Pets At Home Delivers The Gift That Keeps On Giving

A gift that gave to the whole family so much more than a few dog treats

Florie Deva

2025-12-06T11:42:30.6630000 2025-12-06T15:19:44.0700000

I had to write a follow up to the Advent calendar saga from Pets at Home because this years has been such a massive hit and has got the whole family involved the brand has completely made up for the disappointing calandar last year and I am not surprised this years offering is now totally sold out. Make sure you add it to your list for next year and I recommend you purchase at the end of October when they first come out to make sure you get one.

We are on day 6 of the opening and I can’t express how the excitement in our house is at fever pitch. What’s coming out today. So far the treats and toys have been incredible, none more so than yesterday’s, a plush soft hot water bottle cushion with a rope attached. Who doesn’t like a bit of a tustle and tug of war. Our Pup took to her bed last night with the bottle, couldn’t have been cuter, the little growl when we passed by to let us know that’s hers. Usually that’s reserved for treats of the edible kind.

We now have a schedule of whose opening the next day and the dog is absolutely loving being centre of attention so wanted to say a massive thanks and congratulations to Pets at Home for delivering such an incredible Dog Advent Calendar this year. Sturdy beautiful packaging and the presents inside have all been amazing so far, right down to the squeaky sprout on day two which makes a funny farting sound, it’s a sprout right which has made everyone laugh.

Absolutely brilliant job to the creators who put this wonderful engaging gift together. It’s done so much more than just provided a few dog treats.

I cannot speak more highly about my experience in this store from the innovative small brand beautiful healthy products, the product knowledge of the staff and the vets on hand to offer advice and recommendations, this is definitely a business putting the health and wellbeing of our pets above the bottom line in my experience.

This is not an advertorial, I am not an influencer, just a genuine customer who appreciates how much effort and improvement in the offerring and service is just a couple of years.

What a smart way for brands to collaborate, rewarding customers for their support over the year and getting pouches testing out their favourite treats will bring more sales over the next year for sure. And gives customers the warm and fuzzies at te holidays with a great great value offering. Any treats your dog doesn’t like were so happy to share with neighbours and friends on our walks so the benefit to everyone is very special.

https://www.petsathomeplc.com/about-us/purpose-vision-values/

All The Advantages Of Shopping Lingerie Local At Kennys Market Harborough

The importance and enjoyment of supporting and shopping locally especially for great fitting...

Florie Deva

2025-11-13T09:06:00.0000000 2025-11-13T15:48:29.8330000

Happy Birthday Kenny’s Lingerie Market Harborough 19 Years In Business

Where can you go to find specialist help by way of a lingerie aficionado like Ms Margaret Kenny, proprietor and expert retailer in this day and age.

When you step into her well curated store with ranges from Wacoal, Fantasie, Triumph and Elomi you are greeted with the warmth and passion of someone genuinely pleased to see you and ready and waiting to solve your bra problem with wisdom and kindness in equal measure.

This kind of shop and first rate service is almost non existent in the new digital age why I think it’s vitally important we get out and support these small speciality shops still surviving against all the odds.

When it comes to getting the right fit and daily comfort and support from your undergarments, nothing beats a properly fitting bra, the women who have guided me throughout my life have instilled this in me.

A properly fitting bra will make you look slimmer and trimmer and your clothes will always look and feel better once you are in the correct undergarments, something stylist Gok Wan insisted upon reinforcing before attempting to style anyone during his tenure on prime time telly. 

I have always invested in decent lingerie, even though no one sees it except me. (And my husband occasionally) There’s nothing worse than being caught short in that grey old rag held together with a safety pin, an unexpected take your clothes off moment when trying something on or being required to strip off at a routine GP visit has caused so much embarrassment when younger I live in a matching set these days.

The pleasure of shopping of Kennys in Market Harborough enhanced with the feel good factor as Margaret (Kenny) shares stories of old bra collections going to the charity shop, Loros across the road and new bras, her long standing customers kindly bring in, being donated to a local women’s refuge. I love the whole idea of a circular community economy at Kenny’s in Market Harborough.

Although I do fear without more support this kind of amazing independent shop will be a thing of the past.

Pop in and see the gorgeous stock and size range Margaret Kenny offers from her wonderful shop on 5 Coventry Rd, Market Harborough LE16 9BX.

Pets at Home Luxury Advent Calendar 2025: Perfect Festive Treats & Toys for Pets at Just £30

Luxury Advent Calendar Has 8 Toys and 16 Treats 2025

Florie Deva

2025-10-17T08:55:57.7970000 2025-12-06T11:54:50.7400000

It is not often you see a brand improve their product offering and keep the price the same. This is the reason I went back to Pets At Home this year for the Luxury Dog Advent Calendar, luxury being the operative word after my less than impressed snoop last year, maybe someone in the buying department read it and took my honest feedback onboard.

There's not much competition out there in reality, not if your furry friend like the toys as much as the treats. I was tempted to shop with Bark in the US on Amazon this year, a company (Amazon) that is I try to avoid, and pay the premium shipping as the products, especially the donut box with four squeaky donuts it was was super cute and I knew my dog would love at £12.99 and they probably would have got me shopping on there if it hadn't been sold out.

I saw the new Pets at home on Tiktoc and dog playing with the squeaky sprout, hilarious, and the tooth cleaning chew (for any pups with less than pleasant breath) we love them anyway, was a hit too so I was sold. You can trust a dog to tell you if something is good or not and this one was selling the new and much improved offering.

     As the festive season approaches, pet owners are on the lookout for the perfect treat to spoil their furry companions. The Pets at Home Luxury Advent Calendar 2025 is here to add excitement and joy to your pet’s holiday season. Priced at £30, this calendar is brimming with £63 worth of goodies, making it a fantastic value that promises to delight both pets and their owners throughout the festive period.

I bought mine early as these item for Christmas do sell out fast, I noticed the Christmas treats coming into store, I have my eye on something and the next time I go, it's gone so I would recommend getting fast if you want one of these lovely mega boxes for your dog.

I have the say the box is massive so I don't anticipate the problems we had last year of opening windows to find nothing inside, this year it looks way better in terms of engineering.

    And the gifts inside, whilst they are still likely to be "made in china" look much cuter and sturdier in the pictures and the video I saw. 

Our girl loves toys, not a retriever at all but she does like to play with a variety of different things and gets bored easily so a new toy is always exciting. The 8 toys included in the calendar vary in type and function, catering to different types of pets and their unique preferences. From chew toys that promote dental health to plush toys for cuddling, the variety ensures that every pet finds something exciting behind each door. These toys not only provide fun but also stimulate mental and physical activity, keeping your pet healthy and active during the holiday festivities. I am really impressed this year.

All in all this product is 200 times better and amazing value for the money, a way way nicer gift than last year. And the reception from our furry friend was extremely positive, so cannot wait for December 1st when the opening begins.

Odering was easy, this item is not for delivery to home, they send it to your local Pets at Home for pick up and as usual the staff were helpful and really friendly when I picked it up, even carried it to the car for me.

Well done Pets at Home, compared to last year this Luxury Advent Calendar I am sure is going to be amazing and give us all lots of laughs and pleasure as our dog goes to town. 

The Griffin Inn Gastro Pub Swithland Leicester

Second pub owned by cricketers Stuart Broad and Harry Gurney

Florie Deva

2025-09-03T09:07:08.0570000 2025-09-03T10:05:56.5570000

What a gorgeous spot on the edge of historic Bradgate park, leicestershire the once home of Lady Jane Grey.

I read a few mixed reviews for this newly refurbished gastro pub online but then the community here on Poopsnoop seemed to have only good things to say so we decided to give it go.

First of all it's been a really long time since I've been anywhere where the servers are so attentive and professional. we received a really warm welcome and were seated outside, the sun was shining in very comfy cushioned seats with blankets at the ready in case we got chilly, a really nice touch.

The service was flawless and the food even better, even the cocktails we ordered were delivered quickly presented beautifully, the martini cost £15 so you want it to be delicious which it was and the wine we ordered to follow was London standard, tasted really really delicious so this is obviously an area of expertise. Most pub wine is usually undrinkable plonk so it was wonderful to take a sip and be very pleasantly surprised.

The food came out with alacrity, like I said it was a well oiled operation with everyone doing their upmost to ensure we had a great time.

We ordered a mix of starters, the hummus and flat bread, the courgette and feta fritters with tzatziki, my personal favourite, fresh homemade tomato and pepper soup which arrived with delicious homemade focaccia on the side. A tomato salad that was mouth watering, the vegetables clearly selected with love and to compliment everything chips that were crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside so all in all the food could not have been better either.

For dessert we ordered Afrogato, vanilla ice cream doused in express coffee, that alone we will be returning for and wait for it, we found out afterwards the ice cream was Vegan, which raised a couple of eyebrows but honestly you'd never have known. It was creamy and full of vanilla, we actually commented how good it was.

so we left full up and feeling good our puddings were plant based and dairy free, doing our bit for the environment, the farmers in leicestershire have had a really tough year in 2025 with the UK recording the hottest on record. We got to enjoy a glorious day at the Griffin Inn gastro pub and soaked up some early september sunshine so thanks to everyone who made our visit so special.

Mooi Beauty Therapy in Market Harborough

I had a luxury manicure and a Medik 8 Pore refining facial

Florie Deva

2025-08-31T10:04:36.1700000 2025-08-31T15:48:49.2070000

My sister sent me off to Mooi Beauty in Market Harborough for a pamper I was exceedingly grateful for as the ladies here took exceptional care of me.

Dora my older had sister had booked me in for a facial which was specifically for dealing with skin, blocked pores and rejuvenation (maybe too much information but hey it worked) at £70 this specific treatment is called the Medik8 Pore Refining Facial and is designed to gently break down pore blockages.

Targeted actives and gentle exfoliation are used apparently to gently break down pore blockages and promote the appearance of a smoother complexion with less visible, enlarged pores.

I really enjoyed the treatment with Natalie. It lasted about 50 minutes in a lovely clean modern private treatment room, very quiet and serene. I enjoyed the experience from start to finish.

They have lots of different facials to pick from that do different things, all around the same price £70 so really depends on what your issues and problem areas are and the therapist will advise you which one is best for you.

My facial was followed by a complimentary nail treatment, a manicure with regular polish, I actually took my own which was fine but they do have a good selection of Opi nail lacquer colours to pick from.

My Standard OPI Manicure was gifted to me

It Included a nail file, cuticle work, hand massage, ordinary polish application for £40

I decided to upgrade to the Luxury Manicure for an extra £10.

This was the same treatment pretty much nail file, cuticle work, exfoliation, massage, but you got the heated mittens, something I particularly enjoyed.

If you don’t like ordinary polish and prefer gel polish this is a service available for a fee.

I don’t get a pampering like this very often so I did absolutely love my visit to Mooi. The space is in a beautiful old building with gorgeous architecture, and hard wood floors, high ceilings and lovely cornicing and architectural features which really did add to the experience. Everything was super clean and the staff, everyone I encountered was friendly and professional.

The treatments I received I loved but like I said I am not an expert when it comes to expensive beauty treatments, my skin did feel polished and rejuvenated for some time afterwards, at least a week. My enlarged pores I didn’t notice a massive change but I wasn’t expecting a miracle after only one treatment. I’d probably have to return a few times to see if that problem could be significantly improved.

I’ll definitely will be going back for another go when budget and schedule allows.

Thank you Mooi, you made my sister’s gift a real pleasure.

Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort a bit isolated Felt Like More of A business hotel

Florie Deva

2025-07-12T10:31:23.4670000 2025-07-12T11:18:14.2230000

We picked this hotel on a budget. At first glance it seemed to provide everything we were looking for, for a great deal, 5 stars, gym, pool, not all inclusive, didn’t want loads of kids, sounded really good. We made a mistake with the location, we read Vilamoura and expected it to be close to the Vilamoura Marina where there are shops, restaurants and activities like parasailing and jet skiing to enjoy.

It’s actually a good 10 minutes drive away from the closest beach and a bit further to the marina so except for one trip out in the evening we found ourselves confined to the hotel for the whole week and as we don’t play golf, it’s situated on a beautiful golf course there wasn’t very much for us to do except lounge by the pool, which was nice but not quite what we’d expected.

One thing we did miss was a hotel shop, there isn’t one if you need a forgotten deodorant or an extra bottle of sunscreen.

Let’s focus on the positives.

The food in all the restaurants was excellent. The breakfast restaurant was spacious light and airy and we enjoyed our table outside every day. We had everything we needed from gorgeous fresh fruit, buffet style hot cooked options, artisan breads, fresh juices and smoothies, even Prosecco if you wanted it. The breakfast included in our rate you really couldn’t fault and hearty if you were going out to play golf all day, the main pursuit of other guests.

It also seemed like there were quite a few business travellers there when we arrived.

The rooms are not massive but perfectly adequate, with nice touches like down pillows, dressing gowns and slippers and the room was well appointed with dark wood accents and windows into the en-suite bathroom and closets. An interesting design feature giving the illusion of more space. The room service food menu could have been better. We ordered dinner in the room once and it took so long to arrive decided to give this a miss, eating a large lunch in the restaurant instead where the food and choice was way better.

It’s a big place and we happened to be miles away from the reception and lifts so it did take a few days to get accustomed to finding our way around. The walking did get on our nerves by the end of the week, although we found a couple of short cuts to the pool where we enjoyed great service, the waiters were friendly and 5 star for definite happy to bring us anything and everything we needed, even providing first aid when a stubbed toe on a sunlounger needed a plaster to stop the bleeding.

The best thing for us was the poolside furniture. Rattan loungers with big comfy cushions and thick cosy towels immediately replaced when you plunged into the massive crystal clear (pretty cold) refreshing pool. The poolside service would be difficult to fault. Although it wasn’t busy during the day if you are looking for a social scene.

If you don’t want food by the pool there’s a proper restaurant adjacent where the food again was faultless and not super expensive, we enjoyed lovely salads and fresh fish all a la carte with a good wine list and again great service. It was just a shame there wasn’t much of an atmosphere as most other guests weren’t around for lunch.

It is one of those hotels if you wanted a base to play golf everyday it would be perfect and we did feel we got quite a lot for our money. They have a gym so you can work out but no classes or spa available which we did miss.

If you stay here you really need a car to get out and about and definitely to go to the beach. Without one you are a bit screwed as taxis are expensive.

It says it’s a 5 star property, probably more like four stars with great food and really nice service.

Probably wouldn’t stay here again unless it was for a weekend just because of the more remote location but a very quiet enjoyable relaxing break if you don’t want to be bothered by families with children and need somewhere a bit more affordable during the high season when places closer to the beach and amenities put their prices up.

It would be the perfect place to hold a business conference in the sun or for a golf weekend.

It’s not a vacation destination hotel and you need a car to get around or you are going to feel a bit stranded.

Daisy Fox Flowers Market Harborough

Have you seen the fantastic decorations floral display outside the shop yet? Dec 2025

Florie Deva

2025-04-25T08:29:06.6170000 2025-12-05T08:46:28.4130000

When I saw the stunning holiday decorations outside Daisy Fox, a week or so ago I had to snap a picture and update my snoop. Shows just how talented and creative Daisy Fox is. How wonderful to have such a beautiful facade on Abbey St to be enjoyed by everyone. The perfect back drop to any holiday photographs. Make sure you tag this clever artist in when you post your gorgeous pictures. I haven’t seen work this fantastic outside London or on the cover of Homes and Gardens or the Martha Stewart Magazine. I also discovered Daisy has been hosting wreath making workshops for anyone interested in having a go at creating something wonderful. For those of us who’d rather buy one blue Peter style, here’s one I made earlier, Daisy can help you with that too.

If you don’t like garage or supermarket flowers and want to choose from a variety of hand selected stems and are happy to pay a little more for the privilege and convenience of a lovely town centre shop then look no further than Daisy Fox Flowers, a gorgeous specialty flower shop in the picturesque market town of market harborough. Can you believe it’s our only florist? Not taking anything away from the equally gorgeous house plant store opposite at no 10 abbey st, in the former fire station, windowsill plants run by local lass Susie Lickman. The women of Market Harborough are doing everything possible to help each other. You’ll find window sill plants also for sale in Two Old Goats cafe where you find the Lemonaid. I digress.

Dean at Lascelles on Church St I used to buy my flowers from, I was very sad when he closed his beautiful lifestyle shop, my father and him shared a love of old cars, these days I am more likely to see him in the pub so very happy we’ve got this gorgeous new florist in town.

She’s had a tough time, recently opened in the last 12 months she’s had her window smashed twice which I was horrified to notice and inspired to write something to help Daisy share her passion and love of exquisite beautiful blooms.

flowers are a luxury and they are an expensive treat when times are tough. I always remember something my Nan used to say, “if you’ve got three loaves, sell a loaf and buy a lily” it’s taken a while for me to get it.

I don’t have a garden where I live so I rely on the meadows around and my once every two weeks now “lily” purchase for my flower lift pick me up.

Delighted to also see a lovely collaboration partnership between our gorgeous farm shop shop Farndon Fields and Daisy Fox Flowers where you can find a better than the garage or supermarket pre made up bouquets and arrangements if you don’t fancy picking your own.

It’s a tough time for traders at the moment. I personally love to have independent shops in town, it’s what keeps the place interesting and vibrant and attracts visitors not just from further a field but locally too, Leicester, Corby, Kettering, Northampton, all places we have seen rapid decline in city centre footfall and visitor numbers due to rising crime and closed down bankrupt businesses.

More important than ever to support the businesses we love if we want them to but only survive but thrive too.

Thank you Daisy Fox you have great style and taste when it comes to your flower selection.

Lemonaid feel good organic drinks

Change the world fair trade

Florie Deva

2025-04-20T08:48:40.8830000 2025-04-20T12:22:37.4700000

What is a change the world drinks brand?

It takes a village; It’s a well known saying that for me says we are not alone, we make things happen together. And that’s what Lemonaid soft drinks brand all about.

They make a few flavours of lemon based lemonade, a blood orange version, a grapefruit version, a lime version, a passion fruit version and I think a strawberry version. Changing the world drop by drop is their strap, gorgeous slightly sparkling all natural all organic all recycled packaging and tastes absolutely delicious. This is a business that set out with the goal to incite the process of social change and I get that and absolutely love it.

I first came across the delicious soft drinks for sale in Two Old Goats Cafe in Market Harborough. I’d never seen them before and knowing the ladies that run the cafe are really into sustainability and sourcing and supporting people doing things in a better way I decided to try the blood orange one. Boasting all organic natural ingredients and no preservatives served chilled over loads of ice it was absolutely delicious.

They cost about £2.50 each. I know it’s expensive, usually sold in independent cafes and premium food to go spots. When you buy one know it says something about the shopkeeper you are buying from. People promoting and selling brands like Lemonaid are quietly changing the world.

Lemonaid is definitely a brand to keep your eyes open for if you want to give your support to a soft drinks brand that cares a lot more than say Coco Cola or Pepsi.

7,000,000 euros to date have been donated by Lemonaid and Charli Teas (5 cent per bottle) to global rejuvenation and regeneration projects. You can see so much fair trade work going on across Africa and the world on the Lemonaid website link below.

Tameka Empson Sisters on Screen

For one night only celebrating International Women’s Month

Florie Deva

2025-02-27T08:04:36.1200000 2025-02-27T08:12:46.7930000

This is a shout out for Sisters on Screen show at the Millfield Theatre, 29th March, 2025. I am tempted to get a ticket myself but it is a bit of a trek for me.

I hope they video, stream so fans can watch who cannot get there.

For me Tameka Empson, who plays the indemitable Kim Fox on UK Soap opera Eastenders is one of the funniest and most talented comedic actresses I have ever seen and I am including Hollywood greats here, she’s as funny as Lucille Ball or Mary Tyler Moore, and has the comedic timing of comic genius Melissa McCarthy or even Ellen Degeneres.

She’s absolutely hilarious, brilliant and the reason I tune in to Eastenders, to see the Kimfluencer, something that has me in fits of giggles every time she says it.

I don’t know Tameka and when I have seen her at awards shows and out of the Eastenders environment she appears reserved and shy which is in stark contrast to the crazy character (with a grounding everyone would want in their best friend) she plays.

I was excited to see Tameka and her on screen sisters Denise, Diane Parish marketing their for one night only show at the Millfield Theatre, 29th March 2025 and although I’d love to be there but can’t U thought I’d show my gratitude and love for all the years of entertainment and all the laughs you’ve given you clever clever girl.

Break your legs ladies.

It’s going to be a little naughty, be warned, colourful language, adult content. Tickets cost £28.50. Concessions £20. Curtain up 7.30pm.

Lilybelle Beauty and Nails Market Harborough

Florie Deva

2025-02-20T14:43:58.8730000 2025-02-20T15:06:52.6770000

There are a few nail shops in Market Harborough. My friends like Cinderella nails for acrylics and gel polish, quick and a good deal I am assured but I am a natural nail person and prefer a more holistic approach. This nail shop looks inviting from the outside except everytime I have walked past and thought I’d nip in it’s always packed.

I got in for a pedicure and it was a better than average experience. It took about 40 minutes in total and I paid £42 and was happy to leave an £8 tip.

It does say on the online booking system the pedicure takes 70 minutes for normal polish but much of this time is for drying the polish.

The experience was lovely and a lot of care was taken over the treatment. It didn’t feel rushed in anyway. They bagged my feet in warm mitts towards the end of the treatment, something I love you don’t get in many salons. The atmosphere was serene, the place smelled lovely and even though it was busy and all the chairs full it was quiet and felt calm and relaxing.

They have an online booking system link below which details all the additional treatments offered including massage, eyebrow waxing and tinting, all other waxing, and acrylic and gel nail services as well as regular manicures and pedicure.

The key to this salon is booking ahead. Please be advised they require 48 hours notice for any cancellation and you are required to pay a non refundable booking fee of £10 on any treatment costing more than £20.

My schedule changes a lot so booking in doesn’t always work for me, however I did really enjoy the experience so if I was passing and spotted an empty chair I’d be straight back in for a pamper and relaxation.

I was very happy with the whole experience.

Tobacco Dock

Florie Deva

2025-02-05T15:18:10.6700000 2025-02-05T15:44:53.9730000

Tobacco Dock combines a superbly renovated grade 1 listed building with state of the art event space offering floor to ceiling glass over looking wharf side views and ancient York stone.

I’ve been to a couple of events here, one back in 2022 when Sarah Burton put a see through dome on the top of the 7 story car park to present Alexander McQueen spring summer collection that year. In contrast I’ve also attended a few less glamourous trade show type events.

It really is like nothing else, the scale you get from the open timbered vaulted ceiling and the long walkway opens up to event spaces from the great gallery to smaller more intimate theatre and presentation spaces.

Well known for hosting London’s prestigious set for the BAFTAs Tobacco Dock was also home to Junipalooza, a celebration for producers, purveyors and guzzlers of gin.

Unfortunately we haven’t seen this festival return in 2025. Actually there doesn’t seem much scheduled for the summer except all the way from New York City, comes Josh Ozersky’s Meatopia, a two day food and drink festival returns, 28th August, 2025 to 31st August, 2925. Interestingly they are strict at Meatopia about where the meat comes from, “cruelty free” animals that live well and die humanely. Everything must be cooked using wood or charcoal, no gas or electricity.

I love the venue, it really is special. I was brought up eating meat but gave up eating it a few years ago now so I won’t see you at Meatopia.

Lock In Self Storage Market Harborough

Individual super clean storage units with easy modern 24 hour access and friendly management

Florie Deva

2025-01-04T10:18:14.6970000 2025-09-03T08:44:36.6800000

I will always choose small and independent and sorry guys even better if the business is female led.

The gender pay gap is something I find difficult to tolerate in 2025 (basically women having to work for free in November and December for the exact same job) so when I find a business run by a female I feel solidarity with her.

Greer is the lady whose business this is and she was always pleasant and easy to deal with. I used her storage facilities which were always spotlessly clean for about a year without any issues whatsoever.

The one thing that did happen which was absolutely fair enough I missed a payment, some issue with my direct debit and when I tried to use my remote control key to access my locker it had been deactivated.

It was a bit of a hassle but Greer lives nearby (another benefit when using her facilities) and got me sorted quickly once my account was no longer in arrears.

This is a slick operation, you get exactly what it says on the tin, safe clean affordable storage you can access anytime. I even got a ground floor unit very close to the door so I was over the moon when it came to accessing my things loading and unloading.

Thanks Greer. Wouldn’t hesitate to come back should the need arise.

The Hollywood Look For Less

Florie Deva

2024-12-02T12:45:23.4530000 2024-12-02T12:45:23.4670000

I met Shirley and Holly Yanez in 2010 at Butlins. They were there with their show the Hollywood Look For Less and I was there after a messy divorce with two kids trying to hold it all together.

I was reminded of them as I lent a La Perla gown to a friend of mine this weekend, gifted to me by Holly and Shirley as a pick me up back then, they said.

The dress is pure silk, red carpet glamour, a beautiful silver and it was the centre piece of their live show on the Main stage at Butlins, Minehead, I could not believe it when they gave the dress to me in front of a packed auditorium. It made me cry at the time.

I went back to look at their website which I have to tell you hasn’t been updated for a while but it is packed full of things you’d never in a million years think about but in a funny sort of way you already know.

They have simplified the aspiration, glitz, glamour and money of Hollywood and repackaged it in a way mere mortals like me with problems and kids and not that much money can spin things out and make them better.

Holly and Shirley are all about swapping; sharing, recycling, having the best for less, their sayings “buy new and the jokes on you” and “you only know what you know” have stayed with me.

My friend is going to her party next weekend wearing a La Perla gown she’d never have been able to afford recycled from Hollywood.

If you want to connect you can also shop their style studio at Rescuelux.com

Venus Cow Leggings - Nothing compares to you

Florie Deva

2024-11-19T11:49:04.3170000 2024-11-19T11:57:16.2700000

You’ve probably never heard of Venus Cow. It’s a small British legging brand I’ve been shopping with for a few years now. They used to have a gorgeous shop in Market Harborough, UK I believe got closed down by the local council over a row about a window shutter. Even the local Tory MP Neil O’Brien was involved.

It’s a shame because their cotton base layer garments are incredible, and their leggings are better than anything else I have tried. The organic cotton leggings are called The Perfect Black Leggings or PBL and they are that kind of product you cannot believe you didn’t know about. Certainly wouldn’t couldn’t find anywhere else for the unbelievable price. The kind of product that actually makes you feel a bit proud to be British, like the sandwich. Invented in 1742 and born out of necessity for the 4th Earl of Sandwich an incessant gambler who didn’t want to leave his card table but needed to be served dinner, has endured for 400 years does bare a great similarity to the specific requirements of the PBL creator, Shirley Yanez.

Absolutely wonderful fit and feel. If Marks and Spencer’s were able to make something this good with all the ethical credentials too they’d be permanently out of stock they are that good.

The leggings are the most comfortable leggings I have ever worn, thick, Matt black, no see through, when you first put them on you cannot believe you got them for £35. I’d say they feel like a £70 £80 legging.

Cannot say enough about these. It’s one of those products that doesn’t need any marketing. Once you’ve pulled them on you are never going back to the cheap ones.

David Cameron

Florie Deva

2024-11-19T10:32:30.0030000 2024-11-19T17:28:49.4900000

I want to take you back to 2010 for this snoop. I was working for a psychotherapist who was looking at the concept of “happiness” and how it might be a factor when looking at individual success stories in life and visa versa.

He was extremely sure mental wellbeing was if not the most important thing for human beings economic success it was a critical factor. The idea you are ineffective when you are depressed.

So when David Cameron the then prime minister announced he was thinking along the same lines, he said: "It's time we admitted that there's more to life than money and it's time we focused not just on GDP but on GWB – general wellbeing." my boss was over the moon and enlisted my help to compose a letter and then a series of follow up letters in response. He was sharing an idea to introduce “happiness coaching” into prisons to change the way inmates thought, while incarcerated resolving conflicts in prisons and giving inmates a greater opportunity for a better more fulfilling life when released.

The long and short of the story, we didn’t actually get anywhere. Everything we presented as running parallel to Mr. Cameron’s ideas as reflected in the media were fobbed off.

I remember thinking at the time this just doesn’t make any sense. The government appeared to be saying one thing through the media but when we were basically mirroring the work the government said needed doing, we were getting closed door responses that didn’t make sense.

The absolute kicker came when instead of writing back, we tried phoning, I tried 3 or 4 times but couldn’t get put through to the signatory on the letters.

The whole thing just seemed weird and fishy. Most people would have just dropped it. However the psychotherapist I was working for did really believe he could make a difference, his passion, particularly in Prisons, his program offered to the government for free he believed would and could turn around the prison system in the UK and rehabilitate prisoners with Happiness.

Sounds a bit mad I know, I’ve seen the work, work.

He was so convinced he was on the right track he asked me to go a step further and turn up to track down the civil servant I had been receiving correspondence from but was unable to communicate with.

What I am going to tell you now I cannot prove, you’ll just have to take my word for it, and because of this I have not exercised my right to vote since.

The named person on the government correspondence, was made up. They did not exist. And you can make of this what you will.

Pets at Home

Florie Deva

2024-11-18T12:28:18.5170000 2024-12-02T12:57:36.8870000

I just purchased the Pets at Home Christmas All Kinds of Treats Advent Calendar for Dogs. It was between the £120 Fortnum option or this alternative at £30.

Pets at Home was started by Anthony Preston and opened their first store in Chester, UK, 1991 and what a British success story it has been.

They offer a one stop shop for everything pets from Veterinary services to grooming to bedding, to food and play needs.

I have used the store in Leicester for a few years now and when you can find a member of staff (never anyone around) they are always friendly, knowledgeable and helpful.

I bought a rabbit hutch a couple of years ago for the animal sanctuary and instead of making me build it, they allowed me to have one on display, a massive help.

As an animal welfare activist and volunteer at a sanctuary I don’t like to see the rabbits and guinea pigs in the pens for sale behind the Perspex, can’t be much of a life but I try not to look at them too closely. I would prefer something more organic for the animals before they go to their new homes.

All the food, treats, toys, I have purchased so far I have had no complaints.

I did just order the extra special animal doggie advent calendar at £30 for my pouch and three treats in even the kids are a bit disappointed, feeling sorry for the dog, so far the surprises have been a bit cheesy “made in china” so hoping the presents get a bit better as we go.

I struggled to find it and had to order online to be delivered to the store so probably struggle to buy one anyway, it’s OK more packaging than presents.

Update, the presents didn’t get better and the kids lost interest in opening the doors about day 14 - we couldn’t wait and started early.

Toni And Guy Market Harborough Surprise

Not what I was expecting

Florie Deva

2024-11-06T09:54:14.9000000 2025-04-25T08:10:48.3530000

I had never been to Toni and Guy before. They are a franchise chain of hairdressing salons in the UK like Vidal Sassoon who I have tried once. Vidal Sassoon salons use a strange blow dry technique and no round brushes so that didn’t work so well for me. This time I decided to give Toni and Guy in Market Harborough a go.

The prices, range from £60 for a cut and blow dry up to £120 for director level. I opted for somewhere in the middle.

The salon I went to was small, narrow and very busy so it was noisy and people were bumpy into each other when they tried to go to the toilet which wasn’t ideal.

I asked to use my own products which wasn’t allowed. Lots of bigger salons I have found won’t let you use your own products.

I have a caw flick which needs extra attention, and the stylist wasn’t the best listener so I ended up with an OK cut but my problem area was still a problem area unfortunately when I left.

I’d say OK service for an OK price if you don’t have any specific requirements and don’t expect a lot of care and attention.

It’s an in and out place. Get them in and get them out. Not the sort of place to build a relationship with your stylist.

Toni and Guy is a franchise based business. Which basically means every one is independently owned but operating under the “Toni and Guy” brand. So you have no idea whether the person running the shop is a good hairdresser or a bad one. A friend of mine goes to Toni and Guy in Cheltenham and she couldn’t be happier with her stylist.

I’d say at Toni and Guy unless someone has recommended it’s a bit hit and miss.

Lisa Rinna

Florie Deva

2024-10-25T13:24:30.8130000 2024-10-28T14:34:15.0670000

I saw a clip online a couple of days ago, actor Harry Hamlin (LA Law) was talking about his wife Lisa RINNA and he called her GOAT, greatest of all time housewife and as far as the franchise goes, I completely agree with him.

Why I am absolutely gutted to see the new series of Real Housewives Beverly Hills minus RINNA. What’s up Bravo. Was she too expensive?

I’ve watched two and already for me Lisa Rinna has left a massive hole for the franchise, no one is as shocking, out there, Hollywood through and through and for me the consummate professional. I hope Lisa understands when I say I love her like we love Joan Rivers, Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Iris Apfel for the simple uncomfortable reason you have absolutely no idea what she might say next, “were people doing coke in your bathroom?” what mess she’ll get herself into and then with courage and aplomb apologise or NOT, that’s just RINNA, love her or hate her that’s just her.

She’s been the soap opera veteran playing Billie Reed in Days of our Lives, or was it the other one, and then Taylor on Melrose Place. The show before the show. Darren Star created Melrose Place before Sex and the The City. It was must watch. We even had a regular Wednesday night bar we’d go to watch. She was a piece of work. Loved that show.

RINNA has gone on to icon status in Los Angeles, not yet a star on the walk of fame but Andy Cohen got his I’m

2022 (you heard it here first I predict 2025 will be the year Hollywood recognises this star with “the star” and loved by fans around the world. She’s everywhere, in a TV commercial, walking on the runway at the hottest fashion show signing copies of her latest book or global make up launch.

The chick can even sing, can dance can act, she’s the most convincing take off of Justin Bieber on Stars in Their Eyes, I’ve ever seen.

We are a season behind for Real Housewives of Beverly Hills in the UK and two episodes in I am praying for a guest appearance.

Come on Bravo, pleaaaaase.

Image credits Instagram @lisarinna @rinnabeauty

[Poopsnoop editor - image edit]

Rutland Big Sale and The Big Christmas Market

Florie Deva

2024-10-25T11:24:02.0600000 2024-10-25T12:55:35.0030000

I wanted to share a lovely day out we had back in February, The Rutland Big Sale, organised by Rutland Women in Business a community of small business owners. FYI The Rutland Hall Hotel and marque was the old venue. The new venue is The Barnstable Hotel in Rutland.

I am not in the community I just like supporting the events and they have another festive one coming up in November so thought it a good time to tell you all about them. Women supporting women.

The event I went to was held at the Rutland Hall Hotel in their amazing outdoor marque, a wonderful venue, very well organised event, plenty of parking and ushers to guide you where to go.

Inside were about 30 local vendors, all different with a range of goods from clothes, candles, jewellery, art, crafts, cards, gifts, food, something for everyone.

Their next big festive shopping event is on the 15th, 16th and all day Sunday 17th of November.

I am sure it will be a great opportunity to shop beautiful gifts with stories to delight friends and family.

The best bit about buying and supporting a small company for me, everyone is always noisy when you present something fabulous yet unknown.

Link for tickets at the bottom of this post and you can follow on Instagram @rutlandwomeninbusiness