Living Our Sunshine with Susann Deysel
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2 Mins Read

5 fragrance secrets from the Fragrance Queen

Did you know that you can wear more than 1 perfume at a time? Liz wears 3 perfumes at a time – sometimes, not always. It is a matter of trial and error to choose the right combination. Spray it on different sides of your body.

Are you in the habit of spraying perfume on your wrist and then rubbing your wrists together? STOP! You are crushing your fragrance and not giving it enough time to develop its fragrance on your skin.

What time of day should you be shopping for fragrances? From 12 in the afternoon, because then your sense of smell is at its peak. Spray on your hand/wrist, go for a coffee and wait at least 30 minutes before making a decision. Coffee acts as a “smell cleanser”.

Where should you spray your perfume? Your arms, body, behind your knees and even on your clothes but definitely not on your hair or décolletage!

Man/woman… or unisex? Men can wear women’s perfumes and vice versa. There is also now a move away from the unisex label to gender-free…

You can also read my article on the Fragrance Queen here.

A Fragrance Workshop to remember

I attended an Edgars Beauty x Fragrance Queen fragrance workshop recently.

Did you know that Edgars is the exclusive resellers for Viktor & Rolf (and a few other brands)?

Liz took the audience on a journey on time of fragrances that stood the test of time – and I’m looking at Chanel No 5, Angel from Thierry Mugler, Van Cleeff & Arpels First… We also experienced a range of new fragrances and learnt more about classifications from fruity, spicy, flowery and gourmand.

The Fragrance Workshop is truly an interactive experience for groups and is suitable for men and women to attend. So next time you see one advertised, book your spot!

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2 Mins Read

MamaMagic, The Baby Expo Joburg

Whether you are an expectant, new or returning parent, this is the event for you!

260 exhibits, expert advice, nappy change and breastfeeding rooms, kids entertainment and not-to-be missed expo specials, there’s so much to look forward to at this expo!

Bring the kids along to see South Africa’s favourite purple dinosaur, Barney, live on stage with a brand-new opening act.  Your toddlers can also drop off their Christmas wish lists directly with Santa Claus at Santa’s Grotto and spend time in the story corner listening to some of their favourite classic tales brought to life.

Expectant moms can also enter the Pampers Premium Care Baby on Board competition where they can stand the chance to win a pregnancy starter pack valued at over R 100 000! And there is also a chance for 1 family of 4 to walk away with tickets to the Kids Cruise happening from 8 – 11 February 2019 valued at R25 000.

The Joburg Summer edition of the expo kicks off 29 November till 2 December at the Ticketpro Dome. Doors open from 09h00 – 18h00 from Thursday, Friday and Saturday and from 09h00-17h00 on Sunday. Visitors can be part of the magic by purchasing their tickets online www.ticketpro.co.za or at the door.

For information on the event and to remain up to date on all the specials and offering visit www.mamamagic.co.za or follow MamaMagic on social media #MamaMagic on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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1 Min Read

The (other) Johannesburg Perfume Sale – dates announced

Another Johannesburg perfume sale… just in time for Xmas presents! This is not the usual Johannesburg perfume sale that is held in Kramerville… This perfume sale is at the Edenvale Bowling Club and has different brands. Last time I bought a Lady Emblem perfume and Jimmy Choo… I think I may have too many perfumes!
This sale is not as big as the Kramerville perfume sale but worth the drive if you like these brands (that may be available at the sale):
  • Jimmy Choo
  • MontBlanc
  • Dunhill
  • Ted Lapidus
  • Kim Kardasian
  • Balmain
  • Repetto
  • Rihanna
  • Rochas
  • Ferrari
  • Oscar de la Renta
  • Abercrombie & Fitch
  • Hollister
  • Boucheron
  • Lanvin
  • Paul Smith
There will also maybe be GOSH cosmetics as well as DogFight, Boss, Lanco, Tomato, Buren and Tommy Hilfiger jewellery (read watches).
As per usual… expect queues, don’t take handbags or a pram. They don’t accept cash so take your debit or credit card. Take water, put on sunscreen and let me know what you got!

Where is this perfume sale?

Edenvale Bowling Club

When is this perfume sale?

30 November 2018 from 9 to 6
1 December 2018 from 9 to 5
2 December 2018 from 9.30 to 3
Johannesburg Perfume Sale November 2018
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2 Mins Read

I went to Kamersvol and all I got was a churro

Soon after arriving at Kamersvol this year I realised that I seriously disliked the slow walking women (and no, not all of them were old) that hover in front of the doors – uhming and ahing whether to go in. It irritated me so much that I would skip a room just to have to come back when the door was free to use. I call this phenomenon situational unawareness.

However, the local makers and their wares… as per usual excellent. I was so happy to see Peppertree Bags there – since they only moved my favourite local brand, Design Team, to Cape Town. Can you hear my sour grapes bursting? I was tempted to buy a bit of jewellery but in the end the ‘door crowd’ made me turn around on my heels. I was also looking for a nice little black number but my vision didn’t quite meet with what was on the rails.

Peppertree Bags - support local - South African Blogger

Eco Punk Kamersvol

This year the venue was actually in a safer area plus no street parking in town – which was a huge plus. The St David’s Marist College Inanda also had lots of big trees and enough shade for sun-averse people like me.

Kamersvol Johannesburg

Seriously though, when I get irritated I want to eat and when I end up in a queue to get to food it irritates me more and then I want to leave. Luckily on my way out my eye caught Paquinos Churros and I bought some. One because I’m irritated and another because I really love churros.

Churro at Kamersvol - South African Blogger

PS. I own a few Peppertree bags – so I will probably support them forever because they make the most amazing bags but my heart is very sore to no longer have my sale highlight of the year, the Design Team warehouse sale.

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Celebrating an icon’s 59th birthday

When an invite popped into my inbox to celebrate 59 years of Barbie – I couldn’t RSVP fast enough! On the day I arrived late (which is really unlike me) and grabbed a seat right at the front during the presentation. Highlights for me included learning that Barbie clothing is actually made in South Africa (all about that in a next post), meeting up with my Blogger Bestie Miss Chanene from Tonics & Tiaras, eating Barbie birthday cake (woohoo!) and going home with a brand spanking new Barbie and Barbie cup.

#YouCanBeAnything

What I love most about Barbie is that she isn’t just a pretty doll, she is actually a role model. She shows girls that they can be anything and that it is OK to be different.

I know that you are probably going “show me the pictures”, so here goes, a post full of pictures.

You Can Be Anything with Barbie

Recognise Sureshnie Rider from 5FM? She told us all about how she saved up as a kid to buy her own Barbie and how she used to play with a friend’s Barbie because she didn’t have one.

…but wait, there is more!

Barbie Clothing made in South Africa

Barbie Clothing made in South Africa

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3 Mins Read

Sister Bliss of FAITHLESS is coming to Jozi

It was the 90’s – to be exact 1995 – and South Africa had changed. Our little country at the tip of Africa was pushed onto the world stage. We gained access to Europe and we were with the times. We got the latest music…

5FM was pumping only the best across the airwaves. There was grunge, indie rock, trip hop, versions of punk, heavy metal, hard rock and electronica. It was heaven! I rocked out on the most amazing music – bare midriff and all – and then I discovered Insomnia. It became my anthem (well, most of it). The electronic sounds, bass and beat echoed through me whilst the chorus stuck in my head. I was hooked on Faithless’ music.

 “Deep in the bosom of the gentle night
Is when I search for the light
Pick up my pen and start to write
I struggle, fight dark forces
In the clear moon light
Without fear… insomnia
I can’t get no sleep”

Then Faithless “retired” in 2011 (but popped back up in 2015). The world, in my eyes, had lost one of the greatest bands from the UK. A band that produced evergreen songs that that I still play 20 years later.

I can't get no sleep - Faithless

Now for the most amazing news…

Sister Bliss of Faithless is coming to Jozi for 1 night only – 10 March 2018 at H20!

Renowned DJ and producer of Faithless, Sister Bliss has created some of the most iconic electronic anthems of all time such as, “Insomnia, “God is a DJ”, “We Come 1”, “Music Matters”, “Salva Mea”, which skyrocketed the band into stardom and ultimately entered them into the modern music’s hall of fame as one of the most important bands in the history of the genre, with over 15 million records worldwide. She has also had numerous singles and two solo albums to date, worked side-by-side with music icons such as Boy George, Dido, Example and Robert Smith from The Cure and even done scores for films such as “Sex & the City 2” and the 90’s cult film “The Beach”.

From the start of her career in 1987, her flourishing talent and ambition – and being a driven Woman in such a male dominated industry – allowed her to stand out in the UK House scene at the time. Performing in the most popular clubs across the world, she quickly began recording and releasing her own songs. Soon after that, she met her future colleague and producer Rollo, and together they began writing and recording songs. Their collaboration soon flourished into a new studio project – Faithless, and together with Maxi Jazz, they started creating their unique sound by mixing dance, hip-hop, blues, folk, and classical music that captured the masses and catapulted them into the international sensation we know today.

This March you get to experience the history, the music and movement for one night only when Sister Bliss lights up H20 with an unforgettable Faithless DJ set. If there is one thing I know is that childhood dreams to see some of your favourite artists can still come true when you’re an adult.

Check out the official promo video: https://bit.ly/2DCosTV, get your tickets https://www.webtickets.co.za/event.aspx?itemid=1476852407 – and find me in the crowd.

Sister Bliss Faithless DJ Sets:

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3 Mins Read

There is a beach in Jozi for the holidays!

When hubby told me that he was off to his office to spoil his employees with a gaming session as their year-end function – and that the nanny wasn’t available on the day to help with Lexa I was shaking. She is a handful at just 1 and depending on the day her mood could very well not be good…

…and then as if Mall of Africa knew about my predicament they sent an invite to come and enjoy The Beach.

I packed Lexa, sunscreen, diapers, bottles, snacks and I went off to Mall of Africa to keep her busy and myself sane for the day. We first got to ride on the Hamley’s train (I have been wanting to do that for ages) and it was about an 8 – 10 minute ride through the play area. Lexa loved it. The wind was in her hair and she kept on waving ta-ta to the children.

Then I let her loose on the fountain. She loved the water sprouting and even looked for where it went – and got it right in the face (she didn’t mind, it made it even more fun to chase the water).  You can check out all the images from the day on Instagram, click here.

Next up was the big sandpit. Lexa collected buckets and spades and played in the sandpit for about 30 minutes. She even made a little friend.

I was so tempted to go on the big slides, but I know Lexa is a “little to little”. I am definitely taking my nieces when they come to visit this Christmas.

Where and how much

R25 that’s all it takes to get in at The Beach. It is at the “Town Square” of Mall of Africa and just below the open piazza. Take some cash with for ice cream!

  • 9 – 23 December 2017
  • Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm
  • R25 per person – and free for kiddies under 2
  • Bring cozzies, beach towel and sunscreen
  • Water slides, volley ball, music, paddle boats, train ride and wipe outs (PS… there is a mechanical surfboard!!!!!!!!!!)

I just also want to thank all the sponsors that made this day so amazing. I promise to share some photos of our spoils soon 🙂

  • Mall of Africa Kids Collective for an awesome day at The Beach
  • Hamley’s for finally giving me the chance to get on the Hamley’s Express
  • Hamleys for the teddy bear (I really needed that!) and I hope to give it to a special little person soon
  • The bookshop that sponsored books, a Fairytale from Danielle Steel and How Cheetah got his tears by Avril van der Merwe
  • USBORNE for the bag, bookmarks, pins… I will be sharing some bookmarks with a bunch of special moms
  • Penguin Random House for an ebook voucher to get The Selfish Shongololo in English or Afrikaans
  • Laager for delicious peach and apricot tea for Lexa
  • Whomever donated the Teddy Africa Big 5 Canvas Kit
  • Gift voucher from Paul Mitchell

… and also thank you so much for the snacks beforehand, the McDonald’s kiddies meal and a fantastic day at The Beach right here in Jozi!

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BB Square's Square Off
2 Mins Read

A Sandwich Revolution – BB Square Off Challenge

When I used to work at an office (not so long ago) there was something comforting about having a sandwich from home for breakfast or lunch… but then after a while you kind of run out of ideas on what to put on your work sarmie. (Taking leftovers wasn’t my thing, because sometimes that kitchen was left in a state by very inconsiderate colleagues.)

BB Bakeries & BB Squares

A bakery with a 160 year track record that tries to breathe life into the humble sarmie? Count me in!

BB Squares are designed to fit perfectly into lunchboxes, are high in fibre and can hold an array of tantalizing fillings or toppings. Plus they are available in brown or white.

BB Square Off Challenge

The BB Square Off is a creative Square making challenge that zaps the monotony out of lunchboxes. Consumers are invited to awaken their inner foodie and surprise their senses with a salivating spread of toppings and fillings; and the versatility and convenience of BB Squares.

With Durban’s most popular markets setting the stage and East Coast Radio’s Mags van der Westhuizen officiating – moms will get the chance to ‘Square Off’ with media and homegrown celebrities to make tasty Square creations in the quickest time possible. These creative innovations will be judged by a panel of junior judges, who will critique against their strict taste test criteria. You don’t want to miss it!

The BB Square Off events will be taking place in and around Durban at the following venues – and there are still 3 you can catch:

 

 

  • Date: 15 October 2017
    Venue: The Morning Trade
    Time: 8am- 1pm
  • Date: 21 October 2017
    Venue: Shongweni Market
    Time: 6:30am- 11:30 am
  • Date: 29 October 2017
    Venue: Wonder Market
    Time: 9am- 2pm

Let me know when you have tried the BB Squares! I was invited tot he first Square Off, but as per usual I am currently in the wrong city.

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Clicks #BabyMeetUP Durban Competition
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Win a set of double tickets to the Clicks #BabyMeetUP in Durban (23 September 2017)

I know that you’ve heard about the Clicks #BabyMeetUP – but how would you like to win a set of double tickets?

Presentations by 15 parenting experts, celebrities and medical specialists, an awesome nappy bag packed with goodies and a chance to win fantastic prizes on the day sponsored by top baby and toddler brands.

How to win double tickets:

Like, Comment, Tag a friend and Share

More information: www.babymeetup.co.za
Where:  Moses Mabhida Stadium
When:  Saturday, 23 September 2017

a Rafflecopter giveaway

T&Cs

  1. Winner to be picked by random draw and announced on 21 September 2017.
  2. Winner will be emailed and their details will be sent to the organisers of the Cliks #BabyMeetUP.
  3. Entries will be verified.
  4. Prize includes a set of double tickets to the Clicks #BabyMeetUP in Durban on 23 September 2017.
  5. Prize cannot be redeemed for cash or exchanged.
  6. Prize excludes any/all travel and accommodation.
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KZN Blogger Meetup 2017
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KZN Blogger Meet-up 2017

You’d think that I have enough on my plate, but somehow I managed to pull off an event in Umhlanga, survived an aspiration, the waiting for good news and a 6.5 hour drive with Lexa!

When I booked the coffee shop, Iwantmycoffee, a few months ago I was worried that the venue might be too big… but then the event rolled around and it was almost too small!

KZN Blogger Meet-up

The talk part

I had organized lovely speakers for this year’s event. There was Verushka that gave blogger tips; Nelisiwe from Conversation Lab that shared how agencies identified influencers; Sharla from MUD; and Ryan from Rain.

What I loved about the speakers was that there was variety. You could learn from 2, discover a new brand or product and revel in the delicious luxury of Rain.

In-between the talks I also ran competitions to win goodies from sponsors on my Instagram and Twitter. A few very lucky bloggers walked away with really awesome prizes.

KZN Blogger Meetup Winners

The sponsors

I cannot begin to thank each and every sponsor enough for each product that made its way to the event. I would like to thank:

Conversation Lab for organising products from Environ. I love that it is a South African product. I have tried it out in the past, so will definitely be using the opportunity to reacquaint.

Rain for giving spot prizes and a gift to each attendee – plus for sending Ryan to join us for the day. Rain’s home may well be Swellendam, but my Rain goodies have a new home and I can’t wait to show my sister… and make her jealous.

MUD, for spoiling the bloggers with something new to try. I haven’t tried MUD blush before… so next time you see me it might be with rosy cheeks from MUD.

Vita Liberata – I’m sure Lisa from Forts and Fairies will be enjoying her luxury tan voucher! It is such a lovely prize and just in time for Spring and beach time.

Milk Solutions for the delicious products! With flavours such as grapefruit & pomegranate and soya milk & quince. I’m sure we are going to get along just fine when everything smells beautiful!

Dr. Dermal for the consultation vouchers! This is sure to get many bloggers to make their appointments. I’m borrowing a pic from Disney Mom Blog 🙂

Elle Kay Fabrics… I can only say that the room was suitably impressed when the two spot prize winners showed off their goodies. How lucky was it that Alison won green that went perfectly with her house? Siobhan was the other lucky winner. Thank you for adding much excitement to the day Luhanda!

Dupe Factorie for sponsoring a makeup brush for each blogger. I have been to the Melville store and thought the products were good value for money…and that in today’s economy your pricing makes it possible for anyone to own beautiful products.

Forever Aloe products from Alison that we could try out. I am currently using the Forever Aloe Lips with Jojoba to try and get my lips ready for the hotter months…so far, I have seen more moisture and no flakiness after 4 days.

…and for last I have left Origin Bespoke Stationery – I love what you chose for me. My stationery perfectly suits my laptop bag and document folder from Lou Harvey! I’m sure that all the bloggers will love their gifts as much as I love mine. Thank you to Francie who personally delivered the goodies to me in Ballito. PS I actually still write Thank You cards 🙂

The bloggers

The event could never be a success without all the wonderful bloggers. I hope to see you all again next year – and that we will have many more bloggers attending.

As a special mention, Asha Singh that drove all the way from Port Shepstone! … the bloggers that attended both last and this year: Camilla, Siobhan and Lungi, you guys rock!

What this event means to me

KZN is near to my heart as I’m trying to make it home the times we are here. I don’t know if I will ever give up Jozi, or my roots in Limpopo… but it is sure nice to meet all the interesting bloggers out here.

I want the KZN meetup to be that once a year event where we meet and learn from eachother. I hope that going forward we will all support eachother, share a post or tweet…

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