Louise In LA

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

If you have been following me on my vlog channel, 'Sprinkle of Chatter, you will have seen that earlier this month I was in LA for a week of fun, collabs and adventures. 

Since all the videos are now published, I thought it would be fun to answer some of your questions!

If you would like to watch the vlogs, click HERE. 

Now, on with the questions!

Favourite thing you purchased in LA?

Oohh this is very easy. After seeing it on so many beauty blogs and in beauty videos, I took myself off to Sephora and picked up the Becca & Jaclyn Hill Champagne Pop Highlighter and oh my life, I was not disappointed. Although it's a pressed powder product it applies like an intense cream, blends beautifully and leaves you like a golden goddess. I've used it almost every day and I can safely say, it's love. 

Where was your favourite place to go?

Somewhere I went to but would have liked to spend more time at was Venice. It had sweet little canals and beautiful homes and lots of little nooks and crannies. To me, America feels really big and intimidating with it's crazy wide roads and huge buildings but Venice had the higgledypiggledy vibe that London has so I felt nice there. 

Favourite restaurant out there?

So, I'm not sure if I would call this a restaurant, but In-N-Out Burger. It's a fast food place (with eat in or drive thru) and oh em eff gee it was good. So good I had it twice. Once when I was in a grumpy hangry mood and once to cure a hangover (oops haha) and it was EXACTLY what I needed. I don't really eat beef so I was just going to get Animal Fries (I had those once a couple of years ago and have been dreaming of them every since) but Drew was way too much of an enabler and ordered me a grilled cheese thing too. It was the stuff of dreams I'm telling you. Also, whilst I'm at it recommending things- pink lemonade. You need it in your life. 

Would you ever consider living out there?

I've always dreamt of spending some of my life living in America. The problem now is that Matt and I are separated, so taking Darcy over to America (and therefore away from him) would be a horrible idea and something I don't want to do. So, maybe when she's a lot lot lot older I could do it or if I really wanted to, perhaps I could divide my time between the two for a few weeks at a time. No plans for moving anywhere for a good while yet though. 

Hardest thing to over come being away from home?

The hardest thing was obviously being away from Darcy. I'm pretty good at switching between Mummy Mode and Louise Mode but there were times, particularly at DisneyLand where my Mummy heart hurt. Also, as we've talked about before, I struggle REALLY badly with being out of my comfort zone so doing so much on my own (without Matt, family or Maddie) was a challenge. I was really grateful to Cayleigh and Drew for being so lovely and understanding. Even when I had a little strop in the car once hahaha. 

Best night out you had?

I think the best night out was a night at Joey Graceffa's house. We had a mermaid pool party for our friend Cayleigh, with amazing drinks, yummy food, lols and of course, pool time. I wore the bikini I bought here last winter. I'd been building up the courage to go for a bikini for months and when I finally did it, it felt so freeing. It was pretty pricey ($89.99 plus extortionate shipping) but omg, it was so worth it. 

Did you see any famous people?

Well, I collabed with some of the most fabulous YouTubers in LA so yes! 

Favourite thing you did?

One afternoon my friend Drew and I drove the length of Mulholland Drive and then down to the coast. Pootling around in cars, singing careoke and taking in the view is basically my idea of heaven so this was the perfect afternoon for me. There is something really soothing about being driven about and listening to someone telling you which school they went to as a child, pointing out famous houses and stopping to take a few insta's of the scenery! 

Will you go back to DisneyLand?

Yes. My heart belongs to Disney. Not Walt, just yanno, the concept of Disney. 

What was your favourite part of DisneyLand?

In the last hour of the day, when we were so tired and ready to head home, Cayleigh, Drew and I jumped on a Story Book ride. It was a little boat (that tipped about thank you very much) that meandered through sweet grassy verges adorned with all the houses of the Disney characters. The structures were only doll house size but so detailed and sweet, I could've done that ride so many more times and looked at everything. Sometimes it's not the big beasty thrills that make your favourite memories but the quiet little moments that capture your imagination. 

Any weird accidents?

Oh yes. So, it was early morning and Cayleigh and I had been swimming in the hotel pool. PJ and his gang were due to arrive round to come and record my voice for something Oscars Hotel related. We'd spent a bit too long at the pool, I was wearing a towel and the door knocked- they were here!! I shouted, 'just a minute!!' and tried to put my dress on. I wasn't fully dry so it got all tangled and stuck, I had no underwear on, I frantically whispered to Cayleigh to help me and basically was a half naked, half moist (ooer) woman caught up in a dress and she saw everything! Hopefully by the time I opened the door to PJ he had no idea of my issues. Incidentally, I still had no underwear on for the entirety of the voice recording!!!

What song reminds you of your trip?

Dear Future Husband by Meghan Trainer. Cayleigh had it in her car on repeat haha. 

Will you visit LA again?

I really hope so. 

Did Darcy miss you?

Funnily enough, I don't think so. She has such a great time with her Daddy and is so used to spending chunks of time with each of us separately that I think she was just happy to be doing what she was doing. We Skyped a few times though, mostly for my benefit haha. 

Favourite thing about LA?

I'm gonna be really smooshy but, the people. I have lots of American friends now and one thing I always notice is how welcoming and hospitable they are to me. Cayleigh was always on hand to gee me up when I was having a scardycat moment, Drew did all my favourite things with me (he even sat through all of Bridget Jone's Diary and ordered aaaalllllll the room service food which pleased me soooo much. Netflix and dinner, bliss), the Whats Up Moms ladies for having me over for the day (with amazing food, the best girlie chats, shopping and taking me to the airport), Joey for hosting the amazing mermaid party and letting me raid his fridge, Ingrid, Cat and Mamrie for taking the trouble to come out to my hotel to film such fun collabs. 

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Thank you to so many of you on twitter for asking such good questions, I really enjoy posts like this so I think I might do more like it- it's like taking part in a mini interview haha!! Don't forget to checkout the vlogs and things I've linked in the post for you and I'll see you all soon!

Toodlepip!

xx

LA Vidcon Questions

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

When I published THIS post about my trip to LA for Vidcon, I invited you to ask as many questions as you liked and promised to answer them. Well, the time has come to get cracking with my replies so I hope this provides a little more insight for you re: YouTuber Trips and if there is anything else you'd like to know, do feel free to ask.

What was it like sharing a house with lots of other YouTuber's?

Completely fine. Since I'm married and female, everyone agreed that I could have my own bedroom (spaces were limited) so I always had a quiet space to go to when I needed it. The boys were all really tidy and also very gentlemanly toward me. They are good eggs. 

Did you meet any new people who you never had heard of before? 

Yes! Two girls that stuck out particularly were Lily and Nadine who live in LA and are singers. They were so open and warm and interesting and I would like to have spent a lot more time with them both. I'm hoping they come to the UK soon so that I can play with them more. I also spent quite a bit of time with a YouTuber called Sawyer (watch out for our video collab soon) who was an absolute doll. There were obviously a lot of other new faces but they were my tippy toppy highlights.

Did you ever feel a bit overwhelmed by everything (as if you were a celebrity?) or did you feel comfortable the whole time?

Yes and No. I feel uncomfortable with the idea of being a 'celebrity' because I feel like to say, 'I am a celebrity' is akin to saying, 'I am above other people' in some aspect. That might not be the actual truth but that's how it feels in LouiseLand. I think I would prefer the term, 'well known YouTuber' or something of that nature for the time being. I felt entirely comfortable with having my picture taken and talking to people I didn't know and being in large crowds though, it was a lot of fun!

What was it like getting to meet some of YOUR favourite youtubers? 

Brilliant! I totally fangirled and got giddy and couldn't think of what I wanted to say. If you look closely in the video I filmed with Grace (one of my all time favourites), the vein on my forehead is popping out (ew)- a sure sign I am over excited!!

What were the beauty items you used most while you were there day-to-day?

I seemed to always be doing my makeup in a rush but steps I NEVER skipped were foundations (Mac Studio Sculpt), Eyeliner and Mascara. I also always made sure I had lipgloss in my bag at all times. 

What shops/restaurants would you recommend and why?

Believe it or not, I didn't actually go shopping whilst I was out there because I was more eager to meet viewers and spend time with people. I did go to quite a few restaurants though- a girl's gotta eat after all! I'm a huge fan of The Cheesecake Factory which I know is a chain (Zoe and I could've eaten there every single day!) and IHOP of course. Whilst in LA we went to this really cute little place called The Stinking Rose which specialises in garlic. It was great food with a great atmosphere and I will definitely be going back next year. 

What were the most amazing things that people gave to you at the meet up?

I don't like to pick just one thing because it seems unfair but I would have to say the things I was given for Darcy- she was spoilt rotten! I'm also rather fond of the little mini Louise figurine someone made! Also, someone rather naughtily gave me a beautiful mint necklace from Nordstrom. I always say, 'Please don't spend your money on buying me presents, treat yourself instead'. A lot of people at these events are young viewers who most likely live off pocket money- please don't waste it on me!

That doesn't really have anything to do with LA but i was just wondering, is it harder to edit vlogs or videos for your main channel? Or like which do you enjoy doing more?

It's much harder to edit main channel videos than vlogs. Vlogs are just clips of my day and I never give myself a time limit like I do my main ones. They feel a lot more relaxed and unpressurised so I think I'd lean toward saying I enjoy them a lot more.

The question I would like to ask you is what purchases did you make while over there? Also can you pick one favourite moment from the entire trip?

No purchases really except a few tacky magnets in the airport gift shop but my favourite moment I think was dinner with the Shaytards and my friends. I was missing my family SO much by that point and spending an evening with another loving family was just what I needed. I felt at my best that night- even if I did have crappy pool hair!

What website did you use to find the house in LA, or how did you come across the place?

I didn't find it myself, some of the boys organised it all. Sorry!

Have you been to Vidcon before?

No, that was my first trip but I plan on returning next year. Hopefully, depending on dates, with my family this time. 

How do you afford/save up for these trips?

A good question. I'll make no secret of the fact that this blog and my YouTube channel is my 'job'. I say job but really I feel like I need a word for 'amazing fun thing that I love to do'. I make money from the little ads that flash up on my videos (which you are not obliged to watch) and so I have been saving up that money to afford my flights etc. I must say, it is a very large expense and for that reason I very nearly didn't go. I actually told everyone I wasn't coming and then at the last minute (with a little bit of financial aid from my Dad- thanks Dad!), I went! Next year I will be more prepared and start saving earlier!!

Would you ever bring Darcy on any of you international adventures?

Absolutely yes. I took her to a British event (SITC) this summer and she was happy being there. I am hoping that next year or the year after she can come to Vidcon.

What were your favorite US makeup purchases? And did you ever make it to Target?

I never made it to Target. Once again I have missed out. I'm going to Florida in October so hopefully I can go then.

Guessing you were present when Zoe had her panic attack, I am just wondering how you/others who were also there reacted. Really don't hope this question makes you or Zoe or anyone else uncomfortable or distressed.

Yes I was present and I reacted how I always do to Zoe's panic attacks- with love and sympathy. When people are having panic attacks they don't need everyone to flap about and fire frustrating questions at them, they need calm reassurances and plenty of space. Fortunately we were in our hotel room so we didn't have to dash off to find a quiet place or anything. 

I was just wondering how you dealt with the massive crowds of people that were at Vidcon? Have you ever had any like phobias (of crowds or stuff) , or panic attacks or things like that?

Crowds don't bother me too much unless I'm really hemmed in. If that is the case, I just move away. The crowds at these sorts of thing are always well wishing and happy and so it's always nice to be amongst them. 

How does it make you feel when you see so many people who have travelled there, just to see you or one of your closest friends?

Very proud to have such an amazing friend and also very lucky to know her as well as I do. 

Do you have to pay for the flight and hotel room or is it paid by sponsors? 

This is tricky. Vidcon pays for some people in terms of hotel rooms and flights but not others. I paid for my own stuff :) If you would like more info on that, I suggest you contact vidcon because I'd rather not discuss other people's arrangements.

What would you say was the most memorable part about Vidcon or just visiting LA in general? 

Most memorable moment at vidcon was dancing on the main stage to celebrate the finale and most memorable moment of LA was the day we went to Malibu beach and then had dinner with the Shaytards.

Did you have an accident this time like in playlist live, if you know what i mean ;)

Ahahaha, no, I did not poop my pants!! 

And I thiiiinnkkkk that's all of them covered! Some of them were repeats so hopefully if you asked something, the jist of it is there. 

What a trip!! All the photos were quicky snaps I took on my vlog camera and forgot about. I'm so glad I took those snaps, the envoke such happy feelings for me. 

What do you think of vidcon? Is it something you would ever be interested in attending?

Toodlepip!

xx

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You Asked || Facebook Edition

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

A while back, I did a post called 25 Facts About Me and really, really enjoyed it. I thought it was such a fun way to share a bit more with you all so decided to find out if there was anything else you wanted to know.

You Asked :: Facebook Edition

Kelly Asked .  What is your favourite clothes shop?

I have a few but at the moment I am loving Primark, H&M, River Island and although I'd never have thought to look, have picked up some lovely bits in Marks and Spencers recently.  
 

Georgia Asked .  If you could move to any country where would you go and why?

I'd love to live in America, either in California, Boston or the deep south (a la Gone With The Wind). I've visited America quite a few times and have loved it. I love that can do attitude, the big places, the food (I'd be so much fatter!!), everything. I'm also a quarter American and have a lot of family out there so I wouldn't be alone. 

Kira Asked . Do you plan on having another kiddywink?

Not in the near future. I've seen a couple of rumours floating about that I'm pregnant or have announced a pregnancy- I can tell you there is no bun in this oven.  

Harriet Asked . Did you enjoy your degree? (psychology I think?! I've applied for Psychology!)

Yes and no. I didn't enjoy the hours of listening in lectures or reading things that didn't grip me but I know that the degree I did, Pyschology and Biology, was the most gripping to me out of all of them and there were aspects and topics that really fascinated me. It's natural not to like everything. I enjoyed the mindset I developed and I'm proud I am a university graduate.  

Emily Asked .  How do you stay organised? Tips?

The truth is, I don't! I struggle so much with keeping on top of things and constantly try (and fail) to improve. I think I'm just innately messy. What I do do though is keep lists. I make a list every day of what I want or need to achieve and this helps me stay focused.  

Becky Asked .  Favourite month of the year?

September. I love the weather, the promise of Christmas, the fact I was married in that month, the excitement of a new academic year (I think that stays with you no matter what age), the fashion and even the way the word 'September' sounds when you say it. 
 

Libby .  What will you call baby glitter web she is no longer a baby? Toddler glitter?

Well Baby Glitter will always be my baby regardless of her age, so I think she may have to stay Baby Glitter forever. :) 

Macy Asked .  Why did you decide to have Darcy? 

Matt and I had always wanted a baby as soon as we were married. We are both very family orientated so it seemed like right thing to us. I think we were right. We love having our little family to cherish.

Sophie Asked . What did you want to be when you were really little, because apparently I'm not allowed to be a princess?

The first thing I can remember wanting to be was a ballerina. I took lessons and actually got to grade three so I was some way there, haha.    
 

Chloe Asked .  What's your favourite type of blog post/video to do?

I don't have one favourite because what I love most is the variety. I think if I had to just stick to beauty or lifestyle or silly or baby then I'd not keep going. 

Zoe Asked .  If you had another girl, what would you call her, besides Florence which was Darcy's other 'option'?!  

Well remembered! If we ever did have another Daughter we do already have her name but we'd wait to reveal it. It's not Florence.    
   

Sophie Asked . How is it not awkward to talk to a camera & do you not worry about being judged about doing YouTube videos?

It's not awkward for me because I've been doing it for three years. I actually find it really therapeutic to just sit and chat away with nobody to answer back. I try not to worry too much about being judged. It's pretty much inevitable that people will form an opinion on you and it's up to them whether it's good or bad. I think if you know in your heart that you are being a good person and doing your best then other people's opinions don't effect you as much as they could. I'm a pretty happy camper! 

Emily Asked .  How much do you love Liverpool?

To the moon and back again! Liverpool will always be my most special city as it's where SO MUCH good happened in my life. I could write a whole blog post on how being in such an amazing city changed everything for me but now is not the time. Pretty much everything good in my entire life came either from Liverpool or from the attitude I developed there. Big loves. 

Harriet Asked .  If you had to only eat something for a whole month what would it be?

Strawberries.  

Amber Asked .  Do/did you have an ultimate goal from blogger? Such as, would you like to write a book for new mum's, become a make up artist, professional beauty journalist?

That is such a good question! If those things came along then I'd welcome them and be excited for them but they are not my ultimate goals. My goal is to keep this blog exactly as it is. A documentation of my thoughts, feelings, discoveries and observations within an amazing sparkly community of brilliant people. I like what we have. In years to come, I want it to be just like this but maybe with a swisher camera lens or better spelling!

There were quite a few questions left unanswered but I wasn't sure if I might bore you by going on and on!! I thought it might be fun to do a Twitter and Tumblr edition of this too but I'll let you decide in the comments since you are the readers of this online part-ay. Yes, I just said 'part-ay'. Next thing you know I'll say 'YOLO' in a serious tone.

Was any of that new to you? Do you prefer chitchatty posts or beauty reviews? I'm all ears!

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Toodlepip!

xx

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