Bring in 2013 with the Latina Lifestyle Bloggers {Photo Challenge}

Hello to all my dearest Beauties!

I hope that your holidays were filled with love, happiness and many blessings. As we move forward into a New Year, I wanted to use this opportunity to invite everyone to join the Latina Lifestyle Bloggers in our first photo challenge of 2013. 

Event Dates: January 1st - January 31st

What do you need to participate in this photo challenge?
A camera – Yes, a camera is necessary! Any camera will do – your smart-phone camera, a DSLR camera, iPhone, Ipad...anything that can take a decent looking photo. Just make sure that you are able to upload the photo so you can share it via social media.

Okay, so you took the photo, now what? 
Share it, please! We want to see and share your creativity!

Where can you share your photo?
Twitter - Upload your photo in a tweet - write a creative caption - tag it with hashtag #llblogphotooftheday and share. {for a chance at being retweeted tag @latncookndiva in your tweet!}
Pinterest - Upload your photo - pin it to one of your boards - describe your pin then tag it with #llblogphotooftheday
Facebook - If you have a facebook fan page or personal page please feel free to upload your photo there. Just make sure you tag @LatinaLifestyleBloggersCollective and {llblogphotooftheday}.
Instagram - Take your photo - tag it using #llblogphotooftheday - Hit share.
Your Blog - If you have a blog or a website, you can add your photos to your feed or in a blog post ...it's your blog so you can choose how you want others to see your photos! Please use tag #llblogphotooftheday

IMPORTANT:  You MUST use #llblogphotooftheday when sharing your photo via social media. If the hashtag is NOT used, your photo will not qualify to be entered in the grand prize drawing. {See following paragraphs for details}

Note: If you are unsure about using Instagram, then don't use it. It is NOT mandatory to use Instagram in order to participate in this event. You decide where and how you wish to share your photos!

You have shared your photos via social media, now what?
Submit your photo to us by filling out a simple form. {HERE}
You are allowed to submit one (1) photo for each day you are participating in - So, the more active you are in taking photos, the more chances you have of winning!

Why fill out this form if your sharing the photo via social media?
Because there are going to be prizes for participating in this event! After the event closes on January 31st, we will be selecting FIVE (5) Grand Prize Winners*. The winners will be selected by using radom.org - This will ensure that EVERYONE who SUBMITS their photos will have a fair chance at being selected as a winner.

What type of prizes are up for grabs?
A bottle of wine provided by one of our sponsors, Vino Latino
Aveeno Skin Care products
CoverGirl Cosmetics.... and more items are being added, so please stay tuned for a complete list coming soon!

What if you forget what the daily prompt is?
No worries! Just come back to this blog post and catch up by referring to the top photo. If you like, please fell free to save the photo onto your desktop this way you have the photo with you to refer back to it anytime you need to!

Now that you're excited and worked up, let's recap:

• Take photo for the prompt of the day 
• Share your photo via social media using hashtag #llblogphotooftheday
• Submit your contact information to be included in the Grand Prize Drawing

Final Thoughts: 
We really hope that after reading these super easy guidelines you are excited to join us in the upcoming Bringing in 2013 with Latina Fashion Lifestyle and Beauty Bloggers Photo Challenge! All of us are looking forward to having this photo challenge. Who knows, you just might make some new friends, connect with lost friends or just have fun being creative with your camera!

*Important!
The five (5) grand prize winners will be selected during the first week of February 2013. Once these have been selected, they will be notified via email. The selected winners will have five (5) business days to submit their shipping information - if this is not received, we will have no other choice but to assume the individual does not want their prize, therefore we will select another winner. If you are among those who are selected as winners, please note that the prizes will be shipped during February - please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. This photo challenge event is not part of Instagram or any other social media outlet. For questions, suggestions or if your are interested in sponsoring a prize please send an email to rosamaria (dot) sanchezpellot (at) gmail (dot) com

Now it's your turn:  Are you excited to join the Latina Lifestyle Bloggers 2013 photo challenge event?  Do you have your cameras ready? 

Holiday Eye Shadow Looks and How to Get It with Starlooks

Hello Beauties! 

I hope everyone is doing fabulous while getting ready for the Holidays! A few weeks ago, we introduced you to a new and upcoming makeup company, Starlooks. What is Starlooks?

Starlooks offers its members a monthly subscription known as Starbox.   Unlike most other monthly subscription companies, Starboxes come with regular sized cosmetic products such as lipgloss, eye-shadow palettes and makeup tools. To get a better look at what the items can look like, check out our introduction post highlighting what we received in the November Starbox (HERE)

In that same post, we also shared a "spoiler alert" about what was going to be in the December Starbox: A Fifteen (15) Shade Pro Eye Shadow Palette (a $99 value for ONLY $15)....And here it is!

The Fifteen (15) Shade Pro Eye Shadow Palette is filled with very vibrant colors in shades of red, violet, blue, green and yellow. These eye-shadows are the perfect compliment to use this Holiday season - the color schemes are festive and bright. The color trios are not necessarily the normal "neutral" shades, however these are extremely easy shades to use, adding a pop of color to your eyes with just one sweep of the brush.

Take a look at these two (2) Eye Look examples to see how simple a festive Holiday Look can be achieved:

Here the two (2) shades of green were used to create a look inspired by Christmas trees and mistletoe. (The darker green was applied on lid and lower lash line. The lightest green was used as the highlighter under the brow.) 

For a softer eye look, three (3) shades of violet were blended together. This eye is reminiscent of Christmas Lights. (This is a three shade eye shadow application: the dark violet (which is matte) covered the lid, the shimmery medium violet was blended in the crease followed by the pink/violet shade for highlighting under the brow.)

Using the Fifteen (15) Shade Pro Eye Shadow Palette is extremely easy (even for the most novice of makeup users) because each color in the palette has its three (3) basic shades: light/medium/dark. By having three (3) degrees of color, creating a two-toned or three-toned smokey eye can be accomplished in minutes by just following these simple steps:

1. Prime the eyelid area. 
2. Select the three shades of color that you want to apply - Always having the colors in shades going from darkest-medium-lightest. 
3. Make sure you use the proper tools*: two stiff dome brushes (medium and small) and a flat brush. 
4. The medium and small dome brushes are used for blending the darker shades onto the crease and outer corners of the lids. The flat brush is used to "pack on" the color on the lids. The small dome brush can also be used for highlighting under the brow. 

*Here are the links to take a look at what the tools look like:

medium dome brush (HERE) small dome brush (HERE) flat brush (HERE)


On a side note, sometimes right after applying primer to the eyelid (step 1) depending on which eye shadow is being used, you can apply a "base" onto the lid by using a white eye pencil. Doing this can do two things: create a canvas for eye shadow to stick to and it also can be applied to help bring out the color of the eye shadow itself - especially if the makeup has a low pigment.

However, when applying the colors from the Fifteen (15) Shade Pro Eye Shadow Palette this step was NOT needed at all. The pigments in these eye shadows are very high - one layer of the color is very strong and similar to how it appears in the palette - making this a HIGH quality product...and I LOVE that!

To see other ways of creating Holiday eye-looks, take a peek at Starlooks December LooksBook Edition - "Be The Light"  (HERE) where the lights of their Christmas Tree was used as their inspiration.

There you have it, Beauties - our rundown of the Starlooks December Starbox featured product, Fifteen (15) Shade Pro Eye Shadow Palette, which definitely makes it completely worth becoming a valued member of Starlooks.  But, just in case you need even more reasons to become a member, check this out:

• Free shipping on all online orders under 10 lbs. 
• Super generous Starbox points program (earn a point for every dollar spent) 
• Starlooks is cruelty free - lead free and emollient free 

To see the entire collection of Fifteen (15) Shade Pro Eye Shadow Palette just click HERE.

Now it's YOUR turn:  Do you like the color shades in the Fifteen (15) Shade Pro Eye Shadow Palette? Have you signed up to be a valued Starlooks member yet?  If not, what are you waiting for?! 


Disclosure: A complimentary December Starbox was sent for the purpose of this review. All opinions/photos stated here are 100% owned and property of LatinFlava Designs. In addition, the links placed in this post are NOT affiliate links; these are only used to provide our readers with more insights. 

W!n a Chamilia Silver Bracelet with Charm!

Happy Monday Beauties!

I hope that your weekend was relaxing and joyful. As we begin another week, we are coming closer and closer to the end of 2012...Can you believe it? I can't! However, since this is something that will happen regardless if we are ready or not, we have decided to end this year on a stylish note.

How are we going to do this? Please continue reading our review post for Chamilia.com

Charm bracelets have recently made their way back into the fashion scene and with good reason. A charm bracelet can be customized to fit any type of style: glam, retro, preppy, classy or even vintage; making this one of the easiest gifts to give to a loved one during the Holidays.

This is where Chamilia comes in as one of the leaders in the charm accessory industry...

To give you a little background about Chamilia - Please read this excerpt from their website:

"Chamilia’s premium quality and unique designs distinguish it from all other jewelry brands. Our collection of premium beads and accents, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and rings celebrates individuality, letting women personalize every design to reflect their own lives and styles.

We use only the finest materials to create our expertly designed collections, including 14k gold, .925 sterling silver, crystal Swarovski® Elements, handmade Italian Murano glass, and natural and colored gemstones."

In the photo above is the Silver Snap Bracelet paired with Shimmering Stones Pink Swarovski charm. The bracelet is sleek with a simple design - the sterling silver is very lustrous which adds to its elegance. The Silver Snap Bracelet is available in a wide variety of sizes, ranging from six (6) inches to nine point five (9.5) inches. To find out your exact wrist measurements please read how to determine your size HERE.

The charm paired with this bracelets is the Shimmering Stones Pink Swarovski. The bright pink stones are in two different sizes - with two rows of smaller stones on the outer edge surrounding the larger stones located in the middle. There are a total of eighteen (18) vibrant Pink Swarovski Stones on this one charm!

When I received this bracelet and charm I was completely taken away by the quality of the jewelry. The bracelet has a very sturdy clasp at the end that opens slightly enough to fit the other end inside of it - There is absolutely no way for this bracelet to open on its own! The charms are easy to thread onto the bracelet - the charm I received screws onto the clasp and then sits quite nicely on the bracelet.

I have worn the bracelet and charm a few times and I have to say that the compliments received were truly amazing...and I only have one charm on the bracelet! I can just imagine the reactions I will be getting once I have the bracelet covered entirely in Chamilia charms!

If you are not exactly the "bracelet-wearing" type, Chamilia also has a selection of beautiful earrings, necklaces and starter sets available as well. Just like we mentioned at the beginning of this post, Chamilia offers the most stylish jewelry accessories to suit every type of personal style!

I love my Chamilia bracelet and charm so much, I have decided to have this special giveaway as a Thank you to our readers and fans! 

To participate please complete the entries in the Rafflecopter for a chance to WIN a Sterling Silver Bracelet with One Charm included just like the one I received for the review. Our giveaway event begins TODAY (12/17/12) and ENDS (12/29/12) at 11:59 pm Eastern Time. GOOD LUCK to all the participants who enter and share the giveaway event!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received a complimentary item from Chamilia for the purpose of this REVIEW ONLY.  This GIVEAWAY is NOT being sponsored by Chamilia.  Once the winner has been selected they will receive a Silver Snap Bracelet and a Shimmering Stones Pink charm as their grand prize. Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery.  Photos and opinions are 100% my own and exclusive property of LatinFlavaDesigns. To see our detailed disclosure policy please visit the Disclosure Policy page at the top of this blog.

Luxe Beauty Stocking Stuffer Gift List

Happy Hump-Day Beauties!

Can you believe it's Wednesday already? This week has been moving along rather quickly - It's true: time does fly when you are busy trying to get all the last minute Holiday gift-shopping done. As promised in an earlier post (Amazing Jewelry Gifts Under $30), the next list of gift ideas was going to feature beauty/makeup products.

Since we like to keep our word - Here are the Luxe Beauty Stocking Stuffer Gift List:

FaceFront Cosmetics Eyes

3-in-1 Pigment

The 3-in-1 Pigment is a must have because these can be applied not only to your eyes, but to your lips and cheeks. That's triple duty! Colors available are: Apple Tort (in photo),, Aqua Marina, Bold Gold, Bitter Bark, Butter Me, Citrus Circuit, Chrome Bronze, Feeling Deep, Fierce Contender, Heroic, Lotsa Lettuce, Pow Bam Wow, Sea Salt, Skinny Dipper, Red Hot, Vanilla Chrome, Winter Green, and Motivate Me.

Cost - $9
Where to Buy: (HERE)

With so many vibrant color shades to choose from, you will definitely want to make sure that the 3-in-1 Pigments stay in place, right?

Clear Eye and Brow Primer

The Clear Eye and Brow Primer is designed to reduce the chances for creasing, eye shadow fall out, and smudging. The Clear Eye and Brow Primer boosts the color of any eye shadow, and can be paired with mineral or solid shadow. It's 100% vegan and is packaged in a 0.32 oz jar.

Cost - $12.50
Where to Buy: (HERE)

Now that the Eye Makeup gift ideas are done, let's move on to one of my favorite things: Nail Polish.

Duality Cosmetics

Duality Cosmetics has come up with a 3-in-1 Mani Kit that is ideal for anyone who likes to carry their nail polish with them on the go. Each nail polish bottle comes with remover pads and an attached nail file. Having one (or several) of these on hand really makes it easy to fix or reapply nail color at a moment's notice...Genius!

The 3-in-1 Mani Kit for Nails is available in eight-teen (18) different shades. The nail lacquer can be purchased individually or in Holiday Pak Sets.

Cost - $10.80
Where to Buy: (HERE)

And to round out the Luxe Beauty Stocking Stuffers gift list, here are two (2) more items:

Cala Manicure Kits

This five piece kit contains everything for a professional looking mani you can DIY. These durable tools are all you need to trim, file, cut and shape your nails at home, at your desk, or on the go. Contained in a travel case this kit makes it easy to travel with - you can toss in your bag and take with you for touch ups anywhere. Each set includes: Nail clipper, Nail file, Cuticle scissors, Cuticle pusher and a Nail cleaner. These kits are available in five (5) different styles.

Cost -$9.90
Where to Buy: (HERE)

Last but not least....

Good for You Girls

Good for You Girls is made specifically for younger girls who are just starting to learn about having a good skin care routine. Each Skincare Starter Kit includes: Gel cleanser (2 oz) that gently washes away dirt with its non-irritating gel cleanser, Purifying toner (2 oz) used to reach deep into pores to fight bacteria without the burn of alcohol, and Lightweight moisturizer (2 oz) that helps protect skin from the elements and maintain skin's healthy moisture balance. Good for You Girls skin care products have No parabens, sulfates, petrochemicals, phthalates, synthetic fragrance, or dyes.

Cost - $12.60
Where to Buy: (HERE)

And just like that.... the Luxe Beauty Stocking Stuffer Gift List is complete! However the list could not end without one more incentive, but this one is for YOU!

Now it's YOUR turn: Go to sneakpeaq and register today to get your FREE $10 CREDIT that can be spent on ANY of these items!!

PS. Okay, we covered two Holiday gift lists (jewelry and stocking stuffer ideas) so far this week. There's still more to come: makeup and fashion! So please stay tuned - You don't want to miss these lists either!

Amazing Jewelry Gifts Under $30

Okay, Beauties today is December 11th which means that the Holidays will be here in exactly thirteen (14) days.... Eeek!   

Hopefully you have completed most of your Holiday gift shopping, but for those of you who are still a little behind in purchasing gifts (like me!) or if you are just holding out until an amazing deal comes your way, then this list of Amazing Jewelry Gifts Under $30 is just for YOU!

These Amazing Jewelry Gifts Under $30** are very stylish and classic pieces that can be worn any type of outfit - whether going to the office or a Holiday party! Most importantly though, is the fact that all the pieces included in this jewelry gift list will not set you back financially!

Sparks Fly Bracelet - $20

This bracelet sets will have everyone green with envy due to its striking combo of clear, emerald and hematite-colored faceted glass beads accented with pretty silver-tone filigree. Bracelets stretch to accommodate a range of wrist sizes.

Just Your Luxe Ring - $20

Studded with tiny twinkling rhinestones, this ring winds up the finger for an elegant, almost magical, effect.

Glamorous Life Bracelet - $24

A shimmering stream of clear rhinestones swirls around the wrist. It seriously doesn't get more glamorous than this! Silvertone setting. Stretches to fit a range of wrist sizes. Paired with the Just Your Luxe Ring makes the perfect glam set!

Petal Power Earrings - $18

Extra long for extra impact, these dynamic danglers feature a bohemian floral design accented with enamel in rich autumnal shades–navy, cabernet and burnt orange.

Star Studded Earrings - $14

So timelessly gorgeous, you know that in the Golden Age of Hollywood starlets had earrings just like these. Clear and hematite rhinestones set in hematite.

Deco Elegance Earrings - $18

Elegant from afar and seriously stunning up close, these danglers have the Art Deco movement's Asian influence all over them! Burnished silvertone with black faceted stones and rhinestones. Fish hook ear wires.

There you have it - An entire list of stylish yet super affordable Jewelry Gifts all under $30. In addition to this if you place an order between Dec. 11 - Dec.13 you can get a FREE "go with the pro" mini brush set (regular price value $16). This mini brush set would make a great stocking stuffer or an ideal gift for any beginner makeup enthusiast! 

**For more product information please click on the item title with pricing - To shop with me please use my Rep. #13250725 If you need further assistance please email me directly (latinflavadesigns (at) gmail (dot) com. 

PS. This week we will be featuring a few more Amazing Gift Lists just like this one. Make sure you come back tomorrow as we will be sharing some amazing makeup gift ideas!!

Motivational Monday Quotes to Live by

Rise and Grind Beauties!

A new week has started therefor it is time to get up and MOTIVATED! For today's Motivational Monday post I wanted to share a photo I came across on Facebook this morning. I truly believe that if we all put this quote into practice on a daily basis - we are going to see a lot of positive changes within our daily lives.  So why wait until the new year? Let's do this TODAY!

Take a look at this simple yet powerful Motivational Monday Quote To Live By:

Now it's Your turn: Will YOU try to live out this quote? If so, how will you start doing so? Please share your comments, ideas, suggestions and opinions with us in the comments below - We really do love hearing from YOU!

PS. Don't forget to Enter our last GIVEAWAY of 2012 - Entries are easy (NO rafflecopter!) and there will be TWO Grand Prize winners!! Enter HERE

Tick, Tock...It's Put on your Shoes Day!

                                                                             

Do you know what day today is?  Believe it or not, today is National Put on your Shoes Day! That's right today we are celebrating one of my favorite accessories: SHOES.

Most women (especially those of us who are under 5 ft tall) will admit that if there is one type of shoe every woman needs in her wardrobe would be a great fitting pair of stilettos. The stiletto has always been a confident shoe; lending a measured contour and sleek sexiness to any ensemble. Which is one of the main reasons why every woman should own a pair.

One of my new favorite stilettos are known as the CLOX

In my opinion, the CLOX stiletto can be considered as high fashion and extremely trendy.

According to its designer, Mia Maric, this stiletto, "tells a story of movement, merging time and rhythm to the footsteps of the ambitious and socially mobile woman of today. As beautiful as all women are, most women balance their time, their space, between life as the rock of their home, as a lover and friend, and a colleague outside of the home in our fast-moving society. This just happens to be a science, an art, a statement that is a woman's alone. And as such, the CLOX Stiletto holds strong, yet with poise and class, tracking time perfectly as its owner wears the stiletto moving about her day to create an extra moment for herself, in style."

How is that for some stiletto inspiration?  Although the CLOX was designed with a certain view point, I believe that every women's favorite shoe (or accessory) helps her make that exact statement:  That she is strong, poised and most important classy!


Now it's Your turn: Would you wear these stilettos? Does the designer's vision resignate with you? Please share your thought with us in the comments - we love hearing from you! 

Starbox by Starlooks - Makeup Program You Won't Believe!

Okay Beauties, with a show of hands, who here loves getting makeup delivered to their doorstep? *Raises both hands while jumping up and down*....

One of the easiest (and affordable) ways of receiving and trying out new makeup samples is by joining beauty sites that offer their members a monthly subscription. I am sure, that most of you a quite familiar with this new concept as there are plenty of companies that have this service.

Today's post is about one makeup company - Starlooks - that has so graciously provided us with their November 2012 Starbox. The Starlooks November 2012 Starbox arrived in this adorable cheetah print box wrapped in a gold bow.

Inside the Starbox, were a few things other than the eye makeup which we will be talking about further in the post. There was an introductory card that explains exactly what products the monthly box contains along with suggestions on how to apply the eye makeup. For those who like to see the makeup in photos, Starlooks  has a LOOKSBOOK available on their website where the monthly makeup is featured in different photos applied on models, allowing you to see exactly how the makeup can be worn.

This month's eye-shadow quad is being referred as the "prime look". A prime look consists of shades that can be worn by ALL skin-tones as a base for the overall eye makeup look. The colors in this quad are the following (beginning at the top left corner going across)

Hint of rust - Midnight in Mongolia

Coffee bean - Void Echo

Of the four shades, which are all in the brown family (except for Void Echo) the only matte color is Coffee Bean. The other three can be considered as metallic or glittery shades.

Beginning with the Hint of Rust, this color can be applied as the highlighting shade under the brow. Followed by applying Midnight in Mongolia over the lid; Then apply Coffee Bean directly into the crease and blending with the other two shades.

To complete the eye look, using an angled brush apply a thin layer of Void Echo along the upper and lower lash lines...and viola!

No eye makeup look would be complete without the application of mascara, right? That's where the 3-in-1 Mascara Guide/Applicator comes handy. By using this as a guide, you will always avoid getting little flakes of mascara on your skin! Love that!

What does a girl need to fully complete her makeup look? Lipstick, of course!

But not just any ordinary lipstick... A tender gloss lipstick in pearl. This lipstick was in the exact shade of my lips so this color can easily be used to create a nude lip. Tip: If you are rocking a nude lip (like this pearl color) remember to wear a dramatic smokey eye for added color.

My findings:

The eye-shadows are in the same shade family which can be useful in applying single shades all over the lid or applying two shades together to create a two-toned smokey eye. These are great for everyday wear.

Using the 3-in-1 mascara tool as a guide is pure genius! It's extremely effective at keeping the mascara wand on the eyelashes with no flakes falling under your lash lines.

The lipstick/gloss glides on very smooth with a fair amount of shine and coverage. The pearl shade provides a nice silky glossy finish - a perfect nude lip!

If I were to rate the Starlooks November 2012 Starbox - with a rating of 1 to 5 (1 being highly dislike and 5 being extremely satisfied) I would have to say that I rate this box a solid 5 - Yes, I am completely satisfied with these products! Which is one reason why I want to recommend Starlooks to all of our wonderful Beauties.

However, there is another HUGE reason why you should look into joining Starlooks now. There is a special offer during the month of December: There is going to be a featured product: a $99
Fifteen Shade Pro Eye Shadow Palette for ONLY $15!

That's an amazing value, isn't? The Fifteen Shade Pro Eye Shadow Palette can be for you or given to another Beautie as a Gift! Pre-orders for the December Starbox subscriptions are now being offered. To reserve your December Starbox simply go to Starlooks and subscribe. Or if you would like to reserve a December gift subscription - call 1 (949) 679 0679.

For more detailed information about Starlooks Starbox subscription program - please visit their website / twitter / facebook page / youtube channel 

Now it's your turn: What are your thoughts about Starlooks makeup subscription program?  Have you reserved your December 2012 Starbox yet? 

Disclosure: The November 2012 Starbox was provided as a complimentary box for this review post. All opinions and photos are 100% mine. 

10 Commandments of Foundation - Beauty Infographic

Joyful Wednesdays Beauties!

I was thinking about what beauty/makeup post I wanted to share with you today when I realized that it has been a few weeks since I shared a beauty infograph with you. If you recall, one of the last infographs shared on the website was all about the 10 Commandments of Lipstick.

In today's beauty infograph we will be taking a closer look at the simple yet sometimes forgotten 10 Commandments of Foundation. The ten rules for using foundation are very novice but they do hold a lot of meaning when you really think about how using/applying foundation can either "make or break" your overall appearance when wearing makeup in general.

So, let's take a look at the 10 Commandments for Foundation that every woman should be aware of:

Related Post : Style United...Your very own personalized virtual makeover 


Now it's your turn: How many of the 10 Commandments of Foundation do you already practice? Do you have any additional tips you would like to share with us? 

Please let us know in the comments! We love hearing from you!

Product Launch Exclusive: Defining Eyes Palette by Tiffany D

Last night I found myself sitting in bed with my IPAD2 nestled in its keyboard working through my inbox when I received a particular email notice. At first, I was going to ignore the email however as I took a closer look, I immediately noticed what the topic of the email was: a new product launch exclusive! 

To give you an idea of exactly how excited I was, I leaped out from under the covers jumping to the side of the bed  doing my happy dance all around the bedroom! Does that ever happen to you? You get that overwhelming feeling of finding something new?  I love it when that happens!

By now you maybe wondering what new product am I referring to, right? I am referring to the New Defining Eyes Palette by Tiffany D.

The Defining Eyes Palette is an all-in-one kit design to enhance, amplify and brighten your eyes. Everything you could possibly need to get a neutral smokey look.  In the palette you will find:

1. eight (8) eye shadow shades (In the Dark, Midnight, Fog, Halo, Brunette, Chestnut, Smoke and Beam) These neutral shades are universal - The colors will look amazing  
2. two (2) gel liners (Blackout and Chocolate) 
3. a dual ended brush - With this brush you can easily blend the shades together with the eye shading end, then using the pencil dual edge to apply the gel liner along the lash-lines. Having just one brush that does double duty is extremely convenient!
4. a dual ended eye liner pencil - I love the idea of the dual ended eye pencil, especially because of the brightening effect you can easily create by applying the white pencil on the lower inner waterline as well as the inner corner of the eye. 
5. The palette also comes with a booklet featuring five (5) of Tiffany’s favorite tips and tricks for using the palette.

In my opinion, this palette is a MUST have for anyone who thinks of themselves as a beauty enthusiast (like me!). Which is why I just had to share this product launch information with you.

The Defining Eye Palette  would also make a fabulous gift - The kit has all the tools needed already included in it, so there is no need to buy anything additional.  The Defining Eye Palette is a limited edition and will only be available until supplies last, so you know what that means!

Now it's Your turn: I placed my order earlier this morning - I can't wait for it to arrive so I can try these shades out. Don't miss out so make sure you order yours today! 

PS. Check out Tiffany D's post on her blog for up-close photos of her swatches and a DISCOUNT CODE for The Defining Eye Palette!  

A Cyber Monday Limited Time Offer

Happy Cyber Monday Beauties!

Hopefully by now everyone has had a chance to unwind from the extra-long Holiday weekend while trying to get back into the natural swing of things.  I say "hopefully" because this morning I find myself struggling a little...having so many days off is always needed but then once it's over...it's over!

But the show must go on... it's Cyber Monday after all!

With that being said, we wanted to give you just one last incentive to help you score a few more gifts for the family and a huge gift just for YOU.

That's right! In honor of Cyber Monday and as a special Thank You every $40 order placed at our Online Boutique will automatically get you this amazing Cyber Monday Gift Set:

This set includes the following items:

Super Flash Cosmetic Bag: Faux leather. 11" L (at top) x 2" W x 8" H.

Sweet Stud Earrings: Tie things up, bring a hint of bling and show a little love–all with this trio of adorable studs. Bows: goldtone, 3/8" H; triangular stones: glass faux stones in a hematite setting, 3/8" H; love knots: rose-goldtone, 3/8" H

Nailed It in Holiday Colors: You get two! A festive metallic berry color, sure fire makes for one hot manicure. Meanwhile, meltdown, a metallic taupe shade, sizzles as a shimmering neutral. 0.09 fl. oz. set.

Scanda-lash Hook up Mascara in shade Black Lash: This super-rich mascara perfectly lengthens, thickens and defines lashes without clumping.

Hook up Connector: mark's first-to-market interactive makeup system of modular, interlocking products are held together by the all-important connector piece.

Glow Baby Glow Luxe Hook Up Lip Gloss in shade Lotus Luxe: Super-reflective, micro-mirror  pearlized particles capture and reflect light from every angle to give lips a luxe, glam finish. Unique brush applicator. 0.12 oz. net wt.

Pretty Stellar Ring: Wear it throughout the summer and for seasons and seasons to come. A turquoise stone is forever trendy. Faux turquoise stone and glass rhinestones set in burnished brass. Stretches to fit a range of ring sizes. 3/4"W x 1 1/4" H

Hand it Over Hand Cream in Lemon Sugar: Packed with vitamins and skin conditioners, this luxurious scented cream leaves hands soft, smooth and moisturized all day. 1.5 fl. oz.

Of course, to add in a little more - every order will also receive (in addition to the Cyber Monday Gift Set) a special gift and more samples sent to you directly from our offices!

Now it's Your turn:  Click on the image to be directed to our Online Boutique - Registration is FREE (we do NOT solicit - no phone numbers needed) Place your $40 order - Use code MKCYBER at checkout - Sit back and relax for the goodies to arrive right at your doorstep! 

Help Support Shop Small Today

Did you know that today, November 24th marks the third annual Small Business Saturday? I know, I can hardly believe it myself. It seems it was just yesterday when I stumbled upon American Express Facebook page reading their first announcement of what Small Business Saturday was all about.

The idea of such an influential company taking the time to create a day to support local businesses around the country was certainly news that grabbed my attention, not only because I am an AMEX customer but also because I am a local business owner. Knowing that there is one day of the year dedicated to helping those with local businesses really does help all of us who are trying to make a living for our families.

Which brings me to today's post. If you are still in need of finding a few holiday gifts, a haircut, even a new pair of shoes....why not help your local community by buying the items you need from a small biz! Not only will you be helping your community but you will also be helping local business owners support their families.

So, in honor of today, Small Business Saturday, here are two easy ways to shop that will not only support the SBS movement but it will also help you save time (and money!) shopping for your loved ones this Holiday season.

For the Divas, Princesses, Makeup Mavens and Fashionistas on your list:

When shopping at our online boutique, please register (it's free and we DO NOT solicit via email) so we can send you an additional gift and samples as a Thank You for supporting our business!

Entering code MARK20 will give you a 20% discount on every order - no minimum amount required!

For the Pet Lovers in your families and friends (I love this one!):

Kritter Kondo Deluxe
www.kritterkommunity.com
$164.99 + Shipping

The Kritter Kondo Deluxe is an outdoor pet enclosure ideal for indoor cats and small dogs. The Kritter Kondo Deluxe collapses flat with the simple release of a few pins; no assembly required. A shade canopy is built in to offer a shady side and a sunny side for your pet to enjoy. The Kondo comes with it’s own carrying case which has a shoulder strap and handles for easy mobility and storage. The interior of the carrying case has three pockets and a zipper pouch for toys, food, blanket and bed.


I hope by sharing these two Shop Small suggestions that you have been able to find a few more gifts to give your family, friends and pets this Holiday season. If you are interested in supporting other small businesses that are in your local area, please visit shopsmall for more information.

Hot Black Friday Deals You Don't Want to Miss

We've seen the commercials and heard all the buzz surrounding the busiest shopping weekend of the year: Black Friday, Shop Small and Cyber Monday. Some of us will be among the brave, leaving our warm comfy homes, driving around town in the dark, in hopes of hunting down and grabbing the best door-buster sales we can find.  Does this sound familiar to you?

If so, then this list of Hot Black Friday Deals is just for YOU!

You don't have to worry about missing a special deal this weekend - Here is a list of some of the BEST shopping Black Friday Deals from some of our top favorite companies. So, please sit back, grab a drink (coffee, tea, margarita, glass of wine - your pick so go for it!) and let us help you become your families Holiday Superstar!

Sears

Thursday Doorbusters: $10 off any $40 or more purchase of Clothing, Intimates, Sleepwear, Accessories, Fragrance and Cosmetics with code: BLACKFRIDAY

Valid 11/22 at 8 PM to 11/23 at 1 PM

Case-Mate

Take 10% off any purchase $55 or more! Use code: cmsave10

Valid until 12/1/2012

Kohl's

15% off Everything for Black Friday with code: BLACKFRI

Save with Free Shipping on orders $50+

Valid 11/21-11/25

Macy's

Get 40-50% off Izod Apparel!

Offer Valid until 12/31/2012

Hips & Curves

Shop the Hips & Curves Black Friday sale and save up to 50% off plus size lingerie!

Valid 11/19-11/23

Target

Free Shipping on the Season's Top 20 Toys &

Spend $50, Get Free Shipping on Select Items

Valid until 12/29/2012

Sigma Beauty 

Black Friday Free Worldwide Shipping!  Get TWO full days of free shipping (domestic and First Class International shipping)! Begins midnight (12AM Central Standard Time) on Thursday, November 22 and end at midnight (12AM Central Standard Time) on Friday, November 23. Enter code BF2012 at checkout. There is no minimum order, but only one discount code may be applied. 

Do you have die hard foodie in your family? No worries, we have you covered here - Our Top Gourmet Gift Ideas for Black Friday. 

Have a very Happy Thanksgiving tomorrow with your family! Enjoy shopping these Hot Black Friday Deals - Stay tuned for even more news and shopping list deals we are putting together just for YOU! Come back to get first dibs for Shop Small (Saturday 11.24) and Cyber Monday (Nov. 26).   



Disclosure: I am grateful to be of service and bring you content free of charge. As such please note that some of the links posted in this Black Friday Deal list are affiliate links; which means that when you click links and purchase items, in some (not all) cases I may receive a very small referral commission. Due to this fact, I selected only the very best Black Friday Deals from retailers that I, as a local business owner and consumer, would highly recommend.  Thank you for your support! 

Get the #AMAs Beauty Looks: Taylor Swift and P!nk

Happy Tuesday Luvlies!

As we all try to get through this short work week so we can begin the Holiday festivities, this past weekend (Sunday to be exact) some of us were unwinding from the weekend  by watching the #AMA's.  Where you able to watch the American Music Award ceremonies?

From what I heard (and briefly saw) two of the most recently made Covergirls rocked the show - not only with their outstanding music performances, but with their amazing beauty looks. If you are thinking that I was referring to both Taylor Swift and P!nk, then you are absolutely correct!

Many of us (myself included!) really do look forward to these special televised events just to get a closer view of what the celebrities are wearing and what their makeup looks like.

Good news is:  You no longer have to worry about trying to figure out how to achieve both Taylor Swift's and P!nk's beauty looks - I have all the juicy details for you right here in this Get the Look beauty post!

Let's begin shall we?

COVERGIRL Taylor Swift at the 2012 American Music Awards, by makeup artist, Lorrie Turk

Taylor wanted her knock-out dress to be the inspiration for her AMA red carpet look. She wanted a high-impact look, and we needed one that could also be easily altered to go into her performance look.


I lightly buffed COVERGIRL NatureLuxe Silk Foundation onto her face with a synthetic foundation brush, and powdered only through the center of her face to leave a nice dewy finish on her skin. I then lightly brushed on TruBlend Minerals Blush in True Romance for some soft color and shimmer.

I started by dabbing on (using my fingertip) COVERGIRL Intense Shadow Blast in Brown Bling as a base. Next, I brushed on (with an eyeshadow brush) Eye Enhancers 1-kit shadow in Brown Smolder all over the lid, from the lash-line to just beneath her brow bone and her lower lash-line. Using Liquiline Blast Eyeliner in Black Fire, I then lined her upper and lower lash-line heavily, blending up and out to eliminate hard lines, leaving her eyes soft and smoky. We finished with several coats of (New!) LashBlast Clump Crusher mascara in Very Black.

Lastly, I used NatureLuxe Gloss Balm in Grenache, applying it directly from the tube.

COVERGIRL P!NK at the 2012 American Music Awards, by makeup artist, Kathy Jeung

P!NK’s beautiful bronze leather and chiffon dress was modern and strong, yet feminine, so we wanted to do a makeup that reflected that, a simple, paired down but glowing, glamorous beauty look. We've been doing a lot of smokey eyed looks lately, so thought we'd mix it up and do a look that felt a bit like old Hollywood glamour, but in a modern way, with focus on the eyes, especially the lash line and lashes.

I applied foundation using a foundation brush and then further blended with a moistened sponge, then set with a light dusting of COVERGIRL Professional Loose Powder  powder around the t-zone. For touch-ups, I used COVERGIRL Clean Oil Control Pressed Powder.   I first applied a peach shade blush, CG Classic Color Blush in Natural Glow on the apples of the cheek and blended outward and up. Then I applied a shimmery bronzer, CG Cheekers Bronzer in Golden Tan along the upper outer cheekbone area and also on outer temples (upper sides of face near eyes).

For eyebrows, I used a few soft strokes of CG Brow & EyeMakers Pencil in Soft Blonde  to define, then brushed into place with CG Profession Natural Lash clear mascara. For the eyes, I first applied CG Eye Enhancers in Champagne all over the lid and on the brow bone. Next I applied a bronze shadow, CG Eye Enhancers in Mink into the crease and blended well. Along the outer corner of the eye, I used a metallic color that wonderfully matched her dress, CG Eye Enhancers in Tapestry Taupe. To get depth along the lash line, CG Liquiline Blast Eyeliner in Black Fire, drawn with a bit of a cat eye shaped at the outer corners, then smudged. Over that to further define, I used CG LineBlast 24 Hour Eyeliner in Enduring Black, in a thin line along lash line. Along the outer lower lash line, I again used CG Eye Enhancers in Tapestry Taupe to accent to cat eye shape.

To add a little more dimension and to further blend, I added CG Cheekers Bronzer in Copper Radiance in the area around the brow bone with a medium fluffy brush. Over curled lashes, I apply 2 coats of CG Clump Crusher by LashBlast Mascara in Very Black on the top lashes. Because of its amazing staying power with no smudges, I used CG LashBlast 24HR Mascara on the lower lashes - 2 coats to really bring out her already long lower lashes.

For P!NKs performance, I lined the inside upper and lower rims of eyes with CG Liquiline Blast Eyeliner in Black Fire and added CG Eye Enhancers in Shimmering Onyx around the outer corners of her eyes, then colored cream shadow and pigment powders all over her face and body).


My thoughts:
Personally, I love both of these beauty looks. Taylor's makeup can easily be worn as an everyday look. On the other hand, P!nk's edgy makeup is perfect for a night out with the hubbs or a night out with the girls.  Honestly, I have to admit that I am having a hard time picking which makeup look to wear first!

Now it's Your turn:
Now that you have the inside scoop on how to duplicate these looks along with which Covergirl products to use, which makeup look suits your personality the best?   Are you a sleek and sophisticated diva like Taylor Swift; or are you more of an modern edgy "old Hollywood" rocker girl like P!nk?

Let us know in the comments - we truly enjoy speaking with you! 

But, as if this were not enough, here are few other CoverGirl goodies going on JUST FOR YOU: 

Go Topless and show us your Hottest Nails - Submit your nail look on CoverGirl's Facebook App for a chance to win some of CoverGirls newest beauty products! You can enter once daily. 

CoverGirl is now on pinterest and instagram - Now you can follow the brand directly and get all the juicy need to know beauty secrets and product information first hand!  

Disclosure: Please be advised that the team at LatinFlava Designs is not being compensated for this post. The links enclosed in this beauty post are NOT affiliate links; these are solely for the purpose of sharing the CoverGirl products used by the makeup artists.  Photo Credits (Getty/COVERGIRL).

Getting Your Home-Office Organized with Dotmine

Running a business from home has its benefits - that's a given. However, working from home can also have major setbacks; one of them being structure and organization. Without the structure of an office outside of our homes, it is easy to scatter anything work related all over the house. However, having an organized home office will make for a faster and more pleasant workday.

Here are a few ideas to get you and your home office organized:

1. Once you have your designated office space, you should have all of the office essentials - your computer, paper, files, pens, ect. - within reach. Doing so avoids wasting time having to walk around the house looking for the things you need; it will be much easier having all your papers and files in one central location.

2. Now that everything has its place, create an "in-box" and an "out-box". These boxes should be used for the projects that need your immediate attention; using the out-box for all of your completed work. At the end of the day, empty out the out-box by placing it in files or shredding it, if it's something that is no longer needed. The inbox should have the work that you need to complete the very next morning.

3. Get yourself a detailed daily planner.   Having a user friendly day planner is a MUST have for everyone - even if you work outside of the home.  My recommendation : a dotmine day planner.

Not only are they stylish but these planners have everything you need to help you be more organized:

• A seventeen month planner (The one I have covers August '12 - December 2013)
• Four Master Scheduling Planning Guides for Fall/Winter/Spring/Summer Seasons - This worksheet can help you coordinate your weekly schedule (meetings, special events, or project deadlines).
• Each month has its own calendar so you can easily keep track of the days during the month.
• In between each monthly calendar, there are individual weekly schedules.

These are my favorites because the weekly plan can actually be torn out of the planner itself which makes it easier to carry along with you if needed, especially if you have a few meetings scheduled for the same day.

• On the side of the weekly planner there is also a shaded margin designated for making lists - this can be used to make a list that outlines your workday. Having this to-do list will bridge the gap between your motivation and productivity - in other words, seeing what you need to get done will motivated you to finish everything on that list. As if that were not enough, at the very bottom of each weekly schedule there is a motivational quote to help guide you through the week. I love that!
• In the rear portion of the planner, you will have a "notes" page as well as a few pages available to list important contact information for clients, teachers, customers, schools, family members, ect. Having this section included in the planner certainly makes it easier to find someone's contact number right when you need it.
• Included with the dotmine daily planner is a sheet of small stickers.

These stickers have cute little figures on them for birthdays, date nights, games, recitals, bill due dates, house/car repair dates, vacations, anniversaries and appointments.

These are great visual reminders to have posted throughout the planner. You can place each sticker on their particular date and just by looking at the sticker, you're immediately reminded of what needs to be completed that day.

4. While having a detailed planner (such as this one from dotmine) will keep you organized, it is also important to allow yourself a little "breathing" room during the day - this will help you in those moments when unexpected circumstances arise. Your "breathing" room does not need to last for long periods of time, but having this room to breathe will allow you to adjust your day accordingly without loosing your cool!

Following these four steps will help you maintain the structure and organization you need to run a highly successful business without having to leave your home.

To see the wide variety of daily planners offered by dotmine, please visit their website / pinterest / facebook / twitter

Now it's Your Turn: How do you like to keep your work office organized? Which dotmine planner do you like best? 

Please let us know your thoughts in the comments - We enjoy hearing from you!

Disclosure: I received the above products through Sublime Media Connection in exchange for an honest review. In no way was I asked to give a positive review. All photos and opinions stated in this article are 100% my very own.