A note to begin with..

Dear friends,

For quite some time now, I’ve longed for a quieter, more thoughtful space to share my world. Somewhere less hurried than social media, more personal than YouTube, and deeply rooted in the things I value most — beauty, rhythm, and refinement. And so, Notes From Nicolas was born.

Many of you may already know me from my videos or Instagram, where I share my life in Edinburgh and my love of elegant living — from candlelit dinners and silver tea services to springtime walks and Parisian adventures. But what you may not know is that behind the scenes, I’ve always been a writer at heart. I find comfort in words, and there’s something profoundly grounding about sitting down, pen (or keyboard) in hand, to gather my thoughts and send them out into the world like a letter.

This Substack is my way of doing just that — writing to you, one note at a time.

Why this, why now ?

Over the past year, I’ve felt a strong desire to deepen the connection I have with my audience. Social platforms are wonderful, but they can feel fleeting. I wanted to create something lasting — a place to linger over a cup of tea, to share things that don’t necessarily fit into a video frame or Instagram square. A place where I can be a little more introspective, a little more real, and perhaps a little more daring.

What to expect

If you subscribe for free, you’ll receive one post a week — a blend of musings, personal stories, inspiration, or a peek behind the scenes. It will always be warm, thoughtful, and rooted in the art of living beautifully.

For paid subscribers, I’m creating something extra special: a Friday edition each week that I think of as a letter from my desk. This will include:

• Elegant Finds – pieces I’ve discovered and loved: a candle, a tablecloth, a book, a scent, or something unexpected

• Home Updates – what I’m doing around the house, whether it’s painting a chair, rearranging a room, or simply adding fresh flowers

• Something I’ve Enjoyed Reading – from old novels to magazine clippings, poetry, or an insightful article

• An Opinion Piece – a short essay where I share my thoughts on something that’s been on my mind

• Photos of My Week – quiet, personal glimpses you won’t see elsewhere

• Seasonal Pleasures – what’s delighting me this time of year

• Behind-the-Scenes Notes – updates on my creative projects, podcast moments, or life with Sophie

I want this to feel like a handwritten letter from a friend — something you look forward to opening at the end of a busy week.

A word of thanks

Whether you choose the free version or become a paid subscriber, I’m so grateful you’re here. This is an exciting new chapter for me, and it means the world to have your support. If you’d like to share this with someone who might enjoy it, or if you simply want to write back and say hello, I’d love that too.

With love,
Nicolas x
Notes From Nicolas

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