Put down the phone. Take up a hobby.

I think everybody should find a hobby or pastime that they truly enjoy. Something they can fill their spare time with that doesn't involve scrolling for endless hours on a smart phone, refreshing the screen every other minute anticipating a new notification. (Yup, I'm guilty of this at times too) Whether it's reading, running or even collecting stamps (unlikely), find something that brings you a sense of joy and most of all, relaxation.

Two of my favourite books below. The Secret and the latest release of the series, 'How The Secret Changed My Life' - Must reads in my opinion!! 

Anything at all that has the power to make you refrain from taking a selfie with a dog filter, DO THAT!! ..... Woah, chill..!! I never said I don't do this, so yeah, I definitely need to practise more than I preach. I'm often guilty of seeing that weird indentation on my pinky finger from holding my phone so much. Anyone else's little finger starting to change form? Yikes!! That's when I know it's time to step away from the device and get busy doing something else. 

Everyone has different ways and methods to help them de-stress or chill out. When I'm feeling a little wound up I've got a collection of hobbies that I know will always bring me right back down to earth. Personally, I love to read, write, walk and my absolute favourite, sketch or paint. (If shopping is classified as a hobby, I think it's safe to say I can add that to the list too.) Some people love to dance themselves into oblivion while others like to hit a ball with a racket but remember, you don't necessarily have to be skilled in the pastime you choose. Once it works for you and once you enjoy it, then that's all that really matters. So even if you don't have a cupful of co-ordination and you wanna 'shake yo ass', you do just the very thing. 

I like many, sometimes feel like a slave to my phone so I love to break out the sketch pad or pick up a good book every now and again. This way, I'm not only relaxing but I'm also injecting some creativity and knowledge into my life in a way that's enjoyable for me. Even writing this piece now has my artistic juices flowing and is making me feel calm and content. There's definitely more to life than what the Kardashian clann's snapchat story has to offer so strongly consider taking up a hobby that suits you rather than sitting around glued to your screen. I can guarantee you'll feel pretty great!

Have a fab week lovelies.

Ashley X 

If you don't have anything nice to say....

I found it quite strange writing this piece as it embodies something which frustrates me. Contradiction. Putting this aside, I felt compelled to write about the opinions of others (which are of course each and everyone's own) but in particular, to zone in on the negative views people so often shove down our throats. A day in, day out, reoccurrence that is stifling. The constant 'tit for tat' immature posts on social media and the nasty status's aimed directly at other people. An attempt at a disguised, cryptic text which turns out to be anything from it. It doesn't take too long to decipher who exactly the jibe is directed at. 

So, it feels a little bit odd for me to write a blog post that is somewhat 'aimed' at others, when I am the one who is sick and tired of the persistent, pointless, online battle between our generation. Surely, I can't be the only one who's thinks this way?

I'll stop rambling on and give you a prime example of exactly what I'm talking about. "This place is full of sheep" or "bunch of bandwagoners around here" are phrases I hear all too often. If I had a euro for every time I heard these words I'd be living more than comfortably. Seriously, come on people!! So what, if a girl wants to wear a pair of over sized lenses because that's what's on trend at the moment. That's what SHE wants to wear, her choice. Simple! Who cares if Kate from down the road has decided to go to a gig this weekend that she's actually not interested in just because everyone else is going along. Again, her decision. "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all."

There's more to life than bitching and moaning about what the next person is wearing or doing. Try go a day without having a nasty opinion on someone else. I'm positive you'll find it surprisingly hard but I guarantee you'll feel better for trying. I believe that writing something as relevant and rather touchy as this subject, will hopefully open up a few eyes, maybe even switch on the lightbulb or two ,up stairs in those heads. There's far more important things in life to be worrying over so don't get your knickers in a twist if Tom, Dick and Harry all decide to wear Balenciaga trainers, the worlds not going to end!! I promise.

I just don't see the need to bash another person on a trivial fashion choice and yet still, it's happening all the time. I suppose that's just life but as the saying goes, "each to their own" so have a little think before you push unnecessary, negative comments upon the rest of us. It doesn't make you look good, trust me!! Because every time you post a malicious status or picture aimed at another.... ultimately, YOU look like the bigger, bitter fool. "Promote what you love instead of bashing what you hate".

Try giving out some compliments 

instead today :) 

Ashley X 

Bagots Hutton - My Favourite Hot Spot!!

Recently, I've been spending a lot of time eating and socialising in the newly renovated restaurant, Bagots Hutton. You might remember this little hot spot originally being situated on South William Street before they wisely decided to expand and turn up the notch by making a bold move and the right move at that! Their fantastic new and rather large space is now located on Ormonde Quay Upper so it's still super central and easy to find. If your looking for somewhere electric to be on the weekend, Bagots Hutton is your answer. 

I've been to this incredibly trendy spot on numerous occasions now from Saturday night drinks, to double dating, birthday dinner parties and even work events too. Each time I've spent an evening here it's been impossible to fault them on their food and service alike. I can't forget to mention the groovy vibe either, which really had me enthralled from the beginning. Inside, they've transformed the whole building into something special. The decor and artwork just fit perfectly giving a brilliant contrast of sophisticated and funky.

If you're a pizza lover (so basically anyone reading this) then it's essential that you try out a quality pizza here. Their passion for this dish is clearly visible from the effort they've put in when it comes to baking it. They wanted to really make eating a pizza here, an unforgettable experience and so they had a truly magnificent, wood fired Pavesi oven specially built in the kitchen. Without a doubt, you'll be able to taste the difference when you eat a pizza that has been baked in the most respected and trusted pizza ovens there is. I still can't get my head around the fact that it only takes only one minute to cook it to perfection. Crazy, I know!! 

I've tried pretty much everything on the menu and amongst my favourites has to be the Pressed Shoulder of Lamb and the Venison Ragu Pasta. Just absolute, mouth watering, goodness!! Make sure you finish off your meal with a refreshing Aperol spritz, it would be rude not to! Saturday evenings and Sunday brunch, Bagots Hutton is unquestionably the place to be. If you enjoy live jazz music you'll really be in for a treat! The guys have also now introduced live music from 8pm onwards every Thursday for their Dine & Dance set menu deal. They've also got some other really great specials on during the week including the Meaty Monday which would be an outright  sin to pass up.

In my eyes, Bagots Hutton is the new Hip n' Happening place to be (excuse the dad lingo) but it's true! I always look forward to spending an evening here with family or friends. From the day they opened their doors, it's insanely flourished and still continues to do so. Contagious good vibes and energy flows through Bagots Hutton so get your ass down here if it's a good time your after!! 

Buon apetito,

Ashley x 

Their website is still under construction at the moment so be sure to check out their social media platforms or email them at info@bagotshutton.com for any queries or Call: 01- 8788118 

A break to Barcelona!!

Two weeks ago I headed off to the popular city break destination, Barcelona. Over my three day stay it was clear as to why it's is such a sought after place to be. There's just this constant buzz and a feel good vibe about it. With so much to offer from tourist attractions to famous art museums and of course the fantastic food and nightlight, there really is something for everyone. I stayed in a gorgeous modern hotel in the most perfect location, which is exactly what you look for when you are away. H10 Universitat was in walking distance of pretty much everything and also just around the corner from Las Ramblas itself. 

Barcelona is a city that's renowned for its spectacular architecture and is home to the many wonderful works of art by the genius himself, Gaudí. First things first, you've got to pay a visit to Sagrada Família in the very heart of the city. This incredible wonder will undoubtedly leave you speechless and may also give you a creek in your neck as you stare up into the sky mesmerised. It truly is something else!! To enter you'll pay a rather expensive fee of about €30 which won't include roof top access to view the city from a high. Some of Gaudí's other worthy sights include Park Güell, Casa Milà and Casa Balltó. Do try and at least two of these. We also stumbled across the breathtakingly beautiful, Barcelona Cathedral in el Gótic which is free inside and is most definitely worth seeing too if you've got the time.

Unfortunately, when we went to the Picasso museum they had stopped letting people in. As it turned out, the first Sunday of every month is free entry so as you can imagine the queues were crazy and they had to turn people away. We did however go to the Dali museum which is incredibly quirky and only costs €10. Both museums are situated in the  infamous Gothic Quarter, a place you must tick off your list while in Barcelona. It oozes character and culture around every corner and gives you a huge sense of appreciation for the gothic era. Because of its authenticity it was definitely my favourite part of the city. Another fabulous spot especially at night is the port down by the beach. A stroll along here after dinner is blissful. 

For dining and dancing I absolutely adored Barcelona. During my stay, I had some truly memorable dishes so you should take my advice on this one. Trust me! For the best burger in Barcelona, Bacoa wins hands down! A super cool build your own burger joint situated just off Las Ramblas on Ronda de la Universitat. (Two doors up from our hotel). Another amazing place worth visiting for dinner is called Sensi. They have four different restaurants, each with their own unique menu, all just a stones throw away from one another in The Gothic Quarter. The one we ate in was called Sensi Tapas on Carrer Ample but you'll be in for a treat no matter which one you choose if this one was anything to go by. The vibe was spot on for the perfect date night or get together so you may need to make a reservation before hand. Sip away on some beautiful wine and try their Chiefs recommendation of the wild bore. It's up there with one of the nicest dishes I've ever tasted.... EVER!! A quaint, candle lit space with the most magical mini dishes, it's without question worth a try.

If you love your cocktails like myself then make it your business to pop into Paradiso down in the free spirit area of el Bourne. There's no better way to describe this place other than a hidden gem. Don't be fooled by appearances when you arrive at this tiny food counter off a small side street. We were confused like many, until the coolest cocktail bar was revealed behind a secret door. A real Alice through the looking glass moment when someone opened what appeared to be a fridge. After a few drinks, of course we were feeling giddy so we made our way down to Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta just a ten minute taxi away. Here, we were spoiled for choice and went to tap our toes in Carpe Diem nightclub. The plush Moroccan vibes inside were insane and the music really didn't disappoint either.

On Sunday's you won't be able to buy a pair of socks in the city. Every store from high end to high street shuts up shop for the entire day. So if you're thinking of doing any shopping make sure you plan around knowing this information. Instead, keep some of your sight seeing saved for this day like going to see the Arc de Triumph or the world famous football stadium, Camp Nou. If you can be flexible with your dates try and plan around going to see a match here. I'm not exactly a football fanatic but I really enjoyed the whole experience and would definitely recommend going to watch a match. 

I could literally write an essay on this electric city but I'll leave it at just that and let you be the judge for yourselves.

Barcelona you absolute babe, you'll be seeing me again soon. 

I'll drink to that!! 

Ashley X

  

The Sharleen Collins Academy

There's an exciting new business in the heart of Dublin city that's got all of us make-up fanatics talking. It's a brilliant new opportunity for anyone who's been wanting to get into the trade of being a make-up artist or simply if you'd like to have your glam done for any occasion. I popped into Sharleen Collins brand new academy in the most gorgeous bright space on Lower Leeson Street last week to have a sneak peak at what this amazing artist has been getting up to these past couple of months. I was absolutely blown away by how luxurious the studio is and I think everyone else will agree.

The Sharleen Collins Academy has now officially opened and is an ITEC International Make-Up College that is recognised worldwide with reputable tutors from both Dublin and London. Sharleen herself has gained a staggering amount of experience in the industry over the past 12 years, working for mac brown Thomas Dublin then turning Mac Pro in London Covent Garden. She's also worked on some of the biggest shows in London including VOGUE, X-factor, Strictly Come Dancing and The Brit Awards. The list really is endless when it comes to this ladies experience and now she's sharing her talents through The Sharleen Collins Academy.

The artist, now turned tutor specialises in bridal make-up and has some beautiful shots in her portfolio on her website that will make you seriously swoon. So for all the new brides to be, you can now book in for trials in the glamorous studio on Leeson Street.

With there being day time, evening time and Sunday courses available it makes it so accessible for those who can only attend in between their busy working schedule. The academy is now enrolling students and is set to have a busy and exciting year ahead.

We just can't wait to see this fantastic venture blossom for the new #GirlBoss. Watch this space!!! 

Ashley x 

For further details see below:

• www.sharleencollinsacademy.ie

• Mobile: 0860629536

• info@sharleencollinsacadmey.ie

SS17 with Arnotts

This morning I had the absolute pleasure of attending Arnotts SS17 fashion show. The venue? Of course, the fabulous department store itself. Some of their gorgeous new picks for this coming spring/summer collection were showcased by striking models and left every single person in the audience wishing for warmer months! Housing amazing labels such as Whistles, Coach and Ralph Lauren the show was set to be a banging success.

We were greeted with an array of tasty breakfast treats including healthy smoothies, delicious mini pastries and wait for it... Jar's of sticky bacon! Yes, you heard me correctly!! What more could you possibly need to kick start your day?! With a green juice in one hand and my camera in the other, I was more than ready to see what Arnotts had in store for us. The models began to walk their walk 9am sharp, giving us a great taste of what to expect next season!! 

There were seven different themes such as Free Spirit, Tropical Pop and New Nautical. The tittles alone ooze summer time and pretty much speak for themselves. My favourite pieces all belonged to Ganni's collection which was strutted on the catwalk in the last theme, Thread & Needle. I'm a big fan of sequins and sheer lace so of course, I was crazy about everything I saw from this particular label this morning. I loved it that much, I even forgot to take some good snaps because I was so fixated on these fabulous glitzy garments. That's label lust right there!!

Between all of the brands there was more than enough inspiration to go around. With lots diversity between print, spots, stripes and a splash of bold colour there was something to tickle everyone's fancy. The store has welcomed some brilliant new brands including Maison Scotch, Suncoo and a favourite of mine, Karen Millen which will step up the stores game big time. 

Another stunning piece that really caught my eye was in fact a jumpsuit from the high street brand we all know and love, Miss Selfridge. Everything from its heavy beading and cut out detail was jaw dropingly beautiful. This black and white beauty retails at only €105 which honesty, I  think is a bargain!! Between all the bright colours and whimsical florals it's safe to say that I'm excited to pack away the jumpers and start spending my hard earned cash on what's truly important, new clothes to add to an already over-flowing wardrobe. 

Not a bad Tuesday morning if I do say so myself!! Spring/Summer17 bring it on, I'm more than ready for you baby! 

Ashley x