Daisy Green Magazine

www.daisygreenmagazine.co.uk

www.daisygreenmagazine.co.uk

The launch

Well, after all the stress, worry and butterflies, the launch went off with a bang! The fashion show was fabulous, thanks to all the models, the makeup artists and the hairdressing team.
We raised £400 for Lisa and MAG which is brilliant news. Magpie Swop did a fantastic job of hosting the swap event.

As for the magazine itself, I was so over whelmed and proud when I saw it up on the wall. A brilliant moment.

Congratulations to all those people that were lucky enough to win prizes and thankd again to all our sponsors.

I am swapping over to writing the blog on the magazine, this one will be integrated into it later this week. So for all your Daisy Green news, please click on www.daisygreenmagazine.co.uk and go into the blogs.

Do let us know your feedback on the site ...

Thanks to all of you for your support on the night. It was FANTASTIC!

1 more sleep

Have no idea how much actual sleep we are all going to get but it's not long now until the morning. It's more exciting than when Santa comes.

I just wanted to tell you all about Roger at 21thoughts.com Roger has done a cracking job of putting our magazine together. He has shown extreme patience in light of the 852 emails I send him everyday. And he has certainly been there at my beck and call when I have needed him. Now that is what I call service.

All is indeed well. If you need a website designing, he is your man. Get him at roger@21thoughts.com

Night night all.

Twiggy's frock swap

What a fantastic programme. The phones were going wild between the Daisy Green team tonight. It is great that such a high profile model icon, would lead by example and show everyone how easy it is to host your own swap party. And it's so much fun!

The Daisy Green swap at the launch party looks to be a large success too. Susie, one of the founders of Magpie Swop will be on Frock Swap in a couple of weeks time, and so we are definitely in good hands.

See you all there on Thursday night - remember, bring your good quality, clean clothes to swap yourself to a new wardrobe.

x

Looking for local news and events - try Newcastle Centric

Newcastle Centric is the website dedicated to news and events throughout Newcastle and Tyneside. And guess which fabulous ethical magazine is their main story today?

Thanks to Paul who has grafted over the story and who has been ever so helpful with lots and lots of other things. Looking forward to writing some contributions and seeing you at the launch on Thursday.

Check us out at:

http://newcastlecentric.com


PS Loving the vintage daisy green earrings.

Prizes GALORE!

The girls came over this afternoon to sort out the running order for our catwalk and all the prizes for the charity raffles.

After much oohing and aaaahing, the catwalk line-up will go something like this:

Howies - fabulous fun, everyday wear

Samsara recycled clothing - a couple of fab dresses and accessories to show just how you can reuse old fabric for new outfits

Quailbymail - the dress that Shauna has so kindly donated will be winging its way down the catwalk

People Tree - some classy outfits from the ethical favourites

Izzy Lane - examples from the beautiful Izzy Lane collection and the scarf that you can win in our competition on line

Sammylovesvintage - showcasing the some very wearable vintage outfits

Bowler Hat Vintage - funky dresses perfect for any posh do!

Woweeeee ! We are so excited. Finally, we can visualise our girls strutting their stuff. (We are having a little practise tomorrow night.)

And as for the prizes. We have been absolutely knocked out by the response to our requests for donations to the charity auction. On the night, we will have goody bags to win throughout the evening, and 6 - yes 6 - baskets and bags bursting out with gorgeous organic, fair trade products.

TO WIN

1. The luxury pamper basket - an organic towelling robe, make up and treatment vouchers, fair trade wine, knickers and more;
2. The "home" basket - books, gift vouchers, biscuits, food, beautiful stationery products, so much to choose from;
3. The "Man" bag - something for the fella in your life - T-shirts, pantstopovery undies and a few man products;
4. The baby basket - the cutest organic baby grows and T shirts, and all manner of baby accessories;
5. The products bag - A beautiful bag crammed full with different products, T shirt and knickers
6. The outfit - Dress from Quailbymail and a fantastic clutch bag from Jane Irving.

Honestly, we all agreed that we wanted to keep the prizes for ourselves. But that would be very un-Daisy like. (And I had to draw the line at the Daisy girls buying raffle tickets too.)

So folks, there you have it. The raffle tickets will be on sale all night and then Lisa French is going to help us 'do the draw'. It's all for such a good cause - bring plenty of loose change as we will be shaking our tins at you.

Can't wait to see you there.

7.30pm Art Works Gallery, Newcastle upon Tyne. Catwalk show 8pm.
www.daisy@daisygreen.org

4 SLEEPS!

Sitting here, I can't quite believe what we have accomplished in such a short space of time. This Thursday, Daisy Green Magazine goes live for the whole world to see. Emotions are running high as we make all the final arrangements.

Let me say, that I am very proud of what a total group of strangers (nearly) can pull together when they want to.

To subscribe to Daisy Green go to http://www.daisygreenmagazine.co.uk/

Georgeous organic kids clothes - Arabella Miller

Arabella Miller, the online shop, sells the most gorgeous organic clothes for kids. Alison, MD sent us a T shirt for the prize raffle at the launch party this Thursday. Thanks Alison!

http://www.arabellamiller.com/

The best things..

It feels like a lifetime ago, when I wrote on this blog that one of the best things about Daisy Green has been the people who I have met along the way.

Sally, a fantastic contributor and now a friend has written a little about why she loves to contribute to Daisy, and I couldn't say it better myself.

A final word about Daisy
Most of us find life gets in the way of being totally ethical. But I wanted to get involved with Daisy because it’s positive about the steps that we do take. Daisy Green Magazine will be an easy, entertaining read as well as honest and informative. It’ll be just like getting advice from your best friend. It’s for women with a real life.


(Did I mention that is is only one week to go........)

1 WEEK TO GO!

The excitement is overwhelming. With only one week to go, the whole Daisy Green team are working furiously to make sure that we are ready. Clothes are strewn all over the place for the catwalk show, hair and make up is sorted, guest speakers are planning what to say, leaflets are being printed and the 'old style kids party food' is well under way.

And that's just the launch party!

As for the magazine itself, it's going to be jam packed with the best of ethical fashion, charity shop challenge (see photos of the whole team - the wedding dress shots are great) beauty picks, book reviews and a dedicated living section filled with tips, patterns and food reviews.

Then there are the interviews. People who have inspired the Daisy Green team.

We are proud of what we have achieved in a little over 4 months and we hope you love it too!

Daisy x

Ethic boutique, the North East's only dedicated, ethical clothes store

It's a little paradise. Whoever still thinks that wearing ethical and organic clothing is the domain of those passionate hippies, think again.

Ethic boutique opened this week in Whitley Bay, and is the only shop of it's kind between York and Edinburgh.

And it is beautiful. You walk in and Jill greets every customer with a smile and free chocolate! A brilliant start. The decor is luxurious and the clothes are fabulous.

I chatted with Jill until it was too busy to stay. The response to her beautiful boutique this week has been phenomenal.A number of items have even sold out!

The Ethic boutique has been 10 years in the planning, but I think worth waiting for.

National Chocolate week 13-19th October

There is going to be a whole week dedicated to chocolate!

If one were needed, this gives us all the perfect excuse to indulge. There are loads of offers on the site and lists of events.

There is going to be a fabulous event held in Newcastle by the Fairtrade team, more information to follow in the magazine.

Can't wait!

1 WEEK and 6 DAYS

And the nerves are still holding but only just. Not being a nervous type, I am unused to these little flutters that keep rumbling away in the pit of my stomach. Is it going to be ok? Are people going to read the magazine? Can I really compere in front of a couple of hundred people?

Well, not long til I find out !
x

My front room looks like Santa has been!

Ethical goodies are strewn everywhere... all for the launch of course! Thanks to the latest companies who have very kindly sponsored us.

X

Peace Day

Tody is Peace Day. If you want to add your name to the list. Wo
Wouldn't it be great if for just one day no-one, absolutely no-one in the world was fighting?

http://www.peaceinourlifetime.org

Sisters are doing it...

Admit it, you are singing the song aren't you?!

Well I am pretty pleased to introduce you all to Green Sisters, the online network for women all working / interested in green issues. And there are so many companies involved that I wanted to mention a few tonight!

How about Feral International who sell organic, fair trade T shirts with funky designs on the front?


Flipside Vision an ethical publisher (check out their stunning 2009 calendar.)

Karin Helena Turner Designs, beautiful cards and gift wrap. www.notonthehighstreet.com/karinhelenaturnerdesigns

As for Bags of change, another great reason to ditch the carrier bags!

Green Sisters is the brainchild of Katie from OneGreenEarth, the online directory of green business. http://www.onegreenearth.com/ should you wish to list yourself.


All these ethical women brought together in one community! It's fab and Daisy Green became their 85th member tonight.


For all of you interested in joining Green Sisters, go to http://www.green-sisters.ning.com/

People Tree launch Autumn Winter 2008

People Tree. The ethical brand that everyone knows have just launched their Autumn Winter 2008 collection in London. They partnered with Quintessentially Models, an ethical model agency, and Whisky Mist. They also gave their fans a sneak preview the new Spring / Summer 2008 collection just before London Fashion Week.

Wish we had been there. Never mind, we will be featuring them at our very own launch!

http://www.peopletree.co.uk/

Flashmob: Pregnant woment breakdancing in London

To highlight the scandal that millions of women in poor countries and around the world aren't getting the healthcare they need for a safe and healthy pregnancy, we've been holding a series of flashmob in London, Paris, Berlin, Utrecht and across Canada.

Take a look at the video here: http://youtube.com/grooveyourbump

If you think this is dangerous, try giving birth in poor countries without a midwife, hospital or medicine. You can take action at

(And just to put your minds a rest - the dancing expectant mums in this video aren't pregnant, they were professional dancers wearing pregnancy suits!)

Hyperlinks

Dear Reader

You may wonder why the hyperlinks are missing from some of our lovely sponsor logos. And frankly so I am. Having added and saved them 8 times each, I now wish to stamp on the PC. So I thought a nice little list here would suffice. And then I can try again tomorrow.

http://www.greenfibres.com/

http://www.lush.co.uk/

http://www.pantstopoverty.com/

http://www.lavera.co.uk/

http://www.bambooclothing.co.uk/

www.bnevertoobusytobebeautiful.com/

That should about do it !

3 WEEKS TO GO !!

Well, actually 2 weeks and 6 days. And the launch preparation is coming along spiffingly. I need, ney, want, to say a huge thanks to all those fab companies who have already sent items for our charity raffles and auctions. These are they:

And what's even better, is that I have at least, another 7 companies who have already posted donations out. It is fabulous and we are so grateful. I know that we are going to raise a stack of cash for MAG. Happy days.

Remember email us at daisy@daisygreen.org if you would like tickets to come along!

ethic boutique and Quail!

www.quailbymail.co.uk are a company who Daisy Green have supported from the very beginning and ethic boutique are going to stock them too!! hooray hooray roll on pay day!

Daisy Green are proud to support MAG

Doing the festival thing in the summer gave us the opportunity to meet lots of interesting people.

We did what we do best - chatted!

Non were more fascinating - and lucky - than Lisa French. A North East lass, Lisa hails from Durham. 3 years ago she was on the bus that was blown up by terrorists in London, on July 7th.

Right now I am not going to tell the whole story as you can read it in the magazine in 3 weeks and 2 days. Suffice is to say that the goose bumps rose and the tears brimmed as I listened to her story. Incredible. I think the phrase is "there but for the grace of God go I."

Anyhow, not one to wallow, Lisa has made a comittment to help others. To this end, she has chosen to support MAG, a charity dedicated to helping those victims of landmines and those who are busy destroying those that remain. (That's right, there are people who work tirelessly to destroy landmines. Never again will I complain about work.)

Daisy Green Magazine has made a comittment to sponsor Lisa. All profits from our launch party will be given to her and MAG to help her build homes for landmine survivors in Cambodia.

We will find an appropriate method of offsetting the Carbon Dioxide emission released getting her to Cambodia and we will follow her adventure with (hopefully) regular updates.

For more information on MAG please go to: www.maginternational.org

To sponsor Lisa and husband Russ, go to: www.maginternational.org/supportmag/events/community-challenge-cambodia/lisa--russell/

JUST £15 pays to clear 10 square metres of land of mines, missiles and cluster bombs.

Best £15 I have spent.

Daisy x

Laura's blog for NE1FM

Right oh, for all those of you who love NE1FM, Laura has set up her very own blog so you can keep up to date with all the latest band news and going's on over there.

Check it out at: http://live-session.blogspot.com/

Multi talented girl our Laura.

Thanks for having us FaCshion

5 o'clock in the morning, the dedicated Daisy team roll themselves out of bed and make their way to the Big Smoke. And how excited we were. When we eventually woke up (about 3 hours later) excited banter trilled around the car.

Other than driving around 1 square mile of London for 40 minutes, the journey passed off remarkably well. Hotel room not ready for us, but we coped. When we did get in, we preened and made up as only 5 girls in a tiny room know how to. The mess was quite remarkable.

Unsuitably dressed (as we later found out) and about 2 hours late, we headed into the show.

A mixture of stalls, guest speakers and catwalks - there was an awful lot to take in. Thanks to Diana and all the team for the sheer effort of coordinating such an event. (Oh and the mention you gave Daisy Green in your brochure was very much appreciated!)

We learned a lot. Which made all the driving worth while. And we had a great girlie time. Shoes and feet became the theme for the weekend (more of that later.)

Hmmm. The fur spoilt it for me. Actually, just about ruined it to be truthful. FaCshion was showcasing some real ethical clothing labels but wasn't a dedicated ethical show. Fair enough. But, the mix of ethics and fur - well for me, they just don't mix.

In reflection, a really cool weekend. Lots of giggles and belly laughs. And Brick Lane is FABULOUS. Curry and vintage fashion. THE perfect combination.

To fur or not to fur?

Honestly, should this even be a consideration?

Possibly, because I am not the coolest kid on the block, owning a fur coat simply disgusts me. Yep, that's the word ... disgust. Even though we are all entitled to our opinion, I just don't get it. I am sure there will be people who would like to explain the desire for dead, furry skin on their back.

And please try. And if you are an Inuit, then I will listen hard. I promise I will. But if you simply have more more than sense then, well, you are on your own.

There has to be some basic rules. And at Daisy Green these are 2 of them: testing cosmetics on animals and wearing fur coats (even a vintage one) for me, are just big no no's.

Bring on the debate.

4 WEEKS TO GO!

Well everyone,

In only 4 weeks time this little blog of ours will have a have a big sister.

Daisy Green Magazine will officially launch on Thursday 9th October at 7.30pm, at the Art Works Galleries, Ouseburn Valley, Newcastle.

The line up, includes:

• A catwalk to showcase the best in ethical, retro and vintage fashions,
• Guest speaker Judy Berger MD http://www.whatsmineisyours.com/ will be having a chat and helping us to launch the magazine,
• Charity Auction - more details confirmed throughout the coming weeks,
• A Swap IT party like no other, hosted by Magpie Swop

Fun, frolics and much more!!

If you, dear reader, would like to come to our little party, drop me an email daisy@daisygreen.org and let me know!

Excited or nervous? Me thinks both!

x

An ethical shop in Whitley Bay!

Exciting news!! I hear wind of a brand new shop, 'ethic boutique', selling some of my favourite brands opening up in sunny Whitley Bay, not too far away from me. Read on!

ethic boutique will specialise in ethical fashion and pamper products, a rarity in the North East, and will offer gorgeous, fashion forward clothes that address a minimum of one pressing issue for people and planet today

Including:

Fair Trade
Eco Friendly Production - Including organic farming and use of sustainable materials
Humane working conditions
(No)Animal cruelty
(No) child labour
UK/Local production - less miles to travel/supporting UK producers

ethic boutique will open with a host of prestigious and award winning ethical brands; including:

Bora Aksu Collaborator and Fair Trade Favourite - People Tree
Delicious vegan bag innovator - Matt and Nat
Super Cool artistic wallet range - TIMO!
Sexy, sustainable, luxe lingerie creator - Enamore
Hip, design led A-List ethical favourite -Ciel
Award winning organic specialist - Beaumont Organic
Fabulous non exploitative, vegan footwear producer - Beyond Skin

I believe they are also going to be stocking my favourite BAM too!! Oh joyous news!

ethic boutique opens on Monday 22nd September 2008 at 151 Park View, Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear.

For further information about ethic boutique please contact Jill Anderson by e-mail on jillanderson@hotmail.co.uk

Good luck Jill, I can't wait!

One for the boys (Actually the girls too!)

Girls, given that we are usually given the task of sourcing our men's clothes (well we know what they look good in right?!)
have a sneaky peak at this lovely chap.

Credau (menswear), the contemporary label is 100% original, natural or recycled. Based in East London, the brand is dedicated to style and supporting local industry with an entirely made in UK collection. Specialising in garment dye, the range includes unusual muted colours as well as colourful shirts and t-shirts.

Wow, that's a lot of cracking ethics in there. Can't wait to see the full collection at the FaCshion show.

(Best take some pennies too!)

FaCshion prepares to kick off London Fashion Week in Style

We are are all terribly excited about this event!

Can't WAIT for Saturday!


FaCshion is the very first two-day exhibition that targets both trade buyer and fashionista in London. Kick starting what's sure to be a fabulous London Fashion Week this weekend, FaCshion will be exhibiting names such as Mimi & Didi, Victoria London and Nonchalant, whilst sponsors include Vitamin Water, Dermalogica, The Fashion Academy, Tapio and Earth Hairdressing.

FaCshion will present a range of 50 rising talents from the capital, designers specializing in a variation of sectors from couture to customized fashion, knitwear, lingerie, footwear and accessories. As well as all this, there will be four catwalk shows throughout the weekend, along with a special champagne brunch for press and buyers.

Some of the exclusive exhibitors include, luxury handbag company Steven Harkin Design, womenswear designer Jeminee Solanki, menswear label Credau, unique lingerie designer Lady Waisted, footwear label Freya Rose who will be exhibiting their new A/W ready-to-wear collection, and Little Pearl Button who will be showing their unique handmade jewellery.

Amongst all the exciting labels, there will also be the chance for some pampering with experts from the fields of Styling, Hairdressing, and Cosmetics on hand to offer their expert knowledge and specialist treatments, which will include skin therapists from FaCshion partner Dermalogica.

FaCshion will also have key industry insiders offering their expert fashion and lifestyle advice throughout the weekend. Guest speakers will include:

UK Stylist to the Scissor Sisters and Fashion Consultant,

Chris Benns who has produced visionary miracles for the likes of Vogue Homme, Mc Q and Dunhill.

Style Insider and Entrepreneur, Bethanie Lunn who runs four successful businesses (Huge PR, London Calling, Little Black Book and her styling).

Successful Fashion Designer and Entrepreneur, Kal Kaur Rai with London label 'Kal Kaur Rai' which has become synonymous with inspirational womenswear worn by the likes of Victoria Beckham.

Founder of DeviDoll.com, Sindhu Venkatanarayanan who will discuss how to be ethically fashion minded everyday to coincide with the exclusive Eco exhibitors showing this season.

FaCshion starts this weekend on Saturday 13 September (13:30 - 18:00) and Sunday 14 September 2008 (12:00 - 18:00) at the Old Truman Brewery.

Free tickets are available in advance by registering on www.FaCshion.co.uk as well as a full weekend schedule.

Star and Shadow market Sunday 14th

For all you fans of vintage, crafts, recycled jewellery, and all those interesting bit and bobs that you can spend an age sifting through, pop yourself down to the Star and Shadow market this weekend, on Stepney Bank, Newcastle.

Say "Hi" to Lucy and Krista who can't come to London with us as they are running the market!

Unique greetings cards

I love watching small children create pictures at school for their families. They put so much effort in and are so proud of their work. And even if it looks nothing remotely like what it's supposed to, well, that's part of the deal.

And better still, is the happy smiling faces of all the mammies and daddies who appreciate their child's efforts so much.

Well, last weekend I met a lovely lady who agreed with me. And she has taken the idea of celebrating children's work one step further. Rose, conceived and founded her business www.mydesignmade.com from the love of small children's work. She can reuse any of your child's pictures and turn them into the most personal cards, prints and works of art.

What a really lovely idea. And requesting FSC card keeps your green credentials. Treasuring your children's art work is now so much easier!

Pants! We want more pants!

My obsession with finding ethical undies still remains. So you can imagine how thrilled I was to write about this today. Gorgeous pants in a dazzling array of colours. Read on...



A Festival of Colours from Pants to Poverty

The legendary Indian Festival of Colours – a dazzling, energetic and fun celebration of abandonment, vitality and goodwill – is the inspiration behind the latest range of vibrantly coloured pants from ethical underwear brand, Pants to Poverty.
Pants to Poverty Festival of Colours range is made to feel good in every sense of the word – they’re fun, ferocious and fair trade. These pants are made from exceptionally good quality organic cotton which has been sourced from one of the world’s most beautiful supply chains. Pants to Poverty underwear is completely free from pesticides, chemicals and exploitation.

The Festival of Colours pants come in a bountiful array of colours: radical reds, yummy yellows, pretty pinks, gorgeous greens and terrific turquoises. All are available in classic Pants to Poverty designs – women’s hipster shorts and men’s trunks with the irresistible Pants to Poverty slogan emblazoned around the waistband. The cotton is alluringly soft and the brilliant colours won’t fade in the wash.

The Pants to Poverty brand is on a mission to rid the world of bad pants. Ben Ramsden, the founder of this spectacularly ethical underwear brand is crazy about the new colours, “Inspired by the beauty of the Indian Holi festival, these pants recognize that we have a lot to do to make our planet a fairer and safer place but celebrate the fact that we have the power to do something about it. The challenge is ours and the power is in our pants!”

Pants to Poverty Festival of Colours pants are available in small, medium and large, for both men and women, and can be purchased at http://www.pantstopoverty.com/ for £12.50 each including postage and packing.

A little pat on the back

I find the world a troubled place. And to be honest, I normally can't bear to watch the news as there is always something on there that can reduce me to tears.

Tonight was no exception. So I thought that it was about time to take stock and have a little think about all the really positive things that have been achieved in the last 4 months or so since I started this blog.

• I have met and now am working with, some gorgeous, dedicated people.
• We have had tomatoes, all summer, off the enormous tomato "trees" that have taken over the conservatory.
• We changed our electricity supplier to an Eco supplier.
• We recycle about 80% of our household rubbish.
• I remembered to spell check this article!
• We got ourselves into the local paper and on a community radio station.
• I am having an incredible amount of fun and am very happy.
• I try very hard to make sure all the standby lights are switched off every night.

Yes. That's better. Writing a list of positive achievements gives you a moment where you
can feel positive about your own life. It just addresses the balance a bit, as most people find it difficult to praise themselves. Go on, have a go.

It's got me thinking though. What can I do next?
Swap bank accounts. Been gonna do it for a while now so will get on with it this weekend.


Then that can go on my list too.

The Evening Chronicle page 31!

Wow! If you live in the North East you will be very familiar with the Evening Chronicle. Thursday night jobs night, is notorious.

Anyhow, tonight on page 31, you will see that the whole page (well nearly!) is dedicated to the Daisy Green team.

How proud am I? So proud I bought 3 copies and walked right into someone in the Co-Op when I was reading the article. I even did a little dance right there at the checkout!

All the team work ever so hard to keep this blog updated with all the latest goings on and ramblings in the world of green. A big thanks and lots of love to you all.

x

Swapping and bartering are the new currency!

It was wet and emotional! Thanks to everyone who set up camp with us in the Daisy Green marquee at the Newcastle Green Gathering this weekend. I especially liked the whole "swap and barter" system we had going on!

2 bags for 1 dress, 1bag for 1 necklace and countless swaps with Magpie Swop. Excellent!!

Look out for the next event we will be organising - the Vintage Fashion Fair in November 08. Location yet to be decided. Will try and get all the photo's put on here tonight - not promising though as I am still shattered (probably more to do with the fact that I had to go back to my real job today!)

Daisy x

Winners!!

Congratulations to Katie Ellison who won the Goodie bag and a pair of tickets to our launch in October. Thanks for taking the time to stop by the stall at the weekend.
x

Newcastle Green Gathering 31st August, Exhibition Park

What a fab day it was today. Just to remind everyone ...

Beautiful handmade cards and jewellery

Handmade soy & beeswax candles and loads of housewares

Vintage clothes

New Bamboo clothes

Bags and pictures

Re upholstered furniture

Face painting & hair beading

Badge making

Swap and rummage clothes

And of course meet the Daisy Green team - win the Goodie bag and LAUNCH TICKETS!

Come see us tomorrow and say hi!! x

Pretty Rubbish

As I walked back from a rocking night in Camden as few weeks ago, I stumbled across many a smelly black bag that had been placed on the street awaiting collection. It was foul and made the streets look pretty grim.

Well, smelly black bag days may soon be over thanks to a chap named Adrian.

Adrian has created an interesting art project; you know one of those that you always think ‘gosh, why didn’t I come up with that’. The idea is to transform NYC’s streets, by providing businesses and consumers with artistic ‘trash’ bags. And my word, are they pretty. And what’s more they are 100% biodegradable and have a natural scent to keep away nasties! Awesome.

Check out his project at; http://anycoloryoulike.biz/info.html

You can even purchase your very own bags from the site too.

Laura
Editor

Lovecow

This is the cutest site ever!

Lovecow sell a range of different products but it is especially good for the little ones.

The cow is very cute but they have very sound ethical principles and even have their own rating system for the products they sell; the eco-cow rating!

We are just loving that cow!

http://www.lovecow.co.uk/

Mainstream Green?

Earlier this month, Juliet Warkentin, of Drapers magazine, published her views on ‘green fashion’. She suggested that, no matter how much the consumer wants to support green issues, they will only buy green if it ticks all the boxes associated with any other fashion purchase.

Is it fashionable?

Is it a cool brand?

Is it value for money?

Very few consumers will put green first, even the most ardent eco-fashionista.

I have to admit that I agree with this sentiment. I still think green retailers have a long way to go before consumers buy their products as ‘the norm’.

Even if I look at the ethical purchases I’ve made myself, and analyse the rationale for buying them –a) they’re reasonably fashionable (in a laid-back way), b) they’re slightly quirky, unusual brands, c) they’re good quality and long-lasting. Would I have bought if the clothing didn’t fit with these criteria? Probably not.

It’s my belief that brands need to lead from the top to encourage other designers and high street stores to stock more ‘green’ clothing and support ethical manufacturing processes. Designers like Stella McCartney and Katherine Hamnett are already leading the way, with support from top models like Lily Cole.

We’ve already seen special lines from People Tree and Made for Topshop, the Woodland Trust for Dorothy Perkins and Howies have opened a store on Carnaby Street. Organic cotton ranges are available almost everywhere on the high street, even in supermarket clothing.

With widening appeal and a focus from those at the top of the fashion food chain, we are more likely to see environmental clothing grow on the high street, just as organic food has appeared on supermarket shelves.

Hopefully then it will become everyday and common to all purchases, not just a niche for the green to keep to themselves.

Katie

Is this the end of fast fashion?

A House of Lords report has recently blasted Britain’s ‘throwaway society’. The growth of ‘fast fashion’ – where consumers continually buy inexpensive products to keep up with trends, has been particularly condemned.

It seems the Government is beginning to recognise that, with this level of consumerism and the level of waste being produced as a result – we simply cannot go on.

The Lords report as identified fashion retailers who offer stylish designer copies for cut-down prices as a key contributor to the current waste levels in the UK. In addition, the report stresses that the Government should turn its attention to companies that wrap products in layer after layer of packaging. Could this spell the beginning of the end for the constant impulse to buy?

It has been suggested that the Government also reduce taxes on so-named ‘green’ clothing, to encourage more purchases in this sector. VAT on repairs could also be cut, so people get their electrical appliances fixed instead of endlessly purchasing new ones.

Sounds like things could be looking up for some of Daisy’s favourite ethical fashion retailers! Lower VAT and more public awareness of where our clothes go when we throw them away is all music to our ears...

If you want to read more try...http://stylewatchcom.wordpress.com/2008/08/20/house-of-lords-criticises-fast-fashion/


Katie

Contents of our Gorgeous Goodie Bag....

A really big thank you to www.Simplyfair.co.uk for donating the jute bag, fair trade hand towel and make up bag. The delicious contents SO FAR are as follows:

Patently Obvious hand foamer

Naked shimmering body creme AND hair rescue AND hand lotion

Organic You bath essence

Organic surge conditioner

Bentley detoxifying soap

Juciy Lucy men's deodorant for men (something to keep him happy!

Various testers and sachets and a 10% discount voucher for www.Naturisimo.com

Come and see us to win this FABULOUS bag of treats! (To be honest we really want to keep it for ourselves but... ha hum it has to be won!)

DG team x

Soil Association Organic Fortnight 6-21st September

If, like us, you try to eat organic food as often as possible, then you will be interested in the Soil Association Organic Fortnight. There are events happening up and down the country.

It all kicks off in Bristol on the 6th with Europe's largest organic celebration and finishes on the 20/21st in Glasgow with an organic festival.

Can you knit?

When I was a girl, my Nana and Aunty were always knitting. In fact we had a family wool shop, dedicated knitters that we were.

Well now, if you love knitting, you could be doing it for a great cause.

Oxfam need your help with their "knitted petition" which they are presenting to world leaders in Septembers UN summit. They are trying to ensure that ALL mums get the correct health care that they need and deserve.

Nana tried fruitlessly to convert me to knitting but I just couldn't get the hang of it. This might just be the thing to encourage me to give it a go again.

For more details check out the Oxfam homepage http://www.oxfam.org.uk/

Simply Fair for all your Fairtrade and Organic goods

Lesley Nixon, is a little bit of an inspiration. She left her "day job" to set up Simply Fair, suppliers of all things fair trade and organic. The company has been established for 4 years now and sells an increasing variety of products.

SimplyFair are a family run business, based in the North East and are very proud that most orders will be dispatched on the same day that you place your order.

Go Lesley Go! We love a success story! Take a look at Simply Fair at http://www.simplyfair.co.uk/

Win Win Win LAUNCH tickets and a PACKED goodie bag

Come and see us at the Newcastle Green Gathering and enter our competition to win 3 pairs of tickets to our official launch party on Thursday October 9th 2008 and a goodie bag PACKED full of ... well... goodies!!!

Cosmetics, moisturisers, vouchers, samples, all sorts of things will be packed into a Bag for life and one lucky winner will be able to take it home on Sunday afternoon.

See you there!

Daisy Green Magazine The Official Launch

Daisy Green the fresh new magazine dedicated to a fun sustainable lifestyle will officially launch on October 9th 2008.

And how excited we are!

In exactly 7 weeks, Daisy Green Magazine will host a launch party in Newcastle Upon Tyne at the Art Works Gallery, Ouseburn Valley. We are thrilled to be launching in this beautiful converted space in the heart of the most up and coming part of Newcastle.

Fashion

Beauty

Living

Daisy Green Room

Competitions

Events

Forum

Fun, sustainable living brought to you by the Daisy Green team.

Keep reading over the next 7 weeks for all the build up and launch gossip as the team get increasingly frantic!

Daisy x

Tile tips....

When we moved into Daisy Green cottage, we were so lucky to have an old (and very heavy) roll top bath in the bathroom. There have been some major developments since moving in 12 months ago and there will be a feature article in the magazine in October.

One of the tips I wanted to share now though, is a tile tip.....
White tiles everywhere, are just too boring for words. However, pulling them all off the wall, is both costly on the pocket and the environment (and as dad says, you never know what's behind them!)

The compromise for us was to dot old antique tiles, here and there to break up the monotony of the whiteness.

This was easier said than done, as old antique tiles are much thicker than modern tiles. This meant chasing out half the wall, to make sure that they fit in. Worth the effort as they look fab dotted about the bathroom.

Little tile tip no. 2

I found some tiles at the antique fair - 30p each! They make fab coasters and are currently on the hearth. They don't actually stop drinks getting spilled but still, they look pretty!

NE1 FM Tonight 7pm

Yours truely will on our local community radio station tonight at 7pm.

Having a gift for talking (well, I think its a gift !!) I feel suprisingly nervous. Ho Hum, it will be very great fun.

Listen to me wax lyrical about Daisy Green on 102.5 FM

Daisy x

Eco boutique hits Green Gathering

Fresh new magazine to host the festival’s first environmental fashion tent

The north east’s newest fashion magazine, Daisy Green, will be hitting Newcastle with a bang this month. Perfect for any budding eco-fashionista; it’s ethical, environmental and champions a green goddess like lifestyle.

The web-based publication will be bringing hot new fashion and style, tips on ethical living, advice for home and work and much, much more.

The best bit? Unlike many other eco-style magazines Daisy Green doesn’t preach or stand on ceremony. It’s written by real women for people just like them; people who subscribe to the green agenda whether on a small or massive scale.

This year, Newcastle Green Gathering, the town’s newest festival, will play host to Daisy Green’s own special marquee. The festival takes place on 30-31 August and Daisy Green has been invited to host the tent in honour of its green credentials and commitment to all things eco.

In the Daisy Green tent you’ll find a beautiful laid-back atmosphere with stalls and environmentally kind goods galore. Pure Candles will be stocking elegant, handmade candles, whilst the fabulous Sammy Loves Vintage is bringing her own twist on old-fashioned glamour and classical charm. For eco-performance wear, BAM Clothing can’t be beaten, and will have plenty of eco-fashion staples on sale.

Izzy Lane, endorsed by the Daily Telegraph, will be a highlight in the Daisy Green haven. Her beautiful ethical fashion is woven from the wool of rescued sheep, and very on-trend this season.

For a fast and free fashion fix bring items from your wardrobe to swap, as the Magpie Swop It girls are bringing their unique pre-loved clothes exchange to the event.

This and more will be stylishly presented in a luxurious, boudoir marquee, prepared by KOTI eco designs. The lavish Daisy Green area is going to be the perfect place to pick up environmentally considerate clothing and home-ware, and an opportunity to relax from the rest of the festival in a boutique environment.

Daisy Green is predicted to be the best eco-style magazine on the market, and Green Gathering is sure to attract hundreds of those chasing a greener lifestyle. Working in partnership, they make the perfect team!

Charity Shop Challenge - a definite success

Thanks to the Daisy Green team for a fantastic day out on Saturday. Pleased to know that everyone bought something.... yes, that's right even our Editor Laura! I even think that some of our opinions and conceptions may have been tweaked, if not certainly challenged.

The article will be featuring in the first ever edition of Daisy Green which will go live on October 9th. You will be able to see all the fantastic photo's of the day then.

x

Thanks for the Swap Magpie's

Last night the Magpie Swop It's, held their party in Newcastle, raising much needed funds for a support worker to pop out to Africa. Well done Magpie's !

You can see the girls at the Newcastle Green Gathering where they will be hosting a swap event all weekend long!

Swap your way to a new wardrobe! Fantastic!

(Oh and thanks for the lovely shirt too! ) Daisy x

1 more sleep...

Oh yes, charity shop challenge is imminent. Tomorrow, 6 of us will be scrummaging through those prizes that other people have tired of.

Some words of encouragement to the team -

I met the most wonderful old lady in a charity shop who offered to loan me her rain hat due to the rain. She laughed and acknowledged that I probably wouldn't want to wear it but why didn't I buy an umbrella? So I did. She was absolutely lovely, reminded me of my granny and gave me a warm feeling all over.

There are some cracking finds you just need to look!

We are going to have an absolute giggle. This may have more to do with the cocktail stops!

For those of you pushing yourself outside your comfort zone.. well done. And good luck!

Daisy x x

Magpie Swap IT - Trent House Pub, Newcastle, 14th August

The Magpie girls are hosting a Swap It event at Trent House tomorrow night. It's all for a very good cause.. if you live in or around Newcastle, hope to see you there.

Daisy x

Prince Charles and the "GM Disaster"

Prince Charles is all over The Times today speaking very passionately about the benefits of organic farming and GM crops being the environmental "biggest disaster of all time." You can read the whole article at http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/7557644.stm

Whilst listening to the Vine Lunch time show on BBC2, funnily enough at lunch time, there was a (very balanced) chat about organic vs GM and whether Prince Charles was the right person to speak out against GM farming.

It seems to me that he is fairly well placed to have an opinion as he runs his own organic food industry. And we are all entitled to our opinion are we not?

Thankfully, he is well known enough to spark a debate worthy of front page news.

Good on yer, I say. Daisy Green are huge supporters of local farmers, organic food and growing your own ( my gorgeous red tomatoes are testament to how different home grown produce is) and therefore any debate on how we are going to maintain the food chain in the coming decades is good news. Sustainable produce that hasn't travelled half way around the globe seems sensible to us.

Of course, there are things that we can't grow ourselves, the bananas in my fruit bowl for one, and therefore we will always get them from other countries. And don't forget, buying fair trade supports so many people around the world that if we stopped doing so, it would have a devastating effect.

But, our staple fruits and veg ? Well, I would much prefer them from the bottom of my garden, Laura's allotment or the local farmer than flown in across the planet.

Let us know what you think.

Daisy x

The Organic Life

I love food. It’s one of life’s really rather large pleasures. I love fresh, tasty, organic food.

Out with my love, my fella decided that it would be a fantastic idea to use the patch at the back of the garden to grow our own beautiful organic veg, and fruit for that matter. I agreed, and our journey began sometime around the turn of the year.

In all honesty, I didn’t really get too involved in the muddy planting bits, just selecting the pretty packets of seeds; some peas here love, spinach over there. Soon our garden was looking allotment like (which will probably bring me on to another story sometime).

So, alas, we’ve (he’s) been tending to our (his) crops for months now, and last weekend involved some harvesting. In comes the spinach. Out comes Laura’s scream. I have never for the life of my seen a red creepy crawly thing so large in my life. And coming out of the plant I’m about to eat (no way does thing beast live in England!)

My word! Freaked out! The leek was next in line, this came along with a little worm like creature, somewhat cuter than the fiend I’d earlier encountered, but never the less a living thing in my food!!!

Organic is harder than I first imaged, but once you get around the pests, and your fella agrees to wash all produce before cooking, then the taste is enough to make you tingle (mmm). To know that your food comes straight from the garden and is cooked wonderfully within an hour of being picked is amazing.

To date I’ve (we’ve) cooked, creamy leeks, black current pancakes and I also whacked some of the berries in a cheesecake! Bye bye supermarkets, hello allotment.

(Keep your eyes peeled for the allotment diaries – the fella and his mate have just picked a plot... many amusing times to follow!)

Laura
Editor

Too many bags?

I have never thought of myself as a girlie girl. True, when I want something I can use my feminine ways to (generally) get it, but until recently had always considered myself more of a tomboy.

But, my absolute love of bags and shoes proves once and for all that I am in fact A GIRL.

So here are couple of pictures from one of my favourite "bag lady" Jane Irving, who will be joining us in the Daisy Green Marquee at the Newcastle Green Gathering. Jane makes all her bags in her studio in Newcastle, mostly from old textiles that have been discarded or sourced from charity shops.

Her bags are unique, and beautifully crafted.

If you would like something absolutely unique, kinder to the environment and made to last then you can contact her at noisynora3@hotmail.com

Charity Shop Challenge - the details...

7 girls

A dozen charity shops

£20 stake


The challenge:
To find an outfit to wear for our night out that evening. The girls
are evenly split between charity lovers and charity haters.

Everyone must try and buy something.

Even Laura, Daisy Green Editor.

Planned cocktail breaks throughout the day.




Let the fun commence!

Random Acts of Kindness - one step too far?

Ok, so having comitted myself to being generally more kind towards my fellow man, I was more than happy when husband declared we were babysitting our 2 nephews and niece recently, to ensure that their mum and dad could have a well earned night off (the first in years.)

Aged 5 months, 2 and a half and 11 it was to be an interesting experience. As my brother in law said, "No kids to 3 kids in one easy step."

How hard could it be? I look after 50 kids everyday. And these are family.

Our 11 year old niece was absolutely no bother. Took herself off to bed without any drama. Suprisingly, our oldest nephew decided he would go to bed too.

But the baby woke up and had other ideas.

Getting up every 2 hours is a novel experience for a person such as myself who can wallow, happily and soundly, for 10 hours a night.

The first few hours were torture. Not because they were difficult - they were not - but because I was terrified of the enormity of the responsibility I felt for these gorgeous, little people.

The second best moment for me was at 4.40am playing in the early morning light, in our conservatory with the baby. I won't ever forget it. Magical.

But the best moment, was when I saw mum and dad. They had had, an undisturbed night's sleep and looked well rested. And happy. And they were delighted to see their children again.

And that made me feel great. (As did the nap that I had to take in the middle of the afternoon!)

Not so much a random act of kindness. More a planned one. But well worth it.

Credit Crunch - Toilet Roll Tip

By far the cheapest, recycled toilet roll I have found is in the Pound Shop (this particular one was in the Metrocentre, Gateshead.)

That institution of tat and cheapness (which comes in very handy at Christmas and Easter when making things with children,) is selling 4 rolls of recycled paper toilet rolls for .... you guessed it £1!

Added bonus, the wrapper is completely compostable too.

12 rolls for £3 is by far the cheapest I have found to date.

And don't forget, the cardboard rolls can be composted too.

Winner.

Too many jam jars? A Home tip from Eco-Stylist Krista

You have been collecting all those jam & pickle-jars, like every eco-conscious person does, but now what?....

...AND you need a box to store your cotton buds... 1 + 1 =Voila!

Step 1: pick the jar that is the correct size for the cotton buds and remove all extra labels (sinking it in soapy water should do the trick.)

Step 2: Choose your label; wallpaper or any other lovely image you desire, cut it to size and attach using double sided tape to the jar. Easy!

Step 3: Fill jar with your cotton buds.

Result: A great re-usable solution for your little necessities with little cost implication or need to buy new! PLUS TIP: you can add text & customise jars as you wish, as often you want…

GREAT!

By Krista

Eco-Stylist

Charity Shop Challenge - a note from the Editor

It is two weeks before Charity Shop Challenge. I am nervous. I am also pretty sure that the girls won't be able to sway me towards buying from Charity.

Snob? Maybe a little.

Books, DVD, videos from such outlets are fine. I've purchased these before... from the one on Clayton Street, Newcastle that distinctly separates the books from the clothes...

Dresses. Forgive me, but I prefer new. Shoes. I think I'd cry, after being a little sick. Extreme, but true. I hate feet and I certainly don't want my toes going where other (unknown) toes have gone before.

Because of my anxiety towards our group outing, I decided to pop into the British Heart Foundation. Today. Alone. It's a lovely Charity. I once did I sponsored skip for them and raised the most amount of money in my class. They gave me some swish skipping ropes. Pink. With blue handles. Lush.

I thought I may find a nice necklace, or something small. You have to start somewhere. One step at a time. But the smell was over powering. I lasted about 2 mins in the shop.

Good luck girls and let the challenge begin.
Laura Fitzpatrick
Editor
Daisy Green

Newcastle Green Gathering 30/31.08.08

Newcastle Green Gathering

The Newcastle Green Gathering looks set to be one of the coolest festivals of the summer.

Totally free, it is possibly the best music, arts and environmental festival in the UK.

Dates: 30th and 31st August, Exhibition Park Newcastle upon Tyne.

Daisy Green Marquee
Already confirmed to feature:

Beautiful, new "friendly" clothes

Vintage Clothes

Handmade bags, jewellery, purses

Homewares and candles (soy/beeswax)

An Eco Interior Designer

Magpie Swop IT

Competition to win Daisy Green Launch Party tickets - October 08

We will be hosting a SWAP IT EVENT all weekend so this is your chance to clear out your wardrobe and bring it to our event. In return you may just get a whole "new" outfit for FREE!! please ensure that all the clothes/shoes and so on that you would like to swop are in good condition.
Any leftovers will, of course, be donated to the local charities.

Latitude - a Great, Green festival

Latitude Festival
Daisy Green’s heart is based in eco-fashion. To us, this extends further than the clothes we wear and recycling our old bottles, we’re trying to make lifestyle choices too.

So, it was with delight I heard about Latitude Festival in Suffolk. It’s been described by The Guardian as the most ‘middle class’ festival going, and with a Pimms field and poetry tent, I could see why.

However, it was the dedication to supporting green issues that I was really impressed by. Ranging from solar powered showers to an eco day-spa and compostable food packaging, you really couldn’t deny their efforts were good.

The real stand-out benefit was the recycled plastic cups. After putting two pounds’ deposit down, you returned your cup to the bar to be given a new one. This meant that there was no litter on the site, all the cups were recycled and there were even special bins to put your cup in at the end to return the money to charity!

Aside from the ‘green’ element, there were also fantastic bands including Blondie, Elbow and Interpol. Simon Armitage was a highlight in the poetry arena, and Ross Noble met riotous applause in the comedy tent. The unsigned bands eager to be discovered and late-night raves in the woods were secret elements to be stumbled upon and not to be missed.

The festival worked towards giving green issues a higher profile without being too preachy or forcing the environmental message down party goers’ throats. I’ll definitely be going back!

Katie

Daisy Green travels up and down the UK

This last week I have been lucky enough to have been to both London and Reading on 2 separate occasions, both purely for fun. The first journey I took the train from Newcastle to London, followed by the tube to Hampton Court where my little brother lives.

A relaxed, 3 hour journey provided the chance to chat to anyone who would listen (thankfully a chatty male physiotherapist was sitting opposite me!) and the ability to type up some articles. Every second of the train journey was put to good use. A frantic 20 minutes on the tube and then a sedate train journey to Hampton Court followed, but thankfully I was accompanied by “our kid” who had kindly come to Kings Cross to meet me.

Now, the following weekend, I chose to drive to reading simply because of my perceived CLART ON, getting to Reading from Newcastle on the train. Never again.

Far from the relaxed journey of the previous week, I was stuck in numerous traffic jams due to the high maintenance that the entire M1 needs, then of course the permanent car park that is the M25, and then onto the packed M4. Delightful, I do not think. I spent the entire journey getting very cross with all those people who simply refuse to pull over out of the middle lane (what is it with people sitting in the middle lane anyhow?) and panicking at the cost of petrol.

The travel time to Hampton took only 4 hours in total, even with all the changes; to Reading took 5 and a half. My perspective of my fellow humans was radically altered on both journey from “isn’t is lovely to meet new people and chat away” to “GET OUT OF THE MIDDLE LANE YOU ************” (fill in the missing blank with any word you feel appropriate.)

As for monetary cost, train booked the day before £99 + £14 for tube passes, total £113. And the car, £85 petrol plus 600 miles added. I used www.co2balance.uk.com to work out my carbon emissions for both journeys. On the train it was 0.05 tonnes and 4kg for the tube and by car 0.18 tonnes, more than 3 times as much.

All in all, for my sanity, time taken and carbon emissions, it was far more preferable to get on the train. Even though it was nearly £30 more, it was money well spent. And to be fair, I booked the tickets the day before I travelled, had I been a bit more organised, it would have been cheaper to get the train too.

Spending money..

Hmm. Having just looked at the Howies sale, I have bought a dress. I am easily persuaded and even more easily led. But, lets hope, as Katie has said, the quality will be brilliant and it will last for ever.

daisy x

The Howies not-so-secret fan club

This is my first review for Daisy Green, and I have a confession to make.

It’s going to be a biased one.

When I told Daisy I’d been buying from the Howies website, and she asked me to write a review of what I received, I knew I wouldn’t be able to write the well-balanced, mature piece I’m capable of.

Why?

I love howies.

I’ve been buying jeans, t-shirts, hoodies and even a bag from the Howies online shop for the last few years, ever since I was introduced to the label through friends at work.
I’m extremely pleased to report that every item, every last stitch, hasn’t seen even a tiny bit of colour-fade. There are no rips and tears where other jeans have fallen by the wayside. Nothing has stretched or shrunk and every item I have is effortlessly comfortable. Brilliant.

Apart from the fantastic clothes, there are other reasons to love Howies too. They are committed to producing ethically sustainable, cruelty free clothing. The beautiful soft organic cotton is not only lovely against the skin but kind to the environment too. The Cardigan Bay based company are also committed to raising green issues through their blog, seasonal catalogue and free lectures.

Howies profess to make clothes for those who love outdoor sports – whether it be beating down the door at 5am to catch the first waves of the day or dashing out for a run. I’d argue their clothes are brilliant for the laid-back eco-fashionista too. Loose-fitting boyfriend jeans look great with a casual top for daytime shopping, and statement t-shirts mean you can really wear your heart on your sleeve.

In conclusion, you might have gathered I’m a bit of a fan. I’d recommend Howies to anyone who’s after long-lasting eco-clothing. One last tip: keep an eye out for the sales on http://www.howies.co.uk/, you can snag a real bargain!

Katie Coward (Daisy Green contributor and Founder of the not-so-secret Howies fan club!)

Daisy Green takes Krista's Advice

Messy shelves in the living room were driving me crazy (my husband's very helpful response, "they are bookshelves." Do boys SEE mess??)





Taking Krista's advice I have organised the top shelf into white books, the second is blue to green and have grouped all the wooden antiques in the middle shelf.
I didn't think that it would make that much difference but the shelves are definitely tidier and more appealing now.
The only problem in that I struggle when the books are not organised by author. We will see how long it lasts!

Speaking to Krista has inspired me to look at the space in the room to see if there is a better or just different way to use the space. I think the rest of the room is going to get a major overhaul!

The Snapshot Interview: Krista Puranan, Eco Stylist and Interior Designer.

Name: Krista Puranan
Country of Birth: Finland
Age: 37
CV: Stylist/interior Designer.

A fashion designer in her native Finland for many years, Krista came to the UK to complete her Interior Design degree (and also to chase a man!) She has designed kitchens, worked for major interior design companies and is currently setting up her own freelance business;
http://www.kota-designs.com/

Krista specialises in customising furniture that her clients already own and redesigning their space to maximise it’s potential. Her own home is furnished with antique furniture and that which has been donated to her!

Favourite thing about the UK: The people – everyone is so upbeat all the time!

Describing her own style: I go with my mood and don’t worry about labels too much.

Eco design tip:

If you are looking to refresh your space, imagine that you have stepped into someone else’s home and are looking at it with fresh eyes. Try and do that in your own home. Don’t be afraid to colour co-ordinate: for example, group books on shelves according to colour and see the difference it makes!

Krista will be contributing to Daisy Green on a regular basis with all her super eco-design tips and room make-overs.

Hey You Old Bag

The problem: Cheap black bag that is still very functional but the plastic handles have started to snap and crack.

The dilemma: Can’t give it to charity as it is damaged. Also, the bag part itself is absolutely fine. What do I do with it as surely the handles will eventually snap?




The solution: Customise the bag. Sew on a number of buttons, to change the appearance and freshen it up. An old scarf from a local charity shop was a great find to make new handles. Simply enough, the scarf was cut in two, and wound around the existing handles to reinforce them.

The result: A customised bag that has been saved from landfill. Hoorah. Easy to re-customise again when bored with bag again.

Total cost: £1.50 for scarf (to charity.)
Time took: 1 hour.

Feel great.

Sundials made from old plastic cups? Yes please!

Here I am sitting in the gorgeous, hot sunshine in the back garden at Daisy cottages. There is nothing quite like working from home AND getting a little bit of afternoon sun and enjoying your garden.

As I ponder, I have realised that something is missing from my garden. I would love a sundial.

I can imagine one nestled in between the strawberries and the grasses just to my left. Now, I have been keeping an eye out in the reclamation yards but to no avail.

Thankfully, www.Ecocentric.co.uk keep me up to date with their recent innovations and a sundial just happens to be one of them....

Sustainable style for the Garden
Carry on the modern style through to the outdoor space, making a feature out of this sundial with the same slate-like appearance.

Set to UK latitude, it is ideal for long days spent in the garden. Easy to clean, so don’t worry about the birds taking a walk over it.
The original carbon neutral clock, each sundial saves 32 cups going to landfill. The perfect gift for a garden enthusiast.

Will have to have a chat with dear husband to see what he thinks but it looks like a good addition to our garden to me.

You Love, We Love Vintage

Sister in law bought the MOST beautiful, exquisite vintage dress yesterday. She looks truely stunning in it and is rest assured that there will be no-one else dressed in anything similar at the posh do she is going to.

Vintage - you either love it or hate it. But we absolutely love it. If you are like us, this new site is for you....

"Want unique, one-off vintage pieces without having to trawl around marketsand fairs? http://www.iwantvintage.co.uk is the answer! This virtual vintage town showcases a selection of the best vintage pieces from unique suppliers, shops and vintage specialists across the UK. www.iwantvintage.co.uk transports you to a street lined with quirky looking shops, each divided into individual boutiques, from soft furnishings andfurniture to art and accessories.

Within each shop is a selection of that particular product. When something catches your eye, simply click on the description, which opens up the sellers website, enabling purchase of the product directly from the original source at no extra cost."

Brilliant ! For those who are now in despair at the amount of new tat that has made it onto sites such as Ebay, this offers a real alternative for finding, one off quirky goods.

Thanks Mel for telling us all about it!

daisy x

Does my bum look big in this?

The simple answer was Yes.

I was very excited to receive my little parcel from www.Greenfibres.com
containing my promised friendly knickers. With trepidation (I have been disappointed in the past and I so wanted to love them) I opened the packet. My mission to buy knickers that are pretty, comfy and eco friendly is all consuming.

Not wishing to make immediate judgement, I handled my new pants with care. They looked a little like the briefs that my husband sometimes wears. Hmm. Not to be put off, I examined them a little more and was pleased to confirm that they ticked a number of my specific criteria.

Their ethical credentials were great:
Fairly produced. Organic cotton. No nasty dyes. Comfy too. A good start.

But pretty? Unfortunately not. They certainly didn’t pass the husband test. His exact words were,

“ The more material there is, the bigger your bum looks. Take them off.” Nice. Love affair over.

I explained the predicament to Phil. Functional pants. That’s what they are. Great in so many ways but please could I have some … well pretty pants?

On Friday, another parcel landed on the doorstep. (If nothing else, I would recommend Greenfibres for their swift delivery services and willingness to help.)

From the 3 pairs, my favourites are the black silk knickers. They are normal knickers , the type that you can just pull out of your drawer and wear everyday. They are a little bit sheer (oooh la la), fit really nicely and are certainly better for the environment, than most of the knickers I currently own.

Knickers are a very personal matter. They have to be right. Recently, Suezii had to strip off her entire outfit just because her undies weren’t right, and start again.

As yet, I haven’t found a pair of ethical knickers that I would rave about, non- stop to anyone who will listen. But these nicely fitting, silk knickers are definitely a good start.

RAK : Random Acts of Kindness

Are great. It's official.

Yesterday in sunny Horsham, a lady and her son were in the predicament of having a flat battery in her car and no jump leads. Havin been in this position more times than I care to remember, I was eager to help.

Out jumps my little brother ( officially known as "our kid") and jump starts the car. I took about 3 minutes to do and everyone was happy.

Now, the young lad, offered us some money for our help. He actually out a note on our car seat! A generous gesture, a way in which to thank us for our help.

But it made me feel somewhat sad.

When did we (and I mean our society) get to the point that we can't just help people without an expectation that we must do something in return. It was our pleasure to help them.

I have been inspired.

Today, I gave someone my all day tube ticket when I was finished with it. It will save that particular man £7. Brilliant. And our kid, always gives his car parking tickets to someone else, and if there is no-one there he sticks them to the machine!! Brilliant.

I am now completely committed to performing one random act of kindness each day. The look on people's faces makes it worthwhile.

Go on get on the RAK and make someone smile.

Daisy x