Tag: Gifts for Her

Soundcore – Liberty 4 Pro Earbuds

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Father's Day, Fitness, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Mother's Day, Tech

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

I recently had the chance to try Soundcore’s new Liberty 4 Pro noise-cancelling earbuds, and I must say, I’m very impressed.  Combining cutting-edge design with a host of innovative features, these are Soundcore’s most advanced and elegantly designed earbuds to date and as soon as I took them out of the box it was clear that these were no ordinary earbuds.  

First impressions matter and the Liberty 4 Pro make quite an entrance with an almost futuristic charging case with a sleek glossy light blue finish. The earbuds themselves are a striking metallic blue steel design, instantly setting them apart from the usual generic white or black plastic that dominate the market.

The case itself is quite innovative. Instead of the usual hinged design, it slides open to reveal the earbuds and a tiny OLED display. This display not only shows the charge level for each earbud but also allows you to access certain functions without needing the app which is a very handy feature.

Connecting the Liberty 4 Pro earbuds was simple, thanks to Google Fast Pair technology. During setup, the earbuds automatically prompt your device to connect and install the Soundcore app, where a host of customisations await.

The sound quality is obviously the most important feature and the Liberty 4 Pro really shine when it comes to sound. Powered by Soundcore’s ACAA 4.0 coaxial driver architecture, each earbud features a 10.5mm woofer and a 4.6mm titanium tweeter for exceptional clarity across all frequencies. In plain terms this means your music will sound like it’s being played live, so whether you’re enjoying booming basslines or a spot of Beethoven the earbuds deliver a rich, clear sound experience.

There are plenty of ways to tune the earbuds to suit your preferences. As well as standard equaliser settings, both custom options and presets; there is a sound preference test which works through a number of tests and tunes the earbuds to match your ears. This feature worked brilliantly, and I found the earbuds performed well across a wide variety of music and other audio.

The noise-cancelling technology is exceptional, equipped with seven sensors to detect ambient noise and an air pressure sensor designed to excel during flights. While I haven’t had the chance to test it on a plane, it’s proven invaluable for tackling noisy environments, like working in the garden. The addition of a wind reduction mode has been particularly helpful during recent blustery weekends outdoors.

Noise cancellation can be activated with a touch, but I prefer using the case controls which allow you to adjust the level of cancellation with a simple swipe, giving you precise control.

No two ears are the same and Soundcore knows it so there are six different eat tip sizes to ensure a perfect fit. There’s even an app based fit test to ensure they fit snugly and I found once they’re in, they stay put, even if I’m out in the garden when it’s windy.

With up to 10 hours of battery life (or 7.5 hours with noise cancellation), plus 30 more hours in the case, they’ll keep up with even the busiest of schedules. And if you’re in a rush, a quick five-minute charge gives you four hours of playtime -perfect for those “oh no, I forgot to charge it” moments.

At £129.99, the Liberty 4 Pro earbuds are a steal for what they offer. Whether it’s the smart case, the high-tech noise cancellation, or the sustainable materials (yes, they’re made from 28% recycled plastics), these earbuds combine high-quality sound, innovative design, and all-day comfort, making them an excellent choice for any music enthusiast. From their stylish appearance to their customisable audio options and impressive battery life, these earbuds tick all the boxes – and they make a great Christmas gift too!

Tolpa Dermo Face Skincare

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, health, Stocking Fillers, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Rosacal Strengthening Regenerating Cream

Rosacal Strengthening Soothing Cream

Lipidrio Nourishing Regenerating Cream

Boots are now stocking a new skincare range called Topla, aimed at improving the condition of skin with conditions such as acne, rosacea and dehydration.  Hailed from Poland, the new range combines minimalist skin treatments in a new collection termed ‘Skinimalism’ which has been recognised by dermatologists as a new approach to tackle skin conditions by reducing the number of products used.

In order to treat acne, rosacea and dehydration, all of which can affect anyone and are conditions that are very noticeable, Tolpa have created just 10 products. There’s no need for lengthy skin routines, just these 10 are all you need for cleansing, day cream, night cream and eye cream.  We were sent two products from the Rosacal range (for rosacea) and the Lipidrio Nourishing Regenerating Cream.

The Rosacal Strengthening Soothing Cream works best on sensitive skin, and helps strengthen the capillaries over time, where the red capillaries at the surface is the noticeable sign of rosacea.  It also helps to moisturise the skin and calm down any allergies or redness. This is a very light cream, worn in the day and also has a SFP 10.

Rosacal Strengthening Regenerating Cream is a night cream, which also reduces redness of rosacea and strengthens the skin, helping to even out the colour which might be affected by the rosacea capillaries.  This cream is heavier, which is what you’d expect at night and also has a freshness to it that makes it soothing to put on.

The Lipidrio Nourishing Regenerating Cream massively increases the hydration of skin and can moisturise for up to 24 hours. It’s a day cream but it’s incredibly rich, and takes a while to rub in but does leave skin feeling soft and hydrated. It works particularly well when you apply it straight out of the shower and skin is still damp. I like this as a day cream because it’s so nourishing and rich, and it improves the texture of my skin before I put on make-up, which always helps!

I have been using these Skinimalism creams now for a few days so the long term effects won’t be seen and I’m not a sufferer of rosacea although I do have acne.  I’m loving how rich the creams are and how easily they are absorbed and the fact that they are not complicated or over engineered but instead are a pleasure to wear!

Rosacal Strengthening Regenerating Cream available at Boots for £12.99: https://www.boots.com/tolpa-dermo-face-rosacal-strengthening-regenerating-cream-night-40ml-10342619

Rosacal Strengthening Soothing Cream available at Boots for £12.99: https://www.boots.com/tolpa-dermo-face-rosacal-strengthening-soothing-spf-10-cream-day-40ml-10342618

Lipidrio Nourishing Regenerating Cream available at Boots for £12.99: https://www.boots.com/tolpa-dermo-face-lipidrio-nourishing-regenerating-cream-day-40ml-10342620

Carmen 2-In-1 Vanity Case with LED Mirror

beauty, Birthday Gifts, camping, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Home, secret santa, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

The Carmen 2-In-1 Vanity Case is an easy gift for anyone who loves their make-up, skincare or perhaps a traveller who needs a robust make-up bag!  

The Carmen Vanity Case is unique as the lid can be detached and turned into an illuminated mirror. That’s right, the lid becomes a stand up mirror for doing hair or make-up, and at the touch of a button it illuminates to make it easier to apply products anywhere. The rigid case is tough enough to withstand hold luggage and protect your make-up from being ruined, and I’d bet that it prevents make-up melting in extreme heat as well, especially as the case is a cool colour and would not absorb sunlight if left on a window ledge. There’s a classy leather strap for a handle too, making it easy to transport around.

The lid has a stand which is 360 degree swivel so you can position the mirror exactly where you want it. It even sits in the case with an attachment inside and actually works really well to illuminate the room even if you’re not using it. Perfect for camping and having no other light at night!  To recharge, use the included C-USB lead. The light is designed to be a white light, so as not to distort your colour when trying to apply make-up. The light runs for 3 hours before it needs charging again.

I really like this design for anyone who wants to transport any precious make-up or skin products as I find it easier to have everything in one case, but most cases are too soft to put into hold luggage and as we know, there’s a limit on hand luggage.  The mirror and light are the icing on the cake and will make it much easier for travelling especially if you are on long journeys and know that your bag will get thrown all over the place. Although not waterproof, the Carmen Vanity Case is great for when the bathroom gets too humid or things are thrown around on a cruise ship and water goes everywhere!

I think this might be my favourite gift to send to friends for Christmas too. Who wouldn’t find a use for it?

https://carmen-products.co.uk/mirrors/vanity-case-with-illuminating-led-mirror-blue-c81167bcst

Twilight Hair Dryer Straightener Set

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Family Life, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Home, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

There are some products that we all use all year round, and yet we never think of buying them for ourselves. A hairdryer and a set of straighteners are among them! I don’t think I’ve ever bought myself a hairdryer but instead wait for Christmas to either ask for it on my Christmas list (thanks Mum!) or be surprised by it!

The Carmen Twilight Hair Dryer and Straightener Set includes a hair dryer with three heat and two speed settings to give a professional look and making it ideal for all hair types and all types of finish. There’s also a handy mirror in the back of the hair dryer so that you can see what you’re doing.  Anyone who has curly or frizzy hair knows that you have to blow dry your hair first, with a straight nozzle, before you can straighten it.  Which makes it very handy having both the hair dryer and straighteners in a set!  

The Twilight hair straighteners are keratin infused to give a smoother finish and prevent burning, even if your hair is still slightly damp. It heats up to 215 degrees which is comparable to other straighteners on the market.  Both the hair dryer and straighteners are part of a set of other Twilight products including tongs, a cosmetic bag and a high grade hair dryer all in the Twilight blue colour.

The Twilight Hair Dryer works brilliantly and is not as noisy as some of the older model hair dyers I’m used to. It’s light weight too and the mirror is really handy! Other models would have some diffuser and interchangeable nozzles to go with this product but if you’re drying straight hair or hair that’s a bit frizzy and needs straightening, this is the nozzle you’d use anyway.  The straighteners work really well too and it’s nice to have brand new straighteners with keratin coating that glides through your hair.  It left my curly hair nicely straightened and with blunt edges in just a few attempts, leaving my long hair straight all over in a matter of about 15 minutes.

Available for £29.99 at: https://carmen-products.co.uk/gift-sets/twilight-hair-dryer-straightener-set

Carmen Rechargeable Hot Water Bottle

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, camping, Christmas, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, health, Home, REUSABLE, secret santa, Winter

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

One present that’s good for Christmas this year is a Rechargeable Hot Water Bottle, ready to stave off the cold as well as relax your loved ones over the winter months.  Carmen have a Rechargeable Hot Water Bottle, which doesn’t use water at all and keeps warm for up to 5 hours!

With cost of energy being high and the mantra we all have to, “heat the person not the room,” then it’s advantageous to heat up this hot water bottle and keep toasty.  The appliance comes with a charging cable which heats up the water inside, which is completely sealed and therefore can’t leak if you drop it. It doesn’t need refilling either so you won’t scold yourself on the hot water tap.

There’s a plug on the hot water bottle that you use the provided cable to plug in and charge. It takes around 15 minutes for a full charge but if you charge it for less time, there’s still heat from it.  The bottle is covered in a fleecy grey cover with a pocket for your hands, so you can sit with it on your lap, or safely use it in bed.  It keeps the heat for about 5 hours, or through the night if you’re keeping it under the duvet! It can’t over heat because there’s a thermostat which cuts off as soon as it’s hot enough. 

This is a great gift, especially as it’s so safe for anyone to use so children, the elderly or anyone who’s not I the best health can get warm quickly. I also like that it can be charged whilst you’re at work and might be cold, or to charge at work and take in the car on the journey home.  Lots of work offices don’t have boiling water any longer so it would be impossible to fill a conventional hot water bottle, but this is a great idea!

Available at £14.99: https://carmen-products.co.uk/hot-water-bottles/spa-rechargeable-hot-water-bottle

Mariage Frères Noel Royal Tea

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, Home, Stocking Fillers

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

If you’re looking for a gift for the tea lover this Christmas, the Mariage Frères Noel Royal Tea is a safe bet.  This loose tea comes in its own gorgeous, air tight tin which can be used again but the Christmassy red packaging is perfect for the Christmas Lunch table, in a stocking or even just on its own.

Mariage Frères Noel Royal Tea is a black tea with fruit pieces added to give a more fragrant, fruity flavour.  Consumed without milk but left to brew for 5 minutes (I use a loose tea strainer) it takes approximately 2.5 grams of tea to make a cup. As the tin contains 80 grams in all, that’s 32 cups of tea that can be made from just one tin! One for every day of advent or suitable for the whole family throughout the Christmas period.

The aroma of the tea when you open the packet is overwhelmingly fruity, with its sweet tones and fresh black tea fragrance underneath. It takes all of the 5 minutes to brew the tea as it’s slightly weak with only a minute or two, and I found that even after 5 minutes it didn’t become too strong so I could recommend making a pot of tea with Noel Royal.  

At £28 a tin it’s for the tea connoisseurs and lovers of fragrant teas but makes a great gift for Gran or as part of a hamper at Christmas time.  Noel Royal is part of the Royal Fairy range by Mariage Frères this Christmas which can be found on their website: https://www.mariagefreres.com/en/tea/tea-collections/royal-fairy-teas.html

Available from £28 at:

https://www.mariagefreres.com/en/noel-royal-te9226-other-tea-jars.html

Annabelle Minerals

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, cruelty-free, eco friendly, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, Vegan, Women

Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review but all thoughts and opinions are our own.

The festive season is the perfect excuse to indulge in some new beauty goodies, with endless fantastic products and irresistible offers to choose from. We’ve been trying out some fabulous makeup and skincare products from Annabelle Minerals and these vegan-friendly products, made with natural ingredients have been a big hit with the Review Studio team.

Let’s start with the Sheer Shine Lipstick – available in five stunning shades, Apricot, Brown Fig, Coconut, Dragon Fruit, and Strawberry, these lipsticks are creamy, moisturizing, and packed with natural oils, butters, and vitamin E. They’re like a lipstick and lip balm rolled into one giving you a gorgeous pop of colour and soft, hydrated lips. Plus, they come in a super chic golden magnetic case, so they look as posh as they feel. Oh, and if you’re into sustainable beauty, you’ll love the refill option – what’s not to like? RRP £12.90, with refills at £9.90.

If you prefer a lip pencil then check out the Jumbo Lip Pencils, available in five fab shades – Cranberry, Clover, Marigold, Dahlia, and Maroon, they glide on like a dream. Whether you’re going for a subtle daytime vibe or full-on glam, these pencils can do it all. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a multitasking product?

Now, if you fancy adding a bit of glow (and who doesn’t this time of year?), the Pressed Powder Bronzer is a must-have. Available in five coffee-inspired shades – Café Au Lait, Cold Brew, Ginger Coffee, Latte, and Mocha, it blends beautifully for a natural, satin-matte finish.

Whether you want a soft sun-kissed look or a sharper contour, the bronzer is buildable and will last all day. Plus, with a refill option it’s as sustainable as it is gorgeous.

RRP £19.90, refills at £15.90

Skincare fans, this one’s for you! The Soft Cream Moisturiser is a game changer, especially if you’re a fan of mineral make up. This ultra light cream is the perfect base for your foundation, keeping your skin hydrated and fresh.

Made with 95% natural and 100% vegan ingredients, it’s packed with skin-loving goodies like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E. It absorbs instantly, leaving your skin soft, smooth, and perfectly prepped for makeup.

From their sustainable ethos to their high-quality, skin-friendly formulas, Annabelle Minerals is giving us serious Christmas gifting inspiration. Lipsticks, bronzers, skincare—you name it, they’ve got something for everyone.

So, whether you’re pampering yourself or spoiling someone special, these beauties are sure to put a smile on anyone’s face this Christmas.

Unwritten Nala The Frenchie Puppy Candle

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, eco friendly, Fragrance, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, Home, Pets

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

French Bulldog owners will love the Unwritten Puppy Candle with Nala the Frenchie being the star of the show! This is a beautiful candle in the shape of a Frenchie (called Nala, naturally) that makes the perfect gift this Christmas.

With intricate design, this candle stands around 16 centimetres (about 5 inches) high and portrays a sitting Frenchie puppy in a white/cream natural wax. The design is exclusive to Unwritten so you won’t find it anywhere else around the world and the wax is blended with a delicious vanilla-like scent that fills your home even if the candle isn’t lit, known as cold scent throw. There are lots of scents to choose from including Lavender & Chamomile, Rose, Jasmine and we were sent Sandalwood & Vanilla. You really get a hit of the scent when you open the box and even though the candle is wrapped up, I can see why they call it cold scent throw! Unwrapping it, the tiny details around Nala’s eyes and nose are visible, just as if it was a fine art painting.

The candle is quite heavy, and it’s not recommended to put it straight onto a polished surface so I used a candle plate in the fireplace. It’s easy to light and burn down, and with lighting, more scent is thrown out to fill the room. You don’t need other scented candles lit at the same time as the fragrance would probably be overpowering but the vanilla essence filled my room like a diffuser. The scent lingers a little too, and the candle itself still throws out scent even when it’s been lit and then extinguished.

Unwritten use a unique blend of their own wax that doesn’t include any genetically modified ingredients, palm oil or paraffin so you won’t get any unnecessary smells and it’s better for the environment too. 

The Unwritten website has lots more on offer including tens of other candle puppies, making it an amazing online shop for any dog lovers. You’ll also be surprised by the array of other candles on offer too which would be fabulous on the table at Christmas, or to gift to friends, especially dog lovers! 

£48.99: https://www.un-written.co.uk/products/nala-the-frenchie

Italicus Rosolio Di Bergamotto and Savoia Vino

alcoholic drinks, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Drinks and Mixers, Father's Day, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, Vegan, Winter, Women

Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

If you’re looking to bring a touch of Italian elegance to your Christmas celebrations this year, then the charming tradition of Italian aperitivo is just the thing. This pre-dinner ritual not only awakens the palate and sets the stage for a delicious meal but also encourages guests to relax and socialise. At Christmas, aperitivo comes into its own, picture your friends and family gathered before dinner, sipping on sparkling cocktails whilst chatting and snacking. It’s easy, elegant and brimming with the festive buzz we all love.

But Aperitivo is more than just a drink, it’s a great gift too as it generally comes in bottles so stunning you’ll barely need to wrap them. A simple gift tag and a contrasting bow are all it takes to create a show stopping present. They’re the perfect choice for anyone who loves a bit of sophistication and let’s be honest, the brightly coloured bottles look great in a drinks cabinet or on a kitchen shelf. Pair one with some cocktail glasses, a cocktail shaker or some gourmet nibbles and you’ve got a great Christmas gift.

ITALICUS Rosolio di Bergamotto has been created by Giuseppe Gallo and is inspired by the amazing flavours of his Amalfi Coast childhood. This aromatic liqueur delivers a perfectly balanced taste of Italy, with refreshingly bright citrus flavours from bergamot, a fruit best described as a cross between a sour orange and a lemon.

Grown, harvested, and distilled in Turin, ITALICUS features notes of ripe bergamot orange, light bitterness, and subtle floral spices. The bottle itself is a work of art with the design inspired by Italy’s architectural heritage and resembling the columns of ancient Rome. The marbled black and white stopper taking inspiration from Northern Italy’s gothic cathedrals. The aquamarine hue? It’s a clever trick of yellow liquid in blue glass, evoking the sparkling tones of the Amalfi Coast.

Drink it with Prosecco or Champagne for a ITALICUS Spritz and garnish with green olives for a touch of saltiness. Or shake things up with the ITALICUS Cup, blending tonic and grapefruit soda for a zesty twist on a classic Margarita.

RRP £31.75 available from The Whisky Exchange

Savoia is a certified vegan vino aperitivo that boasts a complex blend of 24 botanicals, including bitter orange, gentian root, pink grapefruit, and warming winter spices like cardamom and ginger. It is available in two flavours, Rosso and Orancio.  

Savoia Rosso, includes a touch of Marsala wine while Savoia Orancio channels the exotic flavours of saffron and pomegranate, drawing from Marco Polo’s Silk Road adventures. Both are ideal for classic cocktails like a Negroni, Spritz, or Garibaldi, or why not try inventing a few of your own? You can find a selection of recipes on their website, casa-savoia.com.

Like the Italicus Rosolio Di Bergamotto the design of the Savoia bottles pays homage to Italy’s royal heritage, with nods to Turin, the first capital of unified Italy. The wooden stopper evokes the Mole Antonelliana building, and the horizontal infinity symbol represents the countless ways Savoia can be enjoyed. With an ABV of 18.6%, the Rosso’s design even marks 1861, the year of Italian unification.

RRP £20 Available from Italspirits

These bottles make great Christmas gifts, whether it’s for the cocktail enthusiast ready to shake things up on Christmas Day or for Granny looking to try something a bit different. Either way, they are sure to be a festive hit!

Christmas Beauty Round Up

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, cruelty-free, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, Vegan, Winter, Women

Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

The winter months can be harsh on your skin so it’s worth investing in some good skincare products to ensure you’re glowing and party-ready for the festive season. Begin with a high-quality cleanser to remove impurities and prep your skin for the rest of your skincare routine. The COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser is an excellent choice thanks to it’s gentle, yet effective formula that improves skin texture, clarifies and removes impurities whilst maintaining a balanced pH. Applied to wet skin and massaged in before rinsing it’s tea tree oil infused formula provides a refreshing, medicinal scent that helps wake you up in the morning! It lathers nicely and cleanses e without leaving skin feeling dry.

RRP £15.99 150ml

Next, apply a rich, hydrating moisturizer to combat the drying effects of colder weather, keeping your skin plump and radiant. The Embroyolisse Lait Crème Concentrate moisturiser is a lovely rich moisturiser which is suitable for all skin types. This multipurpose product doubles as a body moisturiser, face mask, primer makeup remover and even a post shave soother. Enriched with essential fatty acids and vitamins it nourishes, hydrates and protects your skin. It’s creamy non-runny consistency is easy to apply and is an excellent base for make up while keeping skin hydrated all day.

RRP £24.99 100ml

For your night time routine add a retinol cream to boost cell renewal and smooth fine lines for a youthful, refreshed complexion. COSRX The Retinol 0.3 is designed to target visible signs of ageing so will help those wrinkles and fine lines, loss elasticity, uneven skin tone and visible pores, making it a must have addition to your winter skincare line up.

RRP £32 20ml

Having looked after your skin throughout November, you’ll be ready to dazzle at every festive party. To take your look to the next level, a pair of false eyelashes are just what you need to add an extra touch of glamour. The Ardell Wispies Lashes (RRP £5) are a fantastic choice, they’re lightweight, easy to apply, and beautifully enhance your eyes with their fluttery, natural design. If you prefer a glue-free option, the Ardell Naked Press-On Lashes (RRP £14.50) are ideal. They’re quick and hassle-free, providing the same eye-enhancing effect with minimal effort. Whether you go for a dramatic or subtle look, these lashes will perfectly complement your radiant, party-ready skin.

Swan 1.5 Litre Digital Kettle

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Family Life, Father's Day, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Home & Garden

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thought and opinions are our own

Imagine waking up on a chilly morning and without leaving the comfort of your cosy bed, being able to turn your kettle for the all important first brew of the day. That’s now a reality with the Swan Digital Kettle which boasts the title of the world’s first Alexa-compatible kettle. As someone who appreciates home automation, I was intrigued yet sceptical – did I really need to turn my kettle on with a voice command?

Design-wise, the kettle has a sleek, modern look, finished in glossy black with a LED touch panel. At first glance, it resembles a standard cordless kettle, but the illuminated display reveals advanced features like a temperature indicator and a “set” button, allowing you to choose the temperature of the water. With five temperature options ranging from 40°C to 100°C it’s perfect for everything from green tea to coffee. It even keeps the water warm for a couple of hours too which is ideal when you need a top up.

Now, let’s talk Alexa integration. Connecting it to WiFi via the app was very straightforward and within minutes it was under Alexa’s control. I’ve also linked it to custom Alexa routines which turn the kettle on when I say, “Alexa, I’m home,” or when I turn my alarm off in the morning. While you can’t check if there’s water in the kettle remotely, it does have a boil-dry protection feature, which turns the kettle off if there isn’t enough water in it, which is lucky as getting the family into the habit of refilling it is proving to be a challenge!

Overall, the Swan Digital Kettle is a stylish, functional addition to any kitchen, blending tech-savvy innovation with everyday practicality. A smart kettle might not be essential, but it’s undeniably a luxury that’s nice to have.

RRP £79.99 but currently on offer at £59.99

Edifier W260NC Active Noise Cancellation Earbuds

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for children, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, secret santa, Tech

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Everyone needs headphones nowadays and especially headphones which you can travel with, whether it’s for gaming, watching TV on the go or even sports. Edifier have these wireless W260NC headphones which are both noise cancelling and Bluetooth v5.3 and fit into this neat little box which is also used for charging.

The sound quality is excellent and with a latency of 0.08 seconds you can use them to watch TV or a movie, and equally brilliant for gaming.  Gaming with wireless headphones is much easier and I find social media when you’re on public transport is so much easier with wireless earbuds, especially when they’re this small and fit into their box and then your pocket so easily.

Technically, these headphones are advanced. There’s 6 microphones on them for taking phone calls or recording video and there’s -45dB noise cancelling.  They really do shut out a lot of noise and when you’re on noisy transport or someone else in the room is watching TV or gaming, you can’t hear a thing! There are up to 8 hours of playback per charge and I really like the wearing detection so that if you fall asleep, need to run or walk fast or are knocked on public transport, the headphones stop playing until you put the earbuds in again. The 6mm and 10mm duel drives give a richer sound too.

Make sure you have the up to date software or phone for the Bluetooth v5.3 otherwise the earbuds won’t connect, and the Edifier Connex app has more controls to let you play with the sound quality. 

The all-round Edifier W260NC Earbuds make a great gift this Christmas for anyone who enjoys their music, gaming or just getting some quiet time.

Available from £62.66 at: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Edifier-W260NC-Cancellation-Microphones-Dual-Dynamic-Dark-Blue/dp/B0CTJL37R9?th=1

Contigo West Loop Mini Travel Mug

Birthday Gifts, camping, Christmas, Days Out, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, hiking, Home, REUSABLE, secret santa

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Let’s take a moment to appreciate all of those friends and family who buy us Christmas gifts which are both stylish and practical.  With the Contigo West Loop Mini travel mug, you could be one of those gift-givers because Contigo have come up with this excellent design of travel mug that will make anyone happy!

The Contigo West Loop Mini travel mug is designed to fit into outdoor pockets or be able to be carried snugly thanks to its curvy design. It keeps drinks hot for p to 4 hours or cold drinks are cold for up to 14 hours due to a clever design with BPA-free stainless steel.  It’s dishwasher safe as well, including the lid which twists off and reveals 470ml of drinking space – the size of most coffee mugs.

The most ingenious design of the Contigo West Loop Mini is the 100% leak-proof seal.  If you play around with the lid, you find that there’s a spring release autoseal (marked ‘AUTOSEAL’) which when pressed, release the sip cover so that you can drink. When it isn’t pressed, the West Loop Mini is completely sealed so that it doesn’t spill anywhere. That means you can use it in the car, put it in a bag or rucksack and not only will it keep the heat of the drink but it will not leak at all. You can see by the sturdy design of the lid and the inner spring that it’s really effective and when I tested taking it out into the garden, there was indeed no spill no matter how much I threw it around!  This would be great for when you’re out with the children or if you’re into real outdoor pursuits in all weathers.

tea mug

The team at Contigo were also generous enough to send me what I consider a luxury – a proper tea infuser! For those of us who appreciate loose tea, this is a fabulous addition you don’t normally find in travel mugs.  Once the loose tea is put inside the stainless steel strainer, the infuser fits inside the lid before you affix the lid in place. Perfect for having the West Loop Mini full of boiling water, then you can add the already filled infuser to the mug and allow the tea to brew. No more stewed tea when you go out!

Contigo have thought of everything with this travel mug, and there are other products in the Contigo range such as the water bottle which has similar clever designs. The Contigo West Loop Mini comes in 5 different colours (the one featured here is the liquorice design) and sizes.

Available on sale from £24.99 at: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Contigo-Autoseal-Stainless-Leakproof-Easy-Clean/dp/B07TRG2RGH/ref=sr_1_5?crid=10N00O7XWBK&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ogA6XhsejKBbFGmkCasxzOXzSCx29RM-0uVZYE8lOLFz7qAzDuDzdktzKHqhIp3r9qmIxhzLB7E-ry8Yg9FHPTxXNAzqcAJeyeviFR8CZch-QogxE_O5yyfIAQfFlHb1gGXRpZEbTm6NdFmJdGXHQCPGhIKTbt6hA3NAaznjAz-vODrevzmiXzj3NyQPduKjoL-f2BFd1J3RMmITfKlELJ4vBUEMoWoJ8_DOprMcMcRNKGE1voWwPKlRVfQqoQG6YRItmMv2USIWdP5p_H-yvi3dulsawpgipU6sfXMGvjE.I9HFuC3mx6yte5i-trYQXRlOZJFFsiZunzc7tUooUNo&dib_tag=se&keywords=contigo&nsdOptOutParam=true&qid=1730636284&s=sports&sprefix=contigo%2Csports%2C74&sr=1-5

Tea Infuser £15.99 At: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Contigo-Infuser-strainer-stainless-dishwasher/dp/B084C25JMQ/ref=sr_1_5?crid=2BWY8VOYMITXI&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.SCRFxTLti8pkQw7yg8bFVAlfG4qU32VNabvQjZjyTx3pFvmNSKQE7IdNQfuZzVV432WZc1nks_BhQEJlXeq1flfHLg4Gldudz0gMEZ63sOk7x5TeZ_MD_d9YZRc9v5foD4rWDYMFzaXMzE_IlYJapkmaTjD9OGxpGD_nM6IZIznyiBc8z3kByLO7Zxp49Pha0cQeQ7JdGfsOIWrtRN9Hrr8nzNHpyMQcrmNjmgAZ8oLdZlhlhAK4XzZEVBIu8mAhM8Eee0UOGtAzLMZnYYq6h20wAQxg5xQSC4e6K3ksyIE.T6hoMdPPp0fa-inAPsOEa2Uc_lDoYEr350cK0fo8nQ8&dib_tag=se&keywords=contigo+infuser&nsdOptOutParam=true&qid=1730636581&sprefix=contigo+infuser%2Caps%2C60&sr=8-5

Clean Co Alcohol Free Gin

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Drinks and Mixers, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, Vegan, Vegetarian

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

The original is still the greatest and the Clean G Alcohol Free Spirit (otherwise known as the non-alcoholic gin) is still up there as the standard for 0% gins.

The first zero alcohol spirit in the Clean Co drinks cabinet (they also have alcohol free pink gin, rum and whiskey among others), Clean G is made without the distilling that creates the alcohol, therefore giving it the gin taste but without the fumes!  It also means that Clean G is lower in calories, sugar free and available to be added to cocktails just as easily as the alcohol version.

Does it taste like gin though?  Without mentioning that a bottle of Clean G had been sent to me, friends commented on how the Clean Co product was just as tasty as gin and sin-free too so makes for a perfect tipple on a school night or when out at lunch with work.  It’s award winning too, not just for taste but for how easily it substitutes the alcoholic version in G&Ts or mixing into cocktails. It’s made in the UK and vegan friendly too and contains less than 6 calories per double shot. All-natural flavourings and no artificial sweeteners, this is perfect for Christmas either as a gift to anyone, or for drinking and not worrying about the hangover afterwards.

If you haven’t heard of the Clean Co range of drinks, you’re certain to over Christmas and into 2025 as they gain notoriety for being so versatile and much friendlier than spirits.  So many people are switching to Clean G and even pubs and restaurants are making non-alcoholic cocktails with Clean G products that it’s becoming the fashion now to drink and not be drinking alcohol.

Available in shops and online from £16:

Clean G

That Boutique-y Gin Company Advent Calendar

advent calendar, alcoholic drinks, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Drinks and Mixers, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Winter

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

For adults, advent calendars have taken on a whole new twist, and this year’s countdown to Christmas promises to be both sophisticated and delicious with That Boutique-y Gin Company Advent Calendar. It’s the ultimate treat for any gin enthusiast, turning each day of December into a journey of unique flavours and botanicals.

With 24 wax-sealed 30ml miniatures, each one distinct and some even holiday-themed (Christmas Pudding gin, anyone?), this calendar lets you savour a different gin every day. For the seasoned gin lover, it’s a fantastic chance to explore bold new flavors and perhaps uncover a new favourite along the way – scan the QR code and vote for your favourite!

The lineup is impressive, and a few sound especially exciting including Chocolate Orange Gin, Toasted Marshmallow Hot Chocolate Gin, and Spit-Roasted Pineapple Gin. Whether you’re a connoisseur or just beginning to explore the world of gin, this calendar offers a festive array of smooth, spiced, citrusy, and Christmas-inspired gins. Many of these are hard to find in stores, adding a welcome element of surprise to each day’s tasting. Picture yourself winding down each evening with a “GINgle All The Way” in hand -now that’s the Christmas spirit!

Whether given as a gift or kept as a special treat for yourself, this gin advent calendar is a fun and exciting way to countdown to Christmas. Each day feels like a little celebration, and by Christmas Eve, you’ll have experienced a tour of the gin world from the comfort of your own home.

RRP £ 64.95

Marshall Minor IV Earbuds

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Father's Day, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Mother's Day, Tech, Valentine's Day Gifts, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

If you’re starting to think of Christmas gifts then you can’t go wrong with a pair of earbuds, especially a cool pair like the Marshall Minor IV earbuds. First off, let’s talk about looks, because when you’re dealing with Marshall gear, you know they’re going for that whole rockstar on tour vibe—even if your tour is mostly the supermarket and the occasional jog. These little guys are oozing with Marshall aesthetic, and you’ve got that iconic logo on the charging case. Classic black with brass accents? Check. Textured case that makes you feel like you’re holding a mini guitar amp in your pocket? Double check. It’s like they took the essence of a stage amp and shrunk it down into something you can pop in your ears.

Now, here’s the thing about design: they’re open-fit. Which is just fancy talk for “they don’t have rubber tips jamming into your ears like you’re getting an ear exam.” Depending on who you are, that’s either a win or a dealbreaker. Me? I wasn’t sure but after wearing these for a week or so have found them comfortable and secure. It’s like getting that smooth, carefree sound without the deep-pressure sensation of in-ears. One thing to bear in mind, the open fit lets a lot of the outside world in and there is no background noise reduction.

For tiny earbuds, the Minor IVs hold their own. Marshall’s really got the mids and highs dialled in – vocals come through super clear, and the treble’s crisp enough that you’ll notice those delicate high-hats or twangy guitar riffs. The bass isn’t exactly bone-rattling, though. I’d say it’s more tastefully understated. Not the kind of bass that you’ll feel in your teeth, but it’s balanced, not too muddy. If you’re a basshead, you might be left wanting a bit more thump, but for everything else – rock, jazz, podcasts it’s solid.

Marshall claims 7 hours of playtime, and an extra 24 hours from the charging case. In my field test – by which I mean doing normal human things and listening to music while pretending to be productive – the battery held up pretty close to that. And let’s face it, if you’re listening to music for 7 straight hours and not stopping, either you’re on an epic road trip or your hobbies are way more intense than mine.

Touch controls are simple to use and can be changed using the Marshall App which also gives you access to firmware updates, battery management settings and equaliser options. Connectivity is good, they’re Bluetooth LE ready and I had no problems connection them to my phone.

The Minor IV has wireless charging, which is great but if, like me, you’re yet to embrace the latest technology you can fall back onto USB-C (cable included) when you need to juice it up old school.

So, what’s the verdict? The Marshall Minor IV aren’t your “I need absolute isolation and my skull to rumble” earbuds. They’re more your “I want to look cool while listening to Led Zeppelin and still hear the barista call my name” earbuds. They’ve got style, decent sound, and comfort—if you like the open-fit feel—and that classic Marshall attitude that says, “Yeah, I rock. But, you know, casually.”

Would I recommend them? If you’re a Marshall fan and like your earbuds with a side of swagger, absolutely. They won’t replace your high-end over-ear headphones or some fancy active noise-cancelling buds, but for daily casual listening with a splash of rockstar flair? Yeah, they’ll do just fine.

RRP £119.99

Seola Sparkling Clover Necklace

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Jewellery, Stocking Fillers, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Christmas is a time to think about the people in your life and the type of gifts they deserve. Seola believe in finding joy in the little things and celebrating life every day not just a few days of the year. With that in mind, they have a gorgeous collection of jewellery for Christmas which is available now. The team at Seola sent us the necklace from their Clover Collection, part of a much bigger gift range featuring the clover leaf design.

The Sparkling Clover Necklace is 18K gold plated stainless steel, designed to be both waterproof and sweatproof so you can wear it whether you’re swimming, in the gym or even in the shower.  With a length of 40 centimetres, it sits on the collar bone of the wearer where a stunning clover pendant is surrounded by 4 clover leaf cut outs along the chain. It’s a lovely gift for anyone who’s active and worries about losing jewellery especially if there’s sport involved!

I particularly like that the 5 clovers are set on a delicate chain which can be worn on its own or as a layer of chains, especially from the whole Clover Collection range. There’s also earrings, a bracelet and a range of different Clover design necklaces which over time, could create a personal collection for someone, or be a range given as one gift from different members of the family. 

The Seola Sparkling Clover Necklace is a timeless piece, with the clover symbolising luck, which will be able to be worn for a very long time to come thanks to its waterproof design and enduring look.

Available from £28.99 at:

Sparkling Clover Necklace

Edifier X3 Lite Wireless Bluetooth Ear Buds

Birthday Gifts, Children, Christmas, Family Life, Gifts for children, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Tech

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Christmas present alert!  Edifier have these brilliant Wireless Bluetooth Ear Buds for just £29.99 and they’re perfect for the gym, commuting or even as stocking fillers for children. We’re always losing headphones so who can turn their nose up at another pair?

The Edifier X3 Lite (here in ivory colour) have 24 hour battery life when fully charged. They come with their own case which doubles as a charging unit and the Type-C charging cable in included so you can charge it from your laptop or any USB socket whilst you’re on the go. When the red light is blinking, it’s still charging – no red light means fully charged and ready to go! The earbuds connect to your phone with Bluetooth, which is done by tapping the touch panel on each earbud 5 times to be in pairing mode. Depending on your phone (or other Bluetooth device), follow the instructions to pair with the earbuds. 

The earbuds have touch control so you don’t need to fumble for your phone each time. Each ear bud (left and right) has similar controls such as tap three times on the left to skip back a track, or three times on the right to go forward. You can also use the touch controls to answer and hang up on calls, or hold down for 2 seconds to reject a call.

As well as being Bluetooth 5.3, they are noise cancelling but with human voice ambient sound. The box also contains spare silicone buds which I believe are a different size to the ones fitted – perfect for children to use. They’re not waterproof but they are water resistant which means they don’t get affected by sweat or light rain.  They feel really, really light in your ears and the case is light and easy to put in a pocket if you’re out and about.

Available from £29.99 at: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Edifier-Lite-Cancellation-Microphones-Customization/dp/B0CG8L288V/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=20JGZ3QFG56PE&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.QR_2YJTQr4DXW2MZcbdIDOpCanFqVLxhSzBO6caxz83B8BOh7_HxQ6R-WWtuZTY7zRvMsYUnsSZhuBTO8u3a3pHoov-G-dskI7KyM_97GI04JgvJTugzyj85h3fDLsWBvJmXPhjyfK-Y-3v7aFn9TYulS37_jsi2oYzVYjJkYbEzkgwC6SrIKN9dSvL3fsCSGE0lT3Uor3OLSZ-cC5t64hmrYSmu_xOdVf7cdMCctmk.C9gjZqPDxe7FuMyQnJDcWOwwOGns-DHmhmKIfnEP2XY&dib_tag=se&keywords=edifier+x3+lite&nsdOptOutParam=true&qid=1729008161&sprefix=edifier+X3+Lite%2Caps%2C73&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1

StylPro Make Up Brush Cleaner and Dryer

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Home, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Here’s a lovely present for anyone who loves their make-up! The StylPro Make-Up Cleaner and Dryer from Boots is an extra element we don’t think about in our daily life when thinking about make-up. How often do you clean your make up brushes, and how do you do it? It’s something I never really think about, only giving my brushes a quick rinse every so often but experts say that we should clean our make-up brushes every week.

The StylPro Make-Up Brush Cleaner and Dryer makes it easy to clean brushes. The set comes with a bowl and 8 attachments for different size brushes. There’s cleaning fluid (for foundation brushes) and the StylPro device itself, which even comes with 2x AAA batteries.  The attachments are all kept safe in an aerated bag to help prevent bacteria multiplying.

It’s simple enough to clean your brushes; add a small amount of cleaning fluid (or use soap for non-foundation brushes) and some water in the base of the bowl. Choose which attachment fits the handle of the first brush you’re going to clean and attach it to the device. Dip the brush into the soapy solution for about 5 seconds so that it absorbs some of the cleaning fluid then hit the button on the device to spin the brush. Leave it in the shallow water for about 10 seconds then raise above the water level and spin for another 10 seconds. This spins off the excess water and you’ll see how much make up is left in the water afterwards!

The brushes are still a bit damp so you need to take them out of the device and let them dry somewhere that’s well ventilated and won’t let any water pool. The brushes look a bit bedraggled at this point because they’re still damp but they do dry off quite quickly if near a radiator.  I would try the StylPro with an old brush first as it takes a while to get used to the depth of water needed and then where in the height of the bowl to hold the brush so that it gets clean but also doesn’t hit the bottom and damage the fibres. You have to be mindful of spinning as well as too much spin makes some of the fibres on bigger brushes splay out and tangle a bit. There’s a knack of being able to spin off enough water but also not damage the brush. The colour of the water after the spin session was all I needed to see to know that the StylPro works!

Available for £29.99 at: https://www.boots.com/stylpro-makeup-brush-cleaner-and-dryer-10224940?CAWELAID=620000410000293710&cm_mmc=bmm-buk-bing-ppc-_-PLAs-_-Beauty_Cosmetic-_-UK_Smart_Shopping_Beauty_Cosmetic&gclid=a7e0340bff7b1d41071052b4f08129d1&gclsrc=3p.ds&msclkid=a7e0340bff7b1d41071052b4f08129d1&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=UK_Smart_Shopping_Beauty_Cosmetic&utm_term=4575686381129242&utm_content=Beauty_Cosmetic

Amonax Ab Roller Home Workout Set

Birthday Gifts, Fitness, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, health, Home, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Not that we’re thinking ahead to New Year, but there are definite pros to getting exercise equipment before Christmas!  The Amonax Ab Roller Workout Set is designed to help cardio and ab fitness from home with the help of an Ab Roller, skipping rope and press-up handles. We were sent the set to try as a gift idea for Christmas, but I think I’ll be using this for a long while afterwards!

The skipping rope is 3.1 metres and long enough for an adult to use. If you find it’s too long though, you can always adjust it by cutting, as explained in the instructions. It’s good quality, with foam handles and the rope is non-tangle, unlike the string we had on the skipping ropes we used as a child. Skipping ropes are brilliant for on-the-spot cardio workouts and can be used by adults and children alike. Brilliant for travelling if you don’t know if there will be a gym or not, or for keeping children entertained, it is a really good addition to a home gym and gets the heart beat going really quickly!

The push-up bars are made of steel but with foam grips for comfort. They’re set at a 15 degree angle too, so that you hold on ‘up hill’ and it makes for an easier grip. Push-up bars are great for body strength work but also for working on the abs in push ups, planks etc and especially shoulder work. The non-slip mat that comes with them is also useful if you don’t have a suitable floor surface to work on.

Finally, the star of the show is the Ab Roller. This nifty contraption can be either one or both wheels and each wheel can be placed a different width apart depending on your level of difficulty. If you’ve never used them before, then have a look at some You Tube videos, the basic concept is that you kneel, with your weight on the wheel out in front of you with straight arms and roll the Ab Roller away from you and crucially, you wheel it back again towards you. This engages the abdominal muscles in a way in which your back is still supported but it works the muscles beautifully. It’s an upper and lower ab workout but be warned, you will definitely feel it the next day! This is the exercise that will get you a more sculpted torso, but it will take a while and a lot of repetitions!

The Amonax kit is called the Ab Roller Home Workout Set but it can be used for more than just the abs which is why it’s so versatile.  The cardio and strength elements (skipping rope and pus-up bars) can be used along with the Ab Roller to give a really good overall workout and I especially like that this kit is quite small, can be taken apart and is very light. If you’re tight for space, travelling or just want to use one element of the set at a time then it’s really easy to adapt the apparatus to the workout you want. It’s a really good beginners set as well if someone isn’t sure about going to the gym yet and the Ab Roller on its own is a brilliant piece which even top athletes use.

For the price of £20.99 too, this is an excellent idea as a gift for anyone!

Available from £20.99 at: Ab Roller Home Workout Set

BeautyPro T-Bar Device

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, health, Stocking Fillers, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

I love a new gadget and this T-Bar Device from BeautyPro is right up my street. It’s a simple concept – a wand in the shape of a ‘T’ which vibrates at sonic speed and helps your skin absorb products, tones and aids lymphatic drainage.

The AA battery powered device vibrates at 6000 pulsations per minute. This speed helps stimulate the skin for a better, repairing blood flow but also stimulates toxins to move from the surface of the skin as a lymphatic drain. Puffiness reduces when the fluid under the skin drains away and is dealt with at the lymph nodes on you face (there are several places you can find lymph nodes) and flushes out toxins to leave skin clearer. The increased blood flow also helps new cells form and breaths new oxygen into the skin and muscles.

The vibrations also help with absorbing the nutrients from facials and topical face creams. The pulsations help work the products into the skin, giving a better overall effect.  Skin and muscle are also said to be firmer and more contoured too.

It’s really easy to use; just add an AA battery (not provided) and twist the base of the handle. You can both hear and see the T-bar vibrating. Hold the device against your face and you can feel the vibrations working the top layers of your skin. It’s recommended your skin is wet, or even better has some kind of serum or product on so that the vibrations can work their magic. It tickles at first but you get used to it especially around the nose and ears!  The cold metal of the T-bar helps sooth the skin too. Use upward strokes to move the fluid from your skin around and down to the lymphatic areas for drainage. 

It took me a day or so (morning and night) to get used to the sensation but whilst you’re adding the serum or product to your skin daily anyway, the added T-Bar Device gives you that little lift to either work the product in more or to start contouring the skin.  I have been using it for a few days now and I like the drainage effect with my skin being less puffy, but over time I should start to see more of an effect on the smoothness of my skin and shape the T-bar creates.

Available from £39 at:

https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/beautypro-t-bar-device/14848110/?affil=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&sv_campaign_id=531573&awc=2082_1723734984_a27637985a5df416098f7b48b5a56a5e&utm_term=CSS&utm_campaign=AffiliateWin&switchcurrency=GBP&sv1=affiliate&shippingcountry=GB&utm_source=AWin_531573&utm_content=https%3A%2F%2Fshopforward.nl%2F

Embryolisse Purpose Moisturiser, Calm and Sooth Facial Oil and Rubis Tweezers

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Vegan, Vegetarian, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

We’ve been sent this lovely ensemble of beauty products for Christmas and I couldn’t wait to try them for you and let you know what they’re all about! The size of these products and in combination together make them ideal for going on holiday, or for a Christmas stocking.

We start with the Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré Multi-Purpose Moisturiser. It’s a multipurpose moisturiser but is very rich so can be used for lots of purposes. I love a rich moisturiser anyway but this can be used as make-up remover, a face mask, hand cream or as a body lotion. It doesn’t have an SPF so I would use this during the winter when my skin is dry and the heating and air conditioning are on full blast, and additionally as a hand cream. It would be brilliant in the spring and summer on holiday because it’s so versatile. I love the cool texture and it’s not greasy, plus at the sale price of £11.19 (it’s usually £13.99) it’s a steal.

Facial oils are all the rage now and I personally love them. The Calm and Sooth Facial Oil from Elemental Herbology is blended with plant extracts and essential oils to nourish your face. Just one drop is enough to cover your whole visage and you can really smell the calming flower essences which helps with the calming effect. I use the facial oils to give myself lymphatic massages, which is a huge boost to tone your skin and gives you an even colour. It’s very relaxing too and with the Calm and Sooth Facial Oil, you will be in bliss within a few hours of massage!

Finally, the staple of the beauty cabinet is a very good pair of tweezers. Rubis are famous for producing high quality tweezers and these are no exception. Sharp and slanted, they are designed for eye brows but can be used for many tasks as they’re so precise. They come in different colours but these gold ones look especially good if you’re going on holiday too! These ones are coated in yellow gold so are also antibacterial. I love using them because of how precise they are and you can get a good grip. Fabulous tweezers are the staple of any beauty regime so these are a great investment for your make up bag.

Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré Multi-Purpose Moisturiser £11.19: https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/embryolisse-lait-creme-concentre-multi-purpose-moisturiser-30ml/11118732/?switchcurrency=GBP&utm_medium=cpc&shippingcountry=GB&gclid=93cbe3f17d671c4d0db0854f59c88a68&msclkid=93cbe3f17d671c4d0db0854f59c88a68&utm_source=bing&utm_campaign=LF%20%7C%7C%20UK%20%7C%7C%20EN%20%7C%7C%20PMAX%20%7C%7C%20ePMAX%20%7C%7C%20Skincare&utm_term=2331995443444706&utm_content=Skincare&affil=thgppc&gclsrc=3p.ds

Calm and Sooth Facial Oil £44: https://www.elementalherbology.com/collections/best-selling-skincare/products/calm-soothe-facial-oil

Rubis Tweezers available for £27.88 at: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rubis-tweezers-classic-slanted-satin/dp/B0133ME3MC/ref=sr_1_7?crid=WPXC0BMQADRH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.39ZvDIUrai-G8HPYwmq69kikaMs1bZU2czq4ySto4AlkQplv5t83cK92fOkIC5p7bCs-oildpwdpBV_jvVlwg-OyfDb4jeK6gARhY6Y8rMOGTXS4sDVhWtuI93Dm67wW-yAQOXiQS6TUfGbWb0rTfVF7nkKprnBR2we1-Lqq-jhGPqM0TxKtZ14tpeifh8PhAOjGVRvjuys5VhHnpaYNTdUXCtFWTAIVuBAw0Iay6RvtpbJjiGkHwlU_IxJDW7kGcd5NMoP3EY5riatxasUYvbYwjitTZSvKVCWaXIeGhyA.t_V9Ty7mOGoEmWhX64FrZBS_cyxzxKMnb3C5mmYb9J8&dib_tag=se&keywords=rubis%2Btweezers&qid=1721639198&sprefix=rubis%2Btweezers%2Caps%2C76&sr=8-7&th=1

Wickedly Welsh Luxurious Chocolates

Birthday Gifts, chocolate, Christmas, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, Stocking Fillers

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

It’s a little known fact that not only does Wales produce chocolate, but it’s probably the finest chocolate to come out of Britain.  Handmade chocolates are always special, but the Wickedly Welsh Luxurious Chocolates are a feast of deliciousness that will wow this Christmas or keep the decadence of your Christmas lunch going.

The box contains 24 of the crafted chocolates which are flavoured and designed on themes from Wales.  You’ll see the Welsh Dragon, honey bee, daffodils and a Celtic Cross as part of the aesthetics. The box is a mixture of milk, white and dark chocolate with an emphasis on their famous milk chocolate. The flavours though are not what you would usually find and are again based on the Welsh surroundings they come from. Included in the flavours are Spring Blossom Honey (hexagonal with a light dusting on top of a bee picture), Ginger Bread (square with a pretty geometric design on top) and Salted Praline, which uses the locally sourced salt that Wickedly Welsh is famous for.

There are 12 flavours in all and most of them are not what you would find in High Street boxes of chocolates.  The chocolate is incredibly rich whether it’s the milk, white or dark chocolate you choose. My favourites were the Ginger Bread and Spiced Praline because they’re completely different flavours from what you would find elsewhere and the milk chocolate is especially smooth. They’re the right sized box to be able to share with the family or for someone to enjoy on their own, no matter what celebration.

I can’t get enough of the Wickedly Welsh chocolates anyway and the fact that these are so delicious as well as being handmade makes them a great gift and a special treat!

Just a note that the factory handles nuts, milk, eggs and gluten so check with recipients before hand.

Available from £24.99:

A Box of 24 Specially Selected Chocolates

Raquex Racquet Backpack

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Family Life, Fashion, Fitness, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Sport

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Here’s a nice gift for anyone who is into any racquet sports – a proper racket backpack!

Most people carry their tennis or squash racket separately to a game or practice but now you can carry your racket with all your other sports equipment thanks to the Raquex Backpack, which is designed for racket sports.

The Raquex Racquet Backpack has its own racket compartment and an additional laptop compartment with a Velcro secure strap. There are several pockets too including a secure pocket for a wallet or mobile phone and a vented pocket for trainers which is separate to the main body of the bag. Water bottles fit in the side compartments and you’ll find other pockets are handy for loose change, membership cards or travel cards and anything else you need to secure.  All of this in one backpack which has padded straps and back plate so that you can wear it with comfort and the racket won’t get in the way.

Not only for adults who like to play racket sports, the Raquex Racquet Backpack is also great for school aged children to take their PE kit into school. The multiple pockets are invaluable and the separate compartment for the trainers is a gift in itself for those muddy winter shoes but the main part of the backpack, if not used for a racket, is great for school books or a lunchbox too. The classic black look is easy to take to school and the racket compartment could be used for the project that won’t fit A4 size and needs securing on the way to and from school.

The Raquex Racquet Backpack is the type of gift you’d never think of owning yourself and one which once you have one, you won’t know how you did without!

Available online from £37.99:

https://www.raquex.com/product/raquex-racquet-backpack/

Marshall Emberton III Bluetooth Speaker

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Family Life, Father's Day, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Home & Garden, Mother's Day, Tech

Disclaimer: We received this product as a review sample but all thoughts and opinions are our own

Let’s talk about the Marshall Emberton III Bluetooth speaker. If you’re familiar with the Marshall brand, you already know they embrace a rock ‘n’ roll aesthetic, and the Emberton III is no exception, resembling a mini guitar amp, earning full marks for style. The classic black and brass design is timeless, looking just as at home on your coffee table as it does out in the wild. That’s key because you’re buying this speaker as much for its visual appeal as its sound quality.

Speaking of sound, the Emberton III delivers an impressive performance for its size. It won’t shake the room, but for a compact speaker, it packs a punch. The bass is rich without being muddy, and the highs are clear and crisp. It avoids the common pitfall of small speakers where everything turns into a flat mess at high volumes. Does it rival professional studio monitors? No, but that’s not the point, you’re not mixing tracks in your bathroom, you just want great sound while you shower. Maybe the Emberton III is overqualified for such casual listening, but that’s part of the fun.

The battery life is a respectable 30 hours on a full charge, and it only takes 2 hours to recharge and the simple 10-bar LED gauge keeps you aware of the remaining battery.

The IP67 rating means it’s dustproof and water-resistant. While I wouldn’t suggest tossing it in a pool, it can handle sawdust in the garage or a splash from a drink on the patio without missing a beat.

Control-wise, the brass joystick on top lets you adjust volume and skip tracks with a tactile, old-school feel, like turning a radio dial, which is far more satisfying than a touchscreen. It features Bluetooth 5.1 with Bluetooth LE support, and in my tests, it maintained a stable connection throughout the house. The speaker also comes with a companion app, and whilst not essential, it does offer firmware updates, EQ settings, and battery management.

So final thoughts? The Marshall Emberton III is like that tool in your workshop you don’t necessarily need but really want. It’s not the cheapest option, but you’re paying for the cool factor as much as the audio quality. It’s got style, it’s tough and has enough sonic oomph sound to keep you energised while working on those endless DIY projects.

Is it overkill for casual listening? Probably. Would I still recommend it? Absolutely. Because sometimes, you just want to blast some tunes and feel like you’re backstage at Woodstock – even if in reality you’re just doing a spot of DIY in the garage!!

RRP £149.99