Around the Vanity Table: A Winter's Ball (The Marble Gallery at Pemberley cocoa butter soap)12/27/2019
The Marble Gallery at Pemberley Cocoa Butter Body Soap by B. Perry Studios. 3.5oz (Scent notes: Cold stone - petrichor, and earth - at the heart of a bright dance with lemon, pomegranate, verbena, and apple.) Lemon Verbena is one of my favourite notes to hoard away so when I saw that cherished herb mixed with petrichor and earth, I knew we were going to get along. The fear I always harbour that a new soap formula would wreak havoc on my sensitive skin was always there leading up to the day I finally treated myself and shut out the outside world to relax away from a stressful and emotional filled week but the prospect of encountering and indulging in a spicy herb and rain scent filled sanctuary overweighed the worry and I'm very happy to jot down, The Marble Gallery at Pemberley was pure bliss! So many positives with this soap bar but above all it played nice with my skin, passing my face, elbow and feet challenge with flying colours (not one dry itchy spot), the fragrance is what it says on the tin- realistic earth (the ultra-comforting aroma lingers on the skin even after leaving the tub), aromatic lemon verbena, wet stone and other fall and winter fruits in the background and to round out the top mentions- the quarter-sized piece I cut away from the marbled hued bar didn't melt immediately when it came in contact with the water (so this bar will last quite a while and I'm going to save it for those times I just need to escape) and only created a generous lather that rinsed cleanly away. I'm familiar with the cinematic scene this slice of soap is named after and as I allowed this blend take me away, I could easily imagine the marble gallery at Pemberley and lose myself in the energized gamut of elements each note represented. It's not every day you get to enjoy a soap bar that not only smells incredible but also takes you away to a poignant scene. Now that's scent artistry and I would purchase this mosaic of herbal spice, earth, wet stone and fruits in a heartbeat if it was offered in a perfume bottle, hair oil or a pot of whipped soap. Sharing notes of interest: When it comes to the various silver screen adaptations of Pride & Prejudice many locales were reportedly filmed for the infamous estate known as Pemberley. Most recently the 2005 version used Chatsworth House for the gorgeous exterior scenes and Wilton House for the equally stunning interior portions. Interestingly, Chatsworth House is strongly believed to be the original inspiration of Pemberley and I fully intend to find out how these grand houses compare to one another as I have formed a list of places of interest I must see when I travel to the UK someday. Sadly, the fictional Netherfield Park has no historical estate to visit, however, there are plenty of themed balls and events to see with the same name. My list continues to grow, I swear I will not be returning when I get there. So many wonderful things to see and each step it seems in the UK has a fascinating history or story attached to it. I can't wait! Bingley’s Blushing Cheeks Shimmer Blush by Crow & Pebble. A warm rosy pink blush with a flash of cool pink shimmer. Ingredients: Starch, Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, Magnesium Stearate, Kaolin Clay May Contain: Red 21, Iron Oxides, Ultramarines, Silica, Tin Oxide This themed collection was a marvellous way to get reacquainted with several scent artists and try some new ones I have been dying to visit while also seeing (and smelling) what creative blends the indie world could fashion and present from a treasured subject and novel. Crow & Pebble has been on my list to sample for quite some time but I must admit I don't wear a lot of makeup and only stay in the realm of neutrals with an occasional pop of light gold, purple, blue or green when the mood strikes. Saying that, one of the various surprises dubbed Bingley's Blushing Cheeks from this box seemed to be made for me as the coral pink with shimmer was very easy to apply and added just the right amount of colour to my pale cheeks creating either a light blushed (a look I wore most to the workplace setting) or a slightly flushed look which seemed determined by 1 to 2 layers. I also used a tiny bit at the corners of my eyes which showed off the shimmer in the light at different angles. For the attached photo I went with more of a historically inspired look. If you notice paintings commissioned during the early 19th century, the models had more of flushed appearance such as one which would have bloomed from a long walk (now who do we know we loved long walks and had a healthy exercised appearance when she went to visit Netherfield on a serious errand?). A perfect peachy coral pink that fits right into the Regency theme and now has a permanent place on my vanity. Jane’s Rosepetal Lips Lip Color by Sihaya and Company. A soft rouge pink with subtle shimmer meant to impart the perfect rosy glow at your next candle-lit ball. This tint is perfumed with a delicate red velvet fragrance. Ingredients: Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Beeswax, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Lipids, Lauryl Laurate, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Red 21, Red 33, Calcium Sodium Borosilicate, Titanium Dioxide, Tin Oxide, Fragrance. Speaking of securing a permanent place on my antique vanity table this gorgeous light rouge rose (with an undertone of blue) lip color by Sihaya and Company was another wonderful surprise from the first application and continues to be one I grab for this winter season. I usually wear liquid lip rouges and although natural-looking (creating a freshly bitten look) and entertaining to apply and see in the mirror, they can sadly be overly drying (perhaps more suited for myself during the warmer months I'm finding out), not so with Jane's Rosepetal Lips, this lip color is moisturizing without leaving an untoward mess or any excess around the corners of my lips and only delivers a soft natural look. I'm also happy to jot down, not one breakout from this formula and it's very forgiving around the upper lip when you try to get every spot. Two light applications are all I need to achieve my preferred level of colour. For scent, I get a lovely hint of vanilla and yes it tastes as delightful as it smells without resembling something meant for a child. Sharing Notes of Interest: I mentioned above that Bingley's Blushing Cheeks was the perfect shade of light coral pink with peach undertones and the reason I said it fits so well into a Regency theme is because coral was the jewellery of choice during that era. It may have stemmed from the generation being fascinated by the sea and all its curious inhabitants, coral's believed attachment to providing protection for the wearer (especially for children) or that the late 18th and early 19th centuries saw some amazing discoveries attached to vast oceans and that all funnelled down to fashion of that day but whatever the reason it's hard to not see a painting of a lady of distinction decked out in a strand of brightly coloured coral beads or having a piece of coral peeking out of her jewellery cache in different depictions of scenes of every day life. Although difficult to locate today because coral was so easily destroyed by perfumes and casual wear, many beautiful pieces have been lost to time. If you are lucky enough to come across a real piece at an Antique fair or notice one in a shop, you have found a true treasure from an era of romanticism and progression and if that piece you hold could only talk. When it came to makeup during the Regency era, women rarely wore any and if they did it was a well-kept secret. The fashion of the day was displaying their natural given beauty but you can clearly tell women (and men) wore a bit of rouge in different paintings as they are almost always depicted in drawings (and in even fairy tale illustrations) with bright cheeks and it wasn't uncommon for them to use crushed pearls to achieve a pale glowing appearance (lead paint was out of fashion and it was frowned upon to appear anywhere with a "plastered or painted appearance"). Charcoal or household spices were used to colour the eyebrows and crushed roses from the garden were also incorporated into a beauty regime. Recipes for these homemade beauty products could be found throughout magazines as well in etiquette and housekeeping books. Many of these recipes remain and make a fascinating night of reading if you come across them. The Gentlemen of Derbyshire Hair Oil by Libertine Bath Haus .1oz glass bottle. (Scent notes: Tobacco leaf, leather, regal clove, and warm oakwood.) Ingredients: Avocado oil, Argan oil, meadow foam seed oil, jojoba, sweet almond, apricot kernel seed oil, grapeseed, fragrance, Vit E We've had the pleasure to get well acquainted with inspired fragrances of the main characters of Pride and Prejudice now let us get to know the scents about the complex love interests of several sisters of Bennet, Bingley and surrounding county households. First up is Libertine Bath Haus's The Gentlemen of Derbyshire and on application, this is a slightly smoky and somehow smooth tobacco and clove dominant blend in my curls with sweet leather lingering in the background. Ah! There is nothing like the rich elegant scent of tobacco in various forms and The Gentlemen of Derbyshire nicely showcases that note. In terms of the longevity of the aroma of fresh tobacco, warm clove and leather, it is sadly short-lived (nearly an hour and a half), however, the shine that follows from a small application of this oil is not. I'm already familiar with this shop's hair care product formula and for me, it can be a touch drying if I use it right after washing my hair with say whipped soap so I save it and only use a few drops at a time when the natural oils begin to build up too much (my hair type is a mixture of dry and oily). It seems to soak up the grease and adds an incredibly healthy shine to my waist-length locks. Another keeper! Truth Universally Acknowledged EDP by Deconstructing Eden. 5ml bottle (Scent notes: Rosewood and mahogany bookshelves, Russian leather chairs, a simple eau de cologne of English lavender, Bergamot, and fougere accord, a glass of cognac, a river of scotch, and tobacco absolute.) It's the infamous opening to Pride and Prejudice: "It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife." and here we have an...how do I put this as ladylike as possible? An extremely seductive interpretation of the above quote and one that materializes a debonair scent character right from the bottle you would never want to leave if you met him in real life. This is a cultured fragrance with a lavender forward opening on me and in the bottle is a rich leather, bergamot and booze heavy blend. I could happily sniff the bottle all day and can't stop spritzing myself to get that burst of herbal spice with the lavender, antique rosewood and the smoky tobacco absolute that appears after a few moments. Curiously after about 10 minutes, Truth Universally Acknowledged sweetens on my skin becoming almost floral (with a backing of leather and tobacco) so if anyone was wondering this perfume is unexpectedly unisex and overall extremely wearable (lavender is so wonderfully versatile). Longevity overall varies for me, about 10 hours on my skin and much longer in my hair and on my clothes. It was no surprise Truth Universally Acknowledged was one of my top picks from the A Winter's Ball (Pride, Prejudice & Perfume) collection; I can't recommend this perfume enough. Sharing Notes of Interest and surrounding mysteries: Another entertaining mystery stemming from the pages of Pride & Prejudice is: Who was the inspiration of Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy? Every year many theories to names are introduced as suspects, my personal favourite possible personality is an Irish politician and Judge named Thomas Lefroy. It may have been a short-lived flirtation (one of swirling holiday balls and dances in December 1795) between Austen and Lefroy and not exactly as deep a romantic connection such as Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy shared in the end but, you know what they say, you never forget your first attraction and there is always truth in everything (and letters do still survive between Jane Austen and her sister Cassandra that mention Lefroy in a puzzling light). So it is quite possible that the complex character we all have come to love through the generations could have very well been based on Thomas Lefroy (I hate speculation but it is sure fun to debate and think about, don't you agree?) *In 2007, a creative adaptation of this theory was brought to the silver screen called Becoming Jane and I fully intend to watch this film as soon as time permits (how did I miss this film?!). There is also a Semi-Biography listed Becoming Jane Austen by Hunter Spence that I wish to pick up for next year's December Austen themed reading in honour of Miss Austen's birthday (December 16th). If perhaps Mr Darcy was based on an Irish politician and Judge, were George Wickham, William Collins or Charles Bingley based on anyone Austen knew? Although some speculate it was Austen's own brother, Henry Thomas Austen, who served as unfortunate inspiration (he was a militia officer and clergyman) and very well possibly was turned into Mr William Collins in the pages; I love the other idea of Shakespeare's Proteus and Valentine from The Two Gentlemen of Verona being used for certain plot points in the story. There are many similarities between the awkward and tumultuous brotherly relationship between the characters and it seems throughout history there are tales of men brought up as brothers then they choose different paths with one later returning bent on destroying the other. Regarding Charles Bingley, there doesn't seem to be any clear figure identified either, he is just the contrast to Darcy with his open friendliness and charm wherein Mr. Darcy, he is a complex personality that in the end you can't help but fall for and proves the adage "Don't judge a book by its cover" plus is a central theme in Pride and Prejudice. In the end, it is known that Austen used many different past literary pieces for ideas for her storylines and characters in her novels, so the true identity of George Wickham, William Collins or Charles Bingley are all collective entertaining mysteries and discussion subjects forever attached to the pages of this novel of first impressions and manners. Cattail Apothecary This next shop I'm going to ramble about was another indie brand introduced to me by the Poisoners Guild. Who doesn't love a little deadly whimsy and wonder? For this collection inspired by poisons in Fantasy films and books, Cattail Apothecary contributed a powder face mask that was based on the Princess Bride. Just like with Little & Grim, I couldn't tear myself away from the pictures that were accompanying their creations so I circled around the website and waited patiently for a sale to make an introductory order. In the meantime, I spoke with the owner on Reddit and learned she was a certified herbalist and offered some of the best customer service when I messaged her to triple check certain products would be a good idea to try on my sensitive skin. The final factor came the day I had my hair done at my local salon and my hairdresser mentioned that if I wanted to get my hair to grow fast and strong to try rubbing rosemary and cedar oils into my scalp at night. Curiously, this shop carried just such an item and I took it as a sign it was time to visit Cattail Apothecary. Here were my impressions of two separate orders combined for clarity... The Field Wonderful // Flower and Herb Infused Hair Serum (Listed Ingredients/Description: A blend of avocado, argan, jojoba and olive oils infused for two moon cycles with amla, nettle, horsetail, linden, marshmallow root, rosemary, rose and calendula. Scented with a blend of cedarwood, blood orange, rosemary, patchouli and black pepper essential oils. Monounsaturated fatty acids, biotin, silica, vitamin C and antioxidants such as vitamin E) I'm currently trying to grow my hair past my waist and my hairdresser mentioned rosemary and cedar oil being rubbed into my scalp could be something worth trying. Loving both of those notes I pulled the trigger on ordering this bottle which I have been eyeing for weeks. Overall I'm quite impressed and have this lovely frosted bottle displayed proudly on my vanity. I absolutely love how my hair glows in the lamplight when the oil is run through, the softness that follows and the scent is a dream for this herb and spice fiend with the crushed rosemary, pepper and patchouli note (now that is what amps on me, so anyone else may amp the other notes). It's divine to take the time to massage my scalp (this also really helps my tension headaches and to wind down for the day or night). Since using it from April onward, I have noticed where I have trained my hair to part it is fuller looking and I'm delighted to say that even with the colder months approaching I can wear my hair in a full forehead showing bouffant with no fear of an untoward thinning spot showing. My hair has also grown out a considerable length and this serum is another repurchase as soon as the bottle is empty. Plain and simple, this stuff works and if you want glowing, soft and flowing fragrant hair, try this! Marshmallow Hibiscus // Nourishing Face Oil (Listed Ingredients: Apricot kernel oil, grapeseed oil, argan oil, rosehip seed oil, hibiscus, marshmallow root, rosehips, hemp seed oil, alkanet, violet leaf absolute. (*organic)) A small sample vial was nestled with my first order (thank you so much, Cattail Apothecary!) and the scent in the vial in a light green scent, almost resembling fresh hay. I must admit my skin was in whirl the first week and half of using this oil as I believe my skin was purging itself of toxins and impurities and started drying in spots but right after that odd time it calmed down and worked nicely on my cheeks, nose and forehead. I was using this weekly (and it was doing a decent job) until I purchased the next item and my skin changed all for the better entirely. Meet my power couple for my skin or what I have come to them collectively as the "BIG GUNS" Out, Damned Spot // Blemish Treatment (Listed Ingredients: (Carthamus tinctorius (safflower) oil, borago officinalis (borage) seed oil, calophyllum inophyllum (tamanu) oil, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract, achillea millefolium (yarrow) leaf & flower, salix alba (willow) bark, essential oils of yarrow, blue tansy & lemon (organic)) Up first is some wondrous blue stuff that works magic and is another frosted bottle displayed on my vanity! It has played well with my sensitive skin and smells delicious (I love the smell of tangy dressing plus rosemary; don't let that scare anyone the scent is fleeting). Another repurchase for me and I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy reciting a little Macbeth everyday in front of my vanity mirror, haha. Out, Damned Spot treatment comes in a handy roller ball and is 90% effective of banishing stubborn stress acne or when I forget to not touch my face at night while I'm working. IF one of those ultra painful blemishes persists it has no chance when I layer it the next product. Drawing Salve // Acne Treatment & Splinter Removal Listed Ingredients: (Organic olive oil, organic castor oil, organic beeswax, organic calendula, organic broad-leaf plantain, tea tree oil, activated charcoal (hardwood, food-grade), sodium bentonite clay) This mini pot arrived with my second order (Thank you again, Cattail Apothecary!) and coupled with the Out, Damned Spot oil it has no comparison for performance. First the scent is a little tarry, greasy and herbal and once applied this mixture is still greasy and doesn't fully dry (so take caution when sleeping with this salve, it will stain bed clothes and sheets). In addition to proving itself a bane to stubborn acne I actually have found multiple uses for this salve this year including one nightmare of a hangnail that turned into a frightening painful mess, I slathered my finger for two mornings with this product and wrapped it in a protective bandage as I slept. By the second afternoon my finger didn't hurt, the size of my finger returned to normal and it healed quickly. It surprised me again once I had a jagger thorn in my hand that wouldn't come out, one full day of application with this salve and my hand was right as rain and no scar formed. I'm curious what else this amazing product can do (isn't nature just incredible and offer so many opportunities for healing?). Awaken Intuition // Ritual Bath Potion (Listed Ingredients: Magnesium sulfate, coconut milk powder, dead sea salt, sodium bicarbonate, citric acid, lavender blossoms, mugwort, mullein, clove, essential oils of clary sage, blue yarrow and patchouli) The muscle pain relief and rose bath salts were sold out and I thought Awaken Intuition would be a nice substitute, I was right. Not only did these salts work out the tightness in my muscles and joints, I fell hard for the fragrance that is as I can only describe as salty patchouli. It's earthy but carries the scent of metal-like salt and is quite addictive to smell to be honest. When the container is opened there are lavender blossoms and various pieces of herbs mixed together and these float and swirl in the hot bath water. Overall, an extremely relaxing bath/self care item and I would repurchase. For a sleep aid it's also fantastic, I already have vivid dreams so I personally didn't notice any difference regarding that topic; I'd be curious to hear what others thought and if they felt different. Cattail Apothecary With every joy I find in the Indie realm there has to be of course some sorrow and regret and so it goes with Parchment Studios/Latherati. I was too late in trying this shop that offered an array of fragrances and bath and body products inspired by classic literature because once I finally decided on my first purchase they announced shortly after that they were closing. I hope someday to see this shop open once again. I loved the next items I wish to share which included the best nail polish I have ever used and a fragrance that will be accompanying me to different events. Adieu, Parchment Studios, you are well missed! These were my final thoughts... Parchment Nail Polish in Hyacinth I fully admit I was completely taken by the photos popping up on social media of this color and I had to have it even though I hadn't painted my nails in nearly 8 years. Taking a little extra care (adding some dietary changes to my nightly lunches at work and massaging alot of vintage based hand cream on my nails and hands; our mothers were right all along) I was able to grow my nails out to a surprising length so I decided it was time to treat myself. My polish shipped within hours of being ordered and arrived a couple days later which was impressive. Ah, but the true test was the color and how well it would preform. Color: On the website it is the ideal shade of a spring hyacinth in full bloom but in reality it is darker in the bottle and more greyish-deep mauve than I was expecting but I adore any hue of purple and it called out to my gloomy little self that loves "mourning Victorian colours". Transfer: I was out of practice with steadying a nail brush and figuring out how much to apply at one time but this particular applicator brush was extremely forgiving (and very comfortable in my hand as the top of the bottle is tapered and almost feels like a thick classic pen) as well as the formula that spread nicely and it took only 2 coats to get full coverage. Final color reveal and Picture It.: The polish dried quickly which was quite impressive as I was ready to set aside my whole evening and made sure all domestic duties were finished before I sat down to literally watch paint dry but my nails were dry before I fell asleep and there was no mystery imprints found anywhere the next morning. So after all said and done the shade changed to a stormy grey purple in the light and smoky purple out in the sun plus oddly reminded me of something and in the following days of me dancing around admiring the flawless shine (with no top coat required) it finally hit me! Hyacinth looks like Ursula's (Yes, THAT Ursula, and you're welcome if Poor Unfortunate Souls is stuck in your head the rest of the day) skin tone and yes I shared this observation with my friend who just rolled her eyes and laughed saying "only you" but I don't care this nail polish had me under a spell with the gorgeous unique shade (it really doesn't take much to make me happy or entertain me, haha). So how long did it last?: Even with washing dishes and a pack of mud loving dogs, the polish lasted over a week with minimal chipping and finally on the 8th day, one huge chip was clearly noticeable so I tried to repair it throughout the day but just made a mess so I tried removing the polish but it wouldn't budge no matter how much I soaked my nails. I emailed Julie and within minutes (her customer service is amazing to say the least) had an answer that I needed Acetone Nail Polish Remover so off I went into the night for a grocery store run and she was absolutely correct. It melted off with no annoying lingering hidden stains. Would I purchase Hyacinth again?: Absolutely, this is the best nail polish I ever used (once upon a time I used to paint my nails every 4 days in every color of the rainbow and could do some fancy things with a toothpick so I'm very familiar with the top commercial polishes that chipped on the first day even with a top coat). *Along with my bottle of Hyacinth I received a sample of the newest fragrance called White Gloves which is inspired by a true treasured classic (my second favorite novel by Edith Wharton) and again I sorely wish I visited Parchment Studios (formerly Latherati) MUCH sooner... "...fastened with a single gardenia. She dropped her eyes to the immense bouquet of lilies-of-the-valley on her knee, and Newland Archer saw her white-gloved finger-tips touch the flowers softly." - Edith Wharton, The Age of Innocence Listed Fragrance Notes: PROLOGUE: bergamot, green stems BODY: gardenia, lily of the valley, orange blossom, tuberose EPILOGUE: amber, sandalwood, cedar, musk In the vial: Tart and sweet BERGAMOT with buttery GARDENIA and TUBEROSE. At the moment it's not quite what I would envision from the Gilded Age but it's lovely none the less. Applied: I was mistaken White Gloves would indeed fit into the parlours and be found on the social climbers and dollar princesses we love to read and watch documentaries about. It definitely has a vintage elegance to it and is a fine selection for the late spring to summer months. I would call White Gloves more of a citrus-floral (with a trace of realistic flower stems peeking through) and as I sit here the amber appears along with the cedar on the dry down which warms this blend and adds another level of the unexpected. I do wish it lasted longer on my skin (about 2 to 3 hours) but still White Gloves will be joining me at historical events and be displayed next to Alkemia's La Belle Époque in my travelling portmanteau. Nothing brings me out of the shadows and into a shop's door more than a cleverly hidden-in-plain-view reference to a special topic of interest and Libertine Bath Haus had one delicious sounding siren call in the form of "Gardens of the Red Keep" which promised "lemon cake". If you aren't familiar with what this is ascribing to, please sit a spell with a tome from A Song of Ice and Fire (skip the show, there I said it). After becoming entranced by that simple description, I found myself continually visiting the extensive scent catalogue over the following days and recognizing other witty references (and applaudable research in regards to a few historical names/places). The notes sounded wonderful for several blends and I have been meaning to try a sugar scrub so I messaged the owner with quite a few questions about skin sensitivity, ingredients availability, fragrance transfer comparisons between items and of course commended her for use of the name of Gardens of the Red Keep (fingers crossed a Cersei creation appears someday in the catalogue) and I must say Libertine's customer service is phenomenal! I placed a small introductory order after that and was over the moon with the extras that unexpectedly appeared in my parcel (complete with a personalized thank you card; it's those little touches to be found in indie boxes that keep me returning). I don't know where to start as I fell hard for so many things, it's another collection in the making. This is a shop to watch and this is a long overdue review! *Please note: Gardens of the Red Keep and Wisteria Lane are no longer available in the General Catalogue and have been discontinued since I ordered in April 2019 Body Polish in Gardens of the Red Keep (Description: "Lemon Cake") So here it is, the jar that started a Lemon Cake Battle Royale in my bathtub and came out the new reigning queen of sweet and tart desserts in my book! This blend is addictive and brings to mind a heavenly marriage of Country Time Lemonade Cake and pretty pale-yellow Petit Fours you see displayed at certain gatherings in summer. It's sweet with just the right amount of tartness and I swear I can smell a squeezing of lime in this. In regards to the scrub formula, this was a first time experience for myself and I must say, I will never be without a jar of scrub again. I feel so pampered and my skin is even more moisturized after using this formula. My elbows and heels are petal-soft (especially after rubbing in the body butter) and I'm thrilled to jot down that the fragrance that so bewitched me lasts an hour on my skin. For those who still have never tried a sugar scrub the longer you leave the fragrance to soak into the sugar- the more you will fall in love in the end. Additional Notes: The try-it size of the jars may fit in your palm but are very generous and I have had several months of use out of the jar(s). A one-half scoop of scrub has been plenty for each bath. Would I repurchase?: Absolutely, yes and I plan to get jars of Persephone and Peppermint Marshmallows at the next release. I'm trying to conserve my precious jar of Gardens of the Red Keep but it's just too good. Body Butter in Gardens of the Red Keep (Description: "Lemon Cake") Up until my parcel from Libertine Bath Haus arrived I was using a collage of various lotions that ranged from thick goat's milk, shiitake mushroom extract with collagen and pure shea butter, these all pale in the results I have received from this body butter. I do believe I have found another holy grail self-care item for myself. Not one breakout to report, my rough hands from constant hand washing from my profession are now always soft, supple (the creases on my knuckles are gone- my hands look younger) and I get constant compliments when I shake hands with doctors (that's one way to get noticed and be remembered, haha). The only negative is the delectable magical fragrance of Gardens of the Red Keep doesn't stay true in this form, it morphs to buttery salty popcorn on my skin within 20 minutes with a light trace of cake in the background (my chemistry always amps butter in everything). I'm curious to see if Peppermint Marshmallows will change. Only one way to find out. Additional Notes: The try-it size of the jars may fit in your palm but are very generously filled and I have had several months of use out of the jar(s). Not very much body butter is needed to get full silky coverage of an area. Would I repurchase?: Yes. Another lifetime repurchase item for myself. The following appeared in my first order (Thank you so much for everything, Libertine Bath Haus!) Hair Glace in Gardens of the Red Keep (Description: "Lemon Cake") It will truly be a sad day when the bottle and jars run out of Gardens of the Red Keep because it has been discontinued. I haven't been able to find anything that compares to this ultra-realistic tart and sweet lemon cake aroma and Gardens of the Red Keep is a scent indulgence for myself. I'm hoping to find another kind of luscious uplifting dessert oil soon so I stop reaching for this gem and also racing off to the tub with the body polish then slathering my legs and arms with the body butter. I don't think any form of this confection is going to last throughout the summer. In regards to the hair glace, it can be a touch drying if I use it right after washing my hair with say soap fluff so I save it and only use a few spritzes at a time when the natural oils begin to build up too much. It seems to soak up the grease and adds incredible shine and lasting fragrance to my locks (if I left it I can still smell it for a half a week). Would I purchase a full bottle?: Yes to the Hair Glace. Come Black Friday bottles of Peppermint Marshmallows and The Ascension are coming home to me (and if my friend loves the jar of Nannerbean I'm getting her soon then she will be receiving a bottle in her stocking). Hair Glace in Wisteria Lane (Description and Notes: (heavily flowering wisteria trees, intermingled with soft, almost indistinguishable rose petals, and spicy jasmine) With all the above successes, there are always those creations that end up unfortunate cases to report and I'm very sad to say Wisteria Lane hit all the wrong notes with my nose and Jasmine has officially joined the list of notes to watch for myself as my chemistry turned this lovely sounding blend into something very unpleasant and triggered my head. [Sigh] I know that happens but I was very excited about Wisteria Lane joining my vanity (curse you skin chemistry). Hair Glace in The Ascension (Description and Notes: Bergamot and sparkling orange, lilac and primrose, violet petals and snowdrops, perched atop three musks and small bundles of twigs.) This fragrance is an enigma that I'm gladly still trying to decipher as the notes are so well blended creating an airy, ethereal but yet earthy floral quality that has fully caught my attention and found a place on my list of "must haves" before the end of this year. My nose isn't as trained as I thought as The Ascension is unlike anything in my extensive collection and I can't single out a single note (when I think I'm smelling orange blossom it switches to apple skin and garden fresh roses). Even though it's a hair glace, I admit I have been spraying it all over, haha. Would I purchase a full bottle?: Yes and in as many different formats as I can get (I never tried a linen spray but this and Peppermint Marshmallows would be divine for my house). Soap Bar in Salty Betch (Scent Description: This black soap is scented with a santal Shea blend, that comes across as a soft coconut milk with almonds and vanilla) I know it sounds strange but Salty Betch smells like Typhoon Lagoon Water Park at Disney World. I don't even remember that much about that trip but this bar resurfaced that salty coconut and water scent that stayed on my skin when I flew home. I like it but sadly my skin doesn't exactly embrace the formula as it dries out fast on my arms and legs. I guess I can only use this bar on my feet. Would I purchase a full sized bar?: Unfortunately no, as my skin is too sensitive for this soap blend. It smells lovely though. Soap Bar in Fresh Strawberry and Poppyseeds As it says on the tin, this bar contains actual strawberries and poppyseeds that adds a light gentle exfoliation to a delicate fruit fragrance. The soap bar formula has been wonderful on my sensitive skin and indeed smells like sugar dusted strawberries and a kiss of coconut and shea. Would I purchase a full bar?: Yes, not only does it lather nicely and rinse away with no residue but it also works on my face and removed my mascara. Lip Scrub in Huckleberry Buttercreme So here's another first for me as I can't believe I have gone this long in my life without any kind of sugar scrub for my body before. This one goes on my lips and yes there is a level of learning how to apply but I find using over a sink works best or in the bath tub as the wet sugar crystals get everywhere. I do admit I have taken a more than proper taste of the berry scented scrub and it is indeed yummy. As for the results my lips (that have taken a hit since I started using lip stains) they are more smooth feeling, moisturized and I haven't broken out once with this scrub around my mouth. One final thing to admit, I have used this as an experimental mini body scrub and yes it works wonderfully (is there anything sugar can't do?) Would I purchase a jar?: Yes and no surprise it would be pumpkin or peppermint Silky Body Spritz in Blueberry Spritzer (Description and Notes: Fresh blueberries, sprigs of rosemary and thyme, and a sparkling cocktail) I was expecting a dark herbal fruit laced fragrance but have been surprised by this charming shop once again as this is playful and effervescent with a clear refreshing thyme note, a hint of rosemary (along with seltzer water) and the blueberry smells more like sugar-dusted berries ready for jam or pie. It's lovely for the hot summer months and the scent lasts until the next day on my legs (I use this as an after shaving moisturizing spray). I have also been using the silky body spritz on my hair ends. Would I purchase a full bottle?: Not at this time, I'm content with the extremely generous sized sample bottle. Silky Body Spritz in Peppermint Marshmallows (Description and Notes: Squishy and sweet, with a bright punch of peppermint and creamy mallowy puffs) Peppermint Marshmallows is more than a gourmand, it's soothing, creamy and awakening all at the same time. Simply put, this is sweet peppermint aromatherapy for me and I want this fragrance in everything. The peppermint is strong but not overwhelming and isn't like candy or exactly a true peppermint extract scent either- it somehow finds a divine balance and gets even better when the realistic powdery marshmallow and underlying vanilla appears about an hour later. I love this. Must note about the impressive performance of the spray that adds a lovely light layer of moisture and this fragrance lasts 10 hours on my skin and into the next night in my hair. Would I purchase a full bottle?: Yes, here's my pocketbook. Send it all. Libertine Bath Haus Alchemic Muse (I'll keep this introduction short as I can't wait to gush about the scent treasures to be found at this next house of fragrance.) Floral-gourmands and hyacinth perfection were all I sought when I enquired on an indie focused forum and I was directed to see Alchemic Muse. Interesting enough that enquiry was posted at the perfect moment as this shop just unveiled their Kabloom! collection and I placed a very small introductory order of a single hair mist bottle which then turned into a mad dash back to my screen to order more once I uncapped the bottle and smelled a soap sample. Here is my current trove of scent indulgences to be shortly joined by a parade of PUMPKINS soon...here we go again, haha. One Note at a Time
Ostara in Hair Mist/Styling Spray and Perfume Oil (Description and notes: The eternal embodiment of spring pays tribute to you with a mix of hyacinth blossoms, myrtle, and wild heather fused with the soft green foliage of moss and ivy, gently grounded by a warm and earthy base of clove, cinnamon, and myrrh) Simply put, this is Easter and Spring-time in a bottle and THE crowning jewel of my floral collection. The hyacinth accord is exactly as promised and I have found another holy grail for myself. For scent composition, the hyacinths are the stars of the show in Ostara that are warmed by the green notes along the spice and each layer is perfectly balanced creating a symphony and soothing lullaby to the senses. For any differences between the mist and oil, the hair mist is definitely stronger for me (when applied it's like sleeping on an intoxicating bouquet of freshly bloomed sun-warmed hyacinths) and the fragrance lasts all night into the next day versus the oil that fades away within 3 to 4 hours on my skin and needs reapplied. Dreamcatcher soap sample and Hair Mist/Styling Spray (Description and notes: Snare your dreams, no matter the time! Wild honeysuckle flowers with sugared citrus notes of lemon and bergamot peel at play against a sheer base of orange blossoms, muguet and crisp green leaves.) *The soap sample arrived with my first order (thank you so much, Alchemic Muse!) and then was shortly followed by a purchase of the hair mist after one night's performance with the Ostara bottle. This shop excels at realistic smelling florals and Dreamcatcher is one impressive honeysuckle blend that sweeps me away to summertime in the country. The citrus is more pronounced in the soap bar versus in my hair and in regards to the soap formula, we have another keeper as it's gentle and non-drying leaving my skin silky smooth with no tight feeling and no need to add any type of moisturizer after use. I do wish the soap didn't melt away so fast but that only gives me an excuse to purchase the large bars. The fragrance of the hair mist is predominantly photo-realistic honeysuckle with lily of the valley and orange blossom to my nose while others have commented I smell like honeysuckle and incense (either way I'm not complaining and very pleased). For performance the formula seems to work better for me as a styling mist versus detangler. Now that's not saying the mist doesn't detangle, it certainly does (and the scent lasts) but it does leave a slightly stiff effect on my hair when simply brushed in. That may sound negative but it is ideal for creating Marcel Waves that go all the way to the crown of my head. I feel I channel Zelda Fitzgerald with that effect. Another keeper for my vanity and I'm anxious to get my nose into a Lovecraft bottle. The following items arrived with my second order (thank you for everything, Alchemic Muse!) and will be full sized purchases. The whole Kabloom! collection is coming home to me. Cloud Nine soap sample (Description and Notes: An ethereal clean and creamy white floral blend with billowing white blossoms of Victorian lilacs with wisps of sweet jasmine, white rose, white violet and cherry heliotrope. Floating beneath is a thick layer of fresh cream raining onto a bed of white raspberries.) I'm happy to say, the formula of the soap is consistent across the board and the scent of Cloud Nine is as I can only describe what a spring angel would smell like; it's floral, dreamy AND even contains violets that behaved with my chemistry. No cough syrup but only creamy classic white and light purple florals. I think in addition to the soap bar I need Cloud Nine in the hair mist. Into the basket it all goes (my pocketbook is really doomed come Black Friday this year). Orange Blossom Tea soap sample (Description and Notes: An exquisite, sultry scented blend of orange blossom petals with bergamot, muguet lily, and fresh green notes over a heart of robust black tea accented by a sheer, earthy base of oak, sweet hay, and light musk) I think it is safe to say, 2019 is the year of Orange Flower/Blossoms for my bath and body collections and Orange Blossom Tea is another creation I need to add to my basket in different formats as this one is sweet and feminine with the orange blossom and the underlying tea stays true and adds a unique warmth to the floral and green notes. I'm curious to see if the fragrance would morph on my skin or if the hay would appear more. Only one way to find out. Turkish Delight bath melt (Description and Notes: Jellied candy flavored with rose water and coated with powdered sugar) This was a first for me as I never used a bath melt before and I'm happy to say Turkish Delight is the beginning of another collection for myself. Not only did this melt smell divine (and last quite awhile when broken up- 4 baths in total I got enjoy with it) but hints of pretty sugared rosewater still lingered on my skin an hour later leaving my water filled sanctuary. I admit I'm on a severe rose kick right now and this melt hit the spot (it's like bathing in rose petals and a bit of sugar). It also softened my skin to a petal finish (even my elbows) and works just as well as bath salts for my tired muscles and sore joints. Needless to say I will be purchasing Turkish Delight and exploring more releases from this charming shop. Alchemic Muse It is a truth universally acknowledged that a lady in possession of unwanted creases and dry skin must be in want of a fabulous cream and serum. Whether that lady (or gentleman) is only just noticing them for the first time in the mirror or has lived with skin changes for awhile because they do not believe there can possibly to a solution or relief to such a common unwelcome thing, LittleBits is there for us when you need a little special something from researched nature (the tried and true historical recipes) and thank goodness because this lady needed that little something badly. Being a certain age when my skin seems to have a mind of its own I started noticing lines, dryness with dullness in places which all began to make me self-conscious and that is a terrible feeling. To my favourite marketplace platform I went a haunting and I really do believe in perfect timing because one of my first searches brought me the listing of the 24kt Gold Egyptian Serum from LittleBits and I honestly couldn't leave the page alone, so after contacting the owner with quite a few questions and personal concerns about how well her products would fair well on my sensitive skin, I purchased my first introductory sampling which shortly after became the largest haul I have ever ordered from any indie shop. Long story short, these amazing items have worked wonders for me and like my mom, grandmothers and aunts whom all found their own favorite skin creams/serums/powders that never left their vanities and handbags, I have found mine! 24kt Gold Egyptian Serum Egyptian Oil Listed Materials: 24kt Gold, Myrrh, Frankincense, Egyptian Geranium, Grape Seed Oil Appearance/Fragrance: In the amber bottle that comes with a handy long cosmetic pipette the contents are a yellow colour with actual gold flakes floating in the oil that fill the entire space of the bottle when shaken (you are sure to get flashes of gold in every application). The scent is true frankincense that is a sharp smelling resin and this serum also has an intoxicating lemon-like note present. It's instantly relaxing for me and I love to wear this oil to go to sleep. Performance/Results: THIS is the product I sorely wish I found years ago so I could have staved off some of the unpleasant permanent signs on my skin but overall this serum performs amazingly well and I love adding this bottle to my morning routine before I slip back to bed to get ready for another shift. The gold actually dissolves into my skin and I noticed positive results within a week of using this item (I can wear this all over my face even my chin, along my jawline and nose). It doesn't fight my sensitive skin but soaks right in and even helped with the annoying roughness on my cheeks and helps keep acne at bay. I think this is the oil that has helped soften the crease in my eyebrows the most in conjunction with the 1896 Cleopatra's Enamel. Would I repurchase?: YES *Side Note: In addition to the positive results I have noticed in the mirror and can feel when I touch my face, I adore the history that is incorporated into the selection of the materials used and I found the facts supplied on the product's pages absolutely fascinating (I could read all day long about the healthful properties of herbs and resins). A Lily Pomatum For Wrinkles 1772 Fine Line Salve Listed Materials: Vitamin E, Jojoba Oil, Almond Oil, Therapeutic Grade *White Lily Oil, Organic White Beeswax, Organic Natural WI Honey Appearance/Fragrance: I first received this item in a small beautifully labelled bag then I upgraded to a jar size as soon as it ran out. The cream is a creamy white that requires a quick stir with a plastic spoon and the fragrance is a dreamy delicate lily with powder. The adorable jar is about the size of a lip balm. It's not very large but the contents last quite a while and I can't argue about the moisturizing effect it holds. Performance/Results: I readily admit I have no idea what I'm doing with creams/serum/salves or know if I'm overdoing it with layering everything but I do love to experiment where these items perform best and the Lily Pomatum seems to go best on my cheeks, along my jawline (my skin is tight as a drum again!), neck and on that blasted line between my eyebrows that was so deep looking before I found LittleBits. Would I repurchase?: YES Side Note: *I do take caution when I use this pomatum around my cat (it does contain actual white lily oil and ground root) so I make sure to wash my hands and keep him away from woozing around my face (same with my dogs)- it never hurts to be a little more careful when it comes to lilies and cats (or dogs). 1896 Cleopatra's Enamel Listed Materials: Almond Oil, Rose Water, Myrrh, Honey, Bees Wax, Rose Appearance/Fragrance: As the same with the Lily cream, I first ordered this as a sample then upgraded to a small jar that looks so lovely displayed on my 120+-year-old vanity. The scent is hard to truly describe, it's very light and sweet creamy wax with a hint of almond. The contents of the jar are opaque ivory that is thick and pliable (can be rolled around your fingers to make a ball before applying) but quickly spreads when gently pushed into the skin. I like to use this one of the most noticeable lines as it fills the creases in completely and (in my mind) plumps up those areas. I use a small plastic spoon to take small scrapes of the salve before applying. A little goes a long way. Performance/Results: As you probably can tell I've never used many skin care products (except acne creams and generic makeup) so I'm still learning where and how to use everything. Through some morning testing, I found this enamel does not fair well on my cheeks, chin or nose but it does work nicely on my forehead, elbows, back of my hands (even as a cuticle oil/cream) and this is another item I love to fall asleep wearing. Would I repurchase?: YES 1772 Cold Cream Orange Flower - Toilet De Flora Body Cream Listed Materials: Virgins Wax, Jojoba, Almond Oil, Orange Flower Water, Ben, Jasmine, Orange Appearance/Fragrance: When I opened my first parcel from LBCC I think this cream leaked a tiny bit from the small sample bag (soon then after replaced with a large purchased jar) as it was the first heavenly aroma that greeted me when I opened the box. I believe this scented item (along with MoonaLisa's creation known as Whole) is what set me on a frantic search for anything with orange blossom listed. It's incredible and so historically important if you take the time to read about the famous women who favoured that fragrance. The cream is thin and is an almost transparent white in colour (and it is the same in the jar). Performance/Results: I had to research how to correctly use and delve into my memory to remember how my Baba used her creams but I think I have it now: a nice slightly thick application over my makeup (concentrating around my eyes), a few minutes of enjoying the aforementioned amazing scent composition then a hot to touch washcloth to wipe the cream away starting at my cheeks then leaving my eyes last. This cold cream works wonderfully well at melting away my stubborn mascara and I definitely notice a moisturizing effect when I use it. Would I repurchase?: YES *Full Disclosure: Makeup scares me. There I said it. I've never really worn that much and when any other time I played around I would look like well more of a horrific parody of a lady of the evening versus polished or never felt like myself and that I had this heavy itchy mask on I couldn't wait to get off. I've also never had any luck finding a shade that would match my skin (I'm extremely cool toned) or one that didn't look like cake batter when applied then later left me with painful welts. I've used a gamut of commercial makeup brands over the years and my most recent was Bare Minerals for powder, blush and lipstick. 1912 Sultana Cold Cream Listed Materials: Jojoba Oil, Bees Wax, Almond Oil, Cocoa Butter, Orange Flower Water, Peru Balsam Appearance/Fragrance: This was one of the only products I didn't get to purchase as a smaller sample first and I had no idea what to expect when I opened the beautiful frosted jar so I'm thrilled to say this light fawn coloured cream smells like expensive melted gourmand chocolate! The consistency is simply fascinating as it starts out somewhat solid for a cream but as soon as it touches the skin, it melts like butter (a little goes a very long way and there is a trace of balsam and orange if I concentrate to find the notes). Performance/Results: I would love to sing the praises of the results for this cold cream on myself but sadly this is the only product I purchased that I had a negative reaction to (figures). So instead of my face or elbows, I use this cream on my feet and I really like the softness around my heels and I also have been experimenting with this jar on my cuticles and on my legs. I did get one-half day of use for this formula as an intended cold cream and yes it works to remove makeup, so ignore the rambling lady who has weird unpredictable skin; you want a jar and want to feel you are slathering your face in expensive chocolate, get it. Would I repurchase?: Sadly, no. Only due to the fact that my skin still delights in tormenting me. 1908 Rose Complexion Powder Listed Materials: Rice Powder, Rose Powder, Sandal Wood, Organic Rose, Organic Rose Petals, Natural Essential Oil Appearance/Fragrance: The finely ground powder is a delicate shade of fitting rose and the scent is an equally light floral with a barely-there touch of warm sandalwood. The tin is nicely sized (gorgeously designed) and I feel I will get perhaps a full year out of the contents. Performance/Results: Where has this product been all my life!? It matches my skin tone perfectly and even blurs some imperfections. I love I can touch my face and actually feel my skin versus a greasy mask and I'm impressed it actually absorbs the oil that I work up when I'm dashing about the floor at my workplace. The real test will be this summer and I may have to reapply here and there throughout the day but we shall see. Would I repurchase?: YES (this is a lifetime repurchase for me and I hope it is never discontinued) 1922 Setting Powder Listed Materials: French Talc, Organic Lemon Oil, Organic Bergamot Oil Appearance/Fragrance: Finely ground powder with minute dark specks in it. There isn't a discernable scent to it but maybe it does in the tin which I don't own. It also has a silky feeling to it when touched. Performance/Results: Alone this powder achieves the ethereal appearance that was popular during the 1920's so I think I will use this for events and if I'm lucky be wearing this for the Great Gatsby New Year's themed parties at the end of this year. In the meantime, I do like to carefully layer this over the 1908 powder in spots as it adds a little more protection against oil on my forehead and along my hairline. I really need to buff and blend to get an even look if used all over but I do like this product. Would I repurchase? YES especially if the 100% Pure Pearl Powder was ever discontinued. 100% Pure Pearl Powder Listed Materials: As it says on the tin- PEARLS Appearance: I don't how she did it but I'm holding actual crushed pearls with this product and about to blend them over my face. You can't get more fancy feeling than using real 24kt gold and crushed pearls in self-care and makeup. I love this shop! Performance/Results: Here is another item I have searched years for and wish I found much sooner. This powder works so well over the 1908 formula and blurs some of my scarring. It also softens the pores on my nose that I can't seem to get rid of completely. Finally must mention a few words about the handy mini cosmetic puff that is included with this tin, it adds another touch of refinement and again I feel so fancy and "right" when I use these products. Would I repurchase?: YES Liquid Bloom of Roses 1780 - 1958 Vintage Lip Stain/Cheek Stain Listed Materials: Carmine, Rose Water, Essence of Roses, Organic Rose Oil Appearance/Fragrance: The contents are a deep red with an undertone of blue. The scent is incredible, to say the least, I wish I had a perfume that matched this bottle exactly. It's floral of course but it's so much more and that is true rose water I can smell; you seriously need to smell it for yourself to understand. In terms of the bottle, it's perfect to display and I love that the packaging is a reproduction of the actual label that was used in the 18th century. Performance/Results: Confession time- one full application of this stain and I threw away my powder blush and lipstick I have been using for years. There is no comparison and I can't recommend this bottle enough for those out there that are cool toned (this stain was made for us). I'm still puzzling out how many layers to apply but I think I'm satisfied with 4 to 6 and I'm happy to say that even though I apply the stain with my finger it doesn't transfer to my work clothing if I happen to adjust my name badge or the bedding which I was worried about (if it does I don't notice or it's a very light spot of pink). For durability, this stain lasts the whole night and if I would let it go I wouldn't be surprised if it lasted into the next afternoon- never had that happen with any commercial blush. I also never had a blush that well made me look like I'm blushing and this Liquid Bloom of Roses does just that, it looks so natural on and yes it also adds a fresh bitten look to my lips (no lipstick I ever tried produced that before). The only negative is this product is drying to my skin and lips but I feel that is a small price to pay and easily remedied when I don't have it on plus that's what lip balm is for. Would I repurchase?: YES (another lifetime repurchase item) 1922 Vegetal Red Rose Liquid Rouge Listed Materials: Carmine, Natural Rose Oil, Organic Rose Water Appearance/Fragrance: Very similar to the 1780-1958 stain but it's brighter in that deep red and can be described as "berry pink" (think freshly squeezed or mashed strawberries). The scent is the same as 1780-1958 formula but it may be a little subdued in ways. Performance/Results: I purchased a sample vial as I loved the red "fresh bitten" look on my lips but wanted it darker, this rouge works and I get my desired look after about 3 coatings. Oddly this stain transfers more when I touch things so I do use caution. Should mention with both stains they last all night even with eating and drinking. Finally, I'm sure to keep a lip balm near with this liquid rouge/lip stain. Would I purchase a bottle?: YES One Note at a Time 1920's Lilies & Lilac Toilet Water This ultra-delicate oil leaves just enough of a lovely spring imprint on my mind and I keep returning to it. I love this one all for different reasons than what I was initially looking for in an oil (I want this bottle for after shaving and to sprinkle on my bed sheets, so into the basket it goes for my birthday or Black Friday). For a perfume to wear throughout the day, it's pretty as a lilac perfume should be but hardly has any longevity (even in my hair I get 2 hours tops) and as much as I love lilies, they upstage the lilac. I have my fingers crossed the upcoming lilac perfume will be exactly what I'm looking for. Bouquet de I'Imperatrice Josephine perfume (Natural Rose Oil, Natural Rosewood Oil, Organic Rose Petals, Natural Jasmine Oil, Natural Sandalwood, Organic Almond Oil and Musk) I only have a sample of this magnificent perfume but soon I will have a bottle as this is a timeless fragrance which transports my imagination far away and I feel like absolute royalty when I wear it. There is a delicate rose that brushes the skin and the jasmine with sandalwood adds a warm romantic complexity to Bouquet de I'Imperatrice Josephine that I haven't experienced in anything within my collection. I appreciate this is by no means a brash rendering of the notes that would usually give me a headache or scream soap to my nose, every note is blended so well creating an elegant softness that I have been searching for and finally found. Jane Austen's Garden perfume (Rose, Lavender, Forest, Orange, Lilac, Rose Geranium, Jasmine, Rosemary and Voilet) Ahh! This is what I could only imagine a real English garden to smell like (velvety roses overhanging a garden wall and woody lavender bordering the walk with geraniums and deep purple violets in the window box) and I will be taking this enchanting oil with me when I travel to Bath and Hampshire someday. This is the type of perfume to wear on those days when you have many responsibilities but for a time you would rather let my mind relax and enjoy the sunshine. Jamie's Passion perfume (No listed notes but it described as: "This lovely light amber perfume oil is uniquely based on an original 18th-century love potion and mixed with the popular scents of the 1940's.") I'm still trying to decipher this oil as I get a waft of lemon thyme of first application then a clean warm amber emerges and amps (or glows) then it fades down to something akin to violets. It lasts about 2 hours on my skin and about 4 hours in my hair. Here is another oil I will be taking with me when I travel. Orange Flower Oil *I can't speak highly enough about the customer service practices at this shop because when I fell hard for the scent in 1772 Orange Blossom cold cream I sent a message to the shop owner to see if I could get a perfume to smell exactly like the jar. Not only could she recommend an oil but she even offered to dilute a specially prepared oil for me and add it to my custom order (thank you so much, Alicia!). Marking down another note I'm completely enamoured with and need more of in my collection. This oil is fantastic for everyday wear (especially in the workplace setting) but I've found I prefer to keep this gem at home and allow this bottle to banish any negative mood (that citrus note is sublime) and revitalize my creativity (wearing it right now as I type away). Bulgarian (Otto) Rose Oil *Here is another oil that was specially recommended by Alicia at LittleBits as I asked if she had a perfume that matched the scent in the Liquid Bloom of Roses, she suggested the Josephine Perfume along with many others including this oil. Overall Bouquet de I'Imperatrice Josephine comes the closest to matching but I still like the Bulgarian (Otto) Rose Oil. When applied it isn't the sharp caustic florals it's actually a dainty rose and reminds me more of petals rather than a full stemmed rose. I am finding that rose oils fade fast on my skin so this is another fragrance I love to brush into my hair (my hair also seems to unlock the hidden spiciness from the roses which I love). I will definitely be wearing this when I attend different events this year. There you have it, my whole current trove of self-care, oils and makeup from LittleBits/LBCC Historical Apothecary. I've had tremendous success overall and I will be heading back to visit this charming shop again soon, I feel like I have reconnected with a lost piece of myself when I use these items and there are still so many other products I want to explore and learn more about.
LittleBits/LBCC Historical Apothecary Red, white, shiny gold paper all aglow and plaid wrapping along with gorgeous vintage artwork on bottles and bags plus candy nestled with every order! It's time to review all the self-care treats and sniff some captured memories. *Spray-in-Hair Detangler in Gingerbread Man When it comes to detanglers MoonaLisa's formula reigns on my vanity and tames my unruly locks with a supernormal ability that I can't recommend enough to everyone to try for themselves. I do seem to run through my bottles very quickly (about 1 bottle every 2 months) so I make it a necessary purchase from every release to pick up a few detanglers at a time. For winter, I knew I was going to be on the hunt for my holy grail gingerbread fragrance and even though I like Gingerbread Man it isn't THE ONE. When sprayed more citrus is released with cinnamon and I smell more of a spicy lemonade mixture versus a realistic molasses warm cookie fragrance. It may not be ideal for winter for me but I think Gingerbread Man would be divine in the hot summer months. In any case, I used the entire bottle and would repurchase it. *4in1 Shower Gel/Bubble Bath/Shampoo/Cleaner in Gingerbread Man This was my first bottle purchase of the 4in1 and I must say this product is lovely as a bubble bath, shower gel and did surprisingly well as a laundry soap (and the scent lasted on my towels!) but didn't work as well as a shampoo on my thick fine hair, sadly. It may be because I don't have high water pressure in my home but the thin consistency was not easy to get in and out of my hair (I think I'm just a whipped soap type of gal when it comes to my long mane and always will be). In regards to the fragrance again I like Gingerbread Man but I wish it would be more holiday treat versus spicy lemonade. *Argan Oil Winter Hair Rescue in Sugared Plums Another staple on my vanity is the Argan Oil Hair Rescue and when I saw Sugared Plums in the list I immediately placed it in my basket as I have been craving plum with spice. This is exactly what I always envisioned Plum Duff or Skilly ‘n duff to smell like from my favorite book series growing up (Redwall). It's sweet plums, apricots, figs and different spices (my hair amps the dark plums anise and the cardamon). It's delightful, takes my imagination away to enchanting wintertide feasts and the formula is another perfect self-care product in my book. Whoa skilly’n’duff, that’s the stuff, To keep nearby when things get rough! *Bubbling Bath Brew in Snuggler If you haven't guessed by now I am a gourmand fiend and I find dessert scents my ultimate happy time and place escape (especially for the tub) so when I fell hard for the Bubbling Bath Brew in *The Rumpkin! I knew I had to gather a few bags for the unforgiving months to come in different seasonal aromas. Snuggler was at the top of my list to get as I could never decline hot cocoa with peppermint (one of my ultimate guilty pleasures in life). Ah! This brew is divine in every way possible and is like sinking then floating in a bag of melted Andes Chocolate Candies or the inside of a classic York Peppermint Pattie. The added effect of the peppermint bubbles soothing my tired tight muscles and sore joints is a welcome bonus and the cocoa note is completely on point. Simply put, this allows me to forget I have Rheumatoid Arthritis, the cold outside world and is another lifetime repurchase. *Bubbling Bath Brew in S’mores & Hot Cocoa I know it sounds silly but every time I reluctantly leave my water filled sanctuary I believe I just experienced the closest I will ever come to relaxing in a cup of frothy hot cocoa when I use S'mores & Hot Cocoa. Yes it's true and these salts (in any fragrance) just take my imagination away along with my tired muscles, stiff joints and dry skin (it's insane my skin is softer in winter than it ever was in summer). Easily the Bubbling Bath Brews are one of my favourite purchases of 2018 and I want to stock up on every gourmand scented bag from every release and stay in my sweet smelling sanctuary for as long as possible. Mini Guest Soap in Krampus Night! A sample soap that appeared in my order, thank you MoonaLisa! Those souls following my ramblings (thank you all for reading!) know I don't have the greatest luck when it comes to soap and my ultra-sensitive skin but it's a Christmas miracle or Yule Blessing as I can use this shop's soap with not a problem to report and woah is Krampus Night! a nifty morphing little bar of soap. Let's first talk about the presentation that was about the size of a bar of fancy gourmand wrapped chocolate and it absolutely pained me to rip the gold foil as the vintage artwork on top was an old German print I would have loved to of saved for a seasonal bookmark of Krampus riding a sleigh filled with naughty children in a bucket but I wasn't gentle enough and the wrapping fell away to reveal a lump of coal-black soap which was an adorable touch! The texture was smooth and yes I raced off to the tub to use it. The scent was a collage of sweet nostalgic resins with a drop of suede and patchouli and the texture was another creative touch as it was milled with something akin to wood that brushes your skin, gently exfoliating and cleverly plays into the Krampus legend. Now, that is real soapart right there and I hope it returns next year as I want a full sized bar. *above order purchased at full price *Snuggler (Gathered Notes and Description: The drink of choice while wintering in North Beach, San Francisco! Rich dark hot cocoa and peppermint schnapps) So having never tried any of the winter releases I purchased all of these items completely by how I was blown away with the Halloween release and MoonaLisa's supernatural talent to capture realistic gourmand scents in different bottles and here is another I can't recommend enough. In the tub, Snuggler is more Andes Chocolates and cooling Peppermint Pattie with a twist of creamy cocoa but on my skin, I'm instantly swept back to one of the greatest tasting cakes I ever had on my plate at New Year's Eve party long ago. If anyone has ever had the pleasure to try a certain mint chocolate cake in gold foil supposedly from a specialty Chicago bakery that is no longer in business (according to my great aunt), you know that unforgettable aroma I'm talking about. It melted in your mouth and there were chips of dark chocolate in the cake that somehow carried a pop of peppermint that wasn't candy-like but only another level of heavenly dessert. Gah, I miss that cake (if I could taste it just one more time or find a similar recipe) and I can't stop smelling this oil as it smells exactly like it. Snuggler is another holy grail perfume for me, a treasured time in scent form and it only seems to somehow get better (even deeper) with age. A Happy Little Accident (curious pairings): Snuggler + Sixteen92's Habanera (Aldehydes, guava, bergamot flower, water hyacinth, sparkling jasmine, wild clover)= a flower straight out of Willy Wonka's dream garden! Holy cats, why hasn't anyone tried this before, the mint in Snuggler melds so perfectly with the aldehydes in Habanera and the delicate jasmine along with the water hyacinth makes a cool refreshing unique "aquatic" blending while the realistic cocoa pairs beautifully with the guava in Habanera. I smell pretty and delicious, a chocolate flower under a bubbly waterfall...Mmm... *Kris Kringle (Gathered Notes and Description: Deep in the Northern Black Forest, Kris Kringle leaves a trail of enchanting aromas as he gathers our Yuletide delights!! Blend of various Woodland Accords, Yuletide Spices, Vetiver, and Douglas Fir essential oil!) If this is what Kris Kringle smelled like in the olden days no wonder he had a gaggle of children following him, wanting him in their homes and became an iconic legend! Mmm this is pine, spices and warm baked orange cookies to me. On my skin the pine fades but unexpectedly stays (what holiday magic is this?) in the background and the old fashioned orange drop cookie moves forward taking me completely away to once happy holidays and baking up a storm for family wedding celebrations at the same time. If there ever was a perfect cozy winter scent, Kris Kringle is it. This perfume also lasts well into the next night (yes night!) and I swear I smell marshmallow and apple at one point swirled in the notes. Even though the description may sound more playful, I'm here to tell you this is also entirely work setting appropriate and get ready for questions such as: "what smells so good?" and "who smells like Christmas?". Another excellent selection for sleep as well and I have this fragrance on my list for the bath brew and lotion next winter. *Sugared Plums (Gathered Notes and Description: Delicious and seasonal confectionery concoction of traditional Sugared Plum recipe of Almond, ripe Plums, Apricots, Figs, powdered sugar, anise, fennel, caraway and cardamon) I swear everything I ordered from this release makes me so hungry and tempts me to lick and nibble the displayed contents. It's all so incredibly realistic smelling and Sugared Plums is another I could take a bite of right now. If you adore fruit scents or the smell of fruit compotes ready for the stove top or oven this one is for you as the apricot and spiced plum amps on me the most, yum! I also detect something akin to cherry but I think that is the almond note. Sugared Plums is definitely the most playful scent blend I ordered and that's fine with me. When it comes to skin versus hair for this fragrance, I prefer the complexity of notes my locks unleash and I will be getting another argan oil bottle in 2019. *S’mores & Hot Cocoa (Gathered Notes and Description: Classic marshmallow, buttery graham crackers and rich chocolate paired with steaming hot cocoa) Short and sweet: HOLY GRAIL status as this is the most realistic hot cocoa perfume I have found in the indie fragrance realm. It's magnificient with a warm rich depth of chocolate that lasts on my skin until the next afternoon and never turns chalky or waxy. There is also a heavenly fluffy marshmallow accord that swirls with the cocoa and trace of butter that all tricks me into thinking I have hot cocoa in the microwave or on the stove top I forgot about, nope 'tis I who smells so delicious and I can't recommend this gourmand oil enough to those with a sweet tooth and desire a little revisit to happier days of your youth. Iced Gingerbread (Gathered Notes and Description: Realistic Gingerbread blend with mild nostalgic Yuletide spice and white icing) A sample vial that appeared in my order, thank you MoonaLisa! In the vial: As it says on the tin, VANILLA ICING and warm and sweet GINGERBREAD Applied: The search is over, THIS is the gingerbread perfume of my dreams I have been searching for ever since I stepped foot into the indie perfume realm. We have here the ideal gingerbread scent sealed in a vial along with a whiff of iced animal crackers I fondly remember and even a trace of butter and old-fashioned vanilla extract that appears after 6 hours. Needless to say, I want a gallon of Iced Gingerbread to hoard away and will be purchasing a full bottle of perfume as well as any and all bath treats; it's warm, comforting, incredibly realistic AND it stays on my skin more than 10 minutes (I finally have a gingerbread scent confection I can wear on my skin versus in my hair). So that's 3 holy grail fragrances down and I can't wait to see what I unexpectedly fall in love with next from MoonaLisa (come on, lemon cake or creme cookie!). *above order purchased at full price Argan Oil Winter Hair Rescue in Snow Ice The more I explore Moona's seasonal catalogues the more I'm finding I want to test fragrances out first in my curls before I purchase the perfume bottles. My hair seems to unlock hidden notes in different scent potions and I couldn't wait to take Snow Ice for a whirl and I wasn't disappointed. This is warm sweet realistic homemade ice cream in a bag! It's amazing and I plan on repurchasing it in every form next winter if I can. I'll go more into the qualities of the fragrance a little bit later but I have to again recommend another stunning hair product with this argan formula, it adds incredible shine, smooths out the frizz and this is a lifetime repurchase for me like the detanglers. Spray-in Hair Detangler in Gilded Pear Gilded Pear is dulcet savory fruit, the right amount of warm spice and everything nice. I love how my hair just glows in the lamplight when I spray this formula into my locks and my hair has never been this soft and tangle-free (seriously where has this product been all my life?). This is a must try if you have fine hair. I now have a cabinet shelf filled with different amazing scents I rotate throughout the week and I want twice the many more. Spray-in Hair Detangler in Whole So this is the purchase (in conjunction with Orange Flower from LittleBits *review coming very soon) that launched me on Orange Blossom collecting crusade as I fell hard for that note at first sniff. Whole is a lovely uplifting fragrance that you just want to wrap yourself in and never be without. I'll admit I sort of zone out when I have Whole sprayed in my braid (it lasts forever in my curls too!) and I can be found with my nose pressed into my hair losing all track of time. If you love the scent of floral oranges, Whole is a must to have on your vanity or in your tub. I'm trying so hard to conserve my bottle of detangler until December but I think that is an impossible notion and it will be the next empty bottle. Gingerbread Man (Gathered Notes and Description: This is an all natural version of the traditional holiday scent! Made with all natural absolutes, co2's and essential oils of- Fractionated Coconut oil, Allspice, Ginger, Nutmeg, Clove, Cinnamon, Sweet Orange, Butter AB, Vanilla Ab, and a touch of Vetiver) Earlier I mentioned how Gingerbread Man in the detangler, 4in1 and bath brew all smelled liked spicy lemonade to me and interestingly enough my skin allows the cookie aspect of this oil to become more noticeable by each passing month. I can definitely smell the nutmeg and cinnamon along with vanilla and butter (it's more of a bowl of gingerbread dough vs. a baked impression). As the oil dries down more orange comes forward and again it doesn't take my mind immediately to winter or summer, no, this time it goes to autumn. I'm curious to pair this oil with perhaps Pumpkin Strumpet, The Bell Witch or the vial of broom flower another shop kindly sent me. Okay, let's skip summer and go straight to fall, please. Extra samples included with different orders, thank you so much Moona! Rosemary Lavender (Natural Rosemary infused perfumers alcohol spray with Wild Lavender essential oil) Exactly as it says on the tin and this is a lovely example of natural perfumery. The notes blend seemlessly together creating another ideal dream potion that I spray on everything including myself. It reminds me of the natural herb waters you find at the Herb and Flower Festivals in June. I also can't stop looking at the vintage artwork of the garden florals in septia ink. A gorgeous calming fragrance and an equally gorgeous bottle to display. Cranberry Spiced Shortbread (Gathered Notes and Desciption: Juicy ripe Cranberries ready to burst with a subtle touch of Christmas spices topping warm and buttery shortbread cookie) In the vial: Effervescent SPICED CRANBERRY and BUTTERY COOKIE Applied: Here is another vial I could easily drink as this smells like some inventive child dipped their homemade shortbread cookie in a glass of sparkling cranberry juice during a Christmas party (I'm not the only one that used to do that, right?) Suprisingly this doesn't smell soggy in the least and somehow mixes the tart sweetness of the fruit with the holiday spices and buttery cookie to create one lovely scent combination. I could see myself getting this fragrance in the bath brew or sugar scrub parfait and I must say Cranberry Spiced Shortbread is great in the work place setting; I like to think of it as a playful sparkly brooch type of scent. It adds just the right amount of fun holiday pop to your attire. Winter Solstice 2018 version (Gathered Notes and Description: Tune into quiet Winter mysteries with a blend of different sacred resins, such as Frankincense and myrrh from around the world, Nutmeg and Labdanum Absolute) In the vial: Citrusy FRANKINCENSE and MYRRH with a hint of SMOKE Applied: At first there is burst of citrus and resins but as it dries something creamy and wood-like (perhaps unlisted sandalwood?) catches my attention and Winter Solstice become a calming somber fragrance that I love to dab on for sleep. I'm kicking myself for not wearing this more to work last year as this oil stays close and has an almost mediatative and regal quality to it. I must remember to wear this perfume for the coming fall into winter. I also bet this would smell flipping amazing on a man. Note to self... Gingernutter (Gathered Notes and Description: Crumbly soft, warm Ginger Milk and Sugar cookies with Hazelnut Marshmallows) In the vial: GINGER, HAZELNUT and VANILLA Applied: I want to say I love this but the more I try Gingernutter it falls into the like category as there is something that sticks out that I can't place. I do enjoy the spiciness of this oil but wish it lasted longer on my skin and I could figure out what that odd note is that my chemistry has latched onto. It does smell warm and holiday-like but the more I sit here the more I don't think Gingernutter is for me. Can't win them all. Snow Ice (Gathered Notes and Description: Fond memories Moona has when a child at camp during the Nevada snows, making natural "ice cream" from ice cold snow, condensed milk, Sugar and Vanilla extract. This scent is reminiscent of that: sweet crystallized vanilla sugar and cream) In the vial: Homemade Ice cream! I'll take a gallon and bucket now, please. Applied: Hold on, I'm still slathering...Mmm! What can I say this is another holy grail perfume for me as this is most delectable vanilla I have encountered in the indie realm [claps]. Snow Ice is sublime, a true masterpiece as it's dreamy and gourmand but never childish or cloying and anyone could wear this as it isn't heavy. I want to call this "lace ice cream" because it's so pretty, finishes off any look and yet so delicous smelling. I know this is a winter scent but I could happily wear this oil all year round and I really want to experiment with different perfumes to see what kinds of "lace ice creams" I could make. As you probably already guessed I have Snow Ice on the list to get EVERYTHING in come winter. Hands down my favourite sample vial in this batch. *With many thanks to MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean for kindly sending me these different scent creations at a discount for sharing my honest thoughts. MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean *Since Laurel Country Herbs is in the process of revamping their website all orders are currently taken through the owner's main social media page and over the phone 412-327-7147 As far back I can remember I felt I was in a never-ending edition of Goldilocks when it came to soap bars and my overly sensitive skin. It was always "too gooey and messy" and "too drying and tight feeling...Ack! Another painful breakout!" but that all changed with one gift from an out of state family friend who sent me a bar of Oatmeal & Honey from Laurel Country Herbs. Yes, I found the just right natural combination of skin magic and it is five years later since that new chapter began and I'm in awe over the softness, smoothness I see in the mirror now and the scents I've collected are truly heavenly but never overpowering. These are the only bars I will use on my face every day and the only shop I trust to save me from itchy dry skin and remove stubborn makeup after a 12-hour shift. Oatmeal & Honey- Unscented The one that started it all and the mysterious skin potion locked in this bar soothes my wind-chapped skin in winter and adds the right amount of moisture in the sweltering summer months. It's really ideal for anytime during the year. When it comes to the scent, Oatmeal & Honey is marked unscented but if I take my time the combined notes create a slight sweetness with a hint of shea which I love so, later on, I can slather my treasured perfume oils and only enjoy the complex depths they have to offer versus soap on my skin. Finally, the size of the soap is impressive for the price and I'm still using the original from 5 years ago. These bars last and outperform the high-end luxury cleansing bars I've tried (which just melt so fast even with even light usage and leave my skin tight and uncomfortable requiring massive amounts of lotion afterwards). Understated simplicity and back to nature are best in my book. Cranberry Spice- Contains dried cranberry, rose clay & cosmetic-grade fragrance oil. (*only available October-December) Cranberry Spice is the bar I use on my back as this red and pale cream marbled self-care item contains rose clay and it soaks up any excess oil (and yet still leaves my skin touchable). I love the scent of Cranberry Spice as it a little tart and has a very faint trace of spice which is perfect for the colder months (but again I use it year round). The bar I currently own is going on 4 years and still carries a faint scent of Christmas Past to it. Pumpkin Patch- Contains pumpkin, milk, spices & essential oils. (*only available September-December) Ah, my love. Pumpkin Patch combines all my favorite things to sniff in the morning and holds extra benefits of removing my stubborn oily makeup and stopping any possible near future skin blemishes that were started from my commercial makeup products the night before (I'm currently on the hunt for indie makeup to replace those cakey powders I use). This is the bar I can't recommend enough especially if you adore the scent of pumpkin with mouthwatering spice. The color of Pumpkin Patch is a russet gold and I can see pieces of pumpkin puree embedded in the soap. For those concerned the spice may overwhelm and burn sensitive skin, I haven't had one issue (but as always use the utmost caution if you are allergic to any spice, your experience may differ from mine). For me, it's like a kiss of pumpkin pie in the morning before I head off into the dark to sleep the day away and waking up to petal soft skin. Rosemary- Rosemary essential oil & finely ground rosemary leaves. Anyone that knows me would have probably rolled their eyes and stifled a chuckle if they had seen me dancing around when this bar of embedded herbs arrived, as I am over the moon for rosemary in any form and this soap bar immediately headed for the tub for a midday soak. I honestly don't have an explanation why rosemary calms my senses and I must collect everything with that accord but Laurel Country Herbs created one stunning self-care item with this bar. I get the resin and familiar intoxicating sharpness of the herb and I couldn't be happier. As with all the soap creations from this shop, my skin responds positively and it was fantastic to use this past autumn and winter. Extra Samples (thank you so much Laurel Country Herbs!) Eucalyptus & Spearmint- Eucalyptus and Spearmint essential oils. Lavender, Bergamot & Honey- Lavender, Bergamot essential oils. GingerMint & Honey- Ginger and Spearmint essential oils. Every one of these samples I could inhale all day long and for purchasing larger sizes in the future, I need a bar of Lavender, Bergamot & Honey to grace my bathroom. The note combination sweeps me away to the local Herb Fair in merry month of June with old-fashioned lavender you can't resist rubbing your hands together with and indulge in with your eyes closed while the honey adds to the scent memory of bees buzzing around all the garden flowers and herbs on display and finally the bergamot adds a touch of hidden spice that comes more forward when lather is created. Eucalyptus & Spearmint is a must have if you love medicinal calming fragrances around you and this was another I loved to reach for in the colder months (fantastic for sore stiff muscles). GingerMint & Honey was lovely in the warmer months with a bite of ginger present and a sweetness of honey that swirled over my skin and senses. Each one of the samples carried my favorite types of oils in them and ultimately made it very hard to leave my water filled sanctuary. Lip Balm (Cappuccino)- Shea oil, coconut oil, beeswax, jojoba oil, castor oil & flavor oils In truth, I'm used to a much different kind of balm but I really like this as the formula melts into my lips when applied and I have this tube tucked away in my purse. The taste isn't super realistic but I do get cappuccino with jojoba and shea oil, it's still pleasant and I'm thrilled it doesn't break out the skin around my lips (that can sometimes happen for me with different soft textured balms). It passed the winter wind test this past year with flying colors and I would repurchase this in pumpkin of course. So there you have it, my shop of choice that holds various wonderful benefits for my super sensitive skin and it all started with a gift from a family friend. This Goldilocks is ready to close the book on skin issues now and forever and I can't resist exploring more at Laurel Country Herbs as they carry so many additional items that come from nature and showcase fascinating old practices/traditions (I really want to get the Elderberry Syrup and the Kitchen Koffee Soap perhaps those will be stories for another day).
*Since Laurel Country Herbs is in the process of revamping their website all orders are currently taken through the owner's main social media page and over the phone 412-327-7147 MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean It's not every day I'm presented with the whole package of beautiful vintage aesthetic, fantastic scent artistry and a touch of unexplainable magic from a house of fragrance but sometimes the stars align and good things enter into your life at the perfect time and so it goes with MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean. From dream gourmands in gorgeous themed bottles, nostalgic scents that sweep me away to happier times and even to bath products that just melt away my stiff tired joints and muscles this shop is one I have been waiting for when it comes to the ultimate pampering delights for myself. Who knew this was the year of such wonderful kinds of self-care treats to discover and MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean shoots to the top of the list of favourite orders/releases of 2018 and shops to share. As I said, it's not every day you stumble across something so special or rare for yourself and for me it all started with one simple curious purchase during a favoured time of the year... One Note at a Time: *The Rumpkin! (Gathered Notes/Description: Delicious pumpkin goodies with a twist of fresh sweet lavender essential oil) In the bottle: Exactly as it says on the tin, SPICED PUMPKIN and SWEET LAVENDER. I have been searching for over a decade for this combination of notes in one bottle that isn't sharp or candle-like on the first impression. Is it possible The Rumpkin! is THE ONE? Applied: ...How do I truly describe heaven or the crown jewels of both pumpkin and lavender oils in my collection? I don't feel I can fully do this fragrance justice and all I'll do is end up rambling but here we go: I can only call The Rumpkin! pure elegant long-lasting magic (it is still detectable well into the next afternoon on me). THIS [holds up diamond-studded bottle] gorgeous scent potion is what I have been searching and waiting for years to find when it comes to the otherworldly marriage of lavender and pumpkin. It's a sweet herbal delight with some serious morphing elements as my wrists project the lavender and the crooks of my arms and neck amp the creamy almost buttery pumpkin with spice. As the hours roll on, this perfume is still captivating to my senses and gentlemen wink and fall to their knees to propose undying love as I sweep past while the other ladies seem jealous tonight...Haha no nothing that exaggerated but still The Rumpkin! garners the compliments and my coworkers keep asking me what I'm wearing that smells so good as they yank my arm and I must admit I can't stop smelling my wrists and stealing sniffs on my locks when no one is looking (but then again let them look); this is everything I've ever desired in a perfume. It's sweet, herbal, spicy and creamy plus I swear The Rumpkin! holds some unseen magic as I smell tempered white chocolate at 8 hours into the wear time. How very curious and spectacular because the chocolate is staying with my finicky chemistry, I'm seriously over the moon right now! I must have more and want EVERYTHING MoonaLisa makes now. One more holy grail fragrance off the list. *Pumpkin Batter (Gathered Notes/Description: Scrumptious, toasty bread, pumpkin puree, warm Autumn spices, vanilla frosting, creamy caramel, and juicy raisins) In the bottle: TOASTED SPICED BREAD and PUMPKIN. The wrong scent to wear when you are hungry, it's delectable and so realistic in the bottle alone. Pumpkin Batter almost smells like cinnamon homemade pretzels, now that's something. Applied: Oh yum! What a delight to find this type of combination of butter, pumpkin, bread and spice in a bottle. Right away the buttery toasted bread amps with spiced pumpkin that still carries a slightly unique pretzel aroma to it but as it warms on my skin more toasted buttery bread comes forward and a hidden honey note appears. I must admit I was expecting Pumpkin Batter to be a cake heavy fragrance like others were commenting about but this dark tinted bottle is proving it holds many delicious surprises in store and I'm falling hard for the realistic homemade bread note with honey and spiced pumpkin. Here is another fragrance that lasts into the next day and a little goes a long way. Another unique scent confection for my collection and I think I want Pumpkin Batter in the bubbling bath brews next Halloween. Forager's Grove (Gathered Notes/Description: "Blended with deep, rich notes of dank woods, sweet balsamic aromas of resinous leaves and twigs, intoxicating toasted sugared wild blackberries and hints of comforting roasted coffee") A sample vial that appeared in my first order, thank you MoonaLisa! In the vial: ROASTED COFFEE, FRESH BLACKBERRIES and something like CEDAR. It's sweet and acidic but warm. I'm a little leery as coffee can turn skunky on me but I've been having such unbelievable good luck with unique fragrances lately. Fingers crossed my chemistry plays nice. Applied: There is nothing to fear with Forager's Grove as this oil is warm, inviting and isn't turning skunky on me at all! The coffee, in fact, is very subtle and the sugar-tossed blackberries smell like they are from a cobbler and there is a measured cup near at hand of gooey buttery caramel ready to drizzle on top. I also detect the balsamic woods (even a little realistic pine resin after a few hours) and a curious note akin to fresh pencil shavings which I love and immediately reminds me of long past school days and simple innocence. I am so thankful this was a free sample I found nestled in my first order. I'll be reaching for Forager's Grove when I'm seeking cosy comforts at different times of the year. This perfume is a definite keeper in my book. *above order purchased at full price When asked about all the boxes arriving at my home at different hours in the following weeks after my first order from MoonaLisa I told those that asked: "Blame The Rumpkin!, here smell me". 'Tis true that enchanting scent launched me on a journey that took me across the threshold of a whole new collection of pampering gifts for my senses and I sorely wish I found MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean years ago, this shop has been around since 1996 and I just learned about its talented scent artist through a very helpful forum on Reddit this past autumn. Well, 2018 was the year I finally arrived at the party and I don't want to leave especially after falling hard for the next order I'm about to share starring The Rumpkin! of course (and this time I attempted to capture all of the magnificent presentation and wrapping but failed, it's not an unboxing it's honestly an event). Bubbling Bath Brew in The Rumpkin! Every time I open the bag of these salts I'm reminded of the vintage York Peppermint Pattie commercials where someone opens the wrapper and is instantly transported far away to something amazing and relaxing; the perfect "me time" indulgence. The same happens to me and is true about these soaks as I'm greeted not by cool mint and chocolate (that comes later with Snuggler *review to follow in early 2019) but by the beguiling wafts of sweet lavender and spiced pumpkin. The heavenly fragrance of The Rumpkin! fills my whole bathroom and when sprinkled into the tub and hot water hits, it's truly a sensation as these salts just take my imagination away along with my stiff muscles, dry skin (it's insane my skin, especially on my feet is noticeably softer in winter than it ever was in summer) and this bath brew just melts deep into my joints like buttah to ease pain. Easily the Bubbling Bath Brew/Bath Salt Soaks are one of my favourite purchases of this year and I want to stock up on every gourmand scented bag and stay in my sweet smelling sanctuary for as long as possible. Highly recommend. Witch's Brew Leave In De-Tangler in The Rumpkin! Unleashing my locks in the morning from being carefully pinned after applying this magic hair brew the night before just makes me smile and I can't recommend the spray-in-hair detangler enough. I can definitely notice less splitting and my ends are clearly quenched by something that has been missing from all the other formulas I have been using for my extremely long fine hair that delights in painfully knotting at the drop of a hat or gust of wind. Every strand is touchable (not crunchy or greasy) and expensive salon worthy. From start to finish this formula is impressive and very simple to use: shake the bottle, spray in damp hair (enjoy and lose yourself in the fragrance, imagine happily drowning in it), let sit for 5 minutes and then my brush goes right through my pile of hair as promised with nary a snag. Nothing compares with the results such as the bouncy soft voluminous (and fragrant) mane that greets me after using Witch's Brew Leave In De-Tangler and my search is over. I'm purchasing this product for life and stocking up. Highly recommend. Carpet Fresh in The Rumpkin! *a surprise product in my order, thank you Moona! To the outside world (and especially to those at my workplace), I may seem organized, polished and extremely tidy but I'm harbouring a dirty little secret: I loathe house cleaning and avoid it when I can. Seriously there isn't anything wrong with an extra speck of dust on the mantel, a bed you can't bounce a quarter off of, a few fuzzballs in the corners and a little chaotic organization (haha I definitely wasn't a maid or housekeeper in any past life). So you could only imagine my thoughts when I unwrapped this beautifully packaged product. I just had to use this though as it smelled divine so out of curiosity I called a truce against the hate I have for extra seasonal cleaning and tested this mixture against the distinct funk my loveable pack can emit in the air and the autumnal muck they manage to bring in (especially near my front door) and wouldn't you know it this stuff made my kitchen smell flipping amazing and dare I say it, I enjoyed running the sweeper. In fact, I cried "good boys!" when my dogs tracked in the grime and mud because I got to use the sweeper as my dogs just stared at me heads tilted in confusion probably wondering who this crazy lady was that danced and skipped about sniffing the air while the loud annoying machine rumbled away. Oh wait, I'm not saying I love cleaning or am turning over a new leaf, far from it but this Carpet Fresh mixture does make the chore a tad less unpleasant and the ultimate reward is my whole room is filled with a fragrance I want to roll around in. I dare say, as long as I have this Carpet Fresh stocked under my sink, my home may be a little tidier in ways. If anything I'm hanging this powder and herbs in all pretty organza bags and placing them in my closets, my vanity drawers, in my car (that is oddly spotless and uncluttered, go figure) and when my dogs and cats aren't looking hiding them high above their pens and boxes. This stuff works! One Note at a Time (Perfumes) -For how large my perfume collection is now, I rarely need to purchase backup oils but I did order another bottle of The Rumpkin! because honestly one bottle is not going to last until next Halloween (it's half gone already and it's only December). Note to self: GET A BOX LOAD NEXT YEAR and hoard and tuck them away in my purse, drawer at work and my car compartment like an Easter Egg hiding Gollum. The Coven (Notes: Bergamot, Bulgarian Rose, Champaca, Spikenard, Vanilla and Frankincense) In the bottle: BERGAMOT, SPICE and RESIN. It's an intoxicating fragrance combination and I could sit here and sniff the jewelled bottle all day. Applied: Each time I wear this special oil, I smell something new and different that catches my attention and today I smell sweet citrus with nuances of powdery rose and frankincense when I take my time. I can clearly detect the rose that has been hiding in The Coven for over a month and as I sit here typing a romantic vanilla is also appearing that swirls with the bergamot and the hints of spice that begin to amp as the hours pass then the scent fades to lovely warm vanilla with resins again (it lasts 12 hours on me). This blend is described as: "rich, sultry and velvety" and that is exactly what I'm receiving. There is something sparkling and magnetic about The Coven but also mysterious and fascinating underneath. It makes me think of an elegant alluring Masquerade Mask and I believe I just found the ideal perfume to ring in the new year with. Extra Samples included with the order, thank you so much Moona! Cauldron Cakes (Gathered Notes/Description: Deliciously sinful Cauldron Cakes oozing with melted Butter, Cinnamon, and Maple and Vanilla glaze, with a crushed nutting topping, and served with piping hot cappuccino and a tiny, tiny touch of Witching mischief!) In the vial: Mmm...FRENCH VANILLA CAPPUCCINO and a drizzle of MAPLE SYRUP. I think we have another gourmand favourite oil here. Applied: Cauldron Cakes is a fragrance that the longer I let the blend meld with my skin the happier I become and by an hour in, I have coworkers yanking at my arm to smell the most realistic cappuccino aroma I have yet to come across from any house of fragrance. It's so cosy and brings to mind a little autumnal coffeehouse next to a European speciality bakery. I must remember that even though I place more on than I can smell at first, Cauldron Cakes amps with time and I was told I could be smelled from across a crowded room at a workplace celebration (this oil upstaged 2 homemade birthday cakes, a row of creamed desserts and cookie tray, in fact, everyone was wondering what smelled so delicious and where it was on the table hehe). I never knew how much I amp maple, butter and vanilla until I placed Cauldron Cakes on my skin. This sublime scent potion is on the list to purchase in the bubbling bath brew and hair de-tangler next year (even though I find my coworkers drooling and searching all over the room with a crazed hungry look in their eyes quite entertaining when I wear the oil form, I want to keep this special delight at home for me to enjoy alone like a good cup of relaxing sweet cappuccino). Maniacal Mamie, Art of Poisoning Oil - (Notes: Hyacinths, Deadly nightshade (belladonna), Atamasco lily, Purple Periwinkle mixed with Oaks and a touch of Opponax & Helichrysum essential oil. (Poisonous flower oils are synthetic fragrances, not real poisonous essential oils) In the vial: A waterside ceremony with deep purple HYACINTHS and LILIES floating in the water. It's a beautiful and slightly unsettling blend. I love it already! Applied: I know this oil is listed under the Halloween collection but this perfume is perfect for spring and I'll be reaching for Maniacal Mamie, Art of Poisoning Oil when the first robin lands in my yard next year. I may any other day curse my chemistry for ruining certain florals but this blend found a devious accomplice with my wonky skin chemistry, together they create a truly wicked scene (think if poor Ophelia returned from the depths of the brook and had her revenge by the light of a full moon). It's hauntingly beautiful (there is even a glint of metal somehow present) and arcane. I want this unique fragrance in a jewelled 3ml bottle, the hair de-tangler and argan oil. Broom Brittle (Gathered Notes/Description: Be the talk of the next Coven meeting with notes of smoldering woods, blended into a toasted Coconut and Pumpkin Pie crumble, magically transformed into a rich buttery toffee brittle! Only a Good Witch would think of that!) In the vial: BUTTER, PUMPKIN and SWEET COCONUT. Applied: I knew my skin chemistry would get me with one of these vials sooner or later for I am a tropical pumpkin slathered in butter with Broom Brittle. I wasn't expecting the coconut to amp like this, it sadly gives me a headache and lasts well into the next day even after a shower. The toffee tries valiantly to come through but it's no match for the ripe coconut (almost smokey sweet) and butter. Perhaps it needs some more careful aging. In any case, if anyone out there loves coconut or is looking for a curious pumpkin blend definitely give Broom Brittle a wave of a wrist I don't think you will be disappointed. For me, oh well can't win them all. UPDATE (June 2019): After several months I re-tried this oil and aging and patience has triumphed again as Broom Brittle has morphed into a crave-worthy scent confectionary reminding me of a crunchy spice sprinkled Samoa cookie with a kiss of pumpkin. The coconut has been tempered with the warm spice and buttery toffee and this blend works perfectly for the summer but also easily transitions my mind away to my favourite season. Mmm another winner in my book and I think another bath time treat come October 2019 Cinnamon Blackberry Crunch (Gathered Notes/Description: A delicious blend of cinnamon sugared blackberries topping an irresistible confectionery crunch!) In the vial: FRESHLY PICKED JUICY BLACKBERRIES tossed in SUGAR and CINNAMON. I want a full bottle now. Please oh please let my chemistry behave because I seriously want to drink the vial. Applied: Mmm YISS! It's buttery, toothsome fruit with spice sprinkled on top and even has realistic crunchy crumbles and squeeze of lemon present. How does this scent crafter create such realistic fragrance confections?! Ah! Reading the About Us section on her site it says she is a certified pastry chef and she certainly does her field proud with creations such as Cinnamon Blackberry Crunch and Cauldron Cakes (plus many others which I will ramble about in 2019). They're scent perfection. I do wish this fantastic blend would last longer on my skin (this perfume and Bonfire were the ones that disappeared the fastest out of this order) so I need to remember that slight disappointment caused solely by my chemistry and to get the bubbling bath brew, hair de-tangler and argan oil in this delectable mixture as soon as those options become available next fall. Bonfire (Gathered Notes/Description: A bonfire is a large controlled outdoor fire, the word comes from "bone fire." The practice is believed to derive from the Celtic festival of Samhain, when animal bones were burnt to ward off evil spirits! Eweoooo, spooky! This scent is a smoky fiery brew, with faint hints of fields of sweet hay and a slight aroma of harvest picked fruits and mulled wine) In the vial: DARK HARVEST FRUITS, SMOKE and SWEET HAY. It's screaming fall to me and "you need this in your hair now!" Applied: We have another lovely mysterious morphing fragrance in Bonfire as it opens with fruit, wine, smoke and the most realistic "up in the hay loft" sweet hay accord I have come across from any house of fragrance yet. It takes me right back to the horse barn of my youth but there are spiced drinks waiting outside and fruit in my hands that are changing all to sliced apples as I sit here typing. Wow, this is nice and as the hours turn this perfume fades slowly and lasts only about 3 to 4 hours. I definitely need Bonfire for my hair in you guessed it, the hair de-tangler (I'm going to have a huge collection of bottles next year from all the releases from this enchanting shop). Another keeper and one to recommend for those that love scents which embody autumn. Yuletide Grove (Gathered Notes/Description: "Talk a walk under the starlight winter sky, where evergreen patches of enchanted winter forests meet exotic far East Sandalwood accords, mingled with soft, woody, smoky, sensual Amber, and wafts of sacred incense, with a touch of spice. This blend is a marriage made in heaven of two heavenly scents (Starlight Woods with Yule Wood)") In the vial: Glorious realistic sticky PINE and WOOD (almost like sawdust or the bottom of a cut off Christmas tree). Could it be I finally found a darker version of one of my favourite perfumes (Falling Stars at Winter Solstice from Alkemia Perfumes)? Applied: Alas, not this time and I'm really beginning to think my skin eats evergreen and balsam notes because here is another oil that once applied the incredible pine transitions immediately to sandalwood, amber and hints of spice in about 7 to 10 minutes. Don't get me wrong, I still really like Yuletide Grove it's definitely a cosy "wrap yourself up and read by the fire" type of meditative fragrance versus a pure atmospheric. I do love the powdery drydown with spice and creamy sandalwood that lasts hours on me and out of pure curiosity, I did dabble in some layering with Yuletide Grove after becoming inspired by others on Reddit. I never attempted deliberately layering fragrances before so it was complete surprise my first scent mashup was a success as Yuletide Grove paired marvellously well with Der Hölle Rache from Sixteen92, my friend even commented saying "not to sound weird but you smell so good tonight". Nothing like leaving with a positive note for the night. Another keeper and I would love to see how Yuletide Grove plays with something dark fruit noted but I'll leave that to another day. *With many thanks to MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean for kindly sending me these different scent creations at a discount for sharing my honest thoughts. MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean *I'm about to get a little nerdy, you have been warned... With an official announcement that the coming of winter will be delayed another year for the A Song of Ice and Fire series, there seems to be plenty of time now for waiting patiently to be delivered pages about the countless characters' fates and future of the Seven Kingdoms. There also seems to be plenty of time to explore and collect from houses of fragrance on the horizon and so it goes for this summer child who grew curious if it was possible to somehow combine her addiction to the entertaining realm of historical fantasy with another obsession (perfume oils) and ultimately share something unique within the disinfected halls she roamed at night. A tall order to fill but not impossible but ah, one day's long search turned into a journey that thankfully ended at the perfect time when I found Sucreabeille and the Frozen Embers limited releases. I admit I lurked in the shadows waiting for exactly what I sought and then I saw my heart's desire in the form of a collection that almost made me break my mouse to order while The Rains of Castamere played in my head (or that could have been my phone next to me). With the creative descriptions, scent notes listed and two of my personal favourite characters receiving their own inspired perfumes; everything had to come home to me so I treated myself and pounced on my mail carrier when I saw my parcel shipped in record timing. The Lannisters demand respect and Sucreabeille certainly paid homage to this golden house with five dram sized bottles and I can't thank them enough for taking on that task, their excellent customer service, and of course delivering something to remember and recommend. One Note at a Time: CERSEI--Scent notes: white thyme, black pepper, black jasmine, amber In the bottle: A herbaceous entanglement of pepper, floral and amber that is dominantly leading with the THYME and PEPPER. It's unexpectedly striking and memorable. *I do admit this particular collaboration of notes at first confused me as for such a long time I envisioned a completely different idea of what my favourite character on the board of "where you live or you die" would wear. Ah, but flipping through the familiar pages of the beginning books, I soon realized after the first application that Sucrebeille paid creative homage to Her Grace. Applied: On initial opening, this fragrance is masculine and as we remember from the books Cersei laments to her father she wishes she was born male to rule them all, so of course her inspired perfume would have to be fierce and unconventional. The thyme which adds to that first impression when dabbed on the skin is an interesting selection but also makes sense as Cersei Lannister is no delicate common garden rose nor easily blown over (even with threats of dragons breath) or will wilt, she is hardy like a herb growing stronger with the passing seasons. The jasmine that sweeps into the medley with the pepper and distinct note of thyme adds a touch of traditional beauty and as this bottle ages, a powdery side (even a drop of honey?) reveals itself creating an alluring wicked shift of scent along with the amber. CERSEI is not for the weak and I adore that about this oil and reach for it when the exact mood sets in. *Passing the knowledge along: The inspiration of Cersei Lannister like so many other characters in the A Song of Ice and Fire series comes straight from history. Reportedly Cersei is based on Margaret of Anjou, Isabella of France and Catherine de' Medici (all women you never would have wanted to cross, insult their house or threaten their children). JAIME---Scent notes: juniper, sage, neroli, patchouli, cedar, saffron In the bottle: A fitting mixture of woods, herb and earth that continues the herbaceous nontraditional notes found in its sister scent CERSEI. Applied: JAMIE opens with juniper, sage and patchouli. It may be obviously masculine in profile but is still wearable for a lady and as the oil dries more, neroli sweetens on my skin turning my head along with a cedar note. Hours later another sweetness (the saffron?) which has been hidden reveals itself and I swear I can pick up a drop of honey. I like to wear CERSEI on my dominant wrist (left) and JAMIE goes on my right wrist, you almost can't have the one without the other, they are twins in the books and now have their own sister and brother inspired perfumes. TYRION---Scent notes: Tahitian vanilla, fig, leather *cruelty-free/synthetic In the bottle: LEATHER and VANILLA. It captures the scent of well-thumbed tome or journal. Sorry, no whiff of wine here for our loveable silver-tongued imp and my third favourite character in the series. Applied: I adore book scents and TYRION is one of the best I've yet to come across and will fit well into my growing collection. There is no herbaceous note leading the way like in CERSEI and JAMIE, TYRION is softer and more welcoming but still unique. I'm familiar with what fig can do to my head (thanks to a certain commercial bath and body shop) but mercifully this indie creation has been gentle on my sensitive senses and I love it all the more for that. I will definitely be reaching for TYRION closer to fall (the ideal time for a good book) and adding this perfume to my scarves to blow in the winds. *Passing the knowledge along: The character of Tyrion Lannister is actually a brilliant composite of the author and the reader, as we turn the pages following different personalities and fates, Tyrion observes his surroundings with astute knowledge, quips about everyone and an outsider's eye. LIQUID GOLD---Scent notes: zanzibar spice, lavender, bergamot black tea First visual impressions: the bottle is loaded with gold dust and I can't stop shaking it to watch the gold swirl around. In the bottle: Uplifting BERGAMOT and TEA. There is also something dark noted that I'm hoping will soon reveal a sinister side of this fragrance based on my favoured house. Applied: The more LIQUID GOLD ages the more I'm liking this perfume. When it first arrived it was too clean and "happy" for me but a month later and it blooms with a dark side wonderfully on my skin, releasing black tea with spice. There is something that could be French Lavender (almost floral) but I really have to concentrate to get that note. As promised when applied the site shimmers with a gold sheen and I've been wearing LIQUID GOLD more than I initially thought. THE MOUNTAIN---Scent notes: amber, oatmeal stout, pure honey In the bottle: OATMEAL and HONEY with a swirl of AMBERY BOOZE. Completely unexpected from what you would think a monstrously sized man and an undead guardian would smell like. THE MOUNTAIN reminds me strongly of mead or a particular drink at the Renaissance Festival, I could sit here all day and lose myself in this bottle. Applied: Oh wow this confection of oil smells delicious with oatmeal and the glorious realistic honey amping the most. THE MOUNTAIN is pure scent intoxication and I will be reaching for this bottle through summer well into fall. Good thing I have a wardrobe and dresser filled with scarves, this perfume is going on everything for the colder months. *ADDITIONAL TREATS FOR THE SENSES (a special thank you to Andrea for sending me all these wonderful scents and creations) WILDFYRE---Scent Notes: Anise, Smoke and Cedar First visual impressions: Only fitting for a bottle based on the most feared ancient substance in the Seven Kingdoms to be a lovely shade of captivating green. Another entertaining looking bottle to shake up. In the bottle: ANISE and CEDAR. It wakes the senses and captures the hot glow of a consuming green flame in your nefarious imagination. Applied: WILDFYRE is truly otherworldly and a must try for spice lovers. Another oil not for the weak but splendid for others. On me, the anise opens leading to a cedar note that you easily imagine comes from a ship on Blackwater Bay listing as it sinks beneath the dark waters with smoke that now appears as WILDFYRE dries. Oh yes, I love this perfume. Another for the autumn and fall cache. SANSA---Scent Notes: Buttercream, Vanilla and Lemon Cakes In the bottle: One of the finest gourmands from any house of fragrance it has been my pleasure to smell. It's absolutely sublime! I'm seriously tempted to drink the bottle (I won't be gah I'm sorely tempted to try). For those that bake SANSA by Sucreabeille is what we have been waiting for, realistic frosted lemon cakes. A stunning tribute to my second favourite character in the series. Applied: ...I knew sooner or later my skin chemistry would ruin something for me from this collection (figures it was this delectable smelling bottle). It may have let me enjoy THE MOUNTAIN amping the amazing honey, but the lemon in the bottle of SANSA didn't stand a chance it seems and after slathering this perfume on, the frosting has slid off and I'm left with vanilla cake. Which admittedly isn't an entirely horrible thing, this is still a wonderful realistic cake fragrance that makes you hungry and garners the compliments from others. As much as I love vanilla cake, I think this is the perfect time to order a custom jar of soap fluff. **Yes, this shop offers so much more than perfume, they are a head to toe emporium filled with options that are all completely customizable with a list of notes that can be added and blended on request (getting any ideas?) Shortly after receiving (actually in truth, it was the day I opened SANSA from the carefully packed parcel) I couldn't resist and ordered a custom soap fluff.** SOAP FLUFF (SANSA)--Buttercream, Vanilla and Lemon Cakes If I thought the bottle was tempting to think about drinking, I'm even more compelled and about to lick the jar. The consistency of the contents is creamy with no noticeable lumps and it's absolutely divine with the scent. Scooping it out with a clean plastic spoon, this fluff is dense and spreads nicely where applied (a tiny bit goes a long way). I must say the delicate soap bubbles that form when rubbed in are moisturizing passing my personal test and as much as I adore the presented fragrance, I also appreciate that it doesn't linger so I can go and put another perfume on (even layer) without any interference of notes or confusion to my nose. Think Soap Fluff as the perfect well-deserved indulgence you help create, it only lasts as long as you stay in your personal sanctuary and tempts you back for one more soak. As well as this item worked on and impressed me (this serves as a fabulous shaving soap cream by the way), I can't help but think up another custom jar (or two and even future stocking stuffers) for fall and then winter (I must have pumpkin, smoke and hot chocolate and all combinations waiting for me to enjoy). *Passing the knowledge along: Sansa Stark is strongly believed to be based on Elizabeth of York who served as a key figure in the Wars of the Roses (especially in the aftermath) between the houses of York and Lancaster (simple version). The whole premise and plot of the book series has been said to be greatly influenced by that English civil war for control of a throne (again simplified version). York triumphed in the end at a horrible price, so who knows what the wheel of fate or scribble of a pen has in store for the Starks and Sansa. LOTION BAR (STAY SEXY VANILLA GRAPEFRUIT) A special treat the owner sent me with one order (thank you so much Andrea!) This bar is almost too pretty to use and I hesitated to cut into the lovely flower shape but it was well worth it as I have found my ideal feet and elbow product. My feet as petal soft and my elbows silky smooth. I see another pumpkin scented custom ordered item for my bathtub coming soon. PAPA'S WAFFLES *Sorry I missed the exact notes listed this was a Father's Day limited edition release, but I found the original description: "Picture it: Saturday morning, your childhood. Your dad and his impressive beard have gotten up early even though he was up late with friends, drinking and partying. He’s acquiesced to your demands for waffles, which he lovingly makes from scratch in the kitchen while drinking a strong pot of coffee. The whole house smells of baked goodness, coffee, maple, and butter. Bliss. That’s exactly what Papa’s Waffles smells like. It’s a delectable, nostalgic scent that’ll immediately transport you back to those happy, scrumptious times." In the bottle: BREWED COFFEE, WAFFLES and a hint of TOBACCO in the background. This shop is excellent at creating blends that smell realistic and make a baker proud and excited to find. Another bottle I'm tempted to drink. Applied: This is holiday mornings for me, all it is missing is a note of ink from a well-thumbed newspaper and this could be the captured scent memory of my beloved Pap making me breakfast. The coffee stands out the most on me as this oil dries and I also amp the buttery note. True to its description, absolutely transporting for happy, scrumptious times. I will be saving this bottle for winter and cold days when I need a smile. Sucreabeille sucreabeille.com/ For those of us who love history, legends of old or just enjoy smelling amazing, allow me to introduce you to a charming shop that caters to anyone who wishes to be pampered by products with ingredients straight from nature and inspired by Norse mythology. One look and you will know you have arrived at a unique destination and one whiff from the carefully arranged parcel (complete with a personal thank you note and other noticeable touches) that appears at your doorstep is enough to set you on a journey down another deeper tunnel in this strangely wonderful rabbit warren of indie fragrances and scent artistry. This (and more) is what you will discover at Valhalla Soap Co. (valhallasoap.com/). I am currently on my second "plunder" from this bewitching store and am planning out my third and fourth in the coming months. What I have found has become a part of my daily relaxing routine and the final touches I reach for when I go out the door into the modern world. You can tell allot of attention goes into each packed parcel and every time I open a jar, bottle or unwrap a marbled bar of soap it becomes an experience and reconnection to the lost past. I have to admit their excellent customer service practices invited me from the shadows of just window shopping and the owners' skills and knowledge of harnessing the ancient properties of herbs, spices, delicate florals and creative blendings continue to impress and keep me coming back. Victorian Lilac (Listed Notes and Description: "Straight up true old fashioned lilac. No powdery, perfume scent. Imagine true heirloom lilacs growing in front of a 1920's Victorian with all the gingerbread trim and paint.") A crown jewel of my perfume collection, Victorian Lilac by Valhalla Soap Co. is the heavenly spring scent I have been desperately searching for. It's as it says on the tin and this natural fragrance is everything I could wish for, it's nostalgia and every beautiful definition in the dictionary. It's like a sigh or gentle whisper on the skin. From beginning to end this uncomplicated perfume is magnificent and I feel such quiet strength when I wear it. Pixie Vials Wishing Star Farmer's Daughter Persian Pear Amber & Vanilla 7 Sins from Sunday valhallasoap.com/aromatic-body-oils/ Wishing Star (Listed Notes and Description: Star Anise and Lavender, "All natural Anise and Lavender combine equally to create a very earthy, Gothic scent. Both scents are rooted firmly in the element of Air, making them very good for any kind of emotional, mental or psychic work.") Wishing Star contains my weaknesses being Star Anise and Lavender and when these distinct notes combine it's otherworldly! In the vial, the lavender which is rich and herbal is most dominant but when applied the star anise takes over and pulls me only deeper into this alluring and relaxing medley. Absolutely one of my new favourites to recommend (fantastic for tension headaches). Farmer's Daughter (Listed Notes: Peaches, Oranges, Sweet Cream, Amber, Wild Violets, Musk, Vanilla Sugar and Honey) Farmer's Daughter is a lovely soft blend that is ideal for spring/summer and the professional setting. On me this oil dries down to a gorgeous powder with a realistic cream note and light lingering peach vanilla scent. Overall, an unexpected favourite as it is truly an enchanting balance of delicate and feminine without smelling too youthful or sweet. Persian Pear (Listed Notes: Anjou Pears, Lady Apples, Coconut, Vanilla Bean) In the vial, Persian Pear resembles the fragrance of a homemade compote with juicy pears and tart flesh of a freshly bitten (or chopped) apple with a drop of lemon. When applied an unexpected spice note appears that depending on your mindset and chemistry may read as "fizzy" but on me this is more of a late summer to early autumn harvest evoking combination of fresh fruit and warmth. This perfume is the most gourmand scented out of the pixie vials I received from this shop and I would be interested to find out if the sweetness is tempered in the soap bar form or is magnified in the detangler. Amber Vanilla (Listed Notes: Vanilla, Spices and Amber) Despite this oil containing vanilla this is not a gourmand fragrance or a playful perfume. Amber Vanilla is mature and striking (outrageously romantic), opening with a dreamy powderiness that then quickly warms revealing a hidden musk-like note that can read more masculine than feminine but is wonderful to relax with after a long day. On me, Amber Vanilla dries down to a warm sandalwood with amber that lasts for hours. 7 Sins from Sunday (Listed Notes: Jasmine, Lavender, Amber, Vanilla, Sandalwood, Patchouli and Dark Cocoa Bean) In the vial, the lavender, amber and vanilla are most noticeable and if you happen to love the scent of freshly picked from the garden herbs, you will fall hard for Valhalla Soap Co.'s lavender note (I know I have). I can't get enough of it especially in 7 Sins from Sunday and Wishing Star. Applied the jasmine with lavender is centre stage with a very light dusting of cocoa but it seems as soon as it is noticed the delicious dark accord disappears sadly (my chemistry unfortunately always gobbles up chocolate notes). The sandalwood then commands the show along with the vanilla and amber lasting well into the next day. Overall a keeper for falling asleep with and I would love to try this fragrance in the bubbling bath melts. valhallasoap.com/scrubs/ The Honey & Herbs Organic Sugar Scrub is pretty enough to tempt a nibble out of the jar, smells like a step back to long-forgotten practices and above all allows you to just forget the outside modern world to focus on some much-needed pampering and relaxation time. Get ready for something so divine in every fashion that I can't recommend it enough to those who adore the inspirative and comforting aromas of rosemary, apricot, lavender and honey. Together these ingredients take me away and when I finally leave my water filled sanctuary my skin glows and I'm completely recharged with a light hint of herbs lingering on my warm skin and relaxed muscles. It is the sensation and scent experience only nature can provide and Valhalla Soap Co. has created the perfect formula in my book with their Honey & Herbs Organic Sugar Scrub. Try it for yourself and you'll begin hoarding jars like me. valhallasoap.com/the-real-deal-whipped-soap-shampoo/ My hair has never looked, smelled and felt so good all thanks to the independent shop products I have been using this year. Add another to my highly recommended success shelf because "The Real Deal" Whipped Soap & Shampoo by Valhalla Soap Co. has just replaced conventional shampoo and conditioner in my book and everyone needs to know about this wonderful creation. Getting straight to the reason for my excitement, the contents from this generously sized jar adds volume and incredible softness to my temperamental curls and because I ordered the Naken or Unscented (5 oz.) option I can mix a couple drops from any vial or bottle from my perfume oil collection into a spoonful of whipped soap to only later come out from behind the shower curtain smelling like my favourite scent potions ready for anything. valhallasoap.com/soaps/ If there ever was a lost art it is soap making, watch a video or attend a seminar on this fascinating process and it will give you a new appreciation for the lovely marbled bar of colour and fragrance you hold in your hand. Right now I have four bars (three sample sizes and one full sized) from this enchanting shop and each one is different in texture, appearance and scent profile. What they all share is they undoubtedly leave my skin soft with no tightness or any oily residue left behind and haven't stirred up any embarrassing skin problems that commercial soaps can have in store for those of us with sensitive skin. As mentioned above the scent profiles differ and here's what I have found. Alfheim (Notes: Tea Tree, Eucalyptus, Citrus and Peppermint) *this (and a wrapped bar marked "unscented") were free samples that appeared in my first plunder box, thank you so much Donna and Matt!) For me, Alfheim is bright and refreshing with the citrus (you can even see specks of peel in the soap) and I prefer to use this little sample in the morning when I get home after a long night. It's extremely gentle and washes away my stubborn makeup with a mint and lemon lather that is almost edible (seriously everything this shop creates smells like you could eat it or close your eyes and inhale it all day long). I then follow up with my special moisturizer and serum (from Organic Fields of Heather) in those spots that are either dry or oily (depending on the day). I love that Alfheim has tea tree which wakes my nose up and gets me ready for the scent escape oils I put on before I go back into the dark to sleep the day away. *Unscented is destined to go to the child of a good friend who loves anything green and is allergic and sensitive to mainstream soaps and detergents. I have carefully tested and retested other soaps from this shop so hopefully this little wrapped bar will help and he will love it and ask for the special "dinosaur coloured soap" his auntie found for him. Green Witch (Description: "Sweet and earthy. Bright, bubbly citus notes combine with clean and green herbals, earthy florals and grounded with a smidge of forest floor. This effervecent bit of magick will have you longing to get outdoors and conjer some green, earthy magick of your own.") *this was a free sample that appeared in my second plunder, thank you so much Donna and Matt! I absolutely love these types of fragrance puzzles such as Green Witch. Right away I lose myself in the herbs and dried florals on top of the sample and the different shades of natural green in the soap (it looks like a cutaway piece of precious gemstone). I can see dried lavender buds, dandelion petals, perhaps marigold as well? The scent really reveals itself when water is applied and patchouli comes out and lingers on my skin along with hints of lemon with lavender. Green Witch is so aptly named as the notes combine to create a summer glade with a kindly barefoot earth witch leading you deeper into the forest as the cooling shadows from sun-dappled trees dance across your path. A very soothing and atmospheric fragrance. Lavender (Notes: heavenly unmussed with lavender) *I was fortunate to grab one of the last remaining bars from the "Oops" batch, that was meant to be Wishing Star. Excuse me as I just inhale the bag this soap is currently placed in. Ah, I can't express in this mere post how much I adore this soap and scent. THIS is how lavender is meant to be captured in a pure pampering form just waiting to be enjoyed. Nature created one of the most perfect fragrances with this herb and in my humble opinion it is best alone to delight and seduce those who appreciate and have been searching for such majestic simplicity. Like the rest of the different soaps I have just shared above, Lavender leaves my sensitive skin soft and not tight with no greasy residue or new breakouts and is marvellous to relax with after a long day (or night). This particular bar is extremely fragrant and is pure art with the crushed lavender buds peeking out of the bottom layer and a muted violet shade nestled on top with a star anise pod and even more lavender buds gracing everything. It's pretty enough to display in anyone's guest bathroom welcoming company but I want this beauty all to myself and I will take care and learn how to heat up the bar and cut it with a knife then store away the smaller chunks. Discover something just for you: Don't forget to explore this page and find out about Valhalla Soap Co.'s Plunder Point Program which I absolutely love and really appreciate as I plan out my next box of goods that need to be on my vanity. valhallasoap.com/faqs/ How about a custom oil? That's right this shop has this awesome opportunity available. What sounds like a dream blend to you? valhallasoap.com/custom-aromatic-oil-blend/ Have no idea where to even start? The Sales page may be exactly what you are looking for, here you will find a mystery bag of different products to experiment with and discover a new fragrance or luxurious bath treat all for yourself. valhallasoap.com/sale/ Sixteen92 sixteen92.com/ Combined Thoughts: After going from a golden Lannisteresque bombshell (or should I say wildfire?) to accidental brassy Tully and back over a span of several months, my hair needed some serious love and attention as it was dry, split ended and painfully knotting from the broken off ends. I am not a vain lady but when it comes to my locks, I can be let us just say "a little difficult and hard to please" and many hear me roar (okay I'm done promise). So suffice it to say, not any product or treatment will do. I must search out the best and I believe I finally found just that with my recent discovery of Sixteen92 and the SuperNatural Hair Serum. When I started As The Final Page Turns, I never thought I would be reviewing hair serum but dear readers this hair elixir works (it does wonders on my split ends not to mention frizz) smells absolutely divine, is a pampering gift that is too good not to share and reminds me of the lost past of harnessing elements from nature to heal, restore and improve all it touches. Having super long curly hair, a strange assortment of homemade concoctions (ever try Mayonnaise or vodka on your head? Not exactly a scent combination you want to walk around with) and ridiculously expensive nasty commercial products on my head over the years that just sat there with itching or a horrid chemical smell that lingered for days and left their marks on my delicate skin. Those days are thankfully over as my morning routine now consists of brushing out and dampening my tresses to receive 3 to 4 drops (paying special attention to the ends) from a carefully selected bottle (that corresponds and instantly lifts any dark mood and eases my mind after chaotic work nights). The softness and otherworldly shine that shows in the vanity mirror are unreal and scent that follows me to eased slumber is something I can never be without again (Brava and thank you Sixteen92). One scent at a time:
Frosted Gingerbread *from the 2017 Winter 2017 Collection (Listed Notes: Warm gingerbread cookies with sugared vanilla frosting) In the bottle and impressions: In the bottle, this is buttery gingerbread and when applied the home baked quality amplifies with an almost boozy note that you can't help but inhale (I've been caught quite a few times just sitting at my computer losing all track of time just enjoying the warm comforting scent that stays on my long braid). You'll Shoot Your Eye Out! *from the 2017 Holiday Collection (Listed Notes: Spiced cocoa, firewood, bayberry, warm shortbread, ovaltine, buttered rum, deep snow) In the bottle and impressions: In the bottle, this is malted chocolate that is perfect to combat the stubborn blustery winds and ice that just won't go away. When ran through my curls this turns to chocolate shortbread with hints of bayberry and chimney smoke. I hope this fragrance comes back for the special seasonal releases or will be found listed in the 2019 Resurrection sale. Red Velvet Hot Chocolate *from the 2018 Resurrection Sale (Listed Notes: Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, red velvet cake accord, buttermilk whipped cream) In the bottle and impressions: This was a long-awaited treat and was totally worth the wait. In the bottle, gooey caramel and cocoa dusted cream cheese completely not what I was expecting but how could I not like this. When applied, oh that is when the scent magic begins as this morphs from mid to dark cocoa to luscious buttered rum. I guess this innocent hot chocolate has some extra ingredients and I love it even more for that. sixteen92.com |
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In accordance with FTC Guidelines, I disclose how I obtained every title for review at As The Final Page Turns (whether that be by ARC, purchased (on nook, kindle or specially ordered hardbacks) Audible version or simply borrowed at my local library). Please note: titles reviewed that are ARCS (Advanced Reader Copies) are free review copies of books that are given by publishers (these ARCS can be found at NetGalley or Edelweiss). Categories
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28th of January 2023) NOTES/COMBINATIONS and Stones CURRENTLY ON THE HUNT FOR: Naughty Licorice/Star Anise Cardamom Cardamom Cake with Roses Smoky Honey & Leather Leather and Florals Pomegranate Colder Tuberose scents Smoked Florals with Cinnamon and Honey Graham Cracker and Incense Double strand of Rose Quartz or Moonstones or Black Tourmaline Chainmaille Jewellery Houses of Fragrance and Interest on the Horizon (shops that contain such temptations): LurkerAndStrange Good Spirit Wolf Rapt In Maille ToadStoolSoaps DSH Perfume Baphomet&Co Harvest Moon Haven Granny Hootenanny's Shop
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