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First Impressions: Aveda

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I have only been into an Aveda store/salon twice.  The first time was to get dolled up for an event about 10 years ago, and the other was when my friend was visiting a couple of months ago.  Initially I didn’t go back because the smell from the products they used didn’t go away for about a week.  All I kept thinking was, “Why won’t this smell go away?!”  And I was washing my hair daily.

Fast-forward a decade, and my friend & I stopped in because she loves their products.  I received a couple of single-use samples (Rosemary + Mint Shampoo and Scalp Benefits Conditioner).  While the samples were not large enough for me to say whether or not they worked, the scents were not as obnoxious as I had remembered.  Since I am on a dry shampoo kick, I waited until theirs debuted before I purchased anything.   

I bought the “Gift of Lasting Style for the Road” set ($56.50), which is quite pricey.  It contains a full-sized Shampure Dry Shampoo, a travel-sized hairspray, and a travel-sized thickening tonic.  The products come wrapped in tissue and are stored in a lokta bark paper box made in Nepal.  There were a couple of promotions going on, so I also received several samples, and a breast cancer awareness ribbon.  Since I didn’t have my usual space to photograph the products, they fit on the BlizzCon box.  I will have a post of those items later on. 

Un-boxed gift set.
Wrapped package and samples.

Samples include body cream, shampoo, conditioner, and the Ivanti trio.

I have tried the dry shampoo and body cream sample.  Overall, I like the dry shampoo.  The bottle is the same as blowpro.  To dispense the product, you have to shake the bottle, and then squeeze the base of the bottle.  The more pressure you apply, the more product will come out.  Be careful, or you might end up with a huge white powder spot in your hair that will fall onto your clothes.  The cream is nice, too.  It is rich and thick, with a light scent that I can’t really explain.  Since the weather is changing day-to-day, my hands have been especially dry.  This cream is long-lasting with the hydrating power I need.  I will post updates as I try out the other products.

Do you have a favorite product form Aveda?

Stay beautiful!

Fun in the Sun with Sun Bum!

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I should start by saying that this post should have been up long ago… about four months ago.  So, I extend my apologies to Sun Bum.  I can’t believe that (1) it’s November, and (2) it still feels like summer.  Since it is, I’ve been spending some extra time at the beach.  

Before getting into my beach day with Sun Bum, there are some [awesome] things you need to know about their company.  All of the information came from their website (trustthebum.com), so all credit goes to them:

Sun Bum (est. 2010) has created a top-of-the-line suncare, made for those who love (and live) in the sun.  In order to minimize the risk of skin cancer, Sun Bum has a wide array of sprays, solids, and liquids to protect every inch of your body (including your hair!).  You can even get awesome gear. All suncare products are, “… tested, approved, and recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation,” (trustthebum.com).

Products courtesy of Sun Bum.
Sun Bum at the beach.

Leave-in hair spray.

Sun Bum products are fast-absorbing, lightweight, and non-greasy, which I love.  They are also travel-friendly.  It’s always a plus, since I’m gone a lot of the time.  My suncare routine starts with my hair.  I purchased the Sun Bum 3 in 1 leave in conditioner, which has UV protection.  It smells great and is a wonderful leave-in conditioner.  Then comes the body protection.  I always apply sunscreen to my arms, chest, neck, shoulders, and face.  My legs get a coat when I wear shorts, but that isn’t often. And yes, I know clothes don’t protect you 100% from the rays.   Guess that’s the lazy part of me.  

Anyway, every day I put the smaller size sunscreen in my bag, because I like to re-apply throughout the day.  The other day, we went to the beach, and then took an unexpected detour to Disneyland.  By the time it was 2pm, it was nearly 90 with a high UV index.  I was never more happy to have my Sun Bum.  Before I left the house I used a leave-in hair treatment, that I purchased, to help protect my hair & scalp.  I then used Sun Bum on my usual bits, packed up my bag, and we were off.

The beach near our campsite.

Over the weekend, I was camping out by the beach.  During the day it was sunny and warm.  Many people were in the water or building sandcastles.  By night, the temperature dropped into the low 40s, which is freezing to those of us in SoCal.  Again, it was Sun Bum that protected my skin and hair.    

Cooling spray.

I love everything, so far, that I have tried with one exception.  The cooling spray (not to be confused with the cooling lotion) did not work as I had expected.  When I purchased the spray, I thought it would be like a cooling, fast-absorbing oil.  When it was applied, there was no cooling effect whatsoever.  The cooling lotion, however, is another story.  It is one exceptional product.  My partner ended up with a horrible sunburn on both arms (someone doesn’t think they need sunscreen…), so I applied the lotion.  Within moments, the itch was gone, and the recovery was fast. 

Mini Haul: Sephora

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Hair Mini Haul

I just received a package from Sephora, and it only took a couple of days to receive, which was nice.  Since I was running out of dry shampoo, I decided to purchase a set since it was actually worth the money.  I also purchased a set by VERB, a company based in Austin (all products are made in the USA).

1.  Sephora Favorites:  Extend Your Style, $32.00

Image courtesy of sephora.com

If you like to try different types of dry shampoo collection, or are looking for one you will love, this set is perfect.  Currently, I’m really into trying different hair products.  I don’t know about you, but I go through these phases of wanting to use hair products, then not.  Anyway, on with the set.  This favorites set comes with the following (list courtesy of sephora.com):

– 1.25 oz Alterna Bamboo Style Translucent Dry Shampoo
– 0.75 oz Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo
– 0.5 oz Bumble and Bumble Pret-a-Powder
– 1.4 oz Drybar Detox Dry Shampoo
– 1 oz Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk
– 1.8 oz Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo
– 1.5 oz 24K Sally Hershberger Supreme Stylist Voluminous Dry Shampoo

All but the Bumble & Bumble dry shampoo are sprays.  They are all travel-sized, so if you end up not liking one (or more) of the products, you are not stuck with anything full-sized.  The dry shampoos also make for great gifts, whether you give one or all is up to you.  This set will (hopefully) last me through summer.   Did any of your favorite dry shampoos make it in this variety pack?

2.  Style with VERB Set, $34.00

Image courtesy of sephora.com
Image courtesy of sephora.com
Just to show how small the shampo
& conditioner are.

Have any of you tried VERB?  I have yet to, but I’m excited about it.  It’s relatively affordable (each product is $14.00), and this set came with three full-sized products, the bag, and the mini samples of shampoo and conditioner.  I have long, thin hair, but a lot of it, so the shampoo/conditioner will probably be just enough for one or two uses.  The bag fits everything in the photos and then some, so I will be using it as my gym toiletry bag.

Set specs (courtesy of sephora.com):

– 0.065 oz Hydrating Shampoo
– 0.065 oz Hydrating Conditioner
– 2 oz Dry Shampoo
– 8 oz Leave-In Mist
– 6.3 oz Sea Spray

3.  Gift with Purchase and Samples

While supplies last, you can use the promo code PARTY PICKS to choose one of four sample bags.  Each set comes with a small clutch (more like a small makeup bag).  Each bag contains 8 free samples, on top of the three you can choose upon checkout (see photos below).  I chose the Party Prep bag since it contains some of my favorite products, and a couple that I wanted to try.  The samples that are available at checkout always change.  Even though there wasn’t a lot I wanted to try, I chose the following:  Alien fragrance, Nest Verde fragrance, and a serum by Jurlique.

Image courtesy of sephora.com

Image courtesy of sephora.com
Image courtesy of sephora.com
Image courtesy of sephora.com

I think these little packs are pretty great, and well worth the $25.00 purchase you have to make to get one.  For example, the Roller Lash is $12.00.  Which are you looking forward to getting?

Stay beautiful!

Stocking-Stuffers for All

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Sometimes you just need a token gift or something small to fill the stocking.  Listed below are a few things for everyone in varying price ranges.  For those who are on a tighter budget, I highly recommend a trip to Daiso, if you have one near you, or the Dollar Store, because you never know what you’ll find.

1.  On-the-Go Gamepad, $8.99 

Image courtesy of worldmarket.com

 Do you know anyone who is going away on holiday?  This gamepad comes with 5 games to choose from, so  your traveling recipients will never be bored.  Great for long flights and rest-stops during road trips, the gamepad takes up hardly any space, and will keep everyone entertained.

2.  Clear Glass Fox Salt & Pepper Shakers, $12.99/set

Image courtesy of worldmarket.com

A fun, cute, and sophisticated stocking stuffer/housewarming gift is this fox salt/pepper shaker set.  They don’t come filled (yes, I realize that should be a given, but you never know), so you could always throw in a small jar of your favorite salt & pepper for the recipient.  

3.  Cat Timer, $5.99

Image courtesy of worldmarket.com

What cat person wouldn’t want to have this cat timer in his/her kitchen?  It’s adorable, and the bottom bit looks like a oversized collar.  Functional, cute, and doesn’t take up that much space, this timer is the perfect addition to any cat person’s home. 

4.  Desktop Basketball Set, $7.99

Image courtesy of worldmarket.com

I firmly believe in having a strong work ethic.  Sometimes, you just need to take a little break, and what better way than a game of basketball?  Desktop basketball, that is!  This set comes with two ball, two launchers, and a hoop.  Desktop games are great for adults and kids.  Create challenges, play by yourself or with others, and add make your day a little less stressful.

5.  Rau Hot Chocolate Spoons, $8.97/set of 3

Image courtesy of worldmarket.com

If you are looking for something a little different, these drinking chocolate spoons are a great addition to any stocking.  Each set comes with the following flavors:  Orange Caramel (white/milk), Strawberry + Chili (white/dark), and Dark with Amaretto Cookie.  Eat the chocolate right off the spoon or stir it into a hot beverage.  The choices are endless.     

6.  Men’s Striped Dopp Kit, $12.99

Image courtesy of worldmarket.com

The title may say it’s for men, but this bag is a great product for any traveler.  Whether jet-setting or
heading off to the gym, this dopp kit will hold the recipient’s travel toiletries and other necessities.  This product is a World Market exculsive.

7.  Noshkins Felt Food, $5.00 & up

Image courtesy of noshkins.com
Image courtesy of noshkins.com

Do you have a little one who loves to pretend s/he is a chef?  These felt food creations are a great addition to anyone’s playtime.  There are so many individual items and sets to choose from, such as: cakes, vegetables, sandwiches, pizza, etc.  Recently, I purchased the sushi and banana (what a combination!) for my nephew.  He loves to pretend he’s a chef.  With these, he can take them apart and put them together, without the hassle of having them break, tear, fall apart.  They are also non-toxic.  The petit fours and other dessert items are cute to display, especially if you have pedestal plates that are not being used.  They are great for parties and stocking-stuffers!   

8.  Viktor & Rolf:  Spice Bomb Fresh Fragrance, $98.00

Image courtesy of nordstrom.com

Apparently Viktor & Rolf’s fragrances are quite popular.  Personally, I don’t know how this one smells, alone or on a person, but I LOVE the packaging.  The little frosted grenade is just adorable.  You will also get deluxe samples of the after-shave balm and eau de toilette, while supplies last.  And what is really awesome is the gift with purchase promotion happening at Nordstrom.com, again, while supplies last.  If you spend $100 on men’s grooming/fragrance, you also get a dopp kit filled with samples (automatically added at checkout). 

Image courtesy of nordstrom.com

9.  Death Star Ice Sphere Mold, $11.99

Image courtesy of thinkgeek.com

How fun is his ice mold?!  You may only get one, but there are so many ways to use it.  Ice, Jell-O, fruit, soap (yes, soap!), chocolate…the list goes on.  The mold has a 2.4″ diameter, which makes it the perfect size for whatever you are molding.     

10.  Glow-in-the-Dark Play-Doh, $3.49 (currently on sale)

Image courtesy of target.com
Image courtesy of target.com

This Target-exclusive Play-Doh is a fun way to channel any recipient’s creativity.  It glows in the dark, and looks wonderful under a black light.  What kid wouldn’t want to build a castle, cake, or plate of spaghetti & meatballs that glows? 

Gift-Giving Guide, Part 1: Makeup Gift Sets

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The holidays seem to come earlier and earlier.  Of course, it’s now the end of October, and before you know it, it’ll be time to give gifts.  Personally, I love gift-giving.  Whether it’s a gift card, set, or something handmade, there is something for everyone.  Here are a few ideas for the makeup-lover on your list.  I have complied a list a high- and low-end (regarding price) sets that will hopefully fit any budget.  You can also create your own gift set by adding full- or travel-sized items to a basket, jar, or other container.

1.  ULTA:  Time to Shine 71-Piece Collection, $24.99

Image courtesy of ulta.com

For the makeup lover who is just starting their collection, or someone who wants a kit on-the-go, this ULTA brand collection has everything in one convenient train case.  The train case has two pull-out drawers that house makeup, and comes in either a pink or silver finish.  Time to Shine contains the following (list from ULTA.com):

  • 36 eye shadows (0.95 oz)
  • 6 glitter eye top coats (0.31 oz)
  • 3 brow powders (0.15 oz)
  • 1 brow wax (0.04 oz)
  • 6 gel eye liners (0.23 oz)
  • 1 matte lip cream (0.06 oz)
  • 1 brilliant lip gloss (0.06 oz)
  • 2 dual ended eye liners (0.07 oz)
  • 2 eye shadow primers (0.078 oz)
  • 3 blush shades (0.33 oz)
  • 1 powder (0.11 oz)
  • 1 highlighter (0.11 oz)
  • 2 bronzers (0.22 oz)
  • 6 concealers (0.21 oz)

2.  ULTA:  Lip Glossary, $16.00

Image courtesy of ulta.com

Lip Glossary contains 15 mini glosses in a wide array of shades from neutrals to reds, and everything in-between.  Gift the collection or break them up, and create a custom gift for multiple people.

3.  Sephora:  Lancome Noel Eye Set, $38.00

Image courtesy of sephora.com

This eye set is a great value.  It comes with the following:

– 0.35 oz Grandoise Mascara (full size)
– 0.135 oz Hypnôse Drama Mascara (mini size)
– 0.028 oz Drama Liqui-pencil Eye Pencil in Noir Intense (mini size)
– 0.07 oz Cils Booster Base Mascara Primer (mini size)
– 0.047 oz Artliner Eyeliner in Noir (full size)
– 1.7 oz Bi-Facil Eye Makeup Remover

The Grandiose mascara alone is $32.00, so for $6.00 more, you get a mini mascara, primer, remover, and two eyeliners.  It is a wonderful set for you or any makeup-lover on your list.  This set will ensure amazing eyes whether one is going for a dramatic night look or soft day look.

4.  Sephora Favorites Lashstash, $45.00

Image courtesy of sephora.com

For the one who loves to try out different types of mascara, this set contains 8 mini mascaras, eyelash curler, lash fibers, and a liner.  This list is courtesy of sephora.com:

– 0.1 oz Benefit Roller Lash Mascara
– 0.08 oz Blinc Mascara
– 0.20 oz Buxom® Lash Mascara
– 0.002 oz Hourglass Cosmetics 1.5MM Mechanical Gel Eye Liner
– 0.51 oz Marc Jacobs Beauty O!Mega Lash Volumizing Mascara in Blacquer
– 0.13 oz MAKE UP FOR EVER Mascara in Smoky Extravagant
– 0.12 oz NARS Cosmetics Audacious Mascara in Black Moon
– 0.01 oz Tarte best in faux extending fibers
– Tarte picture perfect™ eyelash curler
– 0.17 oz Too Faced Cosmetics Better Than Sex Mascara
– 0.06 oz Yves Saint Laurent Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils 

The mascara sizes make them perfect for travel.  The rating is not that high, and I don’t quite know why seeing as you are getting quite a bit for the money.  For instance, the mini Roller Lash is $12.00 and the mini Buxom retails for $13.00.  The recipient won’t have to worry about their mascara going bad or dry, and a wide array of looks can be achieved by what is in this little box.

5.  Sephora Collection:  Jem and the Holograms Liquid Lip Set, $25.00

Image courtesy of sephora.com

Jem and the Holograms ran in the 80s.  For those of us who grew up watching and loving the show, we can be transported back through this makeup collection created for the movie.  Let’s be honest; there is nothing like an original, but the colors are fun.  You can complete the Jem collection with the eye palette, lipstick, and mirror. 

have an idea or set you want to see in an upcoming post?  Let me know!

Stay beautiful!

Wedding Weekend!

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It’s over, and there is a serious need for sleep.  No, it wasn’t mine, in case you were wondering.  My beautiful cousin got married.  Given everything that has gone on, it was wonderful to spend the weekend with family, and welcome her husband into ours.  It was also announced that they will have a new addition after the new year.  It’s a boy!  I am so excited for the both of them.

We were in a little town up north, where the mountains meet the ocean.  Rarely do I find a place that combines two very different elements.  If Big Bear was located right on the beach, it would be like this place.  Simply beautiful.  The only downside was the lack of reception, so we were pretty much without Internet for the weekend.  
Here is the plane we flew to get there:

Sorry it’s not a better quality.  I had to be quick.  And this is a photo from the cliff where the wedding took place:
Hopefully you all had a wonderful weekend!

Nordstrom Super Mini Haul

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When I say it’s an ultra mini haul, I mean it.  My cousin’s wedding is this weekend, and I really needed a dress.  I’m not all that into dresses, and the few I have are tucked away.  Since I have the Nordstrom debit card, I thought, “Why not spend where I can get some points?”  I did a search, filtering for black dresses only.  This sounds morbid, but since I go to far more funerals than weddings, I wanted something multi-functional.  There were so many cute dresses to choose from, and I came upon the Topshop’s Drape Tunic Dress ($75.00, but some of the colors are on sale for $40.00).  It comes in a few colors:  light blue, cranberry, olive, black, and white (I think).  Originally I was going to get the olive color, but that limits the occasions where it would be useful.

Image courtesy of nordstrom.com

After I placed the order, I figured it would go one of two ways: 1) I would love it, or 2) It would make me look like a whale in a tent.  Luckily I loved it!  Rarely do I purchase anything but tanks & solid tees online in the event that the article isn’t meant for me.  I digress.  After reading the reviews, I opted for a size smaller, which was a wise decision.  My chest fits in large sizes, but my body fits in medium.  Due to the shape of the dress, it’s a bit oversized everywhere, and I ordered a medium.  Fits all my bits perfectly.  I probably could go down to a small, but didn’t in case it shrinks.  The fabric is flows and sheer– far more than the photo shows, so I will be getting a slip of some sort.  The great thing is that this dress can be gussied up with some accessories, or worn during a casual outing.  This tunic dress is the best of both worlds.

Nordstrom was also having a promotional offer, and I was in need of dry shampoo.  I really like the blowpro dry shampoo & conditioner.  They are $20.00 each; the bottles are quite large, and the product lasts for ages.  With a $40.00 purchase, Nordstrom throws in a hair care sampler bag that includes some deluxe samples, including the Invanti trio from Aveda.

Image courtesy of nordstrom.com
Image courtesy of nordstrom.com

Image courtesy of nordstrom.com
I love being able to try new things.  You never know what your new favorite product will be if you don’t branch out a little.  This sampler comes with packets of various shampoos, conditioners, and styling products that are also great for travel.   
What is your all-events go-to outfit?  Is there anything you can’t travel without?  I will have a “what’s in my carry-on” piece up when I return.  Or who knows, maybe I’ll post it prior to leaving if I have time.   
Stay beautiful!

Artisanal LA

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This weekend my friend and I attended Artisanal LA (thank you, Connie!!).  It was so much fun. Artisanal LA was held at the LA Mart, now called The Reef.  The Reef combines the LA Mart, Maker City LA, and Magic Box.  It was over 100 degrees, so we were wuite happy to find that the event was being held indoors.  The second floor housed the various vendors, and I purchased more than I anticipated.  But, then again, doesn’t that always happen that these things?  We also ended up spending nearly the entire time there.  It was open from 11am-6pm, and we arrived at around 12pm.   We decided the best thing to do would be to wait to purchase anything until we walked the who show.  Here is some of what we experienced:

Califia provides almond milk, juices, coffee, and other non-dairy beverages.  In all honesty, I am not a fan of their almond milk.  It reminds me of colored water.  That being said, I really liked the nog.  It’s not thick nor as spiced as the real thing, but if you’re sensitive to eggnog it is a nice alternative.  The one from Silk is as well.  We also tried the pumpkin spice and peppermint mocha.  I don’t remember the pumpkin spice being all that pumpkin-y (then again, when is it?), and the peppermint mocha tasted like peppermint chocolate milk.  Then came the aftertaste of coffee.  Very interesting, and worth a try if you’re into something that’s non-traditional.  Califia gave out free shakers to people, during the event, who followed them on social media.  What a wonderful gesture!  I don’t know where they sell the totes, but I think they are super cute as well (see the haiku guys’ photo below).  And since I mentioned The Haiku Guys, they were there to provide free haikus to anyone who wanted one.  You gave an idea and they came up with something.  I found it fascinating how well they could come up with something “on the fly”.

Califia’s new seasonal beverage line.
How generous!  I love this shaker.
These guys provided free haikus!

I want this tray…and the tote.
A little haiku.

 

There were so many vendors it was hard to keep track of them all.  Here are some photos of the different vendors.  From artisanal pastas, pies on sticks, pickles, and jams, to all types of snack items, crafts, and gardening products, everything was under one roof.

Semolina Artisanal Pasta
Naked Hippie Snacks

My friend’s hand got in the way. 
Super cute Noshkins display!
I bought sushi & a banana
for my nephew’s kitchen.

 

A HUGE “thank you” to Connie for the ticket to this event!  She is the maker of Noshkins and Facekins.  She, along with her team, makes each piece by hand.  A combination of hand-stitching and a sewing machine create these wonderful products.  When we walked up, she was hand-sewing part of a watermelon!  Everything is so cute and washable!  Did I mention that the banana comes out of its peel, and the sushi can be deconstructed?!  Where were these when we were kids?  My friend purchased a pack of Facekins, which are reusable face pads.  There are also nursing pads.  Even though I am not nursing, I find them very comfortable when it’s that time of the month.  Unfortunately, bras… and any fabric, really… kills my chest when it touches it.  My lower back also kills me, but I guess those are in exchange for not having cramps.  Anyway, they alleviate a lot of the pain because they are so soft.  Facekins are machine/hand-washable, and perfect for any situation.  I have used them on sets, on travel adventures, at the gym, and while at home.  Each pad can be used twice; use one side in the morning, then one at night.  Wash the pad at night, and it’ll be dry by morning.  You can read more about my experience with them in my review, here.     

Just a couple of days before I was looking at a product package for some chalk stickers I bought.  On the tag were pie pops.  Yes, they were Photoshopped whole pies on sticks.  I was talking to my partner, and we both wondered if these actually existed.  The question was answered when my friend and I walked by and saw these:

Pies on a sitck!

The shop is called Hello Sweetie Pies, and according to the company, the pies will not fall off the sticks.  I’m not sure how that’s possible, and unfortunately I did not get a chance to purchase one.  Honestly, we were so shot by the end of the day, I forgot to go back for a blueberry one.  It’s a long story, but my grandfather always used to ask if we wanted blueberry pie and ice cream, even though he never had it.  It became a running joke.    

Blonde ramen dessert bars.

I purchased a bag of Blonde Ramen from Spoon Me Sweetly.  I know what you’re thinking, but it was really good.  In the past I have had ramen noodles with butter & sugar.  It’s much like sweetened nurungji, which is a nice snack.  Not the healthiest, but I like how it tastes.  Anyway, instead of taking the traditional approach and using Rice Krispies, they are replaced with ramen.  There were three versinos:  Blonde, Chocolate, and Peanut Butter.  I really liked the Blonde and Peanut Butter, but opted for Blonde since I could do more with it.  She also had spoons (pictured below) that soften in hot drinks.  You can eat it when it softens, or flavor up your beverage.  Spoon Me Sweetly also makes some fun flavored sugar, such as Unicorn Poop (a warm vanilla) and Pumpkin Spice.   

Owl’s Brew
I bought White and Vine.

Owl’s Brew is a tea concentrate that you add to booze.  If you aren’t into liquor, you can mix it with anything:  Seltzer water, juice, sodas, etc.  The vendor happened to have already paired them with liquor.  I tried one with tequila, and my friend tried the vodka.  I can’t remember the exact notes, but each one was delicious.  They also had these nifty cards that gave recipe ideas.  I think I will frame mine, because they are little works of art.  

Akasha Peach Bourbon Jam
There were a few jam stands, and I was torn on which to buy.  The stand I was looking for didn’t have the product I wanted in stock, so we tried out the products at Akasha.  Their jams, preserves, and chutneys were wonderful.  They were not overly sweet, and were full of fresh fruit flavor.  The representative were also amazing, which made the experience all the better. 

All-in-all, it was a wonderful experience.  The vendors were so nice, as was the crowd.  It was a very relaxed atmosphere.  If you get a chance to attend an event like this, or any future Artisanal LA show, please do so.  It is a great way to support small & local business and immerse yourself in all types of crafty wares.  I hope there is one lined up for the holidays.

Stay beautiful!

   

COOLA Suncare

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I am always on the lookout for a high quality SPF brand, and I really love COOLA.  COOLA is an organic suncare company that focuses on quality suncare free of phthalates, parabens, petroleum, and paba.  COOLA also donates to the Melanoma Research Alliance and Healthy Child Healthy World.  To learn more about the company, click here.    

They were amazing, and sent me a couple of products to try out.  One has the scent of plumeria (body), and the other is unscented (face).  Plumeria reminds me of strolling up and down the beach in Waikiki when my family and I went a few years ago.  Don’t you just love when scents bring back happy memories?  The unscented face suncare is great because it absorbs fast and is not sticky.  Because it is unscented, it does not irritate my nostrils.  Sometimes, scented face products can be a bit nauseating, don’t you think?    

Plumeria SPF 30 for Body
Unscented SPF 30 for Face

COOLA offers a wide array of SPF products including:  sprays, lotions, lip care, and a new makeup setting spray.  COOLA products are not sticky nor greasy, which is wonderful because so many brands are one, the other, or both.  My face and body are never left feeling like an oil slick.  There is no white residue to worry about because it all sinks in.  My legs and arms never stick to my clothes while I’m getting ready, and I couldn’t be happier.  There is something for everyone, even the kids!  Not sure what to try?  You can always purchase the travel kit ($39.99).  It comes with TSA-approved sizes of the following:  Piña Colada spray, full-sized lip care, after sun lotion, and cucumber face moisturizer.  I can’t wait to try out the other products they offer.  Don’t forget:  ALWAYS protect your skin.  Even when it is overcast, apply some sunscreen.    

Stay beautiful!

Holidays at Roger’s Gardens

/ darphynia / Leave a comment

It’s hard to believe the holidays are upon us.  Before we know it, it will be a new year!  I always try to have my holiday shopping done by August, unless I am making gifts.  I have about half of my list checked off, so I guess that’s something.  Anyway, the stores are starting to be decked out in holiday cheer.  Today, we took a trip down to Roger’s Gardens, which put me more in the holiday mood.  There was a Halloween section and a Christmas/holiday section, both of which were beautifully decorated.  There were also some interesting props, which I wouldn’t mind having if I had the space.
  

This is the doorway to the Halloween-themed area of the grounds.  How fun is it?!  It reminds me of entering a house of horrors that has a circus-type theme.  When we stepped inside, that is exactly what it was like.  A carnival of spooky decor, trinkets, Halloween-themed paper lanterns, and so much more.

 On the ceiling was a faux person being cut in two with a faux saw blade, and a phantom.ghost projection on the wall.  Perhaps they

wanted to take a hint from the American Horror Story: Freak Show.  I can’t even explain how much I love the carnival theme!  The props and way things were drawn in the room was delightful.  There were several decorations in this room that you could purchase, such as paper cut-outs, Halloween-themed snow globes, any “blood”-filled syringe pens that read, “Don’t Do Drugs”.

Here are some other photos of “shadows” in frames, a swirling deck of cards, a laboratory, and one of my favorite paper cut-outs:

One of my favorite cut-outs

Now, onto the Christmas/holiday section:
 There were so many decorated trees, and part of me wanted to take a miniature version of all of them.  There were larger ornaments, mini ornaments (like those in the photo below), designer ornaments, and retro ornaments.  They also carry a wide array of books, decorations (i.e. snow globes, candle votives, etc.), paper goods (i.e. napkins, paper plates), and so many other products. 
 
 
Here are some of the trees I was able to photograph.  Due to their height and the limited space in the rooms, some are only of sections of the trees.  I don’t remember what they were titled, but each had its own theme. 

For those of you who are unfamiliar with Roger’s Gardens, it is quite a pricey place.  They are also renovating part of the area, so there is less than usual.  That being said, if you’re in the Newport Beach area, it is worth going to.  Around Christmas, they add lights, outside decor, and periodically they will have a hot chocolate/coffee stand.  There are all kinds of things, from food items to outdoor furniture, and placemats to all sorts of plants (edible and non).  If you take a trip out there, let me know what you think!
Stay beautiful!