I'm so excited to have teamed up with Jenfor a Korean Beauty & Skincare giveaway (with 2 winners)!!!! Click play below for more info, and scroll to the raffle copter widget below the video to enter and for the full terms & conditions!! But you MUST complete the mandatory steps to be considered as a qualified entrant of this giveaway and VALIDATE your entries through the rafflecopter widget at the bottom of this page!!!
1. Follow FFF and Jen Hayden on Instagram 2. Subscribe to FFF Youtube 3. Leave a comment on the giveaway youtube video with the Korean beauty & skincare product you would want to try the most (featured in the video below or here)
Contest runs until October 12, 2015 12am PST, must be ages 18+, a US resident with a valid US address (no p.o. boxes). Enjoy!
When I was invited to the exclusive preview of MAC Cosmetics' latest collab with Chinese designer Guo Pei hosted by M�A�C Director of Makeup Artistry Gregory Arlt, I knew I had to attend and see the collection for myself at South Coast Plaza. Last year, MAC celebrated their Heirloom Mix collection launch with a huge live model performance and presentation. I was completely blown away by all the detail that went into presenting the collection.
This collection preview was no different, four of Guo Pei's haute couture designs were flown in and assembled (which I was told took 10 hours), the dresses themselves each took at least 10,000 hours (that's a little over a year) to create and make. What stood out the most about this collaboration was how each design possessed the most fascinating details and immaculate embellishments as well as how the designs were incorporated into the makeup collection. You get a mix of neutrals as well as pops of color like red and blue.
I had my makeup refreshed by artist Andrew, and he added a nude, mauve lipstick with a peach glass over it; blush and my face was highlighted with the powder/blush brush. I was immediately in love with ALL of the products that were used, and was surprised at how precise the highlighting powder was applied to my face with the Guo Pei powder brush. The collection is romantic, whimsical, yet bold; Guo Pei's designs are also incorporated into the makeup collection with the silk packaging of each product. It's simply exquisite and you must purchase an item or a few before it's all sold out! And you must also visit the MAC x Guo Pei exhibit at South Coast Plaza from October 1st-4th, 2015; this is the first time the collection is on display to the public!
Check out this interview with the designer Guo Pei:
How did the M�A�C Guo Pei collaboration come about?
M�A�C is the authority in makeup and trends. In 2003, when I was preparing for my first show in China, the first brand that I wanted to work with was M�A�C.It was a dream came true that I teamed up with M�A�C for the first time on my show. It has since been 12 years; the next step to collaborate on a makeup collection with MAC was a natural and organic progression.It was the perfect collaboration based on our mutual understanding and relationship of many years.
What was your inspiration for the MAC collaboration? How was the process of creating a line of cosmetics different from when you create your clothes?
I call my inspiration �The Garden of Soul�. Everyone has a space in their heart where we cherish beautiful things with our eyes, and we plant them like seeds in our spiritual garden.The flowers blossom and we find happiness within them. Through my 30 years of career in fashion, I always find unique ways to express myself. This is the first time I collaborated with a makeup brand. M�A�C complete freedom in bring my vision to life.
You created eight couture dresses to accompany the collection.Can you tell us more about them?
The design process is more like an enjoyment rather than work for me.I create those dresses at the same time as the M�A�C Guo Pei makeup collection. I imagine myself in the garden, enjoying the romance of the flowers. I designed the dresses three years ago on a beautiful afternoon when I felt really happy � a feeling that I want to convey in my designs. It took me two years to produce those eight looks. I felt these dresses complemented this collection perfectly, unifying fashion and beauty.
How did you this translate your experience in fashion to makeup?
There are a lot of similarities between makeup and clothes. For me, they are both a way to express our happiness. That�s why we need colours when creating both. Colours express our feelings; I used a variety of hues in my clothes and in this makeup collection to convey my emotions.
What was your inspiration when choosing the colours and products for this collection?
The colours I selected for this collection can be divided into daytime makeup and evening makeup. I chose a striking blue shade for the eyes, evoking the colour of the soul. I like to express happiness through my love for flowers and the spiritual garden. That�s why in all the blushes and powders there is gleam of shimmer in them. I want to deliver the feeling of happiness through this makeup collection.
Which of the 16 products do you feel most fond of and why?
My one favorite product is the eye shadow quad, especially the blue one. Blue is a very bold colour, also my favorite. For me, it is also the colour of the mind and spirit. I hope women today can add a little bit of blue in their eye makeup so people can connect through their eyes into their souls.
GUYS.....words can not even begin to describe my new obsession for Diptyque. Aside from all of the oodles of yummy scents, I was taken back by the meticulous thought and inspiration behind each scent, perfume bottle, candle holder, diffuser, and everything in between. I visited the South Coast Plaza location with Cassydy and Alyssa and was given an in-depth look at the recently launched La Collection 34 by store manager Justin. I'm pretty sure I spent a couple hours in the store snapping photos and smelling EVERYTHING. Diptyque originates from 34 boulevard Saint-Germain in Paris, with three friends that brought together a plethora of creative and artistic knowledge, vision and passion to create a unique home furnishing store which has grown into the iconic perfumeur it is today (but still holds on to it's artistic and eclectic beginnings). From the craftsmanship of the glass perfume bottles and candle jars, to the selection of the perfume ingredients, oval labels and store displays, wallpaper, and product wrapping; Diptyque is truly a unique and luxe experience from storefront to home. Watch FFF's youtube video below to see what I took home from Diptyque.
diptyque - South Coast Plaza 3333 Bristol St, #1409 Costa Mesa, CA 92626 714-850-9995
diptyque offers a unique shopping experience, the South Coast Plaza boutique can advise and or deliver product to your next event or to friends, family, and co-workers as gifts. Call the boutique for recommendations and you can even have your order delivered same day or overnight.
Check out the video below for my thoughts on Carmex's Moisture Plus Ultra Hydrating Lip Balm in Limited Edition patterns. All the lip balm are the same finish and flavor, the prints are featured in 4 different styles: Adventurous, Chic, Girly, and Starlet; all available for a limited time and in-store at major drug store retailers. Coupon available here.
Alyssa and I got to spend a day at Glen Ivy Hot Springs in Corona, CA (the Temescal Valley) for ultimate relaxation and pampering. After receiving a tour of the grounds and facilities, Alyssa received a hot stone massage at the Massage Villas, and I received a NuFace Facial in the Salon Boutique. Afterwards we enjoyed lunch provided by Cafe Sole, and a cool down on bean bags at the lounge pool. The Glen Ivy Hot Springs has been around for over 150 years, and there's even a Historical Display chronicling the simple beginnings through all of the amazing growth and changes to what it is today. Enjoy the activity zone which includes the activity deck for fitness programs such as yoga, the labryinth for meditation, lap pool, historical display, tiempo lounge, and mineral baths. The Aqua Therapy Zone and Lounge Zone have various pools for your enjoyment (saline, hot, cold, lounge, and more). Club Mud has red clay mud for you to apply to wet skin to exfoliate and draw out impurities; and the Bathhouse Zone has a bath house, roman house, locker and steam rooms, and the grotto. Receive a massage in one of the massage villas or Under the Oaks (which is closed for the summer due to the heat). In the Grotto, Alyssa and I got to experience a hydrating body masque made of aloe vera, shea butter, and coconut oil which soaked into our skin and then was washed away. Post-masque we cooled off in the grotto with water and apples. Take advantage of all of Glen Ivy's tranquil environment and amenities with the Taking the Waters Admission which includes access to Glen Ivy�s lush gardens, ample lounge areas, and the healing waters of 19 pools including naturally thermal mineral baths, a hot and cold plunge, saline pool, and lap pool, in addition to Club Mud, saunas, steam rooms, showers, and today�s fitness and wellness classes; or book a service such as as massage, facial, body treatment, or nail care service to better enhance your experience. See all of the available services here. If you're looking for a more private experience, Glen Ivy offers cabanas and reserved outdoor spaces.
Tips for spending the day at Glen Ivy Hot Springs:
Arrive Early to avoid a long line and get check in squared away so you can enjoy your wellness day. Alyssa and I arrived at 9:30am and there was already a small line formed out the door.
Pick Your Spot by grabbing a lounge chair in the sun or shade. The chairs can go fast once guests start rolling in.
Use the Lockers to store your belongings, you take a key with you that you can easily attach to your bathing suit or wrist. Wear shoes when walking around (flip flops are easiest).
Book Services or Plan Classes that you will attend. Most classes are free with admission. As well, make purchases and tipping seamless by having a card on file when you initially check in.
Enjoy the yummy food and drinks available through Cafe Sole or the Paradise Bar.
Spa Hours 9:00 am � 6:00 pm: May 1, 2015 � September 30, 2015 9:00 am � 4:00 pm: October 1, 2015 � February 28, 2016 9:00 am � 5:00 pm: March 1, 2016 � April 30, 2016
Cafe Sole: Monday � Sunday: Breakfast is served from 9:00 am � 10:30 am .Lunch is served from 10:30 am � 5 pm
Grotto: Monday � Sunday: 11:00 am � 5 pm
Please note that the Hot Springs may on rare occasion close early for weather or other appropriate considerations and we thank you for your understanding and support. Hours are subject to change.
Age Limitations: Glen Ivy welcomes guests 16 years and older. Spa treatments, including but not limited to massages, body treatments, facials, nail services and waxings are all available for guests 18 years and older. Parental supervision for admission AND spa treatments is required for guests under 18.
Starting 10/1/2015 Pre-book our Fall Escape Package which includes; Any 50 minute or longer service and take advantage of $35 Mon � Fri or $55 Sat � Sun and Holidays Taking the Waters Admission.
*May not be combined with any other discounts, specials, packages, or offers. Please Note that appointment-only guests are required to pay for Taking the Waters at Glen Ivy Hot Springs.
I don't want summer to end! I guess technically, it'll feel like summer through the month of October (at least), due to the hot weather here in Southern California. Which is why I'm very excited to have received this bike to do some cruisin' around town while the weather is still pleasant (although, does it really ever get unpleasant here in Orange County?).
I selected the Americano Three Women's Three-Speed City bike in Sage from Performance Bike in a size 13/XS (available in 4 sizes). The size chart is elaborate and I know nothing about sizing for bikes, so I figured I would go for the smallest size since I'm usually on the smaller side of women's sizing for everything. I was debating between the blue and green because I love the color blue, but I felt that the sage was less trendy, and more timeless; I wouldn't get tired of the color.
Although the bike does arrive almost completely finished, it still needed to be built (shipping and assembly are free if you ship to a Performance Bike location). The necessary hardware is included with the bike, but does not include tools. It would be have been significantly easier for me if I had the tools so that I could assemble this bike; fortunately my father graciously volunteered to put together my bike since he had time and the appropriate tools. There were a couple scratch marks on the bike where the paint had come off, but it wasn't a deal breaker for me.
I attached a basket to the front, loaded it up with a towel, flowers, and water bottle and went for a cruise on a bike trail. It's a smooth ride, easy to switch between the three gears, and the coaster brake provides precise braking. I want to ride this bike everywhere, it's currently markdown down from $399.99to $199.99, check out the bike details below and shop it here:
Americano Three is ideal for riding everywhere, from the coffee shop, to class, or getting to work. Its durable steel frame can deal with anything the elements or the city throw at it, while the simple to operate 3-speed internal gearing gives you just enough gear choice to get up and over any hill or deal with headwinds. The rear hub not only protects your gears from the elements, but also incorporates a coaster brake provides intuitive, convenient stopping power. With only one cable and all internal mechanical parts, the frame looks clean, simple and elegant, and will look as good leaning against the wall in your apartment as it will out on the ride to work or school. High quality steel parts throughout provide a durable and long lasting ride, wide 700x35c tires provide plenty of traction and resist punctures on tough city streets.
