NYC Salon Opening: The Ammon Carver Studio

 

 

In the market for a glorious new salon?  You are now.  Expect to be pampered in the lap of luxury when you visit the brand new Ammon Carver Studio a L'ANZA Healing Hair Flagship Salon in downtown Manhattan, and it's an experience you deserve to have. 

 

 

The space itself is gorgeous.  It has a very mod, black and white color scheme and presents a beautifully tranquil atmosphere.  It's a refreshing change from your typical salon, and even has a unique offering that's all its own. 

 

 

The Ammon Carver Studio marries together fashion and beauty, creating a place where stylists, photographers and designers can come together and work with ease and convenience.  One side of the studio acts a fabulous salon, while the other serves as a studio space for photo shoots.  Such a common need in the industry, yet strangely, not a common find.  

If the ambiance alone doesn't leave you feeling totally zen, the service certainly will. I received star studded treatment during as I sipped away on flutes of champagne and relaxed on a plush sofa while I waited to be serviced.  But the best part- you ready for this?- was the full scale scalp and neck massage during my hair wash.  Does life get much better then that? 

 

My stylist was amazing.  He was super friendly and I honestly don't think anyone has blown out my hair faster then he did.  I had the chance to try out the new L'ANZA Keratin Healing Hair Oil Treatment, which not only smelled like Heaven in a bottle, but made my hair soo soft after it was blown out.  Creating what he called "Glamour Waves", I walked out feeling completely obligated to hit the town and show them off!        

 

 

Located at:

 

111 West 17th Street
2nd Floor
New York City, NY 10011

 

Book your appointment: 

646-838-9313

 

 

Are you interested in trying Ammon Carver Studio?

Spotlight on: Cassy Saba Jewelry

 

I was so excited to sit and chat with the beautiful Cassy Saba, creator of the popular Cassy Saba Jewelry.  Originally from Arizona, Cassy has been creating customized jewelry since the age of 13 and recently moved to New York City to continue growing her brand.  Her talent and creativity is so vast that whether you're drawn to glamorous statement pieces or an elegant string of pearls, the line carries something for everyone.  Each piece is hand made by Cassy herself, and her recent expansion into fine jewelry and engagement rings is a sign she's not slowing down.  

 

 

My chat with Cassy:

 

PPA: When/how did you realize you had a talent for designing jewelry & wanted to make it your career?

 

 CS: I started designing jewelry at the young age of 12. I found a love for

 jewelry after receiving the best gift for my 12th birthday, a bead kit. I began

 to create bracelets and necklaces out of plastic and glass beads, which

 grew into a hobby. I made my mom wear the pieces to work, and she

 would get compliments and also come home with a list of orders.

 

PPA: What was it like starting a business at 13?

 

CS: A couple years later, I took my hobby to the next level and created a

 business designing one-of-a-kind jewelry out of semi-precious stones and

 crystals. It was overwhelming at first and very hard to juggle my business

 and school. Over time, my time balancing skills got better. I started to

 make more connections that helped along the way, too.

 

PPA: What was the first piece you ever created?

 

CS: The first piece I ever designed when I started to work with real stones was

 a Garnet necklace (deep red, January birthstone) for my mom that had

 pearls in it as well.

 

PPA: Was this your first time showing at Fashion Week? Was the experience

 how you imagined?

 

CS: It was my second year showing in NYFW. It was such an awesome

 experience and I will do it every year from now on. I pair up with an

 extremely talented gown designer, Jennyvi Dizon. I always have such a

 blast creating based around her inspiration for the year. It always makes it

 really great when you are working with someone that you connect so well

 with.

 

PPA: If you could put one of your pieces on anyone, who would it be?

 

CS: I think I would pick Oprah because she has such influence in our society.

 I think she has class and also recognizes quality products and promotes

 businesses.

 

PPA: Who is your all time favorite designer/ why?

 

CS: Roberto Cavali, I wish he could design my whole closet!! I love his prints

 and the dresses fit like a glove.

 

PPA: What has been the most memorable moment in your career thus far?

 

CS: When I was in Women’s Wear Daily at the age of 17 was really exciting for

 me. I will never forget what I felt when I ran to the mail the day it arrived.

 

PPA: What is the one thing you want everyone to know about your brand?

 

CS: My jewelry can take your outfit from ordinary to extraordinary, and you will

 get never ending compliments on your pieces!

 

PPA: What has been the biggest lesson you have learned as an entrepreneur?

 

CS: I think the biggest lesson I’ve learned is that networking is really huge. I

 am a part of many organizations in the city. It’s all about getting to know

 the right people to be supporters of your business, and being willing to help

 others succeed as well.

 

PPA: What is next for Cassy Saba Jewelry?

 

CS: The last two years I have expanded with a wholesale diamond line where

 I custom design engagement rings and other pieces for clients. It is really

 exciting for me to help clients one on one with the perfect piece of jewelry

 at a great price incomparable to jewelry stores. That is my main focus

 right now for expansion.

 

PPA: Knowing everything you know now, what advice

 would you give to your 13 year old self starting out?

 

CS: I would advise young people to not let their age be a deterrent. I think so many

 adults are supportive towards positive youth chasing their dreams. It’s refreshing

 to them instead of the negativity that is always portrayed in media.

 

 

 

Retail: $45.00

 

I fell instantly in love with this Black Cross necklace by Cassy, made of a black cross stone, black crystals and a toggle clasp.  Its mixture of simplicity and touch of glam made it different and unique.  The design is modest but the crystals give it a dressy, stylish feel that makes it fun to wear with just about anything.  I received compliments on it the very first day I wore it!  

 

 

This is great for wearing with a flirty skirt and low cut tee to show it off, or with a sexy pair of jeans and dressy top.  The style is super versatile and perfect for a night out with friends, a date or even for adding some flare to your look at for the office.  The necklace is short and sits nicely below the base of your neck, and the crystals draw just enough attention to create subtle drama and elegance.   

 

 

Casual & Dressy Chic by plushpinkallure featuring a black singlet

Office Chic by plushpinkallure featuring a black skirt



The holidays are coming and this is an ideal opportunity to create a personalized gift for the jewelry lover on your list!     


Make sure you catch all the updates on Cassy Saba Jewlery  on: 
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter




 

Beauty Box 5 Reveal: October Box

 

Hello darlings, it's time for this month's Beauty Box 5 reveal!!!  Are you excited?!

 

This month's theme was "Effortless Allure" and featured the quite essentials for creating a super stylish look, minus the hassle.

 

 

Let's dive in!

 

 

 

Retail: $2.99

 

Fellow Chapstick hoarders out there know how exciting this baby is.  Chapstick Hydration Lock isn't your standard balm.  It's dual ended- one for moisturizing, one for revitalizing- and is even good for just adding a bit of shine to your lips.  I was excited to see it in this month's box because I'd been wanting to try it but am always so stocked with chap sticks that I never really had an excuse to buy it.  

 

Retail: $5.49

 

Extend Your Beauty Cosmetic Tool is designed to help you scoop out that last precious bit of product you can't quite reach.  I have to admit it's a useful tool that can definitely stop the tears over your face cream's premature death.  Just six inched long and dishwasher safe, it's not a bad investment if you want to buy some extra time with your favorite products. 

 

 

 Retail: $19.99

 

I learned of bella pierre through BB5 and am so grateful.  I look forward to the new BP products BB5 selects for the box, and this month's pick: Cheek and Lip Stain in Pink has kept the love goin.  This is nice because it's dual purpose and a total space saver.  Sometimes I'm sold on these types of products simply because I've run out of space to store them. I'm also partial to this shade because it adds just enough color to be noticeable, but still subtle enough to look natural.   

 

 

 

 

Retail: $3.95 .5fl oz.

 

I always enjoy LASHEM products.. but at first I wasn't so excited about the Picture Perfect Instant Wrinkle Reducer.  Being as I'm not exactly worried about wrinkles yet, I was thinking I may pass this one on to my mom.   But I was pleased to see that it doubles as a face primer, which I can always use more of.  It'll definitely make it into my morning makeup regimen.  

 

 

 

 

Retail: $3.95

 

I LOVE this colour in Surfer's Dream from Nanacoco!!!  I wasn't expecting a neon polish in a fall box, but it was a fun surprise.  This will add a fun, pop a color to any look, especially on those dull, dreary days when your spirits need a pick me up!   

 

 

 

Overall, I though this month's box was pretty darn decent.  Dual purpose products and sassy colours are always appreciated! 

 

 

Are you interested in subscribing to BB5?

 

It's Just for You: Customized Skincare by Skin Inc.

 

 

A customized facial?!  Yes, please!

 

I was psyched to learn about the It's Just For You event happening at select Sephora locations here in NYC and just had to share it with you beauties!  This is the perfect opportunity to hear from the experts exactly what products can help benefit your skin, and prep it just in time for winter.

 

Skin Inc., the luxury bespoke skincare brand made in Japan and the first of its kind to use customization and ingredient encapsulation to meet a variety of skincare needs, will be hosting an exclusive facial event at Sephora stores in NYC. These two signature events will be taking place on Friday, October 24th at Sephora, 130 W 34th street between 7th Avenue and Broadway and Saturday, October 25th at Sephora, 5 Times Square (200 W 42st), between 12pm-6pm. Attendees will be able to indulge in a fully customized mini facial with a Skin Inc brand expert and discover their ideal product matches - including Skin Inc’s groundbreaking My Daily Dose serum - formulated precisely for your skin.

Are you going to check out the event?  If you do, come back and share your experience!

Holiday Gift Ideas for the Drink Lover on Your List

Sometimes when I get so stressed out, all I want to do is kick back with a nice drink and chillax.  And recently, this got me considering for some clever new gift ideas.    

 

 Corkcicle  is the hot spot for your all drinking gadgets.  Creations like the Chillsner and the Corkcicle.AIR  are perfect for the wine connoisseur or beer lover on your list this year.  


The Chillsner

Retail price: $29.95 for two   


Corkcicle description:

 The Chillsner is the first and only, in-bottle beer chiller that keeps cold beer cold from the first sip to the last, whether drinking from the bottle or as you pour into your glass.  Just freeze, insert into any bottled beer, and drink right through the Chillsner.  Made from stainless steel, Chillsner uses the same proprietary thermal gel as the famed Corkcicle. It is a must-have gadget for any beer drinker.  Perfect for parties, tailgating, or pretty much any occasion where beloved beers are enjoyed. 


Any beer drinker knows there's nothing worse them a warm beer.  How many times have you set your beer down "for a minute", only to get distracted and come back to a luke warm bottle of grossness?  Or how about on those smoldering hot summer days when the thing just won't stay cold?  I can't imagine any beer drinker not loving this.  It's easy to use, easy to clean, and totally affordable!




Corckicle. AIR

 Retail price: $24.95 


Corkcicle description: 
 

The Corkcicle.AIR keeps your wine at the proper temperature, aerates your wine, and acts as a pourer, all in one device.  All of these features help enhance the flavor profile of your wine.  CHILL - Keeps already chilled whites at the perfect temp and cools down room temp reds to cellar temp.  AERATE - Instantly enhance the flavor profile of your wine by simply pouring to the glass.  Both red and white display the same types of flavor improvement from aerating.  POUR - Simply remove the cap and pour right from the bottle to the glass with ease.  Enjoy perfect wine every time with Corkcicle.AIR. 

 

 The Corkcicle AIR offers up a similar concept as the Chillsner, but for wines.  It's the new and improved version of its predecessor, the Corkcicle  (which comes in a bunch of bright colors by the way).  Personally, I could see myself using this!  Even though I don't usually worry about the bottle losing its flavor, I do appreciate a nice chilled glass of white.  This is a great gift for wine lovers or anyone who likes to entertain. The holiday season is packed with parties and this is totally useful to have on hand.  Considering its benefits, its very reasonably priced and definitely won't break the bank.

 

 Retail:$14.99- $35.00 for packs of four

Once the drinks are poured, why not dress them up?? 

The motive behind a drink charm is basically to identify whose glass is whose, but at the end of the day, they're plain fun!  They add some personality to the atmosphere and help celebrate the moment.  Il Bere has a huge selection of vintage styles, holiday and birthday themes, sassy bachelorette designs, and even pink, Winning the Fight inspired charms.  They make cute stocking stuffers and there are so many to chose from that you're sure to find a design that fits almost anyone on your list.

 

 

 

 

Have you started your holiday shopping this year?  Are you interested in any of the above gift ideas?

 

KISS and Broadway Nails: Limited Edition Halloween and Holiday Collections

 

Considering I'm one of the biggest procrastinators in NYC, it's no surprise that my Halloween costume is still very much a part of my imagination, rather then on a hanger and ready to go... but if one thing is for sure, my nails are going to look sick this year. 

 

KISS has launched a super adorable Limited Edition Halloween Collection for this season.  I've reviewed the imPRESS Nails in the past and have been pretty loud about the fact that I'm a huge fan.  If you follow the directions explicitly, you can get some serious wear time out of these babies.  My longest running has been 12 days (yes 12).   But in case fake nails don't quite tickle your fancy, KISS has you covered.  The collection also includes an array of really cute, festive nail tattoos :)

 

 

 

 

Sweet Pea

Halloween impress Press-on Manicure by Broadway Nails

Retail: $ 5.00

 

 

 

Temptress

Halloween KISS Nail Dress

Retail: $2.99

 

 

Lady Bug

Halloween Kiss Nail Tattoo

Retail: $2.99

 

KISS even took it a step further and launched the Halloween KISS Lash Dress Collection.  If there is one thing you don't want to neglect, it's the chance to really amp up your eyes with some killer lashes.  The masquerade packing is really fun, and each set caters to a different style costume.  Choose from Kitty, Witch , Devil, Angel, Princess and Fairy.  Each set includes a small tube of glue for application.

 

 

Kitty

Halloween Kiss Lash Dress

Retail:$3.99

 

 

 

On a typical day, you probably won't find me wearing even an ounce of glitter in any form... but the holidays are the one time I feel like I need to sparkle... and I want everything around me to sparkle!  Which is probably why I nearly hyperventilated when I saw KISS's Limited Edition Holiday Collection. 

 

 

Why I'm obsessed:

 (benefits):  

 

- Unique, multidimensional nail art

- Perfect application of glitter and ombe on every nail

- Vibrant, gel shine with pre applied, pre cured top gel, no LED lamp required

- Easy, no glitter hassle peel off removal

- and.... they're sexy as hell!!

 

 

Painted Veil

Limited Edition Holiday impress Press-On Manicure by Broadway Nails & KISS Gel Fantasy Nails

Retail: $7.99

 

 Rock Candy

Limited Edition Holiday impress Press-On Manicure by Broadway Nails & KISS Gel Fantasy Nails

Retail: $7.99

  

 

 

 

Fanciful

Limited Edition Holiday impress Press-On Manicure by Broadway Nails & KISS Gel Fantasy Nails

Retail: $7.99

 

The gel Fantasy sets are slightly different though because they give you application options.  Each set comes with a small tub of glue and set of adhesive tabs.  The back of each nail is bare, and you get to chose which method you like better.  At first I planned on using the tabs, but I'm starting to think the glue might be the easier way to go.  Obviously these will require more time and effort to apply, but not worry, there are still some glitzy press on- variations with the "gel shine" option to chose from:

 

 

One Shine Day

 

Glitz & Glamour

 In the Spotlight

 

I am SO excited to start rocking these sparklers.  Follow me on instagram to get all the hot close ups and finished looks!! 

 

 

Available at:

Harmon, Bartell Drugs, Marcs

 

 

Did you fall in love with any of these styles? Are you going to glam it up this season with some KISS?

 

New Launch: Time Master Sublimating Program Exclusively at The Spa Valmont for Hotel Plaza Athénée

Earlier this month I was invited to the Hotel Plaza Athénée  here in New York City to celebrate the launch of The Spa Valmont's brand new, tailor-made signature spa treatment: the Time Master Sublimating Program.   Guests enjoyed champagne and cocktails while dining on some of the most delicious hors d'oeuvres I've tasted.

Valmont description of the Time Master Sublimating Program:

Exclusively designed and available at SPA Valmont for Plaza Athéné, this signature treatment erses fatigue, stress and aging signs of the face and shapes your body in a minimum time.  The one and only facial combining most active anti-aging products (botox-like Prime AWF, skin illuminator Prime Renewing Pack) to the unique 26% active ingredients of Time Master Intensive Program for immediate and long- term rejuvenation.   

The treatment comes with two options: a 60 minute or  90 minute session. The 90 minute treatment includes a body wrap of your choice.   

As guests were leaving, we were kindly gifted a beautiful Elixir Beauty Case with Valmont's luxury Elixir de Glaciers products.  And I'd be lying if I said I wasn't dying to try these out.  

The line is carried exclusively at The Spa Valmont for Plaza Athénée and all its products are created in Switzerland.  The brand is known for using the latest in Swiss technology and incorporating Glacial Spring water into all of their products.     

 After learning about what sounds like one of the most relaxing and rejuvenating spa treatments to date, I'd totally recommend this as a luxurious gift idea for the holidays.  Why not treat mom and book her an appointment for some much needed ME time?  Or how about your bestie whose stress level has risen so high it's actually starting to stress you out?  I expect appointments will book up fast, so hurry and get yours in!

Holiday Gift Guide: KODAK DIY Decrotive Photo Candle

 

This holiday season I promised to put a little more creativity into my gift ideas and the Kodak Alaris Decorative Photo Candle was such a fun (and easy) place to start!     

Not only was this project totally budget friendly, but it only took a whopping 25 minutes to put together. 

 

 

 

Supplies:

 

- Favorite picture of family/friend/pet etc.

- Metal words

- Ribbon or raffia

- Small metal picture frame

 

 

How to make it:

 

- Make mini prints at Kodak Picture Kiosk or Kodak Moments Mobile Apps

- Put pictures in frame

- Insert ribbon into frame. Tie ribbon around candle

- Tip: burn candle until there is a small well; then put a tea light in the well to preserve your photo candle

 

 

 

 

Now.. I will admit that since I loved the idea so much, I went a little slap happy with the materials and did a slightly more elaborate variation.  None the less, it was still insanely easy and super fast to put together.   

 

What I used:

 

- Glass Vase

- Colored, glass marbles

- Ribbon

- Small picture frame

- Silver paint

- Decoupage

- Small picture print from KODAK Picture Kiosk

- Thin rubber band

- Candle

- Tea Lights

 

 

 

There were these beautiful vases on sale and I had the idea to place the candle inside it to make it just a bit more decorative.    

 

 

I chose a plain white, short candle whose circumference fit the vase nicely.  Since it was shorter then the vase, I took advantage of the pink and clear glass marbles I found, and used them to add some extra color and sparkle.       

 Next, I cut a piece of ribbon matching the circumference of the vase, and then applied it using decoupage.  Placing the ribbon over the demarcation line between the candle and marbles just helped it to appear smoother and more visually appealing.

 

While that was drying, I painted my little picture frame silver so that it would match the ribbon.  After about ten minutes, both were dry and ready to go.  I also decided to heed Kodak's advice to burn the candle just enough to fit in a tea light.  (This helps preserve the life of your photo candle).  Lastly, I slipped my pooch's picture into the frame, hooked the frame onto the rubber band using its back stand like a hook, slipped it over the vase and- ta- da!!  

 

 

It came out pretty well if I do say so myself.  Of all the DIY projects I've attempted lately, this was definitely one of my favorites.  It was so simple to manipulate and design with my preferences. The best part is that it's cheap enough to re- make again and again!  It ran me about $25.00, and I added a lot of bells and whistles.  It's a great keepsake idea for anyone on your list this season.

 

 

What DIY or personalized gifts are you planning to give this year?  Are you going to create your own the Photo Candle?

A Red Hot Read: Whip Smart Lola Montez Conquers the Spaniards

Whip Smart: Lola Montez Conquers the Spaniards is the first installment in a red hot, sexy series by Kit Brennan.  It follows the journey of historical figure, Lola Montez, through 19th century Europe, and tells the story of how this quick witted vixen completely flipped the script.    

This may sound strange, (and maybe stranger that I'm admitting it) but even though I have studied in Spain, and studied dance in college, I had never heard of Lola Montez.  The sexy Irish dancer who changed Europe?  Obviously this was something I had to check out. 

Aspiring actress Eliza Rosanna Gilbert is just coming out of a failed marriage and is eager to do whatever she can to avoid her upcoming nasty divorce trial, sure to ruin her name.  When she accepts an offer for a paid trip to Spain, the rest becomes history.  Eliza transforms herself into Lola, the talented and sensual Spanish dancer who is tasked with acting as a spy for the exiled queen of Spain, and trying to stay alive while doing it.  

For me, the book had a lot of turn ons: murder plots, exotic and passionate dance scenes, elaborate wardrobes, forbidden love affairs with some steamy moments, but most of all- it was Lola's sharp tongue that drew me in.  I often found myself laughing at her many blunt remarks or nodding along to her honest outlook and take on life.  

Lola's personality was an inspiring, breath of fresh air that resonated off the page.  After the countless hardships that life threw at her, she still came off as down to earth and relatable, with a clear view of the world, rather then cold or jaded.  And who doesn't appreciate the combo of beauty and brains?  I loved that she was resourceful and brave enough to go against the grain to get what she needed.   After watching her seduce just about everyone in her path, it was clear this girl was determined to be the one still standing.  By the book's end, I was already anticipating the second installment Whip Smart: Lola Montez and the Poisoned Nom de Plume and am eager to find out where she ends up next.

  

** Launching this month is the third installment in the series: Whip Smart: Lola Montez Starts a Revolution .   

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kit Brennan is a nationally produced, award-winning playwright, and teaches writing and storytelling at Concordia University in Montreal, Quebec.

The Victorian era and its personalities have always been of major interest to Brennan. Her play Tiger’s Heart explores the life of Dr. James Barry, who was actually a woman living a double life disguised as a man in order to practice medicine, which was not an option open to women at the time.

Kit divides her time between the vibrant city of Montreal and the quiet lake wilderness of Ontario alongside her husband, Andrew, and a variety of animal friends.  Whip Smart: Lola Montez Conquers the Spaniards is her debut novel.

Buy Whip Smart at Barnes and Noble or Amazon

wet n wild: "Steal the Look" Debut

 

I've been wearing wet n wild makeup for as long as I can remember.  In fact, it was one of the very first brands to grace the inside of my make up bag.  That being said, you just can imagine how excited I was to attend an exclusive viewing party for the debut of the wet n' wild "Steal the Look" campaign commercial! 

 

"Steal the Look" is a clever new app, available for download on iPhone and Android phones, that lets you recreate whichever look you've been lusting after.  To use it is easy:

1.) Snap a picture with your camera, or upload one that already exists on your phone
2.) Chose the eye and lip color you are looking to recreate
3.) Select the skin tone closest to yours
4.) See the list of recommended wet n' wild products
5.) (opt) Use the shop option to locate the closest drugstore or go online to snag the items needed

The viewing was held in the private screening room at the Bryant Park Hotel in New York City during the season premiere of NBC's The Voice, where guests enjoyed make overs, yummy cocktails and some delicious hors d'oeuvres while waiting for the commercial debut. 

 

Being the JLover I am, I couldn't resist asking the makeup artist to help me steal a look from the booty shakin queen herself, JLo:

 

 

 

 

Some of my favorite products used that evening were: 

 

Megaimpact Mascara

Megaslicks Balm Stain Moisturizing Lip Colour

Comfort Zone Eye shadow Palette

MegaKiner Liquid Eyeliner

Spiked Glitter (for face and body)

Megaslicks Lip Gloss

 

And you can shop them all here 

 

 

    The anticipated "Steal the Look" commercial was shot in Los Angeles, CA and directed by the highly sought after famous fashion director David LaChapelle.  It's full of bright, eye catching colors and shows a range of looks that the wet n wild products can help you steal to wear as your own.      

 

Without further ado, check out the first ever wet n' wild "Steal the Look" commercial here!