On We Go
Whilst change can often be the hardest to embrace, it pushes you to do new things, reignites inspiration and brings about a new perspective on life as you know it. As I move out of the wonderful flat I called my home in Lavender Bay for the past six months, I continue forward knowing that this shake up will push me to take on new adventures and challenges in life.
Its been a pleasure enjoying the beauty and convenience of the homely neighbourhood of Lavender Bay. For the first time here in Australia I had a room to really make my own and decorate with the eclectic mixture of ornaments and memories collected along my journey so far. From the lovely candles gifted to me from my friend’s company the El Collective, to the awesome tribal necklace passed on from my Auntie, I like my pieces to have a story behind them.
Having said this, I can be guilty of getting too comfortable and therefore find change a difficult thing to accept. It wasn’t easy making the decision to move out and spend my final month in Australia back down in the Southern Highlands, however a chance to wind-down and rest following such an exhausting first half of the year is just what I need! As my job in the city finished up last week and the lease was up on the flat, the timing actually couldn’t be better to escape the city.
I will be starting fresh on my return to Australia following my brother’s Wedding and spending some much needed time back home in the UK. It’s been a rollercoaster over the past six months here and the stresses of full-time work have certainly taken their toll. So here I find myself back in the picturesque Southern Highlands spending quality time with my boyfriend and friends before flying home. No doubt I will still be back in Sydney for a few weekends over the next month to catchup with friends and family, go to the beach and have some nights out at my favourite bars too!
On leaving Lavender Bay I take with me many fond memories from a whirlwind of a time residing in such a stunning corner of Sydney. I feel privileged to have discovered a hidden gem of the city and will be back to visit Wendy’s Secret Garden for summer picnics and arvo drinks with friends. For now though I say goodbye and welcome new beginnings for my next adventure…on we go.
Following six months of full-time work at my PR firm, I must now move on given the limitations of my visa. Whilst it will be sad to say goodbye to a company and role which has taught me so much, I look forward to new beginnings and the prospect of developing all the skills and knowledge I have gained from my current job.
As I pack my bags to go back to the UK for a few months to celebrate my brother’s wedding, the time has come to move out of my flat here in Lavender Bay too. I will hold many fond memories of my time here and feel blessed to have been able to experience living in such a special corner of Sydney.
I’ve been inspired by the eclectic decor and quirky artistic touches in every corner of this wonderful flat. My lovely landlady has been a pleasure to live with and her vivacious approach to life is very admiral…the ‘Fuck Fuckity’ wall placard says it all – don’t take life too seriously!
So as the sunsets on my final week here, I can’t help but feel a twang of nostalgia as I reflect on my short but sweet time in the lovely neighbourhood of Lavender Bay. If I was to write a letter back to myself when I moved in six months ago, I would remind that girl to exhale the worry, embrace the good times and just enjoy every minute of the journey.
Burnt Orange in Mosman is a boutique restaurant which was the original Clubhouse for Mosman Golf Course. Built in 1920, this historic space boasts stunning harbour views from the unique wrap around terrace overlooking Middle Head. With its chic interiors and classic white wood furniture, this homely cafe echoes its exclusive member’s Clubhouse beginnings.
Arriving on a late Sunday morning, we just made it in time for the breakfast menu. With an extensive offering of brekky delights, it was hard to choose! I decided to have the toasted muesli served with coconut yoghurt, passionfruit, seasonal berries and a very fitting caramelised ‘burnt’ orange slice. The fruit was perfectly fresh and each dish exquisitely presented.
For coffee I had my usual cup of long black, but I didn’t even need to add the milk – that’s when you know the coffee is extra special! Service was quick and staff were very friendly and attentive making us feel well looked after.
Being in such a unique spot off the beaten track, Burnt Orange certainly feels more special and exclusive than the everyday cafe. With a bustling atmosphere, delicious menu and boutique interiors to match, I will certainly be putting it up there as one of my favourite cafes in Sydney too. I’ve already eyed up the High Tea menu for my next visit, but may have to go back in the meantime just to enjoy another one of those coffees whilst having a browse of the niche cookbooks for sale.
In light of this, I endeavour to source my clothes sustainably by visiting vintage thrift stores, charity shops or markets. Surry Hills is full of quirky, cool vintage outlets and of course my favourite past time at the weekend is to visit the famous Kirribilli Markets to dig out some bargains of previously owned and loved garments. My most recent purchases were a pair of Levi shorts for $5, a Kookai denim playsuit for $10 and a forest green silk shirt dress for $5.
So here in my beautiful flat located in Lavender Bay, I’m lucky enough to have my own three double door wardrobe – what a dream! I have the luxury to organise and proudly display my pieces which makes getting dressed each morning easy and fun. I’ve always been a shoe addict too, so I’ve used the bottom few shelves of the middle section to store these, placing my beloved mules from Zomp and Prada heels from my auntie at the front.
My wardrobe here is definitely a fraction of the size back home in England, however I have learnt to be more minimal by sticking to key pieces which can be worn different ways. Layering is an essential component to acheiving this, so I make sure to have a range of tanks, blouses, shirts and jackets.
Having good fitting jeans in different washes is also an absolute must. My favourite brand of denim at the moment is Neuwlandstrat as they make great quality, bum hugging pants – and they match my Dutch last name!
Whilst I wish I could ship the rest of my wardrobe from home out here to Oz, I’ve learnt a more simple, less is more approach to dressing now. However with such a fantastic wardrobe setup which also pleases my inner neat-freak, I can’t help but occasionally treat myself to a few new additions. At the moment I have my eye on a gorgeous Lack Of Colours felt Rancher style hat in Ivory – this will be a staple piece for summer and perfect for my holiday back to Italy in a few months!
Arriving at the crack of dawn on this sunny Easter Sunday, we got to work setting up and playing around with different layouts to display the candles best. Her collection of scented candles are exquisite with a range of aromas from sweet and fruity to the more floral and woody.
On the whole it was a successful first go at the markets and we already have more booked in the diary which I am keen to be on board with. My friend was so thrilled to have my support and gifted me my favourite scented candle ‘citrus zest and coconut’ as a thank you. It was an honour to be there for such a talented co-worker who is not only a great friend and makes me chuckle, but inspiring mentor who is full of wisdom.
However journalling is something I only began doing when I first embarked on my trip here to Sydney over a year ago. After my friend brought me a beautiful journal as my leaving present, I have continued to keep a diary ever since. Now onto my third book, I have a unique record of my travels here in Australia which provides a whole other perspective to the photos. Keeping a journal gives me opportunity to reflect on moments in life, both the good and the bad. I like to add little memos to my diary too such as tickets and receipts to remind me of all the places I’ve been.
I would be the first to admit my journals are certainly no novel and definitely lack a decent amount of grammar (usually my worse nightmare). Yet those words capture all of my thoughts even when I’ve faced challenges and spark fond memories of the adventures I’ve been on. It has definitely been quite a journey and as I continue to stand on my own two feet on the other side of the world, I will
Founded in 1954 at Pyrmont wharf by Biaggo Signorelli, the Doltone House legacy has become Sydney’s most influential hospitality establishments. From intimate cocktail parties to weddings and large scale business events, their ever growing venue collection offers a variety of options to suit every occasion.
Starting at Jone’s Bay Wharf in Pyrmont, we kicked things off with sliders and ciders; a pear cider to match the spiced lentil patty and an apple cider to compliment the pulled pork mini burger. We started strong and how we meant to go on!
We were then shown onto the next space up on the rooftop where we were greeted with refreshing ice cold Chandon. With a large terrace overlooking the harbour bridge, The Loft was one of my favourite venues with exposed beams and 3 split levels to create a unique layout.
Next we were shown around the contemporary SoHo room and bar with trendy interiors including an antler lamp shade, bookcases and old school leather couches. This English period style reflects cool downtown New York vibes, perfect for hosting a more intimate cocktail or birthday party.
Venue number 4 was a short walk down the road where we were shown the fun activities which could add something different to your event. The group was split up to do either table arrangements, arancini ball making or a gin masterclass which we were lucky enough to participate in! We had a laugh shaking our cocktails and enjoyed our G&Ts paired with the delicious arancini fresh from the oven.
The final destination was Hyde Park House and it certainly didn’t disappoint. After walking through the opulent entrance with twinkling chandeliers, we were taken to the large function room overlooking the park which had been turned into a Christmas Party! A Mimosa in hand and live jazz band playing festive tunes, we got stuck in decorating our Gingerbread men, how fun!
Over at the bar we were served lychee blinis and spoilt with homemade sticky toffee pudding pots. We certainly had been treated with lots of drinks and delicious food we couldn’t say no to.
To finish the evening we had our makeup touched up for the LinkedIn headshot. I would’ve preferred to have this taken at the beginning before I had consumed such a mix of drinks…but the gin made me grin 😀
We were truly looked after all evening and given a unique overview of some of the fabulous venues Doltone House has to offer. Not only do they provide a stunning space to match your needs, but they can tailer every detail of the catering, drinks and activities to suit your requirements and host a seamless event delivered with class and style.
It may have been a Tuesday evening, but with my sister in town and my visa confirmation, it was more than necessary to pop the bubbly!
My fabulous chef land lady who is a family friend put the evening together and did a marvellous job of prepping and serving a delicious dinner. It was a treat to have the dining table laid as I often sit out on the balcony with my dinner.
We were treated to a one dish delight of chicken thighs, sweet potato, beetroot and spinach drizzled with lemon mint jus and sprinkled with hazelnuts.
What a way to officially welcome in my second year in Sydney by hosting my family to a dinner party in this gorgeous home of Lavender Bay.
So when it comes to the weekend, sometimes there’s nothing better than taking time out to enjoy simple pleasures. I never have chance to make my favourite bowl of oats during the work week, so for Saturday brunch I indulge in a beautiful bowlful packed with plenty of fruit, cinnamon & nut butter. My current preferred choice is Almond Pistachio Butter by the 99th Monkey, a Melbourne brand which uses only natural products to create a range of yummy spread combos.
Getting in my loungewear and in direct line of the air-con (it’s over 30 degrees here in Oz at the moment!), I settle in for the night in front of Graham Norton with a glass of vino. How lucky I am to be living in such a beautiful home too amongst the art and eclectic interiors. Cheers to the weekend wind-down from Lavender Bay ❤
Arriving at midday on Australia Day, the cafe was bustling and there was a little wait for a table. Finally we bagged our spot on a bench right by the window with prime view of the harbour and clear blue water splashing on the rocks right by our feet.
I ordered my classic long black with a dash of hot milk and for brekky I chose the granola bowl served with soy soaked chia, mango, berries and edible flowers. Exquisite presentation and delicious flavour combos matched with top coffee, I left well fed and ready for my birthday celebrations!
I would be keen to return to try another one of their tempting all day breakfast combos which initially drew me in on their popular Instagram feed. Celsius certainly serves up all the goods with a varied food menu for all tastes and perfect coffee to match the dreamy location.
Dani Aneka 