Hello everyone!

I'm delighted to welcome you to the very first post of Dimitra's Diary.

Here, I'll be sharing a blend of my monthly favourites - from tantalising recipes I've experimented with, to the latest jewellery pieces that have become part of my everyday style.

Consider this our monthly rendezvous where I'll reveal the books, movies, and series that captivated me, sprinkle in some beauty hacks, and yes, you'll even get a glimpse of my cats.

I'm thrilled to embark on this journey of fun discoveries and shared inspirations with you.

Love,

For January's most memorable meal, I must give a shout-out to Le Bon Georges in Paris.

Its authentic French cuisine, with a focus on quality ingredients and traditional techniques, is simply unparalleled. If you find yourself in Paris, or are planning a trip, make sure to swing by Le Bon Georges for an unforgettable dining experience.

For more Parisian gems and insider tips, don't forget to check out my detailed Paris guide.

There's something incredibly satisfying about making things with your own hands.

If there's a way to craft it at home, you can bet I'm giving it a try.

Is homemade for everyone? Perhaps not. But let me tell you, the joy and pride that come from creating something from scratch are incomparable!

This month, I'm excited to share with you my homemade 'The Everything Salt' – a blend that's as versatile as it is delightful.

The Everything Salt Recipe:

Ingredients:

• Lemon zest (collected and stored)
• Fresh parsley, dill, sage, oregano, and thyme
• Sea salt (fleur de sel is my go-to)
• Black pepper

Instructions:

1. Collect Lemon Zest: Each time you use lemons, zest them before discarding. Store this zest in a container in the fridge. Once you've accumulated enough, it's time to move to the next step.

2. Dehydrate the Zest: Spread the lemon zest thinly on a microwave-safe plate. Dehydrate it in the microwave, zapping it for 20 seconds at a time until it's completely dry. This method preserves the bright, citrusy flavour perfectly.

3. Dehydrate the Herbs: Similarly, prepare your herbs – parsley, dill, sage, oregano, and thyme. Lay them out and use the same microwave technique to dehydrate them. This step is crucial for intensifying their flavours.

4. Mix Your Blend: In a mixer, combine the dehydrated lemon zest, herbs, a generous helping of fleur de sel sea salt, and a dash of black pepper. Grind them together until you achieve a fine, even texture.

5. Store: Transfer your freshly made 'The Everything Salt' into a glass jar. It’s not only practical for storage but also looks lovely on your kitchen shelf.

6. Enjoy: Sprinkle it on... well, everything! This salt is an all-rounder, perfect for adding a zesty, herby kick to any dish.

'The Everything Salt', a simple yet transformative seasoning. We don't call it 'The Everything Salt' for nothing, duh!

For the best purchase of the month, I have to rave about the Dyson Airwrap.

In the whirlwind of daily life, finding time for a salon visit is a luxury I can't always afford, especially with my super fine hair that demands extra care.

This is where the Dyson Airwrap has been a game-changer. Yes, it comes with a hefty price tag, but let me tell you, it's worth every penny.

For someone like me who needs a reliable, efficient styling tool, the Airwrap has been nothing short of a miracle. It's not just about saving time; it's about achieving that salon-quality look with minimal effort and maximum care for my delicate hair. If you're on the fence about it, take it from me – the Dyson Airwrap truly delivers, at least it has for me. #NOTSPONSORED

February is shaping up to be an exhilarating month, especially with the much-anticipated launch of our Valentine's Collection.

But that's not all. I'm also eagerly awaiting the debut of our Snakes & Evil Eyes Collection, a line that perfectly blends mystique with style, promising to be a stunning addition to our existing range.

And for those who have been patiently waiting, the good news keeps coming – we're finally restocking our Mega Studs!

These have been a favourite among our customers, and I can't wait for you to get your hands on them again. Each piece in our February lineup is a reflection of our commitment to bringing you exceptional, trend-setting jewellery.

This month, my reading list took me on quite a journey, starting with "The Handmaid's Tale."

Initially, I was hesitant about diving into the book, especially after watching the first season of the series, which didn't quite captivate me. However, a girlfriend gifted it to me for Christmas, and I decided to give it a shot. Let me tell you, the book is a completely different experience – a compelling, thought-provoking narrative that kept me hooked. It's a vivid and intense exploration of a dystopian world that's both chilling and captivating. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a read that's both challenging and rewarding.

The other book that caught my attention this month was "Contagious" by Jonah Berger. Venturing into the realm of marketing, this book is a fascinating dive into why things catch on. It's packed with insightful analyses and intriguing concepts about how and why certain ideas or products become popular. For anyone interested in the dynamics of viral content and effective marketing strategies, "Contagious" is a must-read. It’s not just informative but also incredibly engaging, making complex ideas accessible and exciting.

It's one of those films that resonates long after the credits roll, weaving a story that's as haunting as it is beautiful.

The narrative, a blend of romance, drama, and a hint of the mystical, captivated me with its exploration of love, destiny, and the connections that transcend time.

What struck me most was the film's ability to balance depth and simplicity, drawing you into its world with a compelling storyline and relatable characters.

The cinematography and score complement the narrative beautifully, creating an immersive experience that's both thought-provoking and emotionally stirring.

For anyone looking for a film that's a little off the beaten path, with a story that stays with you, "Past Lives" is a must-watch. It's a cinematic gem that proves the power of storytelling in exploring the complexities of human relationships and fate

Rewatching the Sopranos nearly 20 years after , is like experiencing it for the first time all over again, which is absolutely awesome!

The show, a true masterpiece in the world of television, hasn't lost a bit of its edge or impact. With 2024 marking the 25th anniversary since it first aired, revisiting "The Sopranos" feels even more special.

When it comes to my jewellery choices, I love switching things up monthly, but I always find myself drawn back to certain staple pieces, particularly when it comes to layering necklaces.

This month, I'm absolutely enamoured with the Catalina Set, the Gilda Chain, and the Gigi Choker. These pieces, with their distinct styles yet harmonious blend, create a layered look that's both sophisticated and effortlessly chic.

Moving on to earrings, the Chubby Hoops have become my absolute go-to. Their bold yet sleek design makes them a versatile choice for any look.

Additionally, I've been rotating in some of our newest pieces from the Ear Stories drop, including trendy huggies, studs, and U-locks. Each of these adds a unique twist and allows me to play around with different styles, keeping my look fresh and exciting.