Friends of Begg x Co - Louisa Hatt

"I’m a former model turned accountant from Glasgow. I’m based in Edinburgh and started my fashion blog in August 2019 focusing primarily on corporate/office wear. I’ve always believed that you don’t need to lose your sense of style when you work in an office. In the past six months my blog has evolved to focus more on independent and Black-owned brands. The aim of my blog is to highlight many of the brilliant brands that deserve to be supported and successful. I’ve worked with some amazing smaller brands, I guess I'm a content creator and accidental influencer."

Five Recipes for Christmas Cheer

Spread comfort and joy this season and enjoy these small, simple pleasures wherever you call home.

Artist's Corner - Will Cruickshank - Artist

Will Cruickshank has a multidisciplinary practice which includes sculpture, film, photography, and printmaking, alongside machines and participatory works. His recent practice has focused on making objects through the development of experimental machinery, materials, and production methods. Often repurposing equipment such as cement mixers, bikes, or potters wheels he has devised complex makeshift weaving machines, improvised lathes, printing presses, and water carving techniques.

Read our interview with Friend of Begg x Co and author of 'Cosy: The British Art of Comfort', Laura Weir, as we discuss her book and podcast recommendations, her WFH 'Zoomiform' and staying positive this festive season.

Healthy Living - Anna Jones

Anna Jones is a cook, writer, stylist, the voice of modern vegetarian cooking and the author of the bestselling A Modern Way to Eat, A Modern Way to Cook and The Modern Cook’s Year." Read more to find out Anna's delicious ribollita recipe, how shes staying positive and her WFH tips.

Why Gift Cashmere?

When it comes to Christmas, there are three factors that come into play when I’m buying gifts. The first is thought – for me this is about the craftsmanship behind the item. Is it handcrafted? Locally-made? Is it beautiful/useful? The second is sustainability. What is it made from? Who made it? How sustainable are the production practises of the brand behind it? And finally… longevity. Is this item good quality? Is it evergreen? Will it last a long time? There’s no denying that treating the ones you love over Christmas is endlessly fun, but I believe we can do it in a way that is kind to the planet, that supports our favourite businesses and celebrates craftsmanship.

Healthy Living - Katie Elliot, Founder of Little Challenges

Katie Elliott is the founder of Little Challenges, an online platform that provides ideas, inspiration, and practical tools, that can make the messy business of being human just a little bit easier. Read our interview with Katie as we discuss mindfulness and managing anxiety during this difficult time.

Music Club - Whole Lotta Roadies

This year, the Fruit Tree Foundation announced the creation of a unique album, 'Whole Lotta Roadies', put together by some of Scotland’s most loved musical artists and their crew. The project was initiated by Rod Jones of Idlewild, with the aim of raising awareness and funds for the live music crew, who have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic and it's restrictions on live shows. We caught up with Rod, to find out more about the album.

Friends of Begg x Co - SAGE Flowers

Leaving restaurants and biology behind, SAGE was born to bring unique floral design south of the river to Peckham, London SE15. Bored by the local offering, SAGE is inspired by more unusual flowers, foliage and form, moving away from traditional arrangements and the rules of classic floristry. Not only do Iona and Romy lead floral workshops, but they also frequently speak on radio, television and brand events, discussing floristry, young female entrepreneurship, sustainability, brand building and design.