27 July 2014

My Luxury Spa Experience - Knightsbrook River Spa


Today I am going to share with you my first ever spa experience. I visited the Knightsbrook hotel, spa and golf resort in Trim, Co Meath. 

Reason for going:
A parent of a child in my pre-school class rather kindly gave me a voucher for the Knightsbrook River Spa. I was gobsmacked by such a lovely gesture to be honest with you, I would have been just as delighted with a card! 

What treatments did I book in for?
Looking at the River Spa brochure I was intrigued by all the holistic Thai spa treatments they have to offer. However most of the treatments are little pricey for me and I wanted to make the most out of my voucher and get a few treatments done. Sometimes I hate being practical! Practical Sarah booked in for an Express Manicure, Express Pedicure and a half leg wax. The perfect trio for summer I think.


How did I get on?!
Upon entering the River Spa I was greeted and escorted to the lush waiting room. I was surprised that most of the place was only lit by candles and dim down lights. I had never been to a luxury spa before so I really had no idea what to expect and was slightly embarrassed when I commented to the receptionist "Oh, it's very dark in here"! It only took me a few moments to fill out a form outlining any health issues I may have and then I was swiftly escorted to the ladies changing room. I was so impressed with the facilities, so clean and well managed. My robe and slippers had been waiting for me in my own locker which securely held my belongings while I was getting my treatments done.

Treatment #1 - Half leg wax €25
Once I had changed I made my way back out to the waiting area where I was taken to the first treatment room to have my legs waxed. The lady who did all my treatments was very nice and gentle with me. She spoke very softly which I think was part of the whole relaxation process.
Spa Etiquette
"The Spa is designed to be calm, quiet and relaxing and for this 
reason the use of mobile phones is prohibited. We also ask that you 
respect other Spa users by speaking quietly whilst in our relaxation 
area. Any loud behaviour in any area of the Spa may result in you 
being asked to vacate the premises."

I tried my best to spark up a conversation but she was solely focused on my treatments, which was not a bad thing. My leg wax treatment took thirty minutes which was good timing in my book, she didn't rush and made extra effort to make sure all the hairs had been removed. 

Treatment #2 - Manicure €25
After my waxing treatment I was lead out of the room to another area of the spa. I was taken down a romantically lit corridor, up a stunning marble stair case, past their make-up application area and into another treatment room. They have sixteen treatment rooms, a thermal suite and two relaxation suites. I was asked to lay on a bed which I was surprised about because I was getting my nails done. A small towel was placed over my eyes while she completed my manicure. It was so relaxing I swear I nearly fell asleep. The background music was so relaxing and again my beautician was so focused on my treatments there was no chatter. I was asked what shaped I would like my nails to be filed and was asked was I happy with the shape before she applied the polish I had chosen. 

Treatment #2 - Pedicure €25
I've never had a pedicure before so I was a bit excited about this treatment. There was no questions this time she just asked me to inform her if I was uncomfortable at any stage. I really liked how she focused on making me feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible. The pedicure did not take long and afterwards she asked me if I would like a massage while the polish was drying. Oh god I'm glad I said "go for it"! I nearly slipped into a deep coma, it was amazing. I felt so rejuvenated afterwards. 


Just when I thought it was time to go home she lead me to yet another room. I was entering the relaxation suite. This room contained loungers separated by chiffon curtains. There was also a table of refreshing drinks and magazines. I'm not too sure on how long I would have been allowed to stay in this luxurious room but I gave it a full fifteen minutes before I decided to head back to the changing room. 

After I changed I made my way back to the reception and settled up with my voucher. The ladies on the desk were friendly and asked how I got on. I enquired about their opening times and signed up to their email/text notifications so I will find out about any future special offers they might be running. 

Wax used: 
Lycon Active Gold Strip Wax
"Glows like gold and removes hair effectively, gently and quickly. Contains the soothing benefits of Chamomile and the finest grade of gold Micro Mica, for extra gentle waxing and no skin drag."

Nail Polish Used:
O.P.I
Don't Bossa Nova Me Around

I absolutely loved my experience at the Knightsbrook River Spa. I will be back but next time I would love to go with my mam or a few friends. It was very relaxing and I left feeling pampered but I did miss a bit of a natter. I can see how it would be the perfect environment for someone wanting to get away from the daily stresses of life. It would also be the perfect place to bring your best friend or your mum. You also have the hotel bar and restaurant which would be a nice extension to the day if you wanted to take your experience to another level.

That's it from me girls, I'm off to continue being blissfully relaxed! 

Sarah

25 June 2014

OOTD: Fearne Cotton Printed Swing Dress

Photos taken at Fore Monastery Co Westmeath

I got this Fearne Cotton swing dress on Depop. Depop is a new on-line shopping app that has been taking the beauty and fashion world by storm. You basically sell your own items and in some cases like mine you can swap your items for someone else's. I swapped an A|wear blouse and a necklace for this dress and I'm delighted with it.

I love the fitted sleeves and the trapeze style gives my outfit a laid back feel. I paired it up with a pair of capri leggings from Penneys €4 and a pair of burgundy suede moccasin pumps from New Look.


Excuse my grass covered wet pumps, I had to unexpectedly trek through some fields and it was raining! You know yourself!  

Love,
Sarah

24 June 2014

Curvy Retro-chic Outfit Of The Day


A few weeks ago I found this red polka-dotted dress in my local charity shop for €4. It's a size 14 and I usually only wear a dress size 14 if it cinches in at the waist and then flows out (because of my "child bearing hips" as my mam calls them) so I was taking a risk with this figure hugging number. I teamed it up with a navy belt with a floral buckle that I purchased in Penneys a few years ago and a pair of navy pumps from New Look.

Photos taken at Rathmore Church Co Meath

On my face:
Foundation: Max Factor Face Finity 3 in 1 foundation SPF 20 in Beige 55
Face Powder: Bourjois Paris Healthy Balance in Vanille 52
Blush: No7 Natural Blush Tint Powder in Soft Damson
Lips: Barry M Kohl Pencil in Red 25 and 17 lasting Fix Lipstick in Showcase
Eyes: NYC Big bold volume by the lash mascara in extra black

Hair:
I used Hair Flair Curlformers to create a soft curl to my hair style.



I really enjoy finding cheerful colourful pieces like this in charity shops for a small fraction of the price I would have to pay on the high street. 

What do you think of my outfit and do you shop in Charity shops? Let me know in the comments below.

Love,
Sarah


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