Showing posts with label scent. Show all posts
Showing posts with label scent. Show all posts

Saturday, March 20, 2021

Spadaro House of Fragrances is my pick for National Fragrance Week! #NationalFragranceWeek

Kim Spadaro
Kim Spadaro - BeautyPress Spotlight Day 2014, Photo Credit: Tracy Iglesias

I was originally introduced to Spadaro House of Fragrances in 2014 at a Beauty Press Spotlight Day event. Press the link to read my original introduction to the brand. (The photo above is from BeautyPress Spotlight Day 2014, I was right on time with this shot with the sunlight shining in from the window!)

Beauty Press Spotlight Day was a well curated event that brought the best of skincare, cosmetics, fragrance and more in one place and invited Editors/Bloggers/Influencers to learn more about each brand up close and personal, and in many cases I had the pleasure of interviewing the Founders of each brand.

With it being National Fragrance Week, I just had to be sure that Spadaro House of Fragrances was on your radar.

I honestly haven't met a scent in her line I didn't fall in love with. I had a chance to sniff the bulk of her line at that specific event, but there is a recent scent that I just had to try and that I really want to put on your radar!

The Founder, Kim Spadaro is a literal dynamo in every sense of the word. She credits her mom for encouraging her creativity, and her fragrances are inspired her world travels. She donates a portion of her proceeds to the The Spadaro Foundation which was created as a tribute to Kim's mom wo passed away on 01/11/11. You can hear her speak on it via realTV films Kim Spadaro Interview on The Spadaro Foundation via RealTV Films Youtube.

With our world in flux right now and travel still off limits I personally am turning to the things that 'transport' me - and for me those things include books, fragrances, music and photography!

I love changing up scents seasonally, I can't say I follow the advice out there about matching the fragrance notes that best represent the season, but I normally would just hit a beauty counter and see what resonated. That's definitely not an option for me right now.

Just before NYC went on lockdown I had a mini makeover at Sephora to get me ready for a networking event - and I now wonder when the next time will be that I get to indulge in playing with makeup and sampling scents at a Beauty Counter due to Covid concerns. (Which by the way I was finally able to get the first of the two Vaccines this weekend, been talking about it on Facebook!)

I had the opportunity to try Kasmaran Privé, and I just had to put this entirely unisex luxury scent on your radar!

I have spent a lifetime blending scents to make something that felt like me and I remember clearly when CK One came out, it was OK, but I wore mostly men's cologne's when I was younger, and that is still where my nose gets attracted to, but I've widened up my variety of women's perfumes quite a bit since my teen years.

It was via a random online discussion on Facebook that I was able to re-connect with Kim, I mentioned that one of my all time favorite scent's was CASMIR by Chopard, and she let me know about her new scent Kasmaran.

Kasmaran Privé is a Spadaro Luxury Fragrance (inspired by Bali) that truly blew me away! It truly exceeded my expectations. If you notice you haven't seen very many ode to perfumes posts here and most of you know why - when it comes to lipstick and scent I rarely wear them straight out the tube/bottle - I do a little alchemy to make them more uniquely me. And I started doing so as a teen. Oddly enough if you read the About section on the Spadaro House of Fragrances website, Kim her sister and her mom would experiment with essential oils, herbs and floral essences picked from their home garden. I absolutely love that we have that in common. (not to mention love of travel!)

Kim Spadaro


 "Kasmaran...the scent of the exotic Indonesian island of Bali. Bali, the mysterious Island of the Gods and a Thousand Temples, is a distant and exotic world that was instantly captures and the inspiration behind the Kasmaran fragrance. Explorations through magnificent gardens, coastal rich mountainous land and bucolic scenery were focal points of admiration. The Balinese people captivate with their warm hospitality, peaceful prayers and sacred offerings which became the inspiration for the mystic scent of Kasmaran" ~ Kim Spadaro, Perfumer 

When I tell you I am wearing something that I didn't feel the need to change or customize, it is the highest praise I can possibly give.

My Take: This versatile and unisex scent gives me just the right warmth (Indonesian Musk Pepper) and for me has been the scent that got Oud right - not so overwhelming that you can't detect other notes, but it definitely doesn't get lost either, you know it's there but it's not clawing at you. It is warm, sensual and evocative in all the right ways. I am happy with how long it lasts on me (scents usually dissipate on me right away) and I get a TON of compliments while wearing this one from both men and women! It's a bit chameleon like, men are drawn to it because it's familiar to them, but women still smell feminine wearing it (I attribute it to the powdery notes). This one is a winner and you won't regret taking the chance!

Spadaro Prive
Notes: Agarwood (Oud), Musk, Indonesian Pepper, Coriander, Frangipani, Vanilla, Lemongrass and Exotic Spices.

While writing this, I simultaneously wrote my very first review on Fragrantica so their users would know this fragrance is one they should take a chance on. Online reviews are becoming so much more important as we don't really have the ability to try before we buy like we used to.

The packaging is completely stand out, and if you are thinking of gifts for any upcoming special occasion, Mothers Day, Grads and yes Dads, 60% of Spadaro Fragrance customers are MALE, this would be an amazing gift. A gift that will transport their senses each and every time they wear it.

For me scents that give me an incense vibe in some way are always a favorite of mine, they literally feel like they are taking away negative energy and clearing the atmosphere of both myself and my home. And always remember spray slightly above you and in front of you and walk through the scent mist. I also like to spray just a touch on my hairbrush liner and let it dry and then put the liner on my brush. It kisses your hair with scent. Do you know why they tell you this at the beauty counter? Perfume over time can be very drying to your skin where you apply it and can cause wrinkles to appear, so put the scented lotion on your skin to keep it moist and wrinkle free and spray a mist that you walk into to preserve the youthful appearance of your skin. (and spray in an open area, not over your wooden dresser, you don't want to mar your wood by doing this).

While I have been doing this all along since Ascending Butterfly's inception in 2008, I have been trying my best this year to spend more focus on women and minority owned brands. It feels more important now than ever.

I can tell you that social distancing has been an instant and immediate reminder to all of us that home and self-care are critical now more than ever. While I know everyone wants you to 'Kondo' and make more space and organize and toss everything, I am here with a different message - take that extra long hot bath,(trust me the dishes, the kids, the spouse, the pets, the Netflix can all wait a few more minutes), spray the perfume (the one you hide from yourself that you only use on date night or girls night out), experiment with your makeup, not because of zoom meetings or skype calls or facetime, use the pretty lingerie (yes even if you are like me currently single), paint your nails, do the face mask for no other reason at all but that you are worth it. All your pretty things that you worked so hard to acquire? Spend time enjoying them all. But if you are in toss mode because it's spring, please try to donate what is in good condition instead of just tossing.

I hope this National Fragrance Week Post not only puts an amazing scent, Kasmaran on your radar, but that it inspires you to focus on what makes you feel good about yourself, what brings out your confidence and femininity. Perfume and my signature red lip are like a cape to a super hero. Once they are on, I am in the zone and ready to take on the world.

Let's keep lifting each other up, and be sure that it doesn't stop when the world 'opens up' again. Let's look out for one another everyday!

Kasmaran




Readers Sound Off: Leave us a comment with your favorite/signature scent! Is it one scent or do you layer a few to get something a bit more personal to you?


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

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, all opinions are 100% my own! I received a Press Mailing that did include the Fragrance. 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 & Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. Things that lure this butterfly out of her cocoon: Technology, Travel, Fashion, Beauty, Spirits (Sparkling, Champagne, Prosecco, Sake, Bourbon, Craft Brews), Foodie Fun - really I'm such a *simple girl*.

Wednesday, January 16, 2019

Not so #WordlessWednesday with @SenteursdOrient and @ElilaFullFigure + Focus Phrase Time! #WednesdayMotivation

Getting my "NEW" on for New Year's Eve + FOCUS PHRASE TIME!


2018 was probably the second worst year of my life, so I decided I was breaking all New Year's Eve patterns completely.

Well maybe not *ALL* of them.

I kept the champagne.

I kept the eating something sweet during the 12 second count down. This alternates each year depending on what I have on hand, sometimes grapes or sometimes chocolate. During that time I read from a list of New Years Wishes - things I want to manifest during the New Year. So I start my countdown at 12 seconds before the new year so I can read off 12 wishes - one for each month of the year.

I normally wear red underwear because I am an Aries and Red is my "Power Color" And it has always been my tradition to do so.

This year I did not do red. I did a most divine plum instead from Elila Full Figure.

And I even changed my soap, using a brand new to me Senteurs d'Orient!

Elila Full Figure Bra and Panty Set displayed with Senteurs d'Orient Soap

The above photo I edited with Ribbet and the insta art below I did with Corel Paintshop:


Custom Art featuring Elila Full Figure Bra and Panty Set displayed with Senteurs d'Orient Soap

FOCUS PHRASE FOR 2018 - You know I have mixed feelings about 'resolutions', I am more partial to the idea of 'goal setting' for your birthday. That is when your personal year actually resets, not December 31st. But my phrase last year was "Self Care" and quite frankly butterflies, I failed MISERABLY at it.

So it is my phrase for this year as well.

Self-Care is and can be so many things.


MY TAKE:

If you remember I first met Elila Full Figure when I was covering Curve Expo, you can get a great description of the brand and see a model wearing Elila in my Curve Expo recap coverage post: HERE

I plan on covering Curve Expo again this year and will definitely be making a beeline directly to Elila's booth to see their new styles. I am obsessed with them now. They need to put a ring on it and make me an official ambassador!

The soap, Senteurs D'Orient I actually won from a Blog Contest being hosted by a blogger via instagram, it is definitely one of my favorite discoveries, I love the rich lather and the amazing scents offered by Senteurs. I haven't tried them all, but definitely love the Amber, and the Almond Exfoliant so far the best.

Both of these would be lovely for VALENTINES DAY or GALENTINES DAY! And this DSLR Photography Enthusiast is always up for creating custom Art Photos/Prints or Posters like the one displayed above, so DM me via Insta (@Ascending1 - this is also the blog Twitter) or email me directly here if you want a custom art piece for your walls.

Hopefully I can get Elila and Senteurs to come back and do something fun for my butterflies.

Readers/Butterflies Sound Off: What is your focus phrase/word for 2019? Do you have an underwear color preference for New Year's Eve?


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


FTC Disclosure: No monetary compensation has been received, 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.

Wednesday, December 20, 2017

{#WordlessWednesday} Photo Highlights from the @Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty #TisTheSeason

♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ Event Recap Coverage, NOT compensated ♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ 

Happy Holidays Butterflies!

It has been a frenzy of holiday parties and I thought I would take this week to share some notable ones with you!

In honor of Wordless Wednesday I plan to keep this one photo heavy and word light.

I attended a Holiday Sniffapalooza at Annick Goutal's Madison Avenue Store in New York City, where they hosted a very unique event that involved something I am very familiar and quite good at if I do say so myself, custom blending scents/fragrance.

That is my kind of alchemy and here are some photo highlights of the event:

@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, Madison Avenue Store


Above: Nabbed an exterior shot of the store, nothing prettier than the stores in Manhattan, New York during the holidays! The windows are always so pretty and inviting.

@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, Madison Avenue Store Manager, Francoise Alessi
Above: Store Manager Francoise Alessi leads special guests through the scents and provides idea for custom blending the Night Birds Collection: both Nuit En Confidences and Tenue De Soiree with classic scents in the Annick Goutal range of fine fragrances. This part was so much fun!


@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, butterfly on box



Above: Here is where the SQUEE!!! begins, the store is beautifully decorated with touches of butterflies EVERYWHERE - see them on the wallpaper? Notice the decorative touch on the box? 

BUT WAIT THERE'S MORE!


@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, large butterfly perfume bottles


Above: I love the way they lined the stairs with a large bottle then a candle and then repeat and touches of greenery, super pretty and festive!


@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, Madison Avenue Store Perfume Display



Above: Isn't this display pretty? I was playing with filters and thought I would present the same photo in black and white for contrast, what do you think? (below, same image in black and white)


@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, Madison Avenue Store Display Black and White, Black and White Photography
Above: There is just something softer and more romantic about this photo in black and white in my opinion.

@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, Eau d' Hadrien
Above: Annick Goutal Eau d' Hadrien Fragrance - I am living for my own photography excellence, what can I say, Butterflies have and will always inspire me!

and a la Britney Spears, oops I did again, see this same photo below in black and white - again in black and white it changes the mood.


@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, Eau d' Hadrien Black and White, Black and White Photography
Above: Soft, Feminine and Super Romantic Right?


@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, Petite Cherie Retail Display
Above: In the middle is Annick Goutal's Petite Cherie center surrounded by Eau d' Hadrien products


@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, Eau d' Hadrien Large Sized Bottle
Above: I truly captured a glowy radiance to this large sized hand painted bottle of Eau d' Hadrien, which I really, really, really want for my vanity but they were custom made for the store for display purposes only. Le Sigh!


@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, Nuit Etoilee
Above: Annick Goutal's Nuit Etoilee - this royal blue bottle with the butterfly top and all those stars though! *NEED*

And yet again, I couldn't resist fooling around in Ribbet which is my favorite photo editing software and added a cool filter to this shot! (NO this is NOT an insertion, not getting paid for this post or to tell you about the photography filters and editing program I used to create this post, although I definitely should!)


@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, Nuit Etoilee
Above: I love the effect that the 'inverter' filter has on this shot!


@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, Petite Cherie Large Hand Painted Perfume  Bottle
Above: I flipped when I saw this bottle of Petite Cherie as Mama Butterfly sometimes called me her Petite Cherie when I was a little girl, and still does. Another Product Crush for my Vanity. Although a bottle this big would probably take up most of the real estate, I would not be mad at it!

More filter fun below:


@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, Petite Cherie Large Sized Hand Painted Bottle using Ribbet Inverter Filter
Above: Somebody stop me, here is the inverter filter again, at first I played with Duo Tone but ended up going with Inverter instead. Aren't both shots literally night and day, they give off two entirely different feels and I love them both the same!


@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, Large Ruby Butterfly Perfume Bottle
Above: I loved the color on this ruby bottle, so much so that I made this photo black and white, then used the fade to bring the ruby back out in the bottle. This feels more like a pro photo shoot than typical event recap coverage and I am loving this all so much. I tend to get artsy with my photos anyway, but today I had extra fun with it!


@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, Pencil Sketch Filter on Ribbet
Above: I went nuts and used the "Pencil Sketch" Filter on the Ruby Bottle and got this!


@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, Signature Cocktail using DEKUYPER CREME DE CASSIS inspired by Tenue De Soiree Perfume
Above: Did an event really happen in New York without a signature cocktail? How about one inspired by the fragrance? This cocktail using DEKUYPER Creme De Cassis was inspired by Annick Goutal's Tenue De Soiree. The body butter to this is literally HEAVENLY. I want it!


@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, Signature Cocktail using ABSOLUT VANILIA, inspired by Nuit En Confidences Perfume
Above: This signature cocktail used ABSOLUT Vanilia and is inspired by Annick Goutal's Nuit Et Confidences


@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, Signature Cocktail using ABSOLUTE Vanilia, Absolute Vanilla Artsy

Above: OK, so I have to admit I staged this one myself, I literally stole the bottle from the bar, the perfume from the counter and added my drink, I couldn't resist the juxtaposition of it all and the varied textures. Some folks were looking at me like I was a space creature or thought I was the event photographer which tends to happen anyway!


@Sniffapalooza @AnnickGoutalUS Night Birds Holiday Celebration! #Scent #Perfume #Luxury #Fragrance #HolidayParty, Signature cocktails, Creme De Cassis, ABSOLUTE VANILLA VODKA, serving tray of drinks
Above: Credit for nabbing this shot before thirsty folks grabbed all these off the serving tray! :-)


Above: Light Bites that carried through the theme of the scents with their flavor profiles were such an elegant touch! Provided by Pistache NYC French Pastries and Savories Catering - You can get social with them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @PistacheNYC

MY TAKE:

There were some photos I excluded as they were sort of redundant shots, but these are definitely going on Pinterest, once I am done I will make the word Pinterest clickable on this post. It will be a scent board that reflects not just this event, but scents I dig overall.

There are two things I "CUSTOM" pretty much every single day, my signature red lip, and my scent. It is an alchemy I have enjoyed since my teen years. When I attend Beauty Events, no brand has ever given me a lip over or wanted to touch my lips which is quite the compliment and I always get asked what scent I am wearing, it's actually 9 out of ten times me blending stuff. So an event that invited me to play and make a scent that was unique? Um, YES PLEASE!

My only negative was no gift bags, you do not let a butterfly obsessed blogger leave without goodies to take home, (especially after this photo shoot!) I loved both of the Night Bird Scents but fell head over heels for the body butter for Tenue De Soiree.

Oddly something similar happened to me with Opium, I didn't wear the perfume much but I wore the body powder to it all the time. Don't get me wrong I liked Opium, but I liked the powder to it way better.

The same thing happened here, I like Tenue De Soiree, but love the body cream, like totally obsessed. The scent is amazing and my skin drank it in and it left my skin so soft and wonderfully scented.

This was a fun holiday party overall, just no parting gifts. You know never forget Tis the Season.

Spill Butterflies: What is the best Holiday Party you have ever attended? Why? What is the best Holiday Party you ever hosted?

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

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post, all opinions are 100% my own! This is an event recap, no compensation has been received, no gift bag either. 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 & Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. Things that lure this butterfly out of her cocoon: Technology, Travel, Fashion, Beauty, Spirits (Sparkling, Champagne, Prosecco, Sake, Bourbon, Craft Brews), Foodie Fun - really I'm such a *simple girl*.

Monday, August 14, 2017

Find out why @Influenster + @KATVONDBEAUTY has me embracing my inner #SAINTANDSINNER #THERESURRECTIONISREAL #spon

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


Above: #SAINTANDSINNER Influenster Vox Box

After a long dry spell, me and Influenster have reunited and it feels so good, my last two Vox Boxes included goodies from L'Oreal and Smashbox respectively (if you missed it, check out that post HERE) and then I got a beautifully packaged surprise for the trifecta - the much coveted recently re-launched fan favorites of Kat Von D's Saint and Sinner perfumes!

The perfumes were off the market for eight years and recently re-launched due to fan demand with beautifully re-designed bottles. I wish we had been sent the full size bottles so I could show you all the intricate design. And because they smelled so great on me.

ABOUT 'SAINT'


NOTES (SAINT 2017 KAT VON D BEAUTY):

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Top Notes: Clary Sage, Mirabelle Plum,

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Middle Notes: Jasmine, Almond Blossom, Lily of the Valley

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Base Notes: Vanilla, Cedar, Peach, Musk Tiare flower, heart of Mandarin, Caramel, Sparkling

This gourmand scent with heart of mandarin and caramel, is a candied floral, that represents Kat's (or any woman's for that matter) dreamy, romantic and alluring side.

ABOUT SINNER:



NOTES (SINNER 2017 KAT VON D BEAUTY):

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Top Notes: Mandarin Orange, Orange Blossom, Plum

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Middle Notes: Jasmine, White Flowers, Cinnamon

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Base Notes: Vetiver, Patchouli, Vanilla, Musk

This gourmand scent that is a part sweet and part spicy represents Kat's (or any woman's) dark, sultry, and empowering side. A 'fragrant embodiment of the edgy, unapologetic and outspoken side of Kat Von D.


So SAINT + SINNER is a world of complementary contradiction:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - light + dark
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - vulnerable + empowered

and it is VEGAN and NOT tested on Animals!


Above: I thought I would feature other Kat Von D goodies I have been digging including the tattoo liner and Shade+Light Eye Contour Kit, the makeup items are mine and were not included in the Vox Box, the Vox Box solely contained the perfume samples, the animal print cosmetics case is also my own and is not sold via Kat Von D Beauty, just some fun staging!


Another Closeup of my Kat Von D Beauty Faves:


Above: The Saint Perfume is playfully resting on the box for the Shade+Light Contour Brush

Fun+Flirty Testing Ideas for YOU:

Test them both!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Hit your nearest Sephora and spray Saint on one wrist and Sinner on the other (these fade a bit quickly and take a bit to fully project) and find out for yourself whether or not you are 'Saint' or 'Sinner' or a bit of both.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Of course you can go the traditional wear Saint by Day and Sinner by Night route.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Him Test: Put a little "Saint" on your neck behind one ear and a little "Sinner" on the other and let your significant other tell you which one he likes best. No guarantee that these gourmand scent's won't inspire him to nibble a little! :-)

MY TAKE:

Influenster definitely matched me with the right campaign on this one, I love playing with Scent, and always tend to throw traditional rules out the window, if I want to wear a 'light as air' scent in the winter and a spicy, warm scent in the summer then that's what I will do. I also love wearing some men's colognes over women's perfumes.

So am I #TeamSaint or #TeamSinner - color me BOTH and not just in the sense of wearing one or the other, but I really loved mixing them both together, it gave them a bit more complexity.

On the whole in terms of longevity and projection they did leave me wanting a bit more, I found that both faded on me fast and I had to re-apply a bit sooner than I am used to. Saint is way more subtle than Sinner obviously. I consider it a perfect after shower, as an a.m./morning post-shower scent, it won't linger long and takes awhile to project so when you walk into the office you won't be offending anyone's nose or triggering allergies. Once you find yourself putting your nose to wrist because you can't detect it, you may want to re-apply.

Sinner is also not overly spicy, it's way warmer than Saint, but not super spicy, and because of it's shorter projection and longevity the beauty of it is having your special someone detect it mostly when they are closer to you which can certainly be nice.

I love reading the reviews that are out there particularly on fragrance reseller sites, they are wildly mixed with most complaining that Saint was too sweet and Sinner wasn't Spicy enough, but remember my butterflies, scent and beauty are both very much SUBJECTIVE. Scent works differently with our body chemistry, something can smell one way on someone and entirely different on somebody else, so try these on first, and then decide.

I do not find Saint 'toothache sweet' and thought Sinner was just right on the warmth and spice, a few reviews equate Kat Von D Beauty's "Sinner" to being "Opium" reminiscent. I do not find Sinner nearly as warm and spicy as Opium, but for those of you who have smelled both Opium and Opium's scented body powder, (which smell just slightly different from each other to my nose) Sinner can be reminiscent to Opium POWDER on it's drydown.

Overall: I did like both Saint and Sinner - match them to your mood on a given day, or do what I did and mix them both together!

So tell me butterflies have you tried Saint or Sinner yet, if so, which scent are you? What is your favorite scent - do you rotate but that have that particular favorite you keep reaching for more than others? Which is it? What are the notes?

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

FTC Disclosure: Products were sent to Ascending Butterfly at no cost as a member of the Influenster Network, and all opinions are 100% my own!  This is NOT a compensated post although it certainly should be. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. If Kat Von D would like to send over the full sizes of Saint and Sinner so I could use the smaller bottles when they are empty as the place to create my alchemy mixing saint and sinner together using perfume funnels and taking them with me in my handbag/clutch everyday I would be more than happy too! :-)

Wednesday, March 15, 2017

Where #Art #Photography #Foodie Fun and #Fragrance Collided, a #SCENTsational #SniffaVoluptuary @maisonten

Sniffapalooza Presents Voluptuary: An Afternoon of Sensual Pairings at MAISON 10 in New York City

#Sniffapalooza #SniffaVoluptuary event @Maisonten in New York City
I had to immediately open the email, based on the name of the event alone. When you receive an event invite with this title, the curiosity factor alone makes you open the email and entices you to RSVP for it.

Sniffapalooza celebrates perfumery as an art, and they love to create unique experiential events where the olfactive universe is explored with kindred spirits, combining fragrance with other sensorial pursuits. This event was an interactive multi-sensory journey, an evening of sensual delights... fragrant, culinary, artistic and cinematic pairings... created for the voluptuary in us all!

THE SPACE:

Maison Ten, Maison Ten Gallery, Maison10, New York City Art Gallery
The event was a "meeting of sensory minds" held at MAISON 10, NYC's stunning new concept store and gallery space in the heart of Manhattan's exciting NoMad district and was the brainchild of Stephen Dirkes, a Perfumer, filmmaker, multi-media artist, founder of  EUPHORIUM BROOKLYN an innovative niche perfume brand. To celebrate Euphorium's latest fragrance creation, the Voluptuary Trio Set, Dirkes collaborated with Chef Tessa Liebman and Photographer Tal Shpantzer to reinterpret and pair the fragrances in edible and visual format. And quite frankly I have never attended a Fragrance Event that interpreted Scent in quite this way before.

THE SCENT:

Petales Euphorium Brooklyn Display #Sniffapalooza #SniffaVoluptuary event @Maisonten in New York City
The Voluptuary fragrances -  Suédois, Pétales and Chocolatl - were designed with a focus on sensual, decadent and romantic aspects. The intricately layered relationship of fragrance, flavor and imagery in the stories behind the collection came together to find perfect expression in this event.

THE VISUALS: PHOTOGRAPH SERIES

Tal Shpantzer's series of photographic portraits, The Petal Series
The fragrance Pétales was inspired by Tal Shpantzer's series of photographic portraits, The Petal Series, which Stephen Dirkes brings to life as a perfume. The Petal Series was on view at the event. The photo above is one of the photographs in the series - and that oversized Gorilla Statue is certainly a unique backdrop!

THE EATS: INTERPRETING FRAGRANCE THROUGH FOOD

Chef Tessa Liebman CHOCOLATL Pastries
Chef Tessa and CHOCOLATL
For Chef Tessa's interpretation of CHOCOLATL  she conjured up a Mexican chocolate meringue base with red wine and Piloncillo stewed prunes with a creme fraiche. It was a rich and decadent treat that totally nailed an edible interpretation of the fragrance!

Photographer Tal Shpantzer taking a selfie with Chef Tessa Liebman presents Pavlova Pastry at #Sniffapalooza #SniffaVoluptuary event @Maisonten in New York City
Chef Tessa's challenge was to create an edible that mirrored the notes of Petales, orange blossom, black pepper, honey, ambergris, indole, and galbanum and her creation, the elegant Pavlova pastry was her edible answer!  I loved catching Photographer Tal Shpantzer taking a selfie with Chef Tessa!

Chef Tessa Liebman presents Pavlova Pastry at #Sniffapalooza #SniffaVoluptuary event @Maisonten in New York City
The pastry combines grapefruit curd and orange flower water which Chef Tessa dusted with rose petal powder and mixed with rose pink edible glitter to give the effect of petals shimmering in the moonlight which is part of the story of the fragrance.

#SniffaVoluptuary @maisonten , Pavlolva Pastry
Close Up of Petales Pavlova Pastry
I wasn't fast enough to nab a shot of the edible interpretation of SUEDOIS (suede) which is a soft leather scent that is part of the trio. The fragrance has notes of  Indonesian sandalwood (you guys know just how much I am drawn to Sandalwood!), raspberry, raisin, labdanum, vanilla cream, and tonka musk which paired perfectly with Chef Tessa’s Suedois Cream Puffs with a Ylang Ylang Profiterole Shell and Tonka Bean and Sandalwood Bavarian Cream, and Raspberries. I love the smell of Leather and Suede so this scent was definitely an appealing one for me.



Stephen introduced a special sneak peek screening of Voluptuary #535, the short film he created in collaboration with Tal which will be premiered at La Jolla International Fashion Film Festival 2017.

#SniffaVoluptuary @maisonten
Above: From Left to Right: Far Left: Stephen Dirkes, Perfumer, filmmaker, multi-media artist, and the founder of Euphorium Brooklyn, Photographer Tal Shpantzer, Karen Dubin, Sniffapalooza and Far Right: Chef Tessa Liebman

Another Spotlight Scent:

Be Careful What You Wish For 4160 Tuesdays London
Be Careful What You Wish For 4160 Tuesdays London
I don't want to steal the limelight from Petales, but another scent I was introduced to at the event stayed in my head called "Be Careful What You Wish For" by 4160 Tuesdays a fruity oud that you won't soon forget and I now need in my life!

A Little Lifestyle:

Handbags at #SniffaVoluptuary @maisonten
There were a variety of Lifestyle Products on display including these handbags!

Adult Themed Products at #SniffaVoluptuary @maisonten
A few 'Adult Themed' items were on display as well.

Thompson Ferrier Buddah Candle
You know I love Zen art/décor accents and the Thompson Ferrier Buddah Candle stopped me in my tracks! WANT IT!!!

#SniffaVoluptuary @maisonten
Above: From Left to Right: Far Left: Chef Tessa Liebman, Photographer Tal Shpantzer, Stephen Dirkes, Karen Dubin, Sniffapalooza, and Henri Myers and Far Right: Tom Blackie who are the Founders of Maison 10

From a photographic standpoint I love snapping a group shot when the group is looking at a different photographer, for some reason I have always loved doing this - so it's posed and not posed at the same time.

The Gallery:

TEN things about Maison Ten

Here are TEN things about Maison Ten:

01. is an exciting new concept store and gallery space
02. showcases 10 carefully curated items across 10 categories
03. donates 10% of every sale to one of 10 different charities decided upon by the customer
04. features bags, books, candles, fragrances, gifts, homewares, jewelry, men's accessories, and well-being products
05. has a 10th themed category which it rotates every 10 weeks
06. exhibits 10 works of art for each 10 week period
07. changes everything apart from one top-seller in each category every 10 weeks
08. celebrates its new artist, designers and range of products every 10 weeks with a great event
09. is also online at www.maison10.com
10. LOVES YOU! :)


Above: Some of the guests in attendance pinched hit and rotated as "Guest Bartenders" this is Angus of The Container Globe as guest bartender pouring The Domaine Carneros Brut Rosé Cuvée de la Pompadour.  I borrowed this from Wine.com, but I just had to include it:

"The Domaine Carneros Brut Rosé Cuvée de la Pompadour, celebrates the life and times of Madame de Pompadour (the great courtesan and mistress of Louis XV) who is credited with introducing Champagne to the court and was an influential tastemaker in the matters of art, architecture and philosophy–famous for her comment,


"Champagne is the only wine a woman can drink and remain beautiful.""


MY TAKE:

This event was so "New York" to me in a good way. It was almost too hip for it's own good, I love the sensory interpretation and back story to the Voluptuary Trio by Euphorium Brooklyn. It was a treat for the senses combining sight, sound, scent, and amazing edibles.

Another Fragrance from Euphorium Brooklyn that stood out for me was CILICE, it is not part of the Voluptuary Trio, but notable none the less.

Other Sniffapalooza Events we have featured on Ascending Butterfly:

http://www.ascendingbutterfly.com/2015/07/the-cosmoproflv-beauty-b2b-trade-show.html

http://www.ascendingbutterfly.com/2013/12/sniffapalooza-moltonbrownusa-in.html

Keep up with upcoming Sniffapalooza Events HERE

Happy Sniffing Butterflies!

Readers Sound Off: What are YOUR favorite fragrance notes? What type of scent appeals to you most? Do you stick to the same fragrances or are you always trying something new?

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

FTC DisclosureThis is NOT a compensated post, press access was granted for Editorial Consideration. All thoughts and opinions are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR Part 255  Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising see our  Disclosure Page for additional information.

Things that lure Ascending Butterfly out of her butterfly cocoon of fabulosity: Electronics/Technology (yes I am a Gadget Geek first!), Fashion, Jewelry, Bubbly/Spirits, Foodie/Restaurants, Photography and Travel. And remember Ascending Butterfly does NOT have children, please do not pitch her toys (at least not those that are intended for children).

Unless it's charity related, If a campaign doesn't pay, this butterfly won't want to play.

Smile if you got this far, twirl around twice and sing Mariah Carey's Butterfly. Still here? Now go make someone happy today.