I'm sure you've been skeptical about beauty product claims like "lasts 72 hours," so of course, I put them to the test and went on BetterTV to share my results. Here are the lip, nail and hair products that really last.
New Year, New Fitness Goals
I wonder how many of you have new fitness goals for the new year? I think it's safe to say 99%. Whether you're making the commitment to join a new fitness studio or just to be healthier in general, this post is for you. I was inspired to write it after having dinner with my best friends, Michele and Jarrett Hahn, who own M.O.V.E NJ Fitness & Performance in Hoboken. The day after our double date (and indulging in a few bottles of wine), I was sprinting for the first time in years. Here are my new fitness goals (effective immediately) that I'm sure will inspire you, too.
Change it up. It's been one year since I moved to Hoboken, which makes it one year that I've been doing Local Barre classes about five times a week. While I dabble in trying new fitness classes all over NYC, my main workout is barre. "In order to cause change to your body composition you must constantly change up your workout regime," stated Jarrett Hahn, trainer and the owner of M.O.V.E NJ Fitness and Performance. "The body will only adapt to new stimulus, meaning if you keep doing the same thing, your body will remain the same. Changing up your routine every 4-6 weeks would be ideal." I'm going to begin incorporating sprints and more cardio into my routine. What are you going to do?
Push past your comfort zone. It seems like common knowledge, but we don't always go for the extra challenge. If you're doing something that feels somewhat comfortable, push yourself to the next level. For example, I used to be able to plank for 20 seconds (comfortably). Now, I'm proud to say that I can hold a proper plank for a minute and 30 seconds and am trying to get stronger each day.
Track your movement. I've never worn a device that tracks my steps or how much I sleep, but out of curiosity I'm starting to wear the Tom Tom Runner Cardio GPS. The heart rate monitor will help me stay on track when sprinting and help me keep my overall fitness goals.
Make a new playlist. Music drives my movements. How about you? Creating a new playlist is just as good, if not better than buying new workout gear. I love NYC DJ and my friend, David Hamburg's, mixes on Spotify.
Forget excuses. This is my biggest problem! I don't like to sweat, I like to glisten, which has kept me from cardio for a while. Also, if I have a blowout... forget about it. If we want results, there are no excuses.
Now it's your turn to inspire me! Share your fitness goals for the new year below.
*This post is sponsored by Tom Tom, but all of my thoughts and actions are true.
3 Ways to Protect Your Skin this Winter
Is the heat on full blast in your home yet? No matter where you live, winter will affect your beauty regimen in many different ways and not always for the better. Take your skin for example. The heat dries it out and cold weather chaps it. (#winning) Unless you stay ahead of the game, you could be in for a brutal beauty beating. Here are some tips to ensure your skin beats the winter beauty blues.
1. Stay hydrated. Yes, how you treat your body has a direct correlation on how you look on the outside. I'm not telling you to make sure you drink eight glasses of water a day, but keep up with whatever works for you water, tea, hot chocolate. Pick your poison.
2. Moisturize as soon as you get out of the shower. Applying moisturizer to damp skin locks it in. I'm currently using Curel Rough Skin Rescue Smoothing Lotion. It makes my skin feel instantly soft, and is ideal for even the driest, flaky skin (my feet are bad!).
3. Plug in a humidifier. It'll pull more moisturizer into the air and help prevent your skin from drying out. I sleep with one on nightly.
*This post is sponsored by Curél, but all of my thoughts and actions are true.
Follow Dr. Neal Schultz's Advice For Better Skin
Since visiting Dr. Neal Schultz's new Peel Bar last month, I've seen him in office three times. Seem a little extreme? Maybe it is, but I'm anal about my skin and apparently, addicted to glycolic peels. As one of the most intelligent men I know, Dr. Schultz hosts DermTV webisodes where you can get his advice without paying a visit to his NYC office. Have a question about your skin? You def want to check it out. Personally, I was battling dark spots from acne. Gross! Oh, you too? Here's the advice I got...
Live in NYC? You can find Dr. Neal Schultz at 1130 Park Ave.
Behind the Look: Ammon Carver
Welcome to “Behind the Look” – a new feature that showcases the talent behind the looks we love – the real celebrities in my eyes.
In his downtime, NYC hairstylist, Ammon Carver, coifs stars like Kate Beckinsale, Molly Sims, Amanda Seyfried, Kirsten Dunst and Leighton Meester, but his most recent project has taken his career to the next level. He just opened his own salon, with a twist – it's part photography studio. Pretty cool, huh? And his five must haves are essential enough for us all to take note of.
Describe the most exciting project you’ve worked on lately.
Aside from opening the Ammon Carver Studio, I am currently working on a project that involves providing a day of beauty to women in shelters for abuse. We will put together a team of hairstylists and done our time to make sure these women feel their most beautiful.
What’s your beauty philosophy?
Beauty begins within…if you want to look your best, it begins with being selective about what ingredients (food, and products) that you put in and on your body
What are the top five must-haves in your kit and why?
Mason Pearson cushion bush….gives the best polish possible.
Fine tooth tail comb….perfect for backcoming and detailing.
Working hairspray, my go-to is Keratin Healing Oil Lustrous Finishing Spray…..buildable hold without any mattifying or flaking.
Hair bungee ties….ponytail and bun perfection.
Duckbill sectioning clips….keeping my work organized is the only way to create certain hairstyles….need to be able to cleanly separate the hair without leaving marks.
Have you discovered any new products lately that you find impressive?
Lately I love the aerosol Texture Sprays…Dry Texture Spray from L'ANZA is seriously amazing because it not only gives sexy, second-day texture, but it acts like a dry shampoo as well.
Spill your best beauty advice.
Eat well, get good exercise…you would be surprised how good fitness and nutrition can affect your overall hair/skin/nails beauty.
What’s the one tip or trick that you think all women should know?
I think all women with long hair should learn how to do at least a simple braid. Braids are a trend that cycles in and out more than any other. They are a great way to secure annoying bangs, they serve perfectly for when your hair is under a hood during the winter, or when you want a fresh look at the beach…..learn how to braid your hair. You will open a ton of style options by doing so. Short haired women should learn to play with hair accessories to mix up their look.
What Beauty Editors Are Giving this Season
There has to be at least one person on your holiday gift list that you'll be buying a beauty gift set for! Good luck stepping into a Sephora. You're going to want everything! Since my beauty writer friends and I have seen them all, I called on the troops to dish on what beauty gifts they're gifting this season to help you cut through the clutter. Here are some of the hottest ones out there this season all under $50.
I'll be gifting the Urban Decay Black Magic 24/7 Glide-On Double-Ended Eye Pencil Set to a few people this year. It comes with four double sided liners in all wearable shades. I think it makes a great gift, not only because I love Urban Decay liners, but also because people tend to purchase black or brown liner for themselves and this encourages them to play. – yours truly
Aromatherapy Associates Bath Jewels - This London-based brand makes the BEST bath oils, and every time I use mine, I feel like all of my cares drift away. The blends smell wonderful, and you need only a few drops to create a wonderful escape, so these little bottles will last a while. This is an especially good gift for people who are always taking care of others—it pretty much forces them to slow down and pamper themselves for once. - Annie Tomlin, TheGlowHow.com
I love the Benefit 3 Scoops O's Sexy, which boasts three tinted lip balms in their stunning, wearable shades for a sheer, pretty look. Benefit does festive packaging right; any gal would love to be on the receiving end of this set. - Amber Katz, Rouge18.com
Boscia Tsubaki Secrets is a pretty fabulous gift for just about anyone. I'm a personal believer in one, cleansing oil and two, a konjac sponge- it's the beauty item you never knew you'd love. - Jamie Stone, HonestlyJamie
I happen to extra super duper love this herbal tea from David's Tea, because it tastes like drinking a homemade caramel cake, smells even better, and magically has no calories. I'm giving it to all the gals in my family this year, and even though it comes in a chic stainless tin it's super affordable. - Bryce Gruber, LuxurySpot
I'm all about giving this season is a glamsquad gift card. I mean, seriously -- for $50 (10% off if you join their mailing list - and i mean, duh, obviously anyone would) - a stylist will come to your home or office (or anywhere you want, really) and give you a runway-ready blowout. I've had them come as early as 7 am, as late as 10 pm, and they are always amazing - that's useful for everything from job interview to booty call, which I think makes it the best gift of all. – Aly Walansky, ALittleAlyTude
I'm bringing every host a Givenchy's Les Mini Prismes this season. The packaging looks like those vintage steamer trunks that people used to bring on the Orient Express. Each drawer looks impossibly dainty but houses every makeup essential you need, from shimmery blush to saturated shadows to tools and a mirror. It's $39 at Sephora. Not bad, considering that a Givenchy Antigona bag will run you about $3,000. - Polly Blitzer, BeautyBlitz
I am obsessed with these mini Sugar Lip Treatments from Fresh! Not only do they keep lips hydrated (a must for the winter!), but they also leave just the amount of color and can be used under or over lipsticks. They also smell delicious and who wouldn't want yummy smelling lips for the holiday season?! - Andrea Arterbery, TheArtofBerry
I love spreading the gospel of lipstick, so this year I'll be giving the Lipstick Queen Discovery Set at Space NK, $48, which includes my all time favorite lipstick Medieval. It's the best translucent red in the world, and it looks good on every skintone. Plus, you get a classic nude and sheer, shimmery pink. So basically a lipstick for every occasion. One Lipstick Queen lipstick on its own is about $22, making this trio a really good deal. - Courtney Dunlop, youlookgreatingreen
Philosophy's Sparkly Time of Year - It's Philosophy- so obviously obsessed. Lip glosses are always fun to give because there's no such thing as having too many. While they may be stocking-sized products, it allows you to try out so many of their different delicious scents. It may give them a new favorite one! – Emily Rekstis, BeautySweetSpot contributor
When it comes to beauty gifts, I love giving people gift sets from brands I adore so they can discover it for themselves too. Ole Henriksen is up there on my list of must haves, and this Unwrap Your Radiance set has my can't-live-without Truth Serum in it. – Sheyma Azam, BeautyandtheFeastBlog
Alexis Bittar for Sephora Liquid Gold Compact - This compact is a little sculpture you can keep in your purse. The size and shape make it easy to find in your bag. Also, it's 24-karat gold-plated, which is kind of ridiculous and amazing in a Wolf of Wall Street way. – Liesa Goins, freelance beauty editor
In the freezing winter with dry heat pumping through the vents, it’s important to hydrate your skin as much as possible. Kiehl’s Crème de Corps is so nourishing, and 100% of the proceeds from their limited edition holiday versions support Feeding America—that’s a win-win in my book. I love cute Normal Rockwell packaging this year, and the convenience of a pump. I think this jumbo bottle would put a smile on anyone’s face. – Joanna Douglas, Yahoo! Beauty
Multitasking Beauty Buys on New York Live
Want to know what my favorite multitasking beauty products are? Sure you do! These days, with our busy schedules, if a beauty product doesn't have more than one use, it shouldn't exist. On Wednesday I had the pleasure of doing a segment showcasing some of my favorites on New York Live with Lilliana Vasquez. Check out the segment!
with gratitude...
Happy Thanksgiving BeautySweetSpot readers! I love Thanksgiving Day simply because it's another excuse to get together with my family, but to be honest, I think highlighting the celebration of gratitude one day out of the year is BS. I want to let you know that I'm grateful for all of you, as without you, I wouldn't be blessed with this career. I encourage you to remember the feeling you have on Thanksgiving and carry it with you daily – practice gratitude, it's a lifestyle. We all get so caught up in the grind that we often tend to forget about all that we have. Live for today, in the present and be grateful for each moment, each encounter and each opportunity. Have a great day!
Indulging on the Quantum of the Seas, Our Way
Did you see my Instagram pics from last weekend? I was on a cruise! That's right, Royal Caribbean launched a new ship, Quantum of the Seas, and invited Joe and I to set sail for two nights to check it out. Let me tell you, I've been on Royal Caribbean cruises before with my family, but this ship is a game changer – especially for people like us – who like to indulge on vacation sans the calories. Here's what I mean...
It's the first smart ship – ever! I had wifi the entire time out to sea so I was able to Instagram my journey. While that's a huge plus, one thing that I always loathe about cruises is the inevitable weight gain. Twenty-four hour buffets, ice cream bars and bathing suits. Not my style. The new Royal Caribbean Quantum of the Seas however, was a place Joe and I were able to indulge in relaxing and staying fit.
Morning FlyWheel classes were followed by hours at the spa. Yes, the ship actually had a FlyWheel studio, which was one of my favorite parts. Overlooking the ocean, the gym had many fitness classes you could sign up for like TRX and more. We didn't miss a beat.
The Vitality Spa offered everything from Botox to massages. I indulged in a facial and massage, because with two days at sea, what else is a girl to do? The massage was wonderful.
When it came to eating, of course being that it was all inclusive, we could have been disgusting. However, we found a juice bar and really enjoyed the restaurants the cruise had to offer. One of them, Devinly Decadence, is run by "Biggest Loser" winner and chef, Devin Alexander. She tailored the menu to ensure nothing is over 500 calories.
Of course, the wine was flowing and deserts were abundant, but a healthy lifestyle didn't have to be sacrificed on this ship. The Quantum of the Seas is our kind of cruise.
How to Create A Dutch Headband Braid
In honor of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, we must discuss braids. Obvi. I'm loving headband braids as they're "as practical as they are chic." I turned to Jackson Simmonds, the Lead Stylist at the Julien Farel Salon at the Langham Place on Fifth Avenue, to get the step-by-step on how to create the look. Turns out, it's easier than you think and makes for a great holiday hairstyle.
- Prep the hair. Damp or dry hair works for this braid, just make sure it's well brushed. Remove all tangles and if fly-aways are present mist with water. Brush hair straight back with no part.
- Gather your hair, starting with a piece from the top front. To include bangs, begin your section directly above forehead, otherwise start behind the bangs. Gather a piece ranging from 3-5 inches wide, and 1 inch thick.
- Cross the right strand under the center strand.
- Cross the left strand under the center strand.
- Repeat the pattern and cross the right strand, then the left strand, under the center strand.
- Cross the right strand under the center and pick up another small section from the right side of your head.
- Cross the left strand under the center, and pick up another small section from the left side of your head.
- Add more hair to your braid by picking up small strands every time you cross pieces under the center strand.
- Continue the Dutch braid to the nape of the neck.
- Finish your braid with a regular under braid when you run out of hair to add. Either secure with a small elastic or, to avoid the damage of a hair elastic, use my special trick - tease all the way around the end to lock in place.
Behind the Look: Joanna Vargas
Welcome to "Behind the Look" – a new feature that showcases the talent behind the looks we love – the real celebrities in my eyes.
First up, Celebrity Facialist and Founder of the Joanna Vargas Salon in NYC, Joanna Vargas! Known for perfecting the skin of A-listers like Maggie Gyllenhaal, Rachel Weisz, Naomi Watts and Julianne Moore to name a few, she has more than a few tricks up her sleeve, especially when it comes to getting celebs red carpet ready. Ready to meet Joanna? Read on!
What is the most exciting project you’ve worked on lately?
I've been working with three actors recently on their skin for specific movies they were all working on. It was fun to work towards creating the image of the character in the movie.
What’s your beauty philosophy?
I feel strongly that anyone can have great skin with the right tools. The key is to use organic products based on what the skin needs to perform at its best. Good nutrition for the skin will always yield the best skin you could ever imagine because the body assimilates natural ingredients so much better than products with chemicals.
What are your top five must-haves and why?
Well, sunscreen is key for all women, all skin types, all skin tones. I love Eminence Organics mineral powder sunscreen SPF 30 in translucent. It is great because you can wear it with or without makeup, and it really helps protect the skin against sun damage and hyper pigmentation.
I always carry a packet of Dr. Frank Lipmans Recharge Shake because it contains a ton of amazing greens for the skin. If I don't have time to order a juice or if I'm just running around all day it's a great pick me up and a great way to keep on my program.
Bite Beauty makes an awesome lip primer. They are an organic company (of course) and the primer is great at erasing the dry lip line before you put on your lip color.
My own Rejuvenating Serum is something I keep in tow because if I'm feeling tired or like my skin is starting to reflect low energy I put a little on my cheeks and eyes- instant glow again from the neroli oil, which stimulates the circulation in the skin.
A hat! It's a non-negotiable for anyone who cares about their skin. Goorin Bros is my favorite of late- I have a beautiful collection!
Have you discovered any new products lately that you find impressive?
I love African Botanicals Marula Oil for body- it smells incredible and it feels so good on the skin. I love it as a cure for dry winter skin!
Spill your best beauty advice.
Beauty is about what makes us unique and we should be trying to achieve uniformity. The reason I use non-invasive treatments in my salon is that I truly believe it's the right path to real beauty. And every woman I know will tell you that real beauty comes from how we feel about ourselves, not from what people tell us. My focus has been and will always remain on restoring confidence! But I preach to people every day: there is no magic solution- anyone can achieve the skin they want by doing the steps every day.
What’s the one tip or trick that you think all women should know?
Chamomile and green teas are not only great for you internally, but they are awesome for bathing or rinsing the skin in. If the skin feels stressed, dry and dull, putting them in your bath water or simply washing your face in the tea water will immediately calm the skin and brighten it. It's a great tip before you go to sleep!
Want to keep up with Joanna? Follow her on Twitter. You can also make an appointment with Joanna Vargas at her 5th Ave. salon in NYC or try her skincare.
Get Inspired: Jenna Dewan-Tatum's New Cut
Looks like Khloe Kardashian gave her favorite hairstylist, Jen Atkin, a break this week. Jen instagramed a pic of Jenna Dewan-Tatum debuting a shorter style (pic above) with the caption, a "blunt ends long layered-straight out the salon" cut earlier this week. Have a similar length? Here's a step-by-step on how to style it from stylist, Derek-Peter Williams, who experimented with the fresh cut this weekend at the Hollywood Film Awards. It may even inspire you to make the chop.
"Jenna had just cut her hair short and we were so excited to style it for The Hollywood Film Awards. We wanted it to be sophisticated, but still a little edgy and undone, " says Williams.
1. Apply volumizing products like Oscar Blandi's Volumizing Spray and Hair Lift Mousse to your roots and blow out your hair with a round brush for lots of fullness and body. Once dry, use a large curling iron and wave your hair, leaving the ends straight.
2. Go over random pieces with a flat iron to keep the waves undone and not so uniform. Set a side part and rubbed a dime-sized amount of texturizing paste in between your hands and run it through your hair to break up the waves and keep one side sleek behind your ear.
3. Finished with a texturizing spray like Pronto Texture and Volume Spray from Oscar Blandi to add lots of long lasting texture.
Finding Peace in the City that Never Sleeps
When I first met Gabby Bernstein back in April, I had no idea my life would be forever changed – for the better. As a freelance journalist who thrives off of the energy of the hustle and bustle of NYC, I've found the time and interest to begin following a spiritual path. Through meditation, Hatha yoga and workshops I'm more present and centered than ever before. And this is only the beginning.
Years ago I read The Secret by Rhonda Byrne and began practicing the law of attraction – if you think it and believe it, it will come – and it has. Little did I know, that this was the first step in my spiritual journey. When living The Secret, you are taught to retrain your thoughts of negativity and weakness (I'm so broke.) to positive, empowering ones (The check's in the mail.). The positivity you project through your thoughts starts to become your reality. Today, I credit The Secret for much of my success in business.
Then, I met Gabby Bernstein. At a press event for Philosophy, Gabby began talking about her life as a spiritual teacher and educating us on practical ways to meditate in today's world, and I immediately wanted more. One example of a practice she gave was about taking a "mental shower," in which you practice a breathing exercise during your morning shower to set the tone for your day. (Breathe in for five seconds, hold for five seconds, release for five seconds. Repeat.) I went on to read all of her books, attend her workshops and now, practice meditation at the Integral Yoga Institute in NYC. The same place, she learned to meditate.
"Our mind is like a drunken monkey stung by a scorpion," Jyothi, my meditation teacher explained.
The breathing, chanting and vibration of meditation allows for a togetherness with complete strangers who I have zero attachment to. I'm addicted. I feel alive and present when I'm at the IYI and find myself craving the next time I can go back. While I'm still trying to dedicate myself to meditating twice a day at home, the group meditation really works for me.
Now, not only am I practicing The Secret, but I've enhanced my life with Gabby's spiritual practices as well – to try to always be in the light by trying to bring forth my highest energy and elevate my state of joy. Through forgiveness and willingness, I'm trying to vibrate at a frequency of positivity and hoping to spread the love in order to make a radical impact on others. With this shift in energy, I am at peace, allowing myself to be present and see the world through eyes of love.
Through my mind and body, I've started to find peace in the city that never sleeps. Interested? Then start reading The Secret and then read Gabby Bernstein's books. The practices learned lead to living an optimal lifestyle. And if you think you don't have time to read or try meditation, then ask yourself (in Gabby's words), "Do you have time to feel like shit?"
The Progressive Peel That's Changing My Skin
The strangest thing has been happening lately. I've actually been waking up and eagerly running to my bathroom vanity to check out my skin in the mirror. No lie. I've put my skin through what seems like hell – IPL lasers, Fraxel and have used an abundance of lotions and potions that claim to be the best around. However, I was introduced to a product about a month ago that has made the most drastic changes in the least invasive way.
Don't worry I'm obviously not keeping this all to myself! It's the BeautyRX Progressive Peel by Dr. Neal Schultz, who I recently wrote about. Don't let the "peel" part make you nervous. Consisting of three products (that you use one at a time) – a serum, pads and a cream – it's a six week glycolic peel that builds in strength as your weeks of use go on.
So why am I raving? My main concerns are fine lines, large pores and hyperpigmentation. (Lucky me.) Almost immediately my skin began to look brighter and my pores, minimized. Now that I'm four weeks in, I'm alternating the serum with the pads nightly. As of now, my skin is brighter and I've even noticed that my hyperpigmentation looks lighter. If you suffer from dark spots, you'll understand how excited I am. I've been following the instructions and using it nightly, which is essential. The results speak for themselves and using the peel at night actually makes me excited about washing my face before bed.
You can find the BeautyRX peel for $69.95 at BeautyRX.com.
Vaseline® Intensive Care, A Multipurpose Moisturizer
If there's one beauty product I could bring with me on a desert island, it's moisturizer. How about you? If you're in the same boat as me, we better bring a good one! Did you know that all moisturizers aren't created equal? That's right, many just sit on top of the skin and act as temporary relief, but you and I both expect more than that. This winter, make sure you're using a moisturizer that'll get the job done on multiple levels. Enter: Vaseline® Intensive Care TM.
I received this cozy package (pictured) of Vaseline® Intensive Care TM Advanced Repair Fragrance Free, a personalized mug and GODIVA hot chocolate mix from Vaseline last week and have been hooked ever since. Of course like other moisturizers, it immediately relieves dry skin, but the Vaseline® Intensive Care TM range is also clinically proven to heal dry skin in just five days, and lock moisture into your skin. How? It addresses the root of the problem – the skin's protective barrier by using humectants (which draw water to your dry skin) and Vaseline® Jelly to help seal the moisture in.
Even if you're not feeling dry yet, I recommend you start moisturizing from head to toe daily as soon as you step out of the shower to help prevent itchy, dry skin.
An Exclusive Interview with Lucy Hale
Before attending the Country Music Awards last week, I had the opportunity to hang out with Lucy Hale thanks to Colgate Optic White, who was presenting. Of course, using some of the questions you sent through on Twitter, I interviewed Lucy about her acting and singing career, beauty secrets love for country music. The 5'2" starlette (and I know because we had a height competition, you know, back to back) may be tiny, but she sure is fierce. At just 25, she's not only accomplished, but knows exactly who she is and what she's doing.
On her fans: My fans are very passionate. I got into my career, because I love what I do, but to have that support system makes it all even better.
On her new shorter 'do: I cut it this morning. I needed something new. I chopped three inches and we're still filming the show, but they can add extensions if they have to. I feel more grown up with it.
On her new album: With a first album you can do whatever you want and as an artist I'm constantly learning and growing and finding out how I sound better and what I don't like. I loved that we used a lot of traditional country music instruments like mandolin, fiddle and banjo and steel guitar. I love those sounds, but they have a mainstream vibe. There's no rules, so we were able to do whatever we wanted. One of my favorite songs on the album is "Nervous Girl," because it's very strict and raw so maybe we'll see more of that on album two.
On her singing career: I hope to make music for the rest of my life, but I want each album to feel very different. I'm a very different person from when I started so it will be interesting to see where we go. I love all music and explore, but country is where my heart's at.
On the artist/actress debate: I get asked this question more than anything: acting or singing. I'm not one to live in a box or be told what to do and I want to be the exception. A lot of people have a mindset that they can only accept me as one or the other. I've wanted to sing before I wanted to act, but I'll never choose. I love acting and I love music and I've been lucky enough to do both and hope to continue to have respect in both worlds.
On her influences: Dolly Parton, Miranda Lambert, Martina McBride, Faith Hill, Shania Twain. Mostly late '90's women in country. Rascall Flatts is what really made me fall in love with music. They were the first country act I found to be mainstream and I remember hearing "Praying for Daylight" for the first time on the radio and was blown away.
On her beauty secrets: Besides a good hair and makeup team, eye patches help (she likes Skyn Iceland Hydro Cool Firming Eye Gels) and the obvious, sleep and water.
On her Colgate partnership: I'm 25 now and think I'm the person I'm going to be. I can finally say I'm comfortable with who I am and when Colgate Optic White approached me about the 'Red Carpet Ready' campaign, it just made sense. It's all about confidence and what I do to get ready for a big event.
On what's in her bag: Kind bars, phone charger, Ray Bans, hand sanitizer, Aquaphor lip balm, Mark cosmetics, makeup remover, my laptop, my broken iPhone 6 that I dropped before my flight yesterday, Justins peanut butter packets
On her favorite place in TN: Home with my family in Memphis. I wish I could plop their house next to me in LA.
On her pre-performance rituals: Before I go on stage I need about 15 minutes to myself with no distractions and I say a prayer. And try not to throw up, because I still get nervous, but it's good. Once the nerves and butterflies go away, I feel like I need to get a new profession.
On the best beauty advice she ever got: My mom instilled to always wash my face no matter how tired I am. I don't always listen, since I keep makeup removers by my bed incase it was a long day, but you only get one face, so you have to take care of it.
East Meets West at the Chuan Spa
When it comes to spa treatments, I can always choose the most effective over the most pampering and while most combine elements of both, I'd rather see and feel results before walking out feeling tickled. Two weeks ago I ventured to the Langham Hotel in Pasadena, California to check out a new spa, Chuan Spa, and found the east meets west approach surprisingly appreciated for all it had to offer.
I opted to try their most popular treatment – the Chuan Stone Therapy Massage. Before stepping into the treatment room, I filled out a form that identified how I felt physically and emotionally in that moment. The massage, a traditional Chinese treatment, consisted of a hot stone treatment that followed the meridian lines (energy lines in our bodies) and stimulate the meridian points. Much like accupuncture, but instead of using needles, the pressure from hot stones and hands are used. The heat from the stones helps to bring blood to the area increasing the circulation in the body, which recharges your body and gives you more energy, making the body work at an optimal level.
To my surprise, it began with a chant, Hatha yoga style, which thank God I practice, because otherwise I would have thought it was strange. My massause explained that meditating before a massage helps to relax the mind, which allows the body to fully be at ease. After reviewing my form, he decided to focus on balancing out my earth element and used the appropriate oil.
Immediately afterwards, I was relaxed and brought to the Chuan Spa's Dream Room, which was just that, a dream – five twin sized waterbeds separated by curtains in dim lighting. I was welcome to lay there as long as I wished. Did I feel more energized? Yes, but the next day.
The elements of eastern and western culture were definitely influenced by each other through out my massage, which made it effective and relaxing. The entire Chuan Spa menu is set this way and is ultimately what makes the spa a stand out.
The Chuan Spa is located at the Langham Hotel in Pasadena, CA.
5 Makeup Tips to Look Instantly More Awake
Just because we gained an extra hour of sleep doesn't mean we can't use a little help to look bright eyed. I for one, am not a morning person! Here are five makeup tips that'll make you look instantly more awake.
Shrink bags with constricting ingredients. All eye creams are not created equal. Make sure your eye cream has ingredients like caffeine or green tea. They help to automatically shrink under eye bags.
Massage your face in the morning. You can use face oil or even use your moisurizer and take the time to work your hands from the inside out on your forehead, cheeks and jawline. Do this a few times and you'll instantly de-puff.
Use nude eyeliner. Line your bottom inner rims with a nude eyeliner pencil to cancel out the red in and around your eyes.
Curl your lashes. Most people skip this crucial step in their makeup routine, but it's the easiest thing you can do to open up your eyes.
Pluck your brows. Have a professional put a nice arch in your brows once and you can maintain it yourself. Your brows frame your face and an arch will draw any attention upwards like an instant face lift.
Red Carpet Ready: Country Music Awards
This weekend I found myself wondering, what does one wear to a red carpet event in Nashville? Why? Because this week I'll be attending the Country Music Awards on behalf of Colgate Optic White! Yes, not just any red carpet event, but the CMA's so if you're a fan of country music (hello, Blake Shelton and Carrie Underwood), make sure you follow along my live tweet from the show and check out my Instagram for behind the scenes pics. So what am I doing to prep? These five simple things that you can try in order to look fab for any occasion.
1. Use Self Tanner - I'm using a trifecta of self tanners to make sure I have a red carpet glow that can compete with J. Lo - not so much to look dark (it is November), but think more of a healthy glow. A self tan not only helps to bring more life to your look, but also makes your legs and arms look leaner and more toned. Guaranteed Carrie Underwood will be glowing as well.
2. Boost Your Smile - Naturally, the Colgate team sent me everything I need to make sure my smile is in check for the big event. Daily, I've been brushing with their Optic White PLATINUM Whiten & Protect Toothpaste and then using the Optic White WhiteSeal Mouthwash. Ever since I've had Invisalign and achieved a perfect smile, I've been anal about taking care of my teeth. Before big events, definitely boost the whitening factor.
3. Apply a Face Mask - I like to apply a moisturizing mask after I travel to help plump up my skin, but also before any big event to prep it before I put makeup on. Try applying a thick layer of whole milk yogurt to your face and let it sit for 20 minutes. It acts like an anti-aging and moisturizing treatment, because yogurt contains lactic acid, which helps to slough off dead skin cells and shrink the appearance of large pores.
4. Add Lashes - Adding a few individual false lashes to the outer corners of my eyes is my #1 secret for going from everyday to glam. Don't be afraid of the application. It's easier than you think and you only need three or four on each eye to make a big difference.
4. Find a Dress - I used Rent the Runway to find a dress that's fun, yet appropriate for the red carpet event. The idea of being able to rent and return a dress is genius to me, because after being photographed in a dress, I don't normally like wearing it again to another big event.
*This post is sponsored by Colgate, but all of my thoughts and actions are true.
Eye Makeup Must Haves
As you may see on my Instagram, tons of new fall makeup has been hitting my desk and making into my makeup bag, but these three pieces of eye makeup are for sure worth highlighting. Thanks to them, my brow, lash and shadow game has been upgraded. Looking to update your makeup bag for fall? Check out my video.
