2014, A Year in Review

As I sit down to write this post, two things dawn on me:

One, I have never really before written a reflection post of sorts, or spent time truly “Reflecting.” 

Two. Thank goodness for Shift + F7 aka Thesaurus tool in Microsoft word, I really should buy an actual Thesaurus this year  week. There are not an awful lot of words which one can use instead of reflection. 

Inspired by other bloggers writing their own version of this type of post, be it their most popular posts of 2014, their past year summarised into one tiny paragraph or just a collection of favourite photographs, I decided to take some time out to study my own achievements. Over the last twelve months there have been some pretty good moments, but also those I wish to lock into a box and bury deep down in the ground. 

A year may fly by, but a lot can happen in that year. 


January saw a start of a new career for me, one I never saw coming and one I am extremely grateful for. I joined Crownbrush UK and became their Head of Make-up Artistry and Social Media Manager. I relocated to Surrey and watched my new life unfold. Around this time I got a posh new camera, my Canon 700D. Getting into photography really was a game changer for me. I had discovered a new found passion and motivation, all I wanted to do was to produce great photos, great content. This little hobby, this little blog, it all of a sudden held much more importance in my life than I ever before imagined. 

Here I must thank Scott, my partner in crime and best friend. It is down to Scott that I understand how to switch on a camera never mind adjust the settings manually to take an actual picture. Without this guy I would never have kept up with my blog. From the very beginning he has supported me and listened to all of my crazy ideas, helping me along every step of the way. I sometimes have no idea how he puts up with my ramblings and my constant pestering. And then there is Photoshop. I already knew the gist of it, but then Scott introduced me to a whole new way of editing and well, I was hooked. Scott, you are absolutely amazing and I have no idea what I would do without you. Thank you for being my rock. 

2014 has been the year where I found my confidence again. Not all of it mind, but just enough to keep me above water. This confidence was tested in June where I attended IMATS London for the first time, where myself and my team of make-up artists performed two live body painting demonstrations. The only other occasions in my life where I recall being so nervous was during my piano exam and my driving test. If it wasn’t for my friend Laura, I would have bottled it and not shown up. IMATS proved to me that I can achieve great things as a make-up artist and as a person. I don’t have to shy away anymore, there is space for me in this industry and I have finally realised I am good enough. You can read all about my experience at IMATS here.

One of the most exciting things to happen last year was seeing my two gorgeous best friends get married. Kevin and Kim. I may not see these two as often as I would like but they are the most wonderful human beings and I was so proud to be a part of their special day. 

In terms of beauty, I mean what would this review be if I did not include what I love the most, I have had a pretty amazing year building relationships with PRS and Brands, attending events and networking with some downright fabulous people. To name a few favourites: Antipodes. One Love Organics. Konjac Sponges. Jurlique. Too Faced. Benefit Cosmetics. 

The saddest thing to happen to me in 2014, I lost my Grandad. Losing someone is never easy, I unfortunately have had the worst of experiences in this case, but it also teaches you life is precious and every moment should not be taken for granted. My Grandad was an absolute character and I think about him daily. Not a day goes by where I will not quote his wise words or laugh about his silly antics. It has also brought me even closer to my Nan, a wonderful lady who I love very dearly. If you have lost someone you love recently, I want you to know that it does get easier and they never truly leave you.

On looking back I think I spent an awful lot of time procrastinating, faffing and stressing. The majority, if not all of the time, this has been unnecessary. Realising this has allowed me to learn a few things. To not rush myself and to take it easy more often. Life is not a race. Taking a step back and slowing down can be just what you need. To not care what others think of me, or to punish myself repeatedly, it is what it is and if others do not like me for whatever I chose to do, create or say then so what? 

Introducing a juicer to my kitchen was definitely a key moment. Juicing is the future, I tell ya. I have also gone a full year now not eating meat. Go me.

Thank you 2014 for all of the joy you brought, the friendships you allowed me to form, the doors you opened, and the ones you closed. I always look forward to a new day, every single day, but I am exceedingly excited to see what 2015 has planned. 

One final thank you. To you, my reader. From the bottom of my heart to the ends of my weird looking toes, I appreciate you being here, reading my words and supporting my blog. I may not have met you yet, or ever will for that matter, but I am sending you a virtual hug. Good luck for 2015 and may it bring you every ounce of love and happiness you dream of.