Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Let's get spiritual - a shamanic healing journey

Hello lovely readers,

I wanted to share with you some hugely positive things that have been happening to me, mainly because I can see that they can have a hugely positive impact on you too.

It all began with my wonderful friend Genevra Jolley.  A few years ago, I was complaining to her about negative patterns in my life in relation to both career and love.  I explained that I had felt as though I continually poured my soul into things only to be slapped in the face in return.  She suggested I consider Shamanic Healing.  I looked at her as though she'd spoken Japanese.  It turns out that Shamanic healing is an ancient form of healing common to many indigenous peoples.  For more info, take a look here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shamanism

At the time, I opted for a distance soul retrieval session with someone Genevra recommended.  During the healing session, though skeptical, the immense heat I felt across my chest - the home to my heart chakra was unmistakeable as was the incredible rippling sensation of energy rushing up and down my body like little electric shocks and powerful images like a bird being released from a cage.  I was recommended to follow this up with an Illumination but at the time, my finances were appalling and it just wasn't an option.  Recently, I woke up one morning and felt a huge shift.  As though somebody had lifted an enormous weight from me and I could suddenly feel the love around me.

For the first time in months, Genevra came and spoke to me through facebook.  She told me that she'd seen my face in her mind's eye and sensed something had changed.  When we spoke, she confirmed this.  Suddenly I started to have people contacting me asking for help with PR and Marketing for the first time in 8 months.  I decided to go and visit Genevra and had an incredible Reiki session with her. Slightly skeptical still, she used the immense power of her beautiful crystal healing bowls and the incredibly beautiful energy and love that resides within her to remove any final blockages allowing the force of kundalini to run through me - something that when she placed her hands on my feet, could only be likened to the rush I've felt when jumping into a freezing cold plunge pool.

Up until now, I have always blamed current difficulties on my painful childhood and though I have never let it stand in my way, I hadn't realised the anger and hurt that I carried with me until suddenly, one day, it went.  That's not to say that I don't still from time to time get angry, of panic that things are going to go terribly wrong, but one thing I can say for sure is that I'm on a new path.  One which allows me to live in truth.  I'd love it if you took a walk with me whilst I see where it leads me.

I am now a devoted meditator and am feeling an immense pull towards healing others.  I took part in a Munay-Ki ceremony with Genevra and her wonderful friends and I have to say that it was the most beautiful weekend of my life and moves me even now to think of the love that it awoke in me, around me.  Love that resides in the water that rushes over us in the shower, the sun which streams upon us, the bounce of the trees in the wind and the Earth beneath our feet.

For anyone interested in the wonder of Reiki and Crystal Healing and for Healers looking for healing tools, please contact Genevra.  Her website is www.crystalsingingbowls.org or find her on facebook. http://facebook.com/genevrajolley

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Cooperative Gardeners Ltd in Richmond's Gary Jackson takes advantage

Hi there people

I don't normally write about this kind of thing on my blog but I wanted to warn people of some of the dangers with regard to providing services for people without a written contract.  Recently, I responded to an advert from the Cooperative Gardeners Limited who were looking for a sales and marketing person.  Gary Jackson who is the major owner of the company called me back after looking at my website to come along for an interview with them at the Cooperative Gardeners Limited.

My website clearly states that I am a PR and Communications professional.  On answering his question, "So what do you think marketing is?" I gave him a detailed response to which he then said, "So it's sales."  That afternoon, he asked me to stay and work and I found myself for the next two days managing and organising door to door canvassing from a council flat in Clarke House, Ham in which the lack of space, makeshift desks and garden furniture most definitely flouted health and safety regulations.  When I told him this was not the kind of thing I do and not a good use of my skills he said, "So what can you do then?" I told him a website and PR and marketing materials.

He agreed to this on the basis that I work for significantly less money than I would ordinarily, worked on it for four weeks and for the final week he refused to pay me on the basis that I hadn't brought any cash into the business in the time that I'd been there.

I have written this as a warning to people considering using the gardening company because he is selling the service to customers as it being a cooperative.  This means that clients, investors and staff all take a share in the profit.  He has been running for three years however, has done the same thing to a few people as he did to me, pays all of his staff low wages which means that if they do become profitable, the Cooperative Gardeners Ltd investors get a bigger share because there will be even more profit because staff are on low salaries.

I would caution anyone doing work for small businesses to get an agreement in writing for work that you are going to undertake for someone and the rate you are willing to do it for within an agreed time frame.  Luckily, I retained administration rights for their website so have at least been able to take it down due to non-payment however, I would rather have been paid the money and had the website running for them.

So anyone thinking of working for or using the Cooperative Gardeners Ltd in Richmond.  Please take care.

Friday, July 15, 2011

Friday Frock Day

Keeping with the wedding theme (you may think me obsessed), here's a stunning little sexy dress from our friends at Forever Unique.  We know they're not the cheapest but if you're looking to splash out, definitely pay them a visit.  They have a sale on at the moment so you may even bag yourself a bargain.

Thursday, July 14, 2011

It's Wedding Season - get your glad rags on

We all love a good wedding, if for no other reason than that it gives us the perfect excuse to get dolled up to the nines.  I recently took a client shopping and put together an outfit that gave the bride a run for her money.

The peach in French Connection's spot-light knit dress perfectly offset her coffee like Asian skin, the Kurt Geiger shoes perfectly complemented the satin look of the dress, this Ted Baker bag picks out the peach in the dress beautifully and the head dress found on Magpie Vintage gave the whole look a slightly fairy tale feel.  My only complaint was that I didn't get to wear it.  I'm watching the post box carefully for any wedding invitations.


Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Book any styling session and get reflexology free

With Easter coming, Butterfly Therapies and I have teamed up to celebrate that time when we welcome in all things new.  If you book a styling session between now and the 23rd April you'll also get a free reflexology consultation worth £20. So you can pamper yourself from the outside in.  And, if you book before Monday the 18th April, we'll also throw in tea and cupcakes for two as part of the package.  Surely it's an offer too good to refuse?

Call Nicola on 07811 344621 and check out the Personal Styling pages on this website to find out more on the services available.

Monday, April 4, 2011

Today it's Monday Frock Day - yes, late again...

So I'm late again.  Oh dear.  But why change the habit of a lifetime?  I remember like it was yesterday being threatened with detention because I was late three times in a row for school, all because I put the wrong newspaper through the wrong door!

Anyway, to make up for it, I present you with two stunning vintage numbers.  The first being a gorgeous black and white 50s dress by CoralVintage at roughly £70 including postage.


The second is this saucy 70s number from PennyDreadfulVintage in London


Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Sugarlesque Swap it Parlour 5th April

Tuesday, April 5 · 7:00pm - 10:00pm

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Location Sugarlesque Boutique

1.10 Kingly Court, Kingly Street, W1B 5PW (just off Carnaby Street)

London, United Kingdom
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Fancy some new clothes and haven't got the money ?

Got something in your cupboard that's never been used ?

Are you a hoarder ?
Come to the Sugarlesque Boutique and Swap-It !
Clothes, accessories, records, DVDs, CDs, crockery, books, shoes, electrical equipment ...
As long as it's in good working/wearable condition, bring it to the Swap-it Parlour and find it a happy new home

Free Sailor Jerry's Rum cocktails !

Drinks, nibbles and music

£2 entry, and you MUST bring something to swap

7-10pm

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

A Mother's Day Special Offer to Benefit The Two of You

With Mother's Day coming up, Butterfly Therapies and I have teamed up to help you get some bonding time with your mum.  If you book a styling session between now and the 16th April you'll also get a free reflexology consultation worth £20. So while you get yourself a wardrobe update, your mum can lie back and be pampered or maybe even the other way around.  And, if you book before Monday the 4th April, we'll also throw in tea and cupcakes for two as part of the package.  Surely it's an offer too good to refuse?

Bookings must be taken before the end of June 2011.

Call Nicola on 07811 344621 and check out the Personal Styling pages to find out more on the services available.

Friday, March 25, 2011

Friday Frock Day

Well, have I found a little stunner for the ladies today?  Cute in coral?  Yes please.  Ooooh.  Spring has most definitely sprung.  Now where is that credit card? We thank you Asos.




Monday, March 21, 2011

Belated Friday Frock Day - Happy Mondays

Happy Monday

So, it appears that with all the excitement of the last week or so, time ran away with me on Friday.  But don't despair, I have unearthed a gorgeous 20s style little number to feast your eyes this fine sunny Spring day...  Perfect for picnicking in the park, I can see myself lazing back on a blanket, parasol in hand, underneath the cherry blossom...

Click on the picture to purchase online

Friday, March 11, 2011

Friday Frock Day

I think Nicole's shop is going to be the source of a large number of Friday Frocks!  They are just too stunning - what more can I say?  This one has inspired me to go and buy some fabric paints. Perfect for when we eventually get some of those warm Spring days

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

NEW GALLERY JUMBLE - PECKHAM

What a fab way to shop! No guilt factor at the New Gallery Jumble

Saturday, March 19 · 1:00pm - 11:00pm


Location: New Gallery London

92 Peckham Road, Camberwell, SE15 5PY

London, United Kingdom

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...POP IN, SAY HELLO & SHOP WITH A CLEAR CONSCIENCE AS

WE AIM TO BE 100% ECO-FRIENDLY IN EVERYTHING WE DO

►UP-CYCLED CRAFTS

►ILLUSTRATION BOOTH

►VINTAGE

►FREE WORK SHOPS

►BARGAIN BINS

►FREE 'MAKE IT LAST' STALL

►FOOD+DRINK


▲▽▲▲▽▲▲▽▲▲▽▲▲▽▲▲▽▲▲▽▲▲▽▲▲▽▲▲▽

"USE IT UP, WEAR IT OUT, MAKE IT DO, OR DO WITHOUT"
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New Gallery Jumble is a place to shop with a clear conscience. With a heartfelt belief in sustainability, stalls offer only up-cycled, re-purposed or second hand things in the form of quality hand crafted creations. Carefully selected vintage and bric-a-brac items exist alongside 'WORK SHOPS' that encourage people to make something new from something old, and various pop up attractions like an 'ILLUSTRATION BOOTH' where you can come and have yourself drawn a beautiful portrait, on recycled paper of your choice of course! Affordability and accessibility are values we hold dear - at the 'MAKE IT LAST' stall you can use our resources to revive old garments for free, sewing buttons and fixing holes! Our bargain bins mean you can also rummage and save! Delicious food & drink is always available, freshly made in the New Gallery London kitchen.
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IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO RUN A WORK SHOP, EXHIBIT WORK
or INTERESTED IN A STALL GET IN TOUCH!
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FREE WORKSHOPS:

▲ MAKE NOTEBOOKS FROM USED ENVELOPES:

Use up all those junk mail envelopes & never have to buy a new notepad!

(all materials are provided on the day)

▲ KNITTING ALL DAY

(all materials are provided on the day)

▲ MAKE IT LAST STALL ALL DAY

(Fix up your beloved shirts & jumpers etc..)See More

Friday, March 4, 2011

Friday Frock Day

Starting today, Friday will officially be known as Frock Day where I'll be featuring a fabulous frock for partying at the weekend.

And kicking things off nicely, we have this absolutely divine, blue 1950s dress.  I'd almost be tempted to get married in it.  If anyone would have me ;)

I want!! You can buy it... for me... in Nicole's Shop

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Such a shame that Galliano creates such beauty but spouts such filth

Galliano's anti-semitism may be in question but I can't deny that I want every single one of these outfits - bar the bloke's one... obviously.

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Vintage Arts and Treasures Market, Clapham, Sat 12th Feb

An exciting development for the residents of Clapham is the opening of a new Vintage, Arts and Treasures Market this Saturday.

Housed in the Clapham Park Project, the market will see purveyors of arts, handmade items and vintage treasures peddling there wares and I'll be there between 1pm and 4pm so why not pop along and see for yourselves!

Friday, January 28, 2011

Valentine's Gift For Her Fit for a Queen


If you're looking to pamper your princess for Valentine's day, there couldn't be a more perfect way than with a gift voucher from Cherry Picked Styling. Ther perfect Valentine's gift for her.  We'll make your better half look and feel like a queen.  And with our special, 20% discount offer it's bound to get you both in a romantic mood.

This means that prices start at just £152 (normally £190).

For more information on the service and to see images from previous makeovers, go to my Personal Styling page.

Watch the whole Chanel Spring Haute Couture Show

I have a little treat for you ladies

If you just aren't considered worthy enough for a front seat at the Chanel spring show, never fear, just click here to watch the video.

Enjoy!

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Spring's looking peachy with Gaultier

Judging by the Gaultier collection this week, it's looking pretty peachy.  However, we may well be struggling with a Franco-Anglo identity crisis as the shops will soon be sprouting British Punk and Burlesque retro (the French Can-Can) according to Hilary Alexander in The Telegraph.

We love you Jean-Paul Gaultier

Sunday, January 16, 2011

10 reasons to go shopping in Paris

I've been busy drawing images for my book in which I spend a year living in Paris - the romance capital of the world.  Feeling a little whimsical, I thought i'd tell you about some of my favourite things to do. From shopping to dining, Parisiens do it all with a touch of class and though sometimes tiring if living there full time , for a weekend break, you couldn't ask for more.  So if you're looking for some girly fun, here are some of my reasons to hop on the Eurostar and stop the night. 

1. You'll find cute bits and bobs for the kitchen www.lachaiselongue.fr


2. You can check out the most feminine furniture you'll ever find

3. You can flirt with fabulous French waiters in gorgeously glam bars.  I challenge you to find somewhere more glamorous than the Cristal Room




4. You can stuff yourself with gorgeous smelly cheese for an entire weekend without feeling guilty

5. Hire a bike and see the city like a true Parisien (and ring your bell at any sexy French boys)

6. Find stunning French antiques in the flea markets

7. Stuff yourself silly on macaroons and pastries in perfect patisseries


8. Indulge yourself at Angelina's with the most amazing hot chocolate you will ever find (rue de rivoli)


9. I defy anyone to find a better brunch anywhere than the one laid on by the Bottle Shop at 5 rue trousseau in Paris near the Bastille.  The most zingy hollandaise sauce is served on their eggs benedict with an english muffin and gorgeous sauteed potatoes and all at very reasonable prices.  But get there early to get a table.






10. For an intelligent hour, Scour the Shakespeare and Co. bookshop.  If you're really lucky, you might even get to meet a famous author.

Thursday, January 13, 2011

To all the fashionable writers out there - the Bridport Prize 2011 is Open

International Creative Writing Competition for Poems, Short Stories and Flash Fiction
The Bridport Prize 2011 website is now open for entries!

The Bridport Prize is the richest open writing competition in the English language - with £5000 first prize for a short story (of up to 5000 words); and £5000 first prize for a poem (of up to 42 lines).

The new category of Flash Fiction attracts £1,000 to be won for the best short, short story of under 250 words.

The Bridport is also known as a tremendous literary stepping stone - the first step n the careers of writers such as: Kate Atkinson, Tobias Hill, Carol Ann Duffy and Helen Dunmore.  Anyone can enter - so long as the work is previously unpublished. It costs £7 per story, £6 per poem or £5 per flash fiction and the closing date is 30th June 2011

Each year the prize is judged by well known writers - this year we are delighted to announce that Carol Ann Duffy will be judging the poetry, and AL Kennedy, the short stories and flash fiction

The 2010 anthology of winning entries is available for just £12 or £15 overseas (including postage and packing). The 2009 and 2008 anthologies are available in limited numbers for £7 and £5 (£10 and £8 overseas)

Enter online at: www.bridportprize.org.uk

Or download an entry form: www.bridportprize.org.uk/entryform.pdf
Or email for a pdf entry form: frances@bridportprize.org.uk
Or send an SAE for an entry form to be posted to you

The Bridport Prize
PO Box 6910
Dorset
DT6 9BQ
UK

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

My latest discovery is an East London joint

Listen up ladies. If you're a bit put off by the stuffiness of libraries or the pretentiousness of some of the cultural institutions and art galleries.  If you think the idea of going to a book club is a bit old hat and one dimensional but you miss intellectual stimulation, it sounds like i've found the place for you!

Just behind Great Eastern Street in the Shoreditch end of London, you'll find nestled a groovy place called The Book Club.  My only worry is that I may never leave!

I've already pencilled in the Life Drawing and Speed Dating events and am looking forward to the next round of literary fodder and I'll be there swinging my pants on Friday to Secret Sundaze's very own James Priestly.  So, what are you waiting for? Get your glad rags on and get along...



The Book Club fuses lively, creative events and late night drinking seven days a week with an alternative menu of brain-teasing and mind-expanding thought for food in the form of workshops, talks, cultural showcases, parties, ping pong, pool and the best in new music.



Wednesday, January 5, 2011

It's that planning time of year again...

Since all the hustle and bustle of Christmas and New Year are over and we're all starting to knuckle down and plan ahead, it seemed appropriate to plug the free calendar my lovely friends and the fabulously fashionable greeting card company ilovestrangefruit have made available to download.  Click here to get your free calendar and have it printed and on your desk in seconds.