So my dears, there have been some major changes in my professional life of late, some slightly sad, some super exciting.
My makeup course business; Boylan & Balfe - The Makeup People, is no more. We have decided to part company and walk our own paths. To be honest, there were three people in the relationship (to borrow a phrase from a princess) and those three were Myself, Ken and The Recession! The past few years were tough and since I had Lu, my priorities and the way I want to work have evolved. Now, I am writing more and more for both this blog and other publications, and my interest has moved on to a different type of makeup training. So that has led me to launch my own range of makeup courses.
Beforehand in the Boom years, it was all about glamour. It was all about making people up for a red carpet event or night out, no question of expense. The same thread was through the courses; people had money to spend and they didn't hesitate to buy everything we recommended.
Nowadays, as you know, flashing the cash is a little vulgar and so is over-the-top glamour. Sure, it's marvellous in the correct context, but women want to learn about a new way to feel beautiful; in a more authentic way that isn't ostentatious but quietly subtle. Allowing their real beauty to shine through.
So, to answer these instincts for the new , I am launching my solo makeup business. I have designed two new makeup courses that I hope will speak to women now.
The first is called Beauty on Your Budget and this will teach you how to tell the best from the rest in all the budget brands. On this half day course you will watch me demo a day and night look and do one on yourself, using a mix of what I think are the best products from the cheaper ranges. When you used to spend €50 on a foundation, I can show you how to spend the same and fill your makeup bag!
The second half day course in the pipeline is called New Mama Makeover, aimed at all you new mums who feel you've lost your Mojo somewhat! Believe me, I know what I'm talking about, I was there not so long ago. I totally understand how your skin and hair changes as well as having this new body. Mix that with no sleep and crazy hormones and the old you is a distant memory. That's when you need to see me! This course will be a fun way to learn the tips, tricks and products needed to get you back in order. Or at least look that way, and quickly too. No new mum has any time on her hands, so I won't be preaching to you about layering on primers and leaving them to set. I'll be telling how to put your best face forward in minutes.
I also have another exciting project in the works but its still under wraps so you'll have to wait and see!
I would dearly love to see some of you, my lovely readers, on one of these courses in the future. What fun we could have talking about pretty things!
(Psst... spread the word!)
Just a quickie.... this Enrich Body Butter from Aromatherapy Associates is a completely luxurious and deeply lovely way to treat yourself, should you feel it necessary (of course you do!) 
The shades in the eye shadow trio range from a pale pinky flesh toned base to a mid brown with rose shimmer and a deeper slate brown. I prefer to use the mid tone first all over the lid, then blend the darker tone into the outer third of the lid above and below and last of all, add a light wash of the paler shade to the middle of the lid to make the colours pop. (FYI - I think the paler shade on it's own may look a little 'red rabbit eyes' if you use it alone, so keep it for using as an accent colour). The compact also contains a gorgeous rosy blush that is a classic shade and so good for brightening up winter cheeks.
I've been rushing around like a lunatic for the past few days. Kind of chasing my tail and kind of achieving; I'm not really sure which I've been doing more of! I've been tweaking details for my new courses, designing my new website, and in talks about some new business ideas...all of which I will be able to share with you soon, but for now, I'm back on my Ellie Loves duty so let's get going!
I've been eyeing up these little pens of pretty from Max Factor for a while now. I have to admit to being a little dubious initially as most things that claim to give a great smoky eye, don't. I was sent a few of these to try and was quite enthused with them for how damn easy they are to apply. Yes, it's kinda gimicky , but they work and they are very quick to use... music to your ears right!
I have become quite devoted to Danish brand, GOSH. Their textures are so premium at such low prices. I bought this blush in Electric Pink the other day and it's amazing. So silky soft and it glides on to the cheeks like a dream. In fact, it feels exactly like the Armani blushers which are almost triple the price. This shade is brilliant for adding a pop of colour to warm up the skin. Apply on the apple of the cheeks only - not out to the hairline or you will appear too flushed.
So my dears, there have been some major changes in my professional life of late, some slightly sad, some super exciting.
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