What Sophie Said

On Saturday night, I went to a masquerade ball. It was for a 30th birthday, the venue was stunning, and it was just a wonderful evening. Firstly, it was so lovely to properly dress up. We often do nice things, but not events where you get the chance to really go all out, wear something new and feel special for the evening. It felt like an escape from the every day, and everyone really went for it. I was surrounded by beautiful dresses and the most incredible masks. No one in the room had let the side down! There was a three-piece jazz band playing throughout the party, and the evening sun was streaming in through the huge windows. I had met a grand total of about four people in the room before Saturday night, but 10 minutes in it didn't feel like that was the case. Sometimes, people stick with the people they know, but everyone was so open and friendly and there was a real sense that people spent the evening circulating. It was a truly special event, and hopefully e...

Another thing I love about Christmas is the amount of parties and gatherings, and getting the chance to catch up with people you maybe see less often. Especially now, about 18 months after graduating, when the majority of my friends are only all in the same place for a relatively short time. On the 20th, we got started with a Christmassy evening at my house. House decorated... The baby sister and me Christmassed up... It was a relaxed festive evening with some of my favourites. And Max definitely won at Christmas with his Santa onesie. A couple of days later it was time for the annual Hawker Christmas Drinks. Glasses ready... Family ready... (Jess is pretty much my parents' third daughter so she's the extra brunette on these ones!) Mum and dad spent time perfecting what they've named the #champagneselfie And then Baz's Christmas Quiz turned the atmosphere competitive... ...

The first few days of a new year allow time to reflect on the year that has just gone by, and 2013 was certainly a busy one for me. It can be useful to look back at what you’ve achieved in that chunk of time, to put everything in perspective and be proud of yourself for what you’ve accomplished. A huge moment of 2013, for me, was graduating from the University of York. After three years of ups and downs, and a lot of hard work, I got the 2:1 I had been aiming for, and could celebrate with my friends the fact that we had done it: we had our degrees. A few months later, in September, I began my role as marketing executive at my dad’s market research company, where I am preparing to study for my Professional Certificate in Marketing. I feel so fortunate to be in a position where I am in the industry I want to be in, making valuable connections, and earning a real salary so soon after finishing university. With the end of university came the sad day that Andy and...