Brilliant Blogs - Simply START Living

Welcome to our latest "Brilliant Blogs" post. Where we write a blog post about other blogs that we think are brilliant. Meta.

This month, we're looking at Simply START Living, a lifestyle blog run by the very lovely Amanda Start, formerly known as The Online Stylist. 

We first came across Amanda's blog as she was a customer of ours (is there a better way to discover someone you're likely to have tastes and values in common with?) and have been enjoying her refreshing, honest and thoughtful writing ever since. 

A quick glance at the menu headings elucidates the main areas of focus... so everything you want to hear about, basically:

There are some great interiors pieces, from big renovation jobs like this bathroom overhaul:

To small switch-ups like this fab little post about creating a Bookcase Bar instead of purchasing a drinks trolley:

Both of these posts include products that Amanda has bought from us (a black rubber soap dish and square tray respectively - see if you can spot them!), so it's clear that she has impeccable taste...! There's a strong monochrome vibe running through the entire blog, which pleases our eyes greatly.  

What I most enjoy about Simply START Living (aside from the general white, black, grey-ness, of course), is how relatable I find the content. Whilst I'm not *quite* at the stage of mid-life that is Amanda's focus, I've found so much to think about in her considered posts, especially those around self-employment like this one, The Challenge of Overcoming an Ingrained Work Mindset.

I'll sum up with a quote from Amanda describing the idea behind the blog... "simply START living is about embracing a true sense of self, not the one we think we should be embracing for appearances sake. It's about living wholeheartedly and as calmly as possible in amongst all the crap that life throws our way."

Now if that doesn't sound appealing as a blog manifesto, I don't know what does. And don't worry, there is a pet! This guy's name is Biscuit (best dog name ever?):

Finally, do check out the Simply Start Living Insta feed too, it's an absolute treat, monochrome gang: 

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Do you know of any Brilliant Blogs? We'd love to hear your recommendations for blogs to feature. We're interested in anything under the umbrella heading of lifestyle really - interiors, craft, travel, food, umm... cats? You name it, as long as it's interesting to read and easy on the eyes, we'd like to hear about it. 

All images in this post copyright Amanda Start / Simply Start Living.