Goals and 4th Quarter Living...

4QL

Shout Out to the epic man Eric Thomas aka the Hip Hop Preacher! If you haven't already heard of him, please check him out for he is a true inspiration. 

I also believe he originally coined the term '4th Quarter Living' as in you've started the game (or in our case, the year) and as we approach the end of another year, it's time to finish off STRONG!

2016 has been a true eye opener...but we are still here! There are only a few weeks left of the year, and with the weather changing, it feels all too easy to go into 'hibernation' mode. 

But from past experience, I know the impact of doing/thinking in such a manner will make it harder to find gusto for when it's needed. So instead, I'm asking myself...what can I do NOW that will encourage 2017 to start with a BANG?? 

It's getting colder, but my thoughts are bright and sunny!
Thank you Katy Hussey for this beaut illustration xo

The adage 'Dress for the career you want, not for the one you have', is self-explanatory. I mean, how can you expect to get to where you want to be if you're still doing the same thing...but expecting dramatically different results?

Thinking about the lifestyle I currently have to what I aspire to live, it's a no-brainer that the simplest to kickstart this would be to just get up earlier. This way, I can execute my daily plan more effectively and fit in more order to bring my dream a little closer....that much quicker.

But, I hear you ask...how do I know I'm actually doing more? Well, only time will tell....

What are your thoughts on 4th Quarter Living and working something into existance? Comment below and let me know xo

Lights, Camera...Action

Dream. Believe. Achieve...

Well, I've had an idea for a film for quite sometime now. It came out of the blue, when I was busy making myself a cuppa at my day job. Standard procedure.

My colleague/friend took the opportunity, to accompany me to the little kitchen, to fill me in on some office gossip...I know, I know.

As I waited for the kettle to boil, she had me guess (successfully) who the topic of the day was about. 

Rummaging around in the cupboard for teabags, I thought this little scenario would be the perfect setting for a film. 

The way my mind works sometimes astounds even me.

Fast forward a few months, I took the plunge to put my little idea into action. 

As I'd written and produced the piece, the next natural step might have been to plop myself in front of the camera. 

But if I'm going to be honest, I thought I'd instead use the opportunity to explore other realms of the industry.

So for this particular project, I was writer/ director and producer.

I felt, not only will it give me a greater understanding of the different duties on a film set, I could focus on exacting the vision that was in my head. 

Thankfully, the actors I approached agreed to the project, as well as a super fabulous and knowledgeable crew on board.

We shot in one day and the editing for both film and trailer* took place a few weeks afterwards. #QuickTurnAroundMuch?!

All stills taken by Shot By Tops

Big love and thank you to everyone involved for your talents, patience and great on-site vibes ....xo

Summer Dreams...

That was quick! Summer, I mean ;-)

As the UK approaches Autumn, it's fun to look back at recent fun times....such as 'Making like a Tourist in London' day!

From taking a rickshaw on Westminster Bridge, braving the intense crowds at the London Eye to almost getting drenched at Southbank's Fountain, truly glorious times were had.

As I had plans for the early evening (in the opposite direction from where I live) and also a mental note to adhere to a casual/smart dress code.

Digressing slightly...I cannot think of a single person who appreciates being advised' dress casual/smart'...I mean, it's hardly helpful is it! It can be frustrating and time consuming picking a suitable outfit!

 Anyways, I think I hit the nail on the head with this dress! 

This amazing book clutch is from a selection at TK Maxx....seriously roomy!
and the sandals are from River Island 

For me, it ticks multiple boxes - 

• just above knee length
• floaty sleeves (covers top of arms)
• v-neck
• material thin enough so I can wear with a jacket (thinking Winter wardrobe)
• And the best part...it's a supermarket buy! Yes, I got this glorious frock from Tescos Florence & Fred range.

When in doubt, blow your own trumpet! 

For this day it was perfect attire to see me through day and night. Accompanied with my Gap trench coat...just in case the weather changes suddenly...trust me when I say UK weather can change at the flick of a switch.

What's your favourite Summer memory? Comment below and let me know xo

Those lines tho...

Mount of Jupiter is going IN... 

So, last weekend I had my hands palms read, and trust me when I say....what I was told is goooood! 

Thank you Katy Hussey for such a beautiful illustration :-)))

There are many people who throw shade at Palmistry,  which I'm cool with (each to their own after all).

Some of the things I find intriguing/appreciate about palmistry is -

•  it's to be treated a a guide or suggestion, not a depiction of how your future is definitely going to be set
• the lines on your hands tend to change over the course of your life.
• it can encourage more positive thoughts about your life decisions. (Especially when your career is within a precarious industry). Your thoughts become your things, after all!

So, as we are already in the eighth month of 2016 (gulp) I truly hope your hopes and dreams are still progressing steadily along. 

What do you think about Palmistry? 

How are your plans coming along? 

I'd love to know, so comment below! xo

The 4 Fs.....

Erm....I'm talking about Festivals, Fringes, Fun and Frills.....

If you thought anything else from the title then oi oi!*




Bodycon dress is from Forever 21 and
the sandals are from TK Maxx

So far, touch wood, Mother Nature has blessed the UK with some really lovely rays. There really is nothing better than stepping out of your front door and feeling as though you've been hit a radiator.

 

And with the heat comes a wardrobe edit. Gosh! Summer fashion is a dream, isn't it! Seriously...anything goes! 

 

During the week (when I'm busy at my day job) I have to take into account -

1. commuting

2. commuters 

3. public transport.

 

Not to mention striving to look pro and on the ball....evenings and weekends however are a different story....hehe!

 

 

 

Silver bib necklace is from a selection at good old Topshop

 

I definitely am a fully fledged  member of  #TeamCurve. However, there have been a time (in the past) where I've deliberately covered up my assets.

This  was partly down to wandering/unwelcome eyes from strangers, but c'mon! We live in a visual, nosy and oversharing age, and quelle surprise....

 PEOPLE. DO. STARE.

But really, it's mostly down to (my own) body insecurity.

But this way of thinking is very damaging, and the only person who is going to end up hurt is yourself.

 

 

 

Thank you Katy Hussey for such lovely images...xo

 Now that I'm older, wiser, sophisticated and worldlier (a legit word?) it occurred to me that if you're going to spend time thinking about yourself, strive to make these thoughts loving and positive! 

 

The world is tough enough as it is, so does it really make any sense for you to be your own biggest enemy? No, of course not.   

The large grey clutch is from TK Maxx and the
Suede look Fringe Waistcoat is from George at Asda...shh....

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Get out in the sunshine, meet up with old friends, make new one's. Have some good times and fantastic memories.

Seriously...life is good when you choose to make it good.

Remember always....life is about ENJOYING YOURSELF!!

















* you can take the girl out of Essex....

It's Art's fault...seriously!

“Don’t think about making art, just get it done.  Let everyone else decide if it’s good or bad, whether they love it or hate it.  While they are deciding, make even more art.” Andy Warhol

By now, you'd have probably gathered that I am a lover of Art and Creativity. As well as devising my own, I appreciate what others create and share.

So, I was extremely fortunate when my good friend Sonja gifted me a VIP pass for the recent Photo London event. It's fair to say modern society uses images to document virtually every aspect of daily life, therefore it makes sense for there to be an exhibition!

Now in its second year, Photo London was held (mainly) at Somerset House and featured works from over 80 artists and galleries from around the world. The amount of works was just so vast, I ended up going four times (twice with friends). 

A week since, I would go as far to say my mind and soul feels 'full' after this event - not only from the pieces I got to view but also from making time out of my busy schedule to attend in the first place. There is certainly a romanticism about soaking up art in peace as the rest of the city continues along in its speedy fashion. Also, because art is so subjective it can be enjoyed by many people from different walks of life.

Anyways, enough words! Just enjoy some of the many, many images.....you're welcome! 

Don McCullin's beautiful work

Encapsulating work by Tania Antoshina

Natasha, Manager at Rolf Art showing me and my friend Agnes some wonder work.

Agnes is really taken by this moving image (Marcos Lopez). 

Muhammad Ali - by Thomas Hopeker

Flore - a collection from Choses vues au Royaume de Siam

Adama - vibrantly brilliant image by Omar Victor Diop

Saut d'Eau, Haiti

What is your favourite piece of art? Do you attend galleries? Comment below, I'd love to know! xo

Working 9 to 5...

Or even 6....

Sooo...let's have a cheeky peek at pieces that are gonna work, work, work, work, work for you. Day or Night. Weekend or Weekend.

Have you ever lusted after a piece of clothing, but couldn't justify the price tag? Even after resorting to calculating cost per wear, you still hesitate about purchasing?

I had this exact dilemma when it came to the purchasing items for my day job. Digressing slightly...There is nothing romantic about starving or fretting about the roof over your head. So while pursuing a career, particularly in a creative industry (where supply exceeds demand) it makes sense for your purse and sanity to have a day job to pay the bills.

My day job is slap bag in the middle of the City (yes, I is a bonefide City Slicker) therefore attire is crucial. 

I came across a really lovely pleated skirt in a designer sale. My lust was so full-on that I actually left the shop (yep, risked the beloved item being sold) to seek guidance in a 'where's-your-head at' latte. I went back to the shop thankfully it was still there (phew) so I whipped out the plastic, paid up and left with my new garm.

An expresso martini is calling me. Be rude not to answer...

And my instincts were spot on! The skirt makes a regular appearance in my weekday wardrobe, and the bestowed compliments got me thinking... how can I incorporate its loveliness into a weekend outfit and/or after work drinkies (a favourite British tradition) with friendly colleagues?

I decided to edge up the look with a Topshop denim shirt and a beautiful clutch from Jocasi

 

The lips T-shirt is from Truffle Shuffle and my lovely Converse are from of the All Star Dainty range.

I think I did a successful job in 'dressing down' a work skirt for play. Is there a wardrobe item that you enjoy wearing for work/play? Comment below and let me know xo

Thank you Katy Hussey for such vibrant images!

The Sun has got his hat on....

....Hip, Hip, Hip....HORAAY!!

Gosh! What a difference a lil sunshine and warm weather can make!

St Paul's as my latest hat..cough!

Do you know what's better than the sun making an appearance? The sun making an appearance when you live in the best city in the WORLD!

Granted, I am a Londoner therefore (unashamedly) biased, but it's fair to say most would agree that Capital life and living when the sun is out is fantastic.

From free film nights in the open air to a pop up sandy beach es along the Thames, the Big Smoke truly is a blazen.

Alongside the warmer weather, attention must be paid to the onset of *Summer Wardrobe* (gulp). After a season of duvet sized coats and opaque tights, wearing lighter/less garments to facilitate warmer weather *can* be daunting. But fear not! Help is at hand….you’re welcome 

Shhh...Pink batwing top is from Primark....I know!

I've layered an orange top beneath and this is from Tesco F&F range.
The leggings are from Topshop. The Celine inspired loafers are from the selection at River Island.

Longchamp's Le Pliage is a firm favourite of mine. As well as being a timeless classic, it's a practical roomy size and can be folded up. Great investment!  

Yes, it is me in the midst of foamy bubbles...what can I say? You missed out!

Comment below to let me know YOUR favourite season and why! 

Thank you Katy Hussey for such fab images! 

Pasch. Glorious

Ooooh! Celebration....

• Jesus Christ
• Festival.
• 4-day weekend
• Clocks go forward (UK)
• Chocolate and sweet stuffs galore!

It's fair to say I am very much looking forward to a much overdue chillax weekend. An opportunity to recharge batteries is always welcome. It's also lovely to know that the days to follow will become longer, brighter and (hopefully) warmer!*

Eat. Drink. Celebrate and live merry.

Thanks Katy Hussey for this unique image! 

However you're choosing to spend your weekend...enjoy and be blessed!

*we can only dream!

HTB tho...UK Talent is where it's at!

Hard Time Bus - the UK indie film continually going from strength to strength!  

Written by Owen Mowatt. Dir by Dean Charles. Prod by Nicola Gregory

The lovely people at the Black British Blacklist hold the best description for HTB (Hard Time Bus); 'a multi-layered relationship drama that centers around carefree and complacent Mark Bishop (Neil Reidman). Challenged by his commitment to long-time girlfriend Denise (Naomi Ryan) he turns to best friend Fitzy (Roger Griffiths) for advice only to be ridiculed for not following the ‘Fitzy Rules’ – “never marry and never settle”.

HTB has a variety of characters that audiences can express empathy for.. Having been voted Best Film at the Hollywood Black Film Festival, it's fair to say the industry are sitting up and taking notice!

I successfully auditioned for the role of Carla, a character I really enjoyed playing! 

One of HTB's many unique attributes is that it's told from the male perspective. The viewer is afforded an insight into how other people's opinions, especially that of a modern-day bromance, can impact and ultimately affect ones long-term relationship.

Since filming, I've been afforded the opportunity to not only discuss the film and its themes on BBC Radio London, I also got to attend the recent screening at London's Regent Street cinema & be included on the Q&A panel.

With Michael,  Neil, Darren and Kojo
Thanks to Kush Films for such a great evening, and Jenni Steele for hosting the event

Make sure you go see Hard Time Bus when its on general release! 

J & J matrimony

Love. party and a blessed union. Seriously, who doesn't love a wedding?

I gladly accepted an invite to a wedding party earlier this month, and had the best time of drinking, dancing, eating and enjoying fantastic company that when I did eventually get home, I didn't rise out of bed until 7pm the following evening...I know!

This particular event was held in Central London, the Hippodrome to be exact. As I knew I was going to be safely indoors of one of the UK's most beautifully historical buildings, my next dilemma was 'what to wear'.

I'm sure I'm not alone when I say men have it easy when it comes to such events; suit & tie or the occasional dickey bow, us ladies on the other hand have PLENTY to think about:

• if I go high street, will somebody else be wearing MY outfit?
• dress, pant suit or jump suit?
• what type of heels will get me through an evening of standing, dancing and posing?
• what if I party TOO hard and lose my jewellery? 

Sooooo much to think about! 

Shout out to the lovely people at Dark Sugar - delicious! 

The clutch is from the beautiful selection at Bag Servant and all the rings are from Top Shop.

                        

My dress is from Flam Mode - a ready to wear stockist based in France. With its 'blinged- up' sewn on deep neck collar, it's perfect for special occasions.. Shoes are from Dorothy Perkins I find their selection is a winner, especially when you are looking for comfort and edge at a sensible price.
 

With a careful mix of high street and designer, I think I curated a wedding-worthy outfit which is perfectly on point for partying the night away in the best city in the world...biased, I know!

What type of ensemble would you wear to a wedding party? 

Love and thanks to Katy Hussey for such great images

Sharing is....

Shout out to all my Bizzy Bees!

For those who are not aware, I'm a writer/actor who is also launching their own beauty-line...yep! 

So as a freelance creative, I came across a mantra which I firmly believe in - 'you have to think of yourself as a business, else you'll run out of business'.

In regards to the acting profession, items such as CV's (resumes) voice-reels and show-reels need to be in place so that if *when* opportunity knocks...you're ready!

so with this in mind, I've recently updated my showreel and I thought I'd share with you lovely lot....

Enjoy! 

Spring time and a happy song...

Hip Hip Hooray...Big up March. April. May!

Spring IS my favourite season - warmer weather, (slightly) longer days and the budding of blooms en masse. Oh yeah, and my birthday is in April....time for Celebration!! What's not to love?!

Shout out to Katy Hussey for this beaut illustration - J'adore!

I hope your year is progressing as you hope? Just remember...Every step, however small, is progress. Just keep it moving forward closer until you're living your dreams....Cheesy Cheery sounding, but oh so true!  

February 14th – Say you’ll be…

Oh St Valentine – how you tease me so…

So.... ‘Tim from Accounts’ didn’t quite work it (oh well, his loss) but me, being the ever optimistic creature that I am, firmly believes that everything happens for a reason.

With February 14^th falling on a Sunday wouldn't you agree that the usual 'pressure' of one-upmanship was slightly...off? So, all singles (that didn’t wanna mingle) might have re-classed the world’s romantic day as ‘duvet day’. For those coupled up, I’m sure your special day was detailed up with loveliness.

If  like me you heart Paisley print, keep the bottom half neutral.
*Statement dress alert!*

I ended up being asked out on a rather lovely luncheon, so the outfit I selected felt perfectly romantic for a day date.

This dress was a birthday gift many moons ago. I've come across a similar print and style here. 

I adore an ornate ring.
For comparable beauties have a look here and here.

Clutch bag is Marc by Marc Jacobs. Polyvore have some fantastic pre-owned pieces.
Also check out ASOS where there are a rainbow of colours and styles. 

However you celebrated February 14th (single or ensconced up) just love and enjoy yourself....you're an original after all!   

All images shot by the talented Katy Hussey