Take Care Of Your Hands with Green People

Happy Friday, I hope everyone is well and staying safe! Today's post features a product duo from the lovely people over at Green People that is perfect for our current global situation with an added benefit of helping charities too! I've been lucky enough to work with Green People a few times since 2014 and I cannot recommend their products enough, especially their sensitive skincare range and lipsticks (the velvet matte lipstick in 'berry nude' is my ideal everyday lipstick). 

*Green People Scent Free Everyday Hand Care Set (£25) 

I was very kindly sent their new scent free hand care duo which I've been using everyday for the past week or so. Before I get into the review, I'll mention that for every purchase of the hand care set, the two items individually or some of their other products, a donation of £1 will be given to NHS charities if you make your purchase before the 31st May so go, go, go! Click on the link above to see a list of all the products that are eligible for the donation if you want to make an order with Green People and support the NHS. 

*Green People Scent Free Hand Wash (£10, 300ml)

Let's start with the product everyone has been using in abundance (hopefully) over the past couple of months, hand wash. I've been using a mixture of generic hand wash and my Lush soaps that I needed to use up ('honey I washed the kids' is my all time favourite soap). The generic anti-bacterial hand wash and hand sanitisers I've been using have all left my hands feeling quite tight and dry which isn't very pleasant especially as we're all having to wash our hands more often so I'm very glad to have this new hand wash from Green People as it's the most gentle and non-drying hand wash I've ever used. 

*Green People Scent Free Hand Lotion (£15, 300ml)

Last not not least is an equally as important hand care step, lotion! We've all been told to wash our hands and use hand sanitiser multiple times per day but using lotion after hand washing is so important to keep the skin comfortable, moisturised and supple. If you have been following my blog for a couple of years then you might know that I used to suffer with horrendous, itchy and dry eczema on my face and hands (thankfully I don't have any eczema now due to switching to a vegan diet) but I used to need hand lotion constantly so I know the benefit to provides to the skin. Due to my eczema I've tried countless hand creams and lotions, most of which work well but if you are looking for a quick to absorb lotion that is gentle but effective then you really can't go wrong with this lovely Green People hand lotion! 

Have you tried anything from Green People? 

*gifted

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Veganuary: Cruelty-Free Cleanser Challenge

January is the month for veganuary and this is my third time taking part although it's not going 100% to plan, especially as I didn't stock up on vegan essentials beforehand but I'm back on track now with my diet. I love taking part in veganuary, even though my diet is almost completely vegan already and I'd definitely encourage you to take part or to switch to a vegetarian diet to try it out.

One aspect of becoming a vegetarian or vegan that I think most people overlook is their beauty collection as well as leather items they may buy. I don't personally buy leather and I'm pretty sure that I don't know anything that is fully made of leather either, thankfully. However my beauty collection still contains products that aren't cruelty free or 100% vegan but it's something I'm working on in 2018 - it will be a slow process as I want use up those products rather than wasting them by throwing them all away.

Green People have created the 'cruelty free cleanser' challenge to coincide with veganuary as they have lots of vegan products to choose from and all of their products are crudely free. I've used some of their products previously and I've loved them so I was excited to try this box of goodies when it arrived a couple of weeks ago!

*Green People Quinoa & Artichoke Hair Duo (£16.95, 100ml each)

Let's start with the products I've been using the most which include this gorgeous and very effective shampoo and conditioner duo. Both products contain spring water, artichoke, quinoa proteins, sweet orange peel oil, ginger root oil and many others. Their products are SLS free, fragrance, gluten, colourant, paraben and lanolin free which is amazing!

I've been using this duo on and off for the past couple of weeks and I've now used up both bottles (as my hair is SO long) and I've loved using them especially as the shampoo lathers so quickly and easily. Additionally, as my hair is so long, it can become a birds nest of tangles but this conditioner really helps to detangle and moisturise my hair.

*Green People Daily Aloe Shower Gel (£12.50, 200ml)

Another product from Green People that I've been loving this month is their Daily Aloe Shower Gel which is not only gently effective but it smells heavenly. It doesn't just contain aloe vera, it also contains spring water, olive fruit oil and lavender, the latter is a favourite of mine so I knew I'd love this shower gel! It's effective as well as being gentle on the skin and the scent is gorgeous.

*Green People Gentle Cleanse & Makeup Remover (£13, 50ml)

Last but not least is one of the most gentle, non-irritating cleansers I've ever used! I have tried the Neutral Scent Free Cleanser from Green People a few years ago which I loved but I definitely prefer this one. It contains sunflower seed oil, rosemary leaf extract, marigold flower extract and many more wonderful, natural ingredients that are perfect for my sensitive, eczema prone skin.

Admittedly it is a very basic, no frills cleanser but that's what I want! I need something that will remove even waterproof makeup easily without drying out my skin or irritating it and this product ticks all of the boxes! I also love the packaging of this cleanser!

Overall, Green People has been consistently one of my favourite natural brands and I've loved every item I've tried so far. If you are looking to add in some more natural cruelty free or vegan items into your beauty collection then look no further than Green People.

Have you tried anything from Green People? Are you taking part in Veganuary? 

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Green People Scent Free Sun Lotion & Lip Balm

Green People is a brand that I have tried a few things from and I have loved literally every single product! I have some of their sensitive skincare which I have already reviewed on my blog so you can check it out if you want and I was recently sent some of their sun care products to test out and they came just in time for a glorious couple of sunny weekends we've had in Manchester recently! Green People have a few great articles about the truth about UVA protection, the truth about SPF 50 and about waterproof sun lotion.

The sun isn't something you usually see in Manchester but when you do, it's gorgeous and so hot as it has been recently. I rarely use SPF, even on holiday, which is awful I know but I find sun creams can be so heavy and greasy on my skin so I'm put off using them. However, I received the *Green People Scent Free Sun Lotion SPF30 (£21, 200ml) which I actually really like! It is non-irritating so it's perfect for sensitive skin as all of the products from Green People are; it's also water resistant and 78% of the ingredients used are organic.

The sun lotion looks and feels like most others but it does absorb quite quickly and doesn't leave a heavy or greasy feeling residue on the skin. It doesn't irritate my skin and I have been using it almost constantly for the past few weekends earlier in the month when we had a heatwave - obviously it isn't sunny or hot now! Overall rating: ★★★★☆, 4/5.

I also received the *Green People Soft Lips Lip Balm SPF8 (£5.50, 10ml) which comes in a super handy squeezy tube so it is perfect for travelling or keeping in your handbag, the latter is what I have been doing. My lips can be quite dry most of the time so a lip balm is essential but I don't have one that has SPF so I'm glad I have this one. It is a fairly glossy which is something I don't like but it is moisturising and smoothing. Overall rating: ★★★★★, 5/5!

Have you tried anything from Green People? 

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Review: Green People Sensitive Skin Solution

I have wanted to try a new skincare range for a while, I didn't know which brand to choose but I knew I wanted more natural products. I am not unhappy with the other products I was using but I wanted to try something different and products with more natural, skin friendly ingredients. I was very kindly sent a sample set to try from Green People, I expected sample sachets but it is a large set! To check out my disclaimer, click here. 

I have the *Green People Sensitive Skin Solutions Set (£29.95) which contains three products - the Scent Free Cleanser (50ml), Scent Free 24-Hour Cream (50ml) and the Scent Free Eye Cream (10ml). I think this set is a great way of trying all of the products in this range - it would make a great gift too. Firstly, the delivery was quick and the items were well packaged. The packaging of the actual products is great too, very simple.

*Green People Sensitive Scent Free Cleanser & Makeup Remover (£18.95 for 200ml): The cleanser has a pump dispenser so you can easily control how much you use so there is no waste. The cleanser is very smooth and creamy on the skin and I feel like it cleanses my skin well, although it does not strip my skin! The cleanser does not irritate my skin at all (and I have eczema occasionally). Overall, this cleanser is just fantastic for dry, sensitive skin, I cannot recommend it enough. Also it is 91% organic. ★★★★★, 5/5!

*Green People Sensitive Scent Free Anti-ageing 24 Hour Cream (£15.95 for 50ml): The skincare item that can irritate my skin the most is moisturiser, although I had no such problems with this product! The cream is fairly thick but it is smooth and applies nicely to the skin. It doesn't feel heavy or greasy on the skin and it absorbs quickly leaving my skin smooth, soothed and moisturised. No irritation at all! It does have a slight scent which may be from the packaging, I am not sure, but it isn't strong or unpleasant. It provides just the right amount of moisture and leaves my skin comfortable. I cannot comment on the anti-ageing benefits as I am only 21 but it is a lovely facial moisturiser! ★★★★★, 5/5!

*Green People Rejuvenating Eye Cream (£9.50 for 10ml): I have a love hate relationship with eye creams, I feel like the ones I have tried do work but they are time consuming to use and the benefits are often only noticed after long term use. Although I feel it is important to use eye cream on a daily basis. The packaging for this eye cream looks like a lip balm tube, it is quite handy and would be great for travelling. The cream is light weight, it absorbs quickly and it leaves the skin feeling smooth and hydrated but not overly so. ★★★★☆, 4/5!

Overall, I am very impressed with the brand and products - also 10% of the net profit goes to charity! Also I tried a sample of their *Help At Hand Cream which I really like, great scent and it didn't irritate my skin. Green People are offering 10% off their sensitive skin range which lasts all month! Have you tried anything from Green People? 

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New In: Green People Sensitive Skincare

I love trying out new skincare, as I like to try new makeup, because I'm always looking for better, more effective, natural or more affordable products. However, as I have sensitive skin it is always a little difficult to find products that don't irritate my skin but thanks to my blog I've been able to find some amazing brands/products that are perfect for my skin and these two new products from Green People are no different.

- *Green People Sensitive Scent Free Hydrating Serum (£17.50, 50ml): The serum contains 96.7% organic ingredients such as chamomile, marine algae, marshmallow and aloe vera. It's suitable for vegetarians and vegans. The packaging is fantastic, it is simplistic and it has a pump dispenser.

The serum has a light, gel texture which feels so refreshing, smoothing and lightweight on the skin so it is perfect for this tie of the year when I reach for lighter products. It applies like water to the skin and it absorbs very quickly! The serum leaves my skin very smooth and moisturised; a perfect base for moisturiser. It doesn't irritate my skin at all, even where I have eczema. Overall rating: ★★★★★, 5/5.

- *Green People Sensitive Scent Free Light Day Moisturiser (£16.50, 50ml): As with the serum, the moisturiser is suitable for vegetarians/vegans, it doesn't contain alcohol and it is scent free. The moisturiser contains 88.8% organic ingredients such as chamomile, prebiotics, avocado oil and jojoba oil, among others.

Again, I love the packaging! The moisturiser has a creamy but light texture that applies smoothly and absorbs SO quickly as with the serum but because of that I do seem to need to apply a couple of layers of this moisturiser. It doesn't irritate my skin and I have been absolutely loving the pairing as it is such a simple skincare combo but it's effective. Overall raing: ★★★★★, 5/5.

Have you tried anything from Green People? What do you think of this brand? 

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Mens Christmas Gift Guide: Part One

I love this time of the year when the leaves are changing, everything feels a little more cosy and all of the Christmas gift sets are being released. I have quite a few beauty gift sets and advent calendars on my wish list this year! Today's post is my first mens gift guide of 2019 featuring a range of grooming, fragrance, lifestyle and home gifts for a range of budgets. Check out my first womens gift guide of the year for more gift ideas and to enter my giveaway to win a £60 gift card for TJ Hughes!

*Green People Grooming Ritual Gift Set (£15)

Let's start with a few grooming gifts as I think those are some of the 'safest' and easiest gifts to give at this time of the year, especially as men can be a little difficult to buy for, in my opinion. I love buying and giving gifts for friends and family but the two people I struggle with the most when it comes to finding great gifts are my dad and grandad. They end up with the same gifts every year but thankfully they always seem to like grooming or fragrance gifts.

This gift set from Green People is a fantastic all round, easy and natural gift set that I think would be perfect for those who are difficult to buy for including dads, friends and uncles but also people you might not know quite as well too such as friend's partners, colleagues or cousins, for example. I have been lucky enough to try quite a few products from green people such as their skincare, SPF and makeup with my favourite product of theirs being the *Green People Velvet Matte Lipstick but their gift sets are equally as fantastic.

The gift set contains three x 30ml bottles of their exfoliating face scrub, soothing shave gel and the cooling moisturiser, all three of which are certified organic, cruelty free, suitable for vegans and recyclable. I think this gift set is fantastic for so many people, not just in terms of the quality of the products and the ethos of the brand but it's a great basic set and I love the packaging!

*Carbon Coco Magnetic Charcoal Mask (£54.95)

Sticking with the grooming and skincare theme, Carbon Coco have recently launched their magnetic charcoal face mask. Skincare isn't just for women, everyone needs to look after their skin as it's one of the first lines of defence, it is the largest organ and it is also the first place to visibly show the signs of ageing, dehydration or a poor diet.

I will be posting a full review of the mask in the next couple of weeks but I wanted to include it within this gift guide as I think it's a great gift set idea and something a little different too as I imagine most people haven't used a magnetic face mask before. I've only tried it once so far but I love it and can't wait to share my full review soon.

*Remarkable Trees by Christina Harrison and Tony Kirkham (£24.95)

Next up, a couple of book gift ideas as along with beauty or grooming gifts, I think books are a safe bet, especially non-fiction. I personally love to receive book gift cards or books as gifts but they're even better if they are beautifully published and designed which all of the books from Thames and Hudson seem to be. I've raved about the gorgeous books I've received and bought from Thames and Hudson in various posts, including a couple of last years gift guides and my book recommendation for 2019 is no different.

Remarkable Trees is not only a beautifully published book but I love the layout and the incredible illustrations through it which depict various trees, plants, landscapes and seeds to provide a comprehensive look at the remarkable world of trees. This book would be perfect for those interesting in the natural world, natural history or gardening in general. I find most aspects of non-fiction fascinating so this book is perfect for me and it will be fully reviewed as part of my October and November reading wrap-up at the end of the month.

*Teatulia Classic Tea Selection (£14.95)

If you've read my womens gift guide then you will have seen the jasmine green tea from Teatulia that I mentioned (and loved) but today's post is all about their classic tea selection gift set. The set comes beautifully but simply packaged and includes three tins of their black, oolong and green tea options. The tins are 30g each and contain loose leaf tea so if you're gift recipient doesn't have a strainer or infuser then you could include one (along with a few other goodies) and the selection as a mini hamper.

Even though I'm English, I don't like tea unless it's black, herbal, green or mint but thankfully Teatulia has a great range of options to choose from including caffeine free herbal tea, spiced tea, teaware and tea gifts such as this lovely set. I think the set is great for tea lovers or those who want to try new varieties of tea. Check out Teatulia for more tea related gifts and teaware.

*ASDA Photo Double Sided Wall Calendar (£13)

I personally love to give and also receive personalised gifts and a photo book or personalised calendar ticks all the boxes for a thoughtful, memorable and special gift but one that it also practical - we all know by now how much I love practical gifts. I've gifted numerous photograph and personalised gifts over the years, from photo books and printed cushions to notebooks and calendars and they are always received with smiles!

I think any personalised gift will go down very well as a Christmas gift as it shows more thought and time has gone into the gift compared to a generic store-bought gift, especially if you can add memorable, funny or beautiful photographs. I added lots of lovely holiday photos to my wall calendar for 2020 as there are so many wonderful memories within the photographs that I want to display. I opted for a variety of collages and single photographs to I could fit the best photos in the best places and to add more to the calendar.

I usually gift my granddad a photograph calendar for christmas with photos of myself, my sister and our grandad which he always seems to love. I've made his calendars on a variety of websites over the past three or so years and using the ASDA Photo site was very easy, delivery was quick and I'm really happy with the print quality and colours. If you're looking to give a personalised photo gift this year then definitely check out ASDA Photo!

*Reco Plastic Free Shaving Starter Box (£25, sale)

2019 has been the year of reducing plastic and veganism and I couldn't be happier but one aspect that I haven't really considered until now is gift giving. I know that certain rolls of wrapping paper can't be recycled so I will be using brown paper this year that can be; however I haven't really considered plastic free gifts before. Thankfully more and more companies are brining out plastic free or more environmentally friendly products and Reco is one of them!

I was very kindly sent their plastic free starter box which contains the Reco 3R safety razor, Astra razor blades (x5) and their natural shaving soap. I have only used disposable razors, I've never tried a safety razor and it is a little intimidating, especially as the razor blades are so sharp and they have to be fitted each time. However, I am trying to reduce plastic waste so it seems like a fantastic, reusable option.

The safety razor is unisex, the blades are cheap to replace and there should be less irritation with a single blade. I've only used it once and while it is mildly terrifying to use, it isn't difficult but it requires a little practice. I think it would make a great eco-friendly and practical gift for men or women, particularly if you want to give more environmentally conscious gifts this year.

*Two Tiered Slate Cake Stand (£24.99)

Another great unisex gift idea is this beautiful, sleek and personalised two tiered cake stand! Again, this gift ticks all the boxes for gift giving as it's beautiful, unique, practical and it can be made a little extra special with a personalised message such as a quote, message or a name. I love the look of slate for homeware or kitchenware and this cake stand is no different. I think it would be ideal for anyone who loves to bake as it's a great size to display and serve sweet treats on such as brownies, cake slices or cupcakes, especially over the festive season. I love to cook and bake over the christmas period, particularly vegan gingerbread which would look so cute on the cake stand. If you're looking for personalised gifts, check out Happiness is a Gift for a wide range of wonderful gift ideas for all ages, budgets and interests!

*The Amazing Mystery Box - GOT (from £19.99 per box)

If you have a fan of a particular TV show, movie or series in your life then The Amazing Mystery Box would make a fantastic and unique gift idea! I chose the Game of Thrones box as it's one of my favourite TV series and I usually love the merchandise from the show. The value of the box is double the cost so it's amazing value for money and you can specify the box you want such as a particular TV show or movie (for example, Doctor Who and Star Wars) or by the age of your recipient.

My box contained six items ranging from stationery, pins and wearables to homeware and figurines. I'm happy with the range of items in the box as typically there are mainly figurines in boxes like this but I'm glad there are a few more practical items such as the glasses, tote bag and notebook, all of which I'd love. If you follow me on Instagram (@ofbeautyand), you'll have seen my unboxing.

I think it's a great gift idea that is a little more unique and even though it's a mystery box of goodies (which anyone would love to receive), it can be more personal to your gift recipient by the type of box you choose. If you have an adult, teen or child to buy for that loves mystery boxes, certain TV shows or movies or collectables then I can't think of a better gift this Christmas.

*Emporio Armani Diamonds For Men (£29, 30ml)

Last but definitely not least are a couple of gift ideas from TJ Hughes! I've included a couple of similar gifts from TJ Hughes within my womens gift guide if you want to check it out and be in with a chance of winning a £60 TJ Hughes gift card. TJ Hughes has such a great range of gifts to choose from including homeware, beauty and fragrance gifts. All of the gifts and fragrances on TJ Hughes are at fantastic prices and this one is no different so if you want to grab a bargain for yourself or someone else, check out their website or stores.

Emporio Armani Diamonds For Men contains the following notes: Italian bergamot, woods, pepper, cedar wood, vetiver, amber and cocoa bean which combine to make such a rich fragrance that I think will be a hit with so many gift recipients - my dad included and he can be very picky when it comes to all gifts but especially fragrances. If you are looking for a fragrance gift for yourself (treat your self!) or someone else this christmas then it's well worth looking on the TJ Hughes website or in-store to see if they have what you're looking for as you might be able to save a little money, which is always welcome at this time of the year.

*Baylis and Harding Citrus, Lime and Mint Grooming Duo (£7.99)

Lastly is a gift set from Baylis and Harding which is a great gift idea for dads, colleagues or as a secret Santa gift as you can't really go wrong with lovely smelling toiletries for christmas! This set contains a 300ml body wash as well as a 200ml shower gel. Baylis and Harding gifts always tend to be well presented and very inexpensive so if you're on a budget, it's a great brand to check out.

I just wanted to mention another unique gift to finish today's post and it's a luxe subscription service, Summerton Whisky Club, which I reviewed in my mens gift guide last Christmas. The subscription service is £50 per month and for the price you (or your lucky gift recipient) will receive the monthly bottle of whisky which is specially selected. I think it would make a very special and luxe gift this Christmas and it's a gift that will keep on giving for the length of the subscription you choose.

I hope you found a few gift ideas for the men in your life from today's post and don't forget to enter my latest giveaway with TJ Hughes for your chance to win a £60 gift card giveaway. It is UK only (sorry!) and it ends on the 17th November so you still have time to enter.

What do you think of my first mens gift guide of the year? 

*gifted

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Ultimate Stocking Fillers Gift Guide

This post is going to be a long post, so maybe grab a snack and a coffee! There are some amazing and gorgeous stocking fillers in this post, most are great for women and teens but there are also a few gifts for children, men, colleagues and secret santa recipients so hopefully there should be something for everyone, including a couple of cute personalised gifts. 

First up, one of the most seasonal gifts, the *Elegant Touch House Of Ho Ho Ho Christmas Nails (£8.99 each). I was kindly sent a few in various cute and festive designs including: Deck The Halls and Snow Globe, both of which are so pretty and christmassy. I think they'd make perfect gifts for teens and anyone interested in beauty. I was also sent the equally pretty *Elegant Touch Nails (£6.99) which are a slightly cheaper option but the designs are adorable - I have Polar Opposites and Let It Snow designs. I hear nothing but amazing things about this brand and their false nails so I can't wait try these in December. 

Chocolate is usually a really safe gift to choose for secret santas, colleagues, friends, neighbours...basically everyone, I'm also a fan of chocolate *wink wink*. Morse Toad (best brand name ever?) have a range of personalised greeting cards with chocolate in them as well as little stocking fillers. I was able to choose a couple of products and I chose the *Morse Toad 'Merry Xmas' Chocolate Christmas Card (£10.50) which comes really nicely packaged and has Merry Xmas in chocolate within the card. I chose the 'add your own image' option so I have an old photograph of myself and my best friends  from years ago so we can all cringe and share the chocolates! I also picked up the *Personalised Chocolate Stocking Filler (£2.75) and I opted for the 'Ho Ho Ho' message which would be great to add to a secret santa gift, as part of a foodie hamper or as a little christmas morning stocking filler. 

I love Green People skincare, I've tried a few products and I cannot recommend them enough if you have sensitive skin. They have brought out a few products where 15p from each Refresh Gift sold will go to support the work of the Butterfly Conservation, so not only do you get a little treat for yourself or a stocking filler for mums, aunties, friends or secret santa gifts but you are also contributing to charity! 

The packaging is gorgeous and I know that isn't everything but during the festive season, it's worth finding pretty gifts for friends and family. The *Green People Refresh Shower Gel (£5.50, 30ml) is 82% organic, it's a special edition product and it contains sweet orange, ginger, aloe leaf juice, amara flower water and more natural ingredients. There's also the *Green People Nourish Hand Cream (£6.50, 30ml) and it contains ho wood and red mandarin. I think hand cream is a really safe gift and it's always needed especially at this time of the year. Lastly, the *Green people Indulge Night Treat (£8.50, 30ml) which is an organic facial night cream that contains raspberry and apple. As I said, I cannot recommend Green People skincare enough! All three products are suitable of vegetarians and vegans *round of applause*. 

Now onto a couple of snacks, I've always had food as a stocking filler because opening christmas presents is hungry work! The snack of choice for my stocking fillers post are these moreish *Rocky Rice Bars which come in Chocolate, Strawberry an Orange flavours. I used to have these kinds of bars in school as a snack and I still love snacks like these. All three are so yummy, moreish and perfect as a snack and on the go. The chocolate is my favourite but the strawberry is great too! 

Burts Bees and Crabtree and Evelyn are two of my favourite brands when it comes to gifts and I've bought various sets and products from both brands for friends and family. First up, the *Crabtree and Evelyn Ultra-Moisturising Hand Therapy 'Feast For The Senses' Christmas Cracker (£6) which contains three mini hand creams in the scents: spiced earl grey, festive fig and rose pineapple. The Crabtree and Evelyn hand creams are fantastic and all three scents are amazing, especially the spiced earl grey hand cream. I love the Christmas cracker packaging, it's adorable and so festive. 

Next up is another gift that comes so beautifully packaged, the *Burt's Bees Treat From The Bees Set (£7.99) comes in a honey pot style glass jar with a metal handle - it could definitely be re-used for jewellery, mini soap or tea lights (it would be perfect for tea lights). The pot contains the vanilla lip balm, peppermint & vitamin E lip balm and their classic hand salve. I have the Burt's Bees Original Beeswax lip balm which I adore so I cannot recommend their lip balms enough. My mum, aunties, friends and cousins would love this little but luxe festive gift. 

Mini's are a fantastic option for stocking fillers as they are inexpensive but most brands have some minis, including more expensive or luxe brands such as Moroccan Oil. I've tried a few Moroccan Oil products including the amazing hair oil and I love these minis. The *Moroccan Oil Moisturise Repair Shampoo (£6.25, 70ml) and Conditioner (£6.75, 70ml) are perfect stocking fillers - I love their products, as they are perfect for my dry, frizzy hair and they smell AMAZING! I also couldn't recommend the Moroccan Oil dry shampoo enough too. 

Sticking with the haircare theme, the *Tangle Teezer Lulu Guinness Compact Styler (£13.50) which would be perfect for friends/family who love beauty/haircare or who have thick, long or tangle prone hair. Additionally this particular brush would be great for anyone who loves Lulu Guinness prints/designs - they have a lot of other designs to choose from including Hello Kitty. Another Tangle Teezer brush that would be a great, practical gift is the *Tangle Teezer Finishing Brush (£15) which I've been using constantly as it's amazing for taming frizz!

Toys and plushies would also be great for childrens stocking fillers or fans of the characters; there are so many to choose from including Marvel and comic book characters, Star Warz, Wizard of Oz and Christmas characters. They're from Hallmark but they can be purchased from Amazon. I have the *Batman Itty Bitty (£6), *Scooby Doo Itty Bitty (£5.99) and the *Snoopy Itty Bitty (£6). They are all so adorable, soft and utterly cute! 

They next few gifts would be ideal for work colleagues, secret santa gifts or stocking fillers! Let's start with some gorgeous stationary from Flying Tiger Copenhagen; I have a few items from them and they're fantastic as is the price. They have so many fantastic little gifts including the *Ballpoint Pen and Propelling Pencil Set (£2), Gold Triangle Paper Clips (£1 for 30) and a cute Leather-Look Notebook (£2), all of which would be perfect for work colleagues or any students in your life. 

Next up, a foodie gift! As well as socks, gift cards, bath products and chocolate, foodie gifts are a really safe bet. The *English Provender Sweet Tomato & Chilli Chutney (£1.90, 325g) and the *English Provender Apple, Pear & Fig Chutney (£1.90, 325g), would be great Christmas stocking fillers or as part of a hamper - they're really inexpensive too. 

The final two items are two of my favourites as they're so pretty, for different reasons but they would both make lovely gifts. I am constantly making lists, especially to-do lists and this *Busy B List Pad (£7.99) is perfect; I adore the design and I know I will get so much use out of it and if you know any stationery lovers or list makers then I'm sure they will too. 

The final item in my stocking fillers gift guide is the *POP Book (£5.99) which is an app created by Fujifilm, whereby you can create a photo book using Instagram, Facebook or the photos on your phone. The app is really easy to use although for me it did crash a few times and I kept having to start over again but that might just have been my internet. The book is really well made and it's 10cm by 10cm, so it's a great pocket/stocking filler size. I filled mine with photos from our trip to London and the Harry Potter studios in August. It would make a lovely gift for anyone! 

Phew, there are all of my stocking filler gift ideas and I couldn't recommend them enough especially the Burt's Bees Pot, POP Book, Itty Bitty Plushies, Tangle Teezers (not even for a present, just for yourself!) and well...just everything in this post! Thank you so much to all of the incredibly lovely brands for the wonderful gifts! 

What do you think of my stocking filler gift ideas? Have you done your Christmas shopping yet? 

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Green People Cruelty Free Makeup

If you've been following my blog for a while then you might know that I have been on/off vegan for the past four or so years but since the beginning of 2019 I've switched my diet to a fully vegan diet. The switch in terms of my diet has been very easy and instant but changing my skincare, bodycare, haircare and makeup to cruelty free options has been a slower process. Also sometimes it can be a little difficult to find out if a certain product or a brand is vegan or cruelty free.

*Green People Velvet Matte Lipstick - Berry Nude (£17)

Thankfully one brand that is very clear when it comes to which products are vegan or not is Green People. You can easily see on their product pages whether a product is vegan or not which makes shopping so much easier! For example, this beautiful lipstick is vegetarian and cruelty free but sadly it isn't vegan (as it contains beeswax). I was kindly sent the Berry Nude shade which is a gorgeous natural rose, berry shade that would be ideal for everyday.

*Green People High Definition Eyeliner - Carbon Black (£14.50)

Another item from their newly expanded cruelty free makeup range is their High Definition Eyeliner in Carbon Black which thankfully is vegan and cruelty free. I used to wear eyeliner, in all of it's forms (liquid, pencil and gel) constantly growing up and throughout university but I haven't recently. However, this liner is so quick and easy to use and my favourite way of using it is to apply a little along my upper and lower lash lines and smudge it for definition. If you're looking for an easily blendable, vegan liner then check it out.

I've tried a few Green People products and I love their skincare, I cannot recommend their sensitive skincare enough! I'd also recommend this gorgeous liner, especially if you're a little lazy with liner and makeup in the summer as I am. If you're looking for cruelty free makeup then definitely check out their makeup range as it ranges from eyeliner, lipsticks, mascara and powder to blush, tinted moisturisers and more.

Have you tried any of their makeup or skincare products? 

*gifted

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Christmas: Pampering Gifts: His + Hers (and giveaway)

Christmas is fast approaching so gift guides are in full swing! I've already posted a few with more pampering gifts and today's post carries on from them but instead of just focusing on womens pampering gifts, I'm looking at a few womens gifts, mens gifts and unisex gifts that would be great gift sets this Christmas!

I was very kindly sent a range of gifts from the wonderful Heathcote & Ivory, Temple Spa and Green People, all of which are gorgeous with some being inexpensive and others are a little more luxurious. I've had a fantastic response to my early gift guides this year already so I hope you like this one and maybe you'll find some gift ideas for friends and family.

*Gardners Tree Tidings (£5)

Let's start with one of the most inexpensive items and one of the cutest! I love the packaging of this little gift set as not only does it look like an adorable Christmas tree but you could potentially hang it on your Christmas tree, if the branches are sturdy enough. The set contains three minis including a Shea butter hand cream (15ml), hedgerow hand cream (15ml) and relaxing bath tablets (25g). I think it's a great unisex gift set, I know my dad would use the hand creams and as they are minis, they are great for keeping in the car, by the sink or on a bedside table. I also think my aunties would love this cute set too!

*Heathcote & Ivory Lavender Fields (£8)

We all know how much I love lavender so this set is perfect! The packaging is so pretty and I think it's a great all around gift as it contains a hand and nail cream, hand scrub and nail file so I'd give it to my mum, aunties, neighbours or friends. The lavender scent is so nice and the sizes of the products are great too - the hand cream is a 100ml bottle and the hand scrub is 30ml.

Within the Lavender Fields range, there are so many other products and gift sets including a bigger hand cream and wash set, soap, bathing flowers and even an eau de toilette so theres something for everyone. If lavender isn't your thing or you don't think your gift recipient will love it (first, what's wrong with you), then there are other ranges to choose from such as blush rose, sweat pea & honeysuckle and lily of the valley options too.

*Temple Spa Bon Voyage Set (£22)

Next up is a set that will be perfect for so many people, men or women as it looks so festive and it is filled with a range of products from haircare and a shower gel to a skin balm, hand cream and soothing balm for aching feet and limbs. I know that my mum or dad would be happy with this set so would my fussy sister!

The items included are as follows: Good Hair Day frequent use shampoo, In Good Condition everyday hair conditioner, La La Lagoon aromatic bath & shower gel, Peace Be Still calming skin balm, Palm Balm luxury skincare for the hands and finally AAAHHH! soothing balm for aching feet & limbs.

It's such a nicely presented, neat and beautiful gift that almost doesn't need wrapping as the box is so pretty. Each bottle is 50ml so you get a decent size of each to try out before maybe buying the full size. This set would be ideal for those who haven't tried the brand before or for those who travel often as 50ml is a perfect travel size.

The products within the set contain Mediterranean botanicals and essential oils to match this luxurious gift set. Other ingredients include jojoba oil, lemon peel oil, chamomile flower oil, vitamin B5, dandelion leaf extract, sugar cane, bergamot fruit extract, tea tree leaf oil and many more.

*Temple Spa Air & Spaces Spa Aromatic Diffuser (£35, 200ml)

You can't have a pampering evening within a candle or diffuser! I adore candles but I know that not everybody does as they can be very overpowering and a fire hazard so diffusers are the perfect alternative, especially what it's as beautiful as this one from Temple Spa. The diffuser combines spices and botanical essential oils such as cedar wood, patchouli, bergamot, orange and cinnamon for this gorgeous festive fragrance.

Some of the essential oils listed are some of my all time favourites such as patchouli, bergamot and cedar wood so I knew I was going to love this diffuser instantly. It not only sounds amazing but the box is so pretty as well. The style is similar to the Bon Voyage set with the deep background and foiled design on the front.

However, the beauty doesn't need there as looks at how stunning the glass bottle of the diffuser is! I didn't expect it to look so gorgeous as on the website it looked mainly black but in the light it has a clear botanical pattern all the way around the bottle - the design matches the one on the box. I honestly don't think I've seen a more beautiful diffuser!

It also comes with black seven diffuser sticks to match the black design of the bottle. It's such a luxe, fancy diffuser that will definitely turn heads and I know so many of my friends and family tat would love to find it under the tree on Christmas Day. I cannot recommend these two divine Temple Spa gifts enough!

*Benecos Winter Dream Gift Set (£10.95)

Now onto a gift that is ideal if you know that your gift recipient has sensitive skin or if they are vegan as this set is perfect! All three products within the gift set are suitable for vegans to use, some of the ingredients are natural and some are also organic which is fantastic. The set contains a shower gel (200ml), body lotion (150ml) and a lip balm (4.8g), all of which contain vanilla extract - it's a scent that for me is so cosy and comforting! 

Benecos is a new brand to me but it sounds wonderful and seems like a very ethical, natural brand and since trying these products, I can definitely recommend them as they are gentle, subtly scented and effective with a low price point. The only thing I'm not a massive fan of is the glitter in the lip balm but it's a wonderful festive gift set that would be ideal for those with sensitive skin and friends or family members who are vegan. 

*Green People Forest & Fruit Gift Set (£22.95)

The final two gift sets are extra special and as a treat for the readers of my blog, you'll have the chance to win these two sets below! But first, the Forest & Fruit set contains a gorgeous cypress and tangerine shower gel and body lotion. Both products are large 100ml bottle so it's a great way to full try the brand to see if you want to try more.

Green People is an extra special brand because it is vegan, crudely free and the products contain certified organic ingredients - 83% of the ingredients within this set are organic. Additionally there are no parabens, fragrance, lanolin, alcohol, colourants or petrochemicals within their products so it's another brand that would be ideal for those with sensitive skin or allergies.

*Green People Tree & Seed Gift Set (£24.95)

Last but not least for today's gift guide and it's a great option for the men in your life as not only does it come from an amazing, natural and ethical brand that would be great for sensitive skin but it's set that's beautifully presented and practical - you know how I feel about practical but pretty presents!

I've tried a few products from Green People over the past couple of years including their Scent Free Sun Lotion and their Sensitive Skincare which I loved and I'd definitely recommend all of those products, particularly if you have sensitive skin as I do (I have eczema and these products didn't irritate my skin at all).

This set contains the eucalyptus and mint shower gel and moisturiser, both of which are 100ml and contain 73% organic ingredients; also some of the natural ingredients are fair trade which is always fantastic. The products smell so gorgeous, fresh and masculine - I think my dad would absolutely love the scent. I cannot recommend these two gift sets enough so you should definitely enter the giveaway below and check out their other fabulously festive gift sets.

To enter the giveaway, make sure you watch the video below and fill in the Rafflecopter form below. It's UK only (sorry) as it's difficult to post certain beauty products outside of the UK. It will start on the 20th and end on the 30th so you have plenty of time to enter and there are options to enter every day.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This winner has been contacted - thanks for entering!

What do you think of these gift sets? Have you entered my giveaway? 

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