Review l Angela Roi Palette Cross-body

I really love everything what Angela Roi stands for. Not only does 5% of the proceeds goes to a charity based on color, but they are animal-free, sweatshop-free, and aim to create sustainable employment. 

This is all something I'm extremely passionate about. It's important try and make this world a little better, even if I can only contribute a little at a time. 

Review l Victorinox Swiss Army Victoria Charisma Carry-All Tote

I was searching for a carry-on bag that would help me keep organized for my flight. Previously, I was using a Jansport backpack. I cannot find a link to the exact bag that I have. I believe the style I have is discontinued.

What I needed was:

1. A bag that was large enough to pack clothing in if necessary. I have had situations where my carry-on suitcase just didn't have the capacity to fit my clothes too (looking at you Kentucky trip). 
2. Easily accessible pocket to store things that I need to reach for like my ID and tickets
3. A stylish bag

Originally, I had my heart set on the the Lo & Son’s O.M.G. bag, but that one is going to cost a really pretty penny. The reason why I was really leaning toward the O.M.G. bag was because there was a separate compartment for shoes which not many other bags have. The size of this bag is: base 16”, depth 6”, and height 13.5, handle 9” drop.

The Victoria Charisma first caught my eye because it was on sale at Hautelook. It was a similar size to the OMG.

If you're unfamiliar with Hautelook, it is a flash sale website where you can buy clothing, beauty, and home items.

Fortunately, I found it for $65 with a 10% off code and shipping at 6pm. I would suggest you shop around before you commit to purchasing from anywhere. Most likely you will be able to find it for a lower price. The particular bag I purchased has sold out on 6pm, but it is still available at Nordstrom Rack.

Travel l Visiting Friends - Rochester (07.15.15 - 07.18.15)

So this year I'm attempting to try and make my way around on a non-tour year to visit with friends. However, it's been a little more difficult coordinating it than I anticipated especially as I'm trying to penny pinch for my adventures for next year.


The backstory is I met my best friend, Alecia, on the 2013 Backstreet Boys cruise. At dinner, we were sat next to each other and decided to have dinner extravaganzas. This basically means that we ordered one of everything on the menu!

Review l Joy Mangano Better Beauty Case

I believe I purchased the Joy Mangano Better Beauty Case through HSN, and I probably around $20-$30. It came with the case that I will be talking about today, a large case, a small case, and 2 loose clear pouches.

This one is sold out. The next closest deal is this one. You can also find similar deals on Amazon or Bed Bath and Beyond. 

Technology l Travel Apps

Technology definitely has helped me book and manage my trips. I still print out a paper backup copy. This is in case my phone battery/back up battery runs out of power or any other unforeseeable circumstance.

I am an Android user, and I believe there are iPhone versions of these apps.

Review l Flight 001

Recently I went to DC, and I was able to test out some new Flight 001 travel accessories I had purchased. I was able to purchase them at a discount (50% off!) during a Lucky Break. Lucky Magazine has a different sale each day.

But the real test for me is would I pay full price for these? The short answer is yes.

I did purchase some other Flight 001 items but have not used them yet. There will be another review once I have tested them out.

Some quick things I wanted to point out are: 

• Each item came in a zipped pouch. It makes it easy to store when its not in use. I also read that it provides extra compression while traveling. I have not tried that out yet to confirm.
• All the packing cubes are well made in regards to the materials and zippers
• The Spacepak items have a packing suggestions written right now them. There is also a video on the website showing you how to pack the bags and how to put them into a suitcase. 

Review l Sonia Kashuk Floral Print Beauty (Makeup) Organizer

I really wanted the Laura Mercier Home & Away Custom Artist Portfolio, but it is really expensive. It goes for around $100 when it is available. I believe it comes out during the Holiday (aka Christmas) season. I decided to purchase the Sonia Kashuk Floral Print Beauty Organizer as an alternative. It's a fraction of the price. 

Travel l Merrimack/Manchester, NH *L's Graduation* (May 8 - 9, 2015)

I ended up choosing a hotel in Merrimack because I was a last minute booker. Basically there was no room left in Manchester. Fortunately it's only 15 minutes away from SNHU.

Travel l Providence, RI (April 25, 2015)

Connecticut is a pretty central location to live in. We have a lot of choices when it comes to day trips. When deciding on what zoo we wanted to go to, all the zoos near us were about the same distance. The reason why my sisters and I decided on the Roger Williams Zoo was because S didn't get to there on a class field trip.

Review l Saucebox x Batalash Palette

I recently purchased this palette from Saucebox  Cosmetics. This is their collaboration with the ladies of Batalash. When I originally saw that Samantha post the swatches on her Instagram, I knew this was a palette I had to have! There is still a limited number of these palettes left, so get it while it's hot. It is limited edition after all.

A little more about this palette:

There are 4 universal matte shadows and 4 pearl finishes. Each pan contains 4 grams of product! Typically and eye shadow is .05 grams. While the price of $60 seems expensive, it breaks down to $7.50 per shadow. You are getting a lot for our money. I have some comparison pictures to other brands products below.

The palette did take a little longer than expected to arrive, but Saucebox was amazing. They communicated throughout the whole process and kept us in the loop. I really appreciate a company that takes care of the customer. This is a growing company, and I would purchase other items in the future. 

Also note that this is a cruelty free brand.

Round up l April Subscription Boxes

What is a subscription box? 
It is a curated box of items in specific categories like beauty, food, etc. Some companies allow you take quizzes to help customize your box. The level of customization depends on the company. Also, some subscription boxes have themes them. I like this because it gives the box cohesion. 

I've tried other subscriptions in the past, but these are the ones I currently have been getting with the exception of Nature Box. I ate all the snacks already, but if you are interested I have some boxes to give out. Comment below with your email to try one. This offer expires 5.13.15!!

I will have some mini reviews on the products that I have had the chance to try. 

Travel l Kentucky Music Hall of Fame Induction (April 9 - 12, 2015)

Dear Kentucky, I never knew I needed you. Love, me I never thought I would say this, but I have a Kentucky bucket list!

Review l Tarte Brazillance

So the weather is getting warmer, and it will be summer before you know it. I mentioned that I would be talking about my favorite self tanner in my L'Oreal Infallible first impressions blog post. I had just used the self tanner the day before. I am preparing not to look like a ghost when I go to the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame induction next week.

First Impressions l L'Oreal Infallible

a beautiful mess 

FOTD l Beauty on a Budget

I felt inspired to do a drugstore make-up look. I actually did not realize that I had enough products to do an entire face. If you know me, you know normally I do use high end products. I am starting to dabble in more accessible brands. You can always add or subtract products from what I used below.