spell designs

Six Senses

October 11, 2015

Photography – Bobby Bense

Model/Styling/Photography – Helen Janneson Bense

Location – Six Senses Yao Noi, Thailand

Outfit Details

Beacon Dress | Halliday Hat | Necklace
SW Field of Gold Anklets
Yoko Combi | HG Sequoia Necklace | Smith Hat | Torchlight Rings
Rusty Cruise Halter Bikini | Coastline Kimono | Smith Hat
Aloha dress | Arizona Black Hat | Gala Pendant | Aviators
Burning Sun Tunic | Halliday Hat
Beacon Dress | Halliday Hat
Hendrix & Harlow Kimono | Smith Hat
Kiss the Sky Kimono | Arizona Black Hat
San Sebastian bikini | Kiss the Sky Kimono | Arizona Black Hat
Sea Dreamer Monaco Bikini | Smith Hat | Vivian Belly Chain | Gala Pendant | OOAK Turquoise Ring | Tipi Ring | Vibe Ring | Crossover Ring

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.

Dancing in the Rain

September 30, 2015

Photography – Bobby Bense & Helen Janneson Bense

Model/Styling – Helen Janneson Bense

Location – Centara 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! ;)

We are LOVE

September 10, 2015

Photography – Bobby Bense

Model/Styling – Helen Janneson Bense

Location – North beach, Western Australia

Outfit details

Look 1

Santorini Embroidered Romper – Turquoise Lane

Bounty Shake Hat – Ace of Something

Nails (Winter) Sienna Byron Bay – Use discount code GYPSYLOVINLIGHT at checkout

Look 2

Slashed Maxi Dress

Gypsy Belt + Hunter Choker

Arizona Black Hat – Ace of Something

“You are what you love not what loves you” Charlie Kaufman

I remember when those first few sparks ignited within me as my blogging journey began. It feels like a lifetime ago now, but it was just over 2 years ago. I didn’t know I was going to become a blogger, I was simply inspired to create. And so I did. And I loved it! I had let so many hard ideals go about how I was supposed to live my life. I felt an enormous amount of energy and freedom resurface and it opened up the infinite possibilities of life to me once again. So instead of the usual inner judgments, I followed my heart’s desire, and began on this creative journey that is now GypsyLovinLight. Sometimes when you stop thinking about what you are supposed to do, you realise what you actually want to do. Each day I began following my highest joy and excitement. I took all that I had ever learnt and turned it upside down. I looked to my children for inspiration, for the way forward in being, because children truly know how to live and enjoy every single moment of life to the fullest.

I’m still on this path, learning and evolving each day. I’m learning how to circumnavigate my existence from the inside out. How to lead my life with intention, whilst letting go of results, expectation, fear and judgement. I’m letting go of what others may or may not think of me, knowing for 1. it’s none of my business and 2. what matters is who I am, and what I believe about myself. And this will always be determined solely by me.

When we live connected to our souls, we not only draw people to us, we inspire all those around us to do the same. And it feels amazing! It is so much better than the stress and suffering we are capable of causing ourselves each day.

So let’s raise the collective consciousness and bring even more joy and happiness to our lives and those around us. Love builds love, and we are all LOVE.

With love and gratitude,

Helen xx

Turquoise Zone

August 19, 2015

Photography – Bobby Bense

Model/Styling – Helen Janneson Bense

Location – 26th Ave beach, Santa Cruz, CA

Outfit Details

Woodstock Maxi Dress – Spell Designs

OOAK Turquoise Zone Jewelry –

Tusk Necklace – Seawolf

Rings – Arrow midi | Cosmology Turquoise

My {MUST HAVE} Travel hat – Ace of Something

Bikini

It was the perfect northern california summer’s day….blues skies, beaming sunshine, epic surf, and that amazing low key vibe I love most about Santa Cruz. I was turquoise crushing bad on these amazing handmade jewels from the Turquoise Zone. Paired with some super divine Spell lace and this outfit was simply like living inside a dream. I also happened to be in my most favourite place ever having my annual catch up with my beautiful sister, Reija. After a revitalising beach walk full of wild winds and salty ocean mists, we topped off this spectacular day with sunset margaritas overlooking the ocean and a bbq with the family. Total and utter bliss!

No matter how much time passes, I’m continually drawn here, to this place, this beach, to my sister, my family. It feels like my other home, and it’s probably because each time I visit I leave a little piece of my heart here. I’m so immensely grateful for the precious time we had with our US family. We may have been separated by oceans all these years as our children have grown up, but our connection is as strong as ever. It’s always the quality of the time that matters most, not the quantity…though I’d take more in a heartbeat ;) We love you guys!

With love and gratitude,

Helen xx

Festival Style

March 6, 2015

Photography – Bobby Bense

Model/Styling – Helen Janneson Bense

Location – Sorrento beach, Western Australia

Outfit Details

Savannah Blouse – Turquoise Lane

Belt + Necklace – Silk Road

Rings – Turquoise Nova | Larimar | Band of Five | Midi | Mandala rings

Bikini Bottoms

Hat

Nails – Willow Byron Bay

This was such a fun outfit to create and wear on this free loving afternoon at the beach. Wind in my hair, jewels jingling with each step as I danced my little dance across the beach. This festival inspired look paired some of my all time favourites together – silk road tribal jewellery, spell lace via turquoise lane + the fifth element life mandala rings. This lace top is by far one of my most treasured wardrobe pieces right now. I can’t get enough if it, and such a versatile piece to style in so many different ways. Perfect with denim cut offs, maxi skirt or wear it open as a lovely light layer for those cooler summer evenings. Ahhhh summer nights…making the most of them while they are still here and drinking it all in.

With love and gratitude,

Helen xx

Wild Love

February 28, 2015

Dress | Belt | Hat | Rings | Flash Tattoos

I’m so pleased to share with you all my feature on Happiness + Well Being magazine. A digital magazine dedicated to bringing holistic wisdom, nourishment and love to their readers. The magazine is filled with priceless and practical tools to remind you each and every day of just how amazing and beautiful you are. It has 100 pages filled with loving intentions, devoted to inspiring you to cultivate a life of love.

Here’s a little snipper from my interview with H + W.

H+W: What advice would you have for anyone struggling to love and accept themselves?

Helen: Be easy on yourself. We are all perfectly imperfect and our unique qualities are what make us all so beautiful. Embrace the beauty that you are. Please know you are enough just as you are. You have always been enough. You are more than enough. You can let go, trust and enjoy who you are and your life.

I am beyond honoured and grateful to the lovely Happiness + Well Being mag for taking the time to interview me. It’s been an absolute pleasure from beginning to end, and the process of answering their heart provoking questions has been an opportunity for me to reflect on my life, and how grateful I am for all that I’ve experienced.

For the very small price of $2.99 (cost of a cup of coffee), you will gain an abundance of positive information and reinforcement, that will lead you on a path overflowing with joy, peace and love.

You can purchase and read my interview here.

Follow H + W on Instagram + Facebook

Photo Credit – Bobby Bense

With love and gratitude,

Helen xx

Helen Janneson Bense

spell designs

Six Senses

October 11, 2015

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Dancing in the Rain

September 30, 2015

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We are LOVE

September 10, 2015

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Turquoise Zone

August 19, 2015

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Festival Style

March 6, 2015

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Wild Love

February 28, 2015

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