Benefit Cosmetics sure makes the cutest gift sets for the holiday season! I mean normally they're packaging is already beautiful, but their holiday stuff is always the perfect time to try various items at an amazing price point! The Benefit Brow Superstars! set is no exception, you get 6 full-sized items specifically tailored to help you deliver the best brows you can possibly attain at home for $79 canadian (right now it is on sale for $66 on sephora! woo!)

I am in shade 4, and to be honest I have a use for each and every item provided in the kit! I don't do my brows the same everyday, I mean okay I use the brow gel everyday and the 24-hour brow setter, but sometimes I do alternate between the Goof Proof Brow Pencil, Ka-Brow and Precise, My Brow depending on how strong of a brow I'd like. What I am really trying to say that this kit is truly customizable to what type of brow routine you would like. 

You can even house the products in the stand it comes in and it'll look beautiful on your vanity!

The lovely team at Benefit Cosmetics Canada has offered two of my readers a chance to win their very own Brow Superstars! set!! The two shades available are shades 2 and 4 - the winner will get the chance to pick between the two shades. 

To ENTER:

1. Please do not follow just to unfollow on Instagram, it's unkind and dishonest! I will be checking if you have followed both accounts (mine @mirandachan and @benefitcanada) when the winner is selected. 

2. Giveaway is open to Canadian Residents Only! 

3. Winners have 48 hours to respond to my notification e-mail, failure to do so will result in me selecting a new winner (this is to just keep the ball rolling and not hold-up the process)

4. Prize pack is not mailed out by me, but I will be facilitating with the process with the winner.

Good Luck everyone!

Until next time, XO - M.

*prize pack is provided by Benefit Cosmetics Canada

If you are looking at holiday gifting ideas for the makeup lover in your life may I suggest these beauties from Real Techniques and EcoTools? This is perfect for any type of make-up lover - from beginner who is looking for some high quality makeup application items and essentials, to the well-versed make-up user who already has a kit built out but just wants some new brushes, because who can pass up some new brushes?! 

I have been a user of Real Technique brushes for years - I want to say I've been using it for 8 years? I was such a huge fan I even met the PIXIWOO sisters (creators) at IMATS in Toronto and Nicole and I chatted about Suits, the TV show. They are super down to earth and are make-up artists with a YouTube Channel that started their own make-up brush/tools brand. 

This set, the Everyday Essentials Makeup Brush Set has everything you will need to get your basics done:

1. The RT400 Blush brush can be used for loose powders (powder foundation/setting powders/blush/bronzer)

2. RT 402 Setting can be used for contour, highlight 

3. RT 300 - can be used for shadow application and concealer blending 

4. RT 200 Expert Face is used for liquid product as the bristels are quite dense, so I like to use it for liquid foundation or cream blush/bronzer. 

5. Miracle Complexion Sponge is a great beauty sponge to help ensure all your makeup is blended.

Next is the EcoTools Total Perfecting Blender - it is an amazing blender with this really straight edge as you can see which is GREAT for forming lines on the nose for your contour or to create a contour line on the cheekbones. I LOVE this sponge and as you can see I'm again, already a user of this product as well. I didn't want to open the one I because I want to save it for use later on, I still have this one that is in good condition. 

These gifts are perfect for gifting this holiday season, or just even for a gift to yourself! 

I am a huge fan of both brands and you will honestly not regret buying these.

Until next time, XO - M

*products were sent to me for consideration, all opinions are my own.

The Body Shop is currently having their Holiday Sale which features up to 50% off on select items, so if there was anything you were eyeing, I would suggest checking to see if they are currently on sale right now. I have always wanted to try the Banana series, I have heard such great things about it, and their shampoo, conditioner + mask are all 50% off too but it seems like their shampoo is sold out online! BOO :( 

While my blog focuses on beauty related items, I do know that there are alot of my readers who want to gift items to those in their lives that may not be avid makeup/skincare users. Therefore, this gift guide is dedicated to you!

I am personally a big fan of home fragrances, I used to use candles all the time (before I had my baby), however since then I have transitioned into using diffusers and room sprays. Below I will be introducing you to my favorite brands and products, so if you're interested in learning what they are, then keep on reading below!

The Holiday Season is here and one of the things I get asked most is what should I get for so and so, at this or that price point. What I started doing, were gift guides - and instead of bulking everything together into one guide, I thought it would be best to do separate ones for different categories so that .I can break things down into different price points as well. If you're interested in seeing what recommendations I would make for lip products, then keep on reading below!

In my journey of being a mother so far, one of the things that made me quite nervous was taking the milestone of feeding my baby solids. I didn't know what the best way of preparing it was, I dreaded how long it would take for me to chop everything up, cook it (steam or boil), then having to take it out, drain it and then puree it with a blender. I didn't necessarily want to make a huge batch and then freeze it if I didn't have to - I personally preferred being able to just cook and make smaller batches each time. 

As I was doing my research on some food making alternatives while browsing baby stores, I saw this fancy baby food making machine by Baby Brezza. The one that I was drawn to was the Glass One Step Baby Food Maker, I really liked the fact that it was a class container that was used during the cooking process, and for those of you who are interested in this but would like a cheaper alternative, they do have other options as well. 

This specific one, makes up to 4 cups of food and automatically steams and blends your food if you choose to do so. They have a "steam" option, which is just steaming the food. "steam + blend" which does the blending automatically after the food is done steaming, and a "blend" option, to further blend your food to your desired consistency. 

I usually keep Ethan's food separately on this cooking board as I like to buy organic fruits and vegetables for him.

Today, I am preparing to make him pureed Apples and Sweet potatoes, so I cut the items up to the sizes mentioned in the booklet that comes with the machine.

I then select the "steam + blend", and since it is for apples, I press it three times (the button is set at 5 minute intervals) and then I press start to begin the cooking process.

One important thing to note is that you should always ensure that the water tank, seen below, is filled with water so that you do not have to worry about refilling it halfway through steaming the product. This machine is pretty good with how much water it uses to steam, as you can see below I was already making a separate batch of food and the water level barely moved at all.

Below you will find pictures of the cooking process, from start to finish

The blending portion is set at 30 seconds, so it really does a good job at breaking down the food to the right consistency at the first go, without having to further blend it some more. 

What I truly appreciate about this product is that it has made cooking and preparing food for Ethan to be such a breeze. I can do this a few times a week, the time it takes to cook the food is so minimal and effortless. Even the clean-up is easy! Remove the blade, rinse with soap and water and dry. It honestly does not get much simpler than that. I can just prepare the food, let it do its thing in the machine and not have to watch it at all. I do not have to worry about burning anything, or having to wash different pots, pans and blenders. This is just a convenient, and simplified process.

Do I recommend this product? 100% .. Seriously! If it wasn't for this machine, I honestly would be going crazy with the amount of work and cooking I have to do, because I also cook dinner for my husband and I every night. I recommended this product to every mommy-to-be I know, and also to all my mommy friends. Add this to your registry, or just splurge and buy it! It is such an affordable product that will make your life so much easier. 

Baby Brezza has also included different types of recipes on their website and facebook page that you can frequently visit to add some variety and ideas on what to introduce to your baby. As Ethan has just started his solid foods journey, I have yet to really combine many different things together, but for example the recipe below looks so convenient and can be done in 20 minutes!

Mother's Day is fast approaching and I am so excited this year because it will be my first year celebrating it as a mom! I gave birth to my baby in the end of January and it has been the most rewarding experience yet. For those of you looking for some gift ideas for your mom, check out this beautiful pink set from Belif.

It features their ever best selling Aqua Bomb (full-size) and the First Aid Transforming Peel Off Mask with a mini Bergamot Toner. These three products will be perfect for your mom to create a spa-at-home experience. It would actually be really fun for you to do it together with your mom!

Head on over to your closest Belif location and grab one :) I know that they will love it for sure. The gentle and cooling formula of the Aqua Bomb is perfect for the summer months now, it's not too heavy nor sticky and will provide you with the perfect level of hydration. 

Until next time, XO - M.

*product was sent to me for review - all opinions are my own.

 

LEFT: Clinical Eye Lift Pro Dual Eye System  | RIGHT: Clinical Overnight Hydration Mask  

Until next time, XO - M.

*products were sent to me for consideration, all opinions are my own.

With the arrival of Valentines Day coming soon, I decided to put together a quick gift guide for those of you who want some ideas on what to get your loved ones - whether it be your friend, family member or significant other. I have included gifts from different groups like skincare, perfume, etc and at different price ranges :) The last one I created was in 2015 and last year I created a Valentines Day get ready with me.This year, with the expected arrival of my baby boy (due date Feb 12th approx), I doubt I'll be out on Valentines, so I prepared this gift guide in advance, hope you enjoy it!

Here's an overview of the products that will be mentioned below - and I grouped it around one theme, pink toned items that makes you feel pampered!

For the one who would never invest in make-up brushes for themselves, or could use a splurge worthy brush, consider the Marc Jacobs Bronzer Brush * valued at $94 or the Wet n Wild Pro Large Powder Brush * ($7.99). Yes the price difference is significant, but the Marc Jacobs brush really would be splurge gift for someone. You could purchase the Wet n Wild Pro Brush Bundle for $69.90. 

As you can tell, I do own both and nothing can ever replace how luxe you feel holding and using the Marc Jacobs bronzer brush. It has weight to it, it diffuses bronzer and powder evenly on the skin and is super soft but dense at the same time. 

For those who are more on a budget, the Wet n Wild Pro Brush Line is really great quality as well and super affordable. They are soft, they work well and look beautiful on any make-up lover's vanity. 

Perfumes - Left to Right: 

1. My Burberry Blush ($98, $130 depending on size) *

2. Gucci Bloom ($39, $90, $114 and $154 depending on size) * and 

3. Jo Malone - Peony and Blush Suede ($90, $175 depending on size)

Fragrances I admit are a bit harder to purchase for people since everyone is unique in their selection, their notes etc - I actually use the Fragrance IQ on Sephora to help me discover new scents, so I think that if you know your person well, one of the recommendations listed would help. I naturally gravitate to subtle floral and citrus notes, so that is what the ones I like above are. The ones above lean more towards the floral notes as its more romantic for Valentine's. 

Lip products ~ my friend in the states had gifted me with the Lanolips in Strawberry as I can't get my hands on this in Canada. I loveeeee Lanolips, works well to hydrate the lips and isn't sticky or greasy! For those who do not love make-up, a balm would be a great alternative paired with some stationary or wallet, or what not! 

Lastly, we have some of my favorite skincare items: 

1. Clarisonic - Mia Fit in Pink - $269 *

2. Lancome - Tonique Confort - $39

3. Dior - Hydra Life Mask - Extra Plump - Smooth Balm Mask - $69 *

4. Eve Lom - Cleanser - $65, $99 or $166 depending on size *

I do admit that most of the skincare items are splurge worthy luxe priced items, however if you know me by now, you will know that I value skincare alot. You only get to maintain your skin once, and no matter how much you spend on make-up, it does not hide your skin. Therefore, I always make sure to take care of it :) 

The Clarisonic is a great skin cleansing tool where you charge it, and can buy new brush head replacements when required. It deeply cleanses your pores and blackheads, and lifts dirt up and out from pores that you normally can't when you just wash with your hands alone. 

The Lancome Toner is infused with honey and sweet almond extract and helps to keep your skin hydrated, moisturized and calm. I love skincare with honey in it and when I saw this, I knew I had to get it!

Eve Lom creates one of my favorite cleansers that smells like all natural goodness, a spa in a bottle. I had to hold off using this during my pregnancy but I find myself opening the lid to just smell it! It is a balm cleanser, that helps to exfoliate, cleanse and give you a more radiant complexion. Your skin feels so clean afterwards and leaves no residue and does not strip it. 

Lastly, we have a face mask to wrap things up, the Dior Hydra Life Mask helps to hydrate, plump and smoothen/fir, the skin with repeated use. Apply this 2-3x a week and leave a thin layer on for 3 minutes and wash off. This product goes a long way and helps replenish any lost moisture from the cold winter months. 

I hope this gift guide was able to provide you with some help this Valentine's! 

Until next time, XO - M. 

*some products were sent to me for review/consideration, all opinions are my own.

I truly love the Holiday Season as thats when all the beautiful limited edition packaging comes out for cosmetics. This year, Tarte went with an almost Moroccan inspired theme to their packages with the gold and bright colorful patterns and hues. I found this article online which features a round-up of their Holiday Collection if you're interested in seeing what there was. Some of the products were either Sephora or Ulta exclusives or limited to Tarte. 

I was fortunate enough to be sent the two larger palettes for review - the Magic Star Collector's Set and the Treasure Box Collector's set. While the Magic Star is exclusive to Ulta (and that is not available in Canada),  I decided to focus my looks in this review post and tutorial to the Treasure Box Collector's Set that is still available on Sephora.ca! I was gifted the blush palette by a friend this Holiday Season and I am so in love with the buildable texture and color pay off and longevity of the product. 

Magic Star Collector's Set - $49 usd (exclusive to Ulta)

This set contains 25 eye shadows and two lip paints, mascara, liner, and four blushes.

Limited-Edition Blush Bliss Palette - $51 cad on sale for $26 cad

This palette contains 4 Amazonian 12-hour blushes (in the same formula everyone currently loves) in a beautiful golden Moroccan inspired packaging. The blushes blend out like a dream and can either be used in a natural sheer way, or is buildable to a pop of color on the cheeks. The four colors in the set include 1. Genuine (pink apricot) 2. Breathaking (soft rose pink) 3. Graceful (shimmering pink coral) 4. Loveable (pink melon).

Limited-Edition Treasure Box Collector's Set - $77 cad 

This set is my favorite out of three listed above - this contains everything that you will need to create a make-up look. Which is exactly what I did with the three looks below. This set contains 24 eyeshadows (from neutral to bold), warm and cool toned blushes, two bronzers and a highlighter. You also get travel sizes of the Lights, Camera, Lashes 4-in-1 mascara, Full-Size Sex Kitten Eyeliner and the Quick Dry Matte Lip Paint in Grand (mauvey rose)

Again, as mentioned above the below 3 looks are created using the Treasure Box Collector's Set. I created three different looks to hopefully be able to cater to one of your likings. A dark blue smokey eye, a neutral eye look and lastly a silvery forest green gradient, perfect for the holidays.

Dark Blue Smokey Eye

I applied Adventure all over the lid and lower lash line, patted Tales and Joyride in the center of the lid and Wayfairer on the Outer-V

Neutral - Eye Look 

I applied Artisan all over the lid, Cloud 9 on the crease to buff out harsh line, Legend in the center leading to Scenic on the Outer-V and bottom lash line. 

Silver Forest Green Gradient 

I applied Whirl on the crease and Awe with a more defined crease brush. Then I applied Odyssey on the inner half, Souvenier in the middle, Adventure on the Outer-V and Tempt on the lower lash line.

On the rest of the face, I applied the lighter matte bronzer (left in the palette) to the perimeters of my face, the warm blush color (left in the palette) to the apples of my cheeks and the highlighter to the brow bone and cheekbones, tip of nose.

Which look is your favorite?

Until next time, XO - M. 

P.S. Don't forget that Tarte is currently doing their end-of-year sale! Some items are marked down almost 70% off !! Take advantage of it while it lasts :) 

Hard Candy is a drugstore brand that I was using in highschool - the most iconic product from their line that I remember is their nailpolishes with the ring attached to it. When I had the chance to review some of their Holiday Products, I had to take them up on the offer and see what goodies there are for you all this Holiday Season. 

In full disclosure, I do have to remind you that these are drugstore products that are relatively budget friendly and inexpensive. I think that this is a great introductory brand for those starting out in make-up - so early teens etc. They offer a wide variety of gift sets that are customizable to the recipient, and even if you do decide to buy all the products you still will not make a giant dent in your wallet. 

For example, their lip balm in a ball, baked bronzer and blushes, eyeshadow palettes, setting sprays are $1.47 each. Their eyeshadow in a tin (in the above picture, 8 shadows total), highlight and contour stick set are $3. Concealer Palettes (6 shades total in a tin), Blush and Bronzer Kit, and in the above picture - the circular 3 palettes in one set shadows and face powders are all $4.97

As for the polish sets below, the one on the left is $4.97 and the polish train set is $19.97 which contains 10 nail colors. 

In the photo below, the circular 3 palettes in one set shadows and face powders are $4.97, the metal eyes shadow palette/tins are $3 each and the horizontal shadow palette is $1.47. As you can see, the prices are all very reasonable! 

To show you how these products look, I used the Party Ready Holiday Set valued at $9.97 and the Best of Kit $19.97 to create this look. My entire face of makeup is from Hard Candy - the concealer is pigmented, covers my dark circles effectively. The shadows are buildable and are well at the price point listed. Finally, the liquid lipstick is a whipped formula that smells kinda like vanilla cupcakes. It is non drying and does not settle in fine lines. The setting spray is strong, not a fine mist but it does set your makeup - it has a slight cucumber scent to it. When I tested a secondary bottle, it did leak a bit - so I will empty that bottle into my first bottle that worked fine.

If I had to suggest one must purchase product, it would be the baked highlighter, blush and bronzers. My friend had recommended them to me a few years back, and I have purchased a few of them already. They last so long as well that you will barely make a dent in them even if you use them frequently. The product is very similar to the ambient powders from a luxury brand, but honestly at a much lower price point. 

Until next time, XO - M.

*products were sent to me for review, all opinions are my own