Jennifer McCarthy, Spa Manager at the Montenotte Hotel; Ray Kelleher, Director of Sales and Marketing, Montenotte Hotel and Amy Roberts, Head of Spa, Grown Alchemist at the launch of Grown Alchemist to Bellevue Spa. Photo: Brian Lougheed

Sometimes it’s time to treat yourself!

Well I’ve finally had the last of my 40th birthday celebrations and I’m looking forward to having a couple of quiet weekends of staying in.

In the midst of all the celebrations, I needed a pick me up and an invitation to the beautiful Bellevue Spa at the Montenotte Hotel couldn’t have come at a better time.

There’s no better way to unwind than a facial, spa day and a spot of lunch and I even love going on my own as a super relaxing, me time treat.

I was at the event to launch the new Grown Alchemist range which is the newest range at the spa and also the first spa in Ireland to partner with the brand. The Australian skincare brand is known for promoting optimum skincare health through a combination of scientific formulas and natural ingredients. It also smells amazing and having used the products myself, I can say they are so light but effective on the skin.

Grown Alchemist have curated a collection of facials and body treatments which work in synergy with your skin’s unique biology to repair natural functions, decelerate signs of ageing and restore radiance.

Each treatment involves a combination of signature techniques, including neuromyopathic stimulation, an anti-pollution mist infusion and cryotherapy. The spa therapists can help guide your selection based on a personalised consultation to understand your needs.

The treatment was super relaxing but also I felt like my skin was really being worked and it felt so amazing afterwards. Soft and with a glow that was badly needed after a month of parties! I simply floated down to the Panorama Restaurant for a delicious lunch and to enjoy the stunning views of the city.

In other news, doesn’t it feel like Easter has crept up on us? I always find that Easter is really the start of spring and it’s when I feel most comfortable shedding a few layers of clothing. I’ve been testing the water so far and have gone so far as to wear a dress with no tights and a loafer with bare foot. Wild I know!

Finally the coats and winter hats are gone and in there place we can pull out and get reacquainted with our spring pieces. I don’t know if I’ll be quite so brave as to start with a sandal but I’m all for a backless loafer or a ballet pump.

Spring is all about florals, lighter fabrics and denim and it’s one of my favourite times of year for fashion.

I love a linen suit moment in spring and I’ve seen some gorgeous waistcoat and short combinations that I would layer with a trench or blazer but would easily pair with a sandal and sunnies in the summer months.

Spring denim is one of my favourites and I love to start wearing lighter coloured denim. Jumpsuits get a new lease of life with pastel coloured ballet flats and straight leg, light wash denim looks superb with pastel knit cardies and layered gold jewellery.

Florals for spring may not be ground breaking but they will certainly never go out of style and I for one can’t wait to wear my favourite floral dresses with sandals and a woven straw bag, Easter bonnet optional!