To see pictures, click on the link below

One-to-one makeup lesson, £50 for an hour’s lesson (facemakeup.co.uk, 0870 7220030, available nationwide)
They say: Professionally trained Face makeup artists will come to you, any time, any place, and either apply makeup for a special occasion or teach you the techniques and tricks of the trade.
We say: It makes such a difference having a session in your own home rather than in a crowded beauty hall. Nicky the makeup artist gave some great advice as well as clearly demonstrating how to achieve the desired look. Whether your session is for your wedding makeup or the office party, the fee remains the same.
Mark: 8/10

Meal packages from Silhouette Chefs, from £25 a day (020-7394 8899, silhouettechefs.com)
They say: We take the guesswork out of your weight-loss health programme by preparing a healthy and nutritious balanced meal that is delivered to your home or office. Each pack contains three meals and two snacks – the food is based on the Zone Diet.
We say: A godsend during periods of stress and working late when you might normally reach out for unhealthy food. This programme encouraged sensible and steady weight loss, around 6lb (3kg) in a month, which has, so far, not been regained. Skin also looked fantastic and clear and there was a noticeable increase in energy levels. Unfortunately, the packaging could not be recyled.
Mark: 9/10

Clarins Express Back Treatment, £32 (0800 0363558 available nationwide)
They say: It will rejuvenate this hard-to-reach area. The 40-minute session includes skin-smoothing, deep cleansing and a decongesting exfoliation, followed by a deep-tissue massage to ease stress knots.
We say: It was a pleasant and relaxing treatment, but the exfoliation wasn’t very long, so you would probably need more than one treatment to improve the skin for a backless wedding dress.
Mark: 7/10

Wedding Belles package at the Mandarin Oriental, Knightsbridge, £1,000 (mandarinoriental.com/london, 020-7838 9888)
They say: The ultimate in spa preparation for brides-to-be: three treatment stagesover two months to ensure a relaxed stat of mind and wedding-day glow.
We say: The nourishing ritual (including skin brushing and massage) was a great pick-me-up and left the skin feeling silk-smooth afterwards. All in all, a great pampering and destressing experience.
Mark: 8/10

Guinot Beauté Neuve Double Peeling Facial, £40: a course of three facials is recommended, once a week for three weeks (0800 590094).
They say: A gentle peeling facial that uses natural AHAs and pure vitamin C to boost radiance and reduce pigmentation.
We say: Skin tone looked and felt smoother; patches of pigmentation were also less noticeable. The facials didn’t leave your skin red and people commented on healthy-looking skin.
Mark: 9/10

Times recommends

• Dumped by my best friend
• I froze my eggs
• Just give them grit