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Nestled deep in the heart of lush green Buckinghamshire countryside is a bustling Social Hub and successful online business called Southwood Stores.

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A Scandanavian-inspired stylish, sleek mix of must-haves which aren’t for sale in your local shopping centre, even if that mall is Westfield!

Think Selfish Mother meets Not On The High Street in the days when you actually couldn’t buy their stuff on every high street. The Instagram perfect life you want is here for purchase.

Hayley Southwood, founder of Southwood stores

 

 

The brainchild of accidental entrepreneur Hayley Southwood, this infectiously empowering woman is killing it in the world of social media and has built her brand on firstly Instagram and Twitter, then her collaborative blog, Breathe Happiness.

A business life borne from personal devastation and true grit, with no budget or formal marketing qualification, Hayley has built a successful mini empire Sir Alan Sugar would be proud of.  As with most truly successful people, Hayley is all about empowering others to exploit their full potential, running masterclasses, social media sessions and creative concepts galore from her Bucks bolthole.

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I visited this aesthetically pleasing palace last week for one of her sell-out social meet-ups attended by a plethora of talented  creatives from across the UK. Basking in stunning sunshine, this gaggle of  like -minded, supportive women encouraged each other and made powerful business connections in a nurturing environment. The atmosphere was buzzing with ideas and excitement, all headed up by Hayley.

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There was oodles of raw talent in the room, spilling out into the glorious outdoors and among them were my gorgeous friend Laura of Muklet who you can read all about here from our recent collaboration and also the lovely Vicki, the creator of the highly acclaimed contemporary breastfeeding and teething jewellery range Bo&Bel. 

I also spent time chatting with the fascinating Susan from aphoenixfromtheashes.com and charismatic Rosita Lollipop who is a whirl of retro colour and vibrance!

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So many other amazing ladies there who I didn’t really get time to chat with but planning on clearing the entire day next time around! That’s a whole other blog post, but this snap below, nicked from Southwood’s Instagram sums up the essence of the meet.

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My favourite pieces from Southwood’s extensive Homeware & Clothing ranges are firstly these supersoft organic cotton sweatshirts, bearing a variety of motivational mantras. This is Southwood Stores’ exclusive design.

I love this white ‘Warrior’ piece so much – well we all have our inner goddess days, don’t we?

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Since we are spending our lengthy summer break in America (I know!!! So excited!) I NEED a huge but fabulous bag for all the mummy stuff I need for travelling and what could be more perfect than this? I.JUST. LOVE. IT.!!!

Prepare to have your Christmas shopping ticked off on one addictive site! Job done….!