Blogging 101

So it's been two years since I started writing for all you beautiful people, and I've learnt a lot since I started back in 2014. For instance, there is often a big different between being an instagram star and being a blogger, although sometimes these can come hand-in-hand. Instagram stars can be the best people at faking a life which they wish they had, or as other people would like to call it, capturing beautiful pictures that enhance the presentation of their lifestyle experiences. Bloggers tend to be slightly more down to earth and know the struggle of writing for a specific audience and the attempts at keeping a audiences attention, whilst also writing about things that they are passionate about. So to celebrate my two years of writing I thought i'd share my blogger 'wisdom', although let's be honest, I haven't made it big and I am still no where near being an expert in the field, i'm still learning and hope to be learning for years to come. So here are some of my top tips for those of you who are maybe interested in writing a blog yourself, or are just curious about how we do it...

 1. Write because you enjoy it. 

2.Write things YOU are interested in, not just things you think an audience will like. 

 3. NEVER write, instagram or post just for the likes, if your hearts not in it, people will know. Many would disagree with me and suggest that you need to post a certain amount of pictures and blog posts, and that you should only ever do it at the prime liking and reading times. I mean this might help, but why function like a company when you're in fact a blog just writing to help readers and for your enjoyment.

4. Show your personality. I got this wrong for quite a long time, I chose to write and post anonymously. I was scared to post photos of myself, I didn't want people judging me from what I look like, and I definitely didn't want to seem vain. Someone once told me that for the reader to truly enjoy your work they need to identify with you and know your personality, and they weren't wrong! 

5. Have fun! If you're having fun this will project through your work, my best work is done when I am content, happy, excited and loving life! 

K.

Real Techniques Vs Pinterest

For around a year I would have sworn by my homemade makeup brush remedy (courtesy of Pinterest) to clean my brushes, whilst also keeping their texture and shape. This Christmas I was gifted the Real Techniques Brush Cleanser, and instantly had myself thinking 'Well this is nice but I've got my home remedy that is cheap and effective.' I spoke too soon. My usual remedy of water, shampoo, olive oil, and hand soap (don't knock it till you try it!) takes a good 5-10 minutes to soak and clean your brushes, and having tries other cleansers decided this was the best and cheapest solution to wash my brushes monthly.

 When I eventually tried my new product I found the whole process 5x faster and easier than ever before! Although I am ashamed to say I didn't follow the instructions word-for-word, instead I half-filled an old glass with water and then put 4 drops of the solution in. Upon putting my brushes in the solution I could see the product work instantly, only taking 1-2 minutes to work its magic! I will never be going back to my old remedy(unless i'm too broke to afford the Real Techniques product)and can honestly say that this is the best brush cleanser I have ever used. I can't wait to buy their Cleansing Brush Palette and use both products together! 

K.

Kick-start 2016!

Every year we stuff ourselves with festive pies and puddings and then swear that in the new year we’ll either keep to our new strict diet, quit an unhealthy habit, take up a new hobby or improve (or for some people start!) our exercise routine. Well it’s fair to say i’ve dabbled in my fair share of gym classes, so here a few of my top picks, in case you’re wondering what to have a taste of…

Legs Bums and Tums

A great class to try out if you are looking to introduce an hour of high intensity exercise into your weekly routine. These classes aim to one up, firm up and burn fat from your tummy, hips, thighs and bottom, often held in-time to energising pop/dance music, which personally gets me through the session.

Yoga

My personal favourite! If anyone is stressed out from revision, work, coursework, or just life in general, get yourself to a yoga class! a calm and soothing class, but not one for people looking for a hardcore workout. a fuse of the body and the mind to build your core and maintain a healthy state of mind.

Pilates

These I am not so very fond of, although I have various friends who swear by Pilates, it’s definitely not for me. Often compared to Yoga yet vastly different in terms of character, for those who are looking at developing strength balance core and coordination and aren’t scared of a tough workout.

Body Combat

a high-energy martial arts-inspired workout that is often held to up tempo pop/dance music. Another one of my favourite classes, high intensity, energising and great for releasing stress, anger or any other emotions. a definite must for a hard core full body workout!

In the upcoming weeks i'm going to have a go at a few sessions of kick-boxing to sessions to see if it tickles my fancy as a new hobby! i'll keep you all updated!

K.