Showing posts with label beauty. Show all posts
Showing posts with label beauty. Show all posts

Friday, March 24, 2023

Do you like rooting for the underdog? Here's your chance! #SephoraSquad2023

Am I a glutton for punishment or just the most persistent blogger on the planet?


 

Do you remember Elmyra Duff from Tiny Toon Adventures and its successor show, Animaniacs? She would chase kittens and say "I'm gonna hug you and kiss you and love you forever. I love cats I love kitties, squeeze them into itty bittys!" - You have to admit that Elmyra was cough *persistent*. That is how I am feeling going into another year of applying for Sephora Squad.

During College one of my many part time jobs was selling Classified Ads for a local paper. Sales in general help you develop a tough skin. You learn to let rejection roll off your back and take it in stride. I am sure you remember I tried in 2022, here is the link to my post: https://www.ascendingbutterfly.com/2022/03/the-impact-of-beauty-in-digital-age.html

Why I feel 2023 is *my year*

馃 Sometimes doing something different just pulls you right back into what you love doing. 

I started off as a print journalist, a human interest reporter to be exact. Eventually a pro film critic. Then it was lifestyle pieces for magazines, and then a television newswriter. I came into blogging 'backwards' - most people start here hoping to propel into mainstream media. All this time during the pandemic I haven't been writing on these pages as often because I was in back to back Post Graduate study programs. I already have my Bachelors of Arts in Mass Media Communications, and used these programs as a tool to figure out whether or not to pursue a Masters. These programs, both run vastly different, one by eCornell and the other the Milestone Circles program sponsored by NASDAQ both had me tap into various sides of myself. Both prepared me to dive harder into my serial entrepreneurial pursuits.

馃 Connections.

Both programs created a sisterhood during the cohorts of women Entrepreneurs in different stages of their journeys. Those connections very much lit a spark within me in many ways. But the one thing that both my studies and connecting with other Entrepreneurs had in common was that they motivated me to want to re-engage with my own community more.

馃 Women Led/Women Owned/Women Founded

The beauty industry is often women led brands. It is the place where women create that seat at the table for themselves and other women. It dovetails perfectly with all I have learned during my multi year deep dive into the challenges of being a Woman Entrepreneur. When I started Ascending Butterfly in 2008 I was already a ghost writer for brand social media pages and a contributing writer to an award winning brand blog. So when I started my own digital space I knew it was important to me to work with women-led brands, entrepreneurs of color and brands that focus on giving to charitable causes.

馃Ambassadorships

The nature of brand Ambassadorships have morphed quite a bit throughout the years, but it still my remains my favorite ways to work with brands. It gives me an inside view of a brand and deepens my relationships with them. I love that they often come with the opportunities to host giveaways, offer exclusive discount codes and many times there are headquarters visits which I always find exciting! What delights me about the chance to work with Sephora is that they carry such a wide variety of products - they literally have something for everyone. I was smart enough at the onset of my blog to know that it needed to match my personality - I never wanted to be 'niched'. If someone had to put me in a box I only allowed it to be *lifestyle* or *empowerment* not a specific type of industry or product. For most that would prove a challenge, but for me (and maybe that is the Aries in me) I loved the opportunity to breeze in and out of topics and let them be as varied as my interests. As you may know I started a new Ambassadorship this year with Pure Encapsulations. For me health and beauty start from within, and working with Pure has made me even more selective with what I put in my body.
 
馃So much to say!
 
Truth be told while my nose was in the books, I had so much to say. But I knew myself enough to know that to succeed as a student again I needed to focus. I knew just how easily events, a plethora of products and developing new interests could become a distraction if I took every thought to my blog. Now that my studying is over, I can dive back into my community, with a renewed sense of purpose and energy and I can get back to writing/blogging and photography again. 
 
馃 JOY!
 
Learning really sparks joy in me. One of the things about this Ambassadorship that delights me is getting access to learning opportunities from the best and brightest in the industry. My love of beauty was born from the joy of alchemy. From making my own signature lipstick color because what was on the market at the time didn't suit me, to making my own signature fragrance and even mixing products to get a concealer and foundation that is a match for my skin tone (all this as a teen) has made me realize I am still very much excited by the beauty industry and there is still so much to learn. 
 
馃 Where you come in: 
 
I am going to need testimonials to move to the next round and then votes when I get there! Here is the link to provide your testimonial: https://www.sephorasquad.com/leave_testimonial/114319
 
Just for clarity - they want to hear what about my blog or my social feeds resonate with you. So men you too can leave a testimonial, this is not just how I inspire people when it comes to makeup, skincare and hair care but in general.
 
馃 Readers Sound Off: How does the Ascending Butterfly community inspire you?
 
While I have always had my hesitations when it comes to voting contests (they end up feeling more like a popularity contest to me) I do love a challenge and I know this year I am very much up for new challenges personally and professionally! 
 
So right now, I am a just a blogger, standing in front of a brand, asking them to include her. (If you picked up the Notting Hill vibes I put down, you really are my people!)

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post. All opinions are 100% my own! I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. 

If you like this article treat me to a coffee, a caffeinated writer is a happy writer! 

paypal.me/TracyIglesias or https://cash.app/$ascendingbutterfly or Venmo: Ascending1

Tuesday, March 15, 2022

The impact of Beauty in the Digital Age! Something I hope to spend more time this year exploring, I applied for #SephoraSquad 2022!

I did the thing! I applied for the 2022 #SephoraSquad I have always believed that beauty is a balance of mind, body and soul. There is more to beauty than curated images of perfection. There was a brief essay question that I thought would be fun to share with you so I could hear your answers to this question as well.




Essay Question: What Got You Into Makeup?

What got me into 'makeup' was actually *NOT* finding what I wanted off the shelf. Back in the good old days there weren't shelves full of concealer or foundation that matched my skin tone. I couldn't find the perfect shade of red lipstick, so I made that too by mixing shades from different brands I liked. And I also couldn't find a signature fragrance match as a teen (there were few places to create customized scents then) and I would also play alchemist and mix it myself. When I got asked what shade of lipstick I was wearing or what scent I was wearing I knew I did it right and it felt like the ultimate validation of my efforts.

That validation would be repeated in my blogging life when I would hit events or tradeshows and makeup artists would tell me they didn't want to change my lip color - even though that was the point for me to wear that shade the brand was selling and have it appear in my post event recaps.

Sephora has posed an interesting challenge to my readers, they would love a testimonial from you!

You can leave a testimonial in support of my application here: https://www.sephorasquad.com/leave_testimonial/94197

As the world slowly begins to open up again I want to do more than just 'basic self care'. Not to mention Zoom conferences taught us all that a little makeup never hurts! Help support my efforts to bring you my take on hot products and #beauty trends!

Share with me, what got you into makeup?

(and if you left a testimonial thank you in advance!)

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FTC Disclosure: No monetary compensation has been received. This is NOT a sponsored post. All opinions are 100% my own! I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Wednesday, October 18, 2017

{#WordlessWednesday} #TrickorTreat #pumpkinspice #Polyvore #FashionablyNaughty #ContestEntry

#TrickorTreat #pumpkinspice #Polyvore #FashionablyNaughty


Featuring:


It's been a seriously long time since I have had a moment to get on Polyvore, get inspired, and make some boards, their recent #PumpkinSpice Challenge caught my eye and I thought I would give it my New York City Gal Leather Loving edge with a leather jacket, statement boots with orange patent leather accents and what is a butterfly post without a statement handbag right? Check out this hot number by Givenchy. (And yes butterflies, I know our Featured Handbag in the Spotlight Feature is MIA, I am working on returning that much beloved Feature as soon as possible).

Those all Vamp Halloween Nails are literally EVERYTHING!

This all treats no tricks butterfly style.

GIVEAWAY ALERT: To add to our 'treat' theme, don't forget that today is the LAST DAY to enter our hot flash giveaway for a 24 count box of Assorted Chocolate Truffles from Elements Truffles. These are Ayurveda inspired, junk free and even dairy free and I can assure you they are flavorful, delicious and do taste 'decadent'! If you haven't already entered, enter HERE! If you have already entered, don't forget to share via your social media channels for extra credit entries. (Our last contest winner, selected by randomizer won from her twitter entry! I keep telling you all it pays to tweet!)

I have an event packed day so our Women's Entrepreneur Series will return next Wednesday, and come back tomorrow for some #TechTalk you are not going to want to miss.

What are YOUR Halloween Plans?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored or compensated post. Polyvore Boards let you link to the brands pictured, the links are NOT affiliate either. The giveaway we are currently hosting that is referenced in this article is sponsored by Elements Truffles, all opinions are 100% my own! Personally I think every brand mentioned should be paying me big bucks. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Monday, July 24, 2017

#OnTheBlog @Influenster @Smashbox Cover Shot Eye Palette and Be Legendary Liquid Lip + my #RevitaliftChallenge #MailMondays

Disclosure: I received all products at no cost to me as a member of Influenster.

How has summer been treating you so far my butterflies? - what can I say, I have been so busy living my life that it's left me with less time than usual to blog about it. A very good problem to have.

I am a long standing member of Influenster, and normally get to dive into my Influenster 'Vox Box', the moment they arrive, but these last two were a bit different.

The first one literally got lost in the mail, but luckily I have a great Mail Carrier and was able to enlist his help, the box was beat up, but thankfully the contents weren't destroyed and finally arrived safely, sadly quite a bit after deadline. While you all know I am diametrically opposed to doing free work on my blog and then be given a deadline to boot, I do try my best to keep campaign goals in mind, especially for Influenster as they have always been really good to me!

The second box required a 14 day testing period, so I am coming at you with TWO Influenster boxes today instead of one.

The first contained Smashbox Cover Shot Eye Palette (Metallics) and Be Legendary Liquid Lip (Crimson) and the second contained L'Oreal's Revitalift Triple Power Deep Acting Moisturizer. They are combined below:


























MY TAKE:

So here is the scoop:

I have to start with the lippie, This liquid lip formula glides on with the full coverage of a lipstick and the high shine of a gloss in a single coat. If you are a long time reader you know that I wear red or a variation of it DAILY but I normally customize it myself - it is a mix of two lipsticks and a particular gloss (Duwop's Lip Venom) which I enjoy taking time with to get the blend that compliments my Latina skin tone. The Be Legendary Liquid Lip is what I would consider the 'night' version of my custom lip blend as it's more high gloss with a unique sheen that is perfect! While I wear reds, wines or crimson daily it might be too strong a color choice for most by day, but it gives me the look that I spend a lot of time customizing myself right out the tube, so SCORE! YES! YAS! and PERK! (Note: If you read the reviews, many find this too sticky - they are going for a very high gloss look with this one, it is not a full on lipstick nor is it a matte). If this lipgloss were a person, she would be vampy, very life of the party, heads will turn. This lipgloss is a 'boss b*tch' and she is leaving the party with a purse full of digits, just saying.

The Smashbox Cover Eye Palette quickly became a fave for the unique optical illusion which doesn't photograph well, maybe I should have done a quick video so you can see it, but you stay for the adaptable colors and thankfully their site offers some daytime vs night time looks created with the very same palette I received. I wish I would have gotten it in 'Smoky' because I have gotten way better at a smoky eye, but the metallic grey in the palette I received is worth the price of admission as far as I'm concerned. I also greatly appreciate the size of this palette as a travel lover, this eye palette is perfectly portable - not too big, not too small.

We are no stranger to Smashbox on Ascending Butterfly, I am a big fan, their products are always perfectly pigmented, I get great wear and they rarely ever 'melt off' - girls you know what I mean, the struggle is real, especially right now in summer, especially if your skin type leans toward oily.

Skincare: The L'Oreal Revitalift Challenge was a fun one, this moisturizer definitely lives up to it's name, it is called "Triple Hydration" and it certainly delivered. It is thick, so a LITTLE goes a long way. You are getting great value with this moisturizer because you really don't need to use much per application. I was reading up on the reviews on this and I did like some of the ideas that for those who found this too thick they used it as a night cream instead of by day and that is what made most sense to me as I already have BB Creams or light foundations with SPF I use by day (or often use Mineral Makeup Foundation) so I don't want a day cream that is going to fight with the skin care and makeup routine I already use. I also thought the reviewer that mentioned that she not only used it at night instead of by day, but also waited at least fifteen minutes before letting her head touch the pillow also made sense.

There is a good reason why I have been with Influenster so long (I think they actually pre-date my blogging), their boxes always contain quality products and their site is full of honest reviews from folks from all walks of life, and to answer that million dollar question, Influenster "Vox Boxes" are NOT just for bloggers, you can NOT be a blogger and still sign up for Influenster and get boxes, I was before I started blogging and after all these years still get that same 'kid at Christmas' time rush when a signature Influenster Box shows up at my door.

Influenster is also a community, so you can ask questions on their forums which is helpful, and I can tell you the reviews are brutally honest, no one holds back, and it gives you great buying guidance, which I hope I am also doing for you!

Just remember, you don't get every box program they offer, and you can go a long period with a dry spell where you don't qualify for a campaign. I want to say it's 'nothing personal' but to a degree it is, the brand is looking for a particular demographic and Influenster then vets their database against a client's criteria. Some demographics are based on age, so you aren't going to get a "College Vox Box" if you are well past College age. I know, many adults are in College too, but those boxes usually have a specific age range in mind.

And then when you least expect it, you qualify for three campaigns back to back like I did this summer, I have another box I am dying to tell you about! But this one is in it's own category and definitely needs its own day in the sun.

My best way to give you an idea of how much I like a product, would I re-buy them all if they weren't 'gifted'? Yes I would. But I put 'gifted' in quotes because product reviews are HARD work, they are time consuming and can sometimes feel very much like a labor of love. When you work with a brand like Influenster that takes time to get to know your preferences and what you are jazzed about it makes things a whole lot easier. And when a box knocks it out out the park, even better!

Remember Influenster is not a subscription service, you can't "BUY" an Influenster Box, you have to 'earn' them by filling out an accurate profile and following the campaign guidelines.

So tell me butterflies how are you keeping your skin hydrated this summer and what makeup is part of your summer routine?

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FTC Disclosure: Products were sent to Ascending Butterfly at no cost as a member of the Influenster Network, and all opinions are 100% my own!  This is NOT a compensated post. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Monday, August 22, 2016

In the Mail Monday: Check out the Goodies inside my @InfluensterVox #BonitaVoxBox #Health #Beauty #Lifestyle #spon

Disclosure: Influenster Vox has provided products for Editorial Consideration free of charge. All opinions however are exclusively my own.

InfluensterVox,  #BonitaVoxBox
Nothing better than an 'In The Mail Monday' when it's a box overflowing with health and beauty goodness!
 
I have to admit two of the items are regular favorites of mine that I purchase regularly, so lets start there!
 
Dickinson's Enhanced Witch Hazel Alcohol-Free Hydrating Toner - On the label it mentions that this product is 'Self Approved' but I think its a way higher honor, that it's 'great-grandma approved'! My Great Grandma loved this Witch Hazel and now I use it regularly too! This newest formulation has hyaluronic acid and Vitamin E to help Hydrate your skin in addition to removing impurities, reducing pore size and leaving skin fresh and clean without tightness. I have always found it scary that even after washing my face or using a makeup remover how much stuff shows on a cottonball after I use this toner! And I also say they get kudos for giving a FULL size sample in the Vox Box!
 
Fiber One Chocolate Fudge Brownie - I got to sample these awhile ago and it was love at first bite! I keep these regularly stocked in my pantry so I was happy to see a sample pack included in my Influenster #BonitaVoxBox I had no idea there was an ice cream with this flavor but I will be on the lookout for it during my next shopping trip. If you haven't tried these yet, give them a go! They are perfect to stash in your desk, car and purse to always have one handy in case of a sweet tooth snack attack!
 
Revlon Ultra HD Matte Lip Color + Super Lustrous Lipstick - This was on a piece of paper, much like a magazine tester and I have never once tried lipstick this way before. I think Revlon could have sprung for putting in a full size sample of each color. Not even going to link to them, why should I do the work for a piece of paper? Sorry guys but this was a 'fail' in my book. I am not game for swiping cardboard across my lips.
 
Sinful Colors Nail Polish - I recieved a Limited Edition Porcelain Matte in a color called We're All Matte Here from Kylie Jenner's Sinful Colors Nail Collection. It didn't really photograph true to color for some reason, it's a 'coral/pink' with great pigment, it's not a muted of soft pink, it's got body and I really like it! And again, Kudos for Full Size Product! (ahem Revlon!) I have been really wanting to try her lipsticks and this definitely makes me want to give them a go! You know I am all about a signature red lip so I am going to check out her reds and report back to you once I've tried them! Sorry, no mani shot with this one yet, but I will post once my nails are 'photo ready' (trust when I tell you that you really don't want to see them right now!)
 
Madam CJ. Walker Beauty Culture Dream Come True Wonderful Deep Conditioning Mask - I wish they would have put full size product in the Vox Box (I have super long hair right now so I hope the packet will cover it - not to mention trying to rip open foil packets in the shower always proves to be quite the challenge doesn't it?), but props for also including their Dream Come True Wonderful Pre-Wash Protein Treatment.

My Take:

'Bonita' is the Spanish Word for 'Pretty' - I love that Influenster named this the 'Bonita' Vox Box! I already love Dickinson's Witch Hazel so I loved getting to try their newest 'hydrating' formulation. Fiber One already has a permanent home in my pantry but I would like to branch out and try a few other flavors as well as their ice cream. This introduction to Sinful Colors will definitely have me checking out other colors in the line and I also want to check out Kylie's lip kits which I hope are as nicely pigmented as the nail colors are! (If any of you have tried them already, let me know what you think!)
 
Readers Sound Off: Which Product in the Influenster #BonitaVoxBox would you most like to try and why?

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FTC Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed herein are 100% my own and do not reflect those of Influenster or it's sponsor brands. Ascending Butterfly partners with brands that would be of interest and offer values to our readers. See our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for full information.

Monday, December 7, 2015

{#Giveaway} It is @Neutrogena Rainbath's 45th Anniversary/Birthday but YOU get the presents! #Ad

NEUTROGENA® Rainbath Giveaway

Sponsored Giveaway, brought to you by Neutrogena!
NEUTROGENA庐 Rainbath Giveaway via Ascending Butterfly
Neutrogena's Rainbath is turning 45, although she doesn't look a day over 18 if you ask me!

I 'discovered' Neutrogena in my teens. I saw an ad that said that using Neutrogena's Shampoo is a good way to make your regular brand more effective by alternating between it & the Neutrogena anti-residue shampoo.

That began a period of me trying out tons of products in the line, with their Oil-Free Acne Wash, Rainbath refreshing shower and bath gel and their original light sesame body oil becoming my top three favorites from their line!

Now that I am blogging and get to try out tons of skincare and beauty products in a wide variety of price points, it is still Neutrogena I go back to. When I finish a system I am testing out, I let my skin 'breathe' again before starting on a new system to review by using Neutrogena for a week before I go testing something new.

It slays me to re-visit old posts, especially previous work for the same brand, and this review post of mine for Neutrogena's Rapid Wrinkle Repair (in conjunction with Allure Magazine and their Beauty Enthusiast's program) still cracks me up, check it out HERE (it outlines me and my eternal struggle with RBF, if you suffer from RBF too, can I get a 'what-what'!?) Another review I enjoyed re-reading that I did for Neutrogena can be found HERE. And a post for them that is near and dear to my heart as it's a rare glimpse into me and how I got into writing, HERE.

My mom taught me the importance of NEVER going to bed with makeup on, and on those nights when I come in and just straight up want to hit my bed hard, I always keep a pack of makeup remover in my nightstand, I love keeping these at the ready. I keep some in my purse too. This way between day and night events I can change makeup or after the gym (although in all fairness I try not to wear makeup when I am headed to the gym).
Rainbath is enjoying a 45th Anniversary/Birthday and what better way to celebrate a special occasion, than with presents?
I certainly love a good prezzie, particularly around holiday time! Our friends at Neutrogena whole-heartedly agree and they want to stuff your stocking with some Neutrogena 'goodies'. In fact a basket of Neutrogena Goodies, this may have to go under the tree as it might not fit in your stocking!

WIN IT:

One lucky butterfly will win a basket of Neutrogena Products including Rainbath - Refreshing Shower and bath gel!

Enter using the Rafflecopter Widget Below: (sometimes the widget gets stuck, if that's the case, just refresh your screen, that usually does the trick! If you don't see the widget but the words 'a Rafflecopter giveaway' just press that link which will take you to the entry widget)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

MY TAKE:

Neutrogena will always be the brand I associate with my kick off into my skincare and beauty routine, and when I get the chance to write about products you will definitey find in my cabinets anyway - I consider it a really good day at the office.

You know how much I love playing 'Butterfly Claus' and giving you guys the chance to experience the products I am currently playing with!

Readers Sound Off: What is your favorite Neutrogena Product? Why is it your fave?

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FTC Disclosure: All products featured were supplied to Ascending Butterfly at no cost for Editorial Consideration. This is a sponsored/compensated Post, however all opinions are 100% my own! I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Wednesday, September 2, 2015

(Not So) {#WordlessWednesday} Shh! Don't tell anyone but @SheaMoisture was my favorite booth at #BlogHer15

One of the best things about Blogging Conferences is connecting with brands, and BlogHer will always win for sheer volume and variety that's a given, they do it bigger! But for me when I can finally connect with a brand that I already love and really use on the regular it's a win/win.

Well first, it's a sort of smack my forehead and think 'DOH! Why haven't I ever reached out to them before?'

BlogHer15 gave me that moment and it was with a brand that I first became aware of because they were gift/swag bag inclusions multiple times at Beauty Events I have attended here in New York City throughout the years. But they weren't at the actual events. I fell in love with each of the Shea Moisture products I had the pleasure of trying out. So when I happened upon them in the expo hall of the Hilton I may have actually squealed with girlish delight (Hey! Don't judge me! It's the little things in life that excite me!)

Their range is super diverse and it was during BlogHer15 that I discovered in addition to the hair and body care products that I have grown to love, they make makeup/cosmetics as well.

I got my makeup done, and I discovered that I still need more practice in the fine art of contouring but I loved the products that were used on me and I also waited to get my hair done. The hairstylist took one look at my hair and said my ends 'were a hot mess' (they were) and told me to return the next day so he could trim them.

And I did.

And I got my first ever haircut (not just a blow out, flat iron or hair touch up) on a tradeshow floor, that was a first for me! And I have to say I absolutely LOVED the results! I have fine hair so if I over product it can look greasy at the root but the ends will still look dry because it's also frizz prone. I have to be careful not to let my hair 'bulk up' too much and when I get a quality cut I can feel the difference, I have fine hair but a lot of of it, so after it's well cut, my whole head sort of feels 'lighter' and of course feels smoother and silkier (no matter how hard I try I have never been able to replicate a hair stylist blow out at home!).

Their booth was buzzing, of course because the products are really THAT good, but they also had a live Graffiti Artist doing wall art for them at the booth, the mural was created by Seb Gorey and you can read more about the mural that was created HERE.

I left that booth feeling like a million bucks, or at least like a shinier penny that's for sure! Makeup CHECK. Hair cut and styled, CHECK. Samples of my favorite products, CHECK PLUS PLUS.

They need to put a ring on it and make me an official ambassador, #JustSayin

Here is a photo of me in front of the mural wall:

#SheaMoisture Booth Photo at #BlogHer15 #ABetterWayToBeautiful


MY TAKE:

Shh! Don't tell anyone but theirs was my favorite booth at BlogHer15. They were super welcoming, took the time to LISTEN not just try and sell, and their hair and makeup artist were totally on fleek. You know I only pause for mascot photos and avoid direct on photos of myself where possible (you all know I don't fall for 'step and repeats'), so for me to pose by myself with no mascot in site is total brand love! And while it's a small thank you in comparison for how good they made me feel, I hope they know just how much this particular blogger feels appreciative of the efforts they took into keeping up that energy and working hard to make sure everyone left their booth feeling beautiful. The hooded cardigan and top I am wearing are by MiracleSuit and the jeans are by Silver Jeans!

I want to add that Shea Moisture body scrubs are the BOMB, and I can't stress enough that their hair care products are good for ALL hair types!

Have you tried Shea Moisture Products yet? If so, which is your fave? What is your go to haircare brand?

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FTC Disclosure: This is a NON -compensated post, no monetary compensation has been received and this is an event recap (samples were provided). All my opinions are 100% MY OWN. I was a Vitabath Brand Ambassador for the BlogHer 2015 Conference. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Monday, June 22, 2015

{#MakeupMonday} Special Effects Makeup, Body Painting and more at @TheMakeupShow 2015 NYC! #bbloggers #Beauty

One of my all time favorite things to see at The Makeup Show is the 'Special Effects Makeup' - whether it's special effects for television and movies or intricate body painting, The Makeup Show always delivers and this year was no different.

Again with it being the 10 year anniversary of the show it was SUPER crowded and I couldn't always nab the shots I wanted, but I did get these two, which I think came out pretty good!

Model being body painted at The Makeup Show 2015 in  NYC


The 3D effect of his makeup was hard to capture but it was neat to see up close!
Are you team #BodyPaint or team #SpecialEffects? Let us know here or on twitter!

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FTC Disclosure: This is an event recap, this is NOT a compensated post, no monetary compensation has been received, Press Passes to the annual tradeshow were provided to Ascending Butterfly for Editorial Consideration and all opinions are 100% my own! I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Monday, June 8, 2015

{#MakeupMonday} Did you miss the @TheMakeupShow NYC? @Ascending1 has got you covered #Beauty! #10yearsofTMS #bbloggers

The Makeup Show 2015 in New York City was phenomenal, it had been awhile since my schedule and the show matched up and it couldn't have been more perfect that it lined up for me this year as this is the show's 10 year anniversary. 

There was literally so much to see and do that I will split my recap up into a few pieces, I know some of you prefer trade-show recaps in smaller bursts as opposed to one big post that is very long to read!

The Makeup Show put together a fun highlight Video which I thought it would be fun to share:


 

One of the sessions I made it a point to attend was "Signature Style - Ellis Faas" - as you may remember I originally shared about Ellis here on Ascending Butterfly when I got to see them on display at Elements Show NYC (if you missed that post click HERE). Vogue Paris named her "One of the most influential make-up artists of her generation" and I can certainly see why!

She participated in an intimate Questions and Answers Session with James Vincent during the 2015 Makeup Show in New York City where she shared techniques to bring your makeup skills to an Editorial level in every application and how to find your own footing and make your own stand in this ever changing and evolving industry.

Here are the Photo Highlights of that session:

Signature Style Ellis Faas q n a presentation 1 with James Vincent during The Makeup Show 2015 in New York City #10 yearsofTMS WATERMARKED, The Makeup Show, Beauty, Cosmetics, #bbloggers, Lifestyle Blogger
Above: Left: Ellis Faas Right: James Vincent

Signature Style Ellis Faas q n a presentation 2 with James Vincent during The Makeup Show 2015 in New York City #10 yearsofTMS WATERMARKED, The Makeup Show, Beauty, Cosmetics, #bbloggers, Lifestyle Blogger
Above: Makeup Artist Ellis Faas applies makeup on a model at The Makeup Show NYC

Signature Style Ellis Faas q n a presentation 3 with James Vincent during The Makeup Show 2015 in New York City #10 yearsofTMS WATERMARKED, The Makeup Show, Beauty, Cosmetics, #bbloggers, Lifestyle Blogger
Above: Makeup Artist Ellis Faas applies makeup on a model at The Makeup Show NYC

Signature Style Ellis Faas q n a presentation 4 with James Vincent during The Makeup Show 2015 in New York City #10 yearsofTMS WATERMARKED, The Makeup Show, Beauty, Cosmetics, #bbloggers, Lifestyle Blogger
Above: Makeup Artist Ellis Faas describes how she created the look

Signature Style Ellis Faas q n a presentation 5 with James Vincent during The Makeup Show 2015 in New York City #10 yearsofTMS WATERMARKED, The Makeup Show, Beauty, Cosmetics, #bbloggers, Lifestyle Blogger
Above: Left: Makeup Artist Ellis Faas and Right: Makeup Artist James Vincent

MY TAKE:

Ellis was definitely an open book and if anyone can make someone open up and share their passion and enthusiasm for the Beauty Industry it's James. The Makeup Show was super crowded this year, and while I wasn't always able to capture every moment I wanted to share with you, this was an amazing year for the show and they certainly pulled out all the stops!

It's funny because as soon as I saw her line in 2014 I had always wondered about this, but during her Q&A she mentioned getting stopped at the airport, which I figured initially from seeing the line as the packaging is shaped much like a bullet!

Did you miss the NYC show? No fears, it may coming to a City near you soon!

Catch The MakeupShow again on November 7-8th 2015 in Chicago, March 19-20 2016 in L.A. and it returns to NYC May 1-2, 2016. I hear the Dallas Show got moved from June 13th to September this year , and there will be a pop-up shop August 29th-30th 2015 in San Fran!

Who is your Favorite Makeup Artist? What is your Favorite Makeup Trend?

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FTC Disclosure: This is an event recap, this is NOT a sponsored post, no monetary compensation has been received, Press Passes to the annual tradeshow were provided to Ascending Butterfly for Editorial Consideration and all opinions are 100% my own! I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Saturday, January 31, 2015

Sharing my #RapidResults with @neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Night Moisturizer thanks @Allure_magazine! #SPONSORED #BBloggers


I couldn't possibly succeed at being more entertaining on this particular topic than this buzzfeed article called "22 Things That Only Happen To People Who Have Resting Bitchface" by Lara Parker and Candace Lowry, this collection of GIF's are simply hilarious, but something that anyone accussed of this shall we call it 'condition' can relate to. (For those in the know '2's' always follow me, so I find it interesting this particular article on Resting Bitch Face most caught my eye!)

As a freelance writer, blogger, social media consultant and life coach, reading my emails on a daily basis, give me this face:


See those forehead wrinkles? That's exactly what happens every time I open another email asking me to do something for free! It sounds sort of like this "You want me to craft content for you with how many words, and on a deadline and you want me to do it for free because if I won't invariably someone will' - Then I scream profanity at my email and go grab an energy drink because I know it's going to be a long day!

I actually hate being in pictures. I don't do selfies, and I try to avoid being in front of the camera as much as possible. Taking pictures goes something like this for me:


Allure Magazine asked their Beauty Enthusiasts to test out Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Night Moisturizer


ABOUT:

聘̵̡訙̵̨̄品 - Accelerated Retinol SA
聘̵̡訙̵̨̄品 - Fades the look of stubborn wrinkles
聘̵̡訙̵̨̄品 - Brightens Skin Tone
聘̵̡訙̵̨̄品 - Smooth fine lines and texture

MY TAKE:

While it claims to boast visible results in just one week, I found it took closer to just under 3 weeks to show visible results for me. But then again I do test a lot of products and tend to have to ease my skin into it a bit. The first week I had to start it one day on and one day off which is the norm when I'm testing anything with Retinol. It takes my skin a bit to ease into products with Retinol. so technically the first week may not count since I didn't use it every single night. I found by the beginning of week 3 that I began to notice a fade in the most stubborn wrinkles which for me are forehead and parenthesis (or more like a semi colon than parenthesis because one side is more pronounced than the other!). It did work well on both fine lines and stubborn wrinkles but I didn't notice a marked difference in terms of brightening, I would have liked to see more especially since I am using the Pink Grapefruit Cleanser by Neutrogena during the day as a face wash since my skin is acne and oil prone/combination.

Overall at a price of $20.99 per 1 fl. oz I found it to be effective and budget friendly and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it. It did deliver the promised results, just in a bit more time than one week!

What is YOUR favorite Neutrogena Skin Care Product Butterfly?

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FTC Disclosure: Allure and Neutrogena provided product to Ascending Butterfly free of charge for Editorial Consideration. All opinions are 100% my own!  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Thursday, September 11, 2014

Enter to win the @FabFitFun Reader Appreciation #SubscriptionBox #Giveaway via Ascending Butterfly! #FabFitFun

FabFitFun Summer 2014 Summer Subscription Box
FabFitFun Summer 2014 Summer Subscription Box


As you know I am a Fab Fit Fun VIP Blogger, which means I get to try out the new boxes when they are released, this time around my Summer Fab Fit Fun Box never arrived so the lovely folks at Fab Fit Fun quickly sent out a replacement and within 2 days I somehow ended up getting two of them. I normally would have passed the extra one along to a family member or friend, but I am all about Paying it Forward and I thought I would instead use the second box as a Reader Appreciation Giveaway as a way to say Thank You to all my butterflies (other folks would say readers, but you are all butterflies to me).

This is the summer 2014 box but in my opinion all these items are fantastic year round. Let's take a peek inside the box shall we?

Fab Fit Fun Summer 2014 Subscription Box Includes:

Sonya Dakar Flash Facial



聘̵̡訙̵̨̄品 - Sonya Dakar Flash Facial - Developed by Gwyneth Paltrow's famed facialist, in just 60 seconds this little wonder will help you reveal softer, plumper, younger looking skin and is packed with antioxidants, and hyaluronic and lactic acids to give you smooth and radiant skin. Retail Value of $95 - TOTAL SCORE!

pur ~ lisse pur ~ protect SPF 30


聘̵̡訙̵̨̄- pur ~ lisse pur ~ protect SPF 30 - This was featured by Vogue as the Editor's Favorite Summer Product. Remember butterflies you need SPF protection YEAR ROUND, NOT just in summer! I lost one of my Aunt's to skin cancer and cannot stress this enough. Retail Value of $55

Thursday Friday Away Mini Clutch Lips Pattern


聘̵̡訙̵̨̄品 - Thursday Friday Away Mini Clutch - Tired of the same old same makeup bag? Pimp your cosmetics bag with these Tres-Trendy super cute designs, canvas exteriors, with a nylon interior, metal zip closure and adorable prints. (Note: I received mine in a watercolor pattern, the winner of this giveaway will receive the lips pattern as shown above). By the way the box also includes a $30 Gift Card so you can take $30 off your next purchase at www.thufri.com! How cool is that? You get to try it out yourself and then you nab another one for yourself in another design or a bigger bag (they have more than just cosmetics cases and clutches, they have larger profile totes too) or you could give the gift card to a friend so they can try Thursday Friday too! (Pay it forward my friends!) Retail Value of $35

Balanced Guru No Frizz Oil


聘̵̡訙̵̨̄品 - Balanced Guru No Frizz Oil - With a blend of argan, jojoba and tamanu oils this helps fight flyaways, tame frizzies and nourish your hair. I have tried quite a few products from this line and I am never disappointed! Retail Value of $25

FabFitFun Water Infuser BPA-free Water Bottle


聘̵̡訙̵̨̄品 - FabFitFun Water Infuser BPA-free Water Bottle - They want to encourage us to "Grab Life by the Excercise Balls" and stay inspired while we perspire. This BPA-free bottle has a built in infuser so you can add your favorite flavors to your water. (Watermelon Not Included) Retail Value of $15

Zoya Nail Polish in Elodie


聘̵̡訙̵̨̄品 - Zoya Nail Polish - Vegan Friendly, safe to use even during pregnancy and long wearing, what's NOT to love? The color shown is called 'Elodie' Retail Value $9

KISSTIXX Lip Balm in Chocolate Strawberry Combo Pack Flavor


聘̵̡訙̵̨̄品 - KISSTIXX Lip Balm - This 'Makeout' Make-over in a tube will help couples enhance their chemistry with these complimentary flavored lip balms! You keep one, give your partner the other and then kiss each other to mix the flavors up! I received Chocolate/Strawberry and the winner of the giveaway will get the Peaches and Cream Combo. Retail Value $5.99

POPchips Sour Cream & Onion


聘̵̡訙̵̨̄品 - POPchips - POPchips are NEVER fried and are only 100-130 per single-serving bag! If you are like me and need something for the 'mid-day hump' these are definitely just the trick! Retail Value $1.29

Skintimate Shave Gel


聘̵̡訙̵̨̄品 - Skintimate Shave Gel - With Signature Scents and Skin Therapy Formulas you can keep your legs smooth and beautiful with each shave! Retail Value of $1.99



聘̵̡訙̵̨̄品 - Always Xtra Protection Long Daily Liners - Not just for summer, perfect for those super long days, followed by the Gym or just plain anytime you want to feel fresh and confident. Consider it an everyday essential. Retail Value of $1.50

Slimfast Have Your Cake Meal Bar


聘̵̡訙̵̨̄品 - Slimfast Have Your Cake Meal Bar - Protein Meal Bar with flavors of Vanilla Cake and Frosting with sprinkles has only 180 calories per bar so you can late night snack with a lot less guilt! (Note: You will receive one individually wrapped bar, not the box). Retail Value $1

My Take:

I absolutely adore being a Fab Fit Fun VIP Blogger, I love Subscription Boxes and I think they make great gifts. No one will have a 'been there done that' reaction to it. I have yet to open one box from Fab Fit Fun that felt like a let down. It's not just a matter of the retail value of the products being higher than what you pay, it's a matter of all those items being well curated and USEFUL - be it for yourself or the gift recipient. This has been one of my most fun Ambassadorships to date and the fact that I actually got to meet Giuliana Rancic in person is the icing on the cake.

Win It:

It's been awhile since awhile since I have hosted a pure Reader Appreciation Giveaway that is being fulfilled solely by me, and I am super happy to do something fun for all my butterflies, I hope you enjoy Fab Fit Fun as much as I do! Please note the prize is the box as shown above with any exception being noted in the box subscription, the prize is this specific box, not a full subscription.

Use the Rafflecopter Widget Below to enter this giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Which item in this Fab Fit Fun Box is your personal fave or which one would you most like to try Butterfly? Can't wait to try the box and can't wait to find out if you won? I have three codes for $15 off a box, Tweet me @Ascending1 and tell me you want to 'try it and  buy it' - 3 butterflies will be selected at random to get a code for $15 off their next FabFitFun Box Purchase!

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post, Ascending Butterfly is fulfilling this giveaway to one winner directly. I am a Fab Fit Fun VIP Blogger and subscription boxes are sent to us for editorial consideration. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.