BIRCHBOX: AUGUST 2013

For those of you who are not already familiar with the concept, Birchbox is one of many companies who provide a fantastic subscription beauty service. For a small amount each month, you will receive a gorgeous box containing a selection of beauty samples and products from luxurious or exciting new brands, which is tailored to suit your tastes and needs.
I only recently heard of this concept, and was naturally intrigued. I picked Birchbox purely because I liked the design and had heard good things about them, and I was very pleasantly surprised. Here are a couple of snaps of what arrived at my house:

As well as a cute box (and bag inside) and a mini magazine, I received seven products and samples including a gorgeous lip crayon and a bag of popcorn! I am yet to try them all out, but I will hopefully post some product reviews in the future.
I just can't believe how cute these boxes are, and I will definitely be getting more in the future.


Disclaimer: I have no connection to Birchbox or any other brand, I simply bought the box for myself, enjoyed it, and was keen to share my opinions.

A TRIP TO... YORK

 

I took the opportunity to spend a day in York last week, and as always, I had a great time. Despite having been there countless times, York is one of those cities that never fails to impress me. With some of the most gorgeous architecture and plenty of good shops, I already can't wait for my next visit (hopefully at Christmas, when it looks so magical)!

York Minster is incredible, and photos can't do justice to the sheer scale of it all. The stained glass windows and pillars inside are magnificent, especially with the bright sunlight streaming through.  And of course, I couldn't resist a quick trip to Patisserie Valerie, where they do the best selection of beautiful cakes and pastries, and the yummiest hot chocolates... All in all, a great day out.

WHAT I'M LISTENING TO: MS MR

 

Who are they?: New York-based duo Lizzy Plapinger and Max Hershenow

 

Describe in 3 words: Haunting, unique, exciting

 

For fans of: Florence & The Machine, Lana Del Rey

 

After reading about MS MR in a magazine a while ago, I decided to check them out on YouTube and I am so glad I did. Their videos are creepy but enchanting, and I cannot stop listening to their debut album, 'Secondhand Rapture'. It is very difficult to put their style into words, but if you like Florence & The Machine, then I would definitely suggest that you take the time to check them out - they are going to be MASSIVE.

 

 

Disclaimer - I do not own any images featured in this post.

A TRIP TO... CORNWALL



 Port Issac

 

 Lanhydrock House & Gardens

 

Polzeath Beach

 

Recently, I spent a week in Cornwall with family, and although it may not be the most exotic of holiday destinations, we were treated to some pretty good weather. It was just nice to get away from normal life, and to spend a week sitting on beaches, eating ridiculous quantities of ice cream, and visiting places such as the gorgeous town of St Ives. If you don't fancy venturing abroad, then I would definitely recommend it - although the sea breezes did make my hair straighteners a necessity!

 

Ps. Whilst visiting The Eden Project, I happened to discover their own candles which are sold there, and they smell amazing... After a bit of deliberation, I went for the raspberry and quince candle, which was a bargain and has made my room smell delicious. If you happen to go there, I would seriously recommend buying one!

 

WEDNESDAY WISHLIST 14/08

1. Dunk Sky High Mesh - £85.00, Nike
2. Lord & Berry Lipstick Crayon in Kiss - £8.00, ASOS
3. Nails in Pool Party - £5.00, Topshop
4. Knitted Quilted Jumper - £38.00, Topshop
5. Dinosaur Necklace - £125.00, Tatty Devine

SUMMER RASPBERRY CUPCAKES

 

 

These raspberry cupcakes were so easy to make and are a delicious treat, especially on a summer day. Topped with pink butter icing and fruit, and with fresh berries hidden inside, they are the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Enjoy!

 

 

Recipe from BBC Food