12/10/2014

Zoella Beauty Part Two | Just Add Ginger


Zoella Beauty Review

If you read this blog post back in October, you will know that I made a few cheeky purchases from the Zoella Beauty range. I wanted to show my support for the YouTube & Blogging community and pick up just a few bits to see what Zoe's line is all about. In Part One , I did a review on Fizz Bar, and now it is the turn of Blissful Mistful - the fragranced body mist. 

Zoella Beauty review

Firstly, let's talk about the packaging. Isn't it adorable? Following a similar design to the Fizz Bar, the polla-dotted bottle is quintessentially Zoella, and appeals to me greatly. The choice of using a glass bottle makes the body mist feel really luxurious and much more expensive. I think the choice of a square bottle is really chic, and the rose-gold coloured lid is a really elegant and feminine touch. It appeals to me as a woman in my late twenties, and I think it definitely appeals to teenagers too.The really simplistic design definitely looks very grown up. 

The scent of Blissful Mistful is exactly the same as Fizz Bar -fresh, floral and ever-so-slightly citrus-sy. I prefer the scent a lot more in the body mist form, because, every time I have use it, it immediately makes me feel refreshed. It's one of those scents I always go to if I feel I need a little refreshing pick-me-up. 

Does the formula of Blissful Mistful have lasting power? No. Not really. Am I disappointed? A little bit. Who doesn't like a perfume or body spray that once spritzed on your skin lasts all day? One of the reasons I left so long in between Zoella Beauty reviews is because I really wanted to give the body mist a chance. I used it as a day perfume, a night perfume, and to the gym (for road testing and sweaty BO control!) Don't get me wrong, I think the body mist is really versatile, and the scent is suitable for a variety of occasions, but pretty much as soon as I sprayed it on my skin, the smell would disappear. Now, to be fair, I don't know if Blissful Mistful is designed to be a fragrance that lasts all day, but I don't think anything is meant to fade that quickly. On my clothes, it's a different story, and the scent of the body mist lasts for ages. Boyfriend has commented a few times on how nice it smells when he's sitting next to me and catches a whiff, and when I tell him what it is, he is really surprised. 

So. Would I buy Blissful Mistful again? If I was 10 years younger, maybe, but as a twenty-seven year old I think I'm a bit out of the demographic to really appreciate the product. I think if you're a teenager girl, or woman in your early twenties, and looking for a boy spray/perfume hybrid. Ten plus years ago, when I was so excited to find a body mist or body spray that rivalled my all-time favourite Impulse fragrances it would be perfect. But now, Id rather save my pennies and save up for a higher end perfume that has a more mature and long-lasting scent. I think I'm just beyond the body mist phase (unless I'm leaving the gym of course.)  I also think that the price tag is just a little too steep. Don't get me wrong, my bottle is sitting next to me and I have loads left, but if I was younger, and this potentially the only fragrance I owned, I think it would vanish far too fast to justify money. 

To summarise, I think I am just too old to appreciate what Blissful Mistful has to offer. However, I think this would make an ideal gift for a teenage relative for the upcoming festive season. 

If you have tried Blissful Mistful, what did you think? Have you tried any of the other Zoella Beauty products?

Psst...... If you want to learn more about the Zoella beauty range, you can find products on Superdrug.com or FeelUnique.com (the links will take you straight to the Zoella Beauty range.)





11/23/2014

Celebration of Style 2014 | Just Add Ginger


Celebration of Style 2014


Celebration of Style 2014
Photo Credit: c/o Rachel @ Times2Style
If you saw this video , you will know just how excited I have been for Celebration of Style to land in Liverpool. The hype and build up to the launch of the event was just immense, and whilst I was REALLY exited to be involved in everything that was going on, I was also a little bit overwhelmed, scared, and nervous too! 

To my delight, Rachel from Times2Style and I had planned to attend all the events together. Blogging has brought me so many lovely friends that I was really excited to be spending some of the most nail-bitingly, amazingly exciting days with her. 

Our Celebration of Style adventure started at the Press Launch on 13th November, which took place in the Royal Liver Building. Yes. Really! I had to stand there pinching myself for a few minutes before I went in. To be attending an event inside one of the most iconic buildings in Liverpool was just mind-boggling to me, and I instantly felt very honoured, and very privileged to be a part of it. 

Celebration of Style 2014

The Press Launch was a chance for members of the press, organisers, and special guests to mingle and find out more about what lay in store for the event. With an exclusive preview of Abbey Clancy's new range for Matalan, as well as the chance to look at the Tim Bret Day exhibition, which was housed in the Royal Liver Building for the event, there was a lot to take in (hence why the photos are a bit blurry...I tried to find an optimal place amidst the press with their big, fancy, professional cameras, and my poor little phone couldn't cut the mustard!)

Influence of Style - which took place the following day at the Titanic Hotel - was a big fashion, beauty and style expo extravaganza, with stalls from local businesses, world-renowned brands, and Andrew Collinge to boot. Talks and panels - presented by Jenny Frost - also took place throughout the day led by industry experts and insiders. It was a really insightful hub of all things #COStyle, and with so much going on, you could have walked around looking, gazing, admiring and listening for hours. We attended the first talk of the day, and to hear everybody talk with such passion, enthusiasm and vigour about their own experiences and career paths was seriously motivating and inspiring to listen to.  

After two days of energised, excited chaos, I was so, so, so excited for the Cricket Big Fashion Night Out on Friday night. 

Celebration of Style 2014

Celebration of Style 2014
L-R: Rachel (Times2Style), Me, & Allie (Tie Dye Eyes)

Celebration of Style 2014 - Broken Men

Celebration of Style 2014

And it was honestly the most incredible event to experience. Kicking off with a pre-show reception, the Cunard building - which was lit up in the most beautiful pinky-purple - was soon buzzing with excitement. Giant posters of Abbey Clancy's collaboration with Matalan decorated the walls, bubbly was flowing, the music was pumping. and I really did think I was dreaming! 

To get everybody warmed up, local band Broken Men played some live tracks. They were just fantastic, and the perfect pre-show soundtrack to get everybody really excited as seats were taken, drinks ordered, and some last minute pampering took place at the pop-up Ilamasqua, Nails Inc and Andrew Collinge stands. 

And then it was time for the show. Slipping off my seat in the press pen and on to the floor to get a better view, I couldn't believe all the amazing pieces that were floating down the runway. From Balenciaga to Balmain, Victoria Beckham to Cèline, Matthew Williamson to Givenchy, I was completely in awe. It was my very first fashion show, and I don't think I'm ever going to forget what it felt like to see so many gorgeous clothes right there in front of me....All in one place. 

Celebration of Style 2014 - Kelli-Leigh

The show closed to a performance by Kelli-Leigh (who's vocals appear on Duke Dumont's "I Got U.") She brought the house down and got everybody up on the (now empty) catwalk, dancing like there was no tomorrow. What a way to end the show! 

Celebration of Style absolutely nailed it, showing everyone out there what amazing talent, taste and style it has to offer, and banishing all of the misrepresentation that can happen in the press for good! It was a sensational event, and I am so happy to hear that it may be coming back next year. 

So you have no excuse, everybody get involved!

11/16/2014

Lunch At Lunya | Just Add Ginger


Lunya Liverpool

Lunya Liverpool

Lunya Liverpool

Lunya Liverpool

In an impromptu car moment today, Boyfriend and I decided to head out for a little Sunday lunchtime treat. Lunya was the destination of choice to whet our appetites. I've been to Lunya quite a few times before, and I am a big fan of their tapas selection on their main menu. But because today we ordered from the lunch menu, I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to document the occasion and share our Foodie experience. 

Boyfriend opted for the Soup, sandwich and home-made chips deal. Me, already having lined my stomach with a bacon sandwich a few hours before, went for the Butifarra sandwich and home-made chips. 

The soup of the day was curried cauliflower, and, I kid you not, the soup Boyfriend had was one of the best soups I have ever had. Like. EVER! The curry aspect was mild and in no way over-powering, with a really smooth consistency. The bread that came with it was delicious too, and made a scrumptious accompaniment. Soft, fresh, and delicious! There is really nothing like freshly made bread. 

My chips came out when Boyfriend had his soup, and I think I had nearly finished the whole pot before my sandwich even arrived. The home-made chips were fluffy, thick-cut and chunky, with the perfect balance of extra crispy and extra squishy, melt-in-the-mouth ones. The light coating of salt that kissed each chip was a very welcome surprise too. 

I'm really surprised that Boyfriend let me have a bite of his sandwich (he opted for the Grilled lomo y queso.) Nearly as soon as it had arrived, it had almost disappeared. And when I had had my bite, I understood why. The pork loin was tender, juicy and succulent, and such a decadent thing to have in a sandwich. Boyfriend was the first to admit that, if he ever bought pork loin, the last way he would think to use it would be in a sandwich, but the way that it was cooked, and how it complemented the other fillings made it work really well. 

My Butifarra was delicious too. The fig and cinnamon relish was sweet and juicy,with just a subtle hint of spiciness running through it, which went hand in hand with the seasoning in the sausages. The bread was soft and fresh, with little hidden sun-dried tomato gems inside. I'm not going to lie...the bread did get a bit too much for me, but that is because I am not really a big bread person and I'd already had a sandwich (bad move me!) 

The soup was definitely a stand out dish for me. It's a combination I'd never heard of before, and it worked superbly. I've made a mental note of it and will be looking out for it again. Maybe Boyfriend and I could try making it sometime too *hint hint cough cough.* The sandwiches also went down a treat too. Although next time we head out to sample the Lunya lunch menu, I definitely won't be filing up on bread beforehand. #Freshbreadwins

To peruse the Lunya menus for yourself, head to: 


Which dish would you choose? 

11/12/2014

A Celebration is Coming | Just Add Ginger

(NB: The giveaway mentioned is now CLOSED


If you read this blog post that I uploaded a few weeks ago, you will know that there is a HUGE event coming to Liverpool this week. 

Celebration Of Style will be arriving in Liverpool tomorrow (13th November 2014.) The three day event extravaganza will bring events to Liverpool that celebrate all things style (as the event name would suggest.) The event schedule is chock-a-block, with events popping up in different stores....exhibitions...as well as two big events. 

I talk through more about the schedule in the video above, so definitely give that a click to find out more. I apologise for the rambliness and over-excitement but I really am so giddy at the thought of Celebration Of Style. It's going to be a really amazing three days and a fabulous event for the city.

Follow @C_of_Style on Twitter, and use #COStyle to keep up to date with all the events that are happening over the course of the event, and if you are planning on attending any of the events, please let me know in the comments below. 

11/09/2014

Breakfast With My Favourite Boys | Just Add Ginger


Frankie & Benny's Breakfast

Frankie & Benny's Breakfast

Ginger's Jollies: Frankie & Benny's Breakfast

I don't know why it has taken me this long to write a blog post about mine & The Boy's breakfast tradition. Maybe it's because we go here so much that I just subconsciously pass it by. Perhaps it's because it's just our time, where we vent our frustrations, recover from stress, and chow down on some well-deserved comfort food. Who knows. I just know that it is high time I shared one of my favourite places with you. And that place is our local Frankie & Benny's. 

I have been a customer of  Frankie & Benny's for years. Ever since I moved up to Liverpool it is probably the place I go to eat at the most. They do great breakfasts, lovely lunches, and delicious dinners.  It's not that far away from us, so is within walkable distance on morning where you are feeling more delicate, And the best part? It's super affordable. What's not to love? 

So yesterday, Boyfriend and I decided it would be a lovely little naughty treat to go to Frankie & Benny's for breakfast. It is something we haven't done in ages, and after a really busy week, we really needed to spend some quality time together outside of the house. (Homes can carry such inescapable energy when you've had a hard week can't they?)

When we arrived we were welcomed with warm smiles and the cheery sounds of the Frankie & Benny's soundtrack playing in the background. Walking through those double doors is instantly so calming to me, and our Frankie & Benny's - no matter how busy, late, early or calm - always makes me feel cosy and comfortable.  

We were ushered into a booth by one of the lovely team (I really should know this guy's name. He always knows us and is so lovely! Thank you Mr. Lovely F&B man.) After being offered drinks and handed our menus, we settled down into those squishy American diner-esque seats and perused the menu. 

Now, my old reliable favourite used to be the Eggs Benedict. It used to be al I ever went for. But lately, I have really gone off eggs, so seized the opportunity to try something new. The Bacon & Syrup Triple Stacked Pancakes from the Breakfast Menu immediately caught my eye. It's a flavour combination I've tried only a few times, but never
 a) on a pancake or 
b) as a breakfast. 

And Boy was I not disappointed. Lashings of maple syrup coating three soft, fluffy, squishy - but stable - buttermilk pancakes and four rashers of thick, juicy, crisp bacon rashers. Oh good heavens it was absolutely d-eeeeeeee-licious

Boyfriend opted for the Eggs Benedict (a sure fire instant winner,) and a side of hash browns (which I pinched. Only one. It is something I do not regret. So crisp. So full. So crunchy. I'd do it again I tell you!) The only thing that Boyfriend was a tad - not much at all - disappointed by was that there was no black pudding on the menu. It's a personal thing. He LOVES it. But I don't think in the end he really missed it that much. That Eggs Benedict is yummy. And with the eggs cooked to perfection, it was a definite foodgasm. 

What I love about Frankie & Benny's so much is that it is really budget friendly. Especially the breakfasts. Everything on the breakfast menu is under £7.00. It means you can go out for breakfast, have a really good meal, and not break the bank. And at our branch all the staff are always so friendly the ambience is always really warm and welcoming. We went there for tea during the week and they made me a hot orange juice to sooth my sore throat. They didn't have to. It isn't a drinks menu option, but they took time out and accommodated my scratchy throat. It was incredibly sweet and just shows how customer-oriented they are. 

If you are looking for a breakfast tradition, definitely go to your local F&B and give it a try. We relish the moments we have there over a plate of eggs and bacon, and sipping a latte. 

Have you been to F&B for breakfast? What did you think? Let me know in the comments below! 
Psst....To check out the Frankie & Benny's breakfast menu, or any of the other menus they have, go to: 




10/31/2014

Ginger Fashion: Autumn Days Are Made Of This



Ginger Fashion: Autumn Style
Grey Duffle Coat: Florence & Fred, Blanket Scarf: Primark, Skater Dress: Primark, Chelsea Boots: New Look

My style has been evolving a lot lately. Right now, I'm sitting in my blogging space with a huge bag of old, unwanted, or worn-to-death clothes behind me. As I'm getting further and further into my 20s, I'm finding myself being more and more drawn to the more simplistic styles. And forever an advocate of the multi-wear pieces, it was time to update my wardrobe a bit. 

Ginger Fashion: Autumn Style
Grey Marl Coat: Primark, Blanket Scarf: Primark, Elephant Print Swing DressASOS, Chelsea Boots: New Look
These are the kind of looks I've been loving lately. With the newest additions to my wardrobe being this amazing snuggly blanket scarf from Primark and my Florence & Fred hooded duffle coat I feel like all the pieces I love so much can get a re-vamp ready for Autumn. 

With a new hairstyle option under my belt (check out my braid tutorial here,) I feel like I have found a really timeless, effortless, "I woke up like this" (even though I didn't) look that I can carry from Autumn to Winter.



10/30/2014

Boodles, Brunch, Celebration Of Style, And A GIVEAWAY! | Just Add Ginger


Celebration of Style Liverpool


Celebration of Style Liverpool 2014

Celebration of Style Liverpool

Celebration of Style Liverpool

Last Friday, myself, and some other lovely local bloggers were invited down to Boodles to look at very pretty jewellery and discuss the upcoming Celebration of Style event that is set to hit Liverpool in just a few short weeks.

The event is going to take place over three days (13th - 15th November,) with events happening in iconic locations throughout the city....from the Liver Buildings to the Titanic Hotel. It is a celebration of all things fashion....art....architecture and style, and is set to show that in the big ol' game of fashion, our city packs one hell of a punch! Celebration of Style will feature appearances from top hair stylist Andrew Collinge, fashion photographer Tim Bret Day, and renowned fashion designer Matthew Williamson...It is set to take the city by storm!

Justine Mills (owner of Cricket,) has teamed up with SK Events to put together an event that pulls out all the stops to showcase what a lively, influential, and stylish city Liverpool is. I think my jaw nearly hit the floor - tactically avoiding the amazing jewellery - when Justine walked in. 

But hearing Justine speak about Celebration of Style was enough to set off a million butterflies in my stomach. To hear her speak so passionately and vivaciously about something made me even more excited for the event to take place. One of the main aims of the event is to dispel perceptions about Liverpool that people outside the city tend to associate with it. The media can misrepresent our city in such a big way. And people think it's what Liverpool's about? Well not for long folks. This city's going to show exactly what Liverpool's all about.

The schedule for the event is jam-packed. And with so much going on, Liverpool is going to be buzzing. With events and activities happening throughout the city. From events happening in-store at shops to the Stanley Dock there is going to be something for everyone! 

And to top it off, I have been very, very kindly been provided with the opportunity to host a giveaway (c/o Celebration of Style) for your chance to win 2 tickets to The Influence of Style event which is happening on 14th November (10.30am-4.00pm.) You and a friend will be able to immerse yourself in a day of panels and talks from top experts (Cassie Lomas, Justine Mills and representatives from Matalan & MMU but to name a few) about what it's really like to work in the industry and to give advice about making your start in the biz. 

Giveaway Rules

* Entrants MUST be aged 16 or over. 
* The prize is ONE set of 2 tickets for 
The Influence of Style Event (14th November 2014.)
* The giveaway is open to UK residents only. 
*You must be able to make your own way to and from the event.  
*The giveaway will end on 11/11/2014




NB: Once the winner has been selected, you will be contacted by a member of the Celebration of Style team with details about receiving your prize and entry to the Influence of Style Event

I cannot tell you just how bloody excited I am for Celebration of Style. It is going to be an incredible event with so many things going on. It's time to show the world exactly what Liverpool is made of! 

If you're on Twitter, stay up-to-date with Celebration of Style by following @C_of_Style, and using #COStyle

10/29/2014

Dark & Creepy Halloween Make Up



If you saw this blog post, then you will know that last weekend I went to my first Halloween party in a long, long time. So, with me being a lover of fancy dress anyway, I wanted to pull out all the stops and look as scary, dark and creepy as possible!

Although I used mostly face paint on my original look, I wanted to film a tutorial recreating what I did, but using minimal make up that I already had in my collection to show you a make up idea you can achieve if you're running short on time, and don't have extra bits like cream make up, face paint, or fake blood


Products used in this video: 

Collection Lasting Perfection Foundation 
Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer
L'Oreal Miss Manga Mega Volume Mascara 
Coastal Scents 88 Warm Palette 
Sleek i-Divine Eye Shadow Palette (Au Naturel 601) 
L'Oreal Superliner (So Couture)
L.A. Colors Lipstick (Black Velvet)
MAC Lipstick (Dubonnet)
Various make up brushes from my brush pot

I do apologise for the random blurry patch that appears on the camera. I have no idea where it came from and it just sat there for a bit and then went away of its own accord. 

I hope you enjoy this tutorial. And because this is the first one I have ever filmed, if you have any constructive criticism or thoughts, please, please, please leave me a comment below and talk to me. I really enjoyed filming this video and if you lovely bunch enjoyed watching it, I might just consider filming more in the future! 


10/28/2014

Zoella Beauty Part One | Just Add Ginger


Zoella Beauty Fizz Bar

I'm sure I don't need to tell you about the recent launch of Zoella (Zoe Sugg's) very own beauty line - Zoella Beauty - do I? 

The YouTube starlet has brought out a line of body, bath and pamper products whose buzz has been filling up my Twitter news feed for months! And whereas I might be out (but ever just so slightly of course *cough*) of the demographic that the line is probably targeted for, I wanted to show my support for the YouTube & blogging community and indulge in a few cheeky purchases from the range....
...When I could actually get hold of some. When I went to check the stock on my go-to beauty website FeelUnique.com, everything from Zoe's line had completely gone. Luckily, I was able to quickly pop a couple of products in to a virtual shopping basket on Superdrug.com, and, with baited breath, I waited for them to arrive. 
The first product I went for was Fizz Bar.
Zoella Beauty Fizz Bar

It was the concept that intrigued me the most. If you know me or have been with Just Add Ginger for a while you will know I am a die-hard Lushie. But with a wedding to plan for, my trips to the candy shop of pamper products has to be limited (Waa!) Fizz Bar really sang to me because of the multiple-use design. Not only does it come in very cute (and quintessentially Zoella) packaging, but the Fizz Bar is designed like an eight-squared chocolate bar. You can break off as many chunks off as you want to use in the bath, and keep the rest for another day. And all this for around the price of a Lush bath ballistic.... I had to give it a try! I'd never abandon Lush - no way - but this seemed like a more budget friendly option. 
The pieces were easy enough to break apart. Each "chunk" is marked with a "Z", and for all intents and purposes looks like chocolate. (A very humorous "DO NOT EAT" label is even stuck to the back. Nobody wants to be farting bubbles, do they?)
Zoella Beauty Fizz Bar
The scent of Fizz Bar is light and a mix between floral and citrusy (flitrusy....cloral?!) It is not overbearing, and definitely appeals to those of out there who prefer the lighter fragranced beauty products.
I first tested out Fizz Bar using one "chunk," and to be honest, it just wasn't enough. It fizzed and bubbled happily enough in the bath, and turned the water a slightly milky colour, but the scent didn't come through at allTo be fair, it does suggest to use one OR two cubes of Fizz Bar, so in the spirit of giving it a fair shot, the second time I used it, I used two chunk to see if that made a difference. 
This worked a bit better. The water turned milky, and whatever was in Fizz Bar made my skin feel really smooth, but I still couldn't smell anything. I don't know if that is what is meant to happen, but personally, I like a really highly- scented bath ballistic. They are such a novel thing for me to buy that when I invest, I want the excitement of a lovely smell.... Glitter.... Bright colours.... Dried flowers.... Something to make me feel really pampered, and Fizz Bar just did not pack enough punch for me in that department. 
 Fizz Bar did leave my skin feeling lovely and soft and nourished though, and for that, I was really impressed, and very happy! There's no better feeling that having soft and supple skin, especially in these Autumnal months as the weather gets colder and skin gets unhappier.
But is it enough to make me repurchase Fizz Bar? No. Probably not. Don't get me wrong, I think the concept of the chocolate bar design for Fizz Bar is excellent and so innovative, and if I was a bit younger and on more of a budget, I think I would invest again because you get so much use out of one bar. But for me, I want more out of my bath products. I don't know if that is because I am older, and have a more informed preference, or if it's just because I am so much of a Lush fan. But either way, whilst I'm glad I bought Fizz Bar and showed my support for Zoella Beauty, Fizz Bar has not knocked my love of Lush off it's pedestal. 
What I will say though, is that if you are looking for a new, gentle and pampering budget-friendly bath product to try that you can use multiple-times, and that leaves your skin feeling soft, give Fizz Bar a go. Just because it didn't tick all the boxes for me, it doesn't mean it won't for you. And with Fizz Bar retailing for £5.00, it'd make the perfect Christmas present or stocking filler for the upcoming festive season too! 
Have you tried anything from the Zoella Beauty line?

10/27/2014

Creating A Boho Side Braid | Just Add Ginger


Just Add Ginger Blog

Being able to do a braid has been on my hair wishlist for years. Since my teenage years I have always had relatively long hair, so the possibility was there, but I was never sure of exactly how I could achieve it.

Then a few weeks ago, whilst we were visiting Mama & Papa Ginger, I met up with my friend Saunders, who, on that day, was sporting a very lovely looking side braid. And then it hit me....I realised that doing a braid just might actually be possible. The next day, I took a deep breath, and attempted my first braid.

I don't think I'll ever be able to do a super-neat braid, but I love the messier hairstyles. They suit my stupidly thick main a lot better. So if you want really polished hairstyles this video may not be for you. But if you're like me, and are always drawn towards the more relaxed styles, then please give this video a click!


And I  know I always say it but if you know anyone who could find this tutorial helpful, please share it round. I really want to inspire confidence in those you of out there who may need it, and show you that anything is possible!

Pssst.... To see more videos in my "One-Handed Ways" series, click here

10/26/2014

Ginger Fashion: Halloween 2014


Halloween Costumes 2014

I don't think I have done anything for Halloween since I was at university. And that was a long time ago! So you can imagine how excited I was when some of our friends decided to have an early Halloween party! The minute I heard the words "costumes are essential" I knew I had to pull out all the stops and go completely OTT in making myself the creepiest I could. 

Being a fan of fantastical tales, picking a costume based on Alice in Wonderland was pretty much a given. I found an amazing "Malice in Horrorland" costume on Escapade  . As well as the costume, I ordered a blonde wig, extra fake blood, and a wig cap.....ooh yes! I was bringing out the big guns when it came to my costume. And nobody was going to hold me back. 


The costume fit me to perfection, and the wig cap (which I was concerned wasn't going to fit all my hair) had plenty of room to spare. The only thing that didn't work was the wig. My head was just too big, and coupled with the ridiculously thick hair I have there was no way it was going to work, But, not being one to let anything like that defeat me, I popped in to my local Smiffy's, and picked up a new wig, and a pair of striped tights to finish off the look. I'm not going to lie....looking in the mirror at the new, creepy me didn't half give me chills! And that was even before I'd done my make up! 

Just Add Ginger Blog Hallloween

Doing the face paint was the most fun part! Boyfriend found a picture on Pinterest that he thought would look great with the costume and we used that as inspiration. Boyfriend used a Snazaroo white face paint to cover my face, ears, neck & décolletage. I then went in with some paintbrushes from a local craft shop and cream face paints that came in a set from our local supermarket to do the eyes, brows, lips and cheeks. I'm not going to lie, having never used cream face paints before I did struggle, but the water-based choices just didn't cut the mustard! Just before we left the house, Boyfriend added some fake blood to my cheeks and chin to make me look extra disgustingly creepy! 

I have to hand it to Boyfriend, who spent two days making the horns for his demonic costume, They drove him up the wall but looked so effective. And all he used to make them was some rolled-up cardboard, red and black paint, cello-tape and PVA. One the horns were done he attached them to his head with lashings of lash glue. I then did his face paint around where the horns were. 

For my first Halloween party in a very long time, I had a brilliant time! I loved going as Malice and definitely think it's a costume I'll recycle over and over again....only thing I want to get better at is my face painting technique....I'm a bit rusty!

Malice in Horrorland

Going to a Halloween party? Let me know what you're going as! 


10/22/2014

Be Proud To Stand Out | Just Add Ginger


Be Proud To Stand Out From The Crowd

How many of you look back on your childhood with fond memories? If you could go back and live that time again to change the person you become, would you?

When I was a child, life seemed so simple. I was surrounded by people who loved me and cared about me, and took me for exactly the person I was. No conditions, no clauses, no limits on our friendships. They just were completely and 100% honest friendships. Sweet. Innocent. They filled my childhood with joy. 

Then I grew up. 

And growing up wasn't easy in the slightest. As I made my way through secondary school it became abundantly clear that if there was even just 1% of you that stood out from "the norm," then certain people would use that and point it out to you all the time, like you weren't aware of it yourself. And there were some very unaccepting people that I knew in secondary school. Now, as a grown woman, I wouldn't hesitate to give them a piece of my mind. But back then, as a desperately unconfident teenager, most of the time I wanted the ground to open up and swallow me. 

Fir those of you who don't know me that well, or may have clicked on to my blog for the first time, I was born with a condition called "hemi-paresis," which affects the left side of my body. Basically it means that my left arm and leg are a lot stiffer than the right, and I have limited movements sometimes, particularly in my left hand. It's a condition that I entered and will leave this Earth with. It is something that I cannot change, and would not ever want to.

Sometimes, it can be so easy to shy away from sowing our true colours, or embracing the person that we are. We become afraid of what others might think, and scared to show the world the person we are deep down. But let me tell you something. You may be afraid of what others might think of you, but remember... Those people who might make you feel like that are probably just as terrified on the inside to show their true colours too. 

I used to get gawked at in secondary school for my disability. I used to hear the secret snickers, and sense the stares. And I bet today that if I were to see those people in school, they wouldn't remember doing it, and if they did, would be so ashamed if I told them. At the time I was so hurt by the actions of those people, but it has spurred me on now I'm older and it has helped make me so strong today. I don't let anybody bring me down, If there is any message or help I can give to others who may need it, I'm going to get it out there and show that where there is a will, there is always a way.



All of us are different and special in our own way, And you might not always see yourself as special, but there will be something that makes you unique. You may be academic, creative, musical, or fiercely independent. You may have wonderfully-coloured hair, freckles, wear glasses, have your own style.....all of these things help to make you you, and we all need to take a little time to celebrate how amazing we are.

Don't spend your time trying to fit in with other people. Find friends who have a similar style or personality to yours who accept you for who you are and who you don't need to "wear a mask" around. Once you find friends who make you feel comfortable in your own skin you'll look back and wonder why the hell you bothered with others who put you down. It may take a while, but try looking in to extra activities that sing to your interests. That's a good way to seek out like-minded people, and will help start to build your confidence and belief in yourself.

Magic Is Believing In Yourself

We need to take all of the things about us that make us unique and embrace them. We are not all created with the same mould. We were born to stand out from each other and we should be proud that we do. If we were all exactly the same the world would be a very boring place. Each of us being here and being who we are makes the world so beautiful, exciting and interesting! Why should we want to fit into the same category of human being? Being unique ROCKS!

Life isn't always a smooth road, and you will find people out there who you don't bond with. And that's okay. Not everybody will get along with each other. It's the nature of life. But you can be cordial to each other, and be happy that your paths crossed and now you are off on your own journey. It doesn't mean that you should stop being who you are. We are all individuals swimming in the bog pool of life together. We cross paths, meet each other, some of us will become friends, some of us won't, but without us being unique, special and different, that pool just wouldn't be the same.

Please don't ever be afraid to be exactly who you are. There is only ever going to be one you out there, so head out on to your path through life, and shine. Bumps, snags and hiccups may happen along the way, but you will get through them, and when you come out the other side, you'll be more powerful than ever!

A.A. Milne quotes

With positivity, love & hope,



10/20/2014

#Guestober 2014 : Saloca in Wonderland

5 Ways To Deal With Stress In The Workplace
With Monday upon us, and a new working week starting, I don't know about you, but work can get pretty damn stressful, especially at this time of year when everyone starts gearing up for the holidays and the stresses of work and family life all roll into one big stressful mess. 
I try to keep my work and life stresses separate but it's too easy to bring your bad day at the office home with you. In a bid to avoid this, and get through your work day a little easier, here are 5 simple ways to deal with stress in the workplace.

1) Get out at lunch time
If you've had a bad morning or you know the afternoon is going to be a killer, take your lunch break elsewhere, preferably outside. The weather right now doesn't exactly scream for picnics in the park, but, a quick walk around the block or just having your lunch in another part of the building (never at your desk if it can be helped) will work wonders. The fresh air will clear your mind and getting away from the office, even just for a short walk, breaks up your day and you'll go back feeling ready to tackle anything the afternoon will throw at you.

2) Workout
When my day really has been that bad, then a quick workout after work really helps to release all that tension and stress. I'd rather work it out after work than take it home with me that's for sure. If you can't get to the gym after work, try walking home, or even just to a further bus stop, but do it with some gusto and get your blood pumping, not boiling!

3) Get your groove on
Dancing around the office might not be allowed or professional, but taking a quick break with your headphones in will shut out the office mayhem for a song or two. Close your eyes, get lots in the rhythm and lyrics, even put on a song you know will lift your mood. 

4) Walk away
When the crap really hits the fan, don't rise to the occasion, simply walk away. Walk down the corridor, walk to the bathroom. Walk down the stairs and back up again. Just walk. As much as you want to scream and shout and wring a certain persons neck. Don't. It's unprofessional and it's not going to make you feel any better, only ten times worse.

5) Tomorrow is another day
After Monday, comes Tuesday and so on, and before you know it the weekend is here. No matter how long your day might seem, it will always come to an end, you'll shut down the terminal, put on your coat and you'll leave. Always keep that in mind. You can walk away from the stress tonight, and tackle it tomorrow. With a good nights sleep and fresh start, you might just be able to deal with the drama a little better too!
How do you deal with the stress at work? Any tips you'd like to share?
Until next time,

Huge thanks to Jackie for giving me the chance to come on over to her blog and get to know you all! If you want to get to know me a little better, you can find me over at salocainwonderland.co.uk