Alex is a professional photographer living in the Chilterns in the Oxfordshire countryside with her husband, son, two dogs and cat. Her lifestyle blog, A Little Wilderness, is full of Cotswold charm and outfit inspiration for days.
Could you tell us a little about yourself?:
I've been a professional photographer for twelve years and I love to take photographs, so my instagram is an outlet for my personal pictures. In my previous life I was an IT geek but being a creative is really what makes my heart sing. Originally I'm from the North West of England and we moved to the glorious county of Oxfordshire 7 years ago. I adore living in the countryside.
How would you describe your personal style and what influences your style?
I guess the countryside does influence my personal style, for me it's always comfort over fashion as I hate being cold!! I love tweed and natural earthy colours and have a penchant for hats and boots. You'll have to surgically remove me from my jeans, they are my ultimate staple! I think that when you feel comfortable you feel more confident and although you are more likely to find me in trousers, I have been known to wear a dress from time to time! I try to avoid 'trends' these days and would much rather focus on investing in timeless pieces that never go out of fashion. Instagram influences my style a lot, I follow some amazing women who always look impeccable. I would also say that my personal style changes seasonally and as I get older. I never want to look like the cat dressing as a kitten!
What are three or four items you always pack for a weekend getaway in the country?
A tweed overcoat, a pair of leather boots and an umbrella!
With living near the Cotswolds, could you tell us about a favorite spot you'd recommend for new visitors?
Gosh, there are so many beautiful places in the Cotswolds, do I really have to pick just one favourite? There are two places I utterly adore and they are Broadway and Chipping Campden at any time of the year. They are both quite different but have a unique charm. Broadway is especially lovely in the festive period and put on a lovely light display.
With Christmas coming up before we know it, could you share your favorite home decorating tips?
First off I like to give the house a really good clean from top to bottom so that I can concentrate on the decor. To me it's all about creating the right atmosphere, the tree must be the focal point but it's got to have a magic about it. Every year I buy my son a new ornament for the tree so that he can look back on the previous year and it's like a surprise every time the decorations come out. I like to stick to a very natural theme with my tree (browns and reds) and tinsel is a definite no no.
What would be your go to outfit for a Christmas cocktail party in the country?
Something fabulous and short with a splash of tartan and some very high heels.
Not to sound vain but... is there a Sea to Skye item that you're drawn to?
I absolutely love the scarves by the Tartan Blanket Company, I already have one of their rugs and they are beautiful.
