Dr. Sponge Konjac Cleansing Sponge Review!

Have you heard of Konjac cleansing sponges? They're suddenly all the rage in the beauty/skincare world, though they've been around for some time. What are they? Well, they're cleansing sponges made from the  Konjac root  and they're noted for their gentle but effective cleansing and exfoliation.

I first saw these sponges a few years ago on an Asian beauty site. And though I was intrigued I didn't buy them. Then, last year sometime,  I was browsing on AbesMarket.com and Dr. Sponge konjac sponges were on sale (about $6.99), so I decided to give them a try. There were several varieties including original, aloe vera, lycopene, charcoal, green tea, pearl powder, and lavender - I chose aloe vera.

Once I got my sponge, I used it for a couple months according to the instructions. Please check the video to hear my thoughts about this product. And let me know if you've used this product before and how you liked it.

January 2014 Love With Food Box Unboxing

Check out what I got in the first Love With Food Box of the year. I thought it was a really good box and was excited to try almost everything.
Join Love With Food HERE for $10/mo - $2.95 for shipping.

January 2014 @Birchbox Unboxing

Here's my first Birchbox of the year! Check out what I got. And it was starting to get a little dark, so please excuse the lighting. Please watch in HD.

Join Birchbox HERE!

From l to r clockwise

Nail Rock Nail Velvet (Full Size ) $7.00 value 

Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Cream (1.6 oz) full size retails for $19.99

Juicy Couture Couture La La (.05 oz sample vial) Full size retails from $70-90

Inika Mineral Eyeshadow - eternal marine  (Full size .04oz) $20 value

Burt Bees Intense Hydration Day Lotion (0.25oz) full size retails approx. 17.99

Featured On Etsy Finds!

Yesterday, I woke up to a few Etsy sales. Then I looked on the Esty app and noticed an unusual amount of views for my shop and a couple items. Way more than I usually get in a day, week even. Then I got an email from  Etsy that said one of my items (Small Brass Hoops) was popular because it was getting so many views. The email mentioned that maybe my earrings were featured on Etsy or somewhere else. So I did some research.

Checked the front page - nothing there. Did some searches online, twitter, instagram, pinterest, and there was nothing. Analytics only led me to Etsy's homepage. I had no idea where the traffic was coming from. So, I asked a few of the customers how they found me.  Two people responded and told me I was in the Etsy Finds email. OMG. WHAT?

Yep! I was featured in a daily email that Etsy sends out to it's gazillion subscribers. And guess what? I wasn't a subscriber so I missed it *womp*. I couldn't find a link or anything that would lead me to this feature. I thought maybe they had archives but there were none. So today, I asked around on social media and someone came through with a link. YAY. I got to see it and was so excited. Here it is and my earrings are under the title 'May The Circle Be Unbroken.' Woot! Now off to do some hammering!
And below is just a screen shot I did a lil tinkering to.

December 2013 Birchbox Unboxing

Hi all! Hope your new year is getting off to a great start. Here's my Birchbox from December 2013. I wanted to upload it sooner but I my internet was down.  So here it is now because I don't like wasting a video.  FYI, my hair was styled using Curls products. Review coming soon!
Join Birchbox HERE.


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$15 for 3 month Bulu Box Subscription via Living Social

I'm a big fan of subscription boxes and though I'm  subscribed to a couple, I always want to try more. And since I'm on a budget, I try to find deals on boxes. Well, I came across this deal on Living Social and it's for  Bulu Box. You can get a 3 month subscription for only $15 (normally $30). I am definitely getting this one. FYI, Bulu box offers 4-5 samples for health, fitness, and weight loss. I just purchased mine and can wait to try it out. I'll also definitely do unboxing videos too. Check HERE if you're interested in Bulu Box.

Happy 2014!

Hi all! Popping in to wish everyone a Happy New Year! I wanted to make this post sooner but the last few weeks of  December, through today, were like a whirlwind. I had temp work, jewelry orders, holiday stuff, etc...And then my internet went out for a little over a week. . So, I'm just now kind of winding down from all the holiday hoopla and getting settled into the new year. I haven't even really set any resolutions, goals, intentions for this year yet. And I want to do some sort of vision board and/or list. I just haven't had to time to sit and focus. Hopefully I'll be able to some writing and planning within the next week. Anyway, just wanted to say Happy New Year. I wish you all the best and I'll leave you with a couple of highlights from December 2013.

                                                  Afrobella.com Sun-Times Splash Feature

Patrice Grell Yursik of Afrobella.com included my jewelry ( Brass Hoop Earrings) in her Suntimes Splash Feature! EEK! I had no idea she was doing this it so was an awesome surprise. When I first learned of the feature, I thought it was only online. It wasn't until later that day when I found out this feature was also in the actual Sunday Suntimes Newspaper. Can you say geeked? So I had to run out and grab the paper. 

I was and will always be grateful to Patrice for her support. She's been so kind and sweet since I first met her. She has such major influence and celebrity ties but is still always down to earth and always looking out for the small businesses, artists, and brands. 

I Got Engaged!

The beau proposed to me on , New Year's Eve, December 31, 2013 and it came at a total shock to me.

There was no fancy dinner or night out. He wasn't acting weird. It was just another normal day. We'd just got in from working out. He took a shower first then I took mine. I came out of the bathroom - all the lights were off and two candles were burning. I asked him what he was doing and he just smiled. I smiled, laughed and asked him what was going on. See, I thought he was being silly  as we both can be sometimes. I still didn't suspect a proposal. I then sat on the couch, laughed, and asked, once more,  what was he doing. Then he held out a box and asked me to marry him. I said yes! And I totally did the OMG, fanning, cry thing. We plan to get married this year. And we want something simple and ...ahem...budget friendly. We're both not real physched about the planning.  We'd totally do city hall but the fam would never, ever, ever,  forgive us. And my dad's excited about walking me down the aisle. So a small simple ceremony it shall be. I'll keep you posted and I'm accepting any and all suggestions.  

November Love With Food Unboxing

November is long gone but I thought I'd still show you what I got in my Love With Food box. And FYI, I did film the video in November but, for some reason, I didn't upload it. No use letting a perfectly good video go to waste.  So here goes. Oh, and the giveaway that I mention in the video has closed but be on the lookout for more.

November 2013 Birchbox Unboxing - #MoreGood

Check out what I got in the November 2013 Birchbox! I also have another box to show you, which I received at the screening of Delivery Man, starring Vince Vaughn. View the video to see what I got in both boxes.
Also, there's only a few days left to enter my jewelry giveaway!
Check it out here: http://bit.ly/1gxdsVS

Jazjewelz Earrings Giveaway!

Giveaway time! Enter for a chance to win a pair of hoop earrings.  Winner will choose between a pair of hammered hoops (metal and size of winner's choice) or beaded trade bead hoops (winner chooses size). 

Check the link for more details and Good Luck! 

 Enter HERE---> http://bit.ly/1gxdsVS

Hammered Hoops are available in brass, copper, and aluminum. Sizes, small, medium and large (shown below).

Trade Bead Earrings are available in small,  medium,  and large (shown below). 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

October 2013 Love With Food Box Unboxing

Hi all! Here is my October 2013 Love With Food box unboxing. This post comes pretty late, considering there's less than 4 hours left in this month. Thought I'd share it anyway. Check it out and don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe!

Love With Food is a subscription service and will cost you about $12 (total) per month. Click HERE for
more information.

Review: Natural & Curly Hair Care Essential Kit

I picked up this little Jane Carter kit in Target, tried it out several times,and decided to do a review. I have not done many reviews for hair products but I plan to do more soon. Check out the video and let me know what you think.

                                                     

                                                          After taking out my braids

After separating 

Close-up

October 2013 Birchbox Unboxing #BBbeautybuzz

I'm a little late posting this, but here is my October 2013 Birchbox unboxing. And while I'm satisfied with my box, I saw a few items (in other unboxings) that I would have loved to get. Especially the Pop Beauty gloss and the Liz Earle skincare. I'm cool with my box though. Check out the video and let me know what you think. Don't forget to like, rate, and subscribe!

from l to r

Becca Radiant Skin Satin Finish Foundation  

full size retails for $42

Bain de Terre Macadamia Oil Nourishing Shampoo and Conditioner (1.7 oz travel sizes)

full sizes retail for $12 and $13.50

*Birchbox Find: Chapstick Hydration Lock Lip Moisturizer (full-size) 

Evologie Stay Clear Cream (.33 oz sample)

full size retails for $62

*Birchbox Find - items that are in addition to, never in place of, usual samples

                                                                   

September 2013 Goodies Taster's Box Unboxing

Hi all! Here is my Goodies Taster's box unboxing for September 2013. And this post comes rather late considering I filmed the video weeks ago. I just haven't had the opportunity to upload the video because things have been a  little hectic around here. I've have orders to fill, a show to prepare for, and I picked up a little temp work. So I've been working triple time. Anyway, check out what I got in the video below. And click HERE  if you'd like to subscribe to Goodies for $7/mo.

 

September 2013 Love With Food Unboxing

Check out what I got in the September 2013 Love With Food Box which was curated by Chef Ming Tsai. Also, all items in this month's box is gluten-free.
Love With Food is a subscription service and will cost you about $12 (total) per month. Click HERE for
more information.

September 2013 Birchbox Unboxing - Heritage

Check out what I got in this month's Birchbox. I am very satisfied with selections and the sizes of the samples were ample - no ketchup packets lol. Also, I was introduced to a few new items/brands which is one thing I take into account when determining the value of a subscription box. View the video to see what I got.
And don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe!

From l to r

Benefit Sugarbomb Lip Gloss (0.22 fl.oz trial size) full size retails for $16

Pinky-nude with shimmer, subtle shine and smooth feel

Le Couvent Des Minimes Gardener's Hand Healer ( 0.3 oz trial tube) 

full size retails for $8-19

Shea butter based, moisturizing, non-greasy hand balm  with a lemon-y scent

Sienna Naturals Hair and Body Shampoo (1.0 oz trial size) 

Full size retails for $18

Ruffian Nail Lacquer (0.17 oz  trial size)Full size retails for $10

Moisturizing hair and body shampoo with an fresh herbal scent. I have not tried this as a shampoo. 

BCBG Max Azria Bon Genre (sample vial)

Full size retails for $55-$75

The Makeup Show 2014 Show Dates

THE MAKEUP SHOW, EXCLUSIVE BOUTIQUE BEAUTY EVENT, ANNOUNCES DALLAS DEBUT AND SETS FORTH TO BRING ANOTHER YEAR FULL OF BEAUTY AND INSPIRATION


     

This not-to-be missed show will hit 5 states and bring together top beauty brands, seminars by world-renowned celeb makeup artists, and exclusive beauty product launches at show-only prices
The Makeup Show, exclusive boutique beauty event, will make Dallas, Texas debut in 2014 and bring another year full of beauty, inspiration and education to four additional states.  All five shows throughout 2014 will bring beauty pros an industry event with appearances from world-renowned celebrity makeup artists, top beauty brands including MAKE UP FOR EVER, NARS, INGLOT Cosmetics, Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics, Stila Cosmetics, Temptu PRO (plus over 75 others!) and exclusive beauty product launches at show-only prices.  Be sure to mark your calendar as the show passes through a state near you!
“We are excited to not only bring The Makeup Show Dallas in 2014, but for another full year of inspiration, beauty, and education in four other states; Los Angeles, New York City, Chicago, and Orlando.  With Dallas being known as one of the centers of the beauty and salon industry it was a natural choice for our new location. It will not only be a city that will easily welcome our southern artists but our international attendees as well,” states Shelly Taggar, Vice President, The Makeup Show.

The Makeup Show LA
Saturday, March 1, 2014 & Sunday, March 2, 2014 at California Market Center

The Makeup Show NYC
Sunday, May 4, 2014 & Monday, May 5, 2014 at Metropolitan Pavilion

The Makeup Show Chicago
Saturday, June 7, 2014 & Sunday, June 8, 2014 at Bridgeport Art Center

The Makeup Show Dallas – New show for 2014!
Saturday, September 27, 2014 & Sunday, September 28, 2014 at Hyatt RegencyDallas

The Makeup Show Orlando
Saturday, November 15, 2014 & Sunday, November 16, 2014 at The Peabody Hotel




Stay tuned for more show updates and sponsor announcements coming soon.  You can also stay up to date on the hottest show news through an informative blog covering all things beauty at www.themakeupshow.com/the-makeup-show-blog and sure to connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube.

About The Makeup Show:
The Makeup Show is owned and produced by Metropolitan Event & Production and travels internationally from LA, NYC, Chicago, Dallas, Europe, and Orlando.  Bringing each destination over 75 beauty brands, and unique convergence of artists and community, where beauty professionals are sure to find an artistic energy that will inspire any beauty buff, from the passionate beginner to the seasoned professional.  Each show offers an unparalleled lineup of education and appearances from top beauty professionals and focuses on career building and networking within the makeup community.  The show provides a unique experience for the makeup professional to network directly from the best in the business.

Favorite Things Etc on Twitter and Facebook!

Hi all! I created a Facebook page and twitter account for FavoriteThingsEtc blog. I hope you'll join me on those accounts. And if you haven't already, please join me on Youtube as well. I have not decided if I want to do a separate instagram yet but I'll keep ya posted.

Facebook

Twitter

Youtube

Pacifica Wanderlust Mineral Color Set Review

I've been eyeing Pacifica's Wanderlust Mineral Color set since it came out. And I finally gave it a try. Check out my thoughts on the set in the video below. Don't forget to rate, comment and subscribe!

 

l to r: Alight BB Cream (not blended), Sugared Fig Lip Tint,
Treasure Eye Shadow, Mermaid Aqua Eyeshadow

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links for which Favoritethingsetc will receive a small commission if products are purchased from the link.

August 2013 Goodies Box Unboxing

Here is my Goodies Box unboxing for the month of August. I initially filmed this on my camera but somehow deleted it :-/ So I filmed it again on my iPhone camera. Check out the video and please rate, comment, and subscribe.
 This is a subscription service which currently costs $7/month. You can sign up to get yours HERE .