Champagnes X Oysters | Laurent Perrier X The Langham, Sydney

It's not every Tuesday that you get an endless flow of premium French champagne with unlimited fresh oysters at a renowned 5 star hotel. 

(As much as I wish I do :P)

I was lucky enough to attend the launch of "The Season" by Laurent-Perrier at the start of November and needless to say, french bubbly and oyster is a pretty sweet combination on a Tuesday night. 

For those of you who wonders who and where The Langham is - they are located on the border of the historic Rocks district, replacing the Observatory Hotel. In the month of November, The Langham came together with Laurent-Perrier and brings you a celebration of champagne and spring flora - "The Season". 

Floral display by Pearsons Florist

Champagne Shower?

Not sure about you but this is definitely MY kinda dinner ;P 

I could definitely get use to drinking Laurent Perrier on a weekly basis. #baller

It certainly has the European circa 1960s feel to it and would definitely love to come back for a high tea sesh. 

Did I mention that I am officially a fresh oyster convert at the launch party all thanks to Maria who made sure I give them a try?
Not sure if the Vintage Laurent Perrier was the main catalyst, but smashing half a dozen of fresh oysters for someone who used to avoid them at all costs is pretty impressive. ;)

OFFICIALLY a fresh oyster convert! 

With Maria from @CrashingRed and @SoNailicious

So, what's the #beauty of The Langham, Sydney:

- Located at the border of The Rocks means you get to avoid the hustle and bustle of CBD, making it a perfect spot for a weekend "getaway" or "StayCation" (as I like to put it).

- The Langham spells elegance, sophistication and luxurious, definitely the place to spoil and pamper someone if you are looking to treat yourself and your loved ones.

@The Entrance of The Langham
Dress: NICHI (Local boutique in Malaysia)
Heels: ASOS
Bag: MARCS

What's on for the remaining month of November:

Tiffin Afternoon Tea featuring bite size gougeres, chocolate fudge cupcakes with rose petal buttercream and hazelnut & Salted caramel Dacquoise. And here come the best part - receive complimentary upgrade to a glass of Laurent - Perrier Vintage when you order a Champagne Tiffin Afternoon Tea. 

Served daily, prices from $64

Champagne and Oysters consisting of a trio of Sydney Rock oysters, served with a champagne vinegar mignonette and a glass of Laurent - Perrier Brut. 

Served daily, for only $25.

Champagne Dinner - 5 course degustation with matching champagne in Galileo Restaurant

Only on 27 November 2013, RRP $150

If you gotta pick a treat out of the three, I would personally go for the Champagne and Oysters special if you are a huge oysters fan. Promise you wouldn't be disappointed for $25 a pop! Probably wouldn't mind the Tiffin Afternoon Tea with the girlfriends either, especially with the complimentary upgrade to a glass of Laurent - Perrier Vintage. Any "complimentary upgrade" is always music to my ears especially when it involves French vintage champagne. Don't cha agree?

Once again, a huge thank you to Liquid Ideas for the invite and Langham Sydney & Laurent Perrier for a great night.

Disclaimer: I was invited to the launch of The Season by Langham X Laurent Perrier as a guest. I am not compensated for this post nor commissioned for any new patrons that decide to walk into Langham after reading this post.

XOXO,
A

7 PRE PRO BLOGGER 2013 CHECKLIST

"What are your plans this weekend?"

"Gold Coast babyyy!"

"Lucky you - gonna have a massive one aye"

"Nar, I am heading there for a conference so I gotta behave on Friday"

Uttering the word "conference" just made me feel intelligent and important already. HA. 

I have been to a few blogging/sponsored/free conferences over the past couple of years (ABBW in 2011, Beauty Blogger Utopia in 2012, The Entourage Young Entrepreneurs Unconvention this year) but this would be my first paid conference I am attending (out of my own pocket unfortunately) in the past 24 years in my life. Can't blame for being so excited yet nervous at the same time, can you?

And since creating list is like totes, the thing right now, I am gonna have a ProBlogger2013 checklist for the *cough* important *cough* stuff.

(What I pack in my travel/ make up bag deserves a post on its own :P) 

Notebook; PowerBank; Business Cards; Pens

1. Me, myself and I. By I, I meant my iPhone and iPad Mini.  What's a social media/ blogging conference without the new media devices? Still debating if I am going to lug my MacBook Pro with me as I reckon my mini would do but I like being equipped. 

2. Chargers.  The devices mentioned above serve no purpose without your trusty charger. I will be bringing both my wall charger and portable charger aka power bank (seriously, BEST. INVENTION. EVER. if you're a social media junkie like myself). I swear my hand drains my phone battery simply by holding it. 

3. A pretty Notebook.  As much as I am married to my iPhone and iPad, I still enjoy writing on a good ol' notebook especially when it comes to making goals and lists. With colourful pens, may I add. 

BTW, my @EatThisBurnThat business card is designed using Canva. If you're a graphic design noob like myself and need some quick designing fix, get an invitation now to try out the new Canva (as they are still in beta phase!)

4. Business cards.  The last thing you want is having to write down your contact details and all your social media platform for every blog crush/ potential collaborator you meet. It takes time and not cool. I had my ThroughBeautyEye cards all ready to go and having my EatThisBurnThat ones printed tomorrow!  (Thumbs up for being so last minute. :P)

5. A checklist & schedule. To ensure that you're making the most out of PB, make a checklist of goals (ie, what are you expecting/ the outcomes from this conference), people you want to meet (hello, twitter pal!) and most importantly the sessions you want to attend. As there will be multiple sessions happening concurrently, its important to pick the ones that are most aligned to your blog goals/ direction. 

6. Plan your outfits.  If you're not from Brisbane like myself, nothing is worst than an outfit crisis. So, make sure you have your outfits planned (and always bring an extra "emergency"outfit or two. just in case...) especially for the Friday networking night. Apparently, Hilton Surfer Paradise and bubbly are involved. :P

7. Mint.  Pleasant breath in a networking event is mandatory. Nuff said. Do you want to be known as "that chick/ guy with the garlic breath"? I guess not.

REEF After Sun & Tan Extender, Coconut Sun Screen & www.clearlycontacts.com.au sunnies. 

BONUS: Sunnies, sun screen and after sun care because what is a trip to Surfer Paradise without these necessities?

These are the important stuff - I will have a sequel post on my travel/ carry on bag! Yes, no prizes for those who guessed that I will be lugging all these products with me to make sure my make up is oh-so-long-lasting.


ONE more sleep to Gold Coast and TWO MORE SLEEPS to Pro Blogger, I am pretty stoked. Can't wait to meet a few of my social media-pals, catching up with bloggers, and most importantly learn, learn and learn more about blogging!


If you're gonna be there this weekend, don't forget to say hi!
I promise, I don't smell. :P


XOXO,
A

My GROUPON experience with John Azzi Hairdressers

"The hair is the richest ornament of women" - Martin Luther

I couldn't agree more. 

I am sure most (if not everyone) of us have had our fair share of bad experience when it comes to hair, be it a bad hair cut or a bad colour or bad colour and hair cut. 

That's one of the reasons why I have been going to the same hairdresser for the past five years. And, the only time I get my hair cut is when I have my hair Japanese straightened during my annual visit to Malaysia. 

That being said, you can't quite blame me when I was a little skeptical when John Azzi himself insisted offered to give me a hair cut post my keratin treatment on a faithful Thursday, especially when I just had my hair cut a month prior. 

(One of the perks? of being a beauty blogger is you are the guinea pig get the opportunity to experience various beauty treatments. This keratin treatment + hair cut was generously offered by Groupon  Thanks Groupon!)

However, I am glad I did as I may have found THE hairdresser! You would have probably seen me raved about it on Instagram & Twitter and might have taken a few more  *cough* selfies *cough*  than usual post my hair cut. 

 With the man himself who gave my hair some "life" and volume without reducing the length! 

Ahhhh - the joy of heading home right after a freshly cut & blow-dried hair.

Such a waste. 

The salon is located at John's penthouse suite in the heart of Sydney CBD. 

Oh haiz - Sydney Tower. 

And yes, this is the view you get whilst you're waiting on the balcony, with a glass of wine in hand. 

 I could get used to poppin by at lunch time to have a blow dry whilst having a sneaky drink with comfortable couch like this. Imagine summer time... #justsayin

Upon arrival, I was kindly offered a glass of wino. I opted for water. YES, you read it right, w.a.t.e.r. In fact, I had to reject that glass of white a few times as I could still taste the Chandon I consumed during Crane Bar opening the night before. 

The salon was pretty empty when I got there after gym, at around 7pm. Just a heads up, I think it's better to head there later in the arvo/ evening when there are less people to ensure full attention from the staff and John himself. 

POST Keratin Treatment & new hurrrcut = a happy Adeline! :)

Keratin Treatment is definitely my frizz-fighting option going forward. Having my hair rebonded (also known as Japanese straightening) for the past decade (YEAPS, it has been an annual routine over the past 10 years) has damaged my hair. Bad. Real Bad. 

My hair was extremely smooth and silky after the keratin treatment, without the putrid chemical smell you get with Japanese straightening. However, I can't quite comment if it is as effective as Japanese straightening in terms of fighting frizz and straightening effect as I have just had my hair rebonded a month ago. It definitely is less damaging than your traditional Japanese Straightening.

 New Hurr Cut + LUSH Sea Spray + MAC Candy Yum Yum!

My hair has way more "shape" and less thick after the hair cut, especially the fringe! It makes styling way easier, with a spritz of Sea Salt Spray or two! 

I was really happy with the results and would definitely head back for Keratin Treatment and hair cut again! We all know how costly hair treatment/ hair care can be - and thank god for websites like Groupon, you are usually able to grab some good treatment bargains at a fraction of it's original cost! Unfortunately, this deal is no longer available but do look out on Groupon for similar deals!

When was your last visit to the hairdresser?

Have you had any beauty experience via deals websites? 

Let me know your experience! 

DISCLAIMER: This service was offered to Through Beauty Eyes for FREE, on behalf of Groupon Australia. All opinions expressed here are my own and based on MY personal experience. I am in no way affiliated with Groupon nor will I be compensated for any coupons sold on the sites. This post contains no affiliated links. For further information, please refer to Through Beauty Eyes disclosure policy.

PS: No, I did not forget about the post where I will be taking you girls (and gents?) through my life saviour/HG products that save you from looking like Lindsay Lohan or Amanda Bynes after media Thursdays (or any sneaking midweek Shenanigans!) - am still working on some of the photos! It's coming SOON! :)

XOXO,

A

Through Beauty Eyes Social Diaries #3 +

*Checks calendar*

What the fuuuuuu....dge? It's JUNE already?!?!?! 

How did the first half of the year flew by? And how did I neglect my little baby here for over a month? 

Well, I have been working on a side project which to be revealed at the end of the post and that has been taking up a whole lot of my time along with other life issues, gym and well... social events =P 

Lets catch up with what's happening in the beauty and social scene on Sydney as of late, shall we? And of course, some new products for the colder weather! 

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Pearls, bow tie, flappers seem to be back in action ever since our dear mate made its appearance in this new film called "The Great Gatsby" and yours truly happened to be partying like its 1920s at The Great Gatsby Soirée at Hugos Lounge last Friday. 

Photo Credit: Hugos Lounge

Close friends of mine would know how bad of a "dresser" I am when it comes to dressed up party. Like really bad. 

Photo Credit: Hugos Lounge

But I think I'm getting better at it especially after THIS particular rad, badass shot with my drinking partner in crime. :P

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Apart from cool parties and events, I do try to attend at least 2 events/ conferences/ exhibitions that's related to personal or professional development. "Make sure you invest some time and money in learning" said Jack Delosa

Your's truly at CEBIT 2013 - the largest business technology conference in Australia. Whilst I am no where close to be a decision-maker of a large corporation, it was really a massive eye-opener in terms of the technology available out there, especially with the evolving digital industry. 

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Remember that morning where your feed is flooded with Sydney's fog? Yeh - that ONLY morning where I was fortunate enough to a breakfast launch at Orbit Restaurant and Bar - one of the best spots in Sydney with stunning view, Sydney decides to be shower its concrete jungle with nothing but fog. 

Thanks buddy. 

We were introduced to the brand new RACINNE skincare range that was recently launched in Australia. 

Seven years of dedicated research later, this Canadian brand with world-leading Korean formula released two new ranges - The Ultimate Aqua Blanc Series (for women 30+) and The Ultimate Hydra Perfection Series (for women of all ages). These new ranges boast an advanced biotechnology formula, known as "Callus Cultivation Technology" providing nourishment, hydration and protection to skin. 

"The new ranges penetrate to the deepest layers of skin improving dull, dehydrated and aged skin, which is a common side effect of a natural climate such as in Australia" (BDM of Racinne International)

I am pretty excited to include these new babies into my winter skincare routine especially my skin is "well known" for being exceptionally dry during the colder days. Did I mention that they are pretty reasonably priced too? They are now available online at www.racinne.com.au 

I will let you know what I think about them once I go on a thorough test drive. :)

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Yet another great LiveAspireBlog event with my lovely and absolutely talented friend - Christina from Hair Romance as one of the speakers. If you are looking for some simple yet creative hair-spiration, Hair Romance is THE place to go to! She's currently doing a 30bunsIn30days challenge, don't forget to check that out too!

Check out my wrap up of the previous two #LiveAspireBlog HERE. 

The extremely talented Miranti from Pen & Peplum was one of the sponsors of the recent Live Aspire Blog and look at this genius and gorgeous creation of hers! A Blogger-To-Do-Lists! 

I.AM.IN.LOVE.

Seriously, a must-have for bloggers!

Unfortunately, her ETSY store is temporary shut as she is away on her holiday. However, don't forget to check out her lovely blog and look out for any updates on when its available again. 

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I love breakfast,  I love breakfast launches even more. I love breakfast launches with scrumptious menu and awesome team the most! 

(That's because I get to enjoy the favourite meal of my day, learning about awesome new products/ services before my day job!)

Pretty-In-Pink table settings at HerFashionBox Blogger Brunch | The Grounds @ Alexandria

PINK Box matches my iPad mini and lippie :P

HerFashionBox is a monthly subscription box with 2-3 fashion accessories + added beauty and lifestyle products and a bonus magazine that shares the latest tips and how-tos using the products included in the box. 

Unlike other subscription boxes with one-size-for-all-concept, you get to select your style - Classic, Feminine or Trendy with HerFashionBox. 

Wanna find out more about HerFashionBox, Norlin from Baubles Bubbles Blog did two detailed reviews HERE and HERE. 

And guess who I bumped into at Hugo's Gatsby Soiree? 

The cofounders of HFB - Kerry & Kath! 

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LUSH heaven with a glass of Chandon in hand, NEED I SAY MORE? 

With my gorgeous "blogger" friend - Nella aka Miss Beaute Gazette

Rockin' LUSH Sea Spray (LOVIN this!) with my fresh-off-the-salon hair cut from John Azi (more to come!) and one of my fav bubblegum pink lippie - MAC Candy Yum Yum

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One event after another, a few during the week, over a couple of weeks is the reason why I very much enjoy Saturday-Night-In in my pjs doing nothing with my candle and a good mag or a chicklit.

Photo Credit: Urban Society

 With Andy (aka Mister Kitchen Ninja) at Crane Bar launch at Potts Point after the LUSH Bloggers Event. 

Just your usual Wednesday night where you get to have a photo with the sexy Luke Jacobz

 

Japanezu Girls

 *insert Asian emoticons*

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The sleek interior of newly launched Brad Ngata on Crown after 12 years at his Goulbourn Street salon! 

Ladies and the man behind Maxted Thomas 

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Eurovision Finals Dress Up Party at Oxford Art Factory with Mel & Le Bestie!

Let's just said the best part of the night was dressing up and I was proud to stay around to find out what the fuss about Romania is all about! Eurovision is definitely not my cuppa tea. 

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As mentioned earlier in this post, THIS is the side project that I have been working on that's launching in the next two weeks! :)

WWW.EATTHISBURNTHAT.COM

(Head over there NOW and sign up to our newsletter to get FREE and latest update about our launch and any health & fitness related stuff!)

Don't forget to share the love on Eat This Burn That favourite hang out spots too!

www.facebook.com/EatThisBurnThat

www.instagram.com/EatThisBurnThat

www.twitter.com/EatThisBurnThat

www.pinterest.com/EatThisBurnThat

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 Wonder how I survive a week filled with events without looking like a dag? Stay tune for my next post where I take you through my life-saviour/ HG products that save you from looking like Lindsay Lohan after media Thursdays :P

That's an update from my side of the Social Diaries - what have you beauties been up to?

XOXO,

A

#LiveAspireBlog #2 + How Alison Morgan & Connie Chapman build and grow their online businesses

Can you believe that we are already 1/3 through the second quarter of 2013? Unbelievable. After a shitty 2012, I am determined in making 2013 a better one and hoping to cross out at least 70% of my lists of goals by the end of this year..

Hence, spending an entire Sunday with a bunch of inspiring women, churning out random ideas and connecting random dots together over martini is exactly what I needed after my pretty damn hectic weekend which started since Thursday. (More on that in my next #ThroughBeautyEyesSocialDiaries wrap up).

That being said, I attended the second #LiveAspireBlog event at IKU WholeFoods in Darlinghurst.

(You can read about the first #LiveAspireBlog event HERE)

As opposed to merely just a networking meet up, the second #LiveAspireBlog was even better with inspiring speeches from Alison Morgan, the Director of Relauncher, an Australian destination that encompasses all areas of the expanding health, beauty and wellness industries and Connie Chapman, a certified Life Coach on how they build and their grow their online businesses.

Here are a few takeaways from the amazing ladies for those of you who have missed it (because I am awesome like this :P):

IF YOU WANT IT, YOU GOTTA WORK HARD FOR IT. 

It wasn't an overnight success for both Alison and Connie. They were once amateur too. They are where they are today through hard work, dedication and passionate about what they do. 

"If someone tells you it is easy, RUN" an epic quote from Jack Delosa. 

See what these successful entrepreneurs have in common? YOU JUST GOTTA FUCKING WORK FOR IT! #period

Alison Morgan

BE FLEXIBLE.

Just because you have a million-dollar business plan, if you aren’t flexible, it is not going to work. With the dynamic and everchanging business environment, you need to be able to adapt and follow your heart. Alison’s business today is a complete 180degrees change from her original business plan.

CUSTOMERS, CUSTOMERS, CUSTOMERS

Always strive to provide great customer services, connect with your readers and customers and listen to what they want. Isn’t that what the whole new media/ digital marketing is all about? You really have no excuses not to engage with your customers. Fun fact, a substantial portion of Relauncher’s sales is made through Instagram.

Connie Chapman

TAKE THE RISK AND TAKE THE LEAP 

There will never be the “right” time for you to quit your comfortable 9-5 job and be your own boss. It’s all about taking chances. If consistent income is your main concern, take up a casual or part time job as your safety blanket! “You will never arrive”, said Connie.

ONLY TAKE ADVICE AND SHARE YOUR IDEAS WITH PEOPLE WHO ARE ON THE SAME PAGE AS YOU ARE 

If you are sharing your new ideas/ light bulb moments with a co-worker who’s happy with his/ her 9-5 corporate job and has no interest in entrepreneurship, chances are – your potentially great idea Is probably going to get shut down.

Damn straight, sista! In this recent post, I vowed to get rid of the negative people in my lives and surround myself around with more inspiring people and it is going great so far! TRUST ME, it really helps when you’re feeling unmotivated and on the verge of giving up!  I have taken my first steps by being part of #LiveAspireBlog and also dedicated an entire Saturday to The Entourage Unconvention to learn more about entrepreneurship. I hope you have taken your first step out of your comfort zone too! If you are naturally shy or getting butterflies, Katherine from Through My Looking Glass has some pretty good tips for you on how to network #likeaboss. 

Jess from LiveHealthySimply, Connie Chapman, Alison Morgan & Ursula from The Aspirer.

Thank you for yet another inspiring and lovely weekend ladies!!! 

I am already looking forward to the next event! 

Looking to more of these networking events in Sydney but you missed out on the first two due to commitments? Fret not! Jess & Ursula had release the  #LiveAspireBlog dates for the remaining of the year!

The dates are: 26th May, 30th June, 11th August, 22nd September and 24th November! 

 Start bookmarking your diary now just so you aren't missing out! 

PS: Remember how I said my enthusiasm for make up isn’t as strong as before? Well, I lied. I got myself a few goodies during Priceline 40% cosmetics sales! (More on that in the next post :P) 

Hope you had some useful takeaway from this wrap up of mine!

HAPPY FRIDAY LOVELIES AND HAVE A LOVELY WEEKEND! 

(Having to go back to work after a Thursday public holiday is just plain cruel.)

XOXO,

A

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