The Best Of February

Aloha Sprinklerinos, 

Cripes has February has wizzed past in the blink of an eye. Once again we're nearing the end of the month and I thought I'd finish it off by sharing a nifty little round up of February posts on Sprinkle of Glitter. It's been a good'un!

February on Sprinkle of Glitter an introduction to my husband, Matt. It's not often I'll dedicate an appreciation post to the man in my life, but this month Matt has certainly come up trumps on the husband scale and I could not resist sharing his wonderful ways with you HERE. This month Matt also filmed his very first vlog for Sprinkle of Chatter which you can watch that HERE. Isn't he a dreamboat? Haha. 

'My iPhone life' returned this month on Sprinkle of Glitter and I'm pleased as punch that you enjoy seeing these little snippits of my life as much as I enjoy capturing them. I shared with you HERE some iPhone snaps I had taken throughout January whilst I enjoyed the adventures of being mummy, friend and Youtuber.

Matt made another appearance this month, this time as my sweet Valentine. You can read it HERE. He truly gives me all the warm and fuzzies and I'm a lucky, lucky lady!  

There's another important, smaller, person I am lucky to have in my life, Baby Glitter. I contemplated sharing a post about motherhood being my crowning moment of glory in life, but instead I wrote about what I've learnt as a mama since bringing a teenytiny into the world, built in alarm clock included. You can read about my thoughts on motherhood HERE.

Finally I discussed the whole shibang behind creating a Youtube video, yummy snacks and all! If you're curious about the process of creating Youtube videos, the set up involved or the all important props I use then you can read my 'behind the scenes' post HERE. I hope it was helpful for ya!

And that was my February! Let's hope March brings us some sunnier skies, eh?

Toodlepip!

xx

Contributor - Louise

To find new ways to stalk me or learn about my disclosure policy, click HERE. 

Ultimate Advertiser -Amy Lauren. Click HERE for more info. 

Behind The Scenes || YouTube Videos

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Today I'm going to talk about something that usually slips through the net- making videos for YouTube. Obviously the videos themselves don't slip through, they are proudly sat on my channel waiting for you to graciously give them a few minutes of your time, but the process of making them and the things done to get to completion are so rarely discussed, I thought I would talk really candidly about the whole shibang.

I figure that if I find it really interesting, someone else might and if that's you then hooray. Mission accomplished.

The video we are using as our case studio today is THIS Valentines Get Ready With Me (GRWM) which I uploaded on Sunday 31st of January and at time of writing this has over 375,000 views. Happy days.

I didn't realise this snap hadn't been taken but it's kind of perfect for this post. I'm going to use it as a little map to show you all the things you wouldn't know just from watching the video (featured below).

1. Two things about this little spot:

Firstly, see that pink Polaroid? It was gifted to me by a lovely gal I had the pleasure of hanging out with a couple of years ago at a YouTube gathering and also featured twice in the video. First at 0.17 minutes in and then 2.11. Fun fact for you - the picture I was shaking and that you then see developed is actually Katie Snooks filming the video. Originally it was just a nod to each other because we thought it was nifty but now the secret's out and you know too!

Secondly, notice how stiff my left arm is as I intro the video? That's because my bottom was perched on the edge of the teal cabinet and I thought it was about to collapse. We shot that part with very tense thighs and a silent prayer that I didn't crash and break it, haha.

2. This is Katie Snooks or 'Snoozey' as I like to call her. She works for my management company but also runs her own blog and YouTube channel. Since GRWM videos aren't as static as sit down vlogs, she offered to come up from London and film it for me, which I was super grateful of. She filmed using my camera which is the canon 70D with a EFS 17-55mm lens. It was shot on manual mode and I stupidly forgot to turn the stabilise button on. You live and learn. The whole reason the picture above was taken was to demonstrate what a little dot Snoozey is. Either that or I'm a giant. You decide.

3. Darcy dolly debris. As well as filming videos I am a Mama so aim to film whilst she is napping or with family. On this day though my step mum and aunties were unavailable to take her on adventures so my step sister Hollie kindly came round and played with her downstairs. Obviously though, I can't keep my hands off the little squidge and regular cuddles and plays were in order. Next time you see a cut in my videos, chances are there has been a little Darcy playtime in between.

4. Beauty junk. In the video you can see the wires of the hair tools I didn't end up using and I'm annoyed about this. Whenever I watch it back I wish I had moved them before the camera was turned on but alas, you can't win everything. Also in that video I had all my makeup to my right which felt REALLY unnatural and there are about sixty billion edited out clips of me saying, 'ooh it's weird having it all here'. Fun factoid for you there. If you're planning on making a video, ensure you have EVERYTHING to hand before filming. You will be so glad of your preparation.

5. The set up. This is probably the most important part of the making process and something I still mess up on a regular basis! When filming upstairs I always sit in front of my window at around 11.30am as this is when it's bright but not direct sunlight-burning-your-eyes-out bright. To really make the most of the available light I scrunch the curtains up out the way- not ideal but yanno. I use a Hama Star 75 tripod to keep my camera where I want it and usually that's it. For beauty videos I need a mirror and so end up taking a little trolly thing I bought in a vintage shop last year, loading on a few boxes and then popping my mirror on top. So professional!! If I did more beauty videos, I would invest in something a little more substantial but for now, this higgle piggle option works fine. 

^^The video we're chatting about ^^

Tip! Social Media

Once your video is live, you're going to want to talk about it on social media. Be mindful of this during the video making process and be efficient. For example, take pictures on your smartphone as you go, that you can use for twitter, facebook, instagram etc or 'live tweet/instagram/facebook' as you do it (eg. "Excited to be filming my new video!") so that your audience know what to expect and can (hopefully) look forward to it. 

Other things I try to do on filming days are have plenty of drinks and yummy snacks to hand (if someone is helping you film then they'll be glad of them too!), leave myself plenty of time so you eradicate any sense of panic (things are easily fluffed when you're in that mood) and write little bullet points of what's important to be in the video so you don't forget anything.

I am absolutely no expert at making videos for YouTube (or anything haha) but I thought it might be nice to share some of my experiences and things I've learnt over the years.

If you have any questions about anything I've talked about, do ask as I'd be happy to do another post answering all your queries!

Was that useful or interesting? I hope so!

Toodlepip!

xx

Contributor - Louise

To find new ways to stalk me or learn about my disclosure policy, click HERE. 

Ultimate Advertiser -Amy Lauren. Click HERE for more info. 

Motivational Monday #6

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

The last Monday of February. Woah there. Next month will be a quarter through the year already! Are you sticking to your New Year Resolutions? I'm just about hanging in there!

(Source)

This week I wanted to talk about creativity.

I think a great many people can correctly call themselves creative as creativity takes a great many forms. You might be gifted with a paintbrush, a dab hand at DIY or able to read music like letters. All of these things require you to let your imagination go with an idea, dream up something new or challenge the status quo. And yet all of the above take bravery and courage.

Sometimes when you find something you are really good at, you are praised for it. This in turn makes you do more of the thing that earns you praise and so you go round in a very comfortable cycle of loveliness. But what about when you want to try something new? You might really want to give something a go because it interests you or you think it will be worthwhile but you're afraid that you will fail or that you will be mocked or unsupported. 

Take comfort in the fact that this is a problem that has been faced by squillions of creative people before you and most certainly you will not be the last. 

When I first started Sprinkle of Glitter the YouTube channel, my Auntie said in a really scathing tone, 'Why do you feel the need to do this?'. It hurt. It hurt really deeply. It was one of those things that I remember perfectly to this day. Where I was sitting, what I was doing, the time of day, everything. I was so taken aback that my new exciting, creative hobby was being put to the test in that manner that I meekly mumbled something about, 'because it's quite fun' and ended my call. 

Four years later and it's a very different story. Thank goodness.

Despite being slightly wounded at the start of my ongoing creative journey, I carried on. It took a fair bit of courage (and a few more hurtful comments from a few more people) but it paid off. Whether you measure success in financial terms, enjoyment or simply completion of something you set out to do, have courage.

Have the courage to continue on your own path. Have the courage to not follow in someone else's footsteps but, if you want, to make your own. Try new things. Embrace and uplift other people. Be kind to yourself. And most of all, don't listen to naysayers. 

This week, I'd like you to do one extra creative thing. I say 'extra' because you might already have some planned so this has to be as well as those. Do it with wild abandon and full passion. If it's something you can photograph, please do tag me (@Sprinkleofglitr) on Instagram so I can delight in it with you. 

Also, from last week's Motivational Monday #5, did you let out your inner weird? Any examples you'd like to share in the comments?

Toodlepip!

xx

To find new ways to stalk me or learn about my disclosure policy, click HERE. 

Ultimate Advertiser -Amy Lauren. Click HERE for more info. 

Amazing Advertisers || February 2014

Aloha Sprinklerinos, 

Another month, another Amazing Advertisers post and boy have I got some crackers for you. I'm particularly impressed with my ladies (and gent!) of this month. They've all been busy blogging bee's and I'm pleased as punch to be presenting their talents to you. Let's get cracking! 

Source

Amy Lauren

Amy is quite the whizz when it comes to blogging I tell ya. Not only is Amy's blog (and face) beautiful to look at, it's also a pleasure to read! This month on Amy Lauren has been brimming with beauty related posts which I have thoroughly enjoyed having a gallivant through. As well as having written an in depth review on Benefit skincare this month, Amy has also shared her thoughts on eye shadow palettes, Tanya Burr's make up line and the Impress press on nails, of which I had developed quite an obsession with a couple of years ago, I'd forgotten about those beauties, so thank you for the beauty manicured reminder Amy. I would definitely recommend hopping over to Amy Lauren and having a browse, you will not be disappointed! 

Dear you, Love Em 

Firstly, let it be said that I love the name of Em's blog, it's very Nicholas Sparks and I get a little bit excited at the thought of all the possible lifestyle posts Em may have up her sleeve for us with a name like that! Em is an Australian blogger which I'm also loving! I'm secretly hoping for amples of scenic Australian photography to make me 'ooooh'. I can see a lot of potential in Dear you, Love Em, particularly if Em's latest eye shadow review is anything to go by, Em included beautiful photographed swatches, all the information you could desire and my personal favourite, a quirky narrative. You can't beat a beauty post of personality. Let's all show Dear you, Love Em some blogger appreciation and give it a browse.

Beauty Becky

Another cracker of a beauty blog definitely worth a read! I'm pleased as punch to have Becky advertising with me, her posts really have been a joy to read and admire. Becky clearly has a talent for beauty blogging, her photography is professional, her posts are always thoughtfully written and her passion for beauty clearly shines through her writing. Becky you've certainly been a busy blogging bee this month, you've been cracking them out, I take my hat off to you! I can't recommend Beauty Becky enough if you're a lover of the beauty blogging world, go and have a gander! 

The London Project 

If you're a photography admirer in need of a beautiful snap sharer, then The London Project is for you! The London Project differs slightly from your usual blog, which is why I love it so! The stories are told through photography, taken during various adventures around London, from cute puppies riding the underground to artistic graffiti displayed around London. The London Project is a virtual London post card collection if you will! I'm thoroughly impressed with some of the photography, it really lets you appreciate some of the beautiful places London has to offer. Also, when I found this blog, I had a little fangirl moment about it on Twitter. So cool, so very cool. 

Daydream In Blue 

I'm exited to have the lovely Tom advertising with me once more! Tom has been a Sprinkle of Glitter monthly advertiser in the past and I've always enjoyed having a read of his posts, not to mention I'm quite the fan of having a male join our clan, thanks Tom! Daydream In Blue is primarily a lifestyle blog and it really is a great read. Tom's enthusiasm and love for writing makes his posts interesting, thoughtful and always a pleasure to read. Not to mention he's quite the photographer which always jazzes things up! This month Tom's posts have varied wonderfully, from home decor to press events and recipes, he's got it all covered I tell ya! Lets hear it for the boys and give Tom a great big Spinklerino hug, skip and follow. 

Sophie Jane 

Sophie is a long term advertiser with Sprinkle of Glitter and I'm always pleased to have her advertise with me. If you've read Amazing Advertisers in the past then you'll know I'm particularly a fan of Sophie's creativity. Sophie often provides us with scrummy homely recipes and this month has been no exception, vanilla choc chip cookies anyone? Or how about a home made body whip? Sophie also shares fashion, beauty and lifestyle posts with us as well as demonstrating her domestic abilities, she's a blogging blitzer that one! I've been wowed by Sophie's DIY galaxy nail tutorial this week, it is pretty darn swanky if you ask me! If you're a lover of creativity then Sophie is your gal.

Undeniably, Me.

Undeniably, Me gives me all the feels. Anyone who can dedicate an entire blog post to their cat is instantly in my good books, particularly if said cat is so adorably squishy and entertaining! Elizabeth is quite the blogging talent and I'm so pleased she's joined us for another month on Sprinkle of Glitter. Elizabeth is primarily a lifestyle blogger offering a variety of different posts for everyone to appreciate, whether you're a cat, fashion or food kinda gal! You won't be disappointed! I suggest we all give Elizabeth (and Oliver the cat) and cheeky follow and look forward to her latest venture.

EBVC

Oooh isn't this a little bit mysterious! Firstly it must be said that I am loving Emmy's tag line - 'work hard, play harder, blog hardest.' It certainly sets the stakes high for this blog and I've not been left disappointed! As well as being a very well organised blog EBVC offers a little bit for everyone. From beauty to love and music to travel, EBVC has it all! I particularly enjoyed reading the post 'women with words' it was quite the eye opener and introduced me to some beautiful, powerful women! If you're after a blog exploding with personality and quirks then EBVC is for the one for you. I'm sure we're all curious to know the meaning behind the name too!

Hello Frances 

Frances is a gem, I'm so pleased to have her with us on Sprinkle of Glitter, she oozes loveliness and so does her blog! As well as appreciating the cute design I'm also a fan of Frances' blogging style. Frances is a little bit of everything blogger (we know how much I love me one of those!) and each post leaves me smiling and happy. As well as being a blogger Frances is also on Youtube, she recently filmed a video on staying motivated which was particularly insightful and certainly showed off her bubbly personality. I recommend giving Hello Frances a visit as you're sure to be greeted with a warm welcome. 

Every Little Thing 07

As the title suggests, this blog has everything! Every Little Thing 07 advertised with Sprinkle of Glitter last month and I definitely enjoyed discovering it's many wonders. This month has been filled with beauty reviews which I personally have been thoroughly enjoying. In particular I'm pleased to see a range of reviews from both high end and high street brands, it allows a nice variety and offers something for everyone. After all, variety is the spice of life don't you know? Keep up the good work our favourite mystery blogger!

Sophie Loves Food.

The title alone of this blog excites me, and I'm sure we all know why! You know who else loves food? (aside from Joey - name that sitcom) Louise loves food. I'm in my element with this blog, it is cakes galore and Sophie, the brains behind the baking, is certainly one talented gal. The kinda gal I could imagine wining The Great British Bake Off with those skills! The recipes are always simple to follow and the pictures are just divine, I'm seriously impressed with this baking blog and I look forward to future mouth watering posts! Happy baking Sophie! 

i 2 Style 

'i 2 style' is a fashion and beauty blog written by the incredibly gorgeous Holly. Holly clearly has a creative flare for all things fashion related and it definitely shines through her blogging! As well as offering insightful, inspiring fashion posts Holly also provides beautiful make up tutorials which genuinely fit perfectly with the overall style of her blog. i 2 style is classic and beautiful. Definitely a tasteful fashion blog which I look forward to see future development of. It is clear Holly knows what she is doing and I'm excited to follow her progress through the fashion industry! Judging by her industry experience listed Holly is definitely one to watch! Quite the fashionista I must say! 

And that's your lot! I hope you've discovered some new blogging loves, I know I have.

Ad spots at the moment are filling up crazy fast, with some waiting lists as long as 8 months (cripes!!). If you are wanting to advertise with Sprinkle of Glitter, head on over to the 'Sponsor' tab at the top of this page.

Unless you have already booked it, the 'Ultimate' package is on hold for a few months but may return in the Summer. 

Toodlepip! 

xx

5 Things About Motherhood

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Today is a day for limited pep and zizz (I'm writing this a week before you see it, such is the nature of scheduling your shiz) and I thought I had nothing to offer. Until, that is, I wrote on my Facebook Page about my mojo loss and somebody asked me to write about Motherhood.

I contemplated writing a beautiful ode to my child and about how Motherhood is my defining moment of glory and how I now feel at one with the universe but then realised that would be very short lived and a load of tosh.

Instead, I thought I would take a light hearted approach and share with you 5 things that have been revealed to me since bringing that little person into the world.

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1. An Hour Is An Eternity

Back in the olden days, before I had made the miracle of life etc, an hour could tick by in an instant and I had no idea what I'd wasted my time on. Flicking through trash TV, wallowing in the bath, fiddling about with emails all seemed like hour long jobs to be luxuriated in. Fast forward to an era with a small dependant human and you find that when they give you an hours rest bite (all hail nap time), you become some kind of productivity typhoon. Dishes get done, laundry is folded, emails replied to, showers, hair, makeup ticked off the list and all whilst having a conference call with your manager. When you are deprived of so much time, it's almost incredible what you can squeeze into 60 focused minutes!

2. You Do Not Need An Alarm Clock

Remember the days when you had to use a little machine to wake you from your slumber? I don't. Now I have a much more organic alarm clock called Darcy, who promptly on the dot of 8am will shout, 'Muuuuuuummmmyyyyyy'. Previous alarm tones featured, 'waaaaahhhhh' and 'urrrr-urrrr-urrrr'. I prefer this upgrade but look forward to it installing a 'snooze' mode. So far it is basic yet effective. 

3. You Learn A New Language

I don't know about other Mama's out there but I find myself constantly moonlighting as Darcy's official translator. Her gobbledegook makes perfect sense to me. 'When ee weak oop and the tangold an miwlk an ceweal', clearly means, 'Mother, when I wake up I'd like to watch Tangled and have some milk and cereal', but combine that with her chattering at high speeds whilst jumping about makes for a lot of, 'oh she means..'. For now, I quite enjoy my role but do hope she doesn't need me forever!

4. You Can Do Anything One Handed

A classic. Need two hands to carry your baby, handbag, car keys, grocery shopping, nappy bag and push a trolley back to the trolley-bay? No. Absolutely not. You can do all of that one handed whilst balancing baby on hip and look glamorous. Ok, maybe not the last one (queue one red raw hand, sunglasses dangling perilously from the back of your head, almost being choked by your oh-so-fashionable scarf and some dribble/snot on your shoulder) but still, it can be done. 

5. You Have So Much More To Give

It's been an 18 hour day, there is food mashed into the cream carpet, the washing machine is beeping to be emptied, you're wearing your grey PJ bottoms for the fourth day in a row and you haven't had a moment to think let alone indulge in a bit of instagram or Pinterest. And then your sweet baby cries and you feel like crying with them. Instead though, you tenderly pick them up and make those soothing 'shushing' noises you can't help but do and feel a huge surge of love for the little rotter that takes up all your time, effort and money. Just when you were about to throw in the towel, you don't. You had more in you than you thought. 

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I'd be really interested if any of those rang true with you or you have experienced anything similar. Apologies to those of you who this post doesn't apply to, hopefully it still gave you a warm fuzzy!

If you'd like to see my wonderful (lol) Mothering in action, you can follow me HERE on Instagram or click HERE for a 'Day In The Life' video. 

Toodlepip!

xx

To find new ways to stalk me or learn about my disclosure policy, click HERE. 

Ultimate Advertiser -Amy Lauren. Click HERE for more info.