July Beauty Favourites

Estee Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover Camouflage Makeup for Face and Body

I have been using this product as a foundation for the past few Months, and I really love it. I use it sparingly as I feel I don't need to use a lot, and it blends so easily into my skin and looks flawless. Its a great match for my skin tone and I'd definitely repurchase this again. Although it has a hefty price tag, it is perfect for when I have those 'bad skin days'.

Clinique Take The  Day  Off  Makeup Remover For Lids, Lashes & Lips

This has to be one of the best products I have tried for removing eye make-up. It is incredibly gentle and in my opinion, removes around 95% of my eye make-up, even waterproof mascara. I use it just for removing eye make-up mainly, but it is also a generally good make-up remover. 

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Nourishing Lip Balm*

I have been using this every evening for a good while now. I apply a layer of product to my lips before bed, and I believe it really does work. My lips feel soft, hydrated and moisturised on a Morning, and I rarely have chapped or sore lips. 

Sanex Roll On Zero% Extra Effective

Only recently have I began using roll-on deodorants again, after discovering how much I prefer them to a spray anti-antiperspirant. This is a really good one, which leaves me feeling fresh and clean for a long time. I have irritated skin, so a deodorant without any chemicals like this one is a must for me. The scent is pleasant and I've found Sanex to be one of the best brands I have come across for roll-on deodorant.

Maxfactor Colour Elixir Lipstick in English Rose

This shade is a beautiful rose pink; a shade I find perfect to wear any time of the day, and anytime of the year. The lipstick is well pigmented and has a great colour pay-off, doesn't bleed and lasts a good few hours without need of reapplication. As-well as lasting on the lips, it feels very creamy and I have found it be one of those lipsticks that are just so easy to wear.

Have you tried any of these products? What are your favourite products this Month?

Dreaming of Handbags

Jane Shilton Black and Pink Parrot Bowling Bag | Brown Leopard Print Mini Satchel | Vintage Styler Eva Blush Art Deco Pearl Clutch  

I am absolutely loving the pastels, pinks, creams and browns that are everywhere at the moment. I  love colours like this as I find them easy to style as my wardrobe consists of most of those colours and they seem to be pretty stylish any Season. I am in love with this Jane Shilton bowling bag; I just love the textures and the size is perfect for me. I think it would be a perfect transitional bag which could take you from day to night, and would look good with almost any outfit. I love River Island for handbags, and I think their mini satchels are gorgeous. They are available in a variety of colours, but I think this leopard print bag is just a little bit different to anything I have seen elsewhere on the highstreet. Finally, the gorgeous pearl clutch is something I absolutely adore. It looks perfect for a night out or a special event. I think pearls are a classic statement piece which will never age, and what better than to have them on a bag?! 

Nspa Fresh Apple and Watermelon Shower and Bath Gel

I have been meaning to write the blog post for quite a while. Nspa released a selection of limited edition products last Summer and this was my absolute favourite. I wasn't sure whether to share this review as this may be more difficult to get your hands on now, but hopefully Nspa will re-release it again some time soon.

Nspa are one of my favourite budget - friendly brands for shower gel and body mists. I love their Fruit Extracts range and anything that smells a little zesty and fresh is always something I am interested to try. The Fresh Apple and Watermelon Shower & Bath Gel ticks all of those boxes for me; it smells amazing and is perfect for a wake up shower. I really like Nspa shower gels as they lather really well and last such a long time; as the bottle is 500ml you get plenty of use. The scent of apple and watermelon is a great fruity twist that is really refreshing and sweet. The product gives a delicate fragrance to your skin after cleansing, which isn't too overpowering.

You may not be able to get your hands on this now, but luckily Nspa have recently launched more in their Fruit Extracts range and I have quite a wishlist of what I want to try! Nspa products are available at ASDA here.

Isle Of Wolf Natural Perfumed Candle - Cinnamon Spice

If you are a long - time reader of my blog, it will be of no surprise to you that I am reviewing another candle today. I love burning candles - I know it seems to be a bit of a blogger trend but I honestly find it really relaxing and can't remember a time in my adult life that I haven't loved a good candle.

I have been burning a candle by the brand Isle Of Wolf recently - a brand that I was unfamiliar with but had heard only good things about. Isle Of Wolf make handmade candles, which are made from 100% pure plant wax and are scented with 100% natural essential oils. As the soy wax is GMO free and the wick is lead free, Isle Of Wolf claim that this 'makes a very clean and long lasting burn whilst still emitting a delicate fragrance'.

The scent I opted for was Cinnamon Spice - I know this is often seen as a Autumn/Winter scent, but I just adore the scent of cinnamon all Year round.
The packaging of the candle is very appealing - the box would make it a great gift to give to a friend or relative. Each candle comes fitted with a heatproof and scratch proof coaster, which is really thoughtful and handy.

I found the scent to be simply stunning - it is difficult to describe scents but it is quite a strong and non-synthetic smell. It made my bedroom smell very homely and inviting, a scent I would definitely choose again. I love spicy and woody scents, so this was right up my street.
The burn time for this candle is 40 hours, which I find really impressive. The candle did burn incredibly even and clean, which meant barely any waste at all.
The Isle Of Wolf Candle in Cinnamon Spice is available at Mypure online here for £20.

*Post includes PR sample*

Bentley Organic Shampoo with Tea Tree, Lemon and Mint

I have a real love of hair products which contain tea tree and mint; I love the distinguished scent it leaves on your hair and it makes my hair feel really clean. I know that tea tree is supposedly really good for hair growth, as it is said to help unclog hair follicles. I was browsing online and saw the Bentley Organic Shampoo which has the scents of tea tree, lemon and mint, and instantly wanted to try it.

I have tried Bentley Organic products in the past and really enjoyed using them. Bentley Organic are a natural and organic brand that do not test on animals and are suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
I like the simplicity of the packaging, and I think the size of the bottle (250ml) means it will last a good while.

The shampoo lathers quite well and the scent is fairly strong, (but not overpowering) and lasts on the hair. After using this shampoo, my hair felt extremely clean. I think this shampoo is a great daily - use shampoo as it does cleanse the hair well and doesn't leave my hair feeling heavy.
I do suffer from an irritated scalp, and have found no further irritation from using this product. Knowing that their are no nasty chemicals included in the ingredients of this shampoo is really satisfying and I would be happy to use this product again.

Overall, I really do like this shampoo. It isn't an outstanding, holy-grail product, but I would use it again and recommend to anyone that likes their hair products to be made from natural sources. It cleanses the hair really well and has a nice, refreshing scent, so a big thumbs up from me!

The Bentley Organic Shampoo with Tea Tree, Lemon and Mint is available to buy online here from MyPure and has a RRP of £5.20.

*Post includes PR sample*

Themed Afternoon Teas in the UK

Themed afternoon teas in the UK

Hey everyone – Georgina here from Georgina Does. Lovely Zoe Has given me a guest posting spot here on her blog today so I thought I’d talk about something I love – Afternoon teas around the UK. A few I have been to myself, mostly in London but whenever I go on a trip in the UK the first thing I do is search out their best or most exciting afternoon tea.

The Afternoon Tea Tour Bus – London

This one is a little different to the others. You still have all lovely sandwiches and savouries, the scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, lots of delicious cakes and of course your choice of teas. But the difference is, you eat this afternoon tea whilst riding around London on a double decker, red tour bus.

It’s certainly an experience and you get to see all the important parts of London although all the movement of the bus makes pouring some milk into your tea, pretty stressful. Indulging is such rich foods, while gulping everything down to avoid it falling onto the floor could all add to the fun, but if you don’t have a strong stomach you should try to be careful as you might end up with indigestion. Be sure to take some Gaviscon with you, just in case!

Bettys – York

Bettys was founded by Frederick Belmont, a Swiss baker and confectioner who came to England in search of opportunities. He opened the first café in 1919 and since there five more have opened! They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner but are very well known for their afternoon tea which is why they have made this list! It’s a great place for traditional afternoon tea with the usual smoked salmon, egg and cress sandwiches etc followed by a warm scone and some delicious cakes. With each of the six Café having their own shop filled with tasty cakes so you can even take some home with you! Opt for pink champagne to add to the indulgence.

Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea – The Sanderson, London

This is a normal, sit down afternoon tea but again, it is totally different from all the others. Obviously themed around the mad hatter’s afternoon tea from Alice in Wonderland. You are served green and orange bread for your sandwiches. There is a delicious little bottle saying “drink me” and as you sip away you can taste the flavours change. But that’s all I’m giving away! There are lots of surprises to be had! Be sure to have a wander around the Sanderson hotel as well – it’s amazing.

Chocolate Afternoon Tea – Stoke Park, Buckinghamshire

Set out with beautiful views this afternoon tea is served in the Stoke park country club, hotel and spa. Similar to the usual afternoon tea but this one includes a selection of homemade Chocolate Cakes and Pastries as well as chocolate chip scones and Stoke Park's Ultimate Hot Chocolate. It’s a chocolate lovers dream!

Where is your favourite afternoon tea?

Homeware Wishlist: Bedding

I have been loving Pinterest and searching the internet for bedroom inspiration just lately, and have come up with a little list of some lovely bedding items I think would look great together.

First on my list is this percale euro sham pillow from Parachute, who are a luxury bedding brand. From the description, it sounds like the most comfortable pillow. Next up is the J by Jasper Conran Grey and Blue striped 'Bingham' bed linen duvet set from Debenhams. I think that the euro sham pillow would look perfect ontop of the duvet set as the colours tie in perfectly. The Grey Brushed Herringbone Throw from Dunelm would look great to layer at the bottom of the bed ontop on the duvet, and would be great for those cold nights. Another cushion which I think is adorable is this one from Not On The Highstreet; called the Cow and Calf cushion. I think two of these (one each side of the euro sham pillow) would bring the bedding in together and look very homely. I really like the blues and greys and think they tie in really nicely together. 

BBC Good Food Show Summer Event

I am a big foodie. I love food, I like to cook and I enjoy to eat, there I said it! The BBC Good Food Show Summer Event was on at the NEC, Birmingham last Week for a few days, and when offered the chance to go, I took it. As ao.com and the Summer Kitchen were the lead sponsor of at this year’s BBC Good Food Show Summer event, I knew it was going to be good fun.

If you haven't been to the BBC Good Food Show before it is a lot of fun - full of stalls and talks, as well as of-course lots of yummy food to try and buy.

It is always lovely to see some old favourite companies at events like this, and I really enjoy supporting new brands I have never heard of before. If you are a big foodie like me, enjoy cooking and checking out new products I'd definitely recommend going to the Good Food Show, its a nice day out. If you love food gadgets and trying out new products, I would suggest you go to the next BBC Good Food Show - you can check out where and when the next event is by checking out the website here.

*I was gifted tickets to attend the event*

Pizza Party with Chicago Town

More often than not, on a Weekend we order a takeaway and nine times out of ten it is pizza we tend to go for. We just love pizza - as well as having pizza delivered to us, we also cook pizza at home and order it when we eat out. It is a real treat for us, and pizza is something we all enjoy (probably one of the only meals everyone in the family likes!) so when we are having a treat it is usually our first choice.

When offered the chance of trying out some of the new Chicago Town products - The Sub and The Pizza Melt, as-well as their current Deep Dish pizzas, I had this amazing idea of turning the evening into a bit of a pizza party! Delicious pizzas accompanied with a few DVDs and Netflix, obviously.
If you are new to Chicago Town, let me give you a little run down of some of their huge selection of pizzas and their new product lines - The Sub and The Pizza Melt.

The Sub
Cheese and Tomato Flavour
also available in Hawaiian or Meat Supreme flavour
The Sub is a perfect snack for a quick bite to eat or as a side to a meal. I loved how quick and easy it was to cook these in the oven and they were a perfect afternoon snack or a night time treat. The cheese and tomato crispy bread sub tasted great; topped with melted edam, red cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, tomato pieces and Chicago Town's signature tomato sauce. All of the family really liked these and I think they have made their way onto the shopping list!

The Pizza Melt
Meat Supreme Flavour
also available in Pepperoni flavour
The Pizza Melt is the ultimate snack - cooked in the oven for just 11 minutes. It is basically a pizza in a bun - yum!  I loved the Meat Supreme flavour, it includes everything you would expect and more. The Meat Supreme Melt tasted delicious, topped with pepperoni, ham, mushrooms, edam and cheddar cheeses with Chicago Town's signature tomato sauce all packed in a light and crispy bun. I would definitely recommend these as they are so tasty - full of flavour and a real treat. They are perfect if you need a speedy meal, and are actually insanely tasty too.

The Deep Dish
Pepperoni Flavour
New Yorker Flavour
RRP £2.19 at most major supermarkets
also available in a variety of flavours, including; Pulled Pork (limited edition),  Ham and Pineapple, Chicken Club, Four Cheese and Sloppy Joe.
Chicago Town's Deep Dish pizzas are made with deep bases and are filled with a lot of toppings. They are so easy to just pop in the oven and cook as they are really quick but taste delicious, just as they would taste if they were freshly made at a restaurant. We have these at home a lot as they are so quick to cook, and they taste great too. I love the pepperoni flavour and it is my all time favourite pepperoni pizza! I was eager to try the New Yorker Deep Dish as it is a new flavour, and it looked incredible. The New Yorker flavour is topped with pepperoni, ham, red onions and melted mozzarella cheese as well as the delicious BBQ sauce. This was a definite hit in my house, very tasty and the crust was delicious too.

A few photo's of the pizza party treats! Sorry my photographs aren't of the best quality - it was difficult to take pictures as my family munched them away pretty quickly!

Chicago Town pizza is delicious, but I'm sure if you have tried them you already love them! I definitely recommend giving The Sub and The Pizza Melts a whirl as they are incredibly tasty and packed with flavour. Chicago Town's Deep Dish, Pizza Melts and Subs, as well are their other products, are available to buy in-store or online from major supermarkets such as ASDA, Tesco, and Sainsburys.

You can check out Chicago Town's entire range at their website here. You can also keep up-to date with any pizza-loving news over on their social media links which I have listed below.

Chicago Town: Website | Facebook | Twitter

*Post includes PR samples*

Travel Beauty Essentials

The worst part of travelling for me is packing. Have I packed enough? Do I really need to take this? Oh wait - I've forgotten this! All of which are questions that enter my brain hours before I'm due to leave. I have prepared my travel bag for my next outing, full of the essentials I need and a few I often forget!

• A body cream or lotion is always something I seem to need when I haven't packed it in my luggage. Sanctuary Body Lotion is one of my favourites and a body lotion I would recommend.
• As well as a perfume, I tend to pack a body spray with me just incase I need to add a little fragrance. Fearne Cottons Body Spritz is a really nice and light fragrance ideal for travelling. 
• Of-course a body wash is essential for travelling, and the Sanctuary Body Wash is one my favourites. As you can see I am a big fan of the brand, I think their travel sized products are ideal for Holidays.
• I always carry hand cream with me, so this Cath Kidston Hand Cream is essential for me as my hands are so dry.
• Travel size shampoo and conditioners are so easy to pop into your suitcase so you don't have to bring back a full size product back home with you! I have opted for John Frieda Frizz Ease Cream Curls Shampoo and Conditioner.
• Antiperspirant to keep you feeling fresh and smelling good; Boots 24hr Protection Roll On is a reasonably priced product which does the job.
• I feel a body scrub is good to pack with you if you are planning on visiting beaches so you are  able to exfoliate the skin. Sanctuary Body Scrub is the best body scrub I have come across yet and smells gorgeous!
• Other essentials including sun cream, aftersun lotion, cleanser, toner, wet wipes, cotton pads, hair bands, hair clips and a body polisher are my definite must haves to take travelling with me.

What are your travel beauty essentials? Are there any that I have missed?