Last Christmas I wrote a story for Verve magazine on how to shop for Nordic inspired gifts in Auckland, New Zealand. I contacted Bolt of Cloth in Newmarket for photos, as they stock a large range of products by Finnish design house Marimekko.

Image: Marimekko

Earlier this year, they got back in touch and invited me to be a guest cushion chooser in their weekly Cushion Cover Deal. My task was to choose three cushion covers from their range and explain why they appeal to me.

Image: Bolt of Cloth

I chose Marimekko’s Siltolapuutarha (allotment garden) design. The colours and patterns remind me of the sea and forests of New Zealand.

Sea Urchin Skeletons — Image by © Radius Images/Corbis

The benefit to customers is they can buy the three covers I chose, while only paying for two.

Image: Bolt of Cloth

The benefit to me, as well as them promoting my blog, is that Jess from Bolt of Cloth is on her way to Helsinki on her first big overseas trip. We will meet for the first time in September and I’m looking forward to getting together and talking about all things Finnish and New Zealand.

This was a collaboration, I didn’t receive anything other than Bolt of Cloth mentioning my blog on their website and the chance to meet a new friend. ; )