silver

Cosmic Love

November 23, 2015

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PhotographyBobby Bense

Model/StylingHelen Janneson Bense

Location – Sorrento Beach, Western Australia

Outfit Details

GOLD

Necklaces – Cosmic Love ‘Breathe in Love’ Moon | Cosmic Love Serpent

Rings – Cosmic Love ‘Breathe in Love’ Moon | Cosmic Love Serpent

Cuffs – Cosmic Love Moon | Cosmic Love Serpent

Belly Chain

Bikini

Hat

SILVER

Necklaces – Cosmic Love ‘Breathe in Love’ Moon | Cosmic Love Serpent

Rings – Cosmic Love ‘Breathe in Love’ Moon | Cosmic Love Serpent | Cosmic Moon

Cuffs – Cosmic Love Moon | Cosmic Love Serpent

Desert Rain Dress – Billabong

Hat

I’m beyond excited to share with you all today my Cosmic Love Capsule Collection, designed and co-created with the amazing Nicole Fendel Jewellery.  Together we envisioned these beautiful pieces straight from the heart, with simple yet profound inspirational messages of love. We created these cosmically inspired talismans to remind you of your deep connection to nature, to yourself, and to each other. I so hope they act as a reminder of your own beauty, and serve as something special you can share with your loved ones.

The inspiration behind the Cosmic Love collection was born from my connection, reverence and awe of nature, and the inspiring symbolism of the serpent and the moon. The serpent represents our creative life force, our ability to harness our will, and navigate the path of our dreams. We inscribed “Create the life of your Dreams” in each of the Serpent talismans as a beautiful reminder of the endless possibilities and creative power we each hold.

The moon reminds us of our deep connection to nature. Her rhythms interconnected with our own, influencing the tides, the animals, the plants and our emotions. She is a mirror of the sun’s light, illuminating our path, bringing us back to our centre, and to our hearts. As I gaze upon her beauty, I breathe in love…. find stillness in the pause between each breath…..and I breathe out gratitude. Love and gratitude for this moment, for this life, for this magic. Our beautiful moon pieces have this sentiment and energy inscribed within them, that I hope will bring you straight into your beautiful hearts.

Everywhere I look I see magic. Dust particles dancing in the light…..the changing colours of the sky….a flower opening for the first time….the full moon glowing so brightly amongst the black of night. I feel so blessed each day I get to feast my eyes upon nature’s beauty. It’s like a new painting that brings so much joy to my heart and sparkle to my soul. I hope you all have time to stop for just a moment during this busy time of year and experience the beauty and magic that is all around you.

With Love + Gratitude,

Helen xx

All text and images copyright © Helen Janneson Bense 2020

Wanderlust + Co Travel Diary

November 21, 2015

Processed with VSCOcam with s3 preset

PhotographyBobby Bense

Model/StylingHelen Janneson Bense

LocationThe Siam, Floating Markets, Grand Palace – Bangkok, Thailand

JewelryWanderlust + Co

Constellation Story

Necklaces – Crescent & Star | Crescent & Diamonte

Cuffs/Bracelets – Spell Bound | Moon + Star

Rings – Petite Orbit Crystal | Frame Crescent | Double Box | Double bar + Chain | ConstellationIota

Clean Slate Story

Necklaces – Daydreamer Necklace | Remain Present Necklace

Cuffs/Bracelets – Breathe Bangle | Studded Pave | Dusk to Dawn Spike | Arrow

Rings – Double BarJagged Ring Set | Double Box | Triangle | Double Ring & Chain | Double Bar Wrap | V

Marble Story

Necklaces – Breathe | Crescent & Diamonte | Daydreamer Necklace

Cuffs/Bracelets – Dusk til Dawn XL | Dusk til Dawn Spike | Multi-Stud Spike

Rings – Dusk til Dawn XL | T-Bar | Double Arrow | Petite Orbit Crystal | Arrow Split | Dusk til Dawn | V Double Bar

Onyx Story

Necklaces – ArrowBreathe |  Daydreamer Necklace

Cuff/Bracelets – Multi-Stud Spike | Arrow | Dusk til Dawn XL | Dusk til Dawn | Dusk til Dawn Onyx Spike

Rings – Dusk til Dawn Onyx | Dusk til Dawn XLPetite Orbit Crystal | Triangle | Frame Tri | VDouble Ring & Chain | Trio Stack Rings | Iota

Rose Gold Story 

Necklace – Crescent & Diamonte

Cuffs/Bracelets – Box | Arrow Petite | Knot | Multi – Stud | Double Arrow

Rings – Aztec Pave | Dusk til Dawn Turquoise Wrap | Double V Bar Chain | Geo Armour XL Crystal | Orbit & Stud | Orbit

Outfit Details

Spell Isla Bonita Embroidered Dress

Paisley Tunic

His Touch Dress

Bikini

Spell Lace top | Shorts | Shirt | Bag

OOAK Lace Dress

Crochet Maxi

Silk Playsuit

Beaded Top | Shorts | Shirt | Bag

Sunglasses

Straw Hat

Thailand has to be one of my favourites places ever. I feel so grateful to have experienced another amazing adventure to this beautiful country once again. During your vacation, you may want to spend time traveling with online locations, click here to kill your boredom. This time, we were lucky enough to journey through Bangkok and stay at The Siam Hotel, which has to be in my Top 10 all time best hotels I’ve ever stayed at. I’m so grateful to the wonderful Wanderlust + Co, who organised so many beautiful relaxing, pampering and adventure filled experiences for us on this trip, making it one we’ll never forget.

These few days away gave both Bobby and I an opportunity to really spend precious time together. Time to connect and time to create magic. We were continually inspired by our surrounds. There was so much culture and beauty everywhere we went. We spent our first day relaxing and catching our breath after leaving our busy home and daily routines. That first massage was all it took and we completely melted into holiday mode. It was hands down one of the best massages I’ve ever had. Big thanks to the Opium Spa at the The Siam for a job well done. We basically walked out of the spa with the hugest grins on our faces. The rest of our pamper day was well spent relaxing by the pool, exploring the hotel and all the incredible collectibles they have, chatting with locals, and simply being in the moment, enjoying all that life has to offer.

A perfect day in paradise was followed by an amazing dinner at Le Du restaurant. If you love seafood this place is so for you. Each plate was beautifully presented and the flavours and textures of each dish were perfectly balanced. My favourite was definitely dessert! Thai desserts are simply the best!

The next part of our journey led us to the floating markets in Bangkok. As we floated through the markets, sipping on fresh coconuts, we had the opportunity to see some traditional thai handicrafts and experience the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. We then ventured to the Grand Palace and enjoyed a serene walk throughout the grounds, admiring all the incredible architecture and detail of this sacred place. It’s simply something you have to see with your own eyes.

Until the next wanderlust adventure!

With love and gratitude,

Helen xx

All text and images copyright © Helen Janneson Bense 2020

Love Cup

November 5, 2015

Photography – Bobby Bense

Model/Styling – Helen Janneson Bense

Location – Sorrento Beach

Outfit Details

First Look

Born to Run Top  – Da-sh + Dol

Sundial Necklace, Love + Light Anklets | Cleo Cuff

Rings – All the Way | Circles of Souls | Unknown Tribal | Watchmen Tribal

Diamond Clutch

Shorts

Hat | Sunglasses

Toe Rings

Hair – The Nest Hair Boutique | Extensions – Blakk

Second Look

Sunray Shirred Dress – Da-sh + Dol

NecklaceLuna Cuff | Python Cuff | Leg chain

Rings – Tipi | Luna midi | Crystal Quartz | Opalite | Phobos Deimos | Om

Hat | Sunglasses

Hair – The Nest Hair Boutique | Extensions – Blakk

Some days you just need a little extra sparkle, a little sunshine, and a whole lotta love. I like to think of my physical being as a cup, a love cup. And I like to keep it overflowing, hence why I frequent the beach so much. It’s my sanctuary and always makes me feel amazing no matter what else might be happening in my life. With the silly season coming up, let’s not run on empty and burn out our batteries. Let’s keep nourishing our bodies, refuelling our spirits, and resting our minds so that our love cups can flow abundantly with love and energy.

This precious golden sunset sesh was by far one of my favourites. The sun so warm, the sand so soft, the breeze so gentle, and the energy buzzing with vitality. Feeling ever grateful for these moments.

With love and gratitude,

Helen xx

All text and images copyright © Helen Janneson Bense 2020

Lovespell

October 16, 2015

PhotographyBobby Bense + Helen Janneson Bense

Model/StylingHelen Janneson Bense

Location – Trigg, North + Sorrento beach – Western Australia

Outfit Details

Kiss the Sky Gown | Bralette/Bottoms | Kimono | Peasant Girl Top/Skirt – Spell

Denim – Bonitas | Crochet Cut offs

Accessories – Hendrix Belt | Arizona Black Hat | Aviators | Flash Tattoos – Sheebani + Desert Dweller

Jewellery – Gypsy Belt | Leg Chain | Gala Pendant | Wanderlust necklace | Lynx Pendant

Rings – Elephant | Aztec Skull | Double Moon | All Seeing Eye | Crossed Arrows | Pinnacle | Wish Upon A Star | Arrow midi

Rings – Alushia | Sunrise Sunset | Cactus | Jasmine | Arrow midi

Rings – Cassiopeia | Tipi | Twin Triangles | Tara midi | Tanit midi | Aquila

Rings – Double Point Rose Quartz | Aquila | Air/Earth midi | Tara midi | Strong midi | Microdot | Lotus | Namaste

Nails (Aura + Winter) – Sienna Byron Bay  – Vegan Non toxic polish – Use discount code GYPSYLOVINLIGHT at checkout

I’m often asked about which artists and labels inspire me most in the world of fashion….. After plunging heart first just 2 years ago it’s still the one and only, Spell & the Gypsy Collective. Some of my first instagram pictures I am decked out in Spell, and I’m still completely wowed by every single new collection they bring out. These beautiful sisters are creating all that they love and bringing amazing wearable art to our world. Not only do they have the most gorgeous and unique designs, but their passion, ethical practices, and personal style are in a league of their own.

So you can all imagine my excitement and absolute honour when we recently added Spell’s new Jewellery to our online store. Seriously a dream come true for me. The range reminds me of all the things I first fell in love with when I discovered Spell – divine turquoise and talismans that ignite a wanderlust for the open road, desert adventures and picturesque sunsets.

I’m so grateful to Spell for all their love and support through my blogging journey, and for creating so many beautiful designs for us all to style and wear. This Kiss the Sky gown is quite possibly the most exquisite dress I’ve ever worn. If you don’t already know what a goddess you are, you will certainly remember when you wear this.

With love and gratitude,

Helen xx

All text and images copyright © Helen Janneson Bense 2020

Six Senses

October 11, 2015

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PhotographyBobby Bense

Model/Styling/PhotographyHelen Janneson Bense

LocationSix Senses Yao Noi, Thailand

Outfit Details 

Six Senses Yao Noi was by far one of the very best resorts we have ever stayed at. Bobby and I have done our fair share of travel to luxury resorts, though after our stay here, we have been catapulted to a new level of standard. The attention to detail is definitely their most astounding quality. And for someone like me, who is so into details, nothing was missed.

As you step off the boat and onto this island paradise the landscape will instantly awe you. Breathtaking panoramic views of limestone karsts sit on the horizon in Phang Nga bay that can be seen from your villa or the main pool at the Hilltop Reserve. The entire design of the resort flows so seamlessly with the natural mangrove surrounds, with all structures built around the trees and into the landscape. The interior spaces particularly appealed to my Scandinavian roots and my love of neutral and natural decor. They have created such a clear and easy space that evokes relaxation right away.

Their focus on sustainability, and commitment to social and environmentally responsible practices is commendable. They are so genuine at Six Senses and you can feel how much they really care. The passion in all the staff is not only evident in their smiles, but in the positive energy they all radiant. We felt instantly taken care of the moment we arrived. I can really see why people come here for months at a time for retreat. The whole resort is abuzz with such a high vibrational energy. It ticks all the boxes and then some.

As a couple of foodies, Bobby and I were thoroughly impressed with the quality, variety and divine flavour of absolutely everything. The standard the chefs adhere to is in a league of their own. They only accept the freshest and best produce in their kitchen. They grow so much of their food in beautiful organic gardens spread across the property. They have their own mushroom shed, and an organic egg farm, where you can choose your own eggs for breakfast. But by far the biggest culinary treat they have is the Ice cream shop where they create yummy flavours and bake all kinds of assorted deliciouness. But wait….seriously it gets better….. you can actually go and eat ice cream for free all day long at the ice cream shop right by mai tai beach! Yes, this place is heaven!

A few other highlights of our stay that all added up to one beyond amazing adventure – being surprised with my very own specially made gluten free desserts by the pool. Dinner with management that was more like dinner with old friends…and they served gemstone water {an amazing water containing high vibrational crystals to amplify and vitalise your energy}. Finding an awesome old school wooden rope swing on the beach and no one on it! Swimming in the warm, tropical rain showers without a care in the world. Waking up at sunrise to a magical purple haze sky that lasted all of a few minutes but was so worth waking up for. Day spa pampering and discovering they use Tibetan Singing bowls. And of course lazing by the pool with a cocktail in hand (with lemongrass for a straw) …basically we were in heaven for a few days and I’m still dreaming of going back.

I can’t recommend this place enough to my fellow wanderlust travellers out there. I know that every experience in life is a matter of perspective based on each individual’s view of themselves and their world. I always try to find the good in everything. This was like finding gold at the end of the rainbow. The jackpot!

I hope you guys go visit Six Senses Yao Noi and please share with me your experiences of this utterly magical sanctuary.

With love and gratitude,

Helen xx

Travel Tips –

  • Definitely take a long tail boat out and go island hopping….the limestone karsts are so beautiful in the bay and a must see close up!
  • The rooms are all absolutely incredible. If you are a beach lover like me opt for the beachfront villa so you can have direct access to the beach. It’s perfect for swimming and so private and pristine.
  • Check out the day spa and the wonderful healing massages.
  • Their take on a margarita is the bomb! Must have!
  • Everything is actually so amazing so you won’t be disappointed ;)
  • I’d suggest arriving during the daylight hours as you will need to transfer from car to boat to get to Yao Noi Island. It’s a smooth ride though and nice to enjoy the view of the turquoise sea and snap pics :) Aim to arrive before 6pm and you should be all good.

All text and images copyright © Helen Janneson Bense 2020

Dancing in the Rain

September 30, 2015



PhotographyBobby Bense & Helen Janneson Bense

Model/StylingHelen Janneson Bense

LocationCentara Grand Resort & Spa – Krabi, Thailand

Outfit Details

Sea Urchin Crochet Dress | Hat

Crochet Bikini + Halter Top | Necklace | Sunglasses | Hat

Kimono | Sundress (similar) | Hat

Tanzania Bikini | Hat

Innika One piece Swimsuit | Hat

Kiss the Sky Gown

Sundress (similar) | Hat | Necklace | Rings | Clutch

Arizona Chain Necklace | Kimono

Gold Leg Chain

“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass….It’s about learning to dance in the rain” – Vivian Greene

This quote has never been as relevant as it was for our recent wanderlust adventures to beautiful Thailand. The day we arrived, so did a crazy monsoon. I must say even though I envisioned my time away with never-ending sunshine, it was a wonderful opportunity for both Bobby and I to embrace the uncertainty of life and find gratitude for all the unexpected blessings. It forced us deeper into ourselves, to reflect and discover what we actually love most about holidays is connection. We still had many pockets of sunshine where the rain and wind slipped away momentarily and we made the absolute most out of it.

We ventured to Krabi first, and discovered this stunning region walled with grand size limestone karsts providing a completely majestic and breathtaking backdrop. It’s a rock climbers paradise and feels a little like a scene from Jurassic Park. We stayed at the luxurious Centara Grand Resort with it’s own pristine private beach. Accessible only by boat or a jungle monkey trail from the nearby town, it’s surrounded by giant awe inspiring cliffs, clear turquoise waters and some of the softest sand I’ve ever felt. It’s a completely magical setting that instantly evokes a relaxed, holiday vibe. We enjoyed the privacy and seclusion of the location, whilst just a short boat ride or hike, you can venture out to the bustling markets, cafes and bars of Krabi. We never felt the urge to leave though as the resort had so much to offer. You can literally jump in a kayak straight from the beach and head out and explore the limestone karsts and turquoise lagoons. The whole area is surrounded by the most amazing beaches, abundant with incredible underwater life. You can take a boat tour to the surrounding islands, or head out for some scuba diving or snorkelling. Enjoy sunset dinners on the beach, jungle hikes, or laze by the multi level pool and spa with a cocktail in hand as you watch the immaculate view of the Andaman sea.

I was lucky enough to celebrate my 39th!! birthday here and indulge in one of the best massages I’ve ever had at their divine day spa. I was lulled into a deep trance and quite possibly this moment was one of the most relaxed I’ve ever felt. Later this evening we were then treated to an amazing Teppenyaki dinner, as we were serenaded with live music, a super friendly atmosphere, creating the perfect holiday ambience we were looking for. We were lucky enough to meet so many amazing travellers here, ending the night with one two many cocktails at the very cool Blu bar. One of the best parts about travelling is all the awesome people you meet and wonderful connections you make. No matter how transient these may be, they are a huge highlight of any adventure abroad.

I’m so excited to explore more of Krabi next time I head back to Thailand. More adventure awaits! ;)

With love and gratitude,

Helen xx

Travel Tips :

  • Rainy season in Thailand is typically from May-November though I’ve been in June and it was sunshine and blue skies with just a light misting so you never know. And it’s still so wonderful even when it is raining :)
  • When travelling to Krabi or any of the islands by boat, I’d suggest arriving in the daylight hours, so the transfer from car, boat to resort is seamless.
  • The monkeys here are some the bravest I’ve encountered so watch your stuff, they will take it if you leave it unattended.
  • If you stay at Centara Grand Resort in Krabi definitely opt for a club room. The extra is well worth all the additional advantages that come with this room type. There is an almost non stop serving of food and drink from the Club lounge and happy hour is so amazing you might not even be able to fit in dinner!
  • Also make sure you order Strawberry Margaritas here…they are the BEST! ;)

All text and images copyright © Helen Janneson Bense 2020

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