Weekly Newsletters with Uplifting Ideas
25th March 2020 - Week 1 😀 - READ
"We are introducing a weekly newsletter from The Directory containing news about the businesses included in it and some uplifting ideas from the local community which we hope you will enjoy reading. The Directory contains many small, independent businesses which could do with some encouragement and extra business at this time, and we could all do with some ideas to keep our minds off the events happening in the world..."
1st April 2020 - Week 2 😀 - READ
"As well as sharing news from The Directory advertisers and uplifting ideas for lockdown we are also undertaking a 'Fitness Challenge for April' and wondered if you would like to join us...."
8th April 2020 - Week 3 😀 - READ
"As Easter weekend approaches we hope you and your families are well and continuing to stay safe.
Once again we are sharing news from some of The Directory businesses as well as some more uplifting ideas from the wider community including some Easter recipes, a wine offer, a visit to the Royal Academy of Arts and more...
15th April 2020 - Week 4 😀 - READ
"We hope you and your families had an enjoyable Easter weekend and are continuing to stay well and safe.
This week's Directory newsletter includes some gardening tips for non-gardeners, a pub quiz, a cocktail recipe and more...
22nd April 2020 - Week 5 😀 - READ
"We hope you are finding some time this week to enjoy the glorious weather.
This week's Directory newsletter includes details of how to enter the World Chelsea Bun Awards Bake-Off Competition, a recipe from Michelin Star Chef Phil Howard, some warm up video exercises and more...."
29th April 2020 - Week 6 😀 - READ
"As the end of the month approaches we are happy with the progress we have made towards our April Challenge of cycling 300 miles each. If you set yourself a challenge we hope you did well, if not how about setting yourself a challenge for May?
This week's Directory newsletter includes details of how to 'Make a Heart' and donate to scrubs for the NHS, read about Creativity in a Crisis, make an Espresso Martini, attend a virtual wine tasting and more..."
6th May 2020 - Week 7 😀 - READ
"Although we can no longer celebrate VE Day as we may have wished, in this week's newsletter we identify some ways we can celebrate this important anniversary whilst in lockdown.
We also recommend volunteering with Link UP London, the by Beautiful Brands shopping event, the NewBloodArt online gallery, feature a recipe for Rayeesa's onion bhajis and more....."
13th May 2020 - Week 8 😀 - READ
"We hope you had an enjoyable Bank Holiday weekend and VE Day celebration.
This week we feature news about the reopening of My Plumber Man and Just Helpers Cleaning Service plus Bundle MacLaren Millinery launch a range of well-designed, colourful face masks. We've also recently discovered delicious Manuka Honey with its many health benefits, a hangover cure and, if you're feeling creative, we have a pasta making recipe and an art tour...."
20th May 2020 - Week 9 😀 - READ
"We hope you are getting a chance to enjoy the amazing weather we are having.
This week the newsletter contains something for everyone from early morning meditation to fabulous photography, inspirational Chelsea Flower Show gardens, the literary Hay Festival, another lockdown recipe and how to play online bingo..."
27th May 2020 - Week 10 😀 - READ
"We hope you had a good bank holiday weekend and are enjoying the half term week.
This week's newsletter highlights include fabulous and unusual holiday houses to rent, special offers on pyjamas and flowers, book and art lecture recommendations and the beagle who loves to dress up for the NHS..."
3rd June 2020 - Week 11 😀 - READ
"As we start to emerge from lockdown, we have news of some businesses which are re-opening including Glow Dental, Scope Renovations and the Pear Tree Cafe in Battersea Park. Also this week we include details of a new cocktail competition, life drawing classes and a quirky gadget shop...."
10th June 2020 - Week 12 😀 - READ
"We are starting to think about holidays and this week include details of 'glamping' in the British countryside and a boutique hotel in Sri Lanka, you could visit later on in the year.
We also have news of Directory businesses which are re-opening and offering doorstep photography, takeaway Sunday lunches and support to new businesses, as well as a link to some practical DIY videos, free online university courses and more....."
17th June 2020 - Week 13 😀 - READ
"Now that 'support bubbles' are allowed and non-essential shops are open, it feels like a little bit of normality is beginning to return to our lives.
This week we find ourselves amidst Royal Ascot festivities, albeit virtually and we have included lots of ways to join in the fun, plus there is news from a couple of Directory advertisers... and don't forget Father's Day on Sunday!"
24th June 2020 - Week 14 😀 - READ
"With temperatures set to reach 32 degrees this week we hope you are making the most of the sunny days and finding as much time as possible to be outside.
This week we would like to introduce you to two new Directory advertisers...
- By Word of Mouth 'At Home' which can fill your freezer with delicious chef prepared dishes and
- FM3 Interior Design who can help you plan improvements to your home.
We also have a focus on beachwear, Masterpiece Online and more..."
24th June 2020 - Week 15 😀 - READ
"As July 4th, which is becoming known as 'independence day', approaches we highlight some Directory shops and businesses which are re-opening. Many of the businesses in The Directory are small, independents and would be so grateful for any support you can give them. If you can't use their services at the moment, you could show your support by following them on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. The links are on The Directory website."
8th July 2020 - Week 16 😀 - READ
"We hope you are enjoying our new found freedoms and have found time to have a haircut, a meal out or a drink in the pub. As foreign travel restrictions are eased, this week we are focusing on Directory travel providers who may be able to help you plan a holiday.
Also we feature special offers from My Plumber Man and Kiwi Movers, details of art galleries and palaces reopening and more..."
15th July 2020 - Week 17 😀 - READ
"We have all spent a lot of time in our homes during the last few months and we know some of you are consequently looking to 'move or improve'. This week's focus is on estate agents, architect, builders, and other home improvement services which are featured in The Directory.
As usual we also have some uplifting news including details of a sample sale, al fresco dining and a link to the July issue of Sloane Square magazine."
22nd July 2020 - Week 18 😀 - READ
"As lockdown eases further, we are being encouraged to spend more on the high street and in restaurants and the wearing of face masks becomes compulsory in shops from Friday. This week we've found some fantastic SuperHero Face Masks for kids, protective face coverings for adults and look at ways to improve our mental and physical health to help keep us safe."
29th July 2020 - Week 19 😀 - READ
"This week as we are all being encouraged to slim down we are featuring the Eat Less book which offers practical advice on the benefits eating less can bring. We are also highlighting summer schools, how to order personalized socks, reduce car hire insurance costs and are encouraging you to support the Royal Academy of Art Graduate Show, local restaurants and more...."
5th August 2020 - Week 20 😀 - READ
"August has arrived and we have decided that after 20 weeks of sending out weekly Directory newsletters it is time to take a break. We will be back with more Directory advertisers' news and uplifting ideas on Wednesday 2nd September.
Before we go we would like to introduce you to The Holiday Shop London who are offering Directory readers 15% off its colourful, lifestyle essentials which are perfect for your holidays, school and university life. Also don't forget on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesdays during August you can 'Eat Out to Help Out' and save 50% (up to £10) off your food and non-alcoholic drinks bill. Let us know of any recommendations you may have on where to go."
2nd September 2020 - Week 21 😀 - READ
"We hope you have had an enjoyable August whether you stayed at home or managed to escape on holiday.
As autumn approaches Directory Members Fiona Clare, Cakes by Christina Brierwood, Stagecoach and Everyday Healthy are launching new collections and courses, whilst Trotters and My Personalized Socks can help you get ready for 'back to school'. We also feature 'Eat Out to Help Out' September discounts, outside film shows and Manuka Direct honey to help ward off autumn sniffles."
9th September 2020 - Week 22 😀 - READ
"As the weather begins to warm up again we feature outside pools where you might like to take a dip and some museums and art galleries you may enjoy visiting before the crowds return to London.
Also this week... a gym in South Kensington, an online rare book fair, music and french courses, gardening tips and a car and courier service we both use and recommend."
16th September 2020 - Week 23 😀 READ
"We hope you are finding time to enjoy the glorious weather. This week we include details of the fascinating London Mural Festival and fabulous London Design Festival both of which are well worth a visit.
We also have details of boutiques for children, the Glass Door Charity Sleep Out, the latest Covid-19 advice from Coyne Medical, how to join a Covid tracker study and suggest you cheer yourself up by planting some spring bulbs now."
23rd September 2020 - Week 24 😀 READ
"As the evenings begin to draw in, we focus on cosy pyjamas and some very, very early Christmas shopping; help with revitalising your business; after school and half term 'online' coding clubs and tuition; freshly made warming dishes for the freezer and a reminder of the array of useful House & Garden services recommended in The Directory... plus some uplifting ideas for the week ahead."
30th September 2020 - Week 25 😀 READ
"This week we focus on our bodies and some ways to stay mentally and physically fit, happy and healthy. We also highlight sustainably sourced, beautiful yaks yarn knitwear and include an introductory offer of 20% off Manuka Direct's delicious genuine New Zealand Manuka honey."
7th October 2020 - Week 26 😀 - READ
"This week you can save 35% off luxury hotels in Mauritius, arrange for a local photographer to capture images of your family, and if you are thinking of returning to the work place or volunteering there are organisations you can talk to.
We have also included links to the various companies featured in the Essential Services section of The Directory and urge you to visit the Kensington & Chelsea Art Week, the Physic Garden Houseplant Sale and the Royal Academy of Art Summer Exhibition."
14th October 2020 - Week 27 😀 - READ
"We hope you are all staying well. This week we are delighted to introduce two new Members of The Directory, Beagle Media Ltd, an award-winning TV production and brand communication company, and MD Styling who is offering 10% off its hand-made designer face coverings which have the novel addition of a neck string.
Additionally we feature a private concierge service; a new low carb, high fibre bagel; celebrate 30 years with Trotters Childrenswear; create cocktails for London Cocktail Week; recommend pick-your-own pumpkin patches (and how to carve one) and the impressive exhibition 'Among the Trees' at the Haywood Gallery."
21st October 2020 - Week 28 😀 - READ
"We hope you are all staying well and warm. As half term begins we are delighted to introduce you to the incredible new Music Puzzle activity books for Years 1-6 created by Directory Member Chelsea Quavers and we also encourage you to visit MyKidsy for ideas on kids activities.
As we are all at home more, now is a good time to get your boiler serviced, employ a handyman or builder to help make home improvements or may be you are looking to move...
Uplifting ideas this week include retail therapy at Bicester Village, the new Rebecca film, walks in the Royal Parks and the new exhibitions at the National Gallery."
28th October 2020 - Week 29 😀 - READ
"We hope you are enjoying half term and staying well. This week we introduce two NEW 'sustainable fashion' members to The Directory: Anne Sinnott who is offering Directory readers an exclusive 10% off her fashion accessories and Baroque Rocks' offbeat and affordable fine vintage jewellery.
We also feature two of our favourite hospitality members, who we hope you will be able to support, and information on how to donate to Marcus Rashford's Feeding School Children Campaign... plus some silly dog costumes and recipes for Halloween!"
4th November 2020 - Week 30 😀 - READ
"We hope you are staying safe and not feeling too down about the approaching national lockdown.
We are committed to helping the 100+ small business Members of The Directory and this week are launching The Directory Christmas Shop to inspire you and encourage us all to support some of the businesses during this difficult time.
This week we are also excited to introduce two NEW Directory Members, Initially Londonwhich is offering you 15% off its unique monogrammed gifts and Talolo Boots which is offering 20% off its range of stylish wellies. Plus we encourage you to buy a poppy, visit local markets, support the Chelsea Pensioners and local, independent bookshops."
11th November 2020 - Week 31 😀 - READ"As part of our continuing commitment to the small business Members of The Directory, this week we are launching Christmas Gift Ideas for Him & for Her on the NEW Directory Christmas Shop. Hopefully this will encourage us all to support some small businesses during this difficult time.
We also highlight Christmas touch typing courses and we have some uplifting and creative ideas of things to do whilst we are all stuck at home."
18th November 2020 - Week 32 😀 - READ
"This week we welcome former Thomas's parent Rachel Hampson, who is a nutritionist, as a new Member of The Directory. Plus we launch The Directory Christmas Food, Drink and Preparation ideas in The Directory Christmas Shop.
We also highlight a new light installation at Tate Britain, a guide to help you light up your home and garden, feature a warming hot toddy recipe and recommend Zoom dinners."
25th November 2020 - Week 33 😀 - READ
"We would like to wish all our American friends a very Happy Thanksgiving and we've included a quick link to last minute supplies for any of you creating a special dinner. If you aren't cooking up a Thanksgiving feast, may be you will find time to start your Christmas shopping with some of this year's Black Friday offers and The Directory Christmas Shop.
If you need your spirits raising, why not decide what to wear on Christmas Jumper Day, plan a visit to the Christmas lights, visit an online hub for art lovers or watch the latest big hitting TV series on Netflix..."
2nd December 2020 - Week 34 - READ
"We are so glad that the lockdown is over and this week are highlighting some of The Directory Members who are excited to re-open. And as December is here, if you haven't visited The Directory Christmas Shop yet, now could be a good time...
Christmas is a time for giving and so we feature the Glass Door Christmas Appeal for the Homeless and the Big Give where donations made can be doubled. To lift your spirits we feature the new book 'All On The Board' and also feature some books you might like to give or receive this Christmas."
9th December 2020 - Week 35 😀 - READ
"This week we are excited to welcome contemporary fine artist, Rose Long and her recently launched online boutique, Long Studio Design to The Directory. Rose is generously offering Directory readers 20% off throughout December. Also Matrix Concierge has a 'Friends of The Directory' Christmas offer if you need a helping hand and The Directory Christmas Shop is open with lots of gift ideas.
It's a bit early for a January health kick but we're glad Dalton Wong's fitness studio in South Kensington has reopened and love the idea of joining a body toning retreat in SW France this summer."
16th December 2020 - Week 36 😀 - READ
"This week's newsletter is all about Christmas - recipes, last minute present ideas, carol concerts, outdoor skating, the Nutcracker, pantomimes and more.... Keep on reading for a flurry of festive suggestions and ideas.
Also we feature the innovative new cryochamber at Coyne Medical which promotes rest and recovery..."
23rd December 2020 - Happy Christmas 😀 - READ
"As this extraordinary year draws to an end we would like to send you and your family our best wishes.
We hope you've enjoyed reading The Directory's uplifting newsletters which we've been sending out each Wednesday since March. We've enjoyed producing them, supporting the 100+ Directory Members and receiving all your feedback.
We are taking a break over Christmas but will be back in the New Year with more uplifting ideas."
6th January 2021 - Week 37 😀 - READ
"Happy New Year!
Today is Twelfth Night and to avoid bad luck many people believe Christmas decorations should be taken down before noon. English Heritage though is urging people to keep the decorations up until Candlemas on February 2nd, the traditional end of the Christmas season.
Following the news of a third lockdown it may be a good idea to keep the decorations up and your houses looking bright until February. Please read below for some more uplifting ideas and news from Directory Members to help you stay upbeat at this difficult time.
Stay positive and strong."
13th January 2021 - Week 38 😀 - READ
"This week we are concentrating on healthy eating and healthy living. The Directory newsletter includes some tips for Veganuary and some new vegan recipes suggested by Directory Members plus fitness bands from Dalton Wong and free-from products from Cru8 Deli.
Uplifting Ideas this week include our favourite healthy recipe books, how to attract wild birds into your garden, investing in house plants and the most amazing country house sale we have ever heard of..."
20th January 2021 - Week 39 😀 - READ
"January, possibly named after Janus, the Roman god of beginnings and transition with two faces, one facing backwards, remembering what went before and one facing forwards, to see what the future holds. Perhaps not unlike us at the moment!
This week we look forward to Burns Night with a wee dram of whisky and perhaps a little highland fling! We've also added some new Veganuary recipes to The Directory website, Arcus Advisory suggest some online learning platforms and The Return Hub host a webinar.
Uplifting Ideas include a young artists' competition, art you can find on London streets and an attachable macro lens for phone cameras, so you take big pictures of mini things.
Last but not least... remember Pickles the Beagle? She's back and is doing her bit for the NHS."
27th January 2021 - Week 40 😀 - READ
"As we are all spending so much time at home, this week we have decided to focus on ideas and products to enhance our home life. We highlight the interior designer and architecture Directory Members plus we feature companies selling interior products for less including:
- Timothy Oulton who has 50% off everything;
- Jo Deakin who has 35% off some ranges of its bone china;
- the Grace Sisters who still have its winter sale on and are offering 10% off non-sale items to Directory Members;
- and The Baby Cot Shop who has launched its 'Interiors of Hope' initiative.
We also have uplifting interiors ideas from
Jette Interiors and a link to Amanda Gorman's incredible poem from the Presidential Inauguration..."
3rd February 2021 - Week 41 😀 - READ
"Welcome to February, the shortest month of the year, which we begin by highlighting Children's Mental Health Week and suggesting some Valentine's gift ideas.
We also include a link to The Duchess of Cambridge's mental health message of support, feature Directory Members Holli Rubin and Caroline Hanson who offer professional help to cope with life's challenges, plus outline Fiona Worthington's sensory coping mechanism.We are also excited to launch our New Directory Book Club, feature Poppy Thomas's new enterprise to help ease the strain of online learning on parents plus include fun online painting classes and a new heartwarming film...We couldn't finish though without saluting the hero of the first lockdown, the incredible and inspirational Captain Sir Tom Moore, who died yesterday."
10th February 2021 - Week 42 ⛄😀❄ READ
"We hope you are managing to stay warm and safe as Storm Darcy continues to bring freezing temperatures to many of us.
The week ahead is a busy one with Chinese New Year on Friday, Valentine's Day on Sunday, Shrove Tuesday and it is also half term for most London schools. We share some fun ways to celebrate these occasions and ideas on how to keep busy at half term.
Plus we have two new Directory Members - Kelling Designs and Lethbridge Lines Joinery - new book reviews in The Directory Book Club, recommend you explore Mayfair 'Wander Art', highlight a link up with Sloane Square magazine and feature a new film recommendation too..."
17th February 2021 - Week 43 😀 - READ
"We hope you're well. Spring is in sight... today is Ash Wednesday which marks the start of the Lenten period leading up to Easter and it's traditional to fast or give up something considered to be a treat, although perhaps this year we can be excused!!
Whilst we know travelling is off the cards at the moment we can't help but dream and enjoy sharing with you some glorious Travel News about four Members of The Directory... and if you want to get fighting fit for when lockdown is over we feature online Lotte Berk exercise classes and nutritional help from practitioner Rachel Hampson, and more.
Do please keep sending your book reviews for The Directory Book Club and we hope you enjoy our latest uplifting ideas."
24th February 2021 - Week 44 😀 - HERE
"We hope you're well and are feeling more positive now we have a map out of lockdown. This week we are focussing on spring and feature Directory Members who can help you with your garden, spring cleaning, spring dresses and Mother's Day ideas.
We are also encouraging you to take part in Cancer Research's 'Walk 10,000 Steps in March', invite you to purchase a dog print for charity, sign up for a dog walk in Barnes, plus we are launching a new classified ads section and recommend a new film...
Try and get out and enjoy the good weather if you can and wishing all our Welsh readers a Happy St David's Day for Monday."
