LAVERA SELF TANNING LOTION REVIEW: VEGAN SELF TANNER

Hi lovelies! So sorry it's been a while since I posted, as you'll probably know from my last post, I recently got engaged and the past few weeks have been a bit of a whirlwind as I'm sure you can imagine, but, in amongst seeing family and friends and beginning to plan a wedding, I've been seriously tied up! But, I'm back and with this lovely weather we've been having (hoping I'm not jinxing it by just typing that!!), I thought it was the perfect time to share my new favourite tanning product with you all.

The tan in question is the Lavera Self Tanning Lotion.I've been searching for a vegan gradual tan for some time now, as o don't always like to use instant tan, but so many gradual tanners on the market are not vegan or cruelty free which is such a shame. As you can see though, this one actually states 'we heart vegan' on the bottle, so I knew I was safe with this!

This claims to give a natural looking tan with 24 hour moisturisation, which is perfect in this warmer weather! To try this out, I made sure I had no existing tan left on whatsoever as I wanted to see exactly how it applied and how it faded with no interference from other products. On application, it goes on like a thick body lotion, you do need to be careful how much you use though as a little goes a fairly long way and you can end up looking like you've got a thick layer of sun cream on if you use too much (guess who did this on first attempt!). Once applied, it soaks into the skin fairly quickly, however I would suggest applying this in a cool room where you're not going to sweat or anything as it does take a minute or two to sink in!

I apply this an hour or so before bed to allow it to totally sink into the skin before getting into bed. Overnight, this gave a very subtle colour on the first application, which was great as it made it look as though I'd just been sitting the garden for a few hours rather than getting a full on tan all in one go. After a couple more applications though, the tan really starts coming out. I did build this up fairly dark in the end, but didn't go too crazy as I still wanted to look natural.

Despite being obsessed with having some sort of tan in the summer, I decided to let this fade completely without applying anything on it just to see how it went. I didn't really exfoliate too much except with shower gel and a loofah in the shower as I normally would and after three applications, it was pretty much gone in a week. For a gradual tan, I thought this was pretty good going. It didn't go patchy as it faded and it faded evenly everywhere except my face which always fades faster. I did actually apply this to my face, which I don't typically do with body tanners but I had no issues at all with this. 

The colour itself is lovely, really natural and very buildable, as it fades so nicely, you could probably get away with applying this every other day with no problems, though I would recommend exfoliating lightly with a loofah every day or every other day just to make sure your skin is kept smooth and to prevent patches. It doesn't have a very strong scent, which is particularly good for my fiancé who can't stand fake tan smells! 

Overall, I thoroughly recommend this, particularly as it's completely cruelty free, but also because it really does work if you like to look like you've got a natural colour rather than a full on fake tan.
What's your favourite self tanning product? I'd love to know! 

I'M ENGAGED!

Hi lovelies! I honestly cannot believe I'm even writing this post today, but my blog is such a huge part of my life, I had to share this with you! So, if you didn't already guess by the photos, I'm engaged! My boyfriend - fiancé should I say, Darren proposed to me yesterday morning, completely out of the blue! I'm super excited as you can imagine so I thought I'd do a quick post about our engagement story, how he did it, about the ring and plans for the future!

So, yesterday morning, I woke up to my dog climbing all over me, licking my face. This isn't that unusual, Darren often wakes up before me and sends the dog to wake me up, however, this time,  I noticed she had a pink bow tied round her neck. I still didn't think this was that strange, adorable and impressive that Darren had managed to tie a bow round her neck (turned out it was a pre-tied bow), but not that weird. But then I saw a note tucked under the ribbon. Honestly, my first thought was that it was going to be some cheeky joke, telling me to take the dog for a walk, or make the dog (or Darren!!) breakfast. Then I started reading. Darren and I aren't a particularly OTT romantic couple, I like a bit of a romance, but we find too much mushy stuff a bit cringey, so while the majority of the note was a bit lovey-dovey, it started 'Morning weirdo!' and ended with 'P.S. Can I have crumpets for breakfast?' (which he did, with marmite.) but before that, after the sweet message, he'd written 'WILL YOU MARRY ME?'. No getting down on one knee, no big show, nobody watching, just us, in bed on a Sunday morning with absolutely no mascara to start running! It couldn't have been more 'us' and I loved it.

He then told me the exciting part. Apparently, I'm far too fussy and he was too terrified to go out by himself and choose a ring, so he was taking me ring shopping there and then! So, we got ready and headed out. The ring you see in the pictures above was actually the first one he picked out (so he would've nailed it completely!) and while I did try on a few more, I knew as soon as this one was on my finger, that it was my ring. Luckily, they had my size in store so we were able to take it away there and then, I was so excited and it was actually really lovely to go out and do the whole ring choosing experience together. We like to break tradition with many things, so it felt very us to do this together.

The ring itself is white gold with a round brilliant cut diamond and diamond shoulders. the clasps or claws (not sure what they're called!) that hold the diamond in place are little heart shapes, which I just love! I thought it added something a little unique without being too random. I think it's quite classic and simple without being too traditional (again!) There are also four little hidden diamonds under the main diamond which I think is really cute too! 

So, as from now, I'm officially a bride-to-be, ahhh! I've found a new love for Pinterest and am absolutely wedding obsessed! We're hoping to get the big day booked for around a years time. We're also holding an engagement party very soon too, so I'll hopefully share some pictures from that with you all too! In the meantime, follow me on instagram for a likely constant stream of engagement related pictures!! My head is still spinning and I get so distracted by my ring constantly, I'm actually possibly going to have to start taking it off when I drive, it's a real problem.

I'd like to say a huge thank you and I love you to my now fiancé, Darren, for making every girl's dream my reality! I'm so excited for our future and I can't wait for all that's now to come!

Send me links if you've done any engagement/ wedding related blog posts lately, I'm a girl obsessed!

Thanks for reading lovelies!

BOTCHED: THE DANGER OF BOTOX PARTIES (GUEST POST)

So-called ‘Botox parties’ are quickly becoming a trend, but how safe are they? Take a look here to realise the dangers of casual cosmetics. 

The world is quickly becoming de-sensitized to cosmetic surgery. Kylie Jenner was 17 when she got her first taste of lip fillers, and people are finding it easier and cheaper to turn to cosmetics in order to fix those little insecurities. 

A new development in this ever growing trend, is the rise of so called ‘Botox parties’. You may be familiar with the format, with Ann Summers and The Body Shop having held similar sales-driven parties for years. This however takes casual cosmetics to a whole new level. 

Botox™ can be great for ironing out a few tell-tale signs of age, or providing you with the sultry smile you’ve always wanted, but what people seem to be quickly forgetting is that it is considered cosmetic surgery, and should only be administered by a medical professional in a safe, and sterile environment.  

The dangers of Botox parties may seem obvious to some, but to a growing number of mainly younger people, they’re a fun, carefree way of experimenting. 

So, What Actually is Botox? 

For those who are unsure, Botox is made primarily of a chemical called botulinum type A, which blocks nerve activity and causes a temporary reduction in muscle activity. 

It was originally used to treat patients with cervical dystonia, which translates as severe muscle spasms for those of us less accustomed to medical terminology. 

Today however, it is better known for its cosmetic properties.

What are Botox Parties? 

Botox parties are more of a phenomenon across the pond in the US than here in the UK, for the time being that is. 

The format of the parties is pretty straightforward: a medical professional comes to the hosts’ home or an agreed venue, where the attendees choose from a number of possible treatments which are then administered. 

There are no consultations given beforehand, and the atmosphere of the party often encourages spontaneity, meaning many procedures are performed without much, if any, prior intention. 

Treatments are often offered at a discounted price, provided that there are 6 or more guests present at the ‘party’. Most companies also schedule participants for regular top ups, as well as loyalty cards to encourage future procedures. 

Alcohol is not allowed during the events, but the jovial atmosphere and not so subtle encouragements from friends may mean that you end up spending - and receiving – a lot more than you originally bargained for. 

(image: Oceanview MedSpa under CC BY-SA 2.0)

What are the Risks? 

One of the biggest risk factors of a Botox party is the casual attitude undertaken by both the attendants and the medical professionals. 

The procedures are often administered at a dining room table or even on the hosts’ sofa, friends and family are also often crowded around the patient as the Botox is administered. Those of you who watch Grey’s Anatomy would know that a sterile environment and equipment is crucial when performing a medical procedure. 

Although the medical professional may go to certain lengths to provide a sterile environment, and clean equipment, it’s no doubt that the risk of infection or contamination is significantly greater with so many extra bodies crowding the workspace. 

Problems with the M.D 

Things have taken a slightly more sinister as of late however, as many companies attempt to take advantage for the rise in Botox procedures. 

Many untrained and unqualified ‘doctors’ are using the party format to perform backdoor cosmetics without the correct processes in place. These fraudsters often advertise lower prices, and prey on the relaxed attitude toward Botox to avoid any questions about their medical background. 

Unfortunately, these conmen are often unable to gain access to the Botox used by licensed professionals, and often resort to using illegal, and untested substances. 

These chemicals often lead to adverse side effects, with many customers being left with infections, bad reactions to the chemicals, and even deformed or overly inflamed lips when receiving fillers. 

While it is easy to forget the seriousness of cosmetic surgery, Botox and lip fillers yield the best results when administered in a controlled and sterile environment. 

Author Bio

With more than 30 years creating beautiful smiles, Perfect Lips by Dr Rob makes sure certified professionals are on hand to ensure quality, and handle any problems that may occur. If you are interested in lip fillers, facial fillers or wrinkle softening take a look at its website here, or get in contact on 03335779293 to learn more.

HIRING THE RIGHT HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST FOR YOU

Hiring the Right Hair and Makeup Artist for You*If you are lucky enough to have an event like a big party, a corporate or award dinner or a wedding coming up this page is for you. I know you will want to look your absolute best for something special.You will take the time to shop for a great dress and give yourself a new, fresh look. Everyone wants to look his or her best for an event like that. It is a chance to splash the cash a bit and try out something new.A great way to make sure that you end up looking your best is to hire a hair and makeup artist. It costs a bit, but he or she will make sure that you get the look you are really after. They will work with you and let you try out different makeup styles and finishes until you find something that really works for you. Using a makeup artist is great fun, but also a good way to make sure you keep up with the times and carry on evolving your look as you get older. However, you do need to be a bit careful. It is important to do your research and hire the right makeup artist for you. Here’s how to do it.The right experience The most important thing that you need to look for is experience. Having your makeup done by a studentfrom the local beauty college might be fun for something like a Christmas party. However, for a bigevent like a wedding, or corporate dinner it really is not worth taking the risk of using this type of makeup artist.Sarah Meredith Makeup Artist Manchester is a great example of what you should be looking for. She works a lot with models, and other professionals. As a result, you know that she is familiar with, and uses, the latest techniques and products. This type of MUA uses the knowledge they build up working with the fashion and entertainment industries to enable ordinary people to look as good as celebrities do. With this type of professional, you are really getting more of a makeover.The best makeup artists will show you photos and videos of their previous work. This will help you to work out if they can achieve the look you have in mind. It will also inspire you and give you new ideas, so my advice is to take the time to look through their portfolios.Use someone you are comfortable withIt is also very important to hire someone that you can really communicate with. You need a makeup artist that listens to you and responds to what you tell them.The last thing you need is to hire someone who pushes his or her opinion of how you should look onto you. It is important for you to stay in control, and agree upon hair and makeup you feel comfortable with. Sure, a good MUA is going to make suggestions, and use photos etc to help you to understand what they mean, but if you say “no” to that idea they will respect your wishes.The above tips for finding a good MUA are aimed primarily at party and event attendees. If you are a bride looking for a makeup artist there are a few extra things that you need to bear in mind. You can find out what they are by clicking here.

PREPARING FOR A CAMPING HOLIDAY

Preparing for a camping holiday

There are a lot of reasons I’m thankful for living in this country, but one of them has to be the stunning scenery that you can find when you go exploring. We live in such a beautiful place and I have always wanted to make sure that the kids experience it, appreciate it, and love it as much as I do.

If your kids have grown up to love the outdoors, you’ve probably been considering a camping trip like me for some time. I think it’s the perfect opportunity for families to spend quality time together, to bond and to forget all the stresses of daily life. There’s so much to plan though it often seemsoverwhelming, so if you’re struggling to prepare for a similar family trip, read on for my top tips.

Get your sleeping arrangements sorted

This is of course the most important part of any camping trip, and there are some essentials to bear in mind when buying the basics. First of all, always get a tent that slightly bigger than the number of people you have. 

For example, although you can physically fit four people into a four-man tent, realistically when you put your belongings, cooking equipment and sleeping kit in there, there’s only really space for two. I’d suggest getting several four man tents and putting a couple of the kids in each one, or going all out if you intend to make it a regular thing, and get a proper compartmented family tent.

Then you need to make sure you get good quality sleeping bags and either blow-up mattresses or mats to put underneath. A lot of people skip this step and then wonder why they get ill from the cold, but that extra layer separating you from the ground is incredibly important – I certainly wouldn’t risk this with my kids. You can find more tips on sleeping essentialsright here.

What to pack?

What to pack is always tricky; a lot of it will depend upon the time of year you go, but I always find it best to plan for cold and rain so that you’re always prepared. You don’t want to load up on woolly jumpers if it’s the summer though, so just take a few items with you, such a long waterproof coat. I’m a big believer in space-saving, which is why I opted to pac a mac ladies! This is a great option, as these macs are super lightweight and can be folded up into a bag for easy carrying. You can get kid’s and men’s version too, so whenever you take a day trip somewhere you don’t have to worry about the weather turning. 

Aside from this, you’ll need to invest in some good wellington boots for the family, some high-quality walking shoes with a thick tread, and then general emergency supplies like a first aid kid, pain killers and spare torches in case you find yourself a little lost of an evening.

When are you heading on your camping adventure?