Mrs Retro Bee

The last week of August always gives me butterflies. Shops are full of pencil cases and lunch boxes, the evenings feel shorter, and back to school preparation suddenly takes over the house. In a few days Eloise will be back through the school gates and I’m trying to juggle uniforms, routines and my own nerves. This year feels different. She has new teachers, new classmates, and new worries. The…

Giving Forgotten Treasures a New Life There have been tears, doubts and more late nights than I care to count.But I’m writing this now with a heart full of pride, because Bonita Eloise is finally live. This is more than just a shop.It is a quiet celebration of beauty, imperfection and second chances. Our collections feature vintage pieces that once sat forgotten in cupboards or tucked away on…

It’s been a while since I’ve written a proper update, so I thought I’d pop in with a little catch up because, as always, life has been full on. Between work, juggling my health, and keeping the family ticking along, it’s been one of those seasons where the days just blur. I tried joining choir again (because I do love a good singing session) but honestly, it’s been near impossible to fit it in…

Short answer: yes, absolutely. It’s an incredibly demanding, unpaid role that is both physically and emotionally draining. As a parent, you’re always on the clock—there are no sick days, no annual leave, and no opportunity to hand in your notice. It’s a commitment you make for life, and one where societal expectations often prevent you from expressing just how hard it can be. Every day starts…

Black Friday is practically a national event now, and if you’re ready to shop smart, there are some incredible bargains to be had. I’ve been scouting out the best places for deals this year, and here’s my roundup to help you snag the best buys. 1. Amazon Amazon is the go-to for a reason. From toys to tech, their Black Friday sales are always impressive. Use tools like CamelCamelCamel to make…

Christmas is just around the corner, and like every year, the excitement is accompanied by a bit of stress about sticking to a budget. I’ve been there, and I know the juggling act of trying to get everything just right without overspending. So, here’s how I tackle Christmas shopping and preparations without breaking the bank. 1. Keep a Close Eye on Prices If you’re like me, you probably have a…

Recently, John and I managed to escape for a very rare date and decided to attend the Taskmaster Live Experience in London. Having read a mix of reviews, we weren’t entirely sure what to expect, but I’m pleased to report that we had an absolute blast! If you’ve been hesitant because of the feedback, here are my honest thoughts and tips to help you navigate the experience. The Parking…

This half-term, we set off to Church Farm in Ardeley for their Halloween event with the whole family in tow: John, Eloise, my brother, mum, and even our dogs! We chose this farm because it’s dog-friendly, which meant our pups could join in on the fun. A Muddy Start with a Halloween Twist We braced ourselves for October weather, and yes, there was mud—plenty of it! But that’s all part of the…

Over the last few months, we’ve noticed some big changes in Eloise’s behaviour. She’s seven now, and while we knew this age would bring new emotions and challenges, her sudden bursts of annoyance, moments of anger, raised voice, and even the occasional throwing or punching have taken us by surprise. If you’re seeing similar behaviour with your child, know that it’s all part of their growth.…

October is one of my favourite months, especially for spending time with Eloise. There’s something so magical about the cool crisp air, the crunch of leaves underfoot, and of course, the excitement of Halloween! Over the years, we’ve built a tradition of embracing everything autumn has to offer, from creative crafts to outdoor adventures. Here are some of our favourite October activities that you…

Have you ever felt like your days are packed, and you just can’t add one more thing to your to-do list? That’s exactly how I feel most of the time. But despite my tight schedule, I still carve out time to volunteer. Why? Because the joy of helping others is worth every second. My Crazy Schedule: Where Does Volunteering Fit In? Let me break it down for you. My weekdays are full-on: work starts…

Halloween is one of those magical times when kids (and let’s be honest, parents too!) can fully embrace their imaginations. In our house, we absolutely love planning for Halloween—sometimes months in advance. My daughter Eloise and I spend weeks thinking up costume ideas and deciding whether to create our own or find something ready-made. This year, Eloise set her heart on being a character from…

Feeding your little one is one of the most cherished experiences of parenthood, but it can also bring a mix of joy and challenges. Whether you choose to breastfeed or bottle-feed, what matters most is that you find what works best for you and your baby. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, and that’s perfectly okay! Breastfeeding: Nurturing Connection If you decide to breastfeed, here are…

I was really looking forward to letting my hair down at Hertford’s Oktoberfest this year, and it didn’t disappoint! It was exactly what I needed to step out of my daily routine and enjoy myself. We booked a private table, mainly because my anxiety wouldn’t handle the hustle and bustle of being too close to a crowd, and it was the perfect solution. I had a lovely group with me: my husband, my…

Welcoming a little one into your life can be an incredibly joyful experience, but it can also feel overwhelming—especially with the vast array of baby products available today. As parents, we naturally want to make the best choices for our babies, and that’s where expert recommendations come in handy! Essential Products You Might Consider Nappies: Choosing the right nappy can make a world of…

Ah, winter! It’s a time for warm blankets, comforting cups of tea, and the excitement of the festive season. But along with all the lovely things that come with winter, we often find ourselves facing some unwelcome visitors: sickness bugs, colds, and the dreaded flu. As a parent and a business owner, I completely understand how challenging it can be when illness sneaks into our homes, throwing…