At the age of just 32 I have not only been married and divorced, I’m also engaged and planning a second wedding!
Whilst it’s not something I usually talk about it, I wouldn’t say I am in the slightest bit ashamed of it either.
People and circumstances change. That’s just a fact of life.
My first wedding went through many stages before the ‘big day’. So many ideas, hopes and dreams for what I thought was going to be full of happy memories.
It was expensive for starters. Something we swore it wouldn’t be. I come from a big family on both my mum and dads side and we’re all pretty close. I was very aware that the lack of an invite to even the most distant of my cousins would cause huge offence and it was something that really played on my mind, causing great anxiety. Couple that with the fact we opted for a very DIY day, which in theory was supposed to make things cheaper (which in my experience just isn’t true) and it was just a mess of financial troubles and broken promises of a debt free aftermath.
I would also say that such a big wedding invites a lot of opinions into the mix, something that really grew with each passing day throwing my dream into chaos.
The day itself was nice enough and I know that many of my guests have fond memories of time spent together as a family but it just wasn’t what I really wanted and I should have been strong enough at the time to voice that.
Actually I shouldn’t have gone through with it at all to be honest and I genuinely feel like the size and cost of my wedding had a lot to do with why I didn’t walk away. I couldn’t back out when so much planning and preparation had gone into it, could I? When so many people had spent their hard earned money on travel and accommodation to be there and support me.
Long story short, a big wedding isn’t for everyone. It certainly wasn’t for me.
Thankfully my future husband is on the same page and this time we have opted for a small and intimate affair full of personal touches. I’ve come to realise that I don’t need hundreds of people around me to make the day special. Lockdown has actually shown me the opposite.
I must stress that there really is no right or wrong way of doing things, these are my own experiences and I know that there will be plenty of people out there who will disagree.
If you have the funds then I know it’s possible to have the best of both worlds so I’ve put together a list of pros and cons to give you a better idea of the wedding you think might appeal to you more.
Big Wedding
Pros
You will (hopefully) only do it once so why not go all out. If you can’t be all kinds of extra when you’re a bride then when can you?
You’ll get to spend time with all of your friends and family under one roof (which if you have a huge family like me can be a difficult thing to organise usually!).
Better choice of location. In my experience there are loads of gorgeous venues that cater to large weddings that would look silly with a smaller group.
Cons
The expense. Surely that money could be put to better use?
Outside input. The more people who are involved the more likely you are to receive unwelcome and unwanted opinions.
Time and effort spent organising. Between work and everything else most people have to deal with right these days do you have the energy for such a huge task?
Microwedding
Pros
Everything can be organised and paid for fairly quickly.
You can rock up in your jeans if that’s what you want. It’s your day after all!
More money to spend on the honeymoon.
Cons
Family politics. Will you be able to deal the fall out because great aunt Mildred or your neighbours cat hasn’t made the cut?
Sometimes a party isn’t a party without a crowd.
Possibly regretting not having that once in a lifetime chance of the ‘fairytale wedding’.
Like I said, there really is no right or wrong answer and it will all come down to your feelings as a couple.
The most important part of any wedding is the love and respect you have for each other.
The last couple of years has truly been a time of reflection for so many people. It has given me so many things to be grateful for as well as the numerous worries I’m sure the majority of us feel pretty similar.
One thing I will happily take away with me into the new year is a new found appreciation for small businesses and indie brands.
The beauty community is saturated with talent. Some more well known than others but all admirable in their quest to achieve their dreams.
Here is a list of some of my favourite indie cosmetics brands, fingers crossed you’ll find something new and exciting to sink your teeth into!
I’ve spoken about Arttitude many times before and to be honest my love for the brand has only grown since then.
The Colour Splash palette is the perfect addition to your collection if you’re after something daring with the kind of pigment quality most high end brands could only dream of!
Their product line has expanded considerably in the last year whilst still keeping up with the impeccable standard of previous releases. What more could you ask for?
Palm Beauty is the baby of the bunch. Founded by Courtney Green of TOWIE fame this little gem still feels brand spanking new after only launching this time last year.
If you’re after an eyeshadow palette that’ll take you from day to night, on any occasion and all year round then look no further because Palm Beauty has you covered with their warm toned, neutral 9 pan beaut.
You’ll also find a collection of lip products that will become handbag essentials in no time!
If you’re after something with a little bit more edge then VE Cosmetics is perfect for you. This one woman powerhouse is all about ensuring ethical practices whilst still being fierce as they come.
You’ll find stunning eyeshadow palettes (witchy vibes all round guys, you’re gonna love em!) as well as a whole host of lip products with a formula and finish to suit everyone (with some seriously unique shades to boot!).
Luxury is probably the word that first springs to mind when I think about Labelle.
With an extensive range of products (the diamond highlighters are my fav!) they manage to hit the mark each and every time with their on trend releases.
Pretty much the perfect present selection for the beauty lover in your life.
UC has come a long way since they first launched their now iconic lashes.
With three gorgeous palettes, a selection of stunning pigments and brushes that look like they escaped straight from a Disney movie you really are spoilt for choice.
They also have the most beautiful and magical aesthetic that I’m kind of obsessed with. Mermaid brushes. Give me the strength to not skint myself!
This one will need no introduction. If you haven’t tried the P.Louise base then you need to get an order in right this minute because it is honestly a game changer.
The brand juggles being recognised world wide (it’s a favourite of Kim K don’t ya know!) whilst still managing to maintain its roots, giving back to her supporters is something that Paige does on a daily basis.
If you’re after a purchase with plenty of heart, soul and positivity then P.Louise will have your back.
Firstly I’d liked to just start by saying that some of these reads contain quite shocking content and could possibly be triggering for various reasons so please proceed with caution.
As part of my 2021 resolutions I promised myself I would read so much more than I did last year. It’s one of my absolute favourite past times and I usually fly through books one after the other, just devouring pages.
Unfortunately I fell victim to the constant mindless scrolling through social media on and off all day and just found it so hard to concentrate.
Well no more! Book worm Kel is back and she is here to stay so let’s begin.
Strap yourselves in because it’s going to be a wild ride.
Am I Guilty?
Jackie Kabler
I never thought it would happen to me…
One moment I had it all – a gorgeous husband, a beautiful home, a fulfilling career and two adorable children. The next, everything came crashing down around me.
They said it was my fault. They said I’m the worst mother in the world. And even though I can’t remember what happened that day, they wouldn’t lie to me. These are my friends, my family, people I trust.
But then why do I have this creeping sensation that something is wrong? Why do I feel like people are keeping secrets? Am I really as guilty as they say? And if I’m not, what will happen when the truth comes out…?
This one was featured on the House 21 podcast and guys, I’d downloaded it before Steph had even finished reciting the blurb.
I was hooked from start to finish (I’m a bit horrified looking back on it now but my family was pretty much ignored for twenty four hours because I was just that engrossed).
Jackie Kabler just had such an amazing way of telling this gut wrenching story full of twists and turns that I didn’t see coming.
I read a lot of thrillers and the storyline still felt unique and fresh, something I clung to until the very last word.
My heart raced and I felt sick at this tale that really did encompass a parents worst nightmares (which is incredibly impressive considering the fact Jackie is not a mother herself).
I can’t recommend it highly enough!
It’s Always The Husband
Michelle Campbell
…unless it’s the best friend.
Kate, Aubrey and Jenny are inseparable at college – friends who promised they’d always be there for each other.
But twenty years later, their friendship is about to take a deadly turn.
Kate married the gorgeous party boy, Aubrey married up, and Jenny married the boy next door, but when one of the friends dies in shocking circumstances, will everyone assume that it’s always the husband? Or could it be the best friend?
Oh god, where do I start? I just hated it. There was not one likeable or relatable character through the whole bloody book.
I didn’t like the way it was paced, nothing much seemed to really happen with the majority of the story being set before the the event mentioned in the blurb had even happened.
The ending was also quite abrupt and felt rushed and unfinished. I would say that I’m a fan of two different types of ending. The ones with a twist that just leave you wanting more and those that wrap everything up, nice and neatly so that you feel satisfied. This has neither.
I definitely wasn’t enamoured with it.
What You Did
Claire McGowan
It was supposed to be the perfect reunion: six university friends together again after twenty years. Host Ali finally has the life she always wanted, a career she can be proud of and a wonderful family with her college boyfriend, now husband. But that night her best friend makes an accusation so shocking that nothing will ever be the same again.
When Karen staggers in from the garden, bleeding and traumatised, she claims that she has been assaulted—by Ali’s husband, Mike. Ali must make a split-second decision: who should she believe? Her horrified husband, or her best friend? With Mike offering a very different version of events, Ali knows one of them is lying—but which? And why?
When the ensuing chaos forces her to re-examine the golden era the group shared at university, Ali realises there are darker memories too. Memories that have lain dormant for decades. Memories someone would kill to protect.
Coming across this one completely by chance on kindle unlimited was certainly a treat.
Claire McGowan, you have a new fan!
Whilst being told from mainly the perspective of what I would say was the main character ‘Ali’ you are also given glimpses into the psyche of various other guests at the aforementioned reunion which was a refreshing change of scenery at times.
The characters all felt well rounded and realistically flawed. People you could easily know in real life.
A hard read with some upsetting content but something I’m very glad I took a chance on.
Blood Orange
Harriet Tyce
Alison has it all. A doting husband, adorable daughter, and a career on the rise – she’s just been given her first murder case to defend. But all is never as it seems…
Just one more night. Then I’ll end it.
Alison drinks too much. She’s neglecting her family. And she’s having an affair with a colleague whose taste for pushing boundaries may be more than she can handle.
I did it. I killed him. I should be locked up.
Alison’s client doesn’t deny that she stabbed her husband – she wants to plead guilty. And yet something about her story is deeply amiss. Saving this woman may be the first step to Alison saving herself.
I’m watching you. I know what you’re doing.
But someone knows Alison’s secrets. Someone who wants to make her pay for what she’s done, and who won’t stop until she’s lost everything….
I had heard so many amazing things about Blood Orange and for the most part I can say I wasn’t disappointed!
Honestly I do think it was a little bit predictable in parts but that didn’t stop me loving every minute of this twisted tale about a woman’s family life and mental well being balancing on the edge of a face paced career.
The storyline was dark from beginning to end which I really liked although I think I’ll definitely opt for something a lot lighter next time to compensate!
The Other Woman
Sandie Jones
When Emily meets Adam she knows he is the One.
That together they can deal with anything that is thrown at them.
But lurking in the shadows is another woman, Pammie.
Emily chose Adam, but she didn’t choose his mother.
There’s nothing a mother wouldn’t do for her son, and now Emily is about to find out just how far Pammie will go to get what she wants…
Oh my lord, what can I even say. My heart legit hasn’t even stopped thumping yet. I read ‘The Other Woman’ in one day because I genuinely just couldn’t put the bloody thing down.
I was sucked in very early on, dying to know what the hell was going on in this awful woman’s head whilst also still not massively warming to the books protagonist.
The whole plot was just utter madness yet still managed to be believable in a way.
I’m always up for suggestions if you feel like you’ve read something I’d like so throw them at me!
This was never the plan and although I know I have a lot to be thankful for I can’t pretend that my soul doesn’t ache for parts of my former life.
When I was 17 and in hindsight barely out of childhood myself I gave birth to my eldest son. He was and will remain always the light of my life. I missed out on a lot of my teenage and young adult years and with that the freedom and opportunity to go out there and make mistakes. As a mother that wasn’t part of my destiny. I studied for a career I never actually wanted as a means to make something of myself and build a life for my child. Over the years I either worked or studied. As a habitual over thinker I’m better off busy.
By the time I fell pregnant with my youngest son I was finally in a job that I loved. A place that I thrived in and felt that I belonged. I was to happily take my maternity leave and focus on my family whilst living with the comfort I’d have my little piece of normality to go back to at the end of it. But that’s not what happened and three years later I’m still at home.
I don’t want to sound ungrateful, part of me actually feels sick writing this because I know I’m going to be judged. I don’t hate my life. I adore my family. My children are the best thing to have ever happened to me and my partner is beyond supportive, loving and caring in every way possible. I’m fortunate to have these incredible people in my life. To have a home, bills that are always paid and food on the table. I can’t help but silently mourn though, because in the process of building this life I have lost myself and I miss her.
She was fun, I was fun! I was confident and funny. I’m not those things anymore. I’m a shell of who I used to be and I don’t know how to break free of these chains that I have wrapped myself in. The prospect of going back to work now absolutely terrifies me. To have to start from scratch when I feel so unqualified to do anything more strenuous than the school run.
Putting together a CV with such a big gap is daunting. I’m scared to put myself out there because the rejection isn’t something I feel I can mentally handle right now. I wish I could turn back the clock and ask the old me for advice. She’d know what to do. She always did.
Whilst I know I’ll fight my way out of this funk it’s clear to see that it’s going to be a challenge. I know I’m not alone and there will be many more women in my position. I wish I could tell them all that it’ll be ok, you’re still amazing and worthy of the life you used to have, but how can I when I can’t even convince myself?
My god, if being a mother has taught me anything it’s that I am stronger than I think.
Maybe I just need to fake it till I make it, we all have to start somewhere right?
I’ve spoken about my love for Beauty Bay and their By Beauty Bay range before and I’m sure there is really no doubt that I adore just about everything they do.
Winter is in full swing right now and I don’t know about you guys but boy is my skin suffering! I’m both oily and blemish prone as well as living on very little sleep so I really could use all the help I can get!
I’ve cultivated a routine using solely By Beauty Bay products and it seems to be working a treat so thought I’d share it with you all in the hopes it’ll help someone else too!
AM…
As much as I wish I could just roll out of bed looking like a glowing Greek Goddess alas that is just not the hand I was dealt.
This 4 step/5 product morning routine is my fool proof formula to leaving the house feeling and looking refreshed.
Mix the Day One Moisturiser together with SkinHit Protecting Serum (or any SkinHit serum for that matter!) for a customised formula to suit your specific needs.
Head this way for perfect skin with the Acid Trip Exfoliating Toner with AHA and PHA from the Skincare By BEAUTY BAY range. This exfoliating toner combines multiple forms of acid-based exfoliants, which target different layers of the skin. A blend of AHAs, such as glycolic and lactic acid work to refine, brighten, and even skin tone, whilst PHA (gluconolactone) helps to promote softer and smoother skin. Pores will be cleared and cellular turnover will be increased, which all results in a decongested, smoother, and brighter looking complexion.
Put your best face forward with the By BEAUTY BAY SkinHit Hyperpigmentation Serum with Tranexamic Acid and Alpha Arbutin. Enriched with brightening tranexamic acid plus alpha arbutin to even out skin tone, this brightening serum is a name to know for reducing the appearance of pigmentation, dark spots, scarring and dullness.
This is your new skincare go-to. The Day One Moisturiser with Ginseng and Squalane from the Skincare By BEAUTY BAY range is a lightweight gel-cream moisturiser that helps to protect and hydrate the skin. Enriched with Indian ginseng to shield against screen-emitted light and olive squalane which helps to hydrate the skin. The moisturising and skin conditioning actives make this moisturiser a great makeup primer to lock your look in place all day long.
Protect your skin from whatever daily life throws at you with the SkinHit Protecting Serum with Anti-Pollution and Blue Light Actives from Skincare By BEAUTY BAY. Rich in antioxidants, this is the serum you need to shield your skin from environmental nasties that can lead to dullness and upset complexions. Formulated with an anti-pollution active that helps to protect the skin from external aggressors and free radicals, as well as a blue light active that shields your skin from screen-emitted light, whilst also helping to brighten and restore radiance. This is the ultimate everyday serum for your skin.
As night rolls round once again and all you want to do is jump into bed it’s important to make sure your skin gets what it needs.
Assuming you’ve already taken off your make up (for which I recommend the Butter Cup Cleansing Balm) then you can jump right into this quick PM routine before you get some well deserved rest.
Refresh your skin with the Super Jelly Cleansing Gel with Prebiotic and Avocado from the Skincare By BEAUTY BAY range. This non-foaming, non-stripping cleansing gel supports balanced and healthy-looking skin that feels fresh, cleansed, and revitalised. Formulated with prebiotics, a hero skincare ingredient that helps to support the skin’s barrier, as well as avocado oil which helps to gently cleanse and moisturise the skin. Leave your skin feeling clean but comfortable.
Quench your skin’s thirst with the Make It Rain Face Mist with Mineral and Super Berry Blend from the Skincare By BEAUTY BAY range. This hydrating face mist rains down onto skin to energise and refresh the complexion. This mist has been formulated with a blend of minerals that hydrate and energise the skin, and a trio of nourishing Australian berries which encourage a radiant and healthy-looking glow. Use before makeup, after makeup, or as a refreshing top-up during the day to give your skin a refresh.
For skin that is hydrated, smooth and clear, make an appointment with the By BEAUTY BAY SkinHit 0.2% Retinol Complex Serum with Retinol and Peptides. This skin-loving serum helps to improve the appearance of pigmentation, dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles thanks to the 0.2% retinol complex while added peptides infuse the skin with moisture, helping to improve the skin’s clarity. Perfect for first time retinol users, this serum is soon to be your new BFF.
Your beauty sleep is about to get an upgrade with By BEAUTY BAY’s 2% BHA Overnight Mask with Salicylic Acid and Azelaic Acid. The targeted overnight face mask works to gently exfoliate and refresh the skin, all while soothing, brightening, and helping the appearance of pores. 2% BHA salicylic acid helps to gently exfoliate and condition blemish prone skin, while azelaic acid helps to soothe the skin and reduce the formation of fine lines and wrinkles, all while you sleep!
Meet your next go-to skincare treatment: By BEAUTY BAY’s 30% AHA 2% BHA Peeling Solution Drops with Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid. The targeted solution has been designed to help exfoliate away dead and dull skin, unclog pores, and reduce excess oil on all skin types. With a red colour for easy application and removal, the treatment has been formulated with glycolic and lactic acid (AHA 30%) to help clear and improve the skin’s texture through exfoliation, plus refreshing aloe vera and salicylic acid (BHA 2%) to exfoliate, for clearer looking skin.
Banish breakouts for good with the Dot-A-Spot Glow In The Dark Blemish Stickers from Skincare By BEAUTY BAY. These super-cute, fun shaped, glow in the dark hydrocolloid patches are designed to help you tackle breakouts. Each moon and cloud shaped hydrocolloid-infused patch works to draw out pus and other impurities from developing blemishes, as well as reducing the size of already present spots. Use these stickers (that are clear in daylight) to dot your way to clearer skin.
To be able to get the most out of your brand new skincare routine then you’re going to need the right tools! Not only will it elevate things to another level of luxury but you’ll also be surprised at what a difference they make to your products!
Here to help you relax and unwind is the BEAUTY BAY The Rose Quartz Facial Roller. Inspired by ancient Chinese rituals, this dual-ended facial massage tool is the game changer that your beauty routine needs. Made from 100% rose quartz, this facial roller helps to reduce facial tension, aid lymphatic drainage, and increase the absorption of your favourite skincare formulas. Traditionally known to represent self-love, peace, and inner healing, this rose quartz tool will help to restore a sense of calm and tranquillity at the end of a long day. Healthy skin = happy skin.
Here to help you relax and unwind is the BEAUTY BAY The Rose Quartz Gua Sha. Inspired by ancient Chinese rituals, this heart-shaped facial massage tool is the edition that your beauty routine needs. Made from 100% rose quartz, this gua sha helps to reduce facial tension, aid lymphatic drainage, and increase the absorption of your favourite skincare formulas. Traditionally known to represent self-love, peace, and inner healing, this rose quartz tool will help to restore a sense of wellbeing and tranquillity at the end of a long day. Healthy skin = happy skin.
Haven’t watched WandaVision on Disney+ yet?: Watch here.
Hands up if you’re a Marvel fan! When these most treasured stories and characters started making their way to the big screen in what is now known as the MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe) over ten years ago I was both hesitant and overjoyed. Thankfully (in my opinion) it has been done justice (mostly).
‘WandaVision’, a Disney+ original series based on the ‘House of M’ story arc has been one of its most exciting additions so far. Full of mystery, suspense and intrigue as well as a healthy dose of humour and heartache. It has everything you could possibly want from a Marvel release and I honestly think it’s a worthy rival to any of the bigger budget movies.
Set three weeks after the events of Avengers: End Game (2019), Wanda Maximoff and Vision are living an idyllic suburban life in the town of Westview, New Jersey, trying to conceal their true natures. As they begin to enter new decades and encounter television tropes, the couple suspects that things are not as they seem.
Wikipedia
Sounds confusing, right? Well it is but in the best way possible!
Wanda is played by Elizabeth Olsen (younger sister of the ICONIC Olsen Twins) in such a way that you both adore and fear her, with power that seemingly knows no bounds hiding a vulnerability you can’t help but be drawn to. This is perfectly complimented by Paul Bettany’s Vision, A vibranium-synthezoid (kinda like a fancy robot) brought to life by a combination of the Mind Stone and Tony Starks AI J.A.R.V.I.S (Just A Rather Very Intelligent System), the love of Wanda’s life whose deeply honourable intentions don’t always align with her own.
If you’re a fan of the MCU (which you need to be really or you won’t have a clue what the hell is actually going on) then you will be pleased to see quite a few familiar faces thrown into the Wandavision mix. I do love a cameo!
With nine Wandavision episodes ranging anywhere from half an hour to fifty minutes, there was a lot of time to explore the new world that Wanda and Vision found themselves in. Discovering secrets and betrayal along the way, all leading to the most heart wrenching conclusion that anyone could have imagined.
The series leaves you wanting more by opening the doors to various storylines that will undoubtedly be told in future Marvel releases. Which is great as WandaVision was written as a limited series with no plans for any further episodes (although you’ll be happy to know that we WILL see Wanda again in ‘Dr Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’ which is due for release next year).
All in all I genuinely don’t think the the story could have been told any better than it was and Elizabeth Olsen is a shining jewel in the MCU crown (or should that be infinity stone in the gauntlet?!). I hope her presence becomes even more prominent in the next phase of the franchises universe.
To finish off I just want to add some of my favourite parts of the series:
– Wanda’s retro Scarlet Witch costume. Well everyone’s really!
– Evan Peters popping his head in. What a treat!
– How effortlessly the show seemed to jump between time zones and tropes.
– Every single opening credit scene. They deserve a blog post of their own!
– The sheer amount of marvel Easter eggs we were graced with. The attention to detail is immense.
Is anyone else bloody freezing right now? Those pesky (but very cosy!) colder months always seem like the perfect time to share one of my favourite recipes with you all and you’re in for a treat!
Chop the peppers, garlic, onions and chilli peppers then throw them into a roasting tin along with the plum tomatoes and olive oil in the oven for half an hour on a medium heat (gas mark 6).
The beauty industry has gone from strength to strength in recent years, especially with the rise of the ‘influencer‘ and power of social media. With an incredibly saturated market, an endless supply of near identical products and concepts it’s hard to know where to invest your hard earned cash. I’m here today to share with some of my favourite brands created and headed by female entrepreneurs as well as my go to products. Why they’re so special and deserve your support.Like the Spice Girls said once upon a time (and is definitely the theme of today’s post) Girl Power!
Unicorn Cosmetics founder Mel had always experimented with colour through fashion and hair (she has worked her way through the rainbow and honestly, I’m so jealous because she always looks amazing!). Her journey began with the realisation that she could bring something new and exciting to the table.
The makeup world was very different to what it is now, everything was black and more black. Makeup brushes were honestly one of the less expensive products to fund and I was obsessed at the time with buying MAC brushes, but hated that they were so boring and pretty basic. I just didnt understand why no one had done a multi-coloured hair makeup brush that had a different shape handle, and that’s where it started really.
Which actually brings us to the brands thoroughly recognisable name.
Unicorn was picked because it’s such a unique creature and magical. That’s all my brand is meant to be about, unique magical products that make you feel inspired and are ground breaking in design and quality.
Mel Blue
The UC Pro Unicorn Brush Range has been a resounding success with professional make up artists and enthusiasts such as myself giving them rave reviews across the board. The class of 86’ eye brush set is one of my most favourite purchases ever! Mel has managed to create tools of a professional standard at an accessible price which is so important especially at the moment when financially so many people are struggling.
If you follow UC across social media then you will probably already have seen a sneak peak of the Glow Ting highlighter (which Mel admits is her favourite creation so far!) and I will be first in line to get my hands on it when it drops, is there anything better than a glow that can be seen from space? I’ve also been told there are some other exciting launches planned for later this year!
Not only is Mel a hard working, strong business woman, she is also just a genuinely nice person! Praising her UC team (who she says have become her family), followers and supporters who have helped her build the brand up to what it is today.
You really need to find the right people to surround yourself with, and don’t be disheartened if you don’t get it right the first time, it’s a really big learning curve. No one loves your brand/business more than what you do, so always follow your gut. Business is one huge lesson. But more than anything I would say protect your creativity in legal terms, trust your instinct and dont be scared to say no.
Arttitude Cosmetics (which is completely vegan and cruelty free) was founded in 2019 by Rukhsaar (who is also a full time clinical scientist if she wasn’t already busy enough!). The brand boasts a full line of lashes, gorgeous lip products and the most beautiful rainbow palette you ever did see. She fell in love with the beauty industry and make up artistry after working in the family business, Arttitude Studios.
My mum has been working as a make-up artist since the early 2000’s and it was her that inspired me to learn make-up which is where I developed my passion from. When she started working as an MUA, make-up wasn’t what it is now. She wanted to challenge those norms and put the art back into make-up artistry and give it a whole new attitude, and that’s where the name comes from – her make-up studio was called Arttitude Studios, so she actually named the brand!
Rukhsaar
The Arttitude product line (which started with lashes) was originally designed with the studios clients in mind. After struggling to find the perfect lash for each client the decision was made to create their own! Each with its own luxury feel and presentation to make the experience even more special.
Building up a business whilst holding down a full time job as a health care professional isn’t something everyone can do and that’s what makes Ruks the ultimate inspiration. Arttitude Cosmetics is all about community. The brand is incredibly supportive of the artists they work with and constantly strives to give back to those who have supported the company as it grows. Her advice to others with dreams of starting their own business is straight to the point but also full of love. Exactly like the brand itself!
It is hard work. Expect to be working around the clock. Don’t expect to plant the seed and eat the fruit the same day. Read, read and read some more! Remember – the first year in business is just about surviving. But, having said all this. Go for it and don’t hold back. You don’t want to spend the rest of your life wondering, ‘what if.’ Take the risk, work hard, and you have all my love and best wishes for your every success.
Spectrum was started by sisters Sophie and Hannah in April 2014, born from a garage in Barry, South Wales.
Spectrum has gone from strength to strength in the years since then and has become a brand recognised across the world. Offering premium quality products that are always vegan and cruelty free (the sisters are TRUE animal lovers).
The duo who have always been fiercely passionate about beauty and fashion and feel strongly that make-up is more than just a visual thing.
A beauty routine is a ritual that when shared can bring so much happiness and really become a bonding experience. Makeup isn’t just functional, it’s very emotional.
Sophie & Hannah
Combining both beauty and fashion to create Spectrum was a genius decision. The brushes are by far some of the most beautiful I have ever seen, functional and made to a professional standard yet stylish and bold. The perfect dressing table accessories.
Having branched into cosmetics last year I now feel that there is no stopping the brand which is run by a predominantly female team.
And guys, have you seen their Disney collections? Because you know I am all about that life!
Paige Louise (PLouise) had loved and experimented with make up from a young age which ultimately led her to begin training as an MUA at 20. From there she grew more confident within her artistry and formed her own opinions on what worked and didn’t work within the beauty industry.
I used to stare at these gorgeous shadows sitting in these luxury palettes and then get very frustrated when I didn’t receive the colour pay-off on my clients’ eyelids.
Paige Louise
P.Louise Make Up Academy (which includes an aesthetics studio, hair lounge, state of the art classrooms and student facilities plus a swanky beauty lounge) opened in 2014. It was the foundation for the brand to really take the world by storm in 2018. After spotting a gap in the market, Paige was able to realise her dream and launch the now globally recognised brand.
I think it’s fair to say one of the most famous products to hit the industry in recent years has got to be the P.Louise Base.
I very quickly realised I needed a product that would clean up the eye area, neutralise any pigmentation and would be ready to give my shadows the best shot at living their best life.
Paige Louise
It is beloved by influencers and make up artists world wide and in my opinion really is worth the hype.
Going off on a slight tangent but oily skinned spectacle wearers like myself will appreciate this little trick I’ve picked up recently. Apply a touch of the base onto your nose and blend with a sponge. This will give the area a super base for the rest of your make up that doesn’t budge!
Anyway, I digress.
The brand now boasts an impressive array of products including eyeshadow palettes, paints and brushes as well as a fashion line co-owned by her brother.
Paige has proved herself to be a down to earth, kind hearted and driven young woman. I can’t wait to see what else she has planned for the industry.
Lois Cosmetics launched back in 2020 (and what a bloody year to start a business guys, BRAVE or what?!).
You know I’m all about girl power and this female founded brand hasn’t let the pandemic stop them from taking the beauty community by storm with not one but three high quality eyeshadow palettes all with their own individual theme and story.
With many years experience as a professional makeup artists, working with top brands and celebrities all around the world it would have been a crying shame for Lois not to put her expertise towards building a brand that is not only socially conscious but also right on the mark when it comes to trends.
With an ever expanding range of beautiful products there is truly something for everyone. Treat yourself to the most stunning liquid eyeshadows whilst also filling your basket with brand spanking new makeup brushes and eyeliners.
I can already tell that LC is fast becoming a lifelong obsession.
These women are a force to be reckoned with and I personally find their stories to be full on power and inspiration. I hope you’ve enjoyed today’s posts and I would be so interested to hear all about your own favourite female led brands!
Christmas is right around the corner and with that comes the school holidays that are to me, equal parts amazing and terrifying.
Entertaining three boys is a full time job in itself so I’m always on the hunt for activities we can do together.
Here are some simple and relatively cheap or free favourites of mine that will still work with little to no money.
Movie Night
Snuggling up with a blanket, some snacks and a bit of holiday season nostalgia is pretty much the pinnacle of Christmas isn’t it?
My personal favourite film to watch with the boys is The Grinch. It’s sweet with lots of heart but also absolutely bloody hilarious (and any woman who can say that the iconic scene where the grinch is trying to pick an outfit for the Whobilation isn’t them is lying).
Festive Baking
Decorating pre made ginger bread men counts doesn’t it? I mean, if you’re the next GBBO contestant then by all means do your thing but I can just about bake a decent banana bread (thank you lockdown!) so I like to keep things simple.
It can get messy but the kids love it and that’s all that matters, right? One of my favourite childhood memories is my mum letting me lick the spoon after making rice crispy cakes (obviously she was just as good at baking as I am).
Christmas Crafts
Ok, so I’m not the most artistic person in the world but I like to think I make up for it with enthusiasm!
Whether you’re making cards, decorating baubles or going all out creating a unique Christmas Day centrepiece you honestly can’t go wrong with crafts.
If all else fails a colouring book will entertain.
Local Lights Trail
One of our favourites things to do at this time of year is to go out and explore our town and look at the gorgeously decorated houses.
We are very lucky to live by the sea and all of the boats in the harbour are also often full of Christmas cheer and covered in fairy lights.
It creates such a lovely atmosphere and really makes us all feel that little bit more ‘Christmassy’ especially with a hot chocolate in hand!
Games Night
Monopoly anyone? Love them or hate them would it really be Christmas without a board game or 10?
My in-laws are pros at picking the most hilarious family activities. Some of our current favourites are Telestrations, Rapidough and Game For Fame (which can be ridiculously embarrassing but it wouldn’t be Christmas if you aren’t made to feel like a bit of a tit).
If anyone threatens to throw a strop you can bribe them with a cunningly hidden tin of celebrations. Everyone’s a winner!
I hope these ideas have been helpful and you manage to have a wonderful Christmas with your families. Don’t forget to pour yourself a large glass of something very alcoholic and celebrate the small things.
If you’re anything like me then Disney is something you will have clung to like a comfort blanket made of nostalgia since childhood (and show no sign of letting it go anytime soon).
As my passion for the beauty industry has grown one of my favourite things to do is discover collaborations that really light a fire within me and it just so happens that they are usually of the Disney variety.
So if this sounds like someone you know (or even just yourself, I won’t judge!) then stick around because I’m about to make your Christmas shopping a whole lot easier!
A collaboration with a twist if ever there was one. This modern take on some of my favourite classic Disney movies has me more excited than ever to pass on my passion to a younger generation.
Created in collaboration with Disney Colour, our new makeup collection is here to help you bring the classic Disney films to life. The Disney Colour and BEAUTY BAY collection has been inspired by the original colours from some of the most iconic Disney films, allowing you to create makeup looks that will help you bring your favourite scenes into your reality.
Spectrum Collections are just as famous for their stunning Disney collaborations as they are for creating innovative yet stylish brushes and I’m so here for it.
The spectrum sisters (Sophie & Hannah) are constantly surprising us with their dreamy visions of all things Disney and I find myself constantly on the edge of my seat looking forward to their next drop.
Last year I Heart Revolution released their very first Disney Princess Collection (with the spotlight on Cinderella, Belle and Tiana) and since there have gone from strength to strength with an ever expanding line of magical products for for royalty.
From eyeshadow and lip toppers to highlighters and lashes this collaboration really does have that something special. It’ll have you digging out your favourite Disney movies in no time.
Mad Beauty are a relatively new obsession for me but that doesn’t make them any less magical!
The brand are famous for their huge array of collaborative products based on your favourite movies and tv series (and you all know how I feel about Friends).
Their Disney lines are unique in the sense that our favourite villains get just as much of a look in. They also boast incredible collections of Star Wars products too so there really is something for everyone.
Urban decay have been my guilty pleasure ever since I started on my make up journey roughly 10 years ago now. They were the first higher rent brand I ever spent money on and just hold a really special place in my heart.
If you know anything about me then you’ll know I am a Marvel fanatic and the new Eternals collaboration just screams decadence at me.
Catrice are the type of friend you just know you can rely on to release products that are going to get the job done. Their new Disney collection has just hit the nail on the head with its cute aesthetic spot on shade times.
I guess objectively it might be a little bit on the childish side but if grown-up vibes of what you want I think you’re reading the wrong blog.
I don’t know how many hairbrushes are too many hairbrushes but to be honest I don’t want to know the answer.
Wet brush have fast become my favourite every day hair tool brand and I pretty much have one of their brushes in every room in my house at this point.
I love the fact they Disney releases all have a completely different feel from a poor part aesthetic to cottage core fairytale dream vibes.
To be honest I just think it justifies having as many as I do.
When I’m having a really rough day I try and channel Edna Mode and to be honest that usually does the trick. She doesn’t suffer fools and neither should you.
This collection is colourful vibrant and just the thing to pick you up on these dreary and dark winter days. A pop of colour in the waterline does wonders for the soul.
Last but not least we have my old faithful Essence Cosmetics and their Disney Princess Collection.
Yes it’s simple and just a bit basic but to be honest if you want something that screams Disney without a luxury pricetag then you’re headed in the right direction.
He also can’t deny Essence products are just a bit bloody brilliant. Like have you tried their mascara?!
I hope I’ve managed to fill your Disney gift quota for today and you managed to find something special. Let me know if you pick anything up or if you find some Disney releases of your own.
Dreadfully Kelly 