GIRL POWER: A Note to all the 'Haters'

You may or may not have seen Tiffany Brien's recent Facebook post, which includes screenshots of messages she received from 'Ellie'. If you haven't seen it then I recommend that you go in search of it and have a read, merely to show you how you should NOT act as a human being, and as a reality check on just how cruel this world can be. 'Ellie' appears to be someone hiding behind a fake account, who basically claims that Tiffany is false, that all her photos have been edited, that she is where she is now because of her father, and not because she worked for it. To be honest, you won't fully believe the extent of it until you read it.

The incident got me thinking about the world we live in today, and how critical we are, not only of ourselves, but also of each other. I, so frequently, think to myself about what others say about me, not to the point that I care, but when I'm blogging and subsequently posting on social media, I wonder how many times there have been screenshots sent into group chats and the likes. Especially when I'm talking on Snapchat - that is still something which makes me so nervous, but I love watching other bloggers on it, and I know that by pushing myself to do it, I will generate more interest in my blog because people will get to see me for me. 

I'm lucky that so far I haven't had to deal with any 'haters', at least not directly, but I'm sure that as I continue to blog and put some aspects of my life into the public eye, then it will invite some trolls to pick faults in me and my work. But why should they? And why should we allow them?

The answer is that we shouldn't! Who is anyone else to tell us how we should live our lives, that we aren't perfect (because no-one is), that they don't like our Instagram or what we post on Snapchat? I'm a firm believer in doing what is right for you despite what other people think, and that's what I aim to do. One of the reasons I started blogging was because when I was growing up I always had people asking for advice and tips, be it make-up related, fashion related, or just about life in general. I am by no means the perfect example, I very much have my flaws, but I was always flattered in these situations, and thought that if I could write content that would help other people, namely other girls, I would be doing a good deed. 

I'm sure you've all heard the saying 'If you don't have anything nice to say, then don't say anything at all' and I so wish that more people would take this on board. We all say things we shouldn't, but I really do make a conscious effort now that I'm older to remove myself from situations where people are being bitchy and putting others down. I personally think this world is difficult enough without having people run you to the ground. And people are so quick to judge before they would take a step back and put themselves in your shoes. I mean, when I say that I still struggle with talking on Snapchat, I sometimes record what I want to say ten times before I actually post it because I think someone will find a fault with it, and it could be something as simple as the lighting makes my face look rounder, or they will criticise me for saying 'Hey everyone!' in an over-enthusiastic tone of voice. I shouldn't be afraid of that, and I find it terrible that I'm sometimes overwhelmed by the pressure of what others will think, instead of being myself.

I urge you to think twice the next time you are about to criticise someone in any way. It could be that they've put on weight and you are about to comment on it, but how do you know that they haven't just been through a really difficult time and were comfort eating as a result of it? Let them comfort eat, I'm sure when they feel strong enough to eat properly, their diet, and their weight will regulate themselves. And if you think about criticising me for trying to make something of myself by owning my own business and blogging about myself and my life, think about how hard it was for me to begin in fear of what other people would think, and the impact it has on myself and others. I find it very therapeutic at times, and when others can relate to what I'm posting, I definitely feel like I'm having a positive effect on a pretty cruel world.

Us girls should strive to empower each other and not knock each other down. Stand by your girls, support them in whatever they do, and worry about making yourself a better person, not making others look worse. Kudos to Tiffany for handling the 'Ellie' situation so well - she is such a good role model, and if more people invested time in achieving what she has, then I have no doubt that indeed the world would be a better place.

Now go tell your girls how much you love them! 

Thanks for reading,

Friday’s Giirl

x

WHAT I WORE: So Sue Me Style Secrets Masterclass and My Outfit

Hey guys! If you follow me on social media you will know that on Sunday I attended the So Sue Me Style Secrets Masterclass at the stunning Galgorm Manor Resort and Spa, so I'm here to fill you in on the day, and give you the details of my outfit which you all seemed to love!

The masterclass was in such high demand that they were there for two days, and luckily myself and my bestie Alison were able to secure some of the first tickets to be released. We were so excited to see the insanely beautiful and talented Suzanne, and it was the perfect excuse for a girly day out!

If you've never been to Galgorm Manor then you need to put it on your 'To Do' list - it is one of the most beautiful locations, with multiple wedding reception rooms, several restaurants, a pub, a cocktail bar and an amazing spa to boot. The decor is exquisite and the staff are unbelievably attentive. To be honest, with it only being fifteen minutes away from my house, I have to admit that I take it for granted; but when you step back and take the time to appreciate it, there really is nowhere like it in this country.

The event ran from 11-4 and was jam-packed with talks and demonstrations from Sue herself, who spoke about how she started her blog, and also gave a contouring demo using her amazing contour palette. Also, Corinna Tolan from Monica Tolan Beauty Clinic, who chatted about Environ skincare and the importance of looking after your skin, Louise McDonnell from LMD Salon who demostrated a glamorous glittery make-up look. Imelda from MelMarie Weaves showcased one of her weaves and how to apply it effortlessly for a voluminous, simple 'do', and Sinead Murphy Make-Up was there to present an easy-to-follow summer eye make-up look. There was even time for a mini fashion show with high-street summer looks put together from River Island and Oasis! There was also some SoSu products on sale - palettes, eyelashes, etc., and you could get your nails painted for free by some of the SoSu gals! 

At lunchtime we had a dreamy afternoon tea supplied by the hotel - sandwiches, sausage rolls, scones, carrot cake, tarts, macaroons and tea on tap! Goodness, my mouth is watering even thinking about it, it was divine! And I have to comment on the fact that one of the girls at our table had a dairy intolerance and they were more than happy to accommodate her, the service really went above and beyond! 

And as if all that wasn't good enough, we each got a goodie bag packed to the brim with different products! Honestly, we were SPOILT! You can see what was inside our bags in the photo below:

The highlight of the day for me was hearing Suzanne's story - the ultimate blogging queen, entrepeneur, girl boss and all-round inspiration.  She has had to fight to make it to the top, and boy is she owning it with the success of both her blog and her brand. I left feeling extremely motivated and wanting to, and believing that, I could achieve everything I've dreamed of. It was so humble and lovely of her to stay and allow everyone to have their photo taken with her, and my goodness, when you see her up close and personal she is even more stunning in real life. I'm being a real fan girl right now, aren't I?! But seriously, she took the time to meet and greet everyone, have a little chat with them, and pose for one, or four, photos. As did her parents and Dylan - both were more than happy to have a little chat and a photo taken. Such a welcoming, down-to-earth family!

I cannot recommend attending one of these masterclasses enough - I find it incredible that we can go and support so many Irish women who are making it for themselves with sheer hard work and determination. Not only that, but even if you aren't a blogger or a make-up artist, it is a fabulous girly event and the perfect excuse to get dressed up for a few cocktails. AND good news girls, Suzanne was trying to secure some more dates with Galgorm Manor to host more workshops! And the even better news is that they will, fingers crossed, be prior to her wedding in August, so not long to wait - keep your eyes peeled!

Now on to my outfit. I have to admit that I found it difficult to know what to wear on Sunday - I wanted an outfit which was on trend, that I could wear again and that I felt comfortable in. And bearing in mind that our Northern Irish weather is very unpredictable, you're never quite sure whether the sun will shine or there will be rain, hail or snow! 

With that in mind, I purchased my khaki culottes from Boohoo which you can shop here. Culottes are so on trend at the minute, as are wide legs, so a perfect combination. These will also look amazing dressed down with sneaks and a tee!

My top was a bodysuit which you can purchase here from H&M. I will get so much wear out of this by dressing it up with ripped jeans and heels, or dressing it down with Mom jeans and Converse - another very versatile item!

Unfortunately my shoes were an old Primark purchase which I only wore for the first time on Sunday. Don't worry though, you aren't missing out because they gave me blisters and cuts on the back of my legs! The things we do to look good, eh?! 

Anyway, I've put together my top caged heels at the minute, but realistically, there are so many heels that would look good with these culottes!

L-R Top to Bottom: Primark £16, New Look £29.99, Steve Madden @ ASOS £80, River Island £75

Accessorise with a choker, a bangle and a bag of your choice - mine was the Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Speedy 30- and you're good to go! 

If you enjoyed reading this post, be sure to get yourselves to the next So Sue Me masterclass, and if you have any questions about my outfit I will leave my social media details below. Thanks for reading! 

Lots of love,

Friday’s Giirl

x

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BEAUTY: First Impressions of Forever Living Sonya Skincare

Just recently, I was very kindly given some Forever Living products to try. I had heard of Forever Living before but I didn't know a single fact about them, other than one of my make-up clients telling me that she uses their serum and finds it amazing! If I'm honest, I was a little dubious about trying the skincare because if you've read my latest post all about my eléni facial (you can read it here), or if you follow me on social media, you will know that my skin has been very problematic, and I'm always frightened that if I use the wrong products they will make it worse. 

I was given a variety of products to try - their full 'Sonya' skincare regime as well as their toothpaste, marine mask, aloe vera gelly, aloe mask, aloe scrub and heat lotion. Before I go into detail about the products though, let me tell you more about the brand...

 

Forever Living was launched in 1978 by Rex Maughan who wanted to bring the benefits of aloe vera to people all over the world, and, in turn, create a healthier lifestyle for everyone. In their plantations, they treat their aloe vera plants a bit differently - harvesting them by hand, and separating the gel from the leaf delicately and efficiently, to ensure that the products they create contain the purest and freshest aloe vera. And a massive bonus for me - they do not test on animals, a factor which is contributing more and more to the choices people are making about purchasing products. 

 

I tried all of the products I was given and I did like them all, however the products which really stood out for me and would persuade me to buy them, was the Sonya Skincare range. I'm going to tell you more about it, but I think you have to try it to truly understand just how amazing it is!

One of the most popular lines from the brand, the Sonya Skincare Collection is a breakthrough in anti-aging technogology and contains five signature products which combine the importance of cleansing, exfoliating, toning and moisturising, to leave you with beautiful and healthy skin. It includes the:

1. Aloe Purifying Cleanser 
2. Aloe Deep-Cleansing Exfoliator
3. Aloe Refreshing Toner
4. Aloe Nourishing Serum
5. Aloe Balancing Cream

 

I trialed this five-step skincare system every morning and night for six days, however I only used the exfoliator once or twice during that time, and wow, what a difference it made!

The smell alone is reason enough to buy these products, especially the cleanser - I wish I could capture it and share it in this blog post for you! It is infused with aloe, lemon and cucumber extracts, and there is a particular sweet which it reminds me of, but I just can't put my finger on which one - D E V I N E! The cleanser left my skin feeling soft and refreshed, and removed all of my make-up perfectly. I couldn't get enough of using it because of the smell, and also because of how it left my skin feeling. 

The exfoliator is so gentle, which means you can use it as often as you like, however it is so effective at removing the dead skin cells that you only need to use it 1-3 times per week. This product will last so long because of how little you need to use it, economic as well as effective - what more could you want?

When it comes to skincare products, I think toner has to be one of my favourites - I just love how it refreshes my skin and hydrates it, yet it doesn't feel oily. The toner in this collection is no exception, it is alcohol-free so it won't dry out your skin, and the white tea and cucumber will leave your skin feeling fresh and clean.

Serum is a product I have never used - I always thought it was a product that was more appropriate for mature women, however, now that I'm a little bit older, I'm becoming more aware of the anti-aging process, and they say you should start in your twenties, so why not?! This one is lightweight so it does not feel heavy or greasy on the face, but it works to preserve and replenish the skin's moisture and helps to maintain a youthful complexion. If I had to choose one product form this collection to purchase, it would be a difficult choice between the serum and the cleanser, but I think this would win - my skin has genuinely never felt as soft as it did when I used this.

Last but not least is the balancing cream which is enriched with aloe, vitamin E and white tea. It restores the skin's natural moisture levels, making it feel hydrated but not oily (a bonus for all your oily skin types like me!) and will naturally exfoliate to remove any dead skin cells, creating a radiant and glowing appearance.

 

I LOVED this skincare, and I can hand on heart say that I looked forward to using them every morning and night, which sounds sad, but for me was a bonus, because I usually find my skincare routine a massive chore! The products are a little bit more pricey than some of your average ones, but I believe it's worth it because they are natural, and you only need a small amount of each one so they will last ages. The prices are as follows:

• Aloe Purifying Cleanser - £27.91
• Aloe Deep-Cleansing Exfoliator - £20.95
• Aloe Refreshing Toner - £27.91
• Aloe Nourishing Serum - £34.69
• Aloe Balancing Cream - £26.63

Or alternatively, you can buy the entire collection for £130.67, which seems a lot at once, but it's for 5 products, and if they last you, say 6 months, I definitely think it's worthwhile! 

If you would like any more information, or you would like to find a rep close to you, you can do so on their website at http://foreverliving.com/. 

 

Thanks for reading!

Friday’s Giirl

x

REVIEW: Primark PS...Pro Longwear Mineralized Foundation

I have to admit that I'm somewhat of a bargain hunter *holds hands up* - as much as I adore luxury items, I just love finding items which don't break the bank. And when it comes to beauty and make-up, I love finding affordable products which are equally as effective as their more expensive competitors. 

I got extremely excited when I found out last year that Primark were launching a 'professional' make-up range and couldn't wait to get my hands on it when I saw it for real. I can be dubious about budget make-up because I sometimes worry about the effect it will have on my skin, but having found a few unbeatable and affordable products, I am willing to at least give something a try. 

 

The PS...Pro range is quite vast for only being a small section of a massive high street retailer, but if your local store is anything like mine, you will be lucky to ever find the products in stock, which speaks volumes in itself. Either that, or I'm not the only one who feels passionately about bargain items! To begin with I thought I would try the foundation which retails at only £5. Because of the price I purchased two shades which allows me to mix my own colour depending on how light or dark I require it to be.

 

APPLICATION: I apply this foundation with a damp beauty blender which ensures maximum coverage. By dampening the beauty blender, it becomes impermeable and all the product is transferred straight to your face. If you prefer a lighter coverage I suggest using a foundation buffer brush instead. This foundation is very easy to work with - it is blendable and buildable, however I don't believe you really need to build it up as it is very full coverage. It has a dewy finish which is ideal for anyone with dry/normal skin. Amazingly though, it also works on my oily skin when set with a good mattifying powder! A win-win for everyone. 

 

LONGEVITY: I can get approximately 8 hours out of this product before I have to touch it up. There is a need for me to reapply powder after this time because I am oily, however I don't think it would require this if you have a different skin type. The coverage lasts all day and I've even worn this whilst working out so I can really can attest to just how much this foundation can take!

 

OVERALL VERDICT: I am in LOVE. Honestly, for £5, I cannot recommend this product enough. Full coverage, suits all skin types (with a little extra powdering if you are oily), can withstand workouts, and lasts all day. I cannot urge you enough to try this, it provides serious competition for the likes of MAC Studio Fix, and for only a fraction of the price. I know it sounds too good to be true but it isn't!

If you decide to try it then please let me know!

 

Friday’s Giirl

x

REVIEW: eléni Skincare Facial at Tip to Toe Salon

I was recently kindly invited to a local salon called Tip to Toe to experience one of their eléni facials, and of course, I graciously accepted. Tip to Toe is based in Newtowncrommelin, a tiny village located approximately 8 miles outside Ballymena. Owned by the lovely Julie, the salon is a renovated caravan, which is warm and welcoming and perfectly equipped for the services provided. 

Eléni is a skincare brand which I knew nothing about until Julie educated me on the story of the brand and its products. Created by a South African native who had always suffered from psoriasis, he worked tirelessly to create a solution to his problem which he hadn't found in any other products. He succeeded in doing so, and in turn, developed an incredible understanding of the skin which allowed him to create a range of extremely effective and affordable products. They aim to provide solutions to long term skin health under the motto 'True beauty through celullar well being'. I am always reassured when I feel that someone knows what they are talking about - it's like going to a restaurant and a staff member being able to tell you the ingredients of a dish, how it was prepared, and why they would recommend it. Julie certainly knew what she was talking about and I couldn't wait for her to put her knowledge into practice. 

I briefed Julie on my skin type, which has been somewhat problematic of recent, however on the day of my facial it was looking quite good so we agreed to carry out a routine facial rather than one for problem skin so as not to aggravate it while it was behaving for once! She invited me to pop up on the bed, which I was surprised to find to my delight, was heated - B L I S S! It didn't take me long to unwind under the conditions - dimmed spotlight lighting and soothing music made for the ultimate relaxation. I was so relaxed that I could easily have fallen asleep, but I wanted to be able to share the experience fully with you, so I refrained - all in the name of blogging, eh?!

Julie began the treatment with a double sebum cleanse, followed by an exfoliating deep cleanse. These were so refreshing and despite not touching my skin with my hands, I could sense how clean my face felt already. Next up was an anti-wrinkle mask, and rather than just being left to chill out while it was on, I had my feet massaged - OH. MY. Now that really was putting me to the test of staying awake - amazing! When the mask was removed, it was onto an intensive hydrating massage followed by a reconstruction serum which was also massaged into my skin. Finished with an eye cream and a rich stabilising moisturiser.

 

For me, this facial was a rare opportunity - it isn't very often I have the chance to really indulge in some me-time and this was the perfect excuse. However, I didn't just love it for this reason, but also because my skin looked INCREDIBLE afterwards. I am extremely self-conscious when I have no make-up on and it's something I wish I wasn't because I feel like we should all be comfortable in our own skin. But when I looked in the mirror after my facial, my initial reaction was a massive 'WOW!', I genuinely don't think my skin has EVER looked as good. It was clear, bright and radiant, and Julie and I both commented on how I would be more than happy to flaunt bare skin if it always looked that way.

I asked Julie how often she would recommend that I get such a treatment and she suggested once a month, and by doing so, I should notice big improvements to my skin after three treatments. Obvioucly, it's important to take care of your skin in between times and Julie also sells the eléni products so you can purchase them to maintain a similar daily routine at home. The range is very affordable and if I didn't already own an abundance of skincare which I need to make my way through, I would most definitely have stocked up on some of these amazing products. They smell divine, like a spa, and having seen the results of the facial, I have no doubt that they would be even better with daily use!

 

I have to admit that I'm always concerned about how my skin will look in the days following a treatment as my skin tends to disagree with heavy creams and oils, but I have been told that you should almost expect your skin to react after a facial as it is simply doing its job and drawing out all the impurities. Thus, I expected such a reaction after this treatment but I was pleasantly surprised to find that yes, I did have a couple of pimples the day after but they were small and discrete and were away again the next day - definitely nothing to complain about!

Now, do you want to know the best bit about all of this, on top of the relaxing experience and the amazing results? The price. This facial is only £29. T-W-E-N-T-Y N-I-N-E P-O-U-N-D-S! I genuinely nearly fainted when I heard that. Such value for money, and so inexpensive that you can afford to treat yourself on a monthly basis, I know I will be!

I urge you to give Tip to Toe salon a try for any of your beauty requirements - Julie will welcome you wholeheartedly with a hug and leave you feeling a million dollars. I already can't wait to go back for my next facial!

If you would like to get in touch to book an appointment you can find all the details here. Thanks for reading, and a big thank you to Emma from eléni, and Julie from Tip to Toe for organising this!

Friday’s Giirl

x

TRAVEL: Review of Bullitt Hotel, Belfast

Firstly, a massive happy new year to all of you lovely readers/followers and thank you for continuing to read all about my little journey!

I was a lucky girl this new year, getting treated to an overnight stay in Bullitt Hotel, Belfast. This was a lovely belated birthday surprise for me as I had previously mentioned to Stuart that I would love to stay there and he remembered! Ladies, you'll know how big a deal this is - he actually took note of what I said for once, haha! 

The location of this hotel is superb, whether you are new to the city or are a frequent visitor. Having attended university in Belfast, I got to know the area really well, and I have a good sense of direction which always helps! Bullitt is right in the city centre next to the famous Victoria Square shopping centre, ideal for all you shopaholics out there, and not so ideal for your better halves!

On first impressions, I was really shocked when we reached the hotel. The entrance is between a small convenience store and a bookmakers and to be honest, you would barely know it was there!

 

Having said that, when you walk through the entrance it is a completely different story! The passsage way opens up into a beer garden-style courtyard adorned with fairy lights and lots of greenery - the perfect location for a cocktail-fueled summer afternoon, should our Northern Irish weather cater to us!

 

On entry, the hotel boasts a reception area, along with an open bar and restaurant area. The decor is industrial and quirky, with a Scandinavian feel - think IKEA, but more expensive looking. Exposed pipes, brickwork and metal, accessorized with pops of primary colours (and that infamous Steve McQueen painting), create a business-like, retro and functional space which I absolutely love. 

 

 

 

We checked into the hotel around the usual time of 3pm and were warmly welcomed by a friendly female receptionist. Room 303 was ours for the night and what a perfect little room it was. The decor in the room was simple and bold, with characteristics such as a feature wall and a clothing rack reminiscent of school cloakrooms. There were so many quirks which really made it that little bit more special for me - having a carton of 'proper' milk left for you in the fridge and mugs which say 'Hello Brewtiful' will mean a lot to you avid tea drinkers (i.e. Me!). My favourite aspect of the whole room was a message printed on the window which read 'F A C E P L A N T' and ironically I only noticed it in an attempt to open the window. Just for the record, I did not face plant it though!

 

 

The bathroom was equally as amazing as the room - clean and white with a huge rainfall shower and Filbert & Mason toiletries. Oh, and I can't forget the mirror with amazing strip lights on either side - a favourite with all us make-up artists!

The breakfast included in the price of the room is a 'Grub to Go' breakfast, which initially I wasn't too keen on, but actually turned out to be a sweet surprise. There are brown paper bags hanging on the back of your door and if you wish to avail of the breakfast option you just hang them outside before 6am and your breakfast will be waiting for you when you wake up in the morning! I got so excited when I woke up, opened the door and found the bags sitting at my feet - such a special touch! Inside was a bottle of orange juice, a pot of granola and natural yoghurt, and a banana. We had every intention of eating out for breakfast but we made use of the 12pm checkout, the full range of Sky TV channels and lay in bed and watched Matilda whilst eating our allocated breakfast! It was surprisingly filling and we didn't need to eat again until late lunchtime. If you do prefer a larger/cooked breakfast, you can purchase it in the hotel restaurant - you can find the menu here.

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I cannot fault this hotel in any shape or form and I would recommend it to anyone. The highlights for me were the super comfy kingsize bed, the rainfall shower and the decor - the attention to detail and finishing touches were exquisite.

Our room type was classified as a 'Comfy' room and is priced at £140 per night. There's two other options to choose from and you can find further details on their website at www.bullitthotel.com. 

If you have any questions you'd like to ask me then just contact me via social media - I'll leave my details below. Thanks for reading!

Friday’s Giirl

x

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