If you are designing a website there are many things to consider. It is important that it is well designed, easy to use, and gives the visitors what they want.
The main thing that needs to be taken into consideration when designing a web site is the purpose of the site. You need to decide what the site is for and then design it accordingly. You need to work out what the visitor will want from the site, and what you want your visitors to do. It is always a good idea to put yourself in the visitor’s shoes. There is no point designing a flashy website that you think looks great if it is of no use to your visitors. Remember the site is for the visitor, not the designer. You need to work out who is going to use the site. Do your research on who the audience are and what they will be looking for.
The look of your website is important. It needs to be eye catching without being over complicated. If it is too bland the visitor’s are likely to leave immediately. You need a hook that makes them want to stay and investigate further. If it is too complicated though, the visitor may find the site too much work and leave for that reason. The visitor needs to be able to find what they are looking for. Once you know what this is, design the site so it is easy to find. Internet users are usually reluctant to work too hard for the information or products they are seeking. They don’t want to search for it for a lengthy period of time; if they can’t find it they will soon look elsewhere.
Usability is an extremely important factor in the design of your website. The site must be easy to navigate around. The last thing you want is for the visitor to leave the site because they feel they can’t use the site, despite the fact that the site may have what they are seeking. If you are selling a product, the visitor must be able to find the product and purchase it easily. If it is information you are providing, then it should be easily accessible. Creating a simple site may sound boring, but it is often what the visitor wants. There is nothing more frustrating to a visitor than a messy site, with too much content on each page so they can’t find what they want.
Of course you will want graphics on your site. They do add something, and without them the site will be very bland and look unprofessional. Any graphics you have, though, should have a purpose. Don’t overload the site with graphics, think about what purpose they serve and put them in the right place. They should fit naturally into the site. Only use animations, such as flash, if necessary. You may think they look good, but they can be very frustrating to the visitor, especially if on a splash page before they even get to the home page. They are also bad for SEO purposes, meaning you are less likely to appear high in the search engine results pages. Graphics, and more so animations, are fine in the right place if they serve a purpose, but if used in the wrong way they can frustrate the visitor.
Something that may be useful before designing a site is to look at the competition within you niche. Look at the things that they have done well and see if you can do something similar. You can also look at what they have done badly, and therefore prevent yourself from making the same mistakes. By looking at your competition’s website you can work out ways to provide your visitors with what they are looking for in a better way than anyone else.
Andrew Marshall ©
Web Design London
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Friday, June 19, 2009
How VoIP Works
VoIP is a method by which calls can be made via a digital signal instead of a telephone line. The term VoIP stands for voice over internet protocol, and is basically the term used to describe the journey of voice signals via an IP address.
VoIP uses a high speed internet connection instead of the transmission of voice signals via a regular telephone line. When you talk through a VoIP device the signal travels digitally via your internet connection to the person at the other end. Depending on the device used the signal may have to transfer from a phone signal into a digital signal, and then back into a phone signal at the other end.
The original, and still most common method of individuals using VoIP, is communication through a computer. Two people can communicate by talking through microphones connected to their computers, with the voice of the other person coming through the speakers. This is the cheapest method of VoIP communication as the signal can travel entirely digitally via the internet. Skype is the best known and most popular provider, and with them calls from one computer to another are free, wherever you are calling worldwide. As well as computer to computer you can also call a telephone from a computer using such a provider. When this is the case the signal transfers from a digital signal into a telephone signal at the other end so it can travel through the other person’s telephone set. This is not free, but the cost is still minimal if compared to calls between two telephones.
Using computers is no longer the only way that people can communicate using VoIP. There are now telephone adaptors available that turn an analogue signal into a digital signal, and then back into an analogue signal at the other end. The adaptor connects the telephone into a special router which connects it to the internet. After someone has spoken into the telephone it travels through the adaptor, which converts the analogue signal into a digital one. The signal then travels through the internet to the recipient. If the person on the other end is also using such an adaptor it will then travel through their adaptor, which will convert the signal back into analogue.
As well as VoIP adaptors, there are also VoIP phones now on the market. To the user a VoIP phone works the same way as a regular telephone. The difference comes in the way that the signal travels. A VoIP phone is connected to an Ethernet cable which is plugged directly into a router or modem. It is effectively using the technology in the same way as if you were using a computer, but to the user it is like using a telephone.
The main selling point of VoIP is that it is significantly cheaper than using a regular telephone line. The technology costs less for the provider meaning the consumer saves money. Many providers offer an unlimited number of calls per month, often including international, for a standard monthly fee.
VoIP is a relatively new technology, and due to the costs savings it offers, it is becoming more and more popular. The quality is not yet the same as with a regular telephone but it is getting better all the time.
Andrew Marshall ©
Interoute VoIP
VoIP uses a high speed internet connection instead of the transmission of voice signals via a regular telephone line. When you talk through a VoIP device the signal travels digitally via your internet connection to the person at the other end. Depending on the device used the signal may have to transfer from a phone signal into a digital signal, and then back into a phone signal at the other end.
The original, and still most common method of individuals using VoIP, is communication through a computer. Two people can communicate by talking through microphones connected to their computers, with the voice of the other person coming through the speakers. This is the cheapest method of VoIP communication as the signal can travel entirely digitally via the internet. Skype is the best known and most popular provider, and with them calls from one computer to another are free, wherever you are calling worldwide. As well as computer to computer you can also call a telephone from a computer using such a provider. When this is the case the signal transfers from a digital signal into a telephone signal at the other end so it can travel through the other person’s telephone set. This is not free, but the cost is still minimal if compared to calls between two telephones.
Using computers is no longer the only way that people can communicate using VoIP. There are now telephone adaptors available that turn an analogue signal into a digital signal, and then back into an analogue signal at the other end. The adaptor connects the telephone into a special router which connects it to the internet. After someone has spoken into the telephone it travels through the adaptor, which converts the analogue signal into a digital one. The signal then travels through the internet to the recipient. If the person on the other end is also using such an adaptor it will then travel through their adaptor, which will convert the signal back into analogue.
As well as VoIP adaptors, there are also VoIP phones now on the market. To the user a VoIP phone works the same way as a regular telephone. The difference comes in the way that the signal travels. A VoIP phone is connected to an Ethernet cable which is plugged directly into a router or modem. It is effectively using the technology in the same way as if you were using a computer, but to the user it is like using a telephone.
The main selling point of VoIP is that it is significantly cheaper than using a regular telephone line. The technology costs less for the provider meaning the consumer saves money. Many providers offer an unlimited number of calls per month, often including international, for a standard monthly fee.
VoIP is a relatively new technology, and due to the costs savings it offers, it is becoming more and more popular. The quality is not yet the same as with a regular telephone but it is getting better all the time.
Andrew Marshall ©
Interoute VoIP
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Civil Partnership Dissolution
Civil Partnerships came into operation in the United Kingdom in December 2005. A civil partnership is the means by which a same sex couple can register their relationship. In many ways it is similar to a marriage, carrying many of the same laws, only under a different name. Unfortunately though, just like marriages, Civil Partnerships don’t always work out.
There are three main categories that the ending of a Civil Partnership fall under; a dissolution, a separation order and an annulment. A dissolution is very much like a divorce and means that the couple in question will longer be civil partners. Issues regarding property, finances and any children the couple may have will need to be resolved. A separation is much like a dissolution except that they are still officially civil partners and cannot marry or start a civil partnership with anyone else. This is the equivalent to a legal separation with a married couple. An annulment can be requested from a judge if either party does not think the civil partnership is valid or legal. Examples of this would be if one of the couple is under 16 years old or in a civil partnership or marriage with someone else.
For one of the parties to request a civil partnership dissolution, the partnership must have been registered for over one year. Just like with a divorce, the person requesting the dissolution must provide evidence to show that the relationship has irretrievably broken down.
The most likely reason for a dissolution is that the other party has been guilty of unreasonable behaviour. Some of the reasons that can be given for unreasonable behaviour are physical or mental abuse, financial irresponsibility, a dependence on drugs or alcohol, or sexual unfaithfulness. The other main reason for a dissolution is if the couple have been apart for a certain amount of time. If they have lived apart for two years and both parties agree, or five years and only one party agrees, it is likely the dissolution will be granted. If one partner has disserted the other for more than two years without a good reason, this is also ground for a dissolution.
The first step in a civil partnership dissolution is for the person requesting the dissolution to fill out a Petition. A petition is a document detailing the facts of the civil partnership and the reasons why he or she is seeking the dissolution. The other member of the partnership is then able to contest the dissolution. If this happens it goes to court and the process ends when the judge decides whether or not to grant the dissolution. The judge must agree that the partnership has irretrievably broken down and that there is no possibility of their problems being resolved. The entire dissolution process typically takes between three and six months.
Andrew Marshall ©
Civil Partnership Dissolution
There are three main categories that the ending of a Civil Partnership fall under; a dissolution, a separation order and an annulment. A dissolution is very much like a divorce and means that the couple in question will longer be civil partners. Issues regarding property, finances and any children the couple may have will need to be resolved. A separation is much like a dissolution except that they are still officially civil partners and cannot marry or start a civil partnership with anyone else. This is the equivalent to a legal separation with a married couple. An annulment can be requested from a judge if either party does not think the civil partnership is valid or legal. Examples of this would be if one of the couple is under 16 years old or in a civil partnership or marriage with someone else.
For one of the parties to request a civil partnership dissolution, the partnership must have been registered for over one year. Just like with a divorce, the person requesting the dissolution must provide evidence to show that the relationship has irretrievably broken down.
The most likely reason for a dissolution is that the other party has been guilty of unreasonable behaviour. Some of the reasons that can be given for unreasonable behaviour are physical or mental abuse, financial irresponsibility, a dependence on drugs or alcohol, or sexual unfaithfulness. The other main reason for a dissolution is if the couple have been apart for a certain amount of time. If they have lived apart for two years and both parties agree, or five years and only one party agrees, it is likely the dissolution will be granted. If one partner has disserted the other for more than two years without a good reason, this is also ground for a dissolution.
The first step in a civil partnership dissolution is for the person requesting the dissolution to fill out a Petition. A petition is a document detailing the facts of the civil partnership and the reasons why he or she is seeking the dissolution. The other member of the partnership is then able to contest the dissolution. If this happens it goes to court and the process ends when the judge decides whether or not to grant the dissolution. The judge must agree that the partnership has irretrievably broken down and that there is no possibility of their problems being resolved. The entire dissolution process typically takes between three and six months.
Andrew Marshall ©
Civil Partnership Dissolution
Monday, June 15, 2009
Types of Web Hosting
There are many different Web Hosting options available. Three of these are Shared Hosting, Managed Hosting and Colocation Hosting. This article looks at these three hosting options and there advantages and disadvantages.
SHARED HOSTING
Shared Hosting is where different sites share a server provided by a hosting company. This is the most basic hosting option and also the cheapest.
The main selling point of shared hosting is the cost. As the server is shared between different servers the hosting company can split the cost between all of the clients using the server. This option is suitable to small businesses that do not have the requirements of a more advanced type of hosting. Multiple software options are available with Shared Hosting.
There are restrictions though. The flexibility of other hosting types are not available. There is restriction to the amount of bandwidth available. The amount of bandwidth and RAM that is available is shared between all of the sites sitting on the server and therefore is limited. Although there is technical support there is a limit to the amount of support clients will get from the hosting company.
Due to the price, Shared Hosting is the best option for many businesses. If it is only basic web hosting that is needed, shared hosting is sufficient. For those who require more from their hosting, though, the service provided by Shared Hosting may not be enough.
MANAGED HOSTING
With Managed Hosting a client leases an entire server from the hosting company. Therefore they effectively have their own server to host their site on. The server is still owned by the hosting company but it is not shared with any other websites.
Managed Hosting is most suitable for large websites that expect a high amount of traffic or require large databases. It is much more powerful than a shared server and there are almost an unlimited amount of software solutions. The amount of bandwidth available is also much higher. The client can have multiple domain names on the server if required. One of the main selling points is that the client has full control over the server, although there is still support available from the hosting company.
One of the main disadvantages of Managed Hosting is that it expensive. As a whole server is being rented, the cost is quite high. More knowledge is also required when compared to Shared Hosting. Although there is much support available, knowledge of hosting is required to get the most out of Managed Hosting.
COLOCATION HOSTING
Colocation is when a client has their own server, but they store it at a colocation centre owned by the web hosting company. Colocation host’s rent rack space for companies to use for their servers. In many ways it is the same as a client hosting their own website except the server is stored elsewhere.
Colocation has many of the same advantages as if the client hosted their own website. They own the server so they can do with it as they please. They have full management of the server. With Colocation there tends to be high bandwidth availability and high uptime, although it is still limited compared with Managed Hosting. Colocation centres have high security and a controlled environment suitable for hosting needs.
Price wise Colocation is quite expensive, although cheaper than Managed Hosting. A client has to purchase their own server and then rent rack space on top of that. The skills level required to run the server is high. As the client owns the server they have to sort out any problems themselves and the support available is fairly limited, although there are sometimes packages available which come with support.
Colocation is mainly for anyone who wants to run their own server but do not have the space or budget to run it from their own premises. They therefore can store it at a Colocation centre, while still being in control.
Andrew Marshall ©
Managed Hosting
SHARED HOSTING
Shared Hosting is where different sites share a server provided by a hosting company. This is the most basic hosting option and also the cheapest.
The main selling point of shared hosting is the cost. As the server is shared between different servers the hosting company can split the cost between all of the clients using the server. This option is suitable to small businesses that do not have the requirements of a more advanced type of hosting. Multiple software options are available with Shared Hosting.
There are restrictions though. The flexibility of other hosting types are not available. There is restriction to the amount of bandwidth available. The amount of bandwidth and RAM that is available is shared between all of the sites sitting on the server and therefore is limited. Although there is technical support there is a limit to the amount of support clients will get from the hosting company.
Due to the price, Shared Hosting is the best option for many businesses. If it is only basic web hosting that is needed, shared hosting is sufficient. For those who require more from their hosting, though, the service provided by Shared Hosting may not be enough.
MANAGED HOSTING
With Managed Hosting a client leases an entire server from the hosting company. Therefore they effectively have their own server to host their site on. The server is still owned by the hosting company but it is not shared with any other websites.
Managed Hosting is most suitable for large websites that expect a high amount of traffic or require large databases. It is much more powerful than a shared server and there are almost an unlimited amount of software solutions. The amount of bandwidth available is also much higher. The client can have multiple domain names on the server if required. One of the main selling points is that the client has full control over the server, although there is still support available from the hosting company.
One of the main disadvantages of Managed Hosting is that it expensive. As a whole server is being rented, the cost is quite high. More knowledge is also required when compared to Shared Hosting. Although there is much support available, knowledge of hosting is required to get the most out of Managed Hosting.
COLOCATION HOSTING
Colocation is when a client has their own server, but they store it at a colocation centre owned by the web hosting company. Colocation host’s rent rack space for companies to use for their servers. In many ways it is the same as a client hosting their own website except the server is stored elsewhere.
Colocation has many of the same advantages as if the client hosted their own website. They own the server so they can do with it as they please. They have full management of the server. With Colocation there tends to be high bandwidth availability and high uptime, although it is still limited compared with Managed Hosting. Colocation centres have high security and a controlled environment suitable for hosting needs.
Price wise Colocation is quite expensive, although cheaper than Managed Hosting. A client has to purchase their own server and then rent rack space on top of that. The skills level required to run the server is high. As the client owns the server they have to sort out any problems themselves and the support available is fairly limited, although there are sometimes packages available which come with support.
Colocation is mainly for anyone who wants to run their own server but do not have the space or budget to run it from their own premises. They therefore can store it at a Colocation centre, while still being in control.
Andrew Marshall ©
Managed Hosting
Types of Child Trust Fund
There are three investment options for Child Trust Funds; stake holder accounts, savings accounts and investment in shares. This article looks at these three options.
STAKE HOLDER ACCOUNT
A stake holder account works by investing the £250 in shares in a number of companies. The voucher is invested in many different companies to reduce the risk. The risk is reduced as a bad performance by one company is not so catastrophic because it can be made up by others performing well. Once the child is 13 the child trust fund provider starts to move the money into lower risk investments. Decisions as to where it is moved and the speed at which it is moved is made by the provider. This decision will be based on how well the shares have been performing and their forecast as to how they will continue to perform. The negative of the move to the lower risk investments is that they will no longer benefit if the companies previously invested in performs well. The providers charge is limited by the government to no more than 1.5% each year. This is not the case with normal investments, but is one of the rules bought in by the government for Child Trust Funds.
A stakeholder account is how the child trust fund is invested if it hasn’t been invested by the child’s parents by its one year expiry date.
SAVINGS ACCOUNT
With a savings account the child trust fund is much more secure than the other options available. It is simply put into an account and kept there until the child turns 18. It is not reliant on the success or failure of shares, and therefore the value cannot go down, only up. The amount that they increase depends on the interest accumulated. The negative of the savings account is that the interest gained is likely to be minimal. Once inflation is taken into account it will be even less and in real terms and may actually be worth less than when it started. Inflation could rise more than the interest. It is almost certain that £250 will not buy as much in 18 years time than it does now. Therefore there is little chance of any significant increase in the value of a child trust fund through a savings account, but it is safe from going down in value.
INVESTING IN SHARES
Investing the Child Trust Fund in shares gives it the best chance of a significant increase in value. Like the Stakeholder’s Account, this scheme sees the fund being invested in companies. Over an 18 year period the amount originally invested could increase significantly. It depends on the performance of the companies in question but over this period it is almost certain that the fund will increase. Poor performance in one year can be made up by good performance in others. Stock market values tend to rise over a period of several years. But there is no guarantee. Although it is not likely, it is possible that the fund could decrease in value, and in theory could be completely wiped out. The providers charge is a percentage of the value on the child trust fund. Unlike the stakeholders account though, it is not limited to 1.5 per cent.
Andrew Marshall ©
Child Trust Fund
STAKE HOLDER ACCOUNT
A stake holder account works by investing the £250 in shares in a number of companies. The voucher is invested in many different companies to reduce the risk. The risk is reduced as a bad performance by one company is not so catastrophic because it can be made up by others performing well. Once the child is 13 the child trust fund provider starts to move the money into lower risk investments. Decisions as to where it is moved and the speed at which it is moved is made by the provider. This decision will be based on how well the shares have been performing and their forecast as to how they will continue to perform. The negative of the move to the lower risk investments is that they will no longer benefit if the companies previously invested in performs well. The providers charge is limited by the government to no more than 1.5% each year. This is not the case with normal investments, but is one of the rules bought in by the government for Child Trust Funds.
A stakeholder account is how the child trust fund is invested if it hasn’t been invested by the child’s parents by its one year expiry date.
SAVINGS ACCOUNT
With a savings account the child trust fund is much more secure than the other options available. It is simply put into an account and kept there until the child turns 18. It is not reliant on the success or failure of shares, and therefore the value cannot go down, only up. The amount that they increase depends on the interest accumulated. The negative of the savings account is that the interest gained is likely to be minimal. Once inflation is taken into account it will be even less and in real terms and may actually be worth less than when it started. Inflation could rise more than the interest. It is almost certain that £250 will not buy as much in 18 years time than it does now. Therefore there is little chance of any significant increase in the value of a child trust fund through a savings account, but it is safe from going down in value.
INVESTING IN SHARES
Investing the Child Trust Fund in shares gives it the best chance of a significant increase in value. Like the Stakeholder’s Account, this scheme sees the fund being invested in companies. Over an 18 year period the amount originally invested could increase significantly. It depends on the performance of the companies in question but over this period it is almost certain that the fund will increase. Poor performance in one year can be made up by good performance in others. Stock market values tend to rise over a period of several years. But there is no guarantee. Although it is not likely, it is possible that the fund could decrease in value, and in theory could be completely wiped out. The providers charge is a percentage of the value on the child trust fund. Unlike the stakeholders account though, it is not limited to 1.5 per cent.
Andrew Marshall ©
Child Trust Fund
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Influential Make Up Artists
Professional make up is a big industry these days. It has come a long way in the last hundred years or so. This article looks at five of the most influential professional make up artists.
GEORGE WESTMORE
George Westmore was one of the early make up artists in film, but his influence is still felt to this day. He was born in the UK and started his working life as a hairdresser. In the early 20th century he moved with his family to the United States, and worked as a wig maker. This eventually led to his move into make up.
Westmore later started the first ever movie make up department and taught his four eldest sons the techniques of the profession. Later on his two younger sons also worked as make up artist. Westmore committed suicide in 1931, but his legacy did not go with him. His sons continued to be hugely successful in the make up industry, in roles such as make up chief at Paramount, head of make up at Warner Bros, and head of Universal. His grandchildren also worked in the industry. Every major film studio was touched by the Westmore family, and their role in film make up cannot be underestimated.
JACK PIERCE
Jack Pierce was another early influence in cinema. He first worked in the movie industry in the 1920’s. He worked in a number of different roles in film, starting as a cinema manager. He later tried his hand as an actor and as a stuntman. He eventually edged into film make up, which became his forte.
After some early success he was hired by Universal Pictures. Universal has become one of the most successful studios in Hollywood, but at the time in was newly established. Both Universal, and Pierce himself, had some early success, especially in the horror genre. Their earliest major success together came with Dracula in 1931. Many were astonished by Pierce’s work in the now famous horror. His most impressive work, though, came later on in the 1930’s with Frankenstein. The way Pierce transformed actor Boris Karloff into Frankenstein is legendary to this day.
KEVIN AUCOIN
Kevin Aucoin’s first foray as a make up artist was doing make up for models for free in New York. While doing this he was discovered by Vogue magazine. At the age of only 21 he was hired by the floundering make up company Ultima 2. A year later, in 1984, he launched the ground breaking line, The Nakeds. At the time make up tones were made separately for black and white women, and The Nakeds was the first line that worked on all skin tones. It worked with yellow undertones instead of pink or peach, and was revolutionary at the time. The line resurrected the Ultima 2 brand and was the most influential development in make up over the next 20 years.
Aucoin worked with a number of celebrities, including Madonna, Cher, Sharron Stone, Janet Jackson, Tina Turner and Brittney Spears, and charged up to $10,000 per session. He died in May 2002.
BOBBI BROWN
Bobbi Brown graduated from Emerson College in Boston with a degree in theatrical make up. Her first major success came in 1991 with the release of a range of ten lipsticks, under the name Bobbi Brown Essentials. There have been many facets to Bobbi Brown Essentials over the years since, and is still synonymous with make up to this day.
Throughout her career, Brown has mostly worked on looks for magazines and fashions shows. She is also the exclusive beauty editor of the television show, The Today Show. Brown is a partner in the charity Dress for Success, where she gives underprivileged women attractive clothes and make up for job interviews. She has worked with the likes of Meg Ryan, Brooke Shields and Drew Barrymore in her time, but now concentrates on working with non-celebrities.
LAURA MERCIER
Laura Mercier was born and raised in Provence in the south of France. She went on to study make up application in Paris. Soon after finishing her studies she was offered a job as make up artist and instructor at her former college. Soon after she worked with the French make up artist, Thibault Vabre.
Mercier moved to New York in the mid 80’s and worked for a team that launched the American version of Elle magazine. Her next step was working on an advertising campaign for well established magazines such as Vanity Fair and Glamour. Other clients of Mercier’s around this time were L’Oreal and Maybelline. In 1996 Mercier launched a ground breaking make up line that is designed to be appropriate for all women. The line is still going strong and sells all around the world. Amongst Mercier’s famous clients have been Madonna and Celine Dion.
Andrew Marshall ©
Professional Make Up Artist
GEORGE WESTMORE
George Westmore was one of the early make up artists in film, but his influence is still felt to this day. He was born in the UK and started his working life as a hairdresser. In the early 20th century he moved with his family to the United States, and worked as a wig maker. This eventually led to his move into make up.
Westmore later started the first ever movie make up department and taught his four eldest sons the techniques of the profession. Later on his two younger sons also worked as make up artist. Westmore committed suicide in 1931, but his legacy did not go with him. His sons continued to be hugely successful in the make up industry, in roles such as make up chief at Paramount, head of make up at Warner Bros, and head of Universal. His grandchildren also worked in the industry. Every major film studio was touched by the Westmore family, and their role in film make up cannot be underestimated.
JACK PIERCE
Jack Pierce was another early influence in cinema. He first worked in the movie industry in the 1920’s. He worked in a number of different roles in film, starting as a cinema manager. He later tried his hand as an actor and as a stuntman. He eventually edged into film make up, which became his forte.
After some early success he was hired by Universal Pictures. Universal has become one of the most successful studios in Hollywood, but at the time in was newly established. Both Universal, and Pierce himself, had some early success, especially in the horror genre. Their earliest major success together came with Dracula in 1931. Many were astonished by Pierce’s work in the now famous horror. His most impressive work, though, came later on in the 1930’s with Frankenstein. The way Pierce transformed actor Boris Karloff into Frankenstein is legendary to this day.
KEVIN AUCOIN
Kevin Aucoin’s first foray as a make up artist was doing make up for models for free in New York. While doing this he was discovered by Vogue magazine. At the age of only 21 he was hired by the floundering make up company Ultima 2. A year later, in 1984, he launched the ground breaking line, The Nakeds. At the time make up tones were made separately for black and white women, and The Nakeds was the first line that worked on all skin tones. It worked with yellow undertones instead of pink or peach, and was revolutionary at the time. The line resurrected the Ultima 2 brand and was the most influential development in make up over the next 20 years.
Aucoin worked with a number of celebrities, including Madonna, Cher, Sharron Stone, Janet Jackson, Tina Turner and Brittney Spears, and charged up to $10,000 per session. He died in May 2002.
BOBBI BROWN
Bobbi Brown graduated from Emerson College in Boston with a degree in theatrical make up. Her first major success came in 1991 with the release of a range of ten lipsticks, under the name Bobbi Brown Essentials. There have been many facets to Bobbi Brown Essentials over the years since, and is still synonymous with make up to this day.
Throughout her career, Brown has mostly worked on looks for magazines and fashions shows. She is also the exclusive beauty editor of the television show, The Today Show. Brown is a partner in the charity Dress for Success, where she gives underprivileged women attractive clothes and make up for job interviews. She has worked with the likes of Meg Ryan, Brooke Shields and Drew Barrymore in her time, but now concentrates on working with non-celebrities.
LAURA MERCIER
Laura Mercier was born and raised in Provence in the south of France. She went on to study make up application in Paris. Soon after finishing her studies she was offered a job as make up artist and instructor at her former college. Soon after she worked with the French make up artist, Thibault Vabre.
Mercier moved to New York in the mid 80’s and worked for a team that launched the American version of Elle magazine. Her next step was working on an advertising campaign for well established magazines such as Vanity Fair and Glamour. Other clients of Mercier’s around this time were L’Oreal and Maybelline. In 1996 Mercier launched a ground breaking make up line that is designed to be appropriate for all women. The line is still going strong and sells all around the world. Amongst Mercier’s famous clients have been Madonna and Celine Dion.
Andrew Marshall ©
Professional Make Up Artist
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Crimes Committed while sleepwalking
If you commit a crime while asleep should you be prosecuted just like anyone else would, or does the fact that you were asleep mean you have no responsibilities for your actions? There are numerous occasions when someone has committed a crime while claiming to have been sleepwalking.
One of the earliest cases of such an incident was in 1846, when a man in Boston slit a prostitute’s throat and set fire to a brothel. His criminal solicitor claimed that the man was a chronic sleepwalker and had committed the crime while sleeping. The man was eventually acquitted. There was another early case where a man who had committed crimes while thought to have been sleepwalking, was sentenced to sleep in a cage. As he acted like any other law abiding person while he was not asleep, this solved the problem caused by his sleeping condition.
It could be argued that this case is evidence that one may act like a different person while sleep walking. Others would argue, though, that the crime you commit must be within your psyche to carry out the act. In other words, it must be in your mind somewhere that you would like to carry out such a crime.
Criminal Law stipulates that to commit a crime you must be acting deliberately or carelessly. Therefore if you are asleep, are you in control of our actions? Most would argue that you are not. Sleepwalking is when someone gets up, walks around, and carries out other acts while asleep. In many ways it is someone acting out activities like they are awake, but while they are asleep. Therefore it is possible for someone who is asleep to commit a crime while sleepwalking. People have been known to drive a car while sleepwalking, so it is certainly possible to commit a crime in this state of unconsciousness.
Having committed a criminal act many have argued that they were sleepwalking. When this is the case it is the criminal solicitors job to prove two things. The first is that the defendant has a history of sleep disorders such as sleepwalking. If this cannot be proved the case is unlikely to be dismissed. The criminal solicitor must also prove that the defendant does not have tendencies to commit such a crime or when he or she is awake. So if someone has committed a violent act, the criminal solicitor must prove that he or she does not have a violent history. If it can be proved that the defendant does not have a criminal history, and does have a history of sleepwalking, then it is possible that he or she will be acquitted. There have been a number of cases where someone has been acquitted of a crime committed while they were thought to have been sleepwalking. Of course someone who has committed a crime cannot just claim they were sleepwalking and get away with it. There must be evidence to support this claim.
Andrew Marshall ©
Criminal Solicitor London
One of the earliest cases of such an incident was in 1846, when a man in Boston slit a prostitute’s throat and set fire to a brothel. His criminal solicitor claimed that the man was a chronic sleepwalker and had committed the crime while sleeping. The man was eventually acquitted. There was another early case where a man who had committed crimes while thought to have been sleepwalking, was sentenced to sleep in a cage. As he acted like any other law abiding person while he was not asleep, this solved the problem caused by his sleeping condition.
It could be argued that this case is evidence that one may act like a different person while sleep walking. Others would argue, though, that the crime you commit must be within your psyche to carry out the act. In other words, it must be in your mind somewhere that you would like to carry out such a crime.
Criminal Law stipulates that to commit a crime you must be acting deliberately or carelessly. Therefore if you are asleep, are you in control of our actions? Most would argue that you are not. Sleepwalking is when someone gets up, walks around, and carries out other acts while asleep. In many ways it is someone acting out activities like they are awake, but while they are asleep. Therefore it is possible for someone who is asleep to commit a crime while sleepwalking. People have been known to drive a car while sleepwalking, so it is certainly possible to commit a crime in this state of unconsciousness.
Having committed a criminal act many have argued that they were sleepwalking. When this is the case it is the criminal solicitors job to prove two things. The first is that the defendant has a history of sleep disorders such as sleepwalking. If this cannot be proved the case is unlikely to be dismissed. The criminal solicitor must also prove that the defendant does not have tendencies to commit such a crime or when he or she is awake. So if someone has committed a violent act, the criminal solicitor must prove that he or she does not have a violent history. If it can be proved that the defendant does not have a criminal history, and does have a history of sleepwalking, then it is possible that he or she will be acquitted. There have been a number of cases where someone has been acquitted of a crime committed while they were thought to have been sleepwalking. Of course someone who has committed a crime cannot just claim they were sleepwalking and get away with it. There must be evidence to support this claim.
Andrew Marshall ©
Criminal Solicitor London
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
History of Harley Street
Harley Street is an area in London that is synonymous with the medical profession. The street runs south from just south of Regents Park to just north of Mortimer Street, near Oxford Street. There are hundreds of private medical practises working in Harley Street.
Back in the 18th century the area now known as Harley Street consisted of just a small number of houses in the village of Marylebone. As London grew Marylebone became incorporated within London and Harley Street begun to expand. Georgian style housing began to appear in the area and characterised that area of London. In 1911 the streets around the area were passed to Henrietta Cavendish Holles who later married Edward Harley, who Harley Street is named after. Harley had the area developed into a larger residential area between the years of 1715 and 1720.
In the 1800’s doctors began to move into Harley Street and the surrounding area. Over time more and more moved to the area and started practicing from their homes and Harley Street became known as a centre for medical excellence. A central London location and large Georgian buildings made the area attractive. There was a particularly large growth in the mid to late 18th century, when within half a century the number of medical professionals working in the area increased ten fold. In 1873 the Medical Society of London opened in the area, and the Royal Society for medicine followed in 1912. These two organisations moving into the area further established it as the medical centre of Britain. By the mid 1900’s there were around 1,500 medical practices in Harley Street, and the number remains at around this number to this day.
Harley Street has the largest concentration of medical expertise in the world. It is sometime referred to as Medical London and is world famous for its medical practices. These days it has a large diversity of medical practices, including dentists, psychiatrists, psychologists, chiropractors, plastic surgeons and masseurs. It is at the forefront of medical science and technology. People travel vast distances to Harley Street to receive medical treatment from some of the world best Doctors.
Andrew Marshall ©
Consulting Rooms Harley Street
Back in the 18th century the area now known as Harley Street consisted of just a small number of houses in the village of Marylebone. As London grew Marylebone became incorporated within London and Harley Street begun to expand. Georgian style housing began to appear in the area and characterised that area of London. In 1911 the streets around the area were passed to Henrietta Cavendish Holles who later married Edward Harley, who Harley Street is named after. Harley had the area developed into a larger residential area between the years of 1715 and 1720.
In the 1800’s doctors began to move into Harley Street and the surrounding area. Over time more and more moved to the area and started practicing from their homes and Harley Street became known as a centre for medical excellence. A central London location and large Georgian buildings made the area attractive. There was a particularly large growth in the mid to late 18th century, when within half a century the number of medical professionals working in the area increased ten fold. In 1873 the Medical Society of London opened in the area, and the Royal Society for medicine followed in 1912. These two organisations moving into the area further established it as the medical centre of Britain. By the mid 1900’s there were around 1,500 medical practices in Harley Street, and the number remains at around this number to this day.
Harley Street has the largest concentration of medical expertise in the world. It is sometime referred to as Medical London and is world famous for its medical practices. These days it has a large diversity of medical practices, including dentists, psychiatrists, psychologists, chiropractors, plastic surgeons and masseurs. It is at the forefront of medical science and technology. People travel vast distances to Harley Street to receive medical treatment from some of the world best Doctors.
Andrew Marshall ©
Consulting Rooms Harley Street
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
The World’s 5 Best Yachting Destinations
If you are thinking about a Yachting holiday, there are many places around the world you may consider for your trip. This article looks at five potential yachting destinations.
DUBAI
Dubai’s popularity has soared in recent years, as it has developed as a holiday destination. Boating has been central to this development. Among Dubai’s attractions are three man-made islands that contain many yachting facilities. Billions of dollars have been spent on the harbour developments in this tax free city in the United Arab Emirates. It is without doubt the boating centre of the Middle East. Its world class facilities can cater for boats of all types, from mega yachts to fishing boats. Dubai has 49 miles of natural coastline, but once you include the three man-made islands, the coastline comes to over 900 miles.
PHUKET
Nicknamed ‘Pearl of the South’, Phuket in Thailand is surrounded by the Andaman Sea in the Indian Ocean. It consists of coves, bays, palm fringed sandy beaches, spectacular waterfalls, limestone formation and beautiful landscape and scenery. It is famous for its wonderful beaches and seafood. Yachting is a popular activity in Phuket, as are other water activities such as speed boating, deep sea fishing, snorkelling and scuba diving. It has become a haven for yachting in recent years, and is now considered by many as the premier yachting destination in Asia. The marina hosts all types of yachts from all over the world, and the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta is the biggest yearly sailing event in Asia.
MONTE CARLO
Monte Carlo is possibly the world’s most famous yachting destination. It is known for its Mediterranean climate, international casino and beautiful marina. It is one of the most picturesque places on earth, lying at the foot of the Alps and along the Mediterranean Sea, allowing spectacular views of both. It offers mild winters and warm summer, so is never too hot or too cold. It has a glorious history, and lies in the Principality of Monaco, to the South of France. Monte Carlo is also famous for its sporting events, such as the world’s most famous Grand Prix, an international Tennis event, and the Monte Carlo Rally. It is also famous for its many Casino’s.
CANNES
Cannes is most famous for the annual Cannes Film Festival. It is situation in the South of France, a short car ride from the Nice International Airport. It has very good transport links, as it is one the main railway line that runs from Marseille to Nice, Monte Carlo and into Italy. Cannes is situated in a large bay on the French Riviera that welcomes yachts and sailboats all year round. The city hosts a boat show every year, which is followed by the Royal Regatta’s, that take place on the Bay of Cannes and brings together old vessels and the world’s most majestic sailboats. Popular activities in Cannes include swimming, sailing and shopping.
MIAMI
Miami is one of America’s most loved holiday destinations. It is well know for its Sandy Beaches and Art Deco buildings. It is a cosmopolitan and modern city full of attractions to suit all. It is famed for its nightlife, with numerous restaurants and nightclubs. Water plays an important part in Miami’s landscape with its islands off the mainland and the world famous South Beach. Yachting is a popular activity, and there are many yachting options available including Casino Cruises, which as the name suggest, consist of a casino on board a yacht.
Andrew Marshall ©
Luxury Yacht Charter
DUBAI
Dubai’s popularity has soared in recent years, as it has developed as a holiday destination. Boating has been central to this development. Among Dubai’s attractions are three man-made islands that contain many yachting facilities. Billions of dollars have been spent on the harbour developments in this tax free city in the United Arab Emirates. It is without doubt the boating centre of the Middle East. Its world class facilities can cater for boats of all types, from mega yachts to fishing boats. Dubai has 49 miles of natural coastline, but once you include the three man-made islands, the coastline comes to over 900 miles.
PHUKET
Nicknamed ‘Pearl of the South’, Phuket in Thailand is surrounded by the Andaman Sea in the Indian Ocean. It consists of coves, bays, palm fringed sandy beaches, spectacular waterfalls, limestone formation and beautiful landscape and scenery. It is famous for its wonderful beaches and seafood. Yachting is a popular activity in Phuket, as are other water activities such as speed boating, deep sea fishing, snorkelling and scuba diving. It has become a haven for yachting in recent years, and is now considered by many as the premier yachting destination in Asia. The marina hosts all types of yachts from all over the world, and the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta is the biggest yearly sailing event in Asia.
MONTE CARLO
Monte Carlo is possibly the world’s most famous yachting destination. It is known for its Mediterranean climate, international casino and beautiful marina. It is one of the most picturesque places on earth, lying at the foot of the Alps and along the Mediterranean Sea, allowing spectacular views of both. It offers mild winters and warm summer, so is never too hot or too cold. It has a glorious history, and lies in the Principality of Monaco, to the South of France. Monte Carlo is also famous for its sporting events, such as the world’s most famous Grand Prix, an international Tennis event, and the Monte Carlo Rally. It is also famous for its many Casino’s.
CANNES
Cannes is most famous for the annual Cannes Film Festival. It is situation in the South of France, a short car ride from the Nice International Airport. It has very good transport links, as it is one the main railway line that runs from Marseille to Nice, Monte Carlo and into Italy. Cannes is situated in a large bay on the French Riviera that welcomes yachts and sailboats all year round. The city hosts a boat show every year, which is followed by the Royal Regatta’s, that take place on the Bay of Cannes and brings together old vessels and the world’s most majestic sailboats. Popular activities in Cannes include swimming, sailing and shopping.
MIAMI
Miami is one of America’s most loved holiday destinations. It is well know for its Sandy Beaches and Art Deco buildings. It is a cosmopolitan and modern city full of attractions to suit all. It is famed for its nightlife, with numerous restaurants and nightclubs. Water plays an important part in Miami’s landscape with its islands off the mainland and the world famous South Beach. Yachting is a popular activity, and there are many yachting options available including Casino Cruises, which as the name suggest, consist of a casino on board a yacht.
Andrew Marshall ©
Luxury Yacht Charter
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