Birthday Bliss, Seaside Escapes & Spring’s Slow Unfolding

April has been soft, golden, and just the right amount of indulgent. It’s brought moments of sunshine, saltwater, candles lit for no reason, and—most importantly—a birthday that came wrapped in wine, laughter, and more cake than I’ll publicly admit to consuming.

Yes, I turned another year older on the 9th, and honestly? It felt divine. Not in a grand, dramatic way—but in a “long lunch, great company, feeling quietly powerful in a silk blouse” kind of way. Josh surprised me with a bottle of something bubbly, and a little handwritten note that I may or may not have tucked away in my drawer like a teenager. It was low-key but full of love. Just how I like it. There were tulips, there was an almond croissant from my favourite spot, and there was a playlist he made with songs that have soundtracked our time together so far. I mean, come on.

I also managed to squeeze in a gorgeous girls’ dinner the night before with Sophie and Leanne—think prosecco, tiramisu, and a very unnecessary espresso martini to finish. We laughed until our cheeks hurt and stayed far too long at the table. The kind of birthday preamble that reminds you just how good your people are.

From sun-drenched Provence to a windswept weekend at Camber Sands with Josh, this month has been equal parts slow luxury and spontaneous adventure. And now? I’m heading into May with a freshly booked trip to Positano and Sorrento. Because if there’s one thing I’m prioritising this year, it’s beautiful places, good food, and making time for the things that make me feel most alive.

Camber Sands: A Beach Weekend With Josh

After two weeks of French Riviera daydreaming, Josh and I booked a last-minute weekend escape to Camber Sands. Not quite the Amalfi Coast (yet), but there’s something about the British seaside in early spring—quiet, moody, and kind of romantic in a windswept, ‘let’s find the nearest pub’ way.

Some highlights:

• Waking up to the sound of waves – A rare and underrated joy. There’s nothing quite like having your morning coffee to the rhythm of the tide.

• Long beach walks in oversized jumpers – The weather was cold, but in a ‘fresh air, clear mind’ way that made me forget I even own emails.

• A long lunch at The Gallivant – Rosé, seafood, and no rush to be anywhere. The kind of meal where you order an extra side just because it sounds nice.

• Late-night drinks at a tiny local pub – Where Josh absolutely dominated the pub quiz. (Attractive.) There were board games, too. We may have gotten competitive. I may have lost. Gracefully.

It was uncomplicated, easy, and a nice little glimpse into what we’re like when it’s just us, no London distractions. He makes me laugh in a way that feels incredibly grounding. Also: he’s officially on board with more coastal getaways. My work here is done.

Booking Positano & Sorrento: A Little May Magic Incoming

Because, let’s be honest—I need some Italian sun in my life.

This trip is going to be:

• Mornings with espresso and ocean views

• Afternoons getting lost in pastel-coloured streets

• Long lunches with fresh pasta and limoncello

• The full coastal-chic, linen-dress fantasy

It’s a solo trip, but one where I fully expect to meet strangers, have deep conversations over wine, and take myself on the kind of dates that feel like a rom-com. I’ve started saving restaurant recommendations and already know which sandals I’m packing.

Also planning:

• A day trip to Capri

• A cooking class (because obviously)

• And possibly a sunrise swim if I’m feeling brave

Note to self: buy a floppy hat. Just for the drama. And maybe a scarf for the hair à la Monica Bellucci.

Mindset: The Shift Towards Summer Energy

Something about April always feels transitional. It’s half spring, half summer in waiting. The moment where everything starts to soften, open up, and feel lighter. I’ve been sleeping better, eating slower, and saying no to anything that feels even remotely frantic.

Right now, I’m focusing on:

• More days outdoors – Park walks, pavement coffees, reading in patches of sun. Vitamin D is truly the mood-lifter no one talks about enough.

• More movement that feels good – Barre, yoga, and finally getting back into strength work without guilt or pressure. Just moving because it feels good to.

• More saying yes to plans that excite me – I’m done with ‘maybe’ energy. I want all-in or not-at-all energy.

• More slow mornings – If it doesn’t involve oat milk and silence, I don’t want it.

Also: I have officially switched my morning coffee to iced. It’s happening. We’re in our soft caffeine girlie era.

Style: The Spring-to-Summer Transition Begins

We are officially entering ‘warm but unpredictable’ dressing season. Where your outfit could be a hit or a cautionary tale depending on the wind direction.

Current rotation:

• Linen shirts layered over swimwear – Because I am forcing summer energy.

• Loafers & ballet flats replacing boots – Groundbreaking.

• A basket bag moment – The French girl summer agenda is here.

• White sundresses on standby – I bought one I fully intend to wear while dramatically sipping wine in Positano.

• Light knits and oversized sunnies – For when the clouds roll in but the vibe still demands glamour.

I’ve also started pinning outfit ideas that involve oversized sunglasses, red lipstick, and soft curls that scream “I’ve just arrived from Florence.”

Pop Culture, Trends & What’s Happening Right Now

• The Met Gala theme has been announced – Expect high fashion, unnecessary discourse, and at least one controversial look.

• TikTok is obsessed with the ‘Mediterranean Summer’ aesthetic – Think gold jewellery, natural makeup, and ‘I spent the day at the beach’ hair.

• Everyone is rewatching ‘The Talented Mr. Ripley’ for summer inspiration – Italy, glamour, and a little bit of murder—what more could you want?

• Beyoncé’s tour has officially started – The world is not ready. Neither is my wallet. Manifesting resale tickets as we speak.

• Everyone’s ordering Hugo Spritzes again – Mint, elderflower, prosecco. Iconic.

Also: I’ve started compiling a playlist of Italian café music and sultry sunset tracks. It’s helping me manifest. A little Mina, a little Paolo Conte, a whole mood.

The Month Ahead: What’s Coming?

• Italy planning – Outfits, restaurants, and where I’ll have my ‘main character’ moment.

• More weekend escapes – Now that spring is in full swing, I want to be by the sea as much as possible.

• More gym consistency – Because I feel better when I move, and that’s reason enough.

• More mornings with purpose – No more scrolling before breakfast. More stretching. More skincare. More calm.

• Possibly a new fragrance – Something light, floral, and subtly seductive.

• Reclaiming Sundays as a sacred ritual – Newspapers, pastries, and no plans.

April, you’ve been a dream—one that smelled of lavender and SPF, sounded like waves and laughter, and tasted like cake and rosé. Now, let’s see what May brings.

Sophie x