April 2015 Choix Unboxing And Review

Last month was my second month of the Choix subscription.  It is $20 a month and you get to select the 5 items you sample, all high end brands that I myself, have limited access to.  Tom Ford, Kevin Aucoin,Chanel,YSL,etc.....

the goodies

You also get a $10 coupon code to use towards a full size product out of the items that you sampled for the month.

Let's talk about what I selected this month.

• Nars Dual Intensity Eye Shadow in Phoebe-what's neat about Choix is they send you the sample already pressed in a little pan for you.  You can get a little palette from them to hold all your shadows in so you can take them with you or keep them all in one spot.  I actually really liked this color and it lasted forever on my lids.
• Smashbox Primer Water-I have been wanting to try this for a while but didn't love it as much as I hoped I would.  It was very refreshing but to me not worth the price tag. I also found it did nothing for my pores prior to foundation application and found it better suited for a finishing spray.
• Bobbi Brown Foundation in Cool Beige-I liked this so much that this is what I used my $10 off code on and am waiting for the full size product so I will do a full review then!  It truly is "your skin but better" foundation.  I find application best with Real Techniques Expert Face Brush!
• Chanel Illuminating Base Primer-this primer was a little too shimmery and sticky for me.  Ya know how Smashbox's original primer feels?  This is the exact opposite and again too hefty of a price tag. If you don't have crater sized pores then this would be better for you than me!
• Lastly, Bobbi Brown Under Eye Corrector in Light Bisque-I love this stuff and have written a post on it before.  In fact, I merely ordered it too be able to use the $10 off coupon on it but I fell in love with the foundation instead!! This is a miracle product that you use under your concealer to counteract the discoloration. 

Click HERE if you would like to try this monthly sub!! As you know, I LOVE surprises but since this box lets me access such amazing stuff I really was glad I tried it!!  I mean sure, you can have them pick your products for you if you want though :)

So overall this was the best box I have received from them so far but I can't blame it on Choix since I made all of my own selections.  Being the foundation and concealer junkie I am, those were where I ran into problems since color selection was hard.  They don't offer all the choices for each brand so I found myself going back and forth reading shade descriptions on Sephora's website.

What do you think?  Have you tried Choix before? Do you think you will?

Let me know in the comments below!! xo

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

Choix February 2015 Unboxing And Monthly Subscription Review

I teased last month as to why I cancelled one of my Birchboxes and my Sample Society box.  Well this is why, folks!  Choix (pronounced SHWAA, french for choice) is a luxury, high end monthly subscription box.  You get to pick the 5 samples you will receive and depending on the item you choose, the packaging will differ.   Choix's vision for this box was to bring the in store experience to your home.

Presentation

I know personally, there are a lot of things at the makeup counter at Macy's or in Sephora that I absolutely will not "test".  Lipsticks being numero uno.  And sometimes there just is not a local store that has the samples I am even looking for!  So for $20 a month, you can select your high end items to be sent to you.  What's great is that $10 of that money goes back to you to be able to use towards a full size purchase of one of the items you selected.  Unfortunately, my first experience made me learn a few things.

The Deets

Some of the brands you can choose from are Bobbi Brown, NARS, Dolce and Gabbana, Ellis Faas, HourGlass, Chanel and many many more.  Since I am always on the hunt for the greatest concealer and foundation that is what I decided I wanted my whole first box to be about.  Plus I snagged an HourGlass Ambient Lighting Palette sample, if anything just to see how they would provide a sample of it.

I chose the following items for my first box:

• HourGlass Ambient Lighting Dim Light
• NARS Immaculate Complexion Concealer in Custard
• Ellis Fass Concealer in Fair/Medium
• HourGlass Fluid Foundation in Light Beige, No.2
• Guerlain Invisible Skin Fusion Foundation in Amber Pale

Once I opened the box, the above is what it looked like.  Size being comparable to Birchbox.

Extras

They also included supplies for the sampling.  I thought that was pretty neat.

Sponges, Disposable Wands, Etc.

And here is what the samples looked like.

The Goods

First item I reached for was the HourGlass Dim Light sample.

I can only assume they broke some off and repressed it into this jar??? No matter what though it was very hard for me to even determine if I liked it or could use it with this sample.  The brush they provided, which was the only one really small enough to get in there, didn't really pick up much powder.  I used my fluffy concealer brush but it deposited so much product in one spot it looked like bronzer on my cheeks.  So this was a major FAIL.

Next, I went for the concealers.

When I placed my order I really thought I was trying the creamy one.  This little sample was pretty much dried out, I had a very hard time trying to warm the product in between my fingers and when I attempted to use it, it tugged on my under eye areas.  So although application was difficult, I do know Custard in this product is too dark for me.  It may however work in the summer.  I tried the Vanilla in the creamy one from Sephora and it might be a tad too light so I will have to try the Custard in the creamy.  HA! Did that make sense to you??

This concealer was too dark for me but I liked the consistency very much. I would try fair next time although it looks pink on the website colors are a bit off based on the sample I received.  I do wish on the website they offered descriptions of skin tones and coloring for the choices, like they do on the actual brand website.  I had to go back and forth quite a bit to determine which color I thought would work best since it only listed the color name.

I am showing this picture again to show you the foundation sample sizes.  They were very generous with these.  The HourGlass one was waaaaaay too dark but the Guerlain one was very nice.  I actually forgot to use it this morning since I have been in love with my NARS foundation (review to come). It really felt like a second skin when I tried it on.

After you place the orders for your samples and you receive the shipping notification, 3 days later you get your code for $10 off a full size product that you sampled.

My next box I think I will try some lip colors I have been afraid to bite the bullet on and maybe some eye shadows.  Overall, I was happy because I made the choices, even though with every other box I WANT to be surprised.  I've never scrolled faster on FaceBook then when I see the words Sneak Peek :)

Since I signed up on the 19th of the month, I will receive an email on the 19th of this month telling me I can go in and order my samples.  The shipping for this would have only been about a weeks time but we have had bad weather and the post office has been making me very angry lately.

Now let's say you end up using your $10 off coupon but end up hating the full size product, Choix will work with you about exchanging or refunding you which I think is great! If you miss the email that says its time to pick your samples for the month, Choix will use the "surprise me" option for you. I forgot to mention if you want to be surprised, there is a choice for that! They have a great FAQ section that is very informative.

They also have boxes put together that you can choose for the month, like a Flawless Face Kit or a Smokey Eyes Kit and they have 5 pre selected items for you.

I am excited for next months box now that I know how it works and exactly what I will be receiving. I also have some time to get my wish list together since unfortunately I might be losing out on my $10 credit this month.

If you are interested in trying this out with me a for a month or two, click HERE!!!

Is this the first time you are hearing about Choix?  Do you think you will try it?

Let me know in the comments below!!

Have a great day!! xo

February 2015 BoxyCharm Unboxing

Sorry for the late posting loves!! I have had so many things going on lately but I am excited to share this month's BoxyCharm with you. If you are on the fence about getting this monthly subscription, DO IT!!!  I still can't get over the value of the full size products you get for $21 a month.  This box is different in that we all get the same box (no profile to fill out with preferences) but so far I have been pleased with every box.  I cancelled GlossyBox for this box only because I was getting enough skin care with BirchBox and wanted more makeup.  Also this box is all full size products.  LOVE.

February 2015 BoxyCharm

Let's get to it!!

• First item I gave a sneak peek for last month.  NCLA jar of hearts nail decor, "Heart Attack".  I love nail polish!! I haven't yet had the chance to do a mani with these lovely heart decals but I can't wait to share when I do.  I've received nail wraps from this brand before and really wasn't too impressed so I am hoping the polish is better.  $16 value.
• Jing Ai Velvet Shine Lip Jewel in "Pink A Boo".  This is a smooth large lip crayon that never needs to be sharpened.  It is made with macadamia, shea and jojoba oil so perfect for dry,chapped winter lips.  I think the color is a universal shade.  $22 value.
• Mullein and Sparrow Mini Facial Mask-At first I loved the presentation of this mask in a jar. Then I went to use it and was not so enthused.  You need to pour the clay mixture in to your hand and mix with water.  It was pretty messy.  The mask results were nice though.  It hardened up on my face and left it very smooth and soft.  You can mix this with yogurt for a very hydrating, cleansing mask!  $15 value.
• Modern Minerals Duo Fibre Mini Round Eye Shadow Brush-You can never have enough eye makeup brushes IMO.  This brush is nice and lightweight and perfect for taking color and buffing it out into a smokey eye.  $15 value.
• Mistura Beauty Complexion Corrector-This is a pretty awesome little tube.  It is a cream to powder formula that corrects and covers things such as broken capillaries (I have them around my nose) and under eye dark circles.  It says to glide the tube under your eyes but I actually broke mine doing that so I just apply (and warm up) with my fingers. It dries to a nice matte finish under the eyes.  $36.99 value.

Total value of box is $104.99!!  Now you see what I mean about value for the cost of $21 a month. Click HERE to join me!! 

Do you already get BoxyCharm?? What did you think of this months box??

Let me know in the comments below!!

Have a great day!! xoxo 

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 

February 2015 Sample Society Unboxing

I am VERY happy with this months box...the past few have been kind of meh.....Quick run down, Allure's Sample Society is $15 a month and a mix of hair, beauty and skin products.  We all get the same box while there might be some variation on colors (i.e. nail polish).  Each box includes a mini magazine describing each product and also comes with a $10 off $50 purchase code at www.BeautyBar.Com.

Here is this month's box!!

Which came earlier than any of my other boxes this month!

February 2015 Sample Society Box

Now, right off the bat you can see why I have been a bit let down.  This month's box also has a drugstore product in it.  Sure, you can defend the decision to include this product based on the fact it is one of their (Allure's) top beauty picks but I want to be subjected to things I might not otherwise even know about when I order these boxes each month.....okay, tantrum over.

Let's break it down.

First thing I was the happiest to see was the Nugg masks!! And 3 of them! Not too shabby :)
Revitalizing, Hydrating and Deep Cleansing.  There are over 6 types on their website.  I have used this brand one time before and I was very pleased and since I am a mask junkie, these will be put to good use :)

Next up is Chloe's Love Story perfume.  Sexy and feminine, I wore it today and felt like a woman wearing a business suit with a sexy red thong underneath.  Very nice!!

Next is Nails, Inc. polish in Princes Place.This is a muted lilac color perfect to bring in spring, I can almost feel the dresses I will be wearing again.

Now, here comes the drug store item.  Batiste dry shampoo. I know they sell it at Ulta, too.  I am a loyal Klorane dry shampoo user.  This one, while it did get the oil out of my hair, was super flowery but not in a good way.  The smell was gone by the time I left my house so for that I was thankful. Sure, I am always open to a cheaper priced dry shampoo but this won't be it.

Lastly Strivectin Intensive Illuminating Serum.  They must have over stock of this product as it was included as the extra in last month's box and now included as one of our items in this months box. This boasts improving skin complexion via brightness and clarity.  I haven't noticed overwhelming results yet and am kind of hoping I don't since the price tag on the full size is pretty hefty!

And there ya go!!  The February 2015 Sample Society box.

Overall I am happy and will use the entire box and my prayers for no more hand lotion or black eye liner were finally heard by someone.

Did you get this box?  Want to?  Click HERE to sign up today!!

Oh and only 7 hours left to enter my giveaway!!  Click HERE to get in on the action :) Good luck!!

Have a great day!! xo

January 2015 BoxyCharm Unboxing & February Spoiler

For those that don't know, I cancelled GlossyBox for BoxyCharm and I am still very pleased with my decision.  The value of the items (all full size) FAR EXCEED the $21 cost of the box!! The only thing about this box is that it ships towards the end of the month but since all my other boxes come in the beginning, I guess it's nice to still have it to look forward too.

Let's talk about the items this month.  Oh, one of mine was a replacement item to the messed up one in last month's box.

Tarte Maracuja Bronzing Serum (retail value $47)-This product alone is twice the cost of the box and got me quite giddy at the site of it.  I still have to do my review on the bronzing lotion, which is out of this world, so since this is targeted for the face, it's even better.  I am obsessed with reading reviews on products and this has gotten so many positives.  It will come down to a few things per person though.....your skin tone and your sensitivity to the product.  I have a light skin tone currently (winter, boo) so one application did not get me tan or glowing overnight but it did not make me break out either.  So, so far so good. I will keep you updated as I try it for longer periods of time.

Mirabella Primer (retail value $29)-This face primer is comparable to Smashbox in the look and feel. Be careful not to use too much or you will be an oil slick.  It was a nice primer but nothing outstanding about it.

Beauty For Real (retail value $36)-We got both a lip liner and lip gloss.  I think the liner was nude and the gloss is Always There.  The pencil is very nice and I have been able to use it with a few lipsticks of mine. I like putting a layer of it underneath my lipstick in addition to lining my lips for that extra layer of priming.  The lip gloss is not sticky and is a nice plum color.  It is kind of sheer going on so you can layer it up.

Purlisse Skin Sparkle Flash Tattoos (retail value $5)-Hard to believe these come from Purlisse as I know them only to provide skin care but super exciting.  In fact, I think these were just made for this box as I cannot find a link to them.  I love tattoos, real (I have 4) or fake!!  It saddens me that it is not summer and I can put these all over my body and shine in the sun! LOL Soon.........

Be A Bombshell lip gloss (retail value $14)-This was my replacement item.  This lip gloss came in the shade, Hooked.  A mauvey color with some shimmer.  Love it, love the color and the feel of the lip gloss.

So again, another stellar box that really makes me happy with my decision to switch.  I love that I am getting introduced to Tarte since I have not really used many of their products.  Also this month, Tarte is coming to Ulta and I have an appointment to meet with them and get a makeover with their team and products so I will keep you updated on that! :)

And the February Boxycharm box will include a full size jar of NCLA jar of hearts!! I love my nail stuff so this is exciting, even though I wish it would have been in the January box so I would have it for V Day :) Click HERE to sign up now!!

What did you think of the BoxyCharm box this month?

Let me know in the comments below (this can be one of your entries in my giveaway)!!  Didn't know about the giveaway??  Click HERE!!!

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 BoxyCharm Unboxing and more reasons why I am glad I cancelled GlossyBox

Christmas is right around the corner and I have so many products to review and tutorials for ya'll. But I just got my last beauty box of the month so wanted to share!

First let's talk about GlossyBox really quick.  I cancelled last month, remember.....well I tried to. I didn't see the fine print where it said I needed to do so before the 15th of the month so of course I was billed and got a box from them this month.  They were the only box I did not change my new address on so I actually had to go to the post office and pay $6 to retrieve it.  I already had paid for the box so I wasn't about to lose that money.

So this is what they sent me for December.

Not a bad box at all......but not a good enough box to make me want to change my mind on why I cancelled.  First, my blush was broken.  Shattered.  I emailed customer service and they no longer have any inventory so are sending me another item to make up for it.  I am excited to use the lavender oil as lavender is my favorite scent.  I have heard nothing but wonderful things about 12 Benefits hair products.  I have liked everything I have tried from Juice Beauty and of course OPI is OPI and it's a great pink shade.

But now let me show you BoxyCharm........

Again, this box is $21 a month and I am already looking at a $39.95 product in the Coastal Scents Revealed palette!

This palette is comparable to Urban Decay's Naked palette with the nude and metallic hues throughout.  There are 20 shades all together in a sleek case perfect for traveling.  The colors are beautiful.  I can't wait to start creating looks with this bad boy.

Next up is Mistura Retractable Kabuki brush, full size, valued at $19.99.

I can never have too many brushes I have found out in the past few months.  I am excited to try this one.  You can pull it out fully or keep it compressed a little for greater concentration.  Another perfect travel item.  I have one by Real Techniques so I am interested to see how this compares.  This brand is cruelty free so they have already won me over with that.

Next is Eva-Nyc Hold Me Tight Hairspray.

I am beginning to sense a theme here, lol.  A travel sized hairspray.  It really provides a strong hold too which will help a lot in the summer with the humidity.  It has a light scent, too, not crazy chemical like.

Next up is Be a Bombshell Lipstick in Lush, full size, valued at $14.

It is a dark burgundy red color, that goes on light and creamy like a stain.  It doesn't have the best staying power as it was gone by the time I got to work just from drinking my coffee on the car ride there.  I don't have a picture of the actual lipstick itself as when I opened it to do the swatch the whole thing fell out so I need to contact customer service.

And last up is Lina Lashes in Luxury Mink, full size, valued at $30.00

All the fake eyelashes I have tried didn't go over well with me.  But I will try again.  I love long, flirty lashes and these look pretty natural which is nice.  Another brand that is cruelty free!

All in all this box that I paid $21 for is worth well over $100.  And last months box was worth over $120 so they are very consistent.  I love the variety and have loved every box I have received so far. I am so glad that I cancelled GlossyBox.

Sign up today with me so we can love our boxes together!! Click HERE!! Plus when you review the items you receive in our box each month, you get "charms" that can be used to purchase items in their online store.  So similar to Birchbox in that respect!

Have you signed up already?  What did you think of this months box?

Let me know in the comments below!!

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