Those of you that read my column know that I am a freelance makeup artist, but I am also a real pro when it comes to being well prepared for an agricultural event like the Ploughing. That’s because, for many years, I used to ride my mother’s Connemara horses at all the agricultural shows around the UK; the likes of Royal Windsor, Hickstead, South of England, Suffolk Country and Kent County to name but a few.

I’ve experienced every conceivable weather possible at these events, from searing heat waves to torrential flooding, with our horse box pulled out of many a mud-swamped carpark!

So now that the Ploughing is almost upon us, I wanted to share a few tips – from beauty and style to survival – to make this year a fabulous, fun and stress-free experience.

Top Beauty Products For The Ploughing

1 Double Wear Light foundation by Estée Lauder is the most long-lasting foundation ever. This gives amazing coverage but still looks natural rather than caked on. It also covers rosacea, spots and broken veins. RRP €34.50.

2 Max Factor’s Lipfinity range offers 14 statement and waterproof lippies to brighten up any complexion. Do read the instructions enclosed as to how to apply this lipstick and top coat, and don’t forget to use a lip liner first. Quick, easy and really long lasting, this is perfect for your ploughing pout! RRP €15.49.

3To keep you looking bright eyed – even after a long day – I recommend Benefit’s “They’re Real” mascara. Ladies, if you want bigger, bolder, jet-black, smudge-proof mascara, look no further. Two coats of this magic makeup and your lashes will have a whole lot of oomph! Available from stockists including www.debenhams.ie for €26.

4 I always think one feels rather glam when you have your nails painted. Shellac is a revolutionary type of polish that lasts approximately two weeks and would be ideal for the Ploughing Championships. Any good beautician can do the Shellac polish for you. It should take approximately 30 minutes and cost around €20.

5 I find it useful to keep a pocket-sized bottle of hand sanitiser in my bag while attending any big event after using the loo facilities or before eating on the go. Hand sanitiser is an excellent way to clean your hands and stop the spread of nasty bacteria. It is especially useful if you have small children who will want to touch everything in their path: good and bad! A travel pack of tissues will also come in handy! CL