Three years ago, I was preparing to move 169 miles from home for university. I was already social awkward enough in school; how was I going to cope in the adult world? How was I going to adjust to living with strangers?… Alright, actually. But I didn't know that. Every scenario went through my head, each getting worse and worse. I would worry about what my flatmates would think of me or that I would fail all my modules. Now, in the third year of my course- about to start my final one in September- I am happier than ever and a lot less anxious. However, back then I could've been doing with someone to give me some much-needed advice. Here are some things I wish I knew before starting university:
My Favourite Small Businesses
Who loves handmade jewellery, accessories and decor? I know I do. I love scrolling through Etsy, discovering new and unique small businesses. Mainly, I look for jewellery and other accessories but I know there's plenty of clothing, furniture and more to browse. You can find virtually anything on sites like Etsy and Depop - often upcycled and handmade items. Most Etsy shops I buy from are eco-friendly, using recycled or sustainably sourced materials. Let’s have a look at some of the small businesses I love...
Home for Christmas
After having a "mini Christmas" with Ryan in Aberdeen, exchanging presents and having a Christmas-y date, I headed down to Ayrshire to spend time with my family. Before leaving, I had 2 free, asymptomatic Covid tests given to me for free by the university. Thankfully, both of them were negative and I was able to travel 170 miles to get home for Christmas...
Make do and Mend
When I first stumbled upon The Closet vintage shop, hidden away down a small lane in a part of Aberdeen I had never been to before, I was pleasantly surprised. I was greeted with clothing rails tightly packed with vintage silk gowns, velvet and fur coats, floral embroidered skirts, leather and denim jackets, colourful swing dresses and smart three-piece suits. Delicate pearl necklaces dangled from jewellery hangers placed on top of drawers overflowing with beaded evening bags. Tall glittery 70s go-go boots sat proudly on a shelf next to the window, sparkling under the overhead lights. Hanging from the ceiling, handbags and hats vied for my attention. In the centre of the shop was a circular rail of shirts with every pattern you can think of printed on them. Sitting next to the door, beside a rail of brightly patterned dresses that were waiting patiently to be priced, was Elane, the owner of the shop. She was wearing blue jeans dungarees, a pair of silver high heeled boots with matching fur cuffs, teamed with an acid blue denim jacket and a cream woolly bobble hat on her platinum blonde head. She greeted me with a surprised smile, as if she was shocked to see a customer, and then a jolly "Hello". I've been a regular customer ever since...

