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#WomenWorldwide: Chatting Beauty Empires with Georgie of GG Brows

Today we’re sitting down with Georgie, founder of Gg Brows about her journey from jumping head first into the beauty industry to launching a unique procedure, a range of machines and an academy!

Truly a Boss Babe we can learn from. Are you ready?

HOC: Great to meet you, Georgie! Can you tell us about your journey to running your business?

Georgie: I honestly think I was born to be a beauty therapist, I showed an interest from such a young age. I’ve always been really creative and wanted to be the best at anything I ever did. I struggled with acne as a teenager and it really drove me to learn about skin and self educate on products and treatments which drove me to going to college to study beauty therapy.

I entered the industry head first and went straight into running my own business as a mobile beauty therapist. My fiancé and my grandad encouraged me to come out of my comfort zone and challenge myself which led me onto studying Semi Permanent Makeup. Since I trained two years I have created a unique eyebrow procedure called the ‘GgBrow’, launched an SMPU Training Academy, created a range of SPMU machines and have launched a Dermal Filler clinic and academy… I couldn’t be prouder and happier.

HOC: What a great journey! What is it about Semi Permanent Make Up that you love?

Georgie: I absolutely love the reaction from my clients when they look in the mirror for the first time with their new GgBrows. I get such a buzz out of seeing the transformation and always feel so proud. I get such a strong feeling of accomplishment and always look forward to meeting the next client to achieve even more incredible and beautiful results.

HOC: I have to be honest, I find the idea of Semi Permanent Make Up a little scary…

Georgie: I can understand that and, of course, I never put my clients under pressure to have the procedure done. I really assess as to why my client has booked their appointment to help me understand what I can do for them. I always draw my client’s brows on prior to starting the procedure so that they can see exactly what they are going to look like and show them their before and after pictures so that they can see the difference. I’ve honestly been touched by so many clients who have said that I’ve changed their lives and that they couldn’t imagine not having their brows! Eyebrows can dramatically change somebody’s face and I am so glad that I have helped so many women.

HOC: How do you run your business?

Georgie: I had an extension in my first home that I bought a year and half ago last summer in order to be able to work from home. In the space of six months, GgBrows grew massively and we made the decision to covert our first home into a funky commercial property; each bedroom is now a clinic room equipped for non-surgical procedures and our old lounge has been converted into a reception area for our clients!

After my wedding next May I will search for a larger commercial premises in order to expand. We have taken on six members of staff within six months so we are desperate for more space!

HOC: That’s incredible! We understand that you also teach others, can you tell us about that?

Georgie: Early last year I started to receive messages daily from girls who were desperate for me to reach them in Ombre Brows so that they could enter the industry. I started off by offering masterclasses which I absolutely loved and very quickly realised that I had a passion for teaching! I spent months studying to teach and writing up the course content for beginner students whilst having the courses accredited and verified. It was a massively stressful process but so incredibly worth it. I now teach weekly and qualify new practitioners in a daily basis in order for them to be able to start up their own businesses! I’m so proud to be able to do this and help others complete their dreams.

HOC: Can you tell us about your other companies? How do you manage running more than one?

Georgie: In 2018 I launched Cosmedic Supplies. Cosmedic Supplies was born when I made the decision to cut out all middle men and launch my own range of machines and needle cartridges to supply to my students. We immediately expanded and made the necessary arrangements in order to be able to sell our products to the public. It’s been a massive success so far and I cannot wait to see it grow! Earlier this year I launched GgCosmetics which focuses on non-surgical procedures such as Dermal Fillers. I employed a nurse who carries out all procedures whilst I manage the company from behind the scenes. I am truly shocked at the incredible response we have had; it has led us to a massive expansion and we have made the decision to move and invest in a new and bigger premises to be able to cater for the large volume of clientele that come through the door.

HOC: What gets you out of bed in the morning?

Georgie: Everyday is different and every single client is different. I genuinely look forward to going to work and seeing what I’m going to achieve. Whether it’s a great set of eyebrows or it’s a substantial achievement within one of my other companies, it’s always an amazing feeling and fuels me to keep up the hard work!

HOC: Entrepreneurial souls are often burning the candles at both ends, as a beauty professional what tips do you have for our readers when they are feeling emotionally exhausted?

Georgie: Live a healthy lifestyle and cut out an negativity. Surround yourself with good people and keep up a regular hobby that’s nothing to do with work. Stay away from your phone past 9pm and try not to indulge in social media too much!

HOC: If you weren’t running GG Brows, what would you be doing?

Georgie: I would have definitely been be a nurse! I would have loved to have studied nursing and gone into theatres to assist surgeons. I love learning and looking after people so I think I would have had the best time!

HOC: What personal achievement of yours means the most to you and why?

Georgie: I’ve bought two properties with my fiancé.I wanted to have bought at least one house by the time I was 25 and two is something I am particularly proud of! Both have been massive projects but they have been really fun and also great distractions from work! Harry also proposed a year and a half ago and planning our wedding for 2020 has been so amazing…

HOC: Wow, so exciting to have been able to do that! What’s your ambition for the rest of 2019?

Georgie: I want to complete a new company set up. I started earlier this year and take on a new premises for my company GgCosmetics. It’s going to be tough I’m sure but I am so excited to decorate the new premises that I don’t even care how hard it might be!! I can’t wait to meet all of my new students and help them start their new careers in aesthetics

I want to concentrate on GgCosmetics for the rest of the year and take on a new premises which I’m sure will require renovating. It’s going to be tough I’m sure but I am so excited to decorate the new premises that I don’t even care how hard it might be!! I can’t wait to meet all of my new students and help them start their new careers in aesthetics.

To learn more about Gg Brows head to GgBrows.co.uk

Follow Georgie’s business on instagram:@GgBrowsUK

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Women Worldwide : From Foster Care to Following Dreams with Rose Paulino

Rose Paulino is the brainchild behind the brand of the same name, a custom women’s apparel line for all shapes and sizes and one that helps women have a bold voice by helping them feel confident. The brand is community driven and was founded in September 2018 when Rose decided to move away from being a foster carer to follow her dream of launching this brand.

Still in the early days of business, Rose has created quite a stir in the fashion world and has already had many accolades that she can proudly shout about. Here, she tells us more about the journey to where she is today…

Tell us about the journey you had which lead to your launching your own brand…
I think I have always known that I have wanted to have my own company. It was just a matter of time but when I hit rock bottom that caused the entrepreneur in me to break out and finally be brave. Many times we tend to not do things due to fear. Truth is, instead of backing down, use that fear as fuel to do what you never thought you could. People tell me I am crazy all the time for starting my own business in this era. Many even tell me I will not succeed, but that fear of them possibly being right is what drives me to keep my company moving forward. One day my faith, hard work, and dedication to make a difference will pay off.

I worked for Steve Madden for 2 years and I learned so much! I started off as a customer service rep and then was promoted to the Madden girl design team. I had no idea how to design shoes, but as a natural designer it was something I was able to pick up fast. I feel in love with it! I thought my whole life that if I went to college and got an amazing job it meant that I will have succeeded. Sadly, that was not true. I started designing shoes on the side, shoes that I thought were amazing and contemporary and that complimented my designs at home. Eventually I started getting depressed because I felt unheard in my career. I was working for someone and helping them become rich. I was always burnt out for someone else’s benefit. It was then that I used my grad school classes at South University to make my business plan and have my own company. I carefully planned a company that did both, made me feel heard in the fashion industry through my designs and helps the foster care community. I am a foster care success story and a portion of my sales is donated to the kids in foster care.

If you could turn back the clocks, is there anything you would do differently?
If I could turn back the clocks I wish I invested my first 30k into marketing and advertising. I thought that doing fashion shows and attending events was the way to build my brand awareness. Brand awareness via PR doesn’t necessarily bring sales. Although I did different to what I would now, I do not regret it. Good PR has opened many doors for me. It has given my brand a public value that allows me to be a good competitor in the industry.

Tell us about a recent BossBabe moment that you’ve had…
My recent BossBabe moment has been getting into Macy’s . Macy’s is a big account and I feel honoured to be there. I feel like I did something right. Also this month I announced the “BEST REALITY TV SHOW OF 2019” at the National Television and Film awards. I feel like god is guiding me in the right way because this opportunity has opened up for me.

What sets you apart from other fashion and swimwear brands?
What makes my company different is that we are on a community driven mission and upcoming virtual fitting technology. I have found a way for women to build an avatar on my site of their bodies and virtually try my clothing on. This will reduce returns and create trust with the customer. The customer will be able to see how the clothes will look on them before they arrive in the mail. My company is not just a one where I showcase my designs, confidence, and body acceptance it is a company that represents hope. Foster kids grow up thinking they are a statistic and will not succeed due to lack of love and a support system. My companies’ mission is to show the foster care kids that they too, can be entrepreneurs and strive to the top. If there is one thing, we foster care kids know how to do, is HUSTLE! I want to to teach them to use that passion to survive to create!

What plans have you got for the brand in 2020?
In 2020 we will finally be setting up the virtual fitting technology. I have partnered with Logical Position for marketing and advertising along with TLK Fusion . Bigger things are coming now that I have the right team.

Our readers love to travel, if you could get a one way ticket to anywhere, where would you go?
I grew up knowing my mom abandoned me. I spent a whole lifetime mad at her because I have always felt alone. I recently found my mom and spent some amazing times with her. I would love to go to Italy to expand my brand and be with my mom.

Did anyone offer you any business advice during the early days of the business and if so, has any of that advice stuck with you today?
I attended so many seminars to get some kind of mental structure. The seminar that stuck with me the most was the Break through Wealth Seminar. I learned that the power of being broke will inspire the hustler inside you and make you achieve the impossible.

Outside of work, what do you like to do to relax?
I like to have a drink of wine in the jacuzzi with my boyfriend.

Have you made any mistakes that have lead to learning curves?
Yes! I learned to find myself as a CEO, I am very shy when telling people what I do because I don’t know how they will act or respond. The truth is when you start a business you are the boss and you have to represent that title even if people you hire do not like what you ask them to do. That is okay, people will not always like it.

For anyone aspiring to have their own brand one day, what advice would you give?
I would tell them to apply for business grants and always have a plan B and C because the business plan you prepare doesn’t happen as you expect most of the time.

Find out more…

www.rosepaulino.com

IG: @rosepaulinous

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#CocoBeauty: Clockface Beauty in Leeds

“Yorkshire” and “skincare” are two words I have come to be very passionate about over the last few years. The former because I’ve made it my home and the latter because my sensitive skin and not being a morning person mean the love of makeup has passed me by. Into this void has walked Clockface, a Yorkshire founded skincare brand created by an incredible mother and daughter team that manages a balancing act unlike any other: all-natural, pregnancy and post cancer treatment friendly, simply and transparently labelled, sustainably made and packaged, and it’s downright luxurious. I don’t need to say much more, but I’m about to.

The location

Currently calling the Leeds Trinity Centre home is a Clockface popup that feels like it has always been there. A bright and beautifully minimalist interior with carefully placed metallic touches and a thousand succulents brings the experience to life before its ever started. With no cloying perfumes in the room the hypnotic scents of the products almost overwhelms you whenever a jar is opened. Whether its frankincense, juniper, or vetivers (all chosen for their skin loving properties) the scents layer themselves and wrap you up in that serene feeling usually reserved for a great spa.

You can take that experience further with a hand from one of the lovely staff members who help you unwind as you figure out exactly what takes your fancy that day. It could be there multi-purpose serum that can easily remove two steps from your morning routine, or the scrub that nourishes your skin and doubles as a shaving cream.

It may be too many years spent in Leeds, but I love multi-faceted products that carry you away on a cloud.

Their condensed ranges cover all your skincare needs, with a women’s range that concentrates on hydration and blemish reduction, a men’s range that prioritises the needs of that post shave face and a unisex range that everyone will fall in love with. Beyond smelling divine, bringing great results and having a great on skin feel, it’s the thought and care in the brand that can really bring a soul joy.

The powerhouse pair behind it all

The team behind all of this are Sarah (the daughter) and Karen (the mum) the girlboss pair who brought my experience and understanding of Clockface to a new level. Having spent over three decades as a biomedical scientist, Karen started creating her own skincare products to meet her own needs, and custom crafted solutions for Sarah when her pregnancy and all the hormones involved started taking their toll on her skin and her internal wellbeing. The brand is named for the feeling that mums out there know all too well — longing for some me time, watching a clock face and only having a few minutes to spare. In just a few minutes these products give you a feeling of peace and solitude that normally requires a few hours and a skilled masseuse. Having made such a difference to Sarah’s skin and giving her that boost during an emotional time the pair have sought out to (and created) a brand that can give everyone a lift to their day, even if they only have a few precious moments to spare.

Clockface is ingredient led and contains no water, making the products more concentrated and luscious than anything else I’ve tried recently. It also makes them more environmentally friendly as water has now (rather terrifyingly) been declared a scarce resource. The entire rest of the brand is also environmentally friendly and socially conscious, with all packaging being recyclable and all sourcing remaining in the UK.

The bragging rights

If all of this isn’t enough and you’d like some social proof other than this article, go take a look at all the awards Clockface has won — 11 in the last 12 months! Their women’s serum has taken three alone, including a Pure Beauty Global Award. Personally, it’s almost a week after my visit to the store and I’m still raving about the serum to anyone who will listen and touching my now deliriously soft face.

Should you be in Leeds, the popup is around until December 15th, and if not, you can find them online at www.clockfacebeauty.com and in select retailers. Before you know it there will be a popup in another city — although where it will be is a closely guarded secret, so you’ll just have to go looking for yourself.

And if you want to read on us crushing on Clockface even more, just look here.

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‘Swap and Shop’: The latest way to reinvent your wardrobe without harming the planet

In an age where constant reminders of the significance of sustainability and conservation are rife, the idea of shopping as we know it has become more confusing and, more so, less appealing once we are aware of its hidden consequences. But for many of us, the thought of completely eradicating our shopping habits is almost impossible; so how can we continue to reinvent our wardrobes, without the guilty conscience?

Investing into pre-loved fashion is no longer a case of receiving your older sibling’s hand-me-downs; we are globally witnessing a worldwide wave of new collectives, all paving the way towards a formation of more ecological and environmentally-friendly substitutions. In an attempt to snub the popular high-street conglomerates, these programmes are reforming the vintage and second-hand scene to one that is highly desired, accepted and universally recognised, all whilst saving the earth in their stride.

The UK is no stranger to these latest attempts of re-defining fashion as we know it. To celebrate the movement, we’ve rounded up a few of the top clothes swapping events that are taking place around the country this season.

Jeneral Store / Know the Origin, Manchester

Based just a short walk away from the main hub of Deansgate, Manchester, Know The Origin is the latest pop-up store to grace the metropolis with innovative, original and contemporary products – all contributing towards the conservation of our planet. The store has introduced their latest attempt to highlight the accessibility of sustainability through the concept of ‘clothes swapping’. Turn up with five items of clothing – which are required to be either brand new or in lightly-worn condition – and you’ll be greeted with a number of tokens (dependent on your own contribution) to use towards grabbing a few new garments for yourself.

“In a time when the clothing industry is wreaking havoc on our planet, swapping clothes is fashions newest trend, leading consumers into giving their clothing a much deserved second life.” – Know The Origin.

Walk in Wardrobe, Shoreditch

Opting to take a tokenless approach within the swap and shop movement, Walk In Wardrobe have adopted a “if it fits, it’s yours” ethos towards the shopping experience. Entry is priced at £10 per ticket, but once inside anything that you set your eye on – and is in your size-range – is yours to keep.

As well as the opportunity to pick up some one-of-a-kind pieces, the event offers a free drink on arrival and appetisers all evening, alongside the opportunity to engage in workshops aimed to help you make more mindful decisions when it comes to shopping. Educational speeches are conducted throughout the evening (with their most current event focusing on the major shopping annual festivities, in particular Black Friday) and the strain that they are placing on our planet and the industry.

“Let’s use up what we’ve got collectively, rather than buy new all the time.” – Walk In Wardrobe

Think and Do, Kentish Town

Move over Ecotober, Nothing new November has arrived. Curated by the Camden Friends of the Earth community, the event – located at Kentish Town’s Think and Do pop-up store – offers its customers the chance to get involved in their challenge of refusing to purchase anything new, for the entire 30 days of November. In order to celebrate the month and make shopaholics lives’ a little easier, the community are hosting an evening of clothes swapping and workshops. Individuals are invited to bring in around three to five unwanted garments to donate and are encouraged to leave with new pieces, alongside a new-found inspiration to buy more consciously.

Camden Friends of the Earth campaigns for solutions to environmental problems – for action to create a better, greener Camden (and beyond). – Camden Friends of the Earth

So, the next time you find yourself deliberating throwing your old garments away, consider the more environmentally-safe alternative and take a trip down to your nearest clothes swapping experience. You never know, you might just leave with an entire new wardrobe of pre-loved gems and save yourself some money in the process.

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News: Fashion Brand Launch – Deaf Identity

Yorkshire lad Luke Christian launches his new fashion brand: DEAF IDENTITY

Being born deaf, Luke Christian wants to push boundaries to show that deafness has a wide spectrum whether it be communicating through Sign Language (BSL, SSE, and ISL), communicating orally, or being CODA (Child of deaf adult).

DEAF IDENTITY was founded in September 2019 and #TeamCoco are loving the designs. Luke realised more needed to be done to raise awareness of being deaf, so put his love for fashion to the test. Available worldwide, anyone will be able to ‘build a t-shirt’ and personalise it in British Sign Language. Luke wanted to bring something fresh, exciting, modern and relevant and to shake up the way people think of the deaf community. The t-shirts are a range of sizes to suit men, women and children as little as one year old.

Luke said, “In a world where diversity is being celebrated and shown throughout various media outlets, I was yet to see any deaf awareness, until now.

Being born deaf into a deaf family, where the deaf gene is prominent, was pretty tough. I never had a deaf role model to look up to in the media or a deaf group to identify with, and I always felt my deafness was up for debate. I often got told ‘You wear hearing aids so you’re deaf.’ And ‘Ugh, never mind, it doesn’t matter.’ or the opposite, ‘Well you don’t look deaf.’ and ‘If you can’t sign then you’re not really deaf.’ It really affected my confidence.”

Luke wants to make it clear that there is no right or wrong way of being deaf and that it’s time that deafness got recognised and spoken about. He hopes through his brand DEAF IDENTIFY and his blog where he talks about life, fashion and beauty, he can break down some barriers.

The t-shirts start from kidswear priced at £16 (1-2 years to 12-14 years), Womenswear £26 (XS-XXL) and Menswear £26 (XS-XXL). Available from www.deafidentity.com.

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Girlbosses of Great Britain : Hitting The Big Time with Indie McFarlane

Indie McFarlane is a woman on a mission, one that’s not afraid to go against the grain and likes a life filled with adventure. Having founded I.N.D.Y sunglasses, selling sunglasses inspired by the streets of New York, she supplies the best designs for all seasons at an extremely affordable price, including beautiful vintage frames from the 1980s & 1990s which no one else has.

With stars like Alicia Keys donning her glasses, this woman is one to watch. A creative genius, powerhouse and all round BossBabe, we couldn’t wait to find out more…

Tell us about the journey that lead you to where you are today
I moved to London from Scotland at the age of 17 to study photography, I graduated with a BA photography degree where I then assisted successful photographers and fashion stylists. I also worked as a bartender full time to pay rent. I soon drifted away from the idea of being a photographer as my heart wasn’t in it and Instagram came out haha! I moved back to Scotland to work in a pub and figure out my next moves, that is when I came up with the idea to start my own sunglass company at the age of 22 with the goal of trading in TopShop. I watched so many YouTube videos on how to run a business. I used the money from my bar job to invest into stock and to start my own website. My photography skills allowed me to shoot all product photography and lifestyle shots. One year later, I moved the business to New York where I then signed a contract with TopShop and began trading in 7 of their locations across the U.S and their flagship store in London.

What has been your career highlight?
When Alicia Keys wore my ‘Love’ Frames and I guess when I realised I could do my business as a full-time job!

What has been the most challenging time in your career?
When I finished my last TopShop launch in May 2019 in Vegas, I had a huge celebration, I was extremely excited and relieved to be all set up in the 7 TopShops across the U.S in time for summer. I had paused my social life for the 11 months prior and lived off of $1.59 bagels! I was doing one launch every few months, as that’s what I could manage financially. Two weeks after my final launch earlier this year, TopShop filed for bankruptcy in the U.S. It was heartbreaking and a huge shock, but I had to make a choice whether to go into fight or flight mode, I dusted myself off and carried on now we sell to new amazing retailers. In a way, I am thankful I experienced something like this so early on in my career so I know how to handle the situation it ever (hopefully never!) happens again. You can still find us in Oxford Circus TopShop.

Sunglasses are your main product but I am in love with your apparel line, is this something you plan on developing?
I have always loved sweaters, right now it is just a fun little project, I would love to develop into clothing but that is way down the line, I have a lot to learn but I’m excited!

Looking back, is there anything you would do differently?
Hard question! 2018 was a crazy year for my business mentally and physically, I wish I told myself to take more breaks as I was determined to do everything myself which lead to be extremely overwhelming, however, the results were worth it and I’ve learnt its okay to take a day off!

Our readers love to travel, where is your happy place?
The Highlands in Scotland with my dog, definitely!

What does self care mean to you?
Self care is the most important thing, I feel it is overlooked sometimes and not taken seriously enough, but it is so important to look after your mental health which I learnt from being a severe panic attack sufferer. If you don’t look after yourself, this can be very restricting within your career.

Tell us about your most recent boss babe moment?
Being published in British Vogue Magazine!

What does 2020 look like for you?
I am incredibly excited for next year, we have some potential new large retailers in the pipeline for Spring. I am going to be focusing on my vintage collection from the 80s and 90s as vintage has always been a success on my website and a huge passion of mine, it gives customers the opportunity to wear sunglasses that no one else has. This collection will fall under the name of Vintage Supplied by I.N.D.Y and will remain extremely affordable.

I.N.D.Y SUNGLASSES

Founder, Indie McFarlane (26 years old)

Location: NYC

www.storebyindy.com

instagram: @indy_sunglasses

email: indiemcfarlane@outlook.com

number: +13478450177

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Sundried: the Activewear Brand That Turns Plastic into Leggings

Sustainable fashion is at the top of #teamcoco’s agenda. We are constantly on the look out for brands that break the mould when it comes to ethics and sustainability. So we had to share our discovery of Sundried.

With pioneering activewear collections made from 100% recycled plastic bottles and coffee grounds, Sundried is paving the way for sustainable fashion while also helping to combat the global plastic pollution crisis.

Not only does the brand deliver on climate change, it also delivers on performance. I myself tested out a Sundried pair of leggings and t-shirt this weekend when running a gruelling half-marathon in the rain. Their sweat-wicking, functional and stylish properties cannot be denied – you would simply never know that these clothes are made from the plastic we toss in the recycling bin.

Sundried makes a special effort to design activewear that avoids the flaws of other activewear designers too. They work on varying designs for leggings that stop them from falling down – one of my biggest bugbears when out at the gym.

Sundried is one of our favourite choices to keep both your body and your environmental footprint light. If you want to help in the fight against climate change then stop supporting fast fashion and go for this effective activewear brand instead!

For more information, visit www.sundried.com.

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Boss Babe: Sustainable Fine Jewellery Made in New York City By Noor Shamma

New York City is the home and design haven for Noor Shamma and her namesake jewellery brand Noor Shamma.

Noor’s designs are beautifully elegant, tastefully designed, and follow an ethical before they reach the customer. The Noor Shamma collections are sustainably sourced by using recycled and conflict free 18-karat gold, her team follow the sustainable practice through conserving natural resources, reducing energy usage, reducing carbon emissions and by reducing their carbon footprint.

We ask Noor about her background in jewellery, her love of elegant design, and we want to know more about her own personal favourite designs and styles. She is our latest #BossBabe superstar and she features in this, our #WomenWorldwide series.

Q. Does your working career stem from within the jewellery industry, or did you come from a different business sector?

A. I’ve always been into art and design (since childhood) but my career has primarily been in corporate communications, marketing and branding for the past 14 years or so. I randomly yet naturally transitioned into jewellery design and gradually developed my skill-set, while keeping my full-time corporate job!

Q. You tend to work with 18-karat gold, diamonds and pearls, are these your favourite metals and stones to design jewellery from?

A. I love designing timeless jewellery and that naturally impacts my metal and stone choices.

Q. You currently have three collections available from Noor Shamma, they include the Repertoire, Troika, and Luz; can you tell us a little more about these collections?

A. My collections introduce architectural elements and distinctive geometric patterns where each of the pieces are expertly engineered in a way that allows unique multi-functionality through different adaptations, making them perfect day-to-night – they’re so versatile, elegant and fun.

Q. You design necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings in your collections; do you have a piece that is your favourite ‘go to’ for every occasion?

A. That’s a tough question. There are many pieces that I love, but if I had to pick it would be the OG Repertoire U-hoops, and the Luz Diamond U-Huggies which I almost never take off lately. Plus the Luz signet ring is quite special!

Q. Do you wear your own Noor Shamma designs along with any other designer jewellery brands, or do you only wear Noor Shamma?

A. I wear my own designs along with other jewellery designers’ brands.

Q. You are very eco-friendly and run a sustainable business at Noor Shamma, can you tell us why you have taken this route and not the traditional route?

A. We live at a time where there is so much more awareness on global issues and a better understanding of the importance of sustainability. I simply feel that we can each contribute to the world in our ways since every little thing would make a difference.

Q. Your Instagram @noorshamma showcases some of your designs beautifully; do you find social media helps to promote your brand?

A. Most certainly, as it exposes the brand to a larger audience around the world.

Q. We hear that you are planning on attending fashion week in different cities across the world, have you shown at New York Fashion Week or any other fashion week previously?

A. I’ve already presented in Milan Design Week (April 2019) and London Fashion Week (September 2019) and I most definitely hope to attend more of these shows. I’ve also presented at a couple of prominent jewellery trade shows in NYC such as Metal & Smith and JA NY, and there’s more to come.

Q. Did you have to take any specialist courses in fine jewellery or art design before you launched your business in New York?

A. Over two years ago, after I realised my passion and talent in jewellery design and when I finally decided to launch my very own brand, I took an intensive course and received my GIA accreditation in Applied Jewellery Professional.

Q. Did anyone offer you any useful business advice before you launched your company that you still use to this day?

A. Trust your gut, you know best.

Q. Did anyone offer you any bad advice that you followed, and later wished you hadn’t?

A. To be honest, any bad decisions I made were my call.

Q. If you were to offer one piece of advice to someone thinking of getting into the fine jewellery sector, what would it be?

A. Do your homework.

Thank you for taking the time to answer all our #BossBabe questions for House of Coco Magazine.
Visit the website www.noorshamma.com to find out more, and Instagram @noorshamma to see Noor’s latest designs.

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Take a Tuscan luxury literary break

If you are ever looking for me I’ll normally be nose deep in a good book, whether it’s a chick lit, thriller or self care guide I’m never far away from a decent read and despite being an owner of a Kindle you’ll still find paperbacks at the side of my bed, on my desk and next to the sofa. So, when I heard that Bagni di Pisa, a five-star spa hotel in Tuscany were running a ‘Tuscan Literary Weekend’ package for book worms and literary connoisseurs I got excited. Books, spa, sun and a luxury hotel sounds right up my street.

Located above natural hot springs in the picturesque Tuscan countryside, Bagni di Pisa is the former 18th century summer residence of the Grand Duke Francesco Stefano of Lorena and its ancient thermal pools have long been renowned for their soothing and healing properties.
The package allows guests to delve into the 19th-century literary masterpieces written by Mary Shelley, author of Frankenstein, and uncover the life of one of Britain’s most revered novelists, all whilst experiencing Bagni di Pisa’s impressive spa, renowned thermal pools and world-class treatments.

Literary fanatics participating in the hotel’s exclusive three-night package will enjoy a theatrical performance by Mary Shelley herself and a 19th-century style private dinner. The dinner will be hosted in the Dei Lorena Restaurant or in the hotel’s infamous Bar Shelley, where Mary’s inspiration for Frankenstein is said to have bloomed during a visit to the former palace.

There’s an opportunity to enjoy an amazing journey back in time, exploring the hotel’s grounds and illustrious past through a 60-minute theatrical private performance with the famous author and her friend, doctor Andrea Vacca Berlinghieri.

Foodies will love the private evening dinner where exquisite 19th-century inspired Italian dishes will be served to the backdrop of music from this historic period.
To complete the getaway, spa enthusiasts will have the opportunity to unwind in the natural thermal grotto and thermal spring bath, before receiving a 50-minute relaxing body massage performed with a mix of aromatic oils by Bagni di Pisa’s expert masseuses.

Guests booking the ‘Tuscan Literary Weekend’ package will be hosted in Bagni di Pisa’s impressive rooms and suites and will receive full access to the hotel’s thermal spa, thermal Bioaquam circuit, Etruscan circuit complete with sauna, hot plate and steam bath, fitness room and daily morning hikes with a local guide.

Nightly rates at Bagni di Pisa start from €155 (£136*) per person per night in a Comfort room on a B&B basis. Tailormade rates for the ‘Literary Weekend Package’ are provided upon request.

www.italianhospitalitycollection.com

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Fashion

Women Worldwide : Talking Philosophy and Fashion with Tamar Kate

Tamar Kate, the eco friendly fashion brand created by the brainchild of the same name, is on a mission to minimise our carbon footprint. Tamar is a fierce BossBabe who isn’t afraid to step outside of her comfort zone to create a brand that she believes in, where each piece is made of Sustainably Made Organic ‘Modal’ Fabric, and is designed so that the fit is both relaxed and effortlessly stylish. The line can transition from day to evening, and is an essential addition to any wardrobe.

Putting the middle finger up to fast fashion, we just had to find out more. Here, we chat to Tamar to find out more about what makes her tick…

What lead you to launch your brand?
Fashion industry ethics and the intensely negative impact it has on our planet.

Also a desire to be my own boss and see if i had it in me to create a successful business from scratch. So I had a spontaneous idea to start a t-shirt company, with one eco-friendly fabric and one colour. Simple, but I was definitely in over my head. My main thinking was if I change just the fabric of the most commonly worn article of clothing, the t-shirt, to an organic -eco-friendly, sustainably made fabric, what sort of impact could that have on the fashion industries overall impact. How often do we buy new tees? What do we do with your old ones? The old ones most likely end up in landfills in third and fourth world countries. First world garbage becomes third world problems. Those synthetics are not biodegrading nicely! They are polluting the ground soil and water with all kinds of chemicals. Aiming to be a zero-waste company is a must. I am hoping to inspire others to find ways to make their own business and overall life choices more eco-friendly while still doing what they love. We can all lesson our individual carbon footprint.

What’s your philosophy?
Education through Fashion, Life Philosophy? Too many, but I would just say, recycle, reduce, reuse, rescue your pets, being kind is so cool, science is real, Live, Laugh, Love & Peace!

Tell us about your ideal customer…
The eco-conscious fashion forward person. I want everyone to feel as though this is their brand! That TK represents them! Comfort, style, longevity, & eco-responsibility. All ages should feel they can wear my pieces and feel chic and cozy and put together at the same time. All while knowing their fashion isn’t hurting the environment through our sustainable practices and zero-waste efforts.

For any aspiring fashion designers, what advice would you give?
Well, since I am still an aspiring designer I would just say keep going. I feel like I am in over my head almost daily, but what else can I do except keep getting stuff done until its done? It always gets done and you need to remember that. Make daily lists of tasks to accomplish. I do my easiest tasks first so I can check off as many possible tasks and then you just feel productive and driven. Learn to multi-task, respect others time, figure out how you will time manage projects. Always think down the line end goal so you have direction. Your direction can change daily, but just have it. Don’t work when you know it’ll be half done, because you will end up redoing crappy work and wasting time and money. Take a break and breathe, re-group and eat. I constantly forget to eat.

Since you launched your business, is there anything you would do differently?
I would do almost 50% of what I did differently. Building a brand is a massive learning experience, daily. From spending, sourcing, researching more… I didn’t do a degree in fashion, so even learning ‘fashion vocabulary’ was something I needed to do, understand fabrics and learn about the environmental impact this industry creates. Brand building is a daily game changer. You learn, see, hear, read new things every day so I feel as though the direction I set for myself is constantly changing. So I think in the beginning I would have taken some basic fashion courses. At this point I know it would have made a world of difference.

In 2020, where do you plan on taking the brand?
I am hoping to get started on two other collections I have in mind, but realistically, everything takes much longer than you expect so those will probably be done by 2038 ;p But seriously, for 2020, I just hope I can grow my brand and reach more fashion forward thinking people. Whatever I can do to help the environment while still being able to do something I love is the goal. There is no reason why we can’t still do what we love in life while trying to be as eco-friendly and responsible as possible. You don’t need to be perfect, I am NOT, just make the changes where you can contribute.

Do you ever feel overwhelmed, if so, how do you combat this?
I feel like I am experiencing mini strokes everyday from stress and the weight of knowing its all on me, good or bad, succeed or fail. Am I making the right decisions, choices, purchases, am I doing everything in the right order…I am in my head much more than I am sure I should be, but I really over analyse everything until I am comfortable moving forward. I’m not the right one to ask how to combat stress, honestly, if you have any suggestions I would love to hear them. I need help in this area!

If you could get on a plane tomorrow and visit anywhere, where would it be and why?
Any secluded island with clear blue water and the sounds of animals in nature to listen to. Definitely no tech would be allowed on my island Private beach access and a record player with Bob Marley Legend on repeat. Obviously, my furries (Oscar & Beanzie) would have to be there with me!

Tell us something about yourself that people would not know…
Growing up and all the way through undergraduate school I wanted to be an interpreter for the UN. I may have told a handful of people.

Find out more about Tamar and her brand WWW.TAMARKATE.COM

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