{BirchBox} Guest Editor Box – Mad Men LA

Posted on April 18, 2015 by NinjaInTheCity

Mad Men – April 2015

“This month, we’re over the moon to be partnering with the award-winning series to celebrate their final episodes with this curated BirchBox. It’s filled with essentials to help you get a modern-retro look and make Joan, Peggy, Megan, or Betty be proud.”

CONFESSION:
I AmandaJean have never watched an episode of Mad Men and my life is just fine.
END CONFESSION

The April Sample choice sneak peek was loaded with hair products and not one, but two Guest Editor curated boxes. BirchBox partnered with Mad Men to bring us a NY box and an LA Box. As soon as I saw that the LA box included a Not Soap Radio product, I knew I needed it in my life. So I waited for that gosh darn sample choice email to come and made my selection, to turn around and wait for it to arrive. Stalking tracking codes has become my new life hobby, its fun yet very very frustrating.

“So what did you get in your Mad Men Box!?”

strong>Mad Men – April 2015

12 Benefits Instant Healthy Hair Treatment: this all in one detangler reverses damage to leave hair sleek and healthy

CLEAN – Original Eau de Parfum: BBQ parties and crowded cocktail bars can’t stand up to this fresh, soapy scent
————————-> Clean, so clean. I am really liking the scent of this. It is not over powering, it is very crisp and fresh.

Cynthia Rowley Beauty Brightening Illuminator: give skin a subtle, back from the coast glow with this shimmery highlighter

LAQA & Co. Sheer Lip Lube Pencil in Honeypot: this sheer bubblegum pink shade signals that you’re ready to cut loose
—————–> This is a great pale pink color for summer. I am going to use this one a lot and I like that it does not have a greasy texture like most pencils do.

Not Soap, Radio Body Wash in Bathing with Sharks (for that competitive edge in work and/or play).™: this foamy cleanser has an energizing scent inspired by the beach
——————-> Infused with: energizing, confidence boosting Royal Jelly extract. Royal Jelly kick up energy level and the will to succeed. It also has anti-aging properties that will keep skin smooth, supple, soft. I am in love with this scent. To be honest I haven’t met a Not Soap, Radio product that I haven’t loved. Go on get yourself some confidence in a bottle. Bonus if you are landlocked like I am, this will turn your shower into the beach. It smells just like a beach day!

I am pretty impressed with the Mad Men inspired box, no I am not going to run out and binge watch the show. I mainly chose the box because it included a Not Soap, Radio product, the rest of my samples were like a bonus to me. I hope all of you loved your boxes too!

Birch Box is a beauty and lifestyle subscription box program that costs $10.00 per month. For every dollar you spend in the shop you can earn 1 point. 100 points will get you a free birch box or $10 towards a purchase in the shop at birchbox.com. I know you’ve got friends so why not refer those friends to Birch box and earn a few points for doing so. If you would like to learn more and get a Birch Box of your very own go to http://www.birchbox.com for more information.

***I was not compensated for this post. Opinions are my own***

{Walmart Beauty} Quarterly Beauty Box – Spring 2015

Posted on April 4, 2015 by NinjaInTheCity

Its April, so that must mean spring is on its way and winter can go fuck off! I get really antsy this time of year, the days are getting longer, the temps are creeping north of 30, and all I want to do is bask in the sunshine. Work, it gets in the way, but hey it pays for my subscription box habit and the dogs kibble, so I can’t complain. Besides we all know I love my job and work like there is no tomorrow. This is why I have a dog, the dog gets me outside in the fore mentioned sunshine and warm temperatures. He’s good like that.

Yes, by purchasing and reviewing this subscription I AmandaJean publicly admit that i shop at Walmart. You know you shop at Walmart to, you just don’t admit it. I like to do it late at night, there are less people and the staff seem more helpful. Not to mention the people watching is excellent, especially after bar close. Yes, sometimes I can’t sleep so I go grocery shopping at 1am.

Anyways! Back to the box, cause we know that’s why you are really here.

WALMART BEAUTY BOX – SPRING 2015

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Boosters Facial Cleanser – white tea & vitamin E: the rich cushioning formula cleanses skin without over drying and gently washes away dull surface skin cells.

Dove go fresh revitalize body wash – mandarin & tiare flower: is a caring freshness to leave you and your skin revitalized. The vibrant and juicy scent of mandarin and tiare flower leaves you and your skin feeling refreshed and hydrated.

Schwarkopf essence Ultimate Omega Repair and Moisture Shampoo: especially developed for damaged, depleted hair and Repairs damaged hair within the cells to prevent split ends up to 90%.

Schwarkopf essence Ultimate Omega Repair and Moisture Conditioner: especially developed for damaged, depleted hair and Repairs damaged hair within the cells to prevent split ends up to 90%.

Rimmel London Lash Accelerator Mascara: advanced, ultra-lengthening formula for beautifully long, remarkably strong lashes. Exclusive natural grow-lash complex with procapil extends and fortifies lashes. With continued use, lashes not only look longer, but also lusher and more numerous.
—————->Beep Beep We’ve got a full-sized product here! beep beep! The value of the mascara according to walmart.com is $8.97, that’s pretty good seeing how I paid $5 for the box. Woot! I love me some full-sized product in a subscription box.

Lady Gaga Fame – Black Fluid PerfumeL: is a fruity floral scent. It features tears of belladonna, crushed heart of tiger orchidea, with a black veil of incense, pulverized apricot, and the combinative essences of saffron and honey drops.

Get your foil packets! Foil Packets for everyone! Come on now get your foil packets here!!

Garnier- Ultra-Lift Miracle Sleeping Cream – includes a $2.00 of coupon
Maybelline – Fit Me! Matte + Poreless foundation in ivory – includes a $2.00 off coupon
Nivea -In-Shower body lotion – includes $1.00 off coupon

Good job Walmart, thou you did send my mama a better box with a lip gloss in it. I took the lip gloss from hers, she’s 60 and doesn’t do gloss. I will let it slide seeing how you included high value coupons and a full sized product in my box this quarter. This box was actually pretty good, I was exposed to new products from brands I know and said hello to new brands I have yet to try. I can’t wait to see what the summer box has in it.

Do you want a $5.00 quarterly Walmart Beauty Box of your very own. Oh! Come on now, get over yourself and hop on over to https://beautybox.walmart.com. Your box is waiting for you and trust me you will not regret that you signed up! The box ships every three months and the next box will be winter.

***I was not compensated for this post. Reviews are my own.*****

{Ipsy} Floral Fantasy

Posted on April 4, 2015 by NinjaInTheCity

This is what flower power looks like

Wake up your imagination with a crazy beautiful explosion of flowers. Vivid shades and inviting textures collide this March. Let the blooms begin.

Its March, so that must mean spring is on its way and winter can go fuck off! I get really antsy this time of year, the days are getting longer, the temps are creeping north of 30, and all I want to do is bask in the sunshine. Work, it gets in the way, but hey it pays for my subscription box habit and the dogs kibble, so I can’t complain.

Ipsy’s sneak peeks did not disappoint this month and the theme fit March perfectly. Bonus, the bag is so pretty, I am in love with its floral pattern and it is perfect for spring. The colors are bright and the products are so fun, they will liven up anyone’s skin care routine. If you are like me you are switching from your hardcore winter care routine, to your light airy spring skincare ritual. I love discovering new products and incorporating them into my look and skincare regime.

“So what did you get in that pretty bag of yours?”

FLORAL FANTASY – MARCH 2015

NYX Cosmetics Butter Lipstick – in Hunk: Pamper your lips with a hydrating kiss of smooth Butter Lipstick in 22 luxurious shades. The delicate texture of satin fused with the high color saturation creates an even finish on lips that’s long-wearing and beautiful.
———————-> I got this in the shade called Hunk, Hunk is a very bright purple, not subtitle for me. So I passed it on to my coworkers daughters. They will surely put it to good use.

pūr~lisse beauty- pūr~delicate gentle soymilk cleanser & makeup remover: The 4-in-1 sulfate free & non-drying formula gently washes away dirt and makeup (even mascara!), while soothing and toning skin.

Boo-Boo Cover-Up: Medium Shade: Have a Boo-Boo? Skip the bandage and the shiny ointment. Look your best even while you heal with Boo-Boo Cover-Up for face and body. Our innovative formula offers great coverage for skin imperfections while containing ingredients known in nature to promote healing.

Dr. Brandt Skincare – pores no more anti-aging mattifying lotion: This oil-free, lightweight lotion is formulated with apple stem cells to help delay the natural signs of aging by maintaining the longevity and activity of stem cells in the skin. Simultaneously, retinol stimulates new cell turnover and improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

VINTAGE by Jessica Liebeskind Illuminating Face Highlighter: Add a beautiful wash of color and subtle, sexy shimmer with the ILLUMINATING FACE HIGHLIGHTER. Created to be worn on top of fresh, dewy skin or as a delicate highlight over pretty blush – the reflective pearls add radiance on contact delivering a diamond-like finish to the skin.

My bag was so so, I have tried the NYX and Pur-lisse brand in other subscription boxes, its nothing worth writing home about. I do love the vintage highlighter, I have been using it as an eye shadow. Its the perfect color for daytime and adds a hint of sparkle to my eyes. I have yet to try the boo boo paste, once my concealer runs out I will give this one a shot. The bag is defiantly a hit, it is so pretty and just screams SPRING!!!

Do you want an Ipsy Glam Bag of your very own? Well then, for $10 a month (shipping is free) you will receive a Glam Bag filled with deluxe samples and full-sized beauty products. Members can watch and play along with the stylists with the same products that they are using. If you want a bag of your very own or more information please visit http://www.ipsy.com/r/1w1i Trust me you will be glad you did!

***I was no compensated for my post. Opinions are my own***

{BirchBox} Creativity

Posted on March 30, 2015 by NinjaInTheCity

Expressing yourself hasn’t been this fun since finger painting

Creativity makes the world go round. If we did not have creative types we would still be trying to start fires with sticks and makeup would still be mud on our faces. I love showing off my creative side and nothing brings it out like a can of spray paint. Ahh spray paint can breath new life into an alley find and turn it into a treasured heirloom.

“So what did you get in your creativity box?” Oh I am so glad you asked, let’s find out!

Creativity – March 2015

BeeKind -Shampoo: Made with moisturizing honey extract, this cleanser leaves hair soft and shiny.

It’s a 10 – Miracle leave in product: This 10-in-one treatment addresses the spectrum of hair damage, from brittleness to frizz.

Jelly Pong Pong – Glow Getter Highlighter: weightless gel formula gives skin a subtle, pearlescent shimmer.

Michael Todd – Tropical Fruit Enzyme Exfoliant Scrub: This gentle, papaya and pineapple infused scrub reveals fresh, glowing skin.

Mirenesse – iCurl Secret Weapon 24hr Mascara: with its unique sculpting brush, this long-lasting formula gives lashes a dramatic lift.

Bonus! Get your Bonus Sample! Bonus! – Scilian body lotion, to sooth and refresh skin.

This was a really great box! I loved the fun cute designs of the actual box this month! Birchbox is truly stepping up their game and providing great products in a fun box that matches the theme.

***I was not compensated for this post. Opinions are my own***

{Ipsy} #IpsyLove

Posted on February 23, 2015 by NinjaInTheCity

#IpsyLove

“Love is just a word………….. Until you find someone or something to give it meaning. This February we’re celebrating warm hugs, butterflies in your stomach, a new favorite blush, your best friend’s tweets – LOVE in all its wondrous forms and ways to express it.”

#IpsyLove

CARGO Cosmetics mini lip gloss in Anguilla: Its super high shine gloss delivers intense color payoff and locks in moisture to keep lips feeling hydrated. This longwearing lip gloss has a slick texture that feels creamy gliding over lips without being sticky.

Eva NYC Up All Night Volumizing Spray: Get the ultimate blowout with this multi-tasking spray! The light-weight formula adds volume and texture to hair, while protecting against heat for healthier styling.

Mitchell and Peach Fine Radiance Face Oil: is a highly effective face oil packed with powerful natural anti-oxidants and vitamins that are instantly absorbed to leave skin feeling plumper, firmer and glowing with radiance.

ModelCo BLUSH Cheek Powder: creates a beaming, rosy glow to brighten every complexion. The micronized color pigments and luxurious, pressed powder delivers a sheer, natural radiance that lasts all day.

NYX Cosmetics Slim Eye Pencil: Slim, trim but never prim. The creamy, long-wearing eye liner formula goes on easily and resists bleeding.

Most of the products were a miss for me this month. I am not an eyeliner girl and I keep on getting them from Ipsy. Its no big deal, I just hand them off to friends or donate them to a local charity. Fingers crossed Ipsy will step up their game and make March an awesome month!

***I was no compensated for my post. Opinions are my own***

{BirchBox} Rent The Runway

Posted on February 23, 2015 by NinjaInTheCity

“It’s All In The Details”

In late January BirchBox sent out a little sneak peek video of the February sample choice options. The actual products did not tickle my fancy, but the curated box did and I knew I had to get my hands on it. For February’s curated box BirchBox partnered with Rent The Runway. The box included two of my favorite brands, Not Soap Radio and The Balm. So yes in essence the box was designed for me or thousands of ladies just like me.

“At Rent The Runway we’re all about the pieces that set you apart from the crowd. After all, it’s the details-the dress that flatters you everywhere, the necklace that shimmers just enough- that gives any experience a boost.”

Rent The Runway Teamed up with BirchBox to bring you this collection of beauty essentials so you can amp up your look every day.

BirchBox: Rent The Runway February 2015

derma e – Anti-wrinkle Vitamin A Glycolic Scrub: This all-natural cleanser sloughs off dull skin, fades dark spots, and cleans pores.

Fekkal – Blowout Hair Refresher Dry Shampoo: This transparent spray absorbs oil, perks up strands, and leaves hair smelling amazing.

Not Soap, Radio – The stuff that Cupid dipped his arrow in: with this cleanser’s lush sent of blackberry and vanilla scent, you will fall in love at first sniff.

Sumita – Color Contrast Eyeliner: This soft wax pencil delivers rich, long-lasting color that won’t irritate eyes.

the Balm – Read My Lips: Fortified with antioxidant-rich ginseng, this gloss brings rich color and loads of shine.

Rent The Runway put together a really great box and I love that all of the products are affordable. All of the above listed products are less than $25 each which is perfect for a stylish girl on a budget. I hope you loved your February box as much as I did.

***I was not compensated for this post. Opinions are my own***

{Julep} Cupid’s Mystery Clutch

Posted on February 23, 2015 by NinjaInTheCity

Julep was my very first subscription box that I received and it got me hooked. Last spring there was a huge shipping fiasco with Julep and I stopped ordering their Maven Box. I am still a Maven, its just that I skip the months I am not interested in. The last mystery box that I ordered from Julep was a huge flop. I have since learned to wait for people to start posting about the mystery boxes before I place an order. So on the bus ride home I researched everyone’s reviews and by night fall my little fingers hit complete order. I needed the clutch in my life and I could not wait for it to arrive.

Cupid’s Mystery Box got a sassy upgrade this year. Rock your date night with $100+ of beauty goods and nail color including the snowy heart glitter top coat Yuki (Classic with a Twist), and pink chevron glitter top coat va-va-Valentina (Bombshell). Julep was selling the box for $24.99 which is a heck of a deal! To make that deal even sweeter I used the code CONGRATS and got a free bonus wedding duo. The duo was valued at $25.00 and it came in this cute little pink box. I am not getting married anytime soon, but the colors were to pretty to pass up, plus it was free.

Cupid’s Mystery Clutch 2015

The Polish:

Yuki: snowy heart glitter top coat

Valentina: pink chevron glitter top coat

Joanne: Smoky plum crème

Rochelle: Boysenberry shimmer

Margit: Mushroom with rose shimmer

The Beauty:

Julep Lip Gloss in Splendid: Sheer heirloom rose shimmer, with Power Cell Complex

Julep Gel Eye Glider in Smoky Plum: The waterproof formula glides on, sets in 30 seconds, and then stays put.

Bonus Wedding Duo:

Fifi: Tea time pink crème

Sienna: Sophisticated, shimmery gold

I am so glad that I took the plunge and purchased the mystery clutch. All of the colors go together nicely and the beauty products were fantastic. I hope that this box means that Julep is stepping up the quality of their mystery boxes. If it is a sign, I will definitely be purchasing more in the future.

{Ipsy} Fresh Start – January 2015

Posted on February 3, 2015 by NinjaInTheCity

Fresh Start

OMG I cannot believe that I almost forgot to blog about my January glambag. That is like breaking tradition, as I have blogged about every bag that I received. Thank goodness I remembered, cause I sure as heck do not want to find out what happens when one breaks tradition.

It’s time to get fresh. That sounds like fighting words! Lets get fresh and down ladies. Anyways I love the theme for the first bag of 2015. It truly is a fresh start for all of us and especially our beauty routines. Tons of companies come out with new product lines in January, they know that we are all craving something fresh and new. New is always fun and hey if its fresh that works too. Especially if it is a new fresh start.

This months bag is double sided, one side is white, it reminds me of a blank slate, and the other side is a pretty blue, which reminds me of the ocean. An ocean of possibilities. I was finally able to use my ipsy points, 500 total to be exact, and was able to snag a NYX Butter Lip Gloss in Lady fingers. It shipped with my January bag and it was a nice little extra. So yes, people really do reclaim their ipsy points for beauty loot.

” Hey Lady?! What did you get in your Fresh Start Glambag?!”

Fresh Start with the bonus NYX Butter Gloss

Bellá Pierre Shimmer Powder in Celebration: Using 100% pure Mineral powder, these beautiful shimmer powders will provide long lasting, vibrant color without any additional filler that can often smear, crease, fade and even cause allergic reaction.

Elizabeth Mott All Over Shadow Brush: Don’t miss a spot with this ridiculously soft shadow brush. This brush with its 100% synthetic bristles is the perfect multitasker. Use it to highlight your brow bone and place the right amount of color for perfect and even application!

La Fresh Eco-Beauty Be Good. Good Day. Day Moisturizer: This highly natural day moisturizer provides ample hydration and helps bring back a fresher & happier looking skin appearance.

Pacifica Natural Mineral Coconut Eye Shadow in Ethereal: An incredibly innovative formula that pushes natural makeup and mineral color to new bounds. Rich, lasting, creaseless eye shadows are infused with coconut water for a velvety, cream-like finish.

Probelle Into The Blue Nail Lacquer: Top quality, high gloss, long lasting nail lacquer in Into the Blue, a cool blue cream shade. DBP, Toluene, and Formaldehyde Free.

January was a pretty great bag. I was able to try or give a home to all of the items this month. I loved the ipsy included a skin care item and a tool this month. I cannot wait to see what all of my 2015 glambags will hold.

***I was no compensated for my post. Opinions are my own***

{BirchBox} Let’s Do This!

Posted on January 22, 2015 by NinjaInTheCity

“We’re speeding full force into 2015 with a vow to make the most of every minute—starting now! And we can’t think of a better way to begin than with some must-have beauty picks to help you look and feel your best.”

Let’s do this! 2015 is here and the possibilities are endless. A blank book lays before us and its up to you to put the words onto the page. This is your year! Your year to create amazing memories, to laugh, to thrive, and to achieve big big things! So get out there, find yourself, and remember never look back!

A new year means stepping out of my comfort zone and giving new products a whirl. I was super stoked when BirchBox revealed that Tocca would be a sample choice option. I have always wanted to try out this brand and I was never lucky enough to get the sample in my box. So I snapped it up the moment I got my sample choice email from BirchBox.

“Hey! What did you get in your BirchBox this month?!”

Let’s Do This!

Balance Me – Wonder Eye Cream: anti-aging multitasker that conquers wrinkles and dark circles at the first signs of aging.
—————————> Girl, I’ve got a confession! I was like so born with dark circles! So that means I am always in the market for a good eye cream and thanks to subscription boxes I get to try out a ton. I love how Balance Me soaks right in and it does not leave my under eye area an oily mess.

It’s A 10 Hair – Miracle Leave in Product plus Keratin: this 10 in one treatment address the spectrum of hair damage, from brittleness to frizz.
————————> I am normally not a fan of leave in products. However this one has changed my tune. Its light weight non-stinky formula leaves my hair soft with little to no frizz.

Manna Kadar Lip Locked in All of You: All in one primer, stain, and gloss that’s loaded with vitamins and berry extracts.
———————-> This is actually a repeat for me. Remember how I made a stink last month because my sample choice was missing from my box. Well who would have thunk that BirchBox would be sending it to me again in January. This is a different shade than the Lucky, it is more of a peachy nude and I think its perfect. I love the staying power and light weight formula.

MyChelle Dermaceuticals: this hydrating argan and boabab oil blended combats signs of aging and smooths skin and hair.

TOCCA Crema da Mano – Cleopatra: loaded with natural botanicals, this grapefruit and cucumber lotion absorbs in a flash.
————————-> This is like the holy grail of BirchBox samples and I finally got my hands on it. Literally I got my hands on it. I love love the scent it starts out grapefruit and then cucumber settles into the party on your hands. It is light weight, non-greasy, and baby it really does absorb in a flash!

BirchBox is off to a good start and I cannot wait to see what the other 11 boxes will hold. To me BirchBox is like an adventure and you never know what that little box will hold. It could be bliss or a fucking blunder. No one likes a blunder, so may all of your BirchBoxes be a blissful adventure in 2015.

***I was not compensated for this post. Opinions are my own***

{Walmart Beauty} Quarterly Beauty Box – Winter 2014

Posted on December 22, 2014 by NinjaInTheCity

Wal-Mart Beauty Winter 2014

The Walmart beauty box is exposing consumers to easily accessible and affordable brands. The Winter Box is the second quarterly box from Walmart and it promised to be packed with products to get us through the coldest season of the year. There was a glitch with the Walmart Beauty Box site and at one time it looked like I had ordered 7 boxes. Thankfully my card was only charged for one $5.00 box and I only received one box. It was actually delivered today, one has to love Sunday mail delivery during the holidays.

Walmart Quarterly Beauty Box – Winter 2014

Olay Fresh Effects Everything Off Deluxe Makeup Removal Wet Cloths: Remove make-up without all the fuss. These pre-moistened cloths wipe away dirt, Oil, and even the most stubborn make-up—like Waterproof mascara!

Jergens BB Body Perfecting Skin Cream: delivers flawless-looking skin with 5 visible benefits in just 5 days. This revolutionary body lotion goes on sheer, dries quickly, and works like a moisturizer to visibly improve your skin with every use.
—————-> I was introduced to this skin cream in the Target Spring 2014 Box and I used it on my legs throughout the summer months. This is definitely going to be your friend if you are a fan of dresses and skirts. Not to mention the scent of this product is amazing.

Maybelline Color Sensational Lipcolor in Maple Kiss: It features crisper color from pure pigments and a creamier feel from nourishing honey nectar. Lipcolor so rich, so stunning that it’s Sensational.

L’Oreal Paris OleoTherapy Oil Infused Shampoo: replenishing system* for dull, dry or damaged hair. Formulated with a 6 flower oil blend, our system* provides intense nutrition and shine. Hair is restored to smooth and silky.

L’Oreal Paris OleoTherapy Oil Infused Conditioner: our first replenishing system* for dull, dry or damaged hair. Formulated with a 6 flower oil blend, our system* provides intense nutrition and shine. Hair is restored to smooth and silky.

FOIL PACKETS! GET YOUR FOIL PACKETS HERE! FOIL PACKETS!!:
Nivea Cocoa Butter Lotion
Maybelline New York – Dream Wonder Powder

Walmart’s box variations are sent out according to your age. I am 32 so I receive boxes that are geared towards ladies in their 30’s. So if you are older or younger than me, you may not receive the same box that I got. All of the boxes are filled with decent sized samples and foil packets. For $5.00 plus free shipping the Walmart Quarterly Beauty Box is truly a great deal.

***I was not compensated for this post. Reviews are my own.*****

Have Bear Will Travel

She had to break, so I could shine

Category Archives: You’ve Got Mail

{BirchBox} Guest Editor Box – Mad Men LA

{Walmart Beauty} Quarterly Beauty Box – Spring 2015

{Ipsy} Floral Fantasy

{BirchBox} Creativity

{Ipsy} #IpsyLove

{BirchBox} Rent The Runway

{Julep} Cupid’s Mystery Clutch

{Ipsy} Fresh Start – January 2015

{BirchBox} Let’s Do This!

{Walmart Beauty} Quarterly Beauty Box – Winter 2014