I'm Susan — devout Francophile, mother of twins, writer, creative director, and aspiring author. I've been sharing my life here since 2010...thanks for reading!
As usual, my thoughts are permeated with Paris. The annual La Nuit Blanche is this weekend in Paris…the entire city is filled with art installations, late night museum hours, and performances. Since I cannot be there, I live vicariously through my francophile friends…bon weekend!
While the weather may not yet be crisp enough for me, fall is officially here! I think I smile more at this time of year by default. I yearn for the autumn color, falling leaves, hot apple cider, and yes even the pumpkin scone and latte at Starbucks. In honor of the new season, I am linking to some of my favorite recent posts on the subject. Who knows…this might become a reoccuring thing…bon weekend!
This post is inspired by my friend Kayla, who recently shared her beauty routine…and now it's my turn! I call myself high maintenance (jokingly), but my beauty routine is fairly simple. I've been using many of these products since I was a teenager, and I'm proud to say my good habits (i.e. SPF daily) started early. So, voila…my favorite products and routine!
Face:
*I've used Cetaphil since I was a teenager, and it cleanses without irritating my sensitive skin.
*My grandmother used Oil of Olay and always reminded me to wear SPF everyday!
*I splurged on this "miracle cream" a few years ago, and now I'm hooked, in winter especially.
*My Mom has always used this Clinique makeup remover, and I've never found one I like better.
Hair:
*I recently switched from Redken to Moroccon Oil, and I love the scent & shine!
*The only other hair product I use is hairspray, currently Pureology.
Body:
*A daily luxury for me is cleansing with Yves Delorme Provence bar soap…deee-licious!
*As soon as I get out of the shower I moisturize with Jergens-all over, every day.
*Lately I've been using Mama Mio Tummy Rub, to try and prevent pregnancy stretch marks!
*I don't wear much perfume, but I have a few favorites, including Tocca's Florence.
Face (Make-up):
*With very fair, almost translucent skin, Cleu de Peau concealer is worth every penny.
*I feel naked without mascara, it's weird…my preference is Chanel.
*Out of my many glosses & lipsticks, my go to is Kiehl's tinted moisturizer.
This holiday gift guide is focused on supporting small business…in this case, in my city…Philadelphia! With so much local talent it was hard to pick and choose, but these are some of my favorite shops, and people. I am so thankful to know these amazing artists and creatives…happy shopping!
for the old soul…a vintage find from three potato four
for the romantic…a custom arrangement by sullivan owen
for the artistic…illustrated housewares by girls can tell
for the hostess…tabletop decor from aphro chic
for the BYOB-er…the philly wine tote, found at the little apple
for the nostalgic…a custom calligraphy print by lindsey bee
for the dapper…hand crafted bowties from forage bowties
for the trendy…unique creations by made by hank
for the bibliophile…a book from (or trip to) baldwin's book barn
for the decorator…a unique find from high street market
for the foodie…organic libations from art in the age
for the writer…unique letterpress creations by cleanwash letterpress
for the uber chic…vintage decor & treasures at vintage now
for the artist…rustic desk caddy made by peg and awl
for the rugged…clothing & gear from trove general store
for the party girl…a starlette sparkler by giant dwarf
for the poet…the poet journal by roughdrAftbooks
for the music lover…music box by something's hiding in here (via BHLDN)
for the mom to be…a nesting gift certificate!! (shameless self-promotion)
for anyone & everyone…save a life, buy a bar of hand in hand soap!
