Collective Hairdressing – another award winning salon review

Well, another day, another award winning Salon visit!

Everyone knows their hair is their crown and glory and I’m always nervous visiting different salons to review, however, I need not have been worried when visiting Collective Hairdressing smack bang in the middle of Newcastle town centre. They are the most reviewed salon in the North East of England due to their unique five step consultation. They listen, advise and educate all clients in the maintenance of their hair. Currently ranked 1st out of 7,355 UK salons as of the 23rd of September 2016. Winners in the English Hair & Beauty Awards 2015 for the Team Service of the Year. As of the 18th of February, finalists in the English Hair & Beauty Awards 2016 for not only Hair Salon of the Year 2016 but also Team Service of the Year 2016. (seriously check these guys out!)

Before my visit, I had a skin test which is most important when going for a colour. The moment I met Paul the owner, I felt immediately relaxed. He is fun, happy and more importantly has years and years of experience and really knows what he is talking about.

Never have I ever had such an in-depth consultation, which consisted of colour matching to my skin tone (we discovered I was cool tones), a discussion on what I wanted to achieve, an in-depth explanation of the products we were going to use and why and the current condition of my hair.

After explaining I wanted a deeper darker colour as I felt I was too light, Paul explained just by going cooler on the same level will achieve this. I also wanted slices of a vibrant contrasting caramel colour, Paul explained this is known as strobing and picked the perfect colour to marry with the dark ash tone. We then discussed the length. My hair was long but quite heat damaged on the ends, I went in not wanting to lose any length but I trusted Paul and understood that losing some of the length will not only make my hair more healthy but would also give me the body that my crazy thick, naturally curly hair needs.

So after The 30 mins consulting Paul was ready to get to work!

Paul started by cutting off the length (he would then finish my cut later). The lightened slices were added and then my all over dark brown colour. This was left to develop while I was looked after with offers of refreshments. The salon has a lovely feel, Paul makes sure your involved in any conversation and all clients speak with each other which is lovely.

The developing time was up and I had a toner applied to my lightened slices of hair at the basin. This is where the magic happens, not only with the toner but with the products used in salon. Collective hairdressing use Loreal Pro Fibre and this was used on my hair when shampooing and conditioning. I did not have the smart bond treatment we hear so much about when colouring, which keeps the condition of the hair throughout, however, I did get introduced to the pro fibre ”restore” range and have since been using this range at home with amazing results. I was very concerned how my hair would be after with the bleaching, but a combination of a good cut and using the right products, my hair is looking and feeling fantastic.

Once toned and washed Paul gave me an amazing blow dry so he could finish the cut. The cut was important for my hair type, curly hair with body needs cut correctly and Paul explained all this. He also wanted me to see my look curly so finished off by curling it for me.

I was over the moon with the results, my new look is much more on trend and my hair looks and feels amazing. I would highly recommend this salon ladies and if your a fan of Loreal products, they sell them all!

 

Big thanks to Paul and all the staff at collective hairdressing for my new look!

To book an appointment give them a call on 0191 222 1311 or book online via Collective Hairdressing.

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CrossEyes Opticians – Newcastle

If you haven’t already visited the new quirky fashionable opticians in Newcastle and you love your ”eyewear” then get yourself there pronto!

 

I went along for my eye test after seeing numerous posts of people in really funky glasses. I was due my test and wanted something a little different to my usual heavy black square frames. I had also had a previous bad experience going to a budget designer frame place which resulted in me having a bad fitting, designer, expensive frames that I could not wear as they did not fit my face.

On arrival, I was greeted by extremely friendly smiling staff who were instantly very attentive. The opticians itself was so quirky, stylish, warm and very inviting.

 

I was taking into a room to undergo my eye test. It was extremely in depth and they have all the latest technology, some of which I had never experienced previously.

    

After finding out my eyes had not worsened thankfully it was time to pick my frames. I knew I did not want anything like I have had before. The guys were really helpful passing frames which they thought would suit me, giving their honest opinion on each. The service, I felt was so personal. I was not just left to browse the shop floor, I had a one to one service with both members of staff, including the optician himself, helping me choose the perfect frames. The optician would check every frame I tried for fit and tell me if the frames were not fitting well.

     

I ended up choosing a grey bamboo frame which is so lightweight and trendy. I was not sure about this style, however, the guys helped me choose and they loved them and I have to agree that they were so right. When you try on so many styles it is so difficult to choose and I could have easily picked out at least 5 frames I loved but these just pipped the post for the unusual matte grey colour, bamboo material and that all-important second opinion.

 

Once the frames are picked, they are to be sent away for the lenses and this takes a couple of weeks. I was very excited when I got the call to tell me my glasses were ready to be picked up

 

I went to collect and they were adjusted to fit, again the staff were full of smiles and happy to spend time making sure I was completely happy before I left. I love my new glasses and I was keen to share a few selfies on social media.

If your due an eye test or want to purchase some new glasses, I would highly recommend CrossEyes in Newcastle for customer service, price, knowledge and choice.

GLASSES

Eyewear no strength £ 85
Single vision £ 145
Single vision +/-3 £ 235
Progressive £ 295
Progressive +/-3 £ 385

”The CrossEyes concept is built on honesty, dedication and smart design. Through honest and hardworking employees, and low and transparent prices, CrossEyes is able to create an environment where you receive the right guidance when looking for quality spectacles. CrossEyes has hundreds of different custom made frames, which ensures that everyone can find glasses suitable for both their look and personality. At CrossEyes, we do not hide the prices – we display them for everyone to see. 
 
We take pride in our well-made and smart-looking frames. The customers give them personality, and make us look good as well. That’s why we want to make sure that everyone feels good when wearing their new glasses, and that they have made the right choice by purchasing CrossEyes frames.  Just by taking a walk through the city our customers spread the concept to the outside world, and for that we are forever grateful.
Our face is your face.
 
#Ourfaceisyourface is a campaign launched by CrossEyes Eyewear in Denmark. A tribute to our customers -they make us look good.”
Visit the CrossEyes website HERE to book your eye test today.

 

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Benito Bloggers Event – Debenhams Eldon Square

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So last night I was invited along to a blogging event for Benito in Debenhams, Eldon Square.

Who is Benito?

”Ahh it all happened so quickly…

He’s always stared into the eyes of fellow beings that passed his way, with a strong sense of admiration. The windows to the soul often shone with beauty but the brows and lashes, not quite so!

In a flashtastic moment he knew what had to be done! He must provide perfect brows and lashes for all… But how?

With a passion to trim, tint, tweak and tame the world’s unkempt calamities this fashionista and renowned beauty tourist travelled the cultural corners and brought to these naïve shores the simplest, quirkiest and most perfectifying skill of threading!

Great brows for all!

Benito designed, devised and pioneered the brow bar concept and now loves to shout from the highest vistas all about the Nation’s number one Brow Bar. With an ever increasing Nationwide coverage of over 30 Brow Bars and counting, all offering an express walk in WOW service of choice and convenience!”

They offer high definition brows, tinting, waxing, threading, gents brow management, lash extensions and packages. I had my brows threaded last night and I love them. I thought my brows were not too bad until I saw the end result. Check out the picture below where I have one brow done and one untouched. I look like I’ve had a stroke down one side of my face. The brow that has been threaded has completely lifted the appearance of one side. Brows frame the face and a good brow makes a HUGE difference. If there is one thing I cant live without,its good brows!

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There is a protocol all Benito therapists follow so you receive the same great service at each and every brow bar. Check out the end result. The threading is so precise and lasts so much longer than your average wax. Threading can grab the tiny hairs that wax cant too.

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Benito treated us to some fizz, gorgeous branded cupcakes and a fabulous goodie bag full of branded goodies of their staple orange colour.

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Benito currently have a half price offer on for semi perm eyelash extensions throughout September

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Eyebrow threading costs just £13.00. I will be back to get my brows tinted and will certainly return for threading in the future.

Thanks so much Benito for inviting me and making my brows ”on fleek”

Find your nearest Brow Bar HERE

 

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The Hydra Facial – Newcastle Hair and Beauty

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Hail The Hydra Facial and Newcastle Hair and Beauty Clinic! I am serious when I tell you that this is the BEST facial I have ever experienced and I have experienced many many facials. Now it is not the most relaxing like some I have had but for instant, visible results it is incredible.

The Hydra Facial is a firm favorite with the celebs. It claims to restore your skin to its healthiest state by removing impurities and replenishing your skin with essential nutrients. It is a step by step treatment that rids dead skin cells and unblocks pores by extraction, which was my favorite part might I add. You actually feel the muck being pulled by a suction from your pores and it is hugely satisfying, not only that but they then fill these opened clean pores with skin loving serums to hydrate and plump the skin helping with fine lines and wrinkles. Your skin is instantly looking revitalized and just feels so clean and hydrated.This is a medical grade facial with no down time and is completely pain free. Since having my facial I have been using the products pictured above to try and help with my oily skin and to compliment the facial results. They are lovely products and have helped massively with my oily T zone, these are not essential but I would recommend them if you are wanting to prolong your facial results. I filmed this treatment for my new beauty TV show coming soon but I could not wait till autumn to tell you all about it. If you want to find out more click HERE

Now this treatment does not come cheap as this is a medical procedure but it delivers results which is what people want for their money.

*** 1st Time Clients Deal Alert ***

The skin health for life is on offer for £99 instead of £120

and

The acne & anti ageing is £130 instead of £160 .

Each of the products are £60

To book call: 0191 232 2800

You must quote ”Tried and Tested” on booking to receive the above offer

 

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LEVOI CHAMPAGNE NAIL BAR VISIT NEWCASTLE

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Today I visited a Champagne nail bar in Central Newcastle for a pedicure on my poor neglected feet. This nail bar is PURE CLASS. The decor is amazing with inspiring quotes dotted about on the walls and Ann has gone all out with attention to detail, even having a champagne cork table which was very quirky. The lighting, display cabinets and bar all look so fitting to their surroundings and ooze classy. I was very impressed with this place, the the photos do not do it justice at all. LEVOI is a nail bar but also offers HD Brows. One thing I love is the names of the nail packages and polishes, they are all based round drinks. Check out the packages here. This is a great place to go with your girlfriends before a night out or a big event and come highly recommended.

When I arrived I was met by Ann Walker the owner, who offered me a glass of champagne on arrival (it would be rude not to). We talked as she got to work on my feet, giving me the most amazing glitter nail pedicure which I LOVE and she is such a lovely lady and has such a moving story behind starting this venture that I really want to share it with you all…

LEVOI the name. Firstly LEVOI is starting its life in a new independent Champagne Nail Salon in the heart of Newcastle city centre. Founded by local geordie girl Ann walker people always ask about the name and the inspiration for the BRAND. Is it French? What does it mean? How is it pronounced?We pronounce it Le Vua! or you may say Le Voy! It is not foreign or does not have an alternative meaning. It is simply an anagram in memory of an amazing woman that was Ann’s mother OLIVE. LEVOI the inspiration. Ann Walker was raised then named Ann Edington in a very close, respected working class family from Birtley on Tyne & Wear. The family were raised with unconditional love, but always taught good manners and respect, often being reminded that is not about what you’ve got its about being a good and honest person. Now aged 47 years with her own family, Ann has many years experience in the Beauty Industry, having ran her own small salon in her home town of Birtley from 2001 – 2012. Having qualified in beauty therapies, Ann also went on to achieve qualifications in hairdressing and many other Vocational and CPD certificates within the industry. Ann was also later employed as an Account and Business manager for a very well known cosmetics brand from 2011 – 2015. In 2013 Ann’s family were struck by huge tragedy, loosing 5 members of her immediate family in a horrific road traffic collision. Ann lost her older sister (and best friend) Angela, along with her brother in law Dave, nieces Carley aged 21, Beth aged 18 and great niece Lacie Jade aged only 23 months. This was life changing devastation for all of the family, especially Angela’s only son aged 24 at the time, and in turn took its toll on Ann’s mother and Rock of the family. Already suffering cancer Olive also died that same year, only 6 months later. After months of bereavement and specialist counselling, Ann knew that her life would never be the same. She quit her job as a business manager feeling she had lost her drive for the Company she was now working for. After only 3 months in a diversifying role, Ann soon realised that she truly missed the Beauty industry and spent the next few months researching making the new LEVOI Brand. Remembering years earlier, when Ann had her local salon in Birtley, her big sister Angela also had her own salon in Gateshead. They once joked about how they should merge it all together and create a big brand, although jokingly they would never afford to do this. This would be the inspiration behind Ann’s drive. Olive was not a rich woman by any means but along with husband and father George who died in 2008, both worked hard enough to buy their council home where the family were brought up. Following Olive’s death Ann inherited a little cash sum from which she would be inspired to focus on a new venture in all of their memory, and something to focus on for the future of the family. After long days and nights researching Ann finally found the best businesses to work with to manufacture her own LEVOI nail brand.

We’d love to showcase the Brand to you!

Our UK manufacturers lead the way in the development of high quality and innovative products for the cosmetics and beauty industry. With over 30 years of experience in manufacturing cyanoacrylate adhesives,sealants and UV curing nail products, the highly skilled workforce and world-class development chemists continually strive to provide exceptional service to the industry. With their vast experience they have created our Gel formula which is kind on the nail, plus long lasting results, giving you Super glossy, chip resistant colour for up-to 3 weeks. With manufacturing and distribution sites in both the UK and the USA, they are internationally renowned within the global cosmetics industry.
 You can purchase LEVOI polishes and gels from £9 online here or direct from the nail bar
I have a special ”TRIED AND TESTED” offer for members when they quote tried and tested on booking
Offers – 10% off all service treatments – 20% off all retail products in store – Offer available until 31st July 2016 – Call 0191 230 5859  or contact us via our FB page 
 
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VITAMIN INFUSION DRIP – CENTRAL HEALTHCARE NEWCASTLE

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After a really hectic week last week working, recording chatty lasses and winning my award, I just knew I was going to crash and burn this week!. During a heavy week I tend to run on adrenaline and I always come down from my high with a bang once i’m back to my usual lifestyle. I usually end up poorly and exhausted but this time  I was ready !!! Nurse Gill had me armed with her secret weapon, the ”Vitamin Infusion” IV drip!!!

”YOUR BEST JUST GOT BETTER” Enhanced intravenous hydration for the nation ( hell yeah )

How does it work?

Vitamin infusion is a scientifically formulated intravenous rehydration solution for the effective treatment of moderate to severe dehydration.

 Vitamin infusion works by replacing fluid, electrolytes and vitamins lost due to heavy sweating, heat illness, vomiting, diarrhea, excess alcohol consumption and more.

 Vitamin infusion products are widely used in hospitals and by healthcare professionals worldwide.

I visited Central Healthcare in Newcastle which is very easy to get to and very close to the centre for life. I had the ”fitamin” drip, this is the most common drip for a ”pick me up”. There are other drips that help with different symptoms but nurse Gill can help you decide which is best. The drip is priced at £227.00 per infusion. Frequency of infusion varies per person, some have monthly or 3 monthly. Others just have now and then for a boost like me. This treatment is common for people with an illness or who are going through gastric bypass surgery.

The treatment took around an hour but it was very relaxing. I am fine with needles so I was not worried. Firstly nurse Gill went through all the consent forms with me and explained the procedure. Then I was made comfortable on the bed and the needle was inserted into the vein, very gently might I add. I was given fluids first to hydrate me and then the bag was changed to the actual vitamin drip. It had a strong smell, medicine like. It felt cold going in but was never once uncomfortable in any way. Nurse Gill and I chatted, she is a lovely lady who really puts you at ease. I took a few selfies as you do and caught up on my blog while the bright yellow vitamin filled cocktail went through my veins.

That afternoon/evening I felt tired but that was to be expected. The next day I had a hugely intense training session at work and all my ”cheeky” staff commented on how they were going to have a whip round every month and buy me a vitamin infusion because I was really ”happy” today . I’m sure I am happy everyday but apparently not ha ha. I did feel more energised, less sluggish and ready to take on the world but this was nothing compared to the following day. Wednesday, 2 days after my drip I was awake and up at 6am, which was not intentional and un heard of in my house. I did try to fight it and sleep in longer but my body had other ideas. I went to work and after work had two really important meetings back to back. I did not finish and get back home until 9.30pm that evening. Id been on the go for over 15 hrs but still felt full of fuel. I can only put this down to the drip as like I said earlier, I literally crash and burn. I would highly recommend this treatment if you too feel you need a boost, maybe you have a physical challenge coming up or maybe you have been poorly.

To book this treatment or to find out more you can call: 0191 222 0100 or visit www.centralhealthcare.co.uk

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