Is it too soon for Christmas markets? (Asking for a friend 🎄)

I’ve officially had my first one with peppermint hot chocolate, fairy lights, and all and I regret absolutely nothing. There’s something about this time of year that makes everything feel a bit softer and more intentional. It’s the perfect season to pause, reflect, and finish what we started.

Quarter 4 has that energy, doesn’t it? It’s where all the planning and persistence of the year start to pay off. But more than that, it’s a reminder that progress doesn’t always come with fireworks — sometimes it’s the quiet, steady steps that make the biggest difference.

And as always, you’re in the best company. With readers across 179 countries, this global community is proof that we’re never building alone. Each issue, I’m reminded how extraordinary our international team of writers and contributors truly is — women (and a few brilliant men) who bring their hearts, humour, and honesty to these pages every single month.

This issue, I had the absolute privilege of spending time with our cover stars, Martine Catton and Sarah Radley — the powerhouse duo behind The Lonely Tomato. Their honesty, wit, and grounded wisdom completely blew me away. They’re redefining what real leadership looks like; empathetic, courageous, and gloriously human, and I can’t wait for you to meet them.

So, light your favourite candle, pour the coffee (or maybe the Baileys), and dive in. Every article, every voice, every insight in this issue is here to remind you that softness and strength aren’t opposites — they’re powerful BFFs.

Here’s to moving through Q4 with courage, compassion, and a little sparkle.

I believe in you (always),