A Daily Reminder to Enjoy the Small Pleasures in Life

Posted: 09 January 2024

One of our newest favourite coffee table books is the beautiful and delightful Small Pleasures. By photographer Grace Elizabeth, this is her debut book which is a visual source of inspiration, encouraging and reminding ourselves to take time out and enjoy life for living. This book is not merely a read but a work of art in its own right.

In a world that often moves too fast, Grace Elizabeth is an artist who found solace and inspiration in the enchanting embrace of Southern Italy. Stepping away from the chaos of daily life, she embarked on a transformative "eat, pray, love" journey in 2022. What began as a solo escape to Italy in the wake of a sudden relationship ending evolved into a soul nourishing adventure filled with sunshine, mountains of pasta, saltwater serenity, and the richness of Italian culture.

We had the pleasure to chat with Grace as she shared the stories and moments that shaped her book, Small Pleasures, offering a glimpse into her four week odyssey. Through her lens, she captures the essence of slowing down, appreciating life's small joys, and the importance of fostering a deep connection with oneself. Join us as we delve into her reflections on Italy's magnetic charms, her top Southern Italian destinations, and her commitment to savouring life's simple pleasures.

Q: Slowing down, being mindful and wasting time for the pursuit of pleasure is so important. What do you do to take time out?

A: Taking time out and filling up my cup is super important to me and something I like to prioritise when I can. I love reading a good book to disconnect, I own a horse, Jim, so spending time connecting with him and riding is a place that brings me much peace and happiness. I love swimming and pilates and know that when I'm moving I feel better. I love the stillness of my first coffee in the morning and the quiet time that comes with that.

I feel like Southern Italy doesn't get explored enough to be honest and that's why I wanted to highlight this through my book. I would have to say Scopello in Sicily is truly magical and somewhere I hope to come back to again and again.

- Grace's top location in Italy

Q: There is something quite magnetic about the charms of Southern Italy - what are your top 3 locations to spend time in?

A: The beautiful beach town of Otranto in Puglia, it's a holiday town visited by lots of Italians and locals and I think that's what makes it so special, it is quite the hidden and underrated gem. Lastly, I would have to say Masseria Moroseta in Ostuni, it's truly the most incredible stay and experience, a farmhouse surrounded by an olive grove with the most incredible food and architectural build.

Q: If you could inspire someone just that little bit more to slow down and create and enjoy small pleasures for themselves what suggestions do you have?

A: I think first and foremost you have to be present and open to noticing and acknowledging all the little things in life that are so special that surround us. These little things that sometimes we so easily take for granted. Take some time for yourself and notice the little things that bring you joy.

Q: From a design perspective, if you could go back in time, what era would it be and why?

A: I would probably say the 60's! I love mid-century furniture and collecting pieces so I think I would have to pick this era!

Q: We believe that if you sleep well, you live well. What does your sleep wind down routine look like?

A: These days I tend to be in bed quite early! I'm big on mood lighting at home at night and softening my spaces around me. I love my diffuser on in my room so it smells so good before I go to bed. The best habit I would have to say is reading a physical book once I'm in bed as it puts me to sleep so quickly and has been the best thing for my sleep hygiene.