Reno blogging saved one couple $35k... but it didn't come cheap
I've always thought of reno blogging as a way to document a difficult process in a fun, relatable way. The benefit? Emotional support and maybe advice from folks following your journey - and maybe a little ego bump from showing off your mad wallpapering skills.
If you're lucky, and good, you might be given a couple of cans of paint from your local hardware store, to help you on the way - but that would be the icing on the tip of the social media cake.
Few of us would have the energy or knowhow to turn their reno into a part time side hustle that's both creatively fulfilling, and engaging.
But that's exactly what Moochstyle's Shayden and Georgia Whipps have done - with some pawsome help from their gorgeous dog Frankie. They've been blogging their Christchurch villa reno since they bought their home and Shayden shared their story with us for the final episode of First Rung, our podcast. A first time homeowner and renovator, Shayden is such an inspiring guy to chat with. He makes you want to jump in and give it go. Check out his story and let us know what you think.
Suellen’s sweet Christmas tradition
The festive season is always a great excuse to indulge your sweet tooth, and this time of year poses the perfect opportunity to bring a real showstopper to the Christmas table.
For Suellen’s family, that showstopper is Croquembouche, an impressive tower of cream puffs bound together with spun sugar that is popular at weddings in France and Italy.
What began as a birthday treat at a local French café has become a cherished Christmas tradition for Suellen and her 17-year-old twin granddaughters, Ellie and Sadie. Every year, the trio gather in Suellen’s apartment at William Sanders Village to cook this festive dessert - a holiday highlight they all treasure.
Click read more for the recipe.
Would you like a free copy of our February 2025 issue?
Kia ora neighbours. We give away free copies to readers whose recipes are used in our magazine. We're still on the hunt for tomato recipes, so send your family's favourite way to use up your homegrown harvest, to: mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. If we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of the mag
On the range
Venetian plaster finishes are on-trend at the moment, so why not recreate this look at home and cover that unsightly rangehood at the same time? Find out how to create your own with Resene Sandtex and these easy step by step instructions.