A better life

Relaxed, rewilded and reconnected with friends, family and the world beneath our feet – that's the spirit inspiring the way we host, holiday, dress our homes and spend our time right now

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LIZ WARNER, CEO, DIFFERENT KIND 'Gifting “useful” foods means it will rarely go to waste – think small-batch and handmade.

Food & Forest's nut oils (£23) are a popular choice, or opt for a stylish box of Step & Stone Bakery's cheese and walnut biscuits (£6) instead of chocolates.'

PETRA PALUMBO, DESIGNER AND FOUNDER OF HER NAMESAKE HIGHLANDS-BASED HOMEWARE BRAND

'I'll often take along a jar of my homemade plum jam when visiting friends and family - it's truly delicious and not too sweet. The secret is a squeeze of lemon, along with a hint of grated ginger and a touch of star anise.'

CINNY AUMONIER, FOUNDER OF INTERIOR DESIGN STUDIO AND HOMEWARE BRAND, CINNY

'I'm all about gifting beautiful, local, scent-led products. If I love a smell, I want to share it with everyone! My two go-to favourites are the No.1 Geranium Hand Wash (£27 for 300ml) from C.Atherley and Grove England's Anemone Hand Cream (£35 for 85ml), both made in the Cotswolds, where I'm based. They're simple, beautiful and always feel like a treat'.

SKYE MCALPINE, COOKERY WRITER AND TABLEWARE DESIGNER

'When it comes to florals, the wilder the better - it feels more authentic that way. A big potted pelargonium is wonderful, or I love a jug of flowers all mixed up from the garden, or just a bunch of one kind, such as tulips, slightly flopping over the edge. Simple daisies in small bud vases scattered down a table are also lovely.'

Gorgeous florals

CAROLINE INCHYRA, FABRIC AND WALLPAPER DESIGNER

'People are starting to think more about where flowers have come from - why fly them around the world when there's an abundance from right here at home? I've decorated a table with oak leaves before now, or rhubarb leaves picked from the garden. So simple, but stunning.' →

CINNY AUMONIER