My Favorite Things

A dear friend of mine recently joked about how I should do a post about all my favorite things. I thought it was funny because I have so many favorite things, it really would never end. That, and the thought of me doing the Oprah thing just made me giggle. Yet here I am, writing about a few of my favorite things. I thought maybe this could be the winter version, and then in a few months I'll do my summer must-haves. Not sure why anyone would care what I like [insert nervous laugh here], but I figured I spend so much time and money on trial and error, if I can help or even just entertain you guys, why not!

This one's for you, Francesca!

First up, my favorite winter nail polish! Nails Inc. by London in Victoria (of course). A deep, delicious burgundy with high gloss finish. Available at Sephora.

I am a true believer of Peter Thomas Roth skin care, I absolutely adore the entire line! One of my favorite products is the Retinol Fusion PM. It is a potent serum high in vitamins C & E that helps regenerate skin cells, restore moisture and slow down the signs of aging. Leaves skin soft and glowing!

 

Something I truly could not live without is this amazing little tube. Urban Decay's Eyeshadow Primer is a long-lasting shadow base that guarantees grease-free creases for hours! 

Although I am forever loyal to my spray tan artist, often enough I just can't find the time to get to her. Neutrogena Micro-Mist airbrush tanning spray provides even, non-orangy color that looks completely natural. It is available in shades 1, 2 and 3. I use the 3 on my body and 2 on my face. Love this stuff!

Nothing annoys me more than wearing lip gloss on a windy day. I have long hair and it always gets stuck on my lip gloss. The solution is a matte, non-stick color from a good lip stain. Stila Passion Fruit Crush is a nice orangey-red tint for lips and cheeks. Just a little goes a long way. Definitely a winter must have!

Buxom mascara in Loud Black, by Bare Escentuals. This brush separates lashes evenly and provides a clump-free, clean set of luscious lashes. Perfect for castings and photoshoots, great over falsies!

 L'Oreal's Studio Secrets Magic Perfecting Base is my go-to for covering up large pores. I wear this under my foundation for a smooth canvas. One of the best things I've ever purchased!

I am absolutely addicted to Crabtree & Evelyn Hand Care Collection! The Hand Recovery (white tube) is an exfoliating cream that removes dead skin cells and leaves hands feeling super soft! The Ultra Moisturizing Hand Therapy (pink tube) is a conditioning cream made with shea butter, macademia nut, pomegranate, grapeseed and argan oils. SO soothing!

I am literally ALWAYS on the go and don't have time to make breakfast the way I should. I had been looking for a protein shake that would both keep me full long and do good for my body. A friend recommended Shakeology and I am in love! Made from fruits, nuts, grains and veggies, this powder is nutritious, delicious and satisfying.

Justin's all-natural vanilla almond butter. I like to add a tablespoon to my Shakeology every morning, yum! Great substitute for peanut butter. Available at Whole Foods.

Green tea extract capsules offer the anti-oxidants of 13 tea bags in just one capsule. I get a burst of energy that is both natural and good for my body and skin!

And because all things can't be healthy and good for you, here we have one of my all-time favorite winter indulgences! Chocolate Abuelita. My abuelita is probably one of the best things that ever happened to me and this reminds me of her. I like mine blended with milk and then boiled in a pot. Any gloomy or rainy day is not complete without a cup of this hot cocoa, a blanket and a good book or movie.

So there you have it, just a few of my favorite things! Thank you for taking the time to read my ramblings. Let me know if you have any questions. You can contact me via e-mail at info@victoriachrystalphotography or drop a line in the comment box below.   -V