This is a paid partnership with Rosemood. All words, thoughts and images are my own.

Nine weeks ago I was excitedly packing for my trip to America, completely preoccupied with planning the last little details of the trip and daydreaming of the photo opportunities that were to come. Yes, Covid-19 was in the news but I didn’t expect to return from my holiday of a lifetime to a full, nationwide lock-down. Those first few weeks of lock-down were particularly tough, coming to terms with spending most of my time cooped up in my own house when I’d become so used to the freedom of the open road. All I could think of was driving down those long, scenic American roads - so I was over the moon when Rosemood gave me the perfect opportunity to sort through all of the photos from my trip.

I created one of Rosemood’s softcover photo books back at the end of last year, creating a collection of memories from each season of 2019. That book takes pride of place on my shelves, containing all my favourite photographs from last year. I knew I wanted to curate my photographs from my America trip in one of their photo books, this time opting for their beautifully crafted fabric hardcover option. When it arrived on my doorstep it exceeded my expectations, presenting my photographs in a tangible, high quality form that I’ll treasure for years to come. I immediately curled up on my favourite armchair, slowly flicking through the pages and soaking up the memories of my trip.

Now, more than ever, it’s important to appreciate what you have and all the amazing experiences you have had. When I’m sat at home, missing my friends and wishing I could plan future travels, it gives me comfort to let my mind wander to past adventures. Not only is this photo book a tangible form of my memories that I can keep forever, but it’s the perfect distraction from the current climate, casting my mind back to a happier time. My boyfriend and I have been admiring the pages together, discussing our memories from the trip and talking about the exact moments when the images were shot.

I’ve always loved the thoughtfulness of gifting someone a photo book, filled with memories that you both share. If you’re currently apart from family, friends and loved ones, now is the perfect time to sit down with your laptop and sift through all of your photographs, creating a beautiful book filled with your favourite shots of the two of you together or trips you have taken. If a friend is struggling with the isolation, or you’re missing a loved one’s birthday, put a smile on their face by creating a photo book to arrive on their doorstep.