CherrySue, Doin' the Do

Mediterranean Cruise 2026: MSC Meraviglia with Stops in Marseilles, Livorno, Naples, Palermo, Tunis and Barcelona

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Sun, 10 May 2026 10:11:00 +0000

Photo Cred: Cruise Industry News

There are moments in life that arrive before you feel ready for them.

This one arrived as a phone call from my sister Corrina on an ordinary Tuesday morning. A Mediterranean cruise. MSC Meraviglia. May 19th. Seven nights. Balcony suite. Full drinks package. With her Aoife! Would I come?

Reader, I bought the flowy dress.

Here is the thing about travelling with your sister & her daughter. Nobody else on this earth will laugh at the same things, notice the same details, or tell you the truth about whether the dress works. Travelling with Corrina and having nineteen year old Aoife alongside us adds something else entirely. Watching the next generation experience some of these places for the first time, through young eyes with zero agenda & pure excitement, is its own kind of magic.

Three women. Six ports. Seven nights. One balcony suite with my name on it.

Why MSC Meraviglia

I had been on one cruise before this, a press trip with Sun Princess that gave me a taste of what life on the water could look like. I came home knowing I wanted more of it. When Corrina called with this one I did not need much convincing.

MSC Meraviglia is one of MSC Cruises' flagship ships, and the reviews back up the reputation. Multiple pools, a vast entertainment programme, restaurants covering every cuisine you could want, and that balcony suite which I fully intend to make the most of every single morning with a coffee and the Mediterranean at eye level.

The value on this trip genuinely stopped me in my tracks. If you have been thinking about a cruise and talking yourself out of it, go and have a conversation with the Travel Centre Dundalk before you decide. They found us something that made the decision very easy indeed.

Photo Cred: MSC

Where We Are Going: The Full MSC Meraviglia Itinerary

Six ports across the Mediterranean and North Africa, and every single one of them has something different to offer. Here is what we are working with.

Marseilles, France. Our first port of call and where a certain flowy dress will be making its debut. France's oldest city and arguably its most underrated. The Vieux-Port, the Calanques, the bouillabaisse. I have wanted to come back to Marseilles for years and this is the trip.

Livorno, Italy. The gateway to Tuscany and one of the most strategically located ports on the entire route. From Livorno you can be in Florence in under an hour, which means this port day could easily double as a Tuscan day trip if that is your thing. It very much is my thing.

Naples, Italy. Where I fully intend to eat my body weight in pizza in its city of origin. Naples gets a bad press from people who have never been and glowing reviews from everyone who has. The energy, the chaos, the food, the proximity to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast. You might remember our 30k steps in Pompeii then back to the hot tub on board the Sun Princess where the steward immediately brought us cocktails! I'll remember that forever. One day is not enough but we will make it count.

Palermo, Sicily. Raw, real, and completely underrated as a Mediterranean destination. Palermo is the kind of place that gets under your skin in the best possible way. Street food markets, baroque architecture, Arab-Norman churches that will genuinely stop you in your tracks.

Tunis, Tunisia. The one that most people do not see coming on a Mediterranean itinerary, and the one I am most curious about. Tunis sits at the crossroads of Arab, Berber, Ottoman and French influences, the medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the food scene is extraordinary. This is the port that will surprise people most and I cannot wait to report back.

Barcelona, Spain. Finishing on one of Europe's greatest cities feels exactly right. Gaudí, the Gothic Quarter, La Boqueria, the kind of streets you could wander for days. Remember Corrina & I flew to Barcelona to see Kylie?? We WERE spinning around. Can't get it out of my head! Barcelona is always a good idea and an even better send-off.

Photo Cred: Me!

What Is Coming on the Blog

I will be sharing content from each port as we go across social, Insta , Facebook and in our Mums Group, and when we are back I will have full guides for every stop on the route. Real, first-hand, honest impressions from someone who was actually there, with accommodation options, things to do, where to eat, and practical tips for anyone planning the same trip.

I have also just upgraded the travel section of this blog with interactive maps and live accommodation search built into every post. So if any of these destinations are on your radar you can go from reading to booking without ever leaving the page. More on that very soon.

If you have been to any of these ports and have a tip I absolutely cannot miss, drop it in the comments below. Our community came up with some brilliant suggestions when I put the call out and I am taking notes.

The Mediterranean is waiting!

Watch this space.

Sue x🍒

I Just Made My Travel Posts a Whole Lot More Useful (And Here's What's Coming)

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Sat, 09 May 2026 13:27:00 +0000

If you've been around here for a while, you know I don't do things by halves.

So when I decided to properly invest in the travel content on this blog, I didn't just fire up a new notebook and start scribbling destination ideas. I went and overhauled the whole experience.

If you know me, you know my sister & I have been travelling and sharing those trips online for years, but I always felt like the blog travel posts could work harder for you. Reading about a hotel or a hidden beach is grand, but what if you could actually book it, map it, or find somewhere to stay nearby, all from the one page? Without seventeen tabs open and a minor breakdown?

That's exactly what I've just made possible.

I've installed Stay22 across the blog. It's a tool that embeds interactive maps and accommodation options directly into my travel posts, so when I'm telling you about a corner of the Algarve that will genuinely reset your nervous system, or a weekend city break that's worth every cent, you can actually act on it there and then. No faff. No disappearing down a booking rabbit hole. Just useful, joined-up travel content that respects your time. Given the vast majority of you are already Mums (HELLO Mums on the Run!) I know your time is in short supply & stretched thin as is.

Here's a taste of what's coming to the blog in the next while:

Solo travel for women who have arrived at themselves and want holidays that match that energy. Weekend escapes that are genuinely worth leaving the house for. US Road Trips with the low down on how you too can follow in our footsteps for sheckles. And the kind of practical, honest travel tips that only come from someone who has actually done it, with and without children, on budgets big and small.

This is travel content with a bit of lived wisdom behind it. Not a press trip puff piece (would I ever?!) The real thing.

If there's somewhere you'd love to see covered, drop it in the comments below. I'm all ears, and the pipeline is filling up fast.

Watch this space.

Sue x🍒

Visualise Your Highest Self & Show Up As Her! Women's Workwear Sales - January 2026

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 16:21:00 +0000

There is something quietly powerful about getting dressed with intention. Not for anyone else, not to prove a point, but because you know who you are becoming and you dress accordingly.

From timeless blazers to versatile dresses and tailored trousers, I have rounded up the best workwear deals you can shop right now. These are quality pieces that take you from desk to disco, as is your wont, all at genuinely good sale prices.

This is about building a wardrobe that works hard, feels good on your body, and supports the life you are living now.

The best women’s workwear sales right now

Mango
Up to 70 percent off gorgeous office looks, with an impressive size range from 2XS to 4XL. Think sharp blazers, elegant trousers and easy dresses that always look polished.
👉 https://bit.ly/3HPpxZ7

ASOS
A brilliant mix of workwear and smart dresses, perfect if you like options. Great for building a flexible wardrobe that can be styled up or down.
👉 https://bit.ly/3OarLYi

Next
Additional reductions on tailored trousers, ideal if you want classic pieces that last and fit beautifully.
👉 https://bit.ly/4c05J4v

Monki
Work trousers on sale with extra discounts when you buy two sale pieces. Modern cuts, comfortable fits, and a little bit of edge.
👉 https://bit.ly/4t8e5gs

Marks & Spencer
A reliable go to for smart workwear, particularly if you value structure, comfort and timeless style.
👉 https://bit.ly/4kgX1Rx

H&M
Affordable work staples that make it easy to refresh your wardrobe without overspending.
👉 https://bit.ly/4qMQHn9

River Island
Up to 40 percent off workwear and seasonal styles. Great for adding a little personality to your professional looks.
👉 https://bit.ly/3Z6BEZu

Arket
Stylish, timeless pieces on sale. Minimal, elevated and designed to be worn again and again.
👉 https://bit.ly/49YZZFt

& Other Stories
Curated, structured pieces with beautiful tailoring. Ideal if you like your workwear to feel intentional and grown.
👉 https://bit.ly/4rexWca

Why workwear matters more than we think

Quality pieces, proper fits, and prices that make sense. That is the sweet spot.

Because confidence is not just a mindset. Sometimes it is a really good blazer that makes you stand a little taller and trust yourself a little more.

If you have spotted any other great workwear sales, let me know. I am always happy to share the good stuff.💼✨

A Softer Way Forward: Nervous System Regulation, Soft30 & Lasting Change

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 17:32:00 +0000

If you’ve been reading CherrySue Doin’ the Do for a while, you’ll know this space has always been a place where I tell the truth as I’m living it.

Not the polished version.
Not the “five steps to fix yourself” version.
The real one.

You may have been here from my early days of working single mammyhood, sharing what worked for me, as I overworked myself. Over the past year, something has fundamentally shifted for me, thanks to Soft30.

I stopped using holidays as an escape.
I stopped pushing my body to comply.
I stopped treating rest like a reward.

And quietly, without forcing it, my nervous system began to settle.

That shift has impacted everything: my health, my weight, my energy, my creativity, my relationships, and how I show up in my own life. It wasn’t dramatic or extreme. It was steady. And it came from small daily practices and gentle structure, not burnout disguised as discipline. These small, consistant choices have changed my life beyond recognition.

Nervous System Regulation in Real Life

When I talk about nervous system regulation, I’m not talking about complicated techniques or perfect routines.

I’m talking about helping the body feel safe enough to rest, digest, recover, and be present.

For me, that looked like:

Eating consistently instead of restricting
Gentle, regular movement instead of punishment
Time outside
Breathing while I move
Less rushing
Letting my body come out of constant “brace mode”

Once your nervous system isn’t stuck in fight-or-flight, things like sleep, digestion, weight, mood, and enjoyment start to shift naturally. That’s been my lived experience, and it’s why I’m so passionate about a softer approach to health and change.

Why I’m Writing Differently Now

I’ve realised that the conversations I want to have don’t belong in fast scrolling or soundbites anymore.

They need space.
They need nuance.
They need room to land.

I want to write about what it actually looks like to build a life your nervous system can live in. About consistency without punishment. About health and wellbeing without extremes. About real change that doesn’t require you to break yourself first.

That’s why I’ve created a new home for this work.

Introducing Soft30 on Substack

Soft30 is where I’m now writing regularly about:

Nervous system regulation and daily self-care practices
Gentle structure that supports real life
Health, weight, energy, and wellbeing without extremes
Living, not escaping
Becoming, not performing

It’s not a 30-day challenge.
It’s not a reset.
And it’s definitely not about fixing yourself.

It’s about learning how to feel safe enough to change.

The tagline says it best:

Daily practices. Gentle structure. Powerful change.

You can read Soft30 on Substack 👉 HERE 👈

What This Means for CherrySue Doin’ the Do

This blog isn’t going anywhere.

CherrySue Doin’ the Do holds years of my life, my work, and my growth, and I still love it. I’ll continue to share practical resources here, Posts that make your life easier, Travel, Beauty & Lifestyle recommendations that resonate, including simple skincare cheat sheets under construction rn, gentle routines, & things that support everyday wellbeing.

But if you’ve found yourself resonating with my recent reflections on rest, nervous system regulation, and a softer way of living, you’ll find more long-form writing over on Substack.

That’s where this chapter is unfolding.

An Open Doras

If any part of this resonates, you’re very welcome over at Soft30 on Substack.
No pressure. No urgency. Just an open doras.

As always, thank you for being here, for reading, & for growing alongside me.

Sue 🍒

14 Years of Influencer Success: Insider Secrets to Consistent Brand Collaborations & Global Partnerships

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Sun, 04 Aug 2024 15:05:00 +0000

In the ever-evolving landscape of influencer marketing, securing consistent and long-lasting brand partnerships can be challenging. With over 14 years of experience working alongside globally recognized brands, I’ve gained invaluable insights and strategies that have helped me establish myself as a valuable marketing partner. In this blog post, I will share proven techniques and industry secrets that will boost your value and ensure you become a top choice for prestigious collaborations.

Exceed Expectations with Extra Content: When collaborating with brands, demonstrate your dedication and professionalism by creating additional content beyond the agreed-upon deliverables. This showcases your commitment to their success and provides extra value. Monetize your efforts by offering watermarked additional footage as an exclusive bonus or selling it for future use.

Gather Valuable Feedback: Engage with your audience after posting sponsored content by asking questions related to the brand or product. Collect insightful feedback by taking screenshots of direct message responses and share them with the brand. This demonstrates your ability to collect valuable consumer opinions and helps brands refine their products or marketing strategies.

Offer Bonus Social Media Graphics: Showcase your creativity by offering to develop extra social media graphics or images for the brand's platforms. This not only highlights your skills but also provides additional assets for their future marketing campaigns.

Provide Detailed Performance Reports: Analyze engagement metrics of your sponsored content, including impressions, link clicks, and audience sentiment. Compile this data into an organized report, equipping the brand with a comprehensive understanding of your collaboration's impact.

Optimize Content for Diverse Platforms: Maximize reach and engagement by tailoring your sponsored content to suit various social media platforms. Offer to distribute content across multiple platforms, expanding the brand's audience and enhancing overall campaign results.

By implementing these strategies consistently, you'll distinguish yourself as a valuable and reliable marketing partner for world-renowned brands. It's time to elevate your influence, secure long-term collaborations, and thrive in the competitive world of influencer marketing.

Thanks for reading! I hope these insider tips help you achieve the same long-lasting success I've enjoyed in the influencer marketing world. If you're eager for more game-changing strategies, head over to the CherrySue Stan Store HERE for exclusive, in-depth guides that will supercharge your collaborations and turn you into a top choice for world-renowned brands. Let's keep raising that tide that raises all boats together!

Unsexy Beauty Products That Punch WAY Above Their Weight

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Wed, 01 May 2024 15:09:00 +0000

In the quest for beauty, we often get dazzled by the shiniest, newest products on the shelf. But what about those hidden gems that don't necessarily scream "glamour" yet deliver astonishing results? Today, I’m diving into the world of "unsexy" beauty products—those underrated and underpriced marvels that might just change your routine for the better. From a shower oil that clings to your damp skin to a men’s beard dye that doubles as the perfect brow tint, these items dodge the pink tax and deliver efficacy that can outshine their prettier counterparts.

Aveeno Skin Relief Body Oil

Aveeno Skin Relief Body Oil Spray - The Shower Companion

Let's start in the shower—a place where the magic of minimalism often happens. Tucked away in my shower caddy is a bottle that might not look like much but packs a serious moisturizing punch: Aveeno Oil. This unassuming hero is designed for use on damp skin, capitalizing on the moisture already there. Why do I love it? Because its consistency—regular use is key here—helps my skin stay supple and hydrated all day long, no extra fuss needed. Simply spray into your hands and apply to damp skin. You'll notice a difference from the very first use.

I stumbled upon Aveeno Oil during a desperate hunt for a skin solution that could follow me from the first splash of my morning shower to the final hours of a long day. Initial skepticism was high—who puts oil in water and expects miracles? But the results spoke for themselves. Silky, non-greasy, and effective, this oil has become a staple in my routine.

For those looking to try it, you can find Aveeno Oil in most large chemists and department stores, often just for a couple of euros. A small price for a big return on skin health. Here’s a link to snag your own bottle—remember, when it comes to beauty, sometimes it’s the simplest products that make the loudest impact.

Just for Men Beard Dye - Not Just for Men, Not Just for Beards

Who says beard dye is just for men? Here’s a little secret: Just for Men Beard Dye is my go-to for tinting my eyebrows, giving them a lush, natural look without the salon price tag. It's one of those cheeky life hacks where you sidestep the so-called "pink tax" and get more bang for your buck.

The discovery came out of frustration with expensive, often underwhelming women's brow tints. I thought, "Why not?" and gave this men's beard dye a shot. To my surprise, the colour matched perfectly, lasting longer than any of my previous products. What's even better, the two tubes are resealable, so for about a fiver, you get up to six months' worth of brow tints.

For a precise application, I recommend using a sample mascara spoolie—it allows you to shape and define your brows just the way you like them. It's a quick, easy application process (literally 5 mins), but you control the intensity by adjusting the time you leave it on.

If you're ready to break the mold and try this unexpected brow buddy, click here to purchase Just for Men Beard Dye. It’s time to let those brows speak for themselves—boldly and beautifully.

Dove Pro Age Nourishing Body Care Lotion - More Than Just Moisture

Next on our list of unsexy but unbelievably effective beauty essentials is the Dove Pro Age Nourishing Body Care Lotion. Don't let the straightforward packaging fool you; this cream is a powerhouse of skin rejuvenation. Packed with Niacinamide and Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), it offers more than mere moisturization—it actively enhances your skin's texture and tone from the first use.

I first tried this cream on a whim in Portugal, intrigued by its promise of pro-age benefits. The results? Immediate and impressive. The AHAs work to gently exfoliate, promoting cell turnover and revealing fresher, younger-looking skin beneath. Meanwhile, Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, helps to strengthen the skin’s barrier, reducing water loss and maintaining moisture throughout the day.

A word of caution: its potent ingredients mean it's not suitable for children's delicate skin. But for adults seeking an effective, affordable anti-aging solution, Dove Pro Age Body Cream is a standout choice. It's a dream for those with KP too. Available in most large chemists and department stores, it’s a brilliant find for just a few euros. Grab your Dove Pro Age Body Cream here and see the difference from the first application.

African Wash Cloths - The Exfoliation Powerhouse

Next up is something from further afield but with results that bring it close to home: African Wash Cloths. These are not your average fluffy face cloths. Known for their rough texture, they offer unmatched exfoliation, whisking away dead skin cells and leaving behind a smoothness that's hard to achieve with more delicate cloths. They're long enough that you can scrub your back and feet with ease, but bunch up effortlessly to work up a luxe lather too.

I was introduced to these wash cloths by a friend who swore by their efficacy. Skeptical but intrigued, I gave them a try and haven’t looked back since. KP sufferers will REJOICE with these. These cloths are particularly excellent for preparing the skin for moisturizers and oils, like our friend Aveeno Oil, ensuring your skin absorbs every nourishing drop. That and they're machine washable, but even their standard shape means they harbour zero bacteria, like your average sponge or loofah might.

African Wash Cloths can be found in international markets or online. They’re incredibly affordable and durable, making them a staple in both my bathroom and travel bag. Here’s where you can grab one and start transforming your skin care routine with just one scrub.

Men's Deodorant - Breaking the Gender Barrier

Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about men’s deodorant. Yes, you read that right—Men's Deodorant as a staple in a woman's beauty arsenal. Moving beyond the typical floral scents and often higher-priced women’s options, men’s deodorant offers long-lasting protection without the pink tax.
I discovered the benefits of using men’s deodorant purely by accident, grabbing my eldest boy's stick during a rushed morning. The freshness lasted all day, and the scent was surprisingly subtle. Since then, I’ve embraced it as a regular part of my routine, enjoying both the cost savings and the effective formula. Dove for Men and Old Spice are two excellent choices that offer robust protection with a variety of scent options to suit different preferences.
Men’s deodorant works great for anyone looking for a straightforward, long-lasting deodorant that doesn’t break the bank. You can find Dove for Men and Old Spice in any store that carries personal care items, often at a fraction of the cost of women’s versions. Try out Men’s Deodorant from Dove for Men or Old Spice here and experience the practical side of crossing beauty boundaries.

Conclusion - Beauty Where You Least Expect It

We've travelled through a curated list of "unsexy" beauty products that defy expectations with their effectiveness and practicality. From Aveeno Oil for that after-shower glow to Just for Men Beard Dye for perfect brows, these products not only save you money but also offer impressive results that rival their more glamorous counterparts. Whether it’s the exfoliating prowess of African Wash Cloths, the age-defying magic of Dove Pro Age Body Cream, or the reliable protection of Dove for Men and Old Spice deodorants, each product brings something unique to the table.
Remember, beauty isn’t always found in the most luxurious or expensive bottles. Sometimes, it’s hidden in the everyday items that we might overlook. I encourage you to step outside your comfort zone and try these alternatives—your wallet and your body will thank you!
As a final note, some links provided in this post are affiliate links. This means I earn a few shekels if you decide to purchase through them, but at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I use and believe in, ensuring you get genuine advice for your beauty adventures.
Thank you for joining me on this journey through the less trodden path of beauty products. If you’ve tried any of these or have other unsexy favorites, share your experiences in the comments below! Let’s keep discovering the unexpected together.

The iNua Collection launch their Barróg Treatments, A Range of Innovative Cancer Care Spa Treatments

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 18:04:00 +0000

The iNua Collection have launched an innovative series of Barróg Spa Treatments suitable for guests living with cancer or with a history of cancer, in collaboration with Christine Clinton Cancer Care and Peigin Crowley of GROUND Wellbeing. Corrina and I were grateful to be invited to the launch of these groundbreaking and much needed treatments, and speak with some of the women who have benefited greatly from their development. These specially designed Barróg Cancer Care treatments will be available at the Hillgrove Hotel & Spa, Tullamore Court Hotel, and the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa in Cork, Limerick and Sligo.

A Selection of the Ground Wellbeing Products now Available

Therapists from each spa have received Cancer Care certification after undergoing intensive training with Christine Clinton. Christine has over 30 years experience in the health and wellness sector and is qualified in therapeutic massage, skincare, aromatherapy, reflexology, reiki, lymphatic drainage and energy medicine. After receiving clinical training in mind body medicine from Harvard Medical School, Christine created an award-winning 3 day SATCC (Standards Authority for Touch in Cancer Care) programme that has been used in spas and schools across the UK & Ireland.

Therapists from each Spa, pictured with Christine Clinton, receiving their certification

Under the stellar leadership of Sue Harmsworth (Founder of ESPA), the SATCC (Standards Authority for Touch in Cancer Care) was developed to provide a beacon of light, offering a trusted authority for the UK & Ireland aligning spas & therapists with excellence in accredited training, insurance support and consumer outreach.

Award Winning Industry Powerhouse, Peigin Crowley introduces Ground Wellbeing's Barróg Collection

Using GROUND Wellbeing products by Peigin Crowley, these treatments aim to relieve anxiety, muscle tension and pain for those going through cancer treatment or those who have just finished.

GROUND Wellbeing’s Barróg product collection was created to aid skin going through cancer treatment and uses powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-itch and antibacterial ingredients. Peigin’s products have been used in many 5-star establishments including The Shelbourne Hotel and Mount Juliet Estate.

Tóg go bog é (€110, 1 hour 15 minutes) is an adapted full body massage that encapsulates breathwork, Brazilian toe techniques incorporated with a relaxing back, leg and arm massage.

The Scalp Ritual (€60, 30 minutes) is tailored to those experiencing hair loss or dry scalp. The Ground Scalp Relief Oil containing avocado and rosemary nourishes and mosturises the scalp, relieving any discomfort and itching.

The Deep Relaxation Ritual (€60, 30 minutes) uses Ground Aromatherapy oils and gentle massage techniques to activate the lymphatic system, leading to deep relaxation.

Designed for those experiencing weak nails and dry skin, the Hand & Foot Ritual (€60, 30 minutes) protects the nail beds using oils infused with jojoba and red algae followed by a hand and foot massage that applies mindful lymphatic pressure to pressure points on the feet.

The Barróg (€155, 1 hour 45 minutes) includes the Tóg go bog é full body massage with the choice to add on any of the 30 minute Cancer Care treatments.

This special range of treatments will be available to book across the selected properties from October 1st. Should you wish to purchase the products as truly beautiful gifts you'll find them now in Brown Thomas HERE and on Irish Beauty site Millies.ie HERE (if you use SueJordan at checkout you'll receive an additional 20% off too.

To find out more about the iNua Collection, visit www.INUA.ie

Best Beauty for Teens ~ Skincare, Makeup, Brushes & More!

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Sun, 27 Sep 2020 09:30:00 +0000

Looking for the best beauty products, makeup, and skincare for teens? Look no further. This question comes up a lot on Instagram, and especially now that we're looking towards Christmas gifting time. These affordable beauty brands, favoured by Youtubers and Influencers alike will easily please the most discerning teens and passionate young makeup addicts too.

L'Occitane Immortelle Divine Collection - NEW!

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Sun, 13 Sep 2020 14:49:00 +0000

Are you in need of a skincare shakeup? In one of the most teased trials I've done to date, which I'm in no way sorry for, I can finally reveal the secret to my skin's sudden turnaround. L'occitane Immortelle Divine Collection, as though it could have ever been anything else. If you're looking for plumped, hydrated & beautifully luminous skin, look no further. Well look down below, obviously..

7 Helpful Phrases for Saying NO ~ Digital Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Sat, 29 Aug 2020 17:41:00 +0000

No is a complete sentence. That's important; as is maintaining healthy personal & professional boundaries. When it comes to working online though, it's also essential to maintain professional relationships. So here's how to say NO, digital edition.

Read More »

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes Mascara - With Pics!

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Wed, 26 Aug 2020 10:30:00 +0000

Charlotte Tilbury's latest release, Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes mascara is here! Granted there have been many releases of late but check out the before and after below. If you're looking for instant volume, length and lift, usually only achievable with strip lashes then you'll find it HERE*. Check out the dramatic results after the jump.

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Increase Your Reach on Stories - How To!

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Thu, 20 Aug 2020 12:51:00 +0000

Want more organic reach for your Instagram Stories? Want to increase your impressions and multiply your following without spending a cent? Here's How to:

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Help Keratosis Pilaris FAST with First Aid Beauty!

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Wed, 19 Aug 2020 21:00:00 +0000

If you struggle with the dreaded KP, this here? This'll help & fast! I've had KP (Keratosis Pilaris) for as long as I can remember & that's a long time. That's the tiny bumps on upper arms, thighs and cheeks (of both varieties ) Considered a variant of normal skin, it's still a nuisance.

Vita-C Eyes Dark Circle Corrector - Review!

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Mon, 10 Aug 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Occasionally a product comes along that completely does away with the need for several others - this time, my friends it's Murad Vita-C Dark Circle Corrector. I've been using this potent lil under eye lotion since it arrived in May, and when I tell you it packs a punch!

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Ever Use Your Lip Liners as Eyeliners? Let's Talk!

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Sat, 08 Aug 2020 18:27:00 +0000

Let's talk liners! If you've seen my Instagram (Liner Highlight too) you'll know I've an eclectic taste when it comes to pens & pencils - both lip & eye. They can transform any makeup look in minutes, especially if you get creative. My one abiding beauty habit is repurposed lip liners. They give great effect with minimal effort - take Tilbury's Pillow Talk Intense for example (seen above) 

Ads Don't Always Mean Money Changes Hands & Here's Why

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Sat, 18 Jul 2020 11:30:00 +0000

What makes an Ad an Ad?

I know most of us know by now that if money changes hands that a post should be clearly labeled as #Ad or #Sp (more specifically used when money is involved. Often scripted content), but did you know that money doesn't need to change hands at all? Let me explain.

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Tellybox Beauty Breakdown ft Armani Neo Nude, YSL, Bobbi Brown, Tilbury & More

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Fri, 17 Jul 2020 08:30:00 +0000

Instgram has for sure been getting the best of me when it comes to my Tellybox Beauty Breakdown posts, but let's go retro with an old style blog post too, shall we? As ever in these posts I'll break down the beauty products that I wear for TV appearances and let you know if they're worth your hard earned cash or not. In this post we're all about that Base and I have bad news, they're all killer. Fancy a look?

PR Samples are NOT #Gifted & Here's Why

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Fri, 03 Jul 2020 18:44:00 +0000

They say 'Never look a gift horse in the mouth' - they're not talking about Digital Marketing.

I've been vocal about Press samples not being gifts for eons and I love your tuppence too. #Gifted rustles ALL my jimmies and here's why: Gifts are given by friends and family not brands or agencies. Gifts are given by loved ones with no expectations ~ Press samples? Press samples are marketing materials. Simple. The prevalence of #Gifted does nothing but create confusion and ill will and I think we should stop using it entirely - Here's why:

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30 Ways to Keep Kids Entertained ~ Through Lockdown and Beyond!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 27 Jun 2020 15:16:00 +0000

We’re now 3 months into travel restrictions and I’m sure you like me are

sometimes struggling to come up with something else to keep your children

entertained. As a Mam of 7 children ranging in age from newborn to 13 years old I pretty much have a child at every developmental stage so I have to be

resourceful and cater for all their needs.

As an addition to my recent NUK Baby Talk on Instagram I’ve decided to put together this list of 30 things to help keep your children entertained. I’m conscious like me some of you don’t have the time, energy or funds to be constantly buying or organising things to do so hopefully these ideas will help.

Lapland on a Budget ~ A Mums on the Run Group!

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Tue, 31 Dec 2019 09:30:00 +0000

Oh, you want to travel to Lapland without breaking the bank do you? Long dreamed about a trip to the winter wonderland and home of the original Santa have you? Corrina has long shared her knowledge of how to do Lapland on a Budget on this here blog HERE. HERE and HERE , but of late has been gaining attention in mainstream media too - because she does what we've always tried to do - make the dream accessible for all!

We've now added Lapland on a Budget to our umbrella of Mums on the Run groups and to say it's exploded is quite the understatement. Almost 7 THOUSAND members in a fortnight. If that's not indicative of a genuine Irish & UK desire to live the Lapland dream then I don't know what is.

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How to Hugely Boost Your Facebook Reach For Free! Updated September 2019

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Thu, 26 Sep 2019 17:55:00 +0000

There's not a day goes by that I don't receive a message bemoaning Facebook changes or chat to a fellow blogger who has decided to toss in the towel on that social media platform altogether. Many blame Facebook algorithms and, to be fair, they are unfairly biased against those that don't shell out a fortune for sponsored ad placements. Well what if I told you that you could multiply your Facebook reach exponentially in just 3 simple steps without paying a penny?

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Totally Tilbury ~ Tellybox Beauty Breakdown ft a Full Face of Charlotte Tilbury

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 20:30:00 +0000

We know by this stage (3 years later) how particular I am when it comes to my makeup for the TV, right? Often the lovely ladies in the Virgin Media makeup room will powder me down or gloss me up, but for the most part, I arrive ready for set. On this occasion I arrived readier than ever as Naomi on the Charlotte Tilbury counter in Brown Thomas had very kindly made up my face. If this visage, while plagued with pneumonia and pleurisy isn't the best ad for the magic of Tilbury products I don't know what is! (It's actually not a Charlotte Tilbury Ad, just so we're clear)

Help Getting to Sleep: Catching Elusive Zs After the Christmas Break!

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Sun, 06 Jan 2019 18:00:00 +0000

So we did it, we managed to survive the first official working week back of 2019. Or did we? Hands up if you looked at the clock every hour on the hour, hands up if you found yourself scrolling Instagram at 4am, while sleep eluded you... Hands up if a bleary eyed google search brought you here.. Luckily, I got you, a good night's rest is just on the horizon with my 5 top tips on how to beat insomnia and have you sleeping again in no time at all.

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Bluestone National Park Resort Wales - Review!

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Tue, 13 Nov 2018 08:30:00 +0000

When we got the mail inviting us to Bluestone National Park Resort in Wales I don’t know who was more excited me or the kids! I’d considered booking Bluestone a few times but something always stopped me I think it’s mainly because we love to keep going and exploring further afield as we have done on many of our UK road trips. Five hundred acres of rolling hills and woodland nestled in the Pembrokeshire countryside, I knew the kids were going to love everything about it, and that was before I told them about the Blue Lagoon!

Rose Gold Hair from Garnier Olia - Unfiltered Pics & Review!

noreply@blogger.com (Sue Jordan) — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 18:50:00 +0000

You'd have to be living under a very large rock not to notice we've gone WAY beyond a handful of hair colours. I can remember Aaron (who currently rocks a cobalt blue fauxhawk) mentioning that people with differently coloured hair always acknowledged each other in public with a nod or a wink - he says that doesn't happen as often now that coloured hair has gone mainstream, which is fair because what's more mainstream than your Mam turning rose gold?!

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