Being a Midlands-based blogger, I always do a little butt-wiggle of joy when I get invited to an event that’s not in London for once. The chance to meet some amazing brands and play with some beauty bits without the hour train journey to Euston? It’s the stuff that dreams are made of, my friends (okay, very selfish, lazy dreams… but dreams nonetheless).
A couple of weeks ago, one such dream-like event popped up as I was invited to the launch of the brand new Debenham’s store in Rugby. Along with fellow Midlands blogger Emma from Brummy Mummy of 2, I was given a sneak preview at the shop the day before it opened to the public. Armed with a glass of champagne, we had a tour of all of the new beauty counters, learning about the various brands as well as the new store as a whole.
(I wasn’t expecting to be papped along the way, hence my manky natural nails. Also, how does Kylie Jenner manage to get photographed all the time and NOT have a raging double chin?!)
My eyebrows got some much needed attention at the Benefit Brow Bar, and I was also lucky enough to pick up some samples along the way from brands including Clarins, Clinique, Urban Decay and Bare Minerals. All of the staff we spoke to were so friendly, helpful and passionate about their brands that I know shopping at this store would be a really positive experience (unlike some department stores where the counter girls can make you feel like a bothersome troll).
Our guided tour ended as all events should: with cake. Mmmmmm.
Rugby is only around 20 minutes away from me, but I have to confess that I’ve never really gone out of my way to visit the town as I didn’t know what it had to offer in terms of shopping. I’m sure that will all change from now on though, as the new Debenhams store is based on the equally new Elliot’s Field retail park. H&M, River Island, Outfit and Next will all be there too, along with food options from Nandos and Ed’s Diner. If you’re local, then I definitely recommend paying it a visit as you won’t be disappointed.
A huge thank you to Debenhams for inviting me along to their new store!
This looks like so much fun! I definitely feel you about the hour long train ride into the nearest city (although mine is Toronto rather than London!)
I always tend to avoid places like these because I feel exactly as you describe, ‘an annoying troll’ lol!
Great post! And I love your hair 🙂
http://www.lindseyginge.com
Haha glad I’m not alone in the troll fears! Thank you lovely 🙂 xx
I love your hair, and jacket.
Sounds like it was a really great event
Jenn | Jennifer Jayne
Thank you – the blazer was a sale bargain from Topshop for only £25! xx
Just got to say you look absolutely gorgeous!! Hope you had a lovely time!
Becky Shannon xx – Life-by-Becky
Aw thank you! I did have a great time thanks 🙂 xx
Great to have a store with so many brands so close to you now! xx
Beautylymin
The Benefit counter is always the most prettiest
Candice | Beauty Candy Loves
So nice to see events that aren’t just in London I agree and you looked amazing honestly, love your outfit! xxx
ohhh exciting! I bet the samples from all these amazing brands are great! Do shows us :p
Love your eyebrows, they look so great!
Pam xo/ Pam Scalfi♥
Haha, I’m sure I will be showing them off soon 🙂 xx
The store is beautiful. I like your hair color♥♥
chocolateandsunset.com
Thank you lovely 🙂 xx
Looking amazing as usual Claire! This looks like a great event, anything that ends in cake is a winner in my opinion!
x
Aw thanks Jen! Haha great minds 😉 xx