Tag Archives: liverpool

Oct 08 2017
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Like It or Lump It

I did something really scary today, way scarier than when a mahoosive house spider dropped on my daughters leg mid-shower the other morning before school…..

I took some pics and put them on my social media. I know, it sounds pathetic, especially because I practise the art of pic-sharing online most days thanks to Instagram and being a birrof a narcissist….no really, I am. I love a good selfie, B&W street scene, and pre-planned Insta-story as much as the next weirdo, but today’s pics were a bit different.

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About 18 months ago I mislaid my beloved Nikon DSLR after a weekend away with my arsehole of an ex. You’ve no idea how gutting it was to find I had safely stored the SD cards containing pics of him grinning at Nou Camp, but lost the sodding camera.

Anyway, I finally replaced the camera this week (I know, I rock at procrastination) with a base model Canon instead, and its freaking awesome. I’ve not got much idea what I’m doing other than point and shoot at this stage, but taking a wander around the docks, Liverpool today while eldest curly kid was at a party, was pretty awesome.

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I took a fashion illustration class earlier this month over at Unit 51, Baltic Triangle and spent a blissful Saturday afternoon re-learning how to draw figures (in various sassy poses) under the expert watchful eye of Pro Illustrator and Photographer, Kitty Fuller.

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After much scribbling, hatching, shading (and me generally mumbling ffs), Kitty (also known as Sarah) noticed that I had an affinity for a long, straight line and that linear was my design style. It struck a chord with me and I was determined to find a subject for my first shoot with the Canon, that offered up the same look and feel.

Imagine my delight at being able to freely photograph Stanley Dock on a grey, drab Sunday afternoon! No really, I was totally chuffed. Some of the warehouse buildings as well as the old Heritage Market and Ten Streets earmarked site are symmetrical heaven! Typically I had filled a SD card within a few minutes, but these are the four images I really quite like.

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The scary part in all this? Is actually sharing the pictures. Art is such a personal thing. One person may rave about a pic which can be quite easily labelled shite by another, so I’ve made a conscious decision to shoot and share the scenes, people, events and things I love, and not what’s commercially ‘In’ to impress the digital masses.

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If you’re an experienced tog and want to share some tips on how to get the best from your Canon, please do drop me a line, you’ll find me on katereillyjames@gmail.com equally if you want to send some constructive criticism or a high five my way, that’s cool too.

Here’s to many weeks and months of taking pics and finding my ‘style’. Apologies in advance for being a camera bore, but I faffing love this city and sharing it with the tinterweb might just be my new favourite thing. (Apart from collecting Nikes of course)…..(and those processo freezies from Aldi)…….(and Maoam).

x

 

 

 

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Apr 26 2017
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Walk Like an Egyptian in the heart of Liverpool

Today I saw the ancient world version of a tweet. Seriously!

I was filming for The Guide Liverpool at World Museum this afternoon for the press view of Ancient Egypt: A journey through time, two days ahead of the official opening….and it knocked my sarcophagus off!

 

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Not sorry about my Will Smith red carpet pose!

 

Having visited the Egypt gallery regularly for many years (more than I’m willing to admit) both as a child and with my own brood, I expected to find a revamped space with much of the same artefacts we’ve come to know and love. What I discovered was so much more.

I learned more about our city’s links with the ancient world in the 20 minutes I wandered around the gallery and spoke to the team behind this mammoth project, than I could ever have imagined. From scarab beetle tweet-like messages and guy-liner to 10- stunningly presented mummies in all their finery, the entire 1,000 square metre gallery is phenomenal.

 

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Thebes/Liverpool we’re all the same when it comes to looking sharp and nailing those eyeliner flicks!

 

Head on over to The Guide Liverpool for our video and all the details about the official launch on Friday 28th April at 10am. If you do one thing this Bank Holiday weekend, discover a little bit of Ancient Egypt in the heart of Liverpool.

Kate x

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Apr 25 2017
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I’m lacing up for Cash for Kids

It’s no secret that I absolutely love my Nikes and I’ve amassed quite a collection, so what better way to support Cash for Kids Superhero Day 2017 than by putting them to good use?

 

Cash For Kids

You can get involved in Superhero Day 2017 too, details below

 

I’m lacing up and embarking on an ambitious running challenge to raise much needed funds for local families in need. And it means I can wear a cape too….winner!

May 5th 2017 is SuperHero Day and Cash for Kids is supporting When You Wish Upon a Star, a charity that works tirelessly to grant the wishes of children with life limiting illnesses.

Having heard first hand from parents and patrons of the charity at the launch event at the Hilton Hotel, Liverpool One, last week, about the phenomenal experiences the charity organises for desperately poorly children and their families around the UK, I was moved to tears and inspired to help.

 

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Just a snapshot of some of the wonderful experiences When You Wish organise for children and their families.

 

I have pledged to raise £250 in support of Cash for Kids Superhero Day 2017 and to hit my target, I plan to run 250km throughout the month on May. 31 days to rack up 250km, while also sustaining my job and family life and not twisting any ankles (I’m the most accident prone person EVER).

Family and friends will be loaded up with homemade cake, biscuits and honesty boxes to lure donations from their workmates, I’m going to attempt a sponsored silence (this will definitely require duct tape) in the office, and I’ll be rooting around in pockets and down the sofa for loose change, to help hit my target.

 

Cake for Kids

That’s worth £250 alone in my humble opinion

 

I’d really appreciate your support. As ever, just £2 can make a huge difference for those little ones and their families facing unimaginable pain. I’ve set up a Just Giving page to make it even easier to donate. Head over to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/KRJ and do something awesome for those in need.

 

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This is how happy your donations make me!

 

I will of course be sharing my daily escapades on my social media channels with tweets and videos. Mainly Twitter, @Katereillyjames , Instagram @Kate.reillyjames and Facebook here and everyone who throws me a few quid will get a personal thank you x

You can also sign up to get involved with Superhero Day 2017 here.

Donate £2 and make a wish come true x

 

 

 

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Apr 10 2017
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Woodlands Hospice Bunny Run 2017

On Sunday I got my face painted, donned a pair of rather fetching bunny ears, pinned on a fluffy tail ran 3.2 miles at the Woodlands Hospice Bunny Run 2017.

Croxteth Park had never looked so utterly stunning, bathed in early Spring sunlight, the hall itself was a hive (or should that be warren?) of activity as fundraisers, runners and tonnes of dogs, came together to support this Woodlands Hospice fundraising event.

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Roped in by my friend and organiser, Pauline Cox, I signed up to run the 5k course with the lovely Michelle and Kerry and French bulldog Oscar (who completely won the day by being ridiculously cute!). We (just about) got through the warm up with PT Mark Riley before limbering up on the start line.

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Woodlands Hospice Charitable Trust is an independent charity committed to delivering the best possible practice and development of Specialist Palliative Care for people with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses with complex needs. It honours people’s right to dignity and respect at whatever stage of their illness by its aim to improve the quality of life for patients and their families

Woodlands Hospice

More than 50 runners, old and young turned out to support this amazing cause alongside a team of the most encouraging and smiley volunteers who clapped and cheered every single runner to the finish line. The Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Cllr Roz Gladden handed out medals to all the participants and laden down with Easter eggs and goody bags we set off for ice creams, fair rides and a well earned sit down.

If you’d like to get involved with raising much needed funds for Woodlands Hospice, click here to check out what events are coming up.

 

 

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Apr 01 2017
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The Lord Mayor of Liverpool’s Charity Fashion Show 2017

On Thursday evening 8 of my friends took to a catwalk and strutted their stuff to a classic Whitney track……and I teared up with pride.

The Lord Mayor of Liverpool (the lovely Roz Gladden) hosted the third annual fashion show which raises vital funds for four local charities and also gives aspiring designers, models, make up artists and event managers an opportunity to roll up their sleeves and experience it first hand.

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I signed up to create and show a collection back in September 2016 and the biggest lesson I have learned from the whole experience is that leaving absolutely everything – including the actual making of the clothes, until 24 hours before hand, is not a good idea.

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However, three sewing machines, two acrylic nails and the best sister in the world later  (thank you so much Cazzy), a mini collection of 13, 1940’s Land Girl Army inspired pieces, was born. Who doesn’t love a head scarf and a winged eye liner on a Thursday night?

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Having grown up as an ‘Army brat’, married into the RAF and more recently worked closely with 156 Regiment in Allerton, I felt that the armed forces theme was the way forward, and my second thank you is to Maj Laurence Roche, who very kindly donated his mess jacket (Which I wore) and tartan trousers (worn by Cath Bore), which inspired the rest of the collection.

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I specifically asked friends of all ages, heights and shapes to model my collection. What society calls ‘real women’. Ensuring there was a range of sizes from 6-16 was important to me, as was empowering my models to go out into the limelight and own the catwalk. No sullen faces, but plenty of attitude, a bit of a dance and ear to ear smiles.

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Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all the girls who battled nerves, victory curls and my wonky-tailoring, to show the 150+ crowd of smiling faces, just how utterly amazing you are. Thank you Cath, Leanne, Steph, Caroline, Paige, Meg, Deanna, Ashleigh and Michelle.

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For the first time I truly appreciated just how much make up and hair makes a collection really pop. Thank you to Hayley and Ashleigh for creating razor sharp, sultry flicks, red lips and victory curls that brought everything together. You absolutely nailed your first show, and Ashleigh even ended up modelling for me too! Legends!

It all came together at the very last minute – as these things tend to do. Kudos and huge thanks to Andrew, Anna and Emma – seasoned pro’s at smashing out breath-taking runway looks as standard!

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A few people to thank:

To my three beautiful children – I almost broke under the pressure so many times, trying to juggle everything, be a good mum, progress at work, do my small bit for charity. I don’t always get the balance right, but coming home every day to hear you all arsing about, giggling makes it all worth while. Love you millions x

Emma for the best show day surprise I could ever have imagined and for supporting me every step of the way and at all hours of the day and night.

Jay at The Guide Liverpool for allowing me to shirk work for a few days to create the collection and also show it on the night. John at The Guide Liverpool for filming all the action and not being phased by half-naked models running about!

Thank you to Andy and Geoff at 156 Regiment for the loan of the berets and flags. I’ve never been so nervous of borrowing something so precious!

Paul, Pauline, Tash and especially little Kaidie, thank you for being there to support us all on the night x

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My biggest thanks and admiration are to Jodie McShane. I have no idea what I’d have done without you and considering we’d not met before, you read my mind and kept everything running smoothly when I was flapping! I’m really looking forward to working with you again.

Lord Mayors Fashion Show

Led by the lovely Sofia Spencer, the show ran smoothly and raised just over £1400 for the Lord Mayor’s charities. To see all the official photos from Ian Williams and Andy Forster and video clips of The Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Cllr Roz Gladden realising her daughter was on the catwalk……click here. Also check out my Gallery page for all the backstage pics and shenanigans too!

Same again next year?

x

 

 

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Mar 17 2017
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Five More Years

I have every intention of writing a St Patrick’s Day piece today, given it’s the celebration of all things green, white and orange, but having logged into my website, poised to type, something way more important was brought to my attention.

It turns out that I started blogging 5 years ago today. I’m mega chuffed about this coincidence for a number of reasons. 1 – because I will never forget this anniversary ever again, given the date, 2 – I have another excuse to go for a drink, and 3 – its been FIVE years….wow! I’m absolutely chuffed to be able to confidently say that I love writing now even more than I did back in 2012.

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Yep…..it’s goosed!

Having launched myself into the passenger seat of my car, one sunny spring day back in 2012, I slipped and ruptured two discs in my lower back, and thus a writing career was born! Actually it was more like the following 9 months of daily agony that encouraged me to write as there was little else I could do while I waited for neurosurgery to fix it!

Who’d have thought that my humble, little Geordie’s Girl blog, and the comfort it gave me to get though months of insomnia, waiting around in hospitals, and the early days of recovery, would blossom into a year at college to gain my NCTJ qualification, a junior writers job, many freelance roles, radio broadcast opportunities, my first ever hosting gig and of course my beloved editorial position with The Guide Liverpool. All that from a slipped disc, not bad going huh?

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If I’ve learned one thing from this rollercoaster journey its that luck, Irish or otherwise can only get you so far. Hard work, determination and integrity are the real stepping stones to the top.

Here’s to St Patrick, and five more years!

x

 

 

 

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Mar 09 2017
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Sorry I’m Late…..

Slightly disgusted that it’s taken me until March 9th to post my first blog of 2017, but in all honesty, I’m late for most other things too.

Hello! Happy New Year, Happy Australia Day, Valentine’s Day and whatever else I’ve missed in the last few weeks. Assume you’ve all completely abandoned any New Years resolutions by now and are, like me, pretending to have a go at Lent instead? As well as being late for stuff I’m also incredibly undisciplined.

Moving swiftly on….

Global Scouse Day

2017 has been epic so far. I’m rushed off my feet with work as The Guide Liverpool goes from strength to strength. I’ve stepped in front of the camera on a number of occasions and (thanks to our ridiculously talented videographers) it looks like I did an okay job! Check out all the action from Global Scouse Day here. (Ps, scouse pizza is the bomb).

Lord Mayors Fashion Show

I’m (just about) still on course to show a capsule collection of military chic couture at The Lord Mayor of Liverpool’s Charity Fashion Show on March 30th at the Devonshire House Hotel. I’ve absolutely no idea how I’ve pulled this off because there really aren’t enough hours in the day to keep up!

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I did manage a little trip over to Belfast with my curly girl a couple of weekends ago. We had a ball exploring the city together and spending the best part of £50 on tacky gifts to bring back home. You can read our very serious review here.

Radio City Cash for Kids

Looking ahead, I’ve just become ‘Face 38’ in the Radio City Cash for Kids 1000 Faces Campaign. The charity are looking for 1000 local faces to sign up and raise just £100 each for local children and their families facing hardship. It’s an incredibly worthy cause, I’ve pledged my support and you can too here. Alternatively just give me some change or you know, like £100 the next time we meet up. That would be great thanks.

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Aside from work I’ve been back on the dating scene, which let me enlighten you, in your 30’s is an entirely different ball game to being 21 and full of confidence! Luckily Liverpool is an amazing city for a night out and any place you can dance your little heart out to an 80’s covers band until 2am on a Tuesday morning is alright with me….and him.Eric’s Mathew Street – You guys rock!

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I’m ridiculously excited to be reporting on MCM Comic Con Liverpool this weekend (March 11-12) and cant wait to be surrounded by passionate people (including my curly girl, mad RWBY fan) who nail their cosplay costumes every single time! How many Jokers do you reckon I can get a selfie with? Check out all the details of which TV stars are attending here.

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So lucky to be working with designer Alice James again after she ‘dressed’ me for last year’s Merseyside In Business Awards. This time I’m attending the James Bulger Memorial Trust Black Tie and Tiara Ball in support of my lovely friend, Jay Hynd as he hosts the star studded event, and Alice James has stepped in to help me update a vintage gown I fell in love with over a year ago…..all will be revealed on March 18th at the Crowne Plaza, Pier Head.

There’s tickets still available and if supporting the charity isn’t enough to make you snap up a ticket, boyband 5ive are headlining the entertainment! Tickets here.

Just don’t be late!

 

 

 

 

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Aug 06 2016
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Adventure Time

What a week!

From a stint live on Radio City Talk to meeting entreprenuieral legend, John Drysdale at Liverpool Loves Business and finalising my plans for a bank holiday adventure thanks for a great PR event at Liverpool John Lennon Airport.
Since writing my last piece, ‘Focus’ I’ve adopted a policy of just saying yes to things, and this week it has really paid off.

I’m pleased  to report that I’m joining Radio City Talk on a more frequent basis as Liverpool Live Producer, Lizzi contacted me on Thursday to chat live on air about my digital detox. 

I’ll be chatting to Mick as a panel member and newspaper reviewer over the coming weeks and as we all know I love the sound of my own voice, there’s bound to be some hilarity going on. Catch me on Monday between 12 and 1pm. 


I’m also working with a brilliant Liverpool designer, Coco & Veve as owner Ria launches a brand spanking new concession with Rex retail, Bold Street. More on this after I’ve tried on her entire collection next week! 

Liverpool Loves Business inspired me to push on with my freelance dream this week as the line up of influential speakers at this years festival was better than ever!

It was standing room only at the Crowne Plaza conference rooms and I’m over the moon to have finally met Noguru MD, John Drysdale. 

Huge congrats Josh and the team at Orb CIC for another hugely successful event.

The Liverpool Loves 2016 festival continues today with a superb line up of culture, music, well-being and food, down on the Pier Head.

It’s completely free and geared towards the whole family. All you need to know in one handy 3 min video from The Guide Liverpool here. 

I’m heading on down for an afternoon of local bands, great food and to sample the prosecco bar! Perfect Saturday right?! 


My bank holiday adventure is set. Well at least the first flight is and I’m free-wheeling it from there!

As a single mum of three the vast majority of my days are planned down to the very last minute, so having the opportunity to just book and flight and ‘see what happens’ really is the ultimate adventure for me. 

On Thursday 25th August I’m Paris bound. The rest is up to fate!

If anyone has any suggestions on what connecting flights to catch or what attractions to see, things to do, drop me a line katereillyjames@gmail.com 

Have a fab weekend! 

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Jul 29 2016
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Focus

I’ve recently found myself unexpectedly free over August bank holiday weekend after my plans to hit the beach for a few days of paradise were scuppered! 

Feeling incredibly low, I called a meeting of friends who have travelled within the last month and sipped JD while we formulated a new plan. (All the best plans are made this way, right?)

Liverpool airport now flies directly to Marrakesh…..dreamy! St Petersberg, Bucharest and Naples just a hop skip and a passport away and there is no way I’m wasting this rare opportunity to do something a bit different!

My friend John has not long come back from a mammoth trip to Canada, and Jim is booking flights to Moscow and the Far East with work……and I was looking at interning on a national paper in London for five days before I realised just how accessible Europe is from our very own airport in Speke. 

I haven’t travelled on my own since I upped sticks and went back to Australia in 2000 at the age of 17. 12,000 miles from Manchester to Paris to Singapore and finally Sydney. Previously I’d gone as far as town on a Saturday! 

I took to all the style guide books I have at home and thought about having the opportunity to write from my own experience. That was enough to put the wheels in motion. 

Sat around the table at MacKenzies, Rodney Street earlier this week I voiced my concerns about my little jaunt turning into yet another Taken film (what number is it now…..3…4?) but with promises to come looking for me if I don’t check in regularly (sadly not Liam Neeson) I put those fears to bed as the excitement took over.

It goes without saying that ideally I’d love to get the girls together and have a mad weekend city break, laughing til our stomachs hurt and the rose runs out! 

But the reality of it being the middle of the summer holidays and kids and work and money comes into play! Not so easy to drop everything and catch a last minute flight when you’re a mum!

However, determined to not waste this opportunity, I’ve spent hours on Kayak (travel app) looking at flights and inspired by a work event airside at John Lennon Airport this Tuesday, I’ve woken up this morning and just booked a single flight. 

It’s done, and come hell or high water, it’s going to be an amazing adventure! 

I’ll get back to you at check in. 

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Jul 15 2016
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Cineworld Edge Lane: A Tribute

The Guide Liverpool sent me to Cineworld, Edge Lane yesterday as the cinema prepared to close its doors for the last time.

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I’ve made so many awesome memories at Cineworld over the 20 years I’ve been going there and I’m slightly gutted that I ended that rein having to watch Ghostbusters as my last film, but hey ho! Having a chat with the staff and wolfing down a huge bag of popcorn made it worthwhile.

You can read my full review on The Guide Liverpool here.

Thank you to Megan, Vicky, Ian and all the staff, past and present as you are the stars of this show.

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Jul 10 2016
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The BMD:Law Liverpool Fashion & Beauty Awards 2016

I’ve been banging on about the FAB awards for a few weeks now as not only was I attending in an official capacity (I’m a proper journo now) but also because I’d agreed to walk the catwalk just five days before the event and I was absolutely bricking it.

In the blink of an eye it felt like it was all over, when in actual fact the evening consisted of 9 hours of non-stop laughing, applauding, cheering, catwalking, eating, prosecco swigging fun.

In case you’ve been living under a rock, this is what the BMD:Law Liverpool Fashion & Beauty Awards are all about. The science bit….

The Liverpool Fashion & Beauty Awards is an extension of the hugely popular Liverpool Lifestyle Award which was set up 8 years ago to support small and independent businesses within the region.

Since then it has grown so big that a separate ceremony was required to cope with the demand of the fashion and beauty industry in which Liverpool is widely recognised as the UK leader.

The awards took place at The Function Suite and Fusion nightclub, Fleet street last night, as over 200 guests and nominees attended to claim one of the 19 awards on offer.

With categories such as: Best Beauty Blogger, Best Small Beauty Clinic, Best Fashion Designer, Best Independent Hair Salon and Best Training Provider, competition has been fierce.

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As you might expect, those working in the fashion and beauty industry, don’t do things by half and the stunning array of jewelled gowns and high end outfits on display  wouldn’t have looked out of place at the Oscars.

Event organiser, Amanda Moss began proceedings in the first of three outfits (a fabulous princess style dress in deep purple, sweetheart neckline and an endless organza underskirt) as hosts, Amanda Harrington ( wearing a floor length white and silver gown) and Reggie Phillips announced the first of the evenings winners.

Backstage, local designer Love Laura began prepping models for their swimwear catwalk show, and Relish catering staff took to the floor with pretty plated starters.

The evening entertainment came courtesy of a live set from Jake Bowness and later Sophia Spencer, plus two spectacular (and really friendly) burlesque style performers and of course the spectacle that was me attempting to strut my stuff in a collection from St Helen’s based boutique, L’avitta. (If I could put a monkey hiding his eyes emoji here, I would)

Luckily the other four girls I was walking with were total pro’s! Bianca, Juliet, Kim and Bev were such a good laugh and shared their experience which helped to settle my nerves. Kudos to the unflappable catwalk manager Natalie, who as part of the Amanda Moss PR fashion family that runs Liverpool and Manchester Fashion Week, was on hand to ensure everything ran smoothly.

Green Room Selfie

Photographer extraordinaire, Ian Williams was a friendly face at the end of the high shine, LED catwalk (which I was convinced I was going to slip on) and when the time came to face the (lets say slightly tipsy ) crowd, I felt more relaxed looking down the camera lens.

As the opening bars of Beyonce’s anthem ‘All The Single Ladies’ rang out (how apt?), it was show time! I put my best foot forward, tried to not laugh, and strutted to the end of the catwalk. Thank you Sophie and Holly, of Move Residential for cheering like full on groupies as I shashayed past, you both really helped calm my nerves.

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Within three minutes, it was done! Five days of fretting, and I absolutely loved it!

After wolfing down a filling, three course meal of parma ham, chicken and mango cheesecake, the Corkys and table wines were devoured and the prosecco was free-flowing as more and more winners were announced to huge cheers from the audience.

I have to say huge congrats to Nicole Francis who won Best Beauty Treatment, and was also my best dressed lady of the evening. Fellow table 11 dweller, Nicole is a Director at Lip Couture Liverpool and wore a stunning floor length gown that featured hand-sewn jewels and a kick flare hem line. She looked stunning!

Nicole Francis

Once dinner was done and we’d belted out a few ballads alongside vocalist Sophia Spencer, I sneaked back into the photo booth for yet more selfies with fellow The Guide Liverpool writer, Dale Roberts as the dj set-up for the after party.

I met some ridiculously talented people, from doctors, athesticians and singers to fashion designers, models and make up artists. Oh and don’t forget the bevvy of local celebs such as the very lovely Claire Simmo from Radio City 2. (My opening line was ” Oooh I stalk you on social media Claire” insert another monkey emoji here!)

Huge congratulations to Amanda Moss and event sponsor Bernadette McDonald of BMD:Law. The evening was a fun-filled celebration of the best our local, independent businesses has to offer.

With an unbeatable, friendly atmosphere it felt like being at a family wedding than a room filled with strangers.

I’ve uploaded all my images from the BMD:Law Liverpool Fashion & Beauty Awards 2016.(Most of which are blurry selfies) to my gallery. The event hashtag is #itsthelawtobefab so check out all the pics from guests on instagram and twitter!

For the official photo’s of the event, head to http://www.liverpoolfashionandbeautyawards.co.uk to check out Ian Williams’ stunning photography.

I’ve also submitted my official article to various regional news outlets too, so keep everything crossed for publishing!

 

 

 

 

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Jul 08 2016
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Best Foot Forward

I have set myself another challenge this weekend and the nerves have officially kicked in, big style.

I’m struggling to eat and that nervous, butterfly stomach feeling just wont leave me alone. Alright, so I’m not skydiving or bungee jumping or doing anything physically dangerous, but my self confidence is taking a real beating.

It all started on Sunday morning, as I tend to get myself involved in all manner of random things when I’m up at 5am with no school run to distract me.

I’m reporting on the, sold out BMD Law Liverpool Fashion & Beauty Awards this Saturday and I’d emailed organiser, Amanda Moss to see how prep was going, at the same time runway manager, Natalie put a call out for a model size 12/14 as she’d had a late cancellation.

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Being naturally helpful, I offered up the contacts who had walked for Natalie before, but at late notice they had prior engagements. So, yep, you guessed it. I uttered the immortal words: “I’ll have a crack at it” and so a catwalk challenge was born.

Firstly I thought this would make for great viewing for my social media accounts. Reporting live from backstage at catwalk show, showing viewers the real prep, the models and of course, the collections. Actually walking the catwalk would give me extra scope to write about the industry and its age-old size issues.

Secondly I’m more likely to do a Carrie and fall on my face, like fashion road-kill while a pro steps over me which could create a YouTube vid that goes viral, adding to my social media presence, but for all the wrong reasons.

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It’s now Friday morning, and the nerves have really kicked in. I’ve had my nails done and hair coloured, but I’ve not magically dropped two stone and toned up in the five days since I agreed to take part.

In real terms I can walk from one place to another with relative ease, but I am the most accident prone person in the world so there’s a good chance of a trip. I’m not a natural scouse princess either, tan doesn’t suit me and my brows are just my own, but I’m hoping Emma Lampkin’s MUA team can help me blend in for the occasion.

I am coming to terms with the fact that this is me, and after watching what feels like hours of ‘How to Walk Like A Runway Model’ tutorials, I’m going to walk from one side of a room to another, exactly as I am. Head up, shoulders back, one foot in front of the other.

One thing that has to be said for fashion shows in the North West, and kudos to the organisers far and wide, is that fashion is accessible here. It’s not about pretentious shows for frowers and celebrities. The events are about celebrating talent and creativity in all its forms.

I just hope Saturday’s guests bear that in mind as I sashay all Phoebe-From-Friends-Running-like.

Catch my live updates from 5pm on my Facebook & Twitter accounts http://www.facebook.com/katereillyjames and  @Katereillyjames

Wish me luck!

 

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May 27 2016
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May I?

I’ve failed my exams this month, spectacularly. I’ve so much respect for print journalists who can knock out 100 words per minute in shorthand, especially when dealing with sensitive subjects, noisy environments and random accents. You people are like, magical or something.

Sadly I’m not sure I’m cut out to join the elite, despite my brilliant shorthand lecturer persevering with me, I have hit the 80 wpm wall and cant seem to block out all the nonsense long enough to hit that coveted centenary mark.

I bowled into college, 12 minutes late last Friday morning, amid a flurry of phone calls that wound me right up, only to realise I had no pen (not even my trusty Army, Be The Best biro) or paper to transcribe on to, urgh.

shorthand

One emotional meltdown and four and a half minutes later I had failed my 100 wpm exam. Undeterred by the fact I was busy trying to concentrate, the drama continued through-out the break and into the 80 wpm re-sit exam an hour later. Plus some kid was sitting in MY seat. Failed again, head was most definitely elsewhere and not in the world of Teeline.

I’ve stressed myself out so much this month that the stomach ulcer I cultivated back in October decided to make an unwelcome return resulting in horrendous sickness for three long weeks. I didn’t even lose any weight, no need.

My daily diet of strawberry laces, Costa and cake wasn’t helping. I routinely resort back to the usual excuse; single mum of three, studying, working to build contacts, reputation and an attractive portfolio, plus running a home…..oh and my cat popped four kittens out on Sunday morning. I’m a bit busy to say the least and I’ve survived for too long on nervous energy and sugar!

So on to the positives! I now eat food, proper grown up food, and the biggest surprise is…..I actually like it! (munching porridge with grated apple and banana in it right now in fact). I feel so much better in just 4/5 days its remarkable. If you see me loitering around KFC, you have permission to kick my ass.

And because I feel better I’ve been able to get involved with some awesome events. I spent four idyllic days in Barcelona and sat in the press box and conference room at the Nou Camp. I’ve solved a murder mystery at the The Empire Theatre with Agatha Christie’s The Mouse Trap.

I’ve (unsuccessfully) tried to nick a lamb from Farmer Ted’s ( they’re so bloody cute) and held an Amazonian tree frog! I’ve rocked out with a bunch of ten year olds at a disco party and ate my (substantial) body weight in Army field kitchen chicken jalfrezi at the Liverpool Food & Drink Festival, Sefton Park.

I had a bit of a snog with Paddy McGuinness (sorry Woernee) at Madam Tussauds, Blackpool and tickled a stingray at Sea Life Centre. Watching the Kop come alive at Liverpool V Chelsea a couple of weeks ago was phenomenal, I’ve never experienced anything like that atmosphere, and the die hard fans tell me it was rubbish at that game

I had the privilege of cuddling brand new baby Elliot and feeling so much love for my wonderful friend Lisa who brought him into the world in a convenient 20 minutes! The same day I had root canal, two fillings and a cocktail for lunch…..and a 3 hour mid afternoon nap as a result!

My little dudes have had a blast in Blackpool, 518ft up in the air at the top of the Blackpool Tower, gasped at the awesome acrobatics at the circus and built their very own tower replica from Lego. We went back to school and walked the corridors of Broadgreen International school, 17 years after I left, whole separate blog post on this shortly.

I’ve photographed my own fantastic city from the roof of the Hope Street Hotel, had a brew with the new Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Roz Gladden and begun work on my first ever complete fashion collection, ready to show in Autumn 2016.

Ulcer schmulcer. Thank you so very much to the Alice and Greg, Jay Hynd and Amanda Moss for your continued support and thrilling opportunities to write. There are tonnes of new photo’s in the gallery here and check out my most recent work with The Guide Liverpool here.

Bring it on June!

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Apr 27 2016
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Justice for the 96

I’m not a Liverpudlian by birthright. I was born about as far away as you can get from the north west of England, in Australia!

However, my mum grew up in the tenements right next to the Anglican cathedral in the 50’s and 60’s and despite leaving the city for a few years to join the army, she has always called Liverpool her true home. She passed down that feeling of belonging and the importance of family and loyalty to me. So despite 42 (sometimes international) house moves, I’m proud to call Liverpool home too. 

I was 7 when the Hillsborough disaster happened. I remember the day, the footage and my immediate family being upset and shocked. But I’m sure I went back to school or playing with my friends on Northumberland Street, L8 as if it was another day.

27 years later, a trainee journalist and a mum of three. I’ve spent yesterday in a weird kind of slow motion as the finer details of what happened on that fateful day have come hurtling back to every news outlet and conversation on the street. 

As a parent I feel a sadness, deep in my bones, that a little boy just a couple of years older than me on April 15th 1989 went to support his beloved LFC and didn’t come home. I squeezed my kids just a little bit tighter at bedtime with tears in my eyes thinking of the victims families who had that privilege so cruelly taken away. I cannot begin to imagine the pain they have suffered for all these years. 

A thirst for knowledge and being naturally nosy has led me to journalism. Liverpool is more like a village than a city and everyone has a hysterical story or anecdote to share, making my year of training with all manner of local businesses and organisations here, an absolute joy. 

Yesterday though I felt utter disgust that a national newspaper, was given the freedom to print complete and utter lies, fabrications and brand, not only a group of innocent football fans, but an entire city and its people, robbers, liars and cheats. 

Without wanting to sound melodramatic, the inquest verdict today has genuinely made me stop and wonder if journalism is for me. The blatant disregard for factual information, and any duty of care for reporting news sensitively has seriously knocked my confidence. I appreciate that the world is a different place 27 years on, but the likes of MacKenzie and Murdoch are still making the rules, and that frightens the shit out of me. It’s hardly surprising that the demise of printed media has been so rapid. I’ve never bought The S*n in my life and I don’t ever intend to.  Will there be an appropriate apology? I doubt it very much. 

One thing I have learned from how The S*n operated during and since the Hillsborough disaster is that I will never sell my soul for the sake of a story. I simply couldn’t sleep at night. I don’t know if journalism is for me? 

What I do know about, are the awesome people of this city. I’ve spent most of my years living here, I went to school here and worked here as a young adult and gave birth to three little Liverpudlians of my own. My friends are Scousers, some of my family, my boyfriend and my kids. And I feel like one too. 

That’s what Liverpool is amazing at, making you feel like you belong, like family, like an old friend. 

Scousers are proud, loyal and determined. They work hard and will give anyone a helping hand and a second, third or fourth chance. They build each other up and will link your arm through any battle you take on. Fierce you might say, strong willed, dedicated and with the biggest hearts you will find the whole length and breadth of the country. 

From sitting in the car with my other half listening to the verdicts being broadcast I learned more about Hillsborough than I ever could reading The S*n or any other tabloid. He cried openly, as did others on the street, shocked faces and tears of joy across the city at 11:30am. There were constant streams of people to the vigil at Anfield and St Georges plateau all day and today the city will unite again to celebrate its strength and this historic day.

The ripples of the verdicts today will spread far and wide. The government, the media, the FA, the ground and its partners and the emergency services all played their part, and they must be held accountable. 

The families, have felt the injustice of Hillsborough, the victimisation of the press and the contempt of the authorities for 27 years. 

The city has stood arm in arm with the families throughout it all. To each and every single one of you who have campaigned tirelessly for justice and the truth, you’ve done 96 angels and an entire city proud.

Despite today’s long overdue verdict, the city will continue to stand with the families tomorrow, and the next day and the next…and the next…. 

You’ll never walk alone. 

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Apr 04 2016
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The Lord Mayor of Liverpool Spring Fashion Show 2016

The 2nd Annual Lord Mayor’s Spring Fashion Show took place at the Devonshire House Hotel, Edge Lane on Thursday night.

A wealth of home-grown talent brought the charity event to life with every aspect of the show, from hair and make-up to the designers and models, native to the North West.

The Lord Mayor, Councillor Tony Concepcion and his wife Ann greeted guests and thanked the audience for turning out to support their chosen charities, Ronald McDonald House at Alder Hey, Kind and Listersteps. IMG_6737

The Lord Mayor gave a passionate speech about the importance of helping local families to cope with difficult situations and how the kind and compassionate people of Liverpool is what makes the city so great.

The catwalk kicked off with sumptuous velvet evening gowns from Karen Gold. Erica Wildflower, Julie Kaye and Ria Jewels completed the first half of the show with unique collections featuring festival kaftans, Woodstock style summer wear and funky club wear.

Singer Sophia Spencer wowed the audience during the interval with her smooth, soulful vocals as guests were given the chance to browse a selection of exhibitor stands selling designer accessories, jewellery and cosmetics.

The second half of the show was dedicated to emerging talent as art students at the City of Liverpool College and Holly Lodge Girls’ College, got their first taste of the Liverpool Fashion scene.

The Mad Hatters of Holly Lodge, who were kindly funded by the Liverpool Decorative and Fine Art Society, were the youngest designers to debut a collection on the professional catwalk, and they did not disappoint.

With just four months to master the tricky skill of hat making, or millinery, the year 12 and 13 students stepped up to the challenge, supported by a fantastic teaching team and created 15 weird and wacky pieces from a Medusa-style snake headdress and top hat to a snow-globe Alice-band and a bejewelled peacock skull cap.

Directed and produced by a winning partnership between Amanda Moss PR and The Lord Mayors Charity Committee, both of which are dedicated to providing opportunities for the city’s young people, the event was a great success with funds raised through ticket sales and raffles on the night.

Lots of photo’s in the Gallery section here. Thank you to Emma Lampkin for allowing me to share her images.

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Mar 18 2016
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Friday Night Disco

It’s Friday night, its 9:30pm and I am busting some serious moves…..sat at my desk….listening to Itunes shuffle…..in my running kit….despite only going as far as the wheelie bins in my front garden today.

It’s been an absolutely manic few weeks and I’ve racked up a good few miles just dashing from meetings to interviews to catch up coffees and lessons. I love that step counter app thingy on my iphone, you know the heart icon one that tells me how many bars of Galaxy I can have after my tea….I mean how many steps I’ve done.

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Proof that I got off my ass in 2008.

Despite all the dashing (I sound like a bloody reindeer) I’ve also spent an inordinate amount of time sat on my arse consuming sugar-laden Costa coffees which has done my summer body prep no good whatsoever.

It would appear that journalists spend a lot of time sat in meetings, in pubs, coffee shops on trains, buses and cabs. Journalists do not tend to carry out meetings while generally moving, at all.  And the last time I checked, talking (even the sheer amount that I do) does not burn body altering amounts of calories, nor does it tone bingo wings or create Victoria Secret model-esque body types. This is bitterly disappointing news.

It’s now March (silent scream) and I’ve not really made any effort whatsoever towards my dream goal of being a perfect size 10 for Grand National weekend, panic has set in.

So, as per my usual knee-jerk reaction to pretty much everything, I’m lacing my Nikes up first thing tomorrow and heading to the park with my sister to rack up some miles. Also typical me, I have signed up for Hellrunner which is a half marathon distance with obstacles (muddy bog, freezing river, big-ass hills) dotted through Delamere Forest in Cheshire. It’s either train for these type of events or live on dust for the rest of eternity, and my god I love cake, so that’s just not an option.

Wish me luck!

Edit- forgot to mention that my friends have now renamed me Cake Reilly. Sounds like Kate….its just that Cake is more me….or just is me. Yep. 

 

 

 

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