Two Jens, two homes, one blog…

Smith & Bailey’s How-To Home is a blog aimed at homeowners and renters who are looking for tips on how to make a house a home. With a focus on the home and garden, we’ll be creating various how-tos from our domestic experiences. This blog is an inspiration emporium of simple, practical and creative advice for nesters who find DIY stores completely disorientating. Smith & Bailey’s How-To Home also invites readers to hit them with their best how-tos.

Who we are…

Jen Smith, 24, Home Owner

I’ve been happily renting for the last four years but have just purchased a two-bed bungalow in West Sussex with my boyfriend, Tim and our boisterous tabby cat, Monty. I’m inspired by Cath Kidston however I prefer a more simplistic, white-wash, shabby-chic approach. I absolutely love baking, sewing and all things crafty. I’ll be regularly sharing with you my renting and purchasing how-tos, along with my successes (and failures) with the cooker and sewing machine! I’m regularly described as an old granny trapped in a 24 year old body, however I embrace this title. I’m also a little bit addicted to Twitter. If you are too, follow me @_jensmith.

Home Specialities: Sewing, crafting, baking

Loves: The thrill of a bargain-hunt

Loathes: Soulless, clinical bachelor pads

Personal Philosophy: Don’t get stuck in a style rut – experiment!

Jenny Bailey, 25, Home Owner

Upon acquiring my first home in January, I’ve been embarking on a road of DIY discovery. Living in London with my boyfriend Lambert, Mog the cat and our two fish, Dennis & Margery, I’m finding the transition from renting to owning property an odd yet liberating experience. What used to be strong opinions on heels, hairstyles and handbags have been replaced by paint, plants and place mats. Everything ­­– from doorbell rings to shades of beige – are all up for debate. Here, I share my experiences of a twenty-something in the city who’s trying to play grown-up in her very first home. I claim to be no expert but will happily share my handy how-tos upon discovery, while also welcoming any suggestions from fellow home birds.

Home Specialities: Gardening, cooking, decorating

Loves: As I was born by the seaside, I love the nautical vibe throughout the home

Loathes: Hard mattresses, apple-scented candles, dead plants and bathrooms that don’t have locks.

Personal Philosophy: Tailor your home to you and you can’t go wrong

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