Gifts gifts! Last minute gifts?

Christmas is just around the corner and this year it's about giving what you can! Even a simple card with a heart felt message is good to show those you care that you're thinking about them. But if you have some extra cash to spend on gifts, I say give them health! My top items are giving them a workout DVD that they may like to try, a food subscription box , or a few workout classes! This special gift may help encourage them to give fitness a try for 2013! And who doesn't want the gift of health? Happy holidays!!

December's KLUTCHclub

KLUTCHclub, the health & fitness related monthly subscription box, has quite a good December box this month. As always, they give you a peak as to what you will expect so there's no surprises! (if you decide to order a month at a time) For this month, you get products from the following brands:

C. Booth Body Butter
Giovanni Cosmetics
Berry Plus
Funky Monkey Snacks
Jaali Bean
Lush Gourmet Foods
Zevia
Soy Joy
Seer Outfitters
KTTAPE

The deadline to receive this before Christmas has passed, but you can still order this and give your recipient a "gift tag." Look forward to seeing what is in next month's box!

Beauty Gift Sets from TotalBeauty

Pretty Beauty Gift Sets You Don't Even Need to Wrap

Save yourself time (and paper cuts) with these beautifully-packaged holiday gift sets

This is a TotalBeauty.com makeup article The days left in December may be dwindling, but the to-do lists are only growing. After all that shopping, getting the decorations up in time, and remembering to RSVP to friends' shindigs, meticulously wrapping all the gifts moves further down your endless to-do list. To avoid any full on panic attacks, we've rounded up amazing beauty gift sets that kill two birds with one stone. These perfectly-packaged sets are not only filled with great limited-edition products, but they're also so pretty on their own that they don't even need to be wrapped, making these the perfect presents to give.  Score gift sets

 

My December Birchbox

Update #2- will not be getting the sample afterall. Boo!

Update#1- Birchbox's Customer service responded to my inquiry and I will be getting a replacement soon! YES!

I've been posting my Birchboxes pretty frequently, may have missed a month or two, but I'm always proud to showcase my monthly Birchbox. This time, I was debating whether I should. Not that I don't love my box, it's just that for the second time- I am missing a product. And it's a pretty noticeable difference!

My December Birchbox came in a beautifully decorated box with these products:
 1) Thymes Body Lotion in Naia  (Absolutely adore Thymes so ecstatic to try this scent with notes of lemon pulp, water lily and sheer musk)
2) ModelCo SHINE Ultra Lip Gloss in xx (It's a tad bit bright for my taste but the cute mirror on the package is a plus!)
3) Kérastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique (this sample pack is great for travel, but I usually save them just for that. Also, it's a hair treatment which may be too heavy for my hair..)

The one thing I really wanted to try was the Juice Beauty CC Cream!! I'm a huge fan of Juice Beauty, so it's natural I wanted to try the next generation BBcream.


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My EcoEmi Bonus Box

Back in October, EcoEmi announced its sale of a Bonus box. They are sold whenever they have an extra supply of items and they randomly put everything together to give you about
30+ items for about $30. Since I haven't gotten a single box this year, I said why not? Boy, am I glad I got this! First the amount of goodies in here is worth it! And they're all pretty useful!

Stay tuned for next post as I unveil what's in the box!

If you're looking for a new box to try out, check out EcoEmi!

Conscious Box review

 **For a limited time, PlumDistrict is offering a 3 month subscription for $29!!**Expires Jan 19, 2013


Conscious Box, another monthly subscription box service, focuses on bringing healthy, eco-friendly items to your doorstep. Their first box came out last November but since they were so new and I already had a bunch, I cancelled. Throughout the year I've still kept my eye on them and finally for their one year anniversary, I decided to subscribe again as a holiday gift to myself. (Maybe I have matured as a monthly box subscriber and decided what is actually of good value (ha)!) So for the November one year box I was pleased with the samples of Justin's peanut butter cups, Freekah, Teecino and pancake mix that I received. It was all food-related but who doesn't like to eat? They remind me a lot of the other subscription box, Love With Food but Conscious Box usually has other random samples..

The December box came this week with even more variety- nothing Holiday themed though which is a bummer. Again there's more snacks which I will definitely enjoy during my breaks but my favorite is the Weleda firming eye cream! Valued at $33, the cream makes the whole box worth it!

So it's been a fun ride with Conscious Box. It's a new year (and on to trying other boxes perhaps?) Until next holiday season, Conscious Box! Au revoir!

Fragrant gifts for the Holidays with Krigler

GiftsGifts! Not sure what to give for the holidays this year? The gift of scent is always a classic, and this month, I am loving the Krigler brand's Oud Azur 75212 & Splendid Gold 211.

According to their website, the Oud Azur captures the fagrance of: "White Pepper from Sumatra, Ginger from India and mingle with notes of Sicilian Papyrus Wood and Oud from South East Asia, leading to a sumptuous finish of Musk, Australian Amber." 

  The Splendid Gold has citrus notes along with:
"Australian Amber and Pineapple notes from Costa Rica mingle with Bergamot, Peach and Star Jasmine, creating a lavish mélange infused with notes of Lily, Tobacco, Sandalwood, Musk and Vanilla."

These make divine gifts for your friends, loved ones, and they smell absolutely terrific. They're quite unique and I appreciate how a scent can change your mood and lift your spirits. It's the holidays after ll so there's no need for additional stress in gift giving. They're also affordable too!

(Note: Samples were provided for review consideration.)

Holiday Makeup Collection- Behind the Scenes

Behind-The-Scenes: Holiday Makeup Collections

We got an exclusive look at the inspiration boards responsible for the holiday collections created by your favorite brands

This is a TotalBeauty.com makeup article While we love the trusty products of our favorite beauty brands year-round, we always get giddy over the launch of exclusive holiday collections. Believe it or not, it takes more than red and green color combos to get the creative juices flowing when creating a special collection. The masterminds behind beauty brands compile inspirational mood boards and we got an exclusive look. After seeing these collages, you'll want to seriously step up your Pinterest game. Prepare to be wowed! See mood boards

Holiday party headpieces- Fascinators

This is not your average GossipGirl headband! This lovely headpiece is sophisticated and gorgeous to wear at your next stylish party! I absolutely love this Fascinator from the Scala Collezione collection because it's durable and affordable. The feather is chic and it is basic black so goes with lots of outfits. Popular since the Royal wedding, this royalty wear is simply stunning. What will you be wearing (on your hair) this Holiday?

(note: I received this product for review purposes only.)

Keep your Rings and Earrings on with BlingGuard

Got jewelry that are a bit loose? BlingDots and BlingWraps by BlingGuard are the answer for your rings and earrings! They help remove the gap between your skins and jewelry so you feel comfortable and confident when wearing it! They're one-time use since these temporary stickies are just really just temporary. They're also affordable so gift them to yourself or a friend for the holidays!

Cost:

BlingDots: $14.99 for 45 pairs

BlingWraps: $14.99 for set of 30

(Disclaimer: I received this product from this company's PR agency to test, try and share my thoughts with my readers.) 

Check out more blogs @ TotalBeauty.com

November Birchbox

My November Birchbox arrived mid-month but Thanksgiving and Sandy- craze got in the way of blogging...

I got some nice products but would have liked larger samples! :) I received the Stila liquid luminizer in Pink Shimmer (perfect for highlighting cheekbones), One Love's Aromatic Body Serum (body aromatherapy oil for hydration), MCMC fragrance sample and Masqueology eye mask. As a bonus, I got an Masque Cleanse and 7D Moisture Cream from Masqueology.

The products are fun and definitely worth a try so I'm glad I'm still with Birchbox. Its been more than a year! Trying new samples is always fun and I am definitely loving the One Love serum and Stila highlighter!

Coming soon.. Redeeming my Birchbox Points and deciding what to buy!

SmartDogs by Grandoe slippers

This winter I will be keeping my toes warm with this new and extremely comfortable slippers. The Posy Hoodback, featured here, is part of the ComfortIQ line that includes technology to store your body heat and release when needed and using cozy fabrics. This makes it a great choice if you're looking for warm and soft slippers. Each step I take is also cushioned with its honey-comb patterned sole.

Get yours today here.

(note: I received this from their PR company for review.)

Hurray for the beret!

Looking for a trendy yet warm hat to wear this winter? Check out the Scala Wool Parisian Beret from Dorfman Pacific. This 100% wool black beret is my pick to keep my head warm and look stylish at the same time! The quality is amazing; its durable wool is also soft to the touch. I am also impressed with the other headpiece options that Dorfman Pacific carry. See for yourself here!
If you're catching on with the Parisian theme this coming holiday, get your beret for just $25! There are a dozen of color choices from black to cobalt to forest green. Love the options and it's one you can wear for years!

(note: received this product for review)

Zaggora HotPants 2.0 Review

Q: What's your preference for workout gear?
A) Sports tank and shorts?
B) Tees and capris?
C) Tank top and booty shorts
D) Some combination of the above

It depends on my workout, of course, but I personally like basic tanks & capris (or pants I can roll up in case it gets hot!) When I know I'm getting a good workout and sweating like crazy, I prefer my capris but I'm always wondering how my other classmates are coping with their long pants... Some prefer to feel the extra heat.. in which case, I introducing a brand of pants that is intentionally thick so you feel that sweat- Zaggora Hotpants 2.0!

Yup, the 2.0 version is a lighter and more durable than the original Zaggora pants. The premise of the pants
 is to keep you sweating and hot so you can raise your body temperature. It's a rather thicker material than you would normally wear. In fact it reminds me of thick padding one should wear in case they get hurt. However these pants are pretty awesome in that 1) it feels like your workout intensity has gone through the roof and 2) you just may have sweated off a pound (it definitely feels like it and of course varies with your activity.) I recommend switching your normal workout gear with these bottoms once a week - tops stay the same! And if you love them, you may have to get an extra pair for another workout. ;)

 Happy sweating! 

(Disclaimer: I received this product from this company's PR agency to test, try and share my thoughts with my readers.)
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Element Yoga & Pilates DVD Review

A few weeks ago, two brand new Element DVDs launched and my fitness-self couldn't be more ecstatic! I have been using the Element (the Yoga AM/PM) DVD all summer and I fell in love with the easy, calming yoga routines from the DVD as I incorporated them into my daily workouts.

The two new Element DVDs are Yoga for Energy & Relaxation -perfect for weekdays and weekends - and Accelerated Pilates with resistance band. First, Energy & Relaxation offers a 30 minute energized routine to give your body a boost. I felt more awake and after most workouts, in tune with my body and focused. The 40 minute Relaxation program was enjoyable with moves that worked on my flexibility.

The Accelerated Pilates DVD is a real gem! It includes a resistance band- needed one after mine broke- and a 30 minute routine. Amazingly sweat levels minimal but try this routine twice and you'll get a real challenge. Small movements using the band really makes a difference and I am loving it. If you're looking to change your routine and want some strengthening moves, this is a must try.

(note: I received these DVDs for review purposes only.)

Remington Hair Accessories & Storage Board

If you're tired of losing your hair ties, bobby pins or headbands, then it's time for you to get organized! Remington Hair Accessories Storage Board is the perfect addition to your vanity, bathroom, or closet wall because this it keeps all of them in one place!

Available on the Remington website and Walmart, this cute accessory holder can display all your favorite hair accessories so you never need to dig around. Everything is clearly shown and what a great decorating piece as well. I can also see myself using this to place photos and jewelry (if you don't wear hand bands) just in case you can't fill it up.

Remington also makes some fun accessories, including brightly colored bobby pins, headbands and metallic clips!

(Note: items received from PR company for review consideration.)

Clinique Bonus at Macy's ends October 20!

It's that time of year again...

Save the week: October 15-21 for SPAweek!

It's that time of year again.. Time to get rejuvenated and ready for hibernation! (I kid- there's no need to hide in the winter!) It's about a week into October and now is a great time to get some R&R in before the hectic holidays come ! Massages are a great way to relax and leave your worries at home. with the $50 SpaWeek deals, you get amazing treatments for half the normal cost! Check out www.spaweek.com for more details!

BlingGuard twitter contest

I recently learned about BlingGuard products to help your rings, earrings and jewelry, temporarily stay in place! If you have a loose ring or earring then you've gotta try this. They're super easy to use too!

There's a twitter contest right now on < a href="http://www.twitter.com/BlingGuard">@BlingGuard for a chance to win a pair of these beautiful Swarovski Crystal and feather earrings. Be sure to follow, retweet their contest tweet and include "#JennysFaves" in your tweet!

Good luck!

Simple skincare makes it simple!

My skincare routine is pretty basic- cleanse, tone, moisturize and the weekly mask. When I'm at the gym and don't have a lot of time, I like to use towelettes because they're easy to use and throw away. Simple Skincare offers a pack of 25 Cleansing Facial Wipes. Used to remove makeup, dirt, sweat and oil, this wipe leaves your skin feeling clean! Although this isn't a travel friendly package, I pack some extras in a ziploc bag.

After using the wipes, I like to use a light moisturizer to keep my skin extra smooth and hydrated. Also it helps my skin retain moisture and it's a good habit to form now. Appropriately named Hydrating Light Moisturizer, it feels exactly that! Also great for your neck and hands too if needed!

To help my peepers look refreshed, I have been using their Revitalizing eye roll-on. It's metal roller tip makes the gel feel cool on your skin. Plus it is small and handy so it fits in your purse/clutch when you need a pick-me-upper. Voila! Instantly feel more awake with their eye roll-on!

All products are available in participating drugstores and online.

Melvita Argan Oil with Geranium Roll-on Review

Nourish your hands with Melvita! I have been a fan of Argan Oil since I started using this oil on my face. It leaves my skin super soft and I even saw an improvement in how it looked. So no surprise that it can also be good for the rest of your body!

Melvita
, a French organic brand, has a new Argan Oil with Geranium Oil roll-on stick made especially for your hands, nails and cuticles. The packaging- sleek glass tube with a metal ball - is great so the product comes out in just the right amount. It also gives you an even application across your cuticles but feel free to rub in the oil to massage your hands. I personally love facial oils so this is definitely staying in my beauty bag. When your hands get dry during the cold months, this is useful to keep it moisturized and give it some TLC!

(Disclaimer: I received this product from this company's PR agency to test, try and share my thoughts with my readers.)

How to: Get Perfect Complexion

Your Guide to Complexion Perfection

Having trouble with blemishes, dry skin, or wrinkles? We've got expert solutions in this skin care cheat sheet

This is a TotalBeauty.com skin problems article Sometimes getting perfect skin seems like an impossible equation, especially when you have so many variables: wrinkles, brown spots, and zits. But it's not as difficult as it seems -- especially if you follow this cheat sheet. Our guide is filled with easy expert tips that help reverse signs of aging and brighten your complexion. Check out these tips now. Get perfect skin

Thymes' new Wildwood Collection and more!

Being a fan of Thymes bath/body and home fragrance products, I'm always looking forward to their new scents. This fall, their Wildwood Collection debuts with aromatic Bitter Orange & Cedar, Blur Spruce & Elderberry and Brandied Pumpkin & Chestnut which makes me feel like I am in a cabin curled by the fire with a mug of hot apple cidar. The transition to the cool, crisp weather is slowly coming but I am not too worried. As I am enjoying the last few "summer" days, I'm lighting up this beautiful candle to bring me back to the "cabin."

More wearable Thymes scents for everyday!
Colognes and body mists! If you're looking for an everyday clean scent, the Azure Body Water is perfect. It's light and fresh and suited for a no-frills kinda gal. It reminds me of being by the water and who doesn't want that?
Looking for something more sensual? I would recommend the Moonflower cologne which has more cinnamon, clove notes with subtle hints of vanilla. It's a rich and warm scent that I can wear definitely in the fall and into the winter season.

(Disclaimer: I received this product from this company's PR agency to test, try and share my thoughts with my readers.)

My #namasDAY goodie bag!

Last Thursday, I attended a Vinyasa Flow class at ExhaleSpa for #namasDAY. I loved the routine we practiced and had such a great time. It was calming, relaxing as well as challenging. After class, there were samplings of Blue Print Cleanse juices as well as snacks/hor d'ouvres. Attendees also got an amazing gift bag from sponsors! :)
Check out my goodies here below-
not pictured is a Vita Coco drink which I drank soon after my class. I am loving my Spiritual Gangster Magic Towel, Donna Karan tights, Tata Harper sample set, Sparkly Soul headband, Vega one nutritional shake, and many more advertisements. All these items were in a cute black RentTheRunway.com tote bag!

Check out more blogs @ TotalBeauty.com

Coterie.com for Beauty Deals!

Coterie has launched! They're the latest deals site that specializes on my favorite kind of products- beauty! Launched last week, they're offering specials on brands such as ButterLondon, Kevyn Aucoin, and MOR.

Thanks to iFabbo.com, I got a sneak preview of their site and the opportunity to receive a sample set of three ButterLondon nail lacquers and a matte finish topcoat polish. Their shipping was quick via FedEx and got my polishes wrapped securely in bubble wrap.The current MOR event is selling their body scrub & body lotion duo in different scents, such as Basil & Grape, Neroli Clementine and Black Currant Iris. They are also selling Kevyn Aucoin, where you can purchase their three or six-piece eye kits featuring their best-selling products. Although right now, their products are few, they seem to have some gems that I am looking forward to monitoring. Some upcoming brands include Stila and PerriconeMD, so can't wait to see what Coterie will offer!
Check out more blogs @ TotalBeauty.com

September's Birchbox

This month, It's all about the September magazine issues where they're packed with style tips, pictures and ads! I am so pleased that Birchbox followed suit with oodles of samples (which also means more feedback opportunities to get more reward points!)

The box immediately jumped out to me when I saw the beautiful Benefit Cleansing Collection sample case with their Facial Wash and Skin Polisher. I also couldn't help but notice the gorgeous blue Twistband that came with it and the cute dark steel colored polish from ColorClub. I also had my eye on the Youngblood mineral primer and immediately dabbed some on to test it. My love for tea was excited to see a trio sampling of Mighty Leaf tea . And speaking of trios, a sample of Nexxus shampoo, conditioner and creme was my last goody in the box for me to ogle over.

All in all, September's box was filled with more than I expected - and no perfume samples this time! I was already spoiled with my Birchbox #SampleStop
box so this was just another great reason to celebrate September. Join Birchbox today, if you haven't already!

#namasDAY with ExhaleSpa

To celebrate National Yoga month, ExhaleSpa created a NamasDay event where participating studios held free yoga classes for all to attend. There will also be trunk shows with great vendors to create a mini market to shop, drink and mingle! Last year was the first year they had it and although I didn't sign up for a class, I vowed to take one this year.

This Thursday, September 20, is namasDAY and you can still sign up today at www.exhalespa.com/namasday

September's Love With Food box

Calling all foodies! If you missed my review on last month's Love With Food box, it's ok because I have this month's box to share with you! This monthly subscription service is perfect for those who like to snack, try new food and love samples! I completely fit the bill which is why this box is perfect (for my belly!)

I was impressed with September's box because it came with a good amount of variety within each brand. Whether they complement each other or not, it's still fun to sample flavors like the salad dressing vinaigrettes and see which one I like best. I also love the teeccino- bag set with herbal coffee flavored tea! Great taste of coffee w/o the caffeine! The San Franola granola and Bonne maman muscat grape jam were also great breakfast additions. For $10/month, this box is so affordable and fun to get. Also, did I mention the do-good factor? For each box, a meal is donated!

Sign up today and be in "Love with Food".

Save $2 on October's box with the code: BAATVIP ! Leave a comment before 9/28/12 to win a box! Also, follow @LoveWithFood on Twitter or Facebook to keep up with the latest news!

(Disclaimer: I received this product from this company to test, try and share my thoughts with my readers.)

Total Beauty Collection box with HSN- September 27

Save the date! On September 27, 2012, Total Beauty Collection boxes will be selling an exclusively curated beauty box for HSN on HSN. There are 8 noteworthy products in here that will grab your attention! Brands that are include in this special box are Amika, Boscia, Carol’s Daughter, intelliWHITE, Lancôme, LORAC, Prai and Signature Club A.

Normally Total Beauty Collection boxes are $15 monthly, but during the HSN's 24-hour "Total Beauty Confidence" live event on September 27, as well as HSN.com, the box is going at $19.95. For $5 bucks more, you can get double the amount of samples. As always, shipping is free! Save the date for September 27, 2012... There will also be TotalBeauty.com editors will be appearing live on-air to talk about the Collection!

Here's your sneak peek:

Personally, my top three favorites are Boscia's Luminizing Black Mask, LORAC's Lips with Benefits lip gloss, and Lancome's Hypnose Drama mascara. Mostly because these brands are familiar to me but also because these products are perfect for my own personal style. I was pleased to learn some new brands that I haven't heard of before receiving the Total Beauty Collection for HSN. The intelliWHITE toothpaste is a nice whitening toothpaste that I look forward to getting the full-size product so I can continue to use after my sample is finished. I also loved using the Carol's Daughter MONOI shampoo & conditioner sample. My hair felt completely conditioned and will need to add that to my Sephora cart next time. :) All in all, I'm excited about the Total Beauty Collection boxes and can't wait to see future boxes from them!

Birchbox #SampleStop during NYFW

During NYFW, Birchbox created a haven for press to hangout in between shows. They also invited subscribers to visit one evening (one of the perks of being a member!) and partake in the lovely event. Overheard another attendee describing it as "beauty heaven," I couldn't agree more! Once you walked in there was a photobooth, drinks, candy, stylists, manicurists- even a stage for their performer of the night- and the best part- a Birchbox Station to make your own Birchbox! It was an incredible evening with samplings galore. These fun events really drive customer loyalty to their subscription service which is why, if you're not a member already- you have to join! (subscribe here.) The thrill of getting this box of goodies each month can be yours for $10/month. At this price for 2 years ( Happy Anniversary! ), I'm glad inflation hasn't taken over.

NYC Wanderlust Festival Recap

This past Sunday was the amazing Wanderlust Festival at Pier63. With a beautiful view of the Hudson and gorgeous blue skies, many NYC yogis were ready to take on the world! (well, more like getting centered.) I even gota nice glowy tan from my hour and a half class. The teachers were great and you can learn more about the music and instructors here.

Not only was I excited to take the class with the local community, I was psyched to see Kristin McGee at the Health Magazine booth where I got to take a mini class inspired by moves in her latest DVD, S3- Strong, Sexy, Svelte. I waited for about any hour at the booth just to line up and partake in the class! So great seeing her again and hope to see her again soon! If you're a fan, check her Facebook page to learn about her events.

There were also some giveaways for Vita Coco juice to replenish my thirst after class, samples of Elizabeth Arden skincare, BluePrintCleanse, EmergenC packets and Health mags.

See you next year, Wanderlust Festival!

The Digest Diet from Reader's Digest

At BlogHer '12 in early August, I visited the Reader's Digest suite because I have been a huge fan of the magazine since I was young. (mostly b/c my parents encouraged me to read it and I enjoyed the reader's submissions of their jokes/funny stories.

To my delight, they have a new book called The Digest Diet they are promoting for good health & staying active. They're on sale October 2nd but you can get a sneak peek on their site. They have a day by day meal plan as well as exercise routines to follow in 21 days! It's three short weeks and I look forward to the Digest Diet Journey!

Learn more here, get a sneak preview and get the shopping list at http://www.rd.com/digestdiet !

(Disclaimer: I received this product from this company to test, try and share my thoughts with my readers.)

September is National Yoga Month

This month is National Yoga Month! Lots of great events are happening this month to celebrate! For me, staying zen has been an important aspect of my life since I have been practicing (more frequently) this year. :) To spice up my routine (and to change my surroundings), I go to different events whenever they become available.

On September 9, I will join yogis in the city to participate in the NYC Wanderlust festival right on the pier!

I am super excited as I will also be able to see again Kristin McGee- aka @thebendigirl my fave Pilates instructor! She will be at the Health Magazine booth and demonstrating moves from her new DVD, S3. Will pick one up tomorrow and cannot wait!!!

Allure Beauty Lounge during NYFW 2012

This year Allure Magazine is hosting a Beauty Lounge for guests and NYC-era to enjoy! In a pop-up shop-esque space, you can sample high-end fragrances, get mini makeovers or polish changes from Maybelline, quench your thirst w/ Diet Pepsi, or get mini-facials. Happening daily from now until the 14th, the Allure Beauty Lounge is conveniently located next to the Empire Hotel on 63 St and Broadway.

Bonus: all attendees get to pick up a free goody bag! You can also get a free Allure cosmetics case if you join the CVS Beauty Club- have your card handy!

September Highlights including FNO and NYFW

Happy September! Seems like my blog and I went on a summer vacation last month, but I am back in full gear! It's the fall season and love that things are back in motion.

Last night was Fashion's Night Out and got witness the crowds and shops celebrating this night. Lots of dessert, drinks and fun! My celeb sighting was Emily and Jef from the Bachelorette!

NYFW is also here and there's lots of events for those itching to get in! Get glam today and tomorrow at the Beauty Bus and get mini makeovers and touch ups from Hair Room Service celebrity stylists, NYC cosmetics, SinfulColors polish, and OSiS by Schwarzkopf Professional. Find these buses by Lincoln Center, between 67&68 street.

See you there!

I'm in Love With Food!

There is something about monthly Subscription boxes that I find intriguing.. Especially if it's a box of delightful snacks! At BlogHer 2013 earlier this month, I discovered the company Love With Food who graciously sent me a box for review. In this month's box, I snacked on vegan cookies, a snack pack of cherries, gingin (ginger) candied, glee natural gum, coconut toffee peanuts and pretzel sticks dipped in a lime mustard dip. Love With Food carefully selects these products -only 10 bucks a month- and I can't wait to see next month's! Subscribe by 8/31/12 and save $2 off September's box with the code: BATVIP. Enjoy!

Caress Endless Kiss Bodywash

It's almost the end of summer and to transition into the fall, I have been using more earthy scents- such as sandalwood. (Of course I still like the occasional juicy/fruity scents too!) The Caress Endless Kiss Silkening body wash in Creamy Vanilla & Sandalwood is perfect to get the rich aroma and smooth, silky skin. The vanilla balances out the woodsy scent by giving it a sweeter fragrance. And with fall just around the corner, your skin can still glow with sleeveless tops & dresses! My skin feels incredibly soft every time I use this, so I'm excited to try other Caress products.

(Note: I received this product for review.)

August Birchbox

This month's BirchBox had a back to beauty school theme which had products or tools to add to your beauty tool kit. It had an informative pamphlet but this months products were just okay for me. I liked the extra bonus of the shaver although I have tried this already.

Overall, I liked the DDF cleanser, which came in a generous sample size. I love trying new cleansers and this one fit the bill. It's gel like consistency cleansed my face well- especially for the summer. My next favorite product was their fragrance sample of Juicy Couture Viva la Juicy La Fleur. This floral scent has the right combination with a mix of fruity mandarins and wild berries. I wasn't too thrilled about the Comodynes tanning towelettes  & summer glow (partly because summer is almost over!). This would've been great to try earlier in the summer before my vacation. :) But I will try them before the summer ends to see how it compares to other self tanners I have already. A new surprise in this month called "Birchbox Finds" was the Schick Hydro Silk Razors- which I have already. and love It's a great extra, as always! I didn't try the Beauty Fixation Makeup Remover as these tiny Qtips are probably best saved for travel. They look good to have to fix any boo-boos. There's always something in the works at Birchbox and I cannot wait for next month's box!! If you haven't signed up yet.. they're only $10/month to get awesome samples. :)

Stay Fit & Dry with Marika Tek tees

As summer is winding down, just a few more weeks before Labor Day (eek!), I am amping up my fitness routine. This past few weeks I have been loving my Marika Venus crew neck dry wick short sleeve tee that is comfortable, stylish and effective! The fabric is incredibly soft and breathable which is great when doing an intense HIIT workout! Overall, I am pleased with my Marika active wear pieces in my gym wardrobe. They are cute and light so I feel great wearing them.

As a reader, I have a special bonus code to share with you to help you save 20% off your purchase. This tee can be yours for $22.40! (excludes shipping/tax) with promo code TEK20.

(Note: I received this product for review consideration.)

Brighten your skin with Lumene's Vitamin C+

A Finnish skincare brand that I am currently loving is Lumene. I have been incorporating their Vitamin C+ products in my daily routine this past month and couldn't be happier. This line contains Arctic Cloudberry which is a rare berry that is grown in a very short amount of time. First their Bright Skin Radiance Nectar is a liquid based gel that you can use alone, or before moisturizing. It's lightly scented and keeps my skin looking smooth and glowing. It's formulated to also exfoliate your skin.
The other Vitamin C+ product I received for review is the Pure Radiance Beauty Drops. There are 28 capsules in the jar- one for each day- and this is my favorite! It moisturizes and also leaves my skin feeling absolutely matte smooth. These are so easy to bring when traveling or just on the go. Definitely have seen an improvement in my complexion after incorporating these products in my routine.

Summer Travel Essentials: Lumene Cleansing Wipes

Wipes are a girls best friend! Especially on these hot, humid days! I recently went to an amazing Lumene event in the city which showcased their different lines. (Note: these Products from Finland are available at CVS stores!)
I instantly fell in love with their Vitamin C+ which I will detail in a separate post later.. But vitamin C+ = brighter skin!
For traveling the Lumene Sensitive Touch- perfect for those who have sensitive skin like myself- carries gentle cleansing wipes to remove makeup, dirt, oil-anything! It leaves your skin completely hydrated which is nice and doesn't leave a residue. You'll feel refreshed and who doesn't like that?

Also I tried their Cleansing Emulsion, for those who want to use a gentle cleanser. Also moisturizing and left my skin feeling amazing! Their Arctic Aqua Moisture Booster is the moisturizer you want for the summer- it is water based and doesn't feel heavy at all. It is completely hydrating and I definitely felt a difference after my first use.

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(Disclaimer: I received this product from this company's PR agency to test, try and share my thoughts with my readers.)

July Birchbox with Glamour Magazine

This month has been crazy for me- lots of travel and fun! Now that things are winding down, sort of, I am back to my usual gig here! While I was away, I received my Birchbox filled with goodies I wish I had on my trip!

This month's box curated with Glamour magazine focused on your senses! Got some amazing products, including brightly colored headphones as my bonus.

I received:

* Oscar de la Renta live in love sample- this is a beautiful floral fragrance to wear this summer. Keeping it closeby for touchups!

* sheer glo shimmer lotion- From Manna Kadar Cosmetics, this lotion will give you the glow your skin deserves. It's similar to other highlighters I have. 
* Laura Geller Double Dipped Lipstick in Caribbean Kiss- When you can't decide what color to wear, these dual lipsticks are perfect! 
* AHAVA Purifying Mud Mask- Clear our your pores with this awesome mud mask.. have it on right now as I type!