Valentine in the JQ by Alyn Waterman from Alyn Waterman Makeup & Hair Studio
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The Jewellery Quarter is a very special and unique area with a great community spirit. I think it stands apart from other areas in Birmingham, because you can wander and browse it’s many interesting streets and shops whilst taking in its rich history. All this makes it the perfect location for either planning or celebrating Valentine’s Day.
My recommendations for the perfect Valentine’s gifts or experiences are:
· Adamas Antique Jewellery for vintage items.
· James Newman and Kate Smith for contemporary jewellery.
· Vee’s Delicatessen and Café for a cosy coffee or light lunch.
· Museum of the Jewellery Quarter for an afternoon visit (plus its next door to the MJQ)
· SEW’CIAL Saturdays to create something together and learn a new skill.
My top JQ picks for you to wine and dine your loved one include: Ana Rocha Gallery (a fabulous place to enjoy a cocktail surrounded by intriguing treasures), The Button Factory, The Rose Villa Tavern and The Rectory (located on the beautiful St Paul’s Square.)
As a make-up and hair designer, I am always inundated with ladies looking for tips on how they can look their best on 14th February. Whether you want to look soft and romantic, or sexy and glamorous, here are some ideas for your perfect Valentine’s look:
· Choose a foundation that makes your skin glow and try a skin highlighter on your cheekbones and décolleté.
· A soft rosy blush on the cheek apples looks fresh and youthful. Soft natural colours on eyes, lips and nails are really popular this year if you’re looking for an alternative to a smoky eye.
· Remember to curl your lashes and apply an extra coat of mascara to open up the eyes.
· False lashes are also perfect for adding extra glamour.
· Choose a soft lip stain or gloss for your lips.
· If you’re looking for a glamorous look, nothing says Valentine’s more than a classic red lip. Use a lip pencil to achieve the perfect shape and fill in the lips to give a base for your lip colour. Ombré lips are a great way to create fullness to the lips: use a darker liner or lipstick to define the outline of your mouth and use a lighter colour in centre and blend; finish with a dab of gloss in the centre.
I haven’t forgotten about the gents! On the JQ streets, you’ll find some of the best barbers in Birmingham but Barber JQ on Spencer Street is my favourite.
Aside from Valentine’s Day, February is shaping up to be a very busy month for me. In addition to seeing clients at my studio on Vyse Street, I’ll be on the road doing hair and make up for my celebrity clients! Follow me on Twitter to keep up to date on my exciting projects (Twitter handle)
So, all that’s left for me to say is…Happy Valentine’s Day!
Alyn Waterman x