Saturday, 15 April 2017

Easter Spectaclar at Lidl Northern Ireland

Spring is well and truly in the air.  Flowers are beginning to bloom and the sun is trying to sneak threw the clouds.  But most importantly the shops are filled with delicious treats that you just cant get all year round!

As everyone knows by now I am a massive foodie who doesn't settle for second best.  Quality is extremely important to me.  I mean who wants to waste calories?  No me that's for sure.


So when I was strolling threw my local Lidl and spotted their Easter range the look of the new beautifully packaged products really tantalised my taste buds.  Now from experience quality doesn't always have to have a recognisable name to be fantastic in fact you can be presently surprised at what you can find.  Although in saying that £2.99 for a luxury Easter egg just seemed too good to be true.  I just knew I had to try this one out for myself.


Packaging
From a first hand glance the packaging was every bit high end and well designed.   Certainly fancy enough to rival some of the more expensive brands on the shelves. Classic black and white gloss packaging set a sleek well groomed tone which works well to showcasing the stand out design of the actual egg inside.

 
Taste
Now down to the most important aspect.  The taste test.  My original plan of action was to open the eggs, take some pictures, upload those and then sit down with a big nice mug of tea and tuck into them with the other half.  You know like normal people.  However the second I pulled the egg out of the box all was lost.  The sweet delicate smell hit me and I ate a big chuck out of the back so I could still salvage the rest for the pictures!  Ooooppps.  I am literally the biggest fan of chocolate ever and I have to say these little babies held up against my other more high end Easter treats.  Both eggs chocolate were deliciously creamy/smooth with no harsh bitter taste, paired with the textured high flavoured toppings made for a well rounded product. 
 
 
Summary
Lidl are always dropping little gems into stores.  I am a big fan of their seasonal items and I find their design work is very creative and unique to what other shores are doing at the minute.  I do all my shopping in Lidl and you just wont find anywhere else with such great quality fresh local produce.  To top that the staff couldn't be more helpful and polite, being someone with fibromaysia this is a really big deal for me.  If you haven't tried them out for your weekly shop take the plunge and do it. 
You can thank me later.
 
The only down fall about this post is I have to wait another year to get my hands on some more!
 
Peace and Love
Lisa xx
 

Wednesday, 12 April 2017

"The Jackel" Champions New Mural Illustrating Everything Thats "Pure Here" About Belfast

It is no secret that Belfast is one of my top ranked places in the world.  It is full of culture, the most friendly people you will ever meet and their is no better place for a bit of "craic".  So I am very happy to share that Belfast has a beautiful new artistic addition.  World famous boxer Carl "The Jackal" Frampton was back in his beloved home town at this week to unveil a brand new mural work of art on Hill St. 

The absolutely stunning art piece was created by Dean Kane from Visual Waste aka Belfast's answer to banksy as apart of HARPS "Pure Here" campaign which was been taking the local area by storm.  The art piece itself showcases some of Belfast most famous and iconic best bits such as The Balls on the Falls, The Big Fish, The Albert Clock, the H&W cranes as well as of course some local legendary characters/celebrities.  

Not forgetting of course a nod to the man of the moment himself who was more than happy to be apart of the whole thing.  Carl said “Everybody knows I love Belfast so to be involved with something that’s really positive in the heart of the town, it was a no-brainer for me. HARP’s ‘Pure Here’ is a lot of fun, a really upbeat campaign that’s celebrating lots of great things that are unique to Northern Ireland.”

Hill St of course is located in the ever so trendy Cathedral quarter which is a hot spot for locals and tourists alike.  The Cathedral Quarter mural is the first of its kind by HARP and Brand Manager Jeanette Levis said: “HARP is one of NI’s most-loved lagers and this is our way of celebrating all that is magical about Belfast – the unique sense of humour and the quirks that make it so special.” 

 

 
Pictured at Harp’s ‘Pure Here’ mural launch in Hill Street is local boxing legend, Carl Frampton who has teamed up with Harp lager and artist Dean Kane from Visual Waste to unveil an iconic new piece of street art in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, celebrating the people, sights and humour unique to the city. 
 
As part of Harp’s ‘Pure Here’ campaign, the street art showcases a number of the best-loved bits of Belfast. These include The Balls on the Falls, Titanic Building, The Big Fish, The Albert Clock and the H&W cranes as well as some of the city’s legendary characters and local celebrities including boxing champion Carl ‘The Jackal’ Frampton, much-loved TV presenter Julian Simmons and journalist and Belfast broadcaster Colin Murray.
 
 
Pictured at Harp’s ‘Pure Here’ mural launch in Hill Street are artist Dean Kane from Visual Waste, local boxing legend, Carl Frampton and much-loved TV presenter Julian Simmons who have teamed up with Harp lager to unveil an iconic new piece of street art in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, celebrating the people, sights and humour unique to the city. 
 
As part of HARPs ‘Pure Here’ campaign, the street art showcases a number of the best-loved bits of Belfast. These include The Balls on the Falls, Titanic Building, The Big Fish, The Albert Clock and the H&W cranes as well as some of the city’s legendary characters and local celebrities including boxing champion Carl ‘The Jackal’ Frampton and journalist and Belfast broadcaster Colin Murray.
 
 

 
Peace and Love
Lisa

Monday, 13 March 2017

Wedding Day Extra Special Touches Inspiration

As a lot of you guys will already know I am getting married this November.  Wedding Planning seems to have over shadowed my whole life at the moment, from decorating the venue, designing invitations, guests lists and all the nitty gitty that goes with it, I find myself thinking..... well what will make the wedding day special for me? (apart from marrying the love of my life of course).  I started to mentally conduct a list of all the little costly things I have always wanted but couldn't justify and thought this is a great excuse to treat myself!  So here it is a list of some little extras I have either purchased, will purchase or I think you guys will love!  to make my special day even more special for me! 

Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Sheer Power - Shade 25 -  Chanel.com/makeup
 
Do I even need to explain this one?  No.  This packaging alone is just so beautifully designed.  How could you not feel special topping up your powder with this sleek and vintage inspired little compact?  Design aside this powder is simply perfect for setting my make up.  I have oily/combo skin so this can be a challenge at times but this baby works wonders for me! 
 
Bow-tique by Sinead Candle - Scent Calming - bow-tiquebysinead.co.uk
 
Again the packaging.  The bow on the lid is literally the cutest thing ever <3.  These candles are all 100% organic plant wax meaning they will give a nice clean burn whilst filling the room with  beautiful long lasting scents.  Imagine having this burning on a side table on the morning of your wedding.  Enough said!
 
 
 
Chanel Rouge Allure Lipstick - Shade 174 - Chanel.com/beauty
 
I already own this lipstick in a few shades including the red shown so this product has been well and truly tested by myself.  What I love about this lipstick is it applies very nice and creamy with a slight floral scent but after a few mins it drys down to a nice subtle semi matt texture.  Now when I say dries down it doesn't dry down completely to the point its uncomfortable or cakes in any way but it will hold tight and most importantly wont smudge! Product glides on with no patchiness and one coat is enough! I cant speak for all the colours but I know any nudes I have purchased have been great! 
 
 
Chloe - Roses De Chloe 50ml - www.sephora.com/roses-de-chloe
 
This has been one of my favourite perfumes for a long time now.  I only ever use it for special occasions as it just makes me feel so good!  What I love about this perfume is it seems to sink into the skin and gives off a stunning natural scent without being over powering.  This is your go to if you like classic florals.  Defiantly my signature scent.
 
 
Love4everBoutique - Esty.com
 
Wait a second.  Can you actually believe these robes are only £15?  They don't suit my colour palette (not giving my colour palette away just yet) but these would be just perfect for a spring/summer wedding!  The writing is just too pretty and elegant! Check out their page as they do different prints and patterns! 
 
Personalised Walnut Wedding Planner - notonthehighstreet.com/oakdenedesigns
 
Ok well I am a statutory nut as it is so its no surprise I am adding a wedding planner!  If your getting married you need to get a wedding planning.  This is a basic need to jot down important notes and plans!  So why not splurge on this stunning Custom Planner?  Would make an amazing keepsake too!  They do lots of other stationary also so take a look! 
 
Orelia Just Married Bride and Groom Sew On Patch - Asos.com
 
I am patch and biker jacket crazy so as much as these are random they had to go on the list!  Imagine the groom one on the back of a tie?  Or the bride one on a morning of the wedding robe?  Alternatively you could always put them on your honey moon outfits!  Cuteness overload!
 
Custom Made Capes/Necklaces - bohemianvixen.com
 
For the fashion forward bride an amazing chain cape would really give an edge to any dress!  The designer Can even custom make items to suit your dress!  A match made in fashion heaven!  Great quality and very unique!
 
 
These were just some of the cute little extras I feel would add to a wedding day.  I will be adding more as time going on so make sure to check back!  If your a business I don't know about get in touch!  Hope you enjoyed reading my ramblings!
 
Peace and Love
Lisa xx
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Friday, 27 January 2017

West Coast Cooler Belfast Fashion Week SS17 Launch - Best Dressed

Even though it was freezing cold, yesterday marked the first day of Belfast Fashion Weeks spring summer season!  The four day fashion week is back with a bang and has brought the best trends to our doorstep.  Its always great to see locals embrace their own person style but yesterdays turn out was something special.  Here are just some of my favourite social looks.  I was spoilt for choice! 

Collette ONeill Rocked casual Mono with this care free look. 
(she makes looking stylish look easy!)
 
Emily Hancock looked like an off duty model with knee high boots which showed off her long pins perfectly.
 
Derek and Lisa were equal amounts of country chic and adorable in these matching couple outfits.
(Not as cute as me and my sister matching though ) 
 
Melissa Riddell stood out from the crowd in this bright jacket and metallic top underneath. 
Silver Metallic Top Nor Lisa Fashion
 
Truly one of my favorite ever looks on fashionista Louise Vance.  She wore the most gorgeous all white kimono paired with very on trend metallic trousers. 
 
Donna McCabe rivalled the catwalk models with stripes which also featured in the catwalk show. 
Dress Nor Lisa fashion
 
Lauryn Hall was simply stylish embraceing head to toe colour blocking with a large belt.  Two of this seasons key trends.
Skirt and Top Nor Lisa Fashion
 
The different textures in Linda Stinsons outfit were simply to die for.  Lace paired with fur paired with leather was this textile designers dream.  Those pop coloured heels really took this look to the next level.
 
I'm a fan of black and lace all year long.  India Reed added a bright hat to give us spring/summer vibes.
 
Another mono look as catwalk host Rebecca McKinney embraces the trend with a dash of metallic on
her feet. 
 
Lastly I matched my fashion blogger sister with a cut out dress, stripe heels and a leather tassel bag.
 
 
 
If you would like to get in on all the action grab your tickets now to your favorite shows to avoid disappointment!. 
 
 
"West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK is set for a ‘blooming’ spectacular Spring/Summer event with the announcement of the schedule for the four day fashion festival which offers some serious style inspiration for the season ahead.
 
Taking place from 23-26 March at venues across the city, the busy schedule sees the return of the sell-out high street and designer runway shows alongside popular fashion fringe events Sushi Saturday at Asian favourite Zen, as well as Style Sunday - which this season is held at Coco on Mother’s Day for the perfect day out for a stylish mum. Budding new events include the stylish Lavazza Coffee Style Saturday brunch at Robinson & Cleaver on Saturday 25 March. This event offers the ultimate fashion filter with key looks from across the fashion spectrum selected by some of the country’s top stylists including Courtney Smith and Cool FM’s Rebecca McKinney as well as London-based Jamie Russell and Lewis Cameron.
 
A make up masterclass courtesy of FASHIONWEEK’s new title make up sponsor, KARAJA is also planned while hair partners ALFAPARF Milano will ensure the models’ locks are luscious throughout all events by teaming up with some of the country’s best hair salons including Paul Stafford and Ben Close as well as Chrysalis and Scissor Sisters from Newry among others.
 
Director Cathy Martin commented on the season’s key trends: “This season there is a focus on fun with playful colours and bold statements being made everywhere. My favourites among all the trends include the palettes of pinks, yellows and blues, as well as gorgeous ginghams and loads of Beetlejuice-inspired stripes. For eveningwear, there are mesmerizing metallics and sassy sequins which will satisfy all the fashion magpies out there.  A feminine feel continues from AW16 with a tap into texture, so there’ll be loads more of romantic ruffles and playful plumes first seen on the Gucci, Chloe and Celine catwalks internationally.”
 
She added: “We’re looking forward to having some of our regular designers and brands on the runways this season, but we’ve opened up the catwalks to the likes of ASOS, Zara, River Island, H&M and TOPSHOP via our stylist picks at the high street shows and at our wonderful new Style Saturday event. It’s an exciting season for us and I look forward to wowing the audiences with the collections we’ll have on show.”
 
Laura Blair, Brand Manager for West Coast Cooler, which sponsors the event, said: “At West Coast Cooler we love to celebrate individuality and style, especially with the launch of campaigns like our #WCCStyleSquad which integrate our audience with our brand activity – we love the fresh opportunities to engage with a fashion conscious customer.  This sponsorship really is an ideal fit with the West Coast Cooler brand.”
 
For further information and links to the full show schedule plus tickets, visit the Belfast Fashion Week Facebook page or www.belfastfashionweek.com .  Catwalk tickets, which cost £20 (or £30 for a limited number of exclusive front row seats), are available from the Belfast Welcome Centre on 028 9024 6609 or via the website. Sushi Saturday, Lavazza’s Style Saturday and the perfect Mother’s Day day out, Style Sunday, can be booked directly with the FASHIONWEEK team at 02890421509 or via cathy@cmprireland.com  Each show’s ticket price includes a goodie bag and a refreshing West Coast Cooler."

Thursday, 10 November 2016

Ladyboys of Bangkok Custom House Square Belfast 2016 - Best Dressed Socials

The Lady Boys are officially back in town so naturally the Belfast social scene has flocked to Custom House Square to enjoy one of the best acts to grace Belfast.  The Lady Boys is always a excuse to wear your most dramatic looks and the crowd didn't disappoint this year.  The First night which I attended was exclusive for Northern Ireland's top bloggers, media and socialites.

Local Talent and  Entertainer Titti Von Tramp rivalled the acts on stage with this amazing sequined dress and legs that dont stop.

Louise Vance mixed classic with showgirl in this sophisticated look with some added glam in the form of her glitzy top.

Denise Robinson was winter chic in a cosy chunky jumper in a all white look.  The brown boots give this look a cute country twist.

John Gerard did sexy in a sheer bodysuit and skin tight jeans his bling necklace was very appropriate for the event.  Neil Coogan was giving us all kinds of male model vibes in a layered look, I especially loved his wide collared navy coat which added a different dimension to his all black look.

Derek Dubery and Lisa CB matched in all black everything.  Dereks faux fur coat with large brooch was statement although I liked how he kept the look classic by keeping it all the the same colour.  Lisas wide cuffs and diamante detailing were very glamours paired with a statement necklace.

Oversized winter coats is one of my favourite trends each season.  The sisters stylishly matched with their statement winter warmers.  Emer Dorris looked like a elegant movie star in her stand out white faux fur coat with always on trend stripe detailing where as Megan Dorris was city ready in her girl about town over sized coat, I especially adored her patent boots adding texture to the look.

Danielle McCrea wore beautiful blush and neutral tones which complemented her fair hair.  Her statement hat and lace up boots gave her look a more quirky edge.

Gemma Garret wore the most flattering jeans.  I told her personally on the night she had the best bottom of the show when she was dragged on stage for some audience involvement.  You can never go wrong with a black stiletto heel .  Gemma kept it simple and added a wow over sized bag to upgrade her look.

Kim Kelly and Stephanie Loughrey were ready to paint the town read in body con fitted dresses which emphased their perfect curves.


Emily Hancock wore her trademark over sized hat and embraced the country heritage trend which is huge this season.  Burgundy is also very popular at the min and I loved how she matched her scarf to lip colour.  

The Lady Boys new cabaret inspired show “Forever Yours is in its 18th season.  They performed a whole host of musical numbers including some of the nation’s most loved tunes.  Guests  will be refreshed with a full bar and can enjoy authentic Thai cuisine courtesy of the Sabai Pavillion’s resident chef, at their fantastic Custom House Square location.  The show runs until Saturday 19th November and tickets are available from the Belfast Welcome Centre on 028 9024 6609 or alternatively online at www.ladyboysofbangkok.co.uk









Saturday, 5 November 2016

PROPERCORN : Food Product Review

Everyone enjoys a good munch in the evening and this truly is my biggest down fall!  Picture this... you crawl home from a busy day at the office and slide onto the sofa for a well deserved netflix and chill session.  Your halfway threw your favourite series episode and a serious case of the munchies kicks in.... But OH NO your on a diet!  Well worry no more, PROPERCORN is a low calorie snack but with all the flavour.  Guilt Free Goodness at its best.

The company are very proud of the fact that they are keeping people healthy.  As a fashion designer visual is always important to me and the cute and quirky designs would grab anyone eye straight off the shelf.  Fun branding all the way keeps this brand unique and fresh (literally).





  • Sweet & Salty
  • Lightly Sea Salted
  • Sweet Coconut & Vanilla 
  • Sour Cream & Chive
  • Fiery Worcester Sauce & Sun Dried Tomato





I literally love them all but if I had to pick my favourite it would have to be the Sweet Coconut and Vanilla.  Tho my partner in crime prefers the smooth peanut and almond (Peanuts arnt my jam).  I would love to try the new Twisted Honeycomb flavour as I def think its right up my street.

Its no secret that I am not the healthiest person but I do try and make some small substitutes like these and they really make all the difference in the grand scheme of things.  So next time your in Tesco or Asda pop over and grab a bag you wont be disappointed (Pun intended)

https://www.propercorn.com/

Peace and Love
Lisa



UrbanRagz at The Country Cabin Enniskillen Branch Boutique

Urban Rags at The Country Cabin has officially landed in Enniskillen and it's literally what we have been all waiting for but just didn't quite know it yet.  The Willy Wonka themed quirky boutique will take you into a world of pure imagination.  The best way to describe this store is simply a breath of fresh air,  Clashing prints and kitsch treasures all add up to create a real hidden cave of wonders.  The store is currently selling a ranges of gifts, kids wear, menswear, womenswear, shoes and interior items.  I found the store to have a great mix of great quality items at affordable prices which is always a plus.  Regardless of your taste I assure you that you will find something you love in this store.  At the mouth of christmas this is the perfect store to purchase all of your loved ones gifts and maybe a wee treat or two for yourself!

The Wish List:
I honestly could have purchased the whole shop!  But instead I snapped my favourite to die for pieces. These aren't necessarily the best items but the items I will 100% be purchasing in the near future or adding to my Santa list ;)

Everyone knows I love my novelty bags.  This four story clutch has me lusting after ultimate cuteness.

Florals are to die for any season but a personal recipe book with dividers to add your favourite starters, lunches, dinners and desserts is not only pretty but also practical.

As a self confessed tea addict, I am obsessed with cups and mugs.  With its simple design and quirky quote I am loving this one to the moon and back.

This canvas is giving me bohemian Fleetwood Mac vibes.  

More ceramics but this one comes with a matching box.  I have actually no need for another milk jug but strangely enough I am 100% sure I NEED this one.  Whats not to love.

FaceBook: 
facebook.com/UrbanRagz-at-The-Country-Cabin-539931662749687/

Address:
UrbanRagz at The Country Cabin

26 Derrychara Link,

 Co. Fermanagh 

Enniskillen

BT74 6GB



Email:

thecountrycabin@outlook.com



Website:

urbanragz.org