Keep Summer Going at Westgate Myrtle Beach

As much as I love the Fall… it’s always hard to let Summer go. I recently went on a trip to Myrtle Beach and immediately transported myself back into Summer vacation mode. Bye, chilly New York City! And hellooo sunny Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

This was my first time spending time in Myrtle Beach and I wasn't too sure what to expect. Would it be like rowdy Spring Break year-round? How’s the southern beachside food scene? Is the ocean too chilly to swim in this time of year? I was filled with curiosity and couldn’t wait to explore for you.

For starters, it’s not like Spring Break all year round. There are lots of fun bars to attend if you’d like, but Myrtle Beach is extremely family friendly. Everyone around town is warm and welcoming and they really embrace southern Hospitality. There were restaurants like RipTydz Oceanfront Grille & Rooftop Bar on the famous Myrtle Beach Boardwalk that had games for kids like corn hole right outside. And needless to say, there are always lots of kids on the beach boogie boarding and building sand castles.

I stayed in the Westgate Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Resort which has a lazy river and small waterpark for kids. It’s every kid’s dream to have a little waterpark like that right outside your hotel room! I stayed in an oceanfront suite which was also more than ideal for a family. Some rooms are bigger than others, but in mine, I had one king bed, one large bathroom, a full kitchen, laundry, dishwasher, balcony, fridge/freezer, living room with a pull-out couch, etc. This is clearly the best Myrtle Beach hotel for kids.

The food scene was everything I wanted out of southern beachside food. Everywhere you go, you have fresh seafood and delicious comfort food. I had everything from sushi to seafood boils, and the best fried pickles I’ve ever had in my life (Don’t miss the fried pickles at RipTydz)! There is always something for everyone. And the portions are pretty big. Can never complain about that!

And about the ocean… it was perfect. I visited at the end of September and the water was a bit on the chillier side but not too cold to swim or play in. In my opinion, it was the perfect temperature to cool off in. I’d much rather have the water be chilly than feel like a hot bath. That warm water is what I’m used to after growing up near the Gulf of Mexico.

As a Florida-raised gal, I always knew Westgate has some of the best resorts in Florida, but now I know they have the best resort in Myrtle Beach too. I am so excited to go back and visit the Westgate Myrtle Beach resort again soon. Next time, I will definitely bring my puppy and some friends along with me to enjoy that South Carolina sunshine.

The Tropical Destination That Dreams Are Made Of - Senator Puerto Plata Spa Resort

This post is sponsored by Senator Puerto Plata Spa Resort.

Anyone else feel like time speeds up when you are on vacation? My tropical getaway to Puerto Plata came and went way too fast! I suppose the upside to that is I can start planning when to go back. 

Let me tell you about my experience visiting Senator Puerto Plata Spa Resort from start to finish. 

I flew from New York City (JFK) to Santiago (STI) direct on JetBlue. There are two airports near Puerto Plata - Cibao International Airport (STI) and Gregorio Luperón International Airport (POP). POP is closer to Puerto Plata, but the flights into that airport are significantly more expensive than flights into STI. Whichever airport you choose, Senator Puerto Plata Spa Resort provides FREE VIP transfer from the airport to the resort.

Once I exited the terminal, I was greeted by my driver holding a sign with my name on it. He picked myself and my guest up in a beautiful GNC Suburban and whisked us away to the resort. The drive was about an hour long but it was awesome to see how beautiful the countryside of the Dominican Republic was on our way.

Upon arriving to the resort, we were greeted with welcome drinks and check-in was a breeze! Our room was ready and we were escorted to our room.

We were lucky enough to have an ocean view room with a swim-up pool. It was stunning! From our back patio, we were able to see it all - the mountains, the ocean, and breathtaking sunsets. There is also a trail that leads up a hill to the most gorgeous lookout spot.

Our few days at Senator Puerto Plata Spa Resort were filled with relaxation, lots of swimming, laying out, and food of course.

The property has three a-la-carte restaurants - Zao (Teppanyaki & Sushi restaurant), La Grappa (Italian restaurant), and Embers (steakhouse). There is also Larimar, which is the buffet open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. There are also tons of options for snacks or a quick bite - a coffee shop, an ice cream shop, sports bar (they have the best chicken fingers), a snack bar by the pool, and a pizza parlor. Your options for meals and snacks are endless! 

Senator Puerto Plata Spa Resort also has lots of options for fitness. The gym is awesome - it’s much bigger than most gyms I have come across in hotels/resorts and has equipment to meet all of your fitness needs. You can run on a treadmill while looking out at the ocean or you can hit the squat rack to get that booty ready for the beach! They also offer beach yoga and pilates some days - be sure to ask at the front desk to see what kind of group workouts they have planned during your stay.

Our mornings started out with an early morning workout followed by breakfast and fresh green juice at Larimar. The rest of our days were spent by the pool, at the pool bar (one of my favorite parts) or on the beach. There is a swim-up pool bar so you don’t even have to get out of the pool for a drink! I’m a big Pina colada girl so it was beyond awesome to get them while still in the pool. 

If you like to relax on vacation, great! This is the spot for you. If you are an activities person, great! This is also the spot for you.

Senator Puerto Plata Spa Resort also offers FREE kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkeling on the beach. We look the kayaks out one afternoon and had so much fun kayaking over the waves and getting a tan on the water. There are also so many colorful reef fish swimming around in the Caribbean that are so fun to look at. Be sure to grab a snorkel and explore!

The most exciting activity we did during our trip was an excursion organized by the staff at Senator Puerto Plata Spa Resort. There is a staff of vacation planners that can help you pick and book excursions off the property so you can explore more of the beautiful island.

We went to the Damajagua Waterfalls for a hike and a REALLY good time. It was just myself, my date, and our tour guide. We took about a 20-30 minute hike up the mountain and arrived at the top of a beautiful waterfall. The fresh water springs were breathtaking. The water was crystal clear and the jumps we did were about 15ft high. I was first to jump in - I love an adrenaline rush! 

We spent that morning jumping into waterfalls and sliding down others. It was such an amazing experience and although I don’t have photos (couldn’t bring my phone for obvious reasons), I have memories to last a lifetime. I highly recommend this excursion if you are visiting Puerto Plata! It was only 20 minutes away from the resort.

One of my other favorite experiences from my stay at Senator Puerto Plata Spa Resort was the romantic dinner they prepared for myself and my date. It truly was the most romantic dinner setting I have ever seen! It was just the two of us on the beach at sundown. We were presented with one dish at a time and went through 5 courses - fruit sushi to start, then on to soup, then a sampling of seafood, then our entrees were steak and lobster, and we finished off with dessert. It was the most romantic dinner in the most beautiful place. A night I will remember forever! If you are headed to Senator Puerto Plata Spa Resort with your honey, be sure to set this up. It would be the best surprise for your date! 

When I think back at my trip, what I remember the most was the staff. The service was unmatched! We were always so well taken care of and everyone was so warm and friendly. They made me feel at home.

All in all, my trip to Senator Puerto Plata Spa Resort was perfect. It was such a relaxing trip that I will always remember. Puerto Plata now holds a special place in my heart and I absolutely can’t wait to go back one day. If you are in need of a tropical vacation, this place is for you! 

Olay Retinol24 4 Week Trial - RESULTS

This blog post is sponsored by Olay.

Okay friends, it’s the moment you’ve all been waiting for…

If you follow me on Instagram (which most of you do), you know I have been testing out Olay’s Retinol24 collection over the last 4 weeks to see what the hype is all about. Spoiler alert, this trial is NOT the last time I will be using these products.

The last time I tried retinol products, my skin got extremely irritated. It would turn beet red and start peeling by the morning. It made me feel like I was doing much more harm to my skin than good.

However, I understand the importance of using retinol, especially while I am young for preventative purposes. Retinol is a powerhouse skincare ingredient that targets fine lines and wrinkles by increasing collagen production in the skin. Our skin naturally produces collagen, but it produces less and less as we age. The more collagen we have, the bouncier, tighter, and more radiant our skin is.

Upon doing research before I started this 4-week trial, I discovered that Olay says that 96% of users who have tried these products experienced virtually no irritation. Now THAT is a statistic I was really excited to test as someone who suffered from sensitivity to retinol in the past.

I can now confirm that Olay’s Retinol24 Collection did not irritate my skin in the slightest. In fact, it soothed my skin and kept my skin perfectly hydrated throughout the night.

My absolute FAVORITE product from the collection is the Retinol24 Night Moisturizer. I am a sucker for a really rich, hydrating moisturizer and this one really did it for me. I woke up each morning with perfectly plump and glowing skin.

I also LOVE that these products are fragrance-free. My skin can be pretty sensitive when it comes to harsh ingredients and fragrances but my experience using these products was quite flawless.

The other really fantastic part of these products is price point. Retinol products can be extremely pricey but Olay makes retinol skincare accessible for everyone. You can find these products at your local drug store.

If you are in the market for retinol skincare products that won’t irritate your skin or break the bank, be sure to pick up Olay Retinol24 Collection at your local drugstore or snag them online here! These products most definitely passed the test.

The Ultimate Guide To The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana

This post is sponsored by The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana.

You read about my personal experience at The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, but now it’s time to plan YOUR trip.

With 10 restaurants, 23 bars, 13 pools, and unlimited options for activities, you really can’t go wrong. I’m just here to help you weigh your options and make the best of your stay at the Hard Rock in Punta Cana.

FOOD:

• 24-Hour Room Service

  • Need I say more? There were a couple of times during my stay when I just wanted a slice of Oreo cheesecake at 2am or to have breakfast in bed. The room service menu is on the small side, but has enough to satisfy you for any meal at any time of day (or night). I highly recommend that Oreo cheesecake or the chicken fingers.

• Bistro Med

  • I had appetizers before dinner at Bistro Med one evening while I waited for my dinner reservation at another restaurant on the property. This is a Mediterranean and Lebanese spot perfect for a quick meal or something to snack on.

• Ciao

  • The Italian restaurant on the property. I only had time to visit Ciao for breakfast one morning and would highly recommend it. There are TONS of options from this buffet-style restaurant. I had a plate of pancakes, fruits, pastries, ham, and eggs but that's just a small sample of the buffet options. I can’t speak personally to the dinner menu, but have heard incredible things. Try dinner at Ciao for me and report back!

• Ipanema

  • Ipanema is a Brazilian style restaurant with an open view. I came here for dinner and was blown away by the meal I had. It was buffet-style - we filled our plates to the brim with fresh vegetables, pasta salad, and lots of grilled chicken. Our waiter came around to serve us Brazilian steak. I have a story of a sweet moment from my dinner here and you can read about it in this post if you haven’t already.

• Los Gallos

  • We had EASILY the most fun dinner here. Los Gallos is an Latin/American restaurant. I had a burrito for dinner and my friend Ellen had tacos. We both were beyond satisfied with our meals. The best part of this restaurant was the tequila man! There was a man walking around the restaurant with a cart of different flavors of tequila and he was so much fun! I tried every flavor except the spicy pepper flavors… LOL. Needless to say, we had a fantastic time there.

THINGS TO DO ON THE PROPERTY:

• Beach Cabanas (also known as Bali Beds)

  • The day that I spent on a Bali Bed on the beach was probably my favorite day. We had our own day bed (which is covered - so you can relax in the shade), and two lounge chairs in front of our Bali Bed to lay in the sun. Each Bali bed comes a cooler too, which is stocked for you with water, beer, sodas, and a bottle of wine or champagne. We opted for white wine. In my opinion, there is no better way to enjoy the beach. This is a MUST DO.

• Events happening on-site

  • There is always something exciting going on somewhere on the property. Check on this calendar on the website so you can see what kind of activities they have going on! During my stay, there were concerts, foam parties at the pool, karaoke nights, etc.

• Enjoy the 13 pools

  • … Or at least some of them! I didn’t make it to all 13 pools, but I loved the few that I did swim in. There are different pools for different purposes. To further explain, some pools are quiet pools which are nice if you are looking for a quiet spot to relax and read a great book. There is also a family pool which is perfect for families with kids. But for the record, you’re never too old for a water slide! And there’s a lazy river. Lazy rivers are one of my favorite things ever. You can’t miss that one!

• Spa day?

  • Sadly, I didn’t have enough time to experience the spa for myself. However, I talked to people during my stay who did have a spa day and they raved about the experience! The spa has 54 treatment rooms (plenty of room for a massage or a facial), steam room, clay steam room, dry sauna, sensation showers, and jacuzzis. This is definitely on my to-do list for my next visit.

• Take an excursion off the property

  • There are vacation planners on-site at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana who can help you book an excursion off the property so you can explore more of the beautiful island. You can choose from activities like swimming with dolphins, beach horseback riding, an off rider adventure, zip lining, snorkeling, etc. I chose snorkeling!

The property is enormous and clearly, your options are endless. The best thing you can do is explore and make sure to make friends with the staff. I have never come across so many warm, friendly people! I think that was the highlight for me.

If you end up visiting the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, please let me know in the comments below! I would love to hear about your trip.

xoxo,

Liv

My Experience at The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana

This post is sponsored by The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana.

I had the absolute pleasure of vacationing at The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana and can’t get over how incredible my experience was.

Where do I even begin? The property is beautiful beyond words, but I think the people I encountered during my stay made it all the more special.

To give you some context, I partnered with the Hard Rock to experience the Punta Cana property so I could share it with all of you. They were kind enough to allow me to bring a friend, so I brought my childhood best friend Ellen to come experience it with me. She also doubled as my photographer (thanks Ellen!).

There are 10 restaurants and 23 bars on the property, so finding a place to eat or drink is a breeze.

On our first night, we had dinner at Ipanema. We sat outside and had the most beautiful ocean view, which was just beyond the lazy pool. There weren’t too many other people sitting outside for dinner that night so we really had the chance to make friends with our waiters and waitresses.

We were indulging in some of the best Brazilian food I have ever had when our waiter told us another waiter is a singer. His name is Troy and he came right over prepared to sing for Ellen and me. He asked where we are from so he could sing something we would be familiar with and wanted us to sing along if we knew the words.

He started singing “All Of Me” by John Legend and little did Troy know, I am a singer too. I started singing along and he was so surprised! We were singing together and people sitting outside were looking over in awe. AND THEN… a man at the table next to us started singing with us and he had a phenomenal voice too! The entire place went nuts. It was a moment I will remember for the rest of my life. And it was so pure that I’m glad I don’t have a video of that happening. No matter where you are in the world, music can bring anyone together. In that moment, even though I was in a country I had never been to before, I felt at home.

The next day, we spent time exploring the property. We ran around from pool to pool (there are 13 pools and you truly cannot go wrong) before we spent the rest of the afternoon on our beach cabana reserved for the two of us. The service at our beach cabana was unmatched. Our piña coladas were never empty. You could say we really enjoyed our relaxing afternoon!

That night, we had dinner at Los Gallos. Los Gallos is a Latin American restaurant on the property and I don’t think a day has gone by that I haven’t thought about the burrito I had that night. Also the tequila man… I miss him! There was a man walking around the restaurant with a cart of different flavored tequilas and I tried them all (for research of course…) ;).

The next morning, we spent time running around checking out the few pools that we hadn’t had a chance to dip into yet. Then we had lunch at Isla for some Caribbean food before we left the resort for the rest of the afternoon to go snorkeling!

One of the best parts about the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Punta Cana is that they have plenty of vacation planners on site to help you book excursions outside of the resort. You owe it to yourself to explore this beautiful island. We chose to go snorkeling - it’s one of my favorite things to do!

That afternoon, a bus picked us up in front of the resort along with ~50 other people and we were off to our snorkel booze cruise.

We hopped on-board a gorgeous two-story boat with two hot tubs and a bar and headed out into the glowing crystal clear waters of the Dominican Republic. One of my favorite things in the world is Caribbean water so I was in my happy place. The reefs were beautiful and were flourishing with tons of curious reef fish.

After we were finished snorkeling, we went back to the top floor of the boat where we enjoyed a few rum & cokes. We made one more stop on the boat at a sand bar before some rain hit and we had to head back to the shore where a delicious dinner was waiting for us.

It was a long day but such a fun one. You truly don’t have to leave the resort for anything but I would recommend taking advantage of having vacation planners on the property to set up at least one excursion off the property so you can really explore the island.

And on our last day, we indulged in the best breakfast at Ciao (I highly recommend the pancakes) before getting a few more hours of sun.

The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana is truly paradise. Four days was not enough! It is an all-inclusive resort and every single part of it is perfection. From the food, the staff, the rooms, the pools, the beach, the bars, the nightlife… I can’t say enough amazing things about it. When can I go back?!

Keeping My Pearly Whites Pearly White

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of ARC. The opinions and text are all mine.

I have always been crazy about taking care of my teeth, especially after suffering an injury that pretty much knocked out my two front teeth - but that’s a story for another day. For a long time after my injury, I was very self-conscious about my smile and I felt like everyone could tell that my two front teeth had been through the ringer. Taking great care of my teeth and keeping them pearly white was what gave me the confidence to keep smiling.

When it comes to whitening my teeth, I feel like I’ve tried it all. I had professional whitening by my dentist, used whitening toothpastes, and tried whitening strips. These options are either way too expensive, not effective, or have harmed my teeth and/or gums.

I recently got introduced to ARC Blue Light Teeth Whitening and I am really freaking excited about it. You can pick your kit up at Target for just $45 which includes the blue light and 14 treatments (strips for top and bottom teeth). The best part is the strips are made with the same enamel safe whitening ingredient dentists use. You get professional teeth whitening quality for a way lower price in the comfort of your own home.

Since I got my kit last week, I have been using it once a day for 30 minutes. It was really easy to incorporate into my routine because I can multitask while it’s working its magic on my teeth! I either use it in the mornings while I am working on my eye makeup or in the evenings when I’m catching up on The Bachelorette. I noticed a difference in 3 days!

One of the other things I really liked about these strips is that they don’t slide around. Once you put them on your teeth, they really do stay in place. This is important to me because I have gotten so annoyed with other whitening strips that constantly need adjusting.

The ARC Blue Light Teeth Whitening Kit is available now at Target! This is one of my new essentials to be red carpet ready at all times.

Please let me know if you have any questions about using the product in the comments! I am happy to share more about my experience using ARC!

xoxo,

Liv

How To Care For Your Skin After a Night of Drinking

A little party never killed nobody... but a little party can definitely mess with your skin.

There are some Saturday mornings where I wake up like:

I know you all know the feeling.

 Alcohol really dehydrates your body which is one of the main causes of hangovers. But have you ever noticed that your skin can be hungover too?

 I know my skin is hungover when I wake up with dry, dull skin and sometimes new blemishes too. How nice.

 I have a two favorite skincare treatments that I am going to share with you that I always do the morning after a night out.

My favorite hydrating face mask is the Moisturizing Moon Mask by Glossier ($22).

This face mask feels like my skin is taking those first few gulps of cold water at 4am. It's an intensely hydrating face mask perfect for all skin types that will instantly plump your skin up with hydration, smooth out fine lines, and brighten your skin. It's the ultimate cure for a skin hangover and you can buy it here.

Sometimes I feel the need to double-up on my masking and do a detox mask too. Alcohol just makes me feel gross and like I need to start over. Anyone else?

The Body Shop's Japanese Matcha Tea Mask ($21) is the perfect pollution-clearing mask to help me start fresh.

It deeply purifies skin and gently exfoliates to remove build-up of city pollutants and everyday impurities. This mask feels tingly and cold when I have it on which I love. It really feels like it's working and my skin always feels so fresh once I wash it off. You can purchase this mask here for $21. 

If I really am going to double-up on my masking to cure my skin's hangover, I would do the detox mask (Japanese Matcha Tea Mask) first and follow with the hydration mask (Moisturizing Moon Mask).

This is my exact treatment routine to care for my skin after a night out. It works like a charm every time. Happy masking! 

xoxo,

Liv

Shop My Exact Skincare Routine

One question that I get the most in my DM's is "What is your skincare routine???". I have answered this question here and there but I have been experimenting with different products for the last few months. Well I finally have a  solid skincare routine and I can tell you where to get the exact products I use every day. 

1) Cleanse

I like to start my morning by cleansing my face with the Knours. Your Only Cleanser. This cleanser is so gentle yet so effective. It removes all oil, dirt, and imperfections from the skin. Since I started using this product I have noticed my skin is softer, brighter, and just feels super clean.

You can purchase this product here for $25.

2) Tone

This is the one skincare product that I swear by and I absolutely cannot live without. Solution by Glosser is a chemical exfoliator that can transform your skin in 4 weeks. I wish this was around when I was a teenager but I am so grateful to have it in my life now. 

This product is what makes my skin so clear and blemish free (most days).

You can purchase this product here for $24. It's worth 100x its weight in gold. Thank me later.

Then I spray my face with this toner:

 This Elemis Soothing Apricot Toner ($36) smells refreshing and perfectly soothes my skin after exfoliating with the Glossier Solution. It tones and rebalances the skin without dehydrating.

3) Apply serums

This Intensive Hydrating Serum with Green Tea Seed by Innisfree ($20) has been my saving grace this cold Winter. It's easily my favorite smelling skincare product right now but it also feels incredible on my skin. It's insanely hydrating and keeps my skin that way all day, through the cold and all. 

I also have a serum specifically for my under-eyes. 

The Eye Serum by MDNA Skin ($180) is the priciest part of my routine but definitely worth it if you struggle from dark circles and puffiness like I do. MDNA Skin has some of my favorite skincare products I have ever tried (moisturizer coming up next) and this serum is one of them. 

I have tried many different eye creams and serums. Most that I've tried have at least one of these three problems: they irritate my eyes, they don't sit well under my makeup, or they don't layer well with my other skincare products. But this MDNA Eye Serum doesn't create ANY of those problems. 

4) Moisturize

My every day moisturizer is the MDNA Skin Reinvention Cream ($75).

 This moisturizer makes my skin feel and look amazing. It is soothing and incredibly hydrating. This cream is basically magic -- it functions as a toner, serum, moisturizer, and a mask all in one. We love doing the most for our skin! 

You can get this moisturizer here for $75. 

---

And that's it for my skincare routine! I do love a good skin treatment though, and you can check out my favorites here for extra self-care.  I'm always up for a face mask!

 Make sure you subscribe to my blog so you don't miss my next post! 

xoxo,

Liv

Do You Have A Makeup Removal Routine?

Usually I post about applying makeup. Today I am posting about taking makeup OFF.

I have always believed that skincare comes first and makeup comes second. But there is one thing that bridges the two -- makeup remover.

I cringe at my old ways of removing makeup. Some days I would just use a makeup remover pad and that's it. Other days I would wash my face with a full face of makeup on and I considered that removing my makeup. Why didn't anyone stop me?! Middle school/high school me was a little clueless. (If you feel personally attacked right now… please keep reading. I’m here to help you take the best care of your skin!)

 I have found a combination of products that I love to use to remove my makeup. I love having clean skin, and my makeup removal routine has played a MASSIVE role in clearing my skin.

1) Remove eye and lip makeup with Elemis White Flowers Eye & Lip Make-Up Remover ($34)

I use a cotton ball to wipe away my eye and lip makeup, and this remover takes it off with ease. It is extremely gentle but gets EVERYTHING off your eyes and lips --I'm talking waterproof mascara, liquid eyeliner, the most matte liquid lipstick in your makeup collection. Everything.

2) Dissolve and clear away the day's grime with Elemis Pro-Collagen Rose Cleansing Balm ($64)

 I scoop some of this cleaning balm into my hand and smooth it over my face and neck. It dissolves makeup, daily grime, and pollutants while treating your skin to promote collagen production. I wipe off the balm with a warm, damp cleansing cloth. It smells absolutely incredible (just like roses) and I look forward to using it in the evenings. 

And as an added pro-tip. . . you can apply a layer of this cleansing balm to clean, dry skin as a collagen face mask. So good.

3) Wash face with Chuda Everyday Exfoliating Cleanser ($35)

This is my current face-wash (I just started using it for a two-week testing period but have a feeing it’s gonna stay for a while). I love it because it is a gentle daily exfoliator which preps your skin for the rest of your skincare routine.

When I wash my face with this Chuda face wash, my skin feels incredibly soft and I know it’s prepared to absorb the rest of my serums and moisturizer as much as possible.

Current Makeup Favorites

I am constantly asked about my favorite makeup products. Here is a handy list of my favorites with direct links to purchase. It's makeup shopping made easy!

Foundation:

Nars Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation ($49)

This is my #1 all-time favorite foundation. It's lightweight, long-lasting, full-coverage, and non-drying. It's the perfect foundation for any occasion. The shade range is pretty inclusive, too. 

Smashbox Studio Skin 15 Hour Hydrating Foundation ($36)

For a lighter option, the Smashbox Studio Skin Foundation is amazing. This is a light to medium coverage foundation with a natural finish. I have been loving wearing this foundation while the weather is cold because it's hydrating and keeps my skin from drying out. 

Concealer:

Tarte Shape Tape Concealer ($27)

This concealer is a staple for anyone's makeup collection and I'm sure most of you already have it. Am I right? 

I have been using Shape Tape concealer for years and it's one of the best full-coverage concealers on the market. 

Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer ($30)

This concealer is the sister-product of the NARS foundation I listed above. It's a creamy, radiant concealer that will make your dark circles *poof* disappear.

Brow Pencils:

Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Definer ($20, originally $23)

Anastasia Beverly Hills is known for her brow products for a reason... they're literally the best. 

I have been using this brow pencil since eyebrows became so trendy and it's so easy to use, super creamy, and precise. 

Trèstique Brow Pencil ($24)

If you like brow pencils AND brow gel, this is the perfect product for you. It's a 2-in-1 brow pencil so you have everything you need to sculpt perfect brows in one stick.

Eyeshadow:

Urban Decay Born To Run Palette ($42, originally $49)

This palette has something for everyone. It has shades for everyday wear, bold colors for a fun look, and smokey options too. I use this palette almost daily! 

Smashbox L.A. Cover Shot Eyeshadow Palette ($45)

This palette is relatively new in my makeup collection and I am loving it! It has the right shades for so many different looks - you can go natural, bold, full glam, or cool-toned. We love a versatile palette.

Bronzer/Contour:

Marc Jacobs Beauty O!Mega Bronzer Coconut Perfect Tan ($49)

Not only does this bronzer smell like coconuts, but it also gives a very natural bronzed look as if you just walked off the beach. 

TrèStiQue Color + Contour Mini Bronzer Stick ($10)

My favorite cream contour stick. This product is buildable and so easy to blend out into an effortlessly contoured look. 

 You can use the brush on the other side of the contour stick to blend or sometimes I use a damp beauty blender to blend. 

Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow Face Sculpt & Highlight ($68)

 This is one of the best sculpting bronzers for a beautifully chiseled look. I use this bronzer when I am going out for a night on the town, dates, or for photoshoots. 

Blush:

Nars Heartbreaker Cheek Palette ($42)

 A beautiful selection of NARS blushes all in one place. This is a limited edition palette and definitely one to grab before it's gone! 

Dior Rouge Blush ($38, originally $44)

 One of the best long lasting, vibrant powder blushes I have ever tried. I love that it smells like roses and creates a radiant look.

Highlight:

Anastasia Beverly Hills Sun Dipped Glow Kit ($40)

 I wear the shade "Summer" from this palette practically every day. These highlights are buildable, so you can keep adding to create a blinding highlight, or apply a small amount for everyday wear. 

Mascara:

NARS Climax Mascara ($24)

 If you are into dramatic lashes, this is the mascara for you. Hands down. 

 I don't have long lashes but this mascara gives me a false lash effect immediately. I usually wear this mascara for a night out.

Charlotte Tilbury Legendary Lashes Volume 2 Mascara ($32)

 This mascara never fails me. It doesn't clump, flake, or dry out. I use this mascara for everyday wear.

Lipstick:

Givenchy Le Rouge Lipstick in shade 306 Carmin Escarpin ($37)

 Behold, the best red lipstick to ever exist.

But really though... this is the red lipstick you all have been seeing me wear so much lately. Creating a red lipstick formula that doesn't crack or dry out your lips is extremely difficult but Givenchy nailed that shit.

This red lipstick is beyond comfortable to wear, doesn't stain your lips, but is still long-lasting.

Bobbi Brown Crushed Liquid Lip in shade Juicy Date ($26)

This is my go-to lip lately. My signature lip color is a warm-toned pinkish nude… and this hits the nail on the head. It has the look of a satin lipstick with the comfort of a lip balm. I am living for it lately.

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 Did I miss something you were looking for? Feel free to ask me any other makeup questions in the comments below! 

 xoxo,

Liv

The Best Shoes For Fall/Winter and Where To Find Them

Sponsored by Zappos.
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Have you updated your wardrobe for Fall/Winter yet? I just added two new pairs of shoes to mine that I am absolutely in love with and need to share with you.

I ordered the UGG Patchwork Fluff Slides which look like this: 

 And I also ordered the black UGG Classic Short Spill Seam Boot which looks like this:

 I styled both the slides and the boots with a pair of leggings, but these would also look great with jeans or with stockings under a sweater dress! Every time I wear these around NYC, I get compliments on them. They are the perfect shoes for a busy city girl like me. I love to wear a shoe that's practical for my on-the-go lifestyle but is still trendy. 

I ordered both pairs from Zappos and had the best shopping experience. The customer service was great, the website is so user-friendly and easy to navigate, AND my shoes arrived so quickly. They also have a huge selection of shoes from UGG and a 365-day return policy which makes shopping for the Holidays especially easy.

Here are some more photos of me wearing my favorite shoes around my favorite city:

If you don't already have a pair of UGG boots or slippers in your wardobe... I really don't know what you're waiting for. It's the perfect time of year to grab a pair and Zappos has you covered!

The Exact Products That Repaired My Hair

I have always hated having dry hair with brittle split ends... so I did something about it. 

 For whatever reason, I used to not believe that hair products could actually prevent damage or repair hair. I had tried products here and there but was never consistent with it.

Over the last few weeks, I have been trying to spend as much time caring for my hair as I spend on my skin. There are a handful of products that I have been testing that I KNOW are working. Read on to see the products that have made my hair healthier than it's ever been, even after going more than 6 months without a haircut.

SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER:

 Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Shampoo ($24)

Color safe, sulfate free, phosphate free, and paraben free. I love it because it gives me a deep clean and doesn't strip my hair. And not to mention, has one of my absolute favorite fragrances in the world.

Moroccanoil(R) Moisture Repair Conditioner ($25)

My favorite conditioner. Leaves my hair silky smooth without weighing it down.

AFTER SHOWER:

 It's A 10 Miracle Leave-In ($17)

I spray this leave-in product into my towel-dried hair. It smells amazing and is one of my secrets to shiny, healthy hair.

Moroccanoil Treatment ($44)

I am obsessed with the smell of Moroccanoil products and this treatment is a great hair oil to lock hydration in. I apply this to my towel-dried hair concentrating on the ends and sometimes, I even apply a little of this to my hair when it's dry and already styled for extra shine and hydration.

FOR STYLING:

Moroccanoil Perfect Defense Thermal Protection Spray ($30)

I spray this on damp hair before blowdrying and styling. It's hard to tell how well this product actually works but it's one of those things you might as well just use for the sake of trying to protect your hair. 

OUAI Texturizing Hair Spray ($12 or $26 depending on size)

This is a great hairspray that can be used to add texture to your hair while holding it in place. This is a must-use when I curl my hair.

HAIR TREATMENTS:

 At least once a week, I try to do a hair mask to give my hair the special treatment it needs to stay silky, healthy, and hydrated. Here are some of my favorites:

It's A 10 Silk Express Miracle Silk Hair Mask ($37)

Kerastase Masque Magistral Hair Mask ($53)

Tips and Tricks To Achieve The Perfect Halloween Makeup Look

Halloween is just around the corner and I am letting you in on lots of my makeup secrets to help you perfect your spooky look. 

Read on for easy tips on how to achieve different looks.

1) How to apply rhinestones and glitter to your face:

If you are planning on dressing up as an alien, raver, unicorn, mermaid, or anything else that calls for rhinestones... make sure you apply them to your face so that they last all night but also don't harm your skin.

Any time I have ever put rhinestones on my face, I have used eyelash glue. Eyelash glue is good for this because it's made to be used on the most sensitive skin on our faces (eye region), but it is strong enough that the rhinestones don't fall off. 

I like to use a bobby pin to precisely place glue dots onto my face and then place the rhinestones on top of the lash glue.

2) How to apply fake blood:

Two years ago for Halloween, I dressed up like a vampire and had fake blood dripping down one corner of my mouth and splattered on my chest. It was such a fun look to put together! You can buy fake blood almost anywhere this time of year (Walmart, Target, your local party store) but they key is how you apply it.

Sometimes it's good to have a friend help you apply fake blood so it looks as realistic as possible. You don't want it to look streaky and you also don't want it to look too perfect. The best strategy is to get creative and don't be afraid to get a little messy! I always look at Pinterest for Halloween inspiration.

3) How to paint your face with the most precision:

Two things are important here: a great eyeliner and great brushes. 

If you are going for a precise eye look, you need a sharp liquid eyeliner. One of my favorites is Tarte Maneater Liquid Eyeliner ($20).

If you bought face paint or are using eyeshadow to paint your face, you need a good set of brushes to help you achieve the look you want. A lot of face paint kits come with brushes, but let's be real... they're not the best brushes. Especially when you're going all out to create your best Halloween look yet.

A great and affordable set of brushes are BH Cosmetics Brush Set ($24). 

4) How to paint your face with colors you already have:

Eyeshadow can be a lot more versatile than you think!

Have you considered taking a wet brush to apply eyeshadow to your face to paint something? I have seen people do this to create detailed skeleton masks on the face or to create beautiful designs like fish scales if you're dressing as a mermaid, for example.

You can also mix eyeshadow with a clear lipgloss to create a new lip color. 

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Let me know if you have any tips or tricks for special effects makeup! Halloween is such a fun time to get creative and I can't wait to see the looks that all of you put together. 

xoxo,

Liv

Chanel N°5 LIMITED EDITION Eau De Parfum

This post is sponsored by Chanel. 

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The Holiday season is almost here and preparation has already begun! Have you created your wish list? Or have you started shopping for your loved ones yet? I am the kind of person who at least starts planning gifts for my family and friends in October -- and I have the perfect gift idea for you. 

One of the best gifts for a young woman is a Chanel perfume. These fragrances are timeless, gorgeous on your vanity, and will last you for quite a while. If I could recommend one for the Christmas season, it would be the Chanel N°5 LIMITED EDITION Eau De Parfum. 

This limited edition perfume is beyond stunning with its ephemeral red bottle and sophisticated scent. This floral bouquet composed around May Rose and Jasmine features bright citrus top notes. Aldehydes create a unique presence while the smooth touch of Bourbon Vanilla leaves an incredibly sensual trail.  

When I wear this fragrance, I feel empowered and confident. Whether you are adding this to your own wishlist or thinking of buying for someone you love, you can do no wrong! It is a very thoughtful and chic gift perfect for every elegant woman. Exclusively available at CHANEL from now until November 1, 2018. Available online and at select boutiques from November 2, 2018 to December 31, 2018.

Best Face Washed For Your Skincare Needs

I love skin treatments, masks, serums, and moisturizers. But one thing that is so important that I don't talk enough about is a good face wash!

There are so many face washes on the market that target different skincare needs and a good face wash really does set the foundation for the rest of your routine. I have tried TONS of face washes over the years and I have narrowed the list down to my very favorites. Listed ahead are my go-to face washes that I switch up in my routine based on my current skincare needs and environmental factors. Whether you struggle with oily skin, dry skin, or acne prone skin, I have a suggestion for you! 

FOR DRY SKIN:

Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Cleanser ($28)

This is by far the most soothing face wash I have tried. It is so gentle yet removes makeup and dirt with ease and locks in moisture all day long. It’s perfect to battle dry skin caused by cold weather but also great for summertime when you are constantly in the sun. You really can’t go wrong with this one.

FOR OILY SKIN: 

Olehenriksen Find Your Balance Oil Control Cleanser ($25)

After I wash my face with this Oil Control Cleanser, my face feels completely oil-free. It smells minty and feels refreshing and slightly cooling on the skin. This is absolutely 100% my recommendation for anyone battling oily skin.

FOR ACNE PRONE SKIN:

 Peter Thomas Roth Acne Clearing Wash ($38)

Peter Thomas Roth is one of my favorite skincare brands. This acne clearing wash is perfect for fighting existing acne and preventing future breakouts. I would suggest this face wash to someone who struggles with acne.

OIL-TO-FOAM 2-IN-1 CLEANSER:

Knours Your Only Cleanser ($25)

For the girl who hates double-cleansing. . . this one’s for you.

This cleanser is an oil-to-foam cleanser than eliminates the need to double cleanse. The oil cleanser gently melts away makeup and then turns to foam to rinse everything away. I love this brand because it’s made specifically for women and works with our hormones to give optimal results.

FOR EXFOLIATION:

Chuda Everyday Exfoliating Cleanser ($35)

This is a great cleanser for all skin types. I have appreciated the daily exfoliation more and more lately. I use a real facial scrub 2-3 times a week but this is a gentle exfoliator for everyday use that helps prep your skin for the remainder of your skincare routine.

If you are serious about your skin absorbing everything and getting the maximum benefits out of your serums, I would definitely recommend using a daily exfoliator like this one.

6 Easy Ways to Practice Self-Care at Work

Work hard, care hard. Can that be a thing?

Sometimes we get so caught up in our work that we neglect our mental health and well being. Over the years, I have learned how important it is to give myself a break and take care of myself. I have implemented little things into my daily routine to make sure I am taking care of myself -- while staying as efficient as possible when it comes to working on my business. 

Here are some little things that you can add into your daily work routine to help you stay focused and relaxed at the same time.

1. Light a candle.

I work from home a lot of the time and like to light a candle. It's the little things that can help us feel more relaxed throughout a busy work day. My favorite candle is the Capri Blue Volcano Candle ($30). It is "an energizing candle with notes of citrus and tropical fruits" (Sephora). 

If you work in an office environment and can't light a candle at work, try an essential oil diffuser ($24). 

Make sure you check with your neighbors to make sure they don't mind, but this is a great alternative to a candle. Especially because different essential oils have different purposes and you can choose a specific scent to target how you're feeling. For example, Lavender and Camomile can help calm anxiety, and Peppermint and Lemon essential oils can help you to focus.

2. Keep your workspace clean.

Like I said, I typically work from home. Every morning before I get to work, I clean my work space to get rid of any distractions. I have a hard time working when things are messy.  I am more productive when my desk is organized, and this is something you can do no matter where your workspace may be. (If you're really smart, you can straighten up at the end of the day so you can skip this step in the morning.)

3. Listen to music that encourages focus.

I don't like to work in silence and I also don't like to work with too many noises to distract me. My favorite playlist on Spotify to listen to while I work is called "Deep Focus". This playlist drowns out any distracting noises and encourages focus.

4. Take breaks.

As a writer, I sometimes experience writer's block. There are almost always times were my brain just feels like mush and I need to take a step back from my computer to give myself a break.  This can happen to anyone working on a problem or assignment for too long. If you are ever feeling burned out at work, be sure to step away to give yourself a break. Eat an energizing snack, stretch, go work out, or do something to take your mind off of what you are struggling with at work.  Getting some distance will help you refresh and recharge before getting back into the work grind.

5. Stay hydrated.

Because I spend so much time behind a computer screen (editing, writing, etc.), sometimes I forget to even drink water. I get headaches sometimes and start to blame the computer screen, and then I realize it's been quite a while since I have had a glass of water. Be sure to always keep some at your desk and stay hydrated! Being hydrated can help you stay focused too.

6. Keep a facial spray at your desk. 

It's important to refresh your skin throughout the day too! It's a quick and easy pick-me up, I love keeping different facial sprays at my desk. Here are a few of my favorites:

Elemis Superfood Kefir Tea Mist ($33)

Rodial Dragon's Blog Essence Mist ($52)

Biossance - Squalane + Micronutrient Fine Mist ($32) 

 How do you take care of yourself during your work day? Share with me in the comments below! I would love to hear from you.

xoxo,

Liv

The Ultimate Mexican Muay Thai Recipe

Last night I attended an event for Patrón where I was introduced to some insanely delicious beverages. One of them was so good, I had 3! (I had to make sure it was as good as I thought.) I received so many DMs from you guys asking about the recipe, so read on for all of the details! 

I was drinking a Mexican Muay Thai which looks like this:

MEXICAN MUAY THAI

• 2 oz Patrón Reposado

• .75 oz Patrón Citrónge Pineapple

• 1 oz Tahini Date Orgeat (if you don't have any, use simple syrup and a 1/4 teaspoon of tahini)

• .5 oz Lime Juice

• 3 dashes Angostura Bitters

Build ingredients in a shaker, shake and strain into a tall glass over crushed ice. Garnish with a mint bouquet and lime wedge dusted with nutmeg.

I did not create this recipe, but my friends at Broken Shaker sure know how to whip up a fantastic cocktail.

 Make sure you bookmark this page for your future parties because this recipe is one to keep!

xoxo,

Liv

The Summer Skincare Trend That I Can't Let Go Of

If you know me, you know I am skincare OBSESSED. I am always following the latest industry trends and trying them all. Well I must say, the Summer trend revolving around watermelon was one of my favorites ever and one that I can't let go of this Winter.

I love watermelon. It's refreshing, hydrating, and the perfect representation of Summer. Basically, it's like a superfood for your face. Lots of brands are incorporating this juicy treat into their products and I am SO here for it. And just because it's Winter doesn't mean we can't continue to use these amazing products! If you think about it, Fall and Winter might even be the better seasons to use watermelon as a skincare ingredient since most people experience dry skin during this time of year.

Below are my favorite watermelon infused products that are a MUST try. 

Bliss What A Melon Overnight Mask ($16)

I have written about this overnight mask before and I love it so much I am writing about it again. I consider this mask a part of my skincare routine because I use it at least once a week. It smells SO delicious and gives my skin all of the hydration it needs to naturally glow.

Glow Recipe Watermelon Pink Juice Moisturizer ($39)

This moisturizer feels like a treat on my skin. The smell instantly takes me to a poolside cabana with a glass of fresh watermelon juice in hand. But really, I wish. 

This moisturizer is great for all skin types (including sensitive skin) and really helps boost a natural glow and radiance in the skin.

Milk Makeup Watermelon Brightening Serum ($36)

 I am clearly a big fan of products that promote luminous, glowing skin. This serum by Milk Makeup fights dryness, wrinkles/fine lines, and uneven skin tone. Another watermelon-inspired product to add to your skincare collection.

WINKY LUX Watermelon Jelly Balm ($14)

This Jelly Balm is the BOMB. Not only is it packed with moisture to hydrate your lips, it also has pH-activated ingredients which makes it a color-changing lip balm to give you the perfect pink lip color. This is a must-have in my collection.

Sephora Collection Watermelon After-Sun Mask ($5)

This is the ideal summer treat for your skin. It's a cooling and hydrating mask that soothes skin after sun exposure - especially if you have a sunburn. This mask has also been proven to prolong 82% of women's tans who have tried it, which is quite the added bonus (Sephora). 

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Writing this post has me craving watermelon. Let me know if you get around to trying these products and share your favorites with me!

xoxo,

Liv