Tag Archives: Harry Potter

October 30, 2018

Filed under General

I always see bloggers put together Birthday wish lists. However, in all my years of blogging, I have never completed one. As it is my birthday at the end of the month. I thought it was time to rectify this and produce a wish list of things I want for my birthday or that I will end up buying for myself over the autumn.

This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I will earn a commission. You will not pay more when buying a product through my link.

My Birthday Wish List 2018

Navy Floral Bomber Jacket
Even since I saw Killing Eve, I have obsessed with getting an embroidered bomber jacket. Whilst I loved the green version Villanelle wore. I think this blue one as it’s more practical for me as I wear a lot of blue.
BB-8 Keepcup
As you know I love drinking coffee when I am on my adventures. I am also concerned about the environment. Being a caffeine addict should stop me. So I am trying to carry a reusable mug with me more often.
Wonder Woman or Harry Potter Alex and Ani Bracelet.
I have received an Alex and Ani bracelet on several recent birthdays, one was brought from me in New York and another Princess Leia one. They also have collections based in DC comics and Harry Potter. I’d love another bracelet this year, but am having trouble picking just one.
Batgirl: A Celebration of 50 Years
I have always loved the earlier Batgirl comics, I think it’s because those are the ones I started reading. That’s why I was excited about this “Celebrations” book. As it collects some of the classic Batgirl storylines, combined with newer Birds of Prey and New 52 storylines.
Spectrum Makeup Brushes
I recently discovered the Spectrum store in Carnaby Street and it became my favourite shop! Downstairs they sell amazing makeup brushes and bags, based in Disney characters of Mean Girls. Upstairs is a coffee shop, which is an Instagrammer’s dream! I fell in love with so many things in the store including these brushes.
Danielle Nicole Ravenclaw Clutch
I keep seeing Danielle Nicole bags on Instagram, with designs based on Disney character and Harry Potter, they are the height of geek chic. When I saw the Hogwarts’ house collection, I fell in love. What an amazing way to show your ‘house pride.’ I adore both the uniform crossbody bag or this house badge clutch. But in the end, I feel the clutch is more subtle.
Kikki-K Personal Planner
I have used the Bullet Journal system for as my personal organisation over the last few years. However, I am toying with the idea of going back to a planner. Especially, after reading Boho Berry’s post. I love the set up she has used combining a traditional Filofax and Bullet Journal.
Satchel in chestnut
For years, I’ve loved with satchels, I have had a red Cambridge Satchel for the last several years and it’s still going strong. However, I want a smaller version for running around. I love the classic look of chestnut leather, plus you now have the option of magnetic clasps under the buckles for ease of access.
Puma Kimino Trainers
Jason is addicted to trainers, whereas I seem to just replace my converse every few years. However, I think his addiction is rubbing off on me. Recently, I have been drawn to other styles. First Adidas Stan Smiths and now these embroidered Puma ones.
Little Miss Caffeine mug
You can never have too many coffee mugs, right? I know the Little Miss Blogger version is hugely popular at the moment. But as I have never felt like a proper blogger! I thought the Miss Caffeine version was more me!

Is it anyone else’s birthday this month?
Any fellow Scorpions?
Do you create a birthday wish list?
Let me know in the comments below.

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August 29, 2018

Filed under General

I had seen The Geeky Girl Tag posted on a few blogs last year and I always intended to join in. Yet, for some reason, I never got around to filling in the questions. Last month Heather from Just Geeking By, posts a list of 10 Tags for Bloggers. So I figured I would use this as my cue to finally join in. (And, do a few more Blog Tags over this year). Zombie Goddess Beauty originally created The Geeky Girl Tag. If you haven’t already joined it. “Tag you are it!” The questions are at the end of the post.

The Geeky Girl Tag

1. What is your must-have tech gadget?
I guess the gadget I use the most is my iPhone, so I’m guessing that makes it my must-have gadget. Like most people, I use my phone to keep in touch with people, but never actually call anyone! I always text and use social media. I also use my phone to take photos, keep organised, listen to music and play games!

2. Which house do you belong to in Hogwarts?
Ravenclaw. I took The Storing Hat Quiz on Pottermore test twice. The first time, I got Gryffinfor and I was unhappy with my results, I felt it was completely wrong. I have never considered myself brave or courageous. Although I have been called stubborn a lot. So I guess this could be mistaken for determination! The second time I took the test I was sorted into Ravenclaw, which I think is a much better fit. I also retook the Patronus test which changed from a bloodhound to a dolphin.

3. Who is your favourite Doctor?
It has to be Eleven (Matt Smith)! I love all the modern Doctors, and of course, I can’t wait to see Thirteen. But overall, I love the childish nature of Eleven. Similarly, I loved all the companions Eleven had, the Ponds, Craig and especially Clara.

4. If you could have dinner with any fictional character, who would it be?
It would have to be with a detective so I could pick their brain. With this in mind, my first choice was Sherlock Holmes. But thinking about it his social awkwardness wouldn’t make him a fun dinner guest. Then I thought Jessica Fletcher (I adore Murder She Wrote), but as most her dinner companions get murdered, or accused of murder I decided against that. Therefore, I am picking Batman! In fact, I would love to have dinner with the whole Bat-Family.

5. What is your gaming system of choice?
I prefer portable game systems. At the moment I play a lot of games on my iPad however, I do still love my old Nintendo 3DS, especially as I love re-playing puzzle games like Professor Layton series.

6. If you had a superpower, what would it be?
Teleportation. I thought about flying so I could see the world. But with teleportation, I could take people with me and more luggage when I travelled. Think of all the possibilities. You could pop to Japan to buy comics, teleport some friends to Disneyland for the day. Or spend the evening having dinner in Italy. Of course, I would also use my power for good like rescuing people from natural disasters.

7. What is your favourite fantasy world?
The Star Wars Universe. There are so many planets from Star Wars I would love to visit, such as Naboo or Mandalore. In reality, as I am a city girl at heart, ultimately, I think I would end up spending most of my time on Coruscant.

8. If you could be any fictional race, what would you be?
If you had asked me this last year, I would have been stumped. Jedi isn’t really a race and I’m not sure what race from Star Wars world I would have wanted to be part of. As you would expect since seeing Black Panther I now want to be a Wakandan!

9. Star Trek or Star Wars?
Star Wars all the way!

10. List your top 5 geektastic movies or TV Series.
Star Wars
Marvel Cinematic Universe (movies and TV shows)
Game of Thrones
Sherlock
Harry Potter

11. List your top 5 favourite video games.
The Professor Layton series
The Sims
Animal Crossing (I am loving the Pocket Camp iOS version)
Pokemon Go (I started playing again this summer and am loving it again).
Candy Crush Saga (sorry I have to include it, I’m addicted)

The Geeky Girl Tag Questions:

1. What is your must-have tech gadget?
2. Which house do you belong to in Hogwarts?
3. Who is your favourite Doctor?
4. If you could have dinner with any fictional character, who would it be?
5. What is your gaming system of choice?
6. If you had a superpower, what would it be?
7. What is your favourite fantasy world?
8. If you could be any fictional race, what would you be?
9. Star Trek or Star Wars?
10. List your top 5 geektastic movies or TV Series.
11. List your top 5 favourite video games.

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August 17, 2018

Filed under General

To celebrate Afternoon Tea Week, I thought I would put together a few products for you to have your own geeky afternoon tea at home. With the rise in popularity of afternoon tea, there are so many great products to chose from. Also as tea parties feature both Alice in Wonderland and Beauty and the Beast, there are some great tea related products based on these franchises available.

How to Host your own Afternoon Tea at Home with a Twist

Afternoon Tea at Home with a Twist!

Good Food has some great ideas for hosting your own afternoon tea at home, from decorating tips to what to serve. Pinterest is also a great place to search for geekier recipe ideas. In my Pinspiration series, I have featured Stranger Things cupcakes, Hulk cake pops and Captain America cookies. All of these be great for the pastry course of your afternoon tea. Alternatively, you can also look for a macaroon or mini pie recipes. Afternoon Tea at Home with a Twist

Milk Jug // Sugar Bowl // Cake Stand // Tea Cup
Tardis Teapot // Harry Potter Tea Set // R2-D2 Teapot
BB-8 Tea Set for One // Tea Infuser // Cake Stand

During an Afternoon Tea, cakes are served on a tiered cake stand. Like the whimsical Alice in Wonderland cake stand from the V&A Museum. Yet, as I discovered when research quirkier teas in London. Hotels are getting more creative with their stands using old records and even books as serving boards. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative the Disney have some cute disposable tiered cake stands. Which come with matching disposable tablecloths and napkins.

The great thing about afternoon tea is there are no hard and fast rules. You could have a matching tea set like this Harry Potter one, or opt for a mismatch of china cups. Taking inspiration from the Mad Hatter’s tea party you could have an ill-sorted collection of plates and cups, and carry this even further with mismatched chairs.

How are you celebrating Afternoon Tea Week?
What themed Afternoon Tea would you like to have?
Let me know in the comments below.

This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I will earn a commission. You will not pay more when buying a product through my link.

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July 27, 2018

Filed under 5 Fandom Friday

At the start of the year, I listed the five films I was excited about at the first half of 2018, luckily I remembered to update the list for the second half of the year. Whilst for me 2018 was all about seeing Avengers: Infinity War, there are still plenty of interesting movies released later this year.

Of course, it is going to be a little strange not having a new Star Wars movie in December. In recent years, we have started a few traditions around Christmas involving seeing the newest Star Wars movie, a midnight release with friends and then with family on Boxing Day. As a result, of the Solo movie’s May release, we are going to have to find something else to watch instead.

Five Fandom Friday: Five Films I’m excited about in 2018 part 2

Ant-Man and The Wasp (August 3rd)

The end of Avengers: Infinity War left me wanting the next instalment in the MCU. Luckily, we didn’t have to wait too long (Well we had to wait longer in the UK). Whilst I am excited to see the sequel. I am really excited to see Wasp in action (I still get so happy to see decent female superheroes onscreen). At the same time, I want to see how this movie tied into Avengers: Infinity War and that ending!
Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald (November 16th)

It surprised me how much I loved the first Fantastic Beasts movie. Whilst I loved the idea of heading backing into the Wizard World. I was unsure if it would be the same without Harry Potter and Co. But, J.K. Rowling yet again weaved her magic and I fell in love with a new gang of wizards! Now we get the chance to return to Hogwarts, see a young Dumbledore and hopefully meet some new fantastic beasts!
Venom (October 5th)

This is a weird one, A Venom film without Spider-Man! How would that work? Yes, I do think of Venom as an anti-hero rather than a villain, so I guess he doesn’t need a “hero” in his story. Yet, the Venom origin’s story I know is linked to heavily to Spider-Man. Eddie Brock working at the Daily Prophet with Peter Parker. The Spider-Man rejecting the Symbiote and it finding Brock. It will be interesting to how they re-work this story. Plus it stars Riz Ahmed, so of course, I want to see this film.
Aquaman (December 14th)

I was a little apprehensive about the Aquaman film. not because it is a “World of DC” movie after all Wonder Woman was amazing. The truth is I felt a little seasick watching the underwater scenes in Justice League. And was unsure I could watch a whole movie set underwater. In light of the trailer release at SDCC last weekend, I am now hooked!
Mary Poppins Returns (December 21st)

Mary Poppins is a great film from our childhoods. A classic Disney family movie, memorable songs, magic and dancing penguins! It’s pretty much perfect despite the dodgy cockney accent. This sequel has an amazing cast, notably the brilliant Angela Lansbury and Lin-Manuel Miranda.

Fandom Friday was originally created by The Nerdy Girlie & Super Space Chick. If you want to continue joining in on the fun A Geeky Gal and Darling Stewie have created a DLC of prompts!
Or follow #fandom5 or #5fandomfriday on Twitter.

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July 23, 2018

Filed under General

We are in the full swing of comic con season. As always the headliner is San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC). Social Media can create awful Con Envy, but can also help us keep up to date with all the fun events happening at Comic-Con. Live blogging via Twitter, streaming in Facebook. Or seeing photos on Instagram can help us stay up to date with what is happening in SDCC. With that in mind here are my highlights from SDCC, from someone who wasn’t there!

Monday Musing: Highlights from SDCC 2018

First off, SDCC started with amazing news! Billed as the 10th Anniversary Star Wars: Clone Wars panel. The Star Wars panel ended with the exciting news that The Clone Wars would be back for the eighth season. Ahsoka is one of my favourite characters, so I loved this news, I can’t wait to see the Clones and Jedi back in action. Soon after the panel, #CloneWarsSaved was trending on Twitter, this was clearly, something the fans wanted.

The other major panel on Day One had to be Doctor Who. This was our first proper look at not only the Thirteenth Doctor but also her new companions. The trailer did give us a sneak peek of them all in action. But it looks like we will have to wait until later in the year to see the first female Doctor in action. I also adored that Jodie Whittaker was the surprise model at the Her Universe fashion show!

What about Marvel?

Marvel scaled back their presences at SDCC this year. There wasn’t a major panel for the MCU movies. Instead, they focused on the television shows, cartoons and comics. The big TV shows like Cloak and Dagger, Legion, and Iron Fist all had individual panels. I was sad to see there wasn’t an Agents of SHIELD panel. As this is one of favourite Marvel shows and I am interested to see which direction the show is heading for in season 6. But, they did share some interesting news, including a new head of SHIELD.

For me, the most interesting panel was the Marvel Animation Presents: Marvel Rising one. Announcing a new cartoon, Marvel Rising. With a new team that includes Quake and Ms Marvel. As well as bring fan favourite’s Ghost-Spider and Squirrel Girl to the small screen. Hopefully, it won’t be too long before we see them on the big screen too!

The World of DC

With Marvel scaling back their panels, it was DC comics time to shine. Their big panels were to promoted all their television shows, movies and DC Universe streaming service. Whilst, there is no news if their new streaming service will be available in the UK. I am really excited about in the new Titans TV series. And Young Justice: Outsiders which will both set to be available in on the service.

Sticking with the DC television programmers, the Arrowverse universe added another hero to its team in the form of Batwoman! Who will feature in the major crossover as well as her own series. The Batwoman TV programme seems to be based on New 52 version of Kathy Kane. The Supergirl television programme, not only deals with topics other shows won’t handle but also deals with them well (I loved Alex’s coming out storyline). I was not surprised to hear, they were introducing the first transgender superhero. And as a result, I can’t wait to see the next season.

Putting the mess of Justice League behind them, the DCEU announced its official name “The Worlds of DC”. Then spoiled us with two amazing trailers for Aquaman and SHAZAM. The stars of Wonder Woman were also there with exclusive footage for the attendees, but nothing new available online. I guess we will have to wait for the official trailer.

Other Highlights

With SDCC lasting four days there were so many fun events happenings. Here are some of the other highlights I loved reading about online this weekend.

The Buffy reboot. I was a huge fan of the original Buffy: The Vampire Slayer programme. And I kind of wish this was a continuation rather than a reboot, but I am excited to see the slayer back on our screens.
Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald new trailer! As its a chance to go back to Hogwarts!
Mayans MC trailer. I loved Sons of Anarchy, and whilst I am a little apprehensive of a spin-off show, I am hoping this will not disappoint.
#RallyforRose

We are all Rose Tico
For @kellymarietran @rianjohnson @starwars @Disney
#SDNOC #NOC5TH #RallyforRose #SDCC2018 #sdcc pic.twitter.com/punJKR3fUr

— #SDNOC #NOC5th (@TheNerdsofColor) July 21, 2018

It is hard to ignore the toxicity online towards the character of Rose Tico and towards the actor Kelly Marie Tran, from people claiming to be Star Wars fans. So, it was amazing to see such support of the character with a rally at SDCC.

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May 15, 2018

Filed under Geek Girls Guide To

Having Afternoon Tea in London is on many people’s bucket list. Traditionally, it was always “Tea at the Ritz.” Although, judging by Instagram posts, Sketch seems to currently be the place to go. With its millennial pink decor and space-aged toilets, you can see why it has become so popular. In London, there is no shortage of places to have afternoon tea, and a lot of them have an interesting twist.

Ordinarily, I might be a coffee drinker. However, that doesn’t stop me from enjoying a good afternoon tea. Whilst traditional afternoon teas are fun, As a fangirl, I love quirky versions. Especially those linked to a fandom, designed around a book or film. With this in mind, here is a list of six afternoon teas I want to try.

Places for Fangirls to have Afternoon Tea in London

Sherlock Holmes Afternoon Tea at Taj — Sherlock Holmes Afternoon Tea
Photo Credit Taj 51

Sherlock Holmes Afternoon Tea at the Taj
(Not available in May)
The Taj offers several interesting tea experiences, but the one that interests me the most is the Sherlock Holmes themed one. Designed around Arthur Conan Doyle’s books the menu features sandwiches named after Holmes stories. Namely, Hound of Baskerville (Roast beef filling) or The Five Orange Pips ( Smoked salmon and orange flavoured horseradish).
Cutter and Squidge’s The Potion Room
Available from the 3rd May to 30th October
This summer, Cutter and Squidge have transformed into “The Potion Room” offering a wizard-based afternoon tea. Even though, the experience isn’t linked to the Harry Potter books or movies. It clearly takes inspiration from the wizarding world and famous witch school. One of the highlights from the menu is the Hubble Bubble drink served in a cauldron.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory tea at One Aldwych
When Charlie and the Chocolate Factory returned to the West End stage a few years ago. The nearby hotel One Aldwych designed an afternoon tea based on the classic Roald Dahl novel. Food from the book provides the inspiration for the menu. By creating such delights as bubblegum pannacotta to blueberry cake pops and of course a lot of chocolate!
Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea at The Sanderson
Available from the 2nd May to 26th September
Arguably, one of the most famous tea parties in literature has to be the Mad Hatter’s party in Alice in Wonderland. This summer you too can venture down the rabbit hole at The Sanderson Hotel. Their Alice themed afternoon tea features desserts includes Queen of Hearts cookies or a chessboard gateau.
Theatre Not Afternoon Tea at the OXO Tower
The iconic Oxo Tower on the banks of the River Thames, offers an afternoon tea, with a definite twist. The emphasis is on pairing cocktails and cakes (but they do offer a non-alcoholic version for children). The Theatre Not Afternoon Tea takes its inspiration from not one but several West End stage shows. For example, cakes are inspired by iconic shows including Hamlet, Wicked and the Lion King.
Tale as Old as Time at The Townhouse
Sold Out
Finally, the Tale as Old as Time afternoon tea at The Townhouse. Originally created to coincide with the release of the live-action version of Beauty and the Beast. This tea has been incredibly popular, that they are continuing to still offer the experience. Unfortunately, it is currently sold out, although you can sign up for updates via their website.

Places for Fangirls to have Afternoon Tea in London

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October 19, 2017

Filed under Geek Girls Guide To

There are loads of fun events taking place in London for Halloween 2017. But I have found a few fun things to do with an interesting twist for Halloween this year. These five events are all based on TV shows or movies, making them ideal for geeks.

Geek Girls Guide to Halloween 2017 in London.

WB Studio Tour
What is more Halloween than Harry Potter? The WB Studio Tour just outside London will be celebrating the Dark Arts all throughout October. With the Great Hall decorated with floating pumpkins, recreating the Halloween scene from Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. On top of that over the Halloween weekend, they are hosting Hogwarts after Dark, a Halloween feast in the great hall.
Halloween Edible Cinema
The Edible Cinema offers a different movie adventure, rather than just experiencing the movie via your visual and audio senses, they add the elements of taste and smell. For Halloween, they are staging a showing of Beetlejuice at several the Everyman Cinemas around London. The tasting menu features numbered boxes to be opened throughout the movie to heighten your experience.
Supper Club UK presents The Red Wedding
The Supper Club UK is hosting an interactive dining experience based on the Red Wedding from Game of Thrones. On the 31st October, they will create an immersive dining experience based on the eventful wedding feast. The evening will include a five-course meal, music, and actors recreating the iconic feast.
The Walking Dead Maze at Thrope Park
As part of their Fright Nights at Thorpe Park for 2017, they have added an attraction based on The Walking Dead. Featuring two mazes (one indoor and one outside) fans of the zombie apocalypse programme can experience several scenes from the show facing off against the un-dead and Negan. The park also has a feature based on the SAW movies.
Hitchcock Themed Afternoon Tea
If you are looking for something a little less scary, but still with a Halloween twist. The Royal Lancaster Hotel has a Hitchcock Themed Afternoon Tea. Alongside the traditional finger sandwiches and scones, they are serving sweet treats based on classic Hitchcock movies like Cursed Blackbird Macaroon and Psycho Marbled Lollipops.

My Hacks

If you are looking for a Halloween party or club night, check out Design My Night, they have tons of listing for the Halloween weekend in London, from Silent Discos to a prison-themed pop-up called Alcotraz.
For ideas of Halloween actives with children, LondonTown.com has a list of family fun over half term. Including, pumpkin carving and sleepover in a museum.
If you are not in London for Halloween but want to add a scary element to your stay, Visit London has a list of 13 Spooky things to do in the capital from Jack the Ripper walking tours to Haunted pubs.

Geek Girls Guide to Halloween 2017 in London

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August 4, 2017

Filed under Geek Girls Guide To

I love reading travel blogs, dreaming about all the places I would love to visit. What I love even more is reading tips from locals about their area. My favourites are tips for Disneyworld by Floridians (one day I will go back). I am a Londoner, I was born here and still stay in the same area. For all the wrong reasons London has been in the news a lot lately. I want to start writing about all the great things in this city.

Geek Girl Guide

London is an amazing place to be a geek girl! I thought I would put together some tips and tricks from a local for other geek girls visiting the city. Everyone knows about the historic buildings, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and more modern attractions like the London Eye or Shard. I love to explore the geekier attractions!

Dozens of television shows and movies are filmed in London, from Jason Bourne to James Bond, even the recent Wonder Woman film featured a few scenes in the city. It is easy to find these locations on your own. However, you can take an organised tour (both bus and walking) around some of these locations. A quick search online can show you all the options from specialist tours for fans of Harry Potter to places include in British Rom Coms.

London isn’t just about film locations, the city has many museums and exhibits with a geeky twist. Currently, there are also several temporary exhibitions perfect for a fangirl. The Star Wars Identities at the O2, a journey into Sci-Fi at the Barbican. and at the end of the summer, the British Library will showcase their Harry Potter collection of manuscripts and props.

London also hosts several conventions. In May over the same weekend, two of the convention centres in London held cons. MCM London in the east and Heroes and Villains in the west of the city. Last summer, Star Wars Celebration was held in the city. Still, to come this year are London Film Convention and the Vampire Ball.

Escape Games (or Escape the Room scenarios) are all the rage at the moment, with locations popping up all over the world. Whilst these, in general, are fun for a geek girl, there are several in London that have added to the geekiness by adding a pop culture theme. Including one set in a wizarding school or another based around the disappearance of Sherlock Holmes.

Even going to the cinema in London can be an adventure. Secret Cinema has taken to film going to a new level. They recreating the fantasy world from the movie, resulting in an interactive experience rather than just watching a film. Or how about a movie marathon? The Prince Charles Cinema regularly has all-nighters including Marvel Phase One and Harry Potter marathons.

What is your favourite fangirl thing to do in London? Do you have a London themed Bucket List? What would you like me to write about in the Fangirl Guide series? Let me know in the comments below.