December Favourites

December is over. I know that the festive season is the most enjoyable time of year for so many people - and now we all have to wait another 12 months until it comes back round again... Saying that, I hope that each and every one of you, had the best Christmas. January has never been a favourite of mine but I don't really have a real reason for that. The month in itself seems to drag in my opinion. Before we all start thinking about having a fresh start as another year begins, here are the things that I have loved in the last month of 2017.

Nivea Makeup Wipes
I am a massive fan of makeup wipes, purely for the reason that they are quick, handy and no fuss when it comes to removing makeup. There are so many different brands and types of makeup wipes that I have used over the years, but these Nivea ones stand out from the rest. Most wipes don't tend to keep moisture very well, and leave the rest feeling dry once one wipe has been removed from the pack. These don't - yay! They're super gentle on the skin, and remove eye makeup easily without having to tug and rub at the eye area. Amazing.

Making Memories With Printiki*
Now that Christmas is over, slowly taking down all the festive decorations has left my surroundings feeling naked. I've been frantically looking for some kind of decoration to take their place. Ever since my childhood, I have loved having photos of friends, family and happy memories on my wall. It's such a great way to remember times that have been spent. The lovely people at Printiki recently got in contact with me and asked if I wanted some prints - the perfect filler for my bare surroundings! Printiki made editing and selecting images super easy. You can upload photos to be printed from any platform - Instagram, Facebook, even your phone, laptop or tablet. There are numerous filters, frames, and sizes of photo prints to choose from. You can zoom in on certain aspects of your photos, rotate them, add captions, and even change the colour and shape of the photo's borders. You can even chose whether you want the prints to have a glossy or a matte finish. All the tools you need to make your perfect prints!

If you wanted to treat yourself to some prints like the ones above, use the code "F6UGCXQ8" for free shipping/postage on your order. For some inspiration on how to display your prints, check out Printiki's Instagram here. They have some great designs, DIY's and arrangement ideas. I want to thank Printiki for sending me these photo prints - my room is no longer bare!

Rimmel Scandal Eyes Reloaded Mascara

Another new beauty product that I tried in December, was this one. I'm still on the hunt for a mascara that gives me the volume that I want in my lashes. The wand is everything when it comes to mascara, and I'm a huge fan of this one. It allows you to build your lashes to how you want them to be, without getting majorly clumpy. Just what I want!

Bryson Tiller

At the beginning of the month, I saw Bryson Tiller at the Hammersmith Apollo in London. Bryson released his first album, 'Trap Soul' back in 2015 - the year that I started my first year of University. The songs from this album takes me back to living in halls, overplaying this album, and having so many new experiences. He was so amazing! Never have I ever seen an artist so genuine, down to earth and appreciative of all the people who made the effort to go and see him perform. His concert definitely stands out for the month of December. It was such a lovely birthday present.

What's been your favourite thing about the month of December? 

Amber X

*Please note that  prints were sent to me for consideration, but this hasn't in anyway changed my view or opinion* 

Festive Makeup Look

When I think of festive makeup, I think of glitter, winged liner and a red lip. It's just such a classic combination of products and colours that work so well together. During the colder months of the year, my skin tends to look flat, dry and lifeless. Therefore, I try to incorporate as many 'glowy' products as I can to give the illusion that my skin is really this radiant. These are the products that I use to distract away from the dry patches and redness the cold brings me. 

Bourjous Radiance Reveal concealer

This product has been a relatively new discovery for me in relation to the other products in this post. Back in the summer, I purchased this for the first time, and I believe this is the third concealer I have had now. It brightens my under eyes like no other concealer I have tried before. With buying concealer from the drugstore, I tend to find that the lightest shade amongst the range of shades that a brand brings out, is never light enough - but this one is perfect! It's long lasting and stays put all day. 

Laura Mercier Highlighter in Indiscretion

 It makes me sad to now look at the beautiful embossment that gets ruined every time I use it :'-( Is anyone else like this, or is it just me?! (It probably is haha). This highlighter isn't overly glittery, but adds the nicest shine to the tops of my cheekbones, mimicking the 'natural' radiance that I want my skin to have in the winter months. 

Nars Orgasm Blusher

Nars is one of those brands that I really want to try more of, but haven't got round too. I use this blusher the majority of the time. If I'm not using this one, I use the Bora Bora baked blush by Laura Geller. This pink toned blush with tiny gold reflects is gorgeous, and looks amazing on the cheeks. I have even used this blusher as an eyeshadow, and it looks equally just as amazing. Nothing can beat a Nars blusher. 

This post concludes my little series of the 12 days of AmberAtlanta. I hope that it has been just as enjoyable to read, as it has for me to come up with the content, photograph and write each and every post. Thank-you to everyone who has read even one post. I hope you have the best Christmas!

What products do you like to use to achieve a glowy look?

Amber X

One Year On

I know this post technically doesn't fit in with the 12 days of Christmas theme, but I really wanted to include it. So, a year ago today, I published my first blog post. It wasn't a massive post, a rambly/chatty post or even a beauty related post, but it was the first thing I posted here on my blog. I am genuinely surprised that a year on, I am still enjoying photographing, scheduling, writing and posting a blog post basically every week, just as much as I did in the very beginning. Blogging had been something that I was considering starting waaay before I finally made the decision to just go for it. I'm sure you can relate when you want to start something new, but are a little nervous and apprehensive before doing so. All it takes is one sporadic and impulsive moment, and you can do anything.

The numbers side of having a blog has never been a big concern of mine, but never would I have ever imagined that my little blog would have got to where it is now from posting this time last year.  I see my blog as a hobby of mine, that I like to do for myself, and when I want some down time... It blows my mind that people take the time out of their day to post a comment, or even have a look at what I have written. It's just little old me?! It's crazy. So many good things have happened this year, and I have so much to look back on and feel a sense of accomplishment. My blog being one of those good things. I wanted to end this by saying thank-you to you for reading this post, to those who leave me nothing but lovely comments on each and every post, and even to those who just have a little nose and then leave...

It means a lot.

Thank-you.

Amber X 

Christmas Eve Essentials

I don't know about you, but I feel that half the festiveness and fun that surrounds Christmas, is in Christmas Eve. Christmas Eve always used to be an exciting day, as it's the night that Santa comes whilst you sleep, of course. Some families have their little Christmas Eve traditions, and I think that's such a lovely thing to share together. Whether you get to open one of your presents early, whether you go to church, whether you have an evening in together, I thought to come up with a list of things that could make your Christmas Eve the best.

• Christmas films.
• Chocolate (yes, all of the Quality Streets, Roses, Celebrations or Heros).
• Pj's of course! Paired with your favourite dressing gown, slippers and/or fluffy socks.
• Or, if you're not a pj wearer, maybe a cheesy Christmas jumper. 
• Puzzles or board games.
• Candles (if you're in the mood for some down time), or even an advent candle.
• Playing cards.
• Blankets - the more, the better.
• Other kinds of snacks... like those oversized biscuit selection boxes, yum. 
• Music. 
• Santa tracker.
• A mince pie, carrot, beer or milk - whatever you leave out for Santa Clause. 
• A DIY activity, such as decorating gingerbread men, or even building a gingerbread house.
• Alcohol (obviously if you're of age).
• Christmas hats.
• A big mug of tea, coffee or hot chocolate (How cute is this one?!)
• Face masks.
• Wrapping paper - for wrapping those last minute presents.

How do you spend your Christmas Eve?

Amber X

All The Mince Pies

What is Christmas without mince pies?! I don't know if I am right in saying that having mince pies at Christmas is a British thing, but it makes me really happy when Christmas time, because it means one thing - mince pies. Whether they are shop brought, home made, warm or cold, mince pies are one of the best things about Christmas. Here is how to make your own...

What you will need

1 jar of mincemeat 

375g of plain flour

260g of unsalted butter

125g of caster sugar

1 large egg, plus 1 beaten egg to brush over the pastries before they go in the oven

What you need to do

1. Place flour and butter into a bowl and use your fingers to combine to the two together to make a crumbly consistency.

2. Add the sugar and the egg and mix together. 

3. Place the pastry on a lightly floured surface and knead until the pastry comes together. 

Or 

Buy shop brought pastry and your life will be much easier. I'd recommend the Jus-Rol Shortcrust pastry that you can get from most supermarkets.

4. Preheat the oven to 220c. Roll out the pastry to your desired thickness and using a cutter, cut out 16 bases and place them in a cake tray.

5. Roll out the remaining pastry and using another cutter, or freehand, make 16 mince pie tops. 

6. Using a spoon, fill the pastry bottoms with a teaspoon of mincemeat. 

7. Place the pastry tops on the mince pie bottoms.

8. Glaze with the beaten egg, and place in the oven for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

9. Leave to cool and if you fancy, dust with a bit of icing sugar or caster sugar. 

I altered this recipe from the BBC website, you can find the full recipe here. 

Have you ever made mince pies before? Do you like them? 

Amber X

What to Watch At Christmas

How could I do Christmas related blog posts without including my favourite films to watch at this time of the year?! Watching films alone, or with family members and friends is something that I love - regardless of how many times you have watched something previously. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are the best excuse to only move from your chair or sofa, when you're called for food... So if you fancied watching something Christmassy, these are the ones that I would recommended you watch.

Home Alone
This is definitely the Christmas film that I have watched every year, for so many years. Whether it be the first film or the second, they just fill you with festive-ness. Poor Kevin always gets left behind when his family plan to go on holiday and you get to see what he gets up too whilst his family aren't around. This film is such a Christmas classic, I will no doubt be watching this one on repeat.

Arthur Christmas
This animated Christmas film is definitely one of the 'newer' Christmas releases. It's so easy to watch, follow and enjoy. You follow Arthur and his desire to make sure that every child gets what they have asked Santa for in their letters. He goes to great lengths to make sure that no child misses out on Christmas morning. This film is so sweet and great for all the family.

Christmas Specials of TV Series 
When it comes to Christmas time, I'm sure that a few TV series will do a Christmas special. There is something so festive about your favourite TV shows creating a one off Christmas episode. I must have watched Gavin and Stacey's Christmas special more than a handful of times already... If you haven't seen this one specifically, you must!

Elf
The ultimate Christmas film - am I right? Cute old Buddy makes his way to New York City in search of his Dad whom he has never met before. He gets to know himself and learns a new way of life that isn't all about elves. Not only is he the best at making Christmas decorations, but also spreading festive cheer. This film will always put a smile on your face.

The Holiday
If you've read my other what to watch posts, you'll know that I am a massive fan of a soppy drama/romcom. The holiday is exactly that, but in Christmas form. Two characters, Amanda and Iris, swap houses over Christmas time to escape their troubles and essentially, have a break. Unexpected love interests appear and they both aren't so quick to return back to their own houses after all. I'd probably go as far as saying this film is my favourite Christmas film... It's so cosy, and gives you that happy, warm, fuzzy feeling. If you're like me and a fan of this one, you'll enjoy Love Actually just as much.

What's your favourite Christmas film?

Amber X 

A December Evening Pamper

There is no doubt that a pamper session is the perfect way to spend an evening after a long day of work, studying or just generally being busy. But having a relaxing evening, after spending the day Christmas shopping, decorating, writing Christmas cards, preparing food ready for Christmas day, or even watching Christmas films all day, sounds 100x better. Here are some things I like to do when I want to spend the evening unwinding, and soaking up all the festivities. 

First on my list for some down time, is taking off my makeup. I know this may seem strange to some of you, but there are days that I genuinely look forward to taking my makeup off. It means the day is done, and it's time to get cosy. Especially after a long day, makeup can start to feel unwanted on my skin, and it feels much better once it's been removed. First off I use wipes, and then I take my trusty, Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish to ensure that everything is gone. For a gentle exfoliation, my favourite is the Neutrogena Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Daily Scrub. This stuff leaves my skin feeling super clean and fresh. I then tone, if I want too (this Liz Earle one is amazing) and then I moisturise with the Nivea moisturizer. 

Unfortunately, at uni we don't have a bath in our flat (big sad face). So after a hot shower, I like to put my pj's on. I recently brought myself the cutest Christmas pj bottoms from Next. Nothing is better, or cosier, than xmas pj's. I like to pair my pj's with fluffy socks, and a fleecy dressing gown. 

From here, there are so many different things I like to do, but it is completely dependent on my mood. Face masks, painting my nails, making a hot chocolate (click here for the yummiest recipe), sticking on a Christmas film whilst munching on Christmas chocolate, putting some music on, catching up on YouTube videos, browsing the internet, watching some Netflix, reading, or simply just putting on some fairy lights.

What do you like to do to pamper yourself?

Amber X 

Where To Go at Christmas Time

There are always plenty of things to go out and do or see in the run up to Christmas. So much so that it can be slightly overwhelming and stressful to try and fit in everything that you want to do. I'm sure there are events that may stick out to some of you, but if you're still unsure on how to spend your free time as Christmas approaches, here are some ideas of things that you could be doing...

Visiting Garden Centres
I can tell what you're probably thinking... Amber, really? But garden centres are the best places to go to feel all kinds of festive. They are filled to the brim with Christmas decorations, lights, ornaments, foliage, and even things like craft kits, or cute little cafes.  Whether you wanted to pop in just for a look, or you are looking for something specific, try your local garden centre - I'm sure you'll be completely surprised!

Christmas Markets
Nothing beats walking around with a bobble hat, a knitted scarf, and a hot chocolate whilst browsing all of the little wooden huts, filled with yummy treats, and hand made goods. Christmas markets bring all of the Christmas festive-ness, and are a great place to go with friends or loved ones.

Visiting Christmas Lights
If you live in an estate, or live close to one, there will most definitely be houses covered in Christmas lights. Going for a walk and spotting all of the houses that look like Christmas has thrown up on them, is another thing that you could do to feel festive. Where some houses like to keep it subtle and others like to go a bit further and raise as much as they can for charity - go and see which lights are your favourite.

Starbucks and Costa
Treat yourself to a once a year, Christmas menu drink. If you get a coffee, tea, hot chocolate etc, on a daily basis, then why not switch it up and have something Christmas inspired! Not only that, but the Christmas cups are adorable.

Where's your favourite place to visit around Christmas time?

Amber X

Nutella Hot Chocolate

What better way than combatting this cold weather, than with treating yourself to a hot chocolate?! I love hot chocolate - it goes perfectly with your favourite film, whilst sitting under blankets or duvets and with all the cosy fairy lights you can imagine. If you're a fan of Nutella, then you'll love this super easy recipe that will transform the ordinary (but still delicious) hot chocolate. 

What you will need: 

Nutella
Milk - of your choice. (Almond is my fav)

Your favourite mug

A spoon

Decorations if you so wish - whipped cream, chocolate, whatever you fancy!

What You Need To Do

1. Add a teaspoon (add less if you want a subtle taste of Nutella, or more if you're a Nutella fan) of Nutella into your mug.
2. Heat up your milk. You can do this in a number of ways - on the hob, or in the microwave for example. I pour milk into a Pyrex or microwavable jug, and put it into the microwave for 2 minutes.

3. Once the milk is warmed to your desired temperature, add the milk to the mug, little by little, stirring at the same time. You will soon notice that the Nutella dissolves and turns the milk chocolate-y. Yum!

4. You now have the tastiest Nutella hot chocolate.

5. If you so choose, top the hot chocolate with whipped cream and maybe even add some grated chocolate. (Why not... It's Christmas).

What's your favourite hot chocolate?

Amber X

Christmas Reds

Christmas is the season of the red lip. Of course, by all means, you can wear a red lip any time of the year, but for me, red is definitely my Christmas lip colour of choice. Finding the right red lipstick can end up being quite the chore. There are so many undertones to consider... so I thought I'd share with you my favourite red lipsticks that I will without a doubt, be wearing the hell out of up until Christmas.

Younique Splash Liquid Lipstick in Sizzling

Last Christmas, this was all I wore on my lips. Red lips make me feel super festive, and I couldn't put this one down. The formula of this lipstick is somewhat like a mousse, and this makes application easy. It lasts on the lips - even after eating Christmas dinner, so that must be saying something haha!

NYX Perfect Red Matte Lipstick

Every time I have worn this red, I am always asked what I have on my lips. Even though it is matte, this lipstick doesn't dry out the lips and is comfortable to wear for a long period of time. It definitely is a perfect red shade that looks amazing with winged liner and lots of lashes. I'd definitely like to try more colours of this range from NYX, especially as it's the most affordable of my favourite red lipsticks.

Kylie Cosmetics Matte Liquid Lipstick in Merry 

Merry is a much deeper red in comparison to the other two I have mentioned so far and it dries down completely matte. I love the berry/pink tones in this liquid lipstick, but I am not massively keen on the formula. The smell is a bit too overpowering, and I found it made my lips feel very dry. That being said, Merry looks gorgeous with a red gloss over the top, which also helps with the drying formula. 

MAC Diva

Diva was one of the first MAC lipsticks I ever got, and I used to wear it non-stop. I find that applying this lipstick in different ways gives you a different shade of red, which I am not mad about. Dabbing this lipstick onto the lips creates a slightly lighter, but still deep toned burgundy red, whilst applying like a normal lipstick gives an intense burgundy finish. I cannot wait to whip this one out again!

Charlotte Tilbury in So Marilyn

So Marilyn gives the lips a beautiful red sheen. It's not a matte lipstick, it's definitely more on the satin side. It's not hard to wear, doesn't dry out the lips and is the perfect size to throw into your handbag. I love the fact that these lipsticks are mini... You can essentially give the shade a proper try before you commit to a full size lipstick! Who can resist a mini lipstick though?!

What's your favourite red lipstick?

Amber X

A Lil' Xmas Gift Guide

I am certain that by now, the majority of you will have started your Christmas shopping, or even finished it (well done you). But I know sometimes that trying to find the right present can be a tricky task. Many bloggers have done their own twist on a Christmas gift guide, so do not fret - you will find the perfect gift! If you're still stuck on a little something to get a fellow female friend, I hope my gift guide gives you some inspiration. All gift ideas are under £30...

1. Alphabet Trinket Dish

2. Rose Gold Wire Alphabet Letter

 3. Beautyblender

4. Pink Velvet Makeup Bag

 5. Tassel Clutch Bag

6. Gold Glass Trinket Boxes

7. Bee Stud Earrings

8. Spotted Porcelain Mug

9. Zoeva Coral Spectrum Blush Palette

10. Gold Jewellery Stand

11. Soft Faux Fur Cushion

12. Hanging Photo Frames 

13. Huda Beauty Lip Contour Set

14. Fluffy Socks

What gift would you give a friend this Christmas?
Amber X

Photos of items have been taken from websites, links have been provided. These images aren't my own.

The Christmas Playlist

When I was thinking of ideas for content to make for Christmas, I thought it would really be the biggest shame if I didn't include some kind of Christmas playlist. After all, what is Christmas without all of the cheesy, overplayed, and catchy Christmas songs?! Spotify really does have some great Christmas playlists already made up for you, ready to access with the click of your finger. But here are the songs that I will most definitely be listening too to get into the festive spirit. 

WHAM! - Last Christmas 

Tony Bennett - Winter Wonderland

Frank Sinatra - Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow!

Johnny Mathis - It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

Frank Sinatra - Have yourself a merry little Christmas

Band Aid - Do they know it's Christmas?

The Beach Boys - Little Saint Nick 

Elton John - Step into Christmas

Chris Rea - Driving home for Christmas

Andy Williams - It's the most wonderful time of the year

Daryl Hall and John Oates - Jingle bell rock

Bing Crosby - White Christmas

The Pogues - Fairytale of New York
Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Jordan & His Tympany Five - Baby It's cold outside 

What's your favourite Christmas song?

Amber X

12 Days of AmberAtlanta

Getting into the Christmas spirit, I have set myself the challenge to post 12 times before Christmas Day. 12 days of Christmas, or more like 12 days of amberatlanta. I have a post planned for every other day, starting today and ending on the 24th. Get ready for all of the Christmas-ness. I cannot wait to get into all of the festivities that come along with celebrating Christmas... Is there a better fuzzy, happy feeling than feeling festive? I'll hold you to that one. Here is a short list of reasons why I love Christmas time. 

1. Spending time with family is the best. Playing silly games, watching Christmas film after Christmas film and just having fun together makes me feel super festive. 

2. Pretty sure everyone is happier and more friendly in the run up to Christmas - bar the stressed out individuals who are still Christmas shopping on Christmas Eve. It may just be me that picks up on this, but I am certain people on the whole, are cheerier. 

3. It's one of the very few times of the year where it is acceptable to eat as much food as humanly possible. 

4. Cold, frosty mornings are so beautiful. Stepping outside early in the morning to see cobwebs filled with dew drops, and crunchy, frozen grass is a good start to a new day.

5. Gift giving and seeing happiness on the faces of those who you have really thought about when considering their gift, is one of the best feelings. 

Why do you love Christmas?

Amber X