Makeover & Photoshoot!

For my 18th Birthday present my friend Hannah took me for a day out to Birmingham where we had our hair and make-up done by make-up artists and then afterwards had a photoshoot, being as it was an exciting day and very much focused around make-up and beauty I thought it would be a lovely idea to share it with you all :)

Firstly, we met for lunch before catching the tram into Birmingham, once we'd arrived at the Jewellery Quarter which is just outside Birmingham we tried to find the studio's. After struggling to figure out the way out of the actual tram station we thought we might need a little help getting to the venue. So we got up the postcode on Hannah's phone and used google maps to direct us, this was a little embarrassing as the voice on maps was very loud and people were looking at us strangely. Oh well. Eventually we found where we needed to be.

When we arrived a very friendly man took us upstairs to the styling rooms. Here we had to fill out some forms on how we wanted our hair done for the shoot (I opted for curls) and how we wanted our makeup done (I opted for smokey eyes), I played it very safe as you can tell. The makeup artists and hair stylists were very nice, and did a fab job of making us look beaaautifull. The lady also went over my nails for me as one had chipped a little on the way. I loved how she did my make-up she used a lovely peachy orange on my lips, which I absolutely loved but didn't get the name of the colour, so I am going to have to go into Mac to have a little nosey and see if I can find it.

After our makeup and hair was done we went back downstairs to meet the photographer, again this lady was really, really nice. She put us at ease and made us feel really comfortable, we talked with her for about 5 minutes about what we wanted out of the shoot, explaining that we'd never done anything like this before and it was just a bit of fun, so no serious 'modelling' needed to happen haha. She then took us into the photography studio, which was a massive room with lots of different background's and props. We got changed into our first outfit and got started.

After the shoot we had to wait a little while, around about 20 minutes. This was because the photos had to download onto the computer before a viewing session. The same man who greeted us at the start of the day turned out to be the digital artist. He took us up to the viewing room where we went through all 82 of the photos that we had taken. We had to narrow this down to a sensible number and discuss prices and packages for us to takeaway the photos we wanted. This took a little longer than we thought.

I had a really, really fun day and it was something I probably won't do again, and if I do, not for a very long time. Therefore I am very thankful to Hannah for buying me such a cool and unique present! If you're thinking about doing one of these photoshoot days then I would definitely recommend it's really lighthearted and fun. A really good day out, that is something different to do!

My 3 Outfits

• Blue Jumpsuit from Topshop and Red Heels which I borrowed from Hannah. 
• Navy blue skinny jeans from H&M, Peachy coloured Patterned Shirt from Haute Society at TK Max and Beige heeled boots from Truffle.
• Blue patterned collared dress from Ged London at TK Max with black tights and black boots from New Look.

A selection of the photos from the day! 

(These are the professional photos, for more 'behind the scenes' photos follow me on Instagram)

Book Review!

This is the first time i've ever attempted to review a book on here so bear with me ! 

The Edge of Never by J A Redmerski

The main character Cam has had lots of unfortunate events happen in her life that immediately make us sympathise for her. At the beginning of the book she is in a bit of a crappy stage in her life, a bit of a bubble, she feels she is just doing everything that she should be doing, with nothing that makes her overly happy. I think this really relates to people of my age as there are big decisions to be made regarding whether to get jobs, go to college, go to university, go travelling etc etc. In the book something happened which makes Cam to decide she needs to get away, so she just gets on a bus and goes, with no plans. For this, I admire her. It is extremely brave. On this bus, Cam meets Andrew he is also travelling, however he does have a destination. Andrew and Cam eventually become friends and he makes her see things in different ways. Over the course of the book they begin opening up to each other and it is really lovely to see their friendship blossom and their relationship grow. The relationship between them is funny and innocent and typical of a young couple. They both help each other through some really tough times. Ultimately the book is about two young people learning what life is really about, and how to live life to the full. But it isn't a cheesy 'yolo' book. It's very well written, it's emotional, it makes you smile, it makes you laugh, it makes you cry. It also makes you think a lot about your own life. Towards the end of the book there is a huge twist which I obviously can't tell you as it would completely ruin the whole book. This twist is really shocking, well it was for me, and I wasn't expecting it at all. I think though, this made the whole story more realistic as at times it does seem 'same same' at times with them travelling on a road trip and falling in love at the same time.  The book is written in first person from the points of both Cam and Andrew, each chapter switches between the two narratives. I absolutely love this as we see things from both characters point of view, really allowing us to understand them both more in-depth. There is some sexual scenes and quite mature content throughout the book, however it isn't frequently in your face. It's subtle and it just adds to the relationship of the characters. However, if you aren't of age I wouldn't recommend the book. However, to everyone else I would definitely recommend the book. It is an absolutely fantastic read, and I couldn't put it down.  

What's On My Face?

Every Day Make-Up 

What I wear for Sixth Form and for work 

Face

1) No 7 Concealer in 'Cool Vanilla' 

2) No 7 Stay Perfect Superlight Foundation in 'Cool Vanilla' 

3) No 7 Perfect Light Pressed Powder in 'Translucent' 

4) Ted Baker Bronzer 

5) Rimmel London Blusher in 'Pink Rose' 

Eyes

1) Models Own Eye Lash Curlers

2) Studio London Pencil Eye-Liner in Black

3) Rimmel Liquid Eye-Liner in Black 

4) Maybelline New-York Illegal Length Mascara 

5) No 7 Fanomenal Lashes Mascara

6) Rimmel London Scandal Eyes Mascara

Lips

1) Rimmel London Royal Gloss 

2) Mac Lipstick in the colour 'Creme Cup'

'Technic' Nail Varnish Review

Technic Nail Varnish Review! 

This nail varnish has been on my nails so much recently that I felt it would be rude not to share my love for it with all of you. The nail varnish I am talking about is called 'Technic' which you can get at boots. The colour is 'Tango Red' and it is absolutely beaauuuttifuuulllll! As you can see from the pictures below, it is a darkish red and quite bright. It certainly isn't a dull red, it is more of a vibrant red. The consistency of the nail varnish is fab, it goes on really well, it isn't stringy or too thick. It's just right. The picture below is two coats of the product, and I think you probably do need two coats to keep the colour strong. As it is a dark colour, I would recommend using a base coat first of clear nail varnish, to prevent the varnish staining your nails. There is already a shine to the varnish which you notice after applying. When your nails catch the light, there is a lovely reflection which makes your nails shimmer and stand out. I think this product is a must in any nail varnish collection! :) 

The Bare Necessities

We all have our own favourite 'basic' beauty products that we've used for years and years. Typically consisting of; some kind of deodorant or spray, perfume, make-up remover, moisturiser, shampoo etc. 

Here are SOME of my favourites that I thought i'd share with all you lovelies. I continue to buy these products time after time as they are just so necessary in my day to day life, God knows what i'd do without them haha!

Batiste Dry Shampoo - If you didn't already know, dry shampoo is a spray powder kind of thing that you can use in the morning or before going out if you don't have enough time to wash and dry your hair. It's brill! It's so quick and easy to use and saves loads of time. Obviously it is not advisable to use this product and only this, this is more of a 'quick fix' during a bad hair day rather than an alternative to washing your hair regularly. I have tried other dry shampoo, but I have not found one that I prefer to batiste, this one is my ultimate fave. Currently I am using 'Floral and Flirty Blush' but there are loads of different ones you can choose from and I often mix them up and change what I use. You can get this product from boots! 

Boots Essentials Cleansing Wipes - These wipes are the perfect way to take of your make-up at the end of the day, within one wipe you can remove all make-up; eye's, face & lips all in one wipe. They are awesome! There are different types you can but I stick with 'fragrance free' as I have quite sensitive skin, and some of the others I tried would irritate my skin. These are again from boots, and are always on '3 for 2' offer. 

Acetone free nail polish remover by Sainsbury's - This nail varnish remover is so good, it lasts absolutely ages. It takes of your nail varnish instantly and leaves your nails clean and fresh. There is absolutely no need to spend money on fancy nail polish remover when there is these basics for cheaper prices at your local Sainsbury's. Easy peasy. This polish is also suitable for acrylic and artificial nails if you wear those! 

Women's Sure Cool Blue Fast Drying Anti-Perspirant - This deodorant is a must for me! I have tried others, such as spray deodorant and different brands. But for me personally, this is my favourite. It smells lovely, is easy to apply and lasts all day. It is also extremely fast to dry meaning you don't have to wait ages before getting dressed afterwards. Perfecto! 

Boots Essentials Moisturising Lotion - I haven't always used this product but since I have been using it, I wonder how I ever didn't. I think it's important to moisturise your body daily to keep your skin refreshed and clean, it also will keep your skin soft and prevent spots. I use this lotion on my face more than my body, before I go to bed at night I use it on my face and also after i've had a shower in the morning before putting my make-up on I also apply it, as moisturiser also acts as a sort-of primer, meaning your make-up will last longer. 

 I'd love to hear about what products you use everyday, so let me know some of your favourite everyday basic products in the comments below! :)

Ideas for Mothers Day!

Mothers Day is fast approaching - Sunday 30th March to be precise. Us daughters and sons may be beginning to decide what we would like to treat out lovely moms to this year. But, what could we get our moms that's different than every other typical present (flowers, wine, chocolates). Read on to find out..

Obviously everybody has different budgets so i've tried to include a varied price range within my ideas for you.

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1) The Obvious - Flowers,  Wine & Chocolates. Mom's just seem to love flowers, they look nice, and make the house smell nice. A lovely gesture and a lovely present. Find out (discretely) what your Mom's favourite flower or flowers are, and go down your local florist. They will surely be doing offers around Mothers Day, so try and be a bit creative with the flowers you choose. If your Mom is anything like mine, she'll love a glass of wine, therefore you can't go wrong really. Depending what your Mom likes; red, white, rose, try and get her favourite - the one she orders in a restaurant when she eats out. Chocolates, again, another favourite. The choice for what chocolates is endless. This present could range in prices depending on what flower you choose to how big the bouquet you create is, or on the wine and chocolates you choose. However this could be done cheaply if you are on a budget.

2) Perfume, 'Smellies' - Bath stuff/Body spray etc. A lovely present for your Mom this year would be a bottle of her favourite perfume! Depending what her favourite perfume is this could cost you a lot!

3) Take her out for Mother's Day - All pubs & restaurants will be doing something for Mothers Day, (Make sure you book in advance to be on the safe side) and this could be a lovely present from you to her. It could also be a chance for your family to get together and spend time together over Sunday Dinner. Some restaurants will be more expensive than others, obvs. If you haven't got the time to take your Mom out yourself, you could by a voucher for her to go with somebody else at a time which is convenient.

4) If your Mom is into beauty and treating herself, or even if she's not and deserves a bit of pampering you could get her a voucher and your local beauty salon - she could have a manicure, a massage, a hair cut - the choice is hers. The value of the voucher is unto you, so you could spend as much as you like here.  If you really want to splash out you could take her to a Spa for the day or overnight, and pay for a treatment such as a hot stone massage.

5) Clothing - Most Women love clothes, handbags, shoes etc. You can't really go wrong with clothing, as long as you get the right size! Because we are now in spring, pretty scarves are on trend, they are sold at lots of stores.

       

What mascara do you use?

A question I am often asked; what mascara do you use? And how do you do your eye-make up? Below are pictures of the mascara's I am currently using (yes I use all three). However I like to experiment with mascara's all the time. At the moment these three are the one's I am using, and I would definitely recommend them, obviously.. otherwise I wouldn't be doing this post.

The order the pictures are in are the order I apply the mascara.

1) 

No 7 Extreme Length Extend Mascara 

2)

No 7 Fanomenal Lashes Mascara 

3) 

ScandalEyes Flex Mascara by Rimmel London UK

For my everyday make-up I normally just wear mascara and black liquid eye-liner; the eye liner I am using at the moment is also by Rimmel London. Sometimes I use Urban Decay eye-shadow on my lids and Studio black pencil eye-liner on my waterline. Prior to all of this I use Model's Own Eye Lash Curlers on my lashes.