bloomzy /

Choosing a Wedding Dress: The Stress of Buying ‘The Dress’

Choosing a Wedding DressThe Stress of Buying ‘The Dress’ – Choosing a Wedding Dress

The time had come for the most memorable, and supposedly fun, part of wedding planning. It was time to buy my wedding dress. I had already decided that I didn’t want a “conventional” wedding dress. That meant no bridalwear shops, and definitely no sticking to tradition. I thought this would make things a lot less stressful, boy was I wrong.

Where do you even begin looking for a wedding dress, if not in a wedding dress store?! Well I had some ideas, but I also had one big hurdle to get over before I would be able to put them into action.

The Stress of Buying ‘The Dress’

When I told my mum that I didn’t want a big, white ‘traditional’ dress, and that I’d probably just go out and buy it by myself, she was visibly upset. Although she reassured me that she just wanted me to be happy, I knew how much being a part of the decision meant to her. The fact that she wanted me to have a dress that was for me, and me alone, meant a lot to me. So I booked in for one bridalwear shop, and invited her – and my soon-to-be mother-in-law – to come along. And what did I do? I paraded around in some fancy dresses (see below) that cost way too much money, and made ‘the mums’ (their collective name) well up.

I’m honestly glad I did it, because everyone was so happy, and I had a lot of fun. It also brought some clarity; as I was trying the dresses on, I knew I’d made the right decision. They were beautiful gowns, and I looked damn good in all of them, but they just weren’t me.

Choosing a Wedding Dress

In the end I went to Liberty with ‘the mums’, VA, and my sister-in-law. I was worried I’d end up walking around for hours and not find anything. Again I proved myself wrong. I made a beeline for one of my favourite designers, and there it was. The dress. That’s all I’m going to say for now, but I truly can’t wait to wear it and show everyone later this year.

I think ‘the dress’ should be a reflection of you. Weddings are stressful enough without being stuck in an outfit that you’re not comfortable in. I don’t think you should be held to a social construct that says it has to be big and grand, or that you can’t wear anything other than white. Unless of course that’s what you want, in which case, you do you! After all it is supposed to be the happiest day of your life.

Need more advice than just choosing a wedding dress? Check out my Wedding Series.
Header image: Charisse KenionChoosing a Wedding Dress

bloomzy /

Lixirskin Vitamin C Paste | Beauty Review

Lixirskin Vitamin C PasteLixirskin Vitamin C Paste

2017 was the year that science made it big time in the cosmetics world, and on the high street. Of course beauty aficionados were already aware of the benefits of acids, retinoids and antioxidants in skincare. But the high street wasn’t. Small brands boasting these products soon became bigger brands, and the general public were suddenly encapsulated in a foreign, exciting world.

I myself was a part of this movement; telling everyone and anyone about the amazing products I couldn’t live without. But it got a bit boring seeing the same brands everywhere. I also wasn’t too keen on established companies jumping on the bandwagon, especially when they were known for using a cocktail of chemicals. So I began to look elsewhere, and that’s when Yasumi suggested I try Lixir skin.

Lixirskin Vitamin C Paste

The Lixirskin Vitamin C Paste is a concentrated product designed for quick morning use. It claims to leave you skin ‘vibrant, luminous & smooth…brighter, more even toned and lifted.’

But how exactly does it do this?

  • Scavenges free radicals
  • Helps Collagen production and protects Elastin
  • Provides natural sunscreen against UVA & UVB, and regulates melanin production
  • Neutralises oxidised sebum and proteins to revive greyish, greenish and dull skin undertones.

That’s some in-depth science stuff right there, and some big claims. So does it do what it says on the tin? I mean tube…

Final thoughts

  • Beautifully designed packaging
  • Smooth gel-paste texture
  • Applies and rinses off easily
  • Lightly evened out my skin tone
  • Unappealing scent

It may smell funny, but once you get over the initial scent – which doesn’t last for long by the way – you realise that there’s a lot more to this little tube of goodness. Apart from being a welcome – and easy – addition to my skincare regime, it’s been a lovely product to use. I bought this to try and combat my dull skin tone and the red marks left behind by old spots, and it did not disappoint. At £32 this is quite an expensive tube of paste, but it’s one I would buy again, and I’d like to try more products in the range too.

You can purchase Lixirskin Vitamin C Paste online.
Check out more of my beauty must-haves now!

Lixirskin Vitamin C Paste Lixirskin Vitamin C Paste Lixirskin Vitamin C Paste

bloomzy /

Why I Buy Expensive Clothing and You Should Too

Buy Expensive ClothingWhy I Buy Expensive Clothing and You Should Too

A few years ago I had an epiphany. I was doing fashion all wrong. I was spending a ton of money on cheap clothing that I didn’t really care about. It would fall apart after a few wears, and if it didn’t I would throw it out (read: give to charity) after only a few months. I decided it was time to change the way I viewed clothing. I decided it was time to start buying expensive clothing.

Before we get into things, I’d just like to say that this is in no way me boasting, let me make that clear. I save for all of my clothing, and I don’t buy anything when I don’t have the money to do so. I also realise that not everyone can save, and sometimes you just need or want to buy something inexpensive and trendy. At the end of the day this is just a simple guide for those who want to try and be a bit more conscious with their wardrobes.

Why I Buy Expensive Clothing

When I say expensive clothing I’m not talking about £500 t-shirts. I mean spending £30+ on a t-shirt or £100 on a pair of jeans etc. All of which are much cheaper than their designer counterparts, but relatively expensive compared to the fast fashion you find on the high street.

But why should you be spending more on clothing?

  • Fast fashion is…fast
    • It is not made to last. It’s trend based, which means that it has to be created quickly and cheaply (for the brand). This often means the wages and working conditions of the labourers creating the pieces is low too. I’m not saying more expensive brands are immune to this, but it’s certainly more prevalent in fast fashion brands.
  • Don’t buy trends, buy timeless
    • Trends can be cute & fun, but they’re also stressful to keep up with, as well as being heavy on the pocket. Consider buying pieces you can see yourself wearing over and over, for years to come. Example: a pair of quality jeans, or a fitted blouse.
  • Invest in quality over quantity
    • Honestly this should be my life motto because I throw it about so often. Quality pieces last, which means you don’t have to buy a new item of clothing every other month, year etc. Example: I try to only buy natural fabrics as they last longer and are much more comfortable. 
  • It actually saves money
    • Be considerate of how much you’re spending and what you’re spending it on. A few years ago I was buying countless amounts of clothing from high street brands, and I was actually spending more money (on a monthly basis) on clothing than I do now.
  • It helps you appreciate what you have
    • It’s quite easy to not put any value on fast fashion. It comes and goes with our tastes and trends. When you save for something it has meaning and sentiment. You’ll also be more likely to think twice before throwing out something expensive. I know I do!

Would you be willing to buy expensive clothing? Let me know in the comments!
Read more of my articles on wellbeing and style.

Buy Expensive Clothing Buy Expensive Clothing Buy Expensive Clothing

bloomzy /

Stop Stealing Photos: A Polite Request to Brands

Stop Stealing PhotosStop Stealing Photos: A Polite Request to Brands

It seems that I can’t go a month without someone using my photos without my consent. “Wait, what? No that can’t be the case, surely everyone has the moral integrity not to steal content” I hear you say. Well you would be wrong. Both brands and bloggers have used my photos for promotional posts, to populate their social channels, and even on posts that feature sponsored content. Yes you heard me correctly, people have outright taken my images, without my knowledge, for content they are being paid for. Crazy, right?

Stop stealing photos

This week I was reminded of my disdain when a blogger I highly respect, noticed a brand she previously worked with had taken it upon themselves to use every single photo (that featured their product) she had taken since. This in turn reminded me of a friend who was sent a product and kindly featured the product in a few photos on her Instagram page. The brand then used these photos, and then a whole bunch of random photos from her page to populate theirs. I’ve been thinking about both of these cases for a few days now, and it’s kinda bugging me.

Is it really too much to ask brands to stop stealing photos? There’s a fine line here, and it’s smack bang in the middle of a very grey area. So how do we combat it, as bloggers, and as people who occasionally need to feature others content?

What can we do about it?

  • Just ask!
    • Most bloggers would be happy for their work to be featured on your Instagram etc. if you just ask first. Contacting the blogger leaves space for a healthy conversation about crediting and payment.
  • What do you say to the brand?
    • I have a template – yes that’s how bad it’s become – that I copy-paste into a comment/email whenever I spot someone using my photos. I politely ask them to either remove the photo or give the appropriate credit. 9 times out of 10 brands will remove the photo or give me the credit I ask for once I hit them with it.
  • Ask to be paid 
    • This is a tough one as most brands/people will either ignore you, or get annoyed when you bring money into the mix. Of course you will need to tread lightly, but why shouldn’t you request payment? Especially if you’re a freelancer and your content is being used in marketing campaigns.
  • It takes time and hard work to take photos
    • Think before you take a photo. Not only are there copyright laws to consider, but morally it’s just not cool.
  • Where can you go for decent, royalty free photos?
    • Try unsplash – the talented photographers who contribute to this site are happy for their photos to be used on blogs, social etc. Remember to share the love and credit the photographer where possible.

I know this is happening to photographers and content creators of all kinds alike. And I’m certainly not the be all and end all of knowledge on this. This is just my personal take on something that has affected me. I hope we can all work together to promote each others work, and stop this from happening.

Read more of my articles on blogging and social media.
Image source: Mia Domenico

bloomzy /

5 Ways to Keep Calm While Planning a Wedding

Keep Calm While Planning a Wedding5 Ways to Keep Calm While Planning a Wedding

There aren’t many big events in life that are more stressful than planning a wedding. You have to write up guest lists, arrange menus, find a dress…etc etc. And amongst other things you have to spend a ton of money. A few of my friends are also planning weddings this year, and they’ve commented on how calm I’m remaining about the whole thing. So I thought I’d share my secret on how to keep calm while planning a wedding.

5 Ways to Keep Calm While Planning a Wedding

  • Tackle the tough stuff first
    • Getting all the time sensitive things (venue, catering, photographer etc) out of the way first; it will take some of the weight off your shoulders. Of course there’s still plenty to do, but it won’t feel as big a burden.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help
    • This is one of the most important things to remember. You can’t always do everything by yourself. So whether it’s a family member who makes great cakes, or a friend who’s DIY savvy, don’t be afraid to ask for their help. You’d be surprised at how many people will feel honoured to be a part of your big day.
  • Be selfish…kinda
    • This is yours, and your partners, wedding day. Don’t let your family and friends take over or try to butt in. Most of it comes from a good place, but it can be overwhelming and stressful. Tell them when it becomes too much, and let them know that you appreciate their help, but sometimes you’ve got to do things for yourself.
  • Get wedding insurance
    • It might sound boring, but this is one important task you shouldn’t forget. Companies such as John Lewis and Debenhams offer cover on everything from your caterers, right down to the cake.
  • Take some time away
    • Wedding planning can be extremely stressful, so it’s important to remember that sometimes it’s ok to take a break. In fact it can often help to leave a task and come back to it at another time. Try setting specific dates for planning, but remember to balance them out with free days too.

If you enjoyed my ‘5 ways to keep calm while planning a wedding’ check out the rest of my Wedding Series.

Keep Calm While Planning a Wedding

bloomzy /

Rodial Chin & Neck Lift – Freeze & Sculpt | Review

Rodial Chin & Neck LiftRodial Chin & Neck Lift – Freeze & Sculpt

I’ve not necessarily neglected my chin and neck when it comes to skincare, but I’ve definitely not give it the tender loving care I’ve done with the rest of my regime. So when I attacked the Rodial sale last month, I decided it was time for a change. I was ready to shell out on a product that made some big promises – Rodial Chin & Neck Lift Freeze & Sculpt.

Rodial Chin & Neck Lift

Inspired by the effects of viper venom, Rodial Chin & Neck Lift claims to instantly firm and lift the contours of the neck area; altering the appearance of the chin and neck area, for visibly smoother and younger looking skin. That’s a mighty big claim for one little product.

Let’s break down the ingredients, shall we…

  • Ovaliss: Reduces appearance of a double chin.
  • Decapeptide: Boosts cell metabolism.
  • Pomegranate Ellagic Tannin: Firm & tone the skin by boosting collagen production.
  • Hyaluronic Acid: Long lasting hydration.

Everything looks in order, but does it live up to the hefty promises it makes?

Final thoughts

  • Nice texture
  • Applies easily
  • Well designed packaging
  • Didn’t notice much change

I’ve been using this for a little over a month, and I’ve barely noticed a change in my chin or neck area. I’ve read reviews by middle-aged women who swear by it for helping with lines and the first signs of ageing, so I’m going to give Rodial the benefit of the doubt and assume it works better on older skin. Moaning aside, the packaging is efficient and aesthetically pleasing, and I like the texture of the product itself.

I bought this in the sale for £25 because I wanted a moisturiser primarily for my chin and neck. I’m not unhappy with it, but I definitely don’t think it’s the miracle product some people have claimed it to be. At the original price of £85 I would have been pretty, let’s say annoyed, with the meagre affect it’s appeared to have. I guess it goes to show that just because it has a high price tag doesn’t necessarily mean it works.

You can purchase Rodial Chin & Neck Lift online.
Check out more of my beauty must-haves now!Rodial Chin & Neck Lift Rodial Chin & Neck Lift

bloomzy /

Rodial Hydrate Freeze Collection | Review

Rodial Hydrate FreezeRodial Hydrate Freeze Collection

January means a new year, and another birthday. And turning another year older means more need for anti-aging skincare. Of course anyone in their mid-20s and later should be using anti-aging skincare, but personal needs and goals will change over the years. My goal this year is start to exfoliating and using moisturising masks twice a week, which fits my needs for even skin tone and plump skin. Thankfully I managed to grab something in the Rodial sale that promised to do just that: the Hydrate Freeze Collection.

Rodial Hydrate Freeze Collection

The Rodial Hydrate Freeze set is suitable for all skin types; Dragon’s Blood delivers intense hydration whilst Snake blurs fine lines and wrinkles helping to correct skin tone.The kit includes:

  • Dragon’s Blood Hyaluronic Mask (50ml): A moisture boosting face mask with instant visible results, this double action hydrating and plumping face mask reduces redness and soothes the skin whilst plumping lines and wrinkles.
  • Snake Mask (50ml): This jet-black peel off face mask visibly brightens and corrects skin tone whilst decongesting pores for radiant looking skin. The unique Syn®-ake ingredient mimics the effect of temple viper venom for a mild freezing and tightening effect on the skin.

Final Thoughts?

Snake Mask

  • Difficult to apply
  • Peels off relatively easily
  • Leaves skin feeling cleansed
  • Skin appears tighter & tone corrected

Dragon’s Blood Hyaluronic Mask

  • Nice texture
  • Applies easily
  • Absorbs into skin well
  • Soothing and plumping

I’m currently on the fence about this set. My issues lie with the peel-off Snake Mask which is very difficult to apply – it dries too quickly and doesn’t spread well. It works pretty well once it’s on, but the application is just frustrating. The Dragon’s Blood Hyaluronic Mask is much better in comparison, and I would definitely purchase it by itself. It applies and soaks in well, leaving the skin smooth and plump. At the original price of £49 I’m not sure I’d be re-purchasing this set. But at the current sale price of £25 I would definitely consider buying it again.

You can purchase Rodial Hydrate Freeze collection online.
Check out more of my beauty must-haves now!

Rodial Hydrate FreezeRodial Hydrate Freeze