Everything We’re Reading For Book Club January – March 2022
If you’re wandering around Waterstones trying to decide what to read next, allow this trio of page-turners to inspire you to put down the remote.
With a New Year comes new, if slightly ambitious, Goodread goals and a fresh batch of books to pore over. Pass us the ‘leccy blanket at once.
Following that mellow Betwixmas breather when Netflix often takes over our lives, now’s a great time to get back into your reading rhythm and pick up the momentum again. So if you’re wandering around Waterstones trying to decide what to read next, allow this trio of page-turners to inspire you to put down the remote.
Described as Sex and the City with a killer edge (we’re already invested), Wahala is Nikki May’s debut novel and one of the most hotly-anticipated books for 2022.
Nigerian-British author Nikki May said she wanted to write ‘a brown Big Little Lies’. Speaking to iNews she said, “I wanted to read about characters whose lives include Jollof rice and cornrows and carjacking in the same breath as focaccia and Soho House and ski holidays.”
Wahala, meaning trouble in pidgin English, follows the lives of Simi, Boo and Ronke, a trio of British-Nigerian women in their thirties. Simi has a high-flying career in fashion and is married to Martin who wants children but she isn’t ready yet, Ronke wants to settle down but keeps picking the wrong guys and Boo feels suffocated by her role as a wife and mother. Each of them have their personal issues but they always have each other, that is until Simi’s dazzling and devious childhood friend, Isobel, arrives on the scene and threatens to derail their friendship.
February – Reader, I Married Me by Sophie Tanner
The perfect Valentine’s Day read does not exi…
Sophie Tanner’s hilarious portrait of self-love offers immaculate reading vibes for February. If you need any (more) proof that you don’t need a man to make you happy, consider this ode to sologamy all the evidence you shall ever need.
FYI you’ll be pleased to know that Reader, I Married Me is based on real-life experiences. After twenty years of disastrous dates and a string of unfaithful boyfriends, Sophie wed herself in a Brighton ceremony in 2015 and lived happily ever after. Get this woman a Damehood at once.
Here’s a look at the synopsis!
Chloe Usher has had enough of men. After breaking up with the love of her life, Chloe’s friends tell her she needs to get back out there, and find another man before it’s too late. But after a particularly disastrous date and one too many gins, Chloe has a revelation – she doesn’t need a man to make her happy. It’s up to her to do it herself.
Never one to do things by halves, Chloe decides to make the ultimate commitment to self-love – she’ll marry herself! But planning a solo wedding isn’t easy, and soon Chloe finds herself on a bumpy journey of self-discovery. Will she finally get her happy ever after?
March – Breathless by Amy McCulloch
From the Co-Author of The Magpie Society comes the gripping psychological thriller we’ve all been holding our breath for.
Breathless is the story of Cecily Wong, a journalist on a once-in-a-lifetime expedition to climb one of the world’s tallest and most dangerous mountains for an exclusive interview. She’s been personally invited by the world-famous mountain man, Charles McVeigh, who wants her to report the final leg of his record-breaking series of summits. It’s a career-defining opportunity she can’t resist but at what cost?
Cecily is by far the least experienced of the group, but she is intent on proving herself and will stop at nothing to reach the summit. So when disturbing questions arise, she becomes concerned. And then people start to die. Trapped on the mountain with a team she barely knows, she must battle more than the elements in an epic fight for survival against one of the world’s most dangerous mountains and an unknown assailant who is picking climbers off one by one.
Thanks to Amy’s own mountaineering experience, Breathless is made all the more chilling for its authenticity. Prepare for the air in your bedroom to feel as icey-cold as the snow-capped mountainside *shiver*
Publication date – 17.02.22
Will you be reading along with the Zoella Book Club this year? Let us know what title takes your fancy from our January – March picks.
What are ‘Morning Pages’ and How They Could Change Your Life in 2022
In need of a breath-of-fresh-air AM routine to start both your days and year off right? Introducing Morning pages!
In need of a breath-of-fresh-air AM routine to start both your days and year off right? Us too. In the long, dark winter months, made bleaker by a certain Mr Omicron, it can be difficult to find both the inspiration to make positive changes, or even the get-up and go to continue in your regular routine with minimal daylight hours and the feeling of ‘will I ever be warm again?’ crossing your mind approximately 200 times daily. It’s a tough time. But what if we told you a simple pen, paper and around 30 minutes of your time could change the game? Introducing: Morning Pages.
With over 4 million views on the #morningpages hashtag on TikTok alone, this phenomenon is sweeping the Internet despite first being coined in the book The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron in 1992. This self-help book was designed to help people with “artistic creative recovery”, teaching techniques and exercises to assist people in gaining self-confidence in harnessing their creative talents and skills. Despite this, the concept of Morning Pages and their benefits are not limited to creative souls, and the positive impacts can be felt far and wide!
So, what are Morning Pages?
In short, the practice involves writing three pages of longhand, stream of consciousness thinking, and as the name suggests is designed to be done first thing in the morning. Julia states “there is no wrong way to do Morning Pages– they are not high art. They are not even “writing.” They are about anything and everything that crosses your mind– and they are for your eyes only. Morning Pages provoke, clarify, comfort, cajole, prioritise and synchronise the day at hand. Do not overthink Morning Pages: just put three pages of anything on the page…and then do three more pages tomorrow.”
What are the benefits of Morning Pages?
So why should you carve this time out of your morning when you could be getting approximately 30 minutes more Zzz? Good question. The positives of consistently participating in writing your Morning Pages are endless, from clearing your mind, sparking creativity to silencing your inner critic, this practice is one that can help wipe the slate of the previous day clean, and set you up for a more positive, productive or simply peaceful day. Our minds collect so much information on a daily basis that clearing through the clutter and distractions we don’t need can bring freedom, clarity and inspire a day less occupied by the things that don’t matter.
Creating designated time within your day to prioritise this practice is also a great habit to bring in the new year with, proving that the small chunks of time we may not otherwise give a second thought can be used to put self-care to the top of the list, and begin each day knowing you have actively taken time for YOU.
So much of the unease we feel in our lives comes from conflict, feeling torn between one choice and another or feeling stuck in the middle of what we want to do and what we feel is achievable for us, and Morning Pages can help with those internal debates too. Writing down our inner thoughts and feelings can bring clarity and also help us to realise our problems are maybe not as complex as we think.
This is one of the reasons Morning Pages works best when written by hand instead of typed- one of the only ‘rules’ to this practice. Writing using pen and paper takes longer and this process can help to slow down our thinking and create more ‘lightbulb’ moments and clarity in uncovering how we feel about what’s going on in our lives. “Writing by computer is more emotionally detached practice. It helps keep our Inner Critic alive and well since we are so easily able to go back and fix our mistakes. It yields us speed and distance, but not the depth that we are looking for” says Morning Pages enthusiast Chris Winfield who participated in this AM routine for 241 days straight before sharing his love for the process. Despite this, it’s important to remember that the aim of Morning Pages is not to solve all of our problems, but simply to stop them from continually bouncing around our heads like the image of Timothée Chalamet after watching Little Women again. Morning pages are, as author Julia Cameron puts it, “spiritual windshield wipers.”
And why the morning specifically? Supposedly our egos are less active when we first wake up, meaning it’s important to make the most of this precious time and catch your thoughts before your ego’s defence comes into play. Aren’t our brains funny things? Starting the day off with a habit that doesn’t require a phone, laptop or TV is also the perfect mini detox from technology, and could be a welcome change in 2022 if your first instinct is usually to head straight to your For You Page. Habitually working out the mind as well as the body is one benefit of the humble MP that we can’t rave about enough.
For those that aren’t regulars at journaling, you might still be wondering, “But what do I actually write?”.
It doesn’t matter. For the perfectionists amongst us, this can be a hard pill to swallow, but really the content of your Morning Pages is secondary to the practice itself. They are about anything and everything that crosses your mind– and they are for your eyes only. No thinking, no analysing, no stressing, just write until you hit 3 pages and sit back and breathe a deep sigh of relief and accomplishment. Morning Pages allows you to hit reset, and you’ll likely feel that relief in your body as well as in your mind- think of it as a trip to the spa without the expensive price tag.
Sometimes your pages might make sense upon reflection, and other times it will simply be a stream of consciousness that has no profound meaning, but either way, the purpose of this ritual has been achieved. The idea is not to read these entries back, because unlike a diary or a journal used to record a particularly happy trip to the Italian coast or moving into your first home, Morning Pages is a cleanse that need not be revisited. Whether it means ripping them up, scribbling them out (especially cathartic) or simply leaving them be and turning the next page, much like that one ex who really screwed you over, some things are best left in the past.
And remember, it takes on average 66 days to form a habit, so keep persistent and regular if you hope to reap the rewards of this simple but life-changing practice.
Here’s to the same you, but a little clearer minded this 2022.
Please Enjoy 20 Ways to Milk the Most Miserable Month of The Calendar Year
We may be vaccinated, caffeinated and freshly masturbated, alas none of that can save us from the January scaries so we may as well lean in and embrace the excuse to be tired, sad, hairy, sober, bloated, skint and fecking freezing.
It’s the most miserable time of the year and we intend to get into the spirit of things, resenting January with every essence of our being. Cue the wrestling with self-loathing for a minimum of 31 days. We are nothing if not committed to this tragic szn.
We may be vaccinated, caffeinated and freshly masturbated, alas none of that can save us from the January scaries so we may as well lean in and embrace the excuse to be tired, sad, hairy, sober, bloated, skint and fecking freezing.
Here are 20 ways to milk the most wretched month of them all. Can anyone recommend a good breakfast wine and therapist for the occasion?
1 Renew your gym membership…
2 And immediately regret it when you’re 10 minutes into a group class with a chronic wedgie, no air con and no exit.
3 Try to commit to dry January knowing full well you’re going to fall at the very first mention of a g&t. Dry Jan and blue Monday all in one month? That seems excessive.
4 Hard pass on any plans that require you to be sociable. ‘Tis’ the szn for elaborate excuses. It’ll be a miracle if you have any friends left by Feb…
5 Spend 3-5 working days mourning the glow of the Christmas tree. Slightly ironic that it’s called a living room when it feels a lot like drowning in pine needle grief.
6 Grapple with the millennial urge to leave your job, open a coffee shop with a library and a florist in it, all whilst raising ducklings in your expansive cottagecore garden.
7 Realise no matter how much sleep you get you’re going to be perpetually tired until you pass away. How long can we continue like this?
8 Show no sign of remorse when you break dry jan.
9 Fail to get through any 24-hour period without letting everyone know just how cold you are. The blanket is the most subtle thing about you.
10 Wonder if it’s a boyfriend you really want or if it’s just dark by 4pm.
11 Return to work even though you don’t remember exactly what it is you do. Thriving.
12 Feel shocked and saddened that it’s January 2022. Time flies when your life is falling apart.
13 Decide now is the time to get a therapy dog. Borrow My Doggy was the gateway drug.
14 Feel grateful for the return of masks – our number one protection against men telling us to smile.
15 Wish there was a gingerbread latte toffee penny equivalent for January so we could throw caution to the wind and drown our existential sorrows on the way to the office. What would the Jan flavour be though, granola, porridge, CBD?
16 Leave your bed at 9am, under the illusion that you will also get to work for 9am. It’s called toxic positivity and you are sadly mistaken.
17 Stare at screens all day for a living to provide a good life for your dog.
18 Wear everything you got for Christmas and spend the whole day paranoid everyone’s staring at you in your new hat, boots, jumper and Fitbit.
19 Visit your local Waterstones, just for the mental health break. So, this is love.
20 Prepare to riot if Evermore doesn’t win Album of the Year at the Grammys.
Sex Toys, Banana Bread Perfume & Bridgerton: We Present Our Most Memorable Articles From 2021!
Whether it be the sex toys you need in your life, everything you need to know about PCOS and Endo, period pant reviews, manicure ideas or the sex scenes to hit play on when porn fails you, here’s a look at the articles you’ve loved clicking on this year.
PSA: 2019 is three whole whopping years ago and we are encouraging anyone who has any information on where those 36 months went to come forward immediately.
Call it what you will – a distraction tactic or dissociation maybe – but we intend to hold onto 2021 for a tad longer by harking back at the top articles you have loved reading this year.
Throughout lingering lockdowns, tier restrictions and parliamentary piss ups, we’ve loved bringing you content that matters and we hope Zoella will continue to be a welcoming digital home, stocked up with escapism, entertainment, empowerment and education through 2022 and beyond.
Whether it be the sex toys you need in your life, everything you need to know about PCOS and Endo, period pant reviews, all the thoughts and feelings we had whilst watching Bridgerton, interviews with OnlyFans creators, manicure ideas or the sex scenes to hit play on when porn fails you, here’s a look at the articles you’ve loved clicking on this year.
And spice things up they did! Who could forget the viral sex toys article that made headline news? It shouldn’t have been a big deal but the fact that it was just confirmed exactly why the gaping orgasm gap exists in the first place. In the absence of widely available inclusive, safe and equal sex education, we hope we can continue to be a platform that empowers a generation to understand and embrace their sexual identity unapologetically.
All The Thoughts & Feelings We Had Whilst Watching Bridgerton
We hate to be dramatic, but the Duke of Hastings was the best thing to cum out of 2020, perhaps the best thing to happen to us ever. It was the talk of The Ton last Christmas! Naturally, in true Lady Whistledown style, we had some thoughts we had to unpack as a matter of urgency and after watching the series a grand total of five times (for research purposes), it’s safe to say we will never look at a spoon nor a ladder in the same way again. Make haste, season 2!
Our April Fool’s Day Banana Bread & Loungewear Perfume
Gotcha! In third place was our April fool’s day prank when we literally took the lockdown mood of the nation and bottled it. For those of you who were genuinely upset this wasn’t a real scent you could swipe up on, well we’ll see what we can do…
The clitoris ranking at number four – we love to see it!
This article was really an ode to the clitoris and every one of its 8,000 nerve endings. From the best positions for clitoral stimulation to myth busting and breaking down the anatomy (the clitoris is mega in more ways than one), it’s all in there.
What is Ethical Porn And How to Change Your Watching Habits
Klaxon: porn produced for the male gaze just ain’t cutting it. If mainstream porn leaves you feeling some type of way (read: anything but fulfilled) this is your cue to explore the wonderful world of guilt-free ethical porn and adult erotica. Think consent, an accurate representation of sex, intimacy coordinators, fair pay, different body types, sexualities and races, disabilities, fantasies by women written for women, directed by women, produced by women. Celebrate genuine pleasure and explore a world of porn that’s not rooted in exploitation and misogyny. Here. For. It.
Who knew so many of us were invested in the lettuce habits of Hollywood. From Emma Chamberlain’s Erewhon style kale, avo and white bean salad to Jennifer Anniston’s flavourful mid-week lunch creation, here’s 6 salads that you’ll be all too glad to put in your mouth.
28 On-Screen Sex Scenes To Watch When Porn Fails You
We can’t say we’re surprised to see this one made it into our top 20, you randy betches #ProudOfYou.
Watching Sex/Life when you’re ovulating is officially god-tier self-care but in case you’ve been there, done that, watched the shower scene, there’s 27 more steamy on-screen moments to get you in the mood, from softcore cinematic steam to Regency romps and hot vampire shit.
Spotlight On Chronic Illness – Learning About PCOS & Endometriosis
It is estimated that 1 in 10 people in the UK are currently living with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Endometriosis. Despite how common both these chronic health conditions are, there’s still a lot of misinformation and stigma surrounding their symptoms and causes. In this blog post, we shine a light on these under-discussed conditions, their symptoms, and the treatment options available.
From the quick-cash myths to maintaining healthy relationships and the reality of creating sex content as your full-time job, we spoke to 4 women about their experience on OnlyFans and got the juicy details you’ve always wanted to know…
Whether you’re curious about connecting with your natural period again, trying to conceive or just plain sick of gobbling down a pill every day (yawn) but concerned about the side effects of quitting birth control, these personal experiences will help answer all your questions.
10 Escapist Book To Take Your Mind Off The Madness
These books were a great source of comfort when we were stuck in the throes of tier 4 restrictions back in January ‘21, and as we see the return of masks and work from home orders once more this Christmas, we’ll likely be curling up with them all over again. Featuring mistress of feel-good fiction Beth O’Leary and the ever-relatable Dolly Alderton, put your feet up, pour yourself a hot choc and forget the horrors of the outside world for a while.
Yoni Mapping? We’ll be honest, we’d never heard of it either which was why we had to go on a bit of a vaginal treasure-cum-pleasure hunt to find out more about this mindful massage technique. If you leave this article feeling like your vagina is anything less than a temple full of intricate treasure trails and pathways to glory, then please do give us hell.
50 Autumn Manicure Ideas To Add To Your Saves This Season
We know the panic of sitting in that salon chair without a library of manicure inspo all too well, which is where these save-worthy ideas come in. Praise be.
Snog Marry Avoid! The Zoella Team’s Best & Worst Buys
If there’s one thing we know our readers appreciate it’s *honesty*, especially when it comes to holy grail and holy fail beauty products, which is why this Snog, Marry, Avoid format proved to be pretty popular.
When it comes to beauty products, we want the kind of results that show up on Zoom and nothing less. Give us the bewitching head of hair that leaves our work pals in a trance and the kind of cult fragrance that permeates the screen and interferes with your wifi.
In the event that you might be dabbling with new make-up or skincare this Christmas or hitting pan on your desert island must-haves and wondering what beauty detour to take next, these are the products to snap up in a heartbeat and swerve like an ex you’ve clocked down the confectionery aisle in Sainsbury’s.
Sweatpants on, popcorn within reach (but strategically closer to you than anyone else), here’s our list of the modern classics everyone should watch, so that next time someone says, “I carried a watermelon” the pop-culture reference will not be wasted on you.
We Spoke to 8 People Who Identify As Asexual Ace Or Grey Ace
In this blog post, we have an honest and open discussion with 8 people who identify as asexual to raise awareness and dismantle some of the assumptions surrounding this often-misunderstood orientation.
“When are you going to pop one out?” It’s an unsolicited question no woman should have to deal with but sadly, one that’s all too familiar for most of us, whether it be from a well-meaning relative or a total stranger.
There are many reasons why someone might decide having children isn’t for them and whether it’s overpopulation, mental health, freedom, finances or – here’s a radical idea – they just don’t want children, what we chose to do with our own bodies should never be up for discussion.
In this Q&A, we hear from 10 childfree-by-choice women on everything from societal expectations, the perks of being DINK (double income, no kids) and why they think the decision not to have children is still so hard for society to accept, even in 2021.
We Planned The Perfect Weekend In Brighton So You Don’t Have To
You asked, we delivered. Here you’ll find an insider’s guide to Brighton, featuring all the coffee shops, bakeries, pubs, restaurants, independent shops and hidden gems this beautiful seaside city has to offer. If you’re planning a trip to B Town anytime soon, may we suggest you bookmark this beauty asap.
Enter: the only period pant review you need in your life. Naturally, as a team of proud menstruators and chronic oversharers, we couldn’t wait to put the Modibodi period undies to the test and share our thoughts on the internet. Keep bleeding, keep, keep bleeding *Leona Lewis voice*
From the best and worst of TikTok beauty to *those* iconic Amazon leggings, here’s hard evidence of all the times TikTok made us buy it. Spoiler alert: this article may feature buyer’s regret…
Before we unleash the sequins, pop the bolly and start feeling 2022, we’re taking a fond look back at the team’s best bits from this year: the memes, the precious mems and the mega babes we couldn't have done this year without.
That’s a wrap, folks! 2021 has slipped through our fingers quicker than a tub of Celebrations we vowed we wouldn’t touch till Christmas Day, all Bountys aside, and what a lively 12 months it’s been.
We’ve had personal highlights and pop culture drama aplenty, including parish council memes, Bernie and his travelling mittens, Adele’s hotly anticipated new album, the Euros, Taylor’s version of events, the Friends reunion, masks, no masks and back to masks again but we can all agree, it’s been a whole lot brighter than the year who shall not be named.
Before we unleash the sequins, pop the bolly and start feeling 2022 – let that be your official reminder to film your NYE reel & Tik Tok to the soundtrack of Taylor Swift’s 22 mashup – we’re taking a fond look back at the team’s best bits from this year: the memes, the precious mems and the mega babes we couldn’t have done this year without.
Lareese
Coming in hot at number one without a shadow of a doubt is my sister’s wedding! After having to postpone her dream day due to covid restrictions last year (standard), it felt surreal to finally celebrate together. It was a magical winter wedding – the sun was beaming down all day and I just remember feeling like my heart could burst for her. She looked blissfully happy and of course, she made the most stunning bride I’ve ever seen. Watching her and my darling dad walk down the aisle was the happiest moment of my life. After their husband and wife first dance, loads of confetti came down over everyone on the dancefloor and that feeling will stay with me forever. After a rocky year, everyone being back together again in one room for such a special occasion was the icing on the cake! What a wedding, what a couple <3
The Euros – for the feel-good vibes it gave the nation in the summer of ‘21. You couldn’t help but get wrapped up in the energy of football season and I often found myself shouting “it’s coming home” for no apparent reason to anyone who’d listen. It was one of those events that just brought everyone together and what could be more top 5 material than that.
The year of staycations (take two) – I think I’ve become rather fond of holiday from home ya know. We’ve had some great staycations this year with my absolute favourite being our trip to Norfolk to stay in a little converted train carriage. I love being amongst nature and greenery and that place is a haven for it. Chucking some logs on the fire in the evening and moving at a glacial pace for the weekend was endlessly good for the soul. We also managed to have a bougie night’s stay at The Pig in the South Downs and escaped to the Cotswolds for a few nights so as holidays go, that’s not too shabby for a year when travel was still up in the air.
My Zoella angels – I’ve cried several times thinking about how lost I would have been without them this year. We know the ins and outs of each other’s lives, the good, the bad, the ups and the downs and they’ve helped me more than they’ll ever know this year. We’ve all had our own personal hardships throughout 2021 but going to work is always a joy when you know these wonderful women are in your corner every step of the way. Calling them colleagues just sounds wrong because at this point, they know too much haha, there’s no going back now. LOVE YAS.
Jackie Weaver – the national treasure that she is! Well, it wouldn’t be a top 5 without a viral phenomenon would it now and that chaotic parish council meeting is the gift that keeps on giving. Whenever I’m faced with difficult times or shouty men, I ask myself what would Jackie do? Give that woman a Netflix docuseries for crying out loud.
Charlotte
Moving house was something I knew was inevitable towards the end of 2020 but I had SO much anxiety about actually making it happen and all the unknown of who I would live with and where, especially because I loved my old flat so much. I’m v proud and grateful that I found it within my past self to actually make the move happen though because oh my god it has just been the most transformational thing for my mental health and almost every amazing memory I’ve had this year has been a result of the new people I’ve met and loved getting to know. We’re planning to renew our tenancy in April and I can’t wait to create so many more memories with the special girls I spend every day with.
Red Taylor’s Version- would it even be a top 5 without mentioning this MASTERPIECE?! In the year that I got a Taylor inspired tattoo, the re-release of Red was just pure magic and experiencing all the feels of All Too Well again and with the new verses was exactly what I needed to get me through the autumn season, just in time to start listing to Christmas Tree Farm! I’m manifesting being able to write in my 2022 top 5 that I’ve seen Taylor live in concert next year and let me tell you I will SOB.
Can I write about my work colleagues here? Because I absolutely am going to. I started working for Team Zoella in 2020 and it was a pretty turbulent year (as we all know) to start a new job and get to know everyone properly – or at least attempt to – via Zoom. 2021 in comparison has been a complete breath of fresh air since we headed back to the office in September and to genuinely look forward to going into work and catching up with this wonderful group of women every week is truly a dream. They’re all bloody brilliant in so many ways and the emotional support they provide me is also second to none! Get yourself work besties who know the ins and outs of your entire life!
I wasn’t confident that I would be going abroad this year but escaping to Portugal at the end of September was truly such a tonic and I’m 10/10 grateful that it was possible. I didn’t realise how much I’d missed stepping off a plane and feeling the heat hit your skin and UGHH I would just like to relive it again ASAP. We didn’t choose Portugal for any particular reason other than lovely weather and it was not on the red list (lol) but I genuinely loved it and would really like to visit again because it was so beautiful- lack of vegan options aside!
In the words of Lizzie McGuire, my birthday weekend was what dreamssss were made of. My 2020 birthday was a very sad affair and so I tried to manage my expectations for this year but I tell you what, good friends always come through and have your back and I should have known I could rely on them to make it a great time. I spent it covered in glitter, wearing great outfits (if I do say so myself), drinking lots of tequila, eating brunches galore and wondering what I did to deserve such a transformative year. 24 is going pretty great so far!
Danielle
My House – My biggest achievement/excitement for the year has to be the house my partner Harry and I bought right at the end of 2020. We moved from our one-bedroom basement flat to the new house in between Christmas and New Year 2020 and I have to say it was THE DREAM. Being able to actually WFH in different rooms was fantastic for the first few months and then being able to host all my family and friends when we were eventually allowed has been wonderful. I’ve loved getting bits and bobs when I’m out and this year was my first year decorating properly for Christmas as I never usually bothered in my old flat! Obviously, houses are an ongoing project so there is tons to do next year, but I’m really proud of the progress we’ve made in 2021.
Attending Weddings – I’d say my most fun days out this year had to be weddings! I think because so many were cancelled and re-arranged I knew it was such a source of pain for so many couples and the ones that did end up going ahead felt like true normality! The first was a friend’s in July and felt like one of the first to be allowed an actual dance floor gasp! I remember it feeling like COVID didn’t exist which was such a relief after the previous 18 months!
Becoming a Formula 1 fan – This year I REALLY got into Formula 1 after being a bit of a fringe fan for so long (I blame the drive to survive Netflix series) and I have to say it’s been such a joy! Race weekends started quickly becoming my favourite and Harry is also a big fan so it was great watching a sport we both adored. I bought him tickets for the Silverstone Grand Prix in July and went with my sister and brother in law. We stayed so close to the track in these fun shepherds huts and the weekend itself was an absolute scorcher. I didn’t go on any abroad holidays this year but this weekend and the whole F1 season was such an adventure, ending exactly how I wanted it to for anyone curious #SuperMax!
Trips down to Cornwall – My parents moved to Cornwall at the end of 2020 so being able to visit them so often in arguably one of the most beautiful places in the country was a dream. As soon as lockdowns were over and the sun started to come out we came down for a week in May and it was simply glorious! I know a lot of people have rediscovered lots of the UK that they’d been neglecting over flying off to somewhere warm in Europe so Cornwall was inevitably heaving, there’s so much to see and do and enjoy down here! I’m down again for Christmas and can’t wait to go for a sea walk on the 25th!
Lifestyle changes I’ve made – It got to the point at the end of the summer where I just couldn’t deal with how unfit and sluggish I constantly felt. I contacted a friend who is also a lifestyle/nutrition/wellness coach to start forming some better habits and I feel SO much better. I look after what I’m eating so much more, drink a ton of water and I even joined the gym and I have to say it’s made me a lot happier. Being able to get to Christmas and feel a lot happier with my body was something I never thought I could do and I’m amazed how quickly I started to feel like my old self again after being a slob throughout so many lockdowns. Probably a bit of a weird thing to talk about but when I look back on the year it’s definitely brought me a lot of joy!
Darcey
Staycations – This year I went on some truly lovely staycations with friends and family, I had a trip to Broadstairs and Margate, to Dernwood Camping and Hastings most recently in the year. Not being able to go abroad (well could but unfortunately not for me this year) has made me appreciate all the wonderful things we can do in England. Although we don’t have the lovely heat that hits you when you step off a plane (that is the best feeling, we do have some lovely beaches and places to see, a whole lot of countryside and lovely English old towns with so much character. I think moving forward, I’ll try and do a UK staycation every year and one abroad, I’d love to visit Edinburgh one day so maybe that will be next on my list!
Back to (somewhat) Normality – After spending the majority of 2020 shielding due to living with someone who was at high risk, the vaccination programme for me was really fundamental to me having any kind of normality again and something I truly am forever grateful for. Yes, vaccines don’t mean we can wave goodbye to covid, unfortunately, but it makes life for people like me a lot easier. Being able to go to a pub again with friends, or out for food felt super special but also so normal, like I hadn’t just spent a year unable to do these things. That was a big moment for me this year so it had to make it into my top 5.
My Birthday Babyyyy! – So my birthday in 2020 was so lovely and I was lucky that I am born in June so by the time my birthday came round I was able to meet 5 others outside (sounds strange saying that now ha). However, my birthday this year was bloody spectacular! My friends and family made so much effort and I felt truly so loved. I had a birthday brunch at Oeuf cafe, followed by the most delicious meal at The Salt Room (if you are Brighton based or visiting and love seafood, you need to go). One of my closest friends Amna surprised me with a meal at Park Chinois in Mayfair which was absolutely divine, with live music and really tasty food, particularly their dim sum! I also spent a weekend with some other friends in London celebrating mine and my fave twins birthdays (we are born 3 days apart), so all in all I was like the Queen and had a birthday week, will be doing that every year I think.
Team Zoella – I know a few of us have mentioned this, but I really don’t think I would have gotten through the last 18 months without this wonderful team of people around me. Working with these gals is like working with friends, I don’t think I could even class them as just colleagues, we have so many laughs together, we cry together, we act like crazy people together when the 3pm slump hits in the office and the caffeine or sugar we’ve all just inhaled hits haha! They are all such amazing human beings in their own right and getting back into an office with them all this year really was a true highlight, although we can’t be together now (WFH hits again) I can’t wait already until we all get the go-ahead again to go back to the office! For now I shall appreciate seeing all their lovely faces on the old zoooomy.
Spending another Christmas and Birthday with my Mumzy – I don’t speak too often about my personal stuff on here and actually, this is number 1 of my highlights but I didn’t want to start off too soppy for my top 5. My Mum has been unwell for the past 18 months with terminal cancer, it’s a real emotional rollercoaster and it really puts life into perspective when you go through something like this. Every Birthday and Christmas we get to spend with her again feels like a true blessing, it’s her 50th birthday this year and a milestone we feel so grateful to be able to celebrate together.
Maddie
My top moment of the year without a doubt is becoming a mother to my little girl. It definitely took me a little while to adjust but after the first few months of many tears, painful recovery and sleepless nights, things have been getting better and better and despite still not being the best sleeper in the world I honestly couldn’t love her any more. She’s a wonder, so fun and incredibly determined already, I wake up every day feeling incredibly lucky to be her mum.
After a two year design and construction process my family and I finally moved into our home, it’s probably my biggest personal achievement to date and I feel incredibly proud of all of the hard work my husband and I put into making our dream a reality. It was a long old rollercoaster of a journey to get us to walking through the front door and calling it home, there were many tears and long nights to make it happen but it was so worth it.
Joining Zoella full time was definitely a highlight of the year for me. Although I’ve worked with the team and Zoe for years and I’ve always been a part of the Zoella business, it was really nice to make it official and join as the new MD post my maternity leave in September. Juggling motherhood and this new role has been much smoother than i had pictured and I feel really lucky to have such an amazing support system both at home and the brilliant team at work.
I feel like TV shows have been really strong this year and especially during my maternity leave I devoured a lot of seasons far too quickly. Some front runners include; Sex Education, Selling Sunset, Dexter, Bridgeton, Emily in Paris, It’s a Sin, The Crown and the Undoing. Told you there was a lot! The end of the year is also coming in hot with the new Sex and the City show ‘And Just Like That’ coming to our screens which I’m sure I will LOVE.
Cornwall! I’ve been really fortunate to spend a lot of time in Cornwall given that’s where my husband’s family are from so we naturally try and spend as much time there as we can but during my maternity leave we really made the most of it and had a lot of extended stays there this year. I think like the rest of the country I fell in love with it even more than ever, the wide sandy beaches, clear waters and home from home feeling was just what we needed after being pushed apart by the pandemic for far too long.
The Top Winter Accessories Keeping Us Warm This Season
From berets to beanies, mittens to Ugg mini boots (iykyk), there are endless ways to jazz up your coat and thermal leggings look this winter and accessorise in a way SJP would be proud of.
Brrr- whack the heating up, get your electric blankets going and put on another layer people, it’s cold out! The coolest months of the year are upon us and now that Christmas is done and dusted, suddenly those low temperatures aren’t so magical anymore. Thankfully balaclavas are having a moment this season, and we’ll forever be advocating for style + comfort + warmth wrapped into one, thank you very much- there will be no bare legs in the name of Fashun around these parts!
From berets to beanies, mittens to Ugg mini boots (iykyk), there are endless ways to jazz up your coat and thermal leggings look this winter and accessorise in a way SJP would be proud of. Add a hat, scarf, gloves, and of course mask to your daily lewk and watch how easy it is to dodge that ex you’d rather not see from across the Sainsbury’s fruit and veg aisle now. What did we say about comfort and practicality again!?
Danielle
I feel like in the UK I forget how cold it can be EVERY year, then all of a sudden it’s January and my fingers are freezing every time I leave the house. I’ve actually already picked up a few of these items all ready for winter, I couldn’t resist jumping in the ultra-mini UGG boot trend after seeing how good they looked post-gym (I also think they’ll be great for travel). Azurina does beautiful personalised accessories and this scarf is SO soft! Invested in some North Face gloves with ‘e-tips’ they’re quite thin so I can slip them in my small handbags. Cashmere socks are such a delight and really do make a difference in terms of warmth, perfect if you always have cold feet when you go to bed like me. Berets seem to be the new beanies, not sure if I can get it to sit right on my head yet but I’ll give it a go!
I live with a good accessory in winter to brighten up all the dull thermals and layers aplenty, and there are some real gems online this year! We shared some balaclavas on a Zoella post earlier during autumn and I’ve been contemplating if I’m cool enough to wear one ever since then. As the temperatures continue to drop I feel like for practical reasons alone it’s a must! As a matter of urgency though I need some gloves because this gal has seriously poor circulation and my hands are COLD AF lately. I love these kitsch mittens!
It’s that time of the year when I start getting weirdly into berets again and Emily in Paris season 2 is only partly to blame. During the winter months, I gravitate towards snug layers and cosy accessories because I’m a nicer person when I’m warm. I’ve been dream shopping these Birkenstocks for far too long so I’m taking that as a sign I need these glorified slippers in my life. I’ve also linked to a pair of shearling gloves and a chunky scarf because no one above the age of 30 likes a chilly neck and frozen phalanges when they’re out and about.
Can’t go wrong with some good quality winter accessories to keep you warm this winter! I’ve linked a cosy lilac scarf from ASOS for a pop of colour, touch-screen gloves are a life saver when it’s freezing but you’ve got texts to reply to. I’ve linked a really bright green beanie from Mango which I think will look so cool with a lot of outfits and lastly thermal socks are a must-have in the winter to wear under your boots, it keeps you so much warmer.
I wish i had the head for a beret. I’m half French, it should suit me but it just doesn’t so i embrace bobble hats and beanies in a big way come winter. I bought some North Face boots this year and they’ve been an absolute godsend on the cold days. I feel like, as long as your head and feet are warm, everything else takes care of itself!
The People We’ve LOVED Following on Social Media in 2021
Whether it be their outfits, their words, their sense of humour, their crazy good creativity or simply their gorgeous digital presence, these are the people who light up our feeds like the human lighthouses that they are!
Social media is often condemned for the negative impact it’s had on our lives – the comparison, the relentless consumption of information and unsolicited opinions to name a few, but for all its messy & murky pitfalls, it has created this incredible sense of community and connectivity, allowing us to discover some incredible people from all walks of life and all corners of the globe.
Whether it be their outfits, their words, their sense of humour, their crazy good creativity or simply their gorgeous digital presence, these are the people who light up our feeds like the human lighthouses that they are, continually making these platforms an open and inviting place to spend our precious downtime.
Here are the people, brands, meme accounts and insanely talented creators who have given us a much-needed daily dose of serotonin throughout 2021.
Since becoming a mum the content I consume has changed slightly and I’ve definitely noticed a gravity pull towards other women in similar shoes to me. One woman in particular who has been a real source of inspiration and comfort this year is Ashley Louise James. Her little boy is just a few months older than my daughter and it’s been so reassuring seeing her be so honest about her feelings towards motherhood, breastfeeding and postnatal depression. She shows all sides of motherhood and isn’t afraid to share the dark as well as the light, in social media that can be very rare to find.
My life turned upside down this year, things got very REAL and responsibilities have peaked now I have a person to care for. Pre pandemic I was always working and playing in equal measures at a million miles per hour. If I had a free weekend, a quick trip somewhere in Europe wasn’t off the cards. Those days are behind me and although I wouldn’t change where I am now for the world, sometimes it’s nice to escape in some content which echos your past life. For me that’s Lorna! She’s so genuine and down to earth yet she lives this absolutely fabulous life and takes any opportunity to explore the world whilst clearly also working very hard at the same time.
s/o to my number one baby girl. Not only does Carrie’s creativity leave me floored every single time (her Space NK Christmas campaigns are nothing short of a masterpiece), but she has a wonderful way of making life’s most ordinary moments an art form. Crumpled bed sheets, desk days, breakfast in bed, a cup of tea and some welsh cakes – how she captures the quiet and easily overlooked joys the every day on film brings me a ridiculous amount of happiness year after year.
Her account feels a lot like a home within this app, forever inspiring me to pick up my camera and savour life’s simple pleasures whether it be a stroll in the park or a misty morning. Her account is curated and considered but with a lived-in magic that’s so quintessentially her own. If I sound like a fangirl it’s because I am.
I’ve followed Lydia for years now but watching her invest in herself this year and show up for herself in ways she’s never had to before has made for the ultimate wholesome feel-good viewing. I find great comfort in people sharing their vulnerability openly and the way she’s spoken about her personal hardships over the last 18 months and the changes she’s put in place as a consequence of what she’s gone through in the online space has been so inspiring to see. I love it when women love themselves harder, fight for their boundaries and live their truth, all while creating a wonderful life for themselves. It’s bloody beautiful. No, you’re crying!
This woman needs a book deal because no one crafts words like her. I’ve always loved long chatty captions and glorious streams of consciousness full of observations about life, relationships, orgasms and all the vanilla moments in between; all the glimmers of existence we often forget are the absolute essence of living. Chloe is a wordsmith of the highest order and reading her musings on everything from working from home to the thundering passing of time has been like food for the soul. Praise be for your glorious mind CP.
Following her survival story has been incredibly life-affirming and inspiring for so many reasons. Grace was put in a coma after contracting Covid whilst pregnant with her son. After delivering him two months early via c section, she then spent 3 months in an induced coma and was given just a 5% chance of survival. Hearing her brave account of her experience and watching her be the mama she was always destined to be to her baby boy feels like the reminder we all need to LIVE life to the fullest.
The wonky knob showdown with her publisher had me howling for days. And then she called him again when his cat died and that sent me over the edge. I mean she dedicated said book to ‘fit’ Ben Shephard on morning tv – get this woman knighted for her services to public morale already.
Most people who know me well know I love a poem, I have an IG folder of saves packed full of Brian Billston and Rupi Kaur and Zoe actually bought me a poetry book for Christmas last year! So when I came across simplysayo on TikTok I was immediately obsessed! Hilarious poems in short video format from many of her different characters are a joy to watch, some are ridiculous, some are hard-hitting, and some are so clever it takes you three watches to get all the double meanings and puns thrown in! Sayo perfectly captures the vibe of the nation when she comments on the most popular stories of the week which can be anything from England in the world cup final to Matt Hancock doing… Matt Hancock things. Her recent poem covering the Omicron variant and its original roots poorly portrayed by the media was nothing short of a masterpiece. As with most of my favourite TikTok accounts, I end up finding them on Instagram so I can gobble up even more of their content and get a feel for who they actually are as a person and let me tell you Adéṣayọ̀ is such a badass and beacon of inspiration. Watching her celebrate so many milestones with followers this year has been brilliant, and I can already see it’s opened up so many doors for her as it absolutely should because the talent is immaculate! 100% one to watch over the coming years, urging you to follow!
If you haven’t heard of Tinx yet you must have been living under a rock for the last year! Tinx’s rise to creator stardom started with her pretty profound dating advice (see box theory, and reverse box theory) using a tiny mic on TikTok but I must say I now watch her far more on the gram. Her stories are always right at the front of my follower list and they’re super casual, funny, inspiring, the list goes on. As someone who is quite happily engaged you wouldn’t think one of my favourite creators would be someone who gives so much advice on finding your person but I assure you Tinx is so much more than that. From telling us what she’s eating at all times, to what book she’s binging, to whether or not she’s spotted a Bronco that day, it’s always fun to see a day in the life of someone in LA/New York/ London (she gets around!) There are so many ‘Tinxisms’ that knowing her codes makes you feel like you’re in a fun millennial internet crew, for example, RMW = Rich Mom Walk – getting your steps in early morning and thinking about the day ahead/manifesting what you want out of life and kick-starting the day with power and control. I might not be doing the whole thing justice so just go and follow and join us in the club!
I’ve followed Abisola for YEARS, ever since she created a relaxing apartment for LFW bloggers needing a rest, so we’re going on 8ish years, however, this year Abi’s content just hit different! Currently, Abi is delivering the chicest, sexiest, on-trend fashion and interiors content on Instagram, no contest. From showing us what’s going on in her studios (available to rent out for shoots) to where she’s travelling, I’m always hooked by both her feed and story content. Where Abi really shines for me is through her branded content, usually something you might skip. The utmost care, respect and effort is always put into the content she delivers and you can tell she only works with brands that she has a really natural fit with, recently Abisola was commissioned to create a temporary retail space with By Rotation and seeing her put together the space and why was so interesting to watch, unsurprisingly it turned out beautiful! I’ve loved watching her on her travels to New York and LA, quickly scribbling down all of her recommendations and saving her outfit inspo. Go and check out Abi on IG now if any if this sounds like your vibe as she does it SO WELL.
Can the Klein family adopt me already?! Listening/watching along to the H3 Podcast during lockdown honestly got me through those first dreary months of 2021 and it’s become a solid part of my WFH routine to have Ethan and the crew in the background of so much of my life now. For those who don’t know the podcast is a comedy and chat show based on popular culture and current internet moments and it’s kept me going having such regular content to go-to whenever I need a laugh- 100% my comfort watch! I would also love a wardrobe full of Teddy Fresh (Hila’s brand) in 2022, please.
The queen of Reels! I met Karina in 2019 and her infectious personality and smile has stuck with me since then, giving me a boost of positivity every time she pops up on my feed. Not only are her outfits always 11/10, but I live for her Story updates too and the balance of real-life with a dreamy style that makes you wanna be besties IRL. She is the absolute queen of smock dresses and occasion styling and I always head to her page when I need a dose of achievable and gorgeous style inspo.
Team Zoella did a gorgeous Self Love Yoga class with Hannah earlier this year and I’ve been obsessed with this ray of sunshine ever since. I’ve since been to more of her classes and always leave with a full heart and feeling recharged and with a newfound appreciation for my body and self. Her Instagram is a gorgeous extension of that, regularly sharing unfiltered selfies, easy and accessible ways to connect with your body and in general beautiful tips for a life more in tune with yourself. I can’t wait to learn more from her in 2022!
I got my Taylor Swift/Evermore inspired tattoo in 2021 and with the re-release of Red, it’s clear this year was the ONE for Swifties everywhere. The gorgeous girls from Chats and Reacts came up on my TikTok FYP so many times and I fell in love with both their gorgeous Australian accents, charm and insight into all things Ms Swift. Their reaction to the 10-minute version of All Too Well was a personal favourite of mine and I want to be pals with them both so much!
Thank goodness the latter part of 2021 saw me heal a lot from a 2020 break-up, but the first 6 months of the year were still pretty rough. Filling my feed with positive energy and healing tools and information was a really transformative choice for me, and the content from Create the Love/Mark Groves was such a big part of that. I can scroll through any of Mark’s posts or videos and gain so much- he just really speaks my language and I can’t wait to learn more from his work in 2022.
Without these guys I would have never been able to keep up with everything that’s going on in the UK at the moment, from politics to covid, they cover everything and with rules constantly changing for Covid, I’ve found this account super helpful. Definitely an account doing a whole lot of good for the people!
I am obsessed with this woman, OBSESSED. She is so bloody funny and her Love Island rundowns are iconic to say the least. You don’t even need to watch the series, just watch her narrow the best bits into one video and you’ll be laughing in seconds. She also does celeb rundowns, things happening in the news etc, but always so funny and also so accurate!
I go to Ellie for the majority of my style Inspo, she dresses super cool and her gram is very aesthetically pleasing. I really like using Instagram and Pinterest for fashion Inspo and building saved folders, I think this is always a real positive from these platforms is people expressing themselves how they choose and inspiring others.
At the later end of this year, I decided that I wanted to work on my health and to start eating more nourishing meals accompanied by more exercise. I live a very sedentary life and with the past year of lockdowns, I became quite unfit and wasn’t feeling like myself anymore. I followed Rosie from the beginning of my journey and she is so great, she is super positive and everything she does revolves around self-love and making these changes in life for the right reason. She shares really tasty recipes and keeps everyone updated with her own journey, she also very much preaches to still enjoy the things you love. She’s just bought out a cookbook too so definitely check her out if this is something you are interested in!
If you love baking you need to follow Benjamina asap! She bakes the most delicious looking goods, including gluten-free and vegan options so there really is something for everyone. The other day she posted about a pistachio, cardamon and lemon cake and I was actually salivating. There’s a load of baking Inspo over on her Instagram and she also works with other bakers too on recipes so there’s always fresh new things to try!
The Redecorating Game Every Interior Design Addict Will Love!
Introducing Redecor – the design app made with home decor lovers in mind. Whether you want to get some inspiration for your next decorating job, develop your aesthetic, pick up a creative hobby or simply indulge in a spot of mindful self-expression!
The Christmas tree’s packed away for another year, you’ve tussled with the tinsel and your home is suddenly looking cold, naked and a little bit sad without the warm glow of a hundred fairy lights and all of December’s jolly fandangle.
Before you know it, you’re ordering paint samples (we’ve got more Farrow & Ball colour cards to our name than underwear at this point), seven cushion covers and mentally redesigning every inch of your living space because that post-Christmas interior itch has found you and it won’t leave until it’s had a good scratch. All you want for 2022 is a utility room and a floor-to-ceiling bookcase, is that really too much to ask?
But what if there’s another way to get your interior design fix without committing to yet another spenny and time-consuming reno project? We’ve discovered just the thing and there’s not one blister-giving heat gun in sight. Huzzah!
Introducing Redecor – the design app made with home decor lovers in mind. Whether you want to get some inspiration for your next decorating job, develop your aesthetic, pick up a creative hobby or simply indulge in a spot of mindful self-expression, Redecor has hundreds of design solutions and materials for you to try and a new design challenge to complete every day.
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How to play!
In classic design challenges, you’ll be answering a client brief with set requirements, designing everything from an extravagant dinner party, a makeup studio, a reading nook or a Japandi-style home office. If you’re the competitive type, you can go head-to-head with another random player in a design duel to battle it out in a 24-hour challenge.
Another way to earn virtual cash prizes is to critique other player’s designs by voting on the best ones and collecting XP (experience points), you can then use your Redecor currency to unlock unique décor items from wallpaper to quartz counters, throws, parquet flooring and that *one* particular shade of paint you’re desperate to have in your inventory. Ours is a tub of Sandstone, please.
We love playing Redecor in the morning before we get stuck into the day or in the evenings, plonked in front of the tv. If anyone asks us what we’re up to in January, we will tell them we are very busy indeed, faffing with lampshades and deciding which tea towel will best compliment our client’s kitchen cabinetry.
If you’re up to date with every episode of Escape to the Chateau and find yourself stuck in an interior design rut between the Christmas and New Year limbo, download Redecor now (for free!) for hours of creativity and relaxation!
10 Fiction Podcasts to Listen to on a Dew-Soaked Morning Walk
From gripping to gruesome and emotional to inspiring, there’s something for everyone in the world of fiction podcasts to capture your imagination and transport you out of Crimbo Limbo and straight into another world entirely.
The pre-Christmas haze is beginning, in which life feels like a blur of Love Actually quotes, mince pies for breakfast and taking a midday bath because, well, why not? If escaping the conflict over who opened the cheese and crackers before Boxing Day (no comment) is slowly becoming more essential than ever, look no further for 10 fiction podcasts perfect for a morning walk that will have you smashing out 10k steps in no time- ideal for digesting said cheese and crackers, sorry not sorry.
From gripping to gruesome and emotional to inspiring, there’s something for everyone in the world of fiction podcasts to capture your imagination and transport you out of Crimbo Limbo and straight into another world entirely. Just make sure to look when you’re crossing the road on said dew-soaked walks, okay?
Forest 404:
Welcome to BBC Radio 4’s innovative new podcast – Forest 404! This immersive sci-fi thriller is set in the 24th century, in a version of the world in which forests have been erased from history after a data crash called The Cataclysm. Spanning 9 episodes, the story follows protagonist Pan as she discovers a set of sound recordings of rainforests – places that no longer exist – which prompts her to look for the truth about how the old world died. If you can’t get enough of this sci-fi lover’s dream you’re in for a treat, because each drama episode also has an accompanying talk with a diverse range of speakers including musicians, bio-futurists, anthropologists and tree-climbers that really bring this story to life!
36 Questions:
Hopeless romantics and musical lovers pay attention, this one’s for you. Released in three 50 minute-long acts, this audio-only musical follows estranged husband and wife, Jase and Judith, on the quest to try and save their crumbling marriage with a set of 36 questions designed to make couples fall in love. Including the star of Hamilton, Glee and Mindhunter, Jonathan Groff, the podcast truly feels like you’re enjoying a movie or broadway show for your ears without needing to leave your home- what’s not to love?! This hit release from 2017 is still as impactful now as it was upon the first release, and covering themes such as identity, oneness and the longevity of our romantic relationships, it’s the perfect Christmas to New Year limbo listening for those feeling reflective.
The Amelia Project:
Winner of 2020’s Audio Verse Awards and 6 other awards including Best Audio Play Production and Writing of an Audio Play Production, The Amelia Project is a dark comedy podcast about a secret agency offering a very special service: faking its clients’ deaths and bringing them back with a new identity. The series starts with a succession of interviews with clients including cult leaders, scientists, politicians all desperate to disappear before a broader narrative begins to emerge. With an average of 4.8 stars out of 5 on iTunes, start your fiction listening with the best of the best and dive straight into the 46 episode long back catalogue.
Moonface:
Seeking a podcast storyline that stays with you? Moonface is for you. The six 20-30 minute episodes follow Paul, a first-generation immigrant and gay man, as he navigates living at home with his mother who is unaware of his sexuality, mainly due to their language barrier: she doesn’t speak English and his Korean is somewhat lacking. The podcast follows Paul’s struggle with finding himself and trying to maintain an honest relationship with his mother- something writer James Kim has felt within his personal life too:
“So, I took it from my own experience of not being able to speak to my parents, because my mom doesn’t speak much English and I don’t speak Korean. I played around with that idea and thought, `you know, maybe it’s that this character needs to tell this person something, but they can’t because they don’t speak the same language.”
Raw, thought-provoking and poignant, Moonface is the perfect listen when you’re seeking a podcast to cut through the noise and keep you enthralled throughout. If you miss your stop on the bus, we apologise.
Honeymoon For One:
Following the story of 28 year old Claire- a soon to be married woman who catches her fiance cheating on her the week of their wedding- the 7 episode series sees her jet off on her non-refundable honeymoon regardless, but instead alone. If you fancy being transported out of the dismal state of affairs we’re currently experiencing and dropped off somewhere in an Italian summer’s dream then look no further – true escapism at its peak.
Mabel:
With 40 episodes in total, you won’t be left without plans this Christmas if bingeing a podcast is a pastime you’re seeking. Mabel is a listen with a spooky sentiment, focusing on all things ghosts, missed connections, family secrets and homes with unknown entities. Anyone else feeling a cool chill all of a sudden? The story follows Anna Limón, a nurse, trying to get in contact with Mabel Martin, a missing person, and the twists, turns and treachery that ensues thereafter. With themes of magical realism transporting you to a land in which otherworldly presences aren’t so uncommon, expect goosebumps!
Holy Sh!t:
Holy Sh!t is a comedy podcast about female friendship, sex, betrayal and Jesus, told entirely through Whatsapp voice messages. Meg and Lydia have been besties forever- the only difference being Lydia believes in God and hard work and Meg believes in jazz and sexual freedom. As they study apart at different universities, the podcast is formed of a series of hilarious voice notes that sum up what it means to be best pals. Avoid listening on the bus if you don’t fancy stifling laughter into your mask.
From Now:
Lost spaceship, USS HOPE, suddenly returns to Earth after vanishing thirty-five years earlier, but when the lone survivor disembarks mysteriously looking the exact same age as when he left, a media frenzy ensues. When he finally reunites with his formerly identical twin brother (now an old man), what starts as a joyful reconciliation soon leads to dark revelations that threaten their relationship — and the future of humanity. Starring Richard Madden (side eye emoji) and produced by Brian Cox, this star-studded 6 episode series is intense, immersive and suspenseful – you won’t believe it’s simply audio!
Fruit:
Fruit follows the journey of a professional football player, X, through his sexual exploration as a gay man and his battles with self-identity both on and off the field. The first-person narrative chronicles X’s relationship with his friends, teammates and family and the challenges that arise from the alpha-male dominated industry of professional sports, and the contrasts with his personal life and struggles. From Issa Rae, creator of Insecure on HBO, the reviews of Fruit are full of ‘More episodes please’, ‘I need more!!’ and 5 stars all around. You won’t be disappointed!
The Left Right Game
An idealistic young journalist, played by Tess Thompson, is trying to make a name for herself by following a group of paranormal explorers, obsessed with a seemingly harmless pastime known as the Left/Right Game. But the quest for the perfect story takes her into a supernatural world that she and the other members of the expedition can neither handle nor survive. This 10 episode series has been uniquely adapted from a Reddit post, and with 4.5 stars from nearly 300 reviews on Apple Podcasts, this gripping adaption is one to start immediately for crime and thriller enthusiasts everywhere.
Imaginary Adavice:
Fancy something a little different to finish? We got you. Imaginary Advice is a collection of audio-fiction experiments in which writer and director Ross Sutherland presents a brand-new piece of writing, be it short-stories, monologues, essays or a combination of all three across 84 episodes, with more set to return in February 2022! Described as one of the best, original and creative podcasts around, it’s so good you’ll likely be tempted to add to the long list of glowing reviews yourself!
A Fun Festive Quiz To Do Round The Christmas Table This Year
One festive pastime you can rely on to add some spice to your Friendsmas dinner or keep the whole family entertained in the 4pm lull is a good old fashioned quiz - because who doesn’t love a spot of Family Fortunes style excitement?!
Is it even Christmas if you’re not forced to endure endless hours of organised fun with your extended family when most of us would rather be watching the Xmas specials? We thought not. From charades so frustrating you’re forced into grabbing a bev from the bar cart to the most infuriatingly terrible depiction of the Nativity scene during Pictionary, it’s safe to say there are some games best left collecting dust on the shelf…
One festive pastime you can rely on to add some spice to your Friendsmas dinner or keep the whole family entertained in the 4pm lull is a good old fashioned quiz – because who doesn’t love a spot of Family Fortunes style excitement?! All we’ll say is if Vernon Kay is involved, sign us the f**k up. As a nation, it’s safe to say we overdid it on the quiz front during the 2020 chapter of banana bread and Joe Wicks we’d prefer to forget (sorry Joe), but in the spirit of new chapters and rewriting happier memories this Christmas, the time is now for bringing back the humble quiz. With an emoji round for TikTok lovin’ teens of the family, a classic Christmas round for the grandparents, and finally some ‘was it during 2020 or 2021 trivia’ that everyone can get involved in, look no further for a selection of juicy questions ready to pull everyone out of a cheese induced food coma pronto.
Christmas Films – Emoji Style:
It does what is says on the tin- simply decipher the emojis below to create the titles of some of the most well-loved Christmas films around. Bonus point for number 9 because he’s a rogue one…
♥️
Answers:
Last Christmas
The Holiday
Love Actually
The Princess Switch
Christmas Chronicles
Miracle on 34th Street
The Muppets Christmas Carol
Bad Santa
Christmas with The Kranks
Elf
The Classic Christmas Qs:
The Christmas round- because is it really a December quiz without it? These family-friendly questions range from historic to foodie to popular culture and back again, providing something for uncles, cousins, and grandpa alike.
If you were born on Christmas Day, what star sign are you?
Which Christmas song is the highest-selling single of all time?
How many siblings does Kevin have in Home Alone?
Which country donates the Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square?
What year was The Snowman first shown on TV (on Boxing Day)?
1982
1985
1990
1979
In the song ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ what was the gift given on the seventh day?
Pipers pipin’
Swans a-swimming
Lords a leapin’
Geese a layin’
In which country is it tradition to eat KFC for Christmas dinner?
How many different types of sweets are there in a standard box of Quality Street?
What date in January should all your Christmas decorations come down by, according to tradition?
What do Excitable Edgar and Monty the Penguin have in common?
Answers:
Sagittarius
White Christmas, Bing Crosby
Four
Norway
A, 1982
Seven swans a-swimming
Japan
12: The Purple One, The Green Triangle, Coconut Eclair, Orange Chocolate Crunch, Toffee Deluxe, Fudge, Milk Choc Block, Toffee Penny, Caramel Swirl, Strawberry Delight, Orange Creme.
January 5
Both are stars of previous John Lewis adverts
A Year in the Making- The 2021 Round:
Have you been paying attention this year? It’s time to find out. Unlike 2020, the past 365 days have flown by faster than it takes to demolish a freshly baked camembert , but for the attentive amongst us, this round might just be a breeze…
What was the name of the picture book for children written by Meghan, Duchess of Sussex?
Marks & Spencer goes to war with Aldi over what cake?
Which football club wins the FA Cup for the first time, defeating Chelsea 1–0 in the final at Wembley?
Who was the former owner of a Ford Escort sold at auction for more than £52,000?
At the end of November, which country became the world’s newest republic?
Line of Duty finally identifies the Fourth Man, better known by what initial?
Which of the following billionaires went to space in 2021?
Warren Buffett and Mark Zuckerberg
Sergey Brin and Bernard Arnault
Richard Branson and Jeff Bezos
Elon Musk and Bill Gates
What anniversary is the Harry Potter film franchise celebrating in 2021?
Who won Album of the Year at the 2021 Grammy Awards?
In which month were zero daily deaths from Covid 19 reported in the UK for the first time since the start of the pandemic in March 2020?
How many players took part in Netflix’s record breaking Squid Games?
391
422
456
337
Which body of water was blocked by the Ever Given container ship back in March?
Which singer performed at President Joe Biden’s inauguration?
Who wore an all black, head to toe bodysuit to this year’s Met Gala?
What was the name of the comedy special released by Bo Burnham?
Answers:
The Bench
Colin the Caterpillar
Leicester City
Princess Diana
Barbados
H
Richard Branson and Jeff Bezos
20
Taylor Swift with Folklore
June 2021
C, 456
Suez Canal
Lady Gaga
Kim Kardashian
Inside
Think Twice- Was it 2020 or 2021?
You’d be forgiven if every answer in this round was wrong because honestly wtf was the last two years. Nevertheless this quick fire final round is the light relief we need after another heavy year, and some potentially easy points for the pop culture experts in your family.
Bridgerton dropped on Netflix
Olivia Rodrigo released her debut album SOUR
*The* Jackie Weaver debacle
Meghan and Harry announced they were stepping back from the Royal Family
The US Capitol building was stormed
The Friends reunion
Emma Raducanu winning the US Open
Jesy left Little Mix
We fell in love with Noodle the pug and if it was a bones or no bones day on TikTok
The Tokyo 2020 Olympics
Answers:
2020
2021
2021
2020
2021
2021
2021
2020
2021
2021
How many answers did you get right? Disclaimer: Team Zoella is not responsible for post quiz arguments with Uncle Steve…
