Laura-Ann simply had to be one of my guest bloggers, I admire her! I'm such a fan of all things pretty, quite literally! There's no where else to look for anything more pretty, than Laura-Ann's Instagram and blog. She has two gorgeous boys, a stunning 1890s home and the most positive and inspiring vibe. Plus, she is utterly gorgeous - you'll see that for yourselves!
What's your name and what's your Instagram handle?
I'm Laura-Ann Barr and my Instagram handle is @all.thats.pretty
Tell us a bit about yourself?
I'm Laura-Ann, a mum of boys from Northern Ireland who likes the pretty side of life... I collect what my husband calls "floral guff" and quite simply love to photograph it around my house, on Instagram. I also work part time as an estate agent, 3 days a week on top of blogging at www.prettymuchme.co.uk
How long have you been Blogging/Instagramming and what inspired you to start?
My blog actually came about on the back of my Instagram account. I never set out or thought of myself as a blogger, but I love to be creative and found an outlet on my Instagram page, styling, crafting and photographing. As my following grew, I surprisingly found myself featured on different brand's websites as a guest blogger, providing content and thought that setting up my own was naturally my next step. I found it incredibly nerve-wracking pressing the publish button, wondering what people would think (especially close family and friends) It has been one of the best things I've ever done and I haven't looked back. I absolutely love blogging now and it's opened up so many doors for me.
Who inspires you? Do they have Instagram handles?
Oh there are so many, I don't think I can name them all incase I leave anyone out! I have made some really close friends from Instagram, some I have since met and some I've yet to meet. It's such a supportive community.
Would you say your home has a theme? If so, how would you describe it?
It's definitely colourful... it's quite traditional, I'm not very modern - our home was built in 1890 so it wouldn't suit modern. Lot's of muted pink tones are found throughout... I don't think it's too overpowering but my husband would say otherwise... he hates the pink smeg fridge!
What is your favourite room in your home and why?
I love our hallway... I'm forever photographing those blue tiles on Instagram, as it's such a colourful backdrop. They look orginial, but we actually got them fitted when we first bought the house. I have a full house renovation blog post on my page explaining it all, but previously they were just beige floor tiles... I think the blue geometric tiles make much more of a wow factor when you first walk through the door.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
Oh I'm a total home bird. I wouldn't move anywhere else. But a holiday home in Lake Garda wouldn't be out of the question for a few weeks of the year!
Where do you generally shop for home related products?
I love Laura Ashley, you will find something from their store in almost every room throughout our home. I also love to pick up vintage pieces in local antique shops... I'm a bit of a granny mush that way. French antiques are my favourite, although usually are the most pricey. I have quite a few dotted around the house, from mirrors, photo frames, oil paintings and cabinets.
Tell us something interesting about you, that we wouldn't find out from your socials?
Oh I share a lot on social media, so I'm trying to think about something I have never mentioned... We are planning on moving house in the next few years, so that's something I've yet to mention! This isn't our forever home, as much as we love it. I would love an extra bedroom, and a garage. As an estate agent, I have got my eye out all the time.
Do you have a 5 year plan?
Not exactly... I've just returned to work after my second maternity leave and I'm loving being back. I always imagined having more than two children, but the reality is two is blooming hard work! We will definitely have moved in the next five years, not sure when or where yet though.
Not exactly... I've just returned to work after my second maternity leave and I'm loving being back. I always imagined having more than two children, but the reality is two is blooming hard work! We will definitely have moved in the next five years, not sure when or where yet though.
What advice would you give to first time buyers?
Make sure you have checked your finances before you start looking at properties. It amazes me how many people assume they know their budget and start viewing houses before they actually speak to a financial adviser. Also, sometimes it's more prudent to buy the not so fancy semidetached home over the newly refurbished townhouse. People get wowed by a nice tidy clean ready to move in property, but personally I think buying one that you can put your own stamp on it and subsequently adding value is a much better investment.
Make sure you have checked your finances before you start looking at properties. It amazes me how many people assume they know their budget and start viewing houses before they actually speak to a financial adviser. Also, sometimes it's more prudent to buy the not so fancy semidetached home over the newly refurbished townhouse. People get wowed by a nice tidy clean ready to move in property, but personally I think buying one that you can put your own stamp on it and subsequently adding value is a much better investment.
If you won £1m what would you do and buy with it?
I'd probably buy a site and then build my own dream home from scratch. I have a scrap book made of magazine cut outs in case the day ever comes.
I'd probably buy a site and then build my own dream home from scratch. I have a scrap book made of magazine cut outs in case the day ever comes.
What is one thing you couldn't live without?
Coffee... I don't get much sleep, my youngest is up 3-4 times a night, every night. I drink about 8 cups a day and love my Nespresso machine.
What song would be the theme tune to your life?
Jay Z - 99 Problems... It's my favourite song!
Jay Z - 99 Problems... It's my favourite song!
Hit us with your best motto?
"Always smile"
"Always smile"
Click the links below for Laura-Ann's socials:
We hope you enjoyed this post,
Love, Rey & Laura-Ann x
1 comment
Another great post!! I love Laura's house, so colourful xx
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