Blogging really has opened so many exciting doors for me, since I started (then scarlettlondon.blog.com) back in 2011. I’ve sat FROW at London Fashion Week (an amazing experience – and a people watching haven), interviewed the cast of Made in Chelsea live on air (again, amazing but daunting) and travelled all over the world. However, one thing I hadn’t really dabbled in before was working with brands on a campaign or a photo shoot.
I’d always been quite nervous (and self conscious) about myself, so it was something I’d been offered but turned down. Losing weight has definitely helped improve my confidence a little (post here), along with making some other changes I’d been eager to do – and so when Joe Browns approached me a couple of weeks ago, enquiring as to whether I’d like to get involved in their exciting blogger shoot, I decided it was one opportunity I didn’t want to miss.
Joe Browns are a brand that have always been on my radar. I used to flick through their catalogues eating my breakfast every morning before school, picking out the clothes I’d like to buy should my pocket money be given a raise (or should I actually master the art of saving). The pages were filled with gorgeous velvet dresses, skirts and boots that gave off a real boho vibe and the most incredible coats. They’ve recently started working with bloggers in London, having hosted an amazing carnival/funfair themed event back in the summer, which I had the pleasure of attending – so I was delighted to have been selected alongside five others for this exciting opportunity!
I arrived at Aldgate East station at 11.30 and made way for the Ten Bells pub – where the shoot was taking place. Just moments away from Spitalfields Market, it made for the perfect relaxed and quirky location, which suited the look and feel of the clothes – and also took the pressure and intensity off of the fact we were soon to be in front of the lens.
My outfit featured this gorgeous velvet blue off-the-shoulder number and a pair of heeled burgundy boots (which are the nicest boots I’ve ever worn – definitely something I’m going to treat myself to for the festive season). A mix and match of the colour palette, but with a very autumnal and Christmas-party feel! I actually got to keep the dress – so I’m really excited to wear it out for real!
Accompanying me in the first few pictures was Ben and Thomas. Although neither of us had met before, there seems to be an instant connection between bloggers, as we’ve all got something familiar to talk about – and common connections, which is always an ice breaker.
Not before long, Laura, Adam and Richard arrived – and we shot some fun group photos!
Overall, I had such a fab day shooting for Joe Browns. Never did it feel awkward or intimidating – as we were put at ease every step of the way and I’m so pleased with how the photos have come out. The team are so lovely – a special mention to Emily, who did a fantastic job of organising the day (and securing the great venue), Andy the photographer (who put up with my requests to be photographed on my ‘good side’) and Tracey who put us all at ease. Make sure you watch out on the Joe Browns website, blog and email marketing for a face you might recognise!
Have you ever shopped at Joe Browns – or been involved in a blogger photo shoot?