If you're going to do something, do it right (or #viplife)

I've discovered that I'm a complete concert snob.

I love music, and gigs and festivals are always bound to make me get pumped up and create playlists to have on repeat until the date comes. But then the sun rises on the day of the concert, and I totally freak out. The mass of people, the weather uncertainty that comes with any outdoor event, and so many other things combine in my mind until my brain is a swirling mess of worst-case scenarios and all I want to do is go back to bed and hide under the doona.

Now, I've not always been like this. In fact a very large portion of my late teens and early twenties were spent chasing gigs - the bigger, the better. The thing is, I'm older and wiser now, and a lot more risk-averse. I like a solid, staid life with plenty of routine and only the occasional event or adventure to trip me up.

Based on this boring old Grown-up Katy's need for some semblance of order, in the last few years I have discovered a great way to have my concert and see it too... VIP baby!

After my husband bought us tickets to enjoy the Caloundra Music Festival in the Kings Club section a couple of years ago, I've developed quite the taste for standing on the side of the stage, or being in a Reserved Seating section with our own bar and gasp! clean toilets.

Throwback to #viplife with Trainee Mama and Pete Murray, because hanging at the Artist's Bar is where it's at.

I enjoyed another reminder of my highfalutin tastes on the weekend just gone when Brooke (of Blonde Ambition) took me as her date to see Bryan Adams at Sirromet Winery. Platinum seating, no less. (Her brother Michael was unable to use his birthday-gift tickets, so we got lucky!)

Hostess with the mostest, Brooke of Blonde Ambition. And I mean, really. You can't visit one of the most popular wineries in QLD without actually sampling the wine, amiright?

Ok, so my outfit photo isn't the best. I swear, I didn't wear a sign. (Although the emotional woman a row in front did, and MY WORD she was in love with Bryan. Cue tears.)

I actually wore Jag denim shorts, Mink kimono from Myer on SALE now), Lorna Jane tank, Adorne necklace, Sussan fedora and Spendless gumboots. (And those boots were SO comfy. Surprisingly!)

I love when my mildly-fashionable friends try to be all stylish. Pffft.

A Day on the Green also featured support acts The Superjesus and Baby Animals, and whilst we missed most of The Superjesus' set, I was MIGHTY impressed by Baby Animals. I always am. Suze DeMarchi can do no wrong, her vocals are outstanding, and she rocks tuxedo trousers like no other 52 year old woman on the planet.

All this to say that I can no longer schlep it at festivals and concerts, because there's something refreshing about not sharing my personal space with complete strangers, even if they do have the same taste in music as me.

So, who's got front row tickets to Chris Isaak, and nobody to go with? ;)

Seriously though, thanks for the invite Brooke - and Happy Belated Birthday Michael!

Hello Autumn, hello adventure

Well, that Summer season just really whizzed by, didn't it? I had probably one of my most relaxing Summers ever, with no real craziness, which was amazing. I think that had a lot to do with the fact that I am LOVING both my jobs, and really feel settled and content in them. Now that I'm a casual at Lorna Jane instead of management (I stepped down from management responsibility over a year ago, and hello excellent sleep quality), I worked a little less than I'm used to over Christmas and New Year, and it was grand.

A few of my favourite Summer outfits - so many dresses!

This next season should be a little busier; BB and I have some travel planned (more on that once we're confirmed), and a few Australian holidays booked (Port Douglas and Melbourne, and even chilly Hobart) before Winter arrives to make me grumpy.

And yet again, there needs to be a wardrobe clear-out. I have struggled the past few weeks, finding my boring black shorts and pants to wear to work, and the clothes I never wear (because they don't fit or I just don't like them any more) seem to be multipying, taking up all possible wardrobe space. Cheeky sods. Time to turf 'em and shop smarter, I think.

So, according to fashionista-types, what's on-trend this season? Well, let's not look at the catwalk, because IMPRACTICAL. What are real people going to be wearing in Autumn 2016?

Here in (mostly) sunny Queensland it’s all about layering, because our autumn temperatures range from 13 to 25 degrees Celsius from March to May. We still get the odd stinking hot day, however, when the coastal breezes are a godsend!

1. Skinny Jeans

Skinny jeans will always be a favourite for me, as their streamlined silhouette allows you to layer multiple items on top for warmth - although unless you're headed south, you really only need a tank or tee. Wear them with ballet flats and a light blazer in the day or wedge heels and a beautifully-draping silk top for a night out on the town. These go-to pants can do no wrong, and I'm literally MAD about the ASOS Curve ones.

Ridley Skinny Ankle Grazer Jeans in Mhari Wash from ASOS Curve

2. Merino sweater

Nothing says off-duty chic like a crewneck merino sweater. I only have two, but I've owned them for years, and they still look fantastic.

100% Merino Crewneck Top from Glassons

3. Fedora hat

A wool or felt fedora is a great way to keep your noggin toasty warm, and hide the fact that it was a little too cold to get out of bed early, so you skipped washing your hair!

Grey Marl Fedora from Sussan

4. Statement Coat

In winter your outerwear is the most important aspect of your wardrobe so why not make a statement? A bright coat will add a pop of colour to any neutral or all-black outfit - and this red stunner is going to be a Winter classic. (In related news, I've never had a decent wool coat, nor a coloured one before, so I'm excited!)

Aryietta Double-Breasted Wool Coat from Review

5.Knee-high Boots

Super-sexy and warm as toast - ain't no chilly ankles here. Living on the Sunshine Coast means that I rarely have call for knee-high boots, but heading south to Victoria and Tasmania is always a great excuse to pull them out of the cupboard and dust them off. I particularly love flat riding-style knee-highs, they can be dressed down with jeans and a sweater for a casual day, or glammed up with a dress and tights in the evening.

Madeline boot by Nina Armando from The Iconic

6. Knitted Jumper Dress

The easiest way to show a little leg and stay cosy at the same time is by wearing a knitted jumper dress. For added warmth, I pop leggings or tights underneath, and a coat on top. Bonus points for finding a stripe version, folks!

Mifa Stripe Knit Dress by Selected from ASOS

7. Blanket Wrap Scarf

While I first scoffed, I've grown to quite like a giant scarf wrapped all around me - like a doona on couch situation, really. There are countless ways to style this, either thrown carelessly over your shoulder or wrapped around multiple times. This Surafina version is pretty perfect for any Winter outfit, and will make a mighty fine in-flight blanky too!

Milano scarf bu Surafina

8. Turtleneck Top

Once the realm of nerds like Steve Jobs and Velma from Scooby Doo, turtlenecks are actually a fashion classic. My only suggestion is to be careful if you're big-busted, because chunky versions can make you look like a linebacker! Turtlenecks do look great with pretty much anything though, whether worn under a sleeveless dress, or simply worn alone with jeans.

Alison Turtleneck Knit from Forcast

9. Leather Jacket

A leather jacket is essential for every cool-girl winter wardrobe, so the jury is out if I actually need one. They add instant edge and just scream badass, so at the very least, it might be useful for late night grocery trips when I want to make it through the checkout without chit-chat. Toss a black one in classic moto-style over your jeans and tee on the weekend or grunge up a frock with a beat-up tan version.

Benodet Leather Jacket from Decjuba

10. Ankle Boots

Ankle boots are a perennial wardrobe staple that I jumped on slightly later than everybody else, but am playing catch-up because comfort AND style, people. I love to wear mine with dresses and skirts during the day, skinny jeans or leggings at night. Remember #leggingsarepants and #ignorethehaters.

Awesome Ankle Boot (yup, they're really called that!) by Jo Mercer

Who else is looking at building on some pretty awesome Autumn/Winter basics this year? Anything you've seen that I just HAVE to have?

Also, for more super-cute AW2016 style, check out Blonde Ambition. Brooke just posted her entire shopping list for the season, and I feel like I need everything.

Don't forget to sign up to get Katy Potaty via email to go into my March subscriber draw to win a luxury Nocturna candle!

The winner of my February email subscriber giveaway was Malia H. I've emailed you, Malia - so holla me back with a postal address! Congratulations!

flowerbomb - Valentine's Day gift inspiration

I'm sure you're all well aware that Valentine’s Day is just around the corner - the high volume of Michael Hill Jewellers ads on TV are certainly announcing it loud and proud.

In my most recent blog post, I shared some current favourites and gift ideas, including the lovely flowerbomb, a Sunshine Coast florist with style, and I just can’t get enough of their amazing attention to detail. I was lucky enough to have the chance to ask Deb of flowerbomb about her business, and I'd love you to get to know her too!

What do you do? What do you make?
Owner/Florist at flower bomb

Why and how did you make your first product?
I saw a gap here on the Sunshine Coast for fresh flowers delivered. I wanted to make it simple and affordable! Our flowers are a small, thoughtful gesture :)

Who was your key support during the fledgling stage of flowerbomb?

My hubby!

How do you manage your time well?
I do everything at night when the kids are asleep. It's amazing how much you can get done without distractions :)

How did you distinguish yourself from your competitors?

We make flower giving really simple! There's one type of arrangement each week and it's easy to order though our website or Facebook. The exact picture of the week's flower bomb goes on to our website and social media on the Wednesday, ready for delivery Thursday. Our customers know exactly what their flowers will look like.

If you could have given yourself a piece of knowledge or advice when you started what would that be?

Always go for the 'hardy' flowers. Our customers give great importance to how long their flowers last.
(Note from Katy: I can vouch for this, I have been so impressed with just how long the glorious flowerbomb arrangements last. And check out all the reviews on their Facebook page too!)

How do you conquer any moments of doubt that threaten to stop your great ideas? What pushes you through?

I try to focus on all the positive feedback we get. The Sunny Coast has embraced flower bomb with open arms and I'm really grateful for that.

Righto, time for some fun stuff.
What is your 'uniform'? What do you wear more often than anything else?

An amazing denim Apron from Cargo Crew with our logo embroidered on (yes, aprons can be amazing!)

What is your favourite thing to wear to make you happy?

Cute earrings or perhaps a fresh flower crown.

(Well, isn't that just darling?! I want to wear a flower crown to work too.)

Where do you deliver to?

Caloundra to Noosa, and everywhere in between!

My sweet Valentine's Day tip: use discount code 'katypotaty' for $5 off at checkout (valid until Friday 19th Feb), and treat yourself, your lover and your Mum this weekend! For more info, head to their website.

Do you love to send fresh flowers as gifts? (Note - you should, especially if you love receiving them!) What do you plan on gifting for Valentine’s Day? Let me know in the comments!

Note: not an ad or sponsored post - just sharing in the hope that locals will flowerbomb everyone they love!

7 Valentine's gifts for the people you love (and for you!)

Valentine's Day is right around the corner, but it's not just for lovers. I know that lots of folks aren't keen on the whole commercial Hallmark side of the day, but I'm fine with anything that reminds people to appreciate the people they love, and treat them with gifts, large or small.

I'm also strongly of the opinion that you don't just need to let partners know that you love them... parents, siblings, best friends, teachers, kids and colleagues. There are so many people in our lives, and it's important that we make sure we tell them how much they mean to us.

Not coupled up? Who says you can’t celebrate February 14 just like all of the lovebirds out there? Practice a little bit of self love instead and treat yourself to a feel-good gift – it doesn't need to break the bank, it just need to make us feel special.

Here are my top picks for Valentine (or Just Because) gifts under $50, and an extra-fancy one... because you're worth it!

flowerbomb

I was lucky enough to receive a sneak preview of this week's gorgeous Flower Bomb bouquet - pink roses are perfect for Valentine's Day, and flowerbomb will deliver on Saturday Feb 13th, too!

Traditionally, flowers are the hot gift for Valentine's Day. Don't be lame and pick up a bunch from the service station on the way home from work though (chances are, they'll have one fake rose that turns out to be a tacky red lace gstring tucked in there - ugh), get a sweet mixed posy in a jar instead! There are so many fantastic local florists across Australia who offer something different for Valentine's Day, my favourite on the Sunshine Coast are flowerbomb. I'll share more about Flowerbomb on my Facebook page this week, but in the meantime, check out their Instagram feed, where you can see the beautiful and original arrangements in mason jars that Deb of Flowerbomb is delivering to lucky recipients all across the Coast, for less than $30!

*Hot lovers tip: use discount code 'katypotaty' at checkout, and treat yourself, your lover and your Mum this weekend! For more info, head to their page for link and details.

MiM Studio

Um, I'll take a pair in each colour, please and thank you

Simply stunning accessories that I loved the minute I saw them, the Balance Bar earrings by MiM Studio would get a run every single day if they were in my bling wardrobe. Perfect for dressing up and down, these babies available from Down That Little Lane are cheap enough that you don't need to decide on a colour - take all three!

Gold Class Cinema voucher

For the slightly exhausted Mum in your life, whether it's your own Mum or your bestie with a few kids, a Gold Class movie voucher and a thoughtful card offering your babysitting services is such a well-received gift. What's even better is if you team up with their regular babysitter, and pre-pay for a night of childminding, so you can go to the flicks too! My tip? Don't skimp on the Gold Class snacks - those potato wedges go great with a glass or three of wine!

Nocturna

It wouldn't be a round-up of gifts I love to give without a scented candle, and at this time of year, just before the seasons change and it gets a little cooler, my favourites are by Nocturna. The V. Salem is a gorgeous oriental scent in Nocturna's signature mysterious black jar, woody and decadent. Perfect for wooing that special someone, or perhaps save it for a romantic solo night in with a good book in the bathtub!

*Hot lovers tip: enjoy 15% off the entire Nocturna range leading up to Valentines Day, by using promo code THELOVERS at checkout.

Bill Bryson book

Bill Bryson's newest book is nestled right in the middle of the 'favourite books' shelf. It's a thing.

My all-time favourite way to spend a rainy afternoon is curled up with a good book, and with the rainy Summer seeming to last longer and longer, I've recently been engrossed in Bill Bryson's latest travelogue, The Road to Little Dribbling. Laugh-out-laud moments and lots of quirky facts that had me reading aloud to BB make Bill Bryson books a winning gift for pretty much everyone.

Kokopod

Step away from the chocolate brownie. This is not a gift you are going to want to give away. One of Queensland's best chocolatiers (seriously, just ask the wise folk at The Urban List), Brigid of Kokopod has delivered some amazingly sweet treats to stockists across the region this week - and you're going to need to be quick to get your sugar rush!

Head to The Fruit & Deli Co. in North Lakes, Top Spot Fruit in Aspley, Something About Audrey in Sandgate, Raw Sugar Cafe in Toowoomba, Myrtle's Pantry in Caloundra and Chocolates on Gallery Walk in Mt. Tamborine for the ultimate in Valentine's decadence.


Kapten & Son

Lastly, and definitely not least... I do love a splurge gift. It's not under $50, but it is the coolest dang watch I've seen in years.

Oh Kapten, my Kapten. I am freaking in love with Kapten & Son watches. New to Australia, these super-classy timepieces just scream style and sophistication. With so many customisable features including the size of the face, I've got a sneaky feeling you'll be seeing Kaptens cruising everywhere.

I'd love to know, are you single or coupled-up? And do you do Valentine's Day?

16 to try in 2016

Ahhhh January. You were but a fleeting visitor.

How are we already one-twelfth of the way through this year already? I can't even deal. Between working in retail over Christmas and New Year (which is the easiest way to make Summer disappear, let me assure you), a quick camping trip, then back to school, I feel like last month was really only been 10 days long. Gah!

In the spirit of making the most of 2016 (without making it my best year ever because CLICHE), I've come up with a list of 16 things I'd like to try, or if I've tried them - commit to them, during what remains of this year.


1. Handwrite a card/letter a month (starting in February, so 11 in total)

2. Learn a new skill from Udemy. Last year I tried Udemy for a few small programming courses, and actually really enjoyed learning this way. Any suggestions on something new I could learn that might be a little useful?

3. Listen to podcasts instead of the radio driving to and from work on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The drive to Lorna Jane is much longer than my quick trip to school, and I sometimes feel like listening to drivetime radio is killing braincells. There's only so much blatant sexist stereotyping (it's like the guy is always the funny one and the woman is the nagging one who knows nothing about sport - blah) that I can take for 90mins a day. I can highly recommend the new Sweet Teen Club podcast by Veggie Mama and Smaggle, because they're both sassy as all get out, and who doesn't love the thought of rehashing the excellent Sweet Valley High series with fresh eyes? Children of the 80's and 90's, this podcast is for you.

4. Visit a dairy and take a cheese-tasting course. Because my jeans aren't tight enough already.

5. Cook a three course meal once a month - and no, cheese can't be the entree or dessert!

6. File all the random photos on my computer and iPhone properly, because I can't find photos of Stevie when I want them!

7. Keep our houseplants alive (it's way harder than you think), and buy more houseplants. By the end of 2016, I'd like at least one in every room of the house!

8. Deal with my fear of toads a little better. Try to overcome it enough that I can deal with toad-related situations and not call my Mum if BB isn't home.

9. Find the best strapless bra ever. (This could be tricky, I don't think it exists. But I'm willing to search.)

10. Learn to meditate and practice it for ONE month without fail.

11. Write 100 blog posts, not necessarily for this blog, guest blogging might be awesome too.

12. Be an awesome best friend. If you don't know, my spunkrat bestie Peta of Trainee Mama is pregnant with twins, which means her 2 year old son Ned (one of my favourite humans ever, especially since he's now saying the words 'Love you') might be looking for some one-on-one time with an adult once the newbies (both girls!) arrive. I plan on being the best auntie and stealing him away for lots of Big Boy time while Peta settles into twin-mum mode. Also associated with this goal, pamper the heck outta Peta before the birth, too.

13. Give more compliments. And get better at receiving them.

14. I asked Brooke of Blonde Ambition if she had any bucket list ideas for me for the year, and she came up with 'Be the first in Australia to see the sunrise', which I absolutely LOVE! So I think there'll be a girl's road trip to Byron on the cards sometime soon!

15. Donate blood - I'm a reasonably regular plasma giver, but I'm really keen to stick it on the list so I don't forget.

16. Go to the drive-in. This is actually something B and I used to do occasionally when we lived in Brisbane and had a convertible; I think it'll be slightly less sexy in the ix35, but we'll give it a go!

There you have it - a list of 16 pretty cool things I want to get stuck into during 2016. Let's see what I can tick off!

Are you a Bucket List kinda person? Anything missing off here that I just HAVE to do?

In other awesome news, I have been given three awesome iCare Eyewear family sunglasses packs to giveaway, featuring each of the great sunnies I reviewed in this post. For your chance to win a great eyewear pack, simply check out the Rafflecopter below, and follow iCare on any of their social media channels. Good luck!

If you want to check them out in person, head to the iCare website where you can find your closest pharmacy which stocks the range.