Tips to Winter Proof your Skin

by: Stefanie Savino

The bitter cold winter days are coming upon us sooner and faster than ever. Now, more than

ever it is crucial to take proper care of your skin. The change in the weather, heat from our homes and cars and products all effect our skin. There are many products and tips that can keep your skin looking its best during the cold winter season.

First things first is your moisturizer. During this time of year our skin requires more moisture and hydration. You will need to apply more moisturizer than any other time of year. You may want to reach for a cream or a product that is oil based rather than water based. The oil based products will penetrate the skin and create a layer over the skin. A great body cream to try is Bliss Body Butter and Dove Cream Oil lotion. They are both amazing!

Exfoliate! Body scrubs are wonderful as they stimulate the body and remove dead skin cells. You can purchase or make them at home. I found an amazing recipe for an at home body scrub from www.maddieruud.hubpages.com. Here is the recipe:

Coffee Body Scrub

Coffee tightens and rejuvenates skin, while raw sugar exfoliates, and olive oil seals in moisturize.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of coarse ground coffee
• 1/2 cup Turbinado raw sugar
• 3 Tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in medium bowl. Take a warm bath or hot shower to open your pores and hydrate your skin. Rub the coffee mixture into your skin in large circles with even, firm pressure. Shower to rinse, pat dry, and follow with unscented body lotion or light vegetable oil.

Our hands and feet need extra TLC and attention during the winter months. Make sure to wear gloves when you are out in the cold. In the evening apply cuticle oil and a heavy hand cream to bring make the moisture to your hands. For super dry and chapped skin I recommend the mother of all hand creams Aquaphor! It is very thick but gets the job done! For your feet make sure to apply extra moisturizer and even try sleeping with socks to ensure the soles are nice and smooth.

Another important tip is to drink plenty of water. I know we all here this all the time, but it is so true. The more hydrated you are the better your skin will look and feel. Also remember to apply your sunscreen daily.

Don't let your skin become dry and dull this winter season. Make sure to take some extra time for yourself and care for your skin. Treat yourself to a new body butter or scrub and your skin will thank you!

What Has Changed in the Wedding Industry?

With so many girls at my office getting engaged (there are 5
just in my department) it got me thinking about when I got married and how
things have changed. Granted, it has
only been 6 years since I took my beautiful walk down the aisle, but so many
new options have come into place for planning and throwing the best day of your
life.

1) Photography - Picking a photographer has always been (and should be) one of the most important decisions you will make. This person (or team) will capture your entire day and should showcase all of your hard work / details. This part has not changed, but what has changed is the way pictures are taken. Today's brides have been getting together with their photographer and fiance for engagement pictures; and making them unique the couple will go "on location" for these, such as an abondanded building, the countryside, old railroads or simply around the town. In addition to the engagement pictures, the couple is also doing this on the day of their wedding. Taking pictures a step further, the couple is also making appointments to "trash their dress" after the wedding.

2) Shoes - Shoes are an amazing accessory! The popular trend today is to wear any shoe you want while you walk down the aisle. Some brides are picking blue shoes, like these by Manolo Blahnik which can also be used for your 'something blue'. Other brides are choosing shoes that match their wedding party. A friend of mine choose these HOT PINK strappy shoes for her wedding, and boy did they make the photo's pop.

3) Do it Yourself (DIY) - There are so many DIY projects for your wedding day. From the invitations to decorations to party favors, many brides are taking on these tasks to make everything blend. Check out here for many DIY ideas.

4) The Dress - I feel like there are so many options for the bride. The traditional style is not the
only choice for the bride. White is not even the only choice. Colored sashes
are a great add on tot he bride. And David's Bridal added a new collection to
their line called "Two in One Gowns". These gowns are made for
you, the bride to go from "Vow to WOW" in one dress.

With all the many decisions you have to make for your wedding day, I am sure it will be the most
perfect day of your life!!

DIY Favor Metal Pails

Small metal pails can be decorated to fit just about any wedding or party theme. These are great and unique favors. They can be personalized with names and dates on customized/coordinating tags.

This plain metal pail can be instantly transformed by you!

Just add some ribbon, flowers, personalized tags, and lollipops and you just created and adorable favor!

White metal pails can be decorated for beach themed events too! Shell shaped truffles inside, coordinating ribbon, and personalized tags attached.

Take some time and create different types of pails. Just play around and have fun with it. They are your own creation!