J.F. Lazartigue: Ultra-Shine Orchid Scented Shampoo

For my first J.F. Lazartigue review I am going to talk about the Ultra-Shine Orchid Scented Shampoo.

                       *This product was sent to me for review. All opinions are my own.*

Image Credit: J.F. Lazartigue

What Is It?  

J.F. Lazartigue Ultra-Shine Orchid Scented Shampoo

How Much Is It?  

$25.00 for 6.80 fl oz

What does it do? 

According to the website, it is a shampoo that is recommended for dull hair that removes all impurities and limescale that dull the hair.

How Does It Work?  

It's active agents and enhancers are associated with a derivative of Castor Oil. They smooth the hair scales and reflect light which accentuates the natural shine of your hair. The shampoo's soft cleansing base is gentle enough to be used daily. The results are hair that is incredibly shiny, soft and silky. Best of all your hair will be delicately scented with the sensual orchid scent.

How Do I Use It?  

Apply a small amount to wet hair. Massage gently then rinse. Repeat with a second application and rinse thoroughly.   

Where Can I Buy It?

J.F. Lazartigue's website!

It takes a lot to wow me with a shampoo. In my eyes shampoo is pretty boring, and really does not contribute to how healthy my hair is since it is on my hair for only a minute or so. After using J.F. Lazartigue's Ultra-Shine Orchid Scented Shampoo I have changed my tune. 

Housed inside the gorgeous pink and white bottle you see in the above picture is without a doubt the most luxurious shampoo I have ever used! The bottle is a decent size and considering you only need to use the smallest amount, it should last me for quite some time. I was a little hesitant about doing the whole apply, rinse, and repeat thing. It seems like every shampoo suggests applying twice and it always seemed so pointless and wasteful to me. But in the spirit of the review I decided to use this shampoo as directed and I was pretty amazed with the results. During the first application there were some suds but nothing like the cushiony, bubbly mass that I have experienced with other shampoos. After rinsing, my hair felt clean but I decided to forge on with application number two. The bubbles increased and the lather felt similar to what I have grown used to with other shampoos. After rinsing a second time, my hair felt even more clean. Squeaky clean. My theory is that the first application works out any gunk and oil that is clinging to your hair. Then, since all of the yuck is off of your hair, the second application can really get in there and ensure that your hair is clean.

My results were fantastic! Since my hair is so super fine I didn't use conditioner but my hair felt soft and hydrated. It was fluffy in a really good way, so super shiny, and OH MY....the orchid smell of the shampoo is out of this world! My hair smelled so lovely ALL DAY. I seriously could not stop smelling my hair! 

Now look, I get it. $25 for shampoo is not cheap. I would look at this shampoo as an indulgence. If you have the means to use it daily and make it your go-to shampoo that's awesome. But, if you are like me, buy it and use it to treat yourself. On a bad day you can simply bust it out, hop in the shower and hop out feeling gorgeous and revived. It's GOOD STUFF. I highly recommend it!

J.F. Lazartigue

Hi Guys!

Image Credit: J.F. Lazartigue

Who here has heard of J.F. Lazartigue? My guess would be only a few. Personally, I wasn't familiar with the brand until a few years ago. But don't worry. I am going to introduce you to Mr. Lazartigue and his AMAZING collection of hair care products. Prepare to be WOWED!

Let's talk about the handsome man behind the brand.

Image Credit: J.F. Lazartigue

"As a hair care specialist, to give your hair vitality and vigor by offering specific care depending on their nature, that is what I aim to pursue since the creation of my brand."

-J.F. Lazartigue, hair care specialist

J.F. Lazartigue is kinda a big deal in France. He was always interested in hairdressing techniques and the health of hair, so naturally Mr. Lazartigue pursed a career in helping people achieve the hair of their dreams. In December 1963, J.F. Lazartigue opened the doors of his first salon in "Rue de Courcelles" in Paris France. By 1972 his salon had become famous for taming the most stubborn Parisian manes. Today, it is still beloved by French editors and J.F. Lazartigue's devoted clients.

The product collection is a result of J.F. Lazartigue's passion for hair and drive to solve the biggest hair woes of his clients. In 1976, the J.F. Lazartigue hair care collection was born and was instantly successful. The products are Paraben Free, contain decadent ingredients and were the first to incorporate ingredients that are found in skin care products (AHA, collagen, vitamins) into hair care products. Mr. Lazartigue's philosophy is to select the best available ingredients and use them in the highest concentrations. So go big or go home basically.

Image Credit: J.F. Lazartigue

The collection is extensive and contains products to address every unique hair type, problem and desire imaginable. While you can purchase the products at a bunch of different brick and mortar stores, (use the store locator to find a location near you) the easiest place to purchase is on the J.F. Lazartigue website. For those who don't know where to start when deciding what to purchase, there is a handy "Personalized Prescription" questionnaire located at the bottom of the website that will help get you started on your journey to perfect hair. Or if you live in New York City you can pop into their Hair Analysis Center and Showroom located at 570 Lexington Ave, Suite 1600 (between 50th and 51st) to receive a FREE (!!!) hair and scalp analysis. The folks there will help you figure out (scientifically of course) which products will help you get the hair of your dreams. Plus, you will get to take home samples of the recommended products to see for yourself how truly magical they are. Oh whoops! Did I say pop in? I meant call and make an appointment. 1-800-359-9345

J.F. Lazartigue sent me a few products to try out, and I couldn't be more excited to share them with you! I am going to break the reviews out into three separate posts so that you won't have to sit through one lengthy post. Who has time for that? So stay tuned sweet readers. There will be more to come!

In the meantime, please check out and follow J.F. Lazartigue on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter. For some reason I am having an issue linking to Twitter so you can find them by searching for their Twitter handle @jflazartigueUSA

J.F. Lazartigue Soy Milk Strengthening Mask for Fine Hair

Yes! Another usual no-no for fine hair....the treatment mask. And yes, another hair product that I buy with high hopes only to be let down time and time again. But as always, J.f. Lazartigue has my back and truly delivers excellence with this decadent but lightweight strengthening mask. 

                          *This product was sent to me for review. All opinions are my own.*

Image Credit: J.F. Lazartigue

What Is It?

J.F. Lazartigue Soy Milk Strengthening Mask for Fine Hair

How Much Is It?

$47.00 for 5.07 fl oz

How Does It Work?

This deep treatment mask is specifically formulated for dry, delicate and fine hair. It restores strength, vitality, density and volume. Red Algae coats and protects hair from further damage. Soybean Oil and Soy Milk active molecules moisturize and infuse hair with volume, giving it long lasting body. 

How Do I Use It?

Apply the cream to the most damaged part of hair BEFORE shampooing. Massage in well and leave on for 10-30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly. 

Where Can I Buy It?

The J.F. Lazartigue website!

I have to admit, the first time I used the mask I skimmed over the directions pretty quickly and missed the part about applying it to dry hair BEFORE shampooing. So I shampooed (with JFL's divine orchid scented shampoo of course) then applied to wet hair (from roots to ends despite recommended use) and let it hang out for 10 minutes. While I was rinsing I immediately noticed a difference in how my hair felt. It definitely felt fuller. I thought I was imagining things though. But oh man, after blow drying my hair was still super full. All bouncy and FULL OF VOLUME. I did a happy dance and maybe sang a song into my hairbrush in front of my mirror while flipping my hair around. The Soy Milk Strengthening Mask is seriously a beauty blessing and one that I will continue to use for a very long time. 

I totally recommend this!

J.F. Lazartigue Soy Milk Strengthening Serum for Fine Hair

Let's talk about J.F. Lazartigue's Soy Milk Strengthening Serum for Fine Hair!

*This product was sent to me for review. All opinions are my own.*

Image Credit: J.F. Lazartigue

What Is It? 

J.F. Lazartigue Soy Milk Strengthening Serum for Fine Hair

How Much Is It?

$42.00 for 1 fl oz

How Does It Work?

The Soy Milk leave-in serum nourishes dry strands and strengthens split ends without weighing hair down. The non-oily formulation smooths down the scales of the hair shaft, leaving your locks soft, silky and bouncy all day long. 

How Do I Use It?

The serum can be applied as often as you wish after blow drying. Recommended for use on the ends of hair.

Where Can I Buy It?

J.F. Lazartigue's website!

Uh.... yes. My title is correct. Serum for FINE HAIR! Um what's that you say? Impossible? Fine hair hates serums? It always ends up looking flat and weighed down? Okay, whatever. I will admit that I used to think this way as well. My hair HATES serums. I love them though and have always had such high hopes for them. But any hopes were quickly lost after glancing in the mirror at my slick strands. I have never seen or heard of a serum made specifically for fine hair. When I received this fancy little glass bottle I was intrigued and excited but didn't expect miracles. But you guys, J.F. Lazartigue did not let me down. The Soy Milk Strengthening Serum is pretty awesome! 

It is very liquidy and smells so good. Very light and fresh. I have applied it to wet hair before blow drying and it made my hair really soft and very full. I have also applied it to dry hair and the serum smoothed my hair without weighing it down. I should also note that I applied it all over my hair and not just on the ends as recommended. It is an excellent mid-day fix for lifeless hair. I can see me using every last drop of this miracle serum and then rushing to buy more. I'm hooked and cannot live without it now! 

Highly recommended for my fine hair readers!

Let's Give Props to Propolis: Beecology

Yes! I have another brand to share with you that uses bee stuff in their products. Meet Beecology!


Bee stuff? Jeeze. That sounds ridiculous. I promise that I will get more specific about the "bee stuff" as this post goes on.

Image: beecology.com

The Brand-


Roughly six years ago Beecology founder David Rzepka's life changed forever. A co-worker was experiencing dramatic changes in their own life that prevented them from taking care of their beloved beehive. David decided to do his co-worker a solid, and agreed house the hive on his family's farm.


David did not plan on becoming a beekeeper, and he certainly didn't anticipate enjoying his new role. But over time, he found that tending to the bees allowed him time to reflect on life, and enjoy his love of science. David quickly started to see how the bee's world paralleled our own, and he poured himself into research. He also started to attend bee workshops at Ohio State University's agricultural campus. All of this newly acquired knowledge was inspiring, and sparked an idea. David decided that he wanted to make natural beauty products using honey, beeswax, and other good for you ingredients.


Today, Beecology churns out superb hair care, body care and skin care products using that philosophy. Also, Beecology thinks it is important to give back to the world. The company uses sweetyear.org to donate 10% of profits from each product purchased to charitable organizations. The best part about this is that sweetyear.org lets you determine how your consumer dollars are distributed by choosing the charity Beecology donates your money to. Each product you purchase from them has a "charity code".

This is my own image yo.

Once you enter this on sweetyear.org you are taken to a list of charities. I decided to donate to Autism Speaks. After you choose your charity, the next screen shows you the percentage of donations that each charity has raised on the site. Pretty cool stuff!


The Products:

Image: beecology.com

Dead Sea Mud Soap
$5.99


People have long used Dead Sea Mud to tighten, balance, and draw impurities from the skin. Beecology took this super mud and combined it with a blend of essential oils, Beeswax, and Shea Butter. This purifying soap does not contain perfumes or dyes.


For the past few weeks I have been using this soap on my face and body. After the first few days I started breaking out, and thought maybe I should stop using it on my face. But I decided to continue on, and I am so happy that I did. My face is in fantastic shape! The pimples cleared up quickly, and I am pretty sure they were a result of the Dead Sea Mud doing it's job.  On my body the soap leaves me feeling clean and moisturized. My skin doesn't feel stripped of moisture like it usually does with bar soaps.

Image: beecology.com

Honey Hand & Body Cream
$12.99 for a 6oz tube
Available in Original and Cucumber and Green Tea


Beecology's Honey Hand & Body Cream is packed with hydrating ingredients like Cupuacu, Shea Butter, and Olive Oil. It promises to never be greasy and to always soothe, heal, and relieve uncomfortable dry skin. The original formula has a light and delicate scent thanks to Beecology's honey. The Cucumber and Green Tea scent is clean and refreshing. It contains Bee Propolis to lock in moisture. Propolis deserves props big time guys!


I took the Cucumber and Green Tea version for a test drive. The cream is rich but absorbs quickly leaving skin supple and hydrated. The delightful scent is lovely and in no way overpowering. In fact, once you rub the cream in, the scent is hardly detectable at all. This has been living on my desk at work, and in the few weeks that I have been using it (obsessively) I have noticed that my cuticles are less ragged and my skin isn't as dry as it usually is. It's good stuff folks!

Image: beecology.com 

Buzz Balm Peppermint Lip Balm
$2.99


Coconut Oil, Beeswax, Shea Butter, Aloe Butter, Cupuacu Butter, Olive Oil, Peppermint Oil, Acai Butter, Eucalyptus Oil, Clove Oil, and Tea Tree Oil.


I love reading an ingredient list that I can not only understand, but I know what each ingredient is and why it's there. Enough said. 


*Imagine me throwing a microphone on the floor.*


This balm is fantastic. The Peppermint Oil is cooling, the balm is super moisturizing, and it stays put for a long time. Simple and effective. What else do you need?


I gave one of these balms to my work boo Tia. Here is what she thought:

Stole this from Tia's Facebook page. Whatever. Don't judge, I gave her a lip balm.   And the picture that I chose to use  without her permission is a really pretty one!

"I love that it makes my lips tingle! So balmy and moisturizing!! And, the fact that Beecology let's you choose where your money is donated to is so fabulous!"



It is fabulous indeed. 



So that is two more votes for Beecology's most popular product.




You can find all of these buzz worthy (haha, brilliant!) products at Beecology's website, follow them on Twitter, and like their Facebook page.


Big thanks to Beecology for working with me, and Tia, I love you doll! Thanks for sharing your thoughts!! And the stolen picture! xo




*The products featured in this post were sent to me directly from Beecology in exchange for my review/consideration/promotion. Please know that the opinions and thoughts expressed by me in each and every one of my posts are of my making, and always will be. I promise to my sweet readers to guide them through the wonderful world of beauty with truthful content that helps, rather than hinder their decision making processes.*

Etsy Pick of the Week, Baltimore Edition, Volume 2

Happy Sunday Friends!


Are you ready for my Etsy Pick of the Week? Grab a snack, kick back, and relax.


This week, the second Baltimore edition, I would like to introduce you to Becca and Mars.

Image: etsy.com

The brand's philosophy is "Have fun, relax, feel good. Treat yourself or someone you love". 


I can get down with that!


Becca and Mars started a few years ago among friends with similar interests. The group took their love of natural beauty and combined it with their knowledge and passion for aromatherapy, formed a plan, and started handcrafting gifts for friends and family. Their creations were adored by all who were lucky enough to receive them, and eventually the demand for their beauty products became so large that they decided to develop their own line of bath and body products using 100% natural ingredients. Becca and Mars products are made in small batches to ensure freshness and then packaged in recycled materials. The goal of the brand is to make products to help you look and feel your best. Honestly who doesn't want a little help when it comes to that?

Winter Night Collection
Image: etsy.com 

I was sent three products to try. Two from the Winter Night Bath and Body Collection and one from their Mask and Scrub Collection. 

When I read the fragrance description for Winter Night I knew I would fall in love with it. I love warm spicy fragrances and this one was exactly what I was hoping for. Imagine a chilly night, you are sitting near a fire, sipping warm chai tea....No wait! Even better.... it smells like Christmas. Yes. That is what Winter Night smells like. Cozy and toasty with warming spices of clove and ginger blended with winter citruses orange, lemon and bergmont. It is gorgeous and perfect.

Winter Night Bath Oil $13.00/80z

Winter Night Bath Oil
Image: etsy.com

This fragrant oil is formulated with rice bran oil to soften and nourish the skin. The comforting smell of Winter Night surrounds you and soothes your mind and body. I have been using a few capfuls in my toddlers bath at night and it really works well at leaving her skin hydrated after toweling off. The oil has been great for moisturizing my cuticles, and has come in handy when I treat my husband to a back massage. In fact, this was the only oil I have used for massages that he has not complained about the smell. So bonus points there! I love this oil and am really happy that I found so many ways to use it. The only thing I would change about it is the packaging. I love the amber hued bottle but pouring the oil out can get a little messy. Adding a pump would make dispensing much easier. 

Winter Night Hand Candy Sugar Scrub $9.50/8oz

Winter Night Hand Candy Sugar Scrub
Image: etsy.com

Yes you read that price right! $9.50 for a whopping 8oz jar of this delightful scrub! Becca and Mars Hand Candy Sugar Scrub Collection was inspired by the owner's small children. Small children mean germs and grime. And these germ nervous mamas wash their grimy hands (and their children's) frequently. They found themselves wanting a product that would effectively clean their hands without drying out their skin. Enter Hand Candy Sugar Scrub.

This was hands down the most unique scrub I have ever experienced. The exfoliator is obviously sugar and it is part of what makes this scrub different from other sugar scrubs I have used. I have no idea how Becca and Mars make this magic happen, but the texture of the sugar is like the fluffiest, softest snow you have ever touched. The sugar is super fine and totally non-abrasive. The second thing that makes this scrub stand apart from others is the fact that you cannot see or feel any oil at all. But oil is what makes up half of the scrub. Apricot Oil moisturizes and essential oils add the warm Winter Night fragrance. It's amazing to see. I really think that if I turned my jar upside down the tiny particles of sugar would just pour out. The sugar particles don't stick together or harden up like the sugar does in any other scrub I have used. It's mind blowing!

I have been using the scrub on my hands since receiving it and it really has made a difference in how my hands look and feel. I no longer find myself running to find hand lotion after washing my hands, and scrubbing down before a manicure makes the polish look a thousand times better. You can also use this on your body (which I have been doing as well) and the results are the same. Smooth, glowing, hydrated skin without irritation. Also, you don't look like you coated yourself in Crisco. Crisco glow is never a good look.

Winter Night Essential Oil Aromatherapy Blend $15.00

Winter Night Essential Oil Aromatherapy Blend
Image: etsy.com

I should mention while I am talking about the Winter Night Collection that the last product in the trio is the Winter Night Essential Oil Aromatherapy Blend. While I did not try this product I can tell you that it contains the same essential oils as the other products and therefore  smells exactly like the other Winter Night potions.  I am going to guess that this is the essential oil blend that Becca and Mars uses to infuse the Bath Oil and Hand Candy Sugar Scrub with the wonderful Winter Night fragrance. Ginger and clove essential oils are used for warming and anchoring, and the citrus essential oils are uplifting. You cannot apply this undiluted to your skin, but there are plenty of ways you can use it! Add twenty drops to a teaspoon of milk or oil and pour into a steamy hot bath. Or add ten or so drops to your favorite fragrance diffuser. I think I will purchase the Aromatherapy Blend for this reason alone. I use a diffuser every day to fragrance my home and I cannot think of a better "home" smell than Winter Night.

The last product I am going to talk about before I get to the interview is....

Lavender Love Mask And Scrub $10.00/4oz and $18.00/8oz

Lavender Love Mask and Scrub
Image: etsy.com

The Lavender Love Mask and Scrub is a multi-tasking miracle formulated with cornmeal and almond meal to provide gentle exfoliation, and Becca and Mars' pure essential oil blend to revitalize skin and clear your mind. It smells heavenly. The lavender smell is not at all artificial (I really hate artificial lavender smells!) and it is so calming. The scrub is dry and grainy, and by adding the liquid of your choice, the product can be tailored to meet the needs of your skin type.

Combination/Oily/Sensitive Skin should use milk, yogurt or water.

Mature Skin benefits from using honey or carrot juice.

Dry Skin will turn into hydrated skin by using olive oil, cream or honey.

Using Lavender Love is simple and could easily be used either in the shower or at your bathroom sink. I have been pouring about a tablespoon of the grains into my palm and slowly adding water to it to create a creamy paste. Then, I apply it to my slightly dampened skin and massage the scrub around in soft, circular motions. Now here is where you need to make the choice about if you want to continue on to use the scrub as a mask. If the scrub was enough for you then simply rinse your face with warm water. To use as a mask, after scrubbing, allow the paste to dry completely, then rinse it away with warm water. After using this (as both mask and scrub) my complexion looks renewed and rosy. There is a "lit from within" glow that only exfoliation can bring to your skin, and the lavender scent is so relaxing. This is one phenomenal product! I love the fact that it is a multi-use skincare product that can be adjusted to fit your needs. There aren't many (aren't any?) products on the market that allow you to adjust the formula to your skin type. Personally I teeter between combination and oily skin. Plus my cheeks are always dry, no matter what. So knowing that I can change how this works for me by simply changing what I add to it is really awesome!

To dig deeper into the brand, I asked Erica of Becca and Mars a few questions.

Describe Becca and Mars in six words. 

Fresh scents, therapeutic products, all natural.

What product are you most proud of and why?


I would say the Hand Candies. The response from people has been phenomenal. They tell me how delicious they smell and they love how supremely soft their hands feel after washing with it. Our testers are always delighted to get a new scent to try. We even have a couple of people who say they are quite tasty, though we don’t recommend actually eating the Hand Candy.

What do you love about living in Baltimore?


I've lived in Baltimore for 7 ½ years, which in Baltimore terms is about 3 months, but anyway…I really didn’t know what to expect when I arrived. My favorite thing is that the city is so eclectic. There are so many groups and cultures within this small area. I’ve enjoyed learning about the history and traditions of Baltimore and I’ve really loved the arts community here.


I will leave you with some awesome news! Becca and Mars is currently running a sale on their Winter Night Collection! From March 11th through March 20th, all Winter Night products will be 20% off! This is the perfect time to take my advice, and try out these delicious scented bath and body products! I am for sure purchasing the entire Winter Night Collection when I run out of my current jars and bottles. Now that I have tried it and fallen head over heels in love with how they smell, I am not sure I can live without them.

Join me next week for The Etsy Pick of the Week, Baltimore Edition, Volume 3! I am going to be featuring an Etsy seller who creates beautiful mineral makeup! See you next Sunday!!


Becca and Mars can be purchased at their Etsy store on etsy.com. In addition to being purchased individually, Becca and Mars' Winter Night Collection can be purchased as a set for $33.75. And don't forget about the Winter Night Sale!!!!

Read My Stuff! And Questions....

Happy Thursday Readers!

Image: dialectmagazine.com

So I don't have a whole lot to talk about BUT I am working on so many things right now so there will be a lot to say within the next week. In the meantime, I just wanted to talk about and promote my February articles that were featured on the Dialect Magazine website. I have a lot of promotion time in February so a few may have slipped through the cracks. There was an article about the gorgeous brand HollyBeth Naturals. I reviewed the January Green Grab Bag in another article. I share two of my favorite complexion perfectors and introduce you to a nail polish line for nerds. Lastly, I talk about the launch of Erno Lazslo's limited edition Hollywood Collection.

So basically if you haven't checked in with Dialect Magazine in a while you really should. In addition to my mindblowing articles (whoa I'm vain)  there are a slew of other authors who churn out entertaining and awesome content as well.

ALSO! Did you know you can order super fancy Dialect Magazine T-Shirts??!! I betcha you didn't. Personally, I love the hoodie t-shirt!

I would love to hear from you guys....What kind of articles would you like to see me write about. What interest you? What questions can I answer or what problems can I solve?

Etsy Pick of the Week: Baltimore Edition, Volume 1

Inner Harbor

Baltimore

The Legg Mason Building is where I go to work everyday. Awesome view of the city from the 14th floor!

Oh Baltimore. Sigh.

I love everything about you. You are probably best known for delicious crabcakes, National Bohemian beer, or the scene you set in The Wire. Maybe people think of you when they hear about the Ravens or the Orioles. But I love and know you for other reasons. Discovering new local bands at the Ottobar, having dinner at Peter's Inn, and shopping all of the unique "can't find anywhere else" shops like The Double Dutch Boutique. There are some things about you that I am not thrilled with like the traffic, an excessive amount of one way streets, and your 

unpredictable weather. I can let all of that slide though. The good outweighs the bad.

Another thing that I love about this town is that there are so many super talented, creative people everywhere. Musicians, artists, writers, and film makers. EVERYWHERE. When I started thinking about the Etsy Pick of the Week it was only natural for me to search for Baltimore sellers on Etsy first. Lucky for me, I was able to find four amazing sellers who were happy to participate. I am so grateful to them and know you will love what they have to offer.

Every Etsy Pick of the Week you will be introduced to a new seller on Etsy. You will learn about what they have to offer, and hopefully you discover something new that you need to have. I certainly have just by conducting research!


So let's get this party started!


In this week's edition you are going to meet Elizabeth. She is the brains (and beauty) behind Raw Olive.

Have you ever been disappointed by an all natural beauty product? I know I have. The founder of Raw Olive, Elizabeth, shares this frustration as well. Her frustration began after learning that a lot of products on the market that claim to be all natural actually contain ingredients that could end up being harmful to you. Things like parabens, sodium laurel sulfate, and petrolleum. This realization inspired Elizabeth to experiment in her kitchen using natural ingredients from her pantry. She created bath and beauty potions out of everyday items like cold-pressed olive oil, raw sugar, and raw honey. The results were all natural, effective products that she could feel good about putting on her family's skin.

Over email, I asked Elizabeth a few questions....


How long has Raw Olive been open?

The concept for Raw Olive has been around for several years, but I just began selling seriously on line and in local stores this past year. I am completely passionate about creating natural skin care products that everyone can afford.

I know how beneficial natural products can be for your skin, and you have a great selection. Even though natural skincare has risen in popularity recently, there are still  a lot of consumers who doubt their effectiveness. How would you convince skeptics that natural skincare not only works but is better for your skin?

Most people don't realize that 80% of what they put on their skin ends up inside their body. Basically, if you wouldn't eat it, don't put it on your skin. Sadly, most large skincare manufacturers are using a lot of chemicals because they are extremely cheap. If you don't recognize the name of the ingredient, you should probably avoid the product. We all know that unprocessed food is better for us. The same applies to our personal care products. Simple, pure ingredients are all that your skin needs. I always say, "when in doubt, use plain, extra virgin olive oil on your skin."

Which Raw Olive product could you not live without and why?

I can not live without my Rosehip Carrot Facial Serum. This serum keeps my skin looking youthful, hydrated and I'm convinced it's removed a few years. Rosehip seed oil is so high in vitamin C that it's known to regenerate scar tissue. I'm banking on that!

What is your favorite thing about living in Baltimore?

I love the seasons. Having lived in several other cities, I can appreciate the renewing and regenerating arrival of each season. Well, and maybe the crabs and beer. 

Elizabeth was generous enough to send me some of her yummy body scrubs to sample.

Crabs and Beer Scrub

Crabs and Beer Scrub

I can think of no better product to start off my first Baltimore Etsy Pick of the Week than with this scrub. Crabs and Beer Body Scrub is a sea salt based exfoliator that captures the essence of Baltimore's hot and humid summers. The sea salt is blended with coconut oil, citrus and Old Bay Seasoning. That's right. The seasoning that is slathered all of the crabs you eat. Sounds weird but it is a pleasant and totally perfect scent. It absolutely reminds me of summer. Sundresses, Corona with a lime, crabs, picnic tables and suntan lotion. Amazing. I have only been using this on my hands since usually the skin on my legs can't handle a salt based scrub. It is a perfect balance between scrub and oil. After using, my hands have been soft and moisturized.

Pumpkin Spice Cupcake Scrub

Pumpkin Spice Cupcake Scrub

The Pumpkin Spice Cupcake Sugar Scrub smells heavenly. Like the sweetest pumpkin cupcake topped with gooey cream cheese frosting. Drool....It is a warm and spicy blend of caramel, cinnamon, clove and vanilla. The formula is similar to the Crabs and Beer scrub. The only difference is that the Pumpkin Spice Cupcake uses sugar as the exfoliator. Therefore, I have been using this all over my body all week. It is divine. I apply the scrub as the very last step of my shower, on freshly shaved legs, and there is zero irritation. It leaves behind the smallest amount of oil, and makes my skin so super smooth.

Bourbon Vanilla Scrub

Bourbon Vanilla Scrub

Finally, I tried the Bourbon Vanilla Sugar Scrub which is a blend of creamy vanilla with a hint of toasty bourbon. When I smelled this I wanted to pour it into a glass and drink it! My thoughts on the performance of this scrub are exactly the same as what I told you about the Pumpkin Spice Cupcake scrub. Just amazing!


I loved all three of the scrubs that Elizabeth sent me, and I highly recommend them. If you like a scrub that smells good enough to eat, contains ingredients so natural that you could eat it, (literally) and doesn't leave you feeling irritated or doused with oil then you should most certainly check them out.


In addition to scrubs, Raw Olive carries multiple other bath and beauty products. There are body balms, body oils and lip balms. Raw Olive also offers a gorgeous collection for your skin. Standouts include the Oatmeal/Honey Facial Cleansing Grains and Olive Face Balm. 


So....what are you waiting for? Head on over to the Raw Olive store and discover all that Elizabeth has to offer! 

Birthday Wishes

Image: freakgirl

Oh Hello There!

So my birthday is tomorrow and in honor of that, I thought I would share with you my birthday wishlist. Yeah. I understand that this is very last minute. But you know what? I am so last minute with everyone else's birthdays, it would only be natural for me to be the same way with mine. Should you choose to purchase something from this list to give to me as a gift, (I love you!) I will completely understand if it is late.

Tarte Maracuja Oil $46.00

Image: qvc.com

I need another facial oil like I need a hole in the head, but this is too awesome to not want. It is so new that I can't find it anywhere. Not even on Tarte's website. If you happen to locate it there or at Sephora, please forward the link. Anywho, for some reason, QVC is currently selling it. According to the description, this oil delivers much needed fatty acids and Vitamin C to the skin to keep it hydrated. I live for Vitamin C! But let's stop focusing on the formulation and the claims. Look at the cute little box! I am a sucker for packaging!

Stark Skincare "The Whole Shebang" $118.00 (But it is on sale for $85.00 right now!!)

Image: starkskincare.com

I just discovered Stark Skincare, and the brains behind the brand Jessica was kind enough to send me some products to review. While the post will not be up for a while, I can tell you that I am hooked. Lovely formulas, I am thrilled with the things that the stuff is doing to (and for) my skin, and dammit the packaging is so freaking adorable! I feel like Veruca Salt from Willy Wonka when it comes to this line. I want it all! And I want it NOW DADDY!

Timberland Grandby Tall Zip Boot $129.99

Image: piperlime.com

It is February, and usually by now it is super cold in Baltimore. But for some reason, winter has not been the bitch is usually is this year. While I am glad because I hate winter, I really think that we are all being punked. At some point it will get cold as shit, snow, and I am going to need some boots for walking around downtown. I need a boot to keep my feet warm but still be sleek enough to wear to the office. I hate carrying around shoes, (usually requires a second bag) and only do it when absolutely necessary. So....these boots by Timberland fit the bill I think. Cute, look warm, decent price, and I can see myself wearing them with my work clothes. Also, they come in black AND brown. I will need both colors to make sure I am always ready for snow. What? Some people need shovels and salt. I need boot options.

Coach Madison Leather Fashion Swingpack $158.00

Image: coach.com

I love this bag. Easy to carry. I could fit everything I need to in it. It's beautiful. It's by one of my favorite brands and my oldest daughter's name is Madison. So of course I was drawn to it. I hate the name though. It reminds me of a keyword heavy title for an eBay listing.

A Great Grey At The Office Dress $62.99

Image: modcloth.com

Oh Modcloth. Jeeze I love everything on this website. I am a huge fan of dresses and wear one to work almost every single day. Dress, cardigan, and a scarf. My uniform. All of the dresses on Modcloth make me think that I too can be a sultry sixties office siren. Like Jean Holloway on Madmen. Yup. I look just like her. Minus the great rack, gorgeous curves, and red hair. So really I look like her because we are both incredibly pale. But, if I popped on this dress then you would most definitely not be able to tell us apart! Right?

Tom Ford Stuff

Of course you all know how smitten I am with Tom Ford, and really this list would not be complete without a few Tom Ford wishes.

Tom Ford Private Blend "Noir de Noir" Eau de Parfum $195.00 for 1.7 oz

Image: nordstrom.com

To quote my fantasy boyfriend Tom Ford:

"Private Blend is my own scent laboratory; it's where I have the ability to create very special, original fragrances that are unconstrained by the conventions of mainstream scent-making. Private Blend is designed with the true fragrance connoisseur in mind."

Oh swoon. I will be your fragrance connoisseur anytime baby.

Noir de Noir opens with an earthy mantle of saffron, black rose and black truffle with hints of floralcy. (Floralcy? Is that even a word TF? Just sounds like fancy jibber jabber to me.) Then, vanilla, patchouli, oud wood, and tree moss soften the intensity.

Here is what I think. I bet this smells so sexy. Like what a night of fun with Tom Ford would smell like on my sheets the next morning. Too much? Did I go to far?

Tom Ford "Leila" Sunglasses $395.00

Image: nordstrom.com

How hot would I be in these? To be honest with you, it doesn't really matter how hot I would look in these because they will never be on my face. First, $395.00? I don't even think my husband loves me enough to spend $395.00 on sunglasses for me. And second, I would be way too scared to wear them. I would end up walking around craddling them in my arms like a newborn baby. Every now and then I would open the luxury case up (that I am sure they come with) and show my sweet baby glasses off to my family and friends.

Tom Ford Private Blend Lipstick in Crimson Noir $48.00 

Image: nordstrom.com

Because Tom Ford would want my lips to be painted with this. Plus, this red lipstick will just blur the lines between myself and Jean Holloway even more.

American Eagle Outfitters AEO Octopus Ring $15.50

Image: ae.com

So I ended up buying this as a Happy Birthday to myself yesterday. I love anything with an octopus on it. Just look into those sweet eyes. He hypnotized me. "You need me on your finger. I will make you smile. I will make your life better." Jesus. Pictures of rings on the internet are talking to me. Maybe thirty-one is the year I go bat-shit crazy.

Happy Birthday To Me!!