Cork trio host a day dedicated to celebrating self-love and confidence

Women need to be kinder to themselves and to silence their inner critic, according to the organisers of an event designed to show us exactly how – and to have some fun while doing so.

‘Confidence Unfiltered’ is described as an “empowering day dedicated to celebrating self-love and confidence” that will take place in the Maryborough House Hotel on Sunday, October 13.

Presented by entrepreneur Sian Horn, stylist Nessa Cronin, and ‘boob guru’ Bridget Kearney, the trio say the event is designed to help us “embrace our true selves, indulge in life’s simple pleasures, learn a little, and have fun”.

Cork-based Sian, who runs multiple businesses, and also has a hugely successful podcast, says she meets so many women through her work, and she’s always struck at how we speak to ourselves, and how tough we can be.

Sian crossed paths with Bridget a few years back.

“A visit to Bridget literally changed the way I dressed – she put my boobs in the right place and I found my waist!” said Sian.

“And I’ve been following Nessa for years. We were chatting one day and realised that we had a lot to learn from each other, and that by making a little difference you can actually end up making a huge difference to your life,” she said.

The trio put their heads together and the result is ‘Confidence Unfiltered’, which is all about getting a group of like-minded women together in the one room and letting the magic happen. No preaching, just listening, promises Sian.

“Our day will be about facilitating honest conversations, and sharing how we feel. When that happens, women will realise that ultimately we all feel the same, we all tend to stress about the same things, and we there’s no need to feel alone,” she said.

The event will feature plenty of fun, she said, but there’ll also be learning involved.

There won’t be any stalls or shopping, it will be about reflection, open conversation, and learning how we can feel better from the inside out. Ultimately, it will be about leaving a bit of your s*** behind on the day!

Nessa has been a retailer all her life and specialises in making women of all shapes and sizes feel comfortable and confident in their clothes. She runs an online course in building your confidence by getting to know your body shape, and also runs online membership offering a styling advice service with insider tips and tricks, Style Solutions.

“On the day, I’ll be sharing tips to build your confidence with your body image. I’m a firm believer that you have to be OK with the body you have today.

“Clothes are powerful and should be enjoyed. Now. Confidence is something we’re all born with, the world just knocks it out of us. At the event, I’ll be focusing on ways to build a better relationship with your body and how it looks right now,” she said.

Meanwhile, Bridget who opened Belle Femme Lingerie in Kilkenny 13 years ago and opened in Douglas just under a year ago, will bring her unique skill set and approach to the event. Belle Femme Lingerie fit without the use of the measuring tape, she explains.

“The measuring tape can only give you a number and cannot measure volume, so it is essential that anyone advising women on wearing the correct fitting bra learns how to assess and fit, as we do, without a tape measure.

My role for this event involves showing women the importance of a proper fitted bra and how to wear different styles for different outfits.

“It’s also about educating women on shapewear and to try and build the confidence back into women to come back into fitting rooms feel safe and to enjoy the experience of bra shopping,” she said.

She urged everyone to attend.

“This event from 2-6pm will be fun, laughter and letting go of all the responsibilities for a few hours on a Sunday afternoon. Anyone can attend and most importantly you can come on your own and feel welcome.”

Sian promises the atmosphere on the day will be electric, and women will feel listened to and go home ‘buzzing’.

“There’s no woman that I’ve met recently that doesn’t need to go to this,” said Sian. “It’s the perfect treat before the lead up to Christmas madness.

“Join us for an unforgettable day of inspiration, connection, and joy as we learn to eat the cake, light the candle, and dance like no one’s watching.”

Tickets cost €89 and include a sensational goodie bag. See nessacronin.com/confidence-unfiltered

CONFIDENCE TIPS

Sian says;

• Take small risks and push yourself out of your comfort zone. It helps build resilience and boosts your self-assurance.
• Embrace your authenticity. You’re not for everyone. Your confidence comes from being true to yourself.
• Celebrate your progress. We’re all evolving. Reflect on how far we’ve come and use that to fuel future growth.

Nessa says;

• Stop seeking validation from others and learn how to trust yourself and how you ‘feel’ in your clothes.
• Push yourself out of your comfort zone. Things don’t get better by chance, only by change.
• Stop apologising.

Bridget

• Believe in you and your body
• Recognise what you are good at
• Enjoy the journey