How To Do The Races In Style

With 2016 now finally here, many of us will be looking for a few fun ways to get out and about to shake off the festive cabin fever. And the racing season offers a great way to have a little sporting excitement whilst trying out the latest fashion trends in a truly fabulous setting!

 

Although many of us may associate horse racing with fusty old betting shops that offer tips on the Grand National for horses with silly names, it’s increasingly becoming something of a hot-spot for many celebrities thanks to the rise of glamorous Ladies Day events and the emergence of racing-influenced fashion styles.

 

Racing opportunities

 

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There are many racing events dotted throughout the calendar that can provide a good introduction for the racing newbie. The deeply aristocratic Royal Ascot takes place in the middle of June and offers you the chance to party like royalty and even spot a celebrity or two!

 

Whereas the pinnacle of the racing season is undoubtedly the Grand National which runs at the Aintree racecourse in Liverpool in April. As we’d feel more comfortable offering fashion advice, if you fancy a tip or two on the Grand National, you’d be better off visiting a site like Coral that offers a greater degree of expert horse-racing knowledge.

 

Fashion at the races

 

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Racing events have become something of a staple in the fashion calendar. The extravagant hats worn at Royal Ascot give a good indication of the enthusiasm that many fashionistas have for these prestigious racing events.

 

And whilst some of the garments worn at recent Aintree racing events may have pushed the boundaries of acceptable fashion, our fashion tips for events like the Grand National is to always check the dress code at the racecourse’s website, and be prepared to wrap up warm for any unexpectedly chilly race meetings!

 

Making it an event

 

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Modern race-going has become so much more than just the horse racing and fashion tips however, as many people are increasingly turning a race meeting into a fully-fledged holiday activity. Thankfully it’s now easier than ever to really make it a luxurious occasion as you can now easily rent some bespoke country houses and even mansions with the help of the UK Airbnb site that has hundreds of opulent retreats dotted around the nation.

 

And some glamorous hotels such as the Goodwood Hotel are handily located near the Sussex racecourse and offer suitably luxurious specials such as a Girl’s Weekend Away offer. This provides full access to the hotel’s health club, so that you can return to the racetrack fully-energised the next day to cheer on your winner as they cross the line!

 

 

 

Elf the Musical – Review

Elf the Musical
The Dominion Theatre, until 2 January
Box office: 0845 200 7982
www.elfthemusical.co.uk

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Photo credit: Alastair Muir

Even strolling beneath the over-sized illuminated baubles of Oxford Street, on a mild November evening it still felt far too soon to embrace Christmas. Fast-forward three hours and I was positively exuding seasonal cheer – this is a show that would transform even Scrooge from selfish to elfish.

Based on the 2003 film starring Will Ferrell, the plot is fairy tale daft. A baby crawls into Santa’s sack one Christmas Eve and is raised by Elves in the North Pole. Being a fairy tale nobody mentions the fact that Buddy can place the star on top of the Christmas tree without the aid of a cherry picker, but eventually Santa ‘fesses up: Buddy is actually human and has a father in New York. As it turns out, a father who isn’t too keen on welcoming an oversized elf to the family.

At the risk of spoiling the story for those who haven’t seen the movie, suffice to say that chaos, comedy, romance and high drama follow, each element taking the narrative towards Happily Ever After as smoothly as champion skier heading down a nursery slope.

Ben Forster as Buddy is a joy. Bouncing around like a particularly nimble and enthusiastic Labrador, he has a terrific rapport with the audience and manages to be both charming and sweetly innocent. He also sings like a dream (Forster was the winner of the TV search for Jesus Christ Superstar), and makes an exceptionally good fist of songs that, while entertaining in the moment, aren’t especially memorable.

Kimberley Walsh as Jovie, the object of Buddy’s affections, is also in fabulous voice, while Joe McGann as Buddy’s dad Walter convinces as the tetchy publisher of children’s books who has been putting work ahead of family for too long.

Offering up plenty of warm and fuzzy feelings from the off, excellent teamwork sees a supporting cast singing, dancing and acting their Christmas socks off, while the design team’s clever set (‘wow’ factors come thick and fast) deserves a curtain call of its own.

Directed and choreographed by Morgan Young, if panto isn’t your cup of eggnog then there are plenty of seasonal sensations to be had here, without all the ‘behind you’ capers. And if you don’t leave the theatre wanting to spread tidings of comfort and joy, frankly you’re a lost cause.

ITV’s Deals Wheels & Steals Wrap Party… Going Into Overdrive!

Tuesday 20th October saw an ITV wrap party like no other…

Cast members and the production team (Attaboy TV Limited) of ITV’s prime-time weekly show Deals, Wheels and Steals, joined 120 invited guests to celebrate the completion of filming the successful six-episode series now being aired on ITV (Tuesdays, 7:30pm)

The show has proved to be an instant success amongst the UK viewing public, with six dealers (Melody Munday, Manny Hayre, James Lewis, Scott Mahoney, Paul Wenham and Walter Chrobok) being set the challenge of bidding on a trio of auction-room duffers each week. They must then restore them to roadworthy standard and strive to sell them on at a profit. Along the way, viewers are treated to an insightful, and sometimes humorous, observation of the hard graft and drama that goes into auctioneering a used car.

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Hosted at Haz Bar (64 Bishopsgate, London, EC2N 4AJ) by Nuraya Kokos (Baby Kokos), guests were entertained by DJ Glen Campbell and enjoyed exclusive live performances by Angie Brown, Lydia Lucy White, Samantha Kay, David Lee Andrews, Ray Lewis and Cream Boomtown.

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VIP attendees included: Paddy Doherty (Winner of Celebrity Big Brother 8), Simon Gross (Mr Showbiz, Big Brother 2015), Dale Pinnock, PYT (X Factor), Gavin Ramjuan (This Morning), Kevin Leslie (Rise of the Krays), Dane Bowers, The Dreamboys, Whealdstone Raider, Markus Roberts-Clarke (international model), Ray Lewis (original member of The Drifters).

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The guests were treated to a selection of commissioned toffee crumble, raspberry ripple and chocolate cupcakes by Julie Matthews (Julie Scrumptious Cakes) www.juliescrumptiouscakes.co.uk, with the VIP guests enjoying Laurent Perrier Champagne aperitifs.

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Images: Shane Finn at Visual Devotion

 

 

About Deals, Wheels and Steals…

The programme sets six dealers the challenge of bidding on a trio of auction-room duffers each week. They must then restore them to roadworthy standard and strive to sell them on at a profit. Along the way, viewers are treated to an insightful, and sometimes humorous, observation of the hard graft and drama that goes into auctioneering a used car.

Banter, bull and barmy optimism: welcome to the fast-moving, smooth-talking world of Britain’s best…and worst second hand car dealers. In a world full of faceless cyber shopping one small group of likely lads and ladies revels in the age-old art of face-to-face buying and selling…the second hand car dealers. In every show we will feature very different dealers as they survive on their wits and chase their dreams.

From used Porsche specialists to the denizens of rough and ready bailiff auctions their methods are the same – buy low, sell high and never concede you are offering anything other than a peach. Deals, Wheels and Steals is a fascinating and funny window into the world of one of Britain’s iconic trades – a tribe that we all think we know but turns out to be full of surprises. Heart-warming and uplifting the second hand car dealers will have us talking, laughing and groaning – as they put their game faces on, prepare to do battle and take on the world one car at a time.

www.facebook.com/DealsWheelsAndSteals

About Haz Bar…

In the heart of Bishopsgate, this timeless Mediterranean restaurant is a modern classic offering the finest dining experience in London, but the endlessly reinvented food is what you come for. Enter through the historical doorway and you find yourself in a hallowed, gold-lit space of high ceilings, mirrored walls and wooden floor. Diners tuck into meze platters and mouth watering charcoal lamb dishes and more at cosy wood tables or red-leather booths in the main dining area.

While designer-clad women and suited men wait their turn sipping cocktails and champagne at the elegant marble bar at the entrance, the bar is offering variety of nibbles and bar snacks. The raw bar is superb, as is the wine list.

www.hazrestaurant.co.uk/haz-bishopgate

Jeans For Genes Pop Up Store

We have the latest and most exciting Free, YES Free laundrette to hit London and we ventured out to see an exclusive preview! Its open from the 11th till Monday the 14th of September from 11am – 5pm. The amazing premium washer brand Miele and the Charity Jeans for Genes have joined forces and decided to hold a pop up laundrette right in the heart of London. 8 Newburgh street…Just off Carnaby street in Soho. We nipped in for the VIP evening …A few hours ago …to see what all the fuss was about…And decided you can’t miss it..So here is the scoop, fresh off the press.

 

Jeans For Gense-1 Jeans For Gense-4 Jeans For Gense-5 Jeans For Gense-6 Jeans For Gense-7 Jeans For Gense-8We had an amazing evening with friends and all the Miele team. We listened to a live set from DJ Roman Kemp, drank denim themed cocktails and ate delicious canapés. And as from tomorrow…(today) you can pop in free of charge with all your denim and try out the latest Miele machines. Save your favourite pair from hash washing and then enjoy a shopping while the team look after your laundry.

The money raised on Jeans for Genes Days funds a range of initiatives that improve the quality of life of children affected by genetic disorders. If you don’t even need your jeans washed by one of the top brands machinery its well worth a trip over the see them and get involved. Buy a T-shirt, donate some cash or just support this incredible charity. Help and benefit the lives of others by having a little fun. So if your out shopping for new pair of jeans over the weekend (that you really don’t need) think again….Maybe nip in and get an old pair of your favourite jeans laundered for free and donate the money you would have spent!!

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What You Can Expect

  • You’re invited to use the laundrette and get your jeans washed ahead of Jeans for Genes Day! All the Miele machines have a very unique denim wash cycle that cares for you’re ultimate best friends, so they are kept looking like the day you purchased them…No light streaks and patchy bits for those best buddies ever again!
  • A complementary denim manicure is on offer.
  • Hair braiding
  • Denim-care talks from Jeans for Genes and Miele ambassador and X Factor stylist Gemma Sheppard.
  • Jeans for Genes merchandise will be available to buy.

What’s On Friday 11 September

  • Styling advice from Gemma Sheppard – 11am-12pm
  • You will see exclusive upcoming trends for 2016.
  • You will learn how to keep your clothes in top tip condition and how to best wear your denim.
  • There will be a Q&A on everything you could ever need to know about style and fashion
  • Mavala Denim Nail bar – 11am-5pm

 

What’s On Saturday 12 September

  • Orelia Temporary Tattoo Applications 11am – 2pm
  • British jewellery brand Orelia will be on demand to help you get inspired. You might just leave with the feeling you need to got to an amazing festival.Or feel the indian summer revival is overdue!
  • Timur Kim Denim Customisation in collaboration with La Redoute 2pm – 5pm. To help you revitalise your fave denim pieces!

 

What’s On Sunday 13 September

  • Hair braiding by Joel Benjamin – 11am-­5pm.. free hair braiding with a twist!. Pop by at any time to get your hair braided in a unique way.

What’s On Monday 14 September

  • Hair braiding by Joel Benjamin – 11am-­5pm. Joel has worked with the likes of Nike, Adidas and Harvey Nichols, and has now joined Miele and Jeans for Genes Day to offer unique, denim braids. Pop by at any time to get your hair braided in a unique way.
  • Trend talk with Lauretta Roberts – 6pm-6.30pm

Make sure you book in advance to avoid disappointment. Email miele@frankpr.it

Have a blast this weekend!

 

Fashion & Style At The Races

We had the pleasure of shooting for Chi Chi London and Beth Hirst couture hats recently. I wanted to share all the highlights with you guys. We dashed off to Chester Races with bundles of garments from Chi Chi clothing and a mountain of stunning hats kindly lent to us from Beth Hirst. Spoilt for choice we set about getting all dolled up for an amazing day out. Dresses chosen, hats adorned and our 2 Boxes photographer (My fantastic hubby) at the ready. Here are a few behind the scenes shots! Grab a coffee and imagine you had come along with us! Fashion & Style At The Races -3 Fashion & Style At The Races -5 Fashion & Style At The Races -6 Fashion & Style At The Races -4 Fashion & Style At The Races -1 Fashion & Style At The Races -25 Fashion & Style At The Races -21 Fashion & Style At The Races -24 Fashion & Style At The Races -20 Fashion & Style At The Races -26 Fashion & Style At The Races -7Ashely looking oh so Audrey Hepburn in her stunning floral hat. Beth’s creations are so adorable. Nip over to her website HERE. Ashely wears an outfit from Coast and her lipstick is actually a replica of Audrey’s favourite shade. Homing the look perfectly! Fashion & Style At The Races -9 Fashion & Style At The Races -8 Fashion & Style At The Races -10 Fashion & Style At The Races -11 Fashion & Style At The Races -17 Fashion & Style At The Races -19 Fashion & Style At The Races -18 Fashion & Style At The Races -12 Fashion & Style At The Races -13 Fashion & Style At The Races -14 Fashion & Style At The Races -15My outfit got so many compliments from passes by. If you haven’t heard of Chi Chi London clothing then you need to head off and take a look. They are all real show stoppers at incredible prices.

Fashion & Style At The Races Outfit Details

I’m wearing Chi Chi London Nessa dress, Stuart Weitzman heels, Beth Hirst Hat, Topshop sunglasses, Chanel bag, Gucci love bangle and Sleek matt red lipstick. A girls got to add a bright red lip every now and then!!

Ashely wears Coast top & skirt, Prada sunglasses, Jimmy Choo shoes, Beth Hirst hat & AH signature lipstick.

#5thviewbloggers Event

We attended and amazing blogger event is this Saturday. The event was held at the top floor of Waterstones near Piccadilly with amazing prizes and personalised gifts in the goody bags.

We drank superb cocktails and snaked on delicious honey bee and cheese cookies. The #5thviewbloggers event was held by 2 lovely bloggers Albertine from Dippy Writes & Jessica from LookWhatIGot. It was all about networking with brands and fellow bloggers. We met companies like Bee Good, GelTouch, Mink and Stone and Venus Concept.
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These two lovely ladies had the event running so smoothly it was very impressive.
#5thviewbloggers event #5thviewbloggers event #5thviewbloggers event #5thviewbloggers event Mink and Stone Mink and stone was one brand that blew me away. Their concept is to create your very own necklace and jewellery designs and then for others to purchase your items. If you sell your items then you are rewarded with 10% commission that you then can use to make and purchase more designs. Incredible, beautiful and stunning beads are at your fingertips. I will be doing a full article and review very soon. So keep your eyes peeled for this coming soon.

We mingled and chatted away with fantastic like minded bloggers. The event way too fast and we had the best time ever.

Visit my website www.SLBStyle.com for more about what I get up to. My fashion and beauty loves and general London life as a full time blogger.

For event photography contact Ian at www.2boxes.co.uk 

Holi One 2015

As you all may know I’m a Professional Photographer and work with my husband at 2 Boxes Photography. Well we went to Holi One 2015 recently and here are a selection of our favourite shots from the day. We partied and painted Wembley arena all shades of the rainbow.

Holy One is a festival of colour that celebrates each and every one of us as equals. By the time you leave this amazing festival you will be the same skin colour as everyone else. Its quite frankly one if the best days out you could possibly imagine. Messy but serious fun.Holi One 2015

If you are a fellow partier please remember that your camera could be a little stressed out by the end of the day. We took our Canon 1D bad boy with us. He’s a tough cookie and water, dust, bomb and Holi One proof!! If you do decide to take some snaps make sure you wrap your camera securely in a clear plastic bag before you enter.

Here is an idea of what a day at Holi One is like in pictures. We feel that sometimes (nearly all the time) images speak louder than words!

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For more information regarding our photography services from Weddings, portraits or events please visit www.2boxes.co.uk, email contact@2boxes.co.uk or call 07792852233.

Sails and Stillettos at Cowes Week, Isle of Wight

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Saturday, Aug 08 to Saturday, Aug 15 2015

The Cowes Week Regatta sponsored by Aberdeen Asset Management, is not only an important event within the British social season – falling between Glorious Goodwood in July and The Glorious Twelfth (the first day of the grouse shooting season be you so inclined) – but is also the biggest event on the international sailing calendar.

It has been held annually since 1826 with only seven yachts taking part but now features more than 1000 yachts and 8000 competitors – ranging from amateurs to professionals – participating in around 40 daily races which take place on the Solent by the Isle of Wight.

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Since 2006 Ladies Day at Cowes Week has been a unique take on a Ladies Day as seen at other British Summer Season events.

The day celebrates the contribution and achievement of women in sailing; and recognizes some of the major successes of women in the sport.

The main focus of Cowes Ladies Day celebrations each year is an exclusive evening reception at which the ‘Ladies Day Trophy’ is awarded. This trophy recognises the outstanding contribution, commitment, or achievement of women in sailing.

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In addition there are a variety of fun and celebratory activities on and off the water.

  • Dress Nautically and Win Prizes – Ladies ashore and afloat are encouraged to wear their seafaring stripes. Style-hunting teams will be out and about awarding some fabulous prizes for the chicest takes on the look
  • Head down to the waterfront Gallo Parade Garden Bar at Cowes Parade Village on Ladies Day and enjoy a glass of Nyetimber sparkling wine and relaxing afternoon tea. Buy a glass of Nyetimber and be in with a chance to instantly win one of a number of fabulous prizes including Oakley sunglasses, Liz Earle products, Nyetimber, Ice creams and T-shirts.
  • There are special offers for Ladies across shoreside venues during the day. Gill, Official Technical Clothing Sponsor are offering ladies 10% discounts. Liz Earle are also offering complimentary manicures, hand and arm massages and facials for £20 redeemable against product