The Launch of Perfect Pearl (@Pearlworldinc) at Barneys New York (@BarneysNY) during #NYFW #PerfectPearl {Photos}

This has been an incredibly busy month and it's barely at it's midpoint! I've had the opportunity to attend a number of amazing events this month and catch some great shows during New York Fashion Week, and I'll try to get event recaps posted as soon as possible!

 

Last week I headed into the city earlier than usual, for a very special breakfast. A new brand of luxury skincare for both Mom AND Baby called Perfect Pearl, hit the market recently and they held a special Breakfast Launch at Fred's at Barneys New York City. The event was presented in conjunction with my favorite Social Media Dynamic Duo, The Moms!

 

I wanted to recap this event during Wordless Wednesday, because although this post is far from being entirely Wordless, it's super picture heavy, so I thought it would fit best as our Wordless Wednesday this week.

 

When we arrived at Barneys and got off the elevator to enter Fred's, we immediately heard Harp music and thought we landed in heaven! :)

 

Harpist plays during Perfect Pearl Breakfast Launch at Barneys New York City

 

Had to zoom in and get the details on the Harp!

 

The music set such a serene ambience, and me being 'The Official #TwitterPartyDJ' I definitely know that music really does set a mood. It was a touch I didn't expect but definitely enjoyed!

 

Yogurt, Granola and Fruit, Fred at Barneys in New York City for the launch of Perfect Pearl

 

Once we got settled in, we just had to grab one of these, and they definitely tasted as good as they looked!

 

Close up of table setting at Perfect Pearl Breakfast Launch at Freds at Barneys New York City

 

 Look how cute the tables were set up!

 

 

 

Had to get a close up of the Pearls! Perfect Pearl uses Pearl Powder and Pearl Extract to make their line of Luxury Skin Care for both mom and baby. Pearl Extract is one of the most expensive ingredients in Cosmetic use today, but the Pearl which has been utilized by many cultures for centuries, including Asian, Mayan, Egyptian and Indians for health purposes, to gain a youthful vitality and for beautifying the skin.

These lovely ladies came around to each table to allow everyone to sample the products!

The Maternity/Mom's Line Consists of:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Bust Serum with Pure Pearl: This one has a fresh, light texture, the Amino Acids in the pearl powder and the active ingredient, Osilift, helps promote firmness and prevent loss of elasticity, relieving skin tension and soothing breast tightness.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Nursing Comfort Cream with Pure Pearl: This was formulated for moms who have chosen to breastfeed. It consists of a blend of pearl extract and an ultra pure grade of lanolin, which not only provides relief but also protection to tender nipples and also lightens nipple darkness, this product is safe to use while breastfeeding. (and for those of you who are like me, and are not yet moms, this can also be used as an incredible hand cream or anywhere you may have dark spots!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Stretch Mark Cream with Pure Pearl: This is a more creamy and fine textured cream, it's active ingredient Sepilift DPHP, along with lanolin, organic aloe, vitamin E, shea butter and a mixture of exotic oils actively stimulates skin cells and promotes tissue regeneration which all helps to reduce the size, depth and color of stretch marks. And again for my fellow non-moms, don't think this is for moms only, anywhere you have stretch marks, tummy, arms, hips from rapid weight gain and loss, this cream is a God Send! It's not just exclusively for moms! Doesn't your skin deserve pure and natural ingredients?

The Baby Collection Consists of:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Baby Cleansing Foam For Hair and Body: This unique cleansing foam for hair and body cleansing contains their signature Pearl Extract and provitamin B12. This sulfate free cleanser is gentle for baby's hair, scalp and all over body without drying their skin. It's good for everyday use on newborns and babies with sensitive to normal skin. (and again ladies, this is equally good for your skin as well!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Baby Daily Moisture Lotion with Pure Pearl: A blend of pure pearl extract, drago-calm, grape seed and safflower oils provides immediate and lasting hydration for baby's skin, leaving a porcelain shine-free finish.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Baby Diaper Cream with Pure Pearl: Use this cream to prevent as well treat the skin irritation that is caused by urine and diaper chafing on baby's skin. It utilizes Zinc Oxide in pearl extract and is blended with shea butter and castor seed oil, it seals out wetness and softens the skin.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Baby Face Cream with Pure Pearl: Considered to be the 'ultimate face cream' it contains a luxurious level of pearl extract, oat flour, oat kernel extract and safflower oil. Perfect for the face of newborns and babies with delicate skin.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Baby Pearl Powder with Pure Pearl: This Ultra-Silky baby pearl powder contains a luxurious level of pure pearl powder and natural cornstarch to soothe and heal irritated skin. This was my standout item of the Baby Collection. I LOVE this powder. I actually like to use baby powder on my own skin, and fell in love with this powder when I applied it to my skin during the event, this one is definitely all for me! :)

 

 

 

  

 

Then the moms introduced us to the Founder and President of Perfect Pearl, Ying Zhou Eliason!

 

 

 

It was fantastic to get a behind the scenes and learn about what drove Ying to develop the line. A visit from Ying's Grandmother four years ago when Ying's first daughter was born and her grandmother brought the gift of pearl powder, which showed such incredible results on her daughter's skin that she went in search of products here in the U.S. that utilize Pearl Powder or Pearl Extracts for baby and couldn't find any, prompting her to develop her own line.

We learned from their chemist as well as an MD who is endorsing the brand that Perfect Pearl products are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, colorant and paraben free!

My Take:

As far as I'm concerned you can't really put a price on using the finest ingredients available to you to protect your skin and your baby's skin! If their launch's attention to detail is any indication of what lies ahead, this is definitely a brand to watch!

Get Social With It:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Like Perfect Pearl on Facebook
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Pearlworldinc on Twitter

Happy Wordless Wednesday Butterflies! Do you use any skincare products that contain Pearl Powder or Pearl Extract? If so, please share with us what you use! Also, bloggers feel free to link us to your Wordless Wednesday by leaving a comment on this post with your link. We'd love to see your photos!

 

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post, no monetary compensation has been received to share our event recap. Attendees did leave this event with gift bags and were provided breakfast, however all opinions are 100% my own! Ascending Butterfly enjoys sharing products that are family friendly.

Valentine's Day - How I style it! #Fashion #Polyvore #Curvy #handbags #shoes with @IGIGI @NicoleMillerNYC @EarthiesUSA

IGIGI Ambrosia Dress - How I styled it

IGIGI 'Ambrosia' Plus size black dress
Available for Purchase at www.igigi.com

Earthies platform wedge
Available for Purchase at http://www.earthbrands.com/earthies

Nicole Miller Clutch
Available for Purchase at www.nicolemiller.com

Van Cleef Arpels pins jewelry

As we start to approach Valentine's Day I thought I'd share some buying recommendations from what to wear, jewelry, accessories and more!

 

I got so inspired by my first finds that I thought I'd create a cute polyvore set to highlight them all! The folks at IGIGI sent me the Ambrosia Dress, and that started a chain reaction! I already had the great clutch (which you may recall from our last Nicole Miller Giveaway HERE), and I also already had the shoes), I think together these make a killer combo and are perfect for a night on the town no matter where your town may be. As for me, I'm in New York City, the City that Never Sleeps, and which favors the color black! It's been New York Fashion Week Insanity all week.

 

The seductive Ambrosia Dress is cut from all-season stretch jersey and hugs, smoothes, & enhances the contour of your curves. Whether in rich blue or black add some bright gems, a colorful clutch and strappy pumps for head turning style.

 

The Ambrosia Dress couldn't be more perfect for Love Day, not just because of the perfect for Valentine's Day name, but it's made to flatter your curves, accentuate what you want to accentuate and helps you hide what you need to hide because of the fantastic ruching!

 

And because despite Punxsutawney Phil's prediction of an early Spring this year, it's still FREEZING in the Northeast, but there is no way I was going to put this super cute dress under my puffer jacket, I was so happy when IGIGI sent over their Hanna Coat! It's a perfect compliment to the dress, and a stylish outwear option for us curvy girls!

 

 

I of course went with Black again, but this coat literally goes with everything, and I couldn't love it more! I have to add some photos of myself wearing everything (model photos are above)!

 

My Take:

 

Both the Ambrosia Dress and Hanna Coat are not just 'figure-friendly' but 'figure-flattering', as they are cut for curvy girls, their sizes tend to run bigger, so if you are ordering for the first time, refer to their size charts to ensure the best fit! (Although you should really do that anyway if you are ordering via internet or mail order for the first time with any brand!)

Get Social With It:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Like IGIGI on Facebook
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @IGIGI on Twitter
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow IGIGI's Boards on Pinterest too!
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - And don't forget to subscribe to their channel on YouTube

In fact you'll be super happy you are following them across their channels, as they are hosting a giveaway via their facebook page and pinterest page right NOW! What you are waiting for butterfly, get in on the fun and a chance to win an IGIGI gift card of your own!

Butterfly, What are YOU wearing for Valentine's Day this year?

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FTC Disclosure: The Ambrosia Dress and Hanna Coat were sent to Ascending Butterfly for Editorial Consideration, however all opinions are 100% my own.

Highlights from January 2013 @beautypress Spotlight Day!

 

 

The fourth edition of the beautypress Spotlight Day, a press-only beauty product showcase featuring niche and specialty brands brought over 120 media guests to connect with 11 exhibiting vendors, which is double the amount of participants since the premier event three years ago!

 

Much like the last BeautyPress Spotlight Day that I covered (you can read that recap HERE), this one introduced me to quite a few brands that were entirely new to me, and that's one of the things that excite me most about the event.

 

Hibiscus Champagne Cocktail

 

 

Journalists, bloggers, and beauty enthusiasts gathered at the stylish Midtown Loft and Terrace to discover new product offerings from niche and specialty brands. In addition to new product finds, guests also received a posture evaluation from the Wellness Center of NY, while sipping on artful tea creations by Le Palais des Thes, a French brand of premium tea that offers all-natural signature flavors and snacking on healthy chocolate treats from Antidote, a new brand of health-inspired raw chocolate with bold and unique flavor combinations.

 

And now for the brands featured at Spotlight Day in alphabetical order:

 

 

 

BABOR: The BABOR brand is a luxury skincare and cosmetics brand. Combining state-of-the-art scientific knowledge with natural formulations, each line is created with unique ingredients yielded from the most exceptional environments across the globe including volcanoes, arctic berry fields, orchards, and oceanic fissures. Not only are the products highly effective, but they are also extremely compatible with the skin. At BABOR Cosmetics, clients are taken on a seduction of the senses within each product.

 

BABOR is the leading, professionally sold and recommended skin care system in Continental Europe and recognized as one of the most trusted brands in the industry today.

 

 

Bio-Logical: Bio-Logical is a Paris-based organic skincare line which brings a fresh perspective to the natural beauty category by providing effective, fun, and easy products to modern consumers looking to embrace more natural beauty routines. The brand fills a void in the natural/organic skincare category by offering affordable, French-manufactured, certified organic skincare solutions based on ancient botanically-derived remedies presented in trendy, high-quality eco-sensitive packaging. The cruelty-free product line is “Tested on Frenchies, not on Animals!” ™

 

 

Dossage Fragrances: Dossage Fragrances collaborated with the finest luxury fragrance house to develop distinct scents with complimentary notes. The only mandate we insisted on was for a fragrance to be worn by the client in a subtle way. This is luxury. We believe you should wear the scent, the scent should not overtake your presence only enhance it. Our other specification was inspiration from world travel.

 

The fragrances all compliment each other and there is a little bit of each scent in all of us!

 

The balance of scent and the addition of a mood enhancement agent is present in all of our fragrances. Not only are your senses heightened ……your spirits are lifted as well.

Pictured above is Dossage Fragrances CEO Tara Durkan, the fragrance, the story behind it and the Dossage crew made a huge impression on me, and I am going to re-visit them for a more detailed review post, my standouts were Dossage 8 for him and her! I know scent is very much subjective and what one person likes another may or may not, and if you notice, I don't do a ton of collaborations when it comes to fragrances, I'm incredibly picky and they are just something that have no grey for me, I either like it or I don't. I LOVE these, so you will see more posted about this brand for sure!

 

 

HairMax: Lexington International is the manufacturer and developer of advanced laser phototherapy devices for home use. Since its founding in 2000, Lexington International’s mission has been to provide the most advanced hair loss treatments and hair care products. The company’s premiere product, the HairMax LaserComb, is the first and only laser phototherapy medical device FDA Cleared for home-use to treat hair loss and stimulate hair growth in men and women suffering certain class of hereditary hair loss. Sold in in over 165 countries worldwide, Lexington Int., has helped hundreds of thousands of individuals treat their hair loss and promote hair growth. (And if any of you are like me, and think that these are 'hot' to the touch or would burn your scalp, I just want you to know it's NOT hot, you feel no heat when you touch it, and it will not burn your hair or scalp.

 

 

LASHEM: The LASHEM brand was developed to help the everyday woman keep her youthful glow. It is a reflection of a healthy and natural lifestyle to accommodate everyone from the working woman to the stay at home mom. The brand combines natural ingredients for the highest quality formulations made possible. The LASHEM brand is dedicated to promoting natural beauty in a world full of unrealistic expectations. LASHEM offers anti-aging products that are natural and made in the United States. The LASHEM natural product line consists of mascara, anti aging creams, and eyelash booster. (Because they use natural ingredients, these will not tint your eyelids!)

 

 

Merlot Skin Care: Merlot Skin Care is a natural grape seed-based brand that utilizes antioxidants to fight free radicals, the particles that routinely damage our skin. Merlot is a privately-held, family-run brand committed to innovative skin care products. Founded in 2001, Merlot Skin Care products are available at Walgreens, Drugstore.com, and on their website as well!

 

 

NaiLuv: NaiLuv is all about nail love! Born out of a passion to create and offer the best and the latest in nail fashion and technology, NaiLuv is committed to providing quality, safe and fashionable nail products. Every NaiLuv product is made with love. Each formulation undergoes a rigorous product development process that involves several studies and extensive market research. NaiLuv provides customers with the finest and most practical choices in nail care and technology.

 

 

Paul Brown: This global brand features an extensive line of professional hair care products and six successful salons and day spas throughout the Hawaiian Islands. Master hairstylist, educator and businessman Paul Brown launched his hair care system in the late 1980s to provide hair care solutions for all types of hair, in all cultures. Incorporating natural Hawaiian plant and sea essences, this system includes high quality shampoos, conditioners, other hairstyling products and appliances. Brown is credited for introducing the thermal straightening system and one of the first flat irons to the U.S. Paul Brown Hawaii products and services are now offered worldwide, while being sold exclusively in professional salons and spas.

Much like Dossage's CEO, Paul was so enthusiastic and so open that I would like to feature them separately from this recap, so stay tuned, I wanted to make sure you put not only the beauty products, but the flat iron on your hair radar!

 

 

 

 

Skin Laser and Surgery Specialists of NY and NJ: David J. Goldberg, M.D. is recognized nationally and internationally for his innovative work with skin lasers, cosmetic dermatology and facial rejuvenation techniques. A board-certified dermatologist who has been in practice since 1985, he has treated patients and taught doctors throughout the world in the use of these cutting-edge technologies. Under his direction, Skin Laser and Surgery Specialists of New York and New Jersey has been a pioneer in making skin laser and cosmetic dermatology technologies available to the public.

 

 

Tilth Beauty: Based on three decades of experience, research, and development, Tilth Beauty is a natural-based, high-performance skincare line. Each product has been painstakingly crafted with a unique and potent blend of botanical and industry-proven ingredients without ANY potentially harmful elements commonly found in most skincare products. The result is beautiful, vibrant, radiant, youthful and healthy skin.

 

No other skincare product on the market comes close to what Tilth Beauty does. We do not use any parabens, phthalates, sulfates, petroleum -based products, silicones, synthetic fragrances or GMO’s, animal/dairy derived products, or artificial colors.

 

 

HBA Global: HBA Global Expo and Conference, is the most important product development source from concept to market–for the cosmetics, personal care, skin care, fragrance and wellness industries and features a comprehensive educational program and exhibits floor with attendees coming from the top prestige, mass and emerging beauty and personal care brands worldwide.

 

 

The Wellness Center of NY: The Wellness Center of NY provides services and solutions for individuals who seek to improve their health. Meet Dr. Fishel and learn how to improve physical beauty through good posture, happiness, tension relief and overall well being. The Wellness Center Of New York is located in midtown Manhattan providing Natural health care including Physical Therapy, Chiropractic, Nutrition and Alternative Medicine. Dr. Craig Fishel, Chiropracter and Wellness Educator, Founder and Director of the Wellness Center of New York in Manhattan is board certified and a member of the New York Chiropractic College Alumni Association. Education is Dr. Fishel's passion. Pain relief is one of the great side effects of his care, but the true benefit is general well-being, medical knowledge, and a sense of community.

Have you tried a 'new to you' beauty product for the New Year butterfly? If so, please share!
 

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post, no monetary compensation has been received to share my event recap about the Beauty Press Spotlight Day. Gift Bags were distributed and the products enclosed were reviewed by our editors so we could share our feedback and honest opinions. All opinions are 100% my own.

Organizational tips to get you organized, motivated and ready for Tax Season! + A Great Twitter Party too! {Photos} #StaplesOrgTips

Dirty Little Secret? My desk and closets are usually not so organized. and the bigger the mountain of paperwork gets, the less motivated I feel to tackle it. But right now, an organizer is NOT in my budget. I wish it were!

 

Last week I had the chance to attend a live event hosted by Staples whose focus was organizational tips, DING!, DING!, DING! serious New Year light bulb moment. While you know how I feel about 'formal resolutions', I prefer making both short and long term goals throughout the year and adjusting them as I tackle them with new ones, one of the goals I set for myself in 2013 was getting my space a bit more organized. I know it's not going to be an overnight process and has to be taken in stages, but this event motivated me to get started.

 

So start I did. And I'm super proud to report that I am sitting at my desk which is at this moment, the most organized I've ever seen it. I tackled a mountain of folders, press kits and personal and professional paperwork that had built up over a span of time. I'm feeling a bit pleased with myself right about now.

 

While I'm still waiting on some paperwork to be able to tackle my taxes this year, getting my desk organized will make things so much easier for me when it's time to start preparing my taxes. or for anything really, there is something about a clutter free space that gives you new energy!

 

 

 

“A well-organized office helps you find what you need and to work efficiently, which reduces stress,” said Julie Morgenstern, an internationally known organizing and time management expert. “More importantly, staying organized lets you to spend more of your valuable time on what’s most important to your business.” 

 

Tips to Get Yourself More Organized:

 

Staples newly expanded product assortment ensures that businesses have every product they need to succced. In addition, Staples recommends a few easy steps - shed, shred, and get ahead - to help customers increase efficiency and organize the office.

 

 

 

Shed – purge unwanted files or papers and organize the documents in binders. The Internal Revenue Service recommends keeping important business records from three to seven years, depending on the documents. Staples recently launched its Binder Recycling Program, which gives customers $2 off the purchase of a new binder for each binder they bring in to a Staples store to recycle.

 

 

 

Shred – protect your business and identity against fraud by shredding unneeded paperwork with sensitive information. For larger jobs, consider Staples Copy & Print, which offers confidential shredding at great prices. 

 

Get Ahead – The New Year is also a good time to make sure electronic files are secure and protected. It’s critical for any small business owner to have the right organizational tools such as network storage devices to back up files especially as tax season gets started.

 

Staples’ expanded assortment features top organizational products for the New Year including:

 

Staples New BETTER Binder with removable FileRings™ - the first of its kind binder features file rings that detach from the shell for easy filing in any standard filing cabinet. Now available in black, white, red, green and blue covers exclusively on Staples.com (Staples 1-inch BETTER Binder: $12.99 and removable FileRings: $4.99).

 

 

 

Staples 10-Sheet Cross-Cut Shredder – New and improved, the Staples shredder has several new features including a convenient pull out bin, and a lockout key that functions as a master power control and renders the shredder non-functional until the key is replaced. ($99.99)

 

 

 

Staples One-Touch™ Aero Stapler – Perfect for the consumer who has an eye for design and likes to personalize their desk supplies. The 20-sheet capacity Aero offers contemporary designs with a raised handle that makes stapling effortless. Available in black, silver or blue. ($14.99)

 

 

 

Martha Stewart Home Office™ with Avery™ – With this beautiful line of innovative products, customers can keep their office organized and looking great. Available exclusively at Staples, the collection features an accordion file, which is perfect for tax organization. (Starting at $11.99)

 

 

 

M by Staples™ Arc Customizable Notebook System –Available in durable poly or leather covers with premium, heavyweight paper, this customizable notebook has repositionable sheets that can moved from one section to another making organization a breeze. (Starting at $7.99)

 

 

 

Relay Flash Drives – The easy and smart way to transfer files from one computer to another.  (64GB-$69.99; 32GB-$49.99; 16GB-$27.99; 8GB-$17.99)

 

 

 

TurboTax® – This tax software makes it easy for anyone to be their own tax expert. Staples is offering $10 off all deluxe and higher TurboTax solutions along with FREE software (Intuit Quicken 2013 Starter and McAfee Internet Security) after rebate.

 

 

 

External Encrypted Portable Drives – For anyone wanting to ensure confidential, commercially sensitive files are kept secure, Staples has a great assortment of encrypted drives.  Starting WD’s 500GB My Passport ($79.99) and up to two terabytes ($149.99).

 

 

 

Technology Update - Staples offers a great selection of the hottest new computers, laptops, tablets and printers to improve your organization and productivity in the New Year.  Staples customers nationwide can experience the latest Windows 8 computers and get help selecting the right computer from certified Staples EasyTech associates.

 

Martha Stewart Home Office™ Blair Collection - Improve organization, filing and overall productivity in any workspace with the Martha Stewart Home Office™ Blair Collection office furniture.  Available exclusively at Staples and Staples.com, the streamlined Blair desk (walnut brown or sand gray finishes) provides a generous work surface with hidden power strip, USB ports and drop-front center drawer that converts into a shelf. ($299)

 

My Take:

 

Something certainly rubbed off on me from this event, because I immediately put both the tips and products to good use. It took a couple of hours, but I got my desk organized and I couldn't be happier that I did. I started small, one pile of paperwork at a time, and everytime I cleared out a pile I took a break and went back to it, until it was done.

 

I wanted to point out some of the products that are particular standouts for me, I have been using the M by Staples™ Arc Customizable Notebook System for just under one year and I have to tell you I love it. I have been using the refillable planner, and while initially I hesitated using it because it is much larger than my previous planners, I was pleasantly surprised that it was not bulky or heavy and the vinyl sleeve inserts have given me a great way to store receipts, business cards, bus schedules, and more. I love that you can easily remove and insert pages as needed. There is only one small change I wish they would make to it, a place to put your pen. Since the rings are closed I can't insert a pen there, and the one I have doesn't have a pen holder. But this has really helped me stay organized. While I love my smartphone, for some reason I still prefer to carry an actual planner with me, and this system really works well for me. While I don't personally own the shredder they recommend, I do have a shredder that has a wall mount option which I love, but if you don't have the space for one, the affordable paper shredding services are perfect!

 

 

 

Another product I got to try that I really like is the BETTER Binder with Removable File Ring above. Oftentimes there are documents that you need to have additional copies on file for, but don't have enough room in the file cabinet to store it in a binder, the removable file ring allows you to easily file a copy of larger documents like annual reports.

 

“Get Organized with Staples” Twitter Party

 

Date:                    Thursday, February 7^th  

Time:                    7 p.m. - 8 p.m. EST

Location:             #StaplesOrgTips -press to RSVP

Host:                    @JulieMorgenstrn

Prizes:                  $100 Staples Gift Cards

 



I am not the host of this party, so please be sure that you follow instructions on the RSVP page to participate.

 

Get Social With It:

 

You can follow @Staples on Twitter at and 'Like' them on Facebook too!
 

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FTC Disclosure: I attended an in store event that was hosted by Staples, gift bags were provided to attendees, however no monetary compensation has been received by Ascending Butterfly in exchange for this post and all opinions provided are 100% my own.

My Winter Standout Boot!

Living in the Northeast comes with one thing you can count on, super COLD winters! Snow, cold and ice are constants, and when rain factors into that mix, you get pure sleet, which is not only deadly on roadways but equally dangerous while walking the icy City streets.

 

Boots have always been my obsession, second only to handbags, and for the most part, much like handbags, there are boots for different purposes and occasions in my closet. I of course can't get enough of the Equestrian trend and style, but New York winters really do a require an all-weather boot that is really going to not only withstand the winter, but keep me steady on my feet in the snow and ice. And because I'm well, ME, it needs to be cute too, it needs to be a pair I really want to reach for, not just have to reach for.

 

I've been living in my Boreal by BEARPAW Boots this winter, and for good reason, they are not just functional, but also super fashionable. I have other boots by BEARPAW but these are a bit different in a few ways. these are a more *snug* fit, but please know I do NOT mean that in a bad way. You will feel these a bit snugger on the instep, width and toebox than other boots in the line. They tell you on their site to size up one full size, this is definitely correct, this is not just other users telling you so you may think it's subjective, it's the ordering page for the boot that tells you this. Please don't ignore it, you will need to size up a full size because these don't run in half sizes. They are long but the opening is meant to fit you snugly so snow doesn't get in. While they are not touted as Wide Calf in any way, I can tell you that I am a Wide Calf and usually require boots that specifically say they will accommodate a Wide Calf, and these fit me wonderfully around the calf. They are snug enough so snow doesn't get in, but fully and comfortably accommodate my calves!

 

 

About Boreal by BEARPAW:

 

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 16" tall

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Cow suede vamp and heel counter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Nylon shaft with decorative patch

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Pocket detail and bungee cord drawstring

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Sheepskin and wool blend lining

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Sheepskin footbed

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Woven heel logo

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Crepe rubber outsole

 

See them in action in NYC:

 

 

 

Realized I wasn't smiling and took another shot:

 

 

 

My Take:

 

I love that these work well with my Wide Calves, they are tall so when the snow drifts at the end of each sidewalk become a snow mountain, I can easily maneuver with these. While the snugger fit did take a small break in period (I have a super high instep), they did break in quickly. I also have a toe with a past fracture and was pleasantly surprised that these did not bother my toe in any way. I'm wearing them in 'Charcoal', and I saw other user reviews complaining that they thought Charcoal would be black, but it's not, it pictures like a Grey (which is actually why I picked them) and they are a true grey, not silver and definitely not black in color. These are not like the oh so popular 'slipper boots' in feel, these offer a very supportive frame and a real sole, they are not super flat on the bottom which I love. I find they do offer ankle support because of the way they are constructed and that helps keep me stable on the snow and ice which I love. These definitely get high praise, warm, full on weather boots with great fashionable touches and details, what's NOT to love?

 

Get Social With It:

 

While I wasn't able to offer a giveaway this time dear butterflies, please know that BEARPAW hosts their own contests via their social channels, so you definitely want to be sure you are already following them! 

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Like BEARPAW on Facebook
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Become a Pin friend on Pinterest
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @bearpawshoes on Twitter

What Boots Have You Been Living In This Winter Butterfly?
 

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FTC Disclosure: Ascending Butterfly received a pair of Boreal Boots by BEARPAW for Editorial Consideration, however as always all opinions are 100% my own.

What does a Menswear Brand have to do with Women's Self Defense? I'm so glad you asked! {#Video + #Photo}

I have been a student of various forms of Martial Arts for many years, a few years back an injury brought my training to a halt, stopping me midway from achieving 'black belt' status. During College a Women's Self Defense Class was offered on Campus, and sadly this was prompted after a Rape had occurred on Campus. Female students were rightly alarmed, and the first class had a ton of attendees. The Class utilized a few forms of martial arts including Tae Kwon Do and dove tailed them into realistic attack scenarios. The class became very popular and what started as a Self Defense Training Class grew into an actual Tae Kwon Do organization on campus, which I became the Public Relations person for and I organized events, class schedules, belt ceremonies and was pretty much the liaison between the organization of the Dojo, the campus administration and the student body. Aside from my paid internship with The Bronx Observer and my work at a local Bank (I had to work several part time jobs to put myself through College), this was a labor of love that I took on because I really loved what the class was doing for myself and for all the women students. We all left class feeling empowered. Not to mention our instructor did very rigorous warm up exercises as well. Never in a million years did I think I'd have to apply my newly acquired training in a real world scenario, but I did. I was attached on my own College Campus and the person did not expect how well trained his 'victim' would turn out to be. I broke his jaw, fractured two of his ribs, and I broke his nose and left his eyes swollen like two giant footballs!

 

And I owe getting out of that building alive and safe entirely to my training. I still carry those lessons with me to this day. I have actually been wanting to train again, but I am not sure my docs will let me go full on in just yet, I'll have to ease my way back to where I was, but when I received an email from a Menswear company, asking me if I was interested in taking a class that is part of an international movement of providing Self-Defense lessons for women, I hit reply and answered yes in the blink of an eye! Literally!

 

I had tons of questions so they sent me over more information, and I was counting down the days in my calendar!

 

 

 

ABOUT FODADA

There are some things in life that help validate why you were put on this earth and for  me,    becoming a father was that life-changing event. The amazing responsibility of becoming a father and raising my sons has become the most overwhelming and demanding yet rewarding experience of my life. Last year I realized that I needed to celebrate this experience and so I created fodada. I wanted to create a company that could provide a tangible product that could then be leveraged to funnel exposure, support and funding for programming that is relevant and dedicated to fatherhood and families. ~ Bobby Barzi,  Chief Dada, Fodada

In the few months of our existence we have far exceeded what I thought was possible, further validating the need to recognize fatherhood and celebrate its importance. I have to admit, I am humbled with the amazing emails and notes I have received from dads, wives, sons, daughters and individuals about how they love their dads, what this has meant to them and how much they love the clothes.

 

And yes, the clothing! Let’s not forget about that! We continue to look for items that will feel great, look great and add a bit of a style to anyone’s closet. We love seeing celebrities in our clothes and we appreciate product write ups in publications.

 

Our brand has now become a symbol of the great experience that fatherhood is and how much it impacts a family. With that, we have charged ourselves to associate with organizations and causes we believe a dad would be interested in supporting, like: Autism Speaks, Giving Children Hope, Working Wardrobes, and the American Heart Association. These organizations are just a few that we have or will be collaborating with. These associations have also helped inspire campaigns such as Color for Cause and Adopt a Dad.

 

About fodada's International Women's Self-Defense Day

 

We are also passionate about programming initiatives that directly impact a dads life. Our largest to date has been fodada's International Women’s Self Defense Day. In 2012, fifteen U.S. cities, along with Paris, France, Madrid, Spain and Adelaide and Melbourne, Australia conducted free self defense classes for women, aimed to help empower the women in a dad's life. This event was fully sponsored by fodada and was free to all attendees.

And then Hurricane Sandy hit, knocking the New York Metropolitan Transit System Down. Many stations were flooded and not running just a few critical days before, I kept checking the transit reports and the weather reports every second as I was not about to let anything deter me from getting to that class. With the economic crisis this country is still in, things are very dangerous, there has been tons of pickpockets and violence on the rise, especially where I live, so I wanted to polish off my old skills and head over to class to hopefully learn some new tricks and participate in attack scenario situations to learn the skills necessary to get yourself out of the situation and to safety.

The New York City class was held at New York Combat Sambo, and while the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy slowed things down a bit, a brave and intrepid bunch set out to New York Combat Sambo to learn some new Self-Defense Skills!

Here is a video of the group in action:





On November 4, 2012 Fodada sponsored its first annual International Women's Self Defense Day. Martial art clubs in 15 US states and 6 countries offered free classes. This clip is from New York Combat Sambo Women's Self Defense Day Class.

 

 Center(Seated): Stephen Koepfer, Owner/Head Coach

 

Here is an after photo of the entire group post class! (Think you can spot the butterfly? Look carefully, mama butterfly is there too!)

I greatly enjoyed taking this class and think it's phenomenal that a menswear brand thought to put something like this together. It truly speaks to their overall approach to keeping the entire family unit happy and safe.

I'm definitely ready to start training again!

Butterflies, if you train, share what you are doing to keep fit and safe!

 

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: Our editors attended a free Women's Self-Defense Class at New York Combat Sambo, the event was part of a larger international initiative sponsored by Fodada Menswear, we did not have to pay to attend the class, however we have not been compensated for re-capping the experience, and all opinions are 100% my own.