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Saturday 27 February 2016

Flamingo Candles | Bunny Kisses

Hello My Lovelies,

I hope you are all doing well and are having a fabulous weekend so far! I thought today I would share with you one of the newest editions to my candle collection (I say collection because I absolutely love candles haha). There is nothing I love more that lighting a candle when I am feeling stressed, when I am in pamper mode or if I just want a pretty accent with a gorgeous scent somewhere in the house. I have reviewed a few different Flamingo Candles now (Macaroon & Almond High Tea, Rose & Marshmallow and Cheesecake Crunch) and honestly I am always so impressed with them and I can never resist sharing them with you all.

If you are not sure who Flamingo Candles are, they are a fresh new brand offering fun and original collections of handmade and organic candles with quirky contemporary designs...always making sure to incorporate their dapper friend Florrie the Flamingo. Each candle is hand-pured in Britain to the highest quality and are made with soybeans, natural cotton wicks and are all packed with unique, scrumptious fragrances. Bunny Kisses is their newest limited edition release for Easter and oh my goodness, not only does it look incredibly cute but it smells absolutely delicious! Honestly, when this surprise package landed on my doorstep and I saw how it came presented I literally squealed with excitement...and then when I saw what the candle was called I literally died! You should have seen my snapchats that night haha! If you fancy seeing daily vlogs, behind the scenes blogging and daily life then you can follow me on snapchat, my username is 'Sophia Meola' :)

This candle would make the most 'Delicious Easter Gift' - honestly, it smells good enough to eat! Bunny Kisses is a pretty pastel yellow wax jar candle decorated with a super cute metallic bunny and love heart. At first I couldn't quite figure out what the scent was...it just reminded me of sweeties. According to Flamingo Candles, the fragrance combines notes of juicy rhubarb and creamy caramel vanilla custard (so yummy!), however, it smells just like those Barratt Fruit Salad sweets you could get with Black Jacks! The Fruit Salad sweets are some of my ultimate favourites and the fragrance itself just matched the spring and Easter time so well. If you do decide to give this candle a try let me know what you think about the scent!


Overall, yet again I was left completely impressed with these candles and I honestly can't wait to try more. The overall burning time is  around 50 hours which I think it pretty great for a candle and from experience with the other Flamingo Candles I have tried this is pretty much true tot heir word! These candles come in at £12* which I think is definitely worth that extra splurge and would make such a lovely gift. I love how the packaging looks so luxuriously chic yet shabby chic and how they look sitting out on display! Usually, all Flamingo Candles are graced with Florrie (like I mentioned above), however, they decided to mix things up a bit and opted for a cute bunny and love heart - still adorable and adds that unique character Flamingo candles are known for. Even though it'll be bitter sweet when the candle is finished, I love how you could potentially use the empty jars for makeup and beauty storage. Just add a little glitter, some beads (for makeup brushes) a ribbon and you are good to go.

I hope you all enjoyed this post! I would love to know what you think about Flamingo Candles and if you would give them a try. If you would like to take a peek through the website you can do so by clicking here. Like always lovelies, if you have any questions, requests or if you just want a chat you can contact me on my social media or leave me a comment below. I love hearing from you all and I make sure to read every single comment…they really make my day!

Lots of Love

*PR Sample
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Saturday 13 February 2016

Last Minute Valentines Day Gift Guide | For Her | 2016

Hello My Lovelies,

I hope you are all doing well and are having a wonderful Valentines weekend so far! I put together a last minute Valentines Day gift guide last year (post here) and I got such a great response from it that I thought I would put together a 2016 edition. Don't fear, there is still time to find that perfect Valentines Day treat and if you are still on the hunt for something then this is the post for you. I decided to opt for a mixture of items with different price ranges so there might be a last minute idea for everyone. Everything included could be gifted individually or even added to a little Valentine's goodie hamper - the decision is yours!


Firstly, we have some classic Valentines Day gift ideas; Lingerie and Perfume. Both are great options and you are never limited for choice. Last year I featured a gorgeous Victorias Secret Bombshell lingerie set, however, this year I wanted to go for an option that was easier to get hold of if you don't necessarily live near a Victorias Secret store and something with a more affordable price tag. New Look have some gorgeous Lingerie sets all ranging under £15 and they are always my high-street go to. This particular bra is one from last year, however, there are some stunning styles to choose from on the New Look website (and of course, in store). Moving on to the perfume, I always think this is a great gift option whatever the occasion and there are always so many to choose from...plus, let's be honest, a girl can never have too many! The first option I wanted to share with you was Jo Malone Peony & Blush Suede, one of my all time favourite fragrances. This fragrance is incredibly soft, seductive and charming! The formulation consists of blooming Peonies, jasmine, rose, gillyflower and juicy red apple, combined together with the soft blend of blush suede. The second fragrance is a brand new one to my collection and one that I will be reviewing in full really soon. Barbour recently launched their first ever fragrance line, including Barbour for her*. This fragrance has a gorgeous and elegant floral blend of rose, jasmine and blush peony to create this beautifully evocative eau de toilette. This is a rural-inspired scent that blends the soft notes of musk and sweet vanilla for a timeless sophisticated impression. This is very similar to Jo Malone Peony & Blush Suede, however, as an eau de toilette it provides a light scent. The final fragrance I have to share with you today is a celebrity released scent by Rihanna and I will be featuring a full review soon also. RiRi by Rihanna* is a flirty floral that is super feminine, mischievous and playful. The formulation consists of Passion Fruit extract, Rum Absolute, Sparkling Cassis, Italian Mandarin, Japanese Honeysuckle, Pink freesia, Madagascar Vanilla, Sandalwood and so much more to create an all round gorgeous fragrance.


Yet again, Chocolate, Champagne and Roses are another wonderful option and I would love to receive any of these for Valentines Day. There are so many options to choose from on Valentines Day and throughout the year when it comes to Chocolate but I decided to feature the Book of Hearts, a Tesco Finest selection that consists of delicious dark, milk and white chocolate hearts with luxuriously indulgent fruit, nut and Marc de Champagne fillings. They are seriously amazing and I may or may not have sneaked a few whilst taking my photos haha (eating the props again haha). Now, being perfectly honest I am not a big drinker, however, when I do decided to have a few glasses it will always be a cocktail or some champagne. Champagne Bollinger Rose is a twist on classic champagne and will be sure to leave a lasting impression. Also, how gorgeous are the rose gold features on the bottle? You all know how much I adore rose gold haha. Finally, flowers are always a wonderful option no matter the occasion. Oh, "A rose by any other name would smell as sweet" (quoting Romeo & Juliet...swooning over Leonardo DiCaprio)...roses have been represented at showing affection for years and I absolutely love them. Whether you are thinking of treating your loved one to a single rose, a bouquet or 100 (oh, Instagram expectations) they will always go down a treat.


Next I wanted to share with you some pampering options. Candles make a gorgeous gift alone or in a hamper and even help set the mood and add a touch of aesthetics. The first candle I wanted to share with you was by Yankee Candle and I honestly think it was made for me haha. This is a limited edition trio candle that featured Buttercream, Red Velvet and Chocolate layers...all of my favourites things! These are selling out like no tomorrow so even if you are a fan of sweet smelling scents I would definitely recommend you try and pick one up...I know I am going back to stock up for the year haha. The second candle I wanted to share with you was a new one to my collection by Spry in their Persian Rose* scent. Even when this candle is sitting in my room not burning it leaves such a gorgeous aroma that fills the air. The formulation consists of delicate musk, amber and violet leaf that just compliment each other so well. Such a mesmerising floral scent and an alternative to Jo Malone. Moving on, when I think of pampering products there is one brand in particular that I will always think of and that is LUSH. This super cute 'In your Dreams' set is proof that the best things come in small packages. Swirled Unicorn Horns and magical Love Spells are no longer a fantasy with these specially selected bath bombs featuring neroli, lavender and rose. Finally, if you are looking for something that does all of the work for you then I would recommend checking out Glossybox*. They offer a subscription service that would make the perfect treat this Valentines Day that would send a box to your loved ones door throughout the entire year! They create carefully selection beauty and lifestyle boxes with the added bonus of special limited edition releases perfect for anyone. You can see my Valentines Day* box review here.


If you are looking for something more techy then I would definitely recommend a super chic phone case by Skinny Dip or some Solo2 Wireless Beats by Dr Dre (of course, all in rose gold). This Skinny Dip Glitter Unicorn case would make the perfect addition to anyone's phone. This perspex case doesn't only look fab but it also offers premium protection against bumps and drops. The unicorns and glitter give this case an added special touch and coming in at £18 would make such a thoughtful gift. There are so many different options on the Skinny Dip website there will sure be something perfect for that special someone in your life. I have always loved technology, I mean, I even work for the worlds leading technology distributor! So, when I saw that Dr Dre had released some Special Edition Solo2 Wireless Beats in rose gold I was instantly sold. Dr Dre Beats have been around for a good few years now but they always have such incredible reviews and honestly, since using them I have not gone back to using anything else. There are some great options online from different shades, styles and accessories...I have become completely obsessed with them.


Undecided on what to get your makeup addict partner?! A selection of their favourite makeup loves would definitely go down a treat. Nothing says attention to detail that a partner knowing exactly what makeup you like and use - getting your foundation shade right definitely deserves a gold star and some brownie points! The great thing about makeup is that you have the biggest selection from drugstore to high end with a range of different prices available that are easily purchasable anywhere. If you are looking for some options then KIKO Milano have recently launched their new Best Friends Forever* collection that features a selection of gorgeous lipsticks, lip liners, nail polish, palettes and more than just scream love and Valentines Day. KIKO is one of my favourite makeup brands and I am always impressed with their limited edition collections. Have you had a search through Instagram? Maybe something from Anastasia Beverly Hills, Benefit Cosmetics, Too Face Cosmetics (hint hint, they have just launched their new Chocolate Bon Bon palette) etc. would be another great option?! These are some of my all-time favourite makeup brands and they are constantly launching new products to their lines that are completely lust worthy. If I was to receive a selection like the above for Valentines Day I would be one happy girly!

I hope you all enjoyed my last minute Valentines Day Gift Guide and if you are still thinking of a last minute gift it has really helped you out. Everything featured in this post is easily accessible in-store if you need to quickly pop out and purchase something or available with express next day delivery online (this will vary from store to store). I am not saying you need to buy each other gifts on Valentines Day as I know it is not a holiday for everyone but if you were in need of some ideas this post is here to help. Also, Valentines Day is NOT just for couples. My Best Friend Kirsty surprised me with a card and honestly it put the biggest smile on my face! (Thank you sooo much Kirsty!) I would absolutely love to receive any of these gifts for Valentines Day or pretty much any time of the year to be honest. If you have any other last minute gift ideas pretty please share them in the comments below as I would love to hear them! Like always lovelies, if you have any questions, requests or if you just want a chat you can contact me on my social media or leave me a comment below. I love hearing from you all and I make sure to read every single comment…they really make.

Lots of Love

*Contains PR Samples
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Sunday 7 February 2016

Glossybox Valentines Edition | February 2016


Hello My Lovelies,

I hope you are all doing well and have had a wonderful weekend. I thought today I would share with you this month's Glossybox which is themed all around Valentines Day...very appropriate considering it is only a week away.  This Limited Edition 'Love is in the Air' box contains 5 full size products which I was pleasantly surprised to see and I couldn't wait to unbox and share them with you all. The Glossybox team made it their mission to introduce us to some Beauty Soulmates this month and with all full sized products all perfect for achieving that Valentines Day look, I think this is going to be a super popular box!

Naobay Protective Hair Mask Volume Conditioner | £10.64* (Full Size)

First up we have this Naobay Protective Hair Mask Volume Conditioner which has such a gorgeous scent. Hair masks are a saving grace as they always give hair that TLC it needs to keep hair in top condition. Even though I don't regular heat style my hair I love using a conditioner to keep my hair protected, soft and sleek. The combination of natural and organic ingredients in Naobay's mask leaves hair feeling soft, silky and easy to manage. Naobay is a brand I always see popping up monthly and even though I am always impressed with their products I think it would be nice to see something different.

Wilkinson Sword Intuition Ultra Moisture Razor | £6.99* (Full Size)

The Wilkinson Sword Intuition Ultra Moisture Razor is the only product in this month's box that I have tried before and honestly we were not beauty soulmates. I really love the whole concept of this product of how you have the moisturising and conditioning soap attached around the blades so it eliminates you having to apply a shaving cream first, however, I have gone back to this product a few times and on numerous occasions it has irritated, cut and left my legs looks a little worse for wear. It is a great product for traveling and I love how it comes with an in-shower wall holder but it never seemed to work for me. Don't let me put you off giving it a try but I think I will stick to my trusty shaving cream and razor method haha. 

MUA Power Pout Glaze Low Voltage Gloss in Hush | £3.50* (Full Size)

The MUA Pout Glaze Low voltage Gloss is a gorgeous shimmery peachy nude shade. MUA is a brand I really enjoy but this was the first time I had tried these glosses and they provide a sheer, subtle hint of colour to the lips. I personally didn't like wearing this shade alone as you could hardly tell I had anything on my lips, however, applied as a top coat to your lipstick or lip liner of choice would really enhance your lips.  

Nicka K New York 24Hr Waterproof Eyeliner in Dark Brown | £3.99* (Full Size) 

This Nicka K New York 24Hr Waterproof Eyeliner was the next product to be featured in this months box and it is a gorgeous chocolatey brown shade. The packaging has been designed amazingly as it is retractable, has a smudger on the opposite end and if you pull the smudger off you will find a sharpener (I found this by accident haha). This product has been marketed as a 24Hr waterproof eyeliner...now, I can't confirm if this lasts 24Hrs but I can tell you now that this is definitely going to be a long wearing product. I swatched the eyeliner on my wrist and played around with the smudger and when it came to removing it with a cotton pad with my beloved Garnier Micellar Water it would not budge...it definitely took some elbow grease and the help of my trusty Tea Tree and Witch Hazel toner. 

Browtician Love Skull Limited Edition Tweezers | £7.99* 

Brows are a big deal for me so I love trying out any new products or tools to keep them looking tip-top. When I saw these Browtician Love Skull Limited Edition Tweezers in the box I was super excited to give them a try...but honestly, I was definitely distracted by their beautiful design. The 'Love Skull' design matches the Valentines theme of the box and they are definitely high quality and super unique.

Overall, I was extremely impressed with this months Valentines themed box and I can't wait to see what is in store for March! I was pleased with every single product (minus the shaver as we have a love-hate relationship at the moment haha) and I love how everything individually had an affordable price tag! This month's box comes in at £33.11 and for a £13. 25* box (including P&P) you are definitely getting your money's worth. Although, it all depends on what plan you subscribe to as you could be getting an even better deal. Previous boxes have contained a mixture of products and I love how this month was no different, there was something for your body, hair, eyebrows, eyes and lips - a goodie pack to kick start your Valentines beauty routine.

Like always lovelies, if you have any questions, requests or if you just want a chat you can contact me on my social media or leave me a comment below. I love hearing from you all and I make sure to read every single comment…they really make my day!

What do you think of this month's Glossybox?

Lots of Love

*PR Sample
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Thursday 4 February 2016

Calvin Klein CK2 Eau De Toilette

Hello My Lovelies,

I hope you are all doing well and are having a fabulous week so far. I thought today I would share with you one of my newest perfume and scent additions that World Duty Free very kindly sent to me. I have been absolutely loving this scent at the moment as its perfect for daily use but also to layer up in the evenings for a more sultry scent. With Valentines Day just around the corner, this would make the perfect treat if you are still stuck for ideas...especially if you are looking for a brand new fragrance to try. Before now, this fragrance was an exclusive to World Duty Free and was only available across 21airports in the UK. However, have no fear because this fragrance is scheduled to launch on the high street sometime during February...just in time for Valentines day!

Firstly, let's talk about the packaging. The bottle itself is super sleek and has been designed into a rounded bulb type shape with the classic Calvin Klein script printed on the front. It also comes with a solid cap which serves as a unit to maintain the bottle in an upright position, but also to protect the spray applicator. It is no secret that the outer packaging and the packet have been designed very minimalistically and I think it works really well - it is just so aesthetically pleasing. With the bottle being made out of clear glass you can literally see every facet of the bottle - a very 'what you see is what you get' approach. Yes, it looks gorgeous out on display and it has stayed true to the minimalism principles that are essential to Calvin Kleins brand DNA...(It is just a little tricky to photograph haha).


CK2 celebrates the diversity of connections between two people and Calvin Klein wanted to present this by creating their newest gender-free fragrance. The scent itself balances the woodiness with the natural and fresh tones, opening with an unexpected spice of wasabi which hits you just a few seconds after initially smelling the scent. The strikingly fresh top notes are complimented by the floral accords and overall it just feels incredibly light. The drydown of jasmine is enhanced by the scent of vetiver and blends with creamy fieriness of sandalwood and a selection of musks. Overall, a gorgeous blend of notes that smells so unique and distinctive. Like I said, this scent is only available at Duty Free currently, however, it will be available on the high-street very soon. The current World Duty Free value for this fragrance is as follows; 100ml for £42.40*, 50ml for £31.20 and you can also pick up a Deodorant stick for £9.60. Overall, I have really been enjoying this fragrance and it have been reaching for it a lot recently.

I hope you all enjoyed this evenings review, I would love to hear your thoughts on the new CK2 scent. Does it sound like something you would give a try? Like always lovelies, if you have any questions, requests or if you just want a chat you can contact me on my social media or leave me a comment below. I love hearing from you all and I make sure to read every single comment…they really make my day!

What is your favourite Calvin Klein scent?

Lots of Love

*PR Sample
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