Hello my lovelies!!!
Thanks for checking in :) I will be away on a sunny vacation from April 24th to May 1st - I'll back back in full blogging force upon my return. Have a great week!
- Anjali
xoxoxo
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Friday, April 23, 2010
Girls Night IN @ Lift Beauty Boutique!
I'm so proud and excited to be co-hosting a Girst Night In with fellow beauty junkies, Farah, Joy, Aanchal, and Emily on Friday, May 14th! If you are in the Toronto area, stop by Lift Beauty Boutique between 5pm and 9pm for an evening of beauty pampering! For a minimum donation of $25, you can be pampered with a mini makeover and hair do - we'll also have cupcakes and other goodies along with raffle prizes and draws throughout the evening! All proceeds of this event are going to the Canadian Cancer Society. Here's the full event invitation:
Just to let you know, this year alone, an estimated 12,030 women are expected to be diagnosed with breast, cervical, ovarian and uterine cancers in Ontario. So we're getting the girls together to raise funds for research into cancers that affect women.
If you are in the area, I encourage you to come out, get dolled up, and support a great cause. Remember to RSVP soon as spots are limited!
Just to let you know, this year alone, an estimated 12,030 women are expected to be diagnosed with breast, cervical, ovarian and uterine cancers in Ontario. So we're getting the girls together to raise funds for research into cancers that affect women.
If you are in the area, I encourage you to come out, get dolled up, and support a great cause. Remember to RSVP soon as spots are limited!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Beauty Inspiration: A Look at Balmshell Cosmetics
Last month I was invited to a blogger event hosted by Balmshell Cosmetics. I have to admit, I didn't know much about the brand before attending, other than the fact that it is a Canadian line whose lip glosses I had seen in Shoppers Drug Mart. I am so glad to have had to opportunity to attend the event because now I not only know more about the company, but I also had a chance to get to know the owners and the inspiration behind the line!
Balmshell Cosmetics was started by twin sisters Jennifer and Fiona Lees. Without any experience in the cosmetics industry and only their love for lip gloss to carry them through, this dynamic duo managed to create a lip gloss line that was picked up by Sephora and is now available all over Canada, US and the UK. The Balmshell glosses are not only non-sticky and extra moisturizing, but they come in the cutest packaging I've ever seen! These ladies truly hit the unique mark by incorporating fun and girly float art into their packaging. Check out their line of lip glosses on the Balmshell lip gloss page and click on the product of your choice to see the float art in action! The best part is each gloss comes with a key chain attachment - you can keep your float art even after the gloss is finished - genius!
I really have to hand it to the Balmshell ladies - they've hit the nail on the head with not only their awesome product, but the branding and packaging of the Balmshell line. After attending the blogger event, I felt so inspired by the twin bombshells, I just had to ask them a few q's...read on to find out how they started their business, what challenges they've faced, and what advice they have for young beauties with an idea!
Anjali: Tell me a little more about Balmshell - who are you and what do you stand for?
Twins: Our brand, Balmshell, was built on the philosophy of celebrating the inner goddess that exists in women. We tried to encompass this in both our tagline, “Unleash Your Inner Balmshell” as well as the logo of the goddess who exudes confidence and sexiness! We chose names like, Yummy Mummy and Shopaholic, to ensure each gloss celebrates a different aspect of a woman’s life. Every shade has its own personality brought to life by a floating illustration in the handle. We developed our gloss line an effort to celebrate women for the true bombshells that they are!
Jenny: Shopaholic, You Give me Fever, and Sleep In Beauty, I just LOVE pinks! :)
Fiona: Shopaholic because it is a great everyday gloss, Hair-Apy looks great when I have a nice tan, That’s So 80’s is my fave colour for going out.
Anjali: Trust me, lip gloss junkies around the world are thanking you for not giving up! Look at you now - Balmshell lip glosses have been seen in the hands of Fergie, Avril Lavigne, and Jessica Alba (just to name a few), and not to mention were part of the 2007 Grammy Gift Baskets. How does a small Canadian cosmetics line get such high profile attention?
Anjali: Professionally, what were you each doing before Balmshell existed?
Jenny: Executive Assistant at a Media Company
Fiona: Media Planner at Cossette Advertising
Anjali: What advice do you have for young women with a creative business idea who are not sure when or how to move forward?
Jenny: People often assume that we always wanted to be entrepreneurs; this is not true. There is a belief that people are born entrepreneurs, but we believe they are created. As Fiona and I grew up, certain experiences, people, and moments of inspiration, were all elements that fused together and influenced us to becoming entrepreneurs. We believe that everyone, has the potential to be great. You can live whatever life you choose for yourself. You all have passion inside you. If you have ever had that feeling of getting completely lost in something; if you have ever let yourself get completely absorbed in a task, in a moment or in a situation, and you feel fulfilled, that is passion.
Balmshell Cosmetics was started by twin sisters Jennifer and Fiona Lees. Without any experience in the cosmetics industry and only their love for lip gloss to carry them through, this dynamic duo managed to create a lip gloss line that was picked up by Sephora and is now available all over Canada, US and the UK. The Balmshell glosses are not only non-sticky and extra moisturizing, but they come in the cutest packaging I've ever seen! These ladies truly hit the unique mark by incorporating fun and girly float art into their packaging. Check out their line of lip glosses on the Balmshell lip gloss page and click on the product of your choice to see the float art in action! The best part is each gloss comes with a key chain attachment - you can keep your float art even after the gloss is finished - genius!I really have to hand it to the Balmshell ladies - they've hit the nail on the head with not only their awesome product, but the branding and packaging of the Balmshell line. After attending the blogger event, I felt so inspired by the twin bombshells, I just had to ask them a few q's...read on to find out how they started their business, what challenges they've faced, and what advice they have for young beauties with an idea!
Anjali: Tell me a little more about Balmshell - who are you and what do you stand for?Twins: Our brand, Balmshell, was built on the philosophy of celebrating the inner goddess that exists in women. We tried to encompass this in both our tagline, “Unleash Your Inner Balmshell” as well as the logo of the goddess who exudes confidence and sexiness! We chose names like, Yummy Mummy and Shopaholic, to ensure each gloss celebrates a different aspect of a woman’s life. Every shade has its own personality brought to life by a floating illustration in the handle. We developed our gloss line an effort to celebrate women for the true bombshells that they are!
Anjali: What are your favourite Balmshell lip gloss shades and why?
Fiona: Shopaholic because it is a great everyday gloss, Hair-Apy looks great when I have a nice tan, That’s So 80’s is my fave colour for going out.
Anjali: To date, what has been Balmshell's proudest moment?
Jenny: We have many, but this is a story that we always remember from the beginning.
“You only get in life what you have the courage to ask for”. Remember that quote. I was watching an Oprah Winfrey show and one audience member stood up and asked if Oprah would come and visit her small hometown. Everyone in the audience laughed because they assumed there was no way that Oprah would go. Two months later, Oprah dedicated a full show on visiting that small town. The woman was so shocked when Oprah arrived at her door with a TV crew. When asked why she obliged that audience member’s request, Oprah said “You only get in life what you have the courage to ask for.” I always remembered that.
“You only get in life what you have the courage to ask for”. Remember that quote. I was watching an Oprah Winfrey show and one audience member stood up and asked if Oprah would come and visit her small hometown. Everyone in the audience laughed because they assumed there was no way that Oprah would go. Two months later, Oprah dedicated a full show on visiting that small town. The woman was so shocked when Oprah arrived at her door with a TV crew. When asked why she obliged that audience member’s request, Oprah said “You only get in life what you have the courage to ask for.” I always remembered that.
A year after seeing that show, Fiona and I were in the process of deciding what our brand name would be. Fiona was reading an article about Gwyneth Paltrow titled “The Blonde Bombshell”. Starring at the name, we realized we could change the spelling to BALM (as in lip balm), and there it was, BALMSHELL, the perfect name for a cosmetic line. We went to trademark our perfect name, thinking it was not being used. To much disappointment, we learned that REVLON owned the name. Our lawyer was quick to advise us to think of another name. We had fallen in love with the name Balmshell. I started researching the U.S. trademark database and found that the trademark was going to expire in 6 months. I was so excited when I told my lawyer the fantastic news. However, he informed me that after the six months, Revlon still had an additional six month grace period. I was so upset. There was no way we could wait for a whole year for the name.
That’s when it dawned on me, “Why not just ask Revlon to drop the name?” Our lawyer laughed at me and said he could write a letter, but it would probably sit on a desk, never get opened, and it would be expensive to assemble (not to mention how much Revlon would charge, if they decided to give us the name). We wanted that name so badly. Then Fiona and I were reminded of that episode of the Oprah show and that quote that spoke so strongly to us. I decided to take matter in to my own hands, and call the Revlon trademark lawyer in New York, directly. I left a message explaining the situation. Two weeks went by and I had heard nothing. Then, one day while at work I got a call from John O'Shea (I will never forget his name). I gave him all the information and politely asked if Revlon would drop the name. He said he would look into it. Two days later, he called back. “Okay” he said, “Revlon will drop the name but it is going to cost you”. I held my breath and said “how much?” “$100 U.S. to transfer the name over”.
Two days later Revlon ended up dropping the trademark for us and we picked it up without even spending a cent. Right away we went to register http://www.balmshell.com/
That’s when it dawned on me, “Why not just ask Revlon to drop the name?” Our lawyer laughed at me and said he could write a letter, but it would probably sit on a desk, never get opened, and it would be expensive to assemble (not to mention how much Revlon would charge, if they decided to give us the name). We wanted that name so badly. Then Fiona and I were reminded of that episode of the Oprah show and that quote that spoke so strongly to us. I decided to take matter in to my own hands, and call the Revlon trademark lawyer in New York, directly. I left a message explaining the situation. Two weeks went by and I had heard nothing. Then, one day while at work I got a call from John O'Shea (I will never forget his name). I gave him all the information and politely asked if Revlon would drop the name. He said he would look into it. Two days later, he called back. “Okay” he said, “Revlon will drop the name but it is going to cost you”. I held my breath and said “how much?” “$100 U.S. to transfer the name over”.
Two days later Revlon ended up dropping the trademark for us and we picked it up without even spending a cent. Right away we went to register http://www.balmshell.com/
“You only get in life what you have the courage to ask for”. It is important to understand that we didn’t own the name “Balmshell” in the beginning. If Revlon said “no”, it didn’t matter as we had nothing to lose.
Anjali: Wow, what an amazing story! Congratulations on obtaining the trademark and then the URL - your courage is truly inspirational. I'd like to know, what other challenges have you faced while building the Balmshell brand?
Fiona: Our first three years have been filled with challenges, in addition to the successes. We have had our failures. But it is what you learn and how you interpret those failures, that bring you more success. We don’t ever use the word “failure” in our office. To us every so called “failure” is a valuable lesson that can propel you forward further, if you choose to learn from them. The best example of this was just before we launched, I had set up a meeting with a cosmetics distributor. This woman had been in the cosmetic industry for 25 years. She was an expert, and the very first person in the industry to see our product. The meeting lasted an hour and within the first five minutes, I knew that she did not like the idea, my product or my presentation. Her words of advice were to stop what we were attempting to create before we went any further. Jen called me after the meeting, excited to hear about the meeting. I told her that it was the worst meeting I had ever had. I had failed, the line was going to fail and we should stop. Then Jen asked me if there was any good advice given, or anything I learned. When I thought about it, I realized that there were some very good suggestions. She had given me advice on my presentation and some insight into what a buyer generally looks for. Jen and I took all her constructive criticism and reworked our presentation. The next distributor we presented to was the buyer at Holt Renfrew. I believe that “failed” first meeting contributed to the success of our next meeting, which lead us to a distribution deal with Holt Renfrew across Canada.
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| Balmshell display at the Toronto head quarters |
Anjali: Trust me, lip gloss junkies around the world are thanking you for not giving up! Look at you now - Balmshell lip glosses have been seen in the hands of Fergie, Avril Lavigne, and Jessica Alba (just to name a few), and not to mention were part of the 2007 Grammy Gift Baskets. How does a small Canadian cosmetics line get such high profile attention?
Twins: Balmshell’s first product, our fabulous float art lip gloss, is what we contribute to the key of our success. The unique fun and flirty packaging launched us into the cosmetic industry. Balmshell began retailing in September 2006 in Holt Renfrew stores across Canada and in Selfridges in the UK. Four months after we launched, we were invited to be in the 2007 Oscar and Grammy gift bags. After receiving rave reviews from virtually every major Canadian magazine and media outlet, as well as being honored by Cosmopolitan Magazine with their “Fun, Fearless Phemon Award”, Balmshell continued to grow, expanding last November into 200 Shopper’s Drug Mart Beauty Boutiques and on Sephora.com.
Anjali: Professionally, what were you each doing before Balmshell existed?
Jenny: Executive Assistant at a Media Company
Fiona: Media Planner at Cossette Advertising
Anjali: What advice do you have for young women with a creative business idea who are not sure when or how to move forward?
Jenny: People often assume that we always wanted to be entrepreneurs; this is not true. There is a belief that people are born entrepreneurs, but we believe they are created. As Fiona and I grew up, certain experiences, people, and moments of inspiration, were all elements that fused together and influenced us to becoming entrepreneurs. We believe that everyone, has the potential to be great. You can live whatever life you choose for yourself. You all have passion inside you. If you have ever had that feeling of getting completely lost in something; if you have ever let yourself get completely absorbed in a task, in a moment or in a situation, and you feel fulfilled, that is passion.
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| Balmshell cookies made for the Blogger event! |
Anjali: What can we expect from Balmshell next?
Twins: We are looking to expand ourselves into a full cosmetic line. We are excited to grow as a brand and to gain international awareness and success. We are currently working on finding retailers in other countries in order to bring down our online shipping costs for our fans, and to make Balmshell available for everyone.
Well I wish you and the rest of the Balmshell team the greatest success! I have no doubts that you ladies will do amazing things. Thank you for taking the time to share your stories with us!
You can find and follow Balmshell Cosmetics online:
Website: http://www.balmshell.com/
Twitter: www.twitter.com/LoveBalmshell
Temptation Tuesdays: Julia Tote from Coach
This week's temptation has been on my mind since last Wednesday, when I received an email about Coach's new Julia Collection. At first glance I wasn't overly impressed - it's a line of sophisticated bags in light Springy colours but nothing super fantastic. It wasn't until I took a second look that I noticed and fell in love with this gorgeous spring bag - now I think this temptation will sit with me until I buy it! Here's the Juia Tote (in lilac) from Coach:
It's also available in the following colours:
...but this Spring, lilac is definitely my fav :)
Does anyone know if this line has hit Canadian stores yet? The tote is retailing online for $298 - that's my only hesitation in buying it.
I love everything about this tote - the colour, the shape, the simplicity of the design, the thin straps...everything! It has a Coach elegance that is simple and sophisticated (making it very work appropriate) yet the colour and design are fun and flirty. Over the past few days I've envisioned wearing it with a few outfits and have come to realize it will compliment EVERYTHING in my closet! Here it is at different angles the Sunflower shade:
It's also available in the following colours:
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| Lilac, Gunmetal, Cream, Emerald, Mahogany, Sunflower, Black |
...but this Spring, lilac is definitely my fav :)
Does anyone know if this line has hit Canadian stores yet? The tote is retailing online for $298 - that's my only hesitation in buying it.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Temptation Tuesdays: Amika Stylers
Another week, another temptation...
On Sunday I attended a "Hairstyling for Makeup Artists" course hosted by Emily and Lauren of Lift Beauty Boutique. For someone who has very little skill in styling hair (that's me) this workshop was an essential! Emily demonstrated up-dos, curling techniques, styling tricks and more while teaching us about the chemistry of hair and the basics of using hair product. This lady knows what she's talking about, so if you haven't already, I suggest you read the Lift Beauty Boutique Blog right now for useful tips and tricks on hair and beauty!
In the workshop, we were introduced to Amika Stylers, which the Lift girls use daily on their clients. Because I haven't tried them yet I can't rave about the benefits, so I'm going to direct you to Emily's post to read all about them! After seeing the curling iron in action on Sunday, I haven't stopped thinking about it. So when I heard that Lift was offering a special deal on the 3-piece set with flat iron, I couldn't resist!
That's right, I've already indulged in this week's temptation, and I have no regrets :)
Check out the Lift blog to see some of Emily's styles created with the Amika Stylers - I'm so excited to try them out!
On Sunday I attended a "Hairstyling for Makeup Artists" course hosted by Emily and Lauren of Lift Beauty Boutique. For someone who has very little skill in styling hair (that's me) this workshop was an essential! Emily demonstrated up-dos, curling techniques, styling tricks and more while teaching us about the chemistry of hair and the basics of using hair product. This lady knows what she's talking about, so if you haven't already, I suggest you read the Lift Beauty Boutique Blog right now for useful tips and tricks on hair and beauty!
In the workshop, we were introduced to Amika Stylers, which the Lift girls use daily on their clients. Because I haven't tried them yet I can't rave about the benefits, so I'm going to direct you to Emily's post to read all about them! After seeing the curling iron in action on Sunday, I haven't stopped thinking about it. So when I heard that Lift was offering a special deal on the 3-piece set with flat iron, I couldn't resist!That's right, I've already indulged in this week's temptation, and I have no regrets :)
Check out the Lift blog to see some of Emily's styles created with the Amika Stylers - I'm so excited to try them out!
Friday, April 9, 2010
Jessica Simpson takes it off...
...her makeup that is! Jessica graces the the cover of Marie Claire's May issue with air-dried hair and NO makeup on.
Her new campaign, A Beautiful Me, "celebrates individualism and positivity. 'I'm leading self-esteem conferences that empower women to be confident with their appearance'" (Marie Claire, May issue, pg. 185). What better way to kick-off such an influential campaign than with an all natural 4-page spread in Marie Claire!
On the radio this morning, the announcers were debating whether or not she is really wearing makeup in these shots. The magazine claims the photos are not airbrushed or retouched, so what we see is the real thing. Looking at the front cover, she seems to be wearing a hint of eyeliner and mascara, but one website suggests it's just the remnants of left-over makeup. Whatever the case, she's less done up than usual and her hair is slightly untamed - the photos are clearly not airbrushed to perfection.
I say kudos to Jessica Simpson for stepping up and showing her true self :) However, I am slightly curious to know just how empowering her conferences would be...given the impression she made on "Newlyweds" would people take her seriously? I haven't seen her new show "The Price of Beauty" - has she redeemed herself since the Nick Lachey days?
Let me know your thoughts :)
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| Ummmmmm how can air-dried hair look this fabulous??? |
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| This doesn't even look like her! |
On the radio this morning, the announcers were debating whether or not she is really wearing makeup in these shots. The magazine claims the photos are not airbrushed or retouched, so what we see is the real thing. Looking at the front cover, she seems to be wearing a hint of eyeliner and mascara, but one website suggests it's just the remnants of left-over makeup. Whatever the case, she's less done up than usual and her hair is slightly untamed - the photos are clearly not airbrushed to perfection.
I say kudos to Jessica Simpson for stepping up and showing her true self :) However, I am slightly curious to know just how empowering her conferences would be...given the impression she made on "Newlyweds" would people take her seriously? I haven't seen her new show "The Price of Beauty" - has she redeemed herself since the Nick Lachey days?
Let me know your thoughts :)
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Temptation Tuesdays: MacBook Pro
I really, really, really, want a MacBook Pro.
My current laptop is Toshiba M60 from 2006. I really can't complain about it - after 4 years it's still functional...perhaps a little slower than I'd like, but it serves it purpose. I just really, really, really want a MacBook. It's currently retailing for $1299CAD for a 13", $1799CAD for a 15", and $2599CAD for a 17". Of course I want the 17".
I figured that I spend a lot of time on my laptop, so I might as well upgrade it to something I really LOVE...right? I'm not really in a position to buy it in the next few months, but I'm hoping to upgrade by the end of the year...and it's been on my mind all week so I thought I'd share :)
Do you own a MacBook? If so, what do you love/hate about it? Why should I buy one?
My current laptop is Toshiba M60 from 2006. I really can't complain about it - after 4 years it's still functional...perhaps a little slower than I'd like, but it serves it purpose. I just really, really, really want a MacBook. It's currently retailing for $1299CAD for a 13", $1799CAD for a 15", and $2599CAD for a 17". Of course I want the 17".
I figured that I spend a lot of time on my laptop, so I might as well upgrade it to something I really LOVE...right? I'm not really in a position to buy it in the next few months, but I'm hoping to upgrade by the end of the year...and it's been on my mind all week so I thought I'd share :)
Do you own a MacBook? If so, what do you love/hate about it? Why should I buy one?
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Go Bronze with Faces Duo Hi-Liter/Bronzer!
Faces Cosmetics will always be meaningful to me - it was the company that first introduced me to makeup *beyond the drugstore* and was where I learned most of my makeup artistry techniques! I worked at a Faces counter in my last year of high school and on and off during university - you can imagine that my drawer was (and still is) full of Faces product. It's also the place where I met and worked with Makeup Artist Erin Turner, the gorgeous Veronika, and the new-to-blogging beauty Amelia! These are some fab ladies so be sure to check them out :)
There is always a sense of familiarity and belonging when I approach a Faces kiosk, so you can imagine my excitement when I found them on Twitter (@facescosmetics)! I was even more excited to try out one of their newest products, the Duo Hi-Liter/Bronzer.
This beautiful duo consists of a sheer hi-liter and a deep bronzer that is suitable for all skin types. The website says it's a mineralized product that contains anti-oxidants and vitamins that do not clog pores, and actually nourish and condition the skin - bonus! I believe it retails for $28CAD which is fairly competitive with other bronzing powders.
Today was a gorgeous Spring day so I thought it was very fitting to add a glow to my face using this product! After applying concealer and face powder, I added a touch of the bronzing powder on my cheeks and temples. I added an even lighter touch of the hi-liter on top of it all...here's what I ended up with:
As you can see this is extremely luminous! I couldn't help but think J-Lo Glow when I first applied it. I would absolutely recommend this if you are looking to create a sexy, dewy effect, perhaps for an evening out or special occasion! I wore it all day and caught myself staring into a mirror admiring the shimmer effect on more than on occasion - ooops! It's great for daytime wear however I'd be cautious to apply a small amount and blend it well as it is very shimmery for an office or corporate environment. With this product, I find a little goes a long way, so be careful if you have a heavy hand with bronzer - start with a light application and build to taste!
Overall I am very pleased with the Duo Hi-Liter/Bronzer. This is going to be a must-have on my Caribbean vacation (which is coming up in 20 days!!) - I'm looking forward to testing out the versatility on a darker, more tanned complexion!
On a side note, it was interesting to see the marketing piece that came along with the product:
It's a South Asian bride with the wording "Ideal for all skin types". It's nice to see diversity in the campaign, it's not everyday that the South Asian bride is given the center stage! However with that being said, I have to wonder if this particular photo has impacts on the non-South Asian consumer. We always hear that marketing (especially for cosmetics companies) should be relateable and identifiable for the consumer - if you saw this ad would you be inclined to try the product? Or would you associate it with South Asian brides and move on? I'd be interested to hear your feedback!
In the meantime, check out a Faces kiosk next time you walk by one - you'll be pleased with the selection of products and shades...I bet you won't walk away empty-handed!
Disclaimer: This product was provided to me by Faces Cosmetics for consideration only. The above post consists of my honest opinion and thoughts on the product.
There is always a sense of familiarity and belonging when I approach a Faces kiosk, so you can imagine my excitement when I found them on Twitter (@facescosmetics)! I was even more excited to try out one of their newest products, the Duo Hi-Liter/Bronzer.
This beautiful duo consists of a sheer hi-liter and a deep bronzer that is suitable for all skin types. The website says it's a mineralized product that contains anti-oxidants and vitamins that do not clog pores, and actually nourish and condition the skin - bonus! I believe it retails for $28CAD which is fairly competitive with other bronzing powders.Today was a gorgeous Spring day so I thought it was very fitting to add a glow to my face using this product! After applying concealer and face powder, I added a touch of the bronzing powder on my cheeks and temples. I added an even lighter touch of the hi-liter on top of it all...here's what I ended up with:
As you can see this is extremely luminous! I couldn't help but think J-Lo Glow when I first applied it. I would absolutely recommend this if you are looking to create a sexy, dewy effect, perhaps for an evening out or special occasion! I wore it all day and caught myself staring into a mirror admiring the shimmer effect on more than on occasion - ooops! It's great for daytime wear however I'd be cautious to apply a small amount and blend it well as it is very shimmery for an office or corporate environment. With this product, I find a little goes a long way, so be careful if you have a heavy hand with bronzer - start with a light application and build to taste!Overall I am very pleased with the Duo Hi-Liter/Bronzer. This is going to be a must-have on my Caribbean vacation (which is coming up in 20 days!!) - I'm looking forward to testing out the versatility on a darker, more tanned complexion!
On a side note, it was interesting to see the marketing piece that came along with the product:
It's a South Asian bride with the wording "Ideal for all skin types". It's nice to see diversity in the campaign, it's not everyday that the South Asian bride is given the center stage! However with that being said, I have to wonder if this particular photo has impacts on the non-South Asian consumer. We always hear that marketing (especially for cosmetics companies) should be relateable and identifiable for the consumer - if you saw this ad would you be inclined to try the product? Or would you associate it with South Asian brides and move on? I'd be interested to hear your feedback!In the meantime, check out a Faces kiosk next time you walk by one - you'll be pleased with the selection of products and shades...I bet you won't walk away empty-handed!
Disclaimer: This product was provided to me by Faces Cosmetics for consideration only. The above post consists of my honest opinion and thoughts on the product.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Beauty Lifestyle: 21 to Caribbean FUN!
That's why I was so excited when my work approved a week of vacation at the end of April - yahooo!!!!!! My sister and cousin were also able to get the week off so we decided to go on a Caribbean cruise!!!! Even bigger YAHOO!!!!! We booked with Carnival Cruises from April 24th to May 1st. Leaving from Miami, we'll be stopping in Cozumel, Mexico then Grand Cayman Islands, followed by Ocho Rios, Jamaica. I have never been on a cruise but have heard great things so I'm really looking forward to the opportunity to relax, unwind, and catch some sun!
There's only one thing I am dreading, and it's quite a big thing...Caribbean cruise means it's time to bust out the swimsuits - eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeek!!!!!!!! With all the stress and chaos of the past 6 months I have gained 10lbs. I'm trying not to be too hard on myself about it, but I am NOT looking forward to flaunting it in a swimsuit. At the same time, I realize it's completely unrealistic for me to lose it all in 3 short weeks...so what's a girl to do?I decided to focus on options that are realistic for me, things I can do to help me feel better for my trip, because afterall, true beauty lies in how we feel not how we look...would you agree?
So with exactly 21 days until my departure, I've created my "21 to Caribbean FUN" action plan - 4 simple rules I will try to follow over the next three weeks to ensure I feel my best while on the trip:
1) Steer clear of refined sugar (the sugar we find in cookies, candy, chocolate, etc.)
2) Avoid deep fried foods
3) Drink a minimum of 2L of water everyday
4) Work out 3x per week (that's 9 times before the trip!)
I realize there are probably a lot more things I can do to shape up in 3 weeks, but the purpose here is not to drop tons of weight, in fact, I'm not expecting to lose any weight...instead, I'm looking to make some changes that will help me feel FAB while I'm away!
Just my two cents on setting vacation goals: too often I hear women saying "How can I lose 20lbs in one month before I leave?" Sound familiar? Let's face it - it's completely unrealistic to lose that much weight in such a short time frame in a healthy manner. Most experts say 1-2lbs weight loss per week is healthy and manageable. So instead of setting ourselves up for failure by creating goals that are completely unattainable, I suggest we look at what we can achieve in the time we are given. I recommend not setting a number goal (e.g. stay away from "I want to lose 20 lbs by May 1st)...instead focus on the outcome (e.g. "I want to work out and eat healthy so I can feel more comfortable and confident in my own skin). For me, the attachment to a number creates more pressure and leads to a bigger disappointment when I don't reach it. I find it much easier to focus on the true end results (how I will feel if I make these changes). Just my thoughts...
Anyway - I'm going to try really hard to stick to these 4 rules over the next three weeks. I am not attaching my goals to any numbers or expectations - I just want to do what I can to ensure I feel comfortable and confident while on my trip!Is anyone else planning a trip soon? What kind of preparation are you doing (or have you done) to get ready for a week in the sun?
Drop me a line, I'd love to hear your input :)
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