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Sweet Love: Celebrate Love with Pastreez Valentine’s Day Heart Macarons

January 26, 2021/0 Comments/in Food, Frontpage Article, Lifestyle, Shopping, Snacks /by Glasgow Skinner

We’re almost to the end of January and you know what that means. It is go-time for Valentine’s Day preparations. While romantic dinner reservations at expensive restaurants are out, it doesn’t mean you can’t sweep your significant other off their feet with some culinary delights. Why not capture the heart of your love or best friend with the gift od delicious sweetness. We’ll be sharing a few favorites and today, we’re diving mouth first into some exquisite heart-shaped goodness, the Valentine’s Day Heart Macarons from Pastreez. For those who are not familiar, Pastreez is a California-based Macaron shop founded by the husband and wife team, Yami & Anthony, French Chefs from Le Cordon Bleu Paris. Who knows french pastries better than French chefs! Naturally, it’s who we’d turn to for this iconic French dessert. We promise they are guaranteed to enchant the tastebuds of your love.

Known for their decadent macarons that are shipped fresh from their kitchen to your door, the Pastreez macarons will tantalize your palate. The Pastreez Valentine’s Day Heart Macarons are the perfect gift for your Valentine or Galentine. *A reminder that February 13th is Galentine’s Day and the time to celebrate your friends. The heart-shaped, creme-filled treats come in four options – 48 regular macarons or a gift box of 20 macarons in Vanilla, Rose, and Strawberry; or 48 vegan macarons, or a vegan gift box of 20 in Coconut and Strawberry. All are gluten-free, 1.7″ in size, and under 50 calories each.

We love that Pastreez will guarantee the freshness of your macarons when you place an order. All of their macarons (heart-shaped and classic round) are handmade in-house, in small batches upon receiving an order. The sweet treats are then placed into an insulated pouch, air cushions, and a sturdy carton; this ensures 100% freshness upon arrival at your door.

Since Galentine’s and Valentine’s Day are coming up quickly, we recommend you place your order now. To get your Pastreez Valentine’s Day Heart Macarons by Feb. 14th, select Valentine’s reservation at checkout.

Lola’s Lashes: The Magnetic Eyelashes Shaking Up the Beauty Industry

January 11, 2021/0 Comments/in Beauty, Lifestyle, Product Reviews, Shopping /by Glasgow Skinner

As the need to wear face masks continues, our need to purchase lipsticks continues to dwindle; this is something we’ve previously stated. That means when we’re out in public, our eyes, the windows to our souls, continue to take center stage. So while our lip color purchases decrease after months of minimal use, increases in eye shadows, eyeliners, and lashes purchases continue to hold steadfast. We know you’ve heard about magnetic lashes and how they’re shaking up the eyelash game. Today we highlight Lola’s Lashes, the leading lash brand that’s shaking up the beauty industry.

With Lola’s Lashes premium Magnetic Lashes and Eyeliners, you can finally ditch the toxic lash glue and enjoy all-day hold. The easy to apply magnetic false eyelashes are non-toxic and come in eight styles, each of which uses the power of six magnets to transform your eyes to beguiling. Lola’s Lashes are vegan and come in eight style options: Amethyst, Moonstone, Rose Quartz, Sapphire, Jade, Amber, Diamond, and Ruby.

With a quick swipe of their Flick & Stick Magnetic Eyeliner, a unique formula designed to keep your lashes in place, you will enjoy 30+ wears of these clump-free, mess-free, and latex-free lashes. Let’s get to know each style, all of which are from Lola’s Lashes Jewels Lash Collection:

Amethyst – a mid-length lash with doll-like spacing, giving off a modern 60’s sex kitten vibe that looks striking on most eye shapes.

Moonstone – this is the little black dress of lashes. If you’re looking for a sultry glam look, this full volume with a shorter length lash is your ticket to a head-turning look.

Rose Quartz – enjoy the subtle lift, length, and volume of these everyday lashes to play up your eyes. Unlike the previous two styles, these feature 5 mini magnets.

Sapphire – if you’re looking for a more a natural-look, Sapphire offers a subtle finish and lashes that look like they’re yours, only better. They are great for those just getting into magnetic lashes. We recommend getting starting with the Sapphire Magnetic Eyelashes and Eyeliner Kit (pictured above). This set contains 1x pair of Magnetic Eyelashes in style Sapphire, Black or Brown Magnetic Eyeliner and Cleansing Oil.

Jade – another natural lash option, the Jade eyelashes are perfect for those who love to wear minimal makeup but want to look stylish and put together. Like the Rose Quartz and Sapphire, it too has 5 mini magnets.

Amber – ready for a bold and striking lash that gives full flutter and length with a softer, wispy finish? Get instant oomph with the insta-ready Amber.

Diamond – boasting enough length and volume and a touch of effortless glam to quickly elevate your natural lashes. Prepare to cause a stirring when you bat your eyes with these lashes.

Ruby – full, fluttery lashes with enough wow-factor and drama to completely transform your eyes. The boldest and most daring of all of Lola’s Lashes.

For anyone trying to eliminate the messy and damaging effects of lash glue, the vegan, cruelty-free, wind, and waterproof eyelashes from Lola’s Lashes are exactly what you need. With their eight style options, you’re sure to get a few favorites.

We invite you to check out all Lola’s Lashes Jewels Lash Collection. Leave us a comment on your favorites lashes. We’d also love to hear about your experiences with magnetic lashes. For more info, click on www.lolascosmetics.com.

Go Dash Dot Releases Bag to Celebrate the Spirit of New Yorkers

January 8, 2021/0 Comments/in Accessories, Frontpage Article, Lifestyle, Shopping /by Contributing Writer

Everyone knows that 2020 was a tough year for New York City. As the first major U.S. city struck by the COVID-19 pandemic, NYC saw its streets empty, subways go dark, and hospitals quickly overwhelmed. The city that never sleeps seemed to suddenly enter a months-long slumber, that is until the murder of George Floyd at the hands of police in Minneapolis sparked nationwide protests in the summer. The days and weeks after that saw thousands upon thousands march against police brutality in New York, often facing more violence from the NYPD. The turbulent presidential election closed out the year, with many New Yorkers working hard to get out the vote and ensure that our country’s democracy continued.

Through all of these ups and downs in 2020, the people of New York City prevailed. They stayed strong, supported one another, and helped pave the way for other cities across the country to also overcome these issues.

To celebrate this courage, Go Dash Dot has debuted a limited-edition bag inspired by New York City and its residents. The New York Lenten Rose Tote is a sophisticated, modern bag that speaks to the classic NYC experience. The design of the bag features leather trim, a glossy black finish, and compartments for laptops, phones, and water bottles. The bag also has a separate shopper tote that is compacted in a key chain and expands to a full-length nylon bag. It’s both functional and stylish, echoing the key characteristics of the iconic city it honors.

“I wanted to create something that celebrates the strength of New York while reflecting the humanity we showed during the worst of 2020,” said Hannah Fastov, the founder of Go Dash Dot.

Fastov also says that the limited-edition bag symbolizes the New York Lenten Rose, a dark flower that starts blooming during the last six weeks of winter. The bag also comes with a charm depicting the flower. This rose signals the beginning of a new season and, to many New Yorkers, the start of a new chapter as they look towards life after the pandemic. While quality content can boost a company’s blog’s traffic by 2,000%, this type of hopeful symbolism may also work in bringing more attention to Go Dash Dot and its community-driven approach to business.

This past year, Go Dash Dot made international headlines when it donated a significant portion of its inventory to New York healthcare workers. Not only did these healthcare workers have to handle New Yorkers’ typical medical issues, such as UTIs, which are the most common type of healthcare-associated infections, but they also had to fight the coronavirus. As a new virus causing a pandemic, this was no easy task. Fastov herself delivered many of the donated bags to emergency rooms throughout the city. Strapped around the waists of doctors and nurses, her bags assisted healthcare workers by allowing them to carry all of their essential tools and belongings as they saved lives.

“As a young, female entrepreneur with a small business that was just starting to gain traction, the COVID-19 outbreak was not only devastating to the business but my confidence as a leader. It was up to me to be strong for my team, who inspired me with their commitment, loyalty, and resolve. We got each other through it, which is what New Yorkers do every day,” said Fastov.

To save her own business, Fastov had to innovate on the services Go Dash Dot provided. The worst of the pandemic prevented many fashion brands from creating, producing, and selling their usual products, and Go Dash Dot was no different. The company started offering make-up tutorials, cooking classes, and fitness workouts. These types of services were in high demand during the strictest times of the COVID-19 lockdown, so Go Dash Dot helped people trapped at home learn how to cook in their kitchens and supported some of the 80.2 million Americans who are physically inactive to get some movement into their daily routines. Go Dash Dot also created summer cocktails and sponsored flash sales of their most popular bags by collaborating with other media platforms.

A completely unique accessory, there are only 100 New York Rose Lenten Totes for sale. You can now purchase this stylish bag that allows you to keep up with your fast-paced NYC lifestyle by visiting Go Dash Dot’s site. Honor the resilient city that we all love, and treat yourself to a bag you’ll use for years to come, by checking out the New York Lenten Rose Tote today.

Finders Key Purse: Fill The New Year with Fashion, Function and Safety

January 5, 2021/0 Comments/in Accessories, Frontpage Article, Lifestyle, Shopping /by Glasgow Skinner

What a relief to say goodbye to the previous year and welcome brighter and hope-filled days of the new year. As we are only a few days into the new year, we’re still experiencing the effects of the old year. While we adjust to this possible new (hopefully temporary) way of life, we can still combine a fashionable aspect to our function and safety requirements. We’ve been utilizing one company’s wonderfully fashionable and functional products to make sure we’re safe during the pandemic and beyond. Finders Key Purse features stylish purse accessories that decorate the outside of your bag to prevent keys from falling to the bottom, personal pepper sprays, contact-free tools, and personal panic alarms.

The Finders Key Purse accessories provide a simple solution to old and new everyday problems. Their range of products includes Finders Key Purse Keychains, Purse Hangers, Key’P Safe Contact Free Tools, Personal Panic Alarms, Personal Pepper Sprays, Drink Test Kit, and even Purse Protectors. Whether you just need to quickly and easily find your keys; reduce your germ exposure with contact-free touching when using hook-handle doors, ATM touch screens, elevator buttons, gas station & checkout touchpads, and more; and alert people to possible predators and protect yourself from assailant attacks.

During this pandemic, we’ve been using the Key’P Safe Contact-Free Tool to open doors, press elevator buttons, and doorbells. Check out our use of their Contact-Free Tool in action on our Instagram. Our tool is attached to a Monogram BLING Finders Key Purse which features shiny silver letters on a black background, bordered by swirled shiny nickel and crystal details. Like the alphabet, there are 26 offerings in this collection. You can also get the original designs, Bling designs, and ones made with Swarovski Crystals. There are options for fashionistas, shoe lovers, brides, dog and cat lovers, Breast Cancer survivors & supporters, and so much more. They are so popular that over 11 million have sold.

The Pepper Spray offerings are made with the same ingredients used by law enforcement. It shoots up to 16 feet away and contains invisible UV dye for assailant verification days after use. It also features a locking mechanism to prevent inadvertently spraying. The Personal Alarm features a 120 Decibel alarm, bright LED flashlight, replaceable battery (12V alkaline), and has a keyring attached.

Like the Finders Key Purse Keychains, the Purse Hangers come in a wide variety of designs, including the Monogram BLING. All of these items are wonderfully affordable and they make excellent gifts for any occasion. Visit www.finderskeypurse.com for more information on everything they offer.

Holiday Gift Guide 2020: Gadget Gifts That Will Wow This Holiday Season

December 17, 2020/0 Comments/in Audio, Frontpage Article, House and Home, Lifestyle, Shopping, Technology /by Glasgow Skinner

Can you believe Christmas is next week? We are exactly one week away from Christmas Eve but don’t worry, there’s still time to get great gifts for those on your list. In fact, today we’re sharing gadget gifts that are sure to wow your recipients on your list this holiday season. As they say, “the future is technology”, and the gadget gifts we’re showing you today will not disappoint.

We’re highlighting conventional and unconventional tech gifts from some of our favorite gadget brands, including Anker, GE, Urbanista, iOttie, Kingston technology, and Feit Electric. Some of these will add better function and some fun to your winter pandemic life. Let’s get to know these really cool holiday gadget gifts.

1. ANKER NANO CHARGING KIT, $19.99

A dead or almost dead phone can be extremely stressful. Being homebound has everyone spending more time on Social Media or participating in Zoom meetings, dates, hangouts, etc. All of this can drain your phone’s better rather quickly. The Anker Nano Charging Kit comes with everything you need to get and stay powered up quickly. The kit includes the Anker Nano, a 60W 2-port charger, a C-to-C cable, and a C-to-lightning cable, which makes a holistic charging solution for all new Apple products, including iPhone 12, new iPad and Macbook, as well as other smartphones and tablets. Charge all your devices 3X faster than the standard iPhone charger, with this 20W ultra-small charger. At only 1″ thick, the Anker Nano proves great things come in small packages.

2. iOttie iON Duo Charging Stand + Pad for iOS, $59.99

The newest launch from iOttie is another charging must-have. We love it because we have been experienced damaged charging ports and/or faulty charging cords and this fantastic gadget can rescue your device from being “unchargeable”. This dual charging device features fast-charging solutions compatible with any Qi-enabled smartphone or accessory. Key features include two LED charging indicators, ideal viewing in landscape and portrait modes, and a sleek and subtle fabric-wrapped and rubberized design. Not only does it work incredibly fast, but its design aesthetic is also perfect as desk decor whether it’s work or home office. We think the iON Wireless Duo Fast Charging Stand + Pad will be a big holiday gift hit for anyone.

3. GE LED+ Speaker Bulbs, $24.99 – $49.99

Welcome to the new way to enjoy your favorite music, podcasts, and other audio. Fill your favorite room with joyous sounds with the LED+ Speaker Bulb. This innovative lightbulb includes a built-in speaker that connects to your smartphone and tablet via Bluetooth. The best part, no additional app is required. To fill your entire home, just link up to 10 bulbs for a simple wireless sound solution. Installation is fast and easy; you don’t need a hub or wifi, just screw in the bulb and pair to Bluetooth for a wireless multi-room sound system. The LED+ Speaker Bulbs are compatible with fixtures that require a general-purpose A19/21, floodlight BR30, or 6-inch recessed lighting fixture.

4. Urbanista London In-Ear True Wireless Earphones, $149.00

Next on our 2020 gadget gift guide is Urbanista’s most advanced in-ear true wireless earphone with active noise canceling and ambient sound modes, the London In-Ear True Wireless Earphones. With the London Earphones, you can choose to silence the outside world or let the sound in. It features Active Noise Cancelling that reduces unwanted sound with superior precision, while the new Ambient Sound Mode will enforce and define outside voices without the need to lower the volume or hit pause. The London also boasts 5hrs of playtime with an additional 4 charges in the case, customizable silicon tips, 25hr battery life, in-ear detection, touch control, and is compatible with all Qi-certified chargers. Available in five great colors, you’ll truly get the most out of your listening experience.

5. Kingston Technology Nucleum USB-C Hub, $49.99

For those who are tired of lugging around heavy laptops and wish your notebook had all the great features that laptops do, there is a solution. The Nucleum USB-C Hub from Kingston Technology features an HDMI Output, USB-A, SD, and MicroSD Card Reader; allowing you to connect up to 7 devices, like a mouse, monitor, and other accessories to your notebook. The 7-in-1 Type-C Adapter connects USB 3.0, 4K USB C to HDMI, SD Card and microSD card ports, USB Type-C Thunderbolt 3 Data port, and USB Type-C Power Pass through port for Macs.

Need to make space or declutter your memory? Use the Nucleum to offload photos and videos. This multi-tasking gadget is incredibly travel-friendly. It also allows you to power up one device, charge another, and a connect to USB Flash drive simultaneously. In a world where we need a multitude of things done, the Kingston Technology Nucleum USB-C Hub is here to help.

6. Feit Electric OneSync Under Cabinet LED Lighting System, $39.97 – $59.97

We’ve stated many times that we’ve been spending more time in our kitchen. This pandemic has made us realize there are several things we need to make staying at home a better experience; whether it’s pantry staples or kitchen tools. The Feit Electric OneSync Under Cabinet LED Lighting System falls under the latter category. Sometimes the overhead kitchen lights don’t quite hit under the kitchen cabinets; especially if you are using energy-efficient come sin. bulbs. And that’s where the Feit Electric OneSync Under Cabinet LED Lighting System comes in. Illuminate under your cabinets and control the lighting system within a 50ft. range, even if they are on different walls.

No matter which of these gadget gifts you give this holiday season, we know the recipient will be very happy with your choice. We’d love to hear which of these are your favorites and which you’ll probably also buy for yourself.

Holiday Gift Guide 2020: More Gifts for the Wine Lovers on Your List

December 14, 2020/0 Comments/in Alcohol, Drinks and Beverages, Frontpage Article, Lifestyle, Shopping /by Glasgow Skinner

We recently shared some great holiday gifts for the wine enthusiasts on your holiday gift list; we’re back with a few more gift options for the wine lovers on your list. These gifts will be obvious hits that both you and the wine lover on your list will enjoy for a long time. If you enjoyed our first round of wine gift ideas, then you’ll love these.

Today we bring you three additional holiday gifts for the wine lovers on your list from Aervana, Tervis Drinkware, and Winebars.

1. Aervana Essential One-touch Aeration, $59.95

The Aervana Essential is the newest addition to the Aervana one-touch aeration line. For those not familiar, Aervana is the first one-touch luxury wine aerator. Its newest addition, the Essential, provides the same amazing instant aeration for wines that need to breathe, in a fresh, contemporary format for everyday wine drinkers. Available in three distinct colors, warm and vibrant Saffron, fresh and modern Dusty Blue, or classic Glossy White, you’ll be ready for a night of wine at its best with one touch.

We also love the Aervana Essential because with every purchase of a Saffron or Dusty Blue Aervana Essential, $1 of your purchase will be donated to Food Lifeline, Aervana’s non-profit partner in the effort to end hunger.

2. Tervis Stainless Steel Slim Carafe & Tumbler

We’re not telling you to break the law or anything but we have to share this discreet way to enjoy your favorite wine in public. To do so, look no further than Tervis Drinkware. Their 25oz slim carafe and 12oz stainless tumbler make the perfect discreet wine carafe and wine “glass”. The 25oz stainless slim carafe with lid, $24.99, holds one 750ml of your favorite beverage. The standard size for a bottle of wine is 750 ml. Coincidence? I think not. The slim carafe includes a leak-proof, insulated lid, and a quiet non-slip base. It will keep your favorite wine at the perfect temperature for 60 hours.

The 12oz Stainless Steel with slider lid, $24.99, is a double-walled tumbler that offers all the benefits of stainless steel. The Tumblers boast triple insulation to reduce condensation and keep your drink hot for up to 6 hours or cold for up to 15 hours. Its copper-lined 18/8 stainless steel construction is durable, and the material won’t retain tastes or odors. Lastly, it includes a BPA-free leak-resistant, easy-to-clean, and easy-close slider lid.

3. Winebars Versatile Wine Rack, $69.00/Set

Not everyone has a home with a cellar to store their wines; this is where the versatile wine racks from Winebars come in handy. Winebars are like bookends for wine. You can quickly and easily stack your wines anywhere with these sleek-designed racks. Perfect for small kitchens and as an elegant display, these wine racks can be placed everywhere, even your refrigerator. Plus they are made from solid aluminum, so they get nice and chilly in the fridge. Whether they drink red or white, the wine lovers on your list will love these simple yet decorative wine racks. Get a set of two of the Romantic Red, Jet Black, or Natural Silver for $69.00 on www.winebars.com.

Gift the Beauty-Obsessed This Unique Gift from Baseblue Cosmetics

December 12, 2020/0 Comments/in Beauty, Coupons and Deals, Lifestyle, Product Reviews, Shopping /by Glasgow Skinner

When it comes to the beauty-obsessed, gifting can seem easy. For the most part, it is, especially if you’re gifting them their favorite products. But what if you want to give them something a bit more unique? Believe it or not, that’s easy too. It helps if you have a beauty brand like Baseblue Cosmetics to help you out. We were looking for unique holiday gifts to bestow on the beauty lovers on our list and we fell in love with their products; you will too!

Give the gift of adorableness and enjoy the response of oohs and ahhs with the very festive Holiday Snowman Makeup Sponge, $13.00. This limited-edition makeup sponge comes encased in a gold-speckled bauble which can be used as a protective case or hung to spread holiday cheer. It is the perfect stocking stuffer for makeup lovers; plus it makes an adorable Christmas tree ornament beauty lovers can enjoy to look at and use.

Sure to be a holiday collector’s item, this makeup sponge blends liquid and powder formulations into a smooth, streak-free finish that looks naturally radiant. It is designed to absorb water and expand in size when damp. The curved shape of the Holiday Snowman Makeup Sponge provides a cozy grip to improve application technique and control.

The festive beauty tool works well when dry and provides optimal coverage when wet to reduce product buildup. We love that it is basically three makeup sponges in one. Use the head of the snowman to maneuver around small crevices with precision; use the bottom to effortlessly buff while the snowman’s body is great to roll formulas into your skin.

To make this adorable gift even more amazing, Baseblue Cosmetics has a Buy 1 get 1 FREE sale when you use the Code: XMAS. Now is the perfect time to stock up on these cuties or their other wonderful makeup and beauty tools.

How To Support WOC Artisans This Holiday Season

December 7, 2020/0 Comments/in Accessories, Frontpage Article, House and Home, Lifestyle, Shopping /by Contributing Writer

When the holiday season starts, one of the hardest decisions you need to make is where to direct your spending money. While big-box stores and large online marketplaces like Amazon offer convenience with quick delivery and pick-up options, you don’t get a sense of doing good with your money.

Instead of opting for convenience this year, you can use your hard-earned money to support people who need it, especially WOC. There are about 28 million small businesses in the United States and when you buy from any one of them, you can know that you brought a smile to a business owner’s face. By buying from a woman of color, you can know that you helped someone who doesn’t get the advantages that a white, male business owner does.

There are female artisans of color in every community but you may not always know that they’re there. One brand is dedicated to making sure that the talent of these women is brought front and center. TCTLE, pronounced “tac-tile,” is a brand founded by Deepa Shanbhag and is dedicated to supporting creative women of color. Shanbhag was inspired to build TCTLE after years of finding that she was often one of the few or the only WOC on a creative team for a job. Her goal with TCTLE was to help keep other women from feeling like the “other” in the creative workplace. For individuals and organizations that are looking for new talent, TCTLE hosts a free global directory of WOC in creative professions.

TCTLE is also an online store. TCTLE partners with other WOC business owners and sells some of their products through the online store. Some of the WOC whose items are available for purchase on the site include Lorenia Henriquez of Luni, Katherine Kisa of K Kisa Fine Art and Craft, and Tehmina Brohi of Istani; pictured above with Deepa Shanbhag. To further help communities of color, 10% of each purchase is donated to an organization that helps people of color. Right now, TCTLE is donating to the Coronavirus Care Fund, set up by the National Domestic Workers Alliance. About 55 million Americans in 12 different industries are deemed “essential” at this time and this fund was started to help some of those workers. The fund provides emergency assistance to domestic workers, such as nannies, house cleaners, and home care workers, so that they can stay home and stay healthy during the pandemic.

If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind gifts for your loved ones this year, look no further than the goods from the artisans on the TCTLE store. About 86% of people say that receiving flowers makes them feel special but any of the gifts from these talented artisans are sure to evoke that feeling of being special as well. The store carries a wide range of gifts, including colorful hats, unique charm necklaces, bold bangles, and comfy scarves. When you purchase from these artisans, you’ll also get to know a little bit about them, bringing you even closer to the people you’re supporting.

Consider what’s on your loved ones’ wishlists this year and find something they’re sure to love at TCTLE’s store. Not only will you be making your loved one happy but you’ll be supporting a WOC artisan and lifting up essential members of our community. You can truly spread some holiday cheer by purchasing from TCTLE this year.