Images

  • Soveral Skin Care…luxury for the face

    Soveral Skin Care…luxury for the face

    Soveral Skin Care

    Feeling my skin care routine was in need of a change, I started researching options and, through a variety of articles, decided to try Soveral Skincare. Alexandra Soveral is a London based aesthetician who has created her own line of products made from essentials oils, natural vitamins and antioxidants. She uses unrefined oils and unbleached waxes and butter in the production of her line

    To start, I ordered small sizes of the Forever Young Face Oil and Formula 1 Moisturizer from Net-A-Porter. From the first application, I recognized an immediate difference in the quality of the product. The luxurious and emollient textures leave my skin feeling hydrated and pampered. I then placed an order directly from the alexandrasoveral.com as I wanted products that were not available elsewhere.

    Upon placing my order, I was contacted by a cheerful representative who advised they would ship my order the following day as they were “making a new batch of the Awaken cleanser”. More intrigued than ever, I was anxious to try the additional products. Continuing to exceed my expectations, I have immensely enjoyed each of the products-the Awaken cleanser, Angel Balm and Volcano Ash mask. The packaging is clean and elegant, the products smell and feel divine and my skin has never looked or felt better. Another bright spot is that friends have asked unsolicited questions about my skin and the more youthful appearance. 

    Bisous,

    Rebecca

    http://alexandrasoveral.co.uk/

  • Silky Smooth Skin

    Silky Smooth Skin

    s

    Skincare Favorites

    Living in a warm weather climate means your skin is constantly exposed and, over the years, I have tried a myriad of creams, gels and oils to keep the skin glowing. While I enjoy trying new products, the products below are tried and true favorites for keeping skin soft.   

    skincare

    Fractionated Coconut Oil

    My aesthetician, Tristin Owen, owner of Spa Skin by Tristin, recommends fractionated coconut oil for the ultimate hydration. It absorbs quickly and is not greasy. Other favorites include avocado and jojoba oils. www.amazon.com

    Aveda Lip Saver

    It only takes one swipe of this emollient lip balm to leave your lips properly moisturized…the soft sheen is a nice bonus.  www.aveda.com

    Philosophy’s Pure Grace Shower Cream

    This velvety shower cream has a crisp, clean scent, leaving you refreshed. www.philosophy.com

    Pevonia Botanica Ligne Nymphe

    The superfine body polish is gentle, yet effective, and leaves your skin silky smooth.  www.pevonia.com

    Aveda Hand & Foot Cream

    Both of these creamy formulas are best-in-class for moisturizing worn hands and feet. Also available in travel sizes which is often when needed most. www.aveda.com

    Draw yourself a bath, brew a cup of tea and lather up. 

    Bisous,

    Rebecca

  • The Perfect Cheese Board

    The Perfect Cheese Board

    s

    The Perfect Cheese Board

    perfect cheese board

    When hosting friends for afternoon cocktails or a full-fledged dinner, one of the simplest and most well-received hors d’eurveues is a charcuterie and cheese plate. It allows guests to sample a range of flavors and textures. Since little preparation is needed, it is a staple of mine.

    To create a compelling presentation, it is important to offer a variety of colors, shapes, flavors and textures. As many have dietary needs, it also gives a greater chance there will be something for everyone. Below is a list of what I like to use when creating a board.

    Charcuterie-Offer 2-3 selections. I like prosciutto, pancetta or salami

    Cheese-Select a range of textures and flavors. Favorites include robiola, manchego, chevre, gouda, aged parmesan, blue and camembert.

    Roasted Peppers-Using both red and yellow gives your plate a pop of color.

    Olives-Many grocery stores now offer olive bars, try to include 3-4 varieties.

    Nuts-Marcona almonds, walnuts, pistachios and roasted almonds are all crowd-pleasing options.

    Bread & Crackers-I use a French baguette, sliced. Rosemary crackers, crostini or water crackers are other options.

    Other items I like to include are olive oil, sea salt, cornichons, figs, and sliced pears.

    Hope you and your guests enjoy!

    Bisous,

    Rebecca

  • Fall Favorite: The Red Lip

    Fall Favorite: The Red Lip

     

    redlips-for-webSleek and Sultry

    This fall, have been inspired by the cherry and brick red colored lips featured in magazine editorials and Instagram feeds. The bold splash of color is refreshing after a summer of lip balm and neutral glosses. Always a bit uncomfortable wearing bright lipstick, I vowed to find two shades I like. After testing multiple shades, have landed on two combinations that work well.

    When looking for a bit of evening glamour, the classic bright red lip is a favorite. Layer MAC’s Redd lip pencil with their Russian Red lipstick and top off with a coat of shiny clear gloss. Maintenance is key with this look so be sure to reapply after dinner or drinks. For day or a casual evening out, Nars Olivia lipstick is perfect. The deep red in a creamy matte finish looks lovely when applied directly to the lip.  I keep the rest of my makeup simple and the lips are the perfect accessory. Try these or test others to find the perfect shade for you.

    Bisous,

    Rebecca

  • Mini Berry Cheesecakes

    Mini Berry Cheesecakes

    s

    Cheesecake Recipe from Call Me Cupcake 

    cheesecake-close-up-for-web

    Thank you to Linda Lomelio, founder of Call Me Cupcake, for the creation of her fantastic blog dedicated to beautiful desserts and compelling photography. While many of her creations seem daunting, I prepared her No Bake Berry Cheesecake Recipe as miniature cheesecakes with success. The recipe is delicious and easy to follow. The cake has a bright flavor, fluffy texture and a rich, chocolaty crust. Your guests will adore this luxe dessert. Look for this and many other recipes at her website.

    http://call-me-cupcake.blogspot.com/

    Bisous,

    Rebecca

  • Stripes & Florals

    Stripes & Florals

    stripes and florals

    s

    Stripes & Florals

    Having worked early in my career as a buyer for White House Black Market, where we obsessed over all combinations of black and white…I have since enjoyed pulling together black and white outfits. My recent favorite would make my “alma mater” proud. I paired Givenchy floral print sandals back to a Tibi striped skirt, silk halter and my Joie Bianca clutch. Mixing stripes and floral prints are an easy way to create a sophisticated look. Keep the color palette and size of print similar, and, voila! You have a perfect ensemble. 

    Bisous,

    Rebecca