Breaking up is hard to do, and boy, this sucks.
It’s true. I’m leaving. And this time, it’s not just a four-month hiatus in London. No, this time I’m off for real, which feels strange – I have absolutely loved working at beautyheaven so very much, but change is good!
In my seven years as a beauty journalist, I’ve been lucky enough to meet and learn from some of the best in the biz. I’ve collected tips that have really changed the way I look at beauty – and as a parting gift, I’m sharing those gems with you.
I’ve also revealed the seven products I’ll never again live without – and delved deep into the memory bank to bring you seven of my most sacred beautyheaven memories. (Are you sensing a theme here?)
Okay, I’m signing off now! I’ll miss virtually hanging out with you beauties, but don’t worry – I’ll still catch you on the forums! (How do you get on the Trial Team anyway?!)
7 top beauty tips from the professionals
“Add a bit of sparkle to your eyes – it’s my favourite thing to do when I’m feeling a little flat!” – Delta Goodrem.
“Always straighten your hair on an angle for extra volume and movement.” – Zoë Foster Blake.
“Let your curls cool before brushing them out!” – Anthony Nader, International Stylist and owner of RAW Salon.
“Brush your brows up and fill in any sparse areas with a sharp brow pencil before styling the hairs to reach back towards the tail of your brows.” – Kristin Barnes, eyebrow artist and founder of Kristin Fisher Eyebrows.
“Always leave on your hair mask for at least 10 minutes, otherwise it’ll just make your strands look shiny instead of penetrating deeply where it’s needed most.” – Grant Withnell, National Technical Educator for Schwarzkopf.
“Just cocktail some Moroccanoil with a little gel to get that wavy, ‘beach babe’ look without the crunch or the damage.” – Violet Sainsbury, Moroccanoil Creative Design Team Educator.
“For an instant hit of volume and a new look, simply part your hair somewhere other than where you normally do – voila! Instant height with no effort.” Leigh Campbell, Cosmopolitan Beauty Director.
7 memorable moments
#1: My very first Star Awards in 2007
What baby faces! I thought this flapper dress and silver headband combo was ah-mazing.
#2: Winning ‘Online Beauty Writer of the Year’ at said awards 5 years later…
This is one of the proudest moments of my life to date. After bagging the Best Beauty Blog award with then-editor Debbie a few years before, I was very honoured to be recognised as the best online beauty writer in 2012.
#3: The Wella member event – the first time I hosted an event
There were beautyheaven members and bloggers galore in attendance! Plus, this event was a major learning curve – I had to sort out my nerves to speak in front of Sydney’s best fashion bloggers and record a video in a room full of industry experts.
#4: NIVEA event at Fort Denison in 2011
To celebrate 100 years of NIVEA, we caught a speedboat over to Fort Denison for dinner before retiring to Sebel Pier One for the night – so fab! You can’t imagine my surprise when I got off the boat, walked into the marquee and bumped straight into my MUM! NIVEA and Maxted Thomas PR cleverly – and secretly – contacted a ‘special someone’ of every beauty editor and asked them to come along! It was an incredible surprise, and a truly unforgettable night.
#5: Talking sleeping naked with Karl and Lisa on the TODAY show
I’ve probably never been more nervous in my entire life. I found out I was appearing on Monday morning’s show on Friday night and didn’t sleep for three days. But I was thrilled once it was all over – and Karl and Lisa are two of the most professional, genuine people you’ll ever meet. It was a real career highlight I’ll never, ever forget.
#6: Producing Debbie’s wedding video
We had just found out our editor at the time, Debbie, was engaged and we had a lot of fun putting together a video to Bruno Mars’ ‘I think I wanna marry you’. Office antics!
#7: The day I discovered the donut
This was a great day. A few friends came back from Europe with a “giant donut-looking thing” for me, and I was hooked – line and sinker. I went on to create many galleries, articles and videos using my newfound love.
7 can’t-live-without beauty products
(… and I’ve tried A LOT)
bhave Riot Control Serum– This product range actually changed the way my hair behaves (pardon the pun!). Thanks to the Riot Oil, frizz is a thing of the past, and my hair dries almost straight! I can definitely wash and wear now, which was a thought that made me cringe before discovering this brand.
Avon Ideal Flawless Invisible Coverage Foundation – I have honestly never found another foundation that sits as well on my skin. This stuff is gold.
Neutrogena Hydroboost – My skin just loves this stuff, especially in summer. It offers a fantastic burst of moisture. My man loves it too – hello, unisex beauty!
Bourjois Rouge Edition 12 Hours in 31 (Beige Shooting)– This colour is perfect for any occasion. It’s neutral enough for day wear and chic enough for the evenings – and silky, too!
Giorgio Armani Si, $85, 1300 651 991 – This scent is beyond good. If you haven’t had a sniff already, you simply must. The new intense variety is just as delicious.
Conair True Glow Sonic Cleansing Brush – My skin has never looked as good as it does after using this on the low setting daily. Myself and the mister love combining it with an exfoliating face wash. (It does seem like he steals all of my products, doesn’t it?)
Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Power, $66, 02 9695 5678 – This is the ultimate subtle bronze hue for everyday wear. It glides on effortlessly and blends like a dream. I build it up if I want a slightly darker look or swipe it on for just a hint of matte/slightly shimmery colour.
What is your favourite beautyheaven memory? What are your 7 favourite, can’t-live-without beauty products?
