Picture the scene, it was a Friday afternoon in mid-November and the people of Leeds were enjoying a mild, bright autumnal day. Shoppers were smiling, diners were browsing menus, and office workers were going about their business as usual. It was going to be a good day!
#TeamCoco was invited to experience the new seasonal menu at The Lost & Found Leeds Club. Our Editor-in-Chief, Laura Bartlett and contributing writer, Rachel McAlley took the opportunity to relax and unwind over lunch in this renowned restaurant.
For many years The Leeds Club was a private members venue until the team from The Lost & Found spotted an opportunity and reopened the venue as a luxurious contemporary restaurant full of stunning original features.
It’s not just the features within the venue that stand out, the cocktail menu is another level too. A massive selection of drinks including sharing, lost, found, spritz, Professor’s, and low/no alcohol cocktails. And, the restaurant menu is worth taking time over, because the dishes all look divine!
We chose Black Truffle Croquettes (£5.50) to enjoy whilst we waited before choosing from the special seasonal lunchtime menu (£15.95 for 2 courses, £19.95 for 3 courses). Our starters included Beef Ragu and Mozzarella Arancini with truffle and Madeira mayo, and Crispy Squid with a salt and pepper coating, pickled vegetables, and nam jim dressing. Both starters were absolutely delicious, especially the arancini which was full of flavour from the ragu and truffle mayo.
Black Truffle Croquettes and Seedlip Summer Crush Cocktail (L) Ragu Arancini and Squid (R)
It was a difficult decision with the mains as there were so many to choose from, and in the end we opted for the same dish, because it sounded so good. The Masala Fish & Chips took both our votes! Fried cod in a poppy seed batter sat alongside masala spiced triple cooked chips, minted pea raita, and mango chutney. OMG this was perfection, the fish was delicate, the batter oozed spice, and the mango chutney with the raita was a combination made in heaven. Honestly, we would go back every day just to have this particular fish dish!
Masala Fish & Chips (L), Chocolate Cake (R)
We had zero room for puddings but how could we resist after being presented with the menu? Just putting it out there that the Warm Chocolate Cake with chocolate fondant centre, sesame biscuit and malted ice cream was worth every single mouthful of indulgence.
Whilst dining at The Lost & Found Leeds Club we tried a couple of the low and no alcohol cocktails, the Seedlip Summer Crush (£5.75) and the Hedgerow Cooler (£5.75) were both perfect to have alongside our lunch.
The visit was a resounding success and we would advise anyone thinking of dining at The Lost & Found Leeds Club to book a table in advance because we arrived at 12 noon and every table was taken by 2pm. If that’s not a sign that the food is excellent then we don’t know what is!
During those hopeful summer months, in between lockdowns 1 and two and when international travel seemed optimistic, Hannah Tan-Gillies hopped on a flight to Argentario Golf Resort & Spa, to see what makes this five-star golf resort so much more than a golf destination.
It seems only fair, that after months of lockdown that my first international jaunt would be to the truly impeccable Argentario Golf Resort & Spa. Located in between the Mediterranean Sea and Tuscany’s rolling hills, Argentario maximises the idyllic natural surroundings of Maremma, Tuscany.
While the resort is primarily known to golf enthusiasts, especially with its striking PGA 18-hole course, there is plenty of reason for non-golfers to venture to this side of Tuscany and experience everything that this resort has to offer.
The resort itself is a sight to behold. Designed by Andrea Foglli, the interiors instantly envelope you in an atmosphere of sleek yet tranquil oasis blending contemporary design with a distinctive retro feel. Outside, the hotel blends in with the natural landscapes of Maremma, surrounded by cork-oak woods and centuries-old olive trees.
A grand spiral staircase commands attention at the heart of the resort, whose eco-conscious design philosophy permeates every design detail. The enormous glass windows and ceilings maximise the pastoral views, which are in stark contrast to the tabarca-stone pavements, arched countertops and striking black structural elements. The hotels’ unique dragon-fly shaped silhouette means that every room offers panoramic views of the nearby lagoon and tranquil blue sea on the horizon.
The resort offers 73 generously-sized rooms and five luxury villas, which are perfectly suited for those looking for an extended stay. Each room features panoramic terraces and all the modern amenities that a luxury traveller requires.
The villas each offer individual interpretations of Tuscan country houses, imbued of course, with Fogli’s extravagant touches. Art lovers will notice the social table by Vincent Van Duysen or the Cappellini chairs and Pig Tables by Marcel Wanders, or even the Ron Gilads chandeliers at the bar.
Beyond golf, Argentario also offers an endless array of wellness and sports activities to make any visit, no matter how short or long, as enriching as possible. During my stay, I tried my hand at an outdoor workout, a run along the perfectly manicured golf course, yoga, and even olive-tree picking. Truly there was something for everybody.
For those looking for a more relaxing way to spend their days, the resort’s Espace Wellness Centre offers a wide range of treatments and massages, and offers a bio sauna, Turkish bath, and even one-on-one sessions with the resort’s in-house nutritionists.
Foodies also have plenty to chew on at Argentario, with the Club House Restaurant offering casual Italian favourites, impeccably made with only the freshest locally-sourced ingredients, and the gourmet Dama Dama restaurant serving some wonderfully creative gastronomic creations.
The menu at Dama Dama is bold and refreshingly contemporary, offering Tuscan and Italian specialties with Chef Emiliano Lombardelli’s inimitable flair. We highly recommend trying the Tasting Menu – which takes you on a colourful voyage of Tuscan flavours perfectly paired with local Italian wines from the resort’s vast wine cellar.
We also recommend trying a cocktail masterclass at the Aper Bar, named after local wild boars (Aper in Latin) which offers alchemic concoctions that will delight those who enjoy a little tipple.
While it may seem counter-intuitive to leave the hotel, the nearby towns of Porto Ercole and Orbitello offer plenty of quintessentially Italian sites to behold. These two towns reveal a non-touristic side of Tuscany that we haven’t seen before. The squares and restaurants are filled with locals, exuding a relaxed and unique community atmosphere that you don’t often see in Italy’s more popular tourist destinations.
If you are lucky, you should take a quick drive to the Convento della Presentazione al Tempio, where if you are lucky, you can get a blessing from the priest who will wish you a blessed and happy stay at Maremma. This is also the perfect spot to watch the sun set over the Silver Coast, a view that is not known to many other visitors in this magical place.
Despite all the ceaselessly fascinating things on offer at Argentario, what sets this place apart from the rest if the truly marvellous service and care of its staff. In the era of COVID, where smiles and genuine human connection are few and far in between, it is truly impressive to see the staff at Argentario go above and beyond to ensure that you enjoy your stay. That is a rarity in and of itself and in my opinion, truly what makes Argentario more than a golf destination.
Hannah stayed in a Junior Suite Club Travel Room starting at €650 per night for two people. For more information on Argentario Golf Resort & Spa’s latest offers and packages contact Tel: +39 0564 810292 booking@argentarioresort.it or visit argentarioresort.com
Tell us about the journey that led you to launch your brand Lunar Method…
Lunar Method was born from an idea that came in the early days of the pandemic. After pivoting from the political world, to tech, to consulting in a span of a few years, I reached my late 20s extremely burnt out. My then boyfriend, now husband, and I decided to move to Mexico City in February 2020 to experience a fun adventure living aboard and in March 2020 the pandemic hit. We had just moved our lives and our entire San Francisco apartment to Mexico, so we decided to stay put. Without many options to explore or meet new people, the pandemic gave me time to step back and rest. Within weeks of being home I felt a rejuvenated sense of self and purpose and willing to finally create something good in the world. One day I went about cleaning the apartment when I stumbled upon a box of tangled jewelry. I spent hours untangling necklaces and pulling out earrings that I loved and had forgotten about. That’s when I realized this is likely a common problem for many women, and I asked myself “how could this be solved in a practical way…and be made beautiful and ethical? Does a product like this exist?” That’s when I got busy researching the possibilities of solutions to this problem. I created an LLC and started making the first draft designs of the bag shortly thereafter.
Where did the name Lunar Method come from?
The moon is a powerful force in our lives as women, as humans. It has a way of subtly guiding us, creating a cycle or rhythm we can count on. I wanted to incorporate the moon in our brand name because the moon represents the core principles of who we are: we are feminine, we want to be a guiding light for women who are ready to shop ethically, and we want to create a new cycle of sustainable living that’s luxurious and attainable. The word ‘method’ represents the step-by-step formula to live this life. When you support Lunar Method, you’re choosing a life that goes beyond a beautiful product. We are creating a culture around ethical luxury that can translate into other aspects of life.
We love that you use cactus leather to make your jewelry organizers, why did you choose cactus as your material of choice?
Thank you! We absolutely love using cactus leather as well. In the very early days of Lunar Method, I thought our only options were recycled leather or PU (polyurethane). We didn’t know better and had our first prototypes created in China, we were told that PU was the only available option if we wanted to create a vegan product. I refused to accept that, even though it was far cheaper to use PU than recycled leather, I was determined to create a company that didn’t use either. Our core values are based on ethical, sustainable, and luxury products and PU and recycled leather just don’t match that standard. I dove into reading blogs, Reddit threads, forums, and researched until I finally ran across three different “alternative leathers” manufacturers. Two from Italy, one made from apples, and one made from grapes, and one in Mexico made from cactus.
I ordered samples of all three, the cactus leather felt the most luxurious to me. Since we were based in Mexico City and cactus leather was being created in Mexico, it also made the most sense for us to use cactus leather for shipping purposes as well. The proximity allowed us to ramp up more quickly then if we had to wait to order rolls of vegan leather from Europe.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced and how did you overcome it?
Our biggest challenge to date has been to find a manufacturer that was willing and able to work with vegan cactus leather. Since I had ZERO experiencing with sourcing and using a manufacturer, I fell into the trap of trusting the wrong people, luckily no money was lost, but we ended up losing three months of time, which set our launch date further than we originally wanted. A colleague and friend of mine, who is from Mexico City, helped me source a vegan leather manufacturer in the city. That small factory of artisans has been our manufacturer for the past year, but as we think about scaling, we are now in the next phase of growth. We have started looking for a manufacturer that can take on bigger orders. The manufacturing has definitely been our biggest challenge and will continue to be because it’s also important to us that our manufacturer have ethical labor practices and use sustainably sourced material.
If you were to describe your business mantra in three words, what would they be?
Lunar Method – Elevated Vegan Luxury
What advice would you offer someone interested in designing jewelry bags?
Always look to solve a problem for your client. Ask yourself, “what would make their lives easier/better?”
Talk us through an average business day in your life…
The beauty and chaos of entrepreneurship is that days are rarely exactly the same. Some days consist of running around the city finding new trimmings for the bag to give to the manufacturer, while other days are spent mostly in front of the computer. The “average” days are usually a combination of both.
Business can be an upward struggle at times, what do you do to stay positive?
The best advice I can give to stay positive when you run your own business is to surround yourself with other entrepreneurs, who have gone or are going through similar situations. This makes it so much easier to get through the tough times when you have a community of people who are going through the same struggles and striving towards the same goals.
Do you have a go to quote when lacking motivation?
To be honest, not really. However when I lack motivation, I remind myself why I started, to never work for someone else again, so failure is never an option.
Does social media play a role in the success of your brand?
Absolutely! Social media is an incredible way to connect directly with our customers. We are able to talk to them, ask them questions, and engage as a brand at a very personal level, because they know it’s a human at the other end of the message or comment. It’s an amazing tool brands have, I feel very lucky to have social media as a resource.
How do you want people to feel when they first see your designs?
I want them to immediately think, “oh I didn’t know I needed that”. I want Lunar Method to be the luxury product you didn’t know you needed but extremely glad to have. I want Lunar Method to always first and foremost solve a problem for our customers, while also being an ethical and sustainable brand that fits seamlessly in our customers lives, even for customers that don’t consider themselves vegan or knowledgeable about other sustainable products.
Our readers love to travel, what destination is at the top of your bucket list, and which of your jewelry organizers would you take with you?
Great question! Japan and Portugal are highest on my list. We have a trip planned to Portugal for our honeymoon in May next year. Since these are two very different places, it requires very different jewelry. I would take the green Lunar bag to Japan and the red one to Portugal, for maximum jewelry organization.
What’s next for you and your brand?
We are so excited to launch our Solstice everyday bag and our universal backpack, that can be used for bigger trips or for running city errands. We want to continue working with artisans across Mexico and hope to form new partnerships in 2022 with other amazing brands.
Where can people find out more about Lunar Method?
Tell us about the journey that led you to launch your nutritional therapy brand Tracy Tredoux…
Coming from a family of lawyers, my first career was as a solicitor. However, after being married for only a few years, my husband became sick with viral meningitis. He recovered but went on to struggle with numerous chronic health conditions. I started to do a lot of my own research into how I could help support his health with good nutrition and through this became aware of the increasing evidence which shows that personalised nutrition and dietary and lifestyle recommendations can enhance a person’s health and wellbeing.
I developed a desire to study in more depth the extent to which poor nutrition choices can lead to a myriad of health conditions and so enrolled on the 4-year Nutritional Therapy course offered by the Institute of Optimum Nutrition, where I was so overwhelmed and empowered by the amazing ability the body has to heal, given the right tools, that I wanted to empower others to take charge of their own health. This led me to launching my brand, Tracy Tredoux Nutritional Therapy, and to continue studying functional medicine with The Institute for Functional Medicine, in the USA.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in business and how did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge when I started was how, as a sole practitioner, I was going to attract a client base, something I never had to concern myself with as a partner at a law firm. I decided to focus on creating a website that would reflect my values and be a valuable, free resource for people who want to take care of their nutrition but don’t have time to enrol in formal study. It’s very easy to get caught up in ‘churning and burning,’ – attracting people to your website and social media sites with great visuals but losing them quickly due to lack of content. Almost all my clients come from my website which I update regularly, aiming for relevance, credibility, and authority, thereby creating trust. I work closely with one designer on my website and make sure I update it regularly with up-to-date videos, articles and recipes that empower others to become more involved in their own healthcare.
If you were to describe your business mantra in three words, what would they be?
Educate, inspire, motivate.
What advice would you offer someone interested in getting into nutritional therapy?
At the outset it is important to understand the difference between a nutritional therapist (NT) and a nutritionist. To become an accredited NT involves a lot more than an online or weekend course. It is a profession requiring a recognised course or degree, taking a huge commitment of time and dedication. When choosing a course, it is also important to check it is recognised by The British Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine (BANT.org.uk) which is the professional body for Registered NTs.
As with most degrees, you have all the theory at your fingertips by the time of graduation, but the practical experience starts with your clients. This involves learning ‘on the job,’ and mistakes will be made. Due to the more personalised approach of nutritional therapy, what works for one may not work for another. It takes time to build up a set of skills and confidence, gained from experience.
The clients a NT attracts are generally more complicated than simple weight loss issues. Clients often present with multiple symptoms, allergies, fatigue, various diagnosed ‘syndromes’ (such as irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome etc), complicated medical histories and various behavioural problems around food. It may be necessary to liaise with other healthcare professionals or, in the beginning, a mentor to ask advice.
Nutritional therapy is evidence based so keeping up to date with the changes is necessary. This involves joining networks and associations for nutritional professionals, listening to webinars, and attending lectures, seminars, and various learning events, as well as reading scientific studies.
Coaching skills are an integral part of being a NT. Telling clients what to eat is one thing, but helping them let go of lifelong habits, favourite foods, and behavioural patterns associated with when and why they eat often requires ongoing support. Understanding the importance of inspiring, motivating and supporting clients towards a healthier place prompted me to become a Zest4 Life coach from the outset.
Nutritional Therapy is not a lucrative business for most. I can never earn as a NT the kind of money I was earning as a lawyer. However, like many NTs, this profession has given me a great sense of purpose and is a profession one chooses because one loves doing it. There is an incredible feeling of satisfaction when clients, caught in an ongoing cycle of ‘trial and error,’ and years of debilitating symptoms, report feeling better for the first time in a long time simply by making certain changes to their diet and lifestyles, supported by supplements where necessary. The pandemic of 2020 has highlighted the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, making this profession more recognised than ever and an exciting and dynamic place to be working and learning.
Talk us through an average business day in your life…
There is no average business day in my life. Apart from consulting with clients, I write articles for a variety of health magazines and websites, run online programmes, carry out research for various educational webinars, give health presentations (live and online) and I am constantly updating my website. In addition, I am currently furthering my studies with The Institute for Functional Medicine and attending other educational courses. As a result, no two days are the same. Both my daughters are at university and my time is very much my own. Some weeks I am running an online programme, others I am consulting more, others I can be researching and writing articles and client reports and others can be dedicated to studying and attending courses. It is for this reason that I love what I am doing. It is varied, challenging, exciting and extremely rewarding.
Being a solopreneur can be an upward struggle at times, what do you do to stay positive?
By nature, I am, and have always been, a very positive person. It is not so much what life throws at us that matters, but how we deal with it. I am a big believer in the extent to which we create our own realities. I believe in daily reflection – what went well and what did not go so well. What to take forward and what to leave behind. I look at challenges and struggles as opportunities to grow, evolve, and move forward; a time to focus on fortitude, growing, learning, and evolving as much as possible through life’s inevitable trials. I practice gratitude each day and believe that positive thoughts attract positive energy and events.
What is your go to quote when lacking motivation?
“Progress, not perfection.” Again, for me positivity and motivation go hand in hand. When you have a more positive outlook on life it makes you feel more motivated to keep going, and to do better. Focusing on the progress that one is making in a business, no matter how big or small, is extremely motivating. However, if one is seeking perfection, this can have exactly the opposite effect, especially for those who have unrealistic expectations of themselves and others.
How much has social media played a role in the success of your brand?
At least 90% of my client base comes from my website (and then word of mouth), which people find via organic Google searches. Keeping website material fresh and relevant is the best way to stay visible when people are searching for a Nutritional Therapist. I post on Facebook and Instagram regularly but not daily. However, I always direct people to my website, and I get a steady stream of clients from my website.
How do you want people to feel when they first speak to you about their nutritional therapy needs?
Hopeful and motivated. Many of the people who contact me have had numerous debilitating symptoms, often lasting years. They have been through the cycle of ‘trial and error,’ and tell me nothing has helped. They often feel very low and despondent. I want people to understand their symptoms are not normal. Many have suffered for so long that they believe their symptoms are part and parcel of who they are. I want them to understand that symptoms are not the problem, they are the result of the problem.
I want people to understand how amazing the body is designed to feel and that there is a lot that can be done to improve their symptoms. We begin by identifying and addressing certain ‘stressors’ (poor food choices, bacteria, fungi, parasites, physical, mental, emotional stress, food intolerances etc.) and nutritional deficiencies that are contributing to their symptoms. Once people understand that there are protocols that can help improve their quality of life, they become more hopeful and motivated to engage in a committed relationship of diet and lifestyle that supports the body’s innate ability to heal.
Our readers love to travel, is there anywhere in the world you would recommend to visit for a nutritionally therapeutic and holistic holiday?
As a South African, my obvious answer is Cape Town. Having travelled the world extensively, I remain of the opinion that the Cape is truly one of the most beautiful destinations and should be on every traveller’s bucket list. In addition, due to its coastal location, it boasts an incredible array of healthy seafood cuisine. Many of the wine estates also offer from farm to plate, organically grown foods making healthy, delicious, and nutritious meal choices so much easier. With its majestic mountains and stretches of white, sandy beaches, Cape Town offers perfect opportunities for walking, hiking, cycling, swimming and generally engaging in a variety of outdoor activities. The beautiful sunshine for most of the year also ensures a great dose of the all-important vitamin D, needed to support our immune systems throughout the dark cold winters of the northern hemisphere.
What’s next for you and your brand?
Retreats. At the beginning of 2020 I was already working on a retreat on a farm in the Alentejo region in Portugal which was cancelled due to lockdowns. Due to the pandemic, retreats have become even more popular as people now appreciate the importance of health. The retreats we are currently planning are for May 2022 and October 2022 in Portugal and will be combining exercise, (such as cycling, swimming, walking), nutrition consultations, health talks and personal programmes to leave with, meditation and mindfulness, yoga, and more unique experiences that we are working on. The details will be on my website at the beginning of 2022.
Where can people find out more about Tracy Tredoux Nutritional Therapy?
Nothing in this world is more rejuvenating than a good night’s sleep and here at House of Coco, we’re all about creating night-time rituals that can help relax and restore us for the day ahead.
This Christmas, we’ve rounded up the best sleep-enhancing gifts from silky pyjamas, luxurious eye masks, pillow mists, essential oils, fluffy slippers and even bath soaks that will put even the most restless sleeper to bed. Because there truly is no better gift than a good night’s sleep.
11. Five Minute & Foot Mat and Mindful Aromatherapy Balm by Scentered available at https://scentered.me/
ONAIE’s new Star Sheepskin Slippers not only look and feel wonderful, but they’re completely unique, sustainably made, and built to last. Each pair is crafted by hand using the finest quality materials, and no two pairs are ever the same.
The Sonic toothbrush uses professionally designed sonic technology, allowing for the gentle feel of a manual toothbrush with an actual deep clean effect that was designed with both efficiency and comfort in mind. It’s a real game changer! You can even have the Sonic Toothbrush personalised in time for Christmas.
Drowsy’s luxurious Deep Sleep Collection Gift Box is the ultimate sleep kit that promises uninterrupted rest. Like a hug for your face, the sell-out Silk Sleep Mask features a heavenly padded lining for total blackout with skin ageing and hair-damage protection properties.
Treat someone that deserves some me-time to three nourishing handmade body oils, complete with a Gaia gift box, to attend to the body and mind’s every need over the busy Christmas period. Awakening to uplift spirits and provide support throughout the day, Balancing brings harmony and Calming provides comfort and relaxation at the end of a busy day.
Perfect for those looking to add something new to their wellbeing ritual, Point Zero’s 24K Gold Plated Ear Seeds can be used to stimulate pressure points in your ear to clear energy blockages in order to bring your body back to balance in all facets – work/life, physical and mental aka ‘point zero.’ Just the thing to get you in the right mood for a good night’s sleep.
Scentered’s Five Minute Acupressure Foot Mat & Mindful Aromatherapy Balm is compact and easy to use for every space, it helps restore balance to the body’s energy flow and promotes a sense of wellbeing to the body and mind, after just 5 minutes! Aviela’s sumptuous hair-to-toe shea butter is rich in fatty acids, Vitamins A and E, and natural soothing properties to help deliver intense hydration, superior nourishment and incredible skin softening properties to all skin types, whilst working hard to alleviate dryness and calm irritated skin.
We love Made Your Day’s organic cotton pyjama sets which look just as good in bed as it does in your lounge. Ethically crafted in Portugal, the fit is contemporary and relaxed, flattering and not skimpy, to ensure maximum comfort as loungewear and nightwear.
Starpowa’s vegan Snooze Gummies are made with 5-HTP, Vitamin B6, L-Theanine, Chamomile, Lavender, Lemon Balm Leaf and Montmorency Cherry, these gummies promote sleep by increasing melatonin production, an important sleep-regulating hormone, key for sound, peaceful sleep. They also work to ease anxiety, stress and having natural calming effects.
The Jing Tea Flowering Set is perfect for the experienced tea drinker. This gift set is guaranteed to impress. It includes 4 bulbs of Jing’s floral showstoppers, which are made from spring-fresh green tea from Fujian, China, hand-tied with sweet jasmine blossoms and soft lily petals. Each bulb blooms into a vibrant display when added to hot water. The tea is paired with JING’s Two Cup Tea-iere and two Glass Cups and Saucers.
Thelma & Leah perfect for those who like to add a little sunshine to their winter wardrobe! This travel-inspired brand uses traditional block printing all hand finished in Rajasthan by collaborating with local artisans before being sent to Spain for production. Thelma & Leah continues to work and support independent artisans and is hoping to include charities and philanthropy into the brand’s ethos soon too.
“Curiosity means we are open to learning something new,” says founder Jacqueline Mozanowski as she tells us about the unique, introspective ethos that informs OBLIVIOUS? “Curiosity helps us grow and develop and to not get stuck in a routine that we might not even be entirely happy with, but to be an active participant in your own life. We seek to inspire others to ask themselves more questions, to understand themselves better, but also to ask others more questions.
OBLIVIOUS? was founded by mother and daughter duo Romi and Jacquie, who have, through endless phone calls between London and Germany, launched their own conscious fashion brand amid pandemic times. In many ways, OBLIVIOUS? is a brand that is perfect for the times we find ourselves in. One that does away with fast-fashion trends and instead challenges its wearers to look inwards, ask questions and reignite their curiosity for the world.
“We believe that as a brand with purpose, our message sets us apart from other brands,” Jacqueline adds. Our aim is to actually inspire people to ask more questions and be curious and for those who see our pieces to consider what their answer to the question would be… Questions and their power run throughout the whole brand, from our products to our packaging, as this is what we aim to inspire people with.”
Tell us a little bit about yourselves and your backgrounds – what inspired you to start OBLIVIOUS?
OBLIVIOUS? was founded by mother-daughter duo, Romi and Jacquie, from Stuttgart, Germany.
My mom Romi is originally from the Netherlands but has been living in Germany for a long time, working in interior design. Meanwhile, I’ve been living in the UK for several years, where I completed my BA and MsC.
My mom and I have always had a tight-knit relationship and this only grew stronger as I grew up. We also have very similar interests and tastes in fashion and design, which is one of the reasons we knew we’d successfully work together on OBLIVIOUS?
We are both naturally curious people and have always discussed potential ideas for businesses. Even when I was seven years old, we were already talking about ideas and how we could bring them to life. When I finished my studies and we were spending a lot of time together, we considered how powerful questions are in our lives and how they can impact us in a positive way.
Fashion has always been an interest of ours, but it also seemed to be a very potent platform to share the message of inspiring more curiosity and highlighting the positive power of questions. Fashion can also have an impact on our mood and help us express our identities.
We quickly decided that if we were to put anything new into the world, we would do it as responsibly and sustainably as possibly. With a brand ethos that prides itself on asking questions, we felt it was necessary to question the standard fashion cycle and try to do better. So, OBLIVIOUS? Is timely and reflective of what we want to put out into the world.
With mom still living in Germany and me in London, most of our work is done digitally or over the phone and we have divided many of the tasks and areas of work between each other. We do occasionally see each other in person, but this has been more difficult over the past year and a half.
I love the concept of the ‘positive power of questions’ how does this philosophy translate to your collections at OBLIVIOUS?
Questions and their power run throughout the whole brand, from our products to our packaging, as this is what we aim to inspire people with.
We try to incorporate the positive power of questions by using different questions on each of our products, either with a print or embroidery. Our range which currently consists of both men and women’s’ t-shirts, hoodies and long sleeves, everything is unisex.
All our products are premium basics designed by us, which often have a little twist so that they are more interesting than a standard hoodie. Each piece shines the light on the question, which is the focal point. We want our pieces to be comfortable but look fashionable enough to be worn from day to night.
OBLIVIOUS? has a strong sustainable ethos too – could you tell us more about the sustainability credentials of your range?
Sustainability has gained traction within the fashion industry in the past few years and has become more and more relevant and for good reason! Fashion is a very polluting industry and as a small brand, we wanted to add as little to that footprint as possible.
While some innovations aren’t available to small businesses just yet, there are many exciting projects out there that we can hopefully scale-up someday.
Our aim is to use as little plastic as possible. We avoid it as much as we can due to its polluting effect on our planet. We are also committed to using materials that don’t contain harmful toxins and are more water-efficient.
So far, we use 100% GOTS certified Organic Cotton for all our products – the GOTS certification not only ensures our fabric’s sustainable origins and production processes, but it also guarantees that workers involved in the supply chain are ethically treated. We also use water-based inks without toxic chemicals for our prints and our labels are printed on the inside of our products to minimise excess fabrics.
We produce everything in Europe. Our new collection being produced in Portugal – not only because Portugal is a great manufacturing country for sustainable fashion, but also because it is in relative proximity to where our company is based, requiring less transport, and ensuring that employees are treated ethically.
We weave our sustainability mission throughout our whole brand, which is why all our packaging, including hangtags, are made from recycled and or recyclable paper and less harmful inks.
What is the best and worst thing about working together as mother and daughter?
Founding a company and going through the whole process together has added another layer to our relationship. We’ve learned many lessons together and shared our successes and worries with each other.
Working together means that we are in even more contact than before, which is lovely, but sometimes we only talk business and not much else. Having such similar tastes helps and when we do have differing opinions, we can discuss them and find a solution quite easily, as we trust each other and have a strong relationship.
The best thing about working together is learning and growing together and strengthening our relationship in a different way, but the worst thing is that sometimes it can be all about work too.
In your view – what sets OBLIVIOUS? apart from other fashion brands today?
We believe that as a brand with purpose, our message sets us apart from other brands. Our aim is to actually inspire people to ask more questions and be curious and for those who see our pieces to consider what their answer to the question would be. I believe that our basic, minimalist but updated designs make us more interesting fashion-wise.
Where do the inspirations for the questions printed on your products come from?
The inspiration is literally everywhere. When we first started, we started document where we keep all the questions we come up with or have come across and we continuously add to it. When it comes to choosing which ones to use, it comes down to what we believe is relevant, what suits the moment and the collection, and what we deem to be great questions. Whether they act as a reminder or truly ask that you think about something thoroughly.
Lockdown has been tough on our collective mental health. In your opinion, how do curiosity and inquisitiveness help people deal with the anxieties of the world in 2021?
A lot has changed in the last year and a half and there are also many other things happening in the world right now that can accelerate feelings of anxiety and more.
Curiosity means we are open to learning something new and openness leads to a more positive mindset and hopefulness. Curiosity helps us grow and develop and to not get stuck in a routine that we might not even be entirely happy with, but to be an active participant in your own life. We seek to inspire others to ask themselves more questions, to understand themselves better, but also to ask others more questions. Research shows that our relationships can be improved by asking more questions and it’s such an easy tool to show interest and create a closer bond with someone.
What advice do you have for women who would like to become GirlBosses like yourselves?
It is always scary whenever you do something you’ve never done before. Starting a business can seem daunting, but if you have an idea you believe in, you’ll want to do the best you can – so trust yourself that you will. You are capable of great things, if you put the work in, believe in yourself and take opportunities. Don’t shy away from asking for advice from others.
We recently had a great insight about wellbeing and what it entails with Alicia Ray of Alicia Ray Wellbeing in an interview titled “Interview with Alicia Ray”. The interview covers all the important questions about life challenges, what well-being means to Alicia herself, what her business day looks like, and where her ideal retreat location would be.
The journey that led you to launch your brand Alicia Ray Wellbeing
Unknowingly I think I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit. Working for the NHS for 17 years I have needed to find ways of infusing wellbeing practices into my daily lifestyle to balance out the intensity of my work. A few years into my career as a psychologist I started teaching fitness classes part-time, inspired to motivate others towards good physical health. I launched Alicia Ray Wellbeing without knowing it was going to develop into a holistic health and wellbeing platform.
Experiencing some periods of high stress in my personal life led me to find my own method of self-care. I have always been drawn to travel and so, seeking dedicated time away to focus on my health and wellbeing, I found myself booking solo surf & yoga retreats in Portugal, Morocco, Sri Lanka and Costa Rica. The appeal was the combination of immersing myself in a beautiful location and being guided through an itinerary of daily activities to nourish my body, mind and soul. I wasn’t sure about yoga back then, and I much preferred high-impact cardio exercise where I felt in my comfort zone and felt good knowing that I had achieved a workout. I loved learning to surf, though found the challenge tested my ego! Yoga enabled me to find a different type of space for myself. Learning to slow down, tune in, and face my inner critic was one of the toughest aspects, but I soon recognised the value of having this dedicated space. I began trusting the process of looking inward as well as focusing on physical heath which was truly eye-opening for me. Booking a surf & yoga retreat became my annual self-care ritual and inspired the future direction of Alicia Ray Wellbeing.
In 2018 I spent 6 weeks in Costa Rica training as a yoga teacher and extending my knowledge of the application of Eastern approaches to health and healing. During this time, I found a deep connection with the environment and through this gained an appreciation of something more powerful than the small things that had led to me becoming stressed. Being so deeply immersed in nature I felt more connected to myself than ever. I wanted to bring this experience back home and share it, which led me to start up twice-weekly beach yoga classes as soon as I returned to Cornwall. The intention was to create a discipline that enhanced my own lifestyle and to share the benefits of yoga in nature with others. Over the last 4 years, beach yoga has become an important part of my lifestyle in Cornwall. Witnessing the value others gain from practising yoga on the beach has been so rewarding for me!
Yoga has extended into my work as a psychologist in so many ways. I recognise the transferable skills I gained from yoga teacher training in terms of discipline, overcoming ego, bringing the attitudes of the Yamas and Niyamas, and infusing compassion into my entire approach. In my therapeutic work, I acknowledge that individuals benefit from different approaches to facilitate their own unique journey to improving health and wellbeing. I blend the knowledge and practices from Eastern philosophies intuitively in my clinical work, advocating an integrative approach that includes a combination of talking therapies, yoga, mindfulness and yoga therapy. I have moved away from the linear Western medicine model of health which likes to categorise health conditions into discrete areas and treat them in isolation. I see the value of blending Eastern and Western approaches more intuitively, approaching health treatments holistically.
Developing my wellbeing platform has been guided by my practice and training and continues to evolve in different directions. It has of course been influenced by my own experience of the health benefits of spending time in the outdoors and on retreats. The practices I offer incorporate elements of the benefits gained from retreats; such as connecting people to nature and helping create dedicated space to tune into body and mind. Being fortunate to live in Cornwall I deliver bespoke surf and yoga wellbeing retreats, yoga and mindfulness on the beach and psychology-informed wellbeing days from waterside studios and hotels by the sea. I continue to work for the NHS as well as run an independent psychology practice one day a week. My heart is in every aspect of my work, and I feel blessed that I have built a business from doing the things that resonate with my core values and enable me to facilitate others on their journey towards positive health and well-being.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced and how did you overcome it?
In honesty, the biggest challenge I often face can be myself. By that, I mean the traps and snags of the human mind that create powerful obstacles to seeing things clearly. We really can be our own worst enemy and our own worst critic! Stress plays a significant part and can make me see things in a skewed way, whether that be in the form of self doubt, an inner critic, or a sense of imposter syndrome. I find it hilarious that even with the insight I have from being a psychologist I am still just as suspectable to these distorted thinking patterns as everyone else! The key to overcoming this challenge for me is to recognise the impact stress and tiredness have on my perspective; set boundaries with my time and say no to things when I feel the balance tipping. Not always easy. I remind myself to continually check whether the expectations I place on myself are helpful or realistic. One of the most empowering ways I have come to deal with these challenges is to accept it is all within me. I am responsible for whatever voice shows up and whatever energy I feel and give out, so I practice directing my energy towards self-compassion, and practice being my own best friend!
If you to were to describe your business mantra in three words, what would they be?
Drive
Compassion
Consistency
What advice would you offer anyone interested in venturing into the realms of wellbeing and yoga?
Be kind towards yourself and others always and be prepared to work incredibly hard. If your drive does not come from your heart then do not even waste your energy.
Be willing to lean into uncertainty and with this, bring so much compassion towards yourself; you will need to be your own best friend!
Be authentic and find your niche. Try not to feel intimated by anyone else doing similar things and be supportive towards others. There is plenty of room out there for all!
Focus on the wins, acknowledge the positive steps (each and every small step) and give yourself a high five every now and then!
Find what gives you your glow. By this I mean that feeling; the warming glow you get when you sense you are channeling energy from the heart. This can be different things at different times. It can be love and compassion for yourself, gratitude for life at that present moment, kindness and compassion for others and the drive you get from knowing you are following your true values.
Talk us through an average business day in your life…
Typical Monday to Thursday schedule:
5am coffee in bed
5.45am set up livestream studio in my attic room
6am-6.45am RISE livestream yoga practice
7am-8am breakfast and social media posts
8am-6pm NHS role (currently lead psychologist for pain management service)
6pm time outside; maybe a walk, paddle board, bike ride or beach yoga class followed by sunset BBQ
9pm-10pm Unwind, read, sleep
Fridays take a slower pace; I run my independent psychology practice, catch up with business admin, and try to have an early night.
Weekends are a balance of beach time, yoga, mindfulness, and general downtime relaxing as well as spending time with my partner, family, and friends. I love packing in as many outdoor activities as possible which means my house is always untidy (a sacrifice I am willing to make!)
Business can be an upward struggle at times, what do you do to stay positive?
It certainly can! I am fortunate to love my work as it takes a lot of energy. I am careful to replenish lost energy with activities and practices that make me feel uplifted and restored. I remind myself ‘you can’t pour from an empty cup!’ and prioritise self care always. My go to uplifting practices are yoga outside, taking time to find peace and stillness through meditation and mindfulness, nature walks and being by water.
To stay positive, it is so important to have fun! For me this is spending time outdoors and enjoying nature. At weekends we love going on mini adventures in our campervan, exploring Cornwall’s epic coastline, surfing, paddle boarding and having BBQ’s on the beach. Living in Cornwall I am lucky that I can create my own mini wellbeing retreat each weekend!
What is your go to quote when lacking motivation?
Hussle harder! This is something my partner said to me recently when a Monday morning felt overwhelming and I was lacking in energy. I aim to keep my motivational inspiration lighthearted so that I don’t end up giving myself a hard time, however, I think it is also important to acknowledge the drive and the discipline it takes to keep moving forward. I remind myself of this regularly and visualise the end goal. Visualising owning a retreat space with an infinity pool in Costa Rica gives me the motivation I need to keep driving forward!
What do you do for yourself when it comes to self care?
For me self care is crucial, and I try and find small ways to infuse this into my daily lifestyle. Time to rest is as important as time moving and driving things forward. I aim to practice what I preach in terms of the things I share with others. Early morning yoga has been an amazing habit to kick start positive energy for the day, keeping a healthy routine (lessons I have taken from Ayurveda) and remember the simple things that often get overlooked during times of stress, such as keeping hydrated and nourishing my body with good whole food.
Often self-care gets neglected when life gets busy and so it can be about pausing for enough time to recognise when and what I need to do in order to build my inner glow. This might be taking three deep breaths, yoga, time outside, being by the water, or spending time with people who radiate light back to me. It might simply be having a good cup of coffee!
How much has social media played a role in the success of your brand?
Facebook and Instagram have been great tools for reaching out to my local beach yoga community in Cornwall. As I continue to develop the brand in new directions these platforms have been helpful for reaching people from other areas and countries. I am learning to develop more confidence in my voice and what messages I put out there on social media. I also recognise the importance of maintaining boundaries around the amount of time I invest in this work.
How do you want people to feel when they first experience an Alicia Ray Wellbeing class or retreat?
I want people to feel empowered and flowing with positive energy! Importantly I want people to gain whatever it is they need from the practice, whether that be peace, calm, or an uplifted sense of energy and strength. Finding that connection with yourself is what my classes and retreats are about, and this can take many forms and lead to different feelings.
It is wonderful feedback when after a class people tell me they have experienced that moment of realisation when they just know intuitively what it is they need. I feel it is an amazing privilege to teach practices that can facilitate this for people.
Our readers love to travel, what destination is at the top of your bucket list, and would you practice any of your wellbeing rituals while travelling?
Sri Lanka will always be a special place close to my heart. I’ve been lucky to visit this beautiful country five times and have hosted two yoga and wellbeing retreats there. Costa Rica is my top yoga and wellbeing retreat destination. I dream of buying land there and owning a retreat space one day!
Yes I absolutely practice my wellbeing rituals while travelling, as this is how I came to experience their value! I think travelling provides a fantastic opportunity to focus on self care, and practice routines and rituals that keep the body in flow and healthy. Finding new locations to practice yoga at sunrise and sunset is one of my favorite wellbeing rituals while travelling.
What’s next for you and your brand?
I’m continuing the fourth season of Gwithian beach yoga, near Hayle in Cornwall and this summer I have some fun plans including bringing silent disco yoga, mindfulness and fitness classes to the beach. I will be delivering surf and yoga retreat days and have some psychology-informed yoga therapy workshops planned in Cornwall.
I am continuing my livestream yoga classes and am currently building a subscription-based on-demand platform.
I am excited to be planning a yoga and well-being retreat in Costa Rica next year. On the horizon, I am working on creating a Mindfulness in Cornwall journal to give people knowledge about practising mindfulness outdoors and share local tips on where best to practice mindfulness in my beautiful home county.
Where can people find out more about Alicia Ray Wellbeing?
People can get in touch directly via my email address hello@aliciaray.uk or via my website or social media channels.
Anastasia Zanadvorova is the founder of Mipholgia Jewelry, originally from Moscow, she now resides by the beach and it was finding peace here that inspired her to launch her brand.
A free spirit, Anastasia is more than a jewellery designer, she’s a creator with heart and an inspiration to aspiring designers. We spent some time with her to find out more…
Tell us the journey that lead you to launching your brand, Miphologia Jewelry…
Since I was a little girl I always aspired to be in the jewelry industry and found a great passion in creating art that I could make wearable. I’ve gained great experience in working for other brands which only increased my desire of making my own unique brand. Step by step I started developing my very own personal style and gained compliments from my surroundings. Jewelry is my form of artistic creations and each piece of Miphologia is based on inspiration I gained from history and Miphologia.
How often do you add new products and what’s the process behind this?
Miphologia has recently launched its latest line at the end of 2020. My plan is to introduce a new line of jewelry every six months that would be added to the existing bestseller pieces. To keep my personal style accessible for my clients I make sure to combine innovative ideas and classic designs.
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as an entrepreneur so far?
Every day is a challenge as Myphologia is my very first business. It is what I had always dreamed of and therefore every minor detail matters to me as my intention is to always make it perfect.
Who’s involved in the brand and what roles do they play?
Apart from the energy and support I continuously receive from my loved ones and clients, most of the work in design, packaging, logistics and customer care is done by me. I can proudly say that it is my independent journey.
Our readers love to travel, you were born in Moscow and you are well traveled. What destination is at the top of your bucket list?
I spend most of my time between Spain and France. As an adrenaline lover I prefer destinations for water sports like the Indian Ocean or French Alps for skiing. My latest preference is the south of Portugal – amazing wile white sand beaches and cliff campings. And my next destination will be South America and Asia.
In your opinion, what sets you apart from other independent jewellery brands?
The entire Miphologia brand is based on my character – my favorite green is used for the packaging, the jewelry is simple yet classy and creative and I also make sure to be very involved in styling the photo shoots.
It started as my artistic hobby and I am deeply grateful it had also interested enough people and turned into my business. Everything about my brand is personal and my clients have shown it is personal for them as well.
Looking back since launching the brand, is there anything you would do differently?
I am beyond grateful for the life lessons and experience I gained and am still learning, though if I could advise young aspiring business owners I would suggest to think before doing and plan and organize in advance. All the small mistakes can be highly costive.
How much has social media played a role in the success of your brand?
Myphologia jewelry is a social media based business. I gained initial acknowledgment online and social media plays a main role in expanding our clientele.
One of its main advantages is that I can be anywhere in the would and still manage my brand.
What is your go-to quote when lacking motivation?
“Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” — Albert Einstein
What advice would you offer to aspiring jewellery designers that want to launch their own brand?
My advice for aspiring jewelry designers is to understand that marketing is the most fundamental foundation to make your business successful.
Stay true to yourself during the ups and downs you experience and do your best to enjoy the journey.
What’s next for the business?
My next steps will focus on exploring my creativity and continue producing the desirable products my clients so very appreciate. .
What does self care mean to you?
Self care to me is living life to the fullest and enjoying every minute. Find something you love and never feel like you are obliged to work. Take care of your passion in life and get out of your comfort zone.
Still on the hunt for the perfect present celebrating the mother figure in your life? Welcome to the ultimate gift guide for a very merry Mothering Sunday.
Gifts to Treat for £50
The Balvenie Sweet Toast of American Oak 12-Year Old
The first addition to the coveted The Balvenie Stories range – a collection of single malt whiskies representing tales of character, endeavour and generational knowledge – the Sweet Toast of American Oak 12-Year-Old was designed to produce an even fruitier, sweeter single malt. Apprentice Malt Master Kelsey McKechnie had the idea to import heavily toasted Virgin Oak Barrels from Kentucky and, after deep toasting them again at The Balvenie cooperage, they were filled with 12-year-old whisky aged in ex-bourbon barrels at The Balvenie distillery for two months. Resulting in a delectably complex whisky with notes of candied fruit, coconut and delicate vanilla, this is a sweet toast for this Mother’s Day and pairs perfectly with baked cheesecake for a meal near or afar this year.
The Balvenie Sweet Toast of American Oak 12-Year-Old is available for purchase online from The Whisky Shop for £50.00 (RRP 70cl).
Gifts to Spoil Below £200
Champagne Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé
Spoil the special woman in your life this Mother’s Day with a bottle of Champagne Laurent-Perrier’s world-renowned Cuvée Rosé. From its beautifully curvaceous bottle, to the fine bubbles within, Laurent-Perrier’s Cuvée Rosé is bound to make any mother feel as special as they deserve. The light and elegant Cuvée Rosé, recognised for its freshness and delicate aromas of red berries, pairs wonderfully with dark chocolate and red fruit desserts, making it the perfect accompaniment for any marked occasion.
Champagne Laurent-Perrier’s Cuvée Rosé is available from Champagne Directfor £60 (75cl).
The Balvenie Caribbean Cask 14-Year Old
For those who already enjoy rum, this elegant single malt whisky is a delicious introduction to The Balvenie range. Matured in traditional oak whisky casks for 14 years, and then finished for six months in casks that previously held Caribbean rum, the result is an exceptional single malt whisky with the traditional honeyed character of The Balvenie, alongside notes of toffee and fruit with a warm, lingering finish. To be gifted or enjoyed on Mother’s Day, The Balvenie Caribbean Cask 14-Year-Old can be paired with hard cheeses like Comté or decadent desserts such as Banana Tarte Tatin.
The Balvenie Caribbean Cask 14-Year Old is available for purchase online from The Whisky Shopfor £52.99 (RRP 70cl).
The Balvenie PortWood 21-Year-Old
A long-time favourite of The Balvenie Malt Master David C. Stewart MBE, The Balvenie PortWood 21-Year-Old is an exceptionally elegant single malt. Matured in American oak casks for 21 years, before a four-month finish in Tawny port casks from Portugal, this special bottle provides whisky lovers with a perfect celebration. A must-have in your loved one’s collection, PortWood 21-Year Old will leave a long and gentle fullness of flavour, and is ideal for sipping with family virtually. The whisky also pairs wonderfully with soft blue cheeses or with a fruit meringue.
The Balvenie PortWood 21-Year Old is available for purchase online for £165 (RRP 70cl). Select Retailers include TheWhiskyShop.
Do you also dream of exploring the city as a local and not as a tourist? Ditch your heavy bags in New York City is not just a catchy phrase; it’s a liberating experience. With an array of luggage storage options across the city, travellers can explore the Big Apple unburdened by bulky bags. Whether you’re strolling through Central Park or navigating the bustling streets of Manhattan, shedding the weight allows you to immerse yourself fully in the city’s vibrant energy. Say goodbye to lugging luggage and hello to hassle-free adventures in NYC!
If the answer is positive, then ask yourself – What will you do about your bulky luggage when you have checked out, there are hours before you have to catch a plane and you have found a walking tour of your choice.
Multiple unique services allow you to travel without luggage problems when it comes to handling your baggage. You have to make sure everything flows smoothly while you are on a travel schedule and build the best memories.
I know we made your head spin, right? Don’t worry! There are many ways to. Things you need to see before booking a luggage storage facility that it is:
Safe
Convenient
Affordable
Now you might have a question, what about Public Lockers? Well, in the past, this was one of the ways you could store your luggage in NYC. But the world has advanced and these days, keeping baggage in places like bus terminals and stations is not preferred. You can ask your hotel’s steward about in-site luggage lockers or a storage room. Usually, guests can store their luggage free of charge. Public vaults exist, but you can only keep them for a limited period and in specific locations.
Due to the introduction of technology and companies realizing the need for luggage storage, there are websites and mobile applications that help travellers look for storage spots. Many such companies have linked themselves with Airbnb for luggage. Some companies let you book the storage facility by your cell phone; you can book online for a storage place for a specific date and location.
Now there are many advantages of storing your luggage with such companies:
Through GPS, they suggest the nearest storage facility.
While many companies require booking in advance, you can cancel anytime before the booking time, and it is free of charge.
Every storage organization has its own set of rules & services. Some of these are security seals, and insurance against damage, loss, and theft.
Below listed is one of the famous luggage storage facilities in New York.
Vertoe
The whole process in this organization is very similar to the top services. They find suitable locations for travellers, which can be gift shop, convenience stores, or hotels that open early or shut down late, plus they can store and keep it securely.
This company is one of America’s prime on-demand storage facilities in 20 big cities with more than 300 locations. The company also covers 45+ international destinations with over 500 locations in them. You can store your luggage in NYC with them in 125 locations. They cover major transit spots like JFK airport, Grand Central Terminal, Newark Airport, and Port Authority.
Vertoe has the cheapest rates in NYC. The bags cost $5.95/day (credit card, online price), and they also have deals for groups. They are very generous when it comes to their services –
The locations are mostly open 24 hours.
They offer insurance of $5000
And also, the company provides complimentary tamper-proof safety seals.
Many other service providers nearby offer online booking through credit cards. This company is a recent player in the market; it charges around $2 an hour (per bag) for the first 24 hours. The price also covers $2000 insurance per bag.
Also, you can avail of this facility in Manhattan city. They specialize in rendering protected baggage storehouses for your lengthy and short duration storage needs. Whether you require to store your luggage for some hours, days, or weeks, they promise maximum flexibility and hassle-free services at reasonable prices.
The luggage services are quite famous in the luggage storage market. It charges $2 an hour. the largest storage networks and facilities spread across various countries like Rome, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Lisbon, Brussels, and Berlin. They have a collaborative system that enables tourists/local city dwellers to store their partner stores and hotels’ baggage.
So these are some facilities where you can store your luggage in NYC. But you might have some security questions that will come to our mind while you look through these facilities like
What will you do about your valuables?
What if someone put explosives and harmful materials in the bag?
Let us answer these questions for you:
For the first question, many of these companies suggest you not leave back things like jewellery, money, or other valuable & fragile items as they are not covered in the insurance policies. For instance, if you have something like that, keep one small tote bag, and when you leave your luggage at the facility, you can keep such valuable items, electronics, and medicines in that tote bag and carry them with you.
For the second question, the storage facilities prohibit specific chemicals, narcotics, explosives, firecrackers, and toxic and hazardous materials. The staff of some companies like Vertoe can ask you to show the language. The process is super friendly and comfortable.
I hope we cleared off some of your tension. You see, these services are just not quite handy for travelers, but locals also enjoy such benefits. The locals who like to ditch their bags and give those shoulders and hands some rest also find these options more convenient. They can drop their luggage and go shopping or attend some events. Isn’t this amazing?
At the start, we told you that the only way you can explore like a New Yorker is by walking. Imagine carrying a lightweight bag and exploring the city. You might as well save money for a savoury-sweet or might buy sovereigns for the people back home.
We could help you decide on the storage facility for your next visit to New York. All you need to do is pack your bags, find a convenient storage facility, and book your hassle-free trip. Oh, and rate these companies to help more travellers like you who are searching for such proficient and advanced luggage storage facilities in New York City.
