NEST New York Madagascar Vanilla And Balinese Coconut Body Mist Review

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. I get a small commission for purchases made through links in this post.

Not Sponsored: NEST New York Madagascar Vanilla and Balinese Coconut Body Mist came out in 2024. ULTA Beauty ran a sale on them, and I said this would be a great time to try both. I love spritzers for the body. They're great when you want a touch of a fragrance, without going in all perfume. Vanilla and Coconut, how can you go wrong?

Let me share what NEST New York says about each:

Madagascar Vanilla

Capture the allure of Madagascar’s rich landscape with this lightweight body mist featuring the warm essence of vanilla bean, the subtle floralcy of vanilla orchid, and a hint of coconut. 

Balinese Coconut

Bask on the beach of Bali with this lightweight body mist featuring notes of creamy coconut, tropical tiare blossom, and salted musk.

Now, my thoughts! Spritz these on your arm, while you're in the store. Walk around for about five minutes and then smell your arm. Everyone's chemistry is different with different kind of scents. I personally prefer the Madagascar Vanilla over the Balinese Coconut. It's a very nice vanilla scent, soft and sweet. Am I jumping up and down and overjoyed with the scent? No. I won't purchase it again. It's just a nice scent. I bathe, spritz, and smell nice. The Balinese Coconut. I don't know what NEST New York was thinking. To me, it doesn't give an authentic coconut smell. The scent is barely there. When you spritz both, they're very alcohol-like. That's why I tell you to walk 5 minutes, so they can dry down. NEST New York has created other scents in this family of body mists such as Seville Orange, Turkish Rose and Indian Jasmine, but if the Vanilla and Coconut aren't right!?! You know what I mean. BEAUTIFUL PACKAGING AND ARTWORK. It's the product I am having problems with. Let me suggest, if you want something tropical try OUAI St. Barts! I will be picking up another jar of it. Save your money at least on the Balinese Coconut. 

Sweet-Bittersweet-NotSweet

supersweet(run & buy it) sweet(really good,buy it) bittersweet(ok, issues)not sweet(not good,don't buy this stuff) 
  NEST New York Madagascar Vanilla and Balinese Coconut are Bittersweet

NEST New York Madigascar Vanilla

NEST New York Balinese Coconut

Sara Happ Hot Cocoa Kisses Treatment Duo Review

Not Sponsored: I think it's cold nearly everywhere! I've been drinking coffee, hot cocoa and tea to warm up! HaHaHa The end of last year, Sara Happ came out with a Limited Edition Hot Cocoa Kisses Treatment Duo Set. It is STILL AVAILABLE on Nordstrom. I was determined to get this because I love her lip scrubs. They are the absolute BEST! In this set, you get a Hot Cocoa Lip Scrub and Whipped Vanilla Lip Slip Gloss. Don't they sound delicious? I'll put the descriptions for each below.

"The Hot Cocoa Lip Scrub: a perfectly sweet lip scrub that exfoliates lips and leaves them soft and supple. Formulated with nourishing oils and finely ground sugar crystals, The Lip Scrub gently eliminates dead skin to reveal your naturally beautiful lip color."

"The Whipped Vanilla Lip Slip® Gloss: a lip gloss that offers the perfect touch of shine while deeply conditioning your lips in a subtle vanilla flavor."

The Hot Cocoa Lip Scrub, tastes like milk chocolate hot cocoa with lots of marshmallows. It's delectable and does a great job making the skin on your lips smooth (as all Sara Happ lip scrubs). The Whipped Vanilla Lip Slip Gloss has a soft vanilla scent. Apply this to your lips (it's thick) and they will NOT be susceptible to the cold weather. It adheres to your lips! One great thing, is once you remove it your lips will be super soft and nourished. 

I love the packaging for this set. This would also be a cute Valentine's Day gift set. Get it while you can! It won't be around much longer. 

Sweet-Bittersweet-NotSweet

supersweet(run & buy it) sweet(really good,buy it) bittersweet(ok, issues)not sweet(not good,don't buy this stuff) 
  Sara Happ Hot Cocoa Kisses Treatment Duo Set is Sweet

Olivia Rodrigo Is The New Face Of Lancome Beauty

Disclosure: I was sent Lancôme’s x Olivia Rodrigo PR Box for review from L'Oreal Lancome PR. All opinions in this blog post are 100% my own and honest. This post contains affiliate links. I get commission for purchases made through the links in this post.

PR Sample: I received and email from Lancome PR that stated  Olivia Rodrigo was the NEW face of Lancome Beauty. I said, what a cute young woman! She had an effervescence about her. I read her bio on Wikipedia and liked her right away. She and I share the same birthday - February 20! HaHaHa Besides that, she's accomplished a lot with Disney, Songwriting, Covid campaign (Biden's administration) and so much more. On the beauty side, she was a brand ambassador for Glossier and now Lancome. She's only 21. That speaks volumes about her eagerness to accomplish a lot in life. I definitely wish her the best. I included some promo shots of her that are currently on Lancome's website. They're so much fun!

To promote this collaboration, Lancome sent me a PR Box the end of last year (2024) that contained some Lancome Idole beauty treats: Lancome Idole Eau De Parfum (reviewed here), Lancome Idole Eyeliner (reviewed here), Lancome Lash Idole Mascara (reviewed here) and Lancome Juicy Tubes Lip Gloss in Marshmallow Electro (Juicy Tubes overall reviewed here). These products can be purchased individually.

Lancome Advanced Genifique Face Serum and Renergie Lift Multi-Action Firming Anti-Wrinkle Night Cream

Disclosure: I was sent Lancôme’s Beauty Sleep Routine 2024 Holiday Skincare Gift Set for review from L'Oreal Lancome PR. All opinions in this blog post are 100% my own and honest. This post contains affiliate links. I get commission for purchases made through the links in this post.

PR Sample: Lancome sent me a really beautiful  Christmas gift the end of last year (2024). Upon seeing it, I couldn't get over the beautiful wrapping of the gift. HaHaHa The red wrapping paper had to be either faux alligator or lizard. It was very thick. So beautiful and rich. And of course, I loved the black and white Lancome ribbon. Together, so BOLD and BEAUTIFUL. You guys know I love details! So I finely tore into it and discovered it was their Beauty Sleep Routine 2024 Holiday Skincare Gift Set (STILL AVAILABLE AND DISCOUNTED - also at Dillards, Kohls and Neiman Marcus). It contained three (3) products: Lancome Advanced Genifique Face Serum (Full Size), Lancome Renergie Lift Multi-Action Firming Anti-Wrinkle Night Cream (Full Size) and a Headband. I've reviewed BOTH products here and here. They're excellent skincare products. The Advanced Genifique Face Serum is a radiance booster serum that hydrates, plumps and strengthens the skin's moisture barrier to lock in hydration and defend against external agressors (pollution, cold and dry weather). Don't we need more of that now than ever? HaHaHa Another excellent face serum made by Lancome that I'm very impressed with (and my mom continues to use it today)(not included in this gift set but other gift sets on their website) is their Lancome Renergie H.C.F. Triple Serum. It's an anti-aging serum that reduces wrinkles, brightens dark spots and plumps. Lancome definitely has something for everyone's skincare needs. They have A LOT of gift sets that contain various skincare products (depending on your needs) that are currently on sale. Take advantage of those gift set's prices! You can get a good discount on your favorite products (take advantage of the pricing) or try some NEW skincare treats. Look under the Gifts & Sets tab at the top of Lancome's website. You know (I surprise myself sometimes), I never thought of that before. I think at the end/beginning of the year, I'm going to do this to save some money on my old favorites and try new things :) I love the headband as well. Do you know I needed one? HaHaHa Last night (it's been cold), I stayed in and had a beauty night. Gave myself the whole nine yards. Sometimes you need that! I feel good!!!

The Skills You Need to Work in Public Relations

Public relations (PR) is a fast-paced, dynamic field that requires a diverse set of skills. While the specific role and environment can vary, most PR jobs require strong communication abilities, creativity, research skills, and the capacity to work well under pressure. If you're considering a career in PR, along with a masters in PR from https://onlinemasters.jou.ufl.edu/, here are some of the key skills you'll need to succeed:

 Image by Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay

Writing and Editing

Strong writing skills are essential for public relations. PR specialists spend much of their time crafting press releases, speeches, website content, newsletters, and other communications. You need to be able to write clear, concise, and grammatically correct content tailored to different audiences. Editing abilities are equally important to polish and refine content. Experience writing in different styles and formats like news articles, blogs, social media posts, and long-form reports will make you versatile.

Interpersonal Communication

Building strong relationships with clients, the media, and other stakeholders is a core part of PR. You'll need excellent interpersonal and communication skills to connect with people, understand their needs, pitch stories, and negotiate win-win situations. Active listening and emotional intelligence enable you to build rapport and trust. Being comfortable with public speaking is also key for presentations and speeches.

Media Relations

A big part of PR involves working with the media to secure earned media coverage for clients. This requires skills in researching reporters, developing story angles, pitching stories, and conducting media interviews. Experience using media databases and monitoring news coverage is key. Building a network of media contacts takes time but is invaluable.

Strategic Planning

PR specialists need strong analytical skills to research audiences, set objectives, and develop campaigns that align with an organization's goals. You'll also need creative thinking to generate ideas and strategic planning abilities to execute effective campaigns on time and on budget. The ability to anticipate challenges and quickly adapt plans is important in a dynamic environment.

Multitasking and Organization

The PR profession is fast paced with tight deadlines. Being able to juggle multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and respond quickly to emerging issues is crucial. Strong organizational skills help you stay on top of many moving parts and competing demands. Tools like project management software can assist with workflow organization.

Leadership and Collaboration

PR pros often lead teams and work cross-functionally with clients, creatives, and leadership. You need leadership abilities to guide projects and collaborate effectively across groups to deliver results. Teamwork, diplomacy, and conflict resolution skills are essential. Delegation and management skills allow you to get work done through others.

Digital Skills

Today's PR is digital. You'll need proficiency in website content management, social media platforms, monitoring online news and feedback, email marketing, and producing online content such as videos. Analytics skills are also valuable to track and measure campaign performance. Staying up-to-date on digital trends is essential as technology rapidly evolves.

Grasping the key skills in writing, communication, strategy, organization, teamwork, and technology will help you undertake the varied responsibilities of public relations. Consider taking PR-related coursework, volunteering, or finding an internship to hone these abilities. With the right mix of skills, you can build an impactful career in this dynamic field.

How To Wear a Hawaiian Shirt: 12 Tips for Effortless Style

Hawaiian shirts have long been a staple for anyone seeking to infuse their wardrobe with a splash of fun, color, and a laid-back vibe. Once confined to tropical getaways and beach parties, these iconic shirts are now versatile fashion pieces that can be worn year-round. But how do you incorporate such a bold statement into your everyday wardrobe without overdoing it? The secret lies in understanding how to balance their vibrant patterns with the rest of your outfit. Here's your ultimate guide to wearing Hawaiian shirts with effortless style.

1. Choose the Right Fit

Gone are the days of baggy, oversized Hawaiian shirts that resemble something from a 1980s sitcom. A well-fitted Hawaiian shirt will not only elevate your style but also make you feel more confident. Opt for a cut that flatters your specific body type—slim-fit ones work best for a modern look, whereas slightly looser fits maintain a classic vibe without feeling dated. For quality options, check out Paradise Found Shirts, where timeless designs meet perfect fits.

2. Pair It With Neutral Bottoms

When styling a Hawaiian shirt, the key is balance. Since this shirt is already a statement piece, pair it with neutral bottoms like beige chinos, white shorts, or dark denim. These options allow bold prints and colors to take center stage without overwhelming the outfit.

3. Tuck or Untuck: Know the Occasion

Deciding whether to tuck in your Hawaiian shirt depends on the event and your personal style. For casual outings, wearing it untucked gives off a relaxed, breezy vibe. For semi-formal settings, consider tucking it into tailored trousers for a polished yet playful look. Explore timeless options like Hawaiian shirts By Paradise Found, which strike the perfect balance between casual and dressy.

4. Layer Smartly

Layering is a smart way to wear your Hawaiian shirt across seasons. During cooler months, throw on a lightweight bomber jacket, denim jacket, or even a blazer for a sharp, stylish contrast. Keep the rest of your layers simple to avoid clashing with the shirt's bold patterns.

5. Let the Shirt Speak for Itself

If your Hawaiian shirt is vibrant and full of patterns, keep the rest of your outfit subdued. Avoid loud accessories or additional prints that might compete with the shirt. Simple sneakers, loafers, or sandals can complete your look without detracting from the shirt's charm.

6. Roll Up the Sleeves

Rolling up the sleeves can add a relaxed and effortless feel to your look. This styling trick is especially useful for casual outings or warm weather. It also allows you to show off a bit more skin, making the shirt look less overwhelming.

7. Experiment With Color Coordination

While neutral bottoms are a safe bet, you can elevate your style by choosing a bottom in one of the colors featured in your Hawaiian shirt. For instance, if your shirt has hints of green, pair it with olive shorts. This subtle coordination ties the look together without appearing too calculated.

8. Dress It Up With Accessories

Accessories can take your Hawaiian shirt to the next level. Consider wearing a straw hat, sunglasses, or a leather bracelet to enhance your tropical aesthetic. For a more polished look, try a classic watch or minimalistic chain.

9. Confidence Is Key

No matter how you style your Hawaiian shirt, confidence or self-esteem is the ultimate accessory. Wear it with pride and own your look. Hawaiian shirts are all about embracing individuality and having fun with fashion, so don’t shy away from making it your own.

10. Opt for Subtle Patterns if You’re New

If you’re hesitant about diving into the world of bold Hawaiian prints, start with subtler patterns or muted colors. Look for shirts with smaller floral prints or pastel tones that still offer a Hawaiian vibe but feel less daring. This is a great way to ease into wearing statement pieces.

11. Try It Open Over a Plain Tee

For a laid-back, layered look, wear your beautifully designed Hawaiian shirt unbuttoned over a plain colored tee. This styling trick creates a casual and cool aesthetic while toning down the shirt’s loudness. Pair it with slim-fit jeans or shorts for an effortless finish.

12. Match It With the Right Footwear

The footwear you select can make or break your Hawaiian shirt look. For casual outings, stick to sneakers, loafers, or espadrilles. For a beachy vibe, opt for sandals. If you’re styling the shirt for a semi-formal event, leather loafers or oxfords can add a touch of sophistication.

Bottom Line

Hawaiian shirts are more than just vacation staples—they’re versatile pieces that can add personality and vibrancy to any wardrobe. By following these nine tips, you can style your Hawaiian shirt effortlessly, no matter the occasion. So go ahead, embrace the aloha spirit, and let your Hawaiian shirt do the talking!

NEST New York Crystallized Ginger And Vanilla Bean Diffuser Set Review

Not Sponsored: My home is smelling really good for the New Year. Between the TOCCA Havana Candle and NEST New York Crystallized Ginger & Vanilla Bean Reed Diffuser, both are keeping everything smelling super sweet (which I like). This was a gift from fellow blogger Aimee at Little Luxury List. We've been longtime blog buddies. She is so nice. You should definitely check out her Instagram page, because she travels to the most exotic places. I love seeing things through her lens. 

I buy candles, sprays and wall plug-ins, but I've never purchased a diffuser. I know about them, but just never purchased one for myself. Well, this is an excellent one! I've tried NEST candles before and they are exquisite. NEST reed diffusers are equally delightful. 

This diffuser was a limited edition for holiday. NEST New York states, "This Reed Diffuser captures the rich aromas reminiscent of the holiday season with an irresistible gourmand fragrance featuring heartwarming notes of crystallized ginger, cinnamon, and vanilla bean. Matches not required. Expertly crafted with the highest quality fragrance oils, this Reed Diffuser releases an irresistible gourmand scent slowly and evenly into the air for approximately 90 days, delivering continuous fragrance, uninterrupted. The intensity and reach of the fragrance can be customized based on the number of reeds used." Please Not4: This diffuser can still be purchased at select stores.

Fragrance Notes:
Heartwarming notes of crystallized ginger, cinnamon, and vanilla bean create an irresistible gourmand fragrance that captures the rich aromas reminiscent of the holiday season.
 
Vessel:
Housed in a glass vessel with a festive, metallic gold design and includes 8 all-natural rattan reed sticks 
 
How to Use:
Flip reeds weekly, or more often, to intensify the fragrance experience 

I'm so happy I received this as a gift. I will definitely purchase a NEST Reed Diffuser in the future.

TOCCA Havana Candle Review

PR Sample: The lovely people at TOCCA asked if I would like to try one of their candles. I've tried TOCCA's Cleopatra hand cream, Colette Olio Sublime Profumato Scented Dry Body Oil but I had never tried one of their candles. With so many candles to choose from, it took me awhile to choose one. I eventually decided on HAVANA. Its described as an 'intoxicating island escape'. "The sweet yet spicy mix of sugarcane and rum are subtly combined to evoke the heart and soul of this Cuban capital." I started burning this candle New Year's Eve. This has to be the CLEANEST burning candle, I've ever burned. NO soot! NO smoke! It's amazing! The scent is so pleasant and serene. It's slow burning. It's light, calming and peaceful. I love it. Don't hesitate to get this scent, plus TOCCA candle's are cruelty free, vegan and gluten free. Also remember to trim your wick after each use. 

World's Finest Chocolates: Continental Almonds

Not Sponsored: A company gave every employee where I work, a box of World's Finest Chocolates: Chocolate Covered Continental Almonds for Christmas. I thought it was so nice, The company's name was printed on the inside of the box (not shown) and everything was so neatly packaged. I had to write this review, because I was REALLY impressed with the chocolate covered almonds. You have to realize, I am NOT an almond fan. I've had some really hard almonds and vowed never to eat them again (chocolate covered or not). Yes, they were that bad. These were different. The chocolate was absolutely delicious. The almonds broke up easily and melt in your mouth. I wanted another box, but felt I would have to special order them. One night I looked on Amazon and guess what? YES, you can buy them on Amazon. They can be purchased in MILK OR DARK CHOCOLATE. They're expensive, but oh so good. They even have chocolate covered pecans and caramels in the Amazon World's Finest Chocolate Store. So, I just wanted to let my readers to know :)

A Very Sweet Blog Turns 13

Not Sponsored: Happy New Year Everybody! I hope your 2025 is going well. I welcomed 2025 with open arms.  I faced so many challenges last year, but I'm happy to say I overcame each and every one of them ... THANKS TO GOD! I give him ALL the glory. He has blessed me with an AMAZING job! I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT! And in a funny twist, I am now helping others. It's a great feeling. I'm truly blessed.

Below is a New Year's themed cake and cupcakes, I purchased from Haydel's Bakery. They are an excellent bakery and I always look forward to the sweet treats they come out with for various celebrations (1, 2, 3, 4). The cake and cupcakes were not only beautifully decorated, but delicious as well. Here's my Instagram post.

2025 Goals For A Very Sweet Blog

A Very Sweet Blog is now 13 years old. I didn't have time last year, to devote to it. But I am happy to say, I completed 3 out of 5 goals for 2024. Taking a new blog picture and reading other blogs are PRIORITY #1 for me this month. I've been asked to sell A Very Sweet Blog. I can't sell it. It's too personal for me. Plus, there's so much more I want to do with it. I plan on keeping it in my care. What are the goals for my blog in 2025? Let me share them with you.

1. Less Advertisements. More Beauty Reviews.

Many of my readers miss seeing my beauty reviews. I've decided to accept less advertisements from companies. My readers are here for my beauty reviews and that you shall receive.

2. Incorporating My Dreams, Wishes and Desires Blog Into A Very Sweet Blog

Two years ago, I started a blog called My Dreams, Wishes and Desires on Wordpress. As you can imagine, with my busy schedule, writing for TWO BLOGS became too much for me to handle. Also, Wordpress became very expensive! Since A Very Sweet Blog was the stronger blog, I decided to incorporate My Dreams, Wishes and Desires into A Very Sweet Blog. 

Last year, I began incorporating ALL My Dreams, Wishes and Desire's blog posts under a TAB on A Very Sweet Blog. I will continue doing so this year and adding future blog posts to that tab. I plan on keeping My Dreams, Wishes and Desires Instagram , X  and Facebook accounts for future projects.

3. Brand Collaborations

In 2024, I put a halt to some brand collaborations. I didn't have the time to properly review anything. I plan on collaborating again with brands and bringing their products to your attention. 

I Wish for YOU a BLESSED, PEACEFUL, BEAUTIFUL, HEALTHY, LOVING, DELICIOUS AND PROSPEROUS 2025!