Weekly Newsletters with Uplifting Ideas
25th March - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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."
