April 2015 Birchbox Unboxing

It's so pretty who cares that it is upside down

It's that time again....with all that happened last month with my new job and everything I am not even going to try to play catch up, I will just go with the items I have for this month to show you all!!

There is no doubt this is the prettiest Birchbox box I have ever received.  They partnered with the Rifle Paper Company to collaborate on this box and this will definitely be on my vanity for all to see.

Remember, Birchbox is a monthly beauty sampling subscription service that only costs $10 a month. You get to try out a bunch of different brands that you might not have found on your own tailored to your own beauty profile. Each month after you review your items, you get points added to your account and for every 100 points, that is $10 in the Birchbox shop. And the shop is just like your Sephora or Ulta! Click HERE to join with me!

Okay back to the goods......oh but first, this month's cute mailing label they sent me!

We know this is true!

No more teasing, here are the products I received.

April 2015 Birchbox Goodies

My first impression is that this box is a decent mix of makeup, hair and body.

• Harvey Prince Yogini Perfume-I have a love hate relationship with Harvey Prince...Petaly Noir is really the only one I can see myself actually purchasing but the staying power with these perfumes is zero. Within an hour you can't even tell I put anything on....This scent is kind of masculine for me....I like woodsy, but my co workers might actually think I put on my husbands cologne :) 
• Fekkai Soleil Beach Waves Tousling Spray-My hair is a disaster when it is wet and I have yet to find that scrunch N go product for me. I really only have "wavy" hair at the roots and the rest of my hair is stick straight. All of the reviews on this product are incredible. I will be trying this out this weekend for sure since I can hide out in my house if it is a disaster. It claims to control frizz, add shine and hold for that surfer girl hair. I am a fan of Fekkai so I hope this works.
• POP Beauty eye shadow trio-The good news is I was excited when I saw the colors, they are beautiful. The bad news is they were broken when I opened them....somehow cracked underneath during transit....I will have to repress before I can use them. The reviews on this brand are pretty good though. Long lasting, good pigment and can be used wet or dry.....SN yes all shadows can be used wet or dry but only some of them will actually perform well when wet.
• Cynthia Rowley Brightening Illuminator-So the full size of this product comes in a nifty pen for application. The sample is not, so it is harder to work with. I am a highlighter junkie but find this is too runny....and I am sure it has something to do with it not being in its original packaging. I am going to try to mix it with my foundation next to see if it holds up better. 
•  Not Soap, Radio Body Wash-The packaging is super cute but body wash is body wash. I haven't been overly excited since The Body Shop's honey body wash. I mean that stuff is incredible.  This would make a cute gift idea or stocking stuffer though.

Overall, I wasn't extremely excited with this month's box, although with the exception of another Harvey Prince perfume, there was great variety in this box and of course the box itself was amazing.  I miss getting two Birchboxes in the mail even though my second profile seemed to be a miss somewhere.  My next Choix box should be here any day and I think that will be my last month with them.  I will explain more in my review when it comes.

Also I am reviewing Estee Lauder's Double Wear Light next and I can't wait to share my results with ya'll!! LOVE!!

Teaser!!! I am getting another giveaway together though!! I feel guilty that I haven't been posting as often as usual since, ya know, life happens, but I want to continue to give back so stay tuned for details on that!!

What did you think of your Birchbox this month?  Have you used any of the products I received before?

Let me know in the comments below!

Have a great day!! xo

March 2015 Birchbox Unboxing

This month's Birchbox theme is Creativity which I love.  Spring is in the air, despite having just had 5 inches of snow the other day, I am HOPEFUL that the good weather is right around the corner.  As my last month's Birchbox post stated, I ended my 2 box a month experiment as I was receiving too many duplicates and wanted to try a new subscription.  So let's get to the goods for this month.

• Amika Bombshell Blow Out Spray-Prior to receiving this months sample size, I had purchased the full size version of this about six months ago, with my Birchbox points.  I have very, very long hair and am always looking for ways to keep it shiny and straight, plus added volume when I blow it out.  The reviews on this were fairly good so I gave it a try.  I wasn't too impressed so needless to say I was bummed it was in my box this month.  It smells great and doesn't weigh my hair down but compared to Bumble and Bumble's version, this is not up to par.  I love their hair masks but noticed no difference after having used this product.
• Mirenesse Glossy Kiss in Angel Kiss-This is a dual product.  Can be used on both lips and cheeks.  I love the idea behind this but wasn't a fan of the color, it was too pink for me.  It went on very smooth and I didn't need a lip liner, which was nice.
• Mereadesso Tinted All In One Moisturizer-The packaging alone on this item was such a turn off, I don't know who would have ever thought this would make for a great presentation of the product.  The coloring was very orange......they have great reviews for skin care but maybe that is where they need to focus their energy.
• Elite Therapeutics Rosemary Eucalyptus Body Creme-While I wasn't overly thrilled with another sample of mini lotion, I liked the idea of it being all natural.  But oh dear lord, the smell, the smell........and not an earthy smell.....it just stinks.....which is sad because the lotion absorbs so well and feels so great on my hands.  Not greasy at all.  
• Number 4 Shampoo and Reconstructing Masque-Can you hear me screaming????  How many times must I proclaim my frustration with receiving this bloody shampoo in my Birchbox!!! Do I somehow own stock in this product that I am unaware of??  I am not writing another review on it. I like how they tried to sneak in a masque on me and switch it up a bit but there is nothing more angering than bringing a sealed plastic sample in the shower and being unable to open it with wet hands and nearly breaking a tooth from trying to rip it open.........

So there you have it......not quite sure where the creativity portion of the box was.....and I was not very happy this month.  I am all about renewal and rebirth and new life but was definitely lacking after looking over the items.  My profile is set to "Trendy" and I have since changed it to "Adventurous".  I used to have it set to both and I think it confused the system.  Also, another tip, if you set your household income to a lower amount, I have noticed you tend to get items more on the affordable end.  If you want to try higher end, luxury brands, try increasing your income and see if that helps.  I have found that the less choices you select, the easier it is to get items that you prefer. That did not seem to help me from being disappointed in this months box.  It did give me enough points to be able to place an order for some new items using my points alone though! So that makes up for it!!

Click HERE to sign up for Birchbox!! Remember, every item you give feedback on gives you points and for every 100 points that is $10 to spend in their shop! No other monthly beauty box can top that :)

What did you get in your box this month?  Do you think you might try my tips on changing up your profile?  If you do, let me know how your box changes next month!!

Have a great day!! xo

February 2015 Double Birchbox Unboxings

For those that need the breakdown, Birchbox is a monthly beauty subscription that sends you 5 samples tailored to your beauty profile.  However, it is their point system that makes them No. 1 in this industry IMO!  For every item you receive in your box that you provide feedback on, you get 10 points. When you get 100 points, that is $10 in cold hard cash that you get to spend in the Birchbox shop.  They have so many great brands and exclusive to Birchbox brands.

For now I have taken a break on getting two Birchbox boxes a month.  I am super excited to share with ya'll which NEW monthly sub I have replaced it with.  So stay tuned as that box should be arriving this week for me!  Okay on to the unboxings!

They love to feed your ego, too!

I did my experiment for a few months with two boxes to see how different my boxes would be.  For the most part I only had one month were both boxes were exceptional.  I will be doing a blog post soon on my ideas on how to get the most out of your Birchbox subscription, too.

Here is the first box.

• Benefit SugarBomb Lip Gloss-when I search for a lip gloss I need one that is not sticky.  This meets my expectations.  This is a pinky nude color with a nice shimmer to it.  Benefit never lets me down.
• Eyeko Skinny Liner-This is the star of this box. This eye liner is exceptional. It is smooth and precise. It allows me to get a great cat eye or get super close to my lash line.  Oh how I wish this came in more colors than black!
• Obliphica Treatment Hair Serum-I don't like the packaging of this product as I have to pour it into my hand which makes for wasted product.  But the serum itself smooths my hair and doesn't leave it greasy.  Smells great too.  Perfect for smoothing strands after putting hair into a fishtail braid!
• Gilchrist and Soames London Collection Shower Gel-I haven't used this product yet but am a sucker for British items. I also like to use these sizes for when I travel, HA, which isn't that often.  Based on other consumer reviews, this product is not overly flowery but not overly moisturizing, either.
• BeeKind Conditioner-I also don't fancy this packaging.  It's cardboard, enough said.  This brand has a purpose though and I love hearing about things like that.  Proceeds benefit honeybee and sustainable pollination research.  This product is organic and of course, made with honey.  There is a waitlist for this conditioner! I can't wait to try it :) 

This box I have marked as adventurous and trendy, this is my subscription that I have had since day one (over a year) and this is the profile I will be keeping.  

Second box......

Blushing.......

Great box!!

• Marcelle Gentle Eye Makeup Remover-The STAR of this box. This is exclusive to Birchbox and wow, it really exceeded my expectations.  I put some on a cotton round, held it on my eye lid for few seconds and wiped....all my eye makeup came off in one single sweep. It didn't even phase my contacts, either.  This product also has cucumber extract which helps reduce puffiness and under eye circles. BAM!
• Davines Minu Shampoo-I have received this brand before in a curly shampoo one, which I gave to my sister in law, so I was excited to see one that I can actually use! It smells great but I won't repurchase since it has sulfates in it, I can't say that it improved my highlights, either.
• Davines Hair Serum-So the full size product of this comes in a spray bottle, which I would have much preferred to a small paper container.  This was a nice serum and wasn't greasy feeling, either. A little goes a long way and if you have very fine hair, only apply to your ends. Putting serums on your roots will only weigh you down :)
• Harvey Prince Hello perfume-I must have been in a bad mood the last time I tried this because I did not care for it at all. I tried it again in this box and I liked it!  Perfect scent for Spring, which I am SO ready for. It is light and sweet and simple.  Yes, simple is the best word for it.
• Benefit Posiebalm-Another great lip gloss but it is a bit too pink for my liking.  It has mango butter in it which I wish I could eat but I don't think I should.
• And I received the same body wash as in the first box, so I won't retype all that stuff :) 

This box profile is the more natural, crunchy box profile and I think it reflects that well.  Overall, I think both boxes were even in the amount of products I love and liked,

For $10 a month, you can't beat the value and you get to try things you might not normally get the chance to!  Click HERE to sign up today! 

For those of you that have it, what did you think of this month's box??

Let me know in the comments below and if you have tried any of my items, what do you think??

Have a great day!! xo 

January 2015 Double Birchbox Unboxings

So as most of you know, I receive two boxes a month from Birchbox and have been doing so for about 4 months now.  It truly began as an experiment based on different profile choices and to see how many duplicates I would get.  But no matter what, this is the best subscription box around due to their point system.  For every item you receive, you fill out a survey and get 10 points (50 points a month) and when you get 100 points, its equal to $10 in their shop.  So I feel I always get my money back and can buy name brand items at a nice discount. Birchbox is $10 a month and you can sign up HERE.  They have some great promotions going on right now, too.

So here are the boxes this month.

And yes as you see, I did get duplicates again this month.  Click HERE for last months boxes and you will see I got dupes then, too.  Again, my profile preferences are completely different and unfortunately I have decided to give the two box experiment only one more month to see if the dupes will continue to come. I also replaced Ipsy with this second box as Ipsy was beginning to let me down, too.  But at least with Ipsy I wasn't constantly getting No.4 hair care products and Sumita eye pencils.......

Now, let's talk about what I got in each box and the love it or hate it factor.

First box, based on my original profile and the one I have had for over a year.

This was my favorite box of the two.  Here are the items in order of my favorites and click on any of the names to learn more about them and to order.

• Whish Body Butter in Lavender-my hands really need all the lotion they can get this time of year and I don't remember the last time I had to buy it :) Calling the scent lavender though is sadly a bit of a stretch. And it is my favorite scent next to lilacs so that was a debbie downer :(
• Harvey Prince Sincerely-I have been using this every day!! It is such a sexy scent. It is sweet and spicy and quite honestly the only Harvey Prince fragrance I have loved so far.
• Balance Me Wonder Eye Cream-it comes out thick but immediately absorbs into my skin.  Plus it doesn't make my concealer rub off my face.  It is all natural and organic which I love about it.  If anyone's dark circles will benefit from this cream, it will be mine :) 
• Stainiac by The Balm-multi-purpose cheek and lip stain.  I like it as a lip stain as it plumps and makes my lips nice and rosy but not as a cheek stain.  The texture is kind of like jello in the tube and it applies blotchy.  It lasts all day so if you  mess up, you're in a pickle......I prefer Benetint.
• Number 4 Non-Aerosol Hair Spray-I like that it is non-aerosol and all natural but these types of pumps tend to stick.  I like this brand but kind of think they are taking over the Birchbox boxes.  This is perfect for travel though.

And this is the box that I recently added and has my updated profile choices.

Here are the items in order of my favorites and click on any of the names to learn more about them and to order.

• When Travel Sheet Mask-I wasn't planning on going anywhere this month so I had to try it right away. It was very nice and refreshing and really hydrated my skin with just one use.  The packaging is weird, so make sure you put the right mask on (the one in the middle) as the rest is just packaging. Best part was I was able to move around with it as some leak so much you are forced to lay down.
• Naobay Body Radiance Lotion-super moisturizing.  Full of shea and avocado butters. I like that it is a larger sized sample too. Also all natural.Win.
• Sumita Eye Liner in Gold-I will be using this in a neutral eye look soon.  These eyeliners are very smooth and I absolutely love the blue one I received in another box. Weird thing is this color option is not available for purchase on the site?? Hmmm, anyone else get this color?

And then as you can see I received the Stainiac and the hair spray in this box as well. :(  But maybe this one was my favorite??  Decisions, decisions....

What did you all get in your boxes this month? I love hearing about the brands that I haven't come across yet!

Let me know in the comments below and don't forget to follow me on my other social media buttons on the right side of the scrollbar.

Have a great day!! xo 

December 2014 Birchbox Double Unboxings

This will be my third month of having two Birchboxes and unfortunately for me only one of those months (last month) was a perfect double month for me.  Read about last months HERE.

Sure, some people say they are satisfied with anything they receive and look down on me for being a little pickier.  The way I look at it is if they truly are taking our feedback and reviews on what we receive into consideration then the products we don't like would be far less than what we actually receive in our boxes.  I have played with my profile and made it as specific as possible on numerous occasions but hey, you can't win them all I guess.  This month will also be the first out of three where I received several duplicates.

Let's get started.

First box, this is the original subscription that I have had for a year now.....it also looks like they went back to having cute little nicknames on our mailing labels which I love.

First up is my favorite product from the box, Rusk Texture Spray.

I have gotten this before in another box and it is great.  It is light and smells great and doesn't leave my hair crunchy but it gives my hair the perfect amount of lift.  I just love it.  I never really realized it is described as a hairspray as I have always used it to give my hair lift and texture.  Great product.

Next is Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentrate (24 hour miracle cream).

I haven't tried this product yet but with shea butter and aloe vera it is described as a moisturizer that everyone needs to have.  It can be used as a makeup remover, shaving cream or all over body lotion.I love a multi-tasker.

Next is Manna Kadar Lip Locked in All of Me.

Meh.  I don't really care for the color, it makes me feel like it will leave my face washed out looking. But there are a ton of shades to choose from.  With my profile being more on the trendy side, I would have enjoyed a brighter shade much more.

Next is something I feel has been thrown in so many boxes of mine and even my husband got this last month, Number 4 hydrating shampoo and conditioner.

The nice thing was I was able to write two reviews and get points for both products.  Although it is a good brand and I like the product, the samples are so small especially when my hair is to the middle of my back.  It doesn't even provide enough product for a one time use.

And lastly is Lord and Berry Paillettes Eye Pencil.

This sample is so tiny and hard to work with it is down right frustrating, I can't even imagine what will happen when I need to sharpen it.  I like that it has shimmer in it to add some sparkle to a smokey eye but can we please get a larger pencil here?!!?

And this month we all got $10 off coupons for a purchase at GAP.  I have heard nothing but problems with this "gift" though.  If you have already signed up for emails through GAP you might not be able to use this as the promotion is for new customers.....I am loyal to Old Navy so probably won't be using mine.

Overall, I wasn't very pleased with this box and was very glad I had my other box to fall back on.  As of late, the newer subscription (below) has been the winner each month.  With this being my "year anniversary" box, I really thought it was going to be amazing.  If not for that reason, just for the fact it was a holiday box.....I won't cancel because you cannot beat the point system they offer ($10 a month back to use in their shop just for reviewing the products I receive).  I can always get something I want as I get my money back each month!!

Okay, next box.......

Notice the dupes right away?  Yep, the RUSK and the world's smallest eye liner.  I was happy to get the RUSK since it was my favorite product though :)

Okay first up is the 2nd best product in this month's box.  Amika's Nourishing Hair Mask.

I have gotten this product before as well and it is a great hair mask and doesn't weigh my hair down. I need these types of products in my life since I have fine color treated hair.  This is also a nice cocktail of healthy ingredients to really do some magic in your hair.  Great product.  Side note: I bought their blow out spray and it really didn't do anything for my hair.  Bumble and Bumble thickening spray is still where it's at! :)

Next is Mirenesse Mattfinity Lip Rouge in New York.

The color is just as bright as it is shown in the tube.  While the color payoff is great, the matte texture leaves something to be desired....it was messy to apply but was hard to get off so if it would have gone on nice I know it would have lasted a while.  I will try this product again to give it a second chance even though I am a more of a shine girl.

Next is Tocca Hand Creme in Cleopatra.

This is a grapefruit and cucumber scent which has an odd smell to it.....the hand creme can't be beat though.  It is a very nice consistency and doesn't leave your hands greasy at all (after the lotion has a moment to seep in).

And there ya have it since there is no need to review my duplicate products again.  This box ended up being my favorite box out of the two this month.  Again, Birchbox is only $10 a month and you can sign up HERE.  In fact, if you sign up using my link this month, I get a special treat so I would LOVE it if you did :)  We could say it's your Christmas present to me??? ;)

What did you get in your box this month? What was your favorite product?  I am about to place an order with Birchbox and would love some help on new products!

Let me know in the comments below!!

Have a great day!! xo

Birchbox Man November 2014 Unboxing

Always brings a smile to his face

Since ya'll got to see my boxes today I thought I would share my husband's!  I absolutely love that he gets so excited with this subscription I got him and they have been spot on each time with this products.  Always manly and never too feminine.

My honey's goodies

The only unfortunate thing I will say right off the bat is he did not receive his sample choice and I know he was let down by that. I have emailed customer service the confirmation email to see what they say.

Now sure, the item they included was a $50 item but we choose what we choose for a reason.

Cherry Wood Ear Buds

These are from LSTN Headphones Bowery Earbuds. From a work standpoint, he cannot safely use these and really has no use for them so we will probably gift these as I know someone who probably would love them. The reviews on this product were mixed.

Next up is Notting Hill cologne by English Laundry.

Spray top sample

I LOVED this on him. MMMMMM :) Rich, woodsy, musky scent just the way I like my blue collar man to smell.  Ladies, this is a keeper! Get it for your husband! :) Oh and PS he really liked it too :)

Next is DTRT Foam Cleanser.

Face to Face

This cleanser is similar to a shaving cream, in that it is thick and really gets down deep into pores. Since most nights he comes home with his face covered in soot, this will really help.  He is really liking all of these face products targeted to men as they are hard to come by and they have always been really good deep cleansers as their skin is so much different than ours :)

Next up is RUSK paste.

I love this brand myself

My husband won't grow his hair long on the top like I want him to (different convo for a different day haha) but he can still use this texturizing paste and I for sure will be dabbling into this myself! :)

And last up is Basics for Men by Beckman Ultimate Tough Skin Relief.

another nice sized sample

The mans lotion.  My poor husband has very chapped hands and knuckles since they are his money makers.  It's funny even after our wedding pictures were taken I remember my brother in law told him he should have lubed up before the ring pictures :)  This will come in handy for him a lot and it's a nice sized sample too!  We are hoping it is not too perfumey as some of the reviews do say that.

And there ya go!  My honey's box.  Birchbox has tons of specialty pre made gift boxes to select for the holidays or you can gift a subscription.  It is only $20 a month and always, always, always has given us at least a $40 product in each box. You can't beat that.  Click HERE to sign up today to get your box for Christmas!!

What was in your Birchbox Man box this month? I love to compare based on other profiles.  Let me know in the comments below!

Have a great day! xo

Birchbox November 2014 DOUBLE Unboxings and Reviews

November's Birchbox theme is "Giving".  In honor of that theme and in a social media campaign, they will be donating $1 to RED each time a picture of their special #shaRED box is uploaded.  RED promotes awareness and raises money for the fight against AIDS.  I thought it was a truly noble thing for them to do this month!  Let's keep sharing those pictures and using the hashtag #shaRED to help fight the good fight.

#shaRED

For those that don't know, Birchbox is a personalized monthly beauty subscription that sends you makeup, skincare and haircare items each month. They also include lifestyle items some month such as candles and candy.  It is $10 and completely worth it! For those that like trying new products, playing with makeup or just obsessed like I am, this is a great box. #1 on my list currently. The BEST part is if you answer some questions each month about the products you received you get points. 100 points is equal to $10 in their online shop where you can get the same things you get at Sephora.  I don't think I have ever paid full price for an order on their site. Click HERE to sign up today!

Okay so let's look at the goodies!!! I'm so excited to share this month.  As of last month, I signed up for two boxes with different profiles just to experiment for a few months to see the variety offered based on what selections I made.

First up is the box that I am adventurous and trendy on with a preference for organic and an advanced level of makeup knowledge and application.  And here is the amazing box I received for the second month in a row with this new profile!

Love it!!

First up is ModelCo lipstick.  I've had the mascara before and wasn't pleased with it. I have, however, been in the market for a nude lipstick so I was stoked that this was in my box!

Perfect nude color

Nude lips and bold eye

I'm very pleased with the color and the texture! Full size $20 value.

Next up is another item I have had my eye on for quite some time since I have crater sized pores. Dr. Brandt's Pores No More Vacuum Cleaner.

This is a product that you can see working when you use it and I love that!  It goes on and dries like a mask.  I used it as soon as I got it and will be purchasing again.  This is very comparable to GlamGlow in the way that it feels and works.

Next up is SuperGoop Daily Correct CC Cream.

Wish it was a larger sample

I have gotten this product sooooo many times it's crazy (looking at all of my sub boxes).  A CC cream is a corrective coverage cream so heavier coverage than a BB (beauty balm) cream.  This is a light to medium color adjusting shade.  I just don't feel that it accurately adjusts to my shade since I am more yellow toned.  This will go in the giveaway pile.  I also feel this sample size is not sufficient for those that do want to try this out as you only get one use out of it.

Next is Perlier Revitalizing White Almond Body Butter.

Cute packaging

Another item that is quite prevalent in my boxes, lotions....this is the suntan lotion of the winter boxes LOL  It is a pretty large sample and the reviews on it are good in that the product is not greasy and sinks right into the sink.  I have a huge stockpile of lotions on my desk at work so this will surely end up there soon :)

Next up is also another duplicate from Birchbox, Folle de Joie perfume.

Thankfully a spray sample

This is a fresh scent, very summery, floral like.  I think my mom would like this one so it may make it to her stocking this year :)

And last up is a lifestyle item thrown in as a treat.

You know you want to try it :) 

And what a treat it was!! Chocolate and potato chips??! Delish! Not something to eat all the time but it was the perfect 3 bite snack and it was super good.  I love salty and sweet combos and this hit the spot!

So overall this was a great box, if I could I would replace the Supergoop but that will still find a home and the lipstick and Dr. Brandt completely made up for it.  Okay, the chocolate didn't hurt either! :)

NOW check out my other box.  This is the box with the profile I have had since December of last year.  However, because the box I got last month under this profile was utterly heartbreaking (read about it HERE), I did make some changes and tweaked some things to ensure I got a stellar box this month.  And it worked. I had my profile set to Adventurous, Classic and Trendy.  I changed it to Trendy only.  My beauty knowledge is set as Dedicated Beauty Enthusiast since my other profile has Advanced on it.  Hopefully these insights will help you adjust your own profile to tailor your box if you are not happy currently :)

Okay here we go!

love love love

This box is absolutely perfect.  One of the best I have ever received.  Now let me tell you why. :)  For me I like a box with a mix of hair, beauty and skin care items.  Sure I love makeup first and foremost but I know I am always going to get quality skincare products to try and the same for hair care.  My other boxes satisfy my needs for whatever I may not have gotten with Birchbox.

First up is Royal Apothic Cuppa Cuppa Firming Tea Treatment Mask.

Nice size sample

The reviews on this are incredible and I will be using it tonight.  The mask is made of clay, acai, pomegranate,coffee, goji berry and infused with black, green and white tea leaves.  I can see my friend Rachel loving this :) It is an 8 minute treatment that leaves skin firmer, smoother and more radiant.  Um YES PLEASE :)

Next up is theBalm Cosmetics Cindy-Lou Manizer.

why yes that is my puppy's hair in the picture

First of all how adorable is the packaging? So similar to Benefit's awesome packaging.  Highlighters and luminizers are all the rage right now and give us all the "glow" that we had in our youth :) They aid in contouring and also illuminate certain areas of our face.  This particular one is a light pink sheen. I use on my cheekbones and under my eyebrow arch and in the corners of my eyes sometimes. They also make Mary-Lou Manizer which is more of a honey hue.  I like them both.  I can never have enough of these so can't wait to use it.

Next up is Amika Nourishing Mask.

Another nice sized sample

The only other product I have used by Amika is their blowout spray. I like it but I am a sucker for a great hair mask.  This is a really nice sized product to and I am glad I will be able to get more than one use out of it.  My trick with masks is to coat the ends really well and then pile it up on top of my head.  You don't want to load up your roots with a ton of product as it will transfer to weighing your hair down for the rest of the day.  I've recently come to love sea buck thorn (I am using it in my face oil) and this is made with that, vitamins, omega acids and of course sulfate free!!

Next up is derma E Evenly Radiant Brightening Cleanser.

Another great sized sample

Are you noticing a trend? These sample sizes are amazing! I just recently wrote a post about a Vitamin C Serum I am using (read it HERE) and am loving products infused with it.  This cleanser is paraben and sulfate and additive free so great for your skin.  I love that the reviews say it doesn't dry the skin out after use since that can happen with Vitamin C. Another product I can't wait to rip open.

Next is a Harvey Prince fragrance, Petaly Noir.

YAY for another spray sample

I am not a fan of the HELLO fragrance by this brand.  But this one I LOVE!!! LOVE!! It is so sensual and woodsy and musky.  Just the things I look for in a perfume.  Also full sized price is $55 so not even a crazy ridiculous price point!  This is truly a great perfume and lasted a very long time on me.  I am really considering purchasing this :)

And again Birchbox included a lifestyle item.  This one is super fancy too :)  Vosges Petits Chocolats, mine is pink Himalayan crystal salt caramel!!

Mmmmmmmm

I haven't tried it yet but I am really excited to :)

And those are my boxes!! Now you can see why I am so happy with everything :)  Again these boxes are only $10 a month and I really recommend signing up ASAP.  I have so many points accumulated I am going to use them to get Christmas presents with!  Plus you can GIFT subscriptions to people which is a great idea.  They also have tons of limited edition specialty boxes just for the holidays that include luxurious full sized items.  Click HERE to sign up today!

What did you get this month?? I love comparing so let me know in the comments below!  Also let me know if you've already tried any of the goodies I received so I know your thoughts!

Plus don't forget to share photos of the RED box on social media to help the fight against AIDS xo

Have a great Monday ya'll!! xo

My Love/Hate Month with Birchbox-October 2014

The "box"

Hi, my name is Brooke and I am addicted to all things beautiful.  Plus I LOVE surprises.....okay, now that we got that out of the way I can tell ya'll about my love/hate month with Birchbox.  Oh, also I cancelled Ipsy this month.  Out of the months that I had it, there was usually only one item I liked in each box, therefore I couldn't justify keeping it especially when I knew there were other boxes I wanted (i.e. I got the October BoxyCharm box heading my way because it has an entire Coastal Scents concealer palette so more to come on that).

So I decided I would order two Birchboxes this month since it is my birthday month.  Since I referred myself, I was also able to get a Benefit sample pack that was going to come in my new box (which we will call box #2).  My original subscription, Box #1's, profile had my preferences as adventurous, trendy and classic and that I wanted perfume samples. I have enjoyed every box I have received.  For box #2's profile, I kept only adventurous and trendy. I also said I did not want any perfume samples.  Another thing I want to mention is I never look at the sneak peek videos that they show as I always like to be surprised, plus I don't want to be let down if there was something I truly wanted.  This month though, I did see the sneak peak pictures on Instagram and knew some boxes would include the beauty blender and products from Coastal Scents, Macadamia, Dr. Brandt and Jouer.  Needless to say, I was giddy!!

Box #1 took forever to get here this month...unusual but I didn't let it get to me.  The day finally came and I got it!!

Loved the label this month!

Always love this touch of uniqueness

And then I opened the box.....

Such a letdown

This months theme is Fanfare

I was really in shock..,,,,Despite people's efforts in one of my groups telling me how good certain products were, this box is unlike any of the other boxes I have received in that I was not excited about one freaking thing.

Lets review.

First is Dr. Lipp Original Nipple Balm For Lips.

Tiniest sample ever made

Um, sorry, but any product that I can rub on both my nipples and my lips is just not desirable to me. This claims to repair dry, flaky, rough skin and and can be used as a primer and multi purpose balm.  It is also the winner of the award for smallest sample ever received.  I just wasn't happy with this product.  And no, I have not tried it yet. It is in my giveaway pile.

Next is Suki Exfoliate Foaming Cleanser.

Another tiny sample

This sample is also quite small and I got two uses out of it.  I wasn't thrilled about this face product but at the end of the day it ended up being the best product in the box.  It comes out super gritty and you put a dollop in the palm of your hand and add water and scrub on your face.  It exfoliates and as you continue to rub it in to your face it starts to lather up and does a great job cleaning your skin. The smell on the other hand is identical to lemon pledge.  Don't get me wrong, I love lemons.  But this wasn't a fresh lemon smell, it was a weird lemon smell.  But hey, again, I had a nice two time run with it.

Next is CLEAN Rain Eau De Parfum.

I don't like perfume samples I have to pour on myself

The last time I received a sample of perfume from this brand, I did indicate I was not happy with it.  But my favorite smells are clean smells and musky, sexy smells so I gave this one a try.  Thumbs down.  The smell was okay, a tad flowery but also "clean" smelling but it was the fact that it seemed to have already dissipated before I even left the house.  I also don't like the samples you can't spray.  I feel like I waste so much product having to dab it on myself.

Next up is BeeKind Body Lotion.

Cute packaging

I haven't tried this yet but since I was already upset with the box, this poor guy was guilty by association. I use all of my hand lotion samples because I wash my hands so much at work so it is always convenient but I get them too frequently.

Last up is ModelCo Power Lash Mascara.

Another mascara

Another mascara.....I have read mixed reviews on this...clumping yet lengthening.  I put it in my giveaway pile. I love my Benefit and Too Faced.  The end.

So after I hooted and hollered on my Birchblogger page, Birchbox actually commented and told me to email customer service to convey my feelings.  I was already planning on doing that because they have great customer service and have always helped me out in the past.  I usually get points added to my account for any issues that come up and that makes me a happy girl.  That would also help me out a lot right now considering I have 199 points.......

So I emailed customer service.  The reply I got back (almost 2 days later) was less than satisfying.  I basically got a run down of exactly why these items were chosen for me and in summary it seemed to have been because I had "classic" as one of my selected profile options.  So for this first time in 11 months, I rated my service as Bad, Not Satisfied.

I don't need to know why these items were chosen for me......I wanted reassurance that I was still a valued customer even though I was so unhappy considering I had just gotten myself a second subscription!  I was also told "we do hope you stick with us".....One of the friends I referred was also extremely unhappy with this months box and she is getting Novembers box free.  I guess each customer service rep has the ability to decide how much service they want to give.

I have since changed my profile for Box #1 to trendy only.

Back to the boxes......Saturday I received Box #2.  Weirdly, my label was a normal one.

Plain ole Brooke

But when I saw my box, I nearly fainted.....

The perfect box

This is what I am used to getting in my box.  Perfection! Everything that I wanted and am ecstatic. Plus I was thrilled with the Benefit sample pack, too.

Now, remember the only thing I changed was I selected trendy and adventurous as my makeup style (no classic) and no perfume. And it resulted in a perfect mix of face, hair, body and makeup items.

The first thing I was so excited to receive is the Macademia Flawless Conditioning System.

Incredible product

I first came to love this product in the summer when I got it in my New Beauty Test Tube.  I have bought it several times since and have even gotten my beautiful cousin to buy it too! It is shampoo and conditioner in one. It adds volume and smooths my hair.  Not one single strand comes out of my head after using it either.  I love it.  It is healthy and full of great ingredients.  You only need a little bit and make sure you let it sit on your hair a few minutes before rinsing out and your hair will look great all day!  It is currently out of stock at Birchbox it is so amazing.  Plus this is a huge sample and will last a long time :)

Next up is Coastal Scents Revealed 2 Palette Sampler.

Gorgeous colors

I have recently come to love Coastal Scents and have their face palette and some of their high end brushes and love them. One of my past Birchboxes had the Revealed 1 sampler palette in it and I still use it to this day.  This sampler has both mattes and shimmers and the colors are gorgeous. They are highly pigmented and last all day.  I'm not really a pink girl but these will easily blend with the darker browns and grays for the seasons ahead.

Next up is Jouer Matte Moisture Tint in Linen.

Tiny but a little goes a long way

Now, some have said that Birchbox was very misleading this month with this and the beauty blender teaser.  If you click on the link above you will see it takes you to a collection of products but we only were going to receive one of the products listed.  Bait and switch??  I don't know.....I do know that I love Jouer.  I even bought the luminizing moisture tint (read review HERE) a while back.  I was excited to see matte for the colder months.  I was given shade Linen though which is a tad light on me.  I wish I would't have gotten such a light shade.  But I tried it under my makeup this morning and really liked the coverage though. A little goes a long way but it doesn't feel heavy or sticky.  I can absolutely see myself purchasing this full size. Actually I may purchase the whole collection linked above.

Next up is that Suki Exfoliate Foaming Cleanser again.

Now I get to use it 2 more times though

I actually was pleased I got to use it again but this one was literally as hard as a rock. I had to take a knife to chisel the product to even get it to break up into chunks into my hand so I could use it.  It did not seem to affect the product but it didn't really foam this time.  It was a pain in the butt to have to do that to use it.  I liked that it was a rough exfoliator though. And it didn't bother my sensitive skin.

Lastly I got Essential Elements Wake Up Rosemary Shower Gel.

Cute lil bottle

My husband hates rosemary, if I even think about using this and getting near him, he surely won't be getting near me....know what I'm sayin?? :) Cute bottle but tiny and I put in my giveaway pile.

These are the items I got for my new subscription from Benefit.

It's Potent Eye Cream

Posiebalm Lip Balm

I have wanted to try the It's Potent Eye Cream for a while now as it is targeted for dark under eye circles.  So far, after two days, no difference.  I even have the cream in the fridge as it is so refreshing when I wake up but my Bobbi Brown concealer doesn't seem to agree with it so far, so I will stick to using it at night only.

Wow, I think this is the longest post ever!!  I am so glad that this was the month I decided to do my little profile experiment so I actually ended up with things I liked instead of breaking up with Birchbox over it.  I also am getting two more free samples for having referred myself and those just arrived at home.  However, I did have to email and inquire about them because I never received any notice.  Had I not, I would not have received them as my CS rep actually had to put in an order for them.

I know EVERYONE is talking about their boxes this month so let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

What are your profile preferences?

Have you ever changed them around based on what you received?  Did it make it better or worse?

Have a great day! xo