@beautypress @RockStarWigs @CosplayWigs @lolitawigs @DolluxeUSA Bring out the purdy lil Easter Bunny in me! #WordlessWednesday

Find out what event I saw this at (and so much MORE) by coming back tomorrow for a full and very fun recap coverage post that is sure to put some new beauty goodies on your radar!

Happy Wordless Wednesday Butterflies! Bloggers feel free to link up by leaving your link as a comment below so we can hop on over to your photo this week too! (Please No Giveaway Links, Thank You! Photos only!)

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post.

@ALNmovie #Movie Review + @IMANcosmetics Lipstick #Beauty Bar @hellobeautiful @shopaddicts #AboutLastNight

Pardon me on what has to be the most confusing title ever, but with back to back tradeshows in town and NY Fashion Week madness, I needed to make my title make sense for twitter, so thanks for bearing with me! (I know some of you hate article titles with hashtags, and others that love twitter like me so get this!)

I thought my former film critic days for a popular print publication had spoiled me totally on screenings, but recently I got an invited to a pretty unique advanced screening of Sony Pictures About Last Night, a comedic modern day remake (of the 1986 film) which stars Kevin Hart, Regina Hall, Michael Ealy and Joy Bryant. Upon arrival I knew this was a screening like no other when I walked in on a full Beauty Bar doing touch ups and lips by none other than IMAN Cosmetics! IMAN Cosmetics is the official U.S. Cosmetics Sponsor of the movie and offered a Beauty Bar so attendees (which included a who's who of New York City Based Beauty/Lifestyle Bloggers) a chance to try out the new shades of Luxury Moisturizing Lipstick by IMAN Cosmetics that are worn in the movie by Regina and Joy's characters. This super fun girls night out was also hosted in conjunction with the team from Hello Beautiful!

I have to say I was pretty flattered that everyone thought I had already had mine done, but I had in fact just walked in, and was sporting my signature custom lip blend. I tend to blend my own reds or in the winter/fall I will sometimes go plum but either way I tend to mix my color myself. I do have to say these are pretty wearable out the tube which for me is quite rare, there are five fabulous shades to choose from including (1) Taboo (Plum), (2) Kinky Pink (dark petal), (3) Flirtatious Pink (hot pink), (4) Scandalous (Deep Red), and (5) Hot (Orange).

Here is a little behind the scenes action of the Beauty Bar during the About Last Night Sony Pictures Screening (See Video Below):

I am in the video at 0:20-21 seconds! You will see Dee from Shop Addicts and in the teal sweater is ME! Tracy Iglesias from Ascending Butterfly! (By the way we were posing for the picture I included below when someone filmed us!) The above video is being moderated by one of my fave blogging peeps, Ty from Gorgeous in Grey who I met at BlogHer!

There is another video that focuses directly on the colors in the collection below:



My Take:

I greatly enjoyed the Beauty Bar as it gave us a chance to try out the colors and see which worked for us best. We got to take the Iman Make-Up Kit, Lip Affair lip colors home so I am definitely going to take time to play with the colors and blend them to see how close I come to the color that is my custom signature lip.

The movie is hilarious! Well cast and super funny. I greatly enjoyed it! It's not 'too chick' that guys will get bored, and not too 'man humor', they really did strike a perfect balance, and your face will probably hurt from laughing and smiling so much! It accurately reflects modern day dating with a sense of humor and just the right sentimentality. 

No spoilers here, but CHICKEN SCENE, it's TOTALLY worth the price of admission alone!

Left: Dee Rivera of Shop Addicts and Right: ME! Tracy from Ascending Butterfly!

What are your plans for Valentine's Day Butterflies?

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FTC Disclosure: I have NOT been compensated to share my opinions on the film. I was however provided with Product Samples in the form of a gift bag for Editorial Consideration and passes to the advanced screening. 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 visit our full giveaway and disclosure page for complete policy information.

Love at first sniff, this is a MUST for dry winter skin! #IColoniali #BBloggers #Beauty

At one of last year's BeautyPress Spotlight Days I got to meet the folks at I Coloniali and I fell head over heels with the brand, particularly with the Myrrh line of products and as promised after thorough testing I am giving I Coloniali their own day in the sun!

This is actually the best time of year to try them out. The cold winter winds are brutal to the skin and I am sure if you are anything like me when you get home with your dry winter skin and feeling cold to the bone, nothing is more soothing to the spirits than a nice warm bath. I have been adding the I Coloniali Softening Bath Oil with Karitè Extract to my bath and it's been a sensory delight in every sense of the word!

I Coloniali Softening Bath Oil with Karitè Extract

About the Softening Bath Oil with Karitè Extract:

It comes in a glass bottle (250 ml - 8.5 fl. oz) and it's cleansing and emollient, you can pour the oil under the hot water of your bath to obtain a rich foam, the foamy rich mousse that develops will envelop your skin and gently cleanse making it velvety smooth to the touch. But I actually double up. I use it in the bath, and then when I finish my bath I put a very small amount on my hands and rub it across my still damp skin and let it air dry and it makes my skin feel SO soft and SMELL so good it is literally a sensory delight overload. If you are going to double up on the oil like I do, you need only a very small of the oil to use on your damp skin, don't overdo it. It will go a long way on your already damp skin. When I don't take a bath but only a shower, I really love using this on my still damp skin, but it's when I get to use it double that I really love it most. I hate when it's time to wash my towels now because they retain the scent of this oil! :)

I Coloniali Deep Massage Body Cream with Myrrh

About the Deep Massage Body Cream with Myrrh:

OK so add to the super indulgent fun, before bed I apply the Deep Massage Body Cream with Myrrh which comes in a large White Glass jar (200 ml - 6.8 fl.oz or the 400 ml - 13.5 fl. oz). You apply directly to the skin and massage until the micro-granules are fully absorbed. It is while you are massaging it into your skin that the micro-granules get the chance to fully develop leaving your skin delicately scented and super soft to the touch.

I Coloniali products are enriched with original ingredients from around the world in order to re-establish harmony within the body and the spirit. It is where the luxury of spa meets the privacy of your own home!

My Take:

I am a huge fan of this line since discovering them at BeautyPress. I have always put some kind of oil on my skin while it's damp, and I am absolutely loving this one! I tend to lean toward 'warmer' and 'heavier' scents I'm just not a floral girl, I can only take very floral scents in super small doses. Myrrh is a longtime favorite of mine and this deep massage body cream leaves my skin delicately scented, well hydrated (never greasy or sticky), and helps me beat the winter dry skin blues! They consider their products to be a 'ritual of well being' and I couldn't agree more. Our bodies are a vessel that house something very precious, our spirit, and to me the body and mind are at one when you are caring for them BOTH equally. Scented products do tend to trigger a reaction. They trigger a memory that leaves you with a feeling, and using aromatic products that also nourish the skin are a great way to bring you to a place of outer and inner harmony.

As a butterfly on a budget I will say these fall under the 'splurge' category, but then again I don't mind doing so if the quality is there. Instead of using cheap lotions that you have to apply often just to keep your skin feeling hydrated, I'd rather purchase something that offers a more 'quality' hydration experience that I don't have to constantly reapply just to keep my skin feeling soft.

Get Social:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - "Like" I Coloniali on Facebook

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Pin with them on Pinterest

And of course, don't forget to let them know you saw them featured on Ascending Butterfly! (You may want to ask them to host a giveaway with Ascending Butterfly too, I can guarantee that if you try this once you'll be a fan for life!)

I can't think of a better way to celebrate YOU in 2014 than by pampering your skin and yourself!

What is your favorite scent? Do you use Massage Oils or Creams?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, however I was provided with the products referenced for editorial consideration free of charge. 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.

@Sniffapalooza @MoltonBrownUSA in #NewYorkCity! #Sniffapalooza #Skincare #Beauty #bbloggers

Molton Brown London, Midtown East Location in New York City

I got to attend my very first Sniffapalooza event in New York City and I definitely picked a great first one to attend! A special holidays edition of Sniffapalooza was hosted at the New Molton Brown store in New York City, there were tons of gift sets on display that were perfect for holidays and beyond, and it was truly a delight for my senses!

I hadn't had the opportunity to experience Molton Brown Products personally so I greatly enjoyed trying out all the great body washes and lotions and thought I'd share my standouts and Photo Highlights:

Kusmi Tea Station at Molton Brown London Midtown East Location in New York City for holiday Sniffapalooza

The event was held right after the second of two snowstorms that battered New York City, it was in fact snowing when we all arrived, so the Kusmi Tea Station was a very welcome site as most of us were still freezing from our morning commute into the city in the snow! Thanks Kusmi!

The Bath and Body Treasures Collection from Molton Brown

Honestly this collection is fantastic year round, not just for holidays! Valentines Day is coming up, not to mention it's perfect for birthdays too! Thoughtful for Mother's Day or a teacher's gift for June! (As a former Special Ed teacher I can tell you that teacher's do NOT want apples! That's definitely a myth!) This collection features six Body Wash & Nourishing Body Lotions and picking a favorite scent isn't easy, this collection includes: Pink Pepperpod, Gingerlily, Ylang-Ylang, Templetree, Suma Ginseng and Japanese Orange. I think this thoughtful gift would be well-received by any recipient.

Molton Brown London Fine Fragrance Display at the Molton Brown US Midtown East location -New York City December 2013 Sniffapalooza Event

Now don't get me wrong, all the fine fragrance smells wonderful, but I do have an absolute stand out favorite from among the six and that's IUNU. The fine fragrance collection is called 'Navigations Through Scent' and Iunu which is 'Egypt' inspired offers a ginger oil and elemi oil top note, with Egyptian Jasmine Absolute, Ylang Ylang and Black Pepper Middle Notes and a base of Patchouli and Oakmoss. They describe it as 'Warm. Slightly Dark. Sublime' and I describe it as 'Yes, Please!'

Molton Brown Gift Bag Sniffapalooza Event December 2013 New York City Midtown East Retail Store

My Take:

My personal favorites (in no particular order) are:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Coco & Sandalwood (they offer a Body Wash, Nourishing Body Lotion and Replenishing Hand Cream. This scent is also included in The Exclusive Home Gift Collection.)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Patchouli & Saffron (Body Wash, Nourishing Body Lotion and Replenishing Hand Cream or you can purchase it in a trio, they also offer a Single Wick Candle that you can purchase separately.)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Frankincense & Allspice (Available in a Hand Wash, Hand Lotion and Candle)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Navigations Through Scent - Iunu

The team at the Midtown East Location at 515 Madison Avene in New York City are super helpful, and you can give them an idea about your particular favorite scents and they can easily match you up to the right Molton product, so don't hesitate to ask for help if you go in and feel a bit over-whelmed by the selection.

I'm glad Sniffapalooza introduced me to the brand and to the New York store, I will definitely be back and will of course visit them online too!

Get Social:

Why you don't tell Sniffapalooza and Molton Brown you saw them featured on Ascending Butterfly?

I'm sure they'd love to know! Give them some Social Media Love here:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @MoltonBrownUSA on Twitter
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Sniffapalooza on Twitter
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Like Sniffapalaooza on Facebook
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Like Molton Brown USA on Facebook

Butterfly have you tried Molton Brown? If so, what is your personal fave? If not, which product would you most like to try?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, I was provided press passes to this Sniffapalooza Event for editorial consideration. This is NOT a sponsored post 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.

#ad: Starting a Business Takes More than just 'Ganas'/Desire, it takes Planning + a #Giveaway too! @AmwayUS #SomosAmway

#ad: This is a Compensated/Sponsored Post in collaboration with Amway and Latina Bloggers Connect, as always, all opinons are 100% my own, additional disclosure information below post.

I've been an entrepreneur in some form or another for as long as I can remember, in fact I worked three jobs to get myself through College (in addition to several academic merit scholarships!). My original major was Biological Sciences (because I was pre-med and an aspiring Cardiologist at the time), but I was already a freelance writer contributing articles to a Bronx Newspaper (no, folks not just the Campus paper), and I ran my own Transcription and Translation Service, it started small and the word-of-mouth eventually landed me a Major Magazine Client whose editors would use both services, they would send me the tapes of the interviews editors would conduct with Spanish Speaking Celebrities and have me translate them because the magazine published articles solely in English at the time with some peppering of Spanish in some articles, so I would not only transcribe all interviews, (both the English and Spanish ones), but also translate the Spanish articles. It was my first lesson in just how long the hours are when you work for yourself. I would get a lot of 'overnight' turn around requests. Tapes would sometimes arrive to me via a messenger service up until 1 am (the latest time those services ran in my city) and I would have to translate, transcribe, proof read and get the tape returned and story sent to the editor hours later for same day rush service. Yes I was smart enough to charge additional fees for same day service and turn around, but I had to be up all night sometimes to complete those jobs. And still get up early for an office day job and a FULL TIME, NOT PART TIME class schedule.

Was it easy? NO, not at all.

Was I always tired? Indeed.

While my three jobs were very different in scope they all taught me unique lessons that all specifically prepared me well for the future. They honed my discipline, my accounting skills, my time management skills, project management skills and client management skills. All skills you need in spades to turn your dreams of running your own business into a reality.

It takes more than 'Ganas'/'Desire', it takes more than wanting it to make it happen. Yes butterflies if you can dream it, you can achieve it, I have NO doubt about that, but don't forget that it takes planning, research, in some cases additional education and it does take financial preparation. When you work for yourself, you will work way LONGER hours than you've ever worked for anyone else. Trust me when I tell you no day job you've ever had will ever compete with the amount of hours you will have to work when you go into business for yourself.

Amway is partnering with various digital entrepreneurs to discuss and share our stories. They empower people everyday by enabling them to start a business, and they wanted us to share our perspective with being your own boss. Despite the fact this economy is still very much in a recession, it's exactly that reason that many people are exploring their options. Sometimes a 9-to-5 isn't quite enough to make ends meet these days and knowing that there are other options to empower yourself and your family is important.

My friends there is a cure out there for "The Common Cubicle"! Sales skills are an integral part of any business, so this is a great way to hone those skills in hours that are convenient for you. Check out the quick video below:

I for one think it's important to get first hand feedback from someone who is currently in a business, so I would suggest checking out the testimonials from happy Amway Family members including the Diaz Family, the St. John Family, the Avellaneda Family, the Veloz Family, the Kothapallis Family, and the Garcia Family. There are tons more!

I personally think it's good business to allow folks to 'try the goods' you know 'sample the merchandise', and thankfully our friends at Amway agree, there is no better way to help people understand just how great your products are than by giving them the chance to try them out for themselves! Amway wants YOU to do just that!

WIN IT:

Our friends at Amway want you to try out some of their most popular products including:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - NUTRILITE Fruit & Vegetables 2Go Twist Tubes (We actually did a full review of this product HERE if you'd like to check that out)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - NUTRILITE Men's Packs Dietary Supplements

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - NUTRILITE Women's Pack Dietary Supplements

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - NUTRILITE Perfect Pack for your Health

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Artistry Youth Xtend Collection

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Artistry Light Up Lip Gloss

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Artistry Liquid Eyeliner

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Legacy of Clean All Purpose Surface Wipes

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Legacy of Clean SA8 Triple Liquid 3X Concentrated Laundry Detergent

The Approximate Value of this Prize Basket is $710.00! Can I get a Woot! Woot!

Enter using the Rafflecopter Widget Below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Please note Ascending Butterfly is NOT drawing the winner, the sponsor is, so please check back after the contest closes to see the winner's name announced on the widget as I won't be posting a winner's announcement for this since I'm not drawing it.

Tell us Butterflies, What part of the prize package interests you most?

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FTC Dislcosure: This is a Sponsored Giveaway in conjunction with Amway. All prizes are non-transferable with no cash redemption, equivalent or substitution except at Sponsor's Sole Discretion. Prize details and availability are subject to change and in the event that Sponsor is unable to provide a Winner with their Prize the Sponsor may elect to provide such Winner the approximate value of said prize in an alternate prize of comparable value. Prizes will be awarded via a random drawing and winners will be notified directly by Amway NOT by Ascending Butterfly. All Winners must respond to the notification within 24 hours or an alternate winner will be selected. Ascending Butterfly is NOT responsible for shipment of prizing, shipping fees or insurance, prizes will be fulfilled by Amway. Sponsor nor Ascending Butterfly will be held responsible for lost, late or mis-directed mail. Winners are responsible for any taxes on prizes awarded. Odds of winning are based on the number of  participants during respective entry period. No Purchase Necessary. Prizes will be honored and shipped to winners ages 18 + who are United States Residents.

#ad: You don't have to spend a million to look like a million + Get Rewarded with @CVS_Extra #DivinaLatina #DivinaLBC

#ad: This is a compensated campaign in collaboration with Unilever and Latina Bloggers Connect.

Butterflies 'Holidays Madness' has begun and you know what that means right? Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Eve! Family, friends and if you have them 'In-Law's' visiting (this butterfly is blissfully single and thankfully does NOT have to worry about In-Laws!). There is a lot of preparation that goes into the holiday season, getting your home ready, preparing elaborate meals, and of course power shopping - where are you trying to get the most for your money without breaking the bank!

What can easily get neglected in this scenario of trimming trees, getting the house 'visitor ready' and shopping for gifts for everyone else is your skincare routine. But this is also the season of Holiday Parties both personal and the office party, decking the halls and it all culminates with the end of year bash of all bashes, New Years Eve. You definitely want to feel Red Carpet Ready on New Years Eve. 

There is actually sense in the superstition of getting dressed up each year on New Year's Eve, the way you greet the New Year tends to set the tone for the year itself. How do you want 2014 to find YOU this year? I can tell you this year is not finding me in 'Shlumpadinka' mode, and I have a strong feeling you feel the exact same way!

You can wear a million dollar ballgown and if your hair looks like a rats nest and your face looks puffy and tired you are NOT going to feel your best. You do not have to spend a million to look and feel like a million!

There are Drugstore Brands that are staples in most homes for a reason, and as a Beauty Blogger I try a ton of products and use them as a gauge for what type of stuff works best for me, but best believe when it comes time to buy I'm looking for the same results for less just like everyone else!

CVS sent over some new faves to add my beauty arsenal:

Ponds and TRESemme are certainly not new to me, but the particular products I was sent are! The women in my family have amazing skin and the first thing they taught me was that an ounce of prevention when it comes to skincare is worth a pound of cure. They taught me to keep my skin hydrated, and even in my teen years when acne was definitely a factor they still made sure I didn't let my skin get stripped or dried out by acne care products and I am super thankful for that now.

I have always washed off all makeup every night, but recently I have been trying to incorporate night creams into my routine, I am trying out the Pond's Rejuveness Anti-Wrinkle Cream with AHAs and Collagen, while they recommend using it twice per day, I prefer to use this one as a night cream. With demands on my time being increasingly crazy and my days getting longer and longer I do find using a night cream consistently is showing great results with my skin. And I have had people asking me what I'm doing lately so I'm counting on you to keep it top secret! Because of the AHAs I do suggest you follow the packaging instructions and use Rejuveness approximately 15 minutes after cleansing your face to avoid a 'tingling' sensation.

I am new to the Keratin craze so I haven't tested enough products to give you guys a definitive on which one for me is 'the one' but I am enjoying TRESemme Keratin Infusing Smoothing Serum. TRESemme is one of my oldest preferred Drugstore Favorites and I'm glad I was able to try this out as I flat iron often and my hair does need the extra protection as my ends get fried pretty quickly from the double combo of blow drying and flat iron.

So what do "Divina Latina" products have to do with YOU?

GET REWARDED:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Be Red Carpet Ready Every Day with Divina Latina Products that are available at CVS/pharmacy and are eligible for ExtraBucks Rewards!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Every $50 spent on Beauty Products at CVS/Pharmacy gets you $5 ExtraBucks rewards! (and I can easily spend more than $50 on my average visit to the pharmacy, like most retail locations, you go in for one thing and end up with tons of other stuff, so at least get rewarded for it!)

GET SOCIAL:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - "Like" the Divina Latina Facebook Page to keep track of current promotions!

MY TAKE:

You know I always say Beauty starts from within, and at this time of year the chaos can easily make you lose track of both. So butterflies get in your daily meditation time and don't lose track of your skincare routine in all the holiday insanity. You want to prepare to start this upcoming year with good routines already in place to be the best you that you possibly can be! And with a little help from CVS and the Divina Latina Collection of Unilever Products you can take good care of the outside and be your most beautiful and radiant holiday self!

Which Unilever Brand is YOUR personal favorite Butterfly?

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FTC Disclosure: This is a compensated campaign brought to you by Unilever, Divina Latina, CVS and Latina Bloggers Connect. 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 visit our full giveaway and disclosure page for complete policy information.

{#Giveaway} @Ascending1 & @ToiletTreeProd want to stuff your stocking with the Professional #Skincare System! 3 Winners!

How about a gift you can't quite put a price on? Confidence. Self-Esteem. Both are boosted when you put your best face forward. And putting it forward everyday with or without cosmetics is what it's all about! Good skincare is at the core of your self-esteem, and while good cosmetics help you hide things, good skincare helps you enhance everything!

Exfoliation is wonderful for the skin but some exfoliation products can be too harsh or even cause tiny abrasions in the skin. All makeup does is go into those abrasions, it doesn't take them away! You have to be super careful about the frequency you exfoliate and what you use.

I love skin scrubbing brushes but had very bad luck with a well known brush on the market constantly konking out on me before the 60 day mark. And when customer service and social media was less than helpful in getting an exchange, I became a bit dis-heartened about using them. But I did miss the benefits!

And as you guys know I'm all in when it comes to trying out new exfoliators, I love what exfoliation does for my skin! And one of my favorite 'pros' when it comes to exfoliation brushes is that they have a brush for face and one for the body as well, and they even have a pumice stone attachment to do your feet!

When I found out ToiletTree Products had a skincare brush I HAD to try it! I have the fogless shower mirror and it's one of my all-time favorite things (in case you missed that review you can check it out HERE), I can tell you their products are definitely built to last and always perform as promised!

I opted to wait a full 90 days before posting a review on this one as I had such bad luck with the pricier systems dying out on me, and I can tell you this one is still going strong. I love that this one is battery operated so it's always ready to go and a great option for travel as you don't have to worry about converters!

About The ToiletTree Products Professional Skincare System (+ benefits):

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Includes: 2 face exfoliators (1 soft for sensitive skin & 1 medium for normal skin), 1 body exfoliator and 1 pumice sphere.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Rotating Facial and Body Brushes Provide Deep Cleansing and Exfoliating

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Reduces the appearance of problem areas such as: oily skin, dry patches, fine lines, blemishes, visible pores, blackheads and wrinkles

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - ideal for both the preparation and removal of cosmetics

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - gentle massaging action helps stimulate new skin cell production, creating firmer & healthy glowing skin

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - cleanses deep to remove stubborn makeup

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - improves skin clarity and appearance

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - removes dead skin cells to expose healthy looking skin

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - enhances absorption of moisturizers

My Take:

This system is perfect for literally everyone on your list! Who doesn't want healthy, glowing and radiant skin? Hard to shop for? CHECK. Teens? CHECK. Men or Women? Check, Check! I can't imagine anyone on your list these wouldn't suit, and the regular price on these won't break the bank! They are actually super budget friendly and do the job as effectively as their pricier (and not so often reliable) counterparts! I LOVE mine, and when I told my friends at ToiletTree Products just how much I love mine and how much I thought YOU would love it too, they decided to join in the fun and offer 3 lucky Butterflies the chance to win The Professional Skin Care System in the color of YOUR choice! WOOT!

Win It:

As always our main entry is easy, peasy nice and breezy! So throw in an entry using rafflecopter below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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FTC Disclosure: This giveaway is being sponsored by Toilet Tree Products, prize fulfillment will be handled directly by sponsor. Ascending Butterfly and giveaway sponsors are not responsible for lost, late or mis-directed mail. One entry per Household. No Purchase Necessary. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older at the time of entry and reside in the United States. All opinions are 100% my own. A Professional Skincare System was provided to Ascending Butterfly for Editorial Consideration.  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 visit our full giveaway and disclosure page for complete policy information.

My Not So #WordlessWednesday - The get 'new' skin edition! #PerlierOnHSN (+Nab $5 off!)

I'll keep it brief butterflies as it's Wordless Wednesday and all (although if you've been here more than a minute, you know full well I can rarely keep it wordless!).

Perlier Volcanic Thermo Renewing Scrub

Volcanic Rocks + Thermal Water and micronutrients that are essential and vital to the cells in the skin combine in this scrub, that does more than just exfoliate, it rejuvenates and smooths the skin in a way that truly leaves it soft and feeling brand 'new'! It's like at an home spa treatment - you know without the wait time, having a stranger scrubbing you up, and high prices! (I'll just say that the only part of the iFabbo experience I don't like is that postcard proclaiming 'Aren't you Spoiled', reviewing skincare is hard work!) :-)

Nab it for a discount: Do you want to have the most fabulous time you can possibly have in the shower? Sure you do! Score $5 off Perlier's Volcanic Thermo Renewing Scrub by entering iFabbo5 on HSN! (UM, you're totally welcome!)

My Take:

It's the quality of Perlier's ingredients that never fails me, and because I test a lot of beauty products, my skin can sometimes react and get sensitive or even break out more and with Perlier's skincare products I get no bad reactions or breakouts and I will admit I'm a total sucker for body exfoliating products but the biggest standout perk for me with this one is that it doesn't leave my bathtub all sticky, slippery and gross like many body exfoliators tend to do because those mostly rely on the oils to counter-balance the exfoliation process. My skin truly feels renewed after using this, it's not slippery or oily, just super smooth and I ADORE the scent on this one so much! If they are reading this, I think I now need the Perlier Volcanic Thermal Spa 3-piece Collection in my life!

What is your favorite body scrub? (Please share, I'm always game for trying new ones!) And Bloggers please post the link to your Wordless Wednesday Post or WW Linky Hops as a comment here so we can visit you too! (Just play nice, no giveaway links for Wordless Wednesday OK?)

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FTC Disclosure: I am a member of the iFabbo Shop Program and I received the Review Item above for Editorial Consideration. This is not a compensated post 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.

@FabFitFun put a smile in my #MotivationMonday, Thanks @GiulianaRancic! Want to see what's in the box?

#ad: A FabFitFun Box was provided for Editorial Consideration however no monetary compensation has been received by Ascending Butterfly to share our experience.

I get to attend a lot of cool 'tweet ups' in New York City and I also get the chance to help host or co-host a ton of cool Twitter Parties, I guess me being "The Official #TwitterPartyDJ" it's no surprise, but I had the chance to attend a live tweet up last year with Giuliana Rancic in conjunction with the P&G #GIVEHope 'Do it for the Girls' campaign. If you missed that post, you can check it out HERE.

Meeting Giuliana in person and hearing her story inspired me because there is a history of Cancer in my family, to get my first ever Mammogram early. I remember one of the things that was discussed when I got the chance to meet her, and after having spent a year in the hospital myself, this really hit home, someone asked her what to give someone in the hospital or someone who is already at home but under-going treaments, she answered meals, house cleaning service, or an in home manicure and that resonated with me that's for sure. I don't know if this was already under development then, but Giuliana developed a subscription box service called FabFitFun where she curates a collection of great products spanning beauty, wellness, health, fitness and fashion to help you feel good from the inside out (which of course is very much our motto here at Ascending Butterfly!).

"It's the perfect way to kickstart your happy and get more from life every day!"

I received the August box a bit late in the month so with my travels and obligations I didn't actually get to start testing the products until September, but thankfully fab products are useful anytime!

What was in the box:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Ivory Mason Sunglasses - ARV $69
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Catalina Su Lip Gloss - ARV $14
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Purlisse Pur-Delicate Gentle Soy Milk Cleanser and Makeup Remover - ARV $36
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Evian Brumisateur Facial Spray - ARV $7.50
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Infinity Sun 'Glow on the Go' Sunless Tanning Spray - ARV $35
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - it Haircare Surf Spray (for beachless waves) - ARV $6.99
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Kind Bar - Dark Chocolate Cherry Cashew + Antioxidants - ARV $1.39 per bar
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Yes to Cucumbers Soothing hypoallergenic Facial Towelettes - ARV $5.99

My Take:

The best things about a subscription box is discovering a great new product, or a brand that is new to you, or a product new to you from a brand you already love. Treat yourself or better still get them as a special gift for someone you love. Especially when you have someone on your list who is hard to shop for, even the person who has everything wants to try something fun and new!

For me the standouts in this box was the Pur-lisse pur-delicate gently soy milk cleanser (because I test out so many products my skin can get sensitive when I bombard it with stuff back to back), this was gentle on my skin and it felt great afterwards. I tend to wear my hair straight so I didn't find myself reaching for the beachless waves too often, and of course I don't really need tan sprays as I have enough natural melanin of my own!  The facial spray was great, because in high heat and humidity misting myself like a plant was a great way to stay cool! And of course, I personally get can't enough lip gloss (I like to make sure I have a few in all my purses, desk drawers etc), and I also enjoyed the Soothing Towelette makeup removers from Yes to Cucumbers (I always advise keeping a pack in your purse, on super sunny days when makeup is running in your eyes these can certainly come in handy! And of course before or after the gym they are great to have on you!).

And you know just how much Ascending Butterfly loves brands that GIVE back, and Ivory Mason has a collection of glasses called BABY2BABY, for every pair sold they donate a pack of diapers! Baby2Baby .org supplies Los Angeles families in need with essential baby gear and clothing for their children up to age 12. By distributing new and gently used items to over 50 non-profit organizations including homeless and domestic violence shelters, Head Start programs and Hospitals. They serve over 50,000 children each year! You get stylish frames and you help a child in need, WIN/WIN in my book!

And Kind Bars offer up great snacks with ingredients you can pronounce all from a company with a commitment to social entrepreneurship and making the world 'kinder', one act at a time, the fact that the bar is delish too is a great bonus!

I provided URL's to all the brands above in the list of contents so you could get social with them as well, but I also wanted to point out that Kind Bars has a #kindawesome community where they discuss all things inspirational and motivational as well!

Get Social with FabFitFun:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 'Like' FabFitFun on Facebook
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @FabFitFun on Twitter
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Pin with FabFitFun on Pinterest
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Subscribe on YouTube
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Hang out with FabFitFun on Tumblr

I'm definitely looking forward to trying out my next box, and this would definitely be a thoughtful gift for someone you know who is in the hospital or home getting treatments, I know this would have put a smile on my face while I was in the hospital during most of 2012 that's for sure. (And remember some floors do not allow patients to have flowers and some patients also have food restrictions, but usually beauty products are not banned, just call ahead to be sure).

Which of these products would you most like to try? Which is your favorite subscription Beauty Box Service and why?

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FTC Disclosure: I received a FabFitFun August Subscription Box for Editorial Consideration, no monetary compensation has been received and all opinions are 100% my own.

Did you miss @ElementsShow in New York City? Get the lo down and highlights of #ElementsNY here!

No matter what industry you are in, New York City is bound to have an annual tradeshow for it. Not that it's a bad thing, but when you are Lifestyle Blogger, almost every single tradeshow that comes to the City can apply to you. Not to mention most tradeshows are a multi-day affair and I'm lucky with my schedule if I can devote a few hours on one day to any given show, very rarely the full range of days!

Photo courtesy of Elements Showcase

The Elements Showcase came highly recommended but after many years of me not even being in the City when they held it, I had given up hope. Finally, this year I was able to catch the 6th edition of Elements Showcase in New York City. I went in quite focused because despite it being held over two days, I knew I could only devote a few hours to it on only one day after coming from an event in the morning. Thankfully some PR reps I know sent me with specific booths to hit, but somehow though I did manage to take in every single vendor aside from the ones I was specifically looking for!

I was under the erroneous impression that Elements Showcase was just perfume, but I am happy to report that it was SO much more!

Photo Courtesy of Lift Lab

Sarah from Lift Lab, Photo Credit: BeautyPress

I started with Lift Lab so I could walk the room in Vendor order and as I had not tried their products before, I was surprised to discover that there was so much science behind the skincare brand. If you don't believe me, just check out their list of patents (me being originally pre-med, anything that has to do with the Science behind someting still fascinates me!). The Product Developer, Melissa Green Hewitt creates fragrances and cosmetics for Anthropolgie and also has a passion for Organic Skincare!

Photo courtesy of Elements Showcase

I also met Tay Skincare an eco-friendly brand that is free trade, cruelty-free and vegan, and their packaging was beautiful too. Their booth had a very zen vibe, much akin to a spa! They sent us home with a sample size of their Lavendar Body Creme with Green Tea. TAY provides generous support towards planting fruit tree orchards to help combat world hunger and global warming as well as strengthen communities and improve the surrounding air, soil and water. The Fruit Tree Planting Foundation donates orchards where the harvest will best serve communities for generations at places such as public schools, city parks, low-income neighborhoods, international hunger relief sites and animal sanctuaries! Sounds like with TAY you can be as beautiful on the inside as you are on the outside! By the way, their business cards are gorgeous also. I wanted to scan it so you guys could see it but I didn't have time!

Juniper Ridge Marketing Team at Elements Showcase NYC, Photo Credit: Elements Showcase

For my hiking, camping and backpackers you might want to check out the brand Juniper Ridge, whose Trail Crew Soap, BackPacker's Cologne, Cabin Spray, and Campfire Incense's are made only with wildcrafted plants, tree sap, wood and bark found while hiking. With names like 'Cascade Glacier', 'Inyo Trail', 'Yuba River Trail', 'Siskiyou Trail', it's a scent that is evocative of specific plants, places and moments in time. If a scent could possibly capture movement this is closest to hiking being a scent that I can possibly think of! It makes perfect sense that their perfume distilleries are based in the Oakland, California woods. I'm a big Incense lover, and would love to try their White Sage Campfire Incense!

Babalu Distribution present Carner Barcelona and Humiecki & Graf at Elements Showcase NYC. Photo Credit: Beauty Press

Many folks were doing double duty and Babalu Distribution was no exception, they were representing both Carner Barcelona and Humiecki & Graf. Carner Barcelona is founded by Sara Carner who comes from a long line of Spanish Leather Artisans. They use black and white minimalism in the packaging with a silver insignia that is in honor of the XIXth century iron doors of the city of Barcelona, Spain. While Humiecki & Graf offered scents that represented emotions, the standout of the bunch for me was the scent 'Clemency' oddly it is inspired by the regal stance of a mother (I am NOT a mom so I guess I found it odd that of all the scents I was drawn to that one!), this scent has a disassembled rose note which gives it a clear metallic aspect, and a special lime tree blossom adds a warm supple touch, but don't get fooled by the flowery component, it also offers complex wood notes and leather elements softened with milk notes to give it a strong yet velvety soft scent. (It's complexity actually lends itself to a very approachable, wearable scent with a touch of mystery to it!).

Leilana Bishop Display at Elements Showcase NYC. Photo Credit: Beauty Press

I also met another 'new to me' brand called Leilani Bishop who produce a line of single-note fragrance oils of Lilac, Orange Blossom and Pikake. Oils are meant to be applied to 'pulse points' so you would apply them behind the ears, inside elbows, wrists, decolletage, behind knees or ankles. They suggest that you apply it from the bottom up as the fragrance will be activated from the heat of your pulse points and as it rises, it evaporates, so if only applied from the neck up, the scent will quickly rise and then just disappear. These oils are alcohol free so they may take a minute or two for the scent to fully emit and will last 2-3 hours (so you can re-apply throughout the day). And because our body chemistry's differ, oils tend to become a more signature scent that will smell differently on each person. I do sometimes wear oils, but hadn't done so in years, so it was fun to re-discover wearing roll on oils! I used to love to put them on post shower while my skin was still warm and pores open. The scents are meant to take you on Leilani's journey from Hawaii to the Mediterranean! (I don't know about you but I definitely wish I was on the beach in Hawaii right now instead of chained to my desk!)

 Ego Facto Fragrances on display at Elements Showcase NYC. Photo Credit: Beauty Press

Another 'new to me' brand who exhibited at Elements Showcase in New York City was French Perfumers Ego Facto, who displayed their scents which included: PooPoo PiDoo (with the D backwards), Fool for Love, Me Myself and I, Prends Garde A Toi (Again the letter 'd' in the word Garde is backwards), PiEge A Filles (I left the E in caps on purpose in the first word, they also have it written backwards), SacRe Couer (I think you get the idea, but just in case the R in the first word is backwards), and lastly Jamais Le DimaNche (N is backwards on this one).

Yuthica Double Dipp Massage Candle. Photo Credit: Yuthica Website

I'm definitely a candle lover so I was excited to meet the team behind Yuthica. Yuthica Soy Wax Candles are all-natural, biodegradable and eco friendly with scents inspired from fresh flowers, spices from around the world and herbs and garnishes from local farmers markets. They use a proprietary soy wax and all cotton wicks, and their candles and diffusers are handmade in the USA. The Double Dipp Collection is a candle, moisturizing body lotion, hand creamer and soothing massage oil all in one, designed with a handy pour spout. It's a hand blend of jojoba butter, avocado oil, vitamin E, cocoa butter, shea butter, essential oils and 100% natural soy wax. 15 minutes after lighting the wick of the Double Dipp Candle a melt pool will form, you the extinguish the candle and pour the warm massage oil directly onto your body, the lotion will be nice and warm but only gets 2 degrees higher than your natural body temperature and it WON'T burn! I so wish I could have taken these home, but they did send us home with sample packets of body butters in a variety of delicious scents! Two of my favorite candles were from their 'Travelogue Collection', a candle called 'Barcelona' (not to be confused with the scents from Carner featured above), with notes of white tea, thyme and lemon and 'Maasai Mara' a heady sandalwood musk that is very reminiscent of some of my favorite incense!

Center: Gin Fizz, Right: Black Jade fragrances on display at Elements Showcase NYC, Photo Credit: Elements Showcase

Lubin Paris displayed a wide variety of scents, but two were my absolute standouts, called 'Gin Fizz' and the other 'Black Jade'. Black Jade from The Queen's Secret Garden belonged to a queen in the trianon rose gardens, Calbanum, Bergamot, and Cardamom are the 'fresh' notes, which leads to the rose and jasmin heart notes, a hint of incense and cinnamon, in an amber base anchored in exotic woods including Indian Sandlewood & Patchouli with Vanilla and Tonka Bean. Apparently I'm attracted to strong, complex fragrances, but this one, much like some of the others I found myself drawn to is balanced, not totally subtle; complex yet very approachable. A bit more sultry than some of the others, it stood out in my mind! (And after spending a day smelling scents on two floors that really is saying a lot!). As I'm also a 'white musk' girl, it was no surprise that my nose also liked 'Gin Fizz' by Lubin, the perfume was designed as a tribute to Grace Kelly in the year she won the Oscar for her role in 'The Country Girl', the name is inspired by the cocktail that was in fashion at the time. The Top Notes: Bergamot, Sicilian Lemon, Messina Mandarin and Juniper Berry. Middle Notes: Iris, Galbanum, Orange Blossom, Rose Absolute, and Turkish Jasmin. Base Notes: Swamp Lily, Benzoin, Iris from Florence, Vetiver Grass, Oak Moss, and White Musk.

Gemstone Facial by Sjal Skincare (Rose Quartz is being used here), Photo Credit: Sjal Skincare

Have you ever had a Gemstone Facial? I for one haven't but I would certainly love to experience one! I didn't see it, but Sjal Skincare was giving Gemstone Facials during Elements New York City, and as I'm a true believer in the power of gemstones (as you know we have featured TONS of gemstone jewelry designers on Ascending Butterfly), I love the concept behind this line and I am so bummed I didn't get a facial! SJAL is Swedish for for Spirit, Mind, Heart & Soul and they are a luxury skincare line that merges both a holistic approach with scientific advances, bringing ancient eastern medicines with the latest in western biotechnology, infused with bio-osmotic energy through precious minerals and gemstones. And you all know how much I love my Mama Butterfly and I love the fact that the founders are a Mother and Daughter team, Karen and Kristin Petrovich! I also found it interesting that the team studied degenerative aging diseases such as Diabetes, AIDS and Cancer Research in their efforts to seek out progressive ideas for healing, repair and anti-aging.

Parfums Valjean Scents and Bath Oils on display at Elements Showcase NYC, Photo Credit: Beauty Press

Their website is currently under construction, but I met Valjean Corporation who gave us samples of their Refreshing Bath Oil (Bergamot, Rosemary, Wheat Germ Oil) the sample vial resembled a long beaker of sorts from science class, just skinny, and the colors of the this bath oil is Light Blue, Cyan & Teal), their Relaxing Bath Oil (Lavendar, Chamomile, Avocado Oil) of course had a Lavendar to Purple to Blue Hue) and the Sensual Bath Oil (Rose, Jasmine, Jojoba Oil) had an Orange to Red to Yellow Hue. I love that each vial had the gradation in color, I thought that was super unique, I haven't tried these out yet (let's just say super fast showers and no time to soak lately!), but I will report back once I do!

Joya Studio products on display during Elements Showcase in NYC, Photo Credit: Cover Mag

Packaging is something that really does stand out especially when the nose starts to show signs of 'everything smells the same syndrome', and Joya Studio offered up their display with beautiful porcelain containers that housed their soaps and candles. And of course some extra love because they are made right here in my hometown New York City!

MCMC Fragrance Vials, Photo Credit: Pacific Weddings Magazine

MCMC Fragrances displayed their 'The Stories Collection' and my two standouts from the collection was 'Kept' with notes of Red Roses, Black Tea, Leather, and Clove (butterflies this show definitely proved what I already know, I LOVE the smell of Leather! OK stop giggling and no 50 Shades references please as I have not yet read it), and 'Hunter' with notes of Organic Bourbon, Vanilla, Tobacco Absolute, and Balsam Fir. What you can't see is that the box that houses the sample has a story for each one on it, the story for 'Kept" reads:

"Kept is an ode to oneself. Turning the notion of a kept woman on its head, the fragrance encourages women to look to themselves to evoke love. Inspired by this truth, I got a tattoo of an antique key on one of my hands."

"Hunter" reads:

"When I was younger I had a friend I liked to call Hunter. Years later, memories of our long friendship and his adventures  building maple sugar cabins in Vermont inspired this fragrance. Best born with a flannel shirt."

Scent always tend to invoke a feeling and a memory so "The Stories Collection' is very much what we think of when we think of a scent, a feeling, a moment in time, or a person.

From Left to Right: Far Left: Ulrich Lang, Frederick Bouchardy (Joya), Artist Cogy Esparza, and far right: Jeff Lawson, Founding Member at Elements Showcase NYC Rooftop Party, Photo Credit: Elements Showcase

Established in 2002, Ulrich Lang New York melds two of Ulrich's passions: contemporary photography and fine fragrance. Contemporary photography is the inspiration behind the company's scent and conceptual development. My two standouts were: "Nightscape" this scent is described as sensual, mysterious and long lasting and contains Top Notes of: Bergamot, "green" accord, Heart Notes of: Jasmine, Geranium, and Cedarwood and Base Notes of: soft leather notes, musk, amber, tonka bean and patchouli. (Super scary on how on my nose zooms in on these notes!). My second choice was "Anvers" a fusion of fresh aromatics and provocative spices, classic florals with modern leather notes, bracing woods and warm ambers!

Clemence and Valentine (Founder) of Pozzo di Borgo whose fragrances are on display at Elements Showcase NYC, Photo Credit: Beauty Press

Pozzo di Borgo Paris featured their scents "8 mars 1764" inspired by the journey of Carl Andrea Pozzo di Borgo, the Corsican Maquis at the Court of Tsar Alexander 1st who was born on March 8th, 1764. Warm notes of Russian Leather, Cognac, woody notes and coffee essence. I don't know any better way to put this, so I'll just say it, THIS is what a sexy man smells like! It's powerful, eloquent and persuasive and takes you over without you realizing it. With the 'male' scent being so incredible, the female counterpart fragrance needed to be equally dynamic and "23 janvier 1984" is. This intimate, light fragrance combines white and powdery notes of Iris and blend them with the freshness of Fig, the sensuality of Musk and the spice of cardamom. Their sample vials were housed together in an understated but elegant packaging and I have to say my butterflies, they are one to watch and I'm glad to put them on your radar!

Selection of Rouge Bunny Rouge Cosmetics, Photo Credit: Rouge Bunny Rouge

Rouge Bunny Rouge had me at their business card which has a cute butterfly on the front! Offering Make-Up, Skincare and Fragrances, they were definitely a one-stop shop! We were sent home with a lovely signature black gift bag with their Rouge Bunny Rouge logo on the front, and the lining of the bag had the same print as the front of their business cards so it is literally lined with a butterfly print on the inside, and that made me super happy! Inside the bag was their Fire Drops Loose Glitter Pigment in the color "049 - Caress of Mink", included in the bag were also vials of their scents from their "Fragrant Confections Collections", Vapours of Captured Memories: Incantation (which enchants you with top notes of Accord, Blackcurrants, Fig Leaf, Green Tea with a heart of notes including: Rose, Orange Blossom, Coriander, Cardamom and a Base of Vetiver, Cedarwood, Beeswax and Musk), Chatoyant (a flirtatious scent with a top of Bergamot & Lemon, heart notes of Orchid (one of my personal faves), Jasmine, Rose, Lily of the Valley and a base of Sandalwood, Cedarwood, Musk and Vanilla, Lilt (Ethereal and Jubilant with Top Notes of Green Leaf Accord & Fig Leaf, a heart of Peach, Coconut and Violet and a Base of Vetiver and Musk, and last but not least there is Vespers, (and while Catholics of course associate the word  with the sunset evening prayer service), this wisp of a scent certainly offers a confident allure with top notes of Bergamot, Cinnamon Bark, Violet Leaves, and Black Pepper and Heart Notes of Green Apple, Muguet, Rose and Violet with a Base of Cedarwood, Musk, Sandalwood, and Vanilla. I am super grateful Elements put them on my radar, and I hope you feel the same way!

Representatives for Atelier de Geste at the rooftop party during Elements Showcase NYC, Photo Credit: Elements Showcase

Atelier de Geste is another exhibitor with a unique backstory, they are a company that blends art, design and performance. Inspired by Coco Chanel who chose to debut a scent of hers with Les Ballets Russes, a scent introduced in the theater, became the inspiration for Blood/Sweat/Tears an androgynous scent with notes of tea, tobacco, wood, jasmine, ancient fruit and subtle top notes, expressive woody textures, part pungent, part sweet (very much like the blood, sweat and tears we pour into our passions!). The second, "The Good Earth" (also an androgynous scent), Uplifting green, resinous and strong with the lushness of a forest in early summer with notes of Moss oils, Galbanum, Opoponax (sweet/bisabol Myrrh) and rare and precious resins. The third was Wild is the Wind, (again an androgynous scent) with base notes of leather and spirits. I preferred the second and third to the first for some reason.

Kathryn Jaynes, Marketing and Sales Manager for Beauty So Clean displays products at Elements Showcase NYC, Photo Credit: Beauty Press

Did you know that dirty makeup can contribute to infections, allergic reactions and acne? It's not just your makeup brushes that require cleaning, your makeup does too and that's where Beauty so Clean comes in, like a hand sanitizer for your makeup, they are the world's first makeup sanitizer. Even if only YOU use your makeup it still gathers bacteria from the oil on our skin, our fingers (especially makeup you are applying with your fingers), or coughing or sneezing during makeup application. The 1,2,3 punch of the Cosmetic Sanitizer Mist, Cosmetic Sanitizer Wipes and Conditioning Brush Cleanser, will keep BOTH your makeup and your brushes, germ, oil, dust, dirt, and bacteria free. SCORE! This can definitely help you extend your makeup 's shelf life and give you peace of mind especially during the advent of the cold and flu season! The feather duster caught everyone's eye, but their gift bag was in fact the most unique, a black plastic paint can looking container that housed their system of products. And for my friends who bring along their makeup when they travel the wipes are perfect to take with you on your travels and keep your makeup clean while you are on the go! We touch a lot of 'public' spaces along the way especially getting through TSA and on the plane, so those wipes are definitely coming with me on my next trip! I was already cleaning my brushes but will admit never gave much thought to the makeup.

Jamie from Memoire Liquide displays products at Elements Showcase NYC, Photo Credit: Beauty Press

One of the most memorable exhibitors was Memoire Liquide a fragrance line of Bespoke and Reserve Perfumery. Made of pure perfume essences and essential oils, they demystify the art of perfumery by taking the customer on a step by step journey to create their own unique scents. With more than 150 note offerings, you can blend a hand-selected fragrance in store through an individual consultation, or pre-blended pure essences hand-picked by the company's expert perfumers are also available in the Reserve lineup. I custom blend my own signature red lip, and often do the same with my scents, I layer various ones for an ultimate result that is very much me, and this was much like being a kid in a candy store for me, a GIANT perfume candy store! I was also amazed how personal the experience really turned out considering there were a ton of people yet I did not feel rushed, hurried or harried in any way, my signature scent was a mix of white musk, warm notes like amber, and a touch of vanilla and a few more, but I won't tell you, it's MINE all mine I tell you! I also got to take home vials from the Reserve Edition including: "Soleil Liquide" (with Fresh Grapefruit, Tangerine, Blood Orange, Neroli Flowers, Santal and White Musk), "Encens Liquide" (with soft Amber Resin, White Musk, Black Tea, and Hinoki Incense, LOVE this one!), "Amour Liquide" (with Pure Madagascar Vanilla, Tonka Bean and Incense - it's a beautiful scent post shower!), "Vacances Liquide" (with Tiare Flower, Fresh Coconut Milk, Tahitian Vanilla, and Oceanic Accords - this one is your summer night in the tropics memory triggers that's for sure!). "Fleur Liquide" (with Orange Blossom, fresh Mimosa, and night blooming Jasmine - they describe it as 'the memory of dew soaked flowers at dawn just before sunset, and I have to admit I like that description!). I would have regretted it forever if I passed this exhibitor by, it was well worth the small wait! These are the type of scents you wear and invariably someone will ask you what you are wearing, and always in the good way. Memoire Liquide Reserve Edition is a collection of five ready to wear eau de parfums that are exclusively sold at spalook, Nordstrom, Murale, Beautyhabit, SkinStore and Parfum1.

Canvas and Concrete, a Fragrance Primer displayed at Elements Showcase NYC, Photo Credit: Beauty Press

Just like Beauty so Clean taught me about the importance of Sanitizing your actual makeup in addition to the brushes, I learned that there is actually 'perfume primer' on the market. I know right! Canvas and Concrete makes a Fragrance Primer, a natural, scent free base that helps your fragrance to stay true and last as long as you can! (and any butterflies who already knew about this get brownie points today because I was pretty surprised to discover there was a primer for fragrance). It's pretty simple, just spray the primer where you normally apply your fragrance, then spray your desired scent and it will last from day to night. Re-applying your favorite fragrance can get costly, and since body chemistry does tend to change a scent, the Canvas and Concrete primer helping your favorite scent to smell exactly like it does in the bottle and last longer is a total bonus!

Victoria England displays Tulip Perfume Bath and Body products at Elements Showcase NYC, Photo Credit: Beauty Press

Tulip Perfume created by Victoria England is based on upon a firm belief in the holistic approach to thinking and living, her hand-crafted line of Bath and Body products encourage a strong connection with nature as a vital part of life.

House of Sillage on display during Elements Showcase in New York City. Photo Credit: House of Sillage

In terms of both scent, bottle and packaging that truly knocks everyone out of the water, it's House of Sillage whose bottles are works of art unto themselves. We know I'm a bit butterfly bias, but the bottle I fell most in love with, actually turned out to be among my top 2 picks for the line, the scent contained within the rose gold topped butterfly bottle was called 'Cherry Garden', it's actually not as light you may know most 'cherry blossomeque' scents to be, there is a bit of sexy in there, and the bottle is my show favorite. My second pick was everyone's first, the snow globe topped bottle. (I mean if you are looking for a gift to knock her socks off this holiday season, this my friends is IT!), While the snow globbed topped stunner did have a wonderful scent, Cherry Garden still wins for me hands down.  The trial vials of each scent came in a beautiful box with all six scents which was wrapped in tissue paper and in a lovely gift bag. The scents enclosed included: Cherry Garden, (my personal favorite), Tiara, Love is in the Air, Nouez Moi, Emerald Reign and Benevolence. I have a L'Occitane Cherry Blossoms perfume and hand cream that I have always liked, but House of Sillage's Cherry Garden just might make a perfume cheater out of me! My dearest butterflies this is very much a 'Haute Parfumerie' company, but if all my years of being a Beauty Editor has taught me anything, it's much like the famous commercial says, "I'm worth it". Some things are just worth the expense for how happy they make you feel. Honestly the photo above doesn't do the bottles justice. Hopefully they send me that butterfly bottle just so I can take a better picture of it, yeah that's the ticket! :-)

Alex, Founder of Smith & Chang displays products during Elements Showcase in New York City. Photo Credit: Beauty Press

If like me 'surrounding your life with beauty & authenticity' sounds like the way to go, then you will love Smith & Chang, inspired by general stores once found in small towns across America, Smith & Chang General Goods is a department store of sorts with an eco twist and vintage vibe. They offer quality goods, (without the air pretension), that are produced locally using only high quality materials. In a brown paper bag with their logo I left with a little bundle of love that included bath salts from their Patria Collection, Alex definitely made me smile and his commitment and passion to producing local really does shine through!

Lalique Pour Homme Limited Edition 2009 Scent - Buddha

The Fragrance Group founded as the exclusive US distributor for a select group of prestige specialty fragrances including Lalique Parfums, Bentley Fragrances, Parfums de Marly, Tiziana Terenzi, and are also developing Designer Christian Siriano's first fragrance that is due out early 2014 displayed a bottle at their booth that knocked my socks off, it was a Lalique pour homme bottle with a beautiful Buddha on it! You know I collect Buddha stuff and this one stopped me in my tracks it's a 2009 limited edition Mens Cologne, and it almost made me miss the Lalique Butterfly as I got so distracted by this bottle. I have to admit I appreciate the double layers of meaning this bottle has for me, Ascending Butterfly has always been about Beauty starting from within so it can reflect on the outside, and taking time in Meditation is one of my favorite practices! Much like with House of Sillage and Smith & Chang, I definitely left this exhibitor smiling. Although I wish I could have also left with this bottle to add to my collection!

K/ller Collection Brass Engraved Nail Shield Sets, for sale at Barneys New York

Former furniture designers, turned Jewelry Designers, turned 'Nail Shield' Designers definitely attracted attention with their Brass Engraved Nail Shield Sets that they exhibited at Elements Showcase in New York City. They are now available in Barneys New York. K/ller Collection is the fusion of designers Katie DeGuzman and Michael Miller who met in 2000 while both attending Parsons School of Design in New York City. There is just something so 'New York' about these and I mean that in the best way possible, this is the New York Woman in a nutshell, she may appear tough as brass on the outside, but she is truly unique and beautiful on the inside. I would love to see these engraved with butterflies!

And in keeping with the 'Nails' theme, I stopped to take time to do something I haven't done nearly enough this summer, get a manicure! Ten over Ten - Nail Salon and Event Space in New York City was on hand to provide Mani's using their own line of Nail Polish. They currently have two very swanky locations, one is in midtown underground at Le Parker Meridien hotel and the other is in Tribeca on the second floor of a landmark building. I fell in love with the colors Maiden and Wall Street which launch in September and of their red's my favorite was called Carmine a very 'hollywood red'.I am in LOVE with this color! I am always in such a rush, and it was nice to just make everything stop for a few and enjoy a little pampering!

Alpha, Omega and Id from Mendittorosa

Mendittorosa presented their scents Alfa ('female' scent with a saffron heart), Omega (it's soul is Iris) and Id (an androgynous scent, from the black stones of Iddu, the sacred Stromboli mountain), and that is honestly about all I can say because I didn't get to take anything home from them and don't remember which was my favorite.

Amouage on display at Elements Showcase NYC, Photo Credit: Elements Showcase

Europarfum was presenting a few of their brands as well and as you can see the packaging is certainly eye-catching!

Jewelry Designer Jules Kim wearing a piece that was designed exclusively for the movie Girl With A Dragon Tattoo at Elments Showcase in NYC. Photo Credit: Cover Mag

Jules Kim, jewelry designer, presented her creations, I'd say they are are a perfect hybrid of subway protection for ladies and can be as functional as they are fashionable! Does it get better than combining your beauty and baubles under one roof?

Bliss Lau displays their modern design jewelry at Elements Showcase NYC, Photo Credit: Elements Showcase

Another Jewelry brand represented at Elements Showcase in New York City was Bliss Lau. One of my favorite standout pieces is their Fathom Ring and their Contour Vest.

Tola Perfumery displays their collection of fragrances at Elements Showcase in New York City, Photo Credit: Elements Showcase

Butterflies one of the brands I can provide the least information for was very much a standout for me and I'll reach out to them and try my best to keep in touch with them and get more information, since their site is under construction and I have nowhere to point you all to at this time. Tola Perfumery (remember this site is currently under construction) has a beautiful backstory, Afra Bin Dhaher the founder was introduced to perfumery by his mother who practiced the art of mixing perfume oils and creating bukhoor (perfumed agarwood for incense) in a tradition that is passed down through the generations and is deeply embedded within the Arabian culture. I was able to smell each of the scents and can tell you I truly loved them all, there was no scent that didn't hit the mark for me, and that my lovelies is quite rare! Regrettably I did not get any samples of these, but I had kept my scent strips and stashed them in all my lingerie drawers and closets the moment I stepped through the door, and the scents are still going strong. As I use incense pretty much daily in my meditation practices I was very much drawn in by this line, it immediately invoked something wonderful within me which is the sense of peace and inner calm and stillness that meditation provides. To me, incense is very much like a perfumed prayer to the heavens. In fact with my growing collection of Buddha's and my love of incense and meditation, many ask if I'm Buddhist, I'm not, but I find something so soothing about its practice, and this line of perfume does just that for me, it invoked my inner happy place, and that is certainly worth adding to my collection and to your radar!

Antidote Chocolate on display at Elements Showcase NYC, Photo Credit: Cover Mag

Palais des Thes was also at Elements Showcase New York, which you may remember I met at Beauty Press Spotlight in January of this year at the Beauty Press Spotlight Day. Antidote Chocolate was also at Elements Showcase and I had also met them at Beauty Press Spotlight earlier this year! With flavors like Coffee + Cardamom (which contains Ecuadorian Arabica Coffee and Cardamom), Ginger + Goldenberry (tangy citrus flavor), Rose Salt + Lemon (andean mountain rose salt), Banana + Cayenne (medium heat with sweet, flavorful Ecuadorian Bananas) and last but not least Almond + Fennel (one of my faves!) you can't go wrong with 77% organic cacao.

Temptu system in action at Elements Showcase NYC, Photo Credit: Elements Showcase

Temptu was also at Elements (I reached out to them ages ago to work with us here at Ascending Butterfly, but never heard back), I finally got to see how it works up close and personal, as I let them apply blush on me, I would have done Foundation but I already had some on so I figured it may not give me an accurate match that way so I opted for something safer.

Luxess displays Dita Von Teese Fragrances, as well as Batman Begins: The New Dark which is set to launch in 2014 Photo Credit: Beauty Press

A blogger never forgets her first celebrity Twitter Follower, and one of the very first celebs to follow me on twitter was actually Dita Von Teese. Which I found totally awesome because Dita rocks! I was very happy to find her team at Elements Showcase and everyone should take their example, we left with actual full size bottles of the self named scent 'Dita Von Teese', as well as 'Fleur Teese' and 'Rouge' by Dita Von Teese. I need to remind fragrance brands that once that vial comes off it's 'romance card' backing it's hard to remember which it is, not all of them are always labelled, and let's face it, sometimes that small lettering can get difficult to read! Full sizes let you live with it, and are way easier to remember and read! (Just saying). But no surprise Ms. Dita would be such a true class act. Her fragrances are sultry and sexy, flirty and fun and the bottles of course are vanity worthy! I can't wait to try 'Erotique' which debuts this fall.

And my total 'poo you' award goes to Bond No.9 for serving me up nothing but snooty 'Department Store Shade' as they couldn't seem to be bothered talking to me, that's the same shade I'm dishing back! Sorry Elements, love you guys, but you can leave them out next time as far as I'm concerned.

Skylight Manhattan, Rooftop Party for Elements Showcase NYC, Photo Credit: Tracy Iglesias, Ascending Butterfly

My Take:

The rooftop party at Skylight couldn't have been a better ending to the show, it was so magical in fact it actually came with it's own rainbow! Does it get cooler than that? Well maybe it does because it was Oysters on demand provided by the wonderful folks at the Leadbelly Oysters & Liquor in New York who served up fresh and tasty Oysters shucked on demand. I love all things rawbar and Elements New York delivered with rawbar and tequila at the fab rooftop party, and an event which showcased wonderful beauty, skincare, cosmetics, fragrance, jewelry and more, while it was a super long day 'at the office' that day, days like this feel so much more like play than work that it totally makes the hours that went into this recap worth it! Some days being a Lifestyle Blogger is too fun for words, this was definitely a 'fun to be me' kind of day!

Which brand are you most looking forward to trying out?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, this is NOT a Sponsored Post, no monetary compensation has been received to share my recap coverage of this two day tradeshow. As a member of the Digital Press I had VIP Access to the show. There was no official swagbag but samples were provided individually by some brands and only influenced my writing in so much as relaying how the fragrances smelled!