Featured

Saturday, 16 November 2013

REVIEW: Santas Magical Kingdom 2013

Last night (Friday 15th November) I was reminded how much I love Christmas.
We were surrounded by early Christmas festivities and everyone young and old were brought into a magical kingdom. 

I truly can't believe where the year has gone for me! Feels like just yesterday we had Christmas. As they say - time flies when you're having a ball and this year my little baby girl graced my life. 

This year marks a special one for Dan & I as it's our first Christmas as a family. Although Niahbella is too young to understand what's going on, we are engaging her in as much of the festivities as possible making it special for us. It does being her some joy as well being so alert now and sending herself cross eyed as she looks at everything. 
As we arrived for Santas Magical Kingdom last night at Burnley Oval in Melbourne there was a big crowd eagerly waiting to get through the opening. The crowd mustered in pretty quickly surprised with the staff there moving everyone at a fantastic quick speed.




Once you entered the big white tents your childhood as a kid (for those that are older) come into play again. Your eyes are uncontrollable as you try to look at the amazing detail put into Santas Magical Kingdom.
Santas Magical Kingdoms first tent took the attraction of:
4 rides inside the tent, giant slide outside, Ferris wheel, sideshows, meet and greets with a reindeer, a penguin and a fairy, fake snow, a sleigh, story telling with Mrs. Clause, gingerbread making, meet and greet Santa and get a photo, Santa letter writing, crafting were all on the big list of activities you could do in the main tent. 

At 8pm our presence was required for a circus performance in the second tent. 
I love the circus (this would be my second time ever attending a circus performance) and was not disappointed at all - I did find that the circus acts were basically all that you would be able to see going to a Silvers Circus outside of SMK but I didn't mind watching it all over again. 
The lights went down and the circus acts were about to start we were greeted by Santa who sent out his Christmas wishes. 
Followed on was acts of:
The Globe of Death - 
Dominik Gasser, Ricardo Costa-De-Araujo & Jean Michel Lyelzkorozky Cardona make up our 3 Phoenix Riders who speed around inside of a 3 1/2 meter diameter metal globe. Missing not only each other but the brave Jessica Dobson by mere millimetres, they will certainly test your nerves while showcasing their expertise.


 Silvers Magic-
Be mystified by Simon and his beautiful assistants as they present the latest in Las Vegas style illusions.

Football Dogs-
The incredible AFL playing footy dogs are the latest high impact sensation at Silvers Circus. The Boxer dog is naturally athletic, coiled like a spring and ready to deliver the most awe-inspiring AFL experience. So... Bring along your colours and cheer on your favourite team like you've never done before. And please... A little respect for the umpires Michael Harrison & Anand Gasser! 

German Wheel- 
Emily performs breathtaking feats in her German Wheel. Her beauty & daring go hand in hand with her broad talents & tricks.





Diablo Act-
An amazing circus performer who uses a diablo in a crazy insane way that has you mind boggled at the speed and routine of his act.





My youngest sister trying her luck on a sideshow game
After the circus we were sent back to the main first tent where we could continue our adventures up until 10pm. 
This is where we took the time to get into the attractions. 
All the rides were included in your ticket price so no money needed to be spent on rides. 
I was really disappointed in the amount it costed to play the sideshow games though at $5 a pop for one shot at most of them was a bit rich for my likings. 





The fake snow set up with a sleigh was gorgeous - the scenery was flawless and was a great opportunity for photos! 
This section of SMK had me smiling at all the kids who were so over the moon 'snow' had been brought there!
Gingerbread decorating was invited for all ages to take part in. 

The meet and greets were there for photo opportunities as well as a cuddle from the children, they were handing out jelly beans which I thought could have been candy canes to match the theme. 

All in all I had a great night out celebrating and getting into the Christmas season with some of my family- Niahbella sent herself in to a head shaking big eyed little baby last night as she looked onto all the colors (Red being a strong color - we have found is a color to really attract her vision), all the lights, all the action!! 

Tuckered out little Niahbella
Upon leaving the carpark was very dark and hard to see but the security staff were lovely! We had a staff member ask to help us with the pram as it was getting a bit stuck and bogged in the mud and bark. He then made sure we could see walking down the back path to Yarra Blvd where our car was parked as he offered to walk down with his light. 
It's not often you get security who really go above & beyond their job but this security guard - you were a treasure! 



There was only 1 Parents Room which contained a 2 seater couch and a 1 change table at the event which was quite small but this was practically the same at the Royal Melbourne Show when it came to the parents rooms so maybe that's the normal? But I do think they could of had 2 Parents Rooms as I don't think it was big enough for more then say 2 women breastfeeding and there prams to be in the Parents Rooms at one time. 

Here are some key things to help you on your SMK visit:


  • If you are driving parking is free on site but is very limited so get there early if you want to park there - when we arrived carpark was full so we parked behind down in Yarra Blvd which was also free parking after 5:30pm I believe. 
  • If you are catching the train it's about a 10 minute short walk from the station to SMK.
  • When you arrive have a look around - take time to go on rides first, then see the circus act and then after circus take part in the activities of games, gingerbread decorating etc so you don't have to carry everything around from the start of event.
  • All seats within the second tent for the circus are good seats so it doesn't really matter where you sit inside the tent but I got in early as I love ringside seats to be closer to the action. 

The detail that went into SMK was just fantastic!! I don't think they could have done a more breath taking event. 
I can truly say it was a Magical experience. 
To see more pictures and even a video check my instagram - http://instagram.com/nakkers20 - be sure to follow me!

For more information and to book tickets visit: www.santasmagicalkingdom.com.au
For quick ticket access visit: Santas Magical Kingdom Tickets

**all writing in italics is as stated act details from Silvers Circus
All photos used are my own apart from first top Santas Magical Kingdom photo**

Wednesday, 13 November 2013

Roses by Chloe perfume



FIVE YEARS OF OLFACTORY ELEGANCE
In 2008 a new floral expression was born. We thought it had no more secrets to reveal. Yet, with the Chloé house behind it, the rose spoke with poetry never known before. An expressive scent. musky. oxygenated. refined. Today, this unique rose is celebrating five years of success and elegant variations. The chance for Chloé to offer this family of timeless classics a new fragrance.

THE ROSE, AT THE HEART OF THE CHLOE EXPRESSION
From the eau de parfum introduced in 2008, to l’eau de Chloé launched in 2012, the rose unveils its various facets. Uninhibited and less precious than its predecessors, the Chloé rose has defined an olfactory territory with a unique personality. Airy, luminous, subtle, it inspires a new variation composed by perfumers Michel Almairac and Mylène Alran (Robertet).

THOUSANDS OF PETALS
Roses de Chloé is an invitation to tenderness. The rose immediately exudes incredible freshness. A sensation derived from the bergamot, which is gradually joined by a heart of damascena rose essence, modernized with a magnolia accord. On the skin, the trail of white musk and amber, signature of the Chloé house.

A PINK RIBBON
Like blush that enhances the cheeks, the bottle is enlaced with a blush pink ribbon. Faithful to the silhouette of the iconic eau de parfum by Chloé, the luxurious glass bottle is crowned with a silver top and transparent cap. The juice, in a tender rose hue, expresses itself delicately.

THREE BEAUTY ACCOMPLICES
Three radiant beauties embody the new roses de Chloé fragrance. Tilda Lindstam, Caroline Brasch Nielsen and Esther Heesch are guided by artistic and creative director Fabien Baron.


Collection
Roses de Chloé edt 30ml         $80
Roses de Chloé edt 50ml         $100
Roses de Chloé edt 75ml         $140
Roses de Chloé shower gel 200ml $45
Roses de Chloé body lotion 200ml $55

Roses de Chloé is available from 3rd November 2013 at David Jones, Myer and selected Chloé stockists.
For stockists, please call 1800 812 663.

REVIEW: Wella Pro Series Colour Shampoo, Conditioner & Rinse-Off Moisture Treatment


I find myself in the shower constantly singing my own little tune to Wella Professionals...Wella, Wella, Wella tell me more...Tell me more! Like does she have gorgeous hair? 
Uh huh!! A gorgeous product that compliments my hair with softness whilst taking care of my coloured hair! 

I'll probably get my hair coloured every 4-6months - touching up the regrowth and adding some brightness to it and each time I go I want to ensure that I'm getting my maximum time of colour as now having a beautiful little girl whose graced my life it will make it hard to break away to sit in a salon for a few hours. 

 I love a good hair product that leaves the freshly washed and cleaned hair scent, which is what you can smell with use of Wella Pro Series. 
Wella Pro Series Colour Shampoo & Conditoner 
RRP - $10.99 each for 750ml

Wella Pro Series Colour Collection preserves the vibrant, healthy look of hair shades with Wella Pro Series Colour which intensively nourishes, protects against breakage from combing and styling and leaves coloured hair soft and shiny.

 Wella Pro Series Colour Shampoo & Conditioner looked after my hair giving it a long lasting colour shine like I've just come out of the salon each time I wash my hair. 

 I really liked how the Wella Pro Series Shampoo & Conditioner are in pump bottles so they can easily be used in the shower. 
Wella Pro Series Rinse-Off Moisture Treatment 
RRP - $7.99 for 180ml

Wella Pro Series Moisture Rinse-Off Treatment leaves hair shiny and soft, without spending hours in a salon. The moisture formula works to align hair fibres for an incredibly sleek result.

In assisting the Wella Pro Series Colour Shampoo & Conditioner I followed on by using the Wella Pro Series Rinse-Off Moisture Treatment which you pop into your hair after shampooing & conditioning, leave for a minute and then rinse out. 
This moisture treatment is great for locking in moisture to your hair as we know that colour hair can sometimes need that extra care. 

 The Wella Pro Series Rinse-Off Treatment was in a screw on lid round container which is what I dislike with all brands using the screw on lid containers but I guess with most treatments using being a thick like paste this is the only way to have them. 

Saturday, 9 November 2013

REVIEW: Marquise Muslin Wraps


Marquise Muslin Wraps
RRP $36.95 for 2pk. 


Luxe baby brand Marquise, has released their debut collection of muslin wraps.

Expanding their baby offering, the muslin wraps are delicate, durable and made from 100% cotton; enhancing the ability to calm and sooth your baby.

With a fully-finished hemline, these wraps feature in the signature beach side and polka dot prints from the summer collection.
The Muslin Wrap is multi-functional and can be used as a burping cloth, change table cover, breastfeeding cover and can be placed over your pram or stroller.



 As of lately Melbourne has given us some hot summer like nights and my little darling heats up something shocking when I wrap her in her normal muslin wraps or blankets that are quite thick and fluffy, but now we have know found the alternative for hot nights. 
When we were sent Marquise Muslin Wraps we very eager to give these a try as we love the Marquise baby clothes! I actually had no idea that Marquise did anything other then baby clothes so was a nice surprise. 

Here are some the great uses I put my Marquise Muslin Wraps too:

  • In bubs crib on hot nights as I don't want her having nothing on and getting chilly. 
  • When I carry her around the house.
  • I love these for in her bugaboo bassinet pram under the apron as a light cover for her. 
  • What I really loved these wraps for was breastfeeding! When I'm caught outside of home and needing to feed my little angel - these became my best friend to throw over my shoulder and bubs to give us some privacy whilst she feeds. 
I personally didn't like using them as a burping/grot cloth as they are too thin for that job, need something thick to clean up those baby vomits!


The Marquise Muslin Wraps are just so soft, delicate and perfect! 
The patterns on the wraps - starfish and like a circle sequin design match the right season for when they should get most of their use! 

Available in a two pack, the light weight wraps retail for $36.95 

As well as the seasonal fashion line, Marquise also offers an essential’s range which includes classic styles for your essential baby needs.
Established in 1932, Marquise has become a trusted Australian children’s wear brand, offering
premium, fashionable and comfortable apparel.

Wednesday, 6 November 2013

GET READY FOR THE RACES WITH HERBAL ESSENCES


GET READY FOR THE RACES WITH HERBAL ESSENCES 
Spring into style with two race-ready looks

With the Spring Racing Carnival just around the corner, there is no better time to start thinking about the final touches of your race day look. Whether you’re there for the horses or to simply socialise and check out the latest trackside fashions, gorgeous hair is the perfect complement to any races outfit.

Herbal Essences has produced the ultimate guide to spring racing hair, complete with step-by-step instructions and video tutorials on how to achieve two stylish looks: The Sleek Ponytail and Loose Waves.

Top Tip: The Herbal Essences None of Your Frizzness Smooth Lovin’ Serum is the perfect quick fix for flyaways and small enough to fit in your purse on race day, ensuring your hair styles will last the distance.

Look 1: The Sleek Ponytail 
Simple, yet stylish, ‘The Sleek Ponytail’ is the sophisticated hairstyle that’s a true race day classic. Add a fresh flower for extra “wow”. To complete the look you will need a hair elastic and bobby pins.





Step 1: Wash hair with Honey I’m Strong shampoo and conditioner. Top Tip: Give your hair an extra treat with the Honey I’m Strong Rinse Off Treatment.
Step 2: Apply Dangerously Straight Leave-In Conditioner throughout hair from root to tip.
Step 3: Blow dry straight with a round brush.
Step 4: Comb hair into side ponytail and secure with elastic.
Step 5: Add a fresh flower and pin into place.
Step 6: For a glossy finish, use None of Your Frizzness Smooth Luvin’ Serum to smooth any flyaway’s and spray with Set Me Up hairspray.

Products used:
  • Herbal Essences Honey I’m Strong shampoo and conditioner - $5.99 each 
  • Herbal Essences Dangerously Straight Leave-In Conditioner - $5.99 
  • Herbal Essences None of Your Frizzness Smooth Luvin’ Serum - $9.99 
  • Herbal Essences Set Me Up Hairspray Supersize - $8.99


Look 2: Loose Waves 
Feminine, fun and fuss-free, ‘Loose Waves’ is the perfect hair-down look to carry you into the night. Best complemented by a bright head piece to stand out from the crowds. To complete the look you will need hair tongs and bobby pins, plus Tousle Me Softly hairspray for flexible hold and a violet scent.


Step 1: Wash hair with Tousle Me Softly shampoo and conditioner.

Step 2: Use Tousle Me Softly mousse on wet hair and scrunch mid lengths to ends.
Step 3: Flip head upside down and blow dry with a paddle brush.
Step 4: Tong the hair in 1 inch sections, starting at the front and working your way to the back.

Step 5: Spritz Tousle Me Softly spray gel onto hair and run fingers through. Add your headpiece and secure with bobby pins.
Step 6: Finish with Tousle Me Softly Hairspray. 

Products used:
  • Herbal Essences Tousle Me Softly shampoo and conditioner - $5.99 each 
  • Herbal Essences Tousle Me Softly Mousse - $6.99 
  • Herbal Essences Tousle Me Softly Spray Gel - $6.99 
  • Herbal Essences Tousle Me Softly Hairspray - $6.99
Copyright © 2015 NJT Blogger