New Year, New To Do List

So last year Neil and I both wrote a list of things 'to do' in 2013, mine were -

 

Visit The Harry Potter Tour

Go to Paris

Attend a bloggers meet up

Read 10 books

Pay Neil back the money he lent me

Get another puppy

Learn To Crochet

I managed to achieve most of them, Paris was amazing, I read my way through plenty of books when on holiday in Cuba for my big brothers wedding (most of them were written by Kathy Reichs or Charlaine Harris) the bloggers meet up was FABB ;) I just about got to grips with crochet but would like to do a refresher course, and finally I paid Neil back (then borrowed more and subsequently paid that back too.)

I didn't however make it to the Harry Potter Tour, I blame a lack of time management for that, and I didn't get a play mate for Dodge (I made up for this by getting myself a pet hamster named Wolowitz or Norris by my Mum.)

Now it's NYE I should probably work out a new list for 2014 hmmmmm....

Have a great evening and see you all in the New Year!!!

Michelle x 

Photo Sourced from here

Soft Kitty Please

I have no idea how I managed to make it through the freezing Christmas Markets on hardly any sleep, working throughout the night on orders, then eating an appalling diet without getting so much as a sniffle, yet give me a relaxed and restful few days and I develop one of the worst colds of my life.

Whatever the backwards reasoning is behind it I have found myself looking and feeling a complete state so thought I would share a few of my favourite products to help deal with it all.

Whenever I get a cold I can guarantee that all the nose blowing will result in a glowing nose and cupids bow that finally becomes so dry it scabs over - this can take weeks to recover and I am left with a moustache scab once the cold has subsided.  To combat this I have taken to smothering my nose is good old Nivea, then at night I go for a stronger option of Kiehls Midnight Recovery Concentrate.  For the lips I am using a combination of Kiehls Lip Balm and coldsore cream to keep the cracks and dryness at bay.

To ease congestion, headaches and other yukiness associated with having a cold I, like everyone else sip regular Lemsips but sweeten them up with a spoon of sugar and a shot of rum.  I have no idea if it helps but my 93 year old Grandad does it so can't hurt eh?!

Finally if all else fails, get in bed, find someone to rub Vaporub onto you and get them to sing Soft Kitty.

 

Michelle x

Manchester Christmas Markets

Anyone who follows me via Instagram or Facebook will be aware that I dipped my toe into the scary world of the Christmas Markets this year.  Having never taken part in such a well established market before I was skeptical as to whether i would be able to undertake the extra work, cover costs, survive it, etc but fortunately I made it through in one piece and managed to have a fab time.  Despite struggling with my endemetriosis in the run up, I managed to make enough stock to fill the mammoth stall and set about working through my 6 days of 6am starts and 8pm finishes in the bitter cold.

I definitely learnt a lot for next year, and am excited to come back bigger and better! The only downside apart from the obvious cold was that I became sick of all the food, which means no more giant bratwurst for me!

Michelle x

Deck The Halls

I know the blog has been dominated by Neil recently, this is because I've been run off my feet doing the Christmas Markets, getting all orders done, helping out with poorly family members and finally being poorly myself. But now I have finally caught up with everything (except Uni work but that's another story) so I should have time to catch up with some posts. 

 However since today is Christmas and I want to focus my attention to a glass of Baileys I will save all my catch ups for another time, enjoy the rest of your day.

 Keep your eye out for a Sale on Cherry Rainbow tomorrow, and there is already a 25% discount at Jelly Button Jewellery using the code CHRISTMAS. 

 Michelle x

ATW Clothing Co. Christmas Competition!

Well it's time for a fun festive competition!  The lovely folks over at ATW Clothing Co. have once again offered an amazing prize for you to win this Christmas... well actually there are THREE prizes up for grabs!!!

ATW Clothing Co. are a fab brand that mix sporty and urban trends to create relevant urban pieces.  We'll be offering a few different items to keep you looking cool but feeling warm this winter.

One lucky person will win our top prize on offer, which is a great Classic logo sweater (in the size of your choosing) and black Bobble Beanie!

But hold on a second, we have TWO runner-up prizes up for grabs too!  That's right, two lucky runner-ups  will win one of ATW's new AWTCO EST heritage beanies - a definite must have this Christmas!

So that means there are THREE chances to be a winner in this amazing Christmas competition.  Simple enter below using the Rafflecopter app for your chance to win!

Merry Christmas!

Neil & Michelle x

p.s.  Be sure to check out ATW Clothing Co. on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram too.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Little boots

Well as I mentioned the other day, my favourite shopping/fashion app of late has to be ShopStyle, which you can read about here.  Anyway, last month I thought I'd have a look for some boots.  I'd been after some brown ones for while, as an alternative to the black ones I already owned.

As I scrolled along the ShopStyle app I came across a pair of Firetrap Veloce boots!  I liked the mix of materials and the weathered texture of the leather, which I feel gives them a more rugged and expensive look.  Best of all the boots were on sale for £14.00, down from £95.00 - a massive 85% OFF!!!

I clicked on the link which took me straight to the USC website where they were being sold.  I kept my fingers cross but assumed the worst: they wouldn't have any left in my size.  But to my surprise, the curse of having tiny feet finally came up trumps as the only sizes left were 6 or 11 - HURRAY!!!

My dad says you can tell the quality of a pair of shoes by the soles, and I think after traipsing around town several times in them already they're sure holding up rather well.  I have to say they're really comfortable and have become an immediate wardrobe staple, especially it becomes ever colder outside!

Oh and I did I mention I saw a sister pair called Firetrap Verb boots that were also on sale?  Yep these bargain boots, although slightly more expensive at £21.00, were also available in a size 6 and marked down from £95.00 too!  I have to admit I'm a sucker for a bit of brogue detailing.

I was left in a bit of a dilemma trying to choose which to buy, but my sister gave me some sage advice "Why are you even trying to pick one, just buy both!".  Occasionally that girl comes out with pure gold.

So as you'll have already guess, and will see below, I opted to buy both pairs of boots.  In total it cost me £39.99 with postage which is what I'd normally shell out on a single pair.  If you consider that at full price the boots would have cost me £194.99, I managed to save myself a massive £155.55 - go me!

Right folks that's about it for today, but hopefully it demonstrates what a fab app ShopStyle is.  And remember this isn't a sponsored post, it's just something I thought I'd share because I've found it to be really useful - I love my little boots!

If you too have managed to snag any bargains or know of any good shopping/fashion apps be sure to let me know - you can never have too many shoes, right?

Take care,

Neil x

A nod to nautical

The nautical trend is one that always recurs within fashion.  Classic cuts and colours create a timeless trend that suits most people.  In light of this we've picked a couple new items that are nautical inspired and are now on sale at Cherry Rainbow.

We've also been tinkering on Pinterest and created a few new theme boards such a Movember one, a nautical one and there's a Christmas one too!

Here's a closer look at the nautical board.  We've tried to mix fashion, homeware a anything else we thought was fun!

 

So be sure to check out the Cherry Rainbow website for a selection of new jewellery - not just nautical - and also Pinterest where you're find fun theme boards to inspire you!

Oh and if you have any ideas or suggestions for thematic Pinterest boards we'd love to here them!

Fair winds and flowing seas,

Neil x

'appy Christmas - ShopStyle

More and more I've found myself turning to my phone and the latest apps out their to help me shop.  Therefore I thought it'd be fun to share with you what I've found the most helpful and useful apps to have to hand.

In this first instalment I'd like to show you the ShopStyle app.  Oh and before I you ask THIS IS NOT A SPONSORED POST - they should have bloody paid me though!

ShopStyle is my favourite fashion related app by a country mile.  It's compiles the products from a vast variety of retailers, from high street favourites to fashion houses, so you're certain to find something you'll like.  I've downloaded it on both my iPhone and iPad so that I can be browsing on the go; although I do prefer it on the iPad (see images below) as you can see more and scan several items at a time.

As you can see it's separated in to categories so you can search for specific items and or occasions etc.  I find myself all to often roaming the sale section to see if there are any bargains to be had.  Recently I purchased some boots for what was a steal, and I'll write a follow up about them soon.

Another great thing is you can set up your own profile with your details - I'll explain how this comes in handy later.  Oh and please note my Christmas themed picture that I made a few years ago on the Royal Mail site when they did the Wallace and Gromit Christmas stamps.

Setting up your sizes can be a good option as sometimes it helps save time when you're searching for items - I feel odd sharing me sizes!  I've sadly found myself ogling a few things only to find out they didn't come in my size *wipes away a tear*

Once you go in to a category, in this case shoes, there are several options for you to choose from include size, colour, brand and store etc.  If you're after a very specific item this can be a great help.  Also setting the price range to fit your budget means you don't get sidetracked lusting after something that is far too expensive. 

You can also sort the things you're looking at - normally I do lowest price to highest.

Once you find your beloved item you can do a few different things.  If your wanting to buy it straight away you can click the link and it'll take you directly to the retailers website where you'll be able to buy it now.  If you're just window shopping you can add it to your favourites list so that you can come back to it later or compare it to any other finds you like.

One nifty thing is the sales alert option, which if selected will monitor the item and notify you via the app and also your email - remember I said it was good to enter your details - when it goes on sale so you can snap up a bargain!  I've even set it up to tell me when any Ted Baker bags go on sale - the sister's birthday present.

Well that's all for now, but be sure to check it out and tell me what you think!  Oh and are there any other apps you'd recommend?  If so let me know as I'm slightly obsessed.

Take care,

Neil x

Mous-tache it's Movember after all!

Well folks it's sure been a hectic few weeks, hence the post drought - my apologies!  But I hope you've all had a stupendously spooky Hallowe'en.  Sadly this year I felt a little disheartened with it falling on a Thursday, and I didn't really dress up or anything *hangs head in shame*.

Anyway as we're now in November I'm already feeling the pressures of Christmas -  note to self: must write a Christmas list - and it seems to be getting worse as each day passes.  Yet before we get hung up on Christmas we cannot forget it is Movember and there will soon be many fledgling moustaches and a plethora of facial hair for our amusement/admiration!

I know there are some cynics out there, but for me Movember is rather comical.  People fret about whether they can grow a proper moustache, what style to go for and also that their secret ginger tendencies will be exposed!

I too have a rather comical copper hue when my stubble grows out, yet I've never really grown it too long: vanity takes priority as I cling to the fact that a clean shave will make me look younger and turn back the hands of time, which seem to be out of control.

I thought I'd share this rather apt photo which I saw on MSN's post Movember Explained.  It just caught my eye and I thought I'd show it to some of the guys at work who are embarking on their own Movember journeys.  My personal favourites being the Captain and the Cheeky Flick-On.

If that's not enough inspiration, here are a few iconic moustaches that would look great on anyone (I lie).

Original image from Digital Spy.

Hercule Poirot - a true dignified classic for the gentlemen among you.

Image taken from tvtropes.

Terry 'Hulk' Hogan - a childhood hero who rocks the handlebar moustache.

Image taken from filmbug.

Tom Selleck - the traditional that most men aspire to.

Well that's all for today and happy Movember to you all!

Take care,

Neil x

Mankind: Alvarez Gómez (Agua de Colonia)

So this is my second review from the items I was sent by Mankind - very, very overdue, but at least I can say they've been throughly tested!  Here I was given a sample set called the Agua de Colonia GWP Group (£22.00) from the Agua de Colonia Concentrada range produced by Alvarez Gómez.

Alvarez Gómez is a Spanish brand that has a long history of developing luxury perfumes and colognes.  The Agua de Colonia Concentrada is epitomised by its signature fragrance, but also encompasses a selection of skincare and toiletries for men.

Body lotion - The body lotion is very lush and applies evenly leaving your skin feeling soft.  It also has a strong sweet/citrus lemon smell which I quite liked, but I'm guessing others may not.  Yet I wouldn't apply before going somewhere for the evening as it would class with my aftershave or Eau De Toilette.

Bath and Shower Gel - This too has a particularly sweet and citrus smell, which I personally loved.  I preferred to use it as a shower gel, and it definitely helped me feel more alive on those groggy mornings.

Bath Salts - I'm not typically a bath person, but I have to admit these did make the experience much more pleasurable.  I'm just sad it was only a smaller bottle as I over-indludged and ran out rather quickly!

Agua de Colonia Concentrated Eau de Cologne - Not my typical choice, I found the strong citrus lemon scent to be rather appealing.  It is a strong and pleasant fragrance that is clean smelling but not harsh.

They're currently offering the Agua de Colonia GWP Group, retailed at £22.00, as a free gift when you order two products from the Agua range.

Neil

ATW Clothing Co. - Giveaway No. 2!

So folks I promised another competition was in the pipeline and here it is.  Once again the fab folks over at ATW Clothing Co. have offered up a prize for one of our lovely followers -  aren't you lucky *wink*

For those who missed out last time or are new to the blog - hello! - ATW Clothing Co. are a brand that mixes sport and street, which makes for an epic style.  Big on both the extreme sports and music scene, you're definitely in cool company styling out their gear.

Anyway, I bet you're saying to yourself "What's up for grabs?"  Well...

Yep, this cool logo print sweater can be yours and all you have to do to win is enter below using the Rafflecopter app, it's as simple as that!

However, if you can't wait to get your hands on some of their awesome gear head over to their website where you'll find a whole host of neat stuff including tees, hoodies and sweaters, vests, shirts, snapbacks and beanies, socks, BMX gloves and other accessories!

Good luck guys and gals!

Michelle & Neil x

p.s.  Be sure to follow ATW Clothing Co. on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Want Want Want

Just a quickie post from me, I am super busy at the moment trying to stockpile jewellery for the upcoming Xmas Markets but I've managed to find time to do a wish list of what I will need to make it through December shifts on an outdoor market. Now I know it's only September but with retail always being a season ahead it's best to shop early before all the best bits go.

My main priority is a coat, I have to admit I'm one of those people that drives every wear and rarely bothers with one.  I instead opt for a cardigan whilst I dash from the car to the door, so this is a must have purchase for me. I've never bought anything from Sugarhill Boutique but after browsing their site I've managed to make a mental wish list that could easily bankrupt me. I really cant decide between these three though hmmmmmmm...

Whilst I debate which coat would clash least with my ever changing hair colour I will also be celebrating a birthday this weekend, so expect a post filled with over indulgence and glutteny some time soon (it's acceptable to eat cake for breakfast, lunch and dinner on your birthday, right???)

Michelle

#cocktailtime

Okay this is a just a quick post to simply say cocktails are good!  If you follow Cherry Rainbow on Instagram (if you don't DO IT NOW ;p) you'll have noticed I've been to Revolucion de Cuba a couple of times of late, and I seem to always order a cocktail - and why not?

Strawberry daiquiris always make me laugh as simply put it's a grown up version of a slushy with a generous helping of rum.  They even have them in those machines like Slush Puppies.  I may have a couple.

On my second visit I only managed to get a quick photo of my Dark 'n' Stormy because I ended up downing my Strawberry Spiced Punch so we could head out to our dinner reservation.  The Dark 'n' Stormy was definitely more in my wheelhouse having a mix of gingerbeer and dark rum - YUM!

Anyway it's definitely work checking out and if you happen to pop in on a Sunday it's two for one all day!

Neil x

p.s. I didn't realise I always staged my cocktail photos in the same way - odd!

Where The Wind Blows

Sorry for my lack of posts, Neil seems to be doing a good job at holding the fort though so I'm sure my absence has gone unnoticed. Anyway my quietness has been due to me filling my spare time with preparations for the Christmas Markets, I can't believe it is now September and I only have 2 more months to make thousands of pieces  **gulp**

I however managed to fit in holding a stall at a local farmers market at Daisy Nook, Manchester.  This seemed like the perfect opportunity to showcase my new pink gazebo, Mother Nature however must despise this colour as it was like a mini hurricane, with me having to hold onto the sides and my stock practically the whole day. Regardless of the weather I still managed to have a great day, sampling some of the delicious treats on offer from the other stallies, meeting fab new customers and finally cooing over some special owl guests. If you are local and would like have a browse at the next market you can find more information on their Facebook page, I think I will be sticking to being a customer until the weather improves - either that or add lead weights to every item of jewellery.

If anyone has other recommedations of local farmers markets then let me know, I love supporting small businesses by buying their produce rather than supermarket giants. 

Michelle x

P.S I saw Santa!!! He spends his time off browsing stalls in Manchester,and I may have screamed SANTA like Buddy the Elf ooops!

The Beautiful Game

Well it may come as a shock - who am I kidding - that I'm not an avid football fan; however, yesterday we headed of to the Etihad Stadium to watch the Manchester City vs. Hull City game.

For those who are interested in what I'm wearing, jacket and belt - Primark, shirt - H&M, jeans - Tompan and brogues - Office. 

Occasionally we're lucky enough to get the chance to attend a game using some corporate tickets and experience a little luxury for a day in one of the suites.

The Citizen Suite is has been refurbished for the new season and has been totally transformed.  To be fair it used to look 'like a bingo hall' (staff's words not mine) but now it looks great.  The service was a little manic, similar to the game itself, but it definitely was a fun day.

The bar

The room

The dessert station!

As you can clearly tell I was enjoying myself - why is it impossible to take a nice photo?  *cringe*  Anyway as part of the package you get a three course meal, which comes with a carvery style main.  Honestly the food was lovely and the lamb main was delicious, and even though the staff were a little befuddled - I understand they're getting used to the new set up -  I still had time to wolf down some chocolate cake... well most of it.

Our seats were fab and, as you can see from the photo, dead on the centre line which made for great viewing.  The game itself left a little to be desired.  Although not a football pundit, even I could tell that the game wasn't going in Man City's favour.  Being honest they were lucky to be still 0 - 0 at half time.  To take the edge of the game I indulged with a second dessert of treacle tart with custard - YUM!

Thankfully the tide turned in the second half and the end result was a 2 - 0 victory to the home side.

All in all it was a fab day out, made that much better by the rather lovely weather.  Here's hoping that we get the chance to attend again some time this seasons.

Neil x

p.s. Once again it's iPhone photos as I was attempting to be discrete!