I'll be there for you

We all have different kinds of friends in our lives, some from childhood (if we are lucky), others we have met through work, social media, hobbies, even friends of friends. Some we have known for a long time and then there are others that have come and gone. As we get older our lives and personalities change and so do that of our friends, sadly we drift apart from some that were once our closest, mostly due to circumstance, making way for the ones that are here to stay.  

I've been friends now with my best friend for over 8 years, we didn't start off like this, we were more work acquaintances, we socialised as part of a group for many years, but I wouldn't say that we're very close. In fact we even fell out for some time, which is sad now when I think about the circumstances surrounding it. However it made us stronger and we actually became the best of friends from it. We have a mutual love of socialising, prosecco, all things girly, lazy Sundays and straight up having the lols. If someone was to listen to one of our conversations, they would have a right ould laugh, because we talk complete and utter nonsense most of the time. Dreams versus reality are often blured when we get together, because we come up with the most ridiculous ideas For example, we have always said for my hen we would have a "boats and hoes" cruise up the Shannon, because we both love Step Brothers the movie. When we went to New York on holidays, we decided that we would open up our own bar called "who-are's" (basically whores said in an Irish slang), a traditional Irish bar, with middle aged bar women wearing blue eye shadow and push up bras. Oh we had the whole thing planned, all written out on a napkin, if we win the lotto, watch this space :) Alot of it is silly but sometimes you need silly in your life, and we for sure don't take ourselves too serious. But aside from all the fun, I honestly couldn't function without this girl in my life. She has seen me in every emotion possible, angry, upset, happy, at my worst, and at my best. She is not only my friend, she is my family. 

It good to have positive people surrounding you but equally as important to have people that are also very honest with you. Friends share huge moments of your life, they also know alot of your deepest, darkest thoughts and fears. For me I know that I can be 100% myself around my best friend without having to second guess what I say, or how I act. Even when I know I'm being totally ridiculous about something she knows exactly how to make me see the light without making me feel like I'm a terrible person. We all have our "moments" and when we do it's important to have someone to keep us grounded. 

Someone once said to me, "if you were stuck at the side of the road, who would you call?" Think about it, I bet there isn't that many people you could rely on. But I know that this girl would drive me to the moon and back if I needed her to.

Make sure that the important people in your life feel, and know just how important they are.

With luv to my bestie Emma xx 

Fabulous Friday (23rd of Oct)

The weekend is finally here, and to make it even better, its a Bank Holiday too. I'm very excited to introduce you all to this week's Ms Fabulous Friday. This girl will give you all the make up inspiration you need for the weekend ahead. Kate from Makeup by Kate is a freelance MUA with over 16,000 followers on Facebook, and over 4500 on Instagram, and its easy to see why as she truly is one very talented girl.





Kate started out by working for a well known salon named Making Faces in Gorey, for a few months while she was in college. Once she had finished college in 2013, she then worked for MAC for about a year and a half. She is now a freelance makeup artist and is available to travel to people's homes for weddings and special events. Kate ocassionally works out of Ceira Lamberts Hair Salon in Dublin. Ceira Lambert is extremely well known throughout Ireland and has numerous celebrities from both Ireland and the UK attending to her salon on a daily basis. Through working with Ceira at the salon she has had the opportunity to do makeup for models such as Nadia Forde and Vogue Williams. Kate is also a tutor at the LA college of Creative Arts where she teaches bridal and editorial as well as some SFX makeup.

Nadia Forde, makeup by Kate

Nadia Forde

Vogue Williams, Makeup By Kate

So a little bit more about Kate and some make up tips and advice

Where did you train to become a make up artist?
Theatrical and media makeup at Dun Laoghaire Senior College

What is your favourite and/or must have product/s?
Mac strobe cream 
Inglot gel liner #77
Mac skin base visage primer

Do you follow any other beauty or makeup bloggers and if so who do you love?
I mostly follow makeup artists on Instagram but I like to go onto Michelle Phan's beauty blog to have a read. She is a YouTube sensation.

What tips would you give to any girls wanting to become an MUA?
Work hard and don't ever think that your done learning. Even if your great starting out don't ever think that you can't be better. Makeup is constantly changing with new trends coming and going so it's really important to keep up to date with the trends especially because there are so many makeup 
artists in Ireland alone now so you need to stand out.

What beauty or make up tips would you give to us ladies?
If you want your makeup to last for you make sure your prepping the skin well before you apply your foundation using primer is a must for me. It hydrates the skin as well as controlling the oil to stop your makeup from separating. Another thing is enough with the Scouse brows.... I think brows make or break a look. Everybody wants their brows to look great but some girls can over do it. Especially blonde girls going far too dark with their colour. My favourite brow products are Anastasia Beverly Hills dipbrow pomade I use the shade blonde.

What make up look is your favourite?
You can't beat a smokey eye. I love going really dramatic on the eyes and even adding a bit of shimmer or glitter onto the lid for some sparkle. I would then keep it quite subtle on the lips and go for a nude colour.

Which celebrity always has flawless makeup and which celebrity would you love to work on?
I have to say I love the kardashians and think their makeup is always perfect. Although they wear a lot I love it. I would love to do one of their makeup some day haha, especially Kim's but that's wishful thinking.

So whats next for the future of Make up by Kate?
For now I have a busy few months coming up to Christmas with makeup bookings but in the new year I have lots of plans. I want to focus on my YouTube Chanel and get some videos up and running. I would love to bring out my own makeup brand or brush line so who knows someday hopefully that 
will happen.

Watch this space girls, its obvious Kate has a very bright future and we will be seeing alot more of her. If you would like to follow her via Facebook, Instagram or YouTube, please see links below

A massive thanks to Kate

Facebook - Makeup By Kate

Instagram account is @makeupbykateh

YouTube channel

                                                 

(The YouTube channel is not running yet the account is set up an account and Kate hopes to start videoing in the new year )

What's love got to do with it

When I was young and I imagined my future, I pictured my life and everything that it would be. Meet a guy, fall in love, travel the world, build a home ( with a white picket fence of course) get married and have beautiful babies. Your stereotypical dream life. See I'm the kinda girl that falls in love fast, and I'm also the kind of girl that believes love should be like a fairytale. Just like the movies. But it isn't really, is it? Reality never matches the fantasy. Every love story is different and so is every relationship.

I've been with my partner/fiancé now for over 10 years, and it's pretty fair to say that most relationships have their ups and downs, but ours was one ROCKY start. When we initially met I don't think either of us had planned on anything too serious (but then again no one ever does). We had both been in long relationships prior to meeting, so neither of us eager to get into another one. Only a few weeks (Yes weeks!!!) into the relationship and I (we) became pregnant, a total shock and totally unplanned of course. So we never really had that fun honeymoon period, start of a relationship like others have, because we were hit with a massive dose of reality right from the beginning. Now coming to terms with being pregnant all while getting to know someone is tough. I knew he was a decent guy but insecurities (and hormones) plagued me, thoughts like "was he only with me for the child" caused many arguments. During this time we went through so many emotions and uncertainty, that I wasn't really sure if something that had started off like this could really last. But we were stronger than we thought. Flash forward through the last 10 years and I honestly don't know where they went, so much but so little has happened, and what I mean by this is, we've had 2 kids but not managed a home or wedding (or the travelling the world bit). No matter how hard times got over the last few years, I knew one thing for sure, and that was that I could never imagine my life without him.

How would I describe our relationship? Anyone that knows us, will tell you that we joke about this, we always say "we are just like John and Mary" from Father Ted. We are like an old married couple, bickering about nothing half the time. Nobody and I mean nobody can annoy me like he can, but also nobody can make me smile like he can either. One minute I could literally be cursing him and another minute laughing with him about something stupid. I don't think we take ourselves too serious. We argue about most things that couples argue about, making life decisions, money, the kids etc. We are very alike but totally different at the same time. I hate the outdoors, he loves the outdoors, we have totally different interests, two people you would probably never put together. However we have always enjoyed a good night out and that has never changed in the last 10 years. I can go out and have the best night out with john, as good if not better than any night out with the girls. Now don't get me wrong we are nowhere near perfect, most of the time when he is telling me something I'm not even listening. I have a great knack of zoning out and he is forever giving out to me for my love of social media (he isn't even on Facebook, the big weirdo). But that's us and it just seems to work somehow. 

When I was at home last weekend, I was watching my Mam and Dad. They have always been a very loving and affectionate couple and sometimes a tad inappropriate in public, (For ex. my dad saying "isn't your nana sexy" in front of my kids) but they just seem to be so perfect for each other. Being at home last weekend I realised something though. Love just isn't enough, it matters a lot but it isn't everything. All of their kids have now flew the nest and it's just them now. They are together almost 39 years, which is a big achievement. I wonder what makes a relationship work and sustain for that long? Respect, hard-work, honesty, I'm sure nothing comes easy. When you have kids your whole life and relationship tends to evolve around them. The best that you can hope for, is that when your kids grow up and start their own families, you have a partner you can now enjoy the rest of your life with. It is about finding a life companion, someone to let you be you, to grow and change with you, to challenge you, and most of all a friend, and if your really lucky a best friend.

So what's love got to do with it? A lot? A little? Is it everything? Let me know what you think

Luv Lisa xx

Fabulous Friday (16th Nov)

Welcome back to Fabulous Friday, hope you guys are having an amazing day. Yesterday I went to visit one of my good friends and her latest venture, so I thought it only fitting that I feature this lovely lady this week. I've known this girl for sometime now (to say hello to in passing) and about 2 years ago I was very fortunate to get to work alongside her for 8 months (when we both worked for lifestyle sports). In that time we became good friends and I remember how she always spoke about wanting her own business. I was only delighted for her when she phoned me one evening, to tell me that she was going to take a chance and do it. I love people that go after their dreams and on this note I want to introduce my entrupenural friend Leila Bessaa.

Leila has opened her own store called One Oh Nine on the main street in Bray Town. Only opened 3 and a half months, I eventually got a chance to go visit her and the new store yesterday. Now let me tell you in a little bit about Leila. She has to be one of the calmest and most laid back people I know. This lady has not only opened her own store but is also in the process of building a house and planning a wedding at the same time. Now that's what you call a woman on the go. I am very proud of her and what she has achieved, the future looks bright for Leila and her business and I want to say a massive Congratulations and Best wishes.

The store itself is bright, inviting, well laid out and the perfect size, not too large and not too small. Designed in soft pastel colours the store feels warm and feminine. Everything is merchandised by colour, for example black and white (monochrome), burgundy/black/grey etc, which is something I love personally, as I find it easier to shop by colour rather than by trend. The store is stocked with brands as seen on Expose and Ireland AM but with prices that cannot be beaten. I proceeded to try on over half the shop and spent 2 hours deliberating over what to buy because I literally wanted it all...(but I have kids to feed) so I had to choose. Pictured below are only some of the items in store.



Leather look high waisted trousers €39 (3 different colours) I purchased these in the black and they are so comfortable.



Skirt and dress both featured on Expose..I picked up a similar skirt but in a bold electric blue . Cannot wait to wear it.

  

I also purchased this black coat, only €40 and it's perfect for a night out, light but warm and dressy.
The green bomber jacket was gone in my size :(



Here is the black jacket I purchased in a tan/camel colour €40. Also picked up this burgundy top with the side slit €22


I had a quick catch up with Leila about her journey so far and I also threw in a few questions;

So Leila what made you decide to start up your own business?

I've always wanted my own business from around the age of 12, I started working in retail at the age of 17 and I loved it, so it was then that I realised it was clothing store I would love to open. I also studied fashion and buying in Portobello college.

Owning your own business must be alot of work?

Yes it can be but it is worth it, my mam had her own bar and my Dad also had his own business, so I think its kind of in me. It's something I've always wanted, if your going to work hard for a living it might as well be for yourself.

What advice would you give to anyone that is thinking about doing something similar?

Research is everything, I did alot of that, it's not something I jumped into over night. I had retail
experience to help me make decisions and also to know what works and what doesn't.  Also you need to be ready to put in alot of work, it's not as glamourous as it looks

What brands/retailers do you love?

I've always loved topshop,  River Island and Warehouse. I've worked for Warehouse previously

How would you describe your style?

Depends on my mood. I obviously love to dress up when I'm going out, and I love being casual and
comfortable during the day

What celebs style do you love?

Victoria Beckham, love her look she always looks great, simple but stylish

What's next for you and your business? 

Soon I will be getting in some footwear, jewellery and accessories. In time I will also set up a website for the store to possibly allow people to purchase online.


If any of you want to have a further look at some more of the items in store, or to be kept up to date with the new arrivals follow Leila and her store on Facebook (one oh nine) Or pop in to say hello, she is located next to the AIB bank on lower Main Street Bray. A massive thank you to Leila for her time yesterday and for letting me write up this piece on her store. I am very proud and impressed at what she has achieved, and I for one will definitely be going back to visit the store to purchase more. If any one has any questions please comment below or send me a mail via facebook

Have a fabulous Friday everyone :)

Lisa xx

Fabulous Fridays (9th of Oct)

There was a fantastic response to last week's "fabulous fashion friday" and again I want to say a massive thanks to Sharon for letting me feature her in the first ever edition . I've been thinking alot since last Friday and talking about the concept with a few friends, and I've come to the conclusion that the article shouldn't solely be based on fashion. Everyone is fabulous in different ways so from now on this feature each week will be based on different people for different reasons, fashion, beauty, business women etc. I think it will open it up to highlighting women not only for their beauty or style but also for their achievements.

On that note I'd like to introduce this week's Ms "Fabulous Friday" Margurite Murray. Margurite is a local business woman and salon manager of The Bay Beauty Rooms. She is a qualified beauty therapist with over 8 years experience in the beauty industry. Margurite is absolutely stunning with her blonde hair, blue eyes and flawless completion (she belongs on a Californian beach :)) She always looks effortless day or night, and is not only beautiful on the outside but also is a genuinely nice person.

Margurite is pictured below with her friend Katie and I think you'll agree they both look ultra glam. This skater style dress is from a boutique in Gorey called Ruby Rouge and is just perfect for a wedding, the black strappy heels and fascinator draws attention to the black velvet detail in the dress and this rustic colour is just beautiful on her. The make up adds to the outfit with the dark smoky eye and nude lip and her contouring is on point. I just adore the droplet earrings, a very elegant touch to the outfit. 

This blue AX Paris dress is divine on Margurite and I am obsessed with the jewellery piece, it is so unusual. I love her hair, it's casual but sleek with the side sweeping quiff showing off the neckline of this stunning dress. Very Hollywood red carpet. The red lip colour draws attention to her hair and face perfectly highlighting her  flawless makeup. 

Now this playsuit is to die for, I am officially in love xx (it's from online.ie) The pattern so simple and not overbearing. Margurites figure is amazing in this and her hair and make up compliment the outfit perfectly. In the second half of the picture again this dress is so simple but oh so beautiful and could litterally be worn anywhere, day or night and teamed up with anything, add the golden tossled hair and this look is effortless chic. The white dress is from River Island

I've asked Margurite a few questions and to give us ladies some beauty hints and tips.

What one make up or beauty tip would you give us ladies?

Always take off your make up after a night out as your skin rejuvenates whilst you sleep. Also less is more...

What's your favourite beauty product?

The Elemis Frangipani Monoi Body Oil. This product is amazing and can be used on hair, body and nails

Where is your favourite place to shop?

Zara 

What's your one favourite thing in your wardrobe?

Has to be my Aline black leather mini skirt from Oasis, it is perfect for a night out but can also be themed with a pair of black tights and a jumper for a casual look

What's next on your wish list to buy?

A pair of Manolo Blahniks

Which celebrities style do you love?

Cheryl Versini Fernandez, I've always loved her and her style

What's the best present you've ever received?

A Michael Kors bag and purse, I love them

I'm sure you will all agree Margurite looks beautiful in all her looks and I want to thank her for allowing me to feature her this week. If you guys would like to nominate a friend for next week please feel free to message me or else I will be on the hunt for the next Fabulous Friday

Luv Lisa xx

Fashion Fridays

So I've decided to do a small blog piece each Friday on fashion and I'm going to call it "fabulous friday" Rather than pick a celebrity whose style I admire I've decided to feature normal women. We all look for fashion inspiration daily, especially coming into the weekend so why not get it from some of the beauties that surround us everyday.

My very first "fabulous friday" stunner is Sharon, this tanned leggy brunette definitely looks every inch of glamour in these two outfits. Im sure you will agree she looks absolutely amazing, the tan, the hair, the make up all on point...

The red dress hugs Sharons figure perfectly and with the sleeked back hair it adds a bit of drama to this sexy ensemble. Red has always been one of my favourite colours and I think I'm even more in love with it after seeing this outfit.This number is a definite head turner and Sharon could easily be mistaken for a model or celeb.
Red dress: River Island
Shoes: New Look

I also love this second outfit, the black and tan skirt is very on season, teamed with the black top, tossled hair and strappy heels Sharon beams elegance. This outfit is a perfect day to night look and could be mixed and matched with other pieces to create different looks.
Skirt: River Island
Top: New Look
Shoes: New Look

So I had a quick catch up with  Sharon and I asked her a few questions

What's your favourite brand?
I love New Look and River Island

What beauty product could you not live without?
Definitely Clarins Beauty flash balm and coconut oil.

Who is your style inspiration?
Eva Longoria or Jennifer Anniston

What item of clothing is next on your wish list?
A pair of black over the knee suede boots from New Look

So who will be our next featured fashionista. If have a friend or someone you know of that always looks amazing and you would like to see them in next Fridays blog please send me a quick mail.

A massive thanks to Sharon for letting me write this piece.

Lisa xx