Tag Archives: fun

The Blue Sky Tag

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The Blue Sky Tag

Hiii everyone and TGIF! Earlier this week I was so happy to be nominated for The Blue Sky Tag by my friend Megan over at Megan Elizabeth Lifestyle. Over the years, lifewithlilred has been nominated for lots of awards and tags, but never this one so I am really excited! Everyone please make sure to check out Megan’s wonderful page and give it some love – I’m sure that all of you will enjoy it as much as I do. Now, let’s take a look at the rules:

The Rules:

  • Answer 11 questions given to you
  • Tag 11 people
  • Give 11 questions

Q & A:

Onesie or Dressing Gown?

Definitely a nightie or a cute matching pajama pants and top set. I’m so obsessed with PJs as of late but I will never EVER wear a onesie – I personally think that they’re a bit ridiculous!

Bath or Shower?

For practicality purposes a shower but if I want to relax and have some me time, then a nice warm bubble bath.

What song are you currently obsessed with? (Mine is Green Light by Lorde)

Uhmmmm…. I’ve fallen into an unfortunate pop punk circa my high school years phase and am loving the album Underdog Alma Mater by Forever The Sickest Kids. Particularly “My Worst Nightmare”.

If you could have any chocolate bar in the world what would it be?

Trader Joe’s has this AMAZING dark chocolate bar that has chili powder and pop rocks in it and I freaking love it. I could totally eat like ten of them lol.

You’re having dinner with a historical figure, who would it be?

Hmm… I’m not sure. Does Johnny Depp count? haha

Why do you like blogging?

I love to blog because of all of the amazing friends that I have made all over the world. Blogging has put me in touch with people who I don’t think I would have met otherwise and I am so thankful for that.

What is your favorite blog to read at the moment?

Too many to count!

Cozy night in or wild night out?

I like both. Like, last night one of my girlfriends came over and we just drank some wine and watched Wentworth and it was a blast. But I do love going out to the bars with my friends when I’m feeling saucy.

Where do you dream of visiting and why?

Europe! Specifically Paris so that I can perfect my French!

What is your go-to choice for brunch?

It depends on what I’m in the mood for. If I want breakfast food, then definitely some type of fritatta and hashbrowns. But if I want lunch, then I usually go for some type of vegetarian friendly sandwich or a grilled cheese.

In your opinion, what is the best sitcom? (Friends, I’m not biased or anything!)

Seinfeld, of course!

My Nominees (I’m only doing three):

My Questions:

  1. What is your favorite topic to write about?
  2. What was your high school experience like?
  3. What was your favorite toy as a child?
  4. Heels or flats?
  5. Which beauty product could you not like without?
  6. What is your favorite thing to do when you have free time?
  7. Texting or phone calls?
  8. What is your favorite restaurant to eat at?
  9. What is one of your goals for this year?
  10. What qualities do you look for in a friend?
  11. What would you and your crush or significant other do on a dream date?

Thank you so much again to Megan for nominating little old me for The Blue Sky Tag! How would you answer some of the questions that Megan asked her nominees? How about some of mine? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Beauty And The Beast Review

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Beauty And The Beast Review

Hiii everyone and happy Hump Day! Yesterday night was a fun one because my older sister, Kristen, treated me and my mom to a night at the movies to see Beauty And The Beast for my mom’s birthday. I have to admit, I was semi ambivalent because I had heard some amazing reviews, some horrible reviews, but mostly very average reviews about the film. But the remake of Beauty And The Beast made me eat my words five minutes in because I absolutely LOVED it. It wasn’t just me, though. My mom, sister, and what felt like the entire audience seemed to be in agreement that this film was really special. Let’s discuss:

What I loved about this remake was that they stayed true to the original cartoon and then enhanced it appropriately. With these improvements, we gained further insight into the backstory of Belle, the Beast, and the castle’s inhabitants. Some people on my Facebook newsfeed deemed these additions “pointless” but I thought that they were brilliant. Why would a classic film be remade at all if there were no changes made to it? If it was a literal live action play by play of the cartoon, I would rather watch the original any day.

Now, let’s all be honest with ourselves here. We all know that that was not Emma Watson singing. The autotune was strong for her – so strong that it sounded exactly like the singing in the cartoon version. I ain’t mad at it. Only a little! Another teeeeny tiny bone that I have to pick is that the British accents seemed incredibly out of place because they are in France, after all. I would have loved to have had the entire film done with really good French accents, but we can’t always get what we want. And, finally: WHY WAS BELLE’S SKIRT TUCKED IN ON ONE SIDE?! IT DROVE ME FREAKING CRAZYYYYY!

Okay. I’m glad I got that off my chest.

But really, though. It was a hell of a remake. It really was. And that’s saying something coming from me because Beauty And The Beast is easily one of my favorite Disney movies. I laughed, I cried, and I enjoyed myself immensely. The cast was so strong and complimented each other so well, which made each scene in the movie flow perfectly. I wanted more. I was honestly sad when it was over! The little tastes of the retelling of such a beautiful tale left me ravenous and if a sequel were for some reason announced I would probably cry from happiness.

It’s crazy, because when you’re a kid, you don’t really think about how intense Disney films are. It’s only when you’re older that you can look at the film and be like “wow, that’s kind of fucked up”. I mean, there’s an entire song in Beauty And The Beast dedicated to killing the Beast. And don’t even get me started on the turmoil that Maurice goes through upon returning to the village after Belle stays as the captive. Of course, the cartoons are sad. But there was something about seeing this remake after not having seen the original in so long that made me weep like a baby. The characters were so easy to connect to so all you wanted was the very best for them. And for Gaston to jump off of a freaking cliff!!

Speaking of, I loved, loved, loved to hate Gaston with every ounce of my being! He was so bad and so good and I was so pleased with the “Gaston” number in the bar because that’s weirdly my favorite song. And, I thought Monsieur LeFou was perfect. The combination of Gaston’s meatheaded nature and LeFou’s sass for days was definitely a fun twist. And LeFou is obviously better at seeing the good (or lack thereof!) in people for crushing on a total asshole!

All in all, I’m rating this movie with a ten to the ten, ten, ten. Despite me being nitpicky, I had a fantastic time at the movies last night and would happily go see Beauty And The Beast for a second time!

(And, as always, I have no rights to this trailer or featured image.)

So there you have it, my Beauty And The Beast Review! What did everyone else think of this movie? Which Disney flick do you hope is remade next? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Featured Image By: Disney UK

Essential Accessories For a Sizzling Spring/Summer Wardrobe

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Essential Accessories For a Sizzling Spring/Summer Wardrobe

Spring has arrived and soon we’ll be basking in the glory of blue skies and warm climes. If you’re starting to think about your new season wardrobe, don’t get too carried away with expensive clothing because this season is all about the accessories. With the right accessories, you can ensure that you’re right on trend with every look without buying a different outfit for every occasion. If you’re after a sizzling spring/summer 2017 wardrobe, here are the accessories you need now:

The Embroidered Bag: Embroidery is massive this season and if you don’t want to walk around in patched up jeans or floaty folk tops, an embroidered bag is the perfect addition to your closet. You’ll find every style out there so you can choose from embroidered fringed backpacks or cross-body bags for festivals or patterned clutches for a chic evening look. Florals are hugely popular, but you’ll also find swirls, exotic birds, beads, and jewels. For a fun take on this trend, look out for bags emblazoned with customized patches or slogans for a cheeky wardrobe staple.

The Platform Shoe: A firm favorite in the 80’s and 90’s, the platform is back with a vengeance for spring/summer. Many designers mixed chunky soles with ultra-feminine touches on the runways to create an eclectic, fun vibe. Think sturdy heeled sandals teamed with frilly ankle socks and flatform sliders paired with skater dresses. The beauty of the platform is that you can add height without committing to walking around in stilettos all day. Platforms tend to be comfier and they’re usually easier to walk in. And did I mention that they are a Lil Red Favorite?!

sizzleHello, 90s fab!

The Earrings: This season is all about going large with your earrings and embracing the trend of mixing, rather than matching. On the catwalks, models were spotted with dramatic, hanging gems and masculine ear cuffs, which were embellished with a series of different studs and rings. This year, anything goes, so don’t be afraid to wear two different pieces or even just a single earring on its own. You can go girly with stylish chandelier earrings or keep it cool with a tragus ring or multiple studs.

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SO. Cute!

Rose Gold: Rose gold has been around for a while, but in the warmer months, it really comes into its own. This shade flatters everyone and it suits all ages. It also complements spring pastels brilliantly. Add a rose gold pendant necklace to a ruffled blouse and a pleated midi skirt for a beautifully feminine smart cashe look or team a tailored blazer, skinny jeans, and a silk cami with a statement watch for the perfect Friday night drinks outfit. If you’re looking for styling tips, have a look through some magazines, check out what your favorite celebrities are wearing, and have a browse online at sites like Frost NYC. With rose gold, you can be as playful or as formal as you like and your accessories will totally make the outfit. Dress up simple basics or vary your look by swapping between statement earrings, classic watches, bangles, and Bohemian stacking rings.

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 Love pocket watches!

The Miniature Bag: Gone are the days of hauling your entire collection of possessions around with you in an oversized hobo or tote bag. This season, it’s all about scaling things down and carrying the bare minimum with you. Miniature bags are a cute addition to both smart and casual looks and you’ll find a variety of options to suit your style and the occasion for which you’re dressing. Go for a tiny but incredibly sophisticated box clutch for an evening out or keep things casual with a mini backpack or even a bijou shoulder bag for a trip to the outdoor shopping centers.

Dramatic shades: If you’re a perennial aviator wearer, it’s time to step up your shade game and try out some different styles and shapes. This season is all about making a dramatic entrance and letting your sunglasses do the talking. Think oversized hexagonal frames, bold colors, and cat’s eye glasses for a bold “look at me but don’t look at me” look.

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 MeeeOW!

Spring is officially here so it’s time to crack open the boxes full of skirts, dresses, and tees and start thinking about how to incorporate them into your wardrobe. When a new season arrives, it’s tempting to buy a load of new clothes but you don’t have to go crazy to make sure that you’re on trend. Using accessories is a great way to create stylish looks without spending a fortune on new outfits. This season, embrace the new trends and have fun putting different looks together. Make a statement with some eye-catching shades or some dramatic earrings or keep things simple with elegant rose gold touches or a chic miniature clutch. No matter how you style for spring, let your accessories make a splash and head outdoors to show off your warm weather looks!

Loft Haul

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Loft Haul

Hiii everyone and happy Monday! I hope that all of you had a fabulous and relaxing weekend. My Saturday was spent getting my shop on at Loft and scoring an amazing haul for a seriously amazing deal. If there’s one place that I know that I can turn to for totally profesh but super fun business casual attire, it’s Loft. And let me tell you, my work wardrobe was in definite need of a pick me up. The beauty of the clothing at Loft is that their clothes can really be dressed up or down depending on what you need to use them for. I love that my Loft clothes can double for work or play and that you can get great deals if you know how to shop their sales. Check out my latest haul and then I’ll reveal the price for all five items that you won’t believe! Take a look:

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The Haul:

  • Two shirts both originally priced at $54.95
  • One pair of jeans originally priced at $69.95
  • Two pairs of sunglasses originally priced at $24.50

I Paid: About $80

So how did I do it? This is all compliments of my mom, actually. Thanks to beaucoup Loft Cash, percentage off promotions, and fifteen dolla holla sunglasses, she was able to dwindle down a staggering price to something much more reasonable. My mom started shopping Loft a couple of years ago and I have always been so impressed with the clothes that she has purchased. Like I mentioned earlier, they really are the perfect work or play wardrobe staples. The clothes fall in that amazing “youthful but not trying to be young” category, which means that women of any age can pull off their clothing and still look great.

It’s not like I’m a super avid Loft shopper but when I do spend time in their store, I always seem to manage to find some really nice stuff. Their jeans, for example, are the best thing that has ever happened to the bottom half of my body so whenever I can get a good deal on their black skinnies, I always have to indulge. The frayed ends of my latest black skinny purchase (because we all know that it’s all I wear!) were a fun little detail and I’m hoping to take a razor blade to the knees if I’m feeling crafty enough. I don’t own any ripped denim but I really like the idea of it, so if anyone is a savvy pants ripper and has any tips for me, please send them my way!

And, of course, I freaking LOVE my new tops. In the pictures, they might look like your standard T, but they are actually made out of one hundred percent polyester so it feels silky and looks sleek as opposed to the regular old cotton T. These tops have an adorable eyelet detail on the back and the colors in each of them are my favorite. Green and yellow are two colors that happen to look really good on me, thanks to my pasty pale skin tone and vibrant red hair. As soon as I put these tops on, they just felt and looked SO good and if they had any additional shirts in different patterns I probably would have bought them, too!

Both of these tops will be great for when I’m out and about at work or paired under a moto jacket for errands or drinks with friends. I love the kimono feel of the yellow top and the deep green paired with the brighter teal details really had me feeling some type of way! It’s going to be really fun to create new looks for my day to day work and play wear for an outfit that’s business cashe or a young twenty-something on the go (generally going to Taco Bell).

Finally, I am obsessed with my new sunnies! I haven’t bought new sunglasses in forever because now I usually just opt for my Chanel shades from my nail tech, Vinny. But these new ones are SO fabulous and I got each of them for seven bucks, so it really doesn’t get much better than that! The solid black frames scream Miu Miu to me and the duel colored tortoise shell and navy sunnies are so unbearably chic. Both of these sunglasses are shaped in styles that I don’t already have in my sunnies arsenal so it will be nice to throw on a fresh new pair of shades before I hit the road in the Little Red Love Machine!

Obviously, Loft was really good to me this weekend and my closet so thanks me for it! I am super happy with my latest Loft Haul and am ready to welcome spring with some shiny new wardrobe additions. Who else is a major Loft fan? How are you upgrading your wardrobe for spring? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Reader Map Update

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Reader Map Update

Hiiii everyone and happy weekend! So yesterday I was hanging out and listening to a little I’m From Barcelona and their song “Collection Of Stamps” came on. This song, a little ditty that gives an ode to friends and locations world wide reminded me that it’s been a while since I posted an updated reader map picture. So first, take a listen. And then, take a look!

(As always, I have no rights to this song. I just like it a lot.)

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I started making my reader map once I had a little over forty countries reading me with the pure intention of keeping track of them all. But now, with over one hundred and seventy different countries that are hip to lifewithlilred, this map serves as so much more than a location tracker. This little project that I began gives me such an immense feeling of pride every time I look at it – which is frequently, considering it’s located in my bedroom!

To know that the page that little old me started two and a half years ago is reaching locations that I never even knew existed completely blows my mind. This map has also made me SO much better at the geography questions on Jeopardy, which is a really nice added bonus! As soon as “Collection Of Stamps” came on, it made me think of all of my wonderful readers, friends, and followers in the blogging community and I just knew that I had to send a shout out to them in an Updated Reader Map post.

Thank you all so, so much for stopping by my page. If it’s as a one time reader or a loyal follower, I appreciate it far more than you know. Many well wishes and a ton of love to each and every one of you!

What country on my reader map would you like to visit some day? Where are you located? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Accessory Story: Houndstooth, Honey Edition

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Accessory Story: Houndstooth, Honey Edition

Hi everyone and welcome to a brand new and very fun edition of Accessory Story! This post is really special to me because it is compliments of the newest business venture of one of my dearest, darling blogging BFFs, Angela. You might recognize her name as she is the creator of my signature scent, Ruby Tulip, which will be coming soon to lifewithlilred. When Miss Angela isn’t busy mixing up amazing bath and body care goodies, she is dedicated to getting us ladies divafied on her new online jewelry boutique.

Angela’s jewelry website boasts gorgeous jewelry for a totally reasonable price. Not only are the accessories not going to break your bank BUT you also get free shipping with the purchase of one of her jewelry sets! It’s such an amazing deal and her shipping is extremely reliable. All of my jewelry from the Houndstooth Elephant Necklace Set arrived safely tucked in beaucoup bubblewrap and the most darling cosmetic case that looked EXACTLY what Ipsy would send in their monthly makeup subscription.

Seen below are a few quick pics of yours truly sporting my accessories from Angie’s Jewelry Boutique:

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What I love about the jewelry from Angie’s Jewelry Boutique is that it’s fun and flashy without being too much. All of the pieces on her website look amazing worn as a set but they also work so well individually. I’m not a jewelry set girl, myself. I prefer to mix and match pieces as I go along and I am super excited to incorporate the accessories from my Houndstooth Elephant Necklace Set into my every day outfits.

It’s hard to pick a favorite from my new set but I freaking love the rhinestoned orb ring. Huge statement rings are a major component of my accessory arsenal so I can’t wait to wear it and add some edgy glam to my outfits. And, of course, the ring looks fabulous with my talons! ❤

But what about the elephant adorned necklace and bracelet, you ask? Well, the necklace is going to be perfect for spicing up a T-shirt and jeans or a work ensemble while giving a little safari touch of adventure to the day. And as for the bracelet, I absolutely love charm ones and my favorite way to wear them is paired with some plainer, non-bangle bracelets to make the adorable elephants and houndstooth baubles pop. Throw this little beauty on to show off smooth summer ready arms or wear over a long sleeved shirt for those chilly March days ahead.

No matter how you style your set from Angie’s Jewelry Boutique, you are sure to end up with a sassy chic new look every time. Now, get to shopping! And remember, the shipping is free with every set purchase!

So there you have it, the latest issue of Accessory Story: Houndstooth, Honey Edition! What is your favorite piece of animal themed jewelry? What is your favorite set on Angie’s Jewelry Boutique? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

 

Hats Off: Nicole Marciano Edition

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Hats Off: Nicole Marciano Edition

Hiii everyone and happy weekend! I hope all of you are having a wonderful and relaxing Sunday! Yesterday, a quick stop to TJMaxx got me a super cute new floppy hat by Nicole Marciano for a whopping four dollars. Thanks to a ten dollar off coupon compliments of their credit card, I was able to snag this little beauty which I am SO stoked to sport this summer. Take a look:

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^^^ So. Fun!

I have quite a large hat collection due to a love that I developed from my grandma who had over one hundred of them! I love, love, love floppy hats but all of mine are either felt or wool which is fine for fall, winter, and the spring but not so much for summer. I’ve wanted a big, floppy, straw style hat for a while now but never managed to find one that I liked enough to purchase. They were all either too big, too small, too blah, or the shape wasn’t to my liking. Seriously, some of the floppy hats that I’ve encountered were HUGE which would result in the hat to droop in an unflattering sad elephant ear style that was just…no.

But, I absolutely LOVE this little Nicole Marciano number. It’s big without being gigantic, the shape that the hat takes when it’s actually on is quite attractive, and the “bonjour” detailing was just too darling to pass up. And for four dollars?! Hello! This hat is going to be so charming with a little sun dress, chunky wedges, and “don’t look at me” sunglasses for a glam but fun summer time look. It will provide me with the perfect shade and a touch of Paris chic for a day of shopping at my favorite outdoor mall, a trip to the zoo, or simply reading the latest issue of Cosmo on my deck. Just thinking of it makes me more than ready for summer!

Hats Off, indeed, to this cute as can be Nicole Marciano piece! What is your must have accessory for spring or summer? Who else has a hat collection of their own? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

A Cure For Wellness

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A Cure For Wellness

Hi everyone and TGIF! Last night, I went to the movies with my sister and her boyfriend, truly living up to the permanent third wheel status. Kristen, Ramon, and I went to see A Cure For Wellness and it was alright! Ramon told me that he heard it described as a combination of American Horror Story: Asylum and Shutter Island and I think that that was right on the money. I can’t say that it was my favorite movie I’ve ever seen in my life but I’m glad that I saw it. However, I would have much preferred to see Get Out, instead! Hopefully that will happen soon because I’d love to see it in theaters.

I’m not going to give away any spoilers because the movie is still brand new but it really did leave me scratching my head. I do like when movies are thought provoking and ambiguous because I love nothing more than discussing film and TV show theories with my friends. I mean, I know what I took away from the plot points that they seemed to leave up to interpretation and, I hate to brag, but I’m pretty sure my theory is close to what they were trying to tell us without actually telling us.

So, that was vague. But what I will say is that I thought that the acting was very well done. Dane DeHaan who played the leading character and ambitious Lockhart was superb and he was very easy on the eyes! All of the actors seemed to work really well with each other and it was fun discussing afterwards who we felt was good, bad, or could have done more at the questionable sanitarium where the film took place.

A Cure For Wellness isn’t a movie that I plan on watching multiple times when it comes out on video but I would like to watch it once more to pick up on things that I might have missed yesterday. Despite its poor Rotten Tomatoes rating, I still enjoyed my evening at the movie theater especially since I didn’t pay a dime for my ticket and popcorn. The Regal Theaters reward card is basically the best thing that has ever happened to me. As an avid lover of going to the movies, it is nice to actually get tangible and useful rewards like sixteen dollars worth of free swag yesterday night. And if free movies, popcorn, and beverages aren’t your deal, you can always go to their online store where you can spend your points on movie merchandise!

After A Cure For Wellness has been out for a couple more weeks, I’ll post what my general conclusion from the film was. But, until then, it is open for discussion in my comments section. What was your takeaway from the film? What were some parts that left you pondering? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

^^^ I have no rights to this trailer, which is compliments of 20th Century Fox.

Possible Spoiler Alert in the comments section!!

Featured Image By: Slash Film

Selfie Spam

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Selfie Spam

Hiiii everyone and happy Thursday! I have come to realize that I’m not the best at posting some Sarah Selfies every now and then on lifewithlilred. But, thanks to a lazy day, that is about to change! And what better time to do it than on Throwback Thursday considering both of these were taken a week or two ago?! SCORE.

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So, there’s that. Lol.

Selfies can seriously be either the most fantastic or most stressful thing of your life. I’ll tell ya, there’s nothing better than taking a fabulous picture on the first few clicks of your camera. When you’re feeling yourself and the lighting is giving you all the love, it feels like the hallelujah chorus should be singing your praises any second.

But, god forbid, that your pics are just not working. I can think of few things that are more frustrating than when you’re looking fab and can literally not take a “good” picture to save your life! Whether the lighting is wonky, you can’t make the perfect face, or your palms are sweaty (knees weak, arms are heavy), a selfie shoot that is going wrong freaking SUCKS. It’s like…you know you’re looking Instagram worthy so why in the name of all that is holy is it not translating to one measly picture. Yeeesh!

So, here’s to you: the selfie queens that can take a gorgeous picture about 99.9% of the time. I admire the hell out of you and salute you. Maybe, if Sarah Selfie Shoots weren’t so freaking annoying half of the time, I could aspire to be on your level!

It only felt right to upload some Selfie Spam today and my hope for all of you is nothing but perfect selfies in the future! What are your tricks and tips for a super like-worthy selfie? How do you choose your favorite picture when literally all twenty of the ones that you took look exactly alike? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Ruby Tulip Update!!

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Ruby Tulip Update!!

Hihihi everyone and happy Tuesday! My wonderful, talented scentstress, Angela, posted a Ruby Tulip Update on the Angie’s Bath & Body Facebook page and I am so excited that I had to share it with all of you! Take a look:

“A custom SPRING perfume RUBY TULIP for my blogger buddy and friend Sarah. RUBY TULIP is curating so the oils will come out perfect for her readers. It will be ready in a day or so and will ship in cute organza bags with or without rose petals (customer’s choice)

^^^ YAY!!!

I am so happy that baby Ruby Tulip is a brewin so nicely and that very soon, the absolutely delicious scent will be available for purchasing. Until then, I strongly urge all of you to take a look at the Angie’s Bath & Body Etsy shop, which is filled with amazing and all natural bath and body products! ❤

Who plans on getting a hold of the custom made Ruby Tulip scent? What is your favorite bath and body care item to treat yourself with? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah