finnish for ‘love’. In Finland, there is an old saying, ‘Love doesn’t have to be perfect, but genuine’. In other words, this is the perfect belated Valentine’s gift.

Lush, Love Me Do Bath Bomb, £6.95, Lush

Rose-filled bath bomb, a simple yet perfectly romantic gesture. Plus, the muslin cloth, tag, and raffia can all be composted, a sign of love to both the planet and your special person! Above all, this makes a wonderful gift.

Cheddar Gorge Cheese x Wimbledon Brewery, from £5.95 (190g), Cheddar Online

The tasty Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company’s Wimbledon Brewery Copper Leaf Cheddar is a gentle mellow traditional cheddar combined with the extraordinarily delicious Copper Leaf Ale – a real match made in heaven! Therefore, need we say more?

Drinks

Gusbourne Rose 2016, £49, Gusbourne

This delectable wine is delicate pink in appearance, with soft summer berries and floral notes on the nose. Made from a blend of estate-grown Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier, Gusbourne’s Rose has a crisp freshness and is presented in a special gift box, making this the ideal belated Valentine’s gift.

Eden Mill, Love Gin, £30 (70cl), Eden Mill

Not just for Valentine’s, this new sustainable, crystal-cut bottle of gin is at the heart of the Scottish distiller, Eden Mill’s mission to be completely carbon neutral by 2025. Moreover, this is an excellent gift of love to your special person, and the planet!

Buck & Birch, Wild Night In Hamper, £24.95, Aelder Elixir

The hamper contains one of Buck & Birch’s award winning liqueurs, a wild cocktail for two, a recipe card for a mouth-watering meal and a host of foraged ingredients. In conclusion, you will create your own homemade masterpiece.

Are you into wellness and wellbeing? Read more here…..

Health February 8, 2021

Upgrade your Wellbeing with Adaptogens

2020 was the year of change. Coronavirus disrupted routines, bringing with it uncertainty, home schooling and Zoom fatigue as we juggled working from home, lockdowns and isolation. This year, it is no surprise we are looking for ways to get ahead of the game and proactively manage our wellbeing. If you haven’t yet introduced adaptogens into your wellbeing regime now is the time to get on board.

Adaptogens are non-toxic plants and herbs that claim to help the body’s resilience in dealing with physical and emotional stresses. They have been used for hundreds of years in Ayurvedic practices but are quickly becoming a big hit on the wellness scene, popping up in everything from supplements and tonics to herbal teas and smoothies. Some are also said to have anti-aging properties and are featuring in skin care products.

Adaptogens literally help the body to adapt, adjust and recalibrate itself depending on our emotional and physical surroundings. They normalise bodily imbalances by supporting adrenal function, regulating hormones, and counter the negative effects of stress. Different adaptogens have unique properties that play an essential role in supporting the mind and body and this can include aiding sleep, boosting energy and improving the immune system.

With another UK lockdown in full swing, I wanted to give myself the best chance of thriving rather surviving so started taking Ionix Supreme, a wellbeing elixir that is crammed with B vitamins and adaptogens like eleuthero, schisandra, wolfberry, red ginseng, bacopa and amla, which all support mental wellness, helping you tackle the challenges of everyday life.

Six weeks in and my sleep has improved, I have more energy and clearer skin. Unlike some supplements, this one is jam-packed with adaptogens giving your overall wellbeing an upgrade. If you are looking for more of a holistic approach to improving wellness, then this ticks all the boxes.

Here is the 6 adaptogens that you need on your radar.

Schisandra

Schisandra berries are packed with antioxidants including vitamin C, which contributes to maintaining normal function of the immune system. This is a powerful herbal adaptogen typically used to build resilience to stress and to balance energy levels.

Eleuthero

Eleuthero is commonly known as Siberian ginseng. It provides extra energy when you are run-down. Traditionally used to rebuild Chi energy, it is often used to help recovery from cold and flu. Eleuthero also helps the liver detox from harmful toxins.

Wolfberry

Thanks to its high antioxidant levels, wolfberry can help prevent anti-ageing. It supports healthy vision and healthy bowel flora and can strengthen weak muscles and ligaments.

Amla

Often used to reduce inflammation and support blood sugar control. It is a rich source of vitamin C and iron. Amla’s antibacterial and astringent properties mean it is great for the immune system.

Maca

Maca is a nutritional powerhouse that is dense in amino acids, vitamins and minerals. It is said to improve your mood and boost your libido. It is a natural energiser so increases your energy.

Ashwagandha

I can’t talk about adaptogens without mentioning the jewel in the crown, Ashwagandha. Known as the superpower amongst adaptogens, it’s taken mainly for reducing cortisol levels and lowering stress and anxiety.

As with all supplements, it is important to be aware of risks and run them past your GP if you are taking any prescribed medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Ionix Supreme is available from £28

Lifestyle February 8, 2021

3 Things About Your House That Are Distracting Potential Buyers

When you are preparing your home for a showing in the hopes of attracting the right buyer, you want to showcase it in such a way that allows those viewing it to see its positive qualities. However, potential buyers can be distracted from those qualities by a number of various things. Even if your house is a quality property that is priced fairly, most buyers will be deterred from making an offer if such things are amiss.

Thankfully, there are some easy fixes to the distractions that might be present in your home without you even realizing it. It is important to address these matters prior to showing your house to any potential buyers. With that in mind, here are three things about your house that might very well be distracting potential buyers and standing in the way of you receiving the offer that you need.

1. Clutter

Throughout the years that you have lived in your home, it is very likely that, like most people, you have acquired your fair share of items and personal belongings. You might have hung such things on the walls of your home, or perhaps you have displayed them on shelves and tables throughout your home. Even if, to your eyes, these items all seem to have a clear place, they can seem like clutter to potential buyers.

The fact of the matter is that when someone comes to view your home, you want them looking at the property itself. Too many personal belongings on display can distract a potential buyer while at the same time making it difficult for them to picture their own belongings in the house.

Take the time to clear out all of your displayed items and paraphernalia in order to allow the space to speak for itself. Even if you don’t yet have a new property in which you can move these items into, you can find more info about renting a self-storage unit for an affordable price.

2. Overgrown Bushes

It might seem like a small matter, but the condition of the landscaping outside your home is important when it comes to attracting potential buyers. First impressions are incredibly important, and anything that you can do to increase the curb appeal of your home is going to work in your favor.

The most important thing to do is ensure that the exteriors of your home are clean and tidy. Trim the bushes, cut the grass, and make sure that all walkways and driveways are clean and free of debris.

Overgrown bushes give the impression to potential buyers that you care little for the appearance of the property. Therefore, before they have even stepped foot into the door, they might already have decided not to pursue a viewing.

3. Poor Quality Photos

No matter how lovely your house is, it simply won’t appear to its best advantage if you have poor quality photos showcasing the property online. If the lighting is bad, it can make a house look dingy and unwelcoming, even if this is not the case normally. Likewise, if you choose to take the photo at the wrong angle or only provide one angle, potential buyers might think the space is smaller or larger than it appears or that you have something to hide.

Prior to taking photos, ensure that all blinds and curtains are open and that you have tested the best angles of the room. It might help to bring in a professional photographer to help you out with this.

Lifestyle February 8, 2021

What to Keep in Mind When Planning a Pamper Party?

Most people nowadays lead chaotic lifestyles and rarely have a chance to pamper themselves and de-stress – hence the reason why pamper parties are rising in popularity. They are a hit with people of all ages and genders, promising a relaxing, memorable time for everyone in attendance. Here is everything that you need to know if you are looking to plan a pamper party for your own birthday or to celebrate a special occasion for a loved one.

Pick your pleasures

There are many different types of pamper parties to choose from and lots of pamper party ideas from which to generate inspiration online. For instance, you might decide to book a few massage therapists to treat your guests to aromatherapy massages and perhaps some reflexology or facials. Or maybe you’ll opt to hire a nail technician or two to give everyone manicures and pedicures? Or a hairdresser to offer to cut, color, or style your guests’ hair? The options are endless and entirely up to you.

Keep the drinks flowing

What’s a spot of pampering without a glass of bubbly, a sinfully sweet cocktail, or an ice-cold beer to complement the experience? Consider hiring Event Bartenders to keep the drinks flowing and your guests’ glasses full. You will be able to select from a variety of bartending packages based on your budget, the length of your event, and your personal preferences.

Think carefully about your guest list

Unless you have saved up for the event well in advance, it is best to keep the guestlist for a pamper party small. This is because most beauty treatments tend to be quite expensive – probably significantly more than what you might pay for entertainment at a regular birthday party. Before sending out invites, take the time to calculate how much you are willing to spend and then request quotes from pamper specialists or pamper party companies. From there, you’ll be able to work out how many guests your budget will cover.

Consider the venue

Due to the fact that most pamper parties have minimal guests, it is indeed possible to host them at home or out in your yard. However, if you want to invite a few more people or you are keen to make the event as special as can be, you might want to think about hiring a suitable venue. Some pamper party companies can provide you with the whole package – access to pamper specialists, as well as a venue – which can prove more cost-effective. In these cases, you will usually only have to worry about supplying your own food and drinks.

As with all other events, remember to start planning your pamper party well in advance to ensure that you’re able to book the best pamper specialists and set everything up with as little stress as possible. Also, be sure to send out ‘save the date’ notices to your guests about six weeks ahead of the event and official invitations four weeks beforehand. Most importantly, enjoy every moment of the celebration!

Lifestyle January 28, 2021

4 Fun Ways for Single People to Enjoy Valentine’s Day

When you were young, Valentine’s Day was always a fun holiday. You enjoyed exchanging cards and candy with your classmates and playing Valentine’s Day-themed Bingo at school.

As you got older, the enjoyment level of February 14 was pretty much dictated by your relationship status. When you had a plus-one, the day was typically a romantic holiday that included traditional Valentine’s gifts like flowers and chocolates. When you were solo, it was like any other day on the calendar — except maybe a little lonely.

This year, you are both single and bound and determined to have a great time on Valentine’s Day, despite it being a day devoted to couples and love. To help celebrate your empowered attitude and make this February 14th a total blast, consider the following ideas:

Treat Yourself to Some Serious Pampering

How long has it been since you’ve pampered yourself? If it’s been awhile, vow to treat yourself this Valentine’s Day. Manicure and massage? Yes please! If social-distancing guidance prevents you from going out, consider staying in with an at-home spa day. Start with a long and luxurious bubble bath while wearing a DIY coffee face mask. Then paint your own nails and toes!

Host a Galentine’s Day Slumber Party

Another memorable way to enjoy Valentine’s Day is by inviting some of your other single gal pals over for an old-fashioned slumber party. Consider hosting a themed gift exchange, such as lingerie or beauty products. Who says Valentine’s gifts need to come from guys? Stock up on everyone’s fave flavors of ice cream, chips, cookies and wine. You can watch a movie together—maybe a rom-com or, if you want to do the polar opposite, a scary horror flick—and stay up late giggling, eating snacks, playing Truth or Dare and reminding each other you don’t need men for a fun holiday.

Help Others By Volunteering

There is something very healing about helping others to soothe any sense of sadness you might feel on Valentine’s Day. Tap into a cause that you are passionate about and then offer to volunteer on February 14th. For instance, if you are an animal lover, give a local shelter a call and ask about playing with, walking, brushing and/or petting the adoptable dogs and cats on Valentine’s Day. The library, if it’s open, may welcome help with re-shelving books. You could bring a few boxes of cookies to a local assisted living residence or maybe a women’s shelter could put you to work for a few hours helping to organize donations.

Avoid Social Media and Text Your Loved Ones

Since Instagram and Facebook will probably be chock full of mushy posts and pics of your friends with their significant others, do yourself a favor and go on a social media fast that week. Instead, use the power of your smartphone for good and call your folks to catch up and let them know you love them, text your close friends to say you adore them all year, not just on Valentine’s Day, and call or email your grandparents to catch up on what you are all up to these days.

The Day of Love Does Not Require a Significant Other

Clearly, you don’t need a boyfriend or hubby to enjoy Valentine’s Day. The day is about love, after all, so you can definitely find ways to pamper and love yourself, enjoy the company of girlfriends who you adore, and touch base with the friends and family who mean the most to you—no guy required.