Thursday, April 18, 2019

cariPro Ultrasonic Electric Toothbrush Review + GIVEAWAY

I received the cariPRO Ultrasonic Electric Toothbrush working with Smile Brilliant, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

When Smile Brilliant reached out to me, I was so excited to partner up with them again! This collaboration was to try out their newly released cariPRO Ultrasonic Electric Toothbrush. First of all, I had never in my life used an electronic toothbrush. Second of all, with my past experience with Smile Brilliant, I had a feeling that I wouldn't regret this product. 



The cariPRO package arrives with the cariPro Toothbrush, charging base, two electric toothbrush heads, and the instruction manual (which I found helpful because apparently, I didn't know how to brush my teeth with this new device). The brush itself has a very sleek, neutral, modern appearance and offers 5 brush modes to choose from: Clean, White, Massage, Gum Care, and Sensitive. 

The brush is set on a 2-minute timer and pulses in 30-second increments. The pause of the pulsing is an indication of when to move the brush to another quadrant of your mouth. 




It took me using the cariPRO a few times to get used to considering I've used manual toothbrushes all my life. At first, it tickled with the vibrating and I honestly wasn't sure if I was brushing correctly (ha). After re-skimming the manual and a few more uses, I got the hang of it. Testing out the different settings was fun, I believe my favorite is probably the Sensitive since the pulses aren't quite as intense. One day after using the toothbrush, I noticed mild sensitivity but am not sure if it was because of the setting or the brush reaching areas that a manual toothbrush doesn't get to. 




After a week of using the cariPRO toothbrush, I'm in love. My teeth feel much cleaner after brushing and even throughout the day than they did with a manual toothbrush. I enjoy the timer because I know I'm brushing the correct length of time and hitting every area, almost like the cariPRO is holding me accountable for good dental hygiene (unlike my old rushing the brushing method). The different modes are incredibly nice so that you can focus on different aspects each time you brush if you choose. Also, the battery is made to remain charged for 30 days, which is much longer than I expected! 


Enter my giveaway for a chance to win a cariPRO Ultrasonic Electric Toothbrush:

To achieve a healthier smile for yourself with the cariPRO Ultrasonic Electric Toothbrush, purchase here: cariPRO Ultrasonic Electric Toothbrush and use code alwaysallison20 for 20% off!


♥ always

Allison


best electric toothbrush

Saturday, March 23, 2019

Dreamy decor trends for 2019

As I've gotten older, I've realized staying in (especially throughout winter months) is more appealing than going out.  The key to wanting to stay in is creating a home you like, can relax at, and simply just enjoy.  Changing things out can make a "same old" space feel new and refreshed for the months ahead.

Every year, there are new trends in home decor and I love following the trends while also staying true to myself.  In 2019, you can expect to see bolder colors along with feminine tones, more natural touches, and decor that makes a statement.  If you're curious about finding new trends for your living space, I've rounded up my favorite trends for 2019 to help inspire throughout the rest of the year.

1.  Night Watch Green
This unexpectedly amazing deep green shade represents renewal while bringing a lush greenery and luxurious feel to a space.  Night Watch Green pairs flawlessly with pops of color and metallics.  Use it boldly for cabinets and wall paint or as an accent for chairs and decor.




2.  Boho Decor
Boho is definitely a style I've always been drawn to.  Mixing prints and textures make a room exciting and intriguing while natural elements and plants can give one all the heart eyes.




3.  Terrazzo
Marble, specifically grey/white, has been the big trend in decor, accessories, and everything in between for years now.  It's refreshing to see a new "rock (?)" style taking a seat at the decor table.  The mixture of different elements in Terrazzo makes it unique and interesting.





4.  Statement Ceilings
This is a trend that can really make the most out of a space and I am here for it.  If you've got the decor covered on ground level, why not take it up for the main event (literally)?




5.  Feminine Tones
A touch of pink, blush, rose gold, plum, or any other feminine tones never hurt anyone.  It can soften a room without making it overly feminine.  BUT, just take a look at that pink tiled bathroom!  I think I'm going to need that in my future home.




6.  Black + White Decor
Does black and white ever really go out of style?  It's a clean, classic color combination that you really can't go wrong with.



Which is your favorite trend of 2019?

♥ always
Allison

Photo Sources:  Decor Mag, Fresh Home, Pinterest, Bohemian Collective, Thoughtsfromalice.com, Flea Market Fab, magicdreamlife.com, Houzz, Domino, Cote Maison, Lucy and Company, Neuvo Estilo, Hattas, Etsy, Blissful Blog, Apartment Therapy, Instagram, Etsy


Friday, February 8, 2019

Friday Favorites

TGIF!  Is it just me or does this week feel like its been a decade long?  Nothing happened in particular that made it a "long" week, but I just feel like we've been in the same week for a long time.  This weekend's forecast calls for another cold and snowy one here in St. Louis, which I'm not looking forward to.  Can it just be spring already!?  Well, anyways, here's a roundup of my 5 favorite things I found this week.


Who doesn't love Trader Joe's?  And who wouldn't want Valentine's treats from Trader Joe's?  Honestly,  won't pass judgment if you keep these treats for yourself...I'm planning to get all the cupcakes!


Love the idea of a girls' party to celebrate the women in your life.  This Galentine's Day Pizza Party (complete with HEART-SHAPED PIZZA) is honestly what Galentine Goals are made of.


Well...let's be honest here...the dog can't really talk back ;)
This adorable and funny Valentine's Day card is available by Unblushing on Etsy!


No green thumb?  No problem!
Yesterday while I was in Target, I came across these leaf stems that are so incredibly perfect and realistic looking, I fell in love.  I had to come home to figure out if there's a spot or large vase/basket for me to use them but fully intend on purchasing a few during my next Target run.  They definitely *spark joy*   :)


Another Target run find.  These marbleized mugs!  SO CUTE and a great Valentine's Day gift idea as well!  Pictured here is the pink but they're also available in orange, green, and purple!

Have a great weekend!
♥ always
Allison

Image Sources:  Refinery29, Etsy, Target, Rue Daily

Thursday, February 7, 2019

Non-Cheesy Gift Ideas for Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day...one of those days that people either love or they love to hate.  It's totally filled with all of those gimmicky "Hallmark" things and February 14th can be a painful reminder that one is more single than single this year but this holiday is also totally sweet with all the cutesy heart-shaped decorations, candy and let's not forget wine!  Valentine's Day doesn't require a significant other to be celebrated.  Celebrate the best girls in your life, your family, pets, or even yourself!  Of course, it's easy to run by Walgreens and grab a stuffed bear holding a heart (it is the thought that counts), but if you're searching for a more thoughtful gift for your S/O (or treating yo-self), here's some non-cheesy gifts that they will LOVE.

Personally, my boyfriend and I prefer experiences over gifts for this holiday.  Last year, we went to a concert at an intimate venue here in STL and it was hands down the best Valentine's Date.  Tickets to a concert, sporting event, play, movie, or any experience (cooking class, pottery making), the list could go on always make a great gift.


You've seen them drop their phone more than once.  The roses on this phone case will last much longer than the Valentine's bouquet and the case will help protect from any mishaps.


It's all in the signs.  Zodiac rings that are cool, minimal, and she'll want to wear every day.
Mejuri - Zodiac Ring


Men often have a hard time shopping and spending money on themselves so why not treat him to some new shoes so he can toss the old, worn out ones away?


What's Valentine's Day without a little poetry?
This Valentine Taco shirt (plus many, many more tees) are available at Gabriel Clothing Co.
Gabriel Clothing Co. - Roses are Red Tee



Nobody prints off photos nearly as much as they should these days.  This small, portable photo printer is perfect for girls nights, parties, and of course date nights.



A charming coffee table book for romantics who are crushing, committed, or anywhere in between.


Heart-shaped glitter earrings will have her all heart-eyes.


This mug says it all, "You're my person".


Because home is where the heart is...how adorable is this heart print welcome mat!?

♥ always
Allison

Photo Sources:  Casetify, Mejuri, Nordstrom, Amazon, Gabriel Clothing Co., Macy's, Target, Etsy

Thursday, January 31, 2019

Personalized Hair Care to Achieve Hair Goals? + GIVEAWAY

I was sent these products by Formulate for testing purposes.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A new year calls for a new hair care regimen, right?  About a month ago, I partnered up with Formulate and have been trying out their shampoo and conditioner since.  Formulate's purpose is to "solve the world's personal care struggles" by using a "chemist-to-consumer" movement.  They take all of your hair needs and concerns then formulate a unique shampoo and conditioner specifically for you.  On top of the specialized shampoo and conditioner, Formulate products are also sulfate, paraben, cruelty-free.



The very first step of starting out my journey with Formulate was filling out the "Hair Quiz" outlining my hair details and hair goals.  Up to 5 goals can be chosen using a point method.  At the end of the survey, there are fragrance options to select from and power of the scent: low, medium, or strong.  The entire Hair Quiz was multiple choice, making it low-stress, unintimidating, and impossible to fail!

The list of goals I chose for my hair are:
Prevent Thinning
Color Protection
Anti-Frizz
Mend Split Ends
Hydration

Why I selected these options:
  • Recently, I've noticed that the fine baby hairs at the side (between my temple and forehead) seemed to be thinning, making me self-conscious about my hairline.  I figured this wouldn't necessarily help with the damage already done but definitely wanted to prevent any more thinning.
  • Color protection because I typically dye my hair darker and wanted any help with preventing fading.
  • Anti-frizz since my hair is thick and reacts to humidity.  Also, those little baby hairs I mentioned before have a tendency to form those "devil horns" when I put my hair in a ponytail.
  • Mend Split Ends.  I chose this over the hair growth option since split ends are a reason that hair doesn't grow.  I figured mending my damaged ends would make my hair more healthy and grow over time.  Also, my hair is currently the longest its ever been so I don't necessarily need the length.
  • Hydration.  Using a blow-dryer and curling iron, it's going to cause hair to dry out so I can always use the hydration.
The fragrance I chose was Tidal:  "Tidal is a swirl of the shore with mineral notes from the sea, sun-drenched sand, and rich coconut.  Light and lifting, this coastal scent will carry you through the day, no waves needed." ...pretty much sounds like a vacation in a bottle, right!?  I selected medium afraid that the strong may be a little overpowering for me.


The trial process:
Since the products are created specifically for you and your needs, the turnaround time can take 3-4 weeks for them to arrive at your home.  I was so surprised when they arrived much quicker than anticipated.

I have used sulfate-free products in the past and honestly thought the current shampoo I was using was sulfate-free (which upon checking the bottle while filling out the survey, I realized that it is NOT in fact sulfate-free).  You might be asking what is it with all this sulfate-talk and what is so bad about them!?  Basically what sulfates (detergents) do is strip your hair (so if your hair is color or chemically treated, you're washing money down the drain at a faster rate), can cause hair loss, dry out your hair, and leave chemical build up over time.  If you want to know more, just Google it  ;)


Once the products arrived, the first thing I noticed was the flawless packaging.  The bottles are hexagon shapes, black and white with a straight-line font, extremely modern and cool.  They also come with PUMPS!  Very exciting!

The products also show up with this personalized card outlining your hair type, where you're headed to, how to get there, how you'll smell, and the ingredient insight.  My shampoo and conditioner include awesome ingredients like Lactic Acid, Vitamin E, and Pumpkin Seed Oil.  The card also lays out how many pumps to use to achieve the desired hair.  This is important (especially when splurging on quality products) because many people unknowingly overuse hair products.  It told me to use 4 pumps of shampoo and conditioner to achieve my Hair Goals!

Throughout the entire process, the Formulate team was awesome.  I worked with Caroline and she was very friendly, helpful and ready to answer any questions or concerns I had at any moment.  Formulate also offers an app to download, where you have information about your products and can change anything at any time!

Before Formulate

After Formulate

After a month of using my Formulate shampoo and conditioner, I've noticed a major change in my hair.  When I let it air dry, my natural wave appears a  more yet in a smoother less poofy way.  The second day (non-shampoo days), the waves are even better.  Those areas where I've been concerned about thinning have filled up a little bit.  Split ends are non-existent.  The frizz is gone (along with the ponytail devil horns).  My hair is healthy, hydrated, and holds styles much better.

The only things I would change for my next Formulate products I absolutely love the scent I chose but wish I would have gone with strong.  Another thing is that I may have slightlyyy overdone it with the hydration aspect so would scale back there a little bit.  But that's the extremely cool thing about working with Formulate: the formulations of the shampoo and conditioner are not permanent.  There is always the option to edit the product formulas.

Now's the time for you to have the opportunity to try Formulate!  One lucky reader will be selected to win their own customized Shampoo and Conditioner set! (a $49 value AND you won't even have to pay for shipping! WOO!)  Just follow the link below and click "ENTER MY GIVEAWAY" on the left-hand side to enter:

Formulate Shampoo + Conditioner Set Giveaway

Best of luck!
♥ always
Allison

Friday, January 4, 2019

Friday Favorites

Cheers to 2019!  I'm honestly not sure where 2018 went, but wherever it did go, it went fast.  With the new year, I'm starting a new series fresh called "Friday Favorites".  I'll post about 5 things I've discovered over the week that I'd consider my favorite.  I hope you enjoy and continue to follow along!  Happy first Friday Favorites!

1. Trader Joe's Hot & Sweet Pepper Jelly


My boyfriend and I were team stay-in for New Year's Eve this year so picked up apps and champagne from Trader Joe's.  We grabbed a jar of this pepper jelly, a triangle of brie cheese, some crackers and had a delicious and simple app to enjoy.  This also served as an amazing condiment for the coconut shrimp!  Then I came across this Griddled Pepper and Cream Cheese recipe that I fully intend on making very soon.



Pottery Barn released their spring line today in collaboration with fashion designer Monique Lhuillier.  This romantic "bridal-inspired" line features this gorgeous floral wine bucket that would make a stunning addition to a bar cart (married or not).

3.  Miaou Junior Jeans from Shopbop


New year, new jeans, right!?  These leopard print jeans from shopbop are not only on sale right now, but will also put a fierce pep in your step to attack whatever 2019 might throw at you.



Starting fresh and decluttering for the new year sounds like a great idea but it can be daunting trying to figure out where to start.  This 30-Day Decluttering Checklist from Glitter Guide breaks it all down and makes the task much less intimidating.

5.  Alternative Christmas Light Uses


Already missing the magic and glow of the Christmas lights?  I know I am and already not looking forward to dismantling my Christmas decor this weekend.  Keep the pretty, twinkling lights going all year round with 13 Unexpected Ways to Use Christmas Lights After the Holidays.

Thanks for checking in and enjoy the first weekend of 2019!
♥ always
Allison

Photo Sources:  Pottery Barn, shopbop, thekitchn.com, Glitter Guide