Sephora VIB Sale Haul | November 2015

Shopping! Shopping! Shopping! I can't resist a good sale and there are quite a few going on -- including Sephora's VIB sale that took place a few weeks ago. I had a few gift cards (thanks to my sister and hubbie) burning a hole in my pocket and I couldn't resist spending them any longer. After all, it's not real spending if you use a gift card, right? RIGHT!

Here are all the goodies I picked up for 20% off. Just a few ideas for you to consider as you write out your holiday wishlist or think of stuff to get the beauty lover on your "nice" list.

Kat Von D Lolita Lip Duo Gift Set ($20) | Kat Von D Ink Liner Trio Gift Set ($25 -- stated wrong price in video) | Skin Inc Get Glowin' Brightening Mask ($65) | Tony Moly Pocket Bunny Sleek Mist ($15) | Belif Hydra Sebum Control Essence ($42) | LaVanilla Vanilla Grapefruit Fragrance ($19) | Maison Martin Margiela Replica Roller Ball Duo Gift Set ($40)

Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to 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.”

NYC Haul: Generation Beauty + Nars + Birchbox

I think the title here says it all right? I was in NYC last month for Generation Beauty and got a bunch of stuff while I was there. You already saw the amazing swag bag they sent us home with. Well, that wasn't all!!! Can you believe it?

And being the beauty loving fiend that I am, I had to buy a few extra things while visiting NYC. I mean, c'mon! It's NYC! You kind of have to eat and shop while you're there.

Come see all the fun stuff I got, it'll blow your mind.

Product list: 

Ofra liquid lipstick Kathleen Lights Miami Fever (limited edition)
Ofra lipgloss stick
Julie G nail polish Sour Apple
Julie G nail polish Beach Bonfire
Jesse's Girl eyeshadow primer
Jesse's Girl mineralized baked powder eyeshadow (Rosemary Frost)
Laura Geller Love Me Dew lip crayon
Bliss On The Line Liquid Eyeliner (Carbonated)
Derma e Purifying Toner Mist
Belif True Cream Moisturizing Bomb
Banilla Co Clean It Zero solid cleansing oil
Skinn Caviar Lip Cream (Ruby)
Eva NYC Therapy Session Hair Mask
Mally Starlight Evercolor Waterproof Liner 
Temptu Air Skin Perfection Kit
Skin Inc Licorice Root Serum
Skin Inc Get Perfect Kit (similar)
Nars Audacious Lipstick (Viviene, Anna, Vanessa)
Nars Satin Lip Pencil (Jardin de Plants)
Harvey Prince Hello exfoliating body wash
Harvey Prince Hello fragrance 
Chosunga 22 flavored lipstick (Chai Tea)
Supergoop Antiaging City Serum SPF 30
Beauty Protector Protect and Detangle leave-in conditioner
Dr. Jart Water Fuse sheet mask
Biorepublic aloe rescue mask
Real Chemistry Environmental Rescue Mask
Karuna exfoliating face mask

Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to 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.”

Review: Influenster Fresca Vox Box

** Press Samples **

This is what happens when you forget to hit publish... Sometimes I wonder if I'm losing my mind. Just to give you an idea -- I filmed and published this video last month. And this whole time I thought I'd also shared it on this blog.

Well, better late than never, right?

Here's the skinny:

Influenster sent me a box of goodies to test out and review. I did that and here is the video evidence:



Now, excuse me while I got order some Ginko Biloba or some other memory improvement supplement. Clearly, I need help remembering stuff.

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.”

Haul: Sephora + Bath & Body Works

Well, I couldn't resist doing a little shopping recently. And since sharing is caring, I'm telling you all about it.

What are some of your favorite candle scents from Bath & Body Works? I'm so obsessed with them. I know I'm not the only one. Dish!

Holiday Gift Guide 2013: Beauty Gifts Under $50

Each year we face a conundrum. What do we get the beauty loving friends and family members on our list? You want to give them something cool and thoughtful (preferably something they don't already have) but you also might not want to break the bank.

Well, fear not. It's quite possible to give your beauty fanatics some awesome gifts at reasonable pricing. Let's take a moment to thank the beauty industry for putting together some awesome gift sets that will help you do just that.

If you're looking for gifts that will cost you less than $50 (sorry Urban Decay lovers that new Naked 3 palette missed the list by $3), you're in luck. There are a lot of options.

I've assembled a list of some of my top picks that range from makeup and skin care, to nails and fragrance. There's something for everyone's beauty-related preferences.

Makeup sets: LORAC Rockin' Red Hot PRO Set ($39) / LORAC Close Up PRO Face Tutorial ($42) / Stila Masterpiece Series Eye & Cheek Palettes ($39) / Skincare sets: Fresh Sugar & Seaberry Sanctuary ($48) / Korres Radiance Revealed Wild Rose Brightening Duo ($48) /Boscia Mask Medley ($38)/ Fragrance set: Nest Luxury Hand Cream gift set ($38)/ Nail set: Sephora Collection Makeup Academy Nails ($36) 

Makeup sets

Listen, there are a lot of makeup sets out there ringing in at less than $50. I can't possibly list them all. This list is clearly not exhaustive. I chose the three makeup sets listed because they offer quality and value. It was difficult to narrow it down to these three. But I didn't want a gift guide that only had eyeshadow palettes in it. We gotta think of everyone else. It's the holidays after all. That being said, if you want a gift guide that's my favorite palettes, say the word. A post of this nature could easily be arranged. 

For now, I want to draw your attention to the three palettes I've picked out that are actually quite affordable and offer you amazing value:

LORAC Rockin' Red Hot Pro Set - I have a lot to say about this set. I'll try to keep it short and sweet. First, you get the LORAC Pro Palette - a huge fan favorite - for less than buying the palette on its own. Yes, that is right. You save $3 and  you get extra stuff. I had to do a double take when I got it. Second,  you also get a travel-sized eyeshadow primer and a full-sized pro liquid liner (which has out shined all my other liquid liners) for only $39. Third, many people have said they like this neutral palette more than the infamous Naked palettes (not referring to Naked 3) because you get equal parts shimmer and matte shades. Four, the quality is ah-ma-zing. The shades are pigmented, buttery smooth, and blend easily. The eyeshadow primer works just as well as its competitors. And that liquid liner is perfection. It's an easy to apply pen liner that glides on so smoothly it doesn't tug on your lids at all. It's cut the time it takes me to apply liquid liner in half and it always comes out looking perfect. I'm in love. Available exclusively at ULTA. Good for the beauty lover on your list who loves his/her Naked palettes and neutral shades. Expand their horizons. 

LORAC Close Up PRO Face Tutorial - This gift set is on my personal holiday wish list. You get an eyeshadow trio with three neutral, look-good-on-everyone shades that will take you from day to night easy peasy (a vanilla-esque shade, a light latte brown, and a dark chocolate brown), a travel-sized mattifying primer, PRO mascara, rosy cheek stain, and peach lip lustre. This set could easily become your every day go-to products. It also includes makeup tips to help you apply your face like a pro. Available exclusively at ULTA. Good for any makeup person on your list because the colors will flatter all skin tones and can be worn for any occasion. From novice to expert, this one is fool proof. 

Stila Masterpiece Series Eye & Cheek palettes - This set combines three eyeshadow and cheek palettes into one collection. You get a cool toned palette, a warm toned palette, and a rosy palette each with five eye shadows and one coordinating blush. If you don't want to do the math, that's 15 shadows and three blushes. The limited edition set retails for $39. At the time of this posting it was available at ULTA for $29. This gift set is adorable and sure to go over like a hit. Available at Sephora and ULTA. Great for the indecisive beauty person on your list. Three palettes. One set. No need to settle.

Skincare Sets

If you have a skin care fanatic on your list, there are plenty of great gifting options available to you as well. Skin care can be a little trickier than makeup because you need to know a little more about the person you're buying for. Do they have oily/dry/combo/sensitive skin? What are the skin concerns they want to battle? Will giving them a product be a touchy matter? You’ll have to be the judge of that when buying. However, here are three items that I think are innocuous enough to please anyone. Plus, if you're gifting a skincare fanatic, they are likely to recognize and appreciate these.  

Fresh Sugar & Seaberry Sanctuary  - This set will let you give the gift of skincare without worrying about getting all the details right (skin type, concerns, sensitivities). It’s basically like giving a little at-home spa treatment. It includes Fresh's Brown Sugar Body Polish, Seaberry Restorative Body Cream, and Sugar Lip Treatment with SPF 15. It’s a great bath and body experience that’s a bit more grown up and sophisticated than that other store we know and love. Available at Sephora. Good for anyone on your list that enjoys at little at-home pampering and spends a lot of time grooming (and no, we’re not implying they’re vain). 

Boscia Mask Medley -  There are a few beauty gals I know who would flip to receive this Boscia mask medley.  The set contains three of the brands most popular masks, sure to help treat an array of skin situations that ail us all. Plus, you can give it without fearing you’ll cause offense. This set says you know a thing or two about cult favorites and you know they enjoy a little at-home facial time. Way different than giving someone, say, an anti wrinkle cream they didn’t ask for… Yikes! Available at Sephora. Good for the beauty lover who has it all. If there’s a beauty blogger or editor on your list, they’ll likely appreciate this set.

Korres Radiance Revealed Wild Rose Brightening - Korres’ Wild Rose line is immensely popular for a reason. And this set is on this list because it’s one of my personal favorites. This brightening duo offers two full-sized products for the price of one (it's ridiculously popular Wild Rose + Vitamin C Advanced Brightening Sleeping Facial). These days, people of all ages are chasing that illustrious glow. Brightening products have out shined the battle against wrinkles in the quest of youthful, envious skin. The Wild Rose sleeping facial delivers. It's luxurious, smells amazing (um, roses people), contains no yucky parabens or sulfates, and is great for all skin types. And that cleanser? Well it's an added bonus! Admittedly, you'll need to know the person you're gifting this to a little better to offer up this set. But, if they happen to love scouring the beauty isles for all things facial care, they're likely to recognize and appreciate this set. Available at Sephora. Good for anyone chasing after radiant skin

Nails

All of us have that one friend who always has amazing nails. They're groomed to perfection and rock some of the hottest nail trends. Heck, that person may also have a nail polish collection to rival the local nail salon. But trust me, they'll always appreciate more. I know. I'm one of them. I may have a million different shades of pink, purple, mint, or grey, but by golly they are all different!

The Sephora Collection Makeup Academy Nails set is perfect for the nail addict on your list. Not only do they get 10 full-sized nail polish colors, they also get a multi-glitter top coat, a jar of star jewels and a booklet that offers 12 different nail art tutorials. How does that not sound like fun? Available at Sephora. Good for the person on your list who seems to rock a new manicure every week (and maybe sometimes multiple manis per week). 

Fragrance

Alright, fragrance is an incredibly personal experience. I've chosen this set of Nest Luxury Hand Creams because it's a great little gift for the person on your list who has an impressive fragrance collection. You know that friend. The one who smells great, and when you ask what they're wearing, the spout out a name of a fragrance (or brand) you've never even heard of. That's right. They're likely wearing something you can't get at any ol' department store. This set (also available in a mini fragrance set) is perfect because they are well known, but not so common that everyone has them. I like the idea of giving the lotion because it's something you can easily keep in your purse or car without fear of a broken bottle. 

Well, there you have it. Those are my picks this year for holiday beauty gifts. Stay tuned for the next holiday gift guides, which will include my picks for gifts $30 and under and my guide to fun beauty stocking stuffers ($20 or less). 

Comment below and share your thoughts! Happy holidays!

Video: My Perfume Collection

Perfume was my first beauty love. For as long as I can remember, my mother always told me, "Girls are supposed to smell good." I guess it was her way of imparting good hygiene (she'd say it when we didn't want to take a shower and when we started going through puberty and needed to use deodorant). But it was also her number one beauty rule and it was a rule to live by. Before my sister and I were exposed to the world of makeup, nail polish, high heels, and hair styles, we already had a deep love affair with scent.

For me, it all started with Nenuco - a popular baby cologne (really it's a body splash) that's gentle fresh scent is essentially synonymous with infancy in Puerto Rico, where I grew up.  It's such a wonderful scent, I know adults who still wear it (myself included).

Now that you know that I've been rocking some form of perfume since I was in diapers, you might not be so surprised to find that I have quite the large collection of scents in my home. I love to smell good. But more importantly, it's been deeply ingrained in every fiber of my being that I'm supposed to smell good.

With that in mind, I'd like to share my perfume collection with you (the abbreviated version after I cleared out the ones I no longer used and donated them to friends and family). Hopefully, sharing these might bring some new, delicious smells into your life. I'm also hoping it will open up a little exchange between us, where you'll share some of your favorites with me so I can continue to discover new scents that I love.



Scents mentioned in the video:
Nenuco
Colors by Benetton
Valentino V Absolu
Armani Mania
Emporio Armani Diamonds
Light Blue by Dolce & Gabbana
Spiced Green Tea by Elizabeth Arden
Ocean Pacific by Ocean Pacific (pink bottle)
Narciso Rodriguez for Her (pink bottle)
Comptoir Sud Pacifique Vanille Abricot
Ellie Saab Le Parfum by Ellie Saab
Flowerbomb by Viktor & Rolf
Beso by Agatha Ruiz de la Prada
Rose Essentielle by Bvlgari
212 and 212 Sexy by Carolina Herrera
Jean Paul Gaultier Classique
Lilly Pulitzer Squeeze
Rock Princess by Vera Wang
Sugar Lemon, Hesperides Grapefruit, Brown Sugar by Fresh
Vanilla Grapefruit by LaVanilla
Me by Lanvin
Rose Oud by Kilian
Tuscan Blood Orange and Persian Rose by Pacifica
Dream Angels Heavenly and Dream Angels Forever (limited edition) from Victoria's Secret
Twisted Peppermint (seasonal), Forever Sunshine (discontinued), and Vanilla Apricot (discontinued) from Bath & Body Works

Alright, now it's your turn. Do you have a signature scent or are you a multi-scent girl like me? What are some of your favorites? Do you have any of the same ones I do?

Shopping Guide: Mother's Day Beauty Gift Ideas

1. Assorted nail polishes | 2. Origins Great Start Gift Set ($58) | 3. Elizabeth Arden Green Tea Cherry Blossom perfume ($29.95) | 4. Spa Treatments | 5. Clarisonic Mia ($119)

Mother's Day is around the corner. And sometimes finding the perfect gift for mom can be overwhelming. How can we show her how special she is to us with just one gift? The truth is, it's probably  not possible for one gift to show that much love and affection. But it is possible to make mom feel like the special lady she is.

With that in mind, I put together a few beauty-related ideas that might help you tackle the Mother's Day gift task and can fit various budgets.

1. A little polish, a lot of fun.. Help mom keep her tips and toes looking fresh with a little mani-pedi date. Mom will get the pampering she deserves, and you can give her a nice relaxing hour on a budget. Mani-pedis vary in price, depending on where you go, but you can find services at various price points. Just make sure the place you pick is hygienic and safe. Make her gift even more special with a little mother-daughter bonding. Go with her and get your tips and toes done too! Help her mani-pedi last by giving her a few of her favorite nail polish colors as part of her gift. You can find some great quality options at the drugstore.

2. The gift of beautiful skin.  If you're stumped for something new, consider replenishing some of her stand-by favorite skin care products. Lots of brands have great gift sets for Mother's Day, like the Great Starts value set by Origins shown above (includes Planstscripton anti-aging serum, eye cream, and Starting Over age-erasing moisturizer with mimosa for $58, a $98 value). You'll give her something she already loves and save her the trouble of having to get it herself. Or, you can always pick out something new to add to her skin care regimen. Think moisturizing masks, rosewater toners, or body oils. Just make sure they suit her skin type.

3. Fragrance: a tried and true stand by. Like skin care, fragrance can be a very personal experience. But if you know your mom well, then you'll probably be familiar with the scents she loves. Consider restocking her favorite perfume or finding a new option with similar notes to expand her horizons. My mom loves  Elizabeth Arden's Green Tea fragrance. With the new variations the brand recently released, she may just find a new (but somewhat familiar) fragrance in her future. Plus, since scents have a funny way of attaching themselves to memories, you're mom will always remember you when she smells her new perfume. And best of all, you can find great options without breaking the bank. For example, the new Elizabeth Arden Green Tea Cherry Blossom fragrance is only $30.

4. Well-deserved R&R. Mom does a lot for us, she deserves a little pampering. And a day of relaxation makes for a memorable gift. A gift certificate for a massage at a local spa, may be just what mom needs. If springing for a hot-stone massage is more than your wallet can muster, check out the rest of the spa menu. Neck and shoulder massages and facials might just carry a smaller price tag, while delivering similar relaxing results.

5. High-tech skincare. If you have a bigger budget and a beauty-loving mom, give her the gift of softer, younger-looking skin with a Clarisonic. This beauty gadget has a cult following for a reason and mom is sure to appreciate receiving it. She's gotta wash her face, right? You have a variety of options to give, starting with the Clarisonic Mia, which retails for $119. Plus, when you get it directly from Clarisonic, you can even have it engraved. If your mom already has a Clarisonic, set her up with a year's supply of replacement brushes. You can buy a 4-pack for $75 (it's like buy 3, get one free), and possibly even still have some money left over to take her out to get her nails done.

If none of these suggestions tickle your fancy, don't forget that Mother's Day is about showing mom some love and affection. You don't have to break the bank to make memories. Just make sure you spend some quality time with her and show her that you care.

Holiday Gift Guide: Beauty Gifts Under $150

We've talked about some of my favorite picks for holiday beauty gifts under $50. Now it's time to talk about some of my favorite beauty gifts that will require a little more of your budget. But, I'm assuming, if you're looking at this list, you have the budget allotted for these items and you're probably shopping for someone on your list with whom you have a closer relationship. That's usually how the bigger budget gifts work, right?

But don't worry, I didn't go all crazy. Most of these gifts are still quite reasonably priced.

1. Best of Hourglass set ($59) - I think this is a great gift for the sophisticated beauty gal in your life. Hourglass cosmetics aren't as readily available as other brands. You can't just walk into any department store and get them. But don't fret, you can find them at Sephora (or Barney's if you choose). Giving these as a gift is sure to impress. They're a little more obscure, but rank up there with is competing high-end brands. This set features two of the brands best-selling primers -- mineral primer and No. 28 primer (which has 28 hydrating ingredients) -- along with the Film Noir mascara and a pretty lip gloss (all best sellers). 
2. Clarisonic Mia 2 ($149) - No list would be complete if it didn't include a Clarisonic. These cleansing brushes are magical. They deep clean while gently exfoliating leaving you with softer, healthier looking skin. And, let's be frank, good skin is what we're all looking for. The better our skin, the less makeup we need to pile on. I have the regular Clarisonic Mia and I love it. But they've since released the Mia 2, which offers two speed settings for extra cleanliness. I love this peacock colored one, but you can choose from a variety of colors and patterns these days. Available at Sephora, ULTA, and Nordstrom. 
3. Burberry "Lip Cover" Soft Satin Lipstick Set ($72) - You're giving a little bit of luxury when you gift this set. From the box they're packaged in (the cardboard feels like fancy stationary), to the velvety smooth quality of these lipsticks, to the sophisticated packaging (with it's iconic print also embossed on the lipsticks themselves), these just ooze luxe. Plus the three colors are absolutely gorgeous and totally wearable. Available at Nordstrom. 

1. Urban Decay Naked 2 ($50) - You can't compile a gift list without at least one of the Urban Decay Naked palettes. Well, I guess you could, but honestly, this is a fail safe beauty gift. Lots of neutral shades that are wearable for any occasion. Wear it soft and subtle to the office or dark and dramatic for a night out. The collection of neutral shades are good for just about anyone. Of the two palettes, the Naked 2 is my favorite. It comes with 12 shadows, a dual ended Good Karma shadow brush, and a mini lip gloss. I love that I have a matte black and I just gravitate to the colors in this palette more than I do to the original palette (which I also love, by the way). I just wish it had a better balance of matte and shimmer shades. However, Urban Decay heard everyone's pleas for more matte neutral shades and released the Naked Basics palette this holiday season (retails for $27). It's a smaller palette, containing only six shadows, but they are all matte. The Naked 2 palette is available at Sephora and ULTA. Naked Basics is currently available on Urban Decay's website. 
2. Tom Ford Eye Color Quad in Burnished Amber ($75) - Beauty aficionados went crazy over Tom Ford's  eye color quads this fall. Twitter and the blogosphere was abuzz, and with good reason. These palettes are absolutely beautiful. The shadows feel soft and smooth, the color payoff is fantastic, and they blend nicely. I'm personally drawn to the Burnished Amber quad. The colors are warm, rich, and versatile. Plus, amber is an incredibly flattering eye shadow on pretty much all skin tones. Give this and you'll be a hero. Available at Neiman Marcus, selected Saks Fifth Avenue stores, and Bergdorf Goodman. 

I love that holiday season means you can get your hands on some great fragrance deals. I know selecting a perfume for someone is a very personal matter. What smells great to some, can be offensive to others. But, since we're talking a little bit of a higher price point, I'm going to assume the person you're shopping for is someone you know pretty well. So, you should be better equipped to discern their scent preferences and decide if they are in line with mine.

1. LaVanila Vanilla Grapefruit Eau de Parfum ($58) - Of course the first fragrance I list isn't available in a gift set. But, I chose it for two reasons. First, I adore this scent. It's fresh and uplifting thanks to the citrus scent of grapefruit, and still warm and sweet thanks to the vanilla.  You almost smell like an amazing dessert. This is more of a fun perfume than a sultry, romantic scent. I love this for spring and summer, but I'll wear it year round. Second, it has quite a following and is the best selling of all the LaVanila scents. If this many people like it, can you really go wrong? Available at Sephora.
2. Elie Saab Eau de Parfum set  ($120) - Oh my goodness. I adore this perfume. Adore it. I first spritzed it on a ribbon at Nordstrom and tied that ribbon to my purse. I could smell the perfume for weeks and I was hooked. I wouldn't stop talking about it until my husband kindly gifted it to me. He was superman that day. This perfume is sophisticated, refined, and feminine. I personally feel you can wear it day or night. It's a bit strong, but not overpowering. The fragrance notes include: orange blossom, jasmine, patchouli, rose, and cedar wood. I get a lot of compliments when I wear this scent. The set includes a 3 oz bottle of eau de parfum, a mini spray bottle (0.33 oz), and a body cream (1 oz). The 3 oz bottle alone costs $120, so you're essentially getting the travel sized mini perfume and body cream for free. Available at Nordstrom.
3. Laura Mercier  Le Petit Patisserie Almond Coconut Milk Quartet ($50) - If you want to be transported to a tropical island escape without having to travel to far off places, give this gift set a whirl. The warm and succulent scent of almond, coconut, milk, and vanilla are rich and seductive. It simply smells divine. The set includes a body wash, soufle body creme, and deluxe travel-sized hand cream and fragrance mist. Available at Nordstrom.
4. Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Rollerball Set ($58) - Flowerbomb is just that, a floral explosion with a bit of sweetness. But it's not candy or sugar sweet. It's more of a sultry sweet floral scent. I love this scent so much, I gifted it to myself last year. It's great because you get three rollerball vials (0.34 oz each) for a fair price. It's more affordable than the full bottle of the perfume, which retails for $105 (for the 1.7 oz; $160 for the 3.4 oz). And those little vials will last you. If you're like me, and you prefer your perfumes in a spray, spend an extra $5 for a small atomizer. I pour the perfume in the atomizer instead of using the rollerball, and carry it in my purse. Scent notes include: bergamot, tea, jasmine, orange blossom (I sense a recurring citrus theme in my fragrance choices), orchid, rose, and patchouli. The trio set is available exclusively at Nordstrom.

Bath & Body Works Semi-annual Sale

Bath & Body Works is hosting it's semi-annual this week ladies! It starts today online, but you can swoop into stores tomorrow and get your hands on some goodies as well. Personally, I'll be shopping the candle sale. A little birdie told me they are discontinuing my favorite scent, and I'm broken hearted. But, since it's going on sale, I'll be buying up quite a few candles to get me buy until I find a new favorite candle. I'm also hoping to get my hands on some of Vanilla Apricot goodies. I just love that scent.

What BBW goodies are you hoping to snag in the sale?

Don't forget to take advantage of extra savings on top of the sale discount:

Get 20% off of your entire purchase with coupon code: HELLOSALE20 (good through 7/8/12)
Save $10 on any $40 purchase: JUNBIGSALE (good through 6/15/12)

Memorial Day Sale: The Body Shop (online exclusive)

As I mentioned in my previous Bath & Body Works post, Memorial Day weekend is a big sale weekend. I just got an email from The Body Shop letting me know they are having a sale. You can either buy three items and get two free, or buy two items and get one free. It's an online only sale, so I'm going to tell you how you can save even more. Do I have your attention yet?

Ok, so normally, I wouldn't suggest buying online for a store you can visit in person because you are usually going to end up spending more because of shipping costs (unless you are spending their minumum amount for free shipping). The only way I usually do it, is if  I'm already going to spend the minimum for free shipping. That way, I can save extra buy shopping through ebates. This way, I'm not spending more, but I'm also getting cash back. Yes, cold, hard, cash. As in, here is a check for some money. No joke. Basically, what you do, is you join ebates, log in to your account, and visit your retailers through the ebates links. It's very similar to shopping through the online malls that credit card companies offer (to earn double and triple rewards points). It's safe. I use it and my friends use it. Now, ebates links will take you to the retailers online site, except that because you used that link, you are also earining cash back percentages that ebates sends directly to you. Essentially, you are getting paid to buy something you would have bought anyway. Different retailers have different cash back percentages, and during holidays (like Valentine's Day or Christmas or President's Day) some retailers up the ante and give you extra cash back. I know during Valentine's Day, Sephora was offering double cash back through ebates, which I think ended up being 8-10 percent. I bought Mr. Girly Things a cologne he wanted through Fragrance.net and not only bought it for cheaper than I could find it anywhere else (he has expensive taste), but I used a coupon code and got something like 8 percent cash back on it (I think). I double saved on top of the fact that the retailers list price was the lowest I'd found.

Well, let's sweeten this Body Shop deal I'm sharing with you. Since it's online only, the store is throwing in free shipping on any purchase. Great, now we're talking. So, I go to ebates, and (tada!) The Body Shop is included in their online retailers, and they are offering 5 percent cash back. Nice! So now, all I have to do is buy the items I was going to get anyway (been wanting some Satsuma house oils) and earn some cash while I save.

The Body Shop's buy three get two or buy two get one free sale also extends to their makeup line. You can mix and match items as well. If you're a Body Shop fan, have fun online shopping this weekend! Then come back here and tell me what you got and whether you were a savvy gal and earned yourself some cash back.

Happy shopping!

Memorial Day Bath & Body Works Sale

Here it is again! You're chance to stock up on candles, lotion, body splashes, and body washes from Bath & Body Works. If you missed out on any of the other sales I've announced through my other social channels (Twitter, Facebook, Youtube), here's your chance. It's Memorial Day weekend, which means sales galore! So far, this is one that has grabbed my attention and I just had to share it with you.

So here's the skinny:

• All signature items are buy three, get three free.
• 14.5 oz candles are 2 for $20 (they are normally $19.50 each). Once you buy two, they are $10 each, so if you see three that you really want, don't think you have to find a fourth one to get the special pricing.

Now, if that weren't enough, I also have a coupon for even more freebies! You ready? Here it is:

Get any signature collection body care item (full-sized, up to a $12 value) with any $10 or more purchase. In-store code: 4319 Online code: S113651 (Expires June 9, 2011).

Click here for a printable coupon.

Here is what that means. If you buy two candles to take advantage of the sale, but don't really want to spend on bath & body products, you can just pick one up for free. Or, better yet, if you are taking advantage of the buy three, get three free sale, then you are actually buying two and getting four items free with this coupon. How amazing is that?! Here is the breakdown of the prices:

• Body splashes are typically $12
• Body lotions are typically $10 (I prefer these because they aren't as thick, which for me is perfect since my skin isn't overly dry)
• Body creams (in the tube not bottle) are typically $12
• Body butters (in a jar) are typically $15
• Body washes are typically $10

You will get charged for the two most expensive items and get the rest for free. So let's say you buy three body spashes and three of the $10 body lotions (like I did last time) and use the coupon, you would actually pay $24 (plus tax) for $66 worth of product:

Three body splashes at $12 each = $36
Three lotions at $10 each = $30

That means you get $42 worth of product for free

If you decide to buy two body splashes, two of the expensive lotions, and two body washes during this sale, and use the coupon you save even more:

2 body splashes ($12 each) = $24
2 lotions ($12 each) = $24
2 washes ($10 each) = $20
Total = $68

Now factor in your three free items (that's a $32 savings), and then your freebie for your coupon ($12 savings), and you still end up paying only $24 (plus tax). Nice, huh?

Obviously, if you opt for the the body butters in the buy three get three sale, you'll pay a bit more, since they are not included as a part of the free item since they are $15 (and the coupon limit is $12). But you could always just get a seventh item for free. Then again, you could always just spend $10 on anything and get one free item and still come out on top. I'm just sharing some sample savings calculations with you.

I may need to pick up some of these goodies as gifts for some upcoming birthdays. I have so many stocked up now, that if I bought for myself, I wouldn't really be saving anything because I'd just be spending for something I don't really need just to get the savings (that is not smart shopping). But since it's shopping for others, it's justified, right?!

Will you be going shopping this weekend? What kind of sales do you have your eyes on?

One-day Bath & Body Works sale!

Seems Bath & Body Works has been having some technical difficulties on its site, and to make up for it the store is offering 20% off your entire purchase today only (and online only). The icing on the cake: free shipping on orders that are $50 or more -- no coupon code necessary (which is good because Bath & Body Works only lets you use one code per perchase). Click here for a larger view of the coupon.

Code for 20% savings: TWENTYOFF

If you've been wanting some stuff, today might be a good day to stock up!

Ready. Set. Shop!

It's in the bag

I'm happy to be participating in A Hasty Life's blog crawl, where 100 bloggers will all be blogging about the contents of their purse. How fun! We are taking over the Internet with this one simple topic, hahaha!
I'll be giving my blog entry a bit of a twist. Seeing as I'm both a beauty blogger and a YouTube beauty guru, I thought it would be appropriate to have my blog entry include a video portion, where I go through the contents of my purse. So, I'll have a written section with pictures, but the video will go a little more in depth about the products. My blog pictures and the written part breaks down most of the contents of my purse, but the video also gives you a peek into the contents of my beauty bag. 
If you're curious to see what I carry around with me keep on reading.
My purse

Lately, I've been carrying around my green, quilted, tote-shaped purse from J.Crew, which I picked up when I worked at the J. Crew store in the winter of 2007. I love this purse for many reasons, but I was first drawn to it because of its color. I really wanted a purse that wasn't black or brown, and I just loved the deep green. Next, I was thrilled by the size. I'm not a little purse gal. I always feel like I don't have enough room. Then, the price sealed the deal. It was on sale for $39.99 (I want to say it was originally $98) and as an employee, I got 50 percent off! You can't beat that price. 
Here is a picture of what my purse looks like on the inside. 

Purse contents

1. Gloves
2. Sunglass case with sunglasses inside (you can see them in the video)
3. Appointment card for my next brow wax
4. Sephora mirror
5. Tampons
6. Coupon file (one of the reasons a small purse doesn't work for me, need room for my coupons!)
7. Beauty bag (check out my video to get a peek at what's inside)
8. Michael Kors wallet
9. Grocery list and a receipt
10. Pen
11. Carmex
12. Keys
13. iPhone
14. Travel-size deodorant
15. Eucerin hand lotion
16. Extra gum
17. Mint
18. Coach ID/credit card/ money pouch
19. (Not pictured) My camera, which I was using to take the pictures, and forgot to include in the video (oops!)

What I think this purse says about me:

I think the color says I'm not afraid to try color, but at the same time, it's not too loud or trendy to scream for attention. I think the bag itself is pretty classic, and the color and quilting are the details that set it apart, no extra fringe or bling needed. It can stand alone just fine. So, I think my purse says to others, this gal is stylish, classic, but not boring. What do you think? Do you agree? If you saw my bag, what would you think of the person who owned it?

What I think the contents of my purse say about me:

"This girl is prepared." I've got, tampons, feminine wipes, hair ties, gum, mints, coupons (you never know when you will see a deal and need them!), deodorant, lists, a pen... I think it also says I'm a bit fixated on lip products, and whomever the snooper is that is going through my purse to figure out what kind of person I am would wonder why I have two wallets. Ha ha! I think it might also say I'm afraid to leave the house without the kitchen sink. In fact, it might scream that if I still had Advil (gotta replenish that stock in the purse), hand sanitizer, my headphones, (usually has that too, but they were in the car...), reading material, and possibly a miniature kitchen sink (like one you might have in a doll house)  -- just for effect. 

So now that you've seen what I carry in my purse, what kind of person do you think I am? 

Read more about what bloggers out there carry in their purses. Let's keep this crawl moving!

Who posted yesterday (in my blog crawl group)?

• Annie over at Wattlebird

A shout out to my friend and blogger also posting today. Even if she isn't in my designated group, I see no reason why you can't crawl on over to her blog to see what she totes around with her: Alyson over at The Average Girl's Guide.

Who is posting about their bag tomorrow (in my crawl group)

• Katie Michelle

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My growing holiday wish list

There are quite a few items on my wish list this year. In the past, I've usually wanted things like digicams and clothes, but this year, I'm salivating over makeup and pretty girly things. Maybe if I share, my list might give some of you out there a few ideas for yourself, or the beauty mavens in your lives. Listed in no particular order of preference:

• LAVANILLA Vanilla Coconut rollerball (available at Sephora and Sephora.com; $19.50). I love, love, love perfume, and I love love love the scent of coconut. I grew up in Puerto Rico where we are big fans of coconut: coconut deserts, coconut drinks, and just plain coconut by itself. Yum, yum, yum! Add that to the sweet smell of vanilla and I'm head over heels! I love the rollerball because it's easy to stash away in any purse, gym bag, and it travels easily. The delicious smell takes me back to the island beaches and reminds me of all the fun we had in those days.

 

• Sigma Makeup Professional Brushes Face and Eyes kit ($49): I have read many great reviews about Sigma's brushes. I was planning to take the plunge and buy some MAC brushes soon, but I'm thinking I'd like to try these out first, and the face and eye kit has all the brushes that I'm missing in my own collection, namely the SS217 (I want a stiffer blending brush and you get the SS217 as a gift with purchase), the SS150 (I have a large face brush but I want a new one), a kabuki or SS182 (my kabuki is soft and all but it sheds...sigh...), and a duo fiber brush (SS187). 

•  (NEW ITEM) Brush roll ($15): How cute is this? I currently have two brush rolls, one of which is falling apart. I can't fit all my brushes into the one roll and this one is just too cute! I found it on etsy.com at ComeOutAndPlay's shop. It's hand made and it rolls up and ties all cutely to secure it shut. It has a lot of compartments too, so i can fit a lot of my brushes in there, and a big compartment for a compact, or other tools, or heck, more brushes. I have a thing for brushes afterall. I just love the fabric chosen and really want to make it mine!

 

• Make Up For Ever HD Invisible Cover Foundation ($40): I got a sample of this a few weeks ago at Sephora, in shade 120. Let me tell you, that small little sample, is still kickin'! I don't use it every day... yet. I want to get the full-size version before I run out of the sample. It. Is. Fantastic. A little goes a loooooooooong way. I mean it. And, it makes my skin look fabulous. Pores? What pores? I was also able to try a sample of Smashbox HD foundation and was just as equally amazed. But I don't know what color I use. It came in my Smashbox primer. I stupidly opened the pouch too much and had to toss out all that was left. A little goes a long way for this one too, and it also has great coverage. If you happen to prefer Smashbox, I highly recommend their HD foundation. I really like that it has SPF 15 in it. I wish I had taken note of my shade. I think both of these are very good. I have gotten to use the MUFE one more often, so I've grown attached to it. I also already wear SPF, since I live in Florida and need something a bit stronger than SPF 15. 
• (NEW ITEM) Make Up Forever Mist & Fix ($27): Ok, as I've mentioned before, I live in Florida, land of heat and sticky humidity, which means bad bad things for makeup. Melt? Yes. Splotchiness? Yep, sometimes. Primer helps keep these things at bay, but I really want something that is going to make me look like I just applied my makeup all day long. I've read good reviews on this product, and quite frankly, I don't think I've heard an ill-spoken word uttered about the MUFE brand. So, this item has made it into my wish list. 
• (NEW ITEM) Coastal Scents 10-piece professional blush palette ($15.95): I think a girl can never have enough blush. Why? Because sometimes you want rosy cheeks - be it bright pink or a soft rose-, sometimes you need peach, and others you just want some bronze and highlighter. This palette gives you all those options, and when you layer colors, you get even more to choose from -- all in one location that you can easily travel with. Also, did you see the price?! 
• (NEW ITEM) Coastal Scents 28-iece Eye Shadow Neutral Palette ($18.95): While I'd love to have the 88 Warm palette, this one seems more practical to me. The colors are great for every day. This may sound odd, but I'd probably choose having this palette over the 88 warm because I really think I'd use every color in it. Also, I'min love with the top color in the furthest right-hand column. In the picture is just looks gorgeous! I must have it. 
• Coastal Scents 88 Warm Palette ($24.95): I have the 88 palette and love it. So, naturally, I already want the 88 Warm. This is palette seems like it would make a great gift for anyone who loves makeup but prefers to wear more neutral colors (like my sister). I like all makeup, so I'm drawn to it. Ooooohhhh pretty..
• NYX cosmetics: Prices vary, but these are very affordable and quite nice. I'm a big fan of their Jumbo Eye Pencils, and I really want to try their glitter products and some of their eyeshadows. I've checked them out at ULTA, and hope to add them to my collection. 
• Sedu Revolution 1" flat iron ($139.95): I have the Sedu 1 1/2 flat iron and I love love love love it. I gave away my Chi after I used this flat iron. It leaves my hair silky and shiny and wonderful. I think it puts the Chi to shame. The only thing is, that I want to be able to use my flat iron to curl my hair as well, which I can't do with my large Sedu. I need the new 1" one. I'm hoping that ULTA sends out a 20% off coupon this holiday season (this is how I got my original Sedu) so I can save some much needed dinero. I plan to write a blog entry just about my Sedu (be it my current one, or if all works out well, my new one).
• Frederick Fekkai Au Naturel Dry Shampoo ($23): I have dry hair, and can't (or have been told I should not) wash it daily. However, I workout 4 days per week, and I sweat (boxing and spin will do that). I've been thinking of trying out a dry shampoo. Maybe I can take my hair out of the go-to ponytail I wear nearly every day. 
• Clarisonic Skin Cleansing System ($149.95): I've read good things about this product. I'd like to try it. I'm currently diligently entering this as my Christmas wish at http://www.sephoraclaus.com/. They are granting one wish per day. All you have to do is go to the site enter your wish (product price limit $150), put in your Twitter info, and it will tweet your request and enter you into the contest. 

• (NEW ITEM) High Definition powder by e.l.f. ($6): I wrote about this in my blog entry regarding my favorite e.l.f. products. I have never used it, but I am dying to try it out. Yes, dying. I've had pretty good luck with e.l.f. products, and I have been very excited about this recent little release. Oh Santa, won't you please please please grant my HD wishes!

Products I'm testing out:

• Origins Brighter by Nature ($39.50): I just got a sample of this from Origins. I am quite a fan of Origins. I use the A Perfect World serum, moisturizer and Modern Friction face scrub. I love them. And I love that they last a long time! I had my moisturizer for nine months! I was told it was a six-month supply. To be fair, I do only use it once per day. Anyway, I was at the mall and walked by the store and it had a sign about a product that would help brighten skin and reduce dark spots. When I was younger, I wasn't as diligent with my sunscreen. So, I'm starting to notice a few freckles here and there (I have had them looked at by a dermatologist, and he cleared me). I've always had freckles on my nose, but I've got some coming out here and there on my face. Since they are still pretty light, I thought, maybe I can give this a shot. I've only been using it since Sunday. So far, I like that it is very light, has a clean soft scent, and is a nice light moisturizer that I wear under my serum, moisturizer and SPF (it needs to be light). 

• Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer ($42): I got a sample of this with my last Sephora online purchase after hearing Kandee Johnson (makeup guru extraordinare!) laud Laura Mercier products so much in her makeup tutorials. I haven't used my sample yet, but I plan to this weekend when I'm running around taking advantage of all the holiday sales. I'll keep you posted on my thoughts. I hope it is as good as I'm expecting it to be. UPDATE: This item has been tested and reviewed. Love. It.

Stay tuned, I'll be updating this post frequently, as I'm sure I'll see more fun gift-worthy items, and that I'll ask for samples of other products to test out.

What are some of your holiday wish-list items?