Gift Reviews
Arty Globe by Hartwig Braun.
I have recently had the pleasure of discovering ‘Artyglobe’ an innovative business set up in Britain with 95% of their products being made in Britain – impressive!
The demand is here, and the skills also, so this is a really great ethos. Artyglobe hope for all their products to be made in Britain in the near future.
I love the fact that every single penny of their stock is spent in Britain; it’s going towards keeping somebody employed. It’s all going towards helping somebody staying independent, provide for their family and themselves and very proudly creating something of value.
![images[5]](http://pamperedpresents.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/images5.jpg)
The artist, Hartwig, is fantastic, I just love his work and one of his large prints is on my Christmas wish list! He can transform something familiar into something unexpected.
The cities drawn are fascinating, and these drawings are available in many ways – jigsaws, notebooks, pocket mirrors, mugs, aprons, and his fabulous wall pictures!Would’t these make fab stocking fillers?
The jigsaw I have features a view of London and is a lovely reminder of our last family visit to this fabulous city.
It has 100 pieces and comes presented in a practical tin. My 8 year old daughter loves it and as soon as it is finished, it is started all over again! The design includes lots of famous landmarks, so it’s both entertaining and educational – a brilliant buy! RRP £9.
Hartwig has also designed lovely little tins with colouring pages and pencils inside. These are pefect for travelling – we took ours on holiday.
Tidy and compact, they were great for the car and the plane. The pencils are really good quality and lasted well before needing sharpened.
I also have a ‘notebook fanatic’ in the family and she has the London cityscape sketch pad.
This is a great book, the pages are plain white – and it is so hard to find nice books with plain paper. It would also be perfect for work or study also, but we use ours for fun! As with most of the products, the selection of images’ are vast, you will be sure to find a favourite. The book has approximately 60 sheets of recycled paper – so helping the environment also. RRP £5.00 so very affordable. 21×15 cms.
Smaller notebooks are also available with various designs and a spiral range for £6.00. Great for children as small, strong and different. People will ask ‘Where did you get the lovely books?’ and my kids love that!
My son has just started school and we have the Artyglobe rucksack with the telephone box for his PE kit. This is perfect as he is the only boy, not only in the class, but in the school with this PE bag, so he always knows which kit is his.
I plan to get 2 for the girls also for the same reason. The bags are 100% cotton and available in 3 designs – the teapot is next on my list! Simply beautiful, strong and practical. RRP £10.
Most of the products we have from Artyglobe have been swipped by the kids! However, I have managed to hang onto the Card Wallets RRP £4. These are just the right size for your business cards, bank cards and shopping cards and come in beautiful designs.
I have a few of these and I always know where my tesco clubcard is when I need it! I love them, as I do all the Artyglobe products and would highly recommend you check out the website for Christmas Gift Inspiration, you will be sure to find something for everyone.
Items can also be individually commissioned.
Gift Reviews
Give As You Live.
Check this out – its an absolute no brainer for your online shopping this Christmas!
![Give_as_you_live[1]](http://pamperedpresents.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Give_as_you_live1.jpg)
Give as you Live is a website that lets you compare prices, save money and support your favourite charity all at the same time – just by shopping online!
It works like this: you register, pick your favourite from over 100,000 registered UK charities and then shop online as normal from any of over 2400 retailers. Whenever you buy something, they donate a percentage to the cause of your choice.
![Brit-Mums-for-Good-shop-logo-270x300[1]](http://pamperedpresents.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Brit-Mums-for-Good-shop-logo-270x3001.jpg){kind=logo}
It’s a really simple, easy way to support charities and can make all the difference – particularly with around £20 billion set to be spent online this Christmas!
So, it really can’t get any better than this – why shop elsewhere?
So register now, I sure am! The website is very impressive and easy to navigate and it has the utterly amazing Richard Branson (My hero) His quote –
“Brilliant idea for UK shopping, helping terminally ill kids at the same time.”
Richard Branson – Talking about Starlight supporters using Give as you Live.
www.giveasyoulive.com
![securedownload[2]](http://pamperedpresents.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/securedownload2-1024x707.jpg)
Gift Reviews, Pampered Experiences
Young Driver Experience Session.
You can’t get a driving licence in the UK until you’re 17 but now, thanks to Young Driver, if you’re 11 or over, you can learn to drive at one of their UK centres.
But why would you go to the trouble? Well, research shows that it is a lack of driving experience – not a lack of years on the planet – that causes 1 in 5 newly qualified drivers to crash within 6 months of passing their test. Young Driver was started with the aim of reducing this frightening statistic.
![2011_05_SEAT-Young-Driver[1]](http://pamperedpresents.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/2011_05_SEAT-Young-Driver1.jpg)
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My nephew recently attended this course, thoroughly enjoyed himself and has plans to return.
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His father’s report is as follows:
‘The young driver day was great . Some points of note are:
- · Very welcoming when we turned up and the staff engaged well with Tom from the outset. They explained exactly what was going to happen through the session.
- · The instructor was very good and tailored the lesson to Tom’s previous experience of driving tractors. They didn’t just stick to a rigid plan.
- · A log book was provided for recording progress against 6 levels. Tom got signed off fully on the first 2 levels but also worked on some parts up to level 6
- · Although a little nervous beforehand, Tom came away confident that he could drive a car.
- · He really enjoyed the session and is keen to do more sessions with them.
All in all a good day and for a typical teenager, highly recommended!’
So, why not consider a ‘Young Driver’ session as a gift this Christmas and let one of their fully qualified ADI driving instructors teach you how to start, drive, brake, corner, change gear, stop and even reverse – all on your first lesson! Move your life up a gear, learn to drive now!
Vouchers are available for 30 or 60 minute sessions! Simply a super gift for the teenager in your life!
![securedownload[2]](http://pamperedpresents.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/securedownload2.jpg)
Information can be found at www.youngdriver.eu
Gift Reviews, Pampered Experiences
Stena Line Pirate and Princess Cruise.
Last month I had the pleasure of escorting my children on a Stena Line Pirate and Princess Party. I had never heard of them, so had no idea of what to expect. It was my nephews birthday and this was his choice for the party.
The itinerary was to check in at the terminal at 10.45hrs, depart from Belfast at 11.30hrs, arrive in Scotland at 13.45 hrs, stay on the boat during turnaround, depart at 15.30 hrs and arrive back in Belfast at 17.45 hrs.
My initial thoughts were ‘so, we get on a boat, go to Scotland, don’t get off?? and then come back to Belfast?’ I was not sure at all…
Wow, is all I can say – I cried, honestly, tears were in my eyes when our little Pirates and Princesses were greeted by Pirates and Princesses – I felt like I was at Disney!
The Stena Line crew were fabulously dressed up in super pirate outfits and plastic swords too. One of the entertainers even had a parrot!
On the subject of animals, we had recently added a beautiful little puppy to the family, who we brought along too – thanks to Stena’s ‘pet friendly’ policy.
The children were captivated the entire journey. There was dancing, singing and face painting. Eye patches for the Pirates and beautiful make-up for the Princesses.
A great little treasure quest, which had the children, mum’s and dad’s searching high and low looking for clues, brilliant fun. Next we had picnic time. This was great as people had the choice of eating in the ships restaurant or to bring their own picnic.
The magic show that followed was just superb. Stena had hired a professional entertainer who had the adults laughing too, the kids really enjoyed it.
Before we left, the children were presented with prizes for the best dressed, and everyone was given party bags – really good party bags. All this for £5 per child! Pretty amazing as any of our local party places are at least double that cost.
Just to point out, all the photos are mine, taken at the time of the trip so you can see it as it is.
I could not possible recommend this more, a truly fantastic experience for both children and adults and I will defiantly be returning in the near future.
Bookings can be made online, www.stenaline.co.uk and search kids fun.
![images[9]](http://pamperedpresents.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/images9.jpg)
Gift Reviews, Homeware Reviews, Pampered Experiences
Style in View.
Have you checked out www.styleinview.co.uk ? Launched in February 2013, its’ really mind blowing.
Stuck for ideas on current trends and wardrobe updates – try it out. I have and love it.
![style-in-view[1]](http://pamperedpresents.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/style-in-view1.png)
Style In View is the fashion search engine that brings you all the big names and brands you love under one very stylish roof, making finding that must-have item so much easier. It really is the quickest way to find exactly what you are looking for. The site caters for men and women and for every fashionable occasion from weddings to trips to the gymn.
![images[11]](http://pamperedpresents.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/images11.jpg)
The‘on sale’ function is simply fantastic, letting shoppers browse sale items from every shop in one place – a much needed concept which fills a massive gap in the market. One huge sale for budget-conscious fashionistas! I love it!
With style editors keeping their fingers firmly on the fashion pulse with what’s trending worldwide, expect thousands of new accessories and clothes arriving daily. No more searching the internet for various items, no-one needs anything other than Style In View.
I have created my own looks, easy style and girls’ night out. This can be shared on social network sites if desired. An absolutely amazing concept!
http://www.styleinview.co.uk/collections/easystyle-by-joanlittle/
Create your own now on www.styleinview.co.uk and discover an entirely new and easy way to shop.
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Gift Reviews, Toy Reviews
Getting Personal Travel Journal and Pencil Case.
The summer is nearly over – sob! However, we had a great time over the holidays. My daughter experienced her first plane trip and was able to document every detail in her personalised Travel Journal from Getting Personal. Yea!
![mediaviewer_a[1]](http://pamperedpresents.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/mediaviewer_a1.jpg)
The journal was presented to her just before we left for our week to Spain and she was delighted. I was very pleased with the book, it’s glossy cover and with her name on the front, it looked really well. They can be ordered in different sizes and with or without lined pages. A simply unique gift and a wonderful keepsake. The hard part is choosing your book – have a look online www.gettingpersonal.co.uk The variety is vast and you will be sure to find a special book to suit your needs. Prices from £5.99.
After the holidays its’ the ‘back to school planning’! I hate this, with three children its’ no easy task. I spend days sewing labels onto jumpers, PE kits and school bags. Getting Personal can help with this bigtime! My children now have personalised pencil cases, and they are perfect for all the bits and bobs needed.
![Personalised-Princess-Pencil-Case_b[1]](http://pamperedpresents.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Personalised-Princess-Pencil-Case_b1.jpg)
The pencil cases are large and will easily hold an entire set of colouring pencils, rulers, rubbers and pens. They come in different designs and can be personalised with any name on the front. We choose Princess Sophie, and its pink, fluffy, sparkly – just what any little girl would desire!
Dimensions 32×14.5cm £11.99.
Excellent quality personalised products from a great company.
Gift Reviews, Homeware Reviews
Jin Designs.
If you are always on the lookout for everyday items with that special touch, then look no further than Jin Designs.
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This super canvas tote bag is perfect for running to the shops or the library. It is made out of high quality canvas, with strong canvas handles. It features a cute sleeping cat design printed on the front of the bag. This bag would make a lovely gift for just about anyone as it is so versatile. It measures 30cms wide by 42cms high approximately. It costs a very reasonable £15.00
I am also pleased to say that it is designed and manufactured in the UK.
Jin Designs also manufacture mugs, tea towels and greeting cards, in a variety of themes, all featuring clean, simple designs which are very distinctive in their simplicity.
![826532_m[1]](http://pamperedpresents.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/826532_m1.jpg)
A favourite of mine would have to be the Beach hut mug. I simply love the beach, and it does not have to be summer for me to bundle the kids into the car for a picnic on the beach! This mug reminds me of my favourite place, so I can have a soothing cup of tea in a beautiful ‘beach’ mug – how relaxing!
The mugs are fine bone china, and the Beach hut mug is one of the most popular of the Jin Design mugs. It is inspired by the Brighton and Hove seafront. RRP £12.
Jin designs are super cool, different and definately have my recommendation for that special gift!
![827062_m[1]](http://pamperedpresents.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/827062_m1.jpg)
The entire collection can be viewed at www.jindesigns.com.
Gift Reviews, Homeware Reviews
Make-up Works Bronzer and Interchangeable palette.
Heralded as the ‘Holy Grail’ of bronzers, this bronzer claims to be universal and will suit anyone. I definitely could not wait to try this! I have been using the same bronzer for over 10 years and it’s not cheap! So I was very keen to try another one with an excellent reputation and a claim to suit all skin types.
![4be7[1]](http://pamperedpresents.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/4be71.jpg)
August wasn’t brilliant here in Northern Ireland, but it sure was humid. I used the bronzer just over my make-up, no other powder. I never really passed any remarks on it – with 3 kids I am lucky to get the time to apply make-up, let alone check it out in the mirror.
First compliment was from my sister ‘Have you changed your make-up?’ She said I looked well and then I decided to check myself out! It was several hours from the time I had quickly applied my make-up, and I was delighted as I looked like it was just applied. No shine and no ‘caked’ areas around my eyes. Very impressive as the sweat ran off us with the humidity, but the make-up stayed on!
I am very pleased as it retails at £17, which is £8 less than the other bronzer I had been using – good bye to that one! Hello Make-up works, it really does!
My other new product was the Interchangeable Palette with blusher, bronzer and 2 eye shadows, retailing at £26.
![0dca[1]](http://pamperedpresents.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/0dca1.jpg)
The packaging was impressive, neat and tidy and WOW – interchangeable! So, depending on where I was going I could slot in the suitable make-up. The blusher and bronzer were brilliant, and a good size; big enough that the brush did not rub into both when I was trying to apply one.
The eye shadow was a challenge as I don’t usually wear eye make-up. It sat for a few days, untouched. However, the colours supplied were Sea and Azures, both pretty tame, nothing wild that would scare the kids and hubby would wonder where his wife had gone to! I did try it and loved it. Greens are the colours to wear ladies – read your Hello, etc – so I am ‘in the know’ now. Just a touch of the Sea on the outer corners and the Azure on my eye lids – looked well and not over the top.
Could this be the start of things to come? Well, I have made a big change with the bronzer after 10 years, so I might just start dabbling with eye shadow!
On-line, the selection of colours you can add to the palette is vast – do check it out at www.make-upworks.co.uk
It’s a brilliant idea, instead of a drawer full of eye shadow palettes just have one, and a few interchangeable sets to go with it.
Great idea, I would recommend, especially for holidays where you are short on space. I will be purchasing again soon and adding Make-up Works to my Santa list for sure!
![bcf8[1]](http://pamperedpresents.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/bcf81.jpg)
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Gift Reviews, Toy Reviews
Visualise.
Sunday afternoons are spent either at the park or if its’ raining, playing games or building puzzles with the kids. I am always on the lookout for new games that are suitable for children and ‘not boring’ for adults! I think I have came across a winner with Visualise from Cartamundi!
![fef1[1]](http://pamperedpresents.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/fef11.jpg)
This game is simply a card game. There are 31 play cards, 1 cover card and a 30 second second timer in the pack. Now – how to play? Well, how’s your memory? I love memory games – they are proven to keep mind and brain alert and I am all for that!
A card is turned over and you have 30 seconds to absorb the image, that’s the quite part. The rest is noisy and very very entertaining. We have laughed till we cried with this game. The sad fact is that my 10 year old is better at it than me, sob! The questions are fun and varied – How many beach umbrellas? What direction were the road signs pointing? The entertainment goes on and on.
Visualise is a new game and suits 2-6 players. It will challenge your observation and memory to the utmost and you will begin having fun, but by the end, you will be determined to win – we were!
A brilliantly entertaining family game that I will be recommending to my friends and family also. Visualise comes in two versions, family and junior.
Available from Tesco and all good leading toy shops RRP £4.99
Gift Reviews, Toy Reviews
Mixy Fashion’s A Snap Bracelet Kit.
In my opinion, there isn’t a child on the planet who wouldn’t love one of these sets. As a mum of 2 girls, my house is coming down with jewellery kits and yet they still can’t get enough of it!
They make their own bracelets, necklaces and rings. I love the Mixy snap bracelet sets as the accessories snap on and off!
![1c79[1]](http://pamperedpresents.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/1c791.jpg)
The design opportunities are endless and they can be made and re made over and over again, providing hours of entertainment.
Various packs are available from Sweet Heart to Rockstar. They all complement each other and are interchangeable so perfect for sharing and playing together. Each pack contains 40 pieces – yes 40!! so very good value – RRP £6
This excellent price also makes these sets perfect for birthday gifts – you are guaranteed the children will enjoy it and it looks way more expensive than it is! A mystery bead is to be discovered in each pack – and this adds to the excitement.
As with all good children’s kits, an excellent instruction booklet is enclosed and this has inspiration for lots of designs.
Suitable from 5 years , available from all good toy shops and online.