Question- What is "Natural Makeup"?

Who's up for a bit of fun?

images sourced from pinterest 

So tell me....what one of these images is "natural make up"?

Tricky one... is it?

So just one quick search on Pinterest gives me about a million variations of natural make up...here's my rundown.

1. Natural...using colours from a neutral palette, flawless skin, liner and definitely a full set of lashes, dark statement lip and a bit of retouching.
2. Natural... a peachy monochromatic look, with fresh and real looking skin and nude lip, minimal if any retouching
3. Natural...very highlighted, ethereal and rather photoshopped (I found the exact same image with lilac hair)
4. Natural... heavy contouring, full set lashes, very defined brow, overdrawn lip, potential filter

So there you go a quick run down of that popular make up look...."natural"!

Reasons to be cheerful...

I'm sure that was a cereal advert but anyway...  I'm sure you have seen all the 'feel good tags' that do  the rounds on social media designed for us to take five minutes to ourselves and think about what's important to us, what's made us happy, there's been #100happydays, the black & white photo challenge, the 5 photos that make you smile tag, 7 'unknown' things about you.  I love seeing these pop up as it is a great reminder to ourselves about the things in life that just make our heart sing and it's lovely to get an insight into what our friends value too.

No one ever seems to tag me in these, I don't know why, so I decided I'd do it myself and go old school with reasonstobecheerful but after I got thinking I decided it is actually probably more like reasonstobethankful....

1. I have the sweetest most sensitive boy.  He is (on the most part) a dream to be around, his eyes are so bright in the morning he is so happy to see me when he wakes and you can almost feel his energy. He has always been like this I hope he hangs on to it!  

2. I am blessed with a loving & supportive family in that even though I do things that absolutely rock their world they still support me & are there quietly making transitions and I know are always there a constant in my life that transcends physical locality.

3. That I have friends that are plentiful & diverse that I have so many different histories and memories with that I connect with all for different reasons.  Some relationships are intense and resonate with energy, some are bound in history some are new and insightful. I know these friendships are precious and I regard highly each and every one.

4. I have a girl that is adorable & sweet but is fierce & determined & strong.  I know I won't ever be able to stand in her way and I know she is going places I'm already proud of her and I know she's going to continue to astound me as she grows up.

5. I am lucky to be part of a team in me & my husband that he will look after me and our family, that we enjoy spending time together and that we can talk about anything to each other.  He totally and utterly gets me and loves me for who I am.  

So probably a little bit more deep than reasons to be cheerful but if you want to join me and let me know what's making you thankful right now please do! x

For anyone that's ever moved away from 'home'.

I'm just back from a trip home to Scotland. It was lovely seeing friends and family. Luckily I have worked out the solution to homesickness... I want to move everyone around with me wherever I go....that's not too much to ask is it?! Well perhaps not but I take solace in the fact that my relationships with the people I love and care for and choose are just as beautiful as they were when we left a year ago and I have no fear that that is going to change and that brings me tremendous happiness. 

Every new year brings a huge whirl of emotions and thoughts for me. It's not just resolutions it is revaluations and I think going 'home' really helped me with that this year. Lots of people were surprised we travelled back to the UK in the first year we had moved to Australia but for me it was a given. I wanted to see my family and friends and yes it stirred up a lot of feelings & emotions for both me and my two children but I'm glad we went. Because number 1 feelings are meant to be felt and I want to teach them that. At the end of our holiday there were lots of tears thinking about leaving and coming 'home' to Australia. Leaving what we know and what gives us such comfort. We spoke about it as a family in the taxi on the way back from the airport at 3am...about how lucky we are. To have two homes. Two sets of communities. Two lots of people who care for and love us. Two 'habitats' that give us different things and fulfill our needs in different ways. It was then in than taxi that I saw it. My three year old totally 'got it' she smiled and a look came over her face which was unmistakably one of gratitude. It was really quiet and beautiful and I thought "it's ok, we're ok".

It doesn't mean we won't miss everyone, that we won't have moments when tears cloud over our eyes in a quiet moment, we will. But what I'm trying to say is if you are in a similar position to me and you struggle with how you believe yourself to be coping or how your kids are coping with the huge life turning thing you have decided that's best for everyone maybe let yourself believe that you did in fact do the right thing, and that you and they are, in fact, ok.

Add these babies to your santa list.

It's coming up to Christmas so I thought I do a little post on a few special make up treats to can add to your Santa list!  (please note I this post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission from the merchant when you purchase through my blog)

{ZOEVA Rose Gold Brush Set}

I'm always banging on about Real Techniques Brushes I still love them and use them in my professional kit you can read up on the ones I recommend here "Heres the brushes you need" but if you fancy something a bit fancy (rose gold yes please!) and high performing go for the ZOEVA Rose Gold Brush Set aren't the pretty...and come in a cute little clutch too! 

{Alpha-H Anti Ageing Skincare}

This is officially the winter skincare pack but I don't care what side of the hemisphere you're on you will reap the benefits of using this skincare with the holy grail skincare ingredient of Hyaluronic Acid and a nice way to sample products you might like to re-buy in full size check out what you get and best ways to use on the directions here Alpha-H Anti Ageing Skincare.

{Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Kit}

What better time to get your brow game sorted than just in time for new year try out this stencil set by brow genius Anastasia...I would definitely give these stencils a try and with lots of colour choices you can really make sure you have the perfect brow, also her setting gel is meant to be the best (maybe I should invest as I currently use hubbies hair gel!) buy it here: Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Kit.

So let me know what you are putting on your santa list this year! These products are all from Beauty Bay and they have a fabulous little Christmas selection.  I love that no matter where in the world you are you can enjoy these products and usually with free delivery too...perfect...just like santa actually! 

Making Memories...Family Style

Have you started thinking about Christmas presents yet? Im busy planning a trip back to Scotland for Christmas so I'm feeling like it's a stones throw from the festive period again! My last christmas shopping post I chatted about giving experiences rather than a physical gift I stand by this idea. 

This year we decided to treat ourselves to a gorgeous experience of a one on one family shoot with the talented Jessica Roberts (I've spoken about Jessica before on the blog as I had my fabulous FRESH headshots shoot with her, have a look here) we took a well stocked picnic basket and a new blanket bought for the occasion a flask of of wine and down to the beach we went. 


We had such a great experience.   So much fun and it really reminded us all of how lucky we are to part of our lovely little family.  Team Hughes is going great guns and there's nothing like an experience like this to remind us of that feeling.  Jessica made us feel super comfortable in front of the camera which I think shows through how relaxed we are in these shots.  Miss Poppy just LOVED being in front of the camera and Ollie being in a very cheeky mood really entertained us all.  Here's a sneak peak of the images as this blog post is a bit of a spoiler alert for my family...we have up until now managed to keep the majority of the images under wraps! Jessica is running mini shoots on the beach every weekend up until Christmas I urge you to book in with her if you are in the Melbourne area...she is just fab.

We have decided to immortalise our images by getting a book made up of the images I went online and created my book via blurb. I was given a free voucher by blurb to review their service. Websites like My Voucher Codes often run discounts for it, so watch out for them if you're looking to do your own. I downloaded the free software to create the book which was very easy, chose my book design and that was that. I enjoy doing things like this so the process was pretty fun (and easy).

The book arrived very quickly and was fabulous quality it looks rather professional actually pop over to my Instagram for a peak at the family seeing it for the first time.   I'm really happy with it and can see I might get slightly addicted to this in the years to come!

How to: Quick & Flawless Foundation

Pop over to my Facebook page for the video x

{shop here}

*contains affilate links*

Real Techniques Expert Face Brush

Manicare Foundation Brush

Rimmel Wake Me Up Foundation

Bare Minerals Seamless Shaping & Finish Brush

Rimmel Natural Bronzer- Sun Bronze

I'm taking a personal day!

When was the last time you took a day off?  I don't mean you were genuinely sick and couldn't make it to work I mean you just needed some time off so you said bugger it I'm off you can't have me today.  Have you ever let your kid have a day off school because you think they might just need a break?  I friend of mine recently posted pictures on Facebook of her and her daughter out at the shops having a day of fun after a rather tough morning at school and she had been upset.  I was really inspired by her approach and it made me question how I would react in a similar situation and it has made me change my mind.

I started writing this post during the week sat at a Melbourne lane way bar, having a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon on a roasting hot day, by myself, no kids no husband just me my book and my notes app on my phone (where I often scribble draft blog posts when inspiration takes me).  I had came into the city for an appointment and when I got there it had been cancelled.  I was really annoyed... for about 3 seconds.   I could have jumped straight back on the train and made it back for kinder pick up, cancel hubby leaving work early let him stay and finish what he was doing.  Then I realised the opportunity that had been given to me...a hour (or two) of some time off.  To sit by myself for a while, watch the world go by, chat to the waitress about her gorgeous sunflower tattoos, savour a glass of red, tell the girl sat two tables down from me how I loved her curly hair, let inspiration hit me for this blog post.  It was heavenly. Then I got back on the train still in time for bed time stories etc I chose to enjoy every minute of my time off and it felt good.

Of course there are probably a thousand problems in what i've just said and you're reading it thinking oh great for you but I can't do this because...

1. I'm a mum...who's going to look after the kids while I'm having a personal day?

2. My workload is so over baring it's just going to be worse when I get back 

3. You are not meant to take days off!...what you need a rest...don't be silly you just go in!

Let me help change your mind 

1. But i'm a mum....there's always a way to take a break even when your a busy mum...let hubby do the bath and bed routine get out for a walk take your headphones pump some music and breathe in the feeling of being you...all by yourself.  Take a bath once the little ones are sleeping, turn out light put on a candle, relax, your TV or chores will still be there when you get out, leave them for tomorrow. If the kids go to school or nursery let yourself just have that time to yourself one day leave the laundry to another day, stack the dishwasher later.  Allocate at least one of these child free times to something you want to do and be present in that time.  Choose to enjoy it.

2. But what about my workload...ok if you are a very important person like a surgeon or something maybe you can't afford to call in randomly for  day off but you can allocate yourself a day holiday in the year just for you, no husband, kids at school/childcare choose what you want to do and plan it into the schedule.  Go there and enjoy every second.  If you're not out there saving lives etc and have a bit more flexibility but still a burdening to do list I'm not saying your job is not important i'm asking you to think how much more armed to attack it you will be if you take a break and really give yourself some time to breathe.  A day off not thinking about it all might be exactly what you need to come back stronger than before,  don't be a martyr choose to prioritise your happiness. Maybe you are working towards a certain goal, you're super committed you have to do it this time.  Just be careful you're not going too hard and you (and potentially your family) are suffering as a result sometimes its important to step back and realise if it's for you its coming to you (let's try and avoid a breakdown making it happen?)

3. It's an innate thing that your aren't meant to take time off...well I think this was definitely me for a while (and I know for a fact it's my husband) he's ok if I take time out for myself but abysmal at doing it for himself.  Work ethic is great and it's something I am working on to teach my kids but I also want them to know it's ok to take a break.  To not get themselves into a frenzy about work/school related issue and to listen to themselves and talk about it. So i'm finishing this post with my 5 year old sat next to me playing dinosaurs because today he's taking a personal day from school.  I noticed a change in his usual easy going personality this week, every thing was too hard for him, he just wasn't responding to my requests in his usual way so we are having a recharge day and he gets it.  We are focusing on play today and being positive so fingers crossed when Monday rolls round again he'll feel a lot better equipped to face the pressures and strains that faces a five year old for a tiring week at school.

So tell me please?! How do you take time out? Are you prioritising your life in the way thats most beneficial to you and your family.  We all need some time out for our selves and i hate to break it to you but the world will not stop just because you decided to take a day off so do it and choose to enjoy every minute of it!

10 ways for multi-use make up!

I like a capsule make up bag. Not just for holidays I like it for all the time.  I'm a big fan of multi use products and not just the ones marketed as 'lips, cheeks & eyes'  I mean getting creative with your products, mixing them up to make them work harder... 

Here's my top 10 ideas for mixing up your products...

1. Mix up a squirt of radiance boosting face cream (see my new favourite at the end of this post) with a squirt of concealer = a lovely light & hydrating base can also be used for the beach if you feel you'd like a little bit extra coverage with your SPF.  While we are mixing up beautiful concealer concoctions I'm a big fan of mixing it with eye cream for a very hydrating, line plumping under eye finish!

2. Use a Ivory/shell tone cream eyeshadow as an eyeshadow, highlighter for the cheekbones, a frosted lipstick, shimmery liquid liner...possiblities are endless! (This is the trick I used to create my wearable frosted lip inspired by Tom Ford see me here)

3. Bronzer as false tan- I can never be bothered with self tan but will often bronze my shoulders, declotage, and even down the front of my legs with a light reflecting bronzer (the highlighting effect makes your legs look longer & slimmer)

4. Lipstick as blush or blush as lipstick- if your doing the latter it makes more sense to use a cream blush but you can use power too just make sure you follow up with a nice layer of moisturising lip balm. When using cream blush/lipstick as blush don't forget to blend the edges with whats remaining your foundation brush.

5. No liquid liner but you fancy a feline flick? Use an angled brush to pick up some mascara of your wand and use it exactly the same way or (one of my favourites) push matt black eyeshadow right into the lashline with an angled brush, adds depth to the lashes but in a very soft sultry way.

6. I love a glossy eye look and guess what we make up artists use to achieve it? Usually a clear or slightly tinted lip gloss. One of my favourite looks is glossy eye, black curled lashes and a red lip.  ( Take Caution though: make sure you are not applying a lip plumping, mint infused gloss on the eye area!)

7. Looking for a simple eye look? Use your bronzer to create a simple and chic socket line look. With an open eye slightly tilt your head back, sweep a fluffy eyeshadow brush through your bronzer and then through your crease, instant chicness. 

8. Make your setting powder work harder.  Powder is not just for setting your make up.  Use a sweep of powder over concealer patted onto your eyelid as a good base for any eyeshadow you are applying , sweep powder through your crease to stop a gel or liquid liner transferring up onto your eyelid, press some powder through a one ply tissue into your lips between coats to make for a long lasting, matt lip.

9.  Mix a liquid highlighter with a pump of a matt foundation to make a dewy version of a high coverage base,  for example, I often find the infamous Estee Lauder Double wear way too matt (I just like dewy) so I often mix with a pump of illuminator (e.g. benefit) that way the coverage is still there but with some brightness.

10.  This one way be for the more dedicated make up wearer.  False eyelashes?  I love to snip a full set in half, apply the outer half for a more natural look and save the rest (snipped into three) to wear as individuals on an other occasion.  Makes for a more natural look and just way more comfortable than a full set.

Phew...I made it.  I hope you did too.  Tell me in the comments if you'll try one of these tips or if you have any tips of your own to make your make up bag go that extra mile? Here's my top product recommendations you can shop directly from these links:

{shop the post}
*contains affiliate links*

Radiance Boosting Face Cream

MAC Select Cover Up

Highlighting Cream Eyeshadow 

Bronzer

Creamblush

Best Matt Black shadow as liner (from the Naked Basics Palette)

Clear gloss

Powder

Liquid highlighter/illuminator

Lashes

P.S. How cute is this mug...buy it right here 

3 unexpected hair accessories to perfect the boho bridal look...no flower crowns in sight.

As a bride to be you are surrounded by choice.  There are so many beautiful, lacy, gorgeous choices to be made for your wedding day you’re either feeling slightly overwhelmed or perfectly relished by choice.  You’re set on the bohemian bridal look, who wouldn’t, it’s romantic, non complicated is a no brainer for gorgeous Pinterest style wedding images but maybe you don’t fancy wearing a heavy fresh flower crown that you have no guarantee will not wilt.  Here’s a few unexpected boho bridal hair accessories that will blow your guests away.

The boho bride:

The boho bride is of course a natural beauty, carefree soul, nothing should be an effort and you ooze radiance with the flash of a smile.  You’re so calm and collected it shows in your expression as you walk down the aisle.  Your dress is simple, flowing, not fussy, you have a gorgeous natural hand tie posey, and five beautiful little flower girls following you around beaming with innocence and joy.  How do you finish off this picture and best accessorise your boho theme?

 

Isabelle Boho Bridal Headband by GYPSY ROSE VINTAGE

The ultimate boheme look incorporating just the right amount of rustic texture, faux flowers and gems.  This will look effortless tied around a simple upstyle or tumbling curls.  A statement piece which will ensure a truly ethereal look.

Golden Laurel Leaf Wreath by CHERISHED

If you are are going for more of a grecian/boho slant this will answer all your needs, with a real goddess feel.  Add a braided hair style to up the boho levels or simple wavy tresses to keep a more organic boho look.

Devotion Bridal Browband Headdress by CORRINE SMITH DESIGN

A beautiful bridal halo circlet adorns your simple long wavy hair just because you’re boho doesn’t mean you’re not entitled to sparkle, you’ll hear little exhales of breath from your guests as you glide down the aisle.

So your have options when it comes to how you adorn your hair as a boho bride and if you can’t see past a fresh flower crown maybe take both options and change up your look in the evening with a gorgeous jewelled piece which will ensure you twinkle in the the candlelight all evening long.

Fresh Headshots & glitter in my pants (!)

I am so excited to share these images from my Fresh Headshots session with Jessica Roberts, a fab wedding & family photographer based here in Melbourne that I have had the pleasure of meeting.  We are teaming up, along with my friend and colleague on the hair and make up scene Helen Thomson, to offer a lovely pampering, confidence boosting hair & make up session followed up by a 15 minute fun packed one on one shoot with Jessica to provide you with full use of 15-20 of the most gorgeous images to use for your online presence and business...

Here's mine (well some of them as I am keeping a few for a project I have been working on behind the scenes...very excited!) and let me just say I had a ball on my shoot and what a fabulous confidence boost too! To learn more about Jessica and how to book in for your own Fresh Headshot Experience just skip my self indulgence and head straight to the end of the post! 

I think it's pretty obvious I enjoyed that!!  Afterwards, I had a quick chat with Jessica about life, the universe and us :)

Tell us a little bit about yourself...

I am Mum to two little monkeys, wife to a lovely Gruffelo, photographer of stories and lover of good books and yum food!

What has been the highlight of your career so far? Every time I pick up my camera is a highlight, I love photographing people!

How important do you think a fresh headshot is for your online presence/company profile?

Showing who we are is so important, my whole business is built around who I am and people not only buy into my photography they also are buying into who I am and what I am about. Putting your best foot forward and showing who you are can also attract the right type of people to your business.

Willing to name drop any famous clients or persons of interest you have photographed? 

I’m not great with recognising famous people or treating them any different because famous people are just people after all. However, amongst the many ‘famous’ people I have photographed – I was at a wedding a few years ago which was very small and intimate – the brother in law was Dougie Poynter from the band McFly. I sensed he was a bit rock and roll but he was nice so I got on with my job. When I went to blog the photos I was told by the couple who he was. The day wasn’t about him so I limited the photos of him in the feature. That blog post got the highest hits to date and almost brought my site down.

Any advice on pre-shoot prep to make the most out of your photoshoot?

Relax and enjoy yourself , always remember to breath and relax your shoulders.

“I love being a photographer! I provide a personal, friendly and  professional service whilst always being relaxed. For me it goes above and beyond just providing an awesome service. I document people and their stories in a relaxed and easy way.  My couples and families want relaxed, natural and colourful photography.  I’d love to hear from you!”

Here's how to contact Jessica hello@jessica-roberts.com | +61 466 579-215 | jessica-roberts.com |facebook |instagram

So what do you think? Would you like some of these of your very own. If you are Melbourne based (or can make your way to us) we are holding our first Fresh Headshots day on the 23rd April 2016.  
You will receive:
A professional hair styling session with Helen Thomson, Hair & Fashion Stylist (pop over to Helen's page for some examples of her gorgeous work!)
A professional make up application by Amy Hughes, Made Over & Me
A 15 minute one on one shoot with Jessica Roberts, with full use of 15-20 gorgeous images
Complimentary glitter, confetti & bubbles!
Price $250 to reserve your spot now (or to be added to the mailing list for the next Fresh Headshots day) email me on amy@madeoverladies.com 

Motivation BOOST for Monday...

" Life can feel tough but remember we've got it good and you ARE enough

Even when your to do list grows take a deep breathe, tick it off and your stress will plateau 

Take a break, get out in the fresh air, look up to the sky and be thankful to just be there

You're here and your healthy

You have people that love you and care

That's what makes you successful. 

That's what makes you wealthy. "  

Sometimes I am a victim of social comparison and I always come off worse.  If you feel the same way here's a few words just for some perspective.

Be kind to yourself x

The return of the wishlist- featuring the lip colour the beauty world is in love with..

I have not compiled a wish list for sooo long partly because we are saving for a trip back to Scotland for Christmas which means all unecessary spending is on hold.  SO quite frankly I'm too scared to look.  But whilst I was perusing for a certain big sisters birthday I came across too many cute things not to do some window shopping so I thought I would share! Ps this post does contain affiliate links (i.e. if you buy via my site you add some pennies to my piggy bank) and a featured product was gifted to me for my review (clearly I wouldn't be wearing it if it wasn't gorgeous though so there you go).  Enjoy the lustworthiness...

Sugar Skull Pendant and Earrings by July-Umph Originals, I was lucky enough to have this set gifted to me and I have been wearing it for a few months now.  It came packaged beautifully and has just the right amount of quirk for me.  Pop by their website for a look at all of their stuff there's some really interesting pieces I particularly love the new character Henri The French Bulldog....how cute!  What I also love about these sets is that the quality of the product the resin on stainless steel combo makes these pieces really durable and I've had no skin reactions which is great (as I have a tendency to react to a lot of materials) which makes them perfect for the sensitive skinned jewellery lover.  I'm also lusting after the statement 'Swallow & Diamond' necklace  because a little part of me would love to be a tattoo rebel gal with a chest piece.  Quite frankly I think I would be disowned and would pass out from the pain so something like this would be a good stand in! They also deliver worldwide for a tiny fee which is even better.

I haven't worn a watch for ages.  I've asked for and been bought a few over the years but I never seem to get into the habit of wearing one.  When the kids were littler and I didn't really have anywhere I needed to be I quite liked being without time.  Now however I have lots of places to be and be on time so it may well be time to wear a watch.  I stumbled upon these little beauties on the treasure trove of Not On The Highstreet (I can spend literally hours on here) if you don't know it it's a lovely friendly little corner or the internet all made up of small businesses.  I just love the story behind the website and love that they support small business as that is their roots as well (kitchen table business) in fact I really want the Build A Business from your Kitchen Table written by the Sophie Cornish.  Anyway back to the watch, The Monogram Initial Scallop Watch by Ellie Ellie, how gorgeous is this.  I love letters and anything typography so this is a dream, don't ask me what colour though as I love them all they even have my new colour crush for leather at the moment, French navy.  Although I've never ordered anything from Ellie Ellie (yet) all of the others sellers on Not on the Highstreet have been amazing and saved me a million times in being able to send gorgeous unique gifts to my friends and family back home. LOVE.

I am loving cut out's right now so jumpers with cut out shoulders, boots with cut out heels, hair with undercuts (although Vogue says its out...whatever!) well I've been considering my christmas wardrobe (I know it's early but I like to be prepared) anyway I have quite fallen in love with this little number from River Island, a maroon cut out playsuit perfect with opaque and ankle boots and maybe even a floppy hat.   Love the colour.  And the cut out details make it perfect tran-seasonal wear.  Yes please.  May have to team with a full length faux fur number...I think I may be seeing the Scottish winter with a in a slightly romantic light!

Well I wouldn't be Amy without a make up 'purchase' would I? So here's my make up lustworthy product and I tried it today on a little in-person window shop session I had and I loved it!  It's a new red (although I am still faithful to my beloved MAC Russian Red) this is really lovely and new The Estee Lauder Kendall Jenner Pure Color Envy Matt Sculpting Lipstick in Relentless (what a mouthful!) Really pigmented colour but make sure you have scrubbed and well moisturised lips in advance as it is a Matt finish although is surprisingly moisturising!

What have you been listing after at the moment?  And did you check out that wee French bulldog, how cute is he?! Bonjour!  

Change...

I've written about Change before on the blog (here) and (here) I felt like it was time to revisit it. The last time I wrote about Change I wrote from an unknowing place, full of anticipation, and fear but now I feel I am coming out of the other end and wanted to talk about the positives.

I'm more than half a year into living in a different country with my husband and two kids, I'm half way around the world from my family and friends and in that half a year a lot has changed. I feel like we are settling now.  Yes we miss 'home' we miss our family and our friends desperately. Who has taught me the biggest lesson in this whole process?  My children.  Five and three and they are teaching me every day.  What my kids have taught me is that physical distance does not change tense.  We don't speak about Scotland in past tense because it's not.  We still have all of our family and friends but we have them in a different format.  Yes I still do a sharp intake of breath when we encounter something that I think will upset my kids but I'm honest with them and when they say they miss their grandparents I agree with them, I miss them too.  I'm honest with them, we are in this together.

Dealing with change is almost like the grief/loss cycle which if you want to you can read more about (here).  Even though I chose this change I've still had to deal with the effects of it on us.  I've experienced all of the stages of the grief/loss cycle through this process and I was really trying not to compare the two because I didn't want to admit that we were losing anything by moving here.  Some days I get homesick, yes, and it's important to acknowledge those feelings but most days I take a leaf out of the kids book, I get on with it and I make an effort to recognise the positives, all the while very much knowing the people we have moved away from are very much there for us and accessible but in a different way.

With both kids now at school and kinder they are making meaningful relationships and with that has came a sense of belonging and a sense of community.  I think this is the single most important thing that has happened since we moved and something we had always taken for granted before.  I was under the impression that we (the four of us) were all that we needed to feel happy and secure but I was wrong and now realise that was an egotistical thought on my part.  It's certainly been a process but I feel we are adjusting and even more than that my children are thriving.  The same is happening for me I've definitely started to feel more of myself again (yes I have my moments) but I'm slowly reminding myself that's OK and perhaps I'm not the same as I used to be but being mindful not to beat my self up about it.  It's just a bad day, not a bad life.

I think about change a lot maybe because I don't believe in being stagnant, that to be human you are not necessarily a constant that you are on a journey, yes there's one of those buzzwords, and sorry to drop it but I truly believe we are.  Once you accept that, it makes life a whole lot easier.  Less resistance, more resilience.  I may have to keep practising that one but that's my end game for me and my family.

If you are experiencing change, whether that be moving away from home or a change in your status quo I hope this might help give you a different perspective on things.  Focus on the positives, be pro-active to seek them out and celebrate your successes.  As I was writing this the world decided to give me a sharp reminder of reality and it decided to hail.  Yes we moved to Australia and it's haling outside.  Ah the irony.

Need an positivity boost? (click here)

Life beyond the French Mani- Bridal Nail Insider

I recently had the pleasure of catching up with the very talented Metta Francis, founder of NAILS BY METS. Metta is an award winning nail artist she has worked at London Fashion Week and her handiwork has been published in the Evening Standard Magazine, Cosmopolitan, PRIDE and Dare Magazine. Metta aims to provide a fully customised nail experience and the NAILS BY METS team have provided pop-up nail bars and manicure/nail art services for a number of brands including MTV, Lovebox Festival, Cosmopolitan Fash Fest, London Southbank Centre, Starbucks, River Island, Accessorize, VANS, Barry M, Rimmel London, OPI, Mediaforce Group, and much more. Today we are chatting about bridal nails.

Do you have any tips for getting your nails in great condition in time for the big day?

Get yourself booked in for regular manicures with an amazing nail technician, at least 6 months before the big day. A great nail technician will take the time to give you a nail consultation and explain the current condition of your nails. They will also try to understand what your end nail goal is – e.g. trying to grow your natural nails to a nice length for your big day, reducing/mending splits and broken nails etc. Make sure you are applying cuticle oil at least twice daily, this helps to keep your nails, cuticles and skin around your nails stay nice and moisturised. This reduces the dry bits of skin (hang nails) that appear around your nails, and reduces the urge for you to pick, bite and rip them off! It also helps to prevent brittle nails and splitting.

Can brides dare to be different with their wedding nails?

Of course! I’ve done colourful manicures to match wedding themes (yellow & purple) and even quirky black cats as one of my brides loved them. Your wedding day should be a reflection of you, so if you are a little different yourself, why opt for the standard French manicure? Just like your dress, hair and make-up, your nails should be the perfect style, for you.

When do you recommend to get your nails done for the big day?

I recommend getting your nails done as close to the big day as possible but not on the day. On your wedding day you will be so busy with other things and getting your nails done prior helps to reduce the number of bodies around you and potential stress! My bridal nail appointments are a wonderfully relaxing and pampering experience, especially as I travel to my brides - it is a nice way to unwind before the big day. My hand and arm massages are a particular highlight!

What are the best types of nails to have done?

This will vary from bride to bride and will depend on what you are looking to achieve. Your nail technician should be able to recommend the best nail service but I generally go with the following:

For a long lasting manicure that will last your honeymoon I recommend CND Shellac or Gelish which can last upto 14 to 21 days.

For brides who prefer nail polish for easy removal, I recommend CND Vinylux Weekly Polish which can last significantly longer than other nail polish due to its patent pending ProLight Technology.

For brides who would like enhancements e.g. nail extensions, I recommend CND Retention Liquid & Powder (more commonly known as “Acrylics”) – contrary to what people believe, if applied and maintained correctly, acrylic nails do not damage the nail

For nail art I recommend CND Vinylux Weekly Polish again but also OPI and Nails inc. for their wonderful range of colours.

Any new ideas for nails breaking away from the French manicure (we are not actually anti french polish I personally rocked a natural nail frenchie for my own big day~ Amy)

If you don’t want to stray too far away from the traditional French manicure but want something a little different and more flattering you can still achieve beautiful bridal looks by taking a more subtle and modern approach. The “nouveau” French look sees the French tip being painted further down the side of the nails (so you get a deeper curve to the top). This helps give your nails an elongated and elegant look.

Glitter and embellishments also provide something different – think glitter ombre, glitter tips, accents of Swarovski crystals. These are great, subtle ways to make your nails extra special. Of course you can go for full on sparkle and glitz (if that’s your thing) – after all, it is your big day!

Nails inc. have a beautiful collection “The New White” made up of four polishes which are white with a hint of colour (peach, pink, grey and mint). They provide such a fresh and clean look to nails and would look great with a single Swarvoski crystal at the base of the nail or with a naked/nude half moon. To buy "The New White" click here.

One thing I absolutely love to do is work with my brides to understand what their personal and wedding style is and, if they’re open to nail art. A lot of my brides want something really special and I’ve worked with brides to hand paint nail designs to match their wedding dress – I’ve done a lot of lace designs!

Any last minute tips?

Don’t be afraid of colour! You could request a different coloured tip for your French manicure design or a half moon which will provide a pop of colour without being too overwhelming.

NAILS BY METS is available in London, nationwide and internationally for:

• Press events & instore activity
• Nail art tutorials
• Editorial & advertising
• Corporate bookings & office visits 
• Nail & pamper parties 
• Private at home bookings 

For more information please contact: 

info@nailsbymets.com

+44 (0)753 939 3225 

www.nailsbymets.com | INSTAGRAM: nailsbymets | TWITTER: @NAILSBYMETS