The beauty website for Chiswick locals
MARCH HEROES (2018)
This month has been mainly about Spring Cleaning and enjoying new products. Spring is the ideal time to get your skin ready to see a bit of sun (hopefully!) and removing dry skin.
Some of the products I’ve used this month to help bring my glow back and deep clean skin, hair and face are:
* Clinique Take The Day Off Cleanser- a lovely balm that melts away dirt and make up.
* Odylique Ultra Rich Balm- a rich moisturiser that can be used on sensitive skin and all over face, body & hair, it totally eradicated my dry patches and is great for feet that need a bit of TLC!
* If you like an oil & not everyone does, I can recommend NEOM Organics Daily Boost Face Body & Hair Oil. The Scent to Make You Happy is a great product to use after a morning shower to uplift & hydrate. It’s non sticky and really does put a spring in your step on these wet, miserable mornings. You’ll also notice that skin is super soft in the evening.
* Mary Kay has a Revealing Radiance Facial Peel that improves texture and helps bring the glow back. Use twice a week to see results.
* For frizzy hair that plays up in this weather, (hello my barnet!) then Goldwell Kerasilk Control Spray is what you need. Helps with humidity/ weather prone frizz and will also make your tresses soft again. A little goes a long way- don’t make the mistake I made when I first used it, thinking my hair needed more- I just looked like a very greasy, drowned rat! Just a few pumps on dry hair is enough.
I’ve also been shopping for some new additions to my make up kit and I’m loving my new purchases from Clarins and Clinique. These are my favourite go-to brands for my Pro-kit as they suit all ages and skin types, my clients love them and there are no problems with skin reactions or the like.
The Quad Eye Palette is going to be a big hit- the khaki green colour is a lovely, suit all shade and looks great all over the lid or in the socket instead of brown shades. It will look great for Summer evenings as it really catches the light and will enhance sun kissed skin.
Wet the brush and it works well as a liner too.
I am running a Make-up lesson on Friday 6th April in Chiswick and I have one place left! If you’d like to book please do get in touch via email or on the contact page.. I’d love to help you create a new look for 2018!
Some of the products I’ve used this month to help bring my glow back and deep clean skin, hair and face are:
* Clinique Take The Day Off Cleanser- a lovely balm that melts away dirt and make up.
* Odylique Ultra Rich Balm- a rich moisturiser that can be used on sensitive skin and all over face, body & hair, it totally eradicated my dry patches and is great for feet that need a bit of TLC!
* If you like an oil & not everyone does, I can recommend NEOM Organics Daily Boost Face Body & Hair Oil. The Scent to Make You Happy is a great product to use after a morning shower to uplift & hydrate. It’s non sticky and really does put a spring in your step on these wet, miserable mornings. You’ll also notice that skin is super soft in the evening.
* Mary Kay has a Revealing Radiance Facial Peel that improves texture and helps bring the glow back. Use twice a week to see results.
* For frizzy hair that plays up in this weather, (hello my barnet!) then Goldwell Kerasilk Control Spray is what you need. Helps with humidity/ weather prone frizz and will also make your tresses soft again. A little goes a long way- don’t make the mistake I made when I first used it, thinking my hair needed more- I just looked like a very greasy, drowned rat! Just a few pumps on dry hair is enough.
I’ve also been shopping for some new additions to my make up kit and I’m loving my new purchases from Clarins and Clinique. These are my favourite go-to brands for my Pro-kit as they suit all ages and skin types, my clients love them and there are no problems with skin reactions or the like.
The Quad Eye Palette is going to be a big hit- the khaki green colour is a lovely, suit all shade and looks great all over the lid or in the socket instead of brown shades. It will look great for Summer evenings as it really catches the light and will enhance sun kissed skin.
Wet the brush and it works well as a liner too.
I am running a Make-up lesson on Friday 6th April in Chiswick and I have one place left! If you’d like to book please do get in touch via email or on the contact page.. I’d love to help you create a new look for 2018!
SPRING EDIT March/April 2018
At last! Spring is finally on its way and the snow is melting as I write this.. I’m hoping it’s the start of better days to come...
I love Spring. I like the fact that it’s all about clearing out the old, bringing in the new and that everything seems lighter and cleaner!
There’s no better time in my mind, to clear out old clothes, makeup that’s seen better days, start a new fitness regime, catch up with old friends now the nights are lighter.. the list goes on.
I always do the traditional Spring clean in my home too. I love to change up cushion covers to lighter fabrics, change duvets to lighter cotton colours and generally get the place in order after the long Winter spent hunkered down!
I’ve been spending a few of these last drizzly and snowy days looking around department stores for lots of new season inspo. I’ll be telling you all about my top 10 Spring buys for every budget and sharing some health and beauty tips with you.
If you are getting back into fitness or running the London Marathon, (22nd April 2018) perhaps these sliders may come in handy.
Recovery shoes are vital to help support your feet as they recover from long runs. It might seem bit of an indulgence to treat your feet to a pair of dedicated shoes for recovery, but considering what you’re putting your trotters through it’s really the least you can do!
HOKA ONE ONE have both men’s and women’s recovery sliders and flip-flops which are perfect for giving your feet some TLC- from £35.00
I love Spring. I like the fact that it’s all about clearing out the old, bringing in the new and that everything seems lighter and cleaner!
There’s no better time in my mind, to clear out old clothes, makeup that’s seen better days, start a new fitness regime, catch up with old friends now the nights are lighter.. the list goes on.
I always do the traditional Spring clean in my home too. I love to change up cushion covers to lighter fabrics, change duvets to lighter cotton colours and generally get the place in order after the long Winter spent hunkered down!
I’ve been spending a few of these last drizzly and snowy days looking around department stores for lots of new season inspo. I’ll be telling you all about my top 10 Spring buys for every budget and sharing some health and beauty tips with you.
If you are getting back into fitness or running the London Marathon, (22nd April 2018) perhaps these sliders may come in handy.
Recovery shoes are vital to help support your feet as they recover from long runs. It might seem bit of an indulgence to treat your feet to a pair of dedicated shoes for recovery, but considering what you’re putting your trotters through it’s really the least you can do!
HOKA ONE ONE have both men’s and women’s recovery sliders and flip-flops which are perfect for giving your feet some TLC- from £35.00
There are almost 1.2 million Vegans in the UK, and it isn’t just about transforming your diet, but your whole lifestyle and where better to start than with natural skincare brand, YOPE. Products are paraben free, cruelty free and most importantly? Vegan friendly. Gorgeous Shower Gels from £5.99 to natural cleaning products for the home for your Spring clean, these products come highly recommended! Find them at www.yope.me/en
Yope Bathroom Cleansing Gel that smells of Lavender. £2.99
LOOKING AT SOME HEALTH SUPPLEMENTS - 13 March 2018
Most of us could do with a little boost at this time of year. We are coming out of a long, cold Winter- flu & viruses are everywhere and you want to go into the brighter, longer days feeling the best that you can. Today I’m looking at some alternative supplements that are readily available in health food shops that will boost the immune system and help kick start your Spring clean! Yes, every year I always do a big Spring clean, as old fashioned as it may seem, it gets rid of the cobwebs, literally and makes me feel more positive. Why not apply to same process to your diet? Moderate it, tweak it slightly, add in some fresher, greener products and lighter alternatives for Spring/Summer...
You can also add in some supplements to help ward of Spring colds or any other nasties that are still lingering about. Here’s my pick of some of the things I’ll be adding to my diet this year, some for defence and some to try something new for a change.
Comvita's Drinking Vinegar is a refreshing new twist on an old time classic that will aid your fitness goals this year whether it be Marathon training or general weight loss.
With the Marathon fast approaching, Apple Cider Drinking Vinegar will aid with training. A refreshing post work-out drink, the main competent acetic acid has been said to have cardiovascular benefits. By lowering triglyceride levels, acetic acid reduces blood pressure which contributes to a health cardiovascular system. Not only this, but acetic acid, stimulates stomach acid production which improves digestion and blood sugar balance.
For those concentrating on weight loss, the acetic acid in Apple Cider Drinking Vinegar, as it has been found to reduce calorie intake after consumption4. Comvita's Drinking Vinegar will help to your summer body goals. Find it at Holland & Barrett on the High Road for £2.99 a bottle.
Manuka Honey has great anti bacterial properties and is always handy to keep in the cupboard as a back up for when colds or illness strike. I like to add a spoonful to hot water & freshly squeezed lemon juice at the first sign of a sore throat or sniffles.
Comvita also do a great range in Manuka products- take a look at Manuka Honey Elixirs that help with every stage of the suffering cycle! The Winter Shield has Vitamin C and Zinc to protect against coughs and colds, whilst the Extra Strength Elixir's marshmallow root and Mullien leaf remedies sore throats and coughs and the magnesium in the Night Time Elixir is particularly powerful in aiding peaceful sleep.
For skin problems try Manuka honey antibacterial wound gel and Medihoney creams - all great natural products that promote healing.
Drinking eight glasses of water or more a day has been proved to help with many ailments from tiredness and legarthy to helping with digestion and clearer skin.
Filtered water is better tasting than tap water, which in Chiswick can taste a bit ‘bleach-y’ sometimes. Water filter jugs are a great idea and save a fortune on buying bottled water and the inconvenience of lugging it all home. I’m trying ZeroWater and I’m really liking it so far. It’s easy to use and taste much better than tap water!
ZeroWater is the only water filter brand that delivers the equivalent to purified bottled water into your home. Developed a pour-through system, with an aim to deliver the best filtration possible with their premium five-stage ion exchange technology, this filter removes virtually all total dissolved solids (TDS), a claim which no other filter can say. Impressive stuff!
The ZeroWater 12 cup ready pour costs £39.99 from ZeroWater.co.uk, smaller jugs start from £24.99
Our stomach is made up of good and bad bacteria, called gut flora, which has a controlling influence over many important body functions, including metabolism and fat reduction. However, lifestyle habits such as eating sugary foods, feeling stressed and drinking alcohol can all contribute to damaging our gut bacteria. So how can we balance it? A healthy gut is made by limiting the bad bacteria and encouraging the good one to grow. “Feed the good bacteria with fibrous foods and plenty of probiotics, which you can find in fermented foods (Kombucha tea, sauerkraut, yogurt, kefir and apple cider vinegar are all examples of probiotic-rich superfoods that balance your gut flora) or include a supplement in your diet. Look for the one with different types of strains of bacteria, such as GI Natural by Natures Plus (www.revital.co.uk £23.75). Probiotics may help to reduce the number of calories you absorb from food,” advises Nutritionist, Cassandra Barns.
Digestive Health day is on the 29th May this year and if your digestion is up & running well, you will find lots of small niggly ailments will improve. Why not try adding some of the below to your diet.
Give your body and skin a well needed cleanse with Vida Glow’s Beauty Cleanse and Beauty Greens Powder supplements – the perfect duo to support and enhance a healthy lifestyle.
Vida Glow’s Beauty Powders can be stirred into your favourite drink, smoothie or yoghurt and taken daily will leave your feeling revitalised!
£34.95 at www.uk.vidaglow.com
You can also add in some supplements to help ward of Spring colds or any other nasties that are still lingering about. Here’s my pick of some of the things I’ll be adding to my diet this year, some for defence and some to try something new for a change.
Comvita's Drinking Vinegar is a refreshing new twist on an old time classic that will aid your fitness goals this year whether it be Marathon training or general weight loss.
With the Marathon fast approaching, Apple Cider Drinking Vinegar will aid with training. A refreshing post work-out drink, the main competent acetic acid has been said to have cardiovascular benefits. By lowering triglyceride levels, acetic acid reduces blood pressure which contributes to a health cardiovascular system. Not only this, but acetic acid, stimulates stomach acid production which improves digestion and blood sugar balance.
For those concentrating on weight loss, the acetic acid in Apple Cider Drinking Vinegar, as it has been found to reduce calorie intake after consumption4. Comvita's Drinking Vinegar will help to your summer body goals. Find it at Holland & Barrett on the High Road for £2.99 a bottle.
Manuka Honey has great anti bacterial properties and is always handy to keep in the cupboard as a back up for when colds or illness strike. I like to add a spoonful to hot water & freshly squeezed lemon juice at the first sign of a sore throat or sniffles.
Comvita also do a great range in Manuka products- take a look at Manuka Honey Elixirs that help with every stage of the suffering cycle! The Winter Shield has Vitamin C and Zinc to protect against coughs and colds, whilst the Extra Strength Elixir's marshmallow root and Mullien leaf remedies sore throats and coughs and the magnesium in the Night Time Elixir is particularly powerful in aiding peaceful sleep.
For skin problems try Manuka honey antibacterial wound gel and Medihoney creams - all great natural products that promote healing.
Drinking eight glasses of water or more a day has been proved to help with many ailments from tiredness and legarthy to helping with digestion and clearer skin.
Filtered water is better tasting than tap water, which in Chiswick can taste a bit ‘bleach-y’ sometimes. Water filter jugs are a great idea and save a fortune on buying bottled water and the inconvenience of lugging it all home. I’m trying ZeroWater and I’m really liking it so far. It’s easy to use and taste much better than tap water!
ZeroWater is the only water filter brand that delivers the equivalent to purified bottled water into your home. Developed a pour-through system, with an aim to deliver the best filtration possible with their premium five-stage ion exchange technology, this filter removes virtually all total dissolved solids (TDS), a claim which no other filter can say. Impressive stuff!
The ZeroWater 12 cup ready pour costs £39.99 from ZeroWater.co.uk, smaller jugs start from £24.99
Our stomach is made up of good and bad bacteria, called gut flora, which has a controlling influence over many important body functions, including metabolism and fat reduction. However, lifestyle habits such as eating sugary foods, feeling stressed and drinking alcohol can all contribute to damaging our gut bacteria. So how can we balance it? A healthy gut is made by limiting the bad bacteria and encouraging the good one to grow. “Feed the good bacteria with fibrous foods and plenty of probiotics, which you can find in fermented foods (Kombucha tea, sauerkraut, yogurt, kefir and apple cider vinegar are all examples of probiotic-rich superfoods that balance your gut flora) or include a supplement in your diet. Look for the one with different types of strains of bacteria, such as GI Natural by Natures Plus (www.revital.co.uk £23.75). Probiotics may help to reduce the number of calories you absorb from food,” advises Nutritionist, Cassandra Barns.
Digestive Health day is on the 29th May this year and if your digestion is up & running well, you will find lots of small niggly ailments will improve. Why not try adding some of the below to your diet.
Give your body and skin a well needed cleanse with Vida Glow’s Beauty Cleanse and Beauty Greens Powder supplements – the perfect duo to support and enhance a healthy lifestyle.
Vida Glow’s Beauty Powders can be stirred into your favourite drink, smoothie or yoghurt and taken daily will leave your feeling revitalised!
£34.95 at www.uk.vidaglow.com
MOTHERS DAY TREATS - go on, spoil her this Sunday!
If you are lucky enough to have a great mum or mother figure in your life, Sunday is the day to amp it up a little and spoil that special woman in your life.
Most mums I know, especially with young children - would happily take an hour or so break as a gift so if you can take the kids of her hands for a bit while she does whatever she wants in that time, I think that is really the best gift you can give- and it’ll cost you nothing! If funds allow, throw in a lovely bouquet of flowers and lunch or dinner out somewhere, a takeaway or even a home cooked meal that she doesn’t have to cook (or clean up after!) and that’s a perfect day right there.
I’m afraid I can’t help you all with that as I’m hoping for a bit of that for myself at some point after I’ve treated my mum.
If however, you are looking for some great little beauty treats for her, well that I can help with!
Most mums love a weekly pampering session, me included, just an hour alone with no distractions, a good book or magazine and an oily bath can make you feel half human again somehow. If you add in a face mask and deep hair conditioner on top of that, you almost have a mini spa!
I mentioned the Elemis Fortitude Candle before but I think this would make a lovely gift. Throw in some of the new Superfood range- the face Oil is especially lovely and you’ll have one happy muma!
You could give her some new perfume, it is always welcome I find. Anything from Jo Malone is gratefully received - the packaging is divine too and I’ve yet to meet anybody who doesn’t love a treat from there. If you really pushed the boat out you could have a bespoke scent made for her with all her favourite smells combined. A few top perfumeries do this but Azzi Glassier is a well known ‘nose’ in the business and has made fragrances for Hollywood Elite such as Johnny Depp and Colin Firth. It’s not cheap though, so go prepared to max out your credit card if you choose this option. Good High Street options for busy and stressed mums include NEOM who do a lovely range of natural products from bath oils to room and pillow mists- the Relax range is particularly nice before bedtime to wind down.
High end make up is a treat and something a lot of mums and careers wouldn’t necessarily buy for themselves on a regular basis. Perhaps a new lipstick (Clarins is a favourite here, I think it excels at everyday, wearable shades especially) or a new make up palette (has to be Charlotte Tilbury for fool proof products- easy to use and gorgeous shades, there’s something for everybody here) or a great mascara, (can’t beat YSL for gift worthy lashes) - do check which shades she likes first though- there’s no point in buying a fab, bright red lipstick, no matter how gorgeous it looks, if she is more a coral or everyday lip balm kind of person! Talking of lip balms, there are some really great, high end products out there now, I mentioned Weleda and Clarins a few posts back - both are lovely enough to be gifted. Clarins have a beautifully packaged Instant Light Lipbalm and Catch the Light Highlighter that are very subtle and kind to all skin types, giving a non sticky natural glow to the skin. Find at all good Clarins stockists from £19.00. Lypsyl have some great new compacts out at only £4.99 too & come in four flavours which would make a great little gift popped in with a bunch of flowers, see below.
I hope that you have a lovely day and that you and your mother figures get spoilt rotten!
Happy Mother’s Day Chiswick 😘💋💐
L O V E Y O U R L I P S
L O V E T H E N E W L Y P S Y L S O F T T O U C H M I R R O R C O M P A C T
Lip care just got more beauty conscious. From iconic lip balm brand, Lypsyl, comes this year’s NEW stylish, mirrored handbag accessory for soft, smooth and super-healthy lips.
A must-have addition to any well-stocked makeup bag, Lypsyl’s innovative Mirror Compact comes with an easy-open top lid for lip pampering on-the-go.
Most mums I know, especially with young children - would happily take an hour or so break as a gift so if you can take the kids of her hands for a bit while she does whatever she wants in that time, I think that is really the best gift you can give- and it’ll cost you nothing! If funds allow, throw in a lovely bouquet of flowers and lunch or dinner out somewhere, a takeaway or even a home cooked meal that she doesn’t have to cook (or clean up after!) and that’s a perfect day right there.
I’m afraid I can’t help you all with that as I’m hoping for a bit of that for myself at some point after I’ve treated my mum.
If however, you are looking for some great little beauty treats for her, well that I can help with!
Most mums love a weekly pampering session, me included, just an hour alone with no distractions, a good book or magazine and an oily bath can make you feel half human again somehow. If you add in a face mask and deep hair conditioner on top of that, you almost have a mini spa!
I mentioned the Elemis Fortitude Candle before but I think this would make a lovely gift. Throw in some of the new Superfood range- the face Oil is especially lovely and you’ll have one happy muma!
You could give her some new perfume, it is always welcome I find. Anything from Jo Malone is gratefully received - the packaging is divine too and I’ve yet to meet anybody who doesn’t love a treat from there. If you really pushed the boat out you could have a bespoke scent made for her with all her favourite smells combined. A few top perfumeries do this but Azzi Glassier is a well known ‘nose’ in the business and has made fragrances for Hollywood Elite such as Johnny Depp and Colin Firth. It’s not cheap though, so go prepared to max out your credit card if you choose this option. Good High Street options for busy and stressed mums include NEOM who do a lovely range of natural products from bath oils to room and pillow mists- the Relax range is particularly nice before bedtime to wind down.
High end make up is a treat and something a lot of mums and careers wouldn’t necessarily buy for themselves on a regular basis. Perhaps a new lipstick (Clarins is a favourite here, I think it excels at everyday, wearable shades especially) or a new make up palette (has to be Charlotte Tilbury for fool proof products- easy to use and gorgeous shades, there’s something for everybody here) or a great mascara, (can’t beat YSL for gift worthy lashes) - do check which shades she likes first though- there’s no point in buying a fab, bright red lipstick, no matter how gorgeous it looks, if she is more a coral or everyday lip balm kind of person! Talking of lip balms, there are some really great, high end products out there now, I mentioned Weleda and Clarins a few posts back - both are lovely enough to be gifted. Clarins have a beautifully packaged Instant Light Lipbalm and Catch the Light Highlighter that are very subtle and kind to all skin types, giving a non sticky natural glow to the skin. Find at all good Clarins stockists from £19.00. Lypsyl have some great new compacts out at only £4.99 too & come in four flavours which would make a great little gift popped in with a bunch of flowers, see below.
I hope that you have a lovely day and that you and your mother figures get spoilt rotten!
Happy Mother’s Day Chiswick 😘💋💐
L O V E Y O U R L I P S
L O V E T H E N E W L Y P S Y L S O F T T O U C H M I R R O R C O M P A C T
Lip care just got more beauty conscious. From iconic lip balm brand, Lypsyl, comes this year’s NEW stylish, mirrored handbag accessory for soft, smooth and super-healthy lips.
A must-have addition to any well-stocked makeup bag, Lypsyl’s innovative Mirror Compact comes with an easy-open top lid for lip pampering on-the-go.
TREAT YOURSELF TO A FACIAL MASSAGE WITH ESSENTIAL OILS
We are all searching for glowing healthy natural, youthful looking skin. A gentle daily facial massage and doing some facial yoga improves the skin’s circulation, giving it a healthy, youthful glow. As the circulation increases it encourages the lymph glands to eliminate toxins reducing puffiness and improving the overall complexion.
Choose the right essential oils for your skin type, for a normal or sensitive skin try Lavender, Geranium and Jojoba beauty oil. If your skin is oily try the addition of Cypress or Ylang Ylang oils and for blemishes try adding some Tea Tree. Mix a few drops of your selected oils with a carrier beauty oil like Jojoba before applying to your face.
Facial Massage Recipe and How to from Valerie originator of Sanatio Naturals:
• 1 drop Lavender Essential Oil
• 1 drop Geranium Essential Oil
• 15 ml Jojoba Oil
Apply a small amount of oil to the palms of the hands, massage into the face using upward gentle strokes.
Remember before you start your massage:
• Cleanse your face thoroughly, gently pat dry, cleanse with Jojoba oil using a damp cotton wool pad
• Apply a small amount of aromatherapy facial blend to palms, massage gently into the face
• Begin from the centre of the brow and use upward, outward stokes, moving hands away from each
other and swiping gently upwards
• Then move down to the below the eyes and cheeks repeat gently avoiding the eye area carefully
• Move down to the chin and massage outwards and upwards
• Don't forget your neck, start from the centre, move out and upwards and around to the back of the
neck which is often a neglected area, holding a lot of tension
• Massage your ears too and the lobes this feels fabulous. Finish the massage by holding your hands
cupped, gently over your eyes and nose and breathing deeply
Once your skin is moisturised your ready for some simple Face Exercises:
• Puff out your cheeks, push air into your mouth and swop the air from one side to the other four times, release with an Oh! Repeat up for four times a day anytime you like
• Stick out your tongue! Hold for up to 60 seconds and repeat up to three times
• Look up, pucker up hold for 5 seconds, repeat up to five times. Stick out your tongue too for an added
stretch.
• Say oh with a dropped jaw and repeat up to ten times
Select from Sanatio Naturalis pure products:
• Pure Essential oils (10ml) - Lavender (SSP £22), Lemon (SSP £15), Sweet Orange (SSP £15), Peppermint
(SSP £15), Cypress (SSP £16), Ylang Ylang (SSP £18), Tea Tree (SSP £16), Rosemary (SSP £16), Eucalyptus
(SSP £15), Frankincense (SSP £26), Geranium (SSP £20) or Ginger (SSP £18)
• Beauty oils (50ml) - Rose-hip seed (SSP £28), Grape-seed (SSP £16), or Jojoba (SSP £20)
Sanatio Naturalis products are Daniele Ryman aromachology approved therapeutic quality luxury oils and waters, to nourish the skin and uplift the spirits. Natural products with sensuous scents. Made in UK, packaged in beautiful lapis lazuli blue glass and luxurious white boxes, they make ideal gifts
All Sanatio Naturalis products can be purchased directly from www.sanationaturalis.com
Choose the right essential oils for your skin type, for a normal or sensitive skin try Lavender, Geranium and Jojoba beauty oil. If your skin is oily try the addition of Cypress or Ylang Ylang oils and for blemishes try adding some Tea Tree. Mix a few drops of your selected oils with a carrier beauty oil like Jojoba before applying to your face.
Facial Massage Recipe and How to from Valerie originator of Sanatio Naturals:
• 1 drop Lavender Essential Oil
• 1 drop Geranium Essential Oil
• 15 ml Jojoba Oil
Apply a small amount of oil to the palms of the hands, massage into the face using upward gentle strokes.
Remember before you start your massage:
• Cleanse your face thoroughly, gently pat dry, cleanse with Jojoba oil using a damp cotton wool pad
• Apply a small amount of aromatherapy facial blend to palms, massage gently into the face
• Begin from the centre of the brow and use upward, outward stokes, moving hands away from each
other and swiping gently upwards
• Then move down to the below the eyes and cheeks repeat gently avoiding the eye area carefully
• Move down to the chin and massage outwards and upwards
• Don't forget your neck, start from the centre, move out and upwards and around to the back of the
neck which is often a neglected area, holding a lot of tension
• Massage your ears too and the lobes this feels fabulous. Finish the massage by holding your hands
cupped, gently over your eyes and nose and breathing deeply
Once your skin is moisturised your ready for some simple Face Exercises:
• Puff out your cheeks, push air into your mouth and swop the air from one side to the other four times, release with an Oh! Repeat up for four times a day anytime you like
• Stick out your tongue! Hold for up to 60 seconds and repeat up to three times
• Look up, pucker up hold for 5 seconds, repeat up to five times. Stick out your tongue too for an added
stretch.
• Say oh with a dropped jaw and repeat up to ten times
Select from Sanatio Naturalis pure products:
• Pure Essential oils (10ml) - Lavender (SSP £22), Lemon (SSP £15), Sweet Orange (SSP £15), Peppermint
(SSP £15), Cypress (SSP £16), Ylang Ylang (SSP £18), Tea Tree (SSP £16), Rosemary (SSP £16), Eucalyptus
(SSP £15), Frankincense (SSP £26), Geranium (SSP £20) or Ginger (SSP £18)
• Beauty oils (50ml) - Rose-hip seed (SSP £28), Grape-seed (SSP £16), or Jojoba (SSP £20)
Sanatio Naturalis products are Daniele Ryman aromachology approved therapeutic quality luxury oils and waters, to nourish the skin and uplift the spirits. Natural products with sensuous scents. Made in UK, packaged in beautiful lapis lazuli blue glass and luxurious white boxes, they make ideal gifts
All Sanatio Naturalis products can be purchased directly from www.sanationaturalis.com
FEBRUARY ‘ S HEROES
This February has been cold! So cold that we had lots of snow and the so called ‘Beast from the East’ and my skin took an absolute battering. My face was red raw for a week and my hands cracked so badly that they bled- I was not a happy bunny.. the only thing that worked in healing them and soothing without stinging was Egyptian Magic Cream. This is such a soothing, thick balm and I really recommend it if you need something heavy duty & not just ‘cosmetic ‘ if you get my meaning. When mere face & hand creams won’t touch the sides of your rough skin, this will do the job nicely.
I didn’t let the weather put me of a bit of fake tan. In fact, when everything is grey , it’s nice to have a bit of colour, so as soon as my skin healed I used a bit of St Moritz Gradual Daily tan to add a bit of warmth back to my near blue limbs! This is a great brand and has everything you need to get a good tan at home.
I would’ve been lost without the delightful Clarins Lip Balm that I discovered last week.. it’s new, not out until 15th April but it’s well worth spending £19:50 on this if you suffer from dry or cracked lips. It plumps and even enhances lips like no lip balm I’ve used before and leaves them super soft.
What else have I tried this month? Weleda have a lovely new range of tinted lip balms and tinted moisturiser that I’m loving and I really like the Evening Primrose Age Revitalising Complex, which I’m using on top of make up and on my clients, who are very impressed with the glowy look it gives to skin. I’m also trying Clarins Extra Firming Night Cream and I’ve noticed a difference in my skin texture- it just seems a bit tighter and more refined somehow- not quite so crumpled on waking!
I’ve been relaxing with the new Espa candle and I’m loving that but just as lovely is the Elemis Fortitude Candle.. it smells divine and I’m using it every Erving during my bath time to unwind. It makes the bathroom smell spa-like and that in itself makes me unwind a little. I’m a massive Elemis fan anyway and I believe if you want to treat yourself to a home spa brand this would be in my top 3... but I’ll write more about that another time.
I’d like to bring you a few make up tips that I’ve been using on clients this month. Firstly, as mentioned above, all this cold air and central heating can dry skin out. Replenish from within first- drink lots of fluids throughout the day, herbal teas are good for this as is hot water and lemon. Don’t be afraid to use oils on your skin, especially at night (NEOM do a gorgeous Sleep Oil that is very relaxing) and if you find your usual foundation is not moisturising enough, add a drop of face oil to it in the palm of your hand and apply with fingers rather than a brush or sponge. Cream eyeshadows are good too and don’t show up those dry eyelids so much as powder can, which can look a bit chalky in winter.. I’d go for cream everything in this weather as there’s no chance of it melting!
I’m also going easy on the highlighter as in bright light on cold days it can look too harsh- though a rose gold colour can warm up your look for evening but go easy! I find these colder months are for repairing skin and keeping it supple, ready for warmer Spring days. If you can get away with bare minimum make up then just correct redness with a green colour corrector, then a little concealer, tinted lip balm and mascara would be ideal.
Wind and cold can make eyes sore & runny so I usually opt out of eye make up until the weather gets better!
An eyelash tint is a good way to stop eyes disappearing completely but not wear much in the way of make up.
👍🏼💋😘
I didn’t let the weather put me of a bit of fake tan. In fact, when everything is grey , it’s nice to have a bit of colour, so as soon as my skin healed I used a bit of St Moritz Gradual Daily tan to add a bit of warmth back to my near blue limbs! This is a great brand and has everything you need to get a good tan at home.
I would’ve been lost without the delightful Clarins Lip Balm that I discovered last week.. it’s new, not out until 15th April but it’s well worth spending £19:50 on this if you suffer from dry or cracked lips. It plumps and even enhances lips like no lip balm I’ve used before and leaves them super soft.
What else have I tried this month? Weleda have a lovely new range of tinted lip balms and tinted moisturiser that I’m loving and I really like the Evening Primrose Age Revitalising Complex, which I’m using on top of make up and on my clients, who are very impressed with the glowy look it gives to skin. I’m also trying Clarins Extra Firming Night Cream and I’ve noticed a difference in my skin texture- it just seems a bit tighter and more refined somehow- not quite so crumpled on waking!
I’ve been relaxing with the new Espa candle and I’m loving that but just as lovely is the Elemis Fortitude Candle.. it smells divine and I’m using it every Erving during my bath time to unwind. It makes the bathroom smell spa-like and that in itself makes me unwind a little. I’m a massive Elemis fan anyway and I believe if you want to treat yourself to a home spa brand this would be in my top 3... but I’ll write more about that another time.
I’d like to bring you a few make up tips that I’ve been using on clients this month. Firstly, as mentioned above, all this cold air and central heating can dry skin out. Replenish from within first- drink lots of fluids throughout the day, herbal teas are good for this as is hot water and lemon. Don’t be afraid to use oils on your skin, especially at night (NEOM do a gorgeous Sleep Oil that is very relaxing) and if you find your usual foundation is not moisturising enough, add a drop of face oil to it in the palm of your hand and apply with fingers rather than a brush or sponge. Cream eyeshadows are good too and don’t show up those dry eyelids so much as powder can, which can look a bit chalky in winter.. I’d go for cream everything in this weather as there’s no chance of it melting!
I’m also going easy on the highlighter as in bright light on cold days it can look too harsh- though a rose gold colour can warm up your look for evening but go easy! I find these colder months are for repairing skin and keeping it supple, ready for warmer Spring days. If you can get away with bare minimum make up then just correct redness with a green colour corrector, then a little concealer, tinted lip balm and mascara would be ideal.
Wind and cold can make eyes sore & runny so I usually opt out of eye make up until the weather gets better!
An eyelash tint is a good way to stop eyes disappearing completely but not wear much in the way of make up.
👍🏼💋😘
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY ❤️💋
Just a quick little note to my readers to say I hope you are all having a good Valentine’s Day today. It’s an old cliche I know but we all like to feel loved & it shouldn’t be just one a day a year for couples. I’m hoping that whatever your situation, you go ahead and give love to yourself at this time of year. Whether that means cocktails with friends, spoiling your pets or just taking an hour out for yourself for a face mask and nap or whatever other little pampering ideas work for you, then just go ahead and do it! There are many ways to show love in this world and you do not need a significant other to do it!
Light a candle (NEOM Organics do some beautiful, relaxing ones) and hunker down with a good book!
A little self care is always a great thing and I’m loving this book by yoga guru Nadia Narain (see pic) It’s a small reminder to take care of yourself first. We all know deep down that we sometimes need to take time out, slow down and just ‘be’ but doing it is another thing. Just the act of picking up this book and having a 15 minute read will put you in a better mood. There are some lovely tips, recipes and advice in this book and you can dip in and out or read it cover to cover. I’m keeping a copy by my bed and reading a bit each night - it’s helping me to stay sane in this busy old world!
Available from all good book shops £16.99
Light a candle (NEOM Organics do some beautiful, relaxing ones) and hunker down with a good book!
A little self care is always a great thing and I’m loving this book by yoga guru Nadia Narain (see pic) It’s a small reminder to take care of yourself first. We all know deep down that we sometimes need to take time out, slow down and just ‘be’ but doing it is another thing. Just the act of picking up this book and having a 15 minute read will put you in a better mood. There are some lovely tips, recipes and advice in this book and you can dip in and out or read it cover to cover. I’m keeping a copy by my bed and reading a bit each night - it’s helping me to stay sane in this busy old world!
Available from all good book shops £16.99
JANUARY FAVOURITES
As promised, here’s some of my favourite new and classic products that got me through this very long January!
It was so dark and cold that my skin was really red-raw for some weeks and I craved lovely, rich products such as oils and heavy night creams for repair. One of my favourite new products was the NeoStrata range from SpaceNK in Chiswick. Although it’s by far an affordable brand, it does deliver some great results and that is proven in its clinical trials. I’ve been using the Dermal Replenishment and found it deeply hydrating and great for winter skincare. I’m looking forward to the launch in March of the Lifting Serum that promises great results on deep wrinkles.. watch this space....
I’ve been slathering on the Rose oil by Green People - NEW DAMASK ROSE FACIAL OIL – £29 FOR 30ML
A luxurious new skin care essential - Damask Rose Facial Oil. This is a nourishing, skin-softening blend of Thistle Seed, Sweet Almond, Jojoba, Avocado and Rosehip oils which work in synergy to help keep skin soft and supple.
This unique blend of oils improves skin texture and firmness whilst locking-in hydration and reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Damask Rose Facial Oil helps regenerate the skin to leave it looking younger and more refined.
For the body I’ve been using a range of Elemis and decleor products. Both classics in their own fields, the Elemis Sleep range has a lovely shower & body oil that’s very comforting to add to your bath before bedtime. The relaxing body oil range from Decleor has sorted out my flacky knees and elbows and is lovely rubbed into feet before bedtime.. a real treat!
I am also loving the Weleda Lavender Shower Gel for long, morning showers! It feels like a hint a spring is in the air as the scent is lovely and fresh..the Calendular shower gel is also very good and doesn’t leave skin feeling dry at all.
Im also in love with Espa at the moment! The Restorative Body Oil - is a rebalancing body oil to comfort and calm the senses. Sweet Orange, Rose Geranium and Lavender help ease anxiety and calm, while Palmarosa helps tone and Sweet Almond Oil deeply nourishes. Also knows as a hug in a bottle! Absolutely heaven in this weather at the end of a long day!
I love the NEOM Scent to Sleep range - it has a blend of 19 different essential oils and smells absolutely divine. And I find it really does calm me ready for sleep. With this in mind, the Neom Scent To Sleep™ range has been specially formulated with natural fragrance which not only smells wonderful but also has a relaxing effect on the mind and body. All expertly blended to help you relax and prepare for sleep.
In trials, 88% HAD A BETTER NIGHT’S SLEEP on the Neom Sleep Programme. Consumer research trial involving 65 women undertaken July 2015.
Nothing affects how you look or feel as much as sleep, or lack of it. The Intense Night Repair Face, Body & Hair Oil (£32) is a lovely oil that you can use before bed as part of a nightly ritual. For optimum quality and quantity of zzz’s, soak in a warm bath beforehand, ideally with the Perfect Night’s Sleep Bath Foam or Bath & Shower Drops. All Neom skin products have three benefits: two for your skin and one for your mind. After all, you can’t look good if you don't feel good. 1. NOURISH 2. SOFTEN 3. SLEEP
Find the range at www.neomorganics.com
Repair winter locks with some of Paul Mitchell’s Tea Tree and Mint range of conditioners. The Hair masks are great, come in 6 individual packs (19.99) and really help smooth out dry hair. Available from local hair salons nationwide.
If you need cheering up on these dark mornings as you get ready for your day ahead I’d love to recommend the lovely Rainbow Shine Straightening Irons from Lee Stafford. As well as doing the job they are intended for brilliantly, they look so pretty! Fast becoming my new favourite accessory! Get yours at Argos or Superdrug for £69.99
For dry and cracked lips, I’ve found a lovely little tin of Liquorice Balm which can be rubbed into lips as often as necessary and not only could it help reduce cold sore outbreaks it is also a nourishing balm that helps keep lips well-conditioned.
Liquorice Balm costs £7.95 for 30g from www.skinshop.co.uk
If you feel the need to work out and shed some of the Christmas excess then I’ve found the perfect leggings for you!
“Like a bra but for ones bum”. This is how FIGURE FIT leggings have been described since its launch last year. Offering support and control, whilst perfectly sculpting bottoms worldwide, the leggings are made using quality, soft, sweat wicking fabrics designed to complement any fit kit wardrobe, as well as your bum.
With bold prints, technical fabrics and special panelling the leggings give the most flattering outfit for working out or going about day to day life, whilst ensuring butt sculpting perfection. www.figure-fit.com
As we all know, it’s not just what you put on your skin but also what you put in to your body that helps with looking your best. Omega-3 fatty acids help our immune system and fight infections such as colds and flu. They build healthy mucous membranes - the delicate skin that lines the airways and digestive systems, which act as a first line barrier, guarding against entry of germs into the body. I have been taking Wiley's Finest, Omega-3 from Whole Foods and have noticed a big difference in my skin, hair and overall energy levels.
Keep an eye out for my next instalment here for more great products as we head into Spring - yay! 💐😘
It was so dark and cold that my skin was really red-raw for some weeks and I craved lovely, rich products such as oils and heavy night creams for repair. One of my favourite new products was the NeoStrata range from SpaceNK in Chiswick. Although it’s by far an affordable brand, it does deliver some great results and that is proven in its clinical trials. I’ve been using the Dermal Replenishment and found it deeply hydrating and great for winter skincare. I’m looking forward to the launch in March of the Lifting Serum that promises great results on deep wrinkles.. watch this space....
I’ve been slathering on the Rose oil by Green People - NEW DAMASK ROSE FACIAL OIL – £29 FOR 30ML
A luxurious new skin care essential - Damask Rose Facial Oil. This is a nourishing, skin-softening blend of Thistle Seed, Sweet Almond, Jojoba, Avocado and Rosehip oils which work in synergy to help keep skin soft and supple.
This unique blend of oils improves skin texture and firmness whilst locking-in hydration and reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Damask Rose Facial Oil helps regenerate the skin to leave it looking younger and more refined.
For the body I’ve been using a range of Elemis and decleor products. Both classics in their own fields, the Elemis Sleep range has a lovely shower & body oil that’s very comforting to add to your bath before bedtime. The relaxing body oil range from Decleor has sorted out my flacky knees and elbows and is lovely rubbed into feet before bedtime.. a real treat!
I am also loving the Weleda Lavender Shower Gel for long, morning showers! It feels like a hint a spring is in the air as the scent is lovely and fresh..the Calendular shower gel is also very good and doesn’t leave skin feeling dry at all.
Im also in love with Espa at the moment! The Restorative Body Oil - is a rebalancing body oil to comfort and calm the senses. Sweet Orange, Rose Geranium and Lavender help ease anxiety and calm, while Palmarosa helps tone and Sweet Almond Oil deeply nourishes. Also knows as a hug in a bottle! Absolutely heaven in this weather at the end of a long day!
I love the NEOM Scent to Sleep range - it has a blend of 19 different essential oils and smells absolutely divine. And I find it really does calm me ready for sleep. With this in mind, the Neom Scent To Sleep™ range has been specially formulated with natural fragrance which not only smells wonderful but also has a relaxing effect on the mind and body. All expertly blended to help you relax and prepare for sleep.
In trials, 88% HAD A BETTER NIGHT’S SLEEP on the Neom Sleep Programme. Consumer research trial involving 65 women undertaken July 2015.
Nothing affects how you look or feel as much as sleep, or lack of it. The Intense Night Repair Face, Body & Hair Oil (£32) is a lovely oil that you can use before bed as part of a nightly ritual. For optimum quality and quantity of zzz’s, soak in a warm bath beforehand, ideally with the Perfect Night’s Sleep Bath Foam or Bath & Shower Drops. All Neom skin products have three benefits: two for your skin and one for your mind. After all, you can’t look good if you don't feel good. 1. NOURISH 2. SOFTEN 3. SLEEP
Find the range at www.neomorganics.com
Repair winter locks with some of Paul Mitchell’s Tea Tree and Mint range of conditioners. The Hair masks are great, come in 6 individual packs (19.99) and really help smooth out dry hair. Available from local hair salons nationwide.
If you need cheering up on these dark mornings as you get ready for your day ahead I’d love to recommend the lovely Rainbow Shine Straightening Irons from Lee Stafford. As well as doing the job they are intended for brilliantly, they look so pretty! Fast becoming my new favourite accessory! Get yours at Argos or Superdrug for £69.99
For dry and cracked lips, I’ve found a lovely little tin of Liquorice Balm which can be rubbed into lips as often as necessary and not only could it help reduce cold sore outbreaks it is also a nourishing balm that helps keep lips well-conditioned.
Liquorice Balm costs £7.95 for 30g from www.skinshop.co.uk
If you feel the need to work out and shed some of the Christmas excess then I’ve found the perfect leggings for you!
“Like a bra but for ones bum”. This is how FIGURE FIT leggings have been described since its launch last year. Offering support and control, whilst perfectly sculpting bottoms worldwide, the leggings are made using quality, soft, sweat wicking fabrics designed to complement any fit kit wardrobe, as well as your bum.
With bold prints, technical fabrics and special panelling the leggings give the most flattering outfit for working out or going about day to day life, whilst ensuring butt sculpting perfection. www.figure-fit.com
As we all know, it’s not just what you put on your skin but also what you put in to your body that helps with looking your best. Omega-3 fatty acids help our immune system and fight infections such as colds and flu. They build healthy mucous membranes - the delicate skin that lines the airways and digestive systems, which act as a first line barrier, guarding against entry of germs into the body. I have been taking Wiley's Finest, Omega-3 from Whole Foods and have noticed a big difference in my skin, hair and overall energy levels.
Keep an eye out for my next instalment here for more great products as we head into Spring - yay! 💐😘
CHARLOTTE TILBURY - Wonderglow- Worth the money..?
Thoughts on Charlotte Tilbury’s Wonderglow ..? I bought this as it had great reviews everywhere and had really wanted to try it since it’s launch and generally I love Charlotte’s Make-up. The shop in Westfield White City is fab with its magic mirrors and products set up like an old Hollywood bouidoir. But for this product, marketed as an ‘Instant, Soft Focus Primer’ that can be worn alone or under makeup, I felt a bit tricked - at first I wasn’t convinced; my skin didn’t look any different apart from a very subtle gold sheen. I thought it was pretty average and not worth the money but I continued to use it as a moisturiser as one thing it did do was make my skin feel soft.. well, roll on two weeks of using this- I am getting compliments on my skin everyday! Everybody tells me I look glowing, at work people have asked if I’ve been for a facial and my skins texture seems to look different. I can’t put my finger on what exactly, maybe fine lines look softer..? Pores smaller..? For a product that at first I thought was a bit ‘emperors new clothes’, I am now a convert! This stuff really does work! Although for me personally it wasn’t instant as the product promises, maybe it gets better with time and long time use..? What kind of hocus-pocus has occurred I just can’t explain but its a little bit magic really as when you first put it on you can’t notice any difference BUT trust me, your friends and family will! I’d give this a full 10/10 & I’m stocking up! 👍🏼✅🙏🏼⭐️😍 #magic @ctilburymakeup #makeup #mua #mobilemakeupartist #makeuponthego Id love to hear your thoughts on this product if you’ve tried it.. did it take you some time to fall in love with it too? 💋 Do you like it?
JOAN COLLINS MAKE UP
Trying these out today - new range of makeup by Joan Collins - I'm quite impressed- the eye shadows are much lighter than in the palette but have staying power so good for everyday use and you could build up the intensity for evening. The lipsticks feel nice, are not drying and the gloss is even better. I think it's my new favourite- I'm loving the pink shade; Piper. They aren't sticky and the have stayed on through eating and drinking. The powder & lipstick combo compact looks seriously glam and the powder is very fine & translucent. It suits my medium skin tone but I'm not sure about darker skin tbh.. All in all I'd give it an 8/10 💄💋🌟
Jan 2018 ©JL
Jan 2018 ©JL
MONTHLY HEROES
JANUARY 2018
Happy 2018!!
I have been listening to a few email & Twitter suggestions about my blog and I've taken the advice on board! All of my new posts will appear at the top from now on to save you all scrolling down through the old posts- you can still scroll obviously, if you want to read the blog as a whole but I think that this is a cleaner, easier way to view.
So my new idea for blog posts is to do a monthly review of products I've used or liked in that month.. I will update at the end of the month and tell you what my monthly heroes are and why.
As I'm busy with my new venture as a mobile make up artist you can expect some good make up tips too.. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to see my 2018 news! I am available to book if you need a new look or have a special occasion coming up, don't be shy! Feel free to email me at : [email protected] for any bookings/info or questions.
I am also planning a few more workshops after my trial Make up for the Menopause workshop last week. It was a great success and I will post dates in advance for the next one. You can learn tips and skincare advice and have a play with different make up and even a mini makeover, all with tea and cake- what's not to love?! Thankyou all for you continued support- I wouldn't be able to carry on this blog without some feedback and I appreciate it all! 💋
Keep an eye out as next week I'll tell you my Mo they Heroes that have got me through this rather miserable and very long January!
Xx
I have been listening to a few email & Twitter suggestions about my blog and I've taken the advice on board! All of my new posts will appear at the top from now on to save you all scrolling down through the old posts- you can still scroll obviously, if you want to read the blog as a whole but I think that this is a cleaner, easier way to view.
So my new idea for blog posts is to do a monthly review of products I've used or liked in that month.. I will update at the end of the month and tell you what my monthly heroes are and why.
As I'm busy with my new venture as a mobile make up artist you can expect some good make up tips too.. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to see my 2018 news! I am available to book if you need a new look or have a special occasion coming up, don't be shy! Feel free to email me at : [email protected] for any bookings/info or questions.
I am also planning a few more workshops after my trial Make up for the Menopause workshop last week. It was a great success and I will post dates in advance for the next one. You can learn tips and skincare advice and have a play with different make up and even a mini makeover, all with tea and cake- what's not to love?! Thankyou all for you continued support- I wouldn't be able to carry on this blog without some feedback and I appreciate it all! 💋
Keep an eye out as next week I'll tell you my Mo they Heroes that have got me through this rather miserable and very long January!
Xx
Spring has sprung in Chiswick!
Hello and welcome to my very first blog post on my new site, Beautifully Chiswick.
I am so excited to be starting something new after a bit of a bumpy and frankly, not the best 2016!
Spring seemed the ideal time to launch my new venture, flowers are starting to bloom, new shoots are everywhere and the sun has finally come out of its winter hibernation (well, sometimes but when it does its glorious!)
For me, there is no better place in the world to live than Chiswick - we have it all here and I think Springtime really shows that.
I have been been busy trying out lots of new products to bring the new, freshness of spring to my life. I needed a new start this year and this blog is my way of moving forward with knowledge I have gained over many years in the fast and ever changing beauty industry. I have tried a new way of life too - mainly eating Vegan and I am finding it very rewarding. I love searching out new ingredients and recipes to try to make lovely, healthy, tasty dishes. I may even include some here at some point and would love to hear if you have a favourite dish that you make around this time of year.
Some of my favourite skin care brand have lots of new, fresh products out too. I'm hoping to review some for you in the coming days and weeks.
I must admit that blogging is all new to me. Although I am used to writing and working to deadlines and such, it feels a bit strange to be out here in the 'blogosphere' if that is even a thing, not sure if anybody is reading this but writing it anyway! Please bear with me as I learn how to publish new entries and decorate this space with fab new finds and pictures of lovely bits and bobs! Excuse any mistakes and feel free to point them out to me- I'd love to hear from my readers. It will be a learning curve for me and I relish a new venture if nothing else! I know it will evolve and change as we go on and the more I learn the better this space will get...
I am really looking forward to writing here and bringing some amazing beauty ideas, products, tips and chit-chat to you.
In the meantime I hope you are enjoying the Spring and new beginnings as much as I am!
J X
I am so excited to be starting something new after a bit of a bumpy and frankly, not the best 2016!
Spring seemed the ideal time to launch my new venture, flowers are starting to bloom, new shoots are everywhere and the sun has finally come out of its winter hibernation (well, sometimes but when it does its glorious!)
For me, there is no better place in the world to live than Chiswick - we have it all here and I think Springtime really shows that.
I have been been busy trying out lots of new products to bring the new, freshness of spring to my life. I needed a new start this year and this blog is my way of moving forward with knowledge I have gained over many years in the fast and ever changing beauty industry. I have tried a new way of life too - mainly eating Vegan and I am finding it very rewarding. I love searching out new ingredients and recipes to try to make lovely, healthy, tasty dishes. I may even include some here at some point and would love to hear if you have a favourite dish that you make around this time of year.
Some of my favourite skin care brand have lots of new, fresh products out too. I'm hoping to review some for you in the coming days and weeks.
I must admit that blogging is all new to me. Although I am used to writing and working to deadlines and such, it feels a bit strange to be out here in the 'blogosphere' if that is even a thing, not sure if anybody is reading this but writing it anyway! Please bear with me as I learn how to publish new entries and decorate this space with fab new finds and pictures of lovely bits and bobs! Excuse any mistakes and feel free to point them out to me- I'd love to hear from my readers. It will be a learning curve for me and I relish a new venture if nothing else! I know it will evolve and change as we go on and the more I learn the better this space will get...
I am really looking forward to writing here and bringing some amazing beauty ideas, products, tips and chit-chat to you.
In the meantime I hope you are enjoying the Spring and new beginnings as much as I am!
J X
Spring Scents I Love
For me, Spring is all about fresh florals after a winter of luscious musks and heavy, deep fragrances (& I love these too!) I feel I need to literally lighten up with the longer days.
Some of my favourite Springtime perfumes are heavy on the floral notes but still fresh enough for the change of weather.
My top 5:
These perfumes are a constant on my dressing table and I begin to use them every year around the end of February when it seems appropriate and my winter perfume no longer feels right.
1: Jo Malone Amber & Lavender Cologne: always such a surprise dry down with this fresh but sexy number! Just a gorgeous scent that always draws compliments.
2: Twisted Iris by Azzi Glassier- a pure floral with some darker notes that is great for evenings. Azzi is perfumer to the stars and her Library of Fragrances are varied and beautiful. I love the powdery scent of Iris and this is one of my favourites of hers.
3: Victor & Rolfe Flowerbomb - is what is says! An explosion of petals and intense fruity notes make me feel lighter at first spritz.. Lovely for day or evening.
4: Hermes Terre de Hermes- actually a mans fragrance but I LOVE it's earthy tones. Smells like rain on a garden to me! One of my classic go-to perfumes of all time.
5: Neom Intensive Mood Uplifting Treatment- I love this brand and will be covering it more in depth at a later date. This is a little rollerball of pure energy with a minty, citrus hit of essential oils so it does you good too! Great for those greyer Spring days.
So so there you have it. My top Spring fragrances. What do you favour once the weather changes? Do you swap your scents over every season or have a signature scent that you always wear?
For me, Spring is all about fresh florals after a winter of luscious musks and heavy, deep fragrances (& I love these too!) I feel I need to literally lighten up with the longer days.
Some of my favourite Springtime perfumes are heavy on the floral notes but still fresh enough for the change of weather.
My top 5:
These perfumes are a constant on my dressing table and I begin to use them every year around the end of February when it seems appropriate and my winter perfume no longer feels right.
1: Jo Malone Amber & Lavender Cologne: always such a surprise dry down with this fresh but sexy number! Just a gorgeous scent that always draws compliments.
2: Twisted Iris by Azzi Glassier- a pure floral with some darker notes that is great for evenings. Azzi is perfumer to the stars and her Library of Fragrances are varied and beautiful. I love the powdery scent of Iris and this is one of my favourites of hers.
3: Victor & Rolfe Flowerbomb - is what is says! An explosion of petals and intense fruity notes make me feel lighter at first spritz.. Lovely for day or evening.
4: Hermes Terre de Hermes- actually a mans fragrance but I LOVE it's earthy tones. Smells like rain on a garden to me! One of my classic go-to perfumes of all time.
5: Neom Intensive Mood Uplifting Treatment- I love this brand and will be covering it more in depth at a later date. This is a little rollerball of pure energy with a minty, citrus hit of essential oils so it does you good too! Great for those greyer Spring days.
So so there you have it. My top Spring fragrances. What do you favour once the weather changes? Do you swap your scents over every season or have a signature scent that you always wear?
Teal Tips - nail polish for a great cause
March 2016
Rebecca Readshaw took a giant leap out of her comfort zone this weekend when she stepped onto the catwalk in front of an audience of hundreds to raise awareness of ovarian cancer.
For the 35 year old from Chiswick, has been dealing with the disease herself for the past four years, having originally been told that her symptoms - constipation and abdominal pain - were caused by a parasite she picked up on a holiday in India.
Rebecca and all of the other Tea With Ovacome models wore teal nail varnish at the event as part of the ovarian cancer charity Ovacome’s Teal Tips campaign.
The idea is that by wearing such a striking colour it will give women an excuse to start talking about the symptoms of the disease.
This is remembered in the BEAT acronym: B is for bloating that does not come and go; E is for eating less and feeling fuller quicker; A is for abdominal pain and T is for telling your GP.
Barry M’s ‘The Way You Make Me Teal’ is this year’s nail varnish at the centre of the awareness campaign during March.
For every £4.99 bottle of the Sunset Gel Nail Paint sold online at barrym.com in this colour during Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, £2.50 will be donated to the ovarian cancer charity Ovacome.
Rebecca has been told that she is now incurable but treatable and she is about to embark on a clinical trial. She wants to share her story so that her contemporaries realise that they too could be affected by a disease which is often associated with older, post menopausal women.
Rebecca is fundraising for the Tea with Ovacome event and Ovacome. To donate on her Just Giving page contact: https://www.justgiving.com/Rebecca-Readshaw1
For the 35 year old from Chiswick, has been dealing with the disease herself for the past four years, having originally been told that her symptoms - constipation and abdominal pain - were caused by a parasite she picked up on a holiday in India.
Rebecca and all of the other Tea With Ovacome models wore teal nail varnish at the event as part of the ovarian cancer charity Ovacome’s Teal Tips campaign.
The idea is that by wearing such a striking colour it will give women an excuse to start talking about the symptoms of the disease.
This is remembered in the BEAT acronym: B is for bloating that does not come and go; E is for eating less and feeling fuller quicker; A is for abdominal pain and T is for telling your GP.
Barry M’s ‘The Way You Make Me Teal’ is this year’s nail varnish at the centre of the awareness campaign during March.
For every £4.99 bottle of the Sunset Gel Nail Paint sold online at barrym.com in this colour during Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, £2.50 will be donated to the ovarian cancer charity Ovacome.
Rebecca has been told that she is now incurable but treatable and she is about to embark on a clinical trial. She wants to share her story so that her contemporaries realise that they too could be affected by a disease which is often associated with older, post menopausal women.
Rebecca is fundraising for the Tea with Ovacome event and Ovacome. To donate on her Just Giving page contact: https://www.justgiving.com/Rebecca-Readshaw1
MOTHER'S DAY IN CHISWICK
Treat your mum to some great beauty gifts that she will love.
This Sunday, 26th of March is Mothering Sunday.
It is always lovely to find an excuse to have a look around the shops and find some great beauty buys that any mum will love.
As a mother (& daughter) myself, I love all the fuss, the family lunch with everybody and a house full of flowers and home made gifts but I always like to give one good present that I know mum will love and use for the months to come.
With this in mind, I've picked a few of my favourite beauty buys if you are stuck for ideas.
I think that every mum, young or old would love something from this list!
Have fun shopping around and have a great Mother's Day whatever you are doing!
Clarins have the cutest little blushers and lip balm in their new Tender Moments range. Beautifully decorated with hearts, the packaging will tell your mum how much you love her! The Skin Illusion Blush in Luminous Coral (£16) is my favourite for a hint of colour and radiance. The Daily Energizer Lovely Lipbalm (also £16) is really nourishing and smells of fresh peaches.. Mmm.. The magic here is that it has an intelligent pigment that reacts with the lips own PH and creates a unique pinky shade.. I love this little duo and I'm sure that it'll suit so many mums.
It is always lovely to find an excuse to have a look around the shops and find some great beauty buys that any mum will love.
As a mother (& daughter) myself, I love all the fuss, the family lunch with everybody and a house full of flowers and home made gifts but I always like to give one good present that I know mum will love and use for the months to come.
With this in mind, I've picked a few of my favourite beauty buys if you are stuck for ideas.
I think that every mum, young or old would love something from this list!
Have fun shopping around and have a great Mother's Day whatever you are doing!
Clarins have the cutest little blushers and lip balm in their new Tender Moments range. Beautifully decorated with hearts, the packaging will tell your mum how much you love her! The Skin Illusion Blush in Luminous Coral (£16) is my favourite for a hint of colour and radiance. The Daily Energizer Lovely Lipbalm (also £16) is really nourishing and smells of fresh peaches.. Mmm.. The magic here is that it has an intelligent pigment that reacts with the lips own PH and creates a unique pinky shade.. I love this little duo and I'm sure that it'll suit so many mums.
Next up is a lovely home candle from Heathcote and Ivory. I love this company for their gorgeous scented home products like drawer liners and wardrobe sachets that you just don't see anywhere else. Their William Morris range is lovely, illustrated with patterns from the Morris & Co collection and the Strawberry Thief Candle is one of my favourites. (£22.00 www.heathcote-ivory.com )
This smells divine and looks great when lit. In fact, it's on my wish list ....
This smells divine and looks great when lit. In fact, it's on my wish list ....
NATIONAL PERFUME DAY
21st March 2017
So today is National Perfume Day... I've got to admit that scent is one constant in my life. Ever since I was a little girl and I watched my mum get ready for a rare night out, finishing off her minimal routine with a couple of squirts of Rive Gauche, I was hooked! I can still smell the scent that came out of that blue and black vessel like it was yesterday.
As a child I always asked for perfume for birthdays and Christmas; the little bottle of daisy perfume from Avon that came in a rocking horse shaped bottle, was a favourite and I would sprinkle it all around my bedroom, much to my parents bemusement! I have always loved a scented space!
In my teens, it was the exotic (& rather sickly,) Loulou that was a firm favourite before moving on to Miss Dior and Chanel number 5. Funnily enough, that is my least favourite of Chanel's fragrances these days.. Probably because I literally bathed in it back in the 1980's!
Today I have a different perfume for every mood, season, outfit and even occasion. I'm afraid I'm not one to be known by a signature scent as I love too many! I really do admire people who can have just one favourite and it becomes them! My friend Chloe has this and every time I get a whiff of Dior, I think of her.
Some of my favourites right now include a couple of divine scents by the perfumer to the stars, Azzi Glasser. She is a master of perfume and creates a story for each of her scents. I love these so much that I've collected a whole ( book) shelf of them! Twisted Iris is my current favourite for Spring. It is an intoxicating floral that is quite addictive- I have to keep smelling my own wrists!
(see image, above https://theperfumersstory.com)
Nowadays I scent every area of my home. I have a love of scented candles that is unrivalled and whatever the season or time of day, if I'm home I will be burning at least two or three in every room! I think I've tried every brand going. With these I've found that the old adage 'you get what you pay for', is very true. There is nothing worse than a really cheap scented candle- it just doesn't work. You need a background scent that is diffused throughout the room rather than a big hit of cheap perfume. Some of my favourites and the best in my opinion are Diptyque, Azzi Glasser, Jo Malone and Kenneth Graham at the top end (£30 upwards)
In the mid range (£15-30) Zara home do some lovely scents as do new scandi brand Skog and you can't beat a Neom Organics for relaxation- great for bedrooms! I would rather buy a smaller version of a good brand for £15 than a supermarket type candle to be honest.. I just don't think the ones for £3-£10 are nicely scented and they are a waste of money. Save the £6 for a couple of weeks and buy a lovely mid range version- you'll get so much more for your money in scent and burn time.
I just can't resist a scented product! I love essential oils for cleaning the kitchen and bathroom and adding to laundry loads (in the softener drawer if you were wondering) and the sheets are always sprinkled with lavender oil before they are folded away. I use a linen spray and a night time sleep spray on them too.. The list of products that I buy is never ending & if a new, good scented product is launched I just have to try it. I recently discovered Aesop's Poo Drops and I'm wondering how I lived without them - sad but true!
If all that sounds a bit extreme to you and you are new to fragrancing everything like me, let me assure you that it can be done on a budget too. Basic essential oils can be picked up for around £3-£4 pounds and are better than artificial scents. You can find cheap oil burners either online, at markets or even stores like Tiger in the High Road. Add oils to bowls of hot water & place around rooms for a subtle fragrance. You can add up to three (I'd keep it limited, so as not to overpower) different oils for different moods and rooms. I love Lavender and Geranium in bedrooms, Citrus and rosemary work well in kitchens- sprinkle on dishcloths and around the sink for a lovely fragrance hit every time you put the tap on. I like woody scents for the front/living rooms- try sandlewood or oud for a sensual scent in the evening. It really is a matter of personal taste and you can creat your own, unique perfumes by trial and error.
I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences with perfumes and how you scent your space.
Feel free to comment below or on my Instagram page @beautifullychiswick
As a child I always asked for perfume for birthdays and Christmas; the little bottle of daisy perfume from Avon that came in a rocking horse shaped bottle, was a favourite and I would sprinkle it all around my bedroom, much to my parents bemusement! I have always loved a scented space!
In my teens, it was the exotic (& rather sickly,) Loulou that was a firm favourite before moving on to Miss Dior and Chanel number 5. Funnily enough, that is my least favourite of Chanel's fragrances these days.. Probably because I literally bathed in it back in the 1980's!
Today I have a different perfume for every mood, season, outfit and even occasion. I'm afraid I'm not one to be known by a signature scent as I love too many! I really do admire people who can have just one favourite and it becomes them! My friend Chloe has this and every time I get a whiff of Dior, I think of her.
Some of my favourites right now include a couple of divine scents by the perfumer to the stars, Azzi Glasser. She is a master of perfume and creates a story for each of her scents. I love these so much that I've collected a whole ( book) shelf of them! Twisted Iris is my current favourite for Spring. It is an intoxicating floral that is quite addictive- I have to keep smelling my own wrists!
(see image, above https://theperfumersstory.com)
Nowadays I scent every area of my home. I have a love of scented candles that is unrivalled and whatever the season or time of day, if I'm home I will be burning at least two or three in every room! I think I've tried every brand going. With these I've found that the old adage 'you get what you pay for', is very true. There is nothing worse than a really cheap scented candle- it just doesn't work. You need a background scent that is diffused throughout the room rather than a big hit of cheap perfume. Some of my favourites and the best in my opinion are Diptyque, Azzi Glasser, Jo Malone and Kenneth Graham at the top end (£30 upwards)
In the mid range (£15-30) Zara home do some lovely scents as do new scandi brand Skog and you can't beat a Neom Organics for relaxation- great for bedrooms! I would rather buy a smaller version of a good brand for £15 than a supermarket type candle to be honest.. I just don't think the ones for £3-£10 are nicely scented and they are a waste of money. Save the £6 for a couple of weeks and buy a lovely mid range version- you'll get so much more for your money in scent and burn time.
I just can't resist a scented product! I love essential oils for cleaning the kitchen and bathroom and adding to laundry loads (in the softener drawer if you were wondering) and the sheets are always sprinkled with lavender oil before they are folded away. I use a linen spray and a night time sleep spray on them too.. The list of products that I buy is never ending & if a new, good scented product is launched I just have to try it. I recently discovered Aesop's Poo Drops and I'm wondering how I lived without them - sad but true!
If all that sounds a bit extreme to you and you are new to fragrancing everything like me, let me assure you that it can be done on a budget too. Basic essential oils can be picked up for around £3-£4 pounds and are better than artificial scents. You can find cheap oil burners either online, at markets or even stores like Tiger in the High Road. Add oils to bowls of hot water & place around rooms for a subtle fragrance. You can add up to three (I'd keep it limited, so as not to overpower) different oils for different moods and rooms. I love Lavender and Geranium in bedrooms, Citrus and rosemary work well in kitchens- sprinkle on dishcloths and around the sink for a lovely fragrance hit every time you put the tap on. I like woody scents for the front/living rooms- try sandlewood or oud for a sensual scent in the evening. It really is a matter of personal taste and you can creat your own, unique perfumes by trial and error.
I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences with perfumes and how you scent your space.
Feel free to comment below or on my Instagram page @beautifullychiswick
No Hassle Products. - March 2017
This innovative new straightener from Lee Stafford is the answer to the girl-on-the-go's prayers - use it cord free or traditionally, this two in one, take it anywhere NO Strings Attached CORDLess STRAiGHTENER could not be simpler.
The stand alone base heats the straighteners to a hair-perfecting 230°C and they retain this heat without the cord for fifteen minutes, allowing you no-tangle, super easy use as you straighten, curl or wave. Being cord free makes hand switching easy and those hard to reach areas like back of the head are a piece of cake, without the cord getting in the way!
To extend the cordless usage, simply return the straighteners to the base to keep them hot as you style. The Tourmaline-Ceramic plates with extra negative ions guarantee a frizz-free finish.
And wherever you find yourself - on holiday, in full festival season, on an unplanned over-night stay - no need to worry about mirrorless spaces - this clever design means you can take the heat to the mirror, wherever you are!
Available from Argos and Very £69.99
The stand alone base heats the straighteners to a hair-perfecting 230°C and they retain this heat without the cord for fifteen minutes, allowing you no-tangle, super easy use as you straighten, curl or wave. Being cord free makes hand switching easy and those hard to reach areas like back of the head are a piece of cake, without the cord getting in the way!
To extend the cordless usage, simply return the straighteners to the base to keep them hot as you style. The Tourmaline-Ceramic plates with extra negative ions guarantee a frizz-free finish.
And wherever you find yourself - on holiday, in full festival season, on an unplanned over-night stay - no need to worry about mirrorless spaces - this clever design means you can take the heat to the mirror, wherever you are!
Available from Argos and Very £69.99
FROM CHISWICK TO PARIS ..
And so for an Easter mini-break.
We decided to take the teens over to Paris for a couple of days as part of the Youngest's 15th birthday treat (and part treat for us too..)
Paris in the springtime doesn't disappoint.
We had lovely warm weather and it made for a pleasurable time when browsing all the lovely boutiques. Wandering around it is plain to see that many brands have made it to the French capital. I saw Lush Cosmetics and a Lush Spa; Sephora, MAC and KIKO stores were unexpected as I associated those more with NYC.
What I really want to share with you is some great French beauty buys- from bargains to the luxury purchase, French brands are among some of the top in the world. Looking around at some of the many shops dedicated to beauty, you can see why Parisiens are highly regarded in the industry. There are just so many to choose from ranging from the tiny artisan perfumeries to the big guns like Guerlain and Clarins. Paris is truly a beauty addicts dream shopping destination.
Even the little pharmacies on every corner with the bright green cross, welcome you in with classic brands such as Vichy and Roger and Gallet, you just can't help but be seduced by it all!
My first stop was to the Hotel Costes, famous for hosting fashionistas during Paris Fashion Week, they have their own range of toiletries which I was eager to try.
The hotel itself smells lovely due to the scented candles in the range & the products don't disappoint. I am already a convert to the Red range, very simply packaged with a sexy, floral, musky scent that to me, seems to smell like Paris itself!
There are just four ranges, Black, Brown, Red and White and they all have similar base notes but just seem to get 'darker' if you know what I mean! For example, the White range is a very light version of the Red and the Black is a more intense, night time type scent. All contain woody notes, leather, jasmine and some other florals that are hard to pinpoint but are most definately in there!
We decided to take the teens over to Paris for a couple of days as part of the Youngest's 15th birthday treat (and part treat for us too..)
Paris in the springtime doesn't disappoint.
We had lovely warm weather and it made for a pleasurable time when browsing all the lovely boutiques. Wandering around it is plain to see that many brands have made it to the French capital. I saw Lush Cosmetics and a Lush Spa; Sephora, MAC and KIKO stores were unexpected as I associated those more with NYC.
What I really want to share with you is some great French beauty buys- from bargains to the luxury purchase, French brands are among some of the top in the world. Looking around at some of the many shops dedicated to beauty, you can see why Parisiens are highly regarded in the industry. There are just so many to choose from ranging from the tiny artisan perfumeries to the big guns like Guerlain and Clarins. Paris is truly a beauty addicts dream shopping destination.
Even the little pharmacies on every corner with the bright green cross, welcome you in with classic brands such as Vichy and Roger and Gallet, you just can't help but be seduced by it all!
My first stop was to the Hotel Costes, famous for hosting fashionistas during Paris Fashion Week, they have their own range of toiletries which I was eager to try.
The hotel itself smells lovely due to the scented candles in the range & the products don't disappoint. I am already a convert to the Red range, very simply packaged with a sexy, floral, musky scent that to me, seems to smell like Paris itself!
There are just four ranges, Black, Brown, Red and White and they all have similar base notes but just seem to get 'darker' if you know what I mean! For example, the White range is a very light version of the Red and the Black is a more intense, night time type scent. All contain woody notes, leather, jasmine and some other florals that are hard to pinpoint but are most definately in there!
This range isn't too expensive either with shower gels and body lotions from £15, plus the scent lasts all day- bonus!
If you get to stay at the hotel, then you get to use the products during your stay too! What an incentive to start saving! ❤️
I actually love the fragrance so much I wish they did a laundry range too- it would perfume clothes so delicately and I could just live in a scented bubble! Alas, I'll make do with the candle & room spray for now. Find it on the hotels website.
No Frenchwoman worth her beauty stripes would be without at least 2 or 3 products by Clarins. This popular brand is sold everywhere in Paris from Spas to hotels, boutiques to chemists, it is a popular brand across the region.
I noticed a distinct aroma from some very chic women while having breakfast at The Cafe de Flore and I just had to ask what they were wearing. Despite my reservations they were delighted to tell me that it was Eau Dynamisante by Clarins! To be honest, I was quite surprised as I assumed this fragrance was just useful in the summer sun (as it doesn't react like some perfumes can on skin) but non! They told me in English, that was far better than my French that they use it every morning as part of their beauty routine! Who knew..? It seems it brings a spa like experience to the shower (products in the range include shower gels and foam and deodorants as well as body lotion) and these women swore it firmed their skin and provided a wake up call for the senses.. The fragrance really does smell sublime, very expensive and citrusy and quite spa like indeed. From now on I may take a tip from these ladies and use it as part of my morning routine instead of saving it for summer.
From £19:50 from John Lewis, Boots and all good department stores.
If you get to stay at the hotel, then you get to use the products during your stay too! What an incentive to start saving! ❤️
I actually love the fragrance so much I wish they did a laundry range too- it would perfume clothes so delicately and I could just live in a scented bubble! Alas, I'll make do with the candle & room spray for now. Find it on the hotels website.
No Frenchwoman worth her beauty stripes would be without at least 2 or 3 products by Clarins. This popular brand is sold everywhere in Paris from Spas to hotels, boutiques to chemists, it is a popular brand across the region.
I noticed a distinct aroma from some very chic women while having breakfast at The Cafe de Flore and I just had to ask what they were wearing. Despite my reservations they were delighted to tell me that it was Eau Dynamisante by Clarins! To be honest, I was quite surprised as I assumed this fragrance was just useful in the summer sun (as it doesn't react like some perfumes can on skin) but non! They told me in English, that was far better than my French that they use it every morning as part of their beauty routine! Who knew..? It seems it brings a spa like experience to the shower (products in the range include shower gels and foam and deodorants as well as body lotion) and these women swore it firmed their skin and provided a wake up call for the senses.. The fragrance really does smell sublime, very expensive and citrusy and quite spa like indeed. From now on I may take a tip from these ladies and use it as part of my morning routine instead of saving it for summer.
From £19:50 from John Lewis, Boots and all good department stores.
HAPPY NEW YEAR! 🎉
New venture for 2018
Happy New Year Chiswick & beyond!
It's been so long since I last posted anything here, 'cos, well you know, life and stuff! As a working mum with teens doing all kinds of exams and studying it hasn't left me much time to myself and even less time to keep the blog updated.
I know many of you understand and are in similar situations so I hope I'm forgiven! I haven't stopped loving beauty and products though- in fact, far from it.
Last year I was asked to do a friends sisters make up for her wedding. This wasn't just a random request! For those of you who don't know, LBK (long before kids!), I was actually a fully trained, working, professional make up artist and fashion stylist. I worked on numerous magazine shoots, pop video promos, indie films, and even went on the road with a band or two back in the day! When the kidlets came along and I could no longer hack the very early mornings or VERY late nights, I combined my love of all thing beauty and started my career writing about it...that was 25 (yikes!) years ago now and I kept my hand in makeup artistry on a very personal, basic level- doing regular clients or the odd recommendation. Last year however I was really flattered that my friend thought of me for her sister's wedding and I forgotten how much I enjoyed making up faces and actually talking to people! Writing is so solitary and I'd become so absorbed in family life and writing words that I didn't realise how much I missed making people smile with my handy work!
So since last Hallowe'en, a great time of year to start up again, I have been back doing make up again and I'm loving it even more the second time around.
So for my new blog posts, I will be trying to include a lot more make up based posts. I'm hoping to post pictures of some of the lovely faces I've made up (always with consent) , recomending some of my much loved products, telling you about new ranges and offering tips and advice. I'd love for you all to get involved too- feel free to post here, ask questions or even book me for your special event.
I'm hoping in the second half of the year to bring some beauty and make up workshops to West London and Chiswick too.
Thank you all for your support, it really does mean a lot to me.
Roll on 2018- I'm excited for it!
It's been so long since I last posted anything here, 'cos, well you know, life and stuff! As a working mum with teens doing all kinds of exams and studying it hasn't left me much time to myself and even less time to keep the blog updated.
I know many of you understand and are in similar situations so I hope I'm forgiven! I haven't stopped loving beauty and products though- in fact, far from it.
Last year I was asked to do a friends sisters make up for her wedding. This wasn't just a random request! For those of you who don't know, LBK (long before kids!), I was actually a fully trained, working, professional make up artist and fashion stylist. I worked on numerous magazine shoots, pop video promos, indie films, and even went on the road with a band or two back in the day! When the kidlets came along and I could no longer hack the very early mornings or VERY late nights, I combined my love of all thing beauty and started my career writing about it...that was 25 (yikes!) years ago now and I kept my hand in makeup artistry on a very personal, basic level- doing regular clients or the odd recommendation. Last year however I was really flattered that my friend thought of me for her sister's wedding and I forgotten how much I enjoyed making up faces and actually talking to people! Writing is so solitary and I'd become so absorbed in family life and writing words that I didn't realise how much I missed making people smile with my handy work!
So since last Hallowe'en, a great time of year to start up again, I have been back doing make up again and I'm loving it even more the second time around.
So for my new blog posts, I will be trying to include a lot more make up based posts. I'm hoping to post pictures of some of the lovely faces I've made up (always with consent) , recomending some of my much loved products, telling you about new ranges and offering tips and advice. I'd love for you all to get involved too- feel free to post here, ask questions or even book me for your special event.
I'm hoping in the second half of the year to bring some beauty and make up workshops to West London and Chiswick too.
Thank you all for your support, it really does mean a lot to me.
Roll on 2018- I'm excited for it!
copyright JLaw2017
no content may be reproduced without prior consent from the owner
contact [email protected]
no content may be reproduced without prior consent from the owner
contact [email protected]