My Favorite Beauty Products for TV and Special Events

beauty

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE: Some of this post contains affiliate links for the products I use and LOVE. If you take action on these links (like clicking, buying, etc.), I may receive compensation at no cost to you. As always, all opinions are my own, and I’ll only recommend what I truly like and think you will, too. For more information about affiliates and your privacy, view our Terms & Conditions page here.

Hi beauties! I just wrapped another lifestyle TV segment on KTLA Morning News and I’m feeling great! I love getting dolled up when I do TV appearances! One of my mottos is, “when you look good, you feel good,” and it’s so true! Sometimes, I’ll be feeling blue, then take a look in the mirror and realize, oh, that’s why I feel like crap… My hair isn’t brushed, my eyes look tired, I’ve been wearing athleisure for too many days straight… Does this ever happen to you?

Currently, 75% percent of my life is being a stay-at-home mom, and the other 25% is as freelance TV host and journalist. Sometimes, I find myself spending waayyy too much time wearing sweats with a ponytail and ball cap when I’m mom-ing about town. Then, when I get dressed up for a TV segment or special event, I suddenly feel so much better! It’s like I’m my old pre-kid working-girl self again!

I know this could be an unpopular opinion, since there’s such a movement toward being “natural” and accepting yourself as you are. But, that’s not necessarily what I’m talking about here… Of course, I want women to love themselves with or without makeup! But, I also believe in respecting yourself, and for me, that means taking care of my appearance. It doesn’t even have to be full hair and makeup. I honestly feel better with only a simple swipe of mascara and concealer under my eyes!

There’s really something remarkable about the confidence boost you can get when you put yourself together… So, ladies, if it’s been a while since you’ve felt good in your own skin, take an extra couple minutes to respect yourself and feel beautiful today. Just do one thing! It could be adding a layer of lip gloss or forgoing the same pair of lulus you’ve worn for the last 2 days for a pair of real pants. Try it, I promise you’ll feel better! Let’s make a girls’ pact that we’ll do this at least half of the week… good? Deal!

Now, getting ready for the other 25% percent of my life that’s dedicated to TV appearances takes more than just a couple minutes. I always do my own hair and makeup (maybe one day I’ll be “big” enough to hire pro hair and makeup artists), and my get-ready routine takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour. I actually love the process of getting ready for TV or a special event. I put on some hype music and enjoy taking my time being creative with makeup products and making myself feel good. It’s like a self-care ritual!

Hair and makeup ready for my KTLA Morning News appearance!

Here are my tried-and-true products that I think you’ll love, too!

FACE MAKEUP:

Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Primer – Hydrating

I always use Laura Mercier’s Pure Canvas Primer – Hydrating before applying foundation to keep my skin hydrated and extend the wear of my makeup.

IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream Full Coverage Color Correcting Foundation with SPF 50+

I’ve been using IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream Full Coverage Color Correcting Foundation with SPF 50+ in Fair Light for about 3 years now, and it’s the best. I feel like it offers full coverage, but is so light on my skin. It doesn’t crease or dry me out like some foundations. They have so many shades available to match your skin tone.

tarte Maracuja Creaseless Concealer

I got introduced to tarte Maracuja Creaseless Concealer (my shade is 10N Fair) from a couple beauty influencers, and I’m obsessed. It doesn’t dry out my eye area, doesn’t clump in fine wrinkles and generously covers dark circles. A little goes a long way, so it lasts forever.

NARS Bronzer Powder

I love adding NARS Bronzer Powder in Laguna for a healthy, sun-kissed look. I swipe at my hairline, then make a sweeping C motion down to my cheekbones. I also add to the tip of my nose and chin – basically anywhere where sun would naturally hit my face.

NARS Blush

Ladies (including me) have been obsessed with NARS Blush‘s Orgasm shade for years, and it’s easy to see why. The shade’s peachy glow looks fabulous on all skin colors. I also put a small amount on my eyelids to make my blue eyes POP!

Laura Mercier Translucent Setting Powder

The final step of my makeup routine is brushing Laura Mercier Translucent Setting Powder over areas that I tend to get oily, like my forehead and chin. It helps my makeup stay in place longer, too.

EYE MAKEUP:

Too Faced Natural Eyes Eye Shadow Palette

This Too Faced Natural Eyes Eye Shadow Palette is the only eye shadow palette I’ve ever owned where I truly use every single shade depending on the day and the look I’m going for. For an easy daytime look, I’ll swipe the Heaven color across my entire lid and brow bone and use the Erotica color for my eyeshadow. If I’m doing a look for TV, I’ll use 6 shades: Heaven, Silk Teddy, Strip Poker, Chocolate Martini, Honey Pot and Push-Up. Let me know if I should do a tutorial? The Silk Teddy color is perfect for highlighting my face, too! I’ll add it to the tip of my nose, cheek bones and above my eyebrows.

KVD Beauty Tattoo Liquid Eyeliner

I’ve been using KVD Beauty Tattoo Liquid Eyeliner in Trooper Black for 8 years now, and I love how easy it is to apply. It’s my favorite to use to create a cat eye look. My only issue is that I feel like it sometimes dries out too fast, so I have to buy it often. Once it starts to dry, it’s challenging to apply.

ILIA Limitless Lash Lengthening Clean Mascara

I discovered ILIA Limitless Lash Lengthening Clean Mascara in 2021 when I took a poll on social media asking my followers their favorite mascara and so many people recommended it! I have been using it almost every day since, because it goes on so smooth, truly lengthens my lashes without clumping and doesn’t easily smudge to the top of my eyelids (I have deep set eyes, so this is a frequent problem with other mascaras). Bonus – it’s clean beauty!

Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz® Ultra-Slim Precision Brow Pencil

I love Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz® Ultra-Slim Precision Brow Pencil (my shade is Taupe) because it goes on so smooth and it’s the perfect amount of application. Before finding this brow pencil, I could never find a brow pencil that easily gave me the right amount of color. I was either pressing too hard to see color or trying to remove bold color. Anastasia is the BEST!

LIP MAKEUP:

Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Lip Liner

Several years ago, I read about Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Lip Liner in Pillow Talk being one of the best, most universal shades, so I ordered it online immediately. To be honest, I didn’t think it worked for me then. I was so used to having very light pink lips (it was the the look of early to mid-2010s), and I thought it was too dark for me. Fast forward to now, and I’m obsessed!!!! I always over-line my lips to make them look fuller. I often fill in my lips with a bit of this liner, too, before adding lipstick and gloss. I do agree the Pillow Talk shade could work on all skin tones – give it a try!

Charlotte Tilbury K.I.S.S.I.N.G. Lipstick

This Charlotte Tilbury K.I.S.S.I.N.G. Lipstick has a bit of a matte finish, but it’s so very soft and hydrating. Sephora’s website describes it as a “cashmere” finish… dreamy! Charlotte Tilbury is a genius! I have this lipstick in shade Nude Kate. You can wear this lipstick alone, but it looks SO GOOD with my favorite lip gloss, below.

Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Lip Gloss

This Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Lip Gloss in shade Fenty Glow looks amazing on everyone and over every shade of lipstick or alone. My go-to makeup artist who I trust with my makeup life recommended this to me, and I’m eternally grateful. I also have this lip gloss in shade Fu$$y for when I want a bit of a pinker lip.

L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Collection Exclusive Lipstick – Jennifer’s Nude

This L’Oreal lipstick is the only drugstore brand makeup item on my list, but I haven’t been able to find it in drugstores the last couple of years, so I get it on Amazon. I hope they never stop making it, because the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Collection Exclusive Lipstick in shade Jennifer’s Nude (inspired by Jennifer Lopez, yes, J-Lo!) is the perfect nude shade!! It’s perfect for every day but also looks dressed up under Fenty Gloss Bomb Lip Gloss mentioned above.

Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Lip Liner in Pillow Talk, Charlotte Tilbury K.I.S.S.I.N.G. Lipstick in Nude Kate and Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Lip Gloss in Fenty Glow

HAIR PRODUCTS AND TOOLS:

Olaplex Bond No. 7 Bonding Oil

I started using Olaplex Bond No. 7 Bonding Oil as a recommendation from my hairstylist. I had some major damage done to my hair, and this bonding oil has helped repair it. I’ll add about a dime size amount to wet hair and then add another pea size amount to dry hair before adding styling tools to it.

Ouai Wave Spray

I have stick straight hair naturally and need all the help I can get to keep a curl. I spray this Ouai Wave Spray on my hair before adding hot tools and it helps keep my waves from falling as fast. I also love the smell!

R+Co Sun Catcher Leave-In Conditioner

Living in Southern California, my hair is so dry, so I add a few pumps of R+Co Sun Catcher Leave-In Conditioner to my hair when I get out of the shower then brush through. It helps soften, seal and detangle my hair.

Hot Tools Pro Artist Nano Ceramic Tapered Curling Wand

This Hot Tools Pro Artist Nano Ceramic Tapered Curling Wand gives my hair soft beachy waves. What differentiates it from other curling irons is its tapered shape and it’s snag-free ceramic barrel for smooth curls. I love this wand because it heats up quickly. My hair will typically keep a curl for two days after using this product!

TRESemme Extra Hold Hairspray

I finish my hair with TRESemme Extra Hold Hairspray. I’ve been using this trusty hairspray since high school!

Do you use any of these products? Let me know your favorites in the comments section below! Or, if you have any questions about how I use these hair and makeup products, I’d love to answer them! Be sure to follow me on Instagram and TikTok for more! And, see my hair and makeup looks on TV!

XO Maggie

6 Last-Minute Holiday Gift Ideas for Mom from Mom-Owned Businesses in the LA-OC Area

beauty, fashion, Holidays, Lifestyle, Mom & Baby, Travel

I’m so excited to share this list of great gift ideas for mom from some of my favorite mom-owned businesses in the LA-OC area! In addition to sharing the list below, I’m featuring these gifts LIVE on KTLA Morning News in Los Angeles today, Dec. 22, 2021 at around 11:45 a.m., and I’m so hopeful you’ll tune in! *UPDATE* If you missed the live TV segment, you can view the recorded version here.

Monogrammed Travel Bag from The Monogrammed Home in San Marino

Okay, so… You made your list, checked it twice, and… Oops! You STILL need a gift for mom!!

This is when some of you will quickly run to Target to find a mug that says “MOM” or grab whatever overpriced, picked-over item you can find at Tiffany’s or Nordstrom. Don’t be one of those people wandering blankly around the big chain store only to get mom ANOTHER robe or slippers. Didn’t you get her that last year? Crap, you can’t remember!

Y’all… Don’t do this to mom! Yes, those gifts mentioned above are nice… I have thoroughly enjoyed every robe I’ve been gifted… BUT!!! (This is an important “but,” thus needed additional emphasis) … I need y’all to think of what kind of gift mom really deserves after what she has been up to this holiday season…

Those holiday cards your friends and family received? She designed, signed, and addressed those… Not to mention she licked all 75 envelopes!

Your kids’ reindeer antler headband, the “holiday themed red sweater,” and new dress shoes (grew out of last year’s shoes) that their teacher required you to buy and have your child wear for their school holiday performance… MOM.

Who coordinated the family holiday outings? Photos with Santa, holiday lights show, kids’ museum holiday activities, etc., etc. … MOM.

Who made cookies for Santa? Sure, the kids helped… But, it was probably MOM who had to set it up and clean it up! ALL THOSE SPRINKLES AHHH!!!

Gifts for your neighbors, extended family, newspaper delivery person, mail carrier, kids’ teachers, etc… MOM!!

All the dang wrapping… MOM.

And who usually makes Christmas Eve dinner and/or Christmas Day brunch as everyone enjoys their new gifts or watches football… not always but usually MOM!!!

The exception to all these tasks listed above is a mom who has an incredibly helpful and/or available partner, a mom who has the financial means to outsource everything, or the mom who just stopped giving a F—! Nevertheless, the holiday hustle can get to any mom no matter the level of support she receives.

SO, LET’S HOOK MOM UP THIS YEAR, Y’ALL! Let’s get her something that’s truly unique and thoughtful while also supporting a local MOM-owned business!

REASONS TO BUY FROM A LOCAL MOM-OWNED BUSINESS:

Shopping local is a great way to give back to your community where you live and want to see prosper. Local stores tend to keep their profits local, hire local employees, and donate to local charities and organizations.
It’s the best shopping method to limit your environmental impact. There’s less shipping and typically more local products available, so less transportation needed.
The experience is unmatched! You’ll have the opportunity to personally connect with a member of your community who really cares about their customers! Also, the knowledge of their products is superior to some of the big box chains that hire seasonal employees. Because they’re passionate about their products and filling a need in their community, local business owners often go the extra mile to make sure you are a happy customer!
If you love your mom, you’ll also love supporting another local mom. Imagine your own mom putting her blood, sweat and tears into a business on top of all her mom-ing… That is one bad mother!
Interesting products! Local businesses sell products that fulfill the interests of the owner and the owner’s customers. They are not limited to some national chain store’s sales and marketing plan, so you’ll often get some really unique and special product options!
It’s hard to trust last-minute shipping these days with all the supply shortages and shipping delays we’re seeing on the news. When you shop local, you’re typically perusing all the products currently in stock, so you don’t have to worry about your gift not making it to mom before Christmas.

Now that I’ve convinced you that shopping at a local, mom-owned business is the way to go, below is a list of my favorite gift ideas from mom-owned businesses in Southern California. These business stretch from Sunset Beach to Montrose, and all have ways to secure gifts in these last couple days leading up to Christmas. I’ve included gift ideas for every type of mom – the new mom, the expecting mom, and moms who love wine, traveling, skincare and wellness.

6 Holiday Gift Ideas for Mom from Local Mom-Owned Businesses:

FOR THE EXPECTING MOM

Cleobella Taylor Mama Bag

This leather bag is so chic and high-quality that you’d have no idea it’s actually a diaper bag! Perfect for the stylish new mom who doesn’t always want to look like she’s hauling around baby gear! The braided detailing on the handle and zipper pulls is gorgeous, and it comes in three different colors (black, moccasin and cognac) to fit any mom’s style. I personally love how this bag is well designed for versatility. You can wear it as a backpack, crossbody, or with your hands for style and convenience. Multiple pockets are large enough to hold all the essentials. I can even squeeze my laptop into it in case I need to mix work with mom life. I fully intend to carry this bag even when we’re out of the diaper phase! Cleobella was founded by a SoCal mom, along with her husband, who desired ethically handmade fashion inspired by her global travels. The brand is deeply rooted in its commitment to sustainability and employment that uplifts independent artisans around the world. One percent of every purchase goes back to charities that support our planet and people who need it most.

How to Buy: The Taylor Mama Bag is available to purchase in-person at the Cleobella boutique in Sunset Beach located at 16792 14th St Sunset Beach, CA 90742. The boutique will be open from 10a.m. to 5 p.m. on Dec. 22-23. The company website www.cleobella.com offers expedited shipping options from their local headquarters, in addition to e-gift cards for those extra last-minute shoppers. Be sure to use the code KTLA at checkout for 20% off your order! The code is good through December.

FOR THE NEW MOM

Saranoni Mommy-and-Me Matching Luxury Blankets at Babies, Bellies & Bosoms

Keep mama and baby cozy this winter with luxury matching blankets from Saranoni found at Bellies, Babies & Bosoms in Montrose. Saranoni’s Bamboni Collection is made from bamboo fibers that are converted to rayon, so the blanket’s cloud-like fabric is light, breathable, stretchy, and as soft as ever! When you’re snuggled up with this blanket, “you’ll feel like you’re wrapped in a cupcake!” said Laura, the owner of Bellies, Babies & Bosoms. The blankets will undoubtedly bring comfort and warmth to mommy and baby this holiday season, and I’m obsessed with the idea of giving a matching mommy-and-baby gift to a new mom! The blankets come in a variety of colors and patterns to match mom’s style and home. If you purchase the “Mudcloth” print, Saranoni will donate a portion of proceeds to Well-Africa, an organization that strives to end child slavery, build schools, and educate children in West Africa. Love a gift that gives back!

How to Buy: Saranoni’s Bamboni Collection of blankets are available to purchase at Bellies, Babies & Bosoms in Montrose, a quaint historic community just north of Glendale. I love this shop because it was founded by a mom in 2003 with the passion to promote breastfeeding, support new mothers and be a sanctuary for all motherhood needs. She carries so many special gifts for new parents and babies! Bellies is located at 2430 Honolulu Avenue, Montrose, CA 91020 and will be open from 11 a.m.–5 p.m. on Dec. 22-23 and from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Dec. 24.

FOR THE BEAUTY LOVING MOM

Tinted Lip Jellies from Facile Dermatology and Boutique

Just in time for the holidays, Facile launched its fan-favorite lip moisturizer in a collection of brand-new Tinted Lip Jellies with a plumping complex that instantly boosts hydration and leaves lips looking fuller, firmer, and more defined with each wear. The Tinted Lip Jellies come in three effortless shades: Rose, Rouge, and Berry. I tried all three shades and each of them looked good on my skin tone, but my favorite is the Rose to wear every day for a very natural look. Glossy but never sticky, the Tinted Lip Jellies soften and condition lips with a long-lasting, hydrating blend of Peptides, Jojoba Oil, and Essential Fatty Acids, leaving lips with a wash of beautiful color. Not only are these lip jellies amazing for your lips, every purchase goes toward an amazing cause! Throughout the month of December, Facile will be donating 20% of all Lip Jelly sales to NAMI (the National Alliance on Mental Illness) which provides advocacy, education, support, and public awareness so that all individuals and families affected by mental illness can build better lives. Co-founded by skincare-obsessed entrepreneur and mom Danielle Nadick Levy and board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nancy Samolitis. Facile opened in 2016 and quickly garnered a celeb following from beauties like Mandy Moore, Lucy Hale and Dove Cameron. If you really want to win big with mom, accompany the Lip Jellies with a gift card for mom to get a personalized treatment at Facile. They do it all from mini facials to fillers to microneedling and PRP injections! Perfect for any beauty or skincare loving mama!

How to Buy: Facile has two locations in West Hollywood (8457 Melrose Place, Los Angeles, CA 90069) and Pasadena (140 S. Lake Ave., Suite 104, Pasadena, CA 91101) where the products can be purchased on Dec. 22 or 23.

FOR THE WINE ENTHUSIAST MOM

Aervana Travel Aerator from Emerald Forest Gifts

This brand-new Travel Wine Aerator from Aervana is perfect for any wine lover who loves to travel or simply save space at home (glass decanters don’t travel well and take up lots of space!). This aerator is small enough to fit in your purse or drawer, plus, it comes with a cute carrying case and corkscrew. At the touch of a button, it turns tannic wine into smooth-as-velvet liquid in seconds! Simply attach the single tube that accompanies the Aervana Travel to the body of the aerator, slip it over an open wine bottle, and press the button on top. Perfect for travel, road trips, the beach, picnics – anywhere! To be honest, my husband and I love this aerator so much that we use it at home most of the time!

How to Buy: Get the Aervana Travel Aerator before Christmas at mom-owned Emerald Forest Gifts in the San Fernando Valley located at 12638 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604. The owner, Michelle, started Emerald Forest Gifts in 1987 and is celebrating the store’s 36^th Christmas Season! Known for carrying unique, elegant gifts for all occasions, Emerald Forest will even gift wrap your gift to make it easy for you to give to mom! Her shop will be open from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 22-23 and from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 24.

FOR THE WELLNESS WARRIOR MOM

Juna Essential Roller Set

If mom is always looking to optimize her wellbeing (or if she simply needs some help chilling out this holiday season – LOL!), Juna’s new essential oil rollerballs offer a therapeutic mood lifting experience throughout the day. The Essential Roller Set from Juna includes three nanoparticle mood-shifting rollerballs – Balance, Nightcap and Ease – designed with a complex blend of scientifically proven functional botanicals that will reset the mind and shift mood. Roll on temples, behind the ears, wrists, breathe deep and experience the mood shifting benefits. The Balance helps you feel awake and clear; the Nightcap helps ease you into a deep sleep; and the Ease can help you shift your mood from overwhelmed to calm and relaxed. They are great for daily use, for on-the-go, fast, effective relief. Based in Dana Point, Juna creates plant powered products with over 40+ active botanicals that solve the stress, anxiety, and sleep issues women are facing daily. The wellness company was founded by two busy career women and mothers seeking an effective solution to optimize their every day.

How to Buy: The rollers are available to purchase with expedited shipping for Christmas on juna-world.com. If you use code KTLA at checkout, you’ll get 20% off your order! The code is good through December. Perfect time to consider getting Juna’s bestselling Nightcap drops, too! Juna also sells several of its plant-powered solutions in Erewhon markets.

FOR THE WELL-TRAVELED MOM

Personalized Jewelry Round and 3-Piece Travel Set from The Monogrammed Home

Nothing is more thoughtful than a personalized gift, and The Monogrammed Home can help you secure these monogrammed travel cases just in time for Christmas! I love this adorable Seersucker Jewelry Round and 3-Piece Stacking Set that can be used for toiletries, makeup, hair accessories, and whatever you can fit, ready to be monogrammed with mom’s name or initials! I also love the idea of monogramming the 3-piece set to stay organized around the house with labels like, “cords,” “sunscreen,” “vitamins,” “safety pins,” etc. The stacking set is available for $78 and comes in 7 different colors. The jewelry rounds are available for $38 and come in four different colors. Pricing includes monogramming, and customers can choose from over 100 monogram and font options and over 50 thread colors! You’re sure to find a style that mom will love! The Monogrammed Home is one of my most favorite gift shops close to my home! The shop offers a variety of thoughtful, personalized home and lifestyle gifts for everyone in your life. I seriously get every special occasion gift from this shop! The shop was founded by two sisters in 2014, who are now mothers.

How to Buy: Available online at the-monogrammed-home.com, by phone (626) 405-1153, or at The Monogrammed Home located at 2556 Mission St., San Marino, CA 91108. KTLA viewers will not incur a rush charge for purchases of the Jewelry Round or Stacking Set. Purchases placed today (Dec. 22, 2021) by 3 p.m. will be ready for pick up tomorrow (Dec. 23, 2021) between 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Gift cards also are available to purchase.

The Taylor Mama Bag from Cleobella is a perfect gift for an expecting mom!

MOMS! Which of these gifts would you like to receive? Let me know in the comments below, or connect with me on Instagram at @maggiehjackson!

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE: Some of this post contains affiliate links for the products I use and LOVE. If you take action on these links (like clicking, buying, etc.), I may receive compensation at no cost to you. As always, all opinions are my own, and I’ll only recommend what I truly love. For more information about affiliates and your privacy, view our Terms & Conditions page here.

A Few of My Favorite Things – Great Holiday Gift Ideas!

beauty, fashion, Health & Wellness, Holidays, Lifestyle, Mom & Baby

Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens… These holiday gift ideas have me feeling so smitten!

Okay, okay… I’ll drop the cheesiness…

But, seriously, below is a list of a few of my favorite things divided in two categories: things in my vanity and things in my closet. I use many of these items daily! I wanted to share a list of my favorite things as an easy gift guide resource for those of you struggling to find a holiday present for a deserving lady in your life. I’ve tried, tested and approved all these items, so I know any smart, chic lady like myself (LOL) would love these!

When all your shopping is done, come back to this list and choose something for yourself, too! I’ve rounded up a wide range of affordable and luxe items that I feel are truly spectacular! After a long almost two years of pandemic craziness, we can all use a little holiday pick-me-up 🙂

One of my FAVORITE things: Coola Sunless Tan Firming Lotion

A Few of My Favorite Things:

In My Vanity:

Supergoop Glow Screen – A 40 SPF sunscreen that doubles as a primer while leaving your skin with a dewy and glowy finish… YES, PLEASE! I seriously think I look more awake, fresh, and youthful after putting this on! And, its so easy to apply makeup on top, too! *virtual high five*

Drunk Elephant The Littles Gift Set – I love ALL of Drunk Elephant’s products and these are my most favorite go-to’s! If you’re interested in trying Drunk Elephant but don’t know which product to start with, or if you love Drunk Elephant and need some travel size products, this gift set is PERFECT!

Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara – I love this mascara because not only does it make my lashes look long and full, it’s a nourishing product made with clean ingredients that doesn’t flake off — all while still being easy to remove at the end of the day! I have deep set eyes, so I always struggle with my mascara smudging, and this is one of the best mascaras I’ve found!

Aquis Hair Turban – This towel is amazing at absorbing water while limiting damage to your wet hair. I love how easy it is to tie up and wear around while I do my makeup and get dressed.

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer – Worth the hype – and the price tag! Less noise, less damage to my hair, and dries my hair faster!

Coola Sunless Tan Firming Lotion – I’ve tried so many sunless tanners in my lifetime and this has been my favorite so far! It’s so easy to apply, and I never get fake looking streaks. The color is very natural. There is a slight hint of a smell that comes with most self tanning lotions, but I find it not as strong compared to others I’ve used. I love that it’s made with clean ingredients, too… Used it during my pregnancies!

Bond No. 9 Madison Avenue Perfume – I found this sexy scent when I was shopping in Vegas, and I love it, because I don’t have a single girlfriend who wears it… Bond No. 9 Madison Avenue is MY SCENT, ok?! But, now I’m sharing with you, because I know you’ll love it! It’s sexy, but not too skanky… It’s high energy but not too annoyingly happy… ya get me? It’s my favorite perfume to wear for special occasions.

Versace Bright Crystal Perfume – This perfume is so versatile, so I like to wear it daily. It’s fresh, floral and bright… the way I want to feel going throughout my day. Any lady will like Versace!

In My Closet:

Veja Sneakers – These are the best sneakers to go with EVERYTHING! I’ve worn them with dresses, jeans, shorts and joggers. They’re classic and felt like a good upgrade to my everyday casual mama wardrobe. I like the Veja Campo style in white leather and natural suede, but Veja has lots of styles and colors to choose from to fit your personality!

Schutz Ariella Mules – The heels that go with (almost) everything! They’re like Cinderella’s glass slipper emulating a “barely there” look. The plastic is flexible, so they’re really quite comfortable! I’ve worn these for hours at a time and can dance in them, too!

Levi Wedgie Straight Ankle Jeans – Since skinny jeans have been fading on the fashion circuit, I scoured the internet for a pair of new non-skinny jeans that didn’t make me look like I was a Gen Z-er (sorry Gen Z). I wanted jeans that were still a bit fitted but made me feel like a cool mom, ya know? Enter these Levi Wedgie Straight Ankle Jeans! They def give off some 90s vibes but with a much better fit. They don’t have a lot of stretch, so consider that when choosing sizes!

Madewell Cropped Sweatshirts – I am really digging copped sweatshirts lately to wear around the house, to mommy-and-baby play dates, running errands, etc. I love these from Madewell. They’re perfect for layering and look great with the Levi jeans and Veja sneakers listed above.

Reformation Dresses – Reformation knows how to make a flattering dress. I love all their dresses! I have a couple that are staples for winter and summer festivities. I absolutely love this cherry red one for the holidays!

Cleobella Taylor Mama Bag – My friend Taylor designed this diaper bag, and it’s been the perfect bag for Lucy and me. I love that it’s so chic and doesn’t look like a diaper bag! The leather is soft, and the braided detailing is beautiful! I can even fit my laptop in it when I need to balance work and mom-ing. It comes in three different colors, too!

Salvatore Ferragamo Chain Wallet – After carrying around a big diaper bag during the day, the last thing I want to do is carry a large purse with me for a night out. This little chain wallet is so chic and perfect for date night or mommy’s night out.

Lunya Pajamas Washable Silk Set – Never knew I could get this excited about PJs, but I need to share that these are the ULTIMATE pajamas! The silk is soft, cool, and machine washable (bonus!). Plus, they make me feel luxurious! I’ve never found a set of PJs where I felt both comfortable and sexy in front of my husband. These are it! They come in a few colors and styles, so pick your fave!

Beechwood Crew Pajamas – I’m a sucker for matching with my mini, and Beechwood Crew has launched several fun holiday prints for the whole family to coordinate! A former colleague of mine launched Beechwood Crew with her longtime BFF earlier this year. They wanted an alternative to cheap, fast fashion for their families with high-quality, small-batch pieces they will wear forever… And they did it! The quality is amazing, and the PJs are so soft, warm and comfy – perfect for the holidays! Make sure you order before December 15 to get your made-to-order PJs in time for Christmas! And don’t forget to use my code MAGGIE15 to get 15% off your order! YAY!

Stackers Jewelry Box Set – I love this convenient and space-saving way to store and organize jewelry. It also looks really sophisticated and modern in our home.

David Yurman Cable Classic Collection Bracelet – A timeless heirloom bracelet that you can make personal – how fabulous is that?! My husband gifted me this bracelet with the green gemstone to represent our first baby who was born in August (the August birthstone is green Peridot). I love that you can get different versions of the David Yurman Cable bracelets and create a beautiful stacking look that’s classy enough to wear to church, chic to wear to brunch, or fancy for a night out. This would definitely be a special gift!

Ladies, tell me which of these gifts you’d like to receive in the comments below! Be sure to follow me on Instagram and LTK for more fun shopping and gift guides like this one!

XO Maggie

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The Best Hair Tools and Products for Long, Voluminous Hair

beauty, Lifestyle

On most days, my mom hair is in a low ponytail under a hat while I bounce between running errands, chasing after kiddos, working from home and still trying to somehow squeeze in a workout. But, when I do get the opportunity to get “done up,” I actually love taking the time to style my hair!

I know spending time to fix your hair can sound exhausting to some moms, especially you new mamas who are just trying to find 10 minutes to take a shower! But, if you are able to take some personal time to style your hair, I highly recommend it.

Doing my hair helps me feel like a normal human again – not just an exhausted mommy who rarely has a reason to wear anything else besides athleisure! And, styling my hair gives me a major confidence boost!! I’ve always loved the saying, “When you look good, you feel good!” For me, I feel so much happier (and sexier!) when I take care of my appearance.

I’m sharing this post with my favorite haircare products and tools for three reasons:

(1) I often get asked how I curl my hair or what I do to get volume.

(2) Despite popular belief, good hair does not have to be super expensive!

(3) I hope this post inspires you to get yourself glammed up soon to give yourself a jolt of confidence!

So, if any of those reasons interest you, read on! If not, read on anyway and click on some product links to give my pocketbook a boost (shameless plug – LOL!!).

First, about my hair…

I’ve been very fortunate that I never lost a lot of hair after having my babies, as I know that’s a huge challenge (and totally normal!) for most moms postpartum. I have very fine hair, but I have A LOT of it. Because it’s fine, it tangles so easily. But, because I have a lot, I’m able to make my hair very voluminous with the right products and tools. My natural hair is stick straight and a mousy light brown color. I had platinum blonde hair as a child, and ever since puberty stole my beautiful blonde locks, I’ve been coloring to get it back. I currently get my hair colored once every 8-10 weeks, and my hairdresser does the balayage technique. I do not wear hair extensions. I keep my hair growing long with regular trims, rarely putting lots of heat on it, and protecting it with a nourishing treatment that I’ve linked below. Read on for all my favorite hair products and tools.

My Favorite Haircare Products and Tools:

UNITE Hair Blonda Shampoo

I’ve tried several blonde toning shampoos, and UNITE’s Blonda is my absolute favorite. My hair consistently looks brighter after I use it even if its been several weeks since I’ve been to the salon. I typically use it once a week on Friday or Saturday, so my hair looks extra bright blonde for any weekend date nights or socializing with friends.

L’Oreal EverPure Moisture Shampoo

I have pretty dry hair as a result of living in Southern California (where it never rains), dying my hair, and breastfeeding (babies suck all hydration from you!), and this moisture shampoo keeps my hair soft and silky. Plus, because it’s sulfate free, its very gentle and doesn’t wash away my color. I love that this shampoo is inexpensive and widely available, so I can easily pick it up when I’m running errands. See, I told you haircare does not have to be expensive!

L’Oreal EverPure Moisture Conditioner

The counterpart to L’Oreal’s Ever Pure Shampoo, this conditioner also is my go-to for all the same reasons!

Milk Anti-Frizz Leave-In Nourishing Treatment

I discovered this leave-in conditioning treatment from my phenomenal hairstylist Janelle Harris-Gearhart while she was working at Garrett Markenson’s salon. Garrett is the founder of Reverie, which creates exceptional clean haircare products for all types of hair. His Milk treatment is amazing for my hair – on both dry and wet hair! I put about six pumps in my palm and run it through my wet hair. After blowdrying, I add another three pumps throughout my hair to smooth and protect it from any additional heat I may put on with curling irons. This treatment keeps my hair healthy and encourages long lengths!

OUAI Wave Spray

When I want to add texture to my hair, I use OUAI’s wave spray. It’s like adding gorgeous beach waves to your hair without getting in the ocean! OUAI recommends adding it to wet hair, but I like to add a light mist to my dry hair before curling or using my wave wand.

TRESemmé TRES Two Hair Spray For a Frizz-Free Look Extra Hold

I have tried many expensive hairsprays, but I keep coming back to Tresemme for its effectiveness, affordability and availability. I’ve been using Tresemme hairspray for over 15 years – ever since high school when I’d perform on stage in beauty pageants and dance contests!

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

Believe the hype, y’all! The Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer is worth the high price tag. Although I have naturally fine hair, I have A LOT of it, and it takes sooo long to dry! Not only does this hair dryer dry my hair far faster than any other I’ve used, Dyson claims that it increases smoothness by 75%, increases shine by 132% and decreases frizz and flyaways by up to 61%. My hair looks like I got a professional blowout at home!

Hot Tools Professional Nano Ceramic Flipperless Curling Wand

You can’t beat Hot Tools’ professional grade products. According to Hot Tools, the wand has “Advanced Nano Ceramic technology that helps create sleek, glossy shine, and reduce frizz. What’s more, there’s no ‘stick’…hair glides effortlessly along the wand.” I use this wand when I want loose gorgeous waves. This wand provides my most favorite hairstyle look that I know how to do; however, it takes me the longest time to do it. When I wrap my hair around the wand, it takes about 15 seconds of heat to hold each piece, and that takes a long time with the amount of hair I have! That being said, I think it’s definitely worth the purchase for the look you can achieve!

Gorgeous loose beachy waves with Hot Tools Flipperless Curling Wand

Alure Three Barrel Wave Wand

I was seeing tons of influencers on Instagram tout this other more expensive 3-barrel wand for mermaid-like waves, so I was really interested in what all the hype was about. One of my girlfriend’s had a similar hairstyle, so I inquired and she spilled the secret on this much more affordable wand from Alure on Amazon! This wand works so well at creating smaller waves that give off a beachy mermaid hair vibe! And, because it has a clamp, unlike my Hot Tools wand above, it is a lot faster to style! This has become one of my go-to looks this summer!

Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron

I have used these affordable Conair curling wands for YEARS. I had my last one for 15+ years before I decided it may be time to upgrade. This cute rose cold ceramic wand works great for my hair. It creates classic loose curls and doesn’t take too much time. My hair will hold a loose wave from this wand for two days, which I really love. All I have to do on day two is lightly run a comb through my hair, and voila!

Classic big curls with Conair Ceramic Curling Wand

Batiste Dry Shampoo

Batiste has the best dry shampoo on the market, in my opinion! It’s light, smells great, affordable, and most importantly, WORKS! I don’t get a yucky white residue in my hair, and there’s no weird extra stick. I sometimes will even use this dry shampoo on clean hair just to get an extra boost of volume on my roots. HIGHLY recommend!!!

Conair Gel Grips Paddle Brush

Here’s another Conair tool I’ve been using for many, many years. These paddle brushes last forever, they’re affordable and effective! I use this brush while I’m blow drying my hair. I get super tangly hair because its so fine, and this brush is helpful and detangling without creating more tangles or ripping out my hair.

Conair Teasing Brush

I’m originally from Texas where “the higher the hair, the closer to God,” so I’ve always been a fan of adding some lift to my roots. I like this teasing brush more than a comb because its gentler on my hair and easier to get a bit of volume. When I use a comb, I have to really back comb my hair aggressively which does lots of damage, but this brush only takes a few strokes to get the lift I want.

Silk Pillowcase

My grandmother gifted me a silk pillowcase when I was in elementary school, and I never went back to a normal pillowcase again. First of all, they’re simply cool and comfortable! But, if you also care about how your hair looks in the morning plus want to protect it over time, silk pillowcases are amazing for protecting your strands and reducing frizz. I love this silk pillowcase from Amazon, because its affordable and comes in lots of colors! Silk pillowcases are fantastic for your skin, too!

Silk Scrunchie

Now that scrunchies are back in style, I’m wondering why they left in the first place! They’re so much gentler on hair than regular hair ties! I especially love this silk scrunchie for preventing hair breakage! And, it looks so stylish!

Are there any hair products you absolutely love that I need to add to this list? Please let me know in the comments below or by connecting with me on Instagram at @maggiehjackson!

XO, Maggie

Maggie Jackson

TV Host & Content Creator