Where have I been (again)??

171 days ago was the last time I posted, pretty shameful, I know. Well here comes the excuse, 17 exams. As I am a perfectionist I felt I could only place my energy into one thing and obviously my exams took my precedent. Late nights and early mornings (5 am!!!) went into revising and a whole forest must of been cut down for the amount of paper used for revision.

However, this now means I have a nine week summer in which I can place the majority of effort into my blog (of course my school couldn't leave me completely work free and have set me a tonne of summer work) and I have been so excited to do this.

I thought I would leave this post rather brief and as a 'hey, i'm back. I am still alive!' kind of post and to say to expect lots of exciting new content this summer!

Em x

Top hashtags for beauty bloggers on instagram

I have recently re-disovered instagram and have created an account entirely dedicated to my blog to try to increase blog traffic from other social media. (Cheeky self promo alert) You can check it out @emmasworld___ .

My first job was creating a theme for my instagram page which I decided as a white, minimalist theme with photos mainly based around make-up products instead of 'selfies.' When creating your theme I suggest looking at other instagram pages and use them as an influence. Sticking to a theme is difficult but it makes your overall page look neater and cleaner.

The second job was getting my page noticed and instagram is great for this due to the hashtags, but sometimes deciding which ones to tag in photo and which ones would be suitable to your theme to optimize traffic can prove quite challenging . I looked at other pages and what hashtags they had used and  made an overall list of hashtags which are best for beauty and fashion photos, copy and paste this for your photos and watch your likes and followers increase:

#flashesofdelight #whiteaddict #flatlay #onthetable #thatsdarling #whitestyle #mystoryinwhite #desksituation #whyteworks #whiteinframe #fromabove #finditliveit #makeupmess #keepitwild #liveauthentic #minimal #fashionblogger #beautyblogger

Sometimes tagging brands which feature in your photos is also a great idea, for example if I had a Naked pallet in the photo I would #urbandecay and tag Urban Decay in the photo.

What hashtags do you think are best for optimizing likes on photos?

4 goals for 2016

A more organised blog: Blogging is a hobby that I love and hope to expand my blog further which means becoming a more organised blogger.

How I am going to achieve this: Last year I went through phases where I posted in masses then had a blogger burnout or was too busy to post anything. This year (fingers crossed) I am going to stick to a schedule of two posts a week on Wednesday and Saturday, no more, no less. This means I will have to plan ahead and I have already purchased myself the Kate Spade planner which I adore, by having something pretty to work with I am more likely to actually keep it up. I am also going to make sure I write posts in advance so if I do have a busy week I will have posts already prepared. Also, to help with planning my blog posts I have printed off some blog planner pages, I found these free pintable's on pinterest and you can find any to suite your needs on there. Blogging is my passion, I love the photography and relationships which you can build in the process, I really want to make a go of this.

Use social media more: This may seem like a strange goal as many will probably try to reduce the amount of time they are staring at their phone. For me, I want to use social media to help progress my blog. Instagram is something which I have once again fallen in love with as I can showcase my love for photography which is becoming a hobby, (a cheeky self promo) but I would love it if you check out my instagram here.

How I am going to achieve this: For this I am going to try and photograph in bulks (even though it is hard at the moment as we are in the Winter, darn you darkness) which means posting photos on instagram will be easier as I will have a bank of them. On my weekly blog planner I have a section to plan out social media activity which means I can organise it more efficiently. I am also going to research into pinterest more as I am still not entirely sure on how it works and I think this is a great platform for bloggers to use.

Become healthier: Now this is a common one and I don't know how I am going to manage this one as today (being the first of January) have already scoffed a piece of cake, some remaining celebrations and half a hotel chocolate slab! Last year I managed to lose just under 2 stone in half a year which I was happy with (then I put the majority of it back on in the over half of the year)! Last year I started around the 16th of January and I am planning to do the same this year.

How I am going to achieve this: This for me is quiet hard to plan out as the main thing is motivation and will power. However, for me, following account on instagram of people with healthy lifestyles really helps as they inspire me to be a healthier, fitter person. Also, by filling my fridge with healthy food which I like is a massive help as I am likely to swap sweet treats for healthy treats.


Achieve well academically: This is the year in which I will be taking my GCSE's and choosing my sixth form options so of course I want to achieve well in my GCSE's as they will play a key role in my future. I am aiming for 7 A*'s overall an I have fortunately already achieved 4 last year.

How I am going to achieve this: The obvious answer to this is to revise. But how? I am going to map out revision to fit in with my schedule and have a process of creating resources, remembering the key details by revising the facts and practising the knowledge in past papers. I am also going to attend support sessions to receive help from my teachers.

 I am hoping this will lead to a successful year. *Fingers crossed*

What are your goals for this upcoming year?

Top things to do in London this winter

 

With London being my city and my favourite place I created a quick and easy travel guide for the tourist, shopper or cake enthusiast to point out some of my favourite places in London!

Places to eat/drink:

London is a large place and even with lots of transport systems you find yourself doing a lot of walking which makes your feet ache (I am using any excuse here for a piece of cake!) so here is a selection of quaint cafes, ambient restaurants and lively bars:

Draughts: A café which offers usual foods such as cheese boards and brownies but with an unusual twist! Draughts is a library of over 500 board games where you can sit, eat and drink to your heart’s content whilst challenging a fellow coffee sipper to a game.

Nearest tube station is Haggerton.

Sushi Tetsu: If you are a sushi enthusiast like me then you will love London as it is a sushi hub with a sushi bar around every corner. Sushsi Tetsu is a small sushi bar located near Aylesbury Street. It specialises in sushi and sashimi, the small restaurant creates a contrast the busy rush of the London streets and provides the place to relax and enjoy your dining.

Nearest tube station is Barbican

The Goring Hotel: This is a beautiful hotel which you may have heard of because it is where Kate Middleton was prepared before her wedding to Prince William. I was fortunate enough to indulge in an afternoon tea here which was delicious. If you book in advance you have the whole afternoon to enjoy unlimited teas, sandwiches and cake and to take a leisurely stroll around the gardens perimeter. Afternoon tea is perfect after a morning shop or theatre trip!

Nearest tube station is Victoria

Tanya’s café: If you are looking to stay healthy when in London then try Tanya’s café; a cafe which offers drinks, mains and treats made from raw food. The innovative store will help you feel good on the inside and fuel you for a busy day ahead.

Nearest tube station is Pelham street

The Rainforest café: I remember visiting this restaurant when I was younger. This is designed as a rainforest where you are surrounded by majestic animals and greenery- an amazing atmosphere! Popular foods such as pasta, salads and bbq chicken are served here.

Nearest tube station is Piccadilly circus

Shopping

If you are wanting a shopping trip London is the best place, with a selection of luxury, famous or traditional stores London has an item for every shopper; (even my Dad manages to find something) here are some of my favourite shopping locations:

Harrods: The most famous department store as it is the largest in Europe with over 330 departments. My favourite section is tied between the make-up and the chocolate department! However, the toy department still has a place in my heart as I remember how enchanting it was when I was younger! The Egyptian theme area is also very special due to the mesmerizing decorations.  

Nearest tube station is Knightsbridge

Oxford/Bond/Regent street: The three famous green streets which everyone fights over in Monopoly! These three streets provide the perfect shopping experience with basically every store needed scattered along the streets. Some of my favourite picks are Selfridges and the three floor Lush.

Nearest Tube station is Bond street/Oxford Circus

Covent Garden: If you are looking for a bit of everything Covent Garden is great ranging from older, traditional stores such as Mr Simms Olde sweet shop to more famous brands such as Apple and Mac. Whilst walking around the shops (inside and out) you will be entertained by a number of street artists or you can even take a trip to the Royal Opera house or Transport museum!

Nearest tube station Covent Garden

Camden Market: If you are looking for a different approach to shopping try Camden; these streets are lined with the most creative and unique stores. If you feel your haggling skills are up to date then try to earn a deal in the stalls; or if you’re feeling very brave try a different dish as there is an array of cuisines which are set up in the streets. Camden has one of the quirkiest atmospheres in London and is a great option to try a different style of shopping!

Nearest tube station Camden town

Top Attractions:

The London Eye: I have only been on the London Eye during the day but I have heard the night time experience is even more magical, with majestic views of London illuminated at night.  The eye gives you a 30 minute tour of London and the different angles give you different views of the city. If you are willing to battle the queues then visiting on New Year’s Eve will be truly magical as you can view the scenes whilst watching fireworks and seeing in the new year.

Nearest tube station is Waterloo

London Dungeons: These have been recently renovated and has added many new scenes but also kept some old favourites like the end drop ride. Here you learn about the gruesome history of England under different kings and queens reigns and about the times of Sweeney Todd and Jack the Ripper. The actresses and actors are superb and make the experience extremely realistic.

Nearest tube station is Waterloo

The British Museum: My family and I are currently organising a trip to the British Museum as we have never visited but we have been encouraged after watching the latest night of the museum film. Also, in my travel guide (which I received for Christmas), The British Museum ranks number 15 on places to visit in the World!

 

Nearest tube station is Tottenham Court Road

West End: London provides an excellent range of theatres and there is one to suite everybody, here are a selection of some of my favourites:

·         The Lion King

·         Wicked

·         Mamma Mia

·         Grease

·         Charlie and the chocolate factory

·         The Woman in black

 

 

To organise your trip use Eventbrite where you can manage, customise and sell tickets to your own event.

 

Luxurious gifts for that someone special

We all have those people in our lives who we want to show a bit of appreciation and go a full out splurge on but sometimes it is hard to decide what items are worth spending the cash on. Here is a full blown out list of some items which I think would be great for that extra special somebody.

Hourglass ambient lighting pallet £65

This is the beauty rave of the year and I am sure the majority of beauty lovers would really appreciate opening this on Christmas day; I should know as it is on my list!

Benefit You`re So Party £39.50

This is a great gift set for teenage girls who love Benefit make-up; it contains some of Benfits most popular pieces including: they`re real! mascara, hoola bronzing powder, the POREfessional mini and an ultra plush lip gloss mini in hoola. These items will be great for the upcoming party season!

Clarins Eau Dynamisante Collection - Wake-Up Treats £32

 

I usually find Clarins is a brand which slightly more mature women like as I know my mum is a sucker for Clarins. This gift includes a selection of: The Eau Dynamisante Spray 100ml, The Eau Dynamisante Moisturizing Body Lotion 100ml and The Eau Dynamisante Shower Gel 50ml.

L' Occitane Sparkling Verbena Collection £49

L’Occitane gifts are perfect for those nearest and dearest as they have a selection of beautifully pre-wrapped gifts (to save you the tedious task)! This gift here includes their: eau de toilette, shower gel, body lotion, extra-gentle soap and cooling hand cream gel; it is also in their most recent and my personal favourite scent ‘Verbena’!

Jo Malone Candle  £42

All of Jo Malone's items are luxurious but a candle which really caught my attention was the Almond and macaroon one which I then pointed out to my mum which she then added to her list (great!)

Molton Brown Hand Wash Bauble £11

These must be Molton Brown's best sellers as they are extremely festive: a beautifully packaged bauble with a luxurious hand wash! This year they have released a limited edition fragrance of Elderflower.

My Christmas list

It's that time of year where you are having to send your Christmas wish list off to Father Christmas (your parents are frantically running around departments) and yet it is completely blank. For those of you struggling I thought I would share my little long list with you:

One treasured piece on my wish list is the Chanel Illusion D'ombre Long wear Luminous eye shadow (a bit of a mouthful )which is a beautiful burgundy colour, I spotted this beauty in House of Fraser with my mum and it was a matter of 'who saw it first' on to who got to write it on their Christmas list. In fact I went a bit Chanel crazy (poor parents) and my list also included le crayon yeux precision eye definer in gold and Le vernis nail colour in rouge noir.

I'm not really a massive reader (except of blog posts) and have only actually read one book this year (which is gone girl by Gillian Flynn and I highly recommend it) but I managed to include some books into my list, even if they are not the usual novel. I love the quirky books in Urban Outfitters and I have asked for the 'Lonely Planet Best Place To Be Today' book because as you know I am a bit of a travel junkie. Urban outfitters just about has a book for everyone there whether you are a nutella addict or looking for a joke about cheese, cant guarantee there would be a book for you. Another book I have asked for, which is admittedly is very childish and I am wayyy too embarrassed to go and buy the book myself, is the Diary of a Wimpy Kid 'Old school,' these books make me laugh too much and I was in stiches with the last one. They are probably 10 years below my reading age group but oh well!

Clothes wise I don't really trust anybody with buying me pieces but I have added a pair of top shop's black jeans to my list. I love the Joni style of jeans and (much to my family's disapproval) picked up a pair of the ripped ones a few months ago. I only own two pairs of comfortable jeans so I thought it would be the time to invest in another pair.

Some things which I am way behind the time with and I have finally caught up on and have slipped into my list is the Urban Decay setting spray and Naked 2 pallet. I have never owned a Naked palette and I didn't want to jump straight in with the latest 'Smokey eye' pallet as admittedly I am rubbish at a Smokey eye. I felt the naked 2 best fitted my preference of a nude, goldy toned eye. Another major blogger make-up item is the hourglass blushes, bronzers and ambient lighting edit. I have asked for the mood exposure blush as I think it is a beautiful, subtle, plum colour.

Anyway, that about rounds up the main items on my list, I hope they gave you ideas, moreover, I would love to hear your items which you have asked for Christmas so I can sneakily add some more to mine!

Winter blog post ideas

Christmas is the best time to go all out on your blog posts and to add some festivity to them, however it sometimes reaches the point where the lazy evenings get to us and we all lose that spark of writing; so I wrote a list to act as a little inspiration for what to write about during the winter season. Some of the posts I have left open to interpretation so you can add your own touch to it.

Gift ideas:

• Luxury Christmas gift ideas
• Christmas gifts for under £20
• Gifts for Secret Santa
• Beauty gift ideas
• Gifts guide for specific group (age, gender or relation)
• My Christmas wish list
• Stocking present ideas
• Gift buying on a budget
• Round up of your favourite stores gifts
• The best shop for gifts
• Gifts to avoid
• Overall gift guide
• Selection of edible gifts (because everybody loves food)
• Presents for a pet
• How to avoid overspending
• Giving to those without this season

Food:

• Favourite Christmas recipes
• Baking ideas for Christmas
• Step-to-step on a Christmas recipe
• Party food ideas/ favourite recipes for a dinner party
• Traditional Christmas recipes
• Try to make a Christmas recipe healthy (good luck trying)

Beauty:

• Christmas day make-up
• Christmas inspired colours nails
• Skin care during the winter
• Hairstyles for Christmas parties
• Winter pamper evening
• Festive flagrancies for your body 

Fashion:

• Winter essentials
• Winter look book
• Christmas day outfit
• Trends which will be massive this winter
• Predicted trends for 2016 (sounds scary to say 2016)
• Top tips on boxing day sale shopping
• Christmas accessories

DIY:

• Home made Christmas cards
• Home made Christmas decorations
• Gift wrapping ideas

Home:

• Christmas decorations
• Best Christmas décor shops
• Christmas room tour
• Collection of the best winter candles/ incenses
• Winter interiors  
• How to decorate a small space
• How to make your home festive on a budget

October Favourites

So I actually forgot that it was the end of the month even though Halloween is a big event which signifies this event. This month has been a complete blue, I think this is partly because I was away in Germany and Poland, anyway these are my favourite products this month:

As I had broken up from school my nails were allowed a little bit of colour so I reached for this KIKO nail polish in Taupe. I absolutely adore the brand KIKO as they have the most reasonably priced make-up, unfortunately there is only a few stores in the country but luckily one has opened near me! I love subtle nail colours and this shade was perfect, it is a feminine, sophisticated colour and the formula of the nail polish leaves a shiny nail and I received many compliments over the course of my trip in Berlin.

Removing my make-up is the absolute bane of my life (and I guess many others!) Luckily the Micellar cleansing water (which I had already heard many good comments about) makes this task a little less troublesome. It is a simple formula, good for even the most sensitive skin, and removes make-up so easily leaving your skin feeling clean. Unfortunately the only area this cleanser struggles in is the eye area and that is when the CLARINS eye make up remover is a gem. This leaves my eyes clean and refreshed ensuring  have no panda eyes in the morning!

At the end of the month my mum bought me a new fragrance from PINK. I have found myself giving myself a sprtiz of this scent everyday as it is very poignant and floral. I love PINK perfumes as they are all high quality and this one matches, if not tops, all of the others.

Finally is the cranberry face mask from LUSH. In the Autumnal months I always try to take better care of my skin and in the realisation that I had some pores I popped into lush and was recommended this face mask. This leaves my face feeling so clean and I have noticed a difference around my nose area, I will be doing a post on my favourite face masks so watch out for that where I will go into more detail.

What have been your favourite products this month?

The Autumn Tag

Hello, I am very excited to finally being doing a post on my favourite season AUTUMN! This is my first tag post and I would like to thank As told by Alisa who kindly nominated me to do this post, so lets go...

Ok, we're talking coffees—what's your favourite seasonal drink from Starbucks/Costa/Cafe Nero, etc?

I don't like coffee. The taste- or even the smell- is too strong for me and just overpowers my taste buds! But I like hot chocolate, can I talk hot chocolate? For me it would have to be a Costa one accompanied by one of their brownies or ginger bread muffins!

Accessories—what do you opt for: scarf, boots, or gloves?

I would have to go for boots for this one as I am not a massive fan of layering myself up too much. I think boots are an absolute staple for Autumn and I own two pairs which I know will be worn for all of these upcoming months; a little black pair with mini heels for everyday shopping and a pair of timberlands for Autumn walks, e.t.c.

Music—what's your favourite music to listen to during autumn?

Being completely honest I am still trying to get over the end of Glee and I the only songs I have really been listening to Glee versions. However, over the last few weeks, after seeing Christmas decorations in shops, I have started listening to some Christmas songs to get into the spirit early!

Perfume—what's your favourite scent for this time of year?

I usually don't change up my scents throughout the year and just purchase new perfumes when I run out or there is a new product on the moment. Currently I am using the Chloe mini perfumes which I purchased in the summer (in duty free)!

Candles—what scents will you be burning this season?

I love burning candles in the Autumn as it creates a warm, pre- Christmas atmosphere. My most recent candle which I have been burning is cinnamon brulee, I love the cinnamon smell but sometimes it is a bit overpowering so the cinnamon brulee flavour by Langleys home adds a sweetness to the smell and makes the aroma of the room smell like you have just been baking cakes! Another candle flavour which is on my wish list (and yes a candle wish list does exist) is pumpkin spice as this is properly festive for Halloween.

What do you love most about autumn?
 
Everything! I adore Autumn and it is by far my favourite season! I love arriving home and going inside to the warm from the chilly outside; the leaves which cover the ground and the whole lead up to Christmas! Overall, in my opinion, Autumn is such as cosy season and I am often inside with wooly socks, snug in a dressing gown and eating some Autumn themed treats.

Favourite makeup look?

During Autumn I love to embrace the seasonal colours and style a gold, bronzey eye. I also wear a lot of dark reds and purples on the lip, the colours which I love to wear are in my Autumn lips post (cheeky self-promo there!)

What are you looking forward to the most in autumn?

Something which has come round so quickly is my Berlin trip with the school. I love school trips as it is a time to go away with friends and this Berlin to Poland trip has been planned for over a year. The trip will be a mixture of fun from being with my friends but also great sadness and reflection as we go to visit Auschwitz and the Berlin wall. I certainly can imagine this will be an extremely moving experience.

I hope everyone enjoys there Autumn and I nominate Ela from Ela Bella World! Hopefully I will be doing a Winter tag soon!

Where have I been?

Firstly, I believe I owe everyone a MASSIVE apology for being absent for a month. I had my schedule planned around school for when I went back however, when I went back the work just overwhelmed me and I was slightly surprised for it to be announced that I had mocks for the rest of my GCSE's which I will embark on taking in the summer. I then felt very unprepared and stressed, I had to dedicate all my time to revision and if I am honest I think it was MATHS which took all my time (further maths is the hardest subject I have taken so far!)

You may now be asking if I will be able to handle my blog still, and the answer is YES! The main reason I created my blog was for an escape and because I love writing, I think I just got a little side-tracked.

To ensure that I am posting regularly I am going to try and set a goal amount of posts a week, a great starting point I thought would be two posts per week. This way I am posting content frequently but giving myself enough time to write good quality posts (which is of course the main idea.)

I would like to thank those who will continue with me on this journey and to say I hope you enjoy a slightly better organised me!

August favourites

August has whizzed past even though it feels like my holiday was months! I am so excited for my favourite season Autumn and I guess it wont be long before we see Christmas decorations on the shelves (I already saw some Christmas tree and snowman cake toppings in Sainsbury's!) Anyway, on with the items which I have loved this month:



Benefit High beam has slipped into my hands this month as I have tried to catch on with the strobing/highlighting trend this summer. I also tried Benefits watts up but I preferred this product as the application is a lot easier and because it is a liquid formula the highlighter blends easier. This highlighter lives up to the name of being a highlighter however  my goal for September is to get my hands on the Becca champagne pop which is so highly recommended. Another beauty item which I have been enjoying this summer is a recent purchase from Bourjois and is their  from their colorband line. This product can either be used as an eye shadow, which is why I originally purchased it, or an eye liner which I have been loving to use it as. The only eyeliner colour which I have ever used is the traditional black but as I love a bronze eye I have been applying a lot. I am absolutely rubbish with eyeliner but I can miraculously apply this eyeliner in an okayish way.

Following my trip to Oxford street lush I have found a new favourite shower gel which is The Comforter. I have already used the bubble bar flavour the comforter and I adore the berry fragrance so I already knew this would top my list of shower gels.

This month I have really caught the Great British Bake Off fever (which on that note is a TV favourite) but following my love for the show I have been getting my bake on a lot more. This led me to purchase the Lola's cupcake recipe book in hope that I could sculpture some of their cupcakes. I really love this recipe book as it has pictures of each cupcake and I do love images in a book as a visual aid. The book contains some of the most adventurous recipes from Oreo cupcakes to chocolate tray bakes-it really is a cupcake addicts delight!

Nearing the autumnal months I thought I would invest in a candle with a warm, baking fragrance and I am in love with this scent, it has been so hard to resist not to crack it open now! Here I have the Vanilla cinnamon brulee flavour by the company Langley's home. This flavour is a twist on cinnamon and smells like I have just been baking cupcakes! The brand is really affordable as well as for this candle which would be £25 in Yankee candle I managed to purchase for £5.99!

In the shock realisation that I am going back to school in less than a week I went for a bit of stationary shop- the only thing which makes going back a little more bearable! I came across these pastel Sharpies which I really don't need but I thought just looked really pretty! I have seen so many shades of sharpies but never in these pastel colours, I probably won't use them for ages but at least I will always have them in my pen pot. Also, Sharpie is such as trustable brand for markers, even if you cannot write on the other side of the page!

Now for a clothing favourite which is these espadrilles from Superdry. These are my first ever pair of espadrilles and I managed to pick them up in the sale! The colour goes with all my clothes and they are just so casual and comfy! They are so flexible as I could pair them with jeans or a skirt.

Saving the best to last, my final favourite is Glee Season 6, it makes me want to cry that it is the final season and I am already on episode ten:( I love the music, characters, EVERYTHING about this show and I think I am going to have to do another post on my love of glee otherwise I will just ramble on about my love of glee forever!

What products have been your favourite in August?

DSLR camera for beginner bloggers

For a while I have been debating whether to invest in a decent DSLR camera as spending that much money on a camera would mean me making a major commitment to blogging. I then came across the issue on whether I would even be able to use proper DSLR camera as they just look like a load of buttons which control lots of settings, if I am honest I just wanted a camera which when I clicked on a button, magically, an amazing blogworthy photo would appear! So summed up I was a complete beginner photographer (who doesn't even know how to attach a lens to a camera) who wanted a camera which produced high quality photos, with little complications and was willing to spend around the £300 benchmark.

The camera research then commenced and I was immediately launched into the Nikon vs Canon debate as the brand which you start up with is the brand which you stay with as lenses(which are never outdated) only fit onto one brands camera models. In the end all the technical terms which is each blog/review site was using confused with and I simply just went onto my favourite bloggers accounts to see whether they used a Canon camera or a Nikon camera(I know technical!) Overall it tallied up that most of my favourite bloggers used a Canon camera- so Canon it was!

I went to Curry's for the final browse and decided that the best candidate was the Canon 1200d, I think it was the part in the description which screamed at me 'GREAT FOR FIRST TIME DSLR USER!' There was the two options for either the 1200d with the 18-55mm lens (which it always comes with) which was £279 or the slightly more expensive canon  1200d with the usual 18-55mm lens and the 70-300mm lens which was £363. I decided to bite the bullet and choose the latter as I realised that lenses on their own are around £100 at the cheapest so buying another lens now _even if I do not use it immediately) would probably save me money in the long run and I somehow managed to purchase the bundle for £330 anyway. Alongside this I had to purchase a memory card which I had no idea I needed to do until the shop assistant showed me (I told you I was a complete beginner!) I ended up purchasing this PNY 32 GB which would apparently hold up to 4000 photos.

http://www.currys.co.uk/gbuk/cameras-and-camcorders/digital-cameras/dslr-and-compact-system-cameras/canon-eos-1200d-dslr-camera-with-18-55-mm-telephoto-zoom-lens-22001914-pdt.html

http://www.currys.co.uk/gbuk/cameras-and-camcorders/digital-cameras/dslr-and-compact-system-cameras/canon-eos-1200d-dslr-camera-with-18-55-mm-f-3-5-5-6-zoom-lens-70-300-mm-f-4-5-6-dg-telephoto-zoom-lens-with-macro-10132477-pdt.html

http://www.currys.co.uk/gbuk/cameras-and-camcorders/photography-accessories/memory-cards-and-readers/pny-turbo-performance-class-10-sd-memory-card-32-gb-10132838-pdt.html

All I needed to do once the camera was unboxed was to check out the app and watch a couple of youtube videos on how to apply a lens then after half an hour I was already up and taking photographs. The camera has the automatic setting to automatically apply the correct lighting/ focus to the scene you are in, then it has other settings best for moving photos, close up photos, the flash setting then the portrait setting. The camera also has the option to create videos and for when you become more experienced with your camera and want to adventure out there is the manual settings where you can adjust the focus yourself, e.t.c. This camera basically does the work for you, so for beginners like me this is a great investment. Here is some photos I took on the same day that I unboxed the camera, here I am displaying them against the iPhone 5s which we can appreciate that it has a good camera installed:

DSLR camera

 

iPhone 5s

 

 

DSLR camera

iPhone 5s camera

 

 

DSLR camera

iPhone 5s camera

A day trip to London

Considering I live in Kent I think it is pretty shameful that I only visit London twice a year and I have still only visited few of Londons spectacular sights.























On my latest visit to the capital my family and I visited the new and improved London Dungeons which was a fun visit. I usually find places like this boring but credits due to the staff who are amazing actors and actresses and actually make the information interesting. I didn't find any of it too scary but I was always kept at the edge of my seat (especially at the Sweeney Todd part!) The rides were amusing even though I did have to go on the last one alone as the rest of my family chickened out. My only complaint is that the queue to get in is really deceiving, you think you are at the end of the queue go through some doors and queue again, get your photo taken then queue again, go down a lift then queue again- so basically be prepared to stand!

We then popped along to Pret to have lunch and these are not a rare sight in London with one around every corner. Afterwards we joined the queue to the London eye which I had not ever been on before, this queue was not as deceiving as London dungeons and what I thought on appearance would be a two hour queue was actually only forty minutes and is constantly moving. I was extremely delighted to find a sweet stand right at the end and I think my family was happy too as I stopped complaining! We were quite surprised to have to get on the moving pod but once you are on you hardly feel as if you are moving. From a distance I thought that the eye would be an hour long but it only really lasted for 20 minutes and once you are up high it doesn't seem too bad (and this is coming from someone who has a fear of heights!) I would definitely ride the London eye again but I would like to experience it at night.

What is a visit to London without Oxford street? Unfortunately I could only visit one shop as my Dad was refusing to waste his London visit 'pointlessly' shopping. However I chose well and paid an over due visit to Lush Oxford Street which, with three floors and its only mini spa, I do believe is the largest in the world. However I think my purchases will have to wait for another post!

 

 

Thank you for reading, what are your favourite places to visit in London?

My phone in apps

-The socials

• Twitter
• Youtube
• Facebook
• Pinterest
• Instagram
• Snapchat
• Edmodo(a 'learning' app so that we can stay connected with school all the time!)
• Whatsapp

-The necessities

• Trip advisor
• Daily mail
• Mail online
• Google
• G-mail
• Google maps

-Photography

• Whitagram
• Pic collage
• Photo editor

-Blog related

• Blogger
• Bloglovin
• Google analytics

-The 'fun ones'

• Two dots
• Covet
• Tapped out
• Icon pop quiz
• Game of life
• Montezuma blitz
• Flappy bird (that ones a keeper)
• Dad trigger
• Quiz up

-The randoms

• Followers +
• Britain's got talent 2015
• Be my eyes
• Nutracheck

Yes that is a crack on my phone:/

Inspiration (10 things)

Writers block. The dreaded fear of all bloggers, can't think, can't write, can't blog. Lately I have been a victim to writers block and here are some of the things which I do to re-inspire myself and get typing.

 

1. Take a walk, stroll, plod- whichever pace suits you really! I find taking myself away from the laptop and into an new environment gives me a new thinking space.
2. Listen to music- We all have different music that suits us best but I find typing in 'relaxing music' into youtube and listening to those tranquillizing songs takes me to a paradise where I can unwind.
3. Read other blog posts- I am not saying STEAL their ideas but they can always prompt new and might I say better ideas.
4. Take a shower- Legend has it that your best ideas come to you when you are showering.
5. Unplug- Sometimes all the blog posts, tweets and dare I say those beach pictures on instagram wont help cure that writers blog. Take yourself away from your phone, laptop, the 21st century and allow and empty mind, then there is free space for new ideas!
6. Take a nap-You may just be tired?
7. Eat-Any excuse to eat is good really so we will use a writers block as one excuse.
8. Talk to someone-Sometimes we gain inspiration from others.
9. Go shopping- This would especially help if you are a beauty blogger as you may just find that product which is dying to have a review written about it.
10. Read inspirational quotes-They do help. Period. Here I will leave you with one:

 

 

What helps you best when you have a writers block?

July favourites 2015

So it has come to the end of July which means it is time to write a post on newly discovered products which I have been loving this month-enjoy!

-Hollister low rise denim shorts- I was in desperate need for a pair of shorts this summer and I was fortunate enough that when I went into Hollister their shorts were in the sale. I loved the ripped effect of these shorts so I snatched them up at a bargain price of £20.
http://www.hollisterco.com/shop/uk/bettys-shorts-sale/hollister-low-rise-boyfriend-shorts-4064070

-Urban outfitters top- I thought this top would be a perfect match for my new shorts and it was also in the sale section, from £26 to £12. It is very light and would be great in the hot weather, the white colour also means it would match most of my clothes.
http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/uk/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=5747441499852&category=SALE-WOMENS-EU

-Maybelline eraser eye concealer-I purchased this product under the wise words of Gabriella (VelvetGh0st) as I felt like my No7 concealer kept on creasing underneath my eyes. When I went to boots they only had the nude shade so I took the plunge and I purchased it. The concealer was a good recommendation as it blends easily with my makeup and did not crease, it was a bit dark and I would have preferred the 'light' shade but for summer 'nude' is good as I would be wearing a more bronzed face.
http://www.boots.com/en/Maybelline-Eraser-Eye-Concealer_1321843/

-Garnier summer body lotion- This has probably been my favourite product of the month, I really wanted to get a tanned look without spending the time of sunbathing and I was too scared to use a fake tan. This product is a 2 in 1 as it adds a buildable natural looking tan and also moisturises skin so I don't have to have two separate products.
http://www.boots.com/en/Garnier-Summer-Body-Lotion-Deep-Sun-Kissed-400ml_1116007/

-Virgin Mojito shower gel-Virgin mojito is body shop's new fragrance, it is a mixture between mint and lime and is a perfect summer scent, the aroma reminds me of lime starburst! However this is a limited addition fragrance so I will have to stock up on the shower gel before they are discontinued.
http://www.thebodyshop.co.uk/bath-body-care/new-in.aspx#/new-in.aspx

-Crescent bay Hollister spray- This spray has currently been my summer fragrance and is a floral scent.
http://www.hollisterco.com/shop/uk/girls-body-care-fragrance/cresent-bay-mist-4115069_01

-Citrus Verbena Haircare duo- L'occtaine en provenance relased their new fragrance which is the citrus verbena, as in the name it is a citrusy scent and is perfect for the summer months. The bright yellow colour represents the bright, zingy flavour and I decided to purchase the fragrance in form of hair care products.
http://uk.loccitane.com/citrus-verbena-fresh-conditioner,83,1,39615,753349.htm?newversion=true&=#s=29793

-Special K cereal bar milk chocolate- I decided to add a food favourite into this post as these bars have proved a nice healthy snack. I often have them in the evening as a healthy replacement to a chocolate bar.

-Real techniques brushes- So there has been much hype over the real techniques and  my only product was the powder brush so I decided to purchase the eye brushes to help me with detail on my eye make up. I have not really used them so far as I am so scared to get them dirty but I think they will be my new staple eye brushes.

What has been your favourite products in July?

Summer playlist 2015

Whether you are relaxing on a sunbed by the sea or on a picnic blanket in your garden a summer playlist is always essential in the months of July and August. Here are some of my favourite song picks for the summer, some being recent releases and others being past  summer time favourites:

• Taylor swift-Bad blood
• Birdy-Wings
• David Guetta-Hey mama
• Zedd (feat Selena Gomez)-I want you to know
• Alesha Dixon-The way we are
• Walk the moon-Shut up and dance
• One republic-If I lose myself
• Taylor Swift-Style
• Zedd-Clarity
• Mr Probz-Waves
• Wiley-Can you hear me
• Bastille-No scrubz
• Naughty boy(feat Sam Smith)-Lalala
• Icona Pop-I love it
• Foxes-Youth
• Sara Bareilles- Brave
• The royal concept-On our way
• American Authors-Best Day of my life
• Peter Gabriel-Heroes
• Pitbull-Timber

What are your favourite songs to listen to in the summer?

Bee happy

<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/13953173/?claim=p8c4yuzuk66">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>

 

 

I was fortunate enough to receive this little bundle of items as a gift for my birthday. Bath bombs always are a treat for me and as I have never used a lush shampoo I was eager to use all of these delights. I am also a massive fan of the packaging(wrapping with bees on it) as I can re use for other people's presents. I thought I would share my opinions of these products with you:

-Fairly traded honey- As I previously mentioned I have never used a lush shampoo before and therefore this 'honey' shampoo was certainly a good one to start with. As you can probably guess one of the ingredients in the shampoo is honey and I think this gives it a honey/caramel scent. I was surprised at how sparingly I had to use this product as one crisp size amount is enough to create a large lather.

-Honey bee- This bath bomb contained aloe Vera and therefore I left my water with my skin feeling smooth like silk. It made my bath water yellow and had a very light scent. I was surprised that when I exited the bath there bomb left what looked like sand in my bath, nevertheless it was a great spring like bath bomb.