There’s something about summer that softens everything. The light, the mornings, the way the days unfold. I always find myself naturally gravitating toward things that make this season feel calm and intentional.
Now that we’re well and truly back into school and work routines, I’ve been reflecting on what quietly made the days feel brighter over the past summer holidays.
I’ve realised these little seasonal favourites posts are my way of slowing down and noticing the small things. The things that make everyday life feel a bit nicer without needing a big reason. So here’s a very honest, very me list of what I’ve been loving this summer. Think less recommendations, more the things I keep talking about if you catch me at school pick-up.
If something here resonates, that genuinely makes me happy.
Sheridan Silk Pillowcase (Why Did I Wait So Long?)
I finally gave in and bought a silk pillowcase. I know. I resisted for years because it felt unnecessary and slightly indulgent.
But summer sleep can be brutal, and this one from Sheridan genuinely feels cool when you put your face on it, which on a humid Sydney night feels like a small miracle. My hair is less chaotic, my skin is happier, and it’s become one of those quiet luxuries that just makes life better.
I picked mine up from Westfield Miranda while running errands, and now I’m annoyed I didn’t do this years ago. But here we are.
Remarkably Bright Creatures (Our Little Book Club’s Latest Read)
My son and I have a bit of a book club together, and lately it’s taken the form of an audiobook.
We’ve been spending a lot of time in the car over summer, heading off to places, and listening to Remarkably Bright Creatures along the way. I read it a few years ago and absolutely loved it, and I’ve been really enjoying introducing it to him this way.
It’s gentle, thoughtful, a little funny, and surprisingly emotional. Listening together has sparked some really lovely conversations, the kind that happen naturally when you’re side by side, not face to face. It’s become one of my favourite parts of our days.
My Le Creuset Coffee Mug…Not Just a Mug
I fully understand how dramatic this sounds, but this mug has improved my mornings.
It was a Christmas gift from my son as he knows how obsessed I am with my Le Creuset pots and pans. It is the prettiest blue gradient, and it’s now the mug I reach for without even thinking. It’s heavy in a comforting way, keeps my coffee warm, and somehow makes even a rushed iced coffee feel a little more intentional.
Sometimes it really is the simple things. And sometimes those simple things just happen to be very well made.
PS. It’s on sale right now too!
Karloo Pools – Stunning!!
I finally did the bush walk out to Karloo Pools in the Royal National Park this summer, something I’ve wanted to do for years. It’s moments like this that I love capturing in my work; relaxed outdoor family sessions in the Sutherland Shire feel just like this: unhurried, real, and full of life.
There’s something about walking through the bush and then jumping into cool water that puts everything back into perspective. No agenda, no rush, no ticking things off a list.
I came home calmer, clearer, and reminded again how lucky we are to have places like this so close to home in Sydney. I’ve started a little list of bushwalks around the area I want to do next, and I’m hoping to slowly work my way through it over the year..
If you’ve got a summer favourite you swear by, please tell me. I love swapping these little recommendations, and it always feels more like a conversation than a post.
Want to see more of my seasonal favourites? You can explore my previous lists here:
https://sarahvassallo.com.au/winter-family-favourites-in-sydney/
https://sarahvassallo.com.au/sarah-loves-winter-2024/
And if this late bit of summer feels like the season you want to remember, sun-kissed, relaxed, and right in the middle of real life, I’d love to create something beautiful for you. Through Sutherland Shire outdoor family photography, we can capture your family exactly as you are…warm, playful, and naturally connected. We still have lots of warm days ahead, so if it feels right, now is a lovely time to get in touch.
Want to know more about me?
iI’m a natural light maternity, newborn and family photographer based in the Sutherland Shire, Sydney, known for a modern minimalist style and a calm, guided experience.
I offer a comprehensive service to put together cohesive outfits for your family photos, ensuring your images are timeless, reflect your personalities, and fit seamlessly with your home interiors.
To learn more about the experience, visit the website or get in touch at hello@sarahvassallo.com.au.
