Lucy Evers Blogs

This is not another rant I promise, it’s a life update. 

If any of you guys read my last post you’ll know of ups and downs in my recent history. Last week I squared up to that history with a massive EFF YOU. 

I’m not an athlete, far from it in fact. But if people face fight the ugliest of monsters on a daily basis the VERY LEAST I can do is jog a couple miles to support them. To show them all that although at times they feel the lowest of the low and incredibly alone, millions of people care outrageous amounts about securing their future. 

If I had the ability to take on every last ounce of pain my mother goes through every minute of every day I’d barely bat an eye lid. I would remove every detail of her suffering, no matter how minute. She is the bravest lady I have ever met! Now I’m not naive, everyone who knows a cancer fighter says the exact same, but it’s flippin’ true. She has managed to raise a squiffy thing such as me and I don’t want for a thing. EVER. 

This post is not my longest by any stretch, I’m not sure I could write much more. But for me it is one with the most significance. I don’t speak of this area of my past because I WILL NEVER let it define me. 

In my honest opinion, these things are sent to challenge us. Challenge our morals. Challenge our destinies. Challenge our ideals. 

I accept this challenge. 

WE WILL BEAT THIS MONSTROSITY. 

One step at a time. 

As I sit here in my ‘book nook’, drinking my ‘fruit infused’ water, typing on my MacBook, on a pretentious ‘blog’ about my life, watching the world go by, through the windows of my sea view flat, I do wonder why I let anxiety and material problems phase me. 

To the bored individuals that will read this, THANK YOU for taking moments out of you life to consider the words of a 20 something big kid who struggles with the everyday trials of adulthood. 

This post has been a long time coming for me, recently I’ve been selfishly contemplating my impact on the world, therefore ignoring and forgetting the NOW. The present is influenced by the past and influences the future. So whilst I’ve been idle it’s all flown past me. I have no one but myself to blame, blimey I’ve seen enough internet meme’s telling me that growing up is a trap and your twenties are like being dragged through a hedge backwards, whilst having to recite the alphabet phonetically and thread a needle all at the same time. So I knew it was going to be tricky, but flipping ‘eck, I wasn’t not ready. 

There is so much negativity in this world, and don’t get me wrong, this is not me saying I have the answer to world peace, this is me saying I have only just started to notice it’s impact. I feel like the whole planet is against me and everyone in it has a vendetta to ruin my life. Possibly that is true...  someone ‘upstairs’ has seriously dealt me the shit deck and I’m positive is willing me to fail. BUT, this should not be a reason for me to give up on my ambitions. Not big ambitions, just little victories I want to accomplish. A nice home, good friends, a capsule wardrobe and the most impressive loose leaf tea collection in the South East. I don’t see these as impossible dreams? 

But more often then should be allowed I decide that I am going to crumble. Let everything I touch upset me and push away the important people in my life because I think they don’t care. This is simple not true, I AM A VERY LUCKY GIRL and I often forget that. I have a gorgeous roof over my head, a gentleman by my side, faultless family and inspiring friends. Despite my brain knowing all of this and knowing I need to sort my shit out, I don’t. I let the worries and anxiety and the fear fester inside me, which makes me prone to outburst of rage (IKR! I look like an angry person, huh). 

So,I am being selfish? 

As of late I have had to kick my white girl arse into gear and acknowledge my responsibilities as a 22 year old. Yes, that is not old in the grand scheme of things but age is not defined by a number, it is defined by life experience and I’ve had my fair friggin’ share of it. No one prepares you for the day your parents come home and drop the C bomb, yet we’re taught how to handle a bunsen burner, write a sonett and calculate f**kin’ algebra!!! (I don’t actually think you calculate algebra but is a completely irrelevant topic anyway so IDC). 

Everything I’ve been dealt in my minimal years I have chewed up, spat out and fed it to the train rats, quite proudly actually. I’d never let people see me crumble. I was strong and fearless and Lion but now I’ve learnt the positives of expressing my self. Now, I realise, that sharing my upsets with people I care about makes, not only, you feel better but (usually) brings you closer to that person. My family have a saying, “together we’re stronger” and I'd never appricated that phrase until now. Teenage me pushed people away, I didn’t tell people I loved them because I was scared of that commitment, of that bond. But now I am more open, I tell people when their brilliant, when I am grateful to have met them, on the contrary, I’m also now not scared to tell them to stuck on it when completely necessary and to get the eff out of my space. 

I think what I mean to say with this post is that, there is no such thing as ‘old enough’, no such thing as a ‘normal life’. The mainstream, the media will drip feed you images and descriptions of what your life is ‘meant to be’ and it is utter bullsh*t (excuse my language, Grandparents). 

I’ve encountered a few hiccups in recent months. Things that are completely out of my control, they are other peoples impact on the world and how they think life should be lead. Just because I don’t agree doesn’t mean I should think they are doing it to piss me off. Maybe, just maybe, their just w**kers whom of which I needn’t clutter my mind with. 

Learn to move on.

Learn to brush yourself off. 

Learn that nothing is really as bad as you think. 

Negativity clouds your vision, you miss all the glorious little moments in life if you let it overcome you. Like that old couple sitting on a beach bench with a packed lunch, that little kid that very took it’s first steps, or that dog that just had a shit on someones coat while they weren’t looking. Learn to laugh and smile more. Everything seems much sunnier and you in yourself will be a lot healthier. 

Sometimes you have to wade through the shit before you get to the grass. 

With that image, I’ll let you get back to your dead end job or fruitless day (kidding).  

So, yet again and for the final time I have moved house. Now I have a stunning sea front apartment at the edge of Hove and it’s uber pretty!

We have splashed out a teeny bit and bought some lovely ornaments and furniture to make this house a home. But, I want to show how we have decorated our house not only with the new but with the old, just adding the shells and surroundings of thing we already have. 

Interior design has always been a little love of mine, that’s probably down to the giant Barbie Dream House I had as a kid. Cheers, rents. 

But I want to show you how with a Laura Ashley ideal and a Homesense budget, Scouse and myself have worked really hard to build ourselves a lovely little home and I want to share it with you all! 

Firstly, the living room was my favourite area to dress. It’s such a bright and sunlit room I wanted to take full advantage when it came to colours. We chose, Green’s and Mustard’s to keep it fresh but still give the room some shape and depth. 

We’re sticking with a earthy pallet for the vast majority of the room. Keeping the cushion’s from the old sofa as they have that little splash of mustard and are simply the snuggliest cushion, of all time. The others are straight out of my new favourite shop (sh*t, i’m getting old) Marks and Spencers. 

Our fabulous Pleather sofa is just on that border of brown and burgundy so it ties nicely in with the earthy pallet. 

The book case was the first thing on our list when deciding what to buy for the house as we clearly have a fair few books. 

The detailings on the top of the case, are mainly from Homesense, our lovely Buddha and candle jar are mostly gold to blend with the colours of the walls and the warmer side of our pallet. 

The books we tried to keep in sections; food, music, classics, fiction.  

The small added items are just things we’ve collected or been given and they decorate a black canvas. 

Next up was the bedroom, now you must understand the entire flat is a working progress but our lovely bedroom is slowly become a wonderful modern room. 

The shelving unit of course is built in with the flat but I think the simple and sporadic placing keeps it interesting.  

The dressing table is straight outta ikea like all of the bought furniture. Keeping with the white theme in the bedroom but those highlights of rose gold and pink just make it slightly more eye catching. 

Isn’t this just the most comfortable bed you’ve seen all year! Just wanna jump straight in. The teeny weeny cushion is from Marks and Sparks along with most of our cushions and along with this gorgeous duck egg blue bedspread. 

(absolutely obsessed with duck egg blue atm just as a side note) 

So, this is totally just me showing off about how proud I about my new beautiful home and how much I have enjoyed homeware shopping. 

WHO KNEW! 

(Well, I did)

FABruary has come to an end. I’m not sure I’m sad about it, it’s absolutely zoomed past and it’s been a trying month for me in many ways but there are a few things that have kept my spirits up and I want to share them with you! 

As per tradition I’m gonna throw some Beauty, Fashion and Food products at you and let you know whats been my go to’s this month. 

Firstly, as always, Beauty... 

It has been bitter cold down here in Brighton, and it’s been playing havoc with my lips. I decided to focus on not just picking up the first salve I could find but really looking into whats in my products. 

After a good ol’ scower of the internet I stumbled across Hurraw! Balm’s. Now, the best way to put this is the small fact that even Scouse likes it, he’s a cosmetic avoiding typical man and even he thinks it works! So if that’s not proof enough that its amazing I don’t know what is. 

We picked our Coconut one up from Infinity Food’s in Brighton but I’m sure there’s other marvellous Health Food shops in your area that stock these masterpieces. 

Next up is another Lush product, sorry guys but it really does work! Celestial is one of my favourite Lush products and down to its really comfortable texture, the almond oil and cocoa butter are so moisturising, the dove orchid is amazing at clearing and soothing my skin when its super dry and angry and the Vanilla keeps you smelling fabulous all day. 

This stuff is just too good. 

Now, you will see in the next few weeks how I am consciously trying to make an effort to live a Vegan and Cruelty Free life. This is one area that I previously hadn’t considered. Deodorant! Who thinks that the stuff that stops you smelling could be against a world loving life. Lafes save my bacon when it comes to this subject. 

Now, I will say as brilliant and as sweat busting this guy is, I totally bought the wrong one. I have terribly dry skin, and for those of you who know your oils, citric and enzymic oils are not the best for dry and sensitive skin. But, I had one of those panic buy moments and just grabbed. But, nevertheless it’s awesome.

Secondly, BOOKS... 

These 3 books have got me through this month. 

Firstly, Brother’s Grimm fairytales is just a perfect classic. No more is needed for that corker. 

Next up, Alexa Chung’s it. She is already a huge inspiration for me, her effortless wit and her down to earth words just make for perfect reading. She makes me realise how little I’m am doing with myself. 

Lastly, Fleur’s Glam Guide is such a joy not even to read, just to flick through. Although, I must admit, I have read it probably 3 times at least. If I’m having a down face day or my hair is a mess and I just look like a turd just rolled out of bed, I flick through her book and find a way of building my confidence back up again. 

In other phrases, these 3 vast genres of book would be a treat for anyone. 

Lastly, FOOD (and candles, because they don’t fit in a section) ...

I just want to very clearly point out, I am not detoxing. This stuff just tastes... sweet jesus... 

Pukka are a wicked in general but this tea has barely left my side all month. I usually stay clear of anything with Fennel but it is just amazing, it helps relieve bloating like nothing else! 

This Candle is just too much. It’s amazing in every way! The smell is super strong and is really uplifting. P.F Candle Co is something I have admired and wished on for a while now and wonderful Scouse may have gone and bought me one because he’s pretty darn fab. 

My Mind...

Now, you may remeber in the last post I wrote down my thoughts on life at the moment. Super soppy, I know. But as I’m am growing old I think a lot more often, which probably isn’t such a good trait. Hey ho. 

This Month I have really considered how down I can get on my current situations. Which is something, I know, is wrong. I’m at a stage in my life when my brain runs much faster than my feet. I want to do everything, right now. I want to achieve everything my mind thinks of this second and I won’t feel better until I do. But, patience is key. Everything takes time, if you get lost pondering over what could be, will be, wont be, then you’ll miss everything that happens in the now. It’s hard and this is a very transitional part of life, your 20′s are full of ringing your Mum for help on how be an adult, asking your Dad what beer is good to drink and whether you should have another tonight or not. Carefully dragging your feet through the confusion of adult life in case you step on something and ruin the next week! But, patience and positivity is the key. I’m sure of it, maybe, I think.... 

So, until next time, be safe pumpkins. 

Be careful of those egg shells life drops around you. 

For those of you who actually read my ramblings you’ll know last month I started a new series showcasing, handmade and unique beautiful creations made by wonderful people. 

I also said it wouldn’t always be prints but I lied. Sorry guys, I just love artwork and I need to build my frame wall some how, hay. 

This months pick is andsmile studios. The fabulous and inspiring Viktorija, Latvia born and London Town living makes stunning and unique prints based on her favourite topics, coffee, stationary and bicycles. 

The goodies were endless in the fabulous parcel she sent. 3 stunning prints all so unique in their workings, my personal favourite being the adorable John and Yoko (one she kindly slotted in as a surprise). The brush strokes and the line work of all her pieces are so effortless and the colours pop ever so. 

I also picked up and lovely little brooch which I am wearing very much with pride. She is so elegant and looks so innocent, a pleasure to wear on my lapel. 

Lastly were 3 little post cards, 3 ladies in a water colour setting, ‘be kind to yourself’ post cards. I chose these mainly for the title, not gonna lie but they are wonderful. They are so simple yet so pretty!  

Our favourite two are now framed and are the beginnings of our frame wall! 

You can find Viktorija’s work on her Etsy account

Or shop on her website 

Until next time folks, 

Hello there, internet friends. I hope you’re all well and that 2016 is treating you like the royalty you all are. 

I wanted to start something new for 2016, a little monthly post of treats and deliveries that I receive this year. These treats however won’t be your bog standard High Street Hauls. No, no. These will be independent, boutique or one of pieces. Businesses, companies or just everyday folks who put their heart and soul into handmade, unique beauties. 

HOOORAAAAAH FOR THOSE GUYS!

I’m gonna kick off this post with Bunny Miele. Her traditional yet simple drawing style catches your eye and makes you want to see more. 

The pieces I got from her Etsy page were the Audrey Horne 8x10 Print, clean, crisp and sassy. 

Secondly the, Acorn Enamel Pin so cute it makes me mildly wince. 

Lastly, Meanwhile Vinyl Sticker. So elegant and flawless. 

Thank you so much Bunny for your fabulous artistry.

Find her work on Etsy

Her Blog on Tumblr

Her wonderful face on Insta

Merry Christmas one and all.

Or if you don’t celebrate this festive season, then Merry Strangely Warm Month.

To mark this time of year I like to venture into our beautiful capital city to get swept up in all the festive excitement. This year it involved a little trip to my favourite tea room in London, Yumchaa. I’ve written many times about this place so I sharnt bore you with any more details.

The tiny back streets and swirling avenues in London are my favourite things, you find Shops and Cafè’s. This day, I discovered a new one. After a busy and stressful walk down Oxford Street and a dart into St Christopher’s Place pretty sharpish, we found Workshop Coffee. It’s hidden in such a tight corner and has very limited seating, but rivaled some of my favourite coffee houses.

We had a Cappuccino each and one of their two tarts. One Custard and one Lemon. They were DELICIOUS! Creamy tart with a crisp pastry and gorgeous deep, rich and dark coffee. Perfect for me and I dare say exactly what Scouse loves in a good coffee too.

We then had a little stretch of our pins down to Liberty’s of London. A building I am all too familiar with at Christmas time so had braced myself for the old creaking stairs and swarming crowds. Scouse however was not. He couldn't stop looking up at the decor and his backpack knock several precious items off the shelves. Lucky I have quick reactions.

Liberty Fabric is some of my favourite patterns, the intricate detail and interesting colours always make it something that intrigues me. So, as a Christmas treat to myself I bought the Colouring book because I’m 6 and a half at heart. 

Another little tradition is my Selfridges visit, I hardly ever buy anything I just love being caught up in the panic. A little feature they have at the moment is on the bottom floor, The AstroLounge is perfect for an imaginative gemstone user like myself. The Zodiac signage on the way in was also and fabulous little perk. 

We followed this with a little stroll through Winter Wonderland and a couple Hot Cocktails in Mr Foggs. It was gorgeous in there, really relaxing and such an old time feel. 

The best thing I think about Christmas time is the excuse to have fairy lights... 

EVERY-FLIPPIN-WHERE

It makes me the happiest little thing ever, teeny tiny lights twinkling as if by magic. 

So, my friends. I wish you all a very very Merry Christmas and a smashing New Year! 

Lots of Love 

So, Christmas is in full force and I thought my opinion/help was needed, just kidding. 

I’m super nosy and thought for those of you struggling with those extras gifts you have to get, because you couldn’t dare just buy somebody ONE present for the festive season (How dare you!).

I thought I’d throw my in two pennies worth... 

Welcome to my idea for ‘extra gifts’ for the feminine kind. 

Victoria’s Secret Fragrance Mists are some of my favourite indulgence gifts. They come up with the most sickly sweet smells in garish and metallic packaging but I just love them, this being the Strawberries and Champagne scent. There’s something special about it, that makes you feel like screen siren. Of course, this is the entire point of the product to make you feel like a VS Model. Now that’s all well and good but I’m still gonna spray this onto myself before going for a huge greasy veggie fry up, so I feel it defeats the object. 

Despite this, receiving this as a gift is just such a beautiful surprise and nevertheless I feel majestic when I spray it onto my house coat. 

Next we have Lush Cosmetics Santa’s Lip Scrub. Now I only choose the Santa over the fantastic Mint Julips because if I hadn’t mentioned already, IT'S CHRISTMAS. 

This guy is made from primarily Caster Sugar and Jojoba Oil. I won’t go into full Shop Girl patter but believe me when I say it’s F.A.B. 

It clears your lips of any dry or cracking skin (which let's face it ladies, we all suffer with) and gets them ready for some mistletoe snogging. Perfect. 

Third, we have another Lush product, Fairy Dust. Now I don’t care who you are, everybody has a little bit of them internally that loves the idea or either being glittery or being magical. Well this covers both bases. It’s a Candy Floss scented talc powder with Snowflake Lustre. This is something the entire world is in desperate need of I think. 

Now, it wouldn’t be Christmas without somebody getting a candle. I totally understand something like this is totally down to whether you like the smell but I wanted to include this Marks and Sparks cracker. The smell of this candle just reminds me of home, I’ve no idea if a Rhubarb Flower actually smells like this but to me it’s just a comforting warming smell that completely engulfs the room in scent.  

It claims to burn for 16 hours, at the moment I’ve only used it for about 4 so I can’t tell you whether this is correct or not but, I must say, so far it’s looking pretty promising. 

Another Christmas themed gift is from the best tea shop in London town. 

YUMCHAA is a London Based tea company that make a ridiculously huge variety of teas. My personal favourite being Enchanted Forest. But as it is (here’s that word again) Christmas, I thought i’d venture out of my comfort zone and try a brand new one just for the love of festiveness. 

Snowflake is like a mouthful of winter. Dates and Figs will always be smells and tastes I associate with Christmas but the addition of Caramel and Vanilla just makes this tea completely irresistible. It’s utterly divine and I want it all year round. 

Lastly, I want to share this wonderful idea for a gift for all walks of life. I’m sure there is a reason behind Orange and Cloves at Christmastime and I’m almost positive I know what it is somewhere in the back of my mind. But even without that story, this is beautiful inexpensive simple gift to give. It’s thoughtful and something that completely negates the need for all the scented candles in the world. 

Just one solitary orange and a few cloves, wrapped in festive ribbon just creates a perfectly packaged Christmas offering. 

I hope at least one of these ideas inspires some of you! 

Have a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS, ya filthy animal. 

Chris Cringle has come early this year. In the form of TEEEEEEEEEA and I couldn’t be happier. 

The gorgeous girls @ Bluebird Tea Co have sent little old me a charming hamper of Christmas and Cherry treats (because they know my weaknesses). 

Bluebird have had regular custom from me since I moved to Brighton, being the huge tea lover I am it’s like candy land in there for me. Rows and Rows of shiny silver tins full of dried berries, nuts, marshmallow, popcorn and a range of teas from Green to Rooibos. 

They were super kind and sent me a few samples of their Christmas teas to try out first. 

Having tried their Mulled Wine tea previous to this the Gingerbread Chai was first on my priority list! It’s quite honestly Christmas in a cup. Rooibos is such a flavoursome tea on it’s own, pair that with Ginger, Cinnamon and a large helping of Cardamom you literally cannot go wrong. It’s just the correct level of spicy, no wonder they’ve won a taste award for this unxious creation. 

When venturing further into the box of majesty I found 4 very generous treats! 

One of which being possibly the best tasting Christmas tea around... bold, I know. I am a huge fan of anything Cherry, so this tea (if you share my emotions) should be number one on your Christmas wish list! 

White Christmas is packed full of all that is good in the world, Chinese white tea, Apple, Rosehip, White Chocolate and to top it all MORELLO CHERRIES (cue angels singing). It’s like a hug. The only thing I would say I dislike about this tea is it’s not suitable for Vegans, sadly. Which clearly means my new year resolution is instantly out of the window. Maybe i’ll just have a few hundred cheat days next year. 

The second revelation to come from this box is, you guessed it, Mulled Wine Cocktail Kit. Not only is this present probably the best and cutest stocking filler gift, it’s genius. I get a beautiful glass of mulled wine and then somewhere to show off that week's tea, rather than just in a tin in my cupboard. As I quite enjoy the Mulled tea I had a very strong feeling I would enjoy the Wine. 

Was I wrong?

NOPE. 

The thing that grabs your taste buds and takes them on an adventure is, in my opinion, the Orange. Quite often with Mulled Wines, I feel the Cinnamon or Clove completely overpowers the rest of the beverage, but with the Bluebird Mixologists, I think they’ve cracked it. The orange is such a gentle yet marvellous surprise mid sip. 

Lastly, a fabulous little addition to this box was the Tea Bauble. An adorable addition to my Christmas decs with a cracking tea inside! 

If you’re a Brightonian or are about in Brighton any time soon pop into their store on 41 Gardner Street.

Or have butchers round their website and make your tea loving relatives very happy this festive season - http://bluebirdteaco.com/ 

Today I met the most lovely guy in a wonderfully hidden shop in the centre of Brighton. So perfectly central yet tucked away from the hustle and bustle of everyday folk. 

I spoke to him for what felt like an hour or so but really was a measly 3 minutes. He inspired me and uplifted me. Explained how things in our life should go backwards. To, handwritten, printed books, bought in shops with cash. Buying products from hard working self employed passionate people. Why do things have to be complicated and fancy. Uniform and regimented. 

His beautiful handmade bags, purses and totes were so fairly priced based on the fact he makes each one himself and they are stunning. 

I purchased 2 items from this lovely man, a medium sized makeup bag and a small purse. Both caught my eye the second I walked into the shop. Sadly, being the modern city girl I am I was ready to walk out of the shop almost immediately because like the Queen, I don’t carry cash. 

But to my total surprise out came one of those distant memories that almost took me back to my childhood. A sliding card machine. No technology or internet access required. Like real human life. FABULOUS! 

Overall my experienced in this guy's company was humbling and awe triggering. He was eccentric yet somehow totally normal. 

Whatever you do, visit this guy. Even if for all of 3 minutes. 

I may have found a new obbession. SHOCKER! 

Being the huge lover of coffee I am, a day out discovering a new hidey hole is something I love doing. so as you can well imagine, Brighton is like candy land for me. With a new coffee shop opening its roasters every few weeks. 

This one however is very much tucked away from the mainstream areas, which makes it all the more special. 

Mine and Scouse’s relationship consists vastly of ‘dyou wanna go for coffee?’ ,definitely not complaining, thank god I found someone as addicted to the stuff as I am. 

Mr Wolfe is a sweet little place that could have been pulled straight out of a movie. The towering black walls and counter focused layout made this place styled but still homely. 

The coffee was gorgeous and the oozing chocolate brownie also made me want to weep a little. 

Saying all this though, it’s my hidden gem. You may not have it! 

The soul falls off this guy like silk. It’s sickening for a fellow vocalist to hear him dance over those notes like a prima ballerina. Personally, I am a huge soul fan so this guy is not just up my street but he’s bought the vast majority of it. Vocals with an air of Luther and Stevie and backing that could have been pulled straight out of a Nutini album, Mi’das builds emotions in a cold hearted city girl that resemble sky scrapers. The solo just past the middle of the song has a touch of John Mayer to it, with a blues outer and an oozing soulful centre.

Being a vocalist and a writer I am cursed with LLS (lyric snob syndrome), but I have to say I feel these words fit the bill. The driving drum beat keeps the intonation in his words highlighted enough to feel his emotion. Now i’m not saying he’s perfect, about 30% diction away if i’m honest. But, this is definitely a song I can happily listen to on repeat.

The backing is so elegant and frames the bones of the piece like a million dollar painting. The brass is such a beautiful surprise, as is the twinkling piano and striking strings. The chorus is so catchy I have caught myself humming it to my commute to work (which is always a good sign in my books).

I feel there could be a Mi’das shaped gap in the market right now, a guy that isn’t just throwing out a record for the sake of. You can feel from the gumption in his melodies that he cares tremendously about his message to the public and the sooner a guy like this takes over the fakery and bravado in the current mainstream the better.

Check out his new single 'Feels Like Only Yesterday' on Youtube: https://youtu.be/GBke7pcPrCE

(Photos not by me... for once) 

Originally from Sheffield, Rolo Tomassi are a fairly large name in the hardcore music scene. Releasing music since 2008 they have shot from height to height, powering their music around the globe.

But, their vocalist, Eva is possibly not someone you pay particular attention to. Well you should! 

Rolo are a band I have been musically aware of for a fair few years now. If they have made enough noise to make it to my ear drums, they will have definitely made enough to reach everyone else's (I’d hope). 

Being a musician and front woman myself I am a stickler for a good stage persona. I can fall head over heels in love with a band but if, when I see them live, the vocalists stage presence is less than satisfactory I very quickly break my fascination. 

Eva, however, is a success in my books. Having seen videos of her on stage prior to last night I had some inclination of what to expect. But, she exceeded expectations. Her facial expressions not only capture the audiences attention, but you feel as if all her energy and focus is completely aimed at you. Her twisted and jolting body movements snap throughout the set and you know that each throw of an arm is filled with adrenaline through to her finger tips.  

Her vocals astonish me, being a technique I have never mastered, it impresses me how she can be so vocally controlled yet bodily so chaotic. Her band mates compliment her so wonderfully, you can tell that as a team their connection is flourishing. 

Be sure not to miss these guys at the Green Door Store TONIGHT, or in a city near you as soon as you can. Before their success grows too large and an intimate gig is off the cards.  

TONIGHT: https://www.facebook.com/events/1447371482260014/

Tickets: http://www.wegottickets.com/event/329859

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rolotomassiofficial

Soundcloud: http://www.soundcloud.com/rolotomassi

Website: http://www.rolotomassiband.com/

Like most people I love caffeine as much as the next working human being, but the vast majority of the coffee I drink is pure necessity of consciousness. But, this special little company livens my love for the substance on a regular basis. 

Small Batch Coffee Company have been roasting the finest Fair Trade and Direct Trade coffee since 2006. Being a Brighton based company you expect nothing short of a vibrant, quirky setting in which to drink your home roasted coffee in. With Small Batch you’re sure for a visual treat that matches the divine liquids. 

Now this place may specialise in Caffeine but they do make a blinding cuppa. Their wide variety of fruit and herbal teas keep the cold out for sure. My personal favourites being the Blood Orange and Earl Grey. 

It’s the kind of environment where you can concentrate on your work or make a new friend. The atmosphere in each of their 7 coffee houses is always electric and the staff are some of the friendliest most pleasant people I’ve met. Their recruitment team are on fire. 

Each location is crafted and designed to look unfinished but complete. It’s so comfortable and homely but a place that looks so modern. 

Coffee has become so popular and far more of a culture than ever before in this country especially. The rise in coffee houses and independent coffee roasters has opened the eyes of many a freelance creative, teen, student and just your average joe. It is now a fashion to enjoy a cup of indie coffee over the mainstream corporations. But companies like Small Batch are keeping our fascinations at bay and grounding those who drink just for the fad. 

Shop by Shop they are slowly taking over the coffee world. 

(I mean of course I’m exaggerating, they’re not world conquerors just yet, but my point still stands)

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I may have found a new European city that has stolen my heart (like this is such a unique thing).

Amsterdam is possibly one of the most picturesque cities I’ve ever seen. Granted I’ve not seen many but I feel my experience is vast enough to judge.

The long stretch of nothing but bikes and water just drew me in. It’s a photographers dream! The tall town house storied buildings each so individual and the miles and miles of old and rusted or brand spanking new bikes told their own stories. Each street had its own tale to tell and you just knew that each one involved something illegal or sordid. The depths of the city kept secrets away from the tourists PC sides, but I think that’s just the way it works and no one complains. Each citizen and visitor knows of the tales of the night but they either chose to ignore or engage and neither delves in to the others business.

Our first port of call was The Hoxton. Beautiful interiors that felt like they’d come straight out of an issue of Vice Magazine. Eclectic and compelling humans created such a buzz in the air. You just knew that some where in the room there was a conversation about ‘this one time I went to prague and met a unicorn and a fisherman...’ but I would have listened to their pretentious stories purely to be within the vicinity. It felt so far up it’s own backside yet so understated and modern. Very clever really when you think back on it.

I was served the most hilarious ‘vegetarian’ option (a circle of Veg with some Cheese) yet it was delicious and I felt privileged to be eating it. Not daft, the creators of this chain! They know how to make their customers feel welcomed but also like they should put a napkin down before every foot step.

The decor how every felt very relaxed, huge velvet chairs that completely engulfed you. Victorian Green tiles striped around the middle of the room topping the rich navy sofas as if to be framing the perfect Instagram photo.

Now don’t get me wrong the place was perfectly planned out down to the last seemingly functioning extractor pipe. But you did get a slight sense of pompousness, they have every right too clearly they own a good few hotels but I did expect a bill at the end of the meal asking to pay for the dent my bottom had made in the cushion.

Of course all of this is extreme it was a beautiful restaurant and I would definitely dine again. Next time though, I’m wearing a Fishermans hat, a wax jacket and a diamond necklace. Just to blend in.    

The next day was spent being very tourist like. Which I loved. A gorgeous boat ride along the canals accompanied by too much Rosè and a very disgruntled American couple. We of course made an excruciating amount of noise being 12 very extroverted Essex girls, they’d be rude to expect any less of us!

The architecture throughout is so Gothic and bold it’s a city where looking up is imperative. I spent most of the day playing catch up with the other girls after trying to get the perfect shot of the views.

Each turn surprised me beyond the last, lining it’s streets with unique and quirky shops or just higgledy piggledy houses. It was a delight.

Despite the grandeur of the exterior the sweet little cafe we visited for brunch was adorable. It was a simple order of 9 ham ‘n’ cheese toasties and us annoying extras on the end. But the staff coped brilliantly with our volume and accents.

Although the weekend was revolved around mainly alcoholic beverages, Amsterdam and their foodie game is right up there! Every street adorned with some kind of patisserie or coffee house (and I don’t just mean ‘coffee house’).

I am not apologising, it was delicious!

The city has most definitely captured my heart and I have given myself a 5 year period to save enough moolah to move there. It’s quite honestly that intriguing. Whether that be a bad thing or not!

It is serene yet manic all at once and reminds me so much of my beloved Brighton town that it is hard to not aspire to be a resident.  

It may have it’s secrets and it’s dark side but I kind of enjoy that. Everybody and every place has secrets just nobody lets Amsterdam forget theirs.

Another dream added to the list.

So, that’s it. 21 years avoiding the inevitable. 

Growing up.

But to celebrate this in style I have a new flat, adorned with fairly lights and pastel pink everything. Clearly that means I’m growing up... NAAAT. 

Another aspect of this growing stuff means I finally graduated from University. Which means, going out. Which also means, getting ready! I’m sure I’m not the only person in the world who thinks often the process to prepare for an event is more exciting than the actually thing? 

I very rarely wear a full face of makeup, although it’s almost terrifying if the winged liner isn’t present. 

But, as this is the moment I stop pretending to be an adult and actually become one, I felt a full face was appropriate. 

First port of call was the base. For a fair few years now I’ve stuck to my traditions with Lush’s Colour Supplements. Based on the fact the pathetic summer we got has just finished, my skin is not as fair as it normally would be. So my colour at the moment is ‘Light Pink’ for the Vitamin D Vampires of the world. Unlike those cheeky olive skin lucky ones. 

I mixed this with my ‘Skin’s Shangri La’ moisturiser because sometimes you just need a bit of support on the moisture front. The winds are picking up and my skin really disagrees with that part of nature. Mixing these two products together make a super thick and luxurious texture which blends well and create an flawless appearance. 

Layering ‘Feeling Younger’ on top. This product saves my life when my skin or make up are a little lack lustre. It reflects the light giving the impression your cheek bones are more prominent. And, BONUS, along the top of your nose they make it seem skinnier and small which for a huge bugle like mine is totally needed. 

Next. The peepers. For my eye makeup I used the highly anticipated and widely reviewed Fleur De Force make up collection. She has released two pallets and my favourite of the two is ‘Lunar Rose’. The colours range from Rose Gold to Purple with a whole bunch of pastel Pink in the middle. Its such a comfortable powder to wear. Often I find eyeshadows to either fade or become sticky where as this was on me peepers for more than 14 hours and still looked as if i’d just applied it. 

Next was Lush’s Liquid Eyeliner in ‘Independent’. Now, you should understand that I take far too much pride and effort on the wings generally, but this eye liner goes on like silk. Highly recommend it. 

Lastly before the icing on top, Mascara. I flit between mascara’s an awful, having dark lashes naturally the colour of them isn’t much of an issue. My main focus is clumping. I find a lot of mascara’s clump far too easily. But Benefit’s ‘they’re Real!’ is fabulous. No clumping but my lashes look and feel so much longer. 

I also used Fleur’s ‘FLEUR LOVES’ lashes for an extra splash of glam. These are 3/4 lashes which is brilliant for a glamorous look but not too dramatic. 

Fleur’s range on Feel Younique is brilliant for lovers of high end on a budget of high street. It’s all formulated beautifully and priced just as well. A win win in my books. Congrats De Force. 

Lastly the cherry on top of the cake is my last rave about Fleur’s range and aptly the title of this blog. 

‘Lucky Star’

It’s a flexible and chameleon of a lippy colour. It’s got enough of an orange pigment to brighten the face but enough of the pinker purple ends to keep it grounded. The formulation is also pretty good, now sadly as strong as this collection might be it does not work miracles. 

Yes, ladies. I am speaking of the dreaded wind + gloss = ‘oh my god stupid bloody wind/hair/lippy. We all know how much of an ovary ache that is. So, I hate to inform you she hasn’t worked magic and made some kind of magnetic force that repels hair and bad kissers. But, to make up for this she has given the glosses a beautiful vanillary scent which I feel is a good compromise. 

Baring in mind, there was plenty of bubbles and sparkling drinking things around I think these products lasted marvellously. I, on the other hand. Well, we won’t speak of that.