Tuesday, December 31, 2013

ZIPZ Shoes!

 Hey Everyone! Today I have a review of ZIPZ Shoes!



 Here's how it all started:

ZIPZ SHOES
“THE ZIP HEARD ROUND THE WORLD”


ZIPZ Shoes is the brainchild of Orange County entrepreneur, Jerry Stefani and his family.  A clandestine BBQ/family reunion 6 years ago would become the catalyst for the idea.  A large contingent of the family had children in attendance at the BBQ.  Some of these children played “dress up” and changed their shoes several times during the day much to the chagrin of their mothers who complained of having to buy excessive pairs of shoes for the children.  Other children simply got their shoes so dirty from playing they had to be changed numerous times throughout the day.  In both cases Jerry took notice and in a stream of free thinking he made a comment that perhaps an interchangeable shoe would solve these problems. 

Curious, the family members around Jerry asked him exactly how he would accomplish that goal.  Jerry’s idea was simple: Create a shoe with replaceable, interchangeable covers and souls.  While this initial burst of genius made the idea seem easy it would prove to be quite an adventure and anything but simple.  Jerry’s immediate family began to get involved and discussions began on how to tackle this project.  The initial suggestions for the shoe’s fastening system consisted of such things as snaps, buttons, fasteners, Velcro, etc.  These early ideas and sketches were numerous but a consensus among family members could not be reached.  Clearly the key piece to the idea was still missing.

Then in the middle of the night, again Jerry was struck by an idea…Zippers!!  He immediately informed his family and they all agreed this was the idea they had been hoping for.  It was so simple, yet so perfect.  A zipper would be the ideal means of replacing and interchanging covers and souls of a shoe. 


Now that the idea was set, the manufacturing process could begin.  Again, during this time setbacks were many.  Initially the cost of the shoe was the primary focus and all attention was directed at this goal.  Again, this proved to be a costly mistake.  Numerous prototypes and numerous factories failed over the next several years.  This was a mentally and financially painful R&D period.  Suddenly the family changed directions and realized the quality of the shoe and it’s use should be the top priority regardless of costs and all efforts were focused on this goal. 

Zipz forged partnerships with the best footwear factory group in the world, Diamond Group along with sourcing and manufacturing company SRG, run by the famous Art Carver.  Zipz also forged partnerships with the world’s best fastening company, YKK.  World class art director Scott Anderson joined the Zipz team, as did award-winning shoe designer Trevor Marley, VP of Operations Marcello Zalai, and CFO Fadel Lawandy.  With this team in place Zipz began working with more specialized factories and the best materials available.  Due to the labor intensive needs of the shoes construction not many factories would accept the challenge of making the shoe.  Finally Diamond Group did.  It took almost a year to formulate the proper methods of manufacturing and developing the correct covers, soul’s, designs, packaging, and of course the special YKK zipper.  While the shoe was now extremely expensive to manufacture there was no denying it was everything they had hoped for in use and quality and the dream that was an interchangeable shoe was now reality.

Initially the shoes were named “Marshmallow Skins” because they were so soft and comfortable; somewhat like being in your own skin.  Not to mention the fact that you could “shed” your skin and change it to something new if you wanted.  While this name was cute and served its purpose, it was clear a few more “tweaks” were necessary before going to market. 

Heading back to the drawing board, the team began making those necessary tweaks, which included changing the name to “Zipz Shoes” and finalizing the launch of the first of the Zipz collections, the “Cali Classic” collection.  During this time, Zipz intellectual property and patent attorneys, Knobbe Martens Olsen & Bear LLP, worked diligently to secure Zipz Shoes patents worldwide in both utility and design which were finally issued in 2009!

The journey from an idea at a family BBQ to the launch of Zipz Shoes has ended, but the journey for Zipz Shoes taking over the world is just beginning!  Don’t worry though, we’ve got more BBQ’s ahead for the Zipz team and we’ll think of something to make that happen as well…

Change Your Shoes, Change Yourself, Change Your World!!! 







I was sent a pair of ZIPZ in the Cranberry Hermosa style! And I think they are beautiful!
I just adore wearing them, they are super comfortable! I love the fact that all you have to do is unzip them, get a new pair of covers, and zip them on! And voila, it's a whole new pair! 

You can buy them at Hot Topic and Shoe Buy!








*I was sent this pair of Zipz Shoes for review purposes only. I am not being compensated for this review. All opinions are 100% my own.

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Review: Easy Canvas Prints

For today's review, I'm bringing you Easy Canvas Prints!

Easy Canvas Prints was very generous, and offered to send me a free 8x10 canvas print!
I was super excited, and immediately got to work customizing my canvas. I had so much fun browsing through old pictures, it was hard to chose just one to use!

With Easy Canvas Prints, I was able to chose the style of canvas I wanted, plus the colors I wanted as well! And it was so easy.

My print arrived about a week after the order was placed, and I couldn't wait to tear into the package!
When I pulled it out of the packaging, I was so excited! I am absolutely in love with it! It's so sturdy! It even arrived ready to hang!





Working with Easy Canvas Prints was so much fun! I recommend them for your custom printing needs!
Check out their website: www.easycanvasprints.com
For other printing needs, you can also head over to their affiliates: www.buildasign.com and www.alliedshirts.com!

                                *Product provided for review purposes only. I am not being compensated. All opinions are 100% my own!

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Review: Rosebud Perfume Company


For this review, I have the Luscious Layers trio of lip balms!
This vintage inspired tin comes with three lip balms: Mocha Rose (Chocolate Cafe) Brambleberry Rose (Wild berries with honey and vanilla) and Menthol Eucalyptus (the exhilarating zing of Menthol and Eucalyptus oils combined)

These lip balms are absolutely fantastic. They go on so smooth, and leave my lips feeling soft and moisturized. The flavors are fantastic as well. Menthol Eucalyptus is my stand out favorite. The scent is just so invigorating! And I love the way my lips feel, even hours after I've applied these balms. I encourage all of you t give Rosebud Perfume Company a chance! 


You can find Rosebud Perfume Company in the following locations:


*Products provided for review purposes only! I am not being compensated. All opinions are 100% my own.

Holiday Gift Guide: CIBU Lotus Flower Body Line!




Today I'm here to talk about one of my FAVORITE brands. CIBU! This holiday season, Cibu is offering you the Cibu Lotus Flower body line! It includes Cibu Lotus Lotion, Cibu Lotus Touch of Tan Moisturizer, and Cibu Lotus Body Wash! All are 12 oz bottles and will each be $12!



On Cyber Monday, you get your choice of any full size Lotus Body product FREE with a $75 purchase, using code LOTUSBODY! FREE SHIPPING on purchases of $40 or more! And a FREE Winter Lotus Hand Lotion with every single order! 
I'd say those are some great deals that you should check out!

I've been trying all of these products for the past couple of weeks, and I must say, I am in LOVE!
The lotions are absolutely fantastic. So moisturizing, and they smell fantastic! My skin feels so soft after I use them. And I'm happy to report that unlike most lotions, the Lotus lotions leave absolutely no oily residue.

The Touch of Tan Moisturizer is fantastic! It gives you such a lovely glow! And it doesn't make you orange! Which makes me super happy!

The body wash is fabulous as well. It leaves you feeling so fresh and clean. And it doesn't make my skin feel dry like most body washes I've used in the past. And equally as important, it smells amazing! :)

I hope all of you give these amazing products a try! CIBU is amazing!



Cibu can be found all over the web:
Website!
Facebook!
Twitter!


*Products provided for review purposes only. I am not being compensated. All opinions are 100% my own!

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Holiday Gift Ideas! Canvas N' Decor!






Hey everyone! Today I have a gift idea for the photo lover in your life! Canvas N' Decor offers canvases that are made of the highest components in the market. They have one of the lowest prices online! Canvas N' Decor guarantees that your canvas will not fade for 200+ years!

Canvas N' Decor was so generous, and let me create a canvas for myself! And when it came in the mail, I was absolutely amazed! I immediately hung it up! It feels very sturdy, and looks wonderful! I chose pictures that hold some of my best memories. I just adore it.




Canvas N' Decor is offering my readers a discount of 30% off all canvas pieces!
The discount code entitles you to:
30% off all canvas pieces!
No tax!
Free custom text and photo effects added to your canvas!
Flat rate shipping at $12 anywhere in the US! (where UPS Ground is available)
For orders over $150, you get free ground shipping! That is over 50% in savings!
The code is TABI30

                                   
                                     *Product provided for review purposes. I am not being compensated. All opinions are 100% my own!

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Guylian Belgian Chocolate Review/Giveaway!


Guylian “ultra-indulgent” luxurious chocolate seashells are 100% pure, silky smooth, dark and white Belgian chocolate and are filled with our rich & creamy signature hazelnut filling.  The Guylian brand dates back to the late 1950’s when Guy Foubert, a passionate Belgian chocolataire married his love, Liliane, who then joined names creating Chocolaterie Guylian. Today, Guylian crafts the finest authentic Belgian Chocolate Truffles, utilizing the original handmade recipe of Guy and Liliane.  Our original signature truffle recipe is still made in small-batch copper kettles exclusively by Guylian’s Master Chocolatiers in Sint-Niklaas, Belgium.




I was sent several different things to try! 



One – 22 piece box of Guylian Artisanal Belgian Original Chocolate Truffles
One – 22 piece box of Guylian Artisanal Belgian Extra Dark Chocolate Truffles  
Two - 6 piece Original Chocolate Truffle Box
Four - 2 piece Original Chocolate Truffle Box
No Sugar Added Chocolate Bars—Milk and Dark Chocolate (one bar of each)
One- 16 piece Vanilla Cream Truffles - Limited Edition



And I must say, I was amazed. These chocolates taste absolutely delicious! I shared with my family as well, and they loved them just as much as I did.

I found that I enjoyed them most when I just let them slowly melt in my mouth. The hazelnut filling was wonderful. 

These chocolates would make a great gift for the chocolate lover in your life!

Guylian has offered a coupon for my reader's! Good for 10% off of your order through the end of the year! Code is Chocolate10.

And here's the great part, A GIVEAWAY! (US ONLY)

You will win everything that was sent to me! For the giveaway, I would like you to visit GUYLIAN'S WEBSITE, and let me know what you'd most like to try! For extra entries, you may do any of the following:

Sign up for Guylian's newsletter!
Like Guylian on Facebook!

Please leave separate comments for each thing you do! And please leave a way for me to contact you, in the event that you are the winner. I will leave the giveaway open for two weeks! Winner has 48 hours to respond. If you do not respond in that time, another winner will be chosen! Good Luck!

*Product provided by the company for review purposes only. I am not being compensated. All opinions are 100%my own. 


Monday, October 7, 2013

Review: Bullet Designs Jewelry

Bullet Designs, LLC was established in the Spring of 2010. Integrity and trust is our foundation and we make every effort to earn the trust of each customer, supplier, and employee as well.

In today's marketplace, we strive to offer bold new products. It is our hope to offer a solution to the age old problem of what to buy for the sportsman (and sportswoman) who has everything with our innovative, practical, and useful products. As often as possible, we design environmentally friendly products.

Our Core Values:
*Put God first in all the we do.
*Provide high quality products.
*Serve our customers humbly.
*Care about the environment.
*Provide a great place to work.
*Build open and honest relationships.
*Be adventurous and open minded.
*Be innovative, flexible, and forward thinking.

Bullet Designs sent me their Fire and Ice 40 Caliber Jewelry Set. And I have to say, it is gorgeous!
I've been wearing it all the time, and I have gotten so many compliments.

I have so many family members that enjoy everything about hunting, fishing, anything outdoors really. Bullet Designs provides so many great products that would make great gifts!

These pieces are so unique, I have never seen anything like them! I love that I can dress them up, or down. With just a t-shirt and jeans!


They are great quality, and I absolutely adore these pieces!

Find Bullet Designs online:
Website!
Facebook!
Twitter!

*Products were provided for review purposes. All opinion are 100% my own.

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

Review: CIBU

Today I would like to introduce you to one of my favorite brands! CIBU!

Cibu is developed by Stylists as a tool for Clients to become artists behind their own bathroom doors, Cibu products can help you create any look you covet – from runway-worthy drama to office- ready polish. And it smells so good! All Cibu shampoos and conidtioners are sulfate and paraben free and all Cibu products are powered by Bamboo, Lotus Flower and Water Lily. Cibu aims to inspire you towards your healthiest, most beautiful hair self. 






Jenn, Cibu's Brand Manager sent me some products to try, so thanks Jenn!


I'll start with CIBU Spring Roll Moisture Mist!

Refresh and Reshape
Be curlful out there! Refresh curls, moisturize and combat frizz for a soft, touchable finish. Use alone or to reactivate Spring Roll Soft Curl Gel and/or Spring Roll Shaping Crème. Color safe.

I LOVE this stuff! When my curls are looking a little tired, I spritz a little on, and watch my hair come back to life!

Next up is  Pho Finish Hair Spray
Cibu Pho Finish Workable Finishing Spray is a medium-hold workable aerosol Cibu hair spray perfect for heat styling and all day hold.

I use this when I need a little extra hold. It keeps my curls lovely and intact. And unlike 99% of hair sprays that I have tried, this does not leave my hair feeling crunchy. I can run my fingers through my hair without a problem. I love that I am able to do that.


Next we have Shang High Volumizing Mousse. 

Cibu Shang High Mousse is a non-drying, alcohol free, color safe, highly concentrated aerosol mousse.
For me, a little goes a long way. I work a small amount into the roots of my hair, lifting upwards. What I'm left with, is the perfect amount of volume. Which is great for me, because I tend to be lacking in the volume department.

And last, but certainly not least, we have CIBU Spring Roll Shaping Creme.

It's the balm! Define and hold curl shape, moisturize and combat frizz for a soft, touchable finish. 
This is by far, one of my absolute favorite Cibu products. After using it on my hair, I'm left with such beautiful curls. The stay intact all day, and I am obsessed!

All in all, I have loved every single CIBU product that I have used on my hair. I can honestly say, it has never looked better! If you haven't checked CIBU out, you don't know what you are missing! They have products for all hair types and styles! So head on over to the website and check it out for yourself! 


CIBU can be found on Facebook and Twitter






*Products were provided for review purposes. All opinions are 100% my own!

Sunday, July 28, 2013

Review: IONI Cosmetics Eyeshadow Primer

Hi Everyone! Today I have a review of something I am really excited about!


 I purchased this IONI Eyeshadow Primer on a whim for just $1.50. So, I wasn't really expecting much.
I tried it today, and I am really impressed! When I first applied it, it felt kind of sticky. But nothing I couldn't deal with. After a few seconds, it was completely dry. So, I applied the eye shadow. It went on quite smooth. And so far, it hasn't budged. I'm going to insert a picture of a swatch here.
This is after being applied, and being rubbed for several minutes. It faded a tad, but nothing major. So, I think this is a great product. I'm going to keep using it, and see how it holds up. I purchased this at my local Fred's Super Dollar. Not sure if you can get it anywhere else. But if you see it, definitely pick it up!

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

Review: ZIPZ Shoes!

  Hey Everyone! Today I have a review of ZIPZ Shoes!



 Here's how it all started:

ZIPZ SHOES
“THE ZIP HEARD ROUND THE WORLD”


ZIPZ Shoes is the brainchild of Orange County entrepreneur, Jerry Stefani and his family.  A clandestine BBQ/family reunion 6 years ago would become the catalyst for the idea.  A large contingent of the family had children in attendance at the BBQ.  Some of these children played “dress up” and changed their shoes several times during the day much to the chagrin of their mothers who complained of having to buy excessive pairs of shoes for the children.  Other children simply got their shoes so dirty from playing they had to be changed numerous times throughout the day.  In both cases Jerry took notice and in a stream of free thinking he made a comment that perhaps an interchangeable shoe would solve these problems. 

Curious, the family members around Jerry asked him exactly how he would accomplish that goal.  Jerry’s idea was simple: Create a shoe with replaceable, interchangeable covers and souls.  While this initial burst of genius made the idea seem easy it would prove to be quite an adventure and anything but simple.  Jerry’s immediate family began to get involved and discussions began on how to tackle this project.  The initial suggestions for the shoe’s fastening system consisted of such things as snaps, buttons, fasteners, Velcro, etc.  These early ideas and sketches were numerous but a consensus among family members could not be reached.  Clearly the key piece to the idea was still missing.

Then in the middle of the night, again Jerry was struck by an idea…Zippers!!  He immediately informed his family and they all agreed this was the idea they had been hoping for.  It was so simple, yet so perfect.  A zipper would be the ideal means of replacing and interchanging covers and souls of a shoe. 


Now that the idea was set, the manufacturing process could begin.  Again, during this time setbacks were many.  Initially the cost of the shoe was the primary focus and all attention was directed at this goal.  Again, this proved to be a costly mistake.  Numerous prototypes and numerous factories failed over the next several years.  This was a mentally and financially painful R&D period.  Suddenly the family changed directions and realized the quality of the shoe and it’s use should be the top priority regardless of costs and all efforts were focused on this goal. 

Zipz forged partnerships with the best footwear factory group in the world, Diamond Group along with sourcing and manufacturing company SRG, run by the famous Art Carver.  Zipz also forged partnerships with the world’s best fastening company, YKK.  World class art director Scott Anderson joined the Zipz team, as did award-winning shoe designer Trevor Marley, VP of Operations Marcello Zalai, and CFO Fadel Lawandy.  With this team in place Zipz began working with more specialized factories and the best materials available.  Due to the labor intensive needs of the shoes construction not many factories would accept the challenge of making the shoe.  Finally Diamond Group did.  It took almost a year to formulate the proper methods of manufacturing and developing the correct covers, soul’s, designs, packaging, and of course the special YKK zipper.  While the shoe was now extremely expensive to manufacture there was no denying it was everything they had hoped for in use and quality and the dream that was an interchangeable shoe was now reality.

Initially the shoes were named “Marshmallow Skins” because they were so soft and comfortable; somewhat like being in your own skin.  Not to mention the fact that you could “shed” your skin and change it to something new if you wanted.  While this name was cute and served its purpose, it was clear a few more “tweaks” were necessary before going to market. 

Heading back to the drawing board, the team began making those necessary tweaks, which included changing the name to “Zipz Shoes” and finalizing the launch of the first of the Zipz collections, the “Cali Classic” collection.  During this time, Zipz intellectual property and patent attorneys, Knobbe Martens Olsen & Bear LLP, worked diligently to secure Zipz Shoes patents worldwide in both utility and design which were finally issued in 2009!

The journey from an idea at a family BBQ to the launch of Zipz Shoes has ended, but the journey for Zipz Shoes taking over the world is just beginning!  Don’t worry though, we’ve got more BBQ’s ahead for the Zipz team and we’ll think of something to make that happen as well…

Change Your Shoes, Change Yourself, Change Your World!!! 







I was sent a pair of ZIPZ in the DRAGONROSE style! And I think they are just gorgeous!
I've worn them several times, and they are quite comfortable. I love the fact that all you have to do is unzip them, get a new pair of covers, and zip them on! And voila, it's a new pair! 
I must say, these are my new favorite shoes. I can't wait to get more covers for them!
You can buy them at Hot Topic and Shoe Buy!








*I was sent this pair of Zipz Shoes for review purposes only. I am not being compensated for this review. All opinions are 100% my own.

Friday, July 12, 2013

NAIL POLISH HAUL!



From Left to Right:

ORLY Melodious Utopia
ORLY Peaceful Opposition
ORLY High On Hope
ORLY Coachella Dweller
ORLY Boho Bonnet
China Glaze Surreal Appeal
China Glaze Escaping Reality
Finger Paints I Spy-Dder

I can't wait to play with these beauties!


*All products were purchased by me!

Monday, July 1, 2013

Review: Flat Iron Experts


Let me just start by saying, I am a hair junkie! I think that my hair is my best feature, so I am always trying new things. Which brings me to today's topic. Flat Iron Experts!

They have everything for your hair care needs! Styling tools, styling products, brushes...You name it, Flat Iron Experts has it!







Features
  • 100% Tourmaline cone for healthier hair and a high gloss shine
  • Temperature to 430 F
  • Far Infrared (FIR) technology locks in moisture and natural oils
  • Sleek, ergonomic, non-slip grip designed for professional comfort
  • Variable Heat Settings for All Hair Types
  • Heats up in less than 6 seconds
  • Swivel cord prevents tangling
  • Hooked end for easy hangling
  • Professional 360 degree swivel cord to prevent tangling
  • Set includes 1/2-1", 3/4", 1-1/4" and 1-1/2" sized barrels.
  • Dual voltage, 110-240V, 50/60 Hz
  • 120W (USA) / 60W (Canada) Max
  • One year limited warranty


Now, on to the review. I will say this, I am completely intimidated by clipless styling tools. I am a total clutz, and it just does not bode well for me. But, included in this set, is a glove that will protect your hand from the heat. I was so excited about that!

When I started curling the hair, I noticed how easy the styling iron was to use. Which is great for me, because in the past, I have struggled with getting my hair to curl. The curls that this tool creates, are beautiful. I'll insert a photo here.








The curls looks so shiny and gorgeous. I am so impressed with the Cortex 4 in 1 Curling Iron/Styling Iron Set. And you can achieve so many looks with it! The barrels vary in sizes, so you can have tight, springy curls, or lovely beachy waves! The possibilities are endless. I look forward to using this tool for years to come!

The KQC Thermal Shine Spray was an added bonus. It made the hair feel so smooth, and it was so shiny! It also smells incredible!

All in all, I love the company, and the product. I loved working with Flat Iron Experts!


*Product provided by Flat Iron Experts for review purposes only. I am not being compensated for this review. All opinions are 100% my own!

Thursday, June 27, 2013

Review: HBL Hair Care



Today, I have for you, an HBL Hair Care Review. I was sent the Curl Enhancing System to test out. 
And let me tell you, I have some pretty unruly wavy/curly hair. I can never find just the right thing to tame it.



For this system, the website says: Tout your tendrils with the HBL Curl Enhancing System. Cleanse and condition you hair with the HBL Volumizing Shampoo and Conditioner and enhance natural curls with Spray Mousse, specially formulated to create lift, flexible volume and texture.

I really did enjoy this system. The shampoo left my hair feeling clean, but not totally stripped.

The conditioner made my hair feel very soft and moisturized. Which I loved. And my curls looked so pretty!
I was a little skeptical about the spray mousse. But I tried it out, and really liked it!. It gave my hair a nice lift, and my curls held all day.

All in all, these are great products!


You can buy them here.

HBL's Facebook
HBL's Twitter













*Product sent by the company for review purposes. All opinions are my own.









Thursday, February 21, 2013

NOTD: China Glaze Glitter All the Way


I only used two coats, and I am perfectly happy with it. I adore glitter!