Dear 15 Year Old Me

Back in July the lovely Jennie nominated me to do the ‘Dear 15 Year Old Me’ tag. The idea is you think of an answer for each of the five prompts that your 15 year old self would appreciate and give advice you wish you had heard when you were younger. The tag was originally started by Everyday Magic With Jubilee and Mom Life With Chiari.

Rules:

• Post the tag and image above
• Mention the creators of the tag and link back to their blog
• Thank whoever nominated you and link back to their blog
• Nominate 5 other bloggers that you love and notify them by commenting on their latest post

1. Don’t be hard on yourself because…

You’re your own biggest critic. We are toughest on ourselves when we often don’t need that pressure. If something is not going to matter in five minutes or a month from now don’t spend time worrying and stressing about it. Those who are closest to you appreciate you for who you are.

2. The relationship you’re in…

You won’t be in relationship for a few years yet but don’t settle and worry too much, things will happen when they happen. Waiting to get into a relationship rather than forcing anything or being in a relationship for the sake of it makes you realise what you actually want and teaches you how look after yourself and treat other people. When it finally happens you will feel more grateful and it will be special.

3. You will get through this because…

You are stronger than you know! Music will always be there after a hard day too.

4. Don’t get caught up in thinking…

School life is how things will be once you have finished and left school. If you don’t feel like you fit in or you don’t enjoy each part of your day that is okay. Being independent, doing things for yourself, staying motivated and working hard will take you far.

5. These experiences will help you learn…

You are going through one of the most unpredictable times of life. Feelings change constantly, emotions are high and you’re still discovering and learning about yourself. Have hope that everything will work out how it’s supposed to. Take time, enjoy the small things, be kind to yourself and keep going.

I tag:

• Dannii
• Katie
• Rossy
• Pamela
• Cat

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What advice would you give your 15 year old self?

Follow me:

Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

The Mystery Blogger Award

I haven’t done an award post for a while despite being nominated for a few lately! I’m sorry I haven’t gotten back to those of you who have nominated me but it’s because I’ve accepted the award previously. I do want to take this opportunity to mention and thank you all though.

In no particular order:

• Blush Off the Haters
• Minats
• Ella May Garrett
• Blossom Bahar

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Last week I was nominated for The Mystery Blogger Award by Faded Rouge – thanks a bunch for thinking of me!

Rules:

• Put the award logo/image on your blog.
• List the rules.
• Thank whoever nominated you and provide a link to their blog.
• Mention the creator of the award and provide a link as well.
• Tell your readers 3 things about yourself.
• You have to nominate 10 – 20 people.
• Notify your nominees by commenting on their blog.
• Ask your nominees any 5 questions of your choice; with one weird or funny question.
• Share a link to your best post(s).

“Mystery Blogger Award” is an award for amazing bloggers with ingenious posts. Their blog not only captivates; it inspires and motivates. They are one of the best out there, and they deserve every recognition they get. This award is also for bloggers who find fun and inspiration in blogging; and they do it with so much love and passion.”

– Okoto Enigma

3 Things About Myself:

1. I have thought about starting a YouTube channel but I don’t know where I’d find the time. Plus, I’d be super camera shy!
2. I prefer buying physical copies of CDs rather than buying music digitally.
3. I enjoy seeing the reaction on people’s faces when I’ve done something nice for them.

My Best Posts:

1. Review: MAC Patisserie Lipstick
2. 30 Day Squat Challenge
3. Rimmel Match Perfection: Old vs. New

Questions I Was Asked:

1. Winter or Summer? Winter, I hate not being able to cool down.
2. Hot chocolate or tea? I don’t drink hot drinks very often but hot chocolate.
3. Earphones or headphones? I have quite a small head so I prefer earphones, the Apple ones are the best for my small ears.
4. 3 things you would take to a deserted island. (A person does not count!) Music, clothes and tools so I could keep myself occupied, warm and build things.
5. Short or long hair? On myself, long hair. Always.

I’m going to cheat and nominate anyone who wants to do this tag! I’d like you to answer the same questions I was asked.

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Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post!

Blogging Awards

I have been nominated for two separate blogging awards over the past week and I don’t like to leave it too long after being nominated before I post about them. I am always grateful to be nominated and I always enjoy reading these posts and answering the questions so I hope you do too!

First off, the lovely Dannii (A Beautiful Thing) tagged me to do the ‘Entertainer Blogger Award.’ I hadn’t heard of this one before and some of the questions are different from other tags which makes it all the more interesting.

Rules:

• Answer the questions you’ve been given.
• Nominate 12 other bloggers who are funny, inspiring and most importantly entertaining!
• Write up the rules for your nominees.
• Thank the person who nominated you and leave a link to their blog.

1. What do you hope to gain from blogging? 

Blogging started out as a way to keep my mind occupied while I was looking for a job. I wanted something I could focus on and use some creative energy at the same time. I have gained so much from blogging by way of confidence and friendship. I used to be terrified to share images of myself but now I am comfortable with it. The people I’m able to interact with make everything worthwhile, everyone is so friendly. I don’t think there is anything more I want to gain from blogging, as long as I continue to enjoy it.

2. What genre of film entertains you the most? 

I think it depends what the actual film itself is about. I quite like scary movies but then I also like classic love stories e.g. Titanic.

3. Do you consider yourself a writer, and what inspires you to write?

Not in the sense that I write novels. Having this blog makes me a writer but I’ve always seen that as a skill. Being able to write well and edit has always been one of my strengths. Writing is not something I do as a hobby and I don’t intend to become an author but I do like to write. I’m inspired by feelings and things that make me happy. If something’s hard to write about, chances are it’s not enjoyable.

4. Why did you choose your particular WordPress username? 

My WordPress name is simply my first and middle names.

5. What is your favourite book and why does it speak to you?

There’s not one book I re-read all the time but one that has stuck with me is P.S. I Love You by Cecelia Ahern. The storyline is so sweet and it’s written in such a beautiful way. Personally, I don’t think the film does the book justice and I’d advise reading the book first!

6. What is your favourite song and why does it speak to you?

There are so many songs I class as my favourites. I can’t list just one so you’re getting three:

1. Shania Twain – From This Moment On (I want this to be the first dance at my wedding).
2. Steps – Better the Devil You Know (This gives me happy childhood memories).
3. Kylie Minogue – Spinning Around (Reason as above).

7. What is your favourite photograph and why does it speak to you? 

There’s a photograph of me as a child which was taken when I was four years old. It was photo day at kindergarten and I wore my hair in plaits (with mismatching ribbons) and I wore a lemon yellow dress with butterflies all over it. I always smile when I think about that photo and it makes me think how much has happened since it was taken (in a good way). I’ve always been known as the little girl with long, red hair.

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Now onto ‘The Versatile Blogger Award’ which Gwawr (Little Girl From Wales) tagged me to do!

Rules:

• Kindly thank the person who nominated you
• Share the award on a blog post
• Divulge 7 random facts about yourself
• Finally, tag 10 bloggers with less than 1000 followers and let them know they’ve been nominated!

7 Facts About Me

1. Little things make me smile.
2. I take medication for Asthma everyday.
3. I’d much rather be cold than hot.
4. Three is my favourite number.
5. One thing I’d love to learn more about is photography.
6. I prefer Alfie to Zoella.
7. Once I’m up and awake for the day I find it very hard to fall asleep again.

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I’m going to nominate 10 bloggers and if you choose to accept, select which award you’d like to do (maybe even both!)

• Bronagh Loves
• Alice Rambles
• Me, Myself and Everything Else (Kaitlyn)
• Mrs Strawberry Blonde
• Lifestyle Bites 3
• Helpless Whilst Drying
• The Rose Quartz
• The Rose Beauty Files
• Ladies and Lace
• Faded Rouge

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Thanks again to Dannii and Gwawr for their nominations!

Behind the Scenes Tag

I was tagged by the ever so lovely Stash Matters to show you behind the scenes of my blog and allow you to get to know a bit more about me. Thank you Stashy for thinking of me!

Questions

1. What camera do you use?

I use my iPhone 5S. I have a Sony Cybershot point and shoot which I got for my birthday in 2015 and I don’t know whether the quality of the photos isn’t that great or I’m not using the right settings but my iPhone photos are better. I am actually thinking of buying a proper DSLR very soon so let me know if you have any recommendations. (I’m currently leaning towards the Canon 700D).

2. What editing system do you use?

Pic Monkey is my favourite! I just use the free version and if I want unique fonts or extra fonts I download them from DaFont.com for free.

3. Do you use artificial or natural lighting?

Natural lighting. I look at what the weather is going to be like for the week ahead and mentally make note of which photos I need to take and when I’ll be able to take them. Nothing fancy.

4. What is the top item on your filming wishlist?

Probably the DSLR camera I mentioned in Question #1! I’d love to improve my skills and learn more about photography and the flip out screen would be handy for filming videos if I go down the video/YouTube route  😉

5. What is your favourite day in the week to film/write/photograph?

I don’t have a set day for taking photos, it really is dependent on the weather. When it comes to writing posts, I try to get most of that done on the weekends but since I don’t currently have a job I’ve got more free time.

6. Do you plan your posts? If so, how?

Yes I do and I use Excel. I normally plan posts about a month in advance and I post three times a week so I have a spreadsheet with the date the post will be up and the title of the post. Once the post has been published I highlight that cell. This system lets you see everything at a glance and  it’s surprising how quickly the months fill up!

Here’s an example from a few months ago:

7. How long does it take you to write and photograph a post?

It depends on the type of post. If it’s a tag post like this that doesn’t require a lot of pictures, not long at all – I’d say roughly an hour. If it’s a review and something that requires testing and swatching, a bit longer. I normally don’t swatch and then write that post straight away especially if it’s a review, I like to use the item a couple of times so I can give a more informed opinion. For example, I might swatch an eyeshadow palette on a Monday and wear different looks that week, so the post won’t be up for another week or two afterwards.

8. How many hours do you spend editing an average post?

I’d say 30 minutes or less. I like to think I’m quick and accurate. I edit spelling, grammar, etc. as I go. Usually I get all my thoughts out, go away for a little while and come back with a fresh set of eyes. I then spend time taking bits out and rearranging bullet points. I always preview my posts and read through them as if they were getting read aloud as it makes it easier to identify mistakes. I am a real stickler for spelling or someone not using the correct word, and editing was always one of my strengths at school.

9. Favourite types of posts to write?

Beauty in general, really. I love sharing hauls and what I’ve been buying, and I love trying out new products. I do also like more personal, honest posts sometimes, hence my Hey, It’s Okay… series.

10. Do people at your school or work know about your blog?

I didn’t have my blog when I was at school but some of my friends know about it. I didn’t tell people at my old work that I have a blog but my new boss who took over the business found it.

11. What is your process of thinking of a blog idea?

At the start, I used to blog on the fly and if I had an idea I’d post about it then. At the start I also didn’t have a focus on beauty and I blogged about anything. Once I decided to post three days a week I started getting into a better routine and I haven’t managed to run out of post ideas yet. It’s a good idea to have a series or two on your blog so your readers can expect regular posts. There are a ton of post idea lists out there on Pinterest and Bloglovin’ if you’re ever stuck and some of the time inspiration comes from your fellow bloggers. There’s not one thing that inspires a post, they happen at random times. Do note them down straight away though!

12. Do you feel awkward filming in front of other people or in public?

I don’t normally photograph anything in public but I have got my phone out to take a picture of something (not blog related) before and I didn’t feel awkward. If you feel awkward maybe ask a friend to assist you so you’re not on your own and you can bounce ideas off of them.

13. Do you and your blogging friends plan out posts together?

I have done a few collaboration posts before (HERE and HERE) and they are a lot of fun! I used to run a blog series called Meet the Blogger where I would interview one blogger each week and ask them questions about them and their blogs.

One thing I’d like to do moving forward is collaborate with more bloggers. Email me or contact me through social media if you have any ideas!

14. What is your subscriber goal by the end of the year?

I genuinely mean it when I say I don’t worry about the numbers. Of course, I have little goals and milestones I’d like to reach and my next one would be to hit 1,000 followers. I don’t know that I’ll reach 1,000 before the end of the year but that’s where I’d like to be.

15. Who do you tag to do this tag next?

• Hello Kaily
• My Lip Addiction
• Lauren – British Girl In An Aussie World
• Drifting Lexi
• Lor – A Cozy Space
• Doves and Roses

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Thanks again to Stash Matters for tagging me and I hope you enjoyed reading this post!

Get To Know Me

It never fails to make me smile if I have been nominated for an award or to take part in a tag by my fellow bloggers! Last Friday, the wonderful Karen from Confetti and Curves nominated me to do answer these ‘Get To Know Me’ questions. I love reading these posts as much as I enjoy writing them and hopefully you’ll get to learn something new about me!

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What is your middle name?

Hayley.

What was your favourite subject at school?

Weirdly enough, the two I seemed to do the best in; English and Media Studies. My Media Studies teacher is one of the loveliest people and I still keep in contact with her from time to time. Writing and analysing has always been a strength of mine.

What is your favourite drink?

A little bit boring but, water – I don’t get sick of it! I also like raspberry lemonades, a capful of raspberry cordial mixed with a glass of fizzy lemonade – delicious!

What is your favourite song at the moment?

Snakehips – Cruel ft. Zayn. He’s done it again! I am absolutely loving Zayn’s solo stuff considering I’ve never been a 1D girl.

What’s your favourite food?

Crispy, golden hot chips.

What is the last thing you bought?

A new hairbrush.

Favourite book of all time?

I don’t have a particular book that I’ve read over and over again but I did really enjoy P.S. I Love You by Cecelia Ahern. I have seen the movie but I don’t think it’s anywhere near as good as the book.

What is your favourite colour?

Pink – I’m your typical girl.

Do you have any pets?

I have one cat, a little Birman girl called Tango. I did have another cat, Chase but he had to be put down a couple of years ago.

Favourite perfume?

Viva la Juicy by Juicy Couture. I have a big 100ml bottle and most of the time I only wear it if I’m going somewhere nice, it’s too special to be my everyday perfume.

Favourite holiday?

Does this mean holiday to celebrate (Christmas, Halloween etc.) or favourite holiday I’ve been on?

I have never had a holiday in my life and celebration-wise, I’d say Christmas is my favourite. I get to give presents and it’s always a time to over indulge with food.

Are you married?

No.

Have you ever been out of the country, if so how many times?

No, I’ve never been out of New Zealand. I mention this all the time, but I really really really want to go to England!

Do you speak any other language?

I took French at school for about six years and I know some Maori.

How many siblings do you have?

I have one older brother.

What is your favourite shop?

Probably The Body Shop (I’d hate to think how much I’ve spent in there) or MAC.

Favourite restaurant?

Eating out makes me anxious and I don’t do it very often. I am a fussy eater so I always like to look at a restaurant’s menu beforehand and pre-plan what I’m going to order. I’d rather have a burger from McDonalds than a fancy three course meal.

When was the last time you cried?

I actually can’t remember… I think it would have been when I lost my job about a month ago.

Favourite blog?

There’s not one person’s blog I check every single day but I try to scroll through my reader a couple of times a day so I do see your posts!

Favourite movie?

I don’t have one that I always refer to or watch whenever it’s on TV but Grease and Titanic are goodies.

Favourite TV shows?

Pretty Little Liars, F.R.I.E.N.D.S, Gimme Gimme Gimme (it’s a bit rude but it’s hilarious!), Midsomer Murders, The Chase – I could go on forever!

PC or Mac?

I’ve used both and I still have my Macbook, but currently I use a PC. I’d love to get a proper iMac and have it sitting front and centre on my desk.

What phone do you have?

An iPhone 5S and I love it! I don’t mind that I don’t have the newest model and I’m certainly not one of those people who upgrades their phone every year or so when the latest model comes out. I have genuinely never had a problem with my phone and I don’t think the battery life is bad at all, it depends what you use your phone for.

How tall are you?

Teeny tiny, 4ft 11.

Can you cook?

Kind of. I don’t do much cooking but I can nail a good brownie!

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Again, thanks so much to Karen for nominating me! I’d also like to nominate a few people of my own:

Dannii – A Beautiful Thing

 Claire – Eclairs Cares

Molly – The Rose Beauty Files

Gwawr – Little Girl From Wales

Caroline – Iridescent Places

Hope you enjoyed reading this post and reading my answers! Can’t wait to see yours!

The Miranda Sings Award

Happy Wednesday! I’m aware this month has been very award heavy but I promise this is the last award post for April and again I’d like to thank all of the lovely bloggers who have been kind enough to nominate me. Rhiannon from Smile Sweetie nominated me for The Miranda Sings Award and I really like the message behind it. It’s all about spreading positivity by listing seven things you love about yourself and then passing that onto other bloggers so they can continue the chain.

Here goes!

1. My hair! I know that it’s such a unique colour and only 2% of the world’s population have it which is pretty special.
2. My kind heart. I genuinely never want to hurt anyone and I take pride in being sweet to everybody, even if it means putting myself second.
3. My focus and determination. Whether it was at school or now at work I know what needs to be done and I just get on and do it. I’m not afraid of hard work.
4. I make the best cups of tea!
5. I am pretty awesome at bargain hunting. If you want to buy something, come shopping with me and you’ll probably get it for half off.
6. I’m an individual. I’m not like most girls and I don’t follow the crowd. I have my own interests and strong opinions and morals. I quite enjoy spending time by myself and don’t need to constantly be surrounded by other people.
7. My mind! The way I think is pretty unique and creative and not to blow my own trumpet, I am also intelligent; I did well at school. I’ve got a good memory and find it easy to retain information.

Thanks again to Rhiannon for tagging me. This is such a lovely award and I want to spread as much positivity as possible so I’m tagging EVERYBODY! ❤ Leave a link to your post in the comments!

The Beauty Blogger Tag

Hi everyone, I’ve got another tag post for you today! The lovely Sangeetha from Lifestyle Bites tagged me to do The Beauty Blogger Tag recently and today I’m answering the questions she gave me.

1. What is your key point for a successful blog?

Hard work and determination will always get you far. Also, take time to reply to comments even if it’s just a simple thank you.

2. What is your current favourite Spring makeup look?

It’s currently autumn in my part of the world but I think for spring you can’t go wrong with a light pink, shimmery eye and a bright pink lip. Actually, I love a pink lip all year round!

3. Name three branded lipsticks from your collection.

I’ll go for the three brands I own the most of: MAC, Rimmel and Revlon.

4. Do you use toner regularly and how often?

No. I’ve read mixed reviews about using toner.

5. Do you have any travel wish lists for this year?

Obviously to go to England, but that’s the same as any year! 😛

6. What are your tips on getting a pro-styled smokey eye look?

I’m still trying to master a smokey eye look myself. I think having pale skin you have to be careful and not use too much grey/black as it can look like you’ve got a bruised eye. Adding some brown into the mix warms things up a little.

7. How frequently do you clean your makeup brushes?

I aim to clean my brushes every two weeks.

8. Are you a blush or a bronzer person?

Up until recently I would have said neither. If I could only pick one to wear I would choose blush because it’s easier to find tones to suit pale skin. Blush seems harder to mess up than bronzer, you can always go over your cheeks with your foundation brush to cover up any mishaps but if you do that with bronzer you could end up looking more orange.

9. What is your take on using natural skincare products in your beauty regime?

Honestly, I don’t use any but if you do and you like using them then that’s cool.

10. What are your social media handles?

Twitter: @chanellehayley_

Instagram: Instagram.com/chanellehayley_

Pinterest: pinterest.com/chanellehayley

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I really enjoyed answering these questions and I’ve nominated seven lovely bloggers to take part in this tag if they wish to do so! Check the list below to see if you’ve been nominated and what your questions are.

Nominations:

• A Beautiful Thing
• Annie’s Beauty
• The Pink Impact
• Dannii’s Girl
• A Cozy Space
• It’s Georgia Eloise
• Face Camera Action

My Questions:

1. Favourite drugstore and high-end brand?
2. What’s your favourite makeup tool?
3. Nude lip or bold lip? Why?
4. Favourite way to relax when you’re not blogging?
5. Worst makeup item you’ve ever tried?
6. Why did you start your blog?
7. What does beauty mean to you?
8. What part of your makeup routine do you spend the most time on?
9. Name something on your beauty wishlist.
10. What’s the most expensive makeup item in your collection?

The Liebster Award

Over the past week or so I have been nominated for a few different tags and awards by my fellow bloggers and I am always incredibly grateful for any nominations I receive. Over the next two weeks I will get round to accepting all of them. I have been nominated for a few Liebster Awards in the past (1), (2), (3), (4) and I have linked them all if you’d like to have a read. Thank you so much to Dannii for nominating me for this one!

Dannii’s Questions:

1. What city or town do you currently live in?

I’m pretty sure I’ve never answered this question before because I don’t think any of you would have heard of it. I live in a city called Rotorua in New Zealand.

2. How old are you?

I turned 21 in January.

3. What is currently your favourite makeup or beauty item?

Either The Body Shop’s Shea Body Whip which I apply before I get dressed, Asia lipstick by Rimmel or Max Factor’s Excess Shimmer in Copper.

4. What has been your highlight of 2016 so far?

Probably my birthday! It was such a special day and my mum really surprised me by covering the table and lounge with presents and balloons.

5. What is your favourite holiday destination and why?

I have never been out of New Zealand before so I don’t have one. I want to go to The UK but apart from that I don’t really have anywhere else on my list at the moment.

6. Name 5 things on your bucket list?

1. Visit The UK (I’m obsessed)
2. See Kylie Minogue in concert
3. Get my license
4. Be a contestant on The Chase
5. Record an album

7. What would be your dream job?

Easy, singer! I’ve wanted to be a singer since I was 10 years old. I know so many people say that when they’re young but I genuinely have this love and passion for music that I don’t have for anything else. It’s silly, but I get emotional thinking about it. Getting to sing for a living would be a dream come true! I used to want to be an accountant, a hairdresser and even a makeup artist at one point.

8. Name your 3 favourite songs at the moment?

1. Zayn – Pillowtalk
2. Jessica Agombar – Cookie Cutter
3. Delta Goodrem – Wings (it’s still a tune!)

9. What is your favourite food?

Chips… fries or potato chips I don’t mind. I don’t like them as much as I used to though but I don’t have any other favourites.

10. If you won a large amount of money, what would you spend it on?

I’d be very sensible and save most of it. In saying that I would hop straight on a plane to England and start exploring. A lot of it would probably be spent on concerts and gigs and makeup too. Oops.

I really enjoyed answering these questions and I hope you learnt something new about me. I’m going to nominate three people and I’d like to see them answer the same questions I did.

I nominate:

• Ladies and Lace
• Drifting Lexi
• Earth To Emma

25 Things I’d Like To Do

Hi loves!

A couple of weeks ago the beautiful Claire over at EclairsCares nominated me to do her ’25 Things I’d Like To Do’ Tag which is sort of like a mini bucket list. I instantly saw her post and loved it and knew I wanted to give it a go! Who doesn’t love a good list?!

Here goes…

1. Visit/move to The UK.

2. Get married.

3. Be a contestant on The Chase.

4. Meet one of my idols – I have quite a few!

5. Make music for a living.

6. Stop feeling so anxious about learning to drive.

7. Live in my dream house.

8. Lose weight 😛

9. Get better at cooking.

10. Have a surprise party thrown for me.

11. Inspire someone and know I helped them.

12. Be the best version of myself (cheesy I know!)

13. See Kylie Minogue in concert.

14. Stop worrying so much.

15. Make a speech at my wedding. It’s not traditional and I hate public speaking but I’ve always wanted to do it.

16. Have a personalised number plate.

17. Own an Apple iMac, front and centre on a desk.

18. Go to a spa and get pampered.

19. Ride on the tube/go on a train.

20. Go to a dance class.

21. Design a fashion line and makeup range.

22. Go clubbing in Ibiza and dance the night away ❤

23. Get back into a regular exercise routine, I actually miss it!

24. Have a dressing table in my bedroom to do my makeup (ideally in #7’s dream house).

25. Experience a white Christmas.

So, that’s my list! Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post. I’d love to know what’s at the top of your bucket list!

500 Followers + Blogger Recognition Award

Hello lovelies! Happy Friday!

This post is a very special one for me as I am celebrating a blogging milestone – reaching 500 Followers! Only a few weeks ago I mentioned how much I’d love to reach 500 when I accepted The Fashionista Award. It’s crazy to think that many people follow my blog and I know there are blogs out there with a lot more followers but when I started I never had a set number in mind and I genuinely appreciate every single one of you that has clicked the Follow button.

It’s very humbling to know that people enjoy what I’m writing and take time out of their day to read, like or comment on my posts. I try to reply to every single comment and comment on your posts to repay the favour. Although I may not be the best at showing it, I’m a very grateful person and cannot stress enough how special you as readers are to my blog. The support and encouragement I’ve witnessed not just towards me but among bloggers in general is amazing! It’s an honour to be part of this little community!

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I also wanted to use this post as a chance to accept ‘The ‘Blogger Recognition Award.’ I was kindly nominated for this award by the lovely Kimmy from Kimmy Keep Real.

The Rules:

• Nominate 5 other people (put a link to their blog!) and write a post to show off your award!
• Give a brief story about how you started blogging or two pieces of advice for other bloggers.

Advice For Other Bloggers:

1. Don’t be confined by ‘blogging norms’. Post whatever you wish. You want to write a beauty/fashion/food/travel blog (insert and delete as appropriate) but have no idea where to start or you’re intimidated by others out there, don’t be. We don’t all see things the same and have differing opinions so chances are there’s something new you can bring to the table. The beauty of blogging is its versatility, you can make a post out of just about anything. Use creativity to your advantage.
2. Research is your friend! If you want to learn about a product or can’t quite grasp the technical side of blogging (themes, coding etc.) chances are you can find out about it online. I always look for reviews and swatches before I buy a product, I want to make sure I’m getting my money’s worth! There are so many tutorials and helpful hints that you can adapt to work for you.

I’d like to nominate: Amber, Claire, Cos, Fiona & Lauren.

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Thank you all once again! I am trying to think of some way to show my appreciation properly, I am not sure if it will be a giveaway or what. I don’t even know how to run a giveaway so I’ll have a think and keep you informed.