Holiday Gift Guide Series: Best Friend and Girl Boss

In search of the gift that says ILYSM for the BFF or Boss Babe in your life?  Or maybe that's the same person.  Whether you need a Secret Santa present or just a little something for someone, this gift guide has all the gift inspo you need for the bestie boss babes in your life.

Best friend:

Talk about a 90's accessory throwback.  She'll be all set for the gym (and her hair will look cute) because scrunchies have made a comeback.

Etsy - Velvet Scrunchies

She knows all your dirty little secrets (and vice versa) and that you should probably be on Santa's Naughty List.  The name of this essie polish is "Berry Naughty" which couldn't be any more fitting.

Target - essie Nail Polish in Berry Naughty

A partners in wine print is perfect for your wine-loving partner in crime.

Etsy - Partners in Wine Print

Never Have I Ever card game that has everyone re-living awkward and embarrassing moments.  Perfect game to have on hand for a girls night because who doesn't enjoy a good laugh at their best friends' expense?

Target - Never Have I Ever Card Game

Adorable zodiac trinket trays to store sparkly treasures.

Urban Outfitters - Zodiac Catch-All Dish

Nothing says nostalgia quite like plush best friends heart shape pillow.  It's basically the new age BFF heart necklace - one half for her, one half for you.

Urban Outfitters - Best Friends Heart Velvet Pillow Set

There are obviously countless memories so an Instax photo frame is a great gift to show off the best selfies or favorite adventures between the two of you.

Urban Outfitters - Instax Multi Picture Frame

Because you clearlyyy love her to the moon and back.

Urban Outfitters - Geo Moon Light Sculpture

Girl Boss:

She's building her empire and killing the game.  This Evil Queen candle speaks for itself.

Evil Queen - Boss Babe Candle

She sets goals and gets (sh)it done!  Or maybe has a tendency to procrastinate a bit so here's a friendly reminder to knock that off.  :)

Urban Outfitters - The Native State Get Sh** Done Art Print

Always using her phone for everything, this simplistic marble design PopSocket makes holding a phone with one hand a breeze.

Target - PopSockets Marble Cell Phone Grip and Stand

Girl Boss things.

But first...coffee.

Amazon - Girl Boss Coffee Mug

Matte and shimmer eyeshadows, this magical travel size palette is perfect for the girl on the go.

Sephora - Enchanted Sky Eyeshadow Palette

After a long day, she's one to kick her feet up and sip on a glass of rosé.

Target - Women's Rosé All Day Casual Socks

Sometimes the IG husband or boyfriend or best friend photographer are not around and it can be incredibly difficult to get photos on your own.  The iPhone tripod is without a doubt the most useful gift a blogging girl could ask for.

Best Buy - Dynex Tripod

♥ always

Allison

Image Sources:  Urban Outfitters, Sephora, Target, Best Buy, Etsy, Evil Queen, Amazon

Murad Revitalixir Recovery Serum. Does it work?!

Over the past few years, I've really been trying to take skincare more seriously.  I enjoy trying new products to see what works and what I actually notice a difference from.  Skincare products can also be a little intimidating because there are SO MANY OUT THERE and all sorts of different skin types.  When I found out that Influenster was sending me a Murad product, I was beyond excited since I've used their products in the past and knew I liked them.

So often on social media, you'll see people sharing the quote, "Too blessed to be stressed" but if I'm being completely honest, we're all stressed and the last place we want this to show is on our face.  The product I received is the Murad Revitalixir Recover Serum, which is available at Sephora, Ulta, and Murad.com.  The Revitalixir Serum is a product for face and eyes; it addresses stress-induced aging, revives for a quick pick-me-up, and is good for all skin types.  The serum has little plum-colored spheres inside and it smoothes out stress lines, reduces puffiness and dark circles under the eyes, restores vibrancy right away and over time, boosts softness, and moisturizes.  Basically, this product is said to do it all.

Not to mention it's also free of parabens, sulfates,  and phthalates.

So I put the product to the test.  Ever since my birthday in July, I noticed the lines on my forehead had become increasingly more noticeable.  Maybe it was because I was looking at my face closer, maybe it was because my skin was a little bronzed from summer, maybe it was from aging, but whatever the cause, I became very aware and self-conscious about them.  I started searching the internet for different products to use and then my Murad Serum arrived.

Basically, I immediately fell in love with the product.  My favorite part is that it is used on both your face and eye area (I'm a BIG FAN of multi-purpose things, anything to cut down time and using a product for multiple purposes is a big plus in my book).  Everyone is busy, so not having to fuss with a few different bottles or jars in morning and night is a perk.  Also, lets not forget storage space and traveling!  The scent is very light and pleasant.  The product glides over your face and completely covers with one pump.  The serum also has an iridescent pink shimmer, adding a pretty, natural glow to the skin (which means no need for highlighter if you're in a hurry or if the highlighter makeup isn't your jam).  And the part you've all been waiting for, the lines on my forehead were drastically reduced!

The pricing for the product is a little steep (in comparison to drugstore brands), at $89 a bottle.  But like I said, a little bit goes a long way.  I find that people have a tendency to overuse skin and hair care products when realistically, you only need a small amount.  Expensive products last just as long as inexpensive if you use them correctly.  One pump is plenty to cover your whole face and eye area so the serum will last months.  Also, you're getting a face and eye serum in one so that's half the product you have to purchase.  I'm hands down obsessed with the Murad Revitalixir Recovery Serum and plan to continue using it regularly.

I received the Murad Revitalixir Recovery Serum for testing but all thoughts and opinions are my own.

♥ always
Allison

Removing Coffee Stains - At-Home Teeth Whitening Reviews

This post was sponsored by Smile Brilliant. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Being a multi-cups a day coffee drinker, I've known my teeth could use a little help on the

whitening side. The only whitening experience I have had in the past was using drugstore

whitening strips (which I don't recall noticing a huge difference) and then I brush with the Crest

3D White toothpaste daily. When I was approached by Smile Brilliant for a collaboration, I was

very intrigued and excited to learn more about the company. After looking at some before-afters

and reading about Smile Brilliant, I was ready to give it a try.

Shortly after filling out a quick questionnaire, a box arrived in the mail with a kit including molds

to make my own impressions of my teeth. Detailed instructions and whitening syringes are also

included in that box. This kit has a top and bottom mold, three containers of catalyst, and three

of the base. Three are included in case you happen to mess up one (which I did), so the extra

makes the process much less intimidating since there's a backup. After mixing the catalyst and

base together (sort of like playing with a putty), it gets placed in the mold then put in your mouth

until it hardens around your teeth. Once the impressions are set, you'll simply package them in

the pre-paid shipping envelope that arrived with the kit and drop in the mail.

Within a few weeks, your custom fitted trays will arrive and then it's time to start the whitening

process. Because the whole process can be a bit time consuming, the instructions read that it's

best to whiten before bed. A few times I whitened at night, a few I did in the morning if it was

more convenient. The whitening and desensitizing gels are applied to the trays in a thin line

using the syringe. Recommended time for whitening starts at 45 minutes with the option to

wear for up to 3 hours. Due to teeth sensitivity, I started with the 45 minutes then worked up to

an hour. After whitening, you remove the trays, rinse and dry, brush your teeth then apply the

desensitizing gel, which you wear for 15 minutes. The desensitizing gel definitely helped with

any sensitivity I was feeling. After all of that is done, there's no eating or drinking for 30 minutes to

achieve the best results.

Since the trays are custom fitted, they fit comfortably, allowing you to be able to talk relatively

normally and go about things like you would at home. During my whitening sessions, I've done

yoga, cleaned the house, and just relaxed while getting a brighter, whiter smile without the

hassle of dentist visits for a professional session.

Did Smile Brilliant work? YES! I've noticed my teeth are whiter than before and have actually

had people tell me that my teeth look great, making me more confident with my smile. Honestly,

I hadn't noticed how coffee stained they were until approached by Smile Brilliant and taking my

"before" photos.

Had I been able to give up coffee during the whitening process, I'm sure the

results would have been better, but overall I'm happy with the results I achieved. Would I

recommend Smile Brilliant and use it again? Yes! Due to the convenience, custom fitting,

professionalism of the product, and positive results, I would 10/10 recommend.

Want to achieve a whiter and brighter smile as well? Of course you do! I've teamed with Smile Brilliant for an exclusive discount and giveaway. Shop with Smile Brilliant and receive 15% OFF your purchase with the code always-allison15. Additionally, one lucky winner will win a $149 credit to Smile Brilliant! Simply follow the link to enter:

Smile Brilliant Giveaway

Giveaway will close on Tuesday, June 19th and open to USA, UK, Australia, and Canadian residents

♥ always
Allison

Tooth Whitening Gel

Product Review: New Beauty at Target

March's VoxBox from Influenster was a lot of fun because it contained FOUR items to test out, all new beauty products at Target.  This VoxBox arrival felt like Christmas...but an adultier-Christmas because it contained those items we have to buy but really hate to buy.  Items included were the Gillette Venus Platinum Razor and trial sizes of Olay Regenerist Whip Moisturizer, Pantene Sheer Volume Foam Conditioner, and Crest Gum Detoxify Deep Clean Toothpaste.  Read on to find out what I loved and hated!

I received all 4 items for free for testing from Influenster and Target.  All thoughts are my own.

1.  The Gillette Venus Platinum Razor

I absolutely LOVE the Venus Platinum Razor, probably my favorite out of the 4 items.  The weight, sleekness, and look of the metal handle give the razor a luxurious feel.  It glides over your skin leaving an incredibly close shave that lasts longer than other razors.  I would definitely recommend this item.

Buy it at Target:  Gillette Venus Extra Smooth Metal Handle Women's Razor

2.  Olay Regenerist Whip Moisturizer

The Olay Regenerist Whip face moisturizer is ah-mazing, my 2nd favorite if not tied with the razor.  The texture is like a lightweight gel that absorbs quickly leaving the skin smooth with a matte finish.  It's definitely great for warmer weather since it's so lightweight yet moisturizing.  Another few perks: the scent is amazing and it's also available with SPF 25.  After trying this product, I would purchase without question.

Buy it at Target:  Olay Regenerist Whip Facial Moisturizer

3. Pantene Sheer Volume Foam Conditioner

The Pantene Sheer Volume Foam Conditioner definitely peaked my interest simply by the fact that it's a foam conditioner.  The application was a little strange since it felt like I was applying shaving cream to my hair.  It smells great, is lightweight, did give good volume but did not give my hair nearly as much moisture as it requires.  I have very thick, somewhat coarse/dry hair so could see this product being great for someone with fine, thin hair.  It just didn't work for me.

Buy it at Target:  Pantene Sheer Volume Foam Conditioner

4.  Crest Gum Detoxify Deep Clean

The Crest Gum Detoxify Deep Clean toothpaste turns into a foam while brushing, which made it feel like it got my gums extra clean.  I did like the texture but probably wouldn't use it every brushing, alternating with my Crest 3D White gel-based toothpaste.  The Gum Detoxify did leave a very fresh, clean feeling so I probably would purchase it at some point.

Buy it at Target:  Crest Gum Detoxify Deep Clean Toothpaste

What are some of your favorite Target beauty finds!?

♥ always
Allison

Product Review: Origins Pore Perfecting Cooling Primer

Hi, Guys!  Today I'm doing a product review of Origins Original Skincare Pore Perfecting Cooling Primer with Willowherb.  This skincare product was sent to me by the kind people at Influenster in my very first VoxBox!

When the box arrived, I immediately tore into it to see what I received.  The pore perfecting primer is in this cute little "millennial pink" aluminum can, which I love.  At first, I was pretty skeptical due to the description being "super-cooling" and the current temperatures in St. Louis were single digits.  Honestly, the last thing that sounded appealing in the morning was intentionally applying something "cooling" on my face...I could go outside and let the chilling wind hit me for that.  BUT nonetheless, I sucked it up, shook the can, dispensed the lightweight foam onto my fingertips, dotted it on my face and gently rubbed in. 

Since that day, the Pore Perfecting Cooling Primer has become a staple in my daily beauty routine.  It immediately made me and my skin feel awake, almost like I didn't need coffee (but funny joke...I always need coffee), smoothed my skin to make it makeup ready, shrunk up the pores, and brightened the tone to a natural glow. 

What the heck is Willowherb you might ask?  I asked the same thing and referred to my good friend, Google, for the answers.  After searching Willowherb, the first medical uses came up as a treatment for prostate and urinary problems and I was like "WHY AM I PUTTING THIS ON MY FACE!?" and dug a little deeper.  Willowherb "is apparently effective against acne bacteria, anti-inflammatory, anti-irritant, antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-viral, cleansing and acts as a natural analgesic, mimics hydrocortisone to soothe discomfort."  Now I'm not a doctor, so don't quote me on that, but I referred to Gerlinde Naturals for all that information.  The first part of the Willowherb description definitely makes sense as to why my face looks and feels 100% after using the Origins Pore Perfecting Primer.  It's an exceptional boost on tired mornings or after going to the gym and a hot shower, 10/10 recommend.

The Origins Original Skin Pore Perfecting Primer is available at Sephora, price $32
This post has been sponsored by Influenster, all opinions are my own.

♥ always
Allison

Mother's Day Gift Guide

Mother's Day is coming up this weekend, so if you're in need of a thoughtful gift for your Mom, here's a few ideas to make her feel extra special on Sunday.

What are you doing to treat Mom this weekend?

Best Mom Ever Cosmetic Pouch / Clutch

Mama Bear Tote Bag

Evil Queen - Mom-Bie Gift Bundle

Faux Druzy Earrings

Pastel Floral Necklace

Mini Tinted Lip Conditioner Trio


♥ always
Allison

{whatever wednesday}

Since yesterday was International Women's Day, you'll find a quote from an inspirational woman on this {whatever wednesday}, along with fast hairstyles, currently coveting shoes, sweet treats, and spring time sips.

{#GIRLBOSS:  Diane von Furstenberg}

"I have never met a woman who is not strong.  They don't exist."

{Hair Hacks:  10 Easy Hairstyles You Can Do in Literally 10 Seconds}

{Needing Now:  Classic White Converse}

{Droolworthy Dose of the Day:  Kayla's Infamous S'mookies Recipe}

{Spring Cocktail:  White Zinfandel, Cranberry Juice, Pineapple Juice, Peach Schnapps}

{whatever wednesday}

It's time for another {whatever wednesday}!  This week showcases the sweetest moment of the 2016 Oscars, hot hairstyles for spring, an entryway that makes me green with envy, sparkles and flamingos (see what I did there?!), and an appetizer to try this weekend!  Have a wonderful Wednesday! :)

{Cookies and Oscars:  Sweetest Girl Scout Cookie Moments From Oscars 2016}

If you missed it, Chris Rock sold Girl Scout cookies at the Oscar's to help raise money for his daughter's troop.  With help from the stars, the troop earned $65,000 from cookie sales.  Can we just award Chris Rock 'Dad of the Year' right now?

{Fresh Beauty:  Hair Trends That'll be Huge this Spring}

{First Impressions: Vine-Covered Entryway}

{Etsy Find:  Flamingo Paper Straws}

{Snack for Saturday:  Skinny Queso Made with Greek Yogurt}