Hello Everyone 

I’m finally back after a long break from blogging. I’ve had a very busy few months at work and My salon has needed all my attention. I’ve been up to my eyes working and studying for my second Chemical colour degree with Alfaparf Ireland. 

Back in 2011 I done my first Colour Masters degree. Six years later I returned to complete an advanced Master degree. You may not realise how complex Colouring hair actually is. There will always be changes in Hair Chemistry due to environmental changes, water supply etc. It’s essential that We as hairdressers understand the impact these changes have while Colouring hair. With the latest buzz word in Hairdressing being bond rebuilders, it’s important that We have an in depth knowledge of hair structure. In order to use these new products efficiently and safely. 

Throughout my career I have always enjoyed learning new skills, keeping updated and gaining as much knowledge as possible. Constantly striving for better results for My clients is important to Me. It keeps Me motivated as I really enjoy pushing out of my comfort zone. 

On Jan 9th Myself and a group of fabulous Ladies met in Killashee hotel in Nass for our Masters degree part two. We were taught by Alfaparf technical manager Ger Hand. Any hairdressers out there who may have learned from Ger will know He has a phenomenal way of getting his in depth knowledge across to his eager students. 

There was a lot of information and We really got through so much in those five days. My head was ready to explode with all the information. We had to take on a little project and complete a model to show our skills as colour technicians. 

Tracey pictured above was my lovely model for my project. Tracey originally had a heavy cosmetic violet shade in her hair.Anyone who has ever been this colour knows how difficult it is to change it. As Tracey had a good percentage of grey She was looking for a more natural shade that would be more professional for work. Also easier to maintain.  I removed this  taking it to a copper and recoloured it to a rich chocolate brown. I also prescribed the correct home care to nourish Tracey’s hair and recondition it. It takes a little bit of time to make a big change like this but with the right advice and expertise it can be done. Tracey also let me cut 5 inches off her hair. 

So Yesterday We all met up again in Dublin in Gers sisters salon in Baldoyle. We presented our models explained what We done and sat Our written exam. It was great to see everybody again and also great to get the exam over. 

I met some fabulous ladies on the course like Denise Walsh who owns Rustique salons in Kilkenny & Carlow. Janice McCarthy who owns Be fabulous Hair in Cork. Debbie Hurley who owns DKH hair in Cobh Co Cork. The lovely Aine Casey from Naas. Jasmine who owns Jazzelle hair salon in Longford Elaine who’s manages a chain of Dublin salons and Sylvia who owns Colour bar in Sligo. Also Niamh, Katz, Karen Edita, Louisa & Lisa 

So all in all it was tough but a great experience. All I have to do now is wait for my exam results. Hopefully that part will also go well. 

As always folks thank you for reading 

Chat soon 

Maria Platinumhairdressing.ie

Hello Folks 

How are You all? 

I will be taking a break from Blogging during December like I did last year. The salon needs my full attention throughout the silly season. It leaves little time for anything else. Fitting in my workouts and food prep will be challenge in itself. Not to worry though I will manage it. If there’s not much Social media banter Over the next few weeks don’t be surprised. However I will be back in 2017. 

Anyway just to give a little update on my fitness. As most of You know I’ve been working with Georgiasfitlife.com for a lot of 2016. I’m now 4 weeks into my second twelve week nutrition and training programme. I did one from July 1st to September 30th. I took a break for a month and Started a new plan on November 1st. 

I was in two minds about signing up again in November. I knew I wanted to continue to work with Georgia and to keep progressing. I had thought about leaving it until January because there’s so much going on this time of year. I’m so glad now I decided to go for it and work towards my goals for these few weeks in the run up to Christmas. 

I decided not to drink alcohol for the first six weeks of this plan. It was my decision to abstain temporarily so I could make some progress. I felt in the past that my progress had been stalled by nights out, occasions involving alcohol. In my personal experience boozy weekends lead to unproductive demotivated weeks. Poor decision making followed by guilty feelings and negative thoughts were the after effects of nights out for Me. I felt that taking a temporary break from alcohol would really help me to stay focused and reach my goals by the end of the year. Not everyone will agree or understand my reasons but I am so glad I finally took control and done this for Myself. 

Going out sober is not too bad at all. I’ve had great fun and really haven’t found it difficult. It’s been well worth it. My results and measurements are all very pleasing. I’ve made slow & steady progress over the last four weeks. I’m very happy with myself. The combination of sheer determination, a great supportive coach, good nutrition and training have all come togeather. The booze ban is making things much easier. I have enjoyed a few meals out too and haven’t felt deprived at all. I love my food plan I’ve been getting creative in the kitchen. Will tasty filling foods there’s never a need to be bored or hungry. 

So to conclude Im very happy on this plan. I do intend to have a few drinks over Christmas and relax and enjoy the food for a couple of days. If anyone was thinking of taking up online coaching in January You can email hello@georgiasfitlife.com for information. 

Also I want to thank each and every one of You for following my progress so far. You are all too good. 

Chat soon

Love Maria 

Xx

Share this with anyone You think may find it helpful 

Hi Everyone 

Last week I was invited to Breaffy Spa for an Elemis Biotech Facial. Of course I was delighted to try out this new facial as I had seen it advertised. If You have read my blog for a while You will know I suffer with dehydrated skin and breakouts. Although I have my own skincare routine that I am making progress with I’m always willing to try new things. 

Elemis newest technology incorporated three different steps with the Bio tech machine. The first step gently exfoliates, using light strokes. Its very soothing and relaxing as there’s no grains or scratchy feeling. (Some exfoliations can be uncomfortable) It was perfect for my sensitive and reactive skin. The next step uses little metal balls to help work the product into the skin. Again this feels cool and soothing a very gentle massage on the face which will take down any redness. The last step is the blue led light. This works to kill any bacteria under the skin which can cause breakouts (eh hello me) The led light feels very relaxing I was a little sleepy after it. Even though this is a relaxing treatment it is still very results driven and an active facial. As we all know this is the way forward in skincare right now. 

I was looked after by Ann Marie in Breaffy Spa. Ann Marie chose a balancing anti blemish facial for my poor dehydrated inflamed face. (It’s was needed desperately) Ann Marie is very knowledgeable in all things skincare related. She also gave me a few samples to try. Elemis have a fabulous product range. I particularly loved the night cream. I’m very loyal to my Image skincare and being honest I won’t change from what I’m using. However I would happily reccomend Elemis skincare brand to anybody looking for something new. My sister Nicky is an avid Elemis fan and She has gotten great results with it. 

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After the facial my skin felt fantastic, fresh and hydrated as well as calm. It’s now been a week since I had the treatment and my skin still feels great. I will definetly have another Biotech facial before Christmas. It was a lovely experience and also one that got results. It’s a lovely treat for anyone especially as cold weather is so harsh on our skin. It would make a gorgeous Christmas gift for a lucky lady. 

You can contact Breaffy Spa on 09490 44160 or email info.spa@breaffyhouseresort.com 

Breaffy spa are hosting their Christmas Customer evening with Fuchia make up on Wed evening 16th November tickets are €10 (redeemable against products) and are available from Breaffy Spa or  Breaffy Leisure Club 

I hope You enjoyed this post and Please give it a share on Your social media. Every share counts. 

As always Thank You for reading 

Love 

Maria 

Xxx

Hello Everyone 

I’m a little late with this post, I meant to write it ages ago. Seeing as it is now full steam ahead for my next event in Breaffy House Resort. I thought it was high time I wrote a post on the last one. Well it’s mainly photographs really. Thanks to the talented Johnmeephotography for these beautiful moments from the day. 

There are also a few of the ladies snaps from Instagram. It was such a fun day with serious efforts going into the selfie competition. 

All in all a great day of fun was had. We heard from two fabulous speakers Thatssoshellyfitness and Dolores Andrew Gavin Both ladies spoke passionately about physical and emotional wellbeing. We had a fabulous indulgent afternoon tea and We were spoilt by Breaffy house Resort. 

Some of Our very kind sponsors on the day were Alfaparf Ireland and Ultrapure laboratories Foxford 

We had two beautiful jewellery stands Tomorrow’s heilooms and Sparkle like a jewel. We also had the fabulous Fiona from The reiki rooms Ballinrobe with us on the day. Talented Make up artist Ann Marie Hughes done a beautiful make up demo on our lovely model Andrea. 

My next event is on November 20th. This time it will be a festive theme. I have some new content this time for variety. Tickets will be on sale Thursday October 20th. Make sure You get Yours. All details will be on the event Facebook page Click here

My September event Raised €1522 for the Breast Cancer Research lab at NUIG in Galway. Proceeds from the raffle on November 20th will be donated again to Breast Cancer Research as it is a cause I am passionate about. If You are a business who would like to get involved by sponsoring a raffle prize or contributing to the goodybags. Or if you would like to hire a stand for a pop up shop on the day please contact me maria@mrsdillonsdiary.ie 

Thank You so much for all Your generosity and kindness 

Love Maria 

Xx

Hello Folks 

I’m back with a post today that might help some of You. I often get messages from Ladies asking for help after a big blowout. I thought this was appropriate for today. I’m just back from a fantastic hen weekend in Bristol. Three days and nights of drinking, eating, laughing etc etc. We had a fantastic time and that’s what life is all about. Making memories with good friends and having fun. I don’t feel one bit guilty for a second of it. I enjoyed every bite of food and every drink. We all have hens, weddings , parties etc that’s life and it’s there to be enjoyed.

However, it’s Monday now and time to refocus and get back to my healthy habits. Exhaustion and dehydration are making me feel sluggish and demotivated. Tackling these issues one at a time and ticking them off the list helps me. I don’t jump straight back into it the first day. I ease myself in with a “transition day ” first. This usually works for me. I think it’s important to get the body and the mind in sync first. Getting into the right headspace is just as important as food prep, workouts etc etc. If the mind is not right, the body won’t perform. 

I’ve put togeather a few of my top tips and tricks that I use to steer myself back to normality. I hope You enjoy them and find them helpful. Please share the link with anyone who might like this post. 

Thank You for reading 

Love 

Maria xxx

• Let go of the guilt, You had fun with Your besties. Move on enjoy looking at the photos and don’t worry about the indulgence. Life is for living. 
• Do a healthy food shop, Your body needs good nutrition ASAP to help recuperate. Plan a family meal like a roast chicken dinner or a beef casserole. Something hearty and warming is the kind of comfort food that will help bring You round. I know it’s tempting but junk food won’t help You at this stage. 

• Make enough food for tomorrow as well. Food prep sorted. Being organised will make You feel calm and in control. 
• Hydrate Hydrate Hydrate if You find it hard to drink water, try herbal teas or sparkling water with lime is very refreshing. 
• Get some fresh air, go for a walk If You are feeling too delicate for the gym. Put on those headphones and listen to some good music. A good blast of fresh air will clear Your head and help You to sleep. 
• Chill for the evening, watch a movie or read a book for the evening. There’s no point pushing Yourself too much on the first day. You will be much better at handling tomorrow if You get enough rest today. 
• Relax. A hot bath always helps me to destress after all the running and racing. Light a few candles and add some Epsom salts to the bath. A long soak before bed will send you off to a deep sleep. 
• Go back to Your plan tomorrow. You will feel calm and ready. Don’t deprive Yourself to make up for the weekend. Just carry on as normal with good nutrition and training. Eat well to fuel those workouts and You will be back on track in no time. 

Hi folks 

Hope You are all well. I’ve been meaning to write this post for ages. I get so many questions over on Snapchat (mrspdilly2b) on how to get started in the gym etc. I said it was about time I told You all how I got started. Of course there’s plenty ways to get Your fitness journey going but this is how it all unfolded for me. 

I had always been into walking, I loved the fresh air and the de-stress factor of a good walk. However it just wasn’t challenging me anymore. I think I was just bored and needed a change. I had started to follow a few fitness accounts on Instagram and I was intrigued by the #fitfam #iifym I didn’t understand the Macro counting system but I was very interested in finding out how it worked. I of course wanted to look better, gain control over my eating, have toned arms and a smaller waist etc etc We’ve all looked on in envy of those #gymbunnies photos and wondered what exactly #legday involved. Well I wondered but didn’t really know Who to ask at that time. 

At the start of 2016 I was not feeling the best mentally. Regular readers will know that my Mum died over a year ago. To say it was the most difficult time in my life to date is an understatement. I was in a very dark place in those first few months of this year. I felt so desperate and sad I was willing to do anything to make myself feel better. I ended up falling into the fitness craze by accident really. I never imagined at the time how much I would grow to love fitness. During those dark times it was the only thing that made my days more tolerable. Once I had done my workout I knew I would feel OK for that day. It was a tool I used to help claw my way back to feeling normal again. It took time, it was one day at a time but thank god it worked. I feel pretty good most days now. 

So around early March I started a beginners weight lifting group plan online with Georgiasfitlife.com I was following Georgia on Snapchat (georgiasfitlife?) and when She advertised the beginners plan I jumped at the chance to learn how to lift weights. All the workouts could be done from home with a set of Dumbbells. It’s quite a scary thing taking up a new hobby. Being part of a group online made it a lot easier as We were all new and I felt more comfortable than going to a gym. That seems crazy now but at that point I wasn’t mentally able to go to gym and get advice on starting a plan. I’m sure loads of others have felt this way too for their own reasons. Georgia gave us loads of tips and advice for starting off. Throughout the six weeks my confidence grew and I was even able to join the gym. 

I continued the workouts long after the six weeks were up. I loved it and really caught the lifting bug. I’ve been on a personalised one to one coaching plan with Georgia since the start of July. I’ve learned loads about nutrition and it has totally changed the way I eat. I plan my meals around training now and use food as fuel. I’m kinda sad it’s coming to an end but I’m confident about going it alone I’ve never felt so in control. 

Over the months my shape has really changed. I got smaller , loads of people comment on how much I have toned up. Lifting weights has really given me definition. I’m delighted with my results. Apart from the physical changes, I have improved mentally too. The confidence and mental clarity that regular exercise gives me is phenomenal. It must be the endorphins that help to stamp out negative feelings and self doubt. Since I’ve been regularly training in the gym 4/5 days a week I’ve never felt better inside and out. 

Anyway that’s how I got started, I hope this post helps someone. If Your thinking of getting started do it today. Trust me You won’t regret investing in Your health. It’s been the best time and money I’ve ever spent. The Breaffy Club where I train are having an open day tomorrow. It’s the perfect time to call and have a look around. There will be loads of new people there so it might not be as daunting. 

I get loads of lovely snaps from people to tell me I inspired them to join a gym. I’m glad my #gymselfies are helping to motivate people. Thanks for reading and please share this with someone who might enjoy it. 

Love Maria 

Xx

Hi Everyone 

Yesterday I was on a training day with Alfaparf in Galway. It was a Scalp analysis course with in depth training for the Semi di Lino range. It was a great day, the course was taught by Aileen Maher and I learned loads. I always come away from a course feeling refreshed and full of ideas. I find up-skilling is an essential part of my career. I really enjoy learning new things and I always pick up a few tips and tricks. 

We went through all the shampoos and conditioners and Masks in the range. Aileen explained exactly which ingredients were in each product in the range. It was so interesting. Even though I have been using the range for ages there was still so much I hadn’t realised. All the ingredients are as natural as possible and of course they are free from chemical sulphates and parabens. 

My favorite products in the range are the Magnifying shampoo and conditioner. This really suits my fine hair. It contains oat protein and needs to be left on for a few minutes to allow the oat protein to swell and plump up the hair. If You have fine hair trust me You need this. 

The Nutri range contains honey and is perfect for dry hair due to the high moisture levels contained naturally in honey. This works on the hydrogen bond within the hair and hydrates without weighing hair down. 

The Discipline range contains almond butter and makes light work of Frizzy unruly difficult hair. It hydrates and helps to soften the cuticle to tame hair and make it more manageable. 

The reconstruction range contains Bamboo with is a natural strengthening product. This plumps protein into the hair while still allowing flexible movement throughout. Perfect for brittle chemically damaged hair. 

The illumination range is perfect for normal healthy hair. It contains linseed oil and gives softness and shine. It’s a fab product and gives a brilliant shine. Amazing on blondes. 

We also went through some scalp issues like hair loss, thinning hair, over oily scalp and dry scalp. 

Massaging the scalp daily or just before shampooing can really help with some common scalp issues. Massage can help to stimulate the papilla muscle which pumps blood into the root of the root helping it to grow. Regular detoxification or exfoliation of the scalp can also help with growth. 

Alopicia can be caused by stress, hormonal changes, anxiety, medication etc etc. There’s loads of different reasons that hair can start to fall out or slow growth. If You feel You are experiencing some hair loss, mention it to me at Your next appointment and I will advise You on the correct products. 

Follow me on SnapChat ?mrspdilly2b? where I often do Q&As on hair related questions. Snap me anytime and I will try and get back to You with an answer. 

Thanks for reading folks and please share. 

Love Maria xx

Don’t forget to book a ticket for my event Here 

Hi Folks 

You might remember a few weeks ago I showed You all some products I was sent to review. In the package was two teas to try out. I admit I thought “not a skinny tea please” but I tried them out. I have to say I was actually quite pleasently surprised. I’m a coffee drinker, although I have been trying to cut down so these were a tasty alternative. 

So there’s one to take in the morning and one at night. The night time tea was my favourite it’s kind of a liqurious flavour. I really liked it and it’s a nice habit to have a warm drink before bed I found it quite relaxing. The morning one is kind of a berry flavour and a little too sweet for my taste but if you like Berry teas you’ll love it. 

Now We all know diet and exercise is what will make us skinny not teas. Bear in mind I train four times a week and walk, and watch my food intake too. However I did find the teas helped me to feel less bloated. You will go to the toilet more often, which in my book is never a bad thing. Anyone who suffers from a sluggish digestive system will love this stuff. It definitely helps to keep things flowing freely ?? Definetly one to have on standby after a heavy weekend of over indulgence. 

I used the teas for two weeks in the run up to my sisters wedding. There’s nothing like the fear of a dress and a family photograph to put the pressure on. I did find it helped as an aid to good diet and exercise. It also helped me to reduce my coffee consumption which is no harm. 

For any Local ladies Bourkes Pharmacy on Main Street Castlebar have the tea in stock. You will find it there. 

Hope this review helps, 

Love Maria xx

#fabuloss #teatox # Karoracosmetics

Hi Everyone 

Hope You are all well. As I’m sure You have all heard I’m organising an event in Breaffy house resort on Sunday September 4th. It’s a ladies afternoon there will be Hair & Make up demos, a fitness talk and I have a fabulous lady to chat to You all about the importance of emotional well being. There will be a break for afternoon tea and a glass of bubbles and a chance to chat and browse stands. 

We will be holding a raffle and a collection on the day to raise funds for Breast Cancer Research. As You know this is close to my own heart and I’d love to contribute in some way to the cause. A few business have already got in touch to donate raffle prizes. Thank You to all who have contributed so far. If anyone else would like to donate a voucher or a prize please contact me on Facebook or at Maria@mrsdillonsdiary.ie 

I’m hoping the day will be a huge success I think it’s time We had an event like this in Castlebar. It will be a lovely opportunity for a girls day out for a bit of fun and hopefully We all come away from the day having learned somthing. Let me know what You think??

Tickets are available to purchase at eventbrite. 

Here
Please note this is a ticket only event, as there is food being served and goodybags.  Please purchase Your tickets in advance to avoid dissapointment. Keep an eye on my snapchat for updates on the coming weeks Mrspdilly2b 

I’m looking forward to meeting Some of You at the event. Let me know if Your coming along. 

Love Maria xx

Hello Everyone 

Today’s Post is about using SnapChat for business. For anyone who doesn’t know me. I’ve run my own salon in Castlebar since 2007. Platinumhairdressing.ie is my small business and in this post I’m going to go through how I have gotten some great results with my SnapChat account. SnapChat is fairly gaining popularity on the social media circus these days. To some folk it’s baffling. However millions of us are totally hooked. Anyway I hope you enjoy the post. Let me know what You think, and please share this with anyone who you think may find it helpful.

Credit to Joanne Sweeney Burke of Digitaltraininginstitute.ie for planting yet another idea in my head from her recent podcast series. If You are doing social media for business You need to follow this lady. 

Enjoy 

Love Maria 

Xx

So I’m a self confessed social media slut, I know I know I really can’t help myself. I’m the over sharer who hashtags like a maniac. I’m the #instahun who has to photograph every meal and I’m geo tag crazy. (By the way I’m highly insulted that there’s no Mayo geotag on Snapchat yet) I feel a campaign brewing. Ive been content creating since 2010 and using Digital platforms to showcase my work and market my business. Of course I had to jump on the SnapChat bandwagon as soon as it appeared. I’ve had my snapchat account for about two years now. ?mrspdilly2b?

Snapchat is a series of ten second videos or photos that tell the story of Your day. As a small business owner Snapchat is like advertising gold dust. Once You have built Your following You get to reach those people directly from Your smartphone to theirs every day. You get to personally speak to Your followers. You can put out whatever type of content You wish. For me personally as a SnapChat user I love to watch people who are giving me information. So as a business owner, I offer my knowledge and skills to my #SnapFam. Having been highly trained as a hairdresser in all aspects of Colouring cutting styling and chemical processes on hair. I’m very knowledgeable on the subject. As a lot of my followers tend to have hair of their own. ?? I offer advice on all types of “hair mares” be it styling, product reccomendation, or colour queries. I get a great response from my video content. I get loads of great feedback and interesting questions from my lovely followers. 

As a hobby I write about my healthy lifestyle here on this blog. I show healthy recipes on SnapChat and I show my food prep. Some meals and how I motivate myself to get to the gym when I’m feeling lazy. I love sharing this as it motivates me and I feel like I have accountability. I love to cook Im a real foodie and I have great fun showing this on SnapChat. All of this personal interaction has really helped to raise my profile and create awareness about my salon. Although I started off using my Snapchat as a hobby the two really compliment each other. I guess I stubbed upon this little gem accidentally. The more people that get to know me through Snapchat, the more people talk about my business and that’s how this works. 

All too often I see social media outlets being used for the hard sell. It’s all about special offers, discounts and deals. How about giving some information away for free??? Sharing some interesting tips that might actually help someone can really benefit Your business in the long term. If someone is having difficulty with a particular problem and You are able to advise and help them with a few sentences, why not? It will make You and them feel great. They in turn will talk positively about Your business and so You have great publicity. SnapChat allows You to do this. 

Building Your own online following is a smart move business wise. Platforms like Facebook and Twitter are brilliant So is Instagram. However there can be so much content out there on the feed that Yours can get lost. It can be difficult to reach the correct audience at the right time.I think it’s important to keep a consistent presence across all platforms. All Social accounts need to compliment each other. I think at this moment SnapChat and Facebook live are galloping ahead because of the personal touch. People love to watch and listen to People. It’s up close and personal and it’s fast. There’s also no editing required apart from a filter. 

So there’s my thoughts on SnapChat for business. Snapchat lets Your followers into Your life a little bit. Takes them behind the scenes and builds personal relationships. It’s also considerably less time consuming than typing up posts. A two to three minute snapstory that happens in real time is all it takes. Easy peasy content created. I found talking to the camera a little crazy at first but I love it now. So my top SnapTips are;

• Give helpful information 
• Answer questions 
• Teach a skill
• Show a little humour
• Be truthful 
• Keep it simple and to the point. 
• Keep Your selfie game strong
• Enjoy and have a bit of fun & keep it natural. 
• Don’t forget to add me on SnapChat 

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