Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Shades of Gray ~ Nail Trend for Winter 2010







Rumor has it gray, and all shades of it, will be the "it" shade for nails come winter. We've already seen hints of popularity here and there over the past winter, but it will rise again and in full glory this winter. I for one am ecstatic about this. I adore gray; it's flattering to most anyone and if done well can easily take you from daytime professional to chic night-on-the-towner without any changes. You can also expect to see taupes (shimmers and mattes) thrown in the mix of grays for the season as well. Can't wait to bring you more as time ensues.

Bloom Cosmetics introduced two brand new limited-edition gray shades to their burgeoning polish collection, and they are both stunning to wear.

Agyness - Finish: High Shine Matte
A moody hue for your winter style, paint your nails with Agyness (yes, named for the high fashion model herself), a limited edition splash of matte, industrial, concrete grey.

Alexa - Finish: Intense Shimmer
Indulge in a touch of gothic glamour with limited edition Alexa, a shimmery, gunmetal grey.

With pigments sourced from around the world, a professional two-coat formula and a 330-strand brush, Bloom's nail polish claims to hold its color and shine for days.











Also, if you're following, Bloom just finalized the votes for their You Choose the Nail Polish contest and the winning polishes will be available in October 2009. The winning shades are Pistachio and Neon Purple.




Find Agyness and Alexa for $15 each at Bloom Cosmetics. They are hyper-popular so are prone to sell-out. Contact them by email for notification if they're not there when you want them. More on this trend soon ... x

WINNER: ICON Airshine Brilliant Shine Spray

Congratulations, Kristi Price!

Entry # MH05KMSDVFVW

Kristi has won a bottle of gorgeous I.C.O.N. Brilliant Shine Spray. Sometimes all that’s really needed is mind-blowing shine. Every burst of this dry air delivers brilliance as well as protection. It’s completely weightless and provides antioxidant protection as well as thermal protection. It’s perfect when you want style that’s lighter than air with shine.

Every single item I've tried from ICON I've fallen in love with. The ingredients, the scent, the results - all fabulous.

ICON hair products are available at the equally fabulous Planet Beauty. I highly recommend them!

Carol's Daughter Pops-Up in New Orleans!



Mayor Ray Nagin, ok - "RayNay" to those of us down south, has dubbed July 1st as Carol's Daughter Day and the brand is taking New Orleans by storm in order to celebrate. Does this have a familiar ring? They've done this before and it's been a huge hit each time. There will be celebrity guests, activities and events throughout the week in honor of their efforts to make New Orleans a better place. All for it!

Just in time for the Fourth of July Music Festival, Carol’s Daughter will be opening its fifth annual Pop-Up Store in New Orleans. From July 1st to July 5th, Carol’s Daughter fans will be able to shop their favorite store in the heart of the French Quarter in New Orleans.

Designed to replicate existing Carol’s Daughter boutiques, the temporary location will feature an array of celebrity appearances, in-store specials and events, product giveaways and more. Founder Lisa Price will also be at the store, where consumers will have the opportunity to hear her story and learn about how her love of fragrances helped lead her to where she is today.

Carol’s Daughter is Lisa Price, a woman whose passion for fragrance led her into the kitchen to create products with good for you ingredients for her friends and family. Inspired by the delicious recipes and irresistible smells from her Nana’s kitchen, Lisa’s creations all begin with a beautiful fragrance and the best ingredients. The homespun line has expanded to include a full range of hair care and body care products as well as Lisa’s signature fragrances.



See what’s in store during the boutique’s five-day run:
523 Rue Iberville, French Quarter, New Orleans

July 1st: 12pm - 5pm (declared “Carol’s Daughter Day" by Mayor Nagin)
Celebrate Carol’s Daughter day by meeting Mayor Nagin’s wife, Seletha Nagin and founder Lisa Price, who will be on hand to share her inspiration and meet visitors one-on-one.

July 2nd: 10am - 7pm
Get a Carol’s Daughter Candy Paint lip makeover or free hand massage and discover new fragrances and products from the lineup of offerings.

July 3rd: 10am - 7pm
Celebrate the festivities with a Happy Hour with DJ Beverly Bond from 4 – 6pm and an appearance by Melanie Fiona at 1pm where she will be signing autographs and performing.

July 4th: 10am - 7pm
Celebrate the holiday with the following special appearances:
Keri Hilson: 1pm (signing), Ryan Leslie : 3pm , Lalah Hathaway: 4pm, Teena Marie: 5pm, Happy Hour with DJ Beverly Bond : 4 – 6pm and “Cooking Class” with Founder Lisa Price.

July 5th: 10am - 7pm
The final celebratory day will feature Happy Hour with DJ Beverly Bond from 4 – 6pm and a LUPUS FOUNDATION OF AMERICA “Cooking Class”


For more information on this event and to learn more about the "wonderful-ness" of Carol's Daughter, visit them online (and then in person in New Orleans this week).

Friday, June 26, 2009

Philosophy Favorites Sweepstakes


philosophy: life is full of surprises


We'd like to think some of these will be good, happy surprises. Philosophy must think so too as they've inviting you to enter for a chance to win over $250 of their favorites. In fact, FIVE lucky winners will be selected to win:


Purity Made Simple Cleanser 16 oz
Hope in a Jar Moisturizer 2 oz
The Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash 16 oz
Hope in a Tube Eye & Lip Firming Cream .5 oz
Amazing Grace Spray Fragrance 2 oz
Amazing Grace Shower Gel 16 oz
Amazing Grace Firming Body Emulsion 16 oz
Melon Daiquiri Lip Shine .5 oz
Black Philosophy Tote

These are full-sized products; in some instances they're bigger than full-sized. What a fantastic prize! I've already entered, and I hope I win one along with four other of you adorable Philosophy Girls. Contest ends 6/30/09.




Oh, and before I forget - Philosophy's Friends and Family Event is going on now through Sun., 6/28/09. Receive 20% off your entire order online with code: sharethelove at checkout. Visit Philosophy for more information and to shop the event.

Shu Uemura Art of Hair Sweepstakes


Shu Uemura wants you to know about their soon-to-be-launched Art of Hair website. As such, when you register for emails and offers through the new site, you'll be entered to win fantastic Shu Uemura hair products!



Grand Prize: One year’s worth of Shu Uemura Art of Hair products
retail value approximately $1680.00.



HERE’S HOW TO ENTER: This Sweepstakes begins at 12:00:00 AM Eastern Time (“ET”) on June 16, 2009 and ends at 11:59:59 PM ET on June 30th, 2009. To enter, go to shuuemuraartofhair-usa.com. Existing Shu Uemura Art of Hair registrants and Salon Professionals are not eligible for the sweepstakes. Consumer non–registrants must register by completing their online profile, providing their complete name, birth date, zip code and a valid e-mail address to be entered. Registration is free and you can cancel your membership at any time. All entries must be received by 11:59:59 PM ET on June 30th, 2009. Limit one entry per person/e-mail address. Multiple or duplicate entries received will be disqualified. Entries are the property of the Sponsor and will not be acknowledged or returned. Sponsor is not responsible for lost, late, incomplete, or otherwise misdirected entries that are processed late or incorrectly or are lost due to computer or electronic malfunction or other error.

WINNER SELECTION/RANDOM DRAWING: One (1) Grand Prize Winner will be selected in a random drawing from among all eligible entries received. The random drawing will be conducted on or about July 6th, 2009 by Sponsor whose decisions on all matters relating to this Sweepstakes are final and binding in all respects pertaining to this Sweepstakes. Odds of winning a Prize will depend on the number of eligible entries received.

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Guest Spot: At Home Beauty Treatments with Mario Badescu's Kelly B



By Kelly B, a professional Beauty Consultant with Mario Badescu Skin Care.

At the beginning of the week I have all kinds of good intentions to eat healthy and clean and my counters and fridge are filled with lots of wonderful fruits and veggies and visions of a healthier, more fit me. If you’re on a tight budget and hate to throw food away like I do, try these at home beauty treatments with the leftover produce that took the back seat to Chinese food and Taco Bell.

TOMATO MASK - So simple. Great for oily skin. Crush it up and apply it to the face for 20 minutes. You can even add a mashed cucumber and the juice. Rinse with tepid water. Probably best to be laying down on the couch on a towel under your head with some good tunes and a glass of nice antioxidant red wine. Chianti, perhaps? Don’t do this mask if you have openly erupted pimples and careful not to get any in your eyes! (Yikes. That would sting)

SIMPLE OILY SKIN MASK -- whip an egg white along with a teaspoon lemon juice. Apply to face for 20 minutes and rinse thoroughly. This one is great for tightening the pores.

BANANA MASK -- Here’s another yummy treat for your face. This one is for dry or dehydrated skin, compliments of the man himself, Mr. Mario Badescu (RIP). Mash a medium banana with one tablespoon of honey and 20 drops of fresh lemon juice until it’s somewhat smooth. Apply to face and neck for 20 minutes. Rinse with tepid water and follow with your normal moisturizer. May I suggest sticking with the food theme and going with the Mario Badescu Honey Moisturizer?

Obviously you’re not always going to be in the mood to make your own face mask, even if it as simple as opening up a jar from the grocery store and throwing it on your face. In that case, try to stick with the simplest formulations that have the least amount of preservatives and unnatural ingredients. Also, use the proper products for your skin type. There is no one-size-fits-all skin care to exfoliate or fight acne. Read labels and educate yourself about what you are putting in and on your body. Have fun trying these simple skin care recipes out, and good luck!

________________________________________________



Wow! What a treat. Thanks so much, Kelly. x
For the Love of Beauty is so pleased to offer our readers guest posting by professional beauty consultants from the renowned Mario Badescu Spa. Hopefully, this is the first of many more to come. If you've got a skincare question you're just dying to get tips on, feel free to comment below and we'll share some with the experts at Mario Badescu for future posts.

Too Faced Cosmetics Sizzles for Summer with a Fab Deal

Visit TooFaced.com to shop the sale.

Shea Yeleen - Shea Butter with a Double Purpose



We all know about the miracle properties of shea butter; that it is an extraordinarily effective moisturizer for dry skin, eliminates stretch marks, promotes cell renewal and even helps protect skin from harmful UV rays. But not many people know the amazing story of how shea butter is actually created---by the hands of women living in Africa's embattled regions, who labor for hours on end to produce this highly sought after ingredient for mere pennies a day.

Shea Yeleen International, a non-profit organization, has set a goal nothing short of a miracle in itself. Not only is it their mission to organize and train women in the villages of Ghana, Burkina Faso, and Mali to produce high quality natural shea butter, SYI uses this shea butter as the main component in a decadent and high quality body care line that they make available for sale to the western world. Fifty percent of the profits go right back to these African communities to further empower these women to sustain livings and provide for their families.

Rahama Wright, Shea Yeleen's Executive Director came up with the idea to create the nonprofit organization while serving as a Peace Corps volunteer in the poorer regions of rural West Africa. "I've always been interested in poverty issues and in Africa," Wright, who's mother's side of the family is from Ghana, explains. "By living and working in Africa, I became inspired by the women there who have these tremendous challenges in terms of poverty, but at the same time, have so much beauty and joy and inner strength." Just last November, Wright's efforts led her to become one of 80 winners in the first-ever leadership training contest spearheaded by Oprah: Women Rule! O's White House Leadership Project Contest (3,000 women applied).

Imagine that you are a woman in a small rural village in West Africa, struggling financially to care for your family. Following a tradition handed down by your mother, you produce shea butter, oil found in the nut of the shea fruit, as a means to make money. To process the shea butter, you start with a five kilometer walk to harvest the fruit and then follow a labor intensive process of hand extracting that takes up to 20 hours to produce 2-4 kilograms of oil. You sell a portion of the shea oil on the local market for 20 cents a kilogram. It is not very much money, yet to you it is better than nothing.

What if you knew about an international demand for the very product you labor to produce? On the international market, thousands of different kinds of cosmetics products are made using shea butter, and sold for $10-$60 for a few ounces. However, you do not have access to this market even though the natural resource originates several kilometers from where you live. What if this could change?

"Women in rural West Africa are the creators of shea butter, and it makes sense to join the popularity of shea butter and natural products to the need for women producers in rural Africa to overcome poverty- it's a win-win situation because consumers receive the best shea butter product that will nourish their skin, and women receive above market rates for their shea butter. As we begin to expand, we will demonstrate that transforming the skincare market can also transform communities," said Rahama Wright, Executive Director of Shea Yeleen International.



Shea Yeleen Products

Honeysuckle and Lavender Scented Body Butter
An ultra-hydrating vitamin rich shea formula that instantly soothes dry skin while leaving it glowing and softly-scented with honeysuckle and lavender essential oils. (Retail: $25, 6 oz.)

Honeysuckle and Lavender Scented Body Balm
This dense, natural shea butter, combined with lavender and honeysuckle oils, is especially perfect for soothing extra dry skin from head to toe. Just the smallest amount will leave skin soft and radiant. (Retail: $20, 4 oz.)

Unscented Body Balm
Made from100% natural shea butter, this body balm protects your skin from daily elements like harsh weather and hard water. Excellent for dry, irritated and sensitive skin on elbows, knees, hands and feet. (Retail: $20, 4 oz.)

Baby Balm
This baby balm is rich with skin nourishing elements which calm your baby's skin and protects it from harsh elements. Ingredients include shea butter, avocado oil, aloe vera, calendual oil, essential oils of lavender, rosemary, chamomile, comfrey, and natural baby powder fragrance. (Retail: $20, 4 oz.)

Cherry and Peppermint Lip Balms
This delicious lip balm (available in peppermint or cherry) will moisturize and heal your dry, chapped lips, leaving them kissable and soft. (Retail: $5, .5 oz.)


I've had an opportunity to try the body butter, body balm and the lip balms. These are richly hydrating products with lovely, subtle scents. They instantly moisturize even very dry skin and I've fast become a fan for keeping my hands and arms smooth and moisturized. Skin is left with a healthy glow and lips are hydrated and supple. I've tried an amber body balm and a lavender honeysuckle butter, both of which are subtle in scent - fresh without being overpowering. They've newly introduced two varieties of hand-crafted shea butter soaps in their offerings, lavender and lemongrass. I'm hoping to try those soon. Such wonderful products, such a fabulous giving back to the communities that produce them - that's a winning situation all around! And, you can't beat the prices for the quality. What a fantastic project.

Learn more about Shea Yeleen International and their gorgeous products online.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Lancôme: Declaring Indigo Fall 2009 Collection




This morning in Paris, the Lancôme makeup team unveiled their Fall 2009 color collection, Declaring Indigo. Created by Lancôme Artistic Director Aaron De Mey, this collection celebrates Paris in all its vibrancy. Aaron chose shades that represent the glamour, the energy and the passion of Paris —indigo blue, bright red and luxurious gold. I'm such an indigo fan to begin with and these blues are stunning! As a green-eyed girl, the color indigo really helps to brighten my eyes and make the green pop. 'Tis why my favorite eyelid crease contour shade is indigo or lapis and why my favorite eyeliner is Lancôme's own Artliner Pen in Blueberry. Tres magnifique!




Lancôme debuted a few key shades during Fashion Week. At Chris Benz, all three Le Vernis nail colors were showcased: Golden Audacity, Indigo Paris and Rouge Liberty. Lancôme spokesmodel Daria Werbowy is the face of the collection. She was photographed by Mario Sorrenti for the ad.




Nordstrom has a limited-edition Declaring Indigo Brush and Makeup Bag Beauty Exclusive Set and an exclusive Declaring Indigo Virtuose Mascara Set both available for pre-order now.

Declaring Indigo will be available for sale starting in August. For more images of the products, visit my fellow blogger A Touch of Blusher. She's got some nice detailed shots of the shadow, polishes and the lippies. Shop Nordstrom (check out their Beauty Exclusives section) for more on the pre-order opportunity and watch for more news about the soon-to-be-released Declaring Indigo collection at Lancôme online.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Chantecaille Website Goes Live



Chantecaille, the international skincare, cosmetics and fragrance company, officially launches e-commerce on Chantecaille.com for the first time. They're up right now!

In celebration, Chantecaille will offer customers free shipping nationwide for a month. Devoted clients can now learn about what makes Chantecaille unique: its technologically innovative and healing products, its committments to sustainable causes and partnerships with global environmental agencies, and styling tips for each fashion-forward seasonal collection.

There will be a Web Exclusive section with products exclusively sold only on the website. You can stay up to date with what's new from the Chantecaille family (and learn more about them as well). Find out about events and philanthropic efforts. See what they've got to offer. I'm highlighting their newest products below ... those compacts are just gorgeous!




La Baleine Bleue - $98
-Trio of feminine, fashion-influenced shadows
-Seasonal blues include sheer pale blue and deep blue-grey accent
-Iridescent champagne base complements highlight colors
-Specially designed compact with image of the Blue Whale and her calf


La Baleine Blanche - $98
-Fine, creamy formula glides on effortlessly
-Soft, highlighting powder adheres to skin with microscopic pearls
-Luminous, slightly matte effect imparts a fresh, natural glow
-Healthy, age-defying formula


Les Passementeries - $82
-Trio palette of complementary eye and cheek shades with Integrated colors ideal for layering
-Eye shadows with ultra-fine texture to be applied sheer or concentrated for intense color
-Cheek colors with silky, lightweight finish and long-lasting wear
-Each pan embossed with Chantecaille's signature rose
-Sleek, nickel case with over-sized mirror and basic eye brush

Fab Full Sized Freebie from Bobbi Brown



Bobbi Brown Fans

For a very limited time, receive a Free Full Size Heather Lip Gloss Sample with your $70 order.



Valid 6/22/09-6/27/09

Plus, you get free shipping with any $65+ order anyway. That shade of gloss is absolutely gorgeous, especially at this time of year!

Friday, June 19, 2009

Intelligent Nutrients Certified Organic Skincare - On Sale!



Organic guru and beauty pioneer Horst Rechelbacher founded Intelligent Nutrients in an effort to redefine the organic hair care industry. The USDA and Soil Association certified organic range proves that it's possible to create completely clean, food-based products that also deliver professional quality results. His revolutionary products include hair care, hair styling, aromatic fragrances, lip care and now fantastic anti-aging skincare!

Experience the full healing power of Intelligent Nutrients USDA Certified Organic skin care with this collection that includes an Anti-Aging Cleanser, Mist, Serum and Moisturizer. Each product is packed with a targeted blend of high quality ingredients including Argan, Acai, Apricot and Intelligent Nutrients signature Intellimune Seed Oil Complex that nourishes skin with plant sterols, essential fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants. When used together this range helps reduce inflammation, improve hydration and protect skin from damage at the cellular level while diminishing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Suitable for all skin types including mature, dry, sensitive and oily skin. The claim: You'll notice softer, more hydrated skin immedeately and reduced lines, wrinkles and discoloration in 6-12 weeks.

More on the Intellimune Seed Oil Complex: Each product contains Intelligent Nutrient's signature Intellimune Seed Oil Complex that nurtures and heals with five powerful seed oils: Black Cumin, Pumpkin, Red Grape, Red Raspberry and Cranberry. Intelligent Nutrients products are always free from sulfates, petrochemicals, plastics, phthalates, parabens, silicone and other nasty chemicals.



This is a skincare regimen I'd really like to try. I've tried several of Intelligent Nutrients' haircare products and love, love, love them. They have that incredible earthy, herbal, organic smell to them and are wonderful treatments for gaining gorgeous, healthy hair.

Intelligent Nutrients Organic Anti-Aging Skin Care Set is on sale for $150 ($40 off the regular price) only at Spirit Beauty Lounge. To receive your discount, enter code: INAASET at checkout. The offer ends 6/27/09. Enjoy!

YSL Gloss Pur - Their Most Gorgeous Glosses Yet!



Yves Saint Laurent's newest lip gloss formula is everything needed to achieve an ultra-sophisticated, everyday look. Based on YSL's top selling Golden Gloss, Gloss Pur delivers a sparkle-free (and that's so important - who wants hard specks of materials on their lips ... blah), beautiful and glossy sheen to lips. With a fresh mango scent and eight fabulous shades, each one creates its own magic.

T-B, L-R: #1 Pure Nude, #2 Pure Rose, #3 Pure Coral, #4 Pure Raspberry,
#5 Pure Fucshia, #6 Pure Plum, #47 Pure Peach and #48 Pure Petal


YSL Gloss Pur #3 Pure Coral won 2009's Spring Makeup O-Awards (Oprah's awards); Gloss Pur #47 Pure Peach and Gloss Pur #48 Pure Petal are new shades added for summer. YSL Gloss Pur retails for $29 each. They are available via YSL online.

Thursday, June 18, 2009

REVIEW: h2pro 300 Special Edition Flat Iron




Heating up to 450°F in a matter of seconds, h2pro's 300 Special Edition beats out higher priced flat irons, transforming into a smart beauty pick in today's economy at $160. The 300 Special Edition is guaranteed to bring that much more power, shine, and frizz free styling, while removing bacteria and pollutants from the hair. What a novel idea.

The concept behind this edition of the h2pro line is to bring MORE of everything to the flat iron. A ceramic iron, it brings more smoothness, more sleekness, better frizz control and more power. It heats in seconds, is easy to use and leaves hair shiny and smooth with little effort.

Featuring Nano Hi-Tech Technology, the 300 Special Edition incorporates h2pro's advanced combination of three distinct Nano technologies: Nano Ti + Nano TiO + Nano Ag. This powerful trio instantly creates unmatched styling capabilities and health benefits, leaving your hair healthier, shiner, and more vibrant.

The advanced self adjusting plates equal more smoothness and sleekness from a styling tool like never before.
  • Nano Titanium (Ti) = enhances the ionic effect, allowing hair to absorb more moisture for superior conditioning and shine
  • Nano Titanium Oxide (TiO) = removes chemical pollutants and toxins from daily exposure
  • Nano Silver (Ag) = removes harmful or damaging bacteria from the hair



Here's my co-worker, Toni, who decided to take this for a trial run! She was surprised at how easy and effortlessly this iron worked for her, and how quickly it gave her sleek, shiny results. She says it only took minutes to straighten and get the look she wanted. All of us here can atest to how shiny her hair is even though it's not fully reflected in the photos ... she's so purty! Thanks, Toni! x

The h2pro SE 300 comes in black and pink and retails for $160 at h2pro USA. For additional information and purchasing visit h2prousa.com.


Ron Robinson: Beauty and the Beach



Check out what Ron Robinson has in store for you for beach worthy beauty and then some.

Folks are raving about COOLA suncare products. They're more than just sunscreen, though. Silky, transparent, age defying, and vitamin/antioxidant-rich, COOLA FACE ($32) is specially created to protect, hydrate and soothe delicate facial skin. Formulated with twelve certified organic extracts including Cucumber, Rose Hips, and Comfrey that, among other benefits, help to tighten skin and stimulate healthy tissue growth. Absorbs quickly, leaving a sheer matte protective finish. COOLA FACE is perfect as an everyday moisturizer.

OSEA skincare is causing some waves ... the nice, relaxing kind. Case in point, Osea's Ocean Cleanser ($44) - This gentle marine-based cleanser effectively removes dirt and impurities while hydrating and re-mineralizing the skin. Red Algae, a mineral rich variety of marine algae extremely high in microelements, proteins, vitamins, mineral salts and amino acids gentle cleanses the skin to allow greater permeability. Ocean Cleanser is free of chemical surfactants and great for easy makeup removal.

How about a nice refresher for your locks? Sachajuan Ocean Mist ($29) leave in formula delivers a beach feel. The hair gets a natural twist like after a day at the beach with sun and great waves. How to use: Use in clean, wet or dry hair.

Of course, there's much more in store for you. Check out the beauty of Apothia at Ron Robinson for more fabulous products to get you beach ready, summer kissed and stunningly beautiful!

New Sephora Inclusive Beauty Product Kits - $40 and Less!




Hey Sephora Beauty Insiders, have you seen these?

Such a great idea. Here's a beauty lover's dream come true. The opportunity to try a number of different products from different brands in nice sized minis, all included in one kit. I love it!

Sephora introduces their favorite and most-wanted products all in one boxed kits. And even better - all the kits are $40 or less. These are limited in quantity and available both online and in stores. Here's the skinny on each Sephora Favorite kit.


Lashstash Mascara Deluxe Sampler ($96 Value) - $39
- 0.1 oz Anastasia Lash Lifting Mascara- 0.1 oz Tarte Lights Camera Lashes- 0.1 oz Sephora Atomic Volume Mascara- 0.24 oz Stila Multi Effect Mascara- 0.14 oz Benefit Bad Gal Mini- 0.2 oz Bare Escentuals Buxom Lash- 0.13 oz Too Faced Mini Lash Injection Pin Point- 0.12 oz Smashbox Bionic- 0.07 oz Lancome Cils Booster- 0.085 oz DuWop Lash Venom- 0.14 oz Korres Provitamin B5 and Rice Bran Mascara.

Blink, Winks & Brows Eye Deluxe Sampler ($112 Value) - $40
- 0.02 oz Sephora Electro Liner Copper- 0.017 oz Anastasia Brow Gel- 0.095 oz Anastasia Matte Highlighter- 0.1 oz Urban Decay Primer Potion- 0.11 oz Too Faced Shadow Insurance- 1.7 oz Lancome Bi-Facil Makeup Remover- 0.25 oz Cosmedicine Opti-mologist Eye Cream- 0.005 oz Smashbox Mini Cream Eye Liner Palette- 0.14 oz Stila Mini Smudge Pot- 0.06 oz Smashbox Mini Eyeshadow Trio in Head Shot.

Get Pink'd Pink Lip Deluxe Sampler ($80 Value) - $37
- 0.34 oz Laura Geller Lip Strip- 0.1 oz DuWop Prime Venom- 0.0676 oz Korres Cherry Oil Lip Gloss in Fuschia- 0.23 oz Sephora Super Shimmer in Think Pink- 0.02 oz Stila Cherry Crush Lip and Cheek Stain- 0.1 oz Smashbox O-Gloss- 0.09 oz ck Calvin Klein Lipstick in Mesmerize- 0.26 oz Urban Decay Lipstick in Jilted- 0.17 oz ck Calvin Klein Plumping Gloss in Bloom.

Splashstash Waterproof Deluxe Sampler ($65 Value) - $36
- 0.1 oz Tarte Lights Camera Splashes- 0.169 oz Too Faced Mini Lash Injection- 0.1 oz MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua Smoky Lash- 0.85 oz MAKE UP FOR EVER Sens'Eyes Makeup Remover- 0.025 oz MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua Eyes- 0.03 oz Urban Decay 24/7 Pencil in Electric- 0.26 oz Urban Decay Big Fatty Waterproof Mascara.

Naturally Gorgeous Skincare & Make-Up Sampler ($111 Value) - $40
- 0.338 oz Korres Silicone-Free Vitamin E Face Primer- 0.0005 oz Tarte EmphasEYES in Black- 0.1 oz Tarte Lash Hugger- 0.5 oz Ole Henriksen Truth Serum- 0.08 oz Bare Escentuals 100% Natural Lip Gloss in Rose- 100 Sheets Boscia Green Tea Blotting Linens- 0.17 Skyn Iceland Icelandic Relief Eye Cream- 0.1 oz Plant Love Blush in Peony- 0.13 oz Josie Maran 100% Organic Argan Oil.

Face Quenchers Moisturizers Deluxe Sampler ($100 Value) - $37
- 0.34 oz Korres Wild Rose 24-Hour Moisturizer SPF 6- 0.5 oz Fresh Soy Face Cream- 0.5 oz Murad Perfecting Day Cream SPF 30- 0.4 oz Philosophy Hope in a Jar- 0.51 oz Bliss Best of Skintentions SPF 15- 0.33 oz Caudalie Vinoperfect Day Perfecting Cream SPF 15.

Skin Saviors Moisturizers Deluxe Sampler ($40 Value) - $24
- 1.69 oz Korres Guava Body Butter- 1 oz Philosophy When Hope Is Not Enough Body Lotion- 2.03 oz Fresh Sugar Lemon Body Lotion- 1.7 oz Bliss Blood Orange + White Pepper Body Butter- 2 oz Murad Body Firming Cream.

The Fix-It Kit Skincare Deluxe Sampler ($118 Value) - $40
- 0.19 oz Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Eye Mask- 0.5 oz Perricone MD Ceramic Skin Smoother- 0.02 oz Cosmedicine Wrinkle Write Off- 0.24 oz Kinerase Extreme Eye Lift- 0.253 oz Dr. Brandt Pores No More- 1.06 oz Clarins High Definition Body Lift.

Eau Boy Fragrance Deluxe Sampler ($80 Value) - $40
- 0.17 oz Versace Pour Homme Eau de Toilette- 0.17 oz Guerlain Homme Eau de Toilette- 0.17 oz Bvlgari AQVA Pour Homme Marine Eau de Toilette- 0.13 oz Clean Men Eau de Parfum- 0.17 oz Giorgio Armani Acqua Di Gio Pour Homme Eau de Toilette- 0.13 oz Givenchy Pi Neo Eau de Toilette- 0.24 oz Diesel Fuel For Life Pour Homme Eau de Toilette- 0.17 oz Giorgio Armani Code 5 Eau de Toilette.

Eau Girl Fragrance Deluxe Sampler ($80 Value) - $40
- 0.17 oz Dior Miss Dior Cherie Eau de Parfum- 0.17 oz Bvlgari Omnia Green Jade Eau de Toilette- 0.17 oz Versace Bright Crystal Eau de Toilette- 0.13 oz Vera Wang Princess Eau de Toilette- 0.3 oz Prada Infusion d'Iris Eau de Parfum- 0.13 oz Clean Eau de Parfum- 0.24 oz Ralph Lauren Ralph Eau de Toilette- 0.13 oz Givenchy Very Irresistable Givenchy Eau de Toilette.


For more information or to purchase any of these kits, visit Sephora.

Monday, June 15, 2009

Fun with Crazy Rumors Delicious HibisKiss Lip Balms



Two Words - Naturally Fun!

That’s what Crazy Rumors is all about. A personal care company that combines the best of both worlds. A line of products that offer the exceptional benefits of naturally derived ingredients fused with fun, fresh and unique concepts.

And so it is with Crazy Rumors delicious new colored lip balms - HibisKiss! All natural and vegan, these gourmet balms are available to six gorgeous shades. "Lei" on the moisturizing benefits of this signature lip balm with an added kiss of all natural mineral color. Top it all off with enchantingly fragrant Organic Red Hibiscus flavor and not only do you have a kiss, you have a deliciously sweetened HibisKiss. They sweeten their balms with a touch of natural stevia, so they not only look and smell amazing, they taste delicious too!

HibisKiss lip balms contain 70% organic ingredients. In addition to being high quality balms with a nice color payoff, they are super fun. Enchantingly fragrant, fruity and floral, they're loaded with moisturizing ingredients to keep your lips super hydrated and healthy looking. I've got one in my desk drawer at work, one in my handbag and another on my night stand at home. Shades in this collection include Sunset, Coral, Tropical, Pearl, Breeze and Sunrise. They retail for $6 each or get all six shades for $30 and a bonus lip balm.

Ingredients: Organic Jojoba Oil, Organic Shea Butter, Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Candelilla Wax, Soy Wax, Mica, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxide, Natural & Organic Flavors,Vitamin E, Organic Carnauba Wax & Natural Stevia & Hibiscus Flower.


Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, Brian & Edie Himmel started Crazy Rumors in their bright, sunny yellow kitchen back in 2003. It's where the idea of fusing fun themes & delicious flavoring into high quality, natural personal care products was born. Seeing how so many product lines leaned one way or the other: simple and ordinary with the same basic aromas or wild and over the top but made of purely synthetic ingredients, Crazy Rumors set out to be the best of both worlds.

With the support of family and friends, they put their senses and lips to work. After many months of late night experiments and testing, they decided they had created the world's best lip balm of its kind. Not only were everyone’s lips super soft and hydrated but their kitchen smelled amazing! Much has changed over the years including a new location, new lines and a new look and design for the products. They've also caught the attention of beauty editors having been featured in magazines like Vogue, Elle and Seventeen to name a few. Most importantly, what remains the same are their ingredients, values and beliefs.


Do what you love and love what you do, and of course do it well!


Enjoy these fun, fruity, deliciously moisturizing balms on your own pucker, or buy a bunch to keep on hand as extra little somethings to include with gifts ... and check back with Crazy Rumors regularly as they add more to their product lines. New for the summer is Fresh Squeezed gourmet citrus-inspired juicy flavored balms for the hot months ahead.

Saturday, June 13, 2009

Bliss Spa Beauty Blowout Sale


Now on at world renowned Bliss Spa, some of your favorites and mine marked down up to 50% or more. Here's a sampling of a few deals I spotted:



MBT M. Walk Silver - $159 (reg $245)
Have you been wanting to try these raved about fitness sneakers but haven't wanted to shell out the big bucks to do so? Now's your chance. The M. Walk's smart styling, buzzed-about health benefits, and gender-specific fit have earned this sneaker a fanatical following among fitness buffs and fashion-centric Suzies alike. They combine the MBT’s circulation-stimulating, posture-perfecting, balance-bettering, muscle-maximizing, head-to-toe toning 1½" pivot sole with a breathable mesh upper, a curved last (for a specifically-femme foot) and MBT’s lowest pitch and longest sensor (for maximum stability). The ‘go-to’ shoe if you want to give every muscle from the neck down a workout—whether you're sprinting, strolling or just standing around looking totally hip. Available in the silver, orange or green.

Rodial spf 18 Glamotox - $99 (reg $125)
Thinking about going under the knife? Try the less radical route with this miracle wrinkle-ridding moisturizer/sunblock combo cream. It plumps up wrinkles with Micro-Injected Spheres, encourage expression lines to relax and unwind with peptides, and (for you antioxidant groupies) boosts collagen production with pomegranate ellagic tannins. Paraben-free.

Chantecaille Bengali Palette - $58.50 (reg $117)
Save face (and an endangered species) with this all-in-one face palette. Inspired by the beauty and brawn of the Bengali tiger (check out their tribute embossed on the cheek and highlighter shades) these safari hues ‘stripe’ it rich. Each of the six blendable shades (radiant peach for cheeks, soft gold highlighter for face; jungle green, pale silver, dark brown and golden copper for eyes) is packed with real pearl for a fresh summer luster. Mirrored compact comes in bronze pouch and holds two mini cheek and eye brushes.

Yonka Fruitelia for Normal or Oily Skin - $29 (reg $62)
A lightweight, yet deeply penetrating moisturizing fluid, filled with bilberry, lemon and other fruit extracts. The 2% AHA formula promotes cell renewal by gently exfoliating lifeless cells—all without an ounce of irritation. Helps get rid of roughness, create clarity, and smooth lines and wrinkles, revealing the face of super-softness and mega moisture. With extracts of maple, sugar cane, mimosa tenuiflora, almond proteins, cereal, pansy and rice bran oils, plus UV protection. 1.7 oz

Some items reduced as low as $6. The sale encompasses skincare, bath and body, fitness, clothing, cosmetics, candles and more. For more information, visit Blissworld online. Hurry, sale ends 6/15/09.

GIVEAWAY: I.C.O.N. Airshine Brilliant Spray



I love, love, love I.C.O.N. haircare products! Their products are truly revolutionary haircare at its best. One try, and you'll fall in love with them too. Using I.C.O.N. products gives you the distinct experience of walking right out the salon from your own front door. They even smell like salon products. Yes, they're just that good!

I.C.O.N. products follow the philosophy of making a difference. They use only the purest ingredients, locked inside the highest quality formulations to deliver exactly what’s needed, when needed.

They push the envelope in the industry, reaching for influences that will truly affect change. Using anti-agers, anti-oxidants, acai berry, the A.C.E. of vitamins, phytoestrogens and other technological advancements to advance the cause of beauty, all their products are vegan, paraffin free, environmentally friendly and biodegradable. They use recyclable packaging and products are never tested on animals (well, unless you consider humans are animals - ha).

__________________________________________

Up for grabs, from the brilliantly outfitted Planet Beauty, your chance to win a gorgeous bottle of I.C.O.N. Brilliant Shine Spray. Proving that it is possible to create style without any hold factors at all. Sometimes all that’s really needed is mind-blowing shine. Every burst of this dry air delivers brilliance as well as protection. It’s completely weightless and provides antioxidant protection as well as thermal protection. It’s perfect when you want style that’s lighter than air with shine.
  • Delivers nutrients, antioxidant protection and brilliant surface shine
  • Protects hair from environmental damage
  • Adds needed thermal protection
  • Polishes and illuminates today’s modern women and men


To enter, simply fill in the little form below. Open to residents of the USA only (due to nature of container can ship to USA only, more giveaways for my int'l friends coming soon ...x).




NOTE: One (1) winner will be chosen at random to receive this prize. Duplicate and incomplete entries will be disqualified. Some restrictions may apply. Entries will be accepted through 11:55 pm on Sun., 6/28/09.

You can find I.C.O.N. haircare products at Planet Beauty, a beauty lover's heaven. If you've not tried I.C.O.N. haircare yet, I highly recommend their DRENCH Moisture Shampoo. It is absolutely fantastic, a completely pleasurable experience from start to finish. For more information on ftlob's experience with I.C.O.N. products, click here.

Redken Fashion Insider - Fashion Week Sweepstakes



Every spring and fall, designers showcase their latest collections for an invite-only crowd packed with celebrities, editors and buyers for the chicest stores. Backstage, top Redken stylists are busy creating the perfect hairstyles to complement the clothing. You can win the chance to go behind the scenes and broadcast your experience!

Want to experience the excitement of New York Fashion Week? Enter Redken's Fashion Insider contest today! You'll get to blog about your experience on Redken.com.

What You’ll Win:
  • 6-days/5-nights for two in New York City in September 2009
  • A backstage pass to the hottest shows at Fashion Week
  • $1,000 spending money


Click HERE to learn more and enter!

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

REVIEW: Diana B. Green Tea Desert Grapefruit Sugar Scrub



Mmmm ... the fresh, juicy decadence of Diana B. Sugar Scrubs

Imagine being able to mix and create textures to bathe with, as you would combine fragrances to personalize them. Sugar Scrub with a little Bath Gel for more slip and bubbles. Body Lotion and Sugar Scrub to shave. Add a scoop of scrub to soften and sweeten the bath water when you don’t feel like scrubbing. Straight scrub on pure wet skin for optimal effect followed by drying off and putting on lotion with a fabulous candle lit in the bathroom and nearby bedroom to scent your environment while you play with your products, refine your skin, tone and hydrate your skin and feel and smell wonderful. No rules, totally safe interchangeable products use fragrances all created to enliven your daily routine with playful intuitive choices that delight the senses and lift your spirits. That's what Diana B. gives you through her gorgeous, luxurious products.


Diana B. sugar scrubs are all natural, totally oil free, wax free, chemical free and are safe for the most sensitive skin.



Green Tea Desert Grapefruit contains powerful antioxidant Green Tea essence that helps to fight against free radical damage that ages skin prematurely. This formula contains sugar and salt with cane sugar syrup. Soothing Grapefruit essence helps to heal surface impurities with its high concentration of Vitamin C, also creating balanced PH for your skin.



REVIEW: More than twice the size of the average sugar scrub on the market, you'll want a jar of this scrumptious Diana B. Sugar Scrub in your bathroom for these hot summer months. I'm completely in love with her Green Tea Desert Grapefruit variety. Gentle on skin, light and refined in scent with an air of fresh green notes and juicy grapefruit, one can't help but be hooked on this scrub after just one use. Skin emerges from the bath smooth, hydrated, glowing and very lightly fragranced. Oh my gosh, this scrub is so lovely. It's a wonderful exfoliant to use before applying self-tanning products. (She also makes an award winning self-tanner - and it's fabulous.) The fact that it's oil free allows us to use this delight in the shower and tub without the aggravation of having to clean out a residue. There's nothing to clean up. Don't let the fact that it contains no oil fool you into thinking it's a dry scrub, though, as this is a juicy (not just moist) scrub in every sense. The sophisticated citrusy-green tea scent enlivens the whole room without being too sweet and definitely not over-powering. It's really more of a fresh, leafy scent than a sweet citrus scent. Yet the experience of ripe, juicy grapefruit is definitely present. This is a fragrance even the most particular of noses will enjoy. As the jar is so big, this will last you forever. It's definitely more than a three month supply. Diana B. Sugar Scrubs come in these inspired scents: Green Tea Desert Grapefruit, Maple Sugar Lychee Nut, Peach Frangipani Flower, Black Fig and Chocolate.



Diana B. products are available through a number of fine beauty boutiques, including b-glowing, one of my favorites (as you know). At b-glowing you'll always experience fantastic customer service, fast shipment, knowledgeable assistance with any questions you may have about their products, and delightful complimentary goodies with each purchase. They're just wonderful! x



Tuesday, June 9, 2009

REVIEW: April Rain Night Rainew



HydroPeptide is the age-defying breakthrough behind April Rain skincare. Their select blend of powerful age-fighting peptides and neuropeptides found in HydroPeptide defends against all facets of skin aging and sets a new standard in anti-aging skin care. Containing the highest degree of effective age-defying peptides and intelligent time-released hydration that deeply hydrate cells, plumping them for a more lifted appearance, and relaxing wrinkle-causing facial expressions. Thus is the claim of April Rain Skin Science.


This is a decadently rich, creamy moisturizing treatment that is a dream to apply. With its light, fresh scent and silky feel on skin, it's one of those products that you can't wait to get home to use. It comes packaged in a sweet jar reminiscent of a drop of pure rain water. Upon application, skin is instantly hydrated, fresh and more youthful in appearance. The moisturization continues as you sleep, providing for renewal and rejuvenation of facial skin. You awake to a bright, healthy complextion. Not bad, huh.


Here's what's behind it. The select blend of powerful age-fighting peptides and neuropeptides found in HydroPeptide® defend against all facets of skin aging and sets a new standard in anti-aging skin care. It's patent-pending isolates have been clinically proven to:


Boost Collagen
Stabilize Collagen
Protect Collagen
Relax Wrinkle Causing Facial Contractions


Exclusive HydroPeptide® with intelligent time-released hydration contains the highest degree of effective age-defying peptides that deeply hydrate cells, plumping them for a more lifted appearance, and relaxing wrinkle causing facial expressions. The multi-dimensional formula maximizes hydration, rebuilds collagen, reduces wrinkles and fine lines, shrinks pore size and noticeably firms and lifts skin.


21 hydrating elements impart penetrating, long-lasting moisture for refreshed skin that is healthy and younger-looking. 100% organic Echinacea extract, eco-cultivated in the Swiss Alps, heals damaged skin, prevents collagen breakdown, and retains renewing moisture for improved firmness, elasticity, and lift. 100% organic Buddleja extract, an ancient Chinese skin-healing remedy, neutralizes dangerous free radicals, protects and repairs skin cell DNA that has suffered from environmental stressors, and offers lasting skin renewal and radiance.


Dermatologist Vivian Bucay, MD serves as April Rain Skin Science’s Guiding Dermatologist. Dr. Bucay is nationally recognized for her expertise in minimally invasive facial rejuvenation through the combined use of Botox®, injectable dermal fillers, and laser skin resurfacing. Her extensive knowledge in cosmeceutical ingredients, how they function within the skin, and her strong background in chemistry is what led April Rain® to her and makes her such a valuable asset to the team. Here's what Dr. Bucay has to say about Night Rainew, "As a dermatologist with a strong background in chemistry, the Night Rainew formulation makes scientific sense. The combination and quantities of innovative and effective antioxidants and peptides present in this rich and hydrating cream promote the production of collagen and reduce the damage done by free radicals, resulting in a smoother, firmer and more even-toned complexion."


Water. It turns out water, more specifically pure water, is one of the driving forces behind CEO and creator April Zangl's founding of April Rain Skin Science and the whole line of products. It's an interesting story involving her partnering with with Beauty For Pure Water to help bring clean, safe drinking water to less fortunate nations by drilling wells in needy communities among other things. Her other passion and motivation? April wants to create skincare that promotes beauty both inside and out, to create healthier, more advanced, multifaceted products making life easier, results faster and more apparent.


Read more about April Rain Skin Science and take a look at the clinicals behind Night Rainew's gorgeous cream. Night Rainew retails for $129 a jar and is available at their store online.


Bobbi Brown Summer Shopping Event!



Happy Summer!

Get 25% Off on your entire purchase at Bobbi Brown during this limited-time event. Select from a fabulous array of Bobbi Brown cosmetics, skin care and beauty products from the top brand on the market. The proceeds from your purchases will help support Bobbi Brown's donation of $10,000 for Dress for Success.

A little Bobbi eye candy for you ... is it no wonder Bobbi Brown is a favorite among beauty afficionados, makeup artists and celebs ...

Free standard shipping with $60 order automatically applied at checkout. Bobbi's summer shopping event is only going on thru Thurs., 6/11/09 so hurry to take advantage!

Click link and enter code: SUMMER1 at checkout

Monday, June 8, 2009

For the Love of ... bathing


L-R: soap, lotion, scrub, milk bath

Great name for a beauty brand, don't ya think? No, no ... it's not mine.

For the Love of ... is, however, an organic luxury bath and body product company located in Washington DC. The products are organic, mainly vegan and handcrafted by Kristina Libby. Kristina has an interesting story in that she left the corporate world to devote herself to her passion of creating organic beauty products for men and women. Recently featured in Daily Candy, the company is taking off big!

The company has a triple bottom line mission. Their goal is to make a great product and service while also having minimal environmental impact and an aggressive social mission. Libby says all their products contain only organic ingredients and meet the standards for organic certification. The products are also all packaged in recycled and reusable containers. Even their labels are created using a mass printing process which ensures minimal environmental waste.

They have taken the company a step further in this commitment and donate 5% of profits to charitable causes. The corporate goal is that by the year 2011, they will be able to donate 10% of revenue to causes of their choice. The causes are chosen because they do one of three things—they support women in micro-credit operations, they support women in the arts or they support community farming.

The product line features:

Homemade Soaps - When you’re seeking a quiet reprieve from a stressful day, turn to their Almond Goatsmilk Soap, a nourishing rich lather whose products hail from an organic farm in Vassleboro, Maine. Wild, fresh and fancy-free. For a more sensuous scent option, choose their Black Amber Honey soap. ($8.00 each)

Body Lotion - Slather on their nourishing organic body lotion. Lightly scented with blueberries and oranges, the lotion conjures up memories of your favorite summer-time retreats. The lotion is an incredibly moist product with a density much like your average cold cream. ($30)

Body Scrubs - Savor the sweet smell of their bestselling body scrubs. All of the scrubs use an organic olive oil, ground oatmeal and brown sugar base, ensuring that they are non-irritating on even the most sensitive skin. Scents: Summer Orange Blossom and Vanilla Almond ($20 each)

Milk Baths - Soothe your skin with a luxurious combination of almond flower, creamy white rose and nourishing oatmeal. This mixture is perfect for those suffering from dry, itchy skin. Pour a generous handful under warm running water. Sit back, relax and enjoy. After all, you deserve it. ($20)

For more information, please visit For the Love of ....

Huge Lips Skinny Hips Now at B-Glowing!



Calling all lipgloss afficionados! This is one you simply must try. The wildly popular lip plumping gloss that curbs your appetite. The ultimate weapon for any cocktail party (or just hanging in the office). It shines, it softens and doesn't stick to your hair in the wind.

Huge Lips Skinny Hips is the answer to every girl's beauty dream - sophisticated lip color, plumping performance and a natural way to curb those cravings with the infusion of Hoodia, extract from a cactus-like plant that has been used in South Africa for centuries for its appetite suppressing qualities. "The appetite really lives between the ears," says Karen, the Creatrix behind the brand (love her, by the way!), "not in your stomach. This gloss always helps me stay mindful of what I'm eating and how and that is the purpose!"


•Paraben-free
•Appetite suppressant
•Plumps lips instantly after application
•Long-lasting formulation
•Increases appearance of lip volume and contour for a sexy pout
•Diminishes the appearance of unattractive lip wrinkles
•Both immediate and long term benefits
•Non-drying formulation keeps lips feeling smooth and hydrated


Yes, yes, I know. I've already shared my love for this gloss in a previous post. I just couldn't help letting all my girls know you can now find it at b-glowing. I tell you, this is my must-have gloss! Since trying it, I've purchased three more. I've got one in my handbag, one in my makeup bag at home and one in my desk drawer, all different shades. It's a gorgeous gloss and is absolutely delicious on the lips.

Huge Lips Skinny Hips comes in five shades plus a clear gloss (six in all) and each retails for $20. Get yours through b-glowing and enjoy fantastic customer service, lovely complimentary samples and goodies (with every order), and check here for any other deals they may have going on right now. Enjoy... xo

Saturday, June 6, 2009

'Tis the Season ... Stunning Wedding Cakes


Ana's Custom Cakes

Wedding cakes come in all shapes, sizes and styles these days. Here's a tribute to those who express their artistic creativity in such an extraordinary manner ... creating edible works of art, a true celebration of the senses, for your special day. I'm so in awe of these artists I could literally devote a whole blog to just this one subject. The sugary confection, the visual aesthetic, the taste of these marvels in all their infinite varieties, the combination of talents needed to pull off this exquisite venture ... whew... it's mindblowing. But I should let the artitsts, or is it bakers, speak for themselves.

Ana Parzych's cakes stood for me among the others. The cake above was featured at the Waldorf-Astoria. Edible iridescent orchid pink pearl dust and a hand-piped floral design give this cake its unique beauty. The tiers feature Tahitian vanilla cake with strawberry, white chocolate, and lemon mousseline and dark chocolate cake with espresso, bittersweet chocolate, and hazelnut mousseline. 108 Elm Street, Cheshire, CT 06410. 203-439-7979, anascustomcakes



I've just got to show you some others from Ana's Custom Cakes ... simply gorgeous.

Inspired by a Badgley Mischka Couture wedding gown, this four-tier cake from Ana's Custom Cakes was embellished with fondant lace appliques, and hundreds of edible pearls. Details of the lace were highlighted with piping, which was also used to create the monogram. The cake was completed with a bouquet of sugar roses and berries.

Matt Lewis of Matty Cakes Bakery created this frosted feat of alternative angles known as the Topsy Turvy Cake. Four tiers defy gravity while displaying intricate surface sugar designs and fluffy frosting detailing. 1830 Piedmont Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30324. 404-917-2253, mattycakes.com




Colette Peters, who earned her bachelor's degree in painting and worked as a designer for Tiffany & Co., started Colette's Cakes in 1989. Her artistic background is evident in this whimsical nod to Tim Burton's haunting classic animated film, The Nightmare Before Christmas (cake shown in middle above). 681 Washington Street, New York, NY 10014. 212-366-6530, colettescakes.com



Having apprenticed in the West Village for New York master cake designer Colette Peters (featured just above), Amy Beck has come to Chicago bringing her own custom event cakes. In homage to the hydrangeas, cabbage roses, and calla lilies the bride chose for her wedding decor, Amy of Amy Beck Cake Designs re-created the blooms out of sugar, as well as an intricate system of sugar branches to anchor them. 2231 N. Clybourn Avenue, Chicago, IL 60614. 312-545-3655, amybeckcakedesign.com



Executive Pastry Chef and Owner Mike McCarey of Mike's Amazing Cakes created this Clocktower Wedding Cake (middle image): The bride and groom were musicians who met in London and moved there after the wedding. They wanted the cake to display their love of music and the city where they met. 4134 148th Avenue NE, Redmond, WA 98052. 425-869-2992, mikesamazingcakes.com



As a natural extension of the season's beauty, Dianne Rockwell, the Cake Lady, creates a bevy of cakes for your occasion. The edible displays of splendor feature handmade sugar paste leaves, flowers, scroll work, lace and more. The Fairy Tale cake (shown middle), gilded swirls become the perfect backdrop for a rich bouquet of sugar blooms- orchids, roses, hydrangeas, forget-me-knots, and ivy- created petal by petal in sugar paste. 239 Sterling Road, Lancaster, MA 01523. 978-365-5092, wwwisp.com/cakelady



Former dancer Ron Ben-Israel fell in love with a chocolate maker while on tour in Canada and traded in his ballet slippers for a whisk and a spatula. Now that's love! Called "the wedding cake master" by Zagat, after years of study in France he calls New York his home (an ample creative stage, oui), and his culinary mastery has become legendary the world over. The stunning peacock cake (center) features five stacked tiers of vanilla and chocolate cake with floral separators of sugar flowers that include deep coral peonies and white cherry blossoms. The sugar peacock perched on the top tier was inspired by the motif of the wedding reception.42 Greene Street, New York, NY 10013. 212-625-3369, weddingcakes.com

Rick Reichart, who co-owns cakelava with his wife, Sasha, designed this colorful sculpted-pillow wedding cake with handcrafted accent pieces for a yoga instructor's tropical wedding. To tie in the Hawaiian component, the bride chose guava and mango flavors for her cake.35 Kainehe Street, Suite 107-108, Kailua, HI 96734. 808-263-2868, cakelava.com



Ace of Cakes star Duff Goldman of Charm City Cakes is not known for his conventional take on the almighty cake. His confectionery creations display the wild imaginings of a pastry rebel, though this retro example (center image) shows he also has a soft side. Baltimore, MD. 410-235-9229, charmcitycakes.com

source: delish.com

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