Weddings. What’s all the fuss about?

Weddings. There’s so much planning that is involved in executing that one special day that should commemorate the love you and your partner share.

Whether you plan an extravagant wedding in an Italian Vinyard, come from a Hindu background where the wedding is a full-on 3-day party event, or opt to have an intimate ceremony by the beach, it’s one of the most important days of your life.

I've always been a fan of the Backless Dress. Now I understand why all of these brides consume nothing but chia seeds and Spirulina for up to 6 months before the big event. 

Blame It on The Culture

As someone with a Lebanese mother and Syrian father, I think I’ve probably been to more weddings than I can remember. In fact, I am usually strapped for cash, and rushing around frantically trying to find last minute outfits for sometimes up to 3 weddings in the one-month. Cray Cray, I know! My sisters and I have a code word for the month of September, better known as “Wedding Season.” I’ll let you guys in on our personal joke; it’s the season when all of the Mohammad’s /Ali’s we’ve grown up with eventually marry a Fatima’s or a Zeineb. Gotta love a good stereotype. 

But despite the huge weddings, with the traditional drums, delicious mezze’s and crazy dancing, I have never been one to plan even one aspect of my future wedding. This may or may not be because I’m still single.  Or so my mum says. I think I missed that important conversation in time when all of the girls relished at the thought of a tulle dress, the perfect up-do and posies in hand. Maybe it happened when most girls were combing their Barbie’s hair (don’t understand how, I swear I always managed to ruin mine), meanwhile I would’ve been out in the backyard catching lizards with my brother or riding my bike.

When It Just Hits You 

You see, up until about 3 months ago, I was actually impressed with my lack of enthusiasm in that department. That’s not to say I don’t jump for joy when one of my girlfriends announce an engagement or am not the first to get involved in Hen’s Parties. Actually I kind of have a long-standing tradition which always involves me lining up to tackle the bitch that tries to catch that cheap bouquet of flowers the bride throws in attempt to get that fat cherub, better known as cupid to get his ass moving along. I know, how very immature, and superstitious. The reality is I don’t expect my prince charming to astonishingly show up to that same wedding, or even bump into me in the fruit and veg isle at woolies a week later. Maybe I watch too many romantic comedies, but I’m just competitive, so winning that bouquet is just icing on top of that cake. Which, I of course, usually end up avoiding, unless I’m wearing my trusty spanx.

6 months ago I viewed this as a bunch of pretty flowers. Nowadays it's better known as a "Pastel Floral Arrangement"

Social MediaWins the Wedding-Mania Enabler Award

But more to the point, over the past few months, I’ve had suggested wedding related pages popping up all over my Facebook. Initially that’s how it started. I’d like a wedding dress here, a pair of ridiculously simple, yet gorgeous heels there. Until, all of a sudden, I’ve become a wedding enthusiast. My Instagram newsfeed is full of wedding inspired pictures. I thought that was what Pinterest was all about. Hence why I used and abused it for about a week.  My iPhone conveniently alerts me to the exceeded storage limit it currently holds on the daily as well. It wasn’t until I went through my whole camera roll that I had realised how deep I was in. I had saved hundreds of images, as well and screen shots depicting everything from unique floral arrangements, bridesmaid’s dresses to hairspiration pics. I was confused, embarrassed which lead me to even contemplating the thought of making a separate album to file said images. And that’s when it hit me; I’ve been sucked in like the rest. No, it has nothing to do with hormones, or my passion for beauty, but I am addicted to collecting wedding-related images. It’s almost a modern day type of scrapbooking activity towards an event that can’t even take place because I haven’t met the man yet!

Exhibit A: Favourite Insta Page

Wedding Obsession Detox 101 

  

Whilst I’m no longer catching lizards, I’ve managed to delete any screenshots I probably won’t need in the distant future. My phone has finally stopped pestering me about the lack of storage it can hold, and I’ve even limited myself to only liking one Bridal Magazine page, a Wedding Blog and Steven Khalil’s official Facebook page.

Have I completely lost the plot? Has anyone else experienced the sudden need to search for #wedding hashtags at least once a week?

Wogarella,

Xx

*Images unashamedly sourced from the author's phone. 

Mila Kunis: Hilarious Interview

I've said this before. Mila Kunis is one woman I would happily become friends with. Part of the reason is she can go from looking all average-like in sweatpants, yes actual sweatpants- minus a fake tan and full face of makeup (take note Kimmy K!) to an elegant femme fatale in a stunning Oscar de la Renta gown. 

Personally I think she is so underrated. Mila is petite, has a lovely smile and those big googly eyes make me, a heterosexual woman go absolutely gaga. So you can understand how I felt when I had a conversation with a mate the other day; whereby he confidently assured me he “just doesn't get it.” He doesn't see the light that surrounds Miss.Kunis. I was completely dumbfounded. It's a good thing this conversation was done so via text, because I seriously considered disowning him as my friend.  

My hardcore fandom stems from my brother’s interest in Mila. We’ve rated Mila Kunis as an actress since her That 70s Show days, fell back in love with her after watching Friends with Benefits and laughed along as she strutted her stuff on screen in Ted.


More than Just a Pretty Face 


I think, the most refreshing thing about this Hollywood A-Lister is her personality. No, I don't mean her pleasant speeches which have probably been rehearsed thanks to her publicist. I mean her genuine laughter, sarcastic tone and dead set down to earth charismatic behaviour. As a Mila lover, I won't lie; I've noticed it in interviews with the likes of the "Chatty Man" Alan Carr, as well as with Ellen. But, this interview is a true insight into how effing hilarious she is.  


Weirdo girl-crush aside, watch the video! 

 
PS Mila said she likes beer. 

PPS Mila said she would like to watch a Football Game. 

I'm fairly certain Ashton Kutcher is cheering right about now!   


Wogarella, 

Xx  

2013 Grammy Award Red Carpet

Oh nothing makes me happier than a red carpet watch on a rainy day in Sydney! Of course, whilst the Grammy Awards celebrate excellence in music and praise musicians for their talent, I have my own little version of awards to announce, and it’s regarding the best and the worst fashion and beauty choices on the red carpet.

Wax On- Wax Off

I had two look twice, if you ask me JT looks as though he has decided the skip the red carpet and instead send his very own wax statue from Madame Tussauds.

Floral Mess

Adele in Valentino

Now Adele has never been stick thin and that’s something I think is great, she works with what she has! But I’m just not sure about this frumpy looking dress. Whilst florals are all the rage, I refuse to mix two different patterned florals together; the shoes would be lovely with a different dress.

Actually... something about this dress reminds me of the old school Knitted Dolly Toilet Roll Holders. What do you think?

  

Return of the Mummies

Giuliana Rancic, in Carlos Miele, I won’t lie you’re a gorgeous little minx; however I don’t understand why you’re channeling a mummy? She almost appears to have no neck. At first I thought it may have been due to the colour of the fabric, but she’s beautifully tanned, the fact that her dress has a high neck just means she should have opted to put her hair up. Meanwhile, I think Tamia got the same memo as Giuliana, she too thinks the dress code was inspired by the Pharaohs.

Students from the Class of 2005 High School called, they said they want their formal look back.

Kaya Jones, I don’t know what she was thinking when she picked this dress. The smokey-eye is and the cherry lips are just far too much at one time. Also, whilst her makeup artist has tried to use a blend of silvers and greys, her eyes actually look to be almost blue and battered. The Dress is just not Grammys worthy. However, the colour is pretty, but I just wish she covered her cleavage up a little, she looks too cheap-prom-queen for my liking.

All American Hottie

I didn’t even know who Keltie Colleen was, but after strutting herself in this sexy number I’m definitely a fan. I love, love, love it all! Everything from the gorgeous flowy skirt, the jewel encrusted bodice, to the yellow pumps. Her makeup is fairly neutral and I love that she is wearing minimal accessories, less is SO much more and it’s evident that a good haircut/colour does wonders too.  

Cute as a Button

  

Alexa Chung looks adorable in this Valentino number. What made her stand out amongst the rest was that she looks as though she’s thrilled to be there, almost like a little girl who is proud to be wearing pretty party dress. Which makes sense really, Alexa is wearing a pretty dress to the party of all parties! Her sparkly Mary Janes give her look that extra bit of glamour. Oh and she could never go wrong with a powerful red pout.

Grecian Goddess

I know, I know. I need to move on. But girl crushes aside, Taylor looks radiant in this Grecian style White gown by J. Mendal. I know she’s rocked the Grecian style before, but the braided hair teamed with that statement making front fringe is a clear winner if you ask me. Her makeup artists ALWAYS get it right, I wish Kaya Jones’ team would take note, if you’re heavy on the eyes, keep the lips soft and neutral.

 Show Stopper

Everyone knows it’s brave to wear a red frock on the Red carpet, but I think Riri pulled it off! I’m actually Gobsmacked. Rihanna has been known to funk it up in every way possible, in terms of taking fashion-related risks, only being beaten by Lady Gaga and her infamous meat dress.  Regardless, I’m so glad she has come back to her senses and channelled a bit of glamour. With all the makeup and crazy hair colours we tend to forget that Rihanna truly is a pretty young thing.

Oh and P.S. Besides the fact that she annoys me, I have to admit that her music makes for great listening at the gym.  

Fabulous Fairy

One half of the famous Gotye duo, Miss Kimbra looks absolutely stunning. This dress is ridic! Whilst I probably couldn’t deal with the tulle fabric, I think Jamie Lee Major did an epic job at making a unique dress for a girl with a unique dress. Actually I don’t care if I had her banging body and the money to buy it; I would happily sit there excessively scratching my body like a diseased person throughout an awards ceremony. LOVE!

Who were your favoutites? Was I too harsh on Adele? Are you now googling Miss. Keltie Colleen as well? Or maybe that was just me...

Wogarella,

Xx

Images sourced from www.styleite.com/Ryansearcrest.com  

Wogarella: Call me Vlog-arella!

Lovers, today I would like to share with you my latest venture. You see, last night I ventured into the Video blogging territory, better known as "Vlogging". Yes, I popped my cherry. And now I'm thinking that I am an absolute twit for not having started earlier! 

The thing is, I'm a writer, always have been and probably always will be. Before I realised I was a writer I was (and still am) an avid reader. I'm also a viewer, (Shamelessly admit to watching Taylor Swift fan videos.)  So I figured, that with my Macbook in hand, I would hover over the iMovie application and and actually make use of my boisterous personality, which I hope comes across through my writing. 

On the Band Wagon:

I'm aware that Vlogging isn't something new and have always considered it, but the catalyst for my entry into the youtube-loving-life was an application to become a reader reviewer/vlogger for all 'round expert website rescu.com.au. It's no secret that I'm a  little beauty obsessed, so when the opportunity arose to apply for this role, I jumped on it as soon as I could! 

The Vid:

I'm sure you're itching to hear the voice behind Wogarella, so here it is:

What do you think? It's my first Vlog, so I was a little shy. Your feedback is more than welcome!

Ps I know there is a random red screen that pops up initially, but please ignore it as I'm still figuring out how to use iMovie ha.

Wogarella,

Xx 

Open Letter to Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift: Marry DateEd Sheeran, why don’t you!

It’s nosecret that I have a BIG LESBIAN CRUSH* on Taylor Swift. I have always admiredher gorgeous looks and witty little remarks. Her YouTube videos are quite thecack! Often people ask me why, I as a Wogarella, who is usually such a homie,and counts Boys To Men and Mariah Carey as music’s finest artists happen to bedrawn to Taylor’s music.

There are a number of contributingfactors. But the most essential one is her ability to write honest, songs. I’mnot talking about “Love Story” or “Never Ever Getting Back Together” here. Thegirl has the ability to tell a story, she captures my emotions with thesincere, sometimes harsh words, which in conjunction with a delightful melody,takes me to another place.

And for a while I’ve beencopping it as a self confessed Swiftie, I don’t care. Maybe Taylor enjoysdating man after man. It’s her choice. I’m not here to stick up for her andsadly her moments of despair and sadness only bring her fans more incrediblesongs. It’s pretty selfless if you ask me!

Anyway, I got to thinking… Is there amale equivalent of T-swizzle? I’m not sure; would you judge these male artistson the quality of their voice? Their live performances, perhaps? Or maybe theircute film clips? I know, I can’t rank them based on their looks. But after muchdeliberation, I believe that Mr Ed Sheeren is the boy version of Taylor.

Funnily enough, they are incrediblytalented, hard working and just downright lovable! They've writtenand released a song together; I've posted it for those of you who havebeen living under a rock.

What did you think? Lovely isn’t it?Easy listening.

If I could write Taylor anopen letter I would say his:

Yo Tswizzle,

Love your guts. I saw youlive in Sydney April 2012. You made my year :)

Just a quick note, quitdating these pretty boy twelvie-type boys. Man up and hook in with the world’smost lovable Ranga! Ed Sheeren.

Oh and P.S. Thanks forinspiring my non-existent love life!

Much love,

Wogarella xx

Could you imagine if Miss.Tay-Tay andEd Sheeren were a couple? I can see them now, living happily ever after withthree lanky, ranga kids roaming the streets of Nashville in summer, andavoiding a bashing in wintery Manchester. All I know is the music would befabulous. Whether they went out for a year, or had an eternal romance.

What do you think? Am I a little tooobsessed? Have I listened to too many Taylor/Ed Sheeran songs back to back?

*That was a Mean Girls quote. Not sofunny when you have to explain it, dummy!

 Wogarella,

Xx

It's a Wrap, Farewell 2012!

Fa

Wow what a year…For many of us, we have lost a lot of dear friends, gained a lot of new ones and even witnessed the marvellous experience of a new life. Parts of the world were destroyed by natural disasters, whilst thousands of people lost their lives overseas due to ridiculous political situations.  As I sit here and ponder the events that have taken place in my life, I am humbled and whilst little butterflies enter my tummy, I get excited, in fact I get motivated for a new year, filled with new possibilities.

This Year Wogarella...

Gained a few new family member who smells like marshmallows and rainbows. Everyone, please see visual aid of my gorgeous baby niece Lillian Khalil who was born on July 7^th and has brought nothing but absolute joy to our whole family, (extended members included.) 

Even though we had an epic season, my beloved Canterbury Bulldogs lost in the 2012 Grand Final to the Melbourne Storms. I’m still devastated and am counting down the days until next season! (FYI the season commences 7th March).

This year I finally attempted to learn to play guitar. I’m going to be honest, whilst I’m a creative kid when it comes to words, my musical talent is about as present as Nicky Webster’s career right now.  Call me stubborn, but I refuse to admit I’ve given up, I’m simply taking a small rest period as I’m focussing my energy on a few other projects at the moment. I also undertook a Sub-Editing course, which was conveniently located nearby Redfern Markets.  I fell in love with a Black Adler Typewriter and made a home for it beside my Green Olivetti. I defintiely made use of my Gym Membership. Oh and I managed to maintain a good brow shape. Clearly I have my priorities in check… I never claimed I wasn’t vain ;)

Fitness Goals

Despite my current state of Food Coma-itis, I am very proud of my efforts to keep at my fitness goals and am proud to say I’m looking forward to smashing the last 10 kilos which should take my body transformation to the next level! I’m making a note not to spend any more money at the Adidas store though. My entire wardrobe is about to breakdown as I’ve stuffed several drawers full of gym gear and am actually lacking normal clothing. I know I’m a tomboy stuck in a big girls body.

I’ve Made Some Incredible People Friends

I’m not sure if our passion for exercise has brought us together but I’ve become a part of a new trio. We each have our faults, but we just get each other. Whilst this is a little too affectionate for anyone’s liking I am so blessed to have these chicks in my life! Dee and Susan <3

I’ve Rekindled My Friendships With Some Old Ones

Without sounding all philosophical, people do come in and out of your life for a reason. This year, despite the issues we’ve had in the past, I have rekindled two friendships with people I didn’t think I would have earlier this year. Whilst we aren’t all besties, I’m glad that there is peace and look forward to making some great memories in 2013!

Career Move: Check Mate

I’m a Taylor Swift fan, I’m a Gym Junkie, but above all I am a writer. So you can understand why in the latter part of this year I left my job at a company I have aimed to work for my whole life. Whilst I didn’t have the privilege to write as often as I would like to, I awoke every morning to go to a workplace whereby I was surrounded with some of the hardest working people in Media. And despite the deadlines, budgets and crazy world of Magazines they ALWAYS had time for a giggle or two. Or maybe 5. 

In summary, I made a drastic career change, I moved into a corporate role. Admittedly, I’m not fairly certain it was the right one. I miss my friends. I miss the polluted Sydney Air and the short walk down to the Sydney CBD Westfield’s during my lunch break. But apparently I’m a grown up who holds responsibility for her actions, so I will ride this one out and hopefully it’s just a decent step in the write direction. Yes I know, I used the wrong “Right”. I did it purposely. 

Family Holiday

I braved the ultimate test. 4 days away with my family. Whilst, as a Wogarella I’m very family orientated, the though of spending more than 24 hours in the same penthouse resort daunted me. But surprisingly enough I didn’t even mind sharing a room with my little bro. When I say little he’s actually 6ft tall and 20 years old. Anyways, ‘twas a great experience as I did nothing but enjoy numerous alcoholic beverages and consume way too many calories poolside. Best of all, I burned them off playing pool, indoor basketball and tennis. Oh and Swimming! My God did I swim. I am truly blessed. And so glad to have lived to prove those Mayan people and their ridiculous calendar wrong!

Whilst I usually have a whole list written out and burnt into my memory. As well the memories of 800 of my Facebook friends’, this year I will just continue focussing on my current goals. Fitness wise, Friend wise, Love wise and most importantly career wise. I say that I will sit back and see how it pans out but I doubt it will last past February, I’m proactive and will probably jump at the chance to make some sort of a difference, but I think my main goal this year is to relax, be patient and let things come my way. After all I am 22. Living in an incredible country, there really is no reason to stress out in 2013.

PS I can’t wait to see my “one and only”, Mariah Carey live in concert! Scoring these tickets is a sign that my new year will go off with a bang!

Wishing  my Wogarella readers a wonderful New Year, filled with hilarious moments, great health and hopefully some good fortune ;)

Wogarella,

Xx

What Do Your Accessories Say About You?

Long ago I was a tom boy. More of a Wogboy than a Wogarella. The only accessories you would've spotted me wearing are the studs my mum made me keep in my lobes in order to prevent my ear hole from closing. Or possibly to avert any chance of an infection. But that is Too Much Information my friends. Anyways now that I am almost a grown up (yes, 22 and still can’t believe it.) I have noticed that I bloody LOVE accessories. Partly because they are my cure for fat days/shit-skin days/when I don’t know what to wear days.

At the moment thought, I have a slight obsession with ALL things Neon. I know, how very unique of me. In fact this obsession is a little out of control. I only realised it when I stalk-booked myself. Come on, as if you don’t do it! It was a quiet Saturday night and I really couldn't be bothered to go out... But yes, back to this vital discovery, the last few profile pictures I successfully upload included fluro yellow in some form! People even made mention of the obsession. I’m not sure is it’s more awkward that I admitted that my photo was “Successful” due to the amount of likes it received or that someone pointed it out. I’m not overly sensitive so I laughed it off. But that next day I went shopping. And sure enough I bought myself a Fluro watch from Sports Girl. As well as a... erm, fluro kaftan.GUILTY MUCH?!

What do you think of my watch?

Whilst I haven’t quite figured out how to set it just yet, I don’t really care because it just makes me SO happy. Happy enough to pose for a photo at 7.30am. Mind the hair, 'twas a stinking hot day, not even Keratin treatment could have saved me.

 
 
 

Enough with the Selfies. Whilst I know this fascination with neon will eventually fade, I have applied for a mortgage, as I am currently renting out a huge space in my heart for my Type Writer pendant. In fact, I heart it so much that after receiving it on my Birthday (FYI May) this year, I can probably count how many times I have removed it from my neck on one hand.
 
 

It’s cute isn't it? The reason I love it so much is because it was gifted to me by my mother. The same Arab mother who openly discloses her hatred for my obsession with type writers. If you ask her it has nothing to do with the fact that they may be out dated and a little over priced, but because “They are dust collectors!!!”
To be honest I feel this pendant symbolizes a lot more to me. It symbolizes my mother’s acceptance of my true passion. My passion to succeed as a writer. Not that she was ever against any form of education- she was the first one to insist I further my studies and apply for uni. However, she wanted me to do what most nice Lebanese girls do and study teaching, simply because “It’s a good job.Perfect for the future. You will get to break for holidays when your children do!” Ah bless, even up until about a week before graduation she insisted I re-enrol for a Masters of Teaching. Who knows? Look, maybe I am just over thinking and my mum simply saw my face light up when we had passed the window of a jewelry store in Leichardt. Regardless, it is one of my prized possessions.
 

Emotional stuff aside, I came across this cuff. 

I like bikes. Do you like bikes? Everyone likes bikes! Except for my sisters of course.That’s because they were never given the opportunity to ride a bike. Yet another complex my parents have instilled in us. Only not I, because I've always been a rebel and probably owned more BMX’s and Roller Blades than I currently own clothes.

 
Have you jumped on the fluro-fly-flagging band wagon too?

Wogarella,

Xx