This article was written for Annabel & Grace, which is now part of Rest Less.
How would you describe yourself in a nutshell?
I live in a lovely little village in Sussex with my husband and son. I set up Not Another Bunch Of Flowers – an online business selling get well gifts – following my diagnosis with breast cancer. It’s a range of gifts and cards specifically for people going through tough times.
What age you feel right now?
I am 41 – but feel much, much older as my cancer medication has put me through the menopause and all of my joints ache and creak.
Where have you lived?
I grew up in Suffolk, then did a stint in London, then Brighton and now live in a beautiful Sussex village called Lindfield. Picture large commons, a duck pond, pretty churches and a bustling high street full of independent shops, boutiques and pubs.
What you like to do in your free time?
Juggling running my own business and being a mum to a toddler doesn’t leave me a massive amount of free time. I walk my dog every day. If I do get any more relaxation time I enjoy a nice meal out with friends, a long, relaxing bubble bath or getting stuck into a good drama.
Do you have a favourite fashion brand?
Mint Velvet is my go to for comfy, cosy, slouchy jumpers. Teamed with a pair of skinny jeans, they are my wardrobe staple.
Have you embraced technology?
I probably spend more time than I should glued to my computer and phone. Well, my husband would definitely say that was the case. I do love having a nosy on Instagram and seeing what people are doing/eating/wearing! It helps me feel connected in my busy life. And who doesn’t love an Instagram filter!
What is your preferred beauty brand? Tell us why you love it.
It has to be my Cowshed stuff. The packaging is so pretty and looks great in my new bathroom! They smell divine and I love that I can choose my product based on the fun names…Horny Cow, Knackered Cow, Wild Cow etc…
Do you have a beauty tip for our readers?
The best thing I have ever done was my laser hair removal. I had it done about 12 years ago, and to not have to worry about expensive and painful waxing or ingrown hairs before a holiday or going swimming is a great relief!
How are you in the kitchen?
I absolutely love cooking and trying out new recipes – especially baking. My fudgy chocolate chunk brownies are pretty good! However, we have just moved and inherited the most beautiful Aga (house goals!) with ovens that are either a furnace or lukewarm, so my recent efforts have been a bit of a disaster…!
Anything in particular you love to eat?
A delicious, rich red wine and some good stinky cheese would be my perfect pairing. Delicious!
Who do you read?
Jodi Picoult is always my go-to author. Her books are always so contemporary and examine real concepts, events and issues – even really tough and controversial ones. She creates amazing characters that make you empathise and understand from all different angles. They’re often tear-jerkers too.
Do you watch much TV?
I rarely watch TV, but if I do get the chance I love to binge watch a great drama or thriller box set. I can’t bear adverts or having to wait until the next week to find out what happens.
Your favourite music?
Abba! Never fails to get me singing along and dancing around the kitchen.
Is there anything you can’t live without?
Love and laughter – which is normally in the form of good friends and family.
Who do you most admire or are grateful to?
My aunt. On both counts! She took me and my sister in when my mother passed away when we were young. And is the most amazing inspiration having set up her own very successful business, which saw her working very hard and raising a family but able to retire early and enjoy life.
If you’d like to know more about Anikka’s gift company, click here