Fabulous finds { The Japanese Skincare Revolution }

Seriously who doesn't want to have glowing skin? Of course, I too want to have glowing skin without having to spend too much money on expensive skincare products. I'm a big fan of skincare products and I wear makeup on a regular basis. So, I just can't miss this!

If you read Japanese magazines such as CanCam or Non-no. I'm sure you are familiar with this name. Chizu Saeki is a well-known beauty expert in Japan. She is famous for her "Lotion Mask". I once saw the lotion mask technique on CanCam and was so curious to know what it was. I'm very happy that her book is translated into English!

The lotion mask is similar to facial mask sheets, but you can use your own lotion and a cotton without having to spend $10-15 per sheet!

After I read her interviews, I decided to buy it on Amazon immediately. Her book provides a holistic way of caring your skin such as massage techniques, at home spa, etc. You can read her interviews here:

Talking Makeup

The Japan Times

Reuters

and the famous lotion mask video here:

Skincare revolution clip

Japan, I miss you { part 2 of 2 }

Last post, I blogged about Tokyo area, we stayed around Tokyo for 3-4 days (not enough!), we headed to Kyoto, Osaka and Yokohama.


I don't know what flower it was, but it was beautiful!


Kiyomizu temple (清水寺). I went there to prayed for my love life hehehehe. I even bought Omamori(お守り).

Osaka castle (大坂城). I went there by myself because a certain someone had to work. There was a Johnny group performing at the hall near the castle. I didn't know what group it was though. There were many highschool girls screaming and holding paper fans (with idols' faces on it!).

Glico man @ Namba, one of my favorite shopping and eating places.



Yokohama was the last stop. It was sooo romantic although the Ferris wheel experience was terrifying (I'm afraid of height!). I didn't get many night shots since my crappy camera couldn't take photos very well at night.


Sakura branch & Full moon = Lovely.


Wonder where should I visit next time in Japan :)

Fabulous finds { Lovely Packagings }

I'm glad I found these lovely packaging ideas. Aren't they neat? I couldn't help but save them on my computer. These packing ideas would help improve the packaging design in my shop. I'm sure the receivers will love these!









Photo credits:

Oh hello friend
Nice Package

DIY { 5 Minutes Pin Board }

It doesn't take a long time for this DIY. You only need 5-10 minutes.

What you need:

A pair of scissors, Double sided tape, Glue stick, Pins and Wrapping paper or Cloth.


Two pieces of card board (or just one if you want). Cut them to match the size of the frame. I got mine from an old box.


A frame. I love vintage style frame. I bought mine at St.Lawrence Market :)


How to:

Take one card board and apply glue stick all over it. I also used double sided tape for extra strength.

Then put another card board over the first card board (you can skip this method if you use only one card board).


Cut wrapping paper to match the size of the card board. Apply glue on it, then paste the paper over the cardboard.


Put them in the frame and Voila, you got one good looking pin board :)
Happy Family Day, Smile!!

Japan, I miss you { part 1 of 2 }

Next month will be exactly one year ago since my last visit Japan. I really had a great time visiting my fiance's family for the first time. I'm planning to visit Japan again this year, of course. So, I'm sharing some photos of my last trip with you :)

Doll machine @ Shibuya.


Atchan said that day wasn't very crowded. @ Shibuya crosswalk.


Spaghetti @ Omotesando. The best spaghetti I've ever had!


Asakusa temple.




I will continue next post on the trip to Kyoto and Osaka!

Shop n' Promotions { Photography help! }

I'm currently on the process of improving my shop's photographs. Last time I checked my shop, the photos are not consistent with one another. Some photos are too dark, some are too bright, the backgrounds are too busy and so on.

I'm thinking about using just a plain wood as a background, I like the handmade feeling from the wood :) but I can't really decide which one I should go for.

A) the bright + clear + colorful background.
B) asymmetrical + not too bright.
C) close up + bright + simple background.

A) Bright + clear + close up pictures:




B) Not too bright + asymmetrical + non-close up pictures:




C) Close up + bright + simple background:



Which one do you prefer? All your comments will be appreciated!!

Lovely + Inspiring { February loves }

photo credits:

Bliss
Eva Juliet
Design is mine
Gathering Spriggs
Simplesong Designs
The City Sage
Star of the seas

Fabulous finds { Chocolate Factory }

Ever wonder what a chocolate factory is like inside? The Selby takes us to The Mast Brothers Chocolate factory in NY. Just trying to get everyone in the mood for Valentines :)







photo credits:

The Selby

Shop n' Promotions { Happy February }

10% discount starting today February 1st - 15th, 2010. Please mention this secret code, "Love is all around" while check out. I will reimburse the discount amount via Palpal after your purchase has been made.