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  From Boardmasters in Newquay to TRNSMT in Glasgow, summer in the UK means music festivals! Cue mile long queues for portaloos, extortionate prices for wellies and water, and some seriously NSFW fashion choices.  Also cue families up and down the land planning trips with the kids to get some culture and family time at one of these glorious occasions. In the So Close household, we’re the first to value a bit of a tech detox during family holidays, but we also know that facing the prospect of lost kids, awkward set times and unpredictable weather without the help of...

There’s nothing like the prospect of 6 weeks in the company of ones offspring to induce a feeling of gratitude for the teaching profession. Plus, who doesn’t want to score a few brownie points and a reputation for thoughtfulness with the school staff?  A quick scour of the internet reveals endless amusing tales of teachers being given hilariously inappropriate gifts - a bottle of stolen whisky with the security tag still on, a six pack of knickers in the wrong size and Mums used lipstick all crop up on the TES forum. Nobody wants to get it wrong when showing...

  There’s a lot of boring bits in being a parent. The daily grind of packing lunch boxes, being the children's personal taxi and washing their socks can easily make even the most upbeat parent feel worn out. Sometimes, watching the kids grow up it feels like time is passing too swiftly, a blur of clubs and activities and hastily eaten dinners. It’s times like those that I’m grateful for the annual milestones that come with a rush of nostalgia and a reminder of how important it is to stay connected - Christmas, birthdays and of course, Father’s day. I’ve...

The seashore trend is set to be big for weddings this summer. Natural materials, metallic finishes and a celebration of the outdoors all come together in a trend that’s shore to delight!   Whether you dream of a full mermaid wedding, or would just like to add some elegant natural touches to your special day, there are so many ways to include this trend.  We figured that brides who are drawn to this soulful trend will enjoy knowing their wedding details have been purchased from designer makers working in small studios with big passion. With this in mind we’ve rounded...

There are certain times of the year when sugar seems to take centre stage, and Easter is one of them. This year, Tarot has gone vegan and I’m counting calories, which makes the prospect of a house full of chocolate feel a bit overwhelming. With that in mind, I’ve been on the hunt for ways we can make Easter special that don’t involve chocolate. Here’s my round up of the most fun and creative ideas for a great Easter that won’t leave you in need of a diet and dental work. Alternative egg hunts There are so many great egg...