June 2016 Empties

I don't know if y'all like these posts as much as I do, but I really really love sharing these with you-especially when it means doing a makeup clean-out like I did this time.

I'm a makeup hoarder, I'm just going to be honest. This makeup that I'm getting rid of in this post had been sitting in my drawer forever needing to be tossed (& some of it got tossed without even making it to the post).

I used to hoard all of the drugstore finds I could get before I realized that there were better products out there, so now I've started my decluttering process and am hopefully going to have fewer, nicer products in the future!

Up & Up Cotton Swabs

I really like the Up & Up brand for paper products like these Q-Tips, I'll probably pick some up next time I'm at Target!

Covergirl Outlast Stay Luminous Foundation

I got this from my sister because she didn't like how it looked on her...I wasn't a huge fan of it on me, but I did use the bottle instead of wasting it.

I'll probably stick with my Rimmel 24 Hour Matte Foundation.

Crest Pro-Health Rinse (Travel Size)

I was so sad to see this be used up, because you don't realize how much you like having mouthwash on hand until you don't have anymore left.

I'll be picking up some sort of mouthwash next time I go to the store.

Bath & Body Works Twilight Woods Shower Gel

I consider this a Fall/Winter scent, but I do really love it.

It's very musky-I would consider buying it again once I've used up my other shower gels.

Gillette Venus Sensitive Skin Disposable Razors

I think I've said this before on my blog, but I am not picky at all when it comes to razors.

I'll typically buy what's cheapest or on sale.

These didn't change that about me, so I'll continue that thought process-if these are cheapest I'll buy them.

Colgate Max Fresh Gel Toothpaste

My favorite toothpaste ever, 10/10 recommend you trying it!

It leaves my breath feeling very fresh and clean.

Digestive Advantage Probiotic Gummies (Strawberry)

If you take a daily probiotic vitamin like I do, it might as well taste good, right?

I love the gummy strawberry ones-they taste amazing!

Palmer's Coconut Oil Body Lotion (Foil Sample)

This was enough to do both legs and arms, and while it did moisturize really well-I just can't get past the awful scent.

It smells so strong, it gave me a headache about 5 minutes after application.

There's no way I would suggest buying this.

Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes (1 regular size & 1 travel size)

Y'all know I swear by these and will forever repurchase them!

I picked up the travel size on a whim at our Dirt Cheap (if you have one, go immediately because they have awesome deals!)

It came out to around $0.40 so they were an awesome deal for our trip to Nashville.

NYC Best of Broadway Eyeshadow Quad

I remember loving this quad when I got it because it told you just where to put the product on your eye, and to be honest the highlighter in there is actually pretty good.

I've just had it forever and I don't really want to keep a whole quad just for an "okay" highlighter.

Rimmel Stay Matte Long Lasting Pressed Powder

All but one of my pressed powders from Rimmel have done this shattering thing that make it pretty much impossible to use.

I think I'm going to try out another brand and see if I can find something better that lasts longer.

CQ Eyeshadow Duo in Hazelnut

Once again, another one of those products I was super excited to have years ago, but now not so much.

The colors just aren't pigmented and I hate the cheap packaging.

Victoria's Secret Chic Cheeks in Pretty in Paris

I received this as a birthday gift about two years ago & just never used it, I don't like cream blushes.

But after two years, it's obviously time for it to go-so I'm saying bye, bye and won't be purchasing another.

Estee Lauder Resilience Lift Sculpting Creme

I got this as a free gift and loved it.

The light scent, how moisturized it left my face, everything.

Sadly I don't have anymore-and don't really want to spend the $50+ to get another pot, so right now I'm using a Tula cream and then I'm going to test out some more affordable options (and then probably breaking down and purchasing the Estee Lauder one!)

Tempt U Highlighter (in Pearl)

I just don't like liquids (other than foundation) on my face.

This product could've been pretty, but it was so watery that I couldn't deal with it.

As you could see, I have two and I'm tossing both.

J.Cat Wonder Lip Paint (in Red Potion)

This is another Ipsy fail (just like the highlight liquids above).

It's a pretty, dark plum color...but I just hate that there isn't an applicator-it makes it SO messy.

It also has a weird chemical smell that I can't get past.

It stains everything, so just be warned.

Flower Sheer Up Lip Tint in Dewy Rose

I'm not tossing this because I hated the application or the product, I'm tossing this because the packaging sucks.

The clear lid thing broke after about a month of having it and it's been impossible to keep the tip clean, so I'm just getting rid of it.

NYX Matte Lipstick in Indie Flick

Now, I'm not tossing this one for bad packaging, but just for bad product.

I hated how patchy it went on and the color sort of made me look like a four year old playing in her mom's makeup...or a streetwalker-I can't decide.

Hello Beautiful Skin Juicy Grapefruit Body Lotion

I got this in a Target Beauty Box and loved it, probably one of my favorite products I've gotten in one of those boxes.

I kept in in the living room to use as a hand cream and it felt so nice and light, plus the light citrus scent was really nice.

Max Factor Eyeshadow Trio Palette

Why did I ever think bright green, bright blue, and purple were wearable shades?

This is so embarrassing.

They aren't even really pigmented either.

Ugh, so disappointed in myself for ever wasting money on these.

Covergirl Eyeshadow in Sterling Blue

This is another why...why did anyone let me walk around with blue eyeshadow?

Not a good look for me.

So nope, won't be wasting another $3 on a Covergirl single.

Urban Decay 24/7 Velvet Glide on Eye Pencil in Plushie

As much as I liked the formula of this eye pencil, I just don't think I need a purple eye pencil in my life.

I would be interested in repurchasing (also would recommend) picking up the pencil in Black Velvet!

Victoria's Secret Forbidden (Perfume Sample)

I really enjoyed this little sample (these are perfect for tossing in your purse or to travel with!).

The scent is really warm, perfect for the cozy winter months.

NYC Brow & Eyeliner Pencil in Dark Brown

This is another why moment for me...because now that I have discovered Billion Dollar Brows, I would never think of using this on my poor brows.

Won't repurchase.

Manna Sheer Glo Shimmer Lotion

I just tested this out before I started typing this and I was almost tempted to keep this weird little Ipsy bag find (they always put the most strange products in there!)

It gives a really nice sheen, it would be pretty to highlight your décolletage (aka your collarbone).

But it just has that "old makeup" smell that I don't like.

Well there are all my do's and don'ts for this month-I hope y'all were as entertained as I was by these gross old mistakes that I made and now I'm finally tossing.

Have you ever made any makeup mistakes?

Let me know your stories of makeup you experimented with down below!

Until next time. . .

xoxo, 

Pomp & Circumstance

As many of y'all know, after almost five long years of hard work I finally earned my bachelors degree in Secondary Education at the end of April.

I waited until after graduation to have my pictures made so that I would have all of my honor cords and everything, and plus I had to have my favorite photographer be able to capture the moment!

I'm not sure if any of y'all knew this, I didn't really share it on the blog-just because it never really crossed my mind to, but I attended Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, Alabama for the last three-ish years of my college experience.

And of course everything was monogrammed ;) Even the back of my graduation cap was monogrammed!

I am so extremely proud of my degree and so happy to have reached this milestone in my life!

Thank you all for your support thus far, and for your continued support!

If you're in the Eastern Alabama area and are looking for a photographer that does beautiful work (she did my engagement photos and my wedding/bridal portraits as well) please check out Amy-Cole Photography because she always does a phenomenal job and is so fun to work with!

Until next time. . .

xoxo, 

Target Beauty Box (June 2016)

Y'all know I love sharing my Target Beauty Box's with y'all-it's the one beauty box that I've actually enjoyed getting month after month, and I love that it isn't a subscription!

At the beginning of every month, Target releases a specially curated box on their website and there are only a small amount-if you want to follow along on my twitter @BowtieBell or on my Facebook page I always share when the boxes are released!

If you go to the link above to Target's Beauty Box you'll be able to see and purchase the full size items in this box as well.

This months theme was Sun Kissed "to help keep you glowing all summer long".

There were a huge amount of products in this months box, 11 items! And the cost of the box was $10.

Shea Moisture Weightless Creme Rinse

I haven't tried this yet, but it smells so good!

It's supposed to be a super natural brand which I like.

e.l.f. Lip Kiss Balm

This is just a tinted lip balm from the e.l.f. line at Target, I'm sure it will come in handy for tossing in my purse and using throughout the day!

Yes to Cucumbers Hypoallergenic Facial Wipes

I love keeping face wipes on hand, they're great for just refreshing and I love that these are soothing and hopefully won't break my face out.

S.W. Basics Organic Oat Flour/Organic Almond Flour/Sea Salt Exfoliant

This is kind of an interesting product to me (it's the little black packet in the picture above).

Apparently, when you need a deep clean you wet a small amount in your hand and rub it onto your face, then just rinse it off.

It seems a little weird, but I'll give it a go.

Soap & Glory The Righteous Butter

I've heard lots of great things about Soap & Glory, but never tried any of their stuff (although their packaging is always super cute!)

I'm excited to test this out, it'll probably be in my next empties post!

Pix by Petra Mesmerizing Mineral Duo in Apricot Glow

I love trying out new makeup and I'm so glad that Target decided to include some real makeup in their box this month.

The colors will hopefully look great on my eyes, I'm going to be testing this one out soon.

Cotz Face Natural Tinted Sunscreen SPF 40

This is an awesome little travel sized sunscreen, perfect for tossing in a beach bag and reapplying as needed!

I love that it's a higher SPF and that it's tinted, so I won't even need to wear makeup when I go on the beach.

Pantene Expert Intense Hydration Shampoo

This is an AWESOME sample sized shampoo and it smells great too.

I love that they gave us a good sized shampoo and conditioner in this month's box, even if they are from two different brands.

L'Oreal Lumi Cushion in Nude Beige

I've been wanting to test out this cushion foundation since there has been so my hype surrounding it, so I'm so glad I got a sample to try!

Laneige Water Bank Serum

I just tested this on the back of my hand (and on my cheek because I got too much, whoops!) and I LOVE it already.

It's very, very hydrating-almost like applying water to your skin, except your skin soaks it up automatically.

The scent is very fresh and clean-I have a feeling I'm going to be addicted to this serum.

L'Oreal Revitalift Daily Volumizing Moisturizer

I've been using a Tula daily moisturizer and I've almost finished it up, I've been debating on whether or not to purchase another-but now I can at least temporarily delay it for a bit, because this is an awesome size sent in this box and I cannot wait to try it out.

I tried it out on the back of my hand just now and I do like the consistency and how it feels, however there is a slight chemical smell that I'll have to see if I can get over-I'll update you!

Well, what do y'all think, are there any clear winners here?

What about losers?

If you've tried any of these products-let me know your thoughts down below!

Until next time. . .

xoxo, 

Nashville Travel Guide

Hey y'all!

If you've been following me on the blog or any of my social media, then you would know that my husband and I recently took a trip to Nashville, Tennessee for our one year anniversary and to celebrate my recent graduation!   

Today I want to share with you what we did on our trip and my recommendations for those of you that are traveling to Nashville any time soon.

Where We Stayed

Chris and I stayed in a small Air BnB studio/duplex in East Nashville (about 5 minutes to downtown by Uber/taxi/Lyft)

I linked it above in case you want to check it out, but although the neighborhood wasn't super great, there was no point where we felt unsafe. We were just spoiled by our last trip, to Savannah, where everything was super walkable!

It was really bright and airy, very relaxing.

It was nice being close to downtown, but not having to pay the downtown price for a hotel (it was a HUGE price difference)

If you're interested in booking with AirBnB, I have a coupon code for $25 off your first stay!

Where We Ate

Now down to the nitty gritty, what everyone wants to know...where to eat in Nashville!

My first suggestion is Biscuit Love in the Gulch, if you don't mind this...

It was an hour wait outside! But it was worth it because once we got inside, we got this. . .

Bo-nuts! They're biscuit/doughnuts and they're wonderful.

They're filled with lemon ricotta cream and served over a blueberry compote.

They're amazing!

For my actually breakfast, I had the East Nasty-just like it says in my snapchat picture ;)

It was so good, Nashville hot chicken with homemade sausage gravy over a homemade biscuit.

It was so worth the hour wait.

Skip the coffee though-not my best purchase of the trip!

Another favorite was Edley's BBQ in 12 South.

Now I know what you're thinking...tacos?

But they were really good! I had spicy shrimp tacos (with mac & cheese? Weird, I know...but so good).

My hubby had the bbq pork plate and it was also really, really tasty!

My all-time favorite of the trip, sadly was consumed before I even thought to remember to take a picture. :(

But this is at the bar Acme on Broadway in downtown, one night we were out on the town and I was starving. We sat down at the bar and they gave us this menu filled with delicious high quality food-not your nachos and chicken fingers like you expect from bar food.

I had the shrimp and grits with a creole sauce and y'all, it was the best thing I have ever put in my mouth. I would eat it again right now if had it.

If you don't go anywhere else in Nashville to eat, go to Acme and get you some shrimp and grits!

Another favorite was BarTaco in 12 South (where we spent a lot of our time there!)

They had really good salsa verde and the Mexican street corn was to die for.

We also got a couple of different kinds of tacos; chicken, steak, and chorizo (the chorizo was my fave!)

For dessert one day, we headed to Five Daughters Bakery, where we got King Kong Doughnuts.

They're basically huge cream filled doughnuts with maple glaze and bacon on top.

I'm not necessarily recommending Five Daughters...we kind of thought they were overrated...but if you really, really love doughnuts you might want to try this out!

Honorable Mentions: 

I didn't get a shot of our pizza from Desano's but it was SO good. I highly recommend Desano's.

Las Paletas for popsicles in 12 South was delicious too-I recommend the Mexican Caramel!

Our good friend that lives in Nashville also gave us tons of recs for places to eat which I will pass on to y'all, we just couldn't fit them all into our schedule!

-Mas Tacos

-Burger Up

-Baja Burrito

-Adele's

-Fifth and Taylor

-Sinema

-Moto

-Saint Anejo

-Virago

-Firefly Cafe

Where We Went/What We Did

12 South

We loved exploring 12 South! We went here at least 3 times on our trip.

There are the cutest things to see like this flower market above, or the beautiful church below.

This is also where Draper James (Reese Witherspoon's store) is located.

Although, even the things that were on sale in there were out of my price range.

I also met the super sweet Mallory Ervin down in 12 South on Sunday afternoon!

She's such a sweetheart and makes the cutest YouTube videos-go follow her and watch her stuff, she's adorable.

Also, if you've ever seen people post pictures with the "I believe in Nashville" mural-there's one in 12 South!

The Hermatige

If you're a history buff like I am, you're going to want to see the Hermitage, which was President Andrew Jackson's homestead.

The home is beautiful and I learned a whole lot of interesting facts about it.

This is the tomb where he and his wife Rachel are buried.

Grand Ole Opry

Although we didn't take in a show at the Opry, we did stop by for a photo opp after shopping at the Opry Mills Outlet Mall.

We also toured the Country Music Hall of Fame (& when I spotted this pretty view of downtown & the "Batman Building" aka the AT&T building, I knew I had to capture it)

We also spent some time one afternoon at the Ryman Auditorium, which we both really enjoyed.

There are tons of murals around Nashville, and when I saw this one in the Gulch after breakfast at Biscuit Love-I knew I had to have my picture made!

Check out the hashtag #WhatLiftsYou to see more pictures of people with this mural!

Broadway

No trip to Nashville is complete without at least visiting Broadway once or twice.

There are several shops and lots of bars to spend your time in.

We picked up Savannah Candy Company Pralines (because they remind us of our honeymoon and are delicious!) and I picked up a super comfy and cute Nashville sweatshirt to lounge in.

The weekend we were there was the last weekend before CMA-Fest began so they were blocking off streets and building stages all around downtown.

This is the Chevy-Riverfront stage, our view from the George Jones Rooftop bar.

Bars:

We hopped in and out of a lot of the bars on Broadway, but our favorites were Robert's Western, George Jones' Bar (for great classic country music and an awesome riverfront view!), and Acme for amazing drinks and food.

I hope y'all enjoyed this little round-up and that it helps if y'all are planning on visiting the Music City any time soon!

We had an awesome time and I hope we get to go back in the future!

Until next time. . .

xoxo,