March 31, 2023

3 Tips for a Big Body Blowout

Big 90’s blowouts are back and achieving the massive volume and bounce is so much faster now.  “Using products that reduce drying time, brushes that heat up and blow dryers with ionic features all help to create a big body blowout in less time,” says Anna Peters, Sam Villa ArTeam Member and owner of  re:TREAT Color + Hair Design Studio  @annas_hair_retreat.  See the technique here.

Here are 3 keys to a big body blowout:

  1. Apply a leave-in treatment and primer for soft long-lasting body, faster drying time and heat protection.  Try a leave-in from K18 and/or Redken Quick Dry Primer.
  2. Make sure the air concentrator is attached and angled in a way that makes it easy for arms and body to move. Blow dry hair in the direction it should lay with the concentrator moving down the hair shaft for extra shine. The ionic feature on the Sam Villa Professional Light Ionic Blow Dryer will add extra shine.
  3. Once 80% dry, take large sections, elevate hair with 1.5” round brush for maximum volume and wrap around the barrel of a brush heating hair in that shape for body and movement. Clip hair into place with Sam Villa Dry Sectioning Clips (they won’t leave a mark in the hair) and cool completely. Once cool, remove clips and use hands to style.

Sam Villa is Co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of the Sam Villa Company (Allvus, LLC), a leading education and styling tool company for the professional hair industry. He is also Global Artistic Ambassador for Redken 5th Avenue, a L’Oreal brand. Villa is the 2021 NAHA Educator of the YearHair Awards USA Hall of Fame Inductee, 2021 AHP Icon Stylist Influencer of the Year, 2020 International Hairdressing Awards ‘International Hair Influencer of the Year,’ the 2017 NAHA Lifetime Achievement Award Winner, Intercoiffure America/Canada Member, Behind the Chair Stylist Choice Award Winner for Favorite Platform Artist and Educator (2012, 2011 and 2007) and Favorite Overall Educator of the Year (2015). His inspiring education and innovative ergonomic styling tools can be experienced on samvilla.com. The Sam Villa brand brings free digital education to everyone including hot tips and techniques, as well as access to livestreamed educational events. The company also offers professional tools for consumers so they can achieve salon-quality results at home with minimum effort.

Facebook@SamVillaProsInstagram@SamVillaHair;  YouTube@SamVillaHairTwitter:@SamVillaProPinterest@SamVillaHair.

SHARE THIS POST ON: Facebook
March 31, 2023

Advantages to Fostering a Child

Becoming a foster carer is one of the most important decisions you can make. You will be in a position to truly turn a child’s life around. At the same time, there are benefits that accrue to you as the foster carer. Here we look at the benefits to foster children and their carers that arise from the fostering relationship. 

Advantages for Foster Children

Foster children gain many benefits from being placed in a suitable foster home. Here are a few:

A Different Family Dynamic

When a child is placed in foster care, they are coming from a background of trauma, such as being neglected or even abused physically, emotionally, mentally, and/or sexually. This derails the normal developmental milestones of each successive stage of childhood. But you can make the difference between developing mental health issues such as PTSD and depression and the warmth of a stable, loving home.

A Safe Environment

After the challenges of abuse and neglect in the primary home, a foster child gains a safe environment when they are placed with the right family or carer. A child needs to feel safe enough to express their needs and opinions. You give children this chance as a foster carer. 

Academic Success

Almost 50% of foster children have been found to have lower reading skills than their peers. Being placed can help the child to focus on their schoolwork in a safe environment. The first eight years of life are crucial to setting down the healthy psyche and developing correctly on the mental and emotional levels. As a foster carer, you can ensure the successful completion of a child’s schooling.

Advantages for Foster Carers

Foster care is not thankless work. As well as financial compensation and other benefits, there are many rewards to be reaped. Here are some benefits you will experience as a foster carer:

A Fostering Allowance

Foster carers enter this career to make a difference in a child’s life. However, they are not expected to do this purely from the goodness of their hearts. Find out more about the fostering allowance and other support that foster carers receive from fosteringpeople.co.uk.

A Great Career

You will find fulfilment in being a foster carer. It is a career choice as you need to be able to focus on the wellbeing of children in your care. Apart from being well-paid, you will be able to grow and develop new skills and feel emotionally rewarded as you take care of these children in need. You will see the results of your efforts and be inspired to continue in this role.

Long-term Foster Care 

When you first embark on a fostering role, you will usually be given short-term placements as you find your feet. Later, you may have the opportunity to engage in long-term foster care. This is doubly rewarding. Not only are you helping a child in need, but you also get to include the foster child as a permanent member of your household. 

Changing a Child’s Life

The greatest reward of being a foster carer is knowing that you have given a disadvantaged child a new lease on life. Watching a child blossom into a happy and productive person is a wonderful feeling that makes it worthwhile. 

Make the decision today to change a child’s life for the better.

SHARE THIS POST ON: Facebook
March 31, 2023

GK Hair Stays Ahead in The Sustainability Initiative with Vegan Hair Product Range

Of all the pressing issues that concern human survival, environmental sustainability makes it to the top of the list. Our carefree living has given an irreversible damage to the environment and climate, and there is no way around it. According to the United Nations’ 2021 report, the survival of the future is on the verge of “code red,” since rapid climate change and environmental damage does not seem to come to halt anytime soon. Therefore, a sustainability initiative is inarguably necessary to save humanity from the threat of environmental damage.

GK Hair, being the owner of Juvexin and a leading name in the industry, also took a strong initiative towards sustainability and established an entire vegan hair care range. According to a recent study, it has been revealed that veganism can actually bring about a huge reduction in carbon footprint. All of the greenhouse effect that comes from breeding of the animals to feeding them and harvesting their benefits, can be drastically reduced if the same benefits are harvested through plants. As per GK Hair’s scientific research worth years of efforts and testing, it has been established that any benefit that we can gain by damaging the environment, we can always find a more sustainable alternative through plants. The development of Juvexin and Juvexin V2 is a living proof of the claim. Therefore, with proper research and implementation, sustainability can be improved and the planet can be saved without compromising on the quality of living.

The GK Hair Vegan Range includes Vegan Dry Shampoo, CBD Shampoo and Conditioner, and the first Vegan Taming Treatments in the hair industry. Infused with Juvexin V2, a vegan protein blend derived from Quinoa and Pea, these products deliver amazing results and are loved by salon professionals and home users alike. The Vegan Dry Shampoo has been a revolutionary product for our vegan audience with extremely oily hair and no vegan solution. With just a few spritzes of the product on the roots, the hair is free of excess oil and sebum without an actual hair wash. Similarly, Vegan Taming Treatments have been game-changing for those who’d love to have manageable hair but are unable to find a vegan solution. The vegan Juvexin present within replenishes the hair and rebuilds the hair to its core, making it healthy, smooth, and frizz-free.

For more information, visit GK Hair website on:

Website: https://www.gkhair.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/gkhair
Instagram: https://instagram.com/GKhair
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GKhair
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/gkhair
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/GKhair/

SHARE THIS POST ON: Facebook
March 31, 2023

Good Molecules B5 Hydrating Body Serum Is NOW Available @ Ulta.com & GoodMolecules.com

Good Molecules  just launched B5 Hydrating Body Serum ($18) a silky, gel-like serum to replenish moisture and leave skin feeling smooth — available on Ulta.co and GoodMolecules.com HERE. The gen-z favorite skincare brand offers transparent ingredients that are clean and science-backed.

About Good Molecules B5 Hydrating Body Serum:

  • A silky, gel-like serum that glides on smoothly and dries fast to replenish moisture and leave skin feeling smooth.
  • Formulated with panthenol (B5), beta glucan, and polyglutamic acid, the Good Molecules B5 Hydrating Body Serum helps hold moisture to strengthen the skin barrier.
  • Retails for $18 (USD) for a 200ml bottle and is available directly on: https://www.goodmolecules. and  https://www.ulta.com
  • Vegan, cruelty free, and fragrance free

The key ingredients in B5 Hydrating Body Serum include:

  • 4% panthenol—a form of vitamin B5—helps stimulate cells that boost skin barrier function and improves moisture retention.
  • 0.20% polyglutamic acid provides immediate hydration, making skin look dewy and plump.
  • 0.05% beta glucan soothes skin and provides immediate and long-term moisturization.
SHARE THIS POST ON: Facebook
March 28, 2023

Wardrobe Trends That Will Never Go Out Of Style

Fashion trends come and go, but some wardrobe items have managed to stand the test of time. These classic pieces never go out of style and are a staple in every fashion-forward person’s wardrobe.

https://unsplash.com/@beccatapert

Here are some wardrobe trends that will never go out of style:

The Little Black Dress

The little black dress, or LBD, is an essential piece in every woman’s wardrobe. It’s a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. It can be worn to work, a dinner party, or a night out with friends. The LBD is timeless and has been a fashion staple for decades.White T-Shirt

A white t-shirt is a simple yet classic piece that will never go out of style. It’s a versatile piece that can be worn with anything, from jeans to a suit. It’s a wardrobe staple that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. A white t-shirt is a must-have item in every fashion-forward person’s wardrobe.

Denim Jeans

Denim jeans are a classic wardrobe item that will never go out of style. They’re versatile, comfortable, and durable. Denim jeans can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. They can be worn to work, a casual lunch, or a night out with friends. Denim jeans are a timeless piece that will never go out of style.

Leather Jacket

A leather jacket is a classic piece that adds a touch of edge to any outfit. It’s a versatile piece that can be worn with anything, from jeans to a dress. A leather jacket is a timeless piece that will never go out of style. It’s a must-have item in every fashion-loving person’s wardrobe.

Classic Trench Coat

A classic trench coat is a timeless piece that will never go out of style. It’s a versatile piece that can be worn with anything, from jeans to a dress. A classic trench coat is perfect for any season and is a must-have item in every person’s wardrobe.

Black Pumps

Black pumps are a classic wardrobe item that will never go out of style. They’re versatile, elegant, and perfect for any occasion. Black pumps can be worn to work, a dinner party, or a night out with friends.

White Sneakers

White sneakers are a classic wardrobe item that will never go out of style. They’re comfortable, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. White sneakers can be worn with anything, from jeans to a dress. They’re a must-have item in every fashion-forward person’s wardrobe and you’ll never have to wonder what to wear with black pants .

Striped Shirt

A striped shirt is a classic wardrobe item that will never go out of style. It’s a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. A striped shirt can be worn to work, a casual lunch, or a night out with friends.

In Conclusion

Fashion trends come and go, but these classic wardrobe items will never go out of style. They’re versatile, comfortable, and perfect for any occasion. These timeless pieces are a must-have item in every fashion-forward person’s wardrobe.

(Image credit)

SHARE THIS POST ON: Facebook
March 27, 2023

What Necessary Steps Should You Take To Launch A Successful Hair Salon?

Beginning a hair salon enterprise can be extremely rewarding, but it takes the right mindset and commitment to excel. To ensure your launch is successful, you must plan for every step of the process meticulously. This blog will outline the necessary steps you should take to make sure your hair salon is a success.

https://www.pexels.com/photo/black-salon-chairs-853427/

Step 1: Find A Good Location

Location is a key factor in the success of any business, and that holds true for hair salons as well. Therefore, you must select an area with high-foot traffic so customers can find you quickly and effortlessly.

Step 2: Register Your Business

Before you can open the doors of your salon, it is vital to register your business with all applicable government entities. This includes obtaining any necessary licenses or permits from local authorities like a city or county government.

Step 3: Secure Financing

Launching a successful hair salon requires substantial capital. So before seeking out angel investors, explore alternative funding options such as bank loans and small business grants. This move not only decreases the likelihood of having too much debt before opening your doors but also helps you stay on top of financial risks that may arise in the future.

Step 4: Apply For Taxes

Securing a federal tax ID number from the IRS is essential in launching and operating your hair salon. Not only will this enable you to claim any deductions or credits associated with owning a salon, but it also simplifies filing income taxes come year-end.

Distinguishing between the various tax numbers available, such as TIN and EIN, is essential. This allows you to select which suits your business model before submitting an application. To better understand which type fits your company best, it’s necessary to do some research on the topic. For example, ponder questions like what is an ein and why do you need one? Or find out how to obtain a federal tax id number. These are just two ways in which you can help elucidate the differences between them.

By considering all options beforehand, you will be able to set up your business confidently, knowing that you have chosen the right option for success!

Step 5: Hire Employees

The success of any business relies on the team behind it. So when hiring staff for your hair salon, be sure to seek qualified and experienced individuals who will make a lasting impact. That way, you can ensure only the best are joining your team.

Step 6: Market Your Business

To draw potential customers to your business, it is essential that you market effectively. So why not begin by designing a captivating website with plenty of information about the services and products you offer? Also, if possible, include customer testimonials from those who had a great experience. Furthermore, take advantage of social media networks like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to feature your services while connecting with prospective customers.

Launching a successful hair salon requires dedication and planning. But, by considering the above steps you will create a thriving business within the beauty industry.

SHARE THIS POST ON: Facebook
March 27, 2023

Moving In Together? Here’s How to Make it Enjoyable

All healthy relationships progress over time. You might start out seeing each other once a week, but if everything goes well, then you’ll slowly begin hitting those relationship milestones. One of the biggest ones that you’ll experience is moving in together. This is big because it is something of a dry run for marriage and starting a family. If it’s a success, then domestic, long-term life might be in your future.

No matter how solid your relationship is, it’s important to take steps that will help to make the process of coexisting more straightforward, and even more fun. After all, the objective isn’t just for your relationship to survive living together, but for it to thrive. In this blog, we’ll take a look at some key tips for ensuring your journey of living together is nothing other than a resounding success.

https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-couple-having-breakfast-on-the-floor-3692875/

Embrace the Change 

Many couples move in together thinking that the only thing that will change is that they’ll spend less on rent. But this isn’t the case — a lot of factors will change. You’re not just living by (or for) yourself anymore; you’re living with a partner, and that comes with a big responsibility. Don’t assume that things won’t change, because they will. The key is to embrace that change. If you don’t like the thought of cooking together or buying milk when you finish the last drop, then you’ll be setting yourself up for trouble.

Add Both of Your Personalities 

This tip is more relevant if you’re moving into your partner’s existing home. If you don’t bring any of yourself, then you’ll just feel that you’re living in their space, rather than living in a joint home. There are plenty of ways to add touches of yourself, including bringing some furniture with you, hanging photos on the wall, designing the layout of a room with your preference in mind, and so forth.

It’s important to take this approach even if you’re moving into a new, neutral space. The house should feel like it’s both of yours.

Enjoy those Weekend Mornings and Cozy Evenings at Home

The key to making living together a success is to enjoy all the benefits that it brings. There’ll be times, of course, when you just act and feel as if you’re roommates — you won’t be basking in glory when you’re both brushing your teeth in the morning as you prepare to head out for work. The good times come from those lovely weekend mornings and cozy evenings spent together.

So make sure that you’re in a good position to enjoy those moments. This comes down to a little preparation and the right attitude. For instance, if you have a good entertainment system, a cozy couch, and invest in some comfortable clothing for men and women, then you’ll have everything you need to have a great midweek evening together. At the weekend, it’s all about making a delicious brunch with soft music in the background. These are the small moments that make living together so nice, so don’t miss them!

Be Clear About Logistics 

As we mentioned earlier, a lot will change when you live together. Rather than taking a relaxed, go with the flow approach, it’s best to be upfront as possible and to set some rules. For example, it’s much easier to define who’s responsible for which household chore at the earliest stage possible, rather than waiting for resentment or anger to set in. A little bit of communication and planning can help to keep many arguments at bay.

It’s also worthwhile having a monthly check-in, just to see how everything’s going. It’s an opportunity to make sure that you’re both on the same page and that there’s nothing that no one is unhappy with!

Retain Your Individuality

It’s not healthy to do everything together. One mistake that many couples make is thinking that because they’re living together, they should be spending all of their time together. If that happens, then you’ll be at increased risk of breaking up. After all, your partner can’t be everything for you! It’s important to retain your individuality and continue having your own life at all stages of a relationship, but especially when you first move in together, when the honeymoon period can be very real. By all means, you should enjoy that period, but at some point, recognize that by making time for yourself, you’ll ultimately be helping your relationship.

Take these tips on board, and you’ll be much more likely to deeply enjoy living together!

SHARE THIS POST ON: Facebook
March 27, 2023

Ariana Madix, Lala Kent, & Scheana Shay Relax During a Drowsy Sleep Co. Sound Bath

Vanderpump Rules stars Ariana Madix, Lala Kent, and Scheana Shay zenned out during luxury sleep mask brand, Drowsy Sleep Co.’s sound bath this morning before filming the Vanderpump Rules reunion. The trio wore the Drowsy Sleep Co Damask Rose Sleep Mask ($79.00, https://www.drowsysleepco.com/) and L’ amour Gold Sleep Mask ($79.00, https://us.drowsysleepco.com/) that are all made from mulberry silk and 100% black out making them perfect for meditation and beauty rest. Additional fans of the luxury sleep mask include Heather Rae Young, Gabrielle Union-Wade, Maya Vander, Meghan King, Alexa PenaVega, Winnie Harlow and Lindsay Arnold.

Photo Credit: Shayna Lavi / Drowsy

SHARE THIS POST ON: Facebook
March 26, 2023

Ready. Set. Glow. Strengthen Skin Barrier with AVYA Advanced Ayurvedic Skincare

Unseasonably warm one day. Super cold the next. Repeat. This winter’s weather has been unusually unpredictable. We have had to be resilient – physically and mentally. And so has our skin… fluctuating temperatures can wreak havoc on your complexion.

According to the experts at AVYA Advanced Ayurvedic Skincare (affiliate-friendly) if you’re looking for ways to keep your skin healthy and youthful, first and foremost, you need to strengthen your skin barrier, the protective layer on the surface that helps to keep moisture in and harmful pollutants out, and strengthen skin resilience. Moisturizing is one of the most important things you can do to strengthen this layer and maintain a glowing complexion. Additionally, serums are a great way to give your skin an extra boost of nourishment.

Founded by Deepika Vyas – a pharmacist and Ayurvedic expert – and Dr. Tanuj Nakra –a double board-certified facial cosmetic and ophthalmic surgeon, AVYA uniquely combines ancient Ayurvedic botanical ingredients (like Turmeric, Neem and Peony) with advanced science to concentrate and boost their natural healing powers for proven results. Two separate collections, the Advanced Collection – packed with anti-aging technology to smooth, refine and brighten for a youthful complexion; and the Hydroveda Collection – carefully formulated with a proprietary peptide complex and ancient botanical ingredients that disperse deeply into the skin, stimulating the natural production of healthy collagen for firmer, stronger skin – offer the following ultra-hydrating products to save your skin from winter’s fury:

  • Advanced Day Moisturizer SPF 20 ($65) – chemical-free broad-spectrum SPF 20 protects and shields skin from environmental stressors. Perfect for dry skin, this weightless moisturizer contains Snow Mushroom Extract and Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide to deeply hydrate and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Reinvigorates skin for a natural luminous glow all day long
  • Advanced Anti-Aging Power Serum ($88) – best-selling facial serum designed to help soften, smooth, and brighten for more youthful looking skin. Powerful, lightweight formula with encapsulated Vitamin C helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles; tighten the skin; reduces inflammation, helps control excess oil and clarify skin; and evens skin tone
  • Advanced Night Moisturizer (SPF: $70) – best-selling anti-aging night cream formulated with medical grade Vitamin A (retinoid) and hydroxyproline peptides is incredibly smooth and luxurious. Designed to help boost cell turnover; reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles; address hyperpigmentation; and intensely hydrate for overnight renewal – leaving skin soft, smooth, and radiant
  • Hydroveda Serum (SRP: $68) – a plumping and hydrating serum designed to replenish and nourish tired, dry skin by harnessing modern molecular science and ancient Ayurvedic medicine. Reduces inflammation and hyperpigmentation; increases moisture while reducing find lines and wrinkles; and helps promote collagen production for more youthful looking skin
  • Hydroveda Moisturizer (SRP: $60) – a rich, antioxidant-packed facial moisturizer designed to restore and renew; soothe and hydrate dry or tired skin; reduce inflammation and hyperpigmentation; help promote collagen production for more youthful looking skin; and prime and protect skin before makeup application  

AVYA Skincare is available at Macys.com, Amazon, Walmart.com, specialty stores, salons, and spas, and on AVYASkincare.com.  AVYA Skincare supports local communities in Austin and New York.  AVYA Skincare believes in empowering and helping people to be and feel their best.  This brand  is deeply committed to contributing to social progress, especially for women and minorities.

SHARE THIS POST ON: Facebook
March 21, 2023

JOIN TOCCA IN CELEBRATING SPRING & NATIONAL FRAGRANCE DAY! External Inbox

On March 21st, honor the annual National Fragrance Day with TOCCA (affiliate friendly) and its timeless beauty and old-world European charm.  The goal of this “holiday” is to drive awareness, excitement, and education around the fragrance category for consumers, unite the fragrance community, and kick-off the Spring season.

For many people, their scent is an important part of who they are, and that’s why they spend hours upon hours choosing the right perfume or cologne and then years wearing it every single day.  Indulge yourself and choose from these six TOCCA core scents:

  • Florence: Classic floral with sophisticated notes of bright Bergamot, lush Pear, delicate Gardenia
  • Cleopatra: Warm floral with seductive notes of brilliant Grapefruit, enchanting Jasmine, and an embrace of Vanilla Musk
  • Stella: Fresh floral with flirtatious notes of lavish Italian Blood Orange, sweet Freesia, spicy Lily
  • Giulietta: Fresh floral with feminine notes of fresh Green Apple, delicate Pink Tulips, sweet Vanilla Orchid
  • Simone: Fresh floral with optimistic notes of refreshing Watermelon, Ylang Ylang, tropical Frangipani
  • Colette: Warm floral with sensual notes of Bergamot, warm Sandalwood, spicy Pink Peppercorn

Take the quiz to find out which fragrance best describes you! Quiz – TOCCA

 

About TOCCA

From St. Lucia to Rome, a group of friends with a love for travel, vintage Italian apothecaries, architecture and design started TOCCA in 1994.  Named for the Italian word for “touch” after the intricate embroideries and textures that launched the brand, TOCCA celebrates the art of indulgence.

TOCCA is now a globally sought-after fragrance house known for its commitment to the art of perfumery. Tocca perfumers carefully curate ingredients to evoke a world of contemporary sophistication & modern femininity. Each fragrance reflects the spirit of a TOCCA muse or iconic place. Bath & body products are formulated with natural extracts, vitamins and oils, to deliver nourishing, touchable fragrance ritual experiences.

We share a genuine appreciation for timeless beauty and are inspired by old-world romance and charm.  Each of TOCCA’s covetable fine fragrances and indulgent home & body products are created with the same intent…  to invite you to take time to indulge and remember to Love Yourself.

Available for $80-132 online at TOCCA.com, Bluemercury, you can find TOCCA at fine retailers worldwide including Sephora, Nordstrom, Anthropologie and Liberty of London.

SHARE THIS POST ON: Facebook