Tag Archives: 2013

New Year, New You – Part 3: Transform Your Home

Posted on by

In the first installment of my ‘New Year, New You’ series, I wrote about how the start of a new year was the perfect time to change all those things that perhaps bugged you a little in the previous year – such as your job, your wage and your home.

But, on later reflection upon the latter subject, I realized that for many, moving home probably wasn’t the most financially viable option when it comes to starting 2013 afresh. After all, given the current economic climate and the situation of the housing market, this prospect is totally unrealistic for many.

So, if my suggestion of changing your home did you get thinking, but you just can’t afford to uproot completely, then here are a few ways you can transform your home, so you can start 2013 in a beautiful fresh new home:

The Living Room

The living room should be a place all the family can go to, to relax, unwind and put their feet up after a hard day at work or school. But, for some reason, you just can’t stand spending time in yours. You can’t quite figure out if it’s because of that laminate flooring you put down, or if it’s because of the old sofa that’s long passed it’s time, or whether it’s just everything combined.

Well, if this is you and you’re looking for ways to change your living room without spending a fortune, then believe it or not, there are a few simple ways you can transform it beyond recognition, whilst still keep those all important pennies in the piggy-bank.

If your living room is a little on the small side and you long for a bigger living room, then purchase a mirror – yes, that’s right; It really is as simple as that. Buy a frame-less mirror and pop it above your fireplace and it’ll instantly open up the room and create the illusion of a much bigger space.

If you’re sick of your old sofa, then the New Year is the perfect time to purchase a new one – big furniture giants often have their biggest sales at the end of the year, just after Christmas. So, if you’ve had your eye on a gorgeous corner piece all year, then now’s the perfect time to buy it!

The Bedrooms

We all like our bedrooms to look nice – after all, they’re the first rooms we see when we wake up and the last ones we see before we go to bed. But, you’ve had that plain magnolia on the walls for years now and quite frankly, you’re getting a bit tired of it. You’d love to decorate it with that gorgeous wallpaper you’ve seen, but you’re terrified about what the final price would be.

Well, you can decorate it with that lovely wallpaper and you can afford to do it – with a feature wall. Feature walls have become increasingly popular in recent times, simply because of their affordability and their ability to make a room look effortlessly sophisticated.  Classic feature walls normally consist of ones backing the bed or at the foot of a room.

Bathroom

From having a bath or shower, to brushing our teeth or putting on make-up, we spend an astonishing amount of time in our bathrooms on a day-to-day basis. So, it’s important that they get a little sprucing up from time to time, too.

But, splashing out on a brand new bathroom suite can get pricey – after all, the old one has to be completely ripped out, and you can end up spending a fortune on a new one to be fitted in its place.

But, there’s a much cheaper way to changing the whole dimension of your bathroom completely; a bathroom TV. Now, I know you probably only ever really see bathroom TVs on programs that spy on the homes of the rich and famous, but believe it or not, they really are affordable.

Simply mount one on the wall facing your bath or shower, and you can enjoy your favourite programs whilst you’re winding down in the bath, or catch up on the morning news when you jump in for your shower. And, what’s more, when they’re switched off, they standby-by screen changes itself into a fully functional mirror, so you can prune yourself in it once you’ve finished bathing!

 

New Year, New You – Part 2: Kicking The Habit

Posted on by

In my previous article, I wrote about starting the New Year with a New You – touching on ways to change your job, your wage and your home, if 2012 hadn’t quite been the most of exciting of years in these areas for you personally.

And, by continuing on with this theme, I decided that as we approached the final month of 2012, there was no better time to touch on changing another huge aspect of your life; kicking that habit.  Yes, that’s right, I’m talking about the habit of smoking.

I’m sure you were all aware of ‘Stoptober’ campaign that went on last month, encouraging smokers in Britain to give up the habit for 28 days. It was hard to ignore, and I’m sure it got you thinking – you know you should give up, but actually doing it and sticking to it is something you’re not sure can be achieved realistically.

Well, if you’re currently addicted to the habit, but would love to ditch it for the start of 2013, then the following advice may put you in good stead:

Tell Everyone:

Often, if you tell yourself your going to stop smoking, although you know you’ve got to in your head, actually doing it is a completely different thing. Why? Because, if you’ve only tried to convince yourself that you’re going to quit, if you fail at your attempts, you’re only letting yourself down and you only have yourself to tell off – so, giving up is an easy option.

However, if you tell people around you that you are going to quit and you are going to stick to it, you’ll have them to deal with when you fall at the first hurdle. No-one likes to be the first one to drop out, and no-one likes to be known as a quitter, so when they start saying “Ah, we know you couldn’t do it”, you may find yourself wanting to prove them wrong.

Also, the more people who are likely to know about you wanting to quit, the more likely people will stop you from returning back to the habit when they see you starting to spark up.

Try A New Method: E-Cigarettes

You’ve tried every method going; from the patches, the chewing gum, to even going cold turkey, but somehow you’ve failed miserably at all.  As well as missing that little naughty nicotine habit, you’ve also noticed that the void that’s left between your fingers is another habit you’ve been left trying to fight. You miss the habit of holding one. Well, this is where the relatively new invention of stop-smoking techniques may be able to help you; E-Cigarettes.

You’ve vaguely heard about them, but you have no clue how they actually work. E-Cigarettes, available from stores like E Cig Wizard, are electric inhalers that vaporize a nicotine-infused liquid solution into an aerosol mist, to simulate the act of cigarette smoking. So, rather than being another method that doesn’t quite come naturally to you, it both works like a real cigarette and can be held just like a real one, too. They’re quite simply the perfect solution if you’re looking to start taking those all-important steps to kicking the habit completely.

Shock Tactics:

We’ve all seen the television adverts and the shocking pictures put on the back of cigarette packets, but somehow these shock tactics just don’t have any effect on making you pack in the habit. Why? Probably, because they’re not personal to you.

As you think about giving in from giving up, take time to think about your health as well as those people around you who you love dearly, who are really important to you and those who could be affected by the consequences of your habit. Suddenly, the shock tactics become more real now they’re related to your own life.

Are the long-term affects of that little stick of tobacco really worth more than them? No. So, kick the habit now and get started on the journey for a new you for the New Year.

New Year, New You

Posted on by

2012 is gradually coming to a close; we’re nearly in December and judging by the songs now being played on the radio, Christmas is officially just around the corner.

For many of us, the final few weeks of the year signify a time of reflection. We often reflect on the year gone by and the events that have occurred, and weigh up the things we wish we’d done, what maybe we wish we’d achieved and also perhaps the things we wish hadn’t of happened. And, it’s through these that we make resolutions for the next year, in order to try and make it our best year yet.

Usually when it comes to new years resolutions, things like ‘I must try and eat less chocolate’, ‘I must try to be more on time’, and ‘I must try harder to think about what I say before I say it’ often top the list. And, although these could help to make 2013 your best year yet, there are a few bigger aspects of your life that you wish you could change; starting with your job and your home.

If this is you and you’re struggling for a little inspiration on how to do this, here are some suggestions that could help to make your 2013 truly amazing:

Your Job

There’s one thing about 2012 that sticks out more than anything else when you think about what you’d most like to change; your job. As you’re reflecting on your last year, you’ve realized that maybe 2012 hasn’t exactly been the best year when it comes to your career.

So, with 2013 just around the corner, it’s time to take some action.

Take some time to really think about what you would love to do – don’t be afraid of considering a whole new career change. After all, it’s not uncommon to have just got stuck in your current 9-5 job and want to explore something new.

The end of an old year is the perfect time to take a look on local jobs boards. By searching by your location, you’ll get a comprehensive list of jobs in your area in seconds. So, your new career is just around the corner!

Your Wage

If you love your job, but there’s one thing you’d love to change for 2013 in order to make it that little bit more perfect, it’d most definitely be the pay.

We’ve all been there; we’ve worked hard, you’ve been a member of the team for several years now, and so it’s only natural that you you feel like you’re a little deserving of a pay rise. But, there’s one problem; you have no clue to go about getting one for the New Year.

If this is you, the first thing to do is to evaluate the financial position of your employer in relation to the timing of your pay rise request. Given that it’s close to a brand new year, it’s common for companies to review their employee’s progress. So, if you’ve worked hard and you know your company’s financial position is looking up, it may be the perfect time to take the plunge and ask. But, if it’s the opposite, then it may be a better idea to wait until you’re firmly in the New Year before you put in your request.

Your Home

As you’re sitting in your home reflecting on 2012, you’re also maybe starting to realize that your home is also the result of you feeling uninspired and un-satisfied with certain aspect of your life.

As you’ve lived in it for years, you’ve become pretty comfortable with your home and it’s surroundings. And, it’s probably due to this that you’ve not made any effort to decorate, furnish or do it up.

Wouldn’t it be great if you could start 2012 with a beautiful new home, in fresh new surroundings? But, given the current economic climate and the situation of the housing market, this prospect feels totally unrealistic.

Well, if this you and you’d love a new start in a new home for 2013, you could part exchange your home. Part exchanging is the perfect way to move into a brand new home, quick and easily, with zero hassle. It ensures that you get both a guaranteed buyer and a guaranteed house to move into, as well as make sure you don’t run into broken property chains along the way. And if you’re worried about the whole money issue, part exchanges also offer the best value for money. It makes sure you avoid expensive estate agent fees and you can move knowing you’ve been offered the best possible price for your old home. So, your dream for a better 2013 can be closer to becoming a reality.

ISSA SPRING/SUMMER 2013: The Garden of Eden

Posted on by

 

The Issa woman journeys to the romantic setting of the Garden of Eden for Spring Summer 2013. One of Kate Middleton’s favourite brands, the collection brimming with bright colours, bold natural prints and feminine dresses which offers her dreamy outfits to while away those leisurely balmy evenings in. Prints have been inspired by the all-encompassing tropical leaves and plants, dotted with dazzling, colourful flowers and exotic fruits, thanks to afternoons of endless sunshine. Spot the prowling tigers and birds flying overhead; a whimsical twist to Issa’s classic and flattering shapes.

Echoing the purity of the setting, come a series of long, languid chiffon and satin dresses. Playful knitwear dresses, which are key this season, feature in jacquards of bright neon colours with extravagant floral embroidery, dusted across halter necklines and hems. Vivid brights continue into coquettish eyelet cotton voile dresses and weave front dresses.

Slip into a vibrant, exotic leaf printed pyjama suit for a stroll through paradise, for the epitome of sleek chic. Iconic dresses remain in the collection, transformed this season by asymmetric draping and fold details which disappear into the waist band with the flattering fit the Issa woman has come to expect.

 

Never one to shy away from a love story, SS13 delivers a collection for the Issa woman to seduce in. The bright orange and pink hued party dresses, are ideal for cocktails at sunset. We see a dramatic turn after sun down, as she slips into a polished black halter or a beautiful embroidered cocktail dress and becomes truly irresistible.

UGG Australia For London Fashion Week

Posted on by

Shoes glorious shoes. Who cares what they look like? Well, everyone actually. UGG Australia the makers of the shoes that are the most comfortable IN THE WORLD have branched out into different styles. I went to see their AW13 collection at Handpicked Media’s One Aldwych Hotel suite.

Alex showed my the collection. I was incredibly impressed. UGGs have not always been thought of as fashionable but even the most discerning fashionista would find something to love in the new collection.  I love the knee-high blue boots below. I was also got a pair of gorgeous ankle boots. Check out Callum from Handpicked Media’s photo below. . They are so comfy and stylish. Top marks for UGGS.

The boots are very well made. The materials are gorgeous and the designs are on trend but also timeless. With winter coming in I might even buy myself some new winter boots. I love the lining inside the boots. Guaranteed to keep you warm.

New Look Launch New Range at London Fashion Week

Posted on by

There are three words that always get me excited: “London Fashion Week”. In fact, the only thing that makes me more excited is Handpicked media’s London Fashion Week opening party. I went along to see New Look’s new range at the One Aldwych Hotel. After getting lost and being flustered when I arrived, the amazing Debbie from Handpicked (and blogger of the excellent Life Edit) handed me a glass of wine and I had a great chat with her. I also was happy to bump into the lovely Jessica from Look What I Got and Handpicked Head Honcho Krista.

New Look has always done fun and fabulous fashion, but in recent years New Look has really upped its game. The quality of the clothing is good and so are the designs. They are also collaborating with lots of cool people like Giles Deacon, and have even teamed up with Kelly Brook to design a great range of underwear. The bra Kelly was wearing a few days before was part of the range that we saw. For those dying to know Kelly is a 32E.

The new collection is just really fab. They also have amazing jewelery and shoes. I will definitely be popping into New Look again soon. I really liked the creepers below.

New Looks jewelery range was a big hit. We were all fawning over it. Some of it is quite bling but not tacky. We were told to help ourselves to some New Look knickers which lead to a lot of amusement when we were walking about with underwear in one hand and a glass of wine in the other. On the tube on the way home I got a drink from my bag and the knickers fell out and landed on the floor of a crowded tube. Which was a little embarrassing.

I had my nails done, drank wine, met amazing people and ate canapes. Ah, that’s the life. If only every day was a fashion week day.

Nominations for 2013 FDM everywoman in Technology awards are open

Posted on by

CALLING THE UK’S LEADING WOMEN IN TECHNOLOGY

 

Nominations for 2013 FDM everywoman in Technology awards are open

 

Applications are being welcomed for the UK’s leading Awards scheme recognising the achievements of women working in IT. The 2013 FDM everywoman in Technology Awards were launched by the UK’s largest female business community, everywoman, in association with womenintechnology.co.uk  to recognise the achievements of women working in the sector and to encourage a pipeline of new talent who will become future industry leaders. FDM Group is partnering with everywoman for the first time in 2013, following the international IT service provider’s Chief Operating Officer, Sheila Flavell receiving the accolade of ‘Leader of the Year in a Corporate Organisation’ in last year’s Awards.

 

Currently there is a significant gender imbalance within the technology sector with females making up only 19% of ITC managers and only 14% of IT strategy and planning professionals*. However the GCSE results announced in August showed that more girls than ever are choosing science subjects, and a higher percentage are achieving grades A-C than their male counterparts, demonstrating that the tide may be turning in terms of the gender imbalance amongst future generations**.

 

This Awards programme, backed by industry leaders, aims to encourage women to see technology as a fast-moving, innovative sector where they can excel, as demonstrated by the role models unearthed since the programme’s launch in 2011.

 

The FDM everywoman in Technology Awards are free to enter and the 2013 categories include:

 

  • Rising Star of the Year – awarded to a woman under 26 who is excelling in her technology career and is the one to watch.

 

  • Team Leader of the Year in an SME (with under 500 employees) – awarded to a woman whose team leadership has greatly contributed to the organisation’s success.
  • Leader of the Year in a corporate organisation (with over 500 employees) – sponsored by Cisco – awarded to a women operating in a senior technology position making a contribution to the strategic direction of the business.
  • Innovator of the Year – sponsored by IET – The Institution of Engineering and Technology – awarded to a woman designing, developing, researching or implementing technology in an unconventional and innovative way.
  • Entrepreneur of the Year – awarded to an owner/operator of a technology business whose vision and talent will inspire others.
  • Inspiration of the Year – awarded to an individual (male or female) for their active commitment to encouraging, advancing or championing the progress of women working in technology.
  • Woman of the Year – sponsored by FDM Group – awarded to an exceptional woman whose vision, innovation and success makes her an outstanding role model for future generations.

 

Entries are open from 7 September 2012 until 19 November 2012 and full details are online at www.everywoman.com/techawards. 

 

Maxine Benson MBE, co-founder of everywoman comments: “Technology has provided businesses of all sizes with the tools to thrive and succeed and is vital for the future growth of our economy. These awards celebrate the extraordinary talent in the sector and uncover the women who are excelling. We want to get the message out that IT offers diverse and creative opportunities, particularly to a new group of tech-savvy women that have grown up with consumer technology as part of their every-day lives. What’s more, those companies that nurture and develop their female talent are most likely to achieve success”.

 

Sheila Flavell, Chief Operating Officer and Founder Director of FDM Group states, “The FDM everywoman in Technology Awards are a fantastic platform to showcase and celebrate the efforts and successes of so many high-calibre women in such a male-dominated industry. We are delighted to be sponsoring the 2013 Awards and support everywoman in their determination to raise the profile of women in technology. Like everywoman, FDM is fully committed to helping more women further their careers and break through the ‘glass ceiling’.  At FDM, we are dedicated to supporting our female workforce and encouraging other women to pursue IT, and as a result we have seen the percentage of female staff increase to 23%, well above the 14.4% industry average.”

 

Maggie Berry, Managing Director of womenintechnology.co.uk adds: “Women currently only make up less than 20 per cent of the UK’s IT workforce so we are delighted to be working with everywoman again to uncover and celebrate some of the hidden female talent in the UK’s technology profession through the 2013 awards programme. We want to actively champion the women who are already doing great work in this sector and who, through these awards, will become inspirational role models for a future generation of female technologists.”

 

The awards programme will culminate in a glittering awards ceremony to be held on 19 March 2013 at The Savoy.

 

Twitter @everywomanUK – Hashtag – #ewtech

First picture of the New Man of Steel hits the web

Posted on by

This is the first official picture released of Henry Cavill looking very dramatic, very serious and very dark as the new Superman slowly begins to gather pace in time for it’s 2013 release.

Yes we know 2013 seems like an age away and yes this is just one picture for a film which has almost taken six years to get this far – but hey, this is Hollywood and hey, this is a reboot.

So what can we tell so far about the man of steel from this shot?

Well it seems the older blacker suit that was floating around the internet has been dropped; we can clearly see that the familiar blue, yellow and red colours are in place as well as the cape.

The familiar ‘S’ logo is still there although much bigger– so the idea that it will be silver was obviously too a mistake.

Henry Cavill seems to very much look the part. I have to say he looks just that bit bulkier than his last counterpart and the shot looks quite serious; perhaps indicating that this story will be that bit more edgy.

I am really quite excited by this shot although I admit it is not much to go by I think of what Christopher Nolan did with Batman and David Goyer did with Blade and I cant help but think what they recently told the LA Times:

“I immediately got it, loved it and thought: That is a way of approaching the story I’ve never seen before that makes it incredibly exciting. I wanted to get Emma and I involved in shepherding the project right away and getting it to the studio and getting it going in an exciting way.”

If that doesn’t sound like something well and truly promising I guess nothing else will.