There once was a time when nothing was considered more swoon worthy than a sonnet written as an ode to your beauty, or being romanced as the words were read aloud by some hopeful suitor, however poetry now seems to be out of favour, and it is unlikely many of us have read one since our academic years - however, they are a wonderful way to dip into reading without the commitment of a full length novel.

So in keeping with this month of romance and the anticipation of spring, we are recommending Blossomise by the current Poet Laureate Simon Armitage. 

This latest book of poetry was written in collaboration with the National Trust, celebrating the beauty of spring - especially blossom. A delightful quick read for the shortest of months.

It's chocolate covered strawberry season - well that's what we call it here at Guinea HQ, and even though Strawberries are not in season, we do love a little indulgent treat. 

But what is better than a little indulgent treat, a bigger indulgent treat!  

So with strawberries and chocolate on the mind, and as it would be rude not to share, we couldn't stop thinking about our favourite sharing desserts. That's when Sara in our order fulfilment team mentioned chocolate and strawberry cheesecake and that's when the office hunt for the best recipe began.

Charlotte our marketing assistant came across this recipe by Jane's Patisserie for No-Bake White Chocolate and Strawberry Cheesecake  and now it is all we can think about!

No-bake cheesecakes are easily adaptable, and also, with the right recipe, suitable for vegans too. So whether you make enough to share, or just enough to fill two heart-shaped ramekins for yourself and your significant other, even the most unconfident cooks can give this a go and expect a delicious outcome.

Can't wait until spring to get your floral fix, then we have two fabulous flower based exhibits to suggest to you.

Running from Saturday 1st Feb - Sunday 2nd March 2025 is Kew Garden's Orchid Festival - this year celebrating on the flora and fauna of Peru.

Or why not check out Flowers - Flora in Contemporary Art & Culture at the Saatchi Gallery.

Running Wednesday 12th February - Monday 5th May 2025

We've laughed, we've cried and some of us have grown old with her, and we cannot wait to see the latest Bridget Jones' film and see what life has thrown her way.

I'm certain whatever is in store for her, will in the end leave us with a smile on our face and undoubtedly saying at some point 'silly Bridget'.

Bridget Jones Mad About The Boy in cinemas 13th February 2025

Let's talk Galentine's Day!

Typically celebrated on 13th February, this day celebrates female friendship - so whether you are single, in a partnership, married or it's complicated - take time to get together - as it's all too easy to let friendships get put on the back burner.

So why not arrange to have supper, a cinema date or even a spa day!

And if you are feeling super creative, why not try a local 'paint and sip' session, where you paint your own masterpiece while having a glass of wine! 

For more inspo why not check out these ideas by Parade magazine.

Whether you are having a romantic date night or off to the cinema and drinks with the girls, here at Guinea Confidential we think our Emily Floral Blouse would be the perfect outfit choice for either occasion.

Made of silk, it is fabulously floaty with a touch of feminine frills. In a lovely pink and red colourway, it is a delightful way of paying tribute to the romantic season!

Teamed here with our Esme Suede Jacket in black for a dash of drama, why not channel your inner rock goddess with leather look jeans and a stiletto ankle boot for full glam impact.