There are some purchases you make thinking “this might be nice”… and then there are the ones that change how you work, move, and show up in the world.
Last year, I made a few intentional purchases that I honestly couldn’t imagine going into 2026 without. These aren’t impulse buys; they’re things that support my work, my routines, and my softness.
If you’re stepping into 2026 wanting to feel organised and supported in your everyday life, this list is for you.
1. Short Courses & Continuous Learning (Skills + Community)
Last year, I invested in short courses, one focused on Python and another on photography, and they turned out to be far more valuable than I expected.
Beyond the skills themselves, what really stood out was the exposure:
Exposure to new ideas
Exposure to people outside my usual circles
Exposure to how quickly the world (and work) is evolving
Short courses are such an underrated way to learn, meet people, and stay mentally stimulated, especially if your routine feels like work, home, repeat. Some were in person, some online, but moving forward, I’m prioritising in-person learning wherever possible.
If you’re wondering where to meet people, grow, or simply feel inspired again, this is a very good place to start.
I took mine at City, St George's, University of London and Shrewsbury College.
2. Molton Brown Floral Luminare Body Wash & Oil
This is a must-have if you love floral scents!
The Floral Luminare range is soft without being overpowering. I use both the body wash and the body oil, and together they make showering feel like a ritual rather than a routine.
It’s one of those scents that quietly follows you through the day, especially layered with the right perfume.
3. La Roche Posay Lotion — A Winter Essential for Dry Skin
If you have dry dark skin, you already know: winter can be brutal.
Even after body oil and moisturising, there’s that moment where your skin still looks dry. Since using La Roche Posay body lotion for dry skin, I’ve noticed a real improvement in hydration, texture, and overall glow.
My skin stays moisturised for longer, and that ashy look? Gone.
4. CeraVe Hand Cream — Practical, Reliable, Always in My Bag
My brother once commented that my fingers were dry… and I took that very personally.
This hand cream works. I keep it everywhere, my bag, my car, wherever I go. It’s excellent after washing your hands or straight after a bath.
Does it give me maximum juiciness on its own? Not quite. Which is why…
5. Lush Braziliant Body Butter — Home-Only
The Braziliant Body Butter lives at home, permanently.
It’s rich, indulgent, and perfect for moments when I want my hands to feel soft, nourished, and cared for. I keep it by my desk so it becomes part of my everyday rhythm rather than something I forget about.
6. AirPods — With Boundaries
I genuinely love my AirPods. At one point, leaving the house without them felt like a personal crisis.
In 2026, I’m using them more intentionally, but they’re still essential, especially during events. I use my AirPods to:
Coordinate logistics hands-free
Speak to suppliers in real time
Stay mobile without juggling my phone
They make event coordination smoother, faster, and less stressful.
7. My iPad — The Unexpected Game-Changer
For the longest time, I thought buying an iPad would be a waste of money. I already had a computer for my business, so why add another device?
I was wrong.
My iPad has become one of the most useful tools in my business, especially when it comes to planning, pitching, and presenting to clients. It’s streamlined how I organise ideas, walk clients through concepts, and visually communicate plans. It’s also helped me show up looking more professional and intentional.
If you run a business, plan events, or pitch ideas in any form, this is one of those quiet power purchases.
8. Oura Ring — Smart, Subtle & Sleep-Friendly
I’d been planning to replace my Apple Watch after losing mine in Paris, but I wanted something different.
That’s when I discovered the Oura Ring.
What I love most about it is its unobtrusive nature. It tracks:
Fitness
Stress levels
Sleep quality
…without feeling like you’re wearing a device.
9. Portrait of a Lady — My Signature Scent
I bought this perfume in May as a treat to myself, and it was worth every penny.
It layers beautifully with my floral body wash, feels elegant and confident, and consistently gets compliments. It’s bold, feminine, and unforgettable.
Would I repurchase? Absolutely. Though 2026 is also about new seasons and new scents…so I have a new one in my collection.
10. iPhone Strap — A Quiet Event Planner Hack
This might surprise you, but this little strap has made a huge difference.
As an event planner, carrying a bag stresses me out. I don’t want extra weight, and I don’t want to be rummaging around mid-event.
With my iPhone strap:
My phone stays secure
My AirPods are attached and safe
My hands are free
I move faster and with less stress
For events, it’s honestly one of the most practical purchases I’ve made.
Final Thoughts
If you’re stepping into 2026 wanting to feel more grounded, more organised, and more confident in how you show up, consider this your gentle nudge.
With Love,
Ayo ♡
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