As a fully qualified nail and tanning technician, every year I attend the Professional Beauty trade show in Dublin’s RDS. Even though I don’t use these skills for my career, I thoroughly enjoy attending the show. I always end up spending a fortune on the latest products and gizmos!

I was so upset when I realised my Professional Beauty Ireland trade show buddy was going to be away. Every year I go with my Mum. It’s a great girlie day out and she’s as much as a sucker for beauty and make up as I am (if not worse! ). She has already told me I’m getting a list of products she wants.

Last year as I was between jobs I took things pretty easily. This year I intend to get a few bits but not spend a small fortune… unlike in 2006 when I came back with my eyeliner done in permanent make up!!! For those of you who want to know my review, don’t bother with it! Swollen eyelids and the vaseline look – not worth it; can’t see anything there. Unfortunately due to illness I never had my second “top up” appointment, although I don’t believe it would have made that much of a difference.

Okay, so back to the event itself. Not sure why they would change the name, Beauty Industry Trade Event (B.I.T.E.); the abbreviation is already making me think of food, or is that just me!?

Exhibitors include Dermalogica including free Face Mapping skin analysis, Crown Brush, Face 2, Hairspray, Jessica, Buttercups, Make-Up 4 Ever, Leighton Denny, St. Tropez, Star Nails, Matis and SunFx to name but a few. All stands usually offer great value products for purchase.

The event also plays host to the annual National Nail competition. The best of Ireland’s nail technicians take part in Manicure, Everday Extensions, Pedicures, Nail Art with this year’s theme being Irish Myths and Legends.

Seminars are on throughout the Sunday including Liz McKeown, Business Coach and Trainer and Emma Doherty on Mineral Make-Up. Liz is also holding a seminar for students on the Monday.

So the event is on Sunday 4th and Monday 5th October in RDS Simmonscourt, Dublin 4. You can register here for complimentary tickets. The event website is www.biteireland.com . Am I the only one that lol’d at the domain?

Let me know if you’re going….. Hope to see you there!

Mwah