Schmoozing on a School Night: Beauty Matters' Garforth Launch

It ain't very often I get to escape the monotony of mid-week nights in front of the telly to pop on the old gladrags and head out for a glass of bubbly and a much-needed mingle. So when an invite to the launch of a brand new beauty salon in Garforth (near Leeds) landed in my inbox from Faith PR I didn't hesitate in confirming that I'd definitely be there. With bells on.
I mean who can pass up the opportunity to schmooze on a school night, indulge in complimentary beauty treatments and, more importantly, support a local beauty business?
Beauty Matters isn't new to the cosmetics scene by any means; the brand's founder - Melanie Philbin - has successfully run and managed a branch in nearby Rothwell for some time. And it was testament to a job already well done that so many people turned out to see the new - and very spangly - Garforth premises.

Beauty Matters' Garforth launch: top left, Jess from Forever Miss Vanity gets a free manicure, bottom left: delicious canapes, bottom right: a close up of the treats on offer on the night

From the stylish fittings and fixtures, to the gorgeously-displayed beauty products, and beautifully-presented canapes, no elegant detail had been overlooked on launch night.

The team, too, couldn't do enough for everyone who passed through Beauty Matters' doors, taking us on tours of the deceivingly-large building, ensuring prosecco glasses were topped up, and offering free beauty treatments. It was evident on arrival the brand had seen a huge investment, with plush interiors, highly knowledgeable staff and more treatments than you probably even know existed.

Having already painted my nails before I arrived (damn!) I decided to forego a complimentary manicure and instead opted to discover more about my skin - and its needs - via a special skin scanning device operated by one of the therapists.

Surprisingly (and perhaps, worryingly) my ghost white skin showed up with a few patches of sun damage, with tips being dished out on how best to look after various imperfections. In all, an eye-opening experience I probably wouldn't have had the chance to discover otherwise.

But thanks to a rather generous goodie bag of Environ (a skincare collaboration between Elle MacPherson and Naomi Watts) products, I'll certainly be paying more attention to any dry, damaged skin.

Also on offer at the new salon is 3D-lipo, a non-surgical, non-invasive treatment which promises to help you lose inches, banish cellulite and tighten skin. Certainly worth a try if you're not a huge fan of going to the gym (who is?!) and want a quick fix in preparation for a big occasion.
As someone who loves the chance to discover new skincare and beauty salons, it was lovely to be able to find what looks like a great not too far from my doorstep.
If you're in the area and fancy a beauty treat or two, I'm sure you'll have a wonderfully indulgent time at Beauty Matters. Don't forget to check out the brand's website for a full treatment menu and more.
What's your favourite pampering treat? Have you had chance to check out Garforth's Beauty Matters yet?