Cheeseboard 101: Your Guide to a Girls' Night In

It's Restaurant Month here in New Zealand, but if you're watching your wallet (aren't we all?), we've got the perfect hack for a restaurant-quality, cosy night in with your friends.

Here's how to create a restaurant-quality cheeseboard for a cozy night in with friends, without breaking the bank.

The Game Plan: Decide if you want to provide the entire spread yourself or make it a group effort by assigning each friend a component. Both options work great - it's all about what suits you and your friends best.

Here are 5 easy tips to create a stunning spread for your next ladies' night:

1. Cheeses!

You can't have a cheeseboard without cheese. Variety is key, aim for a mix of textures and flavours:

• A creamy dream: Brie or Camembert

• Something sharp: Aged Cheddar or Gouda

• Bold and beautiful: Blue cheese (for the brave!)

Pro tip: Check out the "reduced" section at your local supermarket for some budget-friendly finds!

2. Sweet Sensations

Balance out those savoury flavours with a touch of sweetness:

• Fresh fruits: Grapes, sliced pears, or figs if you're feeling fancy

• A pot of honey: Drizzle over that brie for a heavenly experience

• Dried fruits: Apricots or cranberries add a chewy texture

3. Crunch Time

No cheeseboard is complete without some textural contrast:

Crackers: Mix it up with water crackers, seeded crisps, and maybe some breadsticks

Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, or pecans scattered artfully around

Veggie sticks: Carrot and cucumber for a fresh crunch

4. Meat the Challenge (Optional)

For the carnivores in your crew:

• Prosciutto: Draped elegantly for that Insta-worthy look

• Salami: Sliced or fanned out

• Chorizo: For a spicy kick

5. The Final Flourish

Make it a feast for the eyes:

• Small bowls: Fill with olives, pickles, or a zesty chutney

• Fresh herbs: Sprigs of rosemary or thyme for color and aroma

• Edible flowers: If you're feeling extra bougie!

Setting the Mood

Table décor: Raid your linen closet or local thrift store for a pretty sheet to use as a tablecloth

Illumination: Light your favourite Little Batch candles for that warm, inviting glow

Tunes: Put on our Slow Burn playlist for the perfect background ambiance

Bonus Round: Seasonal Sips!

Why not serve some mulled wine or a signature cocktail to really elevate the evening?

So, gather your girls, uncork that bottle of wine, and get ready for a night of cheesy goodness and heartwarming company. Who needs a fancy restaurant when you can create this slice of heaven right at home?

Cheers to good friends, good food, and the joy of staying in.

Cosy Corner Chronicles: Crafting Your Perfect Reading Retreat

We all need a sanctuary, a little slice of heaven to call our own. Whether you dub it a cosy corner or a reading nook, it's that special spot where you can escape the daily grind and truly unwind. This haven can be nestled inside your home or perched on a shaded back porch - the choice is yours!

Start by picking a sun-kissed corner anywhere in your house. Transform it with a few key elements: a plush rug for comfort, a pillow for support, a side table (I'm partial to vintage pieces), a touch of greenery, and some soft, ambient lighting.

As an avid reader, I've crafted my own little retreat. Picture this: a comfy secondhand chair overlooking our serene pond, surrounded by stacks of my favorite books. A flickering candle sets the mood, and I keep some duck food handy for when our feathered friends pay a visit.

Here are some ideas to make your space uniquely yours:

1. Swap physical books for audiobooks. Imagine sipping coffee in blissful silence, headphones on, eyes closed or simply sitting still.

2. Keep a notepad and pen within reach for those eureka moments.

3. Set a schedule for your me-time. Maybe it's 30 minutes every morning or an hour each Saturday. Communicate this to your family to ensure uninterrupted peace.

4. Activate "Do Not Disturb" on your phone to resist the temptation of checking it.

5. Be selfish with your time here. Read what you want, not what you feel you should. Leave your to-do list at the door.

6. Engage your senses with calming scents. Try our Raglan Weekend blend (vanilla, lime, and coconut) for a tropical escape, or indulge your sweet tooth with Sunday (almond, cinnamon, and vanilla).

So, where's your go-to spot for a little me-time? We'd love to hear about your personal oasis.