#MyBlogLife: STELLAR Meets Blogger Ally Maher

Why did you start blogging?

I started blogging about two years ago and during that time I was obsessed with Pinterest. I had a so many fashion and beauty-related photos saved on my computer so I wanted to share them with other girls. As time went on I began to share more photos of my own outfits and make-up, and now I regularly write about fashion trends and beauty products. I’ve also added a lifestyle section where I write about my Slimming World journey and my travels around the world.

What steps did you take to get started?

I set up a blog on Blogspot, a Facebook page and Instagram. I reached out to all my friends and family to follow my blog and to tell others about it.

How did you grow your social following?

My blog definitely hasn’t been an overnight success. It has taken a long time to get a combined following of 10,000 people. I think the most important thing is to be honest when you are reviewing products. It’s also really important to communicate with your readers and other bloggers.

What’s the best bit about blogging?

The best thing about blogging is definitely the relationships that you form with your readers. I reply to every single mail, Facebook message and Snapchat that I receive. It’s nice to know that you can help other girls with their confidence and give them advice.

Are there any drawbacks?

The only thing I hate about blogging is that I always have my phone in my hand! I try my best to switch it off when I’m spending quality time with my boyfriend, friends and family.

What’s been your favourite freebie?

The best freebies I get are being able to attend amazing events where I can network and meet other bloggers. I’m so fortunate to get sent beauty products and clothes, it’s great to get an insight into new products hitting the market and you can give your readers a sneak peak.

What are your go-to make-up bag products?

I have drawers and drawers bursting with makeup products but this is what I bring in my makeup bag to work. I am in love with the Loreal Infallible Foundation, its a matte finish, it lasts all day and is really affordable too. My concealer is a toss up between Mac Pro Longwear and Maybelline Eraser Eye. The only thing I’ll use on my eyebrows is the Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow, it’s a godsend! I love the L’oreal Volume Million Lashes mascara and use Mac Fluidline eyeliner. My favourite everyday lip liner is from NYX in the shade soft nude.

What are your top tip three beauty tips?

It’s so important to look after your skin, if you don’t your make-up will never look flawless. I love the Garnier Micellar water for removing my make-up. I moisturise every morning and every evening before I go to sleep.

Always apply a primer for your foundation, eyeshadow and lips. This ensures your makeup will stay on all day. I use the foundation primer from the Beauty Bay own brand, I use a MAC paint pot in the shade ‘Painterly’ and I use MAC prep and prime for my lips.

There’s so many amazing and affordable make up brands on the market, so don’t feel you need to spend a lot of money on makeup. But I definitely recommend investing in some good makeup brushes. I love the Real Techniques brushes!

How would you describe your signature style?

During the day I love casual clothes, you’ll nearly always catch me wearing ripped skinny jeans, an oversized shirt and cute trainers. When I go out at night I’m the complete opposite as I love to dress up really girly. I love patterns and bright colours, the louder the better. I have an obsession with two-piece outfits and playsuits ?

What’s your next big blog goal?

I’ve recently been nominated for two Irish Blog Awards; best fashion blog and best beauty blog, so I’m really excited to see what will come of that. I’d love my blog to keep growing and to work with some established beauty and fashion brands in the future.

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• #mybloglife
• Ally Maher
• Blog
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• Blogging
• social