Last Saturday I had the pleasure of launching my debut 'Nails & Tales' project, which is all about capturing and recording people's stories and histories whilst giving them a manicure!

The Springs Arts and Heritage Centre is based in Havant, Hampshire, and they have recently received Heritage Lottery funding to create an exhibition and documentary all about Kenwood, the electrical kitchen and home-ware brand which invented the iconic Chef food mixer, which was first released in 1950 and it still their best seller today!

The 'Mixing 'n' Twisting' day was organised to gather interesting stories and facts from ex-colleagues, family members and locals who had a connection with the company and factories originally based in Havant, and I was thrilled to be asked to help.
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I set up a manicure station in the main exhibition hall, which was buzzing with chatter and stories of old times past, and I recorded four stories from three ex-colleagues who each worked for Kenwood in different capacities during the 70s, 80s and 90s, and another lady who worked in a neighbouring laboratory and had some great stories about the Kenwood social club in its heyday!

It was a really relaxed event and they all loved their manicures and the chance to talk about their past, which is so rare!

What a fab first Nails & Tales, and I hope the ladies I spoke to enjoyed it as much as I did. They now have copies of their recordings and will hopefully treasure them for future generations If you or someone you know would like to record a story and have your nails done, or there is an event where it might work then please let me know! Or simply just make sure you record your loved ones chatting and telling their stories. It's so important, because when they're gone - the stories will never be told in the same way again.

Happy weekend everyone,

Laura x

This time last week, we had just finished a mammoth eight days spread across two weekends at Lulworth Castle, bringing the Pampervan to life in the Slow Motion area at Camp Bestival and Bestival - a whole arena dedicated to connecting the body and mind through yoga, disco dancing, holistic and restorative therapies, gong baths and more! It was a really magical place to be situated, high on a hill overlooking the rest of the festival and rolling landscape of the Jurassic Coast, with a much-needed gentle breeze and space to relax away from the main buzz of the festival.​

​​We arrived to set up on one of the hottest days of this recent heatwave. The Pampervan made it through the dusty, sun-drenched site up to the Slow Motion field and I absolutely loved creating my vision - it was an explosion of red, pink and peach items in a retro, fifties diner setting! My van sat alongside my marquee, which had huge windows to allow for natural light and a bit of shade from the sun. My reupholstered deckchairs sat in front of my van and allowed a chilled waiting area for people to enjoy. We offered manicures, pedicures, facials and mini massages - express treatments for time-conscious parents, budget-ravers and glittery kids!

Camp Bestival is the big family-fun-filled festival, themed all things 'nautical' this year. I was fortunate to have my husband and daughter there for the entire time, along with my lovely receptionist, Magdalena, and her lovely little family (we met at NCT classes and have been friends ever since!), as well as my therapist Natalia. As soon as the site opened on Thursday afternoon we were busy doing treatments and taking bookings and were soon sold out for the entire weekend!!

It wouldn't be England if we didn't talk about the weather. Despite the amazing heatwave we'd experienced across the country for weeks and weeks, the weather turned on us on the Friday night and a storm started brewing along the coastline. Saturday treated us to ALL the weather, but we enjoyed cosying up in the marquee and treating festival-goers despite the threatening hooley! Saturday night was a bit of a ridiculous night; our tent didn't live to tell the tale the next day and we had to drop our daughter off at her grandparents' . We found out in the morning that the site was deemed too unsafe to open to the public. Such a disappointment for everyone involved; the festival-goers, the traders, and, of course, the organisers. Despite having to cancel an entire day of treatments, we were grateful to have had two and a half brilliant, fully-booked and, mostly, sun-drenched days!​

Four years ago I had this idea and said I ultimately wanted to provide beauty treatments at festivals. To now have worked at two of the biggest UK festivals, be fully-booked practically everyday, treat loads of lovely, cool, interesting people AND enjoy it with my family and close friends - it was a moment I'll never forget. Thank you to everyone who created the opportunity, helped make it a reality and came and visited us at the festivals.

​Please can we do it all over again?

Big, sparkly love,

​Laura x

I had the privilege of providing the makeup for a recent photo shoot with Maddie Cowan, an Art Director who is creating some really exciting fashion styling and photography in the south-west. Check out her work by clicking here. We worked with a local model called Grace who photographs way beyond her years and was a pleasure to work with and make-over.

We're planning some more photo shoots in the near future, and I'm excited to experiment new makeup ideas and themes and broaden my creative potential. I've loved doing several wedding makeovers recently, but they are often quite 'safe', and fashion shoots allow me to work with inspiring creatives and definitely think outside the box! Maddie definitely allows me to do that!

Here are some photos from the shoot, but you can check out more on Maddie's website and keep checking back here or on my instagram page for more shoots.

​At the start of the year, I set myself the target of achieving a logo design for The Pampervan. I have wanted one for ages and had lots of ideas spinning round my head. I really felt like I needed my branding sorted before I could properly launch my website and get excited about all things marketing! It was the next box to tick before I could move on.
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I decided to approach a relatively new friend of mine, Charlotte Gale, who is a multi-talented artist. I've had the pleasure of sharing a few fun evenings in Salisbury with her and some friends when I moved back to the south coast a couple of years ago.

​​I don't even know where to begin with describing her creative projects and achievements, but she's been a commercial brand designer for several years and is now focusing her energy on pattern and print design, having had previous success with having her patterns and designs licensed internationally. Check out Charlotte's website here.

I felt confident she would get my brief and be able to collate all of my ideas into something perfect - and I'm so chuffed with the outcome!​

I'd love to know what you think?!

​Laura​ x

Apologies for the radio silence over here! It turns out you don't have as much 'spare' time on maternity leave as I thought you might! My grand plans of launching The Pampervan by last summer came and went, and I instead focused on being a mumma, spending precious times with my family, doing some treatments here and there, and slowly setting up The Pampervan.
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You may have noticed a different look to my website?! In fact, it's got a whole new URL, but if you tried to visit my old website then you would have been directed here. It's now pampervanbeauty.com. What do you think of the new look? My treatment offers? I'd love to know your thoughts! I'm currently working on some new branding and will be launching an Instagram page very soon and Facebook page in time. So keep your eyes peeled and please get following and sharing - the wheels are back in motion!

Towards the end of last summer, I also started looking for some part-time work to generate a bit of income once my maternity allowance ceased, and to get my mind stimulated again after months of goo-goo-gah-gah and sleep deprivation. However, I wanted to find something that could work around my main job, being a mum!

​I'd been keeping an eye on any vacancies at the international cosmetics brand LUSH, which is based down the road in Poole and still runs its first ever shop and spa, head office, factories, kitchens and spa training hubs across the town and along the quay-side. It's a company that has always interested me with its magical colours, smells, environmentally-friendly packaging and general activism, so I was thrilled when an opportunity came up for a temporary part-time role in their Customer Care team, dealing with enquiries (and some complaints!) from around the world. After an entertaining group interview and a 1:1 interview, I was in! They had me making my own bath bombs on day one and I've been learning the ropes of the company ever since!
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I'm going to post more about LUSH, as I've really enjoyed learning about them; their history, their campaigns, their 100% cruelty-free and vegetarian (and now 70% vegan!) product range. They've definitely inspired me to be a better person, and you can't say fairer than that for a job!

Till then,
​
​Laura x

I'm thrilled to announce the safe arrival of Erin Wren, born breech a couple of weeks before Christmas by elective c-section and weighing a healthy 8lb 9oz! Those that know me will know how convinced I was that I was having a boy (even though we hadn't found out so it was always 50:50!) so I was completely shocked when we were presented with a beautiful baby girl. In fact I'm still saying 'I can't believe we've had a girl' seven weeks later!!

The c-section itself was quite an experience, both the operation and the recovery. Breastfeeding has been the most challenging part so far - more than the lack of sleep! - but now I'm really enjoying it. Maternity leave is great fun, I never have that Sunday night feeling! We're absolutely loving being parents - it's an overwhelming responsibility but feels so natural and beautiful and we feel very blessed.

I'll be on maternity leave until the end of the summer - where you can find me on the beach with my babe! - and will spend between now and then figuring out how I'll continue to provide beauty treatments. I'm enjoying practising my baby massage skills on Erin and plan to offer some trial baby massage sessions to my new mum/dad friends. I'm really looking forward to having two wedding makeovers booked in this year and I'll happily treat friends now and then and continue to write to keep me inspired....but for now I think I need some beauty treatments myself!

​With love,

​Laura x​
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Today I went for my first chiropractic appointment and it was quite the experience! Before today I had heard of chiropractors, but never really knew what they did. I guess I knew they had something to do with bones and clicking...but that's as far as my knowledge went!

I've been working for a company called Lilliput Health over the past few months, a portfolio of healthcare clinics based across Bournemouth and Poole who manage the beauty space at Poole Audi, and I've enjoyed meeting lots of practitioners ranging from sports massage therapists to physiotherapists and aesthetic doctors to colonic hydrotherapists!

I was recently introduced to Amy who is a recently qualified chiropractor (after five years of training!) and I was kindly offered a complimentary consultation and treatment. Having checked it was OK for during pregnancy but reading that, despite rave reviews, there is no scientific proof that it works....I was certainly intrigued!  ​
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​Chiropractic is a holistic and alternative approach to health and is vital to improved wellness. Chiropractors are trained to diagnose, treat, manage and prevent disorders of the musculoskeletal system (bones, joints, and muscles), as well as the effects these disorders can have on the nervous system and general health. They have a specialist interest in neck and back pain, but when they assess patients they take their entire physical, emotional and social wellbeing into account.

​​Chiropractors use their hands to treat disorders of the bones, muscles and joints in babies, children and adults. Treatments that involve using the hands in this way are called "manual therapies". Chiropractors use a range of techniques, with an emphasis on manipulation of the spine. They may also offer advice on diet, exercise and lifestyle, and rehabilitation programmes that involve exercises to do in your own time. Some chiropractors may also offer other alternative treatments, such as acupuncture.

Similarly to medical practitioners, like nurses and dentists, the chiropractic profession is regulated by law. The Chiropractors Act 1994 provides statutory regulation for the profession and the title ‘chiropractor’ is protected under this legislation and it is illegal to practise as a chiropractor without being registered with the GCC.

• Back pain and neck pain
• Migraine headaches caused by neck pain
• Jaw problems
• Shoulder pain and “frozen shoulder”
• Muscle and tendon strains and joint ligament sprains
• Achilles Tendonitis and plantar fasciitis
• Tennis/golfer’s elbow
• Paediatric complaints
• Pregnancy care​
• ​Newborn alignment

Chiropractic adjustments free up restricted joints in your spine that may be stiff and not moving optimally. Frequently, this involves applying a short sharp thrust to the area which may result in an audible “pop” – this is just the bubbles of gas popping in the fluid as the pressure is relieved. This allows you to move more easily and comfortably and decreases any pressure on surrounding structures.

Here's a video featuring some adjustments (listen with the sound on to hear the clicks!)​
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I certainly enjoyed my first session of chiropractic, especially being adjusted and learning about how I can benefit from it moving forwards. It should ease the shoulder pain I suffer with due to my job and reduce the pelvic pain I've experienced occasionally throughout pregnancy. It should also help with labour, especially with getting my baby to be in the best position for delivery and perhaps making the whole thing happen a bit quicker...although time will tell!

It's great to know that my baby can also benefit from chiropractic once it's born, so I'll certainly look into that some more too. I'd say it's definitely worth trying, even just for the clicking bit!! It makes you feel pretty hardcore!

I'm booked in again next week so will keep you posted!

Laura x

What better way to celebrate Baby Massage Awareness Week than returning home from a weekend in London training to become a Baby Massage instructor! I had a wonderful weekend training with Blossom & Berry and, as luck would have it, it became a 1:1 course so I learnt loads and am on track to bringing the wonderful benefits of baby massage to the south coast!

​Over the past few years baby massage has started to become very popular in the UK with more and more parents and their newborn babies attending classes; however, it has been practiced for over 3000 years in regions as diverse as India, Africa, Asia, New Zealand and the Caribbean as a routine part of childcare, from the moment of birth until the baby is weaned and walking.

The emphasis of baby massage is on the power of touch, physical bonding and attachment between parents and babies. It relaxes and calms babies, eases colic, constipation, wind, teething pain and promotes muscle and bone awareness and development, and should be part of their daily routine. 

Many people imagine a professional massaging their baby, but it's the complete opposite - parents are taught how to effectively massage thier babies through attending group / 1:1 / online classes, usually over 4-5 weekly sessions, and then encouraged to continue the skills at home when the time suits, e.g. after bath time, changing nappies, at beditme, etc.

Teachers demonstrate a whole series of massage movements on dolls, and parents copy on their babies. It covers the whole of the baby's body and parents are taught how and why those movements make a difference physically and emotionally. 
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Many parents comment that baby massage provides a really special time for them to bond with their baby, around the hectic hours of feeding, sleeping, changing nappies, etc, and often parents benefit just as much as the babies. It makes sense that relaxed, positive parents help create relaxed, secure and positive children, so what's not to like? Parents also gain the opportunity to meet other new mums and dads, so it also provides a comforting community in which to learn and meet new people.​

​There are a LOT of different companies and educational institututions teaching baby massage and training up teachers, often alongside baby yoga and parent-support workshops for babies struggling with sleeping, crying, etc, so it is a bit of a minefield knowing who to choose. Blossom & Berry stood out for me as they have been teaching accredited courses all over the world since 2001 and have been experts in providing educational advice to organisations such as for Pampers, Nurofen for Children, Colief, Mother & Baby Magazine, Huffington Post and Practical Parenting Magazine. 

They also run several charitable projects across the world, including in Malawi and Mexico, in providing baby massage to those who may not be able to access the services so easily, as well as reaching out to babies with physical, cognitive, intellectual, mental, sensory and developmental disabilities. ​
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I then plan to practice my newfound massage skills on my newborn baby and roll out some classes for parents later next year alongside beauty treatments - because both baby and parent needs pampering after all!

With love,

​               Laura x

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Despite the utter joy of finding out I was pregnant and the overwhelming knowledge that there is a tiny HUMAN BEING growing inside my tummy, I have also been plagued by worrying about lots of little things, mainly whether or not the baby is healthy but also some vanity woes. Will I get really sick? Will I get fat or have swollen ankles or stretchmarks? Will I feel and look exhausted? And, beating them all, will my skin get really bad?

Having suffered with the 'mask of pregnancy' (or Melasma) way before ever being pregnant - thanks to the Pill - I am simply waiting for my skin to get worse throughout my pregnancy. Whilst I don't really care all that much because I'm producing another little heartbeat, I can imagine that the road ahead is going to be quite hard and fraught at times anyway so looking in the mirror at a patchy, tired, panda-eyed face might just be enough to tip me over the edge...

If, and up until that happens, I am currently enjoying the joys of pregnancy! A lot of friends have kindly commented that I'm glowing (although I think everyone says this to pregnant ladies even when they're tinged with a nauseous green complexion) but it does make you feel nice! I was interested to find out what this glow is...

There are many good and not so good physiological changes that occur during pregnancy and they change as you progress through your trimesters and beyond. These are down to the influx in hormones (mainly progesterone) which are whizzing about your body trying to create a new life and are, ultimately, responsible for changes to your skin and hair. ​Hormones can be simultaneously wonderful and evil.

Time will tell what symptoms I get lumbered with but I do think it's good to prevent what you can and accept what you get. Although the reality of growing a baby should outweigh any physiological or emotional woes, it is easier said than done and pregnancy and any types of resulting changes can take their toll. If you are pregnant then be kind to yourself and embrace the changes as best as you can. If you're not pregnant but you know someone who is then keep dishing out those compliments and don't ask too many questions about stretchmarks, sickness, etc - they probably don't want to be reminded! 

With love from me and the bump,

Laura x

Four weeks of delightful unemployment (mostly in the sunshine!) and I'm back at work with a bang! Moving and job hunting whilst pregnant has been interesting to say the least, but I'm happy to report that someone was happy to hire me up until I go on maternity leave later this year ready for our Christmas arrival!

I am proud to announce that I'm now honing my beauty skills at a brand new, first class Audi dealership in Poole....yep, you heard me right!! Opened to the public just this week after a 14-month and £14.5 million build, Audi customers are being treated to a high-spec innovative showroom which is the largest in Europe! You can read more about it here.

Whilst they're sealing the deal on a new car or having their car MOT'd or serviced, customers can enjoy a first class coffee lounge (coffees are cocoa sprinkled with an Audi-logo stencil!), a gym and a beauty spa - all with complimentary perks! We are offering free treatments and discounts to their customers so I'm enjoying surprising people and sending them away having experienced a nice massage, file and paint or facial - the last thing you'd expect from going to a car garage!

Lucky people...and lucky me....but the good news is you can experience it even if you don't own an Audi! ​The salon is also open to non-Audi customers and is well worth a visit, so if you're local and would like to check it out then why not enjoy free parking, a free drink and a treatment with me! The treatment menu can be viewed here.

Now, where's that company car.....?!

Laura x

I am thrilled to announce that I passed all of my practical assessments a couple of weeks ago and my last exam today, so I have now completed my Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Beauty Therapy! Wahey!!

Just under two years and I am a fully-fledged beauty therapist in all of the following treatments:

• Manicures & Pedicures
• Waxing
• Facials
• Body massage
• Body scrubs and wraps
• Indian head massage
• Hopi ear candling
• Tanning
• Electrical facial and body treatments
• Electrolysis hair removal

​So much has happened in those two years; in fact two really big things - I suddenly lost my mum in the middle of my first year, and I got married in the middle of my second year - yet, I'm the first person in both years to finish all my assessments and exams so quickly. COME ON!!! (Hey, if you don't boast about your own achievements, who else will?!).

​It just goes to show that when you're passionate about something and you strive to succeed, then you can get there whatever life throws at you. I also think the world of beauty has provided a really lovely sense of focus, direction and creativity during otherwise quite emotional times.

As anyone who knows me well will know, I'm not one for resting on my laurels and sitting around. The north wind has blown (a la 'Chocolat') and we are going to be leaving Suffolk after two and a half happy years and moving back closer to home, to the beautiful seaside town of Bournemouth! 

My brand spanking new husband has bagged himself a great job overlooking the beach, and I am currently working out what I'm going to do....

At the heart of it all I want to bring beauty to people who need it - exhausted mums, time-stretched business big wigs, elderly people who find it hard to get to a salon, people going through a tough time, etc - because a simple manicure or massage can make you feel infinitely better. It gives me a great deal of satisfaction and provides some purpose to my life.

I also want to keep on learning. The world of beauty is constantly evolving and there are lots more treatments I'd like to be able to learn and provide, so watch this space....​

If you're local to Dorset/Hampshire/Wiltshire do drop me a line and let me know if you'd be up for some beauty treatments or if you have any ideas for me - click here!

​I'm feeling excited and creative and inspired and look forward to seeing what my next beauty chapter will bring....


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SUFFOLK FRIENDS - I will be working at Seckford Spa until the end of of June and will have more spare time to offer my own beauty treatments in and around Woodbridge till we leave in early July, so get in touch!

With love,

Laura x
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A few weeks ago I began to feel a little bit disillusioned about the beauty industry. Perhaps it was just the January blues, perhaps I was suffering with it being the first anniversary of losing my mum, but things at college and work were starting to feel a bit 'samey', a bit uninspiring. 

I decided I needed to look outside of my current narrow-lens of work and college in Suffolk, and look to the wider world of beauty magazines, beauty editors, dermatologists, clinics, etc. So I emailed all of the inspirational beauty big wigs that I follow on Instagram and Facebook to ask for work experience. If you don't ask you don't get....!

Kate Kerr, a renowned facialist based on Harley St in London, remarkably picked up the phone and called me! I started following her work a few months ago after Alessandra Steinherr (GLAMOUR Beauty Director) raved about her facials and skincare products and she's recently appeared in Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Mail Online, The Times, Good Housekeeping....and here she is ringing me?!!!

We had a chat. I told her about my current situation and how I feel and she listened. She suggested I visit her clinic to meet her and see her work - so off I went!

Having trained as a beauty therapist in New Zealand over 15 years ago, she came over to Ireland and then the UK to manage a load of salons and spas, before training with a Dermatologist and specialising in both medical and aesthetic skin therapy and skin rejuvenation to help treat acne, acne scarring, hyper pigmentation, rosacea and ageing. After having a baby a few years ago, she decided to open her own clinic on Harley St. A one-woman band doing her best to make people feel better about their skin. What an inspiration!

As a Christmas present to one another, me and my man treated ourselves to a spa treatment at the Lilac Rooms at the beautiful Elizabethan Dunston Hall. Despite working in the industry and giving people massages and facials most days, I haven't had a professional treatment as a regular punter for over a year - so it was much needed! When everyone else was moaning about returning to work last week, I didn't mind because I had my massage to look forward to!

I went all out and booked the 85-min hot stone massage and facial for myself, and a back, neck and shoulder massage and facial for him (called '5 steps to heaven' - we wondered what was in store for him...!!). 

​I was really excited, but also apprehensive. As a therapist, you know only too well how important it is to make the treatment as good and enjoyable as possible - but it also means your expectations are quite high when you're on the receiving end.

I'm happy to report the treatments, therapists and treatment rooms were lovely! There was lots of attention to detail, particularly with my hot stone massage with placing the nice, warm stones in the palms of my hands during the facial and holistically placing gemstones on my various chakra points to promote positivity, healing and emotional energy. I'm not sure whether this worked or not, but I certainly fell into a deep state of relaxation and felt myself drifting off.

Our only complaint? We both agreed we could have done with a little bit more pressure when it came to the massage. Did they check if the massage pressure was ok? Yep. Did we just agree and say 'yes' - yep. Like. Everybody. Does. And I'm a beauty therapist who should know better.....we're so British!! 

Go and treat yourself to a spa day or a spa treatment - it's good fun, relaxing and good for your soul.

I can, of course, recommend Seckford Spa where I work, but otherwise this website will help you find some good local recommendations - https://goodspaguide.co.uk/.

Enjoy!

​Laura x

PS. I'll soon be looking for full body massage models at college - at a bargain price - keep an eye on my facebook page.

Last week at college I was set the homework task of finding out about the menopause. It's something we've all heard of, but I personally didn't know very much about it other than it causes hot flushes and signals an end to periods!

It's something all women will inevitably go through, but - similarly to the after-effects of childbirth - is rarely discussed! Perhaps women are embarrassed to admit they've reached that certain stage of life and don't want to highlight that they're ageing, but I think it's important to speak up about it and reach out for help if needed. Even if you're lucky enough to be able to avoid it for many more years, it's good to be aware and sympathetic and help our mums, aunties, sisters and friends go through 'the change'...

Women, especially, don't want to admit that they're ageing and there is one sure-fire marker that their bodies aren't as young as they once were, and that's the menopause! ​Symptoms can appear in many physical and emotional guises and can have a huge impact on a woman’s overall quality of life. But women shouldn't feel like they have to go it alone; go to your doctor to chat about any of the following symptoms and the treatments available:​​

• Hot flushes
• ​Night sweats
• Palpitations
• Depression
• Irritability
• Fatigue
• Osteoporosis
• Loss of libido
• Lack of concentration
• Bladder irritations
• Hair loss or unwanted hair growth
• Changes to your vagina, such as dryness, discomfort, itching and pain during sex.
• Insomnia
• Loss of confidence
• Anxiety
• Signs of ageing
• Weight gain or weight loss
• Dry skin

During the menopause it is possible that hair growth will both increase and decrease on different parts of the body due to hormone imbalance. Many women can suffer from hair loss, with noticeable areas of baldness and thinning on the scalp, with clumps of hair falling out when washing or brushing it.

However, some follicles become sensitive to these circulating hormones in the blood, and hair growth is stimulated. This unwanted hair can, and does, cause embarrassment. Up to three-quarters of older women may have slightly increased facial hair, mainly on the upper lip and chin, but also on the cheeks and sideburn areas.​ This once downy hair can become thicker and darker (or translucent/white in some cases) and it can be a pain to control. Waxing, plucking, shaving, etc are all acceptable removal methods, but I would advise laser or electrolysis (see my last blog post for more information).

***I am currently looking for models for electrolysis, so if you're experiencing this type of hair growth and want to get rid of it for good, then let me know! It only costs £2 per treatment at college!***

Sadly, it's part of the female life cycle and we will all have to endure it - but I know many women who went through it seemingly easily, and there is no point fearing it! Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is one of the main treatments used to relieve the symptoms of the menopause; however it has been surrounded by controversy ever since it was introduced in the 1940s! It helps relieve menopausal symptoms by replacing oestrogen and progesterone, and is available in many forms including tablets, cream or gel, a skin patch or an implant; however, it has been blamed for increasing the risk of cancer, heart disease and strokes...so it's a very individual choice. Antidepressants are sometimes prescribed for signs of depression or anxiety, and for treating hot flushes, and there are lots of lubes available to treat vaginal dryness. Making simple dietary and lifestyle changes can often improve menopausal symptoms, e,g. eating a healthy, balanced diet and taking plenty of regular exercise can help you avoid putting on extra weight.​

However, it's worth also remembering that it's not all doom and gloom. On the plus side, there's no more periods, cramps, PMS or the need for birth control - and you can hopefully continue life on a more even keel...knowing you'll never have to go through all of it again!!

I've always been fascinated with the idea of a more permanent hair removal solution since my friend in California told me she had had her legs, underarms and bikini line lasered and never had to worry about not being 'bikini ready'. I thought this sounded like heaven because a) who doesn't want to be 'bikini ready' (even in sunny UK) and b) imagine never having to shave/wax again?! Since then I've known a few more people who have been lasered or had IPL or electrolysis, but I had never really understood what they all were or how they worked. It all sounded a bit scary and expensive.

There are pros and cons for all types of long-term hair removal, and it is always worth doing your research and working out what's better for you individually; think about your pain threshold and budget. 

IPL and laser are similar in that they use light therapy to remove hair, whereas electrolysis uses a probe with an electric current. Laser is, on the whole, thought to be the most effective method of hair removal, as it is quicker with minimal pain, but electrolysis is known as the ultimate method for permanent hair removal. IPL uses multiple wavelengths that scatter across the skin, whereas laser uses one single wavelength which targets a specific hair or skin concern. IPL can, therefore, target more than just hair removal and improve the skin tone in that area (it even encourages collagen renewal - which is a nice side effect!). Electrolysis can treat those with light, blonde or grey hair so is often the only choice for some people.

For now I'm excited to give IPL a try, both personally and by carrying it out on clients, and I will update you on my progress. I will be learning electrolysis at college in the next few months and will desperately require some models, so please keep an eye out on my facebook page and join me in being hair-free!!

See you laser......

Laura x

When I started my venture into the world of beauty last year I was very excited about learning about facials, nails and waxing, etc, but had no specific interest in massage, which was fine as we were told we would have to do another full year to specialise in it. Pah, not for me, no sir'ee!! 

...Then I got a job in a spa...where people go for massages...and I suddenly realised I had to learn, fast!!

I took a couple of quick courses outside of college and at work to learn some basic massage techniques and trained with a very good friend who runs her own aromatherapy sports massage clinic, and practised on a few willing models; however, the beauty industry doesn't give you very long to practise, suddenly I was giving massages to fully-paying clients - which I'm now doing on a daily basis!! 

And I have to say - I really enjoy it!! I shouldn't be surprised; I'm so passionate about giving facials, learning about skin and treating different skin types, and I love the power of using my hands to relax people, in a warm room with a scented candle and gentle, peaceful music softly playing - it's blissful to be honest!! I've realised the body is just an extension of the face....! Massages are very popular in the beauty business, they account for your main bread and butter by being so profitable; so I guess I was always going to have to learn it one day.

With this new discovery, and having spoken to lots of experienced therapists, I suddenly realised that the best option for my learning and future would be to return to college next month and study for my Level 3 qualification, specialising in traditional Swedish body massage, pre-blended aromatherapy, hot stone therapy and Indian head massage - and continue to learn 'on the job' at the spa. Not only will I receive massages at college every week, but I'll need willing models and you'll only be looking at £15 for a full body massage...!! I'll continue to post requests on my facebook page.

Last week I was fortunate enough to train in Hydrotherm massage, which we'll soon be introducing at Seckford Hall spa. It's basically a massage on a warm water cushion, which hugs and supports you and helps ease your muscles and allow for a deeper massage. All massages are done supine (facing up) yet we still manage to massage your back - you have to try it to believe it! I am currently looking for case studies to practise this full-body massage technique on over the next 4 weeks. Go on, treat yourself....

***SPECIAL OFFER*** It's usually £65 but I'm offering it for a bargain £5!!! And it'll give you an opportunity to check out the beautiful Seckford Hall spa.

So whether you feel in need of a massage or not - and quite frankly who doesn't? - remember to take the time out and go for one now and then, because your mind and body will thank you for it!

Laura x

Crack open the bubbly....I have now completed my Beauty Therapy Level 2 NVQ and have officially left college! I will receive my certificate next month and become fully qualified!!

I can't believe how quickly the academic year has flown by and I feel very proud of myself for completing it ahead of schedule, especially with all of the curve balls that life has thrown my way over the exam and assessment period. However, when life throws you lemons, grab the tequila and salt and throw yourself into the chaotic mix - and you will get through the other side.

Taking on this course was one of the best decisions I've ever made. I've relished being back in a learning environment, gaining new skills and meeting lots of great people. I will definitely miss aspects of being at college (mainly the student discount!) but I'm really excited and ready to take my beauty skills to the next level....

I am excited and very proud to announce that I have started working as a beauty therapist at Flawless Image, a successful beauty salon in Ipswich. 

The owner has recently taken over and started renovating a beautiful luxury spa at Seckford Hall Hotel, near where I live in Woodbridge, Suffolk. With several single and double treatment rooms, a pool, jacuzzi, steam room and sauna, the diary is already filling up fast and I'm looking forward to working there over the summer and becoming a full-fledged beauty therapist!

To get me up to speed I was invited to partake in several days of training with TempleSpa in May, the yummy product range used in the salon and spa, which was intense but hugely informative. I will also be training in Hydrotherm massage and CACI - a popular non-surgical facelift. 

What I've learnt so far is beauty therapy is hard work! Eight hours of back-to-back treatments with very little time to grab lunch or sit down is the norm! But I've already met some amazing people, both therapists and clients alike, and love that painting nails and giving a massage is actually a job?!! 

Be sure to follow Seckford Hall Hotel and Flawless Image as they start announcing their new spa and I'll promote any special offers so that you can come and be treated by me in a luxurious and relaxing environment.

Hope to see you there!

Laura x

PS. I'll still be continuing to offer treatments at home in my spare time.

Six years ago to the day we went on our first date my lovely boyfriend popped the question and I became his fiancée! It was the perfect tonic to a pretty stressful year so far and it's wonderful to have something so happy, exciting and positive to look forward to.

Maybe it's because I've now entered the weird and wonderful world of weddings, or because I've reached that age, but weddings seem to be everywhere right now! I was honoured to be a bridesmaid for my fiance's (still cracks me up!) sister last year at her incredibly cool Mexican-themed wedding (so cool, in fact, that it was recently featured in Rock n Roll Bride magazine). Check out her particularly amazing and unique bridal makeup and her headpiece she designed herself (left).

Last month I had the best time being a bridesmaid alongside all of my closest school friends (below). Two days later I attended another friend's midweek wedding, and I'm excited to be providing another friend's wedding makeup this summer...See what I mean, the world's gone wedding crazy!!

Before the wedding it's worth also treating yourself to some additional treatments to make you feel wedding and honeymoon ready - ting!!!

Manicure - Your hands will play a big role on your wedding day so you want to make sure you have nice nails and soft hands. Most people go for a nude or French polish, but don't be afraid to go for a more bold colour if you so wish - why not match them with your colour scheme or flowers. Gels can last up to 2-3 weeks so you'll be all prepped for your honeymoon too!

Pedicure - The same applies here; it's nice to have polished fingers and toes and especially important if you're planning on wearing peep-toe shoes on your wedding day.

Wax - Grow your hair in the lead up to the wedding and treat yourself to a wax; legs, underarms, upper lip or intimate bikini...it'll last longer and make you feel super smooth. Or for more permanent removal, look up laser hair removal.

Full body scrub and massage - Will make your skin super smooth and polished and reduce any pre-wedding strains and tensions.

Fake tan - We all feel nicer with a bit of colour so why not book yourself in for a spray or manual tan a few days before the wedding to give you a gorgeous sunkissed glow. It's best to trial this a few months ahead and try on your wedding dress to check it looks good. No one wants a Ross Geller moment on their special day....

Eyes - All of your emotions throughout the day will shine through your eyes, from smiles to happy tears, so any enhancements to your lashes and brows need to be carefully considered, but that's not to say they can't be brilliant! Lashes can be temporarily enhanced by using one-day reusable strip lashes, slightly longer-lasting cluster lashes, or individual lash extensions which last a few weeks (but take about teo hours to apply!). Gaining popularity is also LVL Lash Lift, a combination of tinting and perming your actual lashes (I had this for my wedding). All of which can be used with makeup, but you have to be careful removing makeup as oils can affect the glue.

Brows - Brows can be enhanced with waxing, threading, tinting; HD Brows is a great treatment for combining all of the above. Microblading and eyebrow tattooing are also available if you're wanting a more permanent, invasive treatment.

I offer some of the above treatments and am happy to offer advice or point you in the right direction for everything else, so let me know if you require any advice or help with your wedding prep pampering or on the day beautification. 

The most important thing to remember is that getting ready for your wedding day should be FUN and STRESS-FREE. Plan ahead, practise, make time for it on the day and enjoy it. It's one day only, you deserve to feel like Queen Bee!

Laura x
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Whilst we see images of cute bunnies everywhere at this time of year, and I'm fortunate enough to look out of my window and see an abundance of bunnies freely hopping around, it's inspired me to tell you about an amazing free app called 'Bunny Free' - a way to search whether your cosmetics and household products are tested on animals.

When we talk about animal testing, we're talking about rabbits, rats and mice being subjected to force-feeding, dripping chemicals in their eyes and rubbing ingredients onto their abraded skin. With the current advancements in technology, such as using human cells and tissues and high-speed computer models, there is no excuse to continue this abuse. Don't fall for products which state 'not tested on animals' because they might still test their ingredients on animals.

There has been much talk over the past few decades concerning the use of animals testing for cosmetics products and their ingredients. This use of animal testing was banned in the UK in the late 1990s and across the rest of the EU in 2009; however, this provided a loophole for companies testing outside of the EU to still be able to sell in the EU. This was successfully stopped in March 2013 when it became illegal to sell cosmetic products within the EU which have been, or which contain ingredients, newly tested on animals. 

Outside of the EU there are still hundreds of well known brands that continue to test on animals, mainly in the US, China and India where there are still no laws against it - in fact China has made it a legal requirement - which means some 'good' companies have gone back to being bad! PETA are working on China and India as we speak, but the only way you can really help is by not buying their products.

Feeling guilty and confused? Because I am! I see all of the products named above that still test on animals on our shelves across the UK, but I thought it was illegal to sell these in the EU? Perhaps there is yet another loophole where companies in the EU can buy from the US or China. The plot thickens....I've contacted PETA and will let you know the outcome when I hear back. 

Either way, it's still important to make a conscious, ethical and informed decision when buying cosmetics and applying them to your body, so download Bunny Free now or look out for the Leaping Bunny mark on products which are certified ‘cruelty free’ under the internationally-recognised Humane Cosmetics or Humane Household Products Standards.

Happy Easter everyone!

Laura x

I have always had an interest in skin and skincare and was blessed with good skin as a teenager, but in the last few years I've experienced the woes of poor skin and it has highlighted to me what an impact the health of your skin can have on your self-confidence and wellbeing.

I live with a skin condition called Melasma, a form of hyperpigmentation which results in irregular brown/grey patches on the face. It's usually a result of a change in hormones or stress and brought on by sun damage, all of which I have experienced over the past few years. 

When it first appeared I didn’t know what it was and I spent about a year frustratingly trying to find out. There were many tears and sadly my confidence was knocked tenfold. I tried to speak to beauty consultants on makeup counters for advice but they hadn’t even heard of the condition and instead just looked around my face rather bewilderingly before sending me off with a load of creams and an empty purse. Doctors prescribed me a bunch of creams which often brought me out in spots (thrush cream?! – sure, why not!) and I waited six months for a referral to see a dermatologist on Harley St. He confirmed it was Melasma, but suggested I have a £500+ chemical peel which may or may not help and would require me to get a taxi home whilst my face peeled off (aka Face/Off) for the next few days….which I decided against, strangely enough!

Whilst I continue to try various lotions and potions and wear SPF everyday to stop it getting worse, I've realised the main cure is acceptance. It could be far worse, in fact I've been reassured by many that it's not even noticeable, and that it's more important to focus positively on what I have got and how I feel on the inside; in turn, this should radiate on the outside.

Sadly this went out the window with the recent stress and heartbreak of losing my mum when my skin broke out in spots, lumps and bumps, made even worse by an attractive cold sore appearing on my lip. The problem is is that when you're feeling crap, the last thing you need is to look in the mirror and look crap, but I guess it's life's funny way of telling you to start looking after yourself...

If you are interested in finding out what your skin type is and you're struggling to work it out yourself then you can go to a beauty counter in Debenhams or Boots and ask a consultant to help you for free (Clinque is very good at this). They will usually ask you some questions and have a good look/feel, and often you'll receive some free samples to try before you potentially buy. Or book yourself in for a facial and receive a more thorough skin analysis with a trained Beauty Therapist, such as myself!

However you wash your face and whatever products you use, it's important to remember to wash your face every morning and evening. Over night your skin is trying to repair any damage so it needs to be clean whilst it creates a natural protective 'film' on your face - natural oils, sebum, etc - which can then be washed off in the morning, as long as you protect it again with a SPF moisturiser. You should always take your makeup off before you go to bed (even if the room's spinning!).

Some people spend seconds using a face wipe, others spend a good half an hour applying several creams and serums. Everyone's different and there is no set way of doing it, but you can always improve or shake up your skincare routine. Here is a suggested routine with the points highlighted in pink being more important:

• Pre-cleanse: eye makeup remover, oil, micellar water
• Cleanse: foam, gel, cream, lotion, oil, brushes, flannels, etc
  
• Exfoliate: once a week or up to 2-3 times a week for combination/oily skin
  
• Mask: once a week; setting, non-setting, peel off
  
• Toner: ideally for combination/oily skin, otherwise it may dry your skin out
  
• Serums: target skin concerns; anti-ageing, dark spots, etc.
  
• Moisturise: day cream with SPF, night cream rich cream/oil
  
• Eye cream: gel, cream, etc

I haven't written a blog post for a little while due to my mum suddenly passing away a few weeks ago. She was my biggest inspiration when it came to my work ethic and my venturing into the world of beauty. 

My mum trained as a beauty therapist over twenty years ago when my brother and I were very little, whilst working full time in Betty’s tearooms in North Yorkshire. When we moved "down south" she went on to have a career managing several makeup counters, starting off with Estée Lauder before moving onto No. 7, Lancôme and, most recently, Elizabeth Arden. Despite trying her hand at several other careers in between, she always held a flame for the beauty industry and it always drew her back in. 

My mum was well known in the beauty industry and many colleagues and customers loved her passion and knowledge, her chatty and friendly demeanour and her amazing selling techniques. Everyone always commented how it was refreshing to have someone who was ‘normal looking’ in a beauty department, never caked in makeup – in fact sometimes not wearing any at all – who greeted you with a big smile, knew her stuff and sent you away with a sneaky free sample! She made a huge difference to many people’s lives through simply giving them the time to talk about their beauty concerns or sometimes just chat about their lives, and in turn sold a lipstick or gave a makeover and sent that person away feeling that bit more appreciated and happier than when they walked in. 

I have very fond memories of popping into Debenhams almost everyday after school to see her and her team, who showered me with hugs and sprays of perfume - a young girl's dream! I particularly enjoyed “take your daughter to work” day when I was about 14, and remember going home that day with aching cheeks from smiling so much! I was so proud of my mum and enjoyed seeing her in her element.

My mum had a magic touch. When I was doing my GCSE revision and feeling very stressed, my mum used to calm me down and give me a facial. It felt like several hands were brushing over my face relaxing every muscle. I can only hope I have inherited this magic touch. I have been blessed to use nice products for most of my upbringing -.we used to laugh at how I must have been one of the only 10 year olds using Estée Lauder products! I used to fascinate over her infamous lipstick drawer as a teenager, which my dad made and put into her dressing table drawer. I became the proud owner of it when I moved to Suffolk and enjoy choosing what shade to wear to this day.

A couple of years ago on her 53rd birthday I did my mum's hair and makeup before she went out for an evening with my dad. I had done her makeup from time to time before, but not for a few years. I enjoyed admiring her face, every new line and wrinkle around her twinkling blue eyes told a story, and she looked beautiful. I remember posting a photo on Instagram of her and saying "I'll be happy if I look like this at 53 - beautiful"….What a shame she has been taken away from us nearly two years later; too soon for her to leave our world. Too soon for her to leave my world.

When I look in the mirror I can begin to see slight similarities with my mum which is a real comfort and will, hopefully, continue to be so as I move on through life. 

I have been spending this week sorting through her things, including drawers and boxes FULL of skincare, makeup, nail varnishes, hundreds of brushes and sponges, etc. I’m comforted to know that it can all be put to good use with my new-found skills and help make the people I meet along the way feel better about themselves. People often say in these types of situations "it's what she would have wanted" but in this case it really is!

I am immensely proud of everything my mum achieved in her life and although I might have not told her or showed her often enough, I am determined to continue her legacy in some shape or form and do her proud. 

Watch this space, mum x

This week I've been plucked, trimmed, scrubbed, massaged, tanned and even set alight....all in the name of beauty! The college has provided us with a couple of 'enrichment weeks' to start off the term and try out several additional treatments to those that we are learning on the course, some of which we've even gained certificates in. I don't think I've laughed as much as I have this week in a long time, so I thought I'd share with you what I've been learning through simply being allowed to play around with the following treatments:

It's certainly been an enlightening and intimate week getting so up close and personal with my peers and learning lots of great new skills, and I'm thoroughly enjoying receiving all of these lovely treatments on a daily basis (I even had my hair cut by a hairdressing student for a mere £4.50!!). I will be offering some of the above in my salon at some point in the future, so let me know if you're keen to try any out.

Laura x

I've just finished a day's training by Gellux, one of the many brands providing gel nail manicures, and I'm now sporting a lovely shiny French manicure which should last 2-3 weeks. Hooray!

I fell in love with gel nails earlier last year when a friend invited me to have my nails done by her mobile nail technician, who has now become a good friend of mine (you can follow her on Instagram). I couldn't believe that I was able to rummage around my bag for money to pay her, go home, cook and wash up without the fear of it chipping. And this continued for a good two weeks before I had it removed and a new colour applied. I was instantly addicted!! I looked forward to having them done, planning what colour to go for and it always made me happy.

As we're not allowed to wear nail varnish at college for health and safety reasons, you can imagine my joy at hearing that we were to be given training in gel nails and we would be allowed to keep it on for two weeks!! It's the small things....

The process is very simple. Your nail technician will buff your natural nails to create a slightly rough surface for the gel polish to better adhere to. Several products and layers of varnish will be applied, which will need to be cured (hardened) under a UV or LED lamp in between layers. LED lamps are much quicker and safer, as there has been much talk that UV lamps may be harmful for your skin, so you can be done in 30-45 mins and walk away with rock hard nails.

When I rave about gel nails to friends the most common question I get asked is "but don't they ruin your nails?". I can only speak from personal experience and mine haven't been ruined. In fact, my nails are never as strong and as long as when I have gel polish on them. You may notice some weakness if you have back-to-back gel manicures, so it is wise to give your nails a break every now and then, but it's nothing some cuticle/hand cream and perhaps some OPI Nail Envy can't sort. 

The most important thing to be careful with is how the polish is removed, because this is where damage can occur. Most professional nail technicians will take every care to avoid any damage, but only you'll know how your nails have reacted once having them done. The nail polish is buffed to remove the shine, then covered in cotton wool with heavy-duty acetone nail polish remover and wrapped in foil for about 15-20 mins. The polish will then chip and curl off and any remnants will be removed with a manicure stick and nail file. The texture of your nail will feel a bit rough, but will either be buffed smooth if left bare, or covered in more polish.

Popular gel polish brands include Harmony Gellish, Jessica Geleration, OPI Gelcolour, Bluesky, Sensational, Crystal, etc but there are tonnes on the market (some better than others). 

Sensational have some great FAQs should you be interested/concerned - see here.

I'm going to be slowly building up my kit and offering these manicures in the near future, but in the meantime you'll be looking at around £20-£30 for a professional gel nail manicure. If you like shiny, long-lasting talons, I'd say it's a treat worth trying!

Laura x

For my college homework this Christmas I was set the task of designing a beauty salon from scratch. Seriously, how much fun is my course?! We were hypothetically given an amount of money, some of which went on the freehold and a grand total of £150,000 towards doing it up. Yes please!!

My trusty friend, Rachel, gave me a great idea a few weeks ago by randomly asking me ~

With love,

The Teacher's Pet x