Five Ways to Use Evian Mineral Facial Mist + Giveaway (closed)

*This post contains press samples*

I was so excited for the chance to work with Evian to share my favorite ways to use a mineral facial mist. You've probably seen these in the beauty aisles at the drugstore and even at your favorite beauty retailers. If you're anything like me, you probably thought they were only meant for those who suffer from dry skin. After all, you mist your face with water to hydrate, right? 

Well, you're partially right. 

But after actually trying a facial mist for myself, I discovered it's a multi-tasking powerhouse. I've been hooked ever since. 

Let me share a little history with you:

My first time using evian's mineral facial mist was way back in 2006, on my first trip to Las Vegas. That's when I discovered just how badly a five hour plane ride affected my skin! I rushed to the drugstore on my way to my hotel looking for some relief. That's when I picked up my first travel-sized bottle ($7.50) and experienced a little instant relief for my parched skin.

I never looked back.

I didn't just alleviate my acute case of airplane skin, it helped me adjust to the dry desert air. This Florida girl had never experienced dry air before! I was completely out of my element. 

After I got back home, I had to figure out how to integrate it into my regular routine. And over the years, I discovered all the awesome things that my little bottle of evian® spray could do for me.

Today, I'm sharing my five favorite ways to use evian® mineral facial spray ($18 for 10 oz).  Watch my video to see why this is one product you should definitely add to you beauty bag. 

Like what you saw? Subscribe for more videos!

So now that you know my favorite uses, what are some of yours? Comment below and share your tips with the rest of us!

But wait! Enter to win an evian® summer prize package ($75 value)!

Five (5) winners will receive:

• A $25 Sephora gift card 
• 10 oz evian® Facial Spray
• 5 oz evian® Facial Spray
• Three 1.7 oz travel-size evian® Facial Sprays

*Giveaway closes 6/5/16. Winners chosen by evian®. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Balm Meet Matt(e) Nude Giveaway

I'm bringing you a little impromptu post this Monday morning because I'm way too excited to wait until Wednesday. I've got another giveaway for you guys! 

Right? Isn't that kind of news better on a Monday? I thought so too. 

So, here's the deal. Three lucky subscribers (Instagram and Youtube) will win a Meet Matt(e) Nude palette from The Balm Cosmetics ($42 value). 

It's pretty simple. All you have to do is: 

1. Follow me on Instagram
2. Subscribe to Girly Things by *e* on Youtube
3. Enter the giveaway (if this link does not work, copy and paste this URL http://www.gurugiveaways.com/GirlyThingsby_e/meet_matte_nude_palette_giveaway) 
4. You can enter the giveaway up to 2 times. You will earn a second entry when you share the giveaway on Facebook. 
5. Giveaway is open in the U.S. and Canada only
6. Prizes will be mailed directly to the winners by The Balm and/or Ipsy. 
7. Winners are selected at random and notified if they won immediately. 
8. Prizes cannot be redeemed for cash. 
9. Must be 18 years old (or have parental permission) to enter. 

Alright everyone, good luck and Happy Monday!

Disclousure of Material Connection:  Sweepstakes prizes were provided by Ipsy for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Fall Giveaway | @girlythingsby_e + @geniabeme

Eugenia and I love teaming up to bring you guys giveaways because, well, the grand prize is better when we join forces.  So we gathered up a bunch of our favorite goodies and decided to give them away to you -- because the holidays are upon us and 'tis the season to give, right? 

Check out my video for the first half of the prizes and then watch Eugenia's video for the second half.

Don't forget you HAVE to leave your comments on our respective Youtube videos. Comments left on this blog post are appreciated but won't count towards an entry!

~~~ Giveaway Rules (we're triple checking!)~~~

1. You MUST be subscribed to both our channels to win (Make sure you subscribe publicly so we can verify your subscription and contact you, or else we have to disqualify you)

2. Giveaway is open to U.S. contestants only. (Includes Hawaii and P.R.)

3. Must be 18 years or over to enter.

4. Leave a comment (your comment is your entry!) on my video answering the following questions: (1) Which of the items featured in THIS video are you most excited to win? (2) What's your most complicated Starbucks (or any other coffee place) order (mine is boring I need ideas!)?

5. Visit Eugenia's video and answer her two questions. 

6. Giveaway closes on Saturday, November 14 2015 at 11:59 pm EST 

7. One person will win all items. Winner will be selected at random. 

8. We will contact the winner via Youtube inbox (so don't block emails/messages). Winner has 48 hours to respond with his/her mailing information or else we must select a new winner. 

9. Once we notify the winner and receive their information, we will announce his/her name (YouTube handle) in the video's information bar. 

*** Prizes CANNOT be redeemed for cash. The makers and manufacturers of the items being given away are in no way affiliated with this contest. While we take every precaution to ensure packages are delivered to contest winners, we DO NOT take any responsibility for items lost, stolen, or damaged during the shipping process once we have confirmed shipment from our end. ***

Valentine's Day Giveaway Collab (CLOSED)

Eugenia and I are quite obviously having a blast filming videos together. We had both been talking about doing a giveaway on our respective channels. And then it dawned on us: If we go in on it together, we could have a pretty awesome prize. So that's exactly what we did!

We put together a fun prize that includes beauty products, chocolate and a few gift cards to give you a little something fun to do for Valentine's Day -- whether you have a hot date or you want to spend it with your friends and family. No one is getting left out!

Here's a picture of all the prizes to wet your appetite.

Watch our videos to get the low down on the grand prize, and then scroll down for the giveaway rules!

GIVEAWAY RULES:

1. You must be subscribed to both channels to win (Make sure you subscribe publicly so we can verify your subscription and contact you, or else you're disqualified)
2. Giveaway is open to U.S. contestants only. (Includes Hawaii and P.R.)
3. Must be 18 years or over to enter.
4. Leave a comment on my video answering the following question: If money and time were no object, describe your perfect Valentine's Day date.
5. Leave a comment on Eugenia's video answering the following question: What's the most annoying thing about Valentine's Day? 
6. For extra entries: Tweet about this giveaway! (One tweet per day)
7. Giveaway closes on Monday, Feb. 2 2015 at midnight EST (so we can mail those prizes in time for Valentine's Day!!)
8. We will use Rafflecopter to select a winner randomly (Enter below). 
9. We will contact the winner via Youtube inbox (so don't block emails/messages). Winner has 48 hours to respond with his/her mailing information or else we must select a new winner. 
10. Once we notify the winner and receive their information, we will announce his/her name (YouTube handle) in the video's information bar. 

Prizes cannot be redeemed for cash. The makers and manufacturers of the items being given away are in no way affiliated with this contest. While we take every precaution to ensure packages are delivered to contest winners, we do not take any responsibility for items lost, stolen, or damaged during the shipping process once we have confirmed shipment from our end.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Review + Giveaway: OFRA Cosmetics Long Lasting Liquid Lipstick

Can I just tell you how awesome it is to be on vacation? I suddenly have all this extra time on my hands to tend to things I've been sorely neglecting. If only I could spend more of my time playing with makeup and beauty products and less time doing boring grown up things like working.

Being a grown up is by far the dumbest thing I've ever done.

I know, I know. I had work before and I was way better about posting and filming. You're right. It just meant I was neglecting other aspects of my life (like spending time with family and friends). After a while, it was becoming difficult to keep neglecting those area of my life without consequence, so I had to reprioritize -- and now I'm trying to reprioritize again.

It's a juggling game. I'll probably find myself shuffling things around again at some point. But for now, let's revel in my sudden return to the beauty realm.

Let's talk about lipstick already! That's what you came here for, right?

While I was at The Makeup Show (TMS) in Orlando (back in November), I stopped by the OFRA Cosmetics booth. Visiting the OFRA booth has become a bit of a tradition now. I discovered this brand at TMS back in 2012 and have been hooked ever since.

My first purchase from OFRA was a lipstick, a liquid lipstick, and two eyeshadows that were actually a gift with purchase. I was thoroughly impressed with every item I purchased and returned the next year ready to add more to my collection. Sadly, OFRA didn't bring their liquid lipsticks with them in 2013. But I was pleasantly surprised to see they had them at the show again this year. I immediately picked up two more colors: Santa Monica and Laguna Beach.

Rather than keep you in suspense, I think it's pretty obvious that I'm about to review a product that I love. Let's be real. I was disappointed they didn't have the product available at the show last year and I bought more of them this year. You don't need to be Sherlock Holmes to deduce that I stand firmly in the I-love-this-product category.

But what's a review without my telling you why I love them?

An unsubstantiated opinion -- that's what it is. And we don't give those around here. It would make my life a million times easier but it doesn't really give you any useable insight whether you'll like it too. You want to know why. No, you need to know why before you go spend your hard earned cash. So that's exactly what you're going to get.

Let's break it down.

Packaging, cost and availability

OFRA's Long Lasting Liquid Lipstick retail for $19.90 and are available for purchase on OFRA's website. The fact that these are only available online is one of my chief complaints because I can't get instant gratification. And dammit, I'm a child of the "right now" generation. Gimme. I like to be able to look at and swatch colors in person, and I don't necessarily feel their site offers much in the form of swatches. This is the primary reason I wait until I visit their booth at the show, so I can really take a good look at the colors I'm choosing. Mostly, because I don't want to have to bother with mail-in returns if I don't color match correctly. But, who knows? Maybe I'll inspire more bloggers to try this brand and then there will be swatches galore online. 

And, while we're over here being honest, it's hard to beat show prices too. I paid $5 each for my liquid lipsticks (in 2012 and 2014). That being said, the product's performance and consistency merit the price. (Exposure to show pricing has ruined me you guys. I want everything at a discount now) But don't fret, you can save 30% on your entire purchase with this code: girlythingsbye (good through 2/1/2015)

The liquid lipsticks come packaged in a tube (pictured above) with a doe-foot applicator. OFRA did update the packaging since 2012. Originally the tube was round (now its square) and came with a brush applicator. I'm a fan of the new packaging. I feel that the doe-foot applicator improves application. It picks up less product (good since these give a lot of color pay off) and is generally less messy. Plus, I found the original brush applicator a bit stiff and didn't think it spread the product on my lips as nicely. The updated packaging is definitely an improvement in my book. 

Performance and consistency

The liquid lipsticks have a buttery smooth consistency and smell like cake batter (think Cold Stone Creamery). For the purpose of comparison, they feel like NYX butter glosses when applied. That means, they glide on like butter so they can slide around a bit on your lips before they set, which for some may cause some feathering. I don't actually experience this problem, but a friend of mine brought it to my attention so, I'm sharing it with you. If you're like my friend, here's a useful tip: Use a lipliner, then apply the liquid lipstick. Lip liners are generally a drier consistency so they'll hold these in place until they set. Voila, no feathering. 

They don't take too long to set (maybe a minute, if that long) and once they do, they stay put. The lipsticks dry down to a matte finish and feel like long-lasting lipstick (meaning they're not super sticky and can feel a bit dry) However, they did not  dry out my lips like some long-lasting lipsticks tend to do. They'll probably stay put all day -- as long as you don't eat or drink. 

But since that's not totally realistic, I was able wear these for five hours without much (if any) wear and tear. Unfortunately, I need to eat, so five hours was the longest amount of time I wore these before eating led to reapplication.

You also get amazing color pay off with these. I have three colors and with all of them I get the exact color pay off I see in the tube with one swipe. You could try to build them to be more intense, but I found that to be totally unnecessary and a waste of product.

Overall thoughts

Well, if it isn't obvious, I really love these liquid lipsticks. I own three colors (Palm Beach, Laguna Beach, and Santa Monica) and have ordered two more since typing up this review (Hollywood and Plumas). Between the color pay off, lasting quality, and ease of use, I've become quite the fan. This year at the show, I got to meet the brand's chemist who makes all their makeup formulations and I gave him a big thumbs up on their liquid lipsticks.

By the way, you read that right. OFRA has their own in-house chemist so all their products are theirs. They don't buy mass produced products (ahem, 88 color eyeshadow palette that I'm guilty of owning) and slap their brand name on them. They create everything themselves. And their stuff is so impressive, they've even had large, well-known brands seeking out their stuff. 

Check out my video review for additional information and to hear more about the giveaway!

Giveaway

While I was at the show, I met with the brand representatives and told then how much I loved their liquid lipsticks and how thrilled I was they brought them to the show again this year. They graciously gave me three liquid lipsticks (Santa Monica, Mocha, and New Orleans) for me to host a giveaway for my subscribers. That means one lucky subbie gets to try these out for free!

Giveaway rules: 

1. Contest is open only in the U.S. and Puerto Rico 
2. Only one entry per person. Youtube comments are the only valid entry.
3. Subscriber must be 18 or older to participate (or have parental permission to do so because you'll need to share your mailing address with me)
4. Must be subscribed to my Youtube channel 
5. Watch the video and leave a comment (giveaway comment entries only valid on Youtube) telling me: (1) Your favorite lipstick shade (any brand) and (2) one OFRA product you're interested in trying (go to their site and do some "window" shopping) other than the liquid lipstick.
6. Contest closes Sunday, January 11 at midnight EST.  Any entries submitted after that will be void. 
7. I'll contact the winner via their YouTube inbox (so make sure you don't block emails!). Winner will have 48 hours to respond with their mailing information, otherwise I'll have to choose another winner. 
8. Once I notify the winner and receive their information, I will announce their name (YouTube handle) in this blog post and in the video's information bar. 

Prizes cannot be redeemed for cash. The makers and manufacturers of the items being given away are in no way affiliated with this contest. While I take every precaution to ensure packages are delivered to contest winners, I do not take any responsibility for items lost, stolen, or damaged during the shipping process once I have confirmed shipment from my end.

Disclosure of Material Connection (for items reviewed): I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Disclosure of Material Connection (for giveaway items): I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Reviva Labs Skincare Giveaway

I recently learned about Reviva Labs, a natural skincare company that's been around for 40 years. Clearly, I've been hiding under a rock. My blogging friends have been reviewing these products for a hot minute. They all have wonderful things to say. And here I am all clueless E, twiddling my thumbs without a care in the world.

Well, folks -- let me take a moment to end that right now. I am now officially curious to try these products out. While perusing their site, I stumbled on a few items I'd like to check out (two of which you could win for yourself!).

Hydrogen Peroxide & Green Papaya Mask: Papaya is said to have amazing beauty benefits. It's supposed to do fabulous things for your skin and hair. Among it's many benefits, it moisturizes, exfoliates, improves luminosity, treats discoloration -- and it's pretty tasty to boot (but don't eat the mask). Add to that the fact that I love a nice moisturizing weekly mask treatment and this product just calls out my name. (P.S. It's good for all skin types too)

 Reviva Labs Hydrogen Peroxide & Green Papaya Mask, Lighten & Brighten Dark Spot Serum, Non-Chemical Light Skin Peel. (Photo credit: Reviva Labs)

Lighten & Brighten Dark Spot Serum: I didn't always listen to skin care advice in my teens and (super) early 20s. That led to a more-than-lax SPF policy back then, which was bad news considering my love for (and proximity to) the beach. Now I'm paying the price in the form of little spots. I've come a long way in treating the aftermath of my bad choices. But there's still a little ways to go. This product naturally peaks my curiosity.

Light Skin Peel: I looove a nice gentle skin peel. It's done wonders to help me treat the above mentioned skin issues. It's also done amazing things for my skin's texture. Can we say soft and supple? Getting peels done professionally can cost upwards of $80 (and over) per visit. While I love a session with the esthetician, I can't visit as often as I'd like (life, money, 'ish...). This seems like a promising in-between-visits option. (Another gentle-enough-for-all-skin-types product) 

But here's the good news for you. This post isn't just my little wish list.  Reviva Labs has graciously provided six of their most popular products (valued at $61) for one of you to take home for yourselves. It's all part of a collaboration giveaway with the Central Florida Beauty Bloggers. 

Update: This contest is now closed. Congratulations to Julie L.! I hope you enjoy your new skincare goodies!

And don't worry. You don't have to go follow all of us to enter. You can if you want to (you get extra entries that way), but that's totally up to you. All you have to do to enter is follow the Rafflecopter entry instructions below and you're in. 

The giveaway starts today (4/4/14) and ends Friday, April 18 (4/18/14). Open to U.S. residents only. 

Here's what you can win: 

Light Skin Peel ($20 value)

Vitamin E Oil Stick lip balm with SPF 15 ($4 value) 

Seaweed Soap ($4 value) 

Sun Protective Moisturizer SPF 25 ($11 value) 

Hydrogen Peroxide & Green Papaya Mask ($12 value) 

Skin Energizing Gel ($10 value)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck!

How to apply nail polish strips ft. Incoco strips

*Press Sample*

When Incoco contacted me a month or so ago offering to send me some of their nail polish appliqués, I was all over it. It seemed like a no brainer. I get to test these products out and show you how they look when you apply them. Plus, since nail polish appliqués are growing in popularity, I thought it'd be a good chance to do a quick tutorial on how to apply them.

Yes, it's a pretty simple technique, but it does require a little bit of practice to get it right. Be warned, the first time you try it you might end up with a crooked appliqué or a ridge or two. Don't let that discourage you. After one or two nails you'll get the hang of it.

The best part is that Incoco figured this would happen, so you can easily remove and reposition the nail strip without damaging the adhesive! That means you don't need to be scared about making mistakes. Plus, you'll get 16 total nail strips, so that if you do mess one up, you'll have extras. Don't worry if the one's you have left are too big for your nail, there's a way around that (that I show in my video demonstration).

Before we get into the how-to, let's share a little background on and my experience using Incoco nail appliqués:

• They're made of real nail polish that includes base coat, polish, and top coat, so they look and feel like nail polish on your nails.
•  They're 3-free (no DBP, toluene, or formaldehyde)
• I like  that Incoco nail strips (unlike other brands I've tried) are a bit stretchy. This makes it easier to apply them without creasing and easier to fit most nail sizes (just don't pull too hard, they'll break!)
• These are perfect if you love nail polish designs but aren't into DIY
• They're also fantastic if you need to apply and go. No dry time needed!
• You'll also love these if you have a hard time giving yourself a clean, professional looking manicure at home. Fool proof!
• They come in more than 200 colors and designs, so you're bound to find something you like!
• They're affordable, only $7.99 and available for purchase at incoco.com
• Removal is easy and hassle free. All you need is regular nail polish remover. 
• If you mess up, you can remove and reposition the same strip (I tried this and it totally works!)
• Each package contains 16 strips to fit all your nails (plus a few extra in case you need to fix a few)
• They're easy to apply and provide a really pretty final product with very little hassle 
• I wish they had some kind of nail hardening property to them. While my manicure looks great, my nails don't feel as hard as they do when I use my nail polish. I'm afraid my nails will be more susceptible to breaking.

Once I got the hang of using them, I got a really nice final result and I actually found them easier to work with than other brands I've used that were a bit thicker, making it harder to tear or file along the edge of my nail without leaving jagged edges.

Now, without further ado, let's get into the tutorial and some tips to help you get the application right on your first try.

What you'll need

Step 1: Clean off your nails and buff (optional) them

Tip: Wiping down your nail with a cotton swab dampened with rubbing alcohol will help remove any dirt and oil off your nail so nothing interferes with the nail strip adhering to your nail. 

Step 2: Pull nail strips out of package and measure them against your nails

Tip: When in doubt, choose a nail strip that's a little too wide over one that's too narrow for your nail. Once you're done applying the strip, you can use your nail or a cuticle pusher to gently press around the edges of your nail bed. This will create a makeshift perforation and you can tear away the excess strip. (You can see me demonstrate this in the video below)

Step 3: Remove clear cover from the top of the nail strip 

This step might only be necessary for Incoco nail stops

Step 4: Peel the strip off the sticker backing

Step 5: Remove the silver tab from the rest of the nail strip

Step 6: Position the strip on your nail and gently stretch it to fit

Step 7: Smooth out the surface gently

Tip: In the photo I'm using the back of a makeup brush, but this didn't yield the best result (caused creasing). Learn from my mistake. Use your fingertip to smooth out the surface. It has more surface area, creating a much better finish.

Step 8: Fold the edges of the nail strip over the end of your nail and file off the excess

Tip: While the nail file works well, it can create some jagged edges. Instead fold the nail strip under the end of your nail and gently use your nail (or a cuticle pusher) to put pressure on the folded-over strip until it perforates, then you can gently tear it away (demonstrated in the video).

You're all done!

Now the question is, will these last the 14 days the packaging claims? Follow me on Instagram, where I'll be taking daily photos of my manicure to show you how it wears, how long it takes before it starts to show some wear and tear, and whether I can truly rock it for 14 days while still looking good. My fear is that nail growth will cause me to abandon the manicure before the 2 week timeframe, as I'm not a fan of that look.

Here's my how-to video to show you my application technique in real time (P.S. Watch for the giveaway!):

Are you a fan of nail polish appliqués? I love how they can make a manicure hassle free and make nail designs much easier to achieve.

Giveaway entry and rules:

1. Contest is open in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico
2. Must be 18 or older to participate (or have parental permission to do so because you'll need to share your mailing address with me)
3. Subscribe to my Youtube channel 
4. Leave a comment (on the video in YouTube) telling me (1) why you want to be entered to win the Incoco nail polish strips, and (2) your favorite color nail polish. 
5. FOR A BONUS ENTRY (optional): (1) Follow this blog using GFC, (2) leave a comment on this blog post about anything nail polish related, and (3) include your YouTube handle and GFC name (if they differ from the name you used to leave the comment. If they're the same, just say: "My YouTube and GFC handles are the same as my contest name).
6. Contest closes Saturday, August 31 at noon EST.  Any entries submitted after that will be void. 
7. I'll contact the winner via their YouTube inbox (so make sure you don't block emails!). Winner will have 48 hours to respond with their mailing information, otherwise I'll have to choose another winner. 
8. Once I notify the winner and receive their information, I will announce their name (YouTube handle) in this blog post and in the video's information bar. 

Prizes cannot be redeemed for cash. The makers and manufacturers of the items being given away are in no way affiliated with this contest. While I take every precaution to ensure packages are delivered to contest winners, I do not take any responsibility for items lost, stolen, or damaged during the shipping process once I have confirmed shipment from my end.


Don't forget to check out all the different appliqué options over at www.incoco.com.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Merry Christmas!

Here's a little giveaway to bring you some holiday cheer. I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season and that 2013 brings health, happiness, and success. 




Giveaway Rules (Open internationally):

1. Must be a channel subscriber (click subscribe it's easy and free!)
2. Like this video
3. Follow me on Twitter
4. Like my Facebook page 
5. Leave a comment on the video (1 entry per person) telling me 

• What is your favorite gift you've ever given to someone else.
• Include your Twitter handle and Facebook name in the comment 

6. Tweet about this giveaway: I entered @girlythingsby_e giveaway to win @UrbanDecay411 Naked Basics palette and more! Check it out here http://youtu.be/ddrpW9k-T-4
7. Contest closes 12/31/12 at noon EST. Winners will be notified through Youtube. Make sure you either add me as a contact or you don't block people from sending you messages. If I can not notify you, I will have to choose another winner. Winners will have 48 hours to respond with their shipping information or another winner will be chosen. There will be three winners chosen for this giveaway and there are three different prizes.

Prizes cannot be redeemed for cash. The makers and manufacturers of the items being given away are in no way affiliated with this contest. While I take every precaution to ensure packages are delivered to contest winners, I do not take any responsibility for items lost, stolen, or damaged during the shipping process once I have confirmed shipment from my end.

Winners: Kristin Johnson, Natasha Lopez, Myah Vickers

MAC Palette vs. Z Palette; Plus a Holiday Giveaway

MAC Palette costs:
Large palette - $18
Square palette (fits 4) - $9
Small palette (fits 2) - $9
Pro palette eye shadow insert (fits 15 shadows) - $9
Pro palette blush insert (fits 6) - $9

Z Palette
Square palette - $14
Large palette - $20
Pro palette - $25
Dome Palette - $28
____________________________________________________________________

Items being given away: Stila eyeshadow trio in Gilded and Coastal Scents Pro Blending Fluff brush. 

Giveaway Rules (Open internationally):
1. Subscribe to my channel
2. Like this video
3. Follow me on Twitter  http://www.twitter.com/girlythingsby_e
4. Leave a comment below (limit 1 comment to enter contest) and tell me whether you think you'd prefer the Z Palette or the new MAC palettes and why. Include your twitter handle in the comment. NOTE:  I am not actually giving away either palette in this giveaway, but since the video is a comparison between the two palettes, I thought it would make an appropriate comment topic. 
5. For an additional entry (optional) tweet about this giveaway. Tweet anything you want, just include my Twitter handle so I can see your tweet!
5. Giveaway is open internationally.
6. Must be at least 18 or have parental permission to enter giveaway
7. Giveaway closes 12/18/12 at noon EST. 
8. Winner will be notified by me via YouTube email and must respond within 48 hours with their contact information or another winner will be selected.
9. Prize cannot be redeemed for cash. The makers and manufacturers of the items being given away are in no way affiliated with this contest. While I take every precaution to ensure packages are delivered to contest winners, I do not take any responsibility for items lost or stolen during the shipping process once I have confirmed shipment from my end.
________________________________________________________________________

FTC disclaimer: None of the products in this video were given to me for the purpose of review or promotion. I purchased the products myself. 

Video editing software: iMovie
Music by Dan-O at danosongs.com

Holiday Giveaway Madness!

Giveaway Rules:

1. You must be subscribed to my channel

2. Participants must be at least 18 years old or have parental permission to participate. 

3. One winner will receive both items.

4. Leave a comment (only 1) telling me about your favorite holiday gift ever. For an additional entry (one per person) - Follow me on twitter (http://www.twitter.com/girlythingsby_e ) and tweet the following: I entered @girlythingsby_e Holiday Giveaway Madness http://youtu.be/1ZafYXSPPHk to win Tarte & Smashbox products. (If you enter via Twitter, please include your Twitter handle in your comment so I can make sure to match up your two entries!!)

5. This contest is only open in the U.S. 

6. Contest ends 12/12/2012 at 12 pm EST. 

7. Winner will be notified by me via YouTube email and must respond within 48 hours with contact information or another winner will be selected.

Prize cannot be redeemed for cash. The makers and manufacturers of the items being given away are in no way affiliated with this contest. While I take every precaution to ensure packages are delivered to contest winners, I do not take any responsibility for items lost or stolen during the shipping process once I have confirmed shipment from my end.

FTC disclaimer: This is not a sponsored video

Video editing software: iMovie

Music by Dan-O at danosongs.com

Instagram Giveaway

I posted a quickie, impromptu giveaway on Instagram yesterday (you can see it here). Follow me on Instagram  for your chance to win two e.l.f. hypershine lip glosses and a mineral eye shadow primer. 

All you have to do is:

1. Follow me on instagram 
2. Comment below the post by completing this sentence: "My favorite holiday makeup look is..."
3. Must be 18 years or older to enter or have parental permission
4. Contest open only in the U.S.

That's it! Winner will be selected tomorrow at 5 p.m. EST.

Prize cannot be redeemed for cash. The makers and manufacturers of the items being given away are in no way affiliated with this contest. While I take every precaution to ensure packages are delivered to contest winners, I do not take any responsibility for items lost or stolen during the shipping process once I have confirmed shipment from my end.

Stay tuned for more holiday giveaway madness here on the blog, Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube.

Giveaway: 500 Youtube Subscribers

Here's a giveaway to commemorate having reached 500 subscribers and Thanksgiving.

Rules:
1. Must be 18 years old or have parental permission to enter giveaway.
2. Comment giveaway. ONLY ONE comment per person. Tell me what you are thankful for this year. "Enter me" comments will be result in disqualification.
3. For an additional entry, visit my Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/girlythingsbye) and leave a comment on the link to this video (only on the link not on my wall or it doesn't count). Tell me you entered the giveaway and leave your YouTube handle.
4. Contest closes 11/30/12. I will notify the winner via YouTube message (keep an eye on your inbox). Winner has 48 hours to respond or I will choose another winner.
5. Giveaway open worldwide.

The prizes are three Stila eyeshadow trios (Bella, Goddess, Ethereal) and one single eyeshadow (Kitten).

Prize cannot be redeemed for cash. The makers and manufacturers of the items being given away are in no way affiliated with this contest. While I take every precaution to ensure packages are delivered to contest winners, I do not take any responsibility for items lost or stolen during the shipping process once I have confirmed shipment from my end.


FTC disclaimer: None of the products in this video were given to me for the purpose of review or promotion. I purchased the products myself.

Video editing software: iMovie
Music by Dan-O at danosongs.com. Song: En la Brisa

Back to School Giveaway!

Super excited to be a part of this giveaway collaboration. Special thanks to Vanessa at vadisrad for organizing this and letting me be a part of it. Watch the video for details and check out the rules below. Make sure you follow them, wouldn't want you to get disqualified!

By the way, I keep getting the participant count wrong in the video. Gah! I can't seem to get it together! So it's really 12 of us total participating. Forgive my video inaccuracy.


RULES:
1. Must be subscribed to all 12 of us:

COURTNEY: http://www.youtube.com/courtneysaechao
ERIKA (Me!): http://www.youtube.com/girlythingsbye
GABBY: http://www.youtube.com/glamgabxo
MARINA: http://www.youtube.com/mcubedmakeup
VANESSA: http://www.youtube.com/nessroxx
MELISSA: http://www.youtube.com/ricanborn2plz69
SHERRY: http://www.youtube.com/snhwadden
TRACEY: http://www.youtube.com/themakeupaddict86
THERESA: http://www.youtube.com/theresahuaroto
VANESSA: http://www.youtube.com/vadisrad
JAMIE: http://www.youtube.com/virtualgirlmakeup

2. Contest is open internationally.
3. You must be 18 or have parental permission to participate.
4. Giveaway will end 9/19/12.

Video response entries only! (via YouTube)
You can make one video response to one of our videos.
Show off your favorite fall fashion. Be creative!

PRIZES:
- Procat Backpack by Puma
- Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets
- Clean & Clear Morning Burst Facial Cleanser
- EOS Lip Balm in Summer Fruit
- Soap & Glory Hand Food Lotion
- Remington Hair Elastics
- Zebra Notebook
- Bow Notebook
- Zebra Pencil Pouch
- Sonia Kashuk Studly Haute Hair 5 Piece Set
- Coach Poppy Flower Perfume Pencils
- Victoria's Secret Love Pink ID Holder
- Victoria's Secret Mirror
- Urban Decay Smoked Eyeshadow Palette
- OPI Germany Collection Ger-Minis Nail Polish Set
- 2012/2013 Student Planner
- Colored Gel Pens
- Mechanical Pencils
- B&BW Japanese Cherry Blossom Hand Sanitizer
- B&BW Orchard Walk Hand Sanitizer
- B&BW Sweet Cinnamon Pumpkin Hand Sanitizer
- B&BW Hand Sanitizer Holder
- B&BW Love Love Love Lotion
- B&BW Love Love Love Body Spray

My makeup:
Laura Mercier Oil Free Tinted Moisturizer - Nude
Sephora Microsmooth Foundation powder - Nude
Sephora cream to powder blush - Coral Flush
Maybelline ColorSensational lipstick - Mauve-Lous
Rimmel Lash Accelerator Mascara - Extreme Black
CG Lash Blast Volume - Blackest Black
Maybeline Define a Brow - Medium Brown
e.l.f. Finishing Mist

Birthday Skincare Giveaway (closed)

Well my darlings, in honor of my birthday tomorrow, I figured I'd share a little of the giving. Since our skin is our makeup canvas and having great skin helps us feel confident and keeps us looking young and fresh (take care of your skin, it will take care of you), I thought a skincare giveaway was in order.

Up for grabs are two of my favorite face washes: DDF Blemish Foaming Cleanser ($32) and Desert Essence Thoroughly Clean Face Wash - original formula ($9).  They are both for blemish fighting cleansers. The DDF cleanser fights breakouts using salicylic acid, while the Desert Essence cleanser uses natural tea tree oil (for all you Earth-friendly, natural beauty lovers).

Are you ready to find out how to win?

Required steps to enter (collectively count as 1 entry):

You must be a blog subscriber via Google Friend Connect, follow me on Twitter and "like" my Facebook page.
Leave a comment on this blog entry that provides your name, email address (so I can contact you if you win), Twitter handle, Facebook name (if different from your actual name), and which of the two face washes you want to win.
In your comment, tell me why you are interested in the particular cleanser you chose.

Optional steps for extra entries:
Tweet about this contest. Just copy and paste the following message: Love ur skin, enter to win a DDF or Dessert Essence face wash from @girlythingsby_e http://goo.gl/fXBgc (1 extra entry per day) and leave a separate comment with a link to your Tweet. That means you can leave one extra comment per day.
Subscribe to my YouTube channel (1 additional entry) and leave an additional comment with your YouTube username. 

Contest closes May 25 at midnight EST and is open in the United States and Puerto Rico. You must be 18 to enter or have parental permission (because you have to give out your address if you win). 

The winner will be contacted via email and will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen. 

Ready. Set. Comment!

XL Urban Decay Primer Potion Contest Winner

Wow! I'm so impressed by how many of you entered my giveaway! Quite a few of you took advantage of the multiple entry option via Twitter -- you ladies know who you are. There was so much enthusiasm, I felt bad that I only had one product to giveaway, like I needed to add some honorable mentions or something. Alas, there could only be one winner, that's what the contest rules said after all (and currently what my pocket book will allow). But don't worry. Those of you who entered the YouTube potion of this giveaway, automatically entered to win the last leg of my first YouTube Giveaway, which is another Urban Decay Primer Potion (albeit, a regular sized one, but a free one nonetheless). There is still a chance! Plus, I enjoy reader interaction, so there are bound to be more giveaways to come.

In the interest of fairness, this is what I did to pick out today's winner. I counted up all your entries, wrote out your names on individual pieces of paper (some of you had an impressive amount of entries!), and threw all the entries into a hat -- a fedora to be precise, since we all know I love them. I jumbled the entries up, and picked blindly out of the hat.

Are you ready to see who the winner is? I bet you are. Lets all congratulate: Danielle Perloff, who follows on GFC as Sweet As Honey, check out her beauty blog (I'm all about sharing the blog love).

Thanks again for reading my posts, watching my YouTube channel, following me on Twitter, and being my Facebook friends. I'm so incredibly grateful for all of your support. It doesn't go unnoticed.

Reader appreciation giveaway (CLOSED)

I'm so excited that my little blog is gaining more readership. This time last year, I wasn't sure if anything I was sharing was being received. Now, I'm up to 41 blog followers, almost 100 Facebook fans, more than 200 YouTube subscribers, and more than 250 Twitter followers. It's amazing. I'm so greatful.

To show my appreciation, I'm giving away one XL Urban Decay Primer Potion, which comes with 60 percent more product than its regular counterpart. This is not a sponsored giveaway, I went out and purchased this item myself to give to one of you. It valued at $23.

To enter to win this giveaway, you must:

• Be a blog subscriber (it's easy to do using Google Connect)
• Leave a comment that includes your name and email address (so I can contact you if you win), how you found out about this blog and what you like reading about the most. If you have extra entries via Twitter, YouTube or Facebook please provide your Twitter and YouTube username and your Facebook info
• Be 18 or older (or have parental permission to enter)

For extra entries:

• Tweet about this giveaway (1 extra entry per day). You can just copy and paste the following message: Enter to win an XL Urban Decay Primer Potion from @girlythingsby_e. Check it out here: http://bit.ly/g9gY9h
• Become a fan of my Facebook page and leave a comment on my wall to let me know you want to be a part of the giveaway
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel and leave a comment on the channel that tells me which one of your videos is your favorite. Bonus: when you subscribe to my channel you are automatically entered to win a regular sized Urban Decay Primer Potion (once I reach 300 subscribers, I'll pick a winner).

The contest is open worldwide. Giveaway closes on Friday, April 29 at midnight EST. I'll announce the winner on this blog and the winner will have 48 hours to respond or another person will be chosen.

Thanks again for reading my blog, Tweets, status updates, and watching my videos!

Nail Polish Giveaway (CLOSED)

So, I raved about how much I loooooove my Zoya nail polish a few months back and I got some compliments on my blog, Twitter, Facebook, and other social networks on one of my personal favorite colors: Kelly. It's not just my favorite, it seems to be quite the coveted gorgeous varnish, since it's often on back order on Zoya's website. When I ordered it, it was back ordered, and when my friend Alyson over at The Average Girl's Guide ordered it, you guessed it, it was on back order as well. But, this beautiful dark grey is worth the wait, and we were both thrilled when it arrived in the mail. I've been rocking this color as an alternative to black polish.

But, one of my lucky Girly Things reader will get to have this polished shipped to them without having to join a waiting list. All you have to do is be a blog follower, and comment on this post below. Tell me about your favorite nail polish? What's your nail style? Do you like bright loud colors, soft nude hues, or is dark and sultry more your style? Do you rock natural nails? Are they long, or short? Are you a nail art afficionado or do you steer clear of it? Is entering this giveaway for Zoya Kelly a detour from your nail style or are you staying true to your preferences? You don't have to answer all these questions, I'm just trying to start up a conversation. Plus, I like to read blog comments.

OK, so now for the pesky rules:

• Please be 18 or over to enter, or have parental permission to be giving your address out to a stranger on the Internet
• You must be a blog subscriber, after all this is a giveaway in the spirit of reader appreciation
• Provide a valid email address in your comment so I have a way to contact you if you win
• Leave a comment on this blog entry telling me about your nail style

I'll email the winner to let her/him know she/he won. Winner must reply to my email within 48 hours with their mailing information or I'll be forced to choose another winner.

I'll choose a winner Monday, Feb. 28. 

Ready. Set. Comment!

Facebook Giveaway

Wanna win the e.l.f. goodies pictured above? You can! Visit my facebook page and "like" it, then leave a comment under the contest post (on my facebook page). I'll choose a winner when I reach 100 facebook page likes, or by Feb. 25, whichever comes first.

Prize:
e.l.f. High Definition Powder (a dupe for Make Up Forever's High Definition Powder)
e.l.f. Mineral Infused Face Pimer
e.l.f. Mineral Eyeshadow Primer

Urban Decay Ink for Eyes Winner!

Congratulations to Sandy Grose (also known as slgkag), who is the winner of my New Years makeup contest. She was a tweeting machine! Not to mention she follows all of the Girly Things social media platforms. She had so many entries! I'm gonna guess someone really wanted to win this prize. So, Sandy will be receiving a brand new Ink for Eyes in pyrotechnics to add some sparkle to her look.

Email me your mailing information to girlythingsbye(at)gmail(dot)com.

Hope you have a fabulous New Years celebration and would love to see how your makeup looks, if you feel like shooting over a photo. Thanks so much for reading, tweeting, liking, and watching.

For those who didn't win, don't worry, there is still a contest going on my YouTube channel. The quicker I hit 200 and 300 subscribers, the sooner I announce those two winners. I brought all the prizes with me to my parent's house so I could mail them out whenever that fateful day comes. Tell all your friends!

Holiday Giveaway: Urban Decay Ink for Eyes (CLOSED)

I'm in the giving mood and want to make your New Year's makeup as sparkly as your outlook for the upcoming year. So, I'm giving away a pretty Urban Decay gel eyeliner in Pyrotechnics ($22) -- a lovely iridescent glitter with a clear base. It's perfect to layer over any look to add a little sparkle.

Here is a swatch from the Urban Decay site:

I think it's a perfect gift to go with the fun NYE fireworks!

If you've never tried gel liner before, let me tell you it's fantastic! Glides on like a liquid, but more forgiving. You can layer this over your black (or any color) liner to add pizzaz to your makeup look or you could use it to add sparkle to your cheekbones. Everyone deserves a little glitter in their lives now and then!

So, here's how you win:

1- Follow this blog and subscribe to my youtube channel (www.youtube.com/girlythingsbye) 

2- Follow me on Twitter (www.twitter.com/girlythingsby_e) and earn extra entries by tweeting about the contest (up to three extra entries per day)

3- Comment below about anything, just start a conversation. Some examples: What are your NYE plans? What beauty products would you like me to talk about in future blog entries or videos? Do you have a favorite blog entry so far? A favorite video? What are you hoping to get for the holidays? Chat with me! Anything will do (just keep it PG and be nice!)

4 - Earn an extra entry by going to my facebook page and clicking the "Like" button

Please be 18 to enter (if under 18 please obtain parental permission, no one wants you to get in trouble for giving your address out to a stranger!)

Contest closes Tuesday, Dec. 21. I'll announce the winner December 22 on my blog, Twitter and YouTube, so you must subscribe or follow me on these to know that you won. Winner must respond within 24 hours so I can mail your package quickly (I want it to arrive in time for the New Year's festivities)!

Bonus: By following me on Twitter and YouTube you automatically get entered to win two other contests!

When I reach 200 Twitter followers I will give away an e.l.f. Studio Blush in Blushing Rose ($3 value)

When I reach 200 YouTube subscribers I will give away a Benefit creaseless creme eyeshadow in Flying Down To... - a lovely satiny pink ($19 value). Flying down to... has been discontinued (wasn't part of the permanent line I suppose) but it is a cross between Toasted Mauve and Frosted Heather. It's one of my favorite colors. Glad I snagged some up before they stopped making it!

When I reach 300 YouTube subscribers I will give away an Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion ($18 value)

Let the giveaway begin!