Benefit Event

Last week I was lucky enough to attend a bloggers event with Benefit. Benefit have fast become one of my favourite make up brands over the last few years. With each new product I try my love for them grows!  I was really excited to have the opportunity to find out more about the brand and some of their latest products! 

The event was held at Bar Fibre in Leeds, a perfect setting for an afternoon filled with make-up, delicious cakes and chat with lots of wonderful bloggers. 

The lovely Michelle and Leanne gave us an insight into the company and its history explaining how its roots in 1970s San Francisco are still reflected in Benefit's ethos today. Founded in 1976 by the Ford twins Benefit has grown into a global brand. The free spirited attitudes of the 1970s free love moment is conveyed through Benefit's playful and chilled out nature. They strive to push boundaries and look at things from a new angle to bring unique products to the market. I've always been attracted by their fun packaging and the feel good vibe surrounding the brand. Their bright coloured little boxes express their fun loving side with their playful product names and speech bubbles. 

Benefit are holding a Mascarathon charity relay run to raise money for Refuge, the national domestic violence charity which provides help and support for women and children escaping domestic violence. It starts in Edinburgh this Friday, ending in London two weeks later. Each runner taking part will cover a 2 mile stint running with the giant mascara wand covering over 500 miles in total. You can still sign up to take part by clicking here. A Benebago will accompany runners offering prizes and goodies along the way. Numerous celebrities have pledged their support and will be taking their turn at running along the route including Caroline Flack, Jorgie Porter, Alison Hammond and Lauren Laverne. You can find out more including ways to donate here. 

There's other ways you can get involved and show your support, Benefit will be offering a donation barcode where you can add an optional £1 donation to your purchase. Keep a lookout for the colourful donation boxes at Benefit counters. They also have a special Mascarathon Ebay Shop where you can bid on exclusive gifts and experiences including a behind the scenes tour at Benefit head office in the UK! 

We were also treated to a special sneak preview of their new Box O' Powder lip glosses launching at the end of the month. These plush glosses come in squeezy tubes meaning they glide on extra smooth. Everyone agreed that they smelt amazing! They match Benefit's bestselling Box O' Powders. The lip glosses will be available from 28th June and retail at £13.50. Look out for my upcoming blog post where I'll be featuring the various lip gloss shades available and my review coming soon! 

The gorgeous Adele from the Benefit counter at Debenhams White Rose in Leeds talked us through Benefits skincare range which I can't wait to try! Adele introduced us to the 3 P's, Prep, Prime and Perfect! She showed us how to prepare the skin by cleansing, how to tone and moisturise, and use primer before applying make up. Benefit strives to ensure every customer receives a thorough consultation and is treated to a pampering experience!

I always get distracted looking at all the make up I want to buy when I'm at their counters and had neglected to sample their perfumes until now. I've been missing out.. they smell amazing! My favourite scent has to be 'my place or yours Gina' which has an oriental style seductive scent with wild raspberries and white lily.  

With Gemma & Rachel

(photo courtesy of Gemma)

I had a great time at the event and it was lovely to finally meet Gemma and Rachel who both have fabulous blogs you should check out! 

Thanks to Benefit and Michelle, Leanne and Adele for a wonderful afternoon! We were kindly given a very generous goodie bag so watch out for lots of upcoming product reviews! 

And finally... a little treat for you! The first 30 people to visit the Benefit counter at House of Fraser in Leeds will receive a free gift with a purchase. Just mention 'Caroline's Catwalk'  Until 30th June.