The Brightner

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Ever since I was allowed to wear make-up I have enjoyed learning about it. It may be because my mother always did a fabulous job when it came to putting hers on and I always wanted to do the same. I was intrigued with what went where and the proper way of putting it there. I still remember when my mom finally told me I could start wearing make-up. I was in the 6th grade when she and my sister to took me for an appointment at Clinique. My mom always wanted us to know the appropriate ways of wearing make-up and a good skincare routine to take it off. I loved it from that moment!

While makeup and I have had out up’s and down’s, usually the downs include me refusing to wear it, I mostly get joy out of putting it on. I always tell myself it is my blank canvas for me to create. And while I was never any good at painting or drawing, this was my art. Because I have an interest in make-up I have recently tried learning all I can about contouring (video on creating the look). If I want to learn something, be it photography, video, a language, etc.,  I always start googling and researching. I am completely self taught in most avenues of my life and make-up is no different. When I wanted to learn more about contouring I ran to the Internet. Over the years I have watched some amazing videos on different ways to create the look.

One frustration I always had was finding the right brightening stick. In the videos all of the girls achieved this beautiful bright look with one product and mine always fell short. I would even buy the items they had and was never fully convinced they were doing what I wanted. Last year I decided to take a trip to Sephora and see what the deal was. Once there I was recommended the Nars ‘Immaculate Complexion’ Concealer. The stick was amazing and gave enough coverage to hide blemishes and last all day. I also bought it two shades lighter than my normal skin tone so it gave me the bright look I was after. If you are also after the contour look – thanks Kim K. – I highly recommend finding products which work for you. A few things I learned from my contouring research is it is key to have the right products, practice is your friend, and to understand that it takes quite a bit of time to achieve (the girl at Sephora said it should take 30 min. to blend), so be patient!

Things You Must Buy In Paris

Bringing the perfect souvenir back from any vacation can be a struggle. You want it to last, revoke a memory, and be something you can share with others. A souvenir is something I think is a must when you travel. My dream is to have a home full of unique souvenirs from past travels around the world: A rug from Morocco, a painting from Venice, silver from Argentina, leather from Italy. The point is to find something unique to that place and try to find the perfect item which encompasses all that the city is. While my list below is personal to my taste, Paris is full of wonderful souvenirs. All you have to do is keep an open mind, a searching eye, and buy what hits your heart! And NEVER second guess your decision, because in the long run you will be happy you have it!

THE CLASSIC BALLET FLAT
One of the most quintessential french fashion staple is the ballet flat. French women have been wearing them for decades and always pull them while being effortlessly chic. Since Paris is the heart of the fashion world it would be hard to leave without a classic pair of your  own! Try Repetto – they make the perfect pair! 
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CHANEL
Okay, so this is a little more out of reach but wouldn’t it be fun to leave Paris with a new something from Chanel? I have to admit, I have been to Paris quite a bit and never walked away with something from here, but this summer I plan to change that! I actually really want something vintage Chanel! I have this dream of me walking into a little side shop and finding the perfect vintage bag! If you a Chanel bag, shoes, or clothing isn’t your thing, check out their make-up, perfumes, or skincare! At least you will feel more Parisian every time you wear it!
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photo via interiorsbystudiom


LADUREE
I know what you are saying, “my macaroons wouldn’t last long enough to make it home!” And I definitely agree but they  have loads of cute little accessories sure to commemorate your trip to heaven!
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photos by molly miller

HERMES
While this is similar to Chanel I actually am not recommending buying a bag here! I think their scarves, bangles, and perfumes are the perfect souvenir! My  mom bought a bangle on our last trip their and every time I see her wear it I think of Paris! It immediately brings back happy memories.
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FRENCH COOKING EQUIPMENTCrepe Spreader or other fun utensils
I actually got this idea from a trip I took to Gruyere Switzerland. While there my sweet husband popped into a cooking store and bought my mom something so she would remember the trip. Isn’t he sweet? That aside it brings back wonderful memories every time I walk into her kitchen. It also makes cooking just a little bit more enjoyable.
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photo via etsy

FREDERIC MALLE
The God, the myth, the legend! Frederic Malle scents have been on my wish list for years! Not only are they the perfect souvenir but you will be smelling like a Goddess for months to come! If you don’t want to travel with the perfume, check out his candles! TO.DIE.FOR. And every time you light it, you will think of your trip in Paris. 
45ffccf42acbd8f7ad7904bf4ae4d81fphoto via vogue

MERCI – anything and everything
I recently discovered this store online and have been swooning ever since! I can not wait to see it for myself this summer. Everything from the striped shirts, to the cooking utensils, to the design are awe-worthy! Even if you don’t want to buy something be sure to check out their cafe! It is sure to add a special memory to your Parisian adventures!
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For the Beauty Junkie – Drugstore Finds You Can’t Leave Without

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photo via mint love social club

Bioderma Crealine H20

Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum

Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Sunscreen

Roger & Gallet Rose Body Lotion

L’Occitane en Provence Cream

New Orleans City Guide

WHERE TO STAY:

Windsor Court – One of New Orleans luxury hotels. From the moment you walk-in you feel you have stepped back into old New Orleans. Two blocks from The French Quarter it is the perfect setting for a weekend away.

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WHERE TO DRINK:

Cane & Table – Be sure to get a photo with the Captain!

French 75 for a cozy and yummy pre-dinner cocktail

Carousel Bar at Hotel Monteleone – the bar is a real carousel that slowly spins around

tea at The Windsor Court – a famous tradition in New Orleans

Lafittes Blacksmiths Shop (it’s haunted  by an old pirate)

Bacchanal – A fun environment for a great glass of wine

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WHERE TO EAT
:

Muriels – dinner

Tableau – dinner

Galatoires – brunch/dinner

Elizabeth’s – brunch

Brennan’s – brunch or dinner

Camellia Grill – brunch

The Ruby Slipper – brunch

Red Gravy – brunch

Cafe du Monde – best beignets!

Commanders Palace – dinner (best restaurant 2014 award)

Sylvain – dinner
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WHAT TO DO:

Haunted History Ghost Tour (go after your dinner)

Frenchman Street (Definitely check out The Spotted Cat and Snug Harbor for live Jazz and Cafe Negril for Reggae)

walk aroundUptown

shop on Magazine street

take photos of the beautiful homes in the Garden District

take the Free Wheelin’ Bike TourCreole & Crescent

Harrah’s Casino

WWII museum

walk down the Riverfront

take the trolly to St. Charles Ave.

Steamboat Nachez

St. Louis Cathedral – (listen to live music, get your palm read, talk to a psychic, or just people watch)
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all photography my own

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