So Long, Farewell!!!!

It is a sad but true moment I have to face. With regret I have learned I must say goodbye to Bare Escentuals Renew and Reveal facial cleanser. They announced on their website that come 2011 it will no longer be = sadness. Bittersweet is the moment I saw that is was 30% off. The combination of the sale and the goodbye is very tempting to turn me into a hoarder to buy every single bottle left in stock.

So here goes it for the final time on this product, a brief description of why you too should buy stock in this phenomenal wonder in a bottle!!

When I was first shown the product it was pretty amazing. It does come in powder form first off. I was shown that when you mix it with water into a foamy like lather then apply it to your hand you will see very easily that after you wipe it off that the skin on that looks hand INSTANTLY looks better then the other hand. While the NON TEST hand had skin that was dull and lifeless the TEST HAND had skin that looked renewed, refreshed and altogether brighter!! It sits in my bathroom as we speak and I love it!!

I will say if you are of a dryer skin type maybe substitute it as an exfoliator and cleanser in one twice a week although it does say it is for all skin types. But give it a shot first as everyone's skin is different. It exfoliates in such an amazing way it keeps me coming back for more and more and more and....o.k. I think you get the point I am trying to convey.

It is a powder like consistency that you mix with water. It is water activate. The great thing is you have control over how much you add. This is wonderful because you can use it as a deeper exfoliant by adding less water and keeping it more of a granule type substance. Used as a cleanser alone it gently exfoliates and reveals younger looking fresher and smoother skin!

Here is the skinny on the ingredients!! It has something called Rare Active Soil Complex. It reawakens cells to boost cell turnover. The healthy antioxidants and soothing botanicals reveal healthier skin! According to Sephora, "It contains every beneficial mineral, macro and micro!" It also defends against environmental damage!

No parabens, NO soaps, NO detergents, NO sulfates, NO synthetic fragrances, NO synthetic dyes, NO petro, NO chemicals, NO phthalates., NO harsh abrasives or other skin irritating chemicals. NONE~NUNCA~NADA~ZIPPO~ZILCH~ZERO~


Always keep in mind skin absorbs moisture BEST when it is still wet. I personally love a misting toner or refreshing spray after the shower then I apply my moisturizer so it absorbs better!! If using a primer that will always go on after the moisturizer!! Add some makeup the Finite!!!

Stella & Dot

Stella & Dot

www.stelladot.com/stylistandrea

I would love to introduce you to a fabulous Jewelry line called Stella & Dot that I ADORE and have become an Independent Stylist with!

I will start by saying I was never a Jewelry kind of gal! Give me a blush brush and some makeup and I would call it a day! When I was first introduced to Stella & Dot, a boutique style jewelry line at affordable prices, I loved me some!!! When I wear this stuff it almost never fails, people stop me and compliment the pieces. Then loved me some more....my husband started to get mildly nervous I am sure, he is o.k. now though, now that he has seen how much all the women love it and since partnering with it he can now sit back and relax and know every piece I buy is an investment! Men like that word INVESTMENT :) So do I considering Stella & dot is a great one to make!

The company prides themselves on "Being a company inspired by and created for strong woman. Named after our beloved grandmothers, Stella & Dot honors that generation of women who crossed oceans, rolled up their sleeves, won the vote, raised kids, went off to work, and did it all with style and grace. Today, this is how they'd do it." ....and women are eating it up!!!

Styles that women love from everyday pieces to glam runway handmade pieces which happen to be my favorite delight!! This line is highly recognized by a large celebrity following who flaunt their couture style. It also gets plenty of media attention being on shows such as Dancing With the Stars, The Bachelor Pad and graces itself across many Fashion Publications such as Lucky, In Style, Rebook and plenty more.

Currently they have five lines:

The Vintage Luxe Collection which is couture like fashion for everyday wear adorned with fine detail.



The Metro Chic Collection that is femininity paired with a edgy twist with handmade pieces.

The Day to Night Collection that can pair with anything from tee shirt and jeans to that little black dress.

The La Coco Collection inspired by Coco Chanel mix and match pieces to create your own classic style.

The Little Girls Collection a great collection for the prized possessions in our life!

The website even has a link under Trends that features their Bridal Collection which is perfect for Brides and make great gifts for the Bridal Party and Family as a way of saying, "Thank you for being part of my special day" or maybe just something to wear for years to come as the pieces range from Glam Runway Trends to timeless and classic!!!

www.facebook.com/stylistandrea

Dont miss Black Friday 25% off any item!! Enter Promo Code usfam10 at checkout!
November 25 & 26 ONLY!

SHOP my boutique at:

www.stelladot.com/stylistandrea

Blossoming Blessings Bridal Design

I would like to introduce all my Brides and future Brides to Blossoming Blessings! Rose of Blossoming Blessings actually happens to be my wonderful Mother in Law. Although I love to pass business her way when you see her work and meet Rose you will actually realize she is a phenomenal Floral Designer and I am not just trying to get her work, she definitely doesn't need my help in that area as she already has a successful business. However we have decided to join efforts which is wonderful news! Rose is no stranger to the industry as she has been working in this industry for over 35 years. Having worked in wholesale, Florist shops and personally doing centerpiece and floral design for Amarante's Sea Cliff she has the expertise and knowledge you want when it comes to flowers for your special day! Rose is very creative with her designs and can give you a very affordable wedding at no compromise on quality. She personally did my wedding and pretty much all my friends. From the beginning to the end Rose's involvement and customer service as you will see is to go above and beyond for her Bride's. So please stop by Rose's page on Facebook and be sure to check out her Designs or just to show love and support by becoming a Fan and liking her page. Just let her know I sent you!!!!

Also I am sure people will read this post whom Rose has already done beautiful work for so be sure to leave a comment and show your support on her page!!! thank you all for the love!!

www.facebook.com/blossomingbridaldesigns

I have posted some of her work below. It was very hard to pick between all of the custom pieces so I choose a few but be sure to check out her work on her page!!

A Beautiful Bride at the Eolia Mansion in CT

The Eolia Mansion
Waterford CT

This is actually the second post on a wedding venue in a row. I am not forgetting about makeup, it is just I love nothing more then to write on things that inspire me. In my travels as a Makeup Artist working on brides I am blessed with the fabulous opportunity to come across some pretty neat places. This is another much talked about Venue in Waterford, CT in Harkness State Park.

Right of the back this place reminded me of one of the Newport Mansions. You don't expect the view in the back to be so amazing but when you see it, it takes your breath away. I am definitely not a photographer and these few pictures do this place NO justice. This mansion sits on over 230 acres of lavish green lawns and has 42 rooms. Overlooking the ocean and adorned with beautiful and lavish gardens that change with the seasons. To think that at some point this belonged to someone as their home is astounding. I long for the day I can wake up in a place like this!! Even if it just on vacation!

When it comes to weddings, you can choose where to exchange your vows. Whether it be in the Pergola and covered Tea Room with views of the award winning Italian Gardens and beautiful ocean views or you may choose the Sea Side Amphitheater which is surrounded by all of the beauty of nature. Either way you cannot go wrong as both provide breathtaking views!

The history of this home dates back to 1906 when it was built and the purchased in 1907 by Edward and Mary Harkness to be used as there summer home. "Eolia" was named after the island home of the Greek god of winds. Edward was heir to a fortune of his father's investments in John D. Rockefellers Standard Oil. He also gave many charitable gifts in his time and was a noted philanthropist. The mansion was left to the State of Connecticut in 1950 and became a part of the State Park System in 1952.

Whether you are planning the day of your dreams or just simply a history buff looking to explore the grounds, Eolia should be on your "To-Do" list. At the very least, simply pack a lunch and enjoy the park!

You can check out the website down below for months of availability or to check out the information on mansion tours.

Website:
http://www.ct.gov/dep/cwp/view.asp?a=2716&q=325196

A Winvian Wedding

As a Professional Makeup Artist, a good portion of my business is comprised of doing makeup for weddings. In my travels I sometimes I come upon a place that captures my attention. This was the case with one of my recent weddings I had the honor to be a part of.

Before going to the wedding I had done some research on the location as I do from time to time. When I had arrived on this site I knew it was quite different! I had actually seen this resort on t.v. at one point. Once I realized where I would be going I was beyond thrilled and couldn't wait to arrive! That was if I could find it! One of the wonderful things about this resort is how secluded it is. It is tucked away in the Litchfield hills. What a wonderful place if you are planning and event of any kind or just looking for some much needed R & R. Upon entering I had to receive clearance to get in. Did I mention privacy?? If you don't have a good reason to get into the place...you won't! So if privacy and seclusion is what you are looking for you have certainly found it. Speaking of privacy the grounds were being set up for the ceremony which was so enchanting. One of the ceremony locations offered today was a short walk through a small field that opened up to a pond surrounded by nothing but the resort and nature at it's best. It was simply beautiful and straight out of someones imagination. Elegant, charming and enchanting!

One of the other really cool things that makes this place really shine are the unique themed cottages that adorn the property. Each cottage comes with two bicycles for your use. When I pulled up to the cottage I was going to I saw these two bicycles on the patio and it evoked feelings of vacation, relaxation and operating at a whole different pace of life, it was charming and quaint to say the least. I wanted to roll up my pant legs and run through the grass carefree and able to unwind with nothing on the agenda but simply whatever I pleased. Upon the 113 acres of lush greens you will find the 18 uniquely themed cottages crafted by many architects. I promise you this place is like no other! There is a main building and a spa for you to unwind and indulge your senses!

Some of the cottages you will find on the property are The Treehouse, Helicopter Cottage, Golf cottage, Stone Cottage, The Log Cabin and many more. Some cottages are also dog friendly should you not want to leave your best friend at home! they have taken it all into consideration. Whatever your pleasure you are sure to find a cottage that will far exceed your imagination. Entertaining all the senses. Complimentary for your use you will find muck boots and wet weather gear, Games Room, Fitness Equipment, Playground, snowshoes, bikes and concierge service. Should you decide to go off site they offer Mercedes Benz for your use.

If you are adventurous and find yourself the type that wants to explore, no worries they accommodate that too! Once you are done exploring your cottage of choice there are many activities to find yourself able to enjoy! Winvian offers many things to tickle your fancy. whether it be hiking, biking or snow shoeing. Also nearby you can find activities such as Hot Air Ballooning, Fly Fishing, Glass Blowing, Kayaking, Horseback riding and more. The opportunities are endless.

Winvian may be private and secluded but you wont have a hard time finding them in the press. They have been featured in over fifty publications which include but are not limited to Conde Nast Traveler,National Geographic Traveler, New York Post, LA Times, British Vogue, Instyle..just to name a few.

Whether you intend to have a meeting or are planning your wedding the Winvian is Connecticut's hidden treasure! Check out their website for more information at www.winvian.com! Be sure to check out all the cottages. Sit back relax and enjoy the view!

Professional Photographs by Angela Hanlon of Hanlon Photography, check out some of her great work at www.HanlonPhotography.com. You can also see some of her work on my website at www.AndreaMarano.com. Thanks for reading! Feedback is always welcomed!!

Nurturing Force Blot Out Offensive Haul

CALLING ALL BRIDES!!!!

My friend, Lili Lutu of Lili's Wedding Corner is sponsoring a contest right now on her blog. It is solely for Brides. Lili custom designs jewelry for every occasion. If you are a bride who wants to stand out among the rest, look no further!! Lili's custom pieces are works of art, elegant and are the perfect piece to compliment you on your wedding day!

THE GIVEAWAY!!!
This fabulous pedicure set!

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO WIN?
If you are a bride, this contest is for you! I am sure you have been planning your wedding like it is another full time job so why shouldn't you pamper yourself with this great pedicure set!

HOW YOU CAN WIN!!
To win this fabulous gift please leave a comment on Lili's blog under her Pedicure Contest Post. In your comment please include how you got to her page. Please copy and paste her web address in your browser:

http://www.lililutu.blogspot.com/

Winner will be chosen at random on August 19th at 1900EST. The name will be posted on her blog on August 20th so be sure to check back on her blog to see if you are the winner!!! The winner will have two days to contact her.

Please support Lili by following her blog! Also be sure to check out her website at:

http://www.lililutu.com/

Also stay tuned on MY BLOG as Lili will also be featuring a contest on MY BLOG as well!! You won't want to miss it!

BLESSINGS!!!