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Tuesday, 20 February 2018

Blogging | What i've Missed about Blogging


What I've missed about blogging


As you may or may not be aware I have taken an unintentional break from blogging for a rather long time and I've really missed it.  I never imagined I would stop blogging but having a full time job, glandular fever and wedding planning meant it all became too much and I had no choice to stop ,particularly as I was creating daily posts. 

During this time I've been approached by many people asking if will get back to blogging and my answer has always been yes as it was a massive part of my life and I can't put into words how much I missed it! 

Here's some of the reasons why i'm so happy to be back in the blogging community!

#1 Sharing - One of the main things I miss about blogging is being able to share aspects of my life and interests with like minded people. Spending some time in the evening looking through my favourite blogs, reading comments on my latest posts and having conversations through Instagram and Twitter was a lot of fun and I met a lot of lovely people I am still friends with today.

#2 Discovering new products - Without doubt, I have found some of my favourite brands and products through blogging.  I love hearing about cult and hyped about products but also smaller brands who maybe aren't as well known but have launched incredible products. Even now, I love it when i'm out and about or surfing the Internet and I come across brands I have worked with before. It makes me so happy to see them thriving and it's exciting to see what their latest products are.

#3 Photography- Before I started blogging, I didn't know anything about taking photographs and learnt how to get the best results as I went along - hence why I now cringe when I look back at my older posts! Although it was very time consuming to create new sets and photograph and edit everything I used to love creating new images and finding random objects that would work well to present the products as best as possible.  

#4 Community - The next few points are very similar and that's because there is obviously a massive social aspect to blogging. Whether you are into beauty, fashion or a combination like myself the sense of belonging and community is amazing.  The support network I had around me when I was blogging was so strong and I love how a common interest can bring everyone together no matter how big or small your blog is.

#5 Meeting New People - I've touched on this a little already but meeting new people through blogging is just amazing. It can be through speaking with people on social media, your blog post comments, email etc but the options are endless. 

I've also been very lucky to have been invited to blogger parties, events and product launches which has been incredible to learn first hand about the brands and products. It's always exciting to see how everything is displayed and to get a first look at products before they hit the shelves.  I would often see the same people at the events too so it would be lovely to catch up with fellow friends and bloggers.


#6 Reviewing Products - Discovering new products is amazing and I've missed getting to try out an array of products which if left to my own devices I wouldn't have necessarily knew existed.  Opening up new products and trying them out for the first time is always exciting and the inner blogger in me can never resist swatching and looking at the details of a product and it's packaging. I've been doing this even though I haven't been blogging which my friends and family find hilarious and only the other day they asked why on earth I was smelling a lipstick!

If you are a fellow blogger or are looking for some inspiration for new blog post ideas check out my 15 blog post ideas post.

What are your favourite things about blogging?


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Friday, 16 February 2018

Beauty | Current Lush Wish List


Current Lush Wish List

Another year, another Lush wish list... here's what I have my eye on at the moment...



This bright blue face mask has caught my eye so many times when I've been in Lush but I haven't dared to use it yet.  It sounds dreamy though! It is packed full of natural ingredients to moisturise, tone and exfoliate the skin including nourishing murmur butter, zingy lemon juice, ground rice and syrup plus grapefruit oil.

To use, you simply smooth a rich layer of this vibrant blue mask over the skin and gently remove after 10-15 minutes with a damp flannel and fresh water. I usually clean my face with warm/hot water first to open my pores, remove the face mask with warm water then finish with cold to close my pores.

I think the next face mask I buy has got to be this one. The Lush face masks have never disappointed me so far and they are great value for money. I'm always surprised by how many uses I get out of one pot and although all the ingredients are natural they usually last at least 4 weeks in the fridge.



In the past I haven't been a big fan of massage bars. Only ever trying one and finding it pretty messy admittedly I was a little put off but one of my friend swears by them for dry skin so I want to give them another go. 

The Therapy Massage Bar is 100% organic and contains a balanced blend of aerated cocoa and shea butters to soften the skin as well as three organic essential oils. Lavender balances the skin and relaxes theming, Neroli oil improves the tone and texture of the skin and sweet wild orange oil lifts the mood. This sounds like the perfect combination to help combat that dry skin!



The Winter weather is causing havoc with my hair and skin at the moment, even my favourite beauty products are failing me so i'm looking for some new alternatives to try and this moisturising shampoo is top of my list. 

Blousey is deeply moisturising and hydrating thanks to the protein-rich bananas, cocoa and cupuacu butters. This combination sounds nourishing and i'm hoping they will help to restore moisture in my hair, leave it soft and promote a healthy shine. There is also the added addition of pimento berry which is said to revive and protect hair as well as help you maintain an healthy scalp thanks to the antiseptic properties.



Okay so i'll be honest, the first thing that I was drawn to is the fact that this bath bomb is pink and that is my favourite colour but it has so much more to it than that.  It has top notes of sunny caramel and luxurious vanilla which sounds delicious together. I can't wait to take a closer look at this one in store... I really hope it smells as good as it sounds!



Jelly bath bombs?! Wow I've really missed out on some things in the skin care world since i've been offline.. this sounds immense! Judging by the ingredients The Big Sleep this product will be true to it's name and be great to use before bed. The mix of chamomile, lavender and tonka sound soothing and relaxing, a perfect balance before bed time. As i'm writing this I'm wishing I have one of these right now so I can jump in the bath!


Has anyone tried any of these beauty treats? If so what did you think?


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Tuesday, 13 February 2018

Fashion | Mulberry Unboxing


Mulberry Unboxing

Shortly before christmas I was lucky enough to have been on a shopping trip to Mulberry, one of my favourite stores... take a peak at what a bought by watching the below video.

Please like and subscribe if you enjoyed watching and want to see more of my videos! 



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Friday, 9 February 2018

Lifestyle | Valentines Gifts for Him


Valentines Gifts For Him

Christmas is over, a new year has begun and the next holiday is fast approaching, Valentines Day. Now it's time to start brainstorming what you should do for Valentine's Day and what gifts you are going to surprise your special someone with. If you are looking for some inspiration i've rounded up some of the best Valentine's Day gift ideas for Her. If you are also looking for some inspiration on gifts for Him keep your eyes peeled as there will be a blog post coming soon.




I love buying products for friends and family you can personalise and this leather keyring is a unique alternative to what you generally find on the market. It's sleek and fashionable design would appeal to many people plus it's practical as everyone needs a key ring right?



I don't know any man who doesn't like a good aftershave and there are some wonderful gift sets out there for Valentines. I particularly like the Ralph Lauren scents and this blue one is described as aquatic and musky. The top notes are melon, mandarin and cucumber which gives this fragrance a freshness, followed by basil, sage and geranium at the heart and finally a base of suede, musks and woody notes. This result in a fresh, clean, masculine scent.



I've bought this fragrance before as an aftershave and both my Husband and Dad loved it so I was really pleased to find out it's now also available as a body spray. The scent is sophisticated and masculine and I love that this brand isn't commonly available so odds are the man in your life won't be wearing the same as one of his friends.



Another personalised gift idea is to create a love book.  This is idea is super cute and allows you to list all the things you love about your partner and customise the pages and characters to look like you.   You even have the choice of picking the cover and title page. This is a sweet keepsake idea and would be perfect to look back over the years.



If your loved one enjoys listening to music this speaker could be right their street. It's sleek design would fit nicely in any home and is available in both black and white. The wireless functionality also means you can play music from your phone and other streaming devices with ease and also control it through your phone via the Sonas app.



My husband got this recipe book for Christmas and loves it because the dishes are quick and easy to make plus as the name suggests each only use ingredients (plus some base ingredients such as salt and pepper).  This is the perfect gift for those who like to cook, try new food but maybe have little time on their hands and therefore want to try simple yet tasty recipes.



If you are planning to travel with your other half why not indulge in this cute scratch map so you can share all your adventures together? Every time you visit somewhere new you can scratch the foil covering one of the countries, ticking them off one by one. It would be a lovely memory to keep this on your wall and reminisce about your past travels and and celebrate new places you are jetting off to see.



If you want to surprise your man with a sweet treat how about some delicious chocolates? The Milk Chocolate Boot is perfect for those football lovers or those who prefer Valentines gifts that aren't as 'lovey dovey'. It's also customisable so you can add a personal touch to make it extra special.

Thorntons offer a huge assortment of chocolates from individual selections to boxes, models and heart. 



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Tuesday, 6 February 2018

Fashion | Valentines Gifts for Him

Mulberry Unboxing

Christmas is over, a new year has begun and the next holiday is fast approaching, Valentines Day. Now it's time to start brainstorming what you should do for Valentine's Day and what gifts you are going to surprise your special someone with. 

Ever since I met my husband, over 13 years ago (we are childhood sweethearts) I have regularly bought him clothes and accessories as gifts. From time to time I get more 'lovey dovey' gifts too but after this many years together those types of gifts alone can be a bit repetitive so I tend to lean more towards getting something I know he will love and use.

I recently came across The Idle Man, a menswear based retailer, catering to the style conscious man. Hosting brands such as Champion, Farah and Dickies they offer a large range of items to choose from and is a great place to shop if you are fashion conscience.

As the The Idle Man is a go-to destination for men I have spent some time looking at what they offer and have collated a list of my favourite pieces which I think would make the perfect gift for Valentines Day (my hubby might even be lucky to find himself with some of them on 14th Feb!). 

Alongside the online shop, The Idle Man Manual is a blog dedicated to offering style advice as well as stories and guides about music, grooming and lifestyle. Take a peak if you want some more inspiration for spoiling your man this Valentines Day.

Take a look at my Fashion picks below:



I love chelsea boots! They are such a classic look and I must have for my valentines gift list. This pair are a total bargain at just £75 and they are perfect for those Autumn/Winter months.  This is a style that will always be in fashion.



You can't beat a pair of smart shoes.. you know they say you can you can tell a lot about a man by their shoes so make sure the man in your life is wearing ones you love.  These tan shoes will look great when teamed with jeans and a brown belt.



If your man loves the gym why not get him a new back pack to keep his gym gear in? This stylish black carrier will look fab and go with any outfit.



Everyone needs a good hoodie in their life to keep them warm. I love this navy hoodie as it's plain and simple design keeps things relaxed and mature.



Looking for some some short breaks or weekends away with your partner? Why not treat them to this gorgeous overnight bag so he can arrive in style.



Unfortunately the cold weather is still lingering so if your loved one gets cold, has a long commute, loves watching sports outside or even maybe works outside why not invest in a super cosy scarf to keep them toasty? I love this pink and navy combination, it reminds me of the styles you find in Jack Wills but this one at The Idle Man is far better value for money!



A casual jacket with a twist. The vintage Harrington jacket is a simple, short jacket that would look great with jeans but it has a unique secret hidden inside. The red tartan style lining adds a pop of colour for those more adventurous fashion lovers.



You can't go wrong with a belt as a gift and this smart black one with silver hardware will go perfectly with smart trousers or jeans.  Accessories are so important when it comes to pulling together an outfit.. it's all in the details.



If your other half loves rugby as much as my husband does he will love this rugby shirt.  They are casual but smart and can be teamed perfectly with jeans.  I like the look of rugby shirts as they give the impression you've made more effort with your outfit than you have.



Shirts can be so versatile and this one is no exception.  The dark green tone with go with a variety of skin tones and it looks great open over a white T or buttoned up with smart jeans.

(*AD)

What's your favourite fashion pick?

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Friday, 2 February 2018

Lifestyle | Valentines Gifts For Her


Valentines Gifts For Her

Christmas is over, a new year has begun and the next holiday is fast approaching, Valentines Day. Now it's time to start brainstorming what you should do for Valentine's Day and what gifts you are going to surprise your special someone with. If you are looking for some inspiration i've rounded up some of the best Valentine's Day gift ideas for Her. If you are also looking for some inspiration on gifts for Him keep your eyes peeled as there will be a blog post coming soon.



Because who doesn't love salted caramel?!



The White Company is one of my favourite brands for luxurious, yet affordable gifts.  I particularly like the candles, skin care and diffusers as all feel far more expensive than they are and are packaged beautifully.



Looking for a sweet treat for your loved one? How about this adorable box of chocolate hearts?



Classic Roberts radios are perfect for music lovers who also have a flare for interior design.  Although more expensive than others on the market their vintage feel make them far more popular than your standard radio and they easily become a pretty focal point in the room.



One of the most popular brands amongst bloggers for candles is Diptyque and I can understand why.  Their simple, sleek design look lovely in the home and the array of unique scents offers something for everyone.  Available in different sizes you can purchase the mini version here or larger ones if you prefer.



Oliver Burton is a brand I only discovered last year and the 'Abstract Florals' collection is a particular favourite.  Fashion lovers will enjoy this pretty, feminine design which incorporates rose gold which has been a must have trend for a number of months now.



When it comes to gifts, you can't go wrong with Jo Malone.  This luxurious brand offers stunning packaging, an amazing mix of fragrances and the perfect treat for those you love.

Although expensive, Jo Malone products are totally worth the money as they smell gorgeous and are long lasting.  This particular scent is my all time favourite. Peony and Blush Suede includes the opulence of jasmine, the juicy bite of red apple and a soothing hint of rose and gillyflower.  To compliant this mix, the bath oil is enriched with sweet almond, jojoba seed and avocado oils which are natural conditioners that help soften and nourish the skin.



A must have gift  for any Harry Potter fans. This mug is pretty, personalised and includes a hint of magic... a winning combination.




Looking to go jet setting with your partner in the near future? If so, this cute luggage tag could be the perfect gift for valentines day.  


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Tuesday, 30 January 2018

Lifestyle | January Favourites


January Favourites

Good Morning Everyone! It's the first of many... my monthly favourites! I don't know about anyone else but January seemed like a very long month, I guess it's post Christmas and New Year blues.  

Watch the below video to find out what products i've been loving over the past month and please leave a comment to tell me yours!

If you enjoyed watching, please give me a thumbs up and subscribe! See you Soon x



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Friday, 26 January 2018

Beauty | Lush Butterball Bath Bomb Review


Lush Butterball Bath Bomb Review

One thing which I ensure I do every Winter is to take extra special care with my skin care as this is the time of year when my skin easily gets dry. I have my 'holy grail' products I use time and time again but also supplement my skin care routine with extra pops of nourishment to make sure my skin is as moisturised as possible without having to necessarily slather myself in tonnes of moisturiser - something which I don't like to do as I can't stand the heavy, sticky feeling you sometimes get when waiting for it to absorb.

One of the products I often turn to is the Lush Butterball ballistic, also known as the Butter Bear around Christmas time and it is one of my favourites.  This simple bath bomb looks plain to the eye but hidden inside is a combination of seven ingredients which works perfectly together to replenish the natural oils of your skin. 

The creamy cocoa butter is a key ingredient in this product as it helps to moisturise and soften the skin. It also smells amazing, a sweet mix of vanilla and toffee with a floral twist of ylang ylang. This combination works well to soothe the mind and nourish the body.

Although this bath bomb is small, it is full of a wonderful mix of ingredients which when released into the water seep out onto your skin. When the Butterball drops into the tub it fizzes a little and small droplets of oil escape and lay on the surface of the water, waiting to be absorbed into your skin. The smell is subtle and not overpowering but after your bath it lingers on your skin a little, including the nourishment which for me, lasted at least 24 hours.

Butterball is a product which could so easily go unnoticed in the store when rival products are bright and colourful but sometimes it's good to go back to basics. This bath bomb isn't one to be missed.


Lush Butterball Bath Bomb Review

What is your favourite bath bomb?


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Tuesday, 23 January 2018

Lifestyle | My 2017 Reflections


My 2017 Reflections

2017 has had it's highs and lows and I spent at least half of it being poorly with numerous throat infections not expecting I had actually achieved very much but on reflection overall it has been a pretty positive year.  I often try to take moments to reflect and look back on things. It's so easy to get caught up in the normal every day routine of life and not step back and actually look at what you have and how lucky you are. In 2017 i've tried do this far more often and I am so thankful for everyone's support and love this year. It has been incredible.

I'd like to share some of my reflections with you:

My Career -  I thought long and hard about my career and what I could potentially do to progress. I decided to take the jump from managing my team, a role I enjoyed but wasn't giving me the exposure I needed to a Project Manager which has allowed me to work directly on numerous projects across different areas of the business and IT teams. I only switched roles in August so it's still early days but I'm already seeing some benefits of the move and I think I made the right decision but only time will tell.

My Confidence - I pushed myself outside of my comfort zone this year. Confidence is something people have often brought up with me and it's true i'm not the loudest person in the room or very good at self promotion or always believe in my abilities as much as I should but I do think i'm more confident than people give me credit for and this year I wanted to prove that the 'label' people have given me years ago wasn't necessarily still 100% the case.  

I've tried to speak up more often, take the lead whenever I can and when I've been to external work events i've networked and even approached people about mentoring.  I'm really pleased I took the plunge and did these things as I didn't find it hard, i'm a people person and love speaking to others but it has helped prove to others I'm not as shy and quiet as everyone thinks!

Turning 30 - This year I turned dirty thirty eeeek! This was not something I was best pleased about, in fact I absolutely dreaded it as it felt so 'old' compared to my twenties or teenage years but actually it was amazing. My family and Husband planned an incredible week of surprises including a Champneys spa break, amazing meals at numerous restaurants including the La Gavroche (which is now my absolute favourite!) and special gifts that mean so much to me.

My Fur Baby - This year we had some scares with my dogs health and it terrified me. She is my world and earlier in the year she became very poorly with pneumonia and then cushings disease.  I am so so thankful that she got through it and it really makes you realise what is is important in your life - the people and animals you love and cherish.

Hobbies - This year I spent a lot of time just enjoying the hobbies I love.  I had the opportunity to read a few books, which I really enjoy as it allows me to escape to new worlds. 

I also spent a lot of time making special gifts for friends and family using crochet. This is something my mum taught me when I was little and in recent years I've gone back to time and time again. This year though, I took it far more seriously and I made several big cosy blankets, some cute teddies and snuggly accessories such as hats and scarves.

Although I've loved doing more of the above there has been a big gap this year and that is blogging. I've missed it so much but I haven't felt ready to dive back in to my health being so up and down and the dedication it needs. It feels so good to finally be back!

My Health - I've touched upon it a little already but my health has been a big thing this year.  Some years ago I was diagnosed with IBS but had never been tested to rule out anything else so this year I was adamant that needed to happen so I could have peace of mind it wasn't anything more serious.  I had various tests done and am pleased to say I got the all clear for everything, so it is IBS I suffer from as well as food intolerances to all dairy (can never have) and Gluten (I can have occasionally)

I've also had numerous throat infections and was finally sent to see a specialist to get it checked out.  I'm now on the waiting list for my tonsils to be removed, however, all this could actually be linked to the food tolerances above.... which since cutting out diary touch wood I haven't had any more infections. Fingers crossed it stays that way!


What were your 2017 Achievements?



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Friday, 19 January 2018

Beauty | 2018 Beauty Trends


2018 Beauty Trends

After spending the past few months looking at articles, blogs, Pinterest and London Fashion week I've noticed a number of themes surfacing which I believe will result in some amazing 2018 trends.  Here they are:

All Inclusive Makeup

This year sees brands offering a wider range of tones within their ranges and some have already started. In 2017 Rihanna released her Fenty Beauty range which has had a huge amount of hype in the beauty world and for good reason; her foundation includes a huge 40 shades so there really is something for everyone.

I don't think all other brands will go quite to the extreme of providing 40 shades but Rihanna has certainly highlighted a gap in the market and others are bound to follow in her footsteps.


Flawless Skin

Who doesn't want flawless skin? This is a trend that will continue into 2018 with people wanting to achieve a 'finished', 'polished' look.  There are so many amazing foundations and concealers on the market beauty fans will be spoilt for choice.


Clean Beauty

We've already seen some brands declare more and more their products don't contain any chemical nasties such as parabens, sulphates and silicones and this year we will see more of this.  Consumers are becoming more health conscience and aware of the ingredients in the products they are using, including anything from makeup to hair care and skin care.


Glossy Lips

Shiny lips will make a come back in 2018, particularly with a pop of colour such a red, raspberry or coral. Lips tints will be perfect for this look because the balmy texture adds a touch of gloss whilst still looking natural and not too 'done'.


Long Hair

I've read so many articles in recent months suggesting pixi cuts will be a trend this year but judging by Pinterest I think it will actually be the complete opposite - long hair. Expect a rise in hair extensions this year as everyone aspires to get long, luxurious locks.

Quite possibly, this trend is due to the slicked back hair we saw towards the second half of 2017 becoming popular which is likely to also continue into 2018.

What are your 2018 predictions?



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Tuesday, 16 January 2018

Lifestyle | The Best Workout Gear to Get You Motivated for 2018


Gym Wear

Looking to start 2018 with a new fitness regime? Why not start with a new gym wardrobe to help get you motivated?  There's nothing like buying something new and looking forward to wearing it so if you plan on hitting the gym in the next few weeks or to get out those running shoes here is the perfect excuse to splurge on something new.

I've been on the look out for the cutest pieces that will not only keep you looking good but also have you feeling confident to tackle those squats so you are top of the class.




Okay, so a Gilet isn't a gym essential but it's an alternative to taking a coat with you when you want to keep cosy travelling to and from the gym.  This one from Matalan is a total bargain and the colour is gorgeous!



Whether it's a 5k or full marathon it's important you invest in good running shoes that provide plenty of comfort and support. Nike running shoes have never failed me in the past and this simple black and white design is classic and versatile.



Mesh and panels in clothing is a big fashion trend at the moment and by the looks of things it is going to continue in 2018.  These power leggings in burgundy are a little different from your average black but not to jazzy so if you aren't a fan of prints these may still appeal. 



I absolutely love this backpack from Sweaty Betty. The unique shape is unusual and gives you plenty of room to keep all your exercise essentials, including a dedicated space for you water bottle so it doesn't leak.  The rose gold detailing is cute and totally on trend at the moment so not only is this bag practical but fashionable too.

This backpack is even big enough to double up as an overnight bag or casual bag as you can fit a 15" laptop inside and more. Even though there are cheaper on the market I think it's worth every penny, I purchased one of these a couple of months ago and love it. It's super comfy to wear too!

Available in a gorgeous burgundy tone too if you fancy something different to black!



These skin tight leggings have a fun design which incorporates splashes of pink on the lower leg. The material is tight fitting to provide comfort and support.  It also allows for good movement in any direction thanks to the 4-way stretch construction.  



Looking for a cute, simple top to team with your leggings or shorts? This t-shirt is perfect. Available in charcoal grey, mint green and baby pink this casual, lose fitting top is perfect for those who don't like tight clinging gym clothes.



A must have for working out is a sports bra and this simple grey one from BooHoo with it's white trim is super cute.  It's versatile colour means it will be suitable to wear under an assortment of different colour tops plus as the straps are narrow it will suit a variety of styles.

Available in dress sizes, it makes it easier to buy the correct size as I often find the bra type sizing on sports bra's are so different to normal bra's it takes forever to choose the correct one.



I really love this slim line tank top. The colour is stunning and the style flattering and unusual yet supportive. The touch of black at the waist line gives the illusion of a slimmer waist and the cross over racer back design adds gorgeous detailing to keep you feeling confident and fashionable.



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Friday, 12 January 2018

Beauty | My Most Used Beauty Products in 2017


Most Used Beauty Products 2017

Over Christmas I looked back at all the beauty products I had used over 2017 and picked my favourites aka my most used. As there were quite a few I filmed a video so I could share them with you.. check it out below.

Please don't forget to like and subscribe. I'm very new to You Tube so it would be great have your support!



What do you think of my most used beauty picks? What videos would you like to see next?



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