August 20, 2006

EX*TRACTS - The New York Beauty Show

August 20, 2006/

A trade only show, EX*TRACTS NY was held last week within the New York International Gift Fair.

This is one of my favorite shows. A few years ago, Ojon, the beautiful haircare company touted all over Sephora and QVC was discovered there. As was Airstockings, and even Tony & Tina way back when.

It is so beautifully done, showcasing some of the latest and innovative beauty and beauty related products. Some of the exhibitors included those you may be familar with such as Lucky Chick, TheBalm, and Garden Botanika. But what I really like about this show, is looking at the new company's and brands that are exhibiting.

This years show hosted a bevy of products I know we will soon see at Sephora or Nordstrom.

My number one pick of the show has to be Principessa Beauty. Tagged as beauty products for the urban princess, I want to know why Sephora has not picked this up? The pink and black packaging is adorable, and the product offering includes lip balm, soap, salt scrub, body cream, and more. And I just love the adorable Italian names that go with the products.

Another exhibitor that I think we will hear a lot of in the future is called Shady Day. They offer great sunscreen wipes in baby-wipe type packaging. So simple to store in your handbag, and so simple to wipe on your kids. I picked up a sample and I used it on my little ones this week at the beach - and they worked great. And I only wiped them down before we got to the beach and right after lunch.

Keep a look out for Maria B. Cosmetics and Glamo-Glitz (like MAC pigments, but these are mineral based)from Scarlett Cosmetics too. I think we will be hearing from them soon.

August 18, 2006

Back to School Beauty - Light Up Your Senses and RELAX!

August 18, 2006/

Does going back to school - or falling backing into a work routine - get you down?

First - stop. Take a deep breath. Let the stress out by taking a moment of silence. RELAX.

In these last minute days of rushing around before back to school, I have found myself needing more than just a few moments of peace. And I have found the most wonderful candles that I have been lighting up all around me to aid in my much needed relaxing. They are from a new company called Lumiere Candle Co..

Lumiere candles are created with the highest quality materials infused with natural fragrances. Their specialty soft wax and enhanced concentration provides a superior candle that fills the room with a delicate scent. All of Lumiere candles are free of unnecessary dyes and additives - making for a cleaner home and environment.