Are your artificial plants and flowers real-touch?

Many of our artificial plants and flowers are made from real-touch or premium silk materials — these are noted in individual product descriptions. Our best-selling White Orchid in Stone Pot, & Artificial Olive Tree, for example, are real-touch and looks remarkably lifelike. If you have a question about a specific product, just ask us.

How do I care for my artificial flowers and plants?

Simply dust with a soft cloth or use a light blast of compressed air to keep them looking fresh. Avoid placing them in direct harsh sunlight for extended periods as this can fade the colours over time. Most of our artificial botanicals require no other maintenance.

The stems on my artificial flowers are bent or misshapen from the packaging. How do I fix this?

This is completely normal after shipping — artificial flowers with wire stems are very easy to reshape. Simply bend the wire stem gently back into your desired position. For silk or fabric petals that have flattened slightly in transit, hold them briefly over a steam kettle or clothes steamer (being careful not to get them too wet) — the steam will relax the fabric and allow you to reshape the petals with your fingers. Allow to cool completely before styling.

How do I style artificial flowers in a vase — they look a bit flat?

The key to making artificial arrangements look full and natural is to add height variation and avoid perfectly symmetrical spacing. Trim or extend stems to different lengths, bend wire stems slightly outward, and rotate the arrangement so it looks good from multiple angles. Adding a few dried natural elements (pampas grass, dried eucalyptus, a branch) alongside artificial stems creates a more organic, layered look. Our ceramic and metal vases are the perfect companions — browse the Vases & Urns collection for ideas.

Do I need to do anything to the Fan Palm when it arrives?

Your Fan Palm may arrive with the fronds slightly compressed from packaging. Gently pull each frond apart and shape them outward to their natural spread — this takes just a couple of minutes and the palm will look full and lush. Stand it in your desired position and adjust the individual leaves until you're happy with the shape. No water, no soil, no maintenance required after that.

Are the colours exactly as shown online?

We work hard to ensure our product photography accurately represents each piece. However, colours can appear slightly different depending on your screen settings and lighting. If you're unsure about a colour before purchasing, feel free to email us and we'll do our best to help.

Do you offer product sourcing for items not on your website?

Yes — if you're looking for something specific that you can't find in our current collection, reach out at hello@mishlifestyle.co.nz and we'll do our best to source it for you from one of our trusted suppliers.

Do the vases come in a box? Are they safe for posting as gifts?

Yes — all our ceramic vases are carefully packaged with protective wrapping to ensure they arrive safely. We take particular care with fragile pieces. If you're sending a vase directly as a gift, you can enter the recipient's address at checkout — we don't include invoice or pricing information inside the parcel.

How do I style a ceramic vase? I'm not sure what looks good.

The rule of three is your best friend — group vases in odd numbers and vary the heights. A tall vase, a medium, and a small creates a layered, intentional look. For a modern NZ home, try pairing a neutral ceramic with a single stem of pampas grass, dried eucalyptus, or our real-touch artificial stems. You can also style a single large statement vase alone on a console table or fireplace mantel — it doesn't need anything else to look beautiful.

Can I put my ceramic vase outside?

Our ceramic vases are designed for indoor use. If you'd like to use one outdoors in a sheltered spot (a covered patio or veranda), that's generally fine in mild NZ weather. However, we don't recommend leaving ceramic pieces exposed to frost, heavy rain, or prolonged direct sunlight as this can cause cracking, colour fade, or damage to the glaze over time.

Will a metal vase rust over time?

Our metal vases have protective coatings to minimise rust. For indoor use on a shelf or table, they'll stay in excellent condition for years with basic care. Avoid exposing metal vases to prolonged moisture, steam (e.g. directly next to a kettle or bathroom shower), or outdoor conditions — this will significantly extend their life. If any surface rust appears, it can often be treated with a light application of WD-40 on a soft cloth.

The gold finish on my metal vase looks different from the website photo. Is this normal?

Slight colour variation can occur between screens and in different lighting conditions — what looks like a bright gold on one screen may appear more antique brass in warm home lighting. This is normal and not a defect. Our product photos aim to represent colours as accurately as possible, but if you have any concerns about what you've received, please email us with a photo and we'll help.

My cement vase has a rough texture — is that intentional?

Absolutely — the raw, slightly rough texture is one of the most beautiful things about a cement vase. It's completely intentional and part of what makes it feel architectural and artisanal. Minor surface variations, small air bubbles, or slight colour inconsistencies in the cement are natural characteristics of the material, not defects. Each piece is slightly unique as a result.

How do I clean a cement vase?

Simply dust with a dry soft brush or cloth. Avoid water, cleaning sprays, or damp cloths — cement is porous and absorbs liquid, which can cause staining or structural weakening over time. If your cement vase gets a mark, a very lightly damp cloth (squeezed nearly dry) can be used carefully, then allow to air dry completely before returning to display.

Can I put a cement vase outdoors?

Our cement vases are intended for indoor use only. Outdoor exposure to NZ rain and moisture will cause the cement to absorb water, which weakens the piece and can cause it to crack or crumble over time. Keep it on a shelf, console table, or mantel inside — it will look stunning for years.

How do I hang metal wall art safely?

Most of our metal wall art pieces come with a hanging hook or D-ring on the back. For standard plasterboard walls (the most common wall type in NZ homes), a single picture hook or screw is sufficient for smaller pieces. For larger or heavier pieces, we recommend using two anchor points for stability, and ideally drilling into a wall stud. If you're unsure, a handyman or picture-hanging service can do this quickly and affordably.

How do I clean metal wall art?

Dust regularly with a soft, dry microfibre cloth — this is really all that's needed for ongoing maintenance. For more thorough cleaning, use a slightly damp cloth and dry immediately. Avoid chemical cleaners, polish sprays, or abrasive materials as these can damage the surface coating. For intricate pieces with fine details, a soft-bristled paintbrush works well to get into the crevices without scratching.

Will metal wall art rust indoors?

Our indoor metal wall art pieces have protective coatings designed to prevent rusting in normal indoor conditions. As long as they're kept in a dry interior environment, rusting is not a concern. We don't recommend hanging metal wall art in bathrooms or laundries where there's regular steam and moisture — over time, this will compromise the coating and cause rust or patina to develop.

Can I use metal wall art outdoors?

Most of our metal wall art is designed for indoor use. If you have a specific piece you'd like to use outdoors in a fully covered, sheltered spot (no direct rain or moisture), please email us at hello@mishlifestyle.co.nz and we'll advise whether that particular piece is suitable. Applying a clear outdoor sealant spray (available at most hardware stores) can also extend the life of metal pieces in lightly sheltered outdoor locations.

The metal art arrived with a few small marks on it. Is this normal?

Very minor surface marks or slight patina variation can occur in handcrafted and machine-formed metal pieces — this is part of the character of the material. However, if you believe your piece has arrived damaged in transit or has a manufacturing defect, please photograph it and email us within 48 hours of receiving your order and we'll resolve it promptly.

How do I style metal wall art — where should I hang it?

Metal wall art looks most striking on a plain, light-coloured wall where the piece can stand alone as the focal point. Above a sofa, along a hallway, above a fireplace mantel, or on a feature wall behind a bed are all classic positions. For a single large piece, centre it at eye height (approximately 145–150cm from the floor to the centre of the piece). For a gallery wall of smaller pieces, lay them on the floor first to plan your arrangement before committing to nails.

How do I hang a mirror safely?

Mirrors should always be hung securely — they're heavier than they look. Check the weight listed on the product page and choose appropriate fixings for your wall type. For most NZ plasterboard walls, a mirror hanging kit with two hooks (included with most of our mirrors) is sufficient for mirrors under 5kg. For heavier mirrors, always drill into a wall stud or use heavy-duty plasterboard anchors. We strongly recommend using two fixing points for any mirror over 40cm wide.

How do I clean a mirror without streaks?

The trick to a streak-free mirror is to use less liquid, not more. Spray a small amount of glass cleaner onto a microfibre cloth (not directly onto the mirror) and wipe in circular motions. Finish with a dry part of the cloth to buff away any remaining moisture. White vinegar diluted with water is a great natural alternative to commercial glass cleaners. Avoid spraying any liquid near the frame — especially on timber, rattan, or MDF frames which can warp or discolour from moisture.

Can I use mirrors in a bathroom?

Many of our mirrors are suitable for bathroom use in a well-ventilated space. However,check the individual product description— some frames (particularly timber, rattan, or MDF-backed frames) are not suitable for high-humidity bathroom environments. Metal-framed and frameless mirrors are generally the safest choice for bathrooms. If in doubt, email us and we'll advise on the specific piece you're considering.

What size mirror should I choose for my wall?

As a general guide: a mirror should be roughly two-thirds the width of the furniture it sits above (e.g. a console table, a sofa, or a dresser). For a standalone feature mirror, bigger is almost always better — a generous mirror adds much more light and visual impact than a small one. For entryways, a full-length or large round mirror is the most versatile choice. Exact dimensions for each mirror are listed on the individual product page.

The mirror has some spotting or marks on the glass — is this a defect?

Minor surface marks from transit packaging can usually be cleaned off with a glass cloth. If the spotting appears to be behind the glass (in the mirror's reflective coating), this may be a manufacturing issue — please email us with photos within 48 hours of receiving the piece and we'll arrange a replacement.

Can I lean a mirror against a wall rather than hanging it?

Leaning a large mirror against a wall is a popular styling choice and looks beautiful in a bedroom or living room. If you choose to do this, ensure the mirror is on a stable, non-slip surface and at a safe angle — it should be leaning at approximately 70–80 degrees, not standing too upright. For safety, particularly if you have children or pets, we recommend securing the top of the mirror to the wall with a small picture hook and a clear fishing line — this keeps the lean look while preventing it from tipping forward.

What materials are your figurines and statues made from?

Our figurines and statues are made from a variety of materials including resin, polyresin, ceramic, stone composite, and metal. Resin and polyresin pieces are lightweight, durable, and excellent at capturing fine detail — many of our animal figurines and Buddha statues are polyresin. Exact materials are listed in each product description. If you have an allergy concern or specific requirement, email us and we'll check for you.

How do I clean figurines and ornaments?

Dust regularly with a soft dry cloth or a soft-bristled brush to get into any carved detail. For a deeper clean, use a slightly damp cloth and dry immediately — avoid soaking or submerging any figurine in water. For stone composite or ceramic pieces, a mild diluted dish soap solution can be used on a cloth for any stubborn marks, followed by a rinse with a clean damp cloth and thorough drying.

Can I use figurines outdoors in the garden?

This depends on the material. Our resin and polyresin figurines are not designed for outdoor use — prolonged exposure to UV and moisture will fade colours and degrade the material. However, our dedicated garden statue range (found in The Garden Edit) is specifically made for outdoor conditions. Check the individual product listing — outdoor-suitable pieces will be noted in the description.

Are the Buddha statues appropriate for any home, or do they carry religious significance I should be aware of?

Our Buddha statues are decorative pieces inspired by Buddhist iconography and are widely enjoyed in NZ homes as symbols of peace, calm, and positive energy — regardless of religious affiliation. If you do wish to honour the traditional placement of a Buddha statue, the general guidance is to place it at eye level or above, never on the floor, and ideally facing the main entrance of a room. Many customers simply style them as beautiful sculptural pieces without any specific cultural practice in mind — both approaches are entirely appropriate.

My figurine has a small imperfection — is this a defect?

Minor variations in finish, slight texture differences, or very small air pockets can occur in handcrafted and cast resin pieces — these are characteristics of the manufacturing process and are not considered defects. However, if your piece has arrived with a clear break, chip, or damage from transit, please photograph it and email us within 48 hours and we'll arrange a replacement.

Do the tables require assembly?

Most of our side tables and coffee tables arrive partially assembled and require minimal setup — typically attaching the legs to the tabletop. All necessary hardware and basic instructions are included. Assembly usually takes 10–20 minutes and requires no specialist tools beyond a screwdriver. If you have any difficulty, email us and we'll walk you through it.

How do I care for a marble-top side table?

Marble is a natural stone that requires a little more care than timber or glass. Always use a coaster under drinks — marble can be stained by acidic liquids (wine, juice, coffee) if spills are left to sit. Wipe spills immediately with a soft damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or acidic cleaning products (vinegar, lemon) on marble — use a pH-neutral stone cleaner for deeper cleaning. For long-term protection, a marble sealer (available at hardware stores) can be applied every 12–18 months.

How do I care for a walnut or timber side table?

Wipe with a soft damp cloth and dry immediately — never leave water sitting on timber. Use furniture polish or beeswax occasionally to maintain the finish and prevent drying. Avoid placing hot items directly on the surface — always use a coaster or trivet. Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent the timber from drying, cracking, or fading over time.

How much weight can a side table hold?

Our side tables are designed for decorative use with everyday items — a vase, a lamp, books, a candle, your morning coffee. They are not designed to bear very heavy loads. As a general guide, keep items under 10–15kg.

The marble on my table has natural veining and markings — is this right?

Yes — this is one of the most beautiful things about real and marble-effect stone. Natural veining, colour variation, and unique markings are characteristics of the material, not imperfections. No two marble pieces are exactly alike, which means your table is one of a kind. The photos on our product pages show representative pieces — your table may have slightly different veining patterns, which only adds to its character.

How does the thaw plate work without electricity?

The thaw plate works through a process called thermal conductivity. The plate is made from a highly conductive aluminium alloy that naturally draws heat from the surrounding air and transfers it evenly through the frozen food — accelerating defrosting without electricity, heat, or water. Simply place your frozen food directly on the plate at room temperature and it will defrost significantly faster than leaving it on a standard kitchen bench. No batteries, no power — just smart material science.

Is the thaw plate safe to use with all foods?

The thaw plate is safe for all standard frozen foods including meat, fish, poultry, and baked goods. It's food-grade safe and doesn't use any chemicals or heat — it simply conducts ambient air temperature. Always follow standard food safety guidelines: don't leave food on the thaw plate for more than 2 hours at room temperature, and cook or refrigerate immediately once defrosted.

How do I clean the thaw plate and chill plate?

Hand wash with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately to prevent water spots. Do not put the thaw plate or chill plate in the dishwasher — the high heat and harsh detergents will damage the surface coating and reduce the plate's effectiveness over time.

How does the butter knife/spreader work?

The butter knife uses the same thermal conductivity principle as the thaw plate — the blade is made from a heat-conductive alloy that absorbs warmth from your hand as you hold it. This gently warms the blade to just above room temperature, which softens the butter on contact and allows it to spread effortlessly — even straight from the fridge. No heating, no waiting, no torn bread. It's one of those products that seems simple but genuinely changes how you experience every meal.

Are the Smart Living products safe to use with food?

Yes — all Smart Living products that come into contact with food (thaw plate, chill plate, butter knife, gravy pot, duo pot, decanter, and ice cream scoop) are made from food-grade safe materials. They do not leach chemicals into food and are tested for food safety compliance. The materials used include food-grade aluminium alloys, stainless steel, and BPA-free components.

Are all garden decor pieces suitable for outdoor NZ conditions?

Our Garden Edit collection is specifically selected for outdoor use and is generally suitable for NZ conditions. However, some pieces are better suited to sheltered outdoor spots (a covered patio or veranda) rather than fully exposed gardens. Product descriptions note whether a piece is fully weatherproof or better suited to a sheltered outdoor position. If you're unsure about a specific item's suitability for your outdoor space, email us and we'll advise.

How do I stop outdoor planters from staining the ground?

Place planter feet or rubber pads (available at hardware stores for a few dollars) underneath your planters. These lift the planter slightly off the surface, allowing drainage and air circulation while preventing rust rings, water marks, and staining on deck, paving, or concrete surfaces. This also significantly extends the life of both the planter and the surface beneath it.