Hidden gem? Designer Op Shop in Braddon for gorgeous pre-loved fashion, accessories and homewares, the girls at Browlab who do an exceptional job on my brows, Buvette for their petite feast, and a sunset picnic at Lennox Gardens with takeaway pizza from Locale.

Weekend haunt? Red Brick Espresso in Curtin for my morning soy chai latte, and Double Shot in Deakin for brunch. I always take a trip to the Handmade Markets when they're on, and visit the Fyshwick markets on Sunday afternoons for the weekly shop.

Place to take visitors? Whenever I have family or friends visit, I always try to take them to the National Gallery, or National Museum. I'm a big museum buff, so never get tired of visiting these Canberra icons. The NMA's 100 Objects from the British Museum exhibition is a must, as it will literally blow your mind. I recently had my Italian grandparents visit for the week, so took them to the Italian Film Festival at Palace Electric Cinema in New Acton – we absolutely loved it. I always try and take visitors to local events, and with the way in which Canberra is booming at the moment, there is never a lack of these.

People watching spot? I gain a lot of inspiration for what I do in life from people watching – it's one of my favourite things to do. Great places to people watch include anywhere along Lonsdale Street in Braddon – I'll usually park myself at Autolyse – anywhere inside the National Gallery, at Urban Pantry in Manuka, or Parlour Wine Room in New Acton.

Place to unwind? A great place to unwind for me is during a walk or run around Lake Burley Griffin at dusk either with friends or on my own. During this time of year, when it gets warmer (and lighter), the lake is the perfect place to reflect on the day and unwind for the evening. It's so simple, yet so fulfilling for me. If I'm looking for an extra relaxing way to unwind, then I'll head to Jindii Eco Spa at the Botanic Gardens or Touch of Siam in Kingston for a spa treatment.

Treat? Broddog or Brodburger – always.