UK based disabled model - Gemma Flanagan proves disability is no boundary to personal success!

Model Gemma Flanagan shows disability has no boundaries - image by www.TimLos.com

Meet Sandstorm's #SoSandstorm #EmpoweringWomen campaign model Gemma Flanagan.

Gemma is a vivacious 30 year old from Liverpool in the UK and a successful model and business entrepreneur. 4 years ago life was very different for Gemma, she was Cabin Crew with a British Airways and life was exciting and full of new experiences.  Suddenly in 2011 she was struck down with the life threatening illness and everything changed for her from that point on!

Gemma contracted an illness called Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) which at her worst, left her completely paralysed and in intensive care. In total she spent 9 months in hospital and she underwent intensive rehabilitation to regain basic skills such as talking, writing and walking. As a result of Gemma's illness she has been left with disabilities. This means she relies on crutches and a wheel chair as she am unable to stand or walk unaided because of the muscle and nerve damage in her core, back, hips and legs.

However, 4 years on from that extended period in hospital, Gemma is determined not to let her disability rule her life.She is passionate about showing society that she and others who have disabilities have a place within fashion. Gemma lives predominately in a wheelchair, but she is also able to get up and strut her stuff on a catwalk and perform at photo shoots using her blinged up glam sticks!  

Last October Gemma attending a casting session for designer swimwear company  www.SandstormLuxury.com. Sandstorm were searching for 'real women' for their 2015 swimwear campaign. Gemma along with 16 other women were chosen from almost 300 models who wanted to model for the brand. At the end of January 2015 the company completed the first swimwear photo shoot with the group of women who are of all ages and from all walks of life at a beautiful location in North Devon  -  South Coombe Luxury Cottages.

Gemma took her place amongst the group of women and looked stunning in a pretty pink bikini chosen for her to where by the brand's owners - Naomi and Lili John.

Not content with just modelling for the day, Gemma then went on to complete an Underwater photo shoot which was organised by Sandstorm Luxury in conjunction with specialist underwater photographer - Tim Los of www.TimLos.com.

Tim captured a series of incredible underwater images of Gemma both with and without her wheel chair. The images shows this awe inspiring woman shows no fear! Gemma felt the underwater experience allowed her to be free from the constraints of her disability and lack of mobility.

Lili John spokeswoman for Sandstorm said; 'we feel very fortunate to have such an awesome team of women to work with on our 2015 swimwear campaign. Gemma's courage and hard work is inspiring to all of us and we are delighted she has chosen to be part of the #SoSandstorm #EmpoweringWomen #SS2015 swimwear campaign'.

To discover more about the www.SandstormLuxury.com Empowering Women campaign - click here 
Gemma is an ambassador for Models of Diversity. To find out more - click here 

NOTE: Images are copywritten to originators and it is prohibited to take copies and or alter the images in any way without prior the written approval from the originators as follows:
Poolside images - Chris Leishman of http://leishmandesign.co.uk/
Underwater images - Tim Los of www.TimLos.com

Underwater photo shoot events with SandstormLuxury.com

 Sandstorm's underwater photo shoot events are bookable events for the public. They are a fab way to a celebrate special occasion or for models to experience an underwater photo shoot with a

professional team consisting of a:
 Qualified underwater photographer
(Tim Los)
Professional MUA
Experienced Stylist
Creative Director 

Sneak a Peak at behind the scenes - the costumes, the photographer, the venue, makeup artist below!

And here are just a couple of fantastic images from our most recent events:

Our next sessions in 2013 are:
 24th March - Bedfordshire
21st April - Essex
To receive further information and booking details please email:

enquiries@sandstormluxury.com 

Sneak a Peak at the UK Galaxy Beauty Queen Charity Swimwear Calendar.

The beautiful Portmeirion in North Wales was the venue for our swimwear photo shoot with Galaxy UK Beauty Queens. Sandstorm has been working with UK Galaxy Pageants for the past couple of years and this year we wanted to achieve something positive for others with the results of their swimwear photo shoot and so the idea of a charity calendar was born.
The UK Galaxy Beauty Queens, photographer Paul Carroll and ourselves had such an amazing fun day.
The charity calendar is now available to purchase from Galaxy via their website.

To become a 2013 winner with Galaxy Pageants visit: http://www.galaxypageantsuk.com/

To book or work with Sandstorm email: naomi@sandstormluxury.com

The perfect tan enhancer - White Bikini & Beau Bronz Shimmer Tan Boost!

A simple white bikini is perfect to show off your tan on you holiday. To ensure you look super sexy we recommend you team your beach look with the shimmer tan boost from Abi O!
We always use Abi O at our swimwear photo shoots and our models love the product.

The fabulous light tanning product containing BIO Active Aloe and 2.5% Ecocert DHA. It also contains shimmer mica for a glistening gold appearance to the skin. This product is best suited to tanned, black or brown skin.

To apply: use circular movements evenly over the body. Either using a  velvety soft tanning mitts or with your hands (wait a few minutes before dressing).

NOTE: To avoid discolouring of palms wash hands with soap and water immediately after use. 

To maintain your medium golden tan use our gradual tanner every day.

Price: £21.67 ex. VAT (£26.00 inc VAT) - visit: http://shop.beaubronz.co.uk/abi_o_tanning_products/bronz-self-tan-bronzing-cream.html 

CLAIM your 25% discount by quoting @sandstormlux at the checkout!

To purchase one of the gorgeous white bikinis featured in this post email: Naomi@SandstormLuxury.com to request the 2013 look book.

Bond is Back! It's a 00Heaven 2013 Beach Look from SandstormLuxury.com.

Back by popular demand for 2013 and to celebrate the release of the new 007 James Bond Thriller - Skyfall, Sandstorm has re-released the beautiful red bond bikini. Effortlessly chic and simply stunning the bikini has been designed in a Bond girl style. It has a lightly padded bikini top with deep underband to give support and the bottoms have a rhinestud embellished belt. The exclusive design by Naomi John is  available from SandstormLuxury.com for £55.00 for the set. To purchase contact:
lili@sandstormluxury.com

The image is copywritten to SandstormLuxury.com and cannot be copied or altered in any way without gaining prior permission.

Swimwear: Naomi John for Sandstorm
Photographer: Paul Carroll
Model: Bethany Cammack
MUA: Jade Bailey

Get the look .......... golden beach makeup tips from make-up artist Jade Bailey.

We loved the make-up created by Jade Bailey at the Secret Beach campaign photo shoot. The brief was natural, bright and classic. Jade interpreted the brief perfectly and created this stunning look on  model Bethany Cammack. We chatted to Jade and asked her how she did it and here's her response .......

Beach Look by Jade Bailey

Hi guys, my name is Jade Bailey and below is a step by step guide to creating that bronzed beach look everyone loves!
You may notice that I haven’t used expensive big branded makeup because I want everyone to be able to create the look without breaking the bank!
Before starting your creation, please ensure your skin has been freshly washed, thoroughly dried and moisturised!

BEACH MAKE UP
Step 1 – Apply a generous layer of your everyday foundation, preferably using either a sponge or Foundation brush. Please ensure the colour matches the skin as we don’t want anyone orange or pale white! I find either Clarins or Maybelline Dream Satin liquid are fab as they create a smooth defined look.
Step 2 – Creating the base - Start with a general pressed powder. Apply it gently over the face to ensure even coverage and blend down the neck (Bethany wears MUA SHADE 4). Then move onto your bronzer. I used MUA (Makeup Academy) in SHADE 2. Start at the cheek and then slowly brush all the way up just above the eye brow (this will make your cheekbones seem longer and more defined). Repeat a few times in the motion of a ‘half moon’ around the eye, then a faint brush along the jaw line.
Step 3 – Lightly apply your blusher on top of the bronzer, just to give it a glowing effect (do not over apply as you’ll lose your bronzed look). Again I used MUA Blush SHADE 5 but this completely depends on your personal skin tone. To get the ‘glistening cheek’, I use BLUSH ME! in PINK – it may look very bright in the box but is just what you need! Apply it lightly to the cheeks and again in that half moon shape above the eye brow.
Step 4 – Moving onto eyes and starting with the brow! Using an eyebrow pencil (I used the MUA Blonde for Bethany) which is 3 SHADES LIGHTER than your actual brow. Evenly stroke it in the same line as your natural just filling in any gaps, don’t go over the top! This is just for gentle definition.
Then move on to apply your general Mascara. I recommend MAYBELLINE COLOSSAL VOLUME in BLACK to ensure the lashes stand out. I also suggest using an eyelash curler to rid of any excess and give an extended look.
I chose not to use Eyeliner on Bethany; however you are obviously welcome to. I would suggest just adding it into the outside corners of the water line for a relaxed smokey effect.
Step 5 – Using a WHITE eye shadow and brush; MUA was used again here, close one eye and cover half of the lid in white working from the inside out. Ensure to pay more attention to the duck tear area. Then just take the brush around the duck tear to the bottom of the eye lid and cover ¼ of the lash line also in white (this will widen the look of your eyes).
Move onto a light BROWN/GOLD shadow with a clean brush (I would suggest L.A Girl Code 4127). Cover the remaining half of the lid and just over the lining of the white to ensure a blend. Then with a DARK BROWN, work from the outside of the lid inwards, just creating that subtle smoke until it’s the preferred darkness. I would also suggest lining the top and bottom lash lines with a dark brown for maximum effect.
Go onto use a GOLD SHIMMER and gently dust under the brow line to make the eyes ‘glisten’ with the bronzer. Bethany also wears NATURAL false lashes which can simply be purchased from PRIMARK and are the best I’ve ever used!
Step 6 – Lips! I used a subtle tone of pink marshmallow gloss to give a plump finished look!
Step 7 – If like Bethany you’re shooting in swimwear then please ensure that you are clean shaved, moisturised and add a light brushing of shimmer down the front of the legs and on your torso to create that perfect glow!

This may seem like you’re wearing a lot just for a ‘beach look’ but LESS IS ALWAYS MORE! Have fun creating your beach looks!

BEACH HAIR
Beach hair is much simpler to the makeup! All you need are either SLEEP IN or VELCRO ROLLERS, Hairspray, Serum and a comb!

White and Gold Stud Monokini by Naomi Amba - Secret Beach Collection.

Step 1 – If using SLEEP IN rollers then obviously apply the night before using bobby pins with just a smooth mist of hairspray to cover; I find that SUPERDRUG’S own brand in a MAXIMUM HOLD is amazing! If using VELCRO then please apply to the hair at least 2 hours prior to creating the style and again mist the hairspray all over.

Step 2 – Once the rollers have had their time to set, unroll the hair slowly. You should now have a lot of volume, but don’t worry - it can be controlled! Using a comb, just gently back comb under the top layer of hair and then smooth over. Pull the curls loose using your fingers, tugging slightly to ensure a ‘wavy’ effect. Once the top roots have been smoothed, start applying the hairspray. Make sure you pay more attention to the ends rather than top as you don’t want it to look stiff.

Step 3 – Pull your fingers through the curls again and set into the style you prefer. If you have any ‘wispy’ bit then use a pea size amount of Serum. A great one is the DREAM HAIR, FLAWLESS BALM as it doesn’t look greasy or over the top.

That’s it! If you wish to add a few more curls then go ahead! Just use a Curling Iron or curved Straightners on the ends to give the definition preferred.

To purchase the beautiful white monokini request the look book from: lookbook@sandstormluxury.com it's from the Secret Beach 2013 Collection.
Swimwear Designer: Naomi Amba
Model:  Bethany Cammack
Photograher: Paul Carroll
MUA: Jade Bailey

These images are owned by the originators and must not be copied or manipulated without permission. The image is subject to copywrite and a charge will be levied if it is found the images are copied.

Sizzle in Stunning Snake Prints!

Top tip - animal prints should be at the top of your resort wear shopping list for cruise 2012 and Spring/Summer 2013.

We've made it our mission to discover some gorgeous new items which will take your through the next couple of seasons.  Check out these beautiful Secret Beach covers. They come in a beautiful new python print.


Choose from two lux looks:


Bold or Natural colour pallets.


And to complete the look ..... wear beautiful leather sandals also from the Secret Beach Collection.

To see the Secret Beach collection look book email: enquiries@SandstormLuxury.com

Items are available for delivery October 2012.

Sandstorm - special contributors to BINTM (Britain and Ireland's Next Top Model)

Monday 9th July 2012 was a date for our diary that we'll never forget!
Swimwear designed by our CEO Naomi John was featured on BINTM episode 1.
The 20 lucky finalists jetted off to Dubai with a suitcase full of Naomi's original designs a couple of months ago, but it wasn't until we saw the show when it aired on Sky1, did we see which items made it through to the final show.
To say we're super excited is an understatement!
To find out further information about our involvement with BINTM or to purchase the couture swimwear as seen on the show please email Naomi. Naomi@SandstormLuxury.com

Check out the photoshoot here:

Mulberry One-piece with Beaded Fringing as seen on BINTM

Calendar Girl - Louise Cliffe wears Sandstorm at her photo shoot.

  

It was all go in the office last week. We were delighted to be asked to provide the swimwear for Louise Cliffe's 2013 calendar. 
We're sure the end result is going to be stunning.  What else can you expect when fab photographer Andy Lesauvage is in charge!

http://www.lesauvagephotographer.com   
http://www.louisecliffeofficial.com

To work with Sandstorm on any press or pr activities please contact Naomi John on naomi@sandstormluxury.com

Swim On and Chill Out in Sandstorm's Totem Fringe Tankini!

This gorgeous bikini/tankini is perfect for having fun, just chilling out in the park or as part of your festival summer wardrobe! Stunning in Coral with embellishments between the cups.  Designed by Naomi for Sandstorm and exclusive at www.SandstormLuxury.com priced at £48.00 to purchase email: enquiries@sandstormluxury.com

Sandstorm sponsors Miss Intercontinental Wales 2012

Meet - Christi Janaé Neveling, she's 18 years old and the current title holder of Miss Intercontinental Wales 2012.  
Christi has been entering beauty pageants since the age of five. She has competed in numerous pageants across the globe, to name a few two of them; Miss Teen World South Africa & Miss Bikini World where she placed first princess in both competition.  
In March 2012 she was crowned Miss Intercontinental Wales 2012. Christi will be joining beauty pageant holders from 70 other countries as they compete for the Miss Intercontinental title.  
Christi who lives in Wales is currently completing her AS levels in Psychology, Law & Health + Social she plans to go onto further my studies by studying an LLB (law degree) in Cardiff, specialising in Human Rights. 
Sandstorm recently met Christi for a swimwear photo shoot and her kind nature and beautiful looks helped us decide to sponsor her swimwear during her Miss Intercontinental Wales reign.   Wearing a Sandstorm leopard print monokini, with a 'bond' type look, Christi looked liked a swimwear superstar on her recent shoot with us.

Christi commented:'I couldn't have had a more wonderful piece to wear for the shoot, I absolutely adored it and loved shooting in it! Definitely one of my favourites of the Sandstorm collection. Frequently being on stage, its so important to have that "perfect costume" and I believe that Sandstorm has embraced this into all of their swimwear, giving beauty queens all the confidence they need when they are on stage as well fitting and hugging the body in all the right places! I'm definitely a Sandstorm addict in the making! 

Swimwear: http://www.SandstormLuxury.com

Photographer: Paul Carroll - monsignorphotographic.com/

Please note:

Under the copyright and patents act these images may not be offered for publication,neither altered,manipulated or cropped without the express permission of the originator (photographer)

Diamond Life - Diamond Jubilee Weekend Celebrations with Sandstorm's White Diamond Bikini Launch....

On Diamond Jubilee weekend we celebrated at Sandstorm with the launch of our limited edition Diamond Dust Bikini.
With stunning clear crystals, beautiful feather detailing and frilled cups this bikini caused a real stir when it was revealed to the public. The nine models on the evening who a mixture of  celebrity models and Sandstorm customers all looked totally awesome and they stopped the traffic in Bedford's (UK) town centre!  
The Bikini and Monokini were created by Sandstorm's Designer Naomi John and they available for a limited period on special order.
For further information email: Naomi@SandstormLuxury.com
Check out the gallery from the evening:

For further information on custom made bikinis and International shipping contact Sandstorm at: Naomi@SandstormLuxury.com

Photographer: Paul Carroll
Styling: Naomi at Sandstorm
Accessories: Sparking Jewellery
Special thank you to: Beau Bronz 

Miss England 2012 ........ and the winner is Charlotte Holmes

The Miss England 2012 finals was a fab evening! As the official swimwear sponsors of Miss England 2012 we had great seats near the stage to see all the action as it unfolded.  The evening was billed as a night of battle of  the reality beauty stars. As a number of finalists had already gained some notoriety and/or fame in such TV shows as Take Me Out, Britain and Ireland's Next Top Model and Signed by Katie Price.
After a lovely evening of fab food, wine and entertainment from the Miss England team the winner was announced.

To everyone's delight it was the gorgeous Charlotte Holmes.  This was Charlotte's 3rd attempt at winning the title and she was overcome with emotion. It was so heart warming to see.

The stunning down to earth beauty had no time to rest after her win as she was whisked away to beautiful Mauritius on official duties.
To our surprise and delight Charlotte tweeted pics and warm words of thanks to her swimwear sponsors (SandstormLuxury.com) for her gorgeous bikinis.
As official swimwear sponsors Sandstorm provided her with a selection of fab swimwear and accessories..
So far we've seen her in items from two of our exclusive collections:
1. A beautiful stunning black studded bikini from Secret beach.
2. An amazing red ruffle bikini from Saucy Rose.
Charlotte's back in the UK this week - so we hope to catch up with her before she jets off to the Miss World finals which are being in held in China later this month.

Sandstorm looks 'So Sexy' in the new Aggro Santos video!

Sandstorm - Swimwear Sponsors for Miss England 2012

Di Alta Classe & Sandstorm Celebrate Beach Beauties with a Real Women's Swimwear Shoot.

The Di Alta Classe ladies recently collaborated with SandstormLuxury.com on a beach photo/video shoot.  

Di Alta Classe are a group of fashion forward thinking women who are passionate about pushing the boundaries for conventional stereotypical models and they celebrate all types of beauty.

Each of their models are completely different to each other and they promote that the beauty of a woman comes in all shapes and sizes. All of their models have fantastic personalities, proving that being beautiful is not just about being conventionally pretty on the outside!

 Di Alta Classe are committed to changing the way women view themselves, afterall being sexy and beautiful is all about being healthy, happy, being yourself and loving it!

 At Sandstorm, we echo Di Alta Classe  ideal sentiments and was therefore delighted to assist on their swimwear shoot. 

To purchase the swimwear featured in this shoot visit www.SandstormLuxury.com:

Email: naomi@sandstormluxury.com

Models: Di Alta Classe

Photographer: Jade Turnbull

Swimwear:  SandstormLuxury.com 

(designer swimwear collections)