Friday, February 21, 2014

Flat Iron - "Iron Off"

Meet Jen!

She is a beautiful, ___ year old, environmental science teacher!  She just recently decided that she wanted to start wearing makeup (see the next blog post for her "before and after" -- I gave her a makeup lesson).  She also decided that it was about time to purchase a flat iron.

In January, during a shopping trip to the Christmas Tree Shop, she found a flat iron for $15.00.  Our friend Liza swears by her CHI flat iron and we all know those can cost upwards of $100.  Jen was concerned that her $15 flat iron would not be as good, and Liza was curious to see if the results would be better or worse than the CHI.  So it was decided... a flat iron- iron-off!!


Here we go... the CHI flat iron and the compare to CHI No Name Iron... (I forgot to get pic of actual iron, but did the paperwork, although it looks exactly like CHI).


Jen's hair was freshly washed and air dried.  We split her hair down the middle and then sprayed each side with heat protectant and went on our way.  Liza used her CHI while I used Jen's No Name.  


We forgot to specify how were were going to do each side, I did mine with a little bend and Liza did hers stick straight.  But all in all, we decided that you could not tell the difference.  


                                               Don't mind the horrible lighting in background!

What do you think??

Why did we do this?  Well, we wanted to show people that you do not necessarily have to spend big money on hair appliances to get a good hair style.  I will say though, that this is Liza's second CHI.  Her first one lasted her over 9 years!  She definitely got bang for her buck!  We do not yet know how long Jen's No Name will last for so we cannot compare the two variables but that is something to keep in mind too!  Let's just say it only lasted a year though... if you spent $15 ever year for 9 years on a flat iron that is $135 right there... is it worth buying the CHI? Up to you.

Now I am not saying ALL less expensive/no name products are just as good as "high end" ones, because I know from personal experience... I bought a more expensive blow dryer then the last two I currently have, and it makes a world of difference; so much better!  However, Liza owns a little purple conair and I have used it to give her a blow out before and MAN is it powerful!  It is also a matter of what works for you. You may have some super coarse hair and need a more expensive hair tool.

So, in conclusion... take a shot, try it out!  Save the box because if you don't like it MOST places will let you return it (make sure to ask), and it is always good to save money where you can.

What kind of flat iron do you currently own, and how do you like it??

XOXO- B

Friday, February 14, 2014

Valentines Day Makeup Tutorial

Happy Valentines Day!! Here is a fun makeup look for you to try to wear out with your sweetie or maybe your girl friends!! Enjoy! <3

1. Foundation
2. Concealer
3. Apply purple shadow all over your lids (just the lids).  Here I am using TIGI colors.
**also use the same color shadow with a thin liner brush and apply to lower lash line to give a slight smokey look**
4. Apply black shadow in the out corners of your eyes 
(follow this shape < and >).  Drag the black into your crease a bit but do not bring all the way to the inner corner of your eyes.
5. Add copper shadow to inner corner of eyes.
6. Blend, blend, blend
7. Choose an ivory/white and brush under your brow bone to highlight
7a. I forgot to post photo of shaping brows, but SHAPE YOUR BROWS, fill them it, makes the world of difference!!
8. Line your eyes with liquid liner (I'm using Kat Von D liquid liner).
9. Curl your lashes (My favorite lash curler is by E.L.F. and is only $1 at Target)
10. Apply mascara (Physicians Formula) and then false lashes (Shany Lashes)
11. Contour/highlight/blush and lip gloss
12. Do your hair, put on a cute outfit, sprits your favorite perfume and enjoy your night out!! 

XOXO- B





Tuesday, February 11, 2014

**Balsamic Glazed Cauliflower “Wings”

Good morning!  I wanted to share this recipe that I attempted yesterday.  While it came out nothing like wings, it was still super tasty and I will definitely be making it again!! 

Preheat oven to 450 degrees.


For the sauce:

1/4 c balsamic vinegar
2 tbs soy sauce (I used liquid aminos)
1/4 c honey (can also use agave or maple syrup)
1 garlic clove, crushed (I used two because I love garlic)
1 tsp finely minced fresh rosemary (or dried-- does the job)
1/4 tsp salt
a few grinds of black pepper

Whisk all ingredients together and set aside.



Now onto the cauliflower!


You need one large head of cauliflower cut into florets (just be cautious of the sizing... too big and they will take longer to cook, too small and they will cook too quickly and get mushy).


Then you will take 1/2 cup of milk of choice (I used almond milk) and 1/2 cup flour (I used arrowroot flour) and whisk the two together in a large bowl.


Coat the cauliflower generously with the mixture.
Place on greased baking sheet evenly, in one layer.  
Cook 15-20 minutes.  


                                                                                                        (Dont mind the ugly pizza stone underneath)


When done cooking, remove from oven and coat cauliflower with sauce mixture (I tossed them together in the bowl, but you can pour it over, or whatever your preference is).  Place back in the oven for 5 more minutes and they are done!




 Enjoy! 


                            XOXO- B


**This recipe was found on the blog Cupcakes to Kale Chips.