candle

30 June 2020

Get a good night sleep with natural aromatherapy room and pillow mists
(this is not sponsored)

Everyone has a lot on their minds and you might be struggling with sleeping just as I am. There are many suggestions for sleep aids but I've always been a fan of pillow mists. On the whole my allergic self can tolerate them in my room and on my bed linen. Aromatherapy is a holistic approach to soothing the mind, body and spirit. Essential oils are used for many different ailments and a pillow mist may help ease stress, agitation and anxiety. No one can promise a miracle but it's worth a trying a pillow mist for yourself.

6 April 2020

Introduction to Lucky Cloud Skincare
Let me introduce you to Lucky Cloud Skincare. I recently made a gift purchase from them and wanted to offer support at this difficult time. Lucky Cloud Skincare are based in Edinburgh, Scotland and produce natural and vegan skincare. Products are handmade in small batches using plant based ingredients to formulate beautiful oils and balms. They have a fantastic ethos with recyclable packaging, no animal testing plus high quality and ethically sourced ingredients. Lucy, the founder of Lucky Cloud has struggled with sensitive skin and created products to try and address her needs. All products fully comply with the European cosmetic regulations and have been tested for their safety and stability by leading industry assessors. 

I encourage you to explore the product range especially if you love balms and facial oils. Lucky Cloud Skincare also have a range of solid soap bars but you need to be quick as at the time of writing only peppermint remains in stock. I am sure they will re-stock in the future so bookmark the page. I tend to judge a brand on their lip balm flavours and opt for food scents so coconut and vanilla are sure to be a winner.  

If you have the opportunity and means to support indie brands then now is your chance. Come back and let me know on social media what you purchased.

Sarah x

12 March 2019

Natural, Organic and Vegan Mother's Day Gift Ideas(this article includes a PR sample marked *)

I'd like to be mindful that Mother's Day (31st March 2019) can be a difficult time for some and appreciate that I am fortunate to be able to indulge in this celebration. I have collated some gift ideas specific for Mother's Day but the brands mentioned of course offer gifts all year round for every occasion.

21 November 2017

Top 3 products on a Green Blogger Christmas Wish List
Have you ever wondered what products are on a Blogger Christmas Wish List? I decided to investigate this and asked some of my favourite Green Bloggers to tell me their Top 3 Wish List items whether that is green beauty and/or eco-friendly products.

Ailish - The Glow Getter
The things on my Wishlist this Christmas include the Tata Harper Organic Skincare range because it's a luxury range that I have always wanted to try! It looks, smells and seems to perform amazingly well so I would absolutely love to try it out! The next thing on my Wishlist is the new RMS Beauty Lipsticks, they look dreamy, I've tested a few and the colours are beautiful and they are totally natural, which is just incredible! The last thing on my Wishlist is a Casper mattress. Sleep is super important when getting the glow and this mattress has been designed with ultimate comfort in mind and based on lots and lots of research. That is the type of bed that I want to sleep in!

Amber - This Natural Bee
On my Christmas Wish List I’ve got some People Tree Striped PJ’s – I have another pair of their pyjamas with a pink cloud print and they’re so comfy. I also have my eye on the Nude & Noir Palette which looks so pretty, with a highlighter, eyeshadow & lip colour & bronzer. My final wishlist item is a candle from Petits Rituels – they’re my favourite natural candle range as the scents are just so lovely – my favourite scent is Minty BonBon!

Katie - Katie Vibes
Vegan-friendly Christmas gift sets can be hard to come by but I really love the look of the Evolve Beauty Hydrate and Glow Bag. I'm a huge fan of the hyaluronic serum that is included - and the brand in general - and in this set you get a full size plus a 30ml pot of their bestselling Radiant Glow Mask. I haven't got round to trying the mask of yet but I really want to (it smells like chocolate - very Christmassy indeed). Second on my list is the Pepper & Mayne High Waist Compression Legging in Japanese Denim. I've been really into my fitness lately and now that I'm going to the gym 3-4 times a week, I'm feeling the need to expand my activewear wardrobe and I'm specifically on the look out for more high quality fitness leggings that are completely opaque. Pepper & Mayne don't use 100% natural/organic fibres but their activewear is produced by Eco-Label approved factories in Portugal and has a fully traceable supply chain. I'll be honest and say they're a little out of my price range at the moment, so hopefully Santa will treat me? Last on my wish list is the Vedani Botanicals Daily Rituals Face Care Set. If you read my blog, you'll no doubt have heard me bang on about Vedani and the beautiful products that Mercedes's creates. I've recently exhausted my entire Vedani collection and my face is crying out for its old friend. I love Vedani because the products are simple but effective, and make use of some really stunning botanical ingredients. It also doesn't help that the product packaging is truly stunning... they'd look great under the tree!

Lynda - Wonderlusting
The Kjaer Weis Collector's kit - I'm a longtime user and lover of Kjaer Weis re-fillable makeup and use something from the range every day. The new palette is the perfect kit to fit my bits in to. The only thing that would make it more perfect if it was filled with more makeup! Lola Apothecary's Delicate Romance Bath & Body Collection - I am a complete roseaholic and this set looks like a rose dream. It contains rose petal filled bath and body oils that make my heart leap. And there's the 'Queen of Roses' rose petal covered chocolate to nibble on too. Stelton To Go Click Cup - I've been on the hunt for a sleek looking, reusuable coffee cup and Stelton are ticking all my boxes. The To Go Click cup comes in a range of sophisticated colours, and has a state of the art 'smart click' mechanism that allows you to drink from the full 360 degrees. Ideal for someone as clumsy as me and meaning there'll be no spills in my handbag. 

Mavs - Naturally Diddy
Axiology Lipstick: I'm obsessed with lipsticks especially in weird and wonderful colours and the shades Phenomenon and Enlighten (annoyingly seem only to be available in USA) both look sensational. They are pricier than I would allow myself on a regular basis but as a chrimbo gift they'd be perfect. If i couldn't have oe of the crazy colours then any other will do! Au Naturale su/Stain Lip Stain (in any of the colours, they all look gorgeous): Since matte hippies and stains launched on the market I've been addicted and these seem to have the cleanest formula of all of those I've come across. Hetty + Sam Agave Geometry Vegan Leather Purse: I'd have everything from Hetty + Sam if i could, but this purse is my fave. I love how all their products are vegan and created ethically while still being bang on trend and super stylish, their prints/designs are awesome.

Thank you to these lovely ladies for taking part in this post, I don't know about you but I've now added some products to my own Christmas list! Is there anything you have your eye on?

Sarah x

Disclaimer - article contains some affiliate links

11 July 2017

Wax + Wick Green Tea and Almond Soy Wax Candle
I bought this Wax + Wick candle back in April after seeing Sasha (Balanced Beauty Bristol) mention the brand in a video. Sasha certainly influenced me with her enthusiasm because I rarely buy candles. There were a number of reasons why Wax + Wick appealed to me which I want to share with you.

I love the idea of taking wine bottles and repurposing them into candles. It's not only zero waste but also adds to the uniqueness of the design. My jar isn't perfect and has a couple of raised edges (they are sanded down so not sharp). The ingredients are simply soy wax and oils (local & organic when possible) there is no palm oil, artificial or synthetic colours and they are vegan friendly. I also feel that at £18 these candles are affordable in comparison to competitors and the burn time is stated as 45 hours.

The scent collection stands out with interesting aromas, to name a few Smoked Tobacco & Salted Bourbon, Amber & Mineral and Lavender & Bay Leaf. I was certainly curious about Green Tea & Almond as a scent and whilst it wasn't as I imagine it is still beautiful but don't ask me to describe it as I wouldn't know where to start!

If you love candles and embrace recycling and repurposing then check out Wax + Wick. I've also noticed that they have added vases to the website, these are also made using wine and spirit bottles.

Sarah x

6 March 2017

Mothers Day Gift Ideas Natural Organic Vegan

Mother's Day in the UK falls on Sunday 26 March 2017. I appreciate that it can be a difficult time for some but I am lucky to enough be able to shop for my Mum. I've put together a selection of ideas which I think anyone would like regardless of the occasion.

Pure Thoughts - I've chosen from this site the Lavender & Sweet Orange Mineral Bath Soak as it sounds like the perfect way to unwind. Not only is this bath soak suitable for Vegans, it does not contain SLS and artificial colours and fragrances.

Sugar Loaf Soap Company - have a lovely collection of gifts. I particularly like the draw string jute bag containing rose geranium heart shape soaps. Hop across to Sugar Loaf's facebook page and you'll discover a code for 15% off gifts during March.

Skin & Tonic - everyone loves a lip balm so that is why I picked out this set from Skin & Tonic containing all four of their certified organic balms.

Kiss the Moon - I discovered Kiss the Moon at last years Free From Skincare Awards and they focus on night time well-being. I picked out the Dream After Dark Balm which is pulse point balm with a blend of lavender, chamomile, bergamot and cedarwood. I recommend checking out the entire range of products.

Evolve Organic - you all know I have some favourite Evolve products so no surprise I'm recommending their gift sets. The one picture above contains luxury trial sizes of Superfood Shine Shampoo, Superfood Shine Conditioner, Nourishing Hair Elixir.

Nectar & Bumble - this site is full of beautiful gift options but may I suggest the Beefayre Mummy Bee Votive Candle, a natural wax candle with lavender & geranium essential oils.

Vegan Chocolate - most of us enjoy a sweet treat so can I suggest to you the delicious Ethico, Consider It and Booja Booja

Sarah x

14 February 2017

Pure Thoughts Eucalyptus & Rosehip Natural Soap
I've known Pure Thoughts for a very long time, in fact I think it goes back to pre-blogging days. I've featured a number of products from them over the years (many of these products have long been retired) but I was always a fan of their face masks and shea butters.

Leanna, the founder of Pure Thoughts, has entered a new chapter that has evolved once again with new branding and range. Pure Thoughts has now become 100% Vegan, they have reformulated the soaps bars making them Palm Oil free and added an aromatherapy skincare collection and soy wax meditation candles.
Pure Thoughts Gratitude Meditation Candle
The new range looks stunning and whilst I am yet to place an order, I've my eye on a number of products particularly the pulse point oils. I know a number of Green Bloggers who love using charcoal soaps so you will be pleased to hear there is one in the range. I also think the new candles and bath salts would make beautiful gifts. 

Pure Thoughts is a natural brand that you can trust so I highly recommend you bookmark their website for when you want to treat yourself or a love one. You may also enjoy reading their blog also found on the site.

Sarah x

Disclaimer - this is NOT sponsored

Archives

24 January 2017

Valentine's Day Gift Ideas Natural, Organic and Vegan
I know not everyone likes Valentine's Day and I understand it's very commercial but I'm a sucker for an excuse to receive gifts. There is nothing stopping you gifting to yourself. This little list of ideas has purely been generated from scouring the internet and looking for items I might like to receive.

6 December 2016

Series Swap YouTuber Favourites for Green Beauty Alternatives
(contains affiliate links marked *)

In case you are new to this series then let me explain. I’m looking at “mainstream” product recommendations on YouTube and suggesting “Green” alternatives. I believe it is possible to buy Green products which are similar to popular high street options but better for you and the environment.

Yankee Candles - you know Christmas is coming when every Blogger has a Candle suggestion in their gift guides. I'm of the opinion that paraffin wax and artificial scents are just bad for your health, for me they trigger breathing problems. There are dozens of eco-friendly soy wax alternatives, you could try Heartwood Candle Co, Nathalie Bond, Wildheart Organics and Petits Rituels.

LUSH Christingle Body Conditioner - it's no secret I am not a fan of Lush as their products contain ingredients I don't like. The body conditioner is designed to wash off in the shower and that's something unique to Lush. If you want a peppermint hit then I suggest you try Dr. Bronner's Peppermint Organic Hand & Body Lotion.

Kiehls Skin-Calming Centella Facial Cleanser – as the name suggests this is a cleanser aimed at sensitive skin. I've googled the ingredients and the only natural actives appear to be aloe vera and chamomile. My recommended alternatives are Estelle & Thild BioCleanse Fragrance Free Cleansing Milk, *Green People Neutral Scent Free Cleanser, *Odylique Creamy Coconut Cleanser, Pai Camellia & Rose Gentle Hydrating Cleanser, Trilogy Sensitive Very Gentle Cleansing Cream.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Cleansing Gel – this product is aimed at those with oily sensitive skin but the ingredients would have me think otherwise. My suggested swaps would be Trilogy Balancing Gel Cleanser, Antipodes Juliet Skin Brightening Gel Cleanser, Estelle & Thild BioCleanse Multi Action Cleansing Gel, Lavera Refreshing Cleansing Gel, S5 Clarity Cleanser, Avalon Organics Vitamin C Refreshing Cleansing Gel.

Palmers Coconut Oil Formula Body Cream – coconut is a trendy ingredient and easily found in natural skincare, however, I guess the appeal of Palmers is the affordable price. Keeping this in mind budget green brands are my suggestions for this swap, try Jason Smoothing Coconut Hand & Body Lotion or Lavera Exotic Body Lotion. 

Eucerin AtoControl Bath & Shower Oil – natural bath/shower oils are easily found in Green Beauty but I’ll admit finding a fragrance free version has not been a success. Eucerin is a brand marketed towards those of us with eczema and extreme dry skin. If you are struggling to maintain moisture when showering then I have a few tips which helped me – don’t bathe in very hot water, use shower gels without sulphates and artificial fragrances/colours, pat dry your skin with a towel don’t rub and use a natural body oil after washing but apply when your skin is slightly damp. If you can tolerate essential oils then you might like to try Balm Balm Bath & Shower oils.

If you would live to read my last swap article then click here - No 4 - Green Beauty Alternatives featuring Odylique, Evolve Beauty and Ermana

Sarah x

10 May 2016

Review Petits Rituels Provence Candle Natural Wax Essential Oil
(GIFTED PR)

If you read my review of Petits Rituels Minty Bonbon you will already know that I think these luxurious candles are a superb investment and awesome gift. Petits Rituels natural aromatherapy candles and melts are handcrafted in England with 100% natural waxes and Certified Organic essential oils.

25 April 2016

Natural & Organic Products Europe 2016 Soley Organics Raw Gaia Brave Botanicals Fair Squared
Jen and I recently visited the Natural & Organic Products Europe trade event which is held in Excel London. The show is large and can be overwhelming with crowds but I do enjoy learning of new brands, launches and re-discovering familiar ones. Let me jump straight in and tell you about brands and/or products that caught my attention.

Sóley Organics - an organic luxury skincare brand using wild Icelandic Herbs. I'll admit it was their packaging which made us stop at the stand but the back story to the company is an interesting one which you can read over on their website. The use of herbs is probably what stood out the most to me, something a little bit different to other brands.

Fair Squared - as far as I was aware they only made lip balms but I was mistaken as Fair Squared have products for top to toe. Packaging is simplistic but the brand has an excellent ethos and carries several certifications - Fairtrade, PeTa, Vegan, Natrue and Halal.

Raw Gaia - a brand I have known for some time but have never ventured into their extensive range. At the show they were launching their MSM collection consisting of cleansing oil, tonic, cream and scrub. I was treated to a demo of the products on my hand and was very impressed, I also noted they are free from linalool. Raw Gaia is also a Vegan brand.

Faith in Nature - many of you will be familiar with this brand, they have been around for 40 years and offer affordable products for all the family. They have added a Watermelon fragrance to their line. On the other hand Brave Botanicals is a collection of shampoos and conditioners.

Natural & Organic Products Europe 2016 Wildheart Organics Living Naturally Rebel Kitchen Nuto
Wildheart Organics - an elegant range of aromatherapy candles and reed diffusers. 

Living Naturally - you may know this brand for laundry products using soapnuts but they also offer skincare and haircare. The Coconut Milk and Chai bathtub tea was a stand out for me as it smelt fantastic. With popularity for natural deodorants growing you may be interested to know Living Naturally have a scented and unscented cream deodorant.  

Rebel Kitchen - I'm a big fan of Rebel Mylks and now they have added coconut yoghurts to the product range. 

Nuto - probably one of the most interesting foods I found at the show. Light and airy as popcorn but made from lotus seeds. They are suitable for vegetarians and vegans but avoid if you have seed allergies.

Probios GoVegan - vegan wheat croissants in 3 flavours - whole natural, chocolate cream and cherry. I preferred the cherry filling over the natural ones.

Der kleine Strolch Come on Bert - the most amazing discovery of the show a Vegan "Camembert". It's a very long time since I ate the real thing but the memories came flooding back. It had the same rind and texture as I remember. At this stage I don't know if there are any UK stockists.

Tsuno - period pads made with bamboo and corn fibre, free from chlorine and dioxin bleach with biodegradable packaging. The company donates 50% of profits are donated to charities empowering women.

Sarah x

2 February 2016

Valentine's Day 2016 Natural and Organic Gift Ideas
I am always a little bit rubbish when it comes to Valentine's Day. I dislike the tacky gifts in shops and we really should be telling our loved ones every day how special they are to us. That being said I won't say no to an excuse to receive luxury organic bubble bath or vegan chocolates! This year I'm feeling in the loving mood. Let me share with you some gorgeous natural and organic gift ideas should you choose to celebrate Valentine’s Day or just treat yourself.

If you really want to treat a loved one to a very indulgent gift then look no further than Bodhi & Birch Love Bath & Candle Aromatherapy Duo*. The set contains Ylang-Ylang Incensa Bath & Shower Therapy and the Bergamot & Geranium Candle from Heartwood Candle Company all beautifully gift boxed. 

A gorgeous gift set from Botanicals is healthier than chocolates and longer lasting than flowers. The Botanicals ‘Nourish My Skin’ Facial Collection or Botanicals Rose & Camellia ‘Daily Essentials Trio’ are sure to be a treat for your loved one.

Spend £20 on any Fresh Therapies product and get the glass nail file for only £5. That's a saving of £7. Use code SugarFeb. Offer from 1st February and Expires Monday 15th Feb 2016 at midnight.UK residents only

Little Ondine
I'm a big fan of Little Ondine nail polish and you can receive 15% off across the site from the 1st to the 14th of February using the code VALONDINE

Any candle from Petit Rituels if the perfect gift but Sensual Healing could be the winner for Valentine’s Day. The scent of ylang ylang, jasmine, Turkish rose and lavender is soothing and seductive, ideal for reliving tensions and I’m told works as an aphrodisiac! 25% off the entire collection from 1-14 February code is D3FFOLVS4WK5

Whether you have a hot date, brunch with the girls or just want to treat yourself Red Apple Lipsticks have a beautiful range of pink lipsticks. They are also spreading the love with their Galentine’s Day message and encouraging women to love and respect one another.

Lots of gift ideas but new for Valentine's Day is a draw string jute pouch containing miniature heart soaps Each bag contains approximately 4 hearts weighing at least 80g and the bag is decorated with ribbon and a chunky heart wooden gift tag. Use my discount code Sugarpuff15 to received 15% off across everything on website until the end of 2016.

A cute idea from Sweet Cecily’s offering a Valentine’s day card with a lip balm attached to the front. You can personalise the picture on the balm, the message on the inside of the card, and they can even send it straight to your recipient if you wish to remain completely anonymous.

For the skincare lovers, Terre Verdi will appeal and you can receive 15% off from 5th of Feb to 14th of Feb with the code VALENTINE

The Rose Tree
A selection of beautiful gift ideas but the Mini Pamper Set has a Valentine's feel to it with a limited edition heart shaped bottle of bath oil and award winning lip balm.

Sarah x

Disclaimer - *indicates PR sample 

31 December 2015

Sugarpuffish Blog Review for 2015 a look back a my favourite products and events
2015 is officially coming to an end and I'm keeping up with my tradition to look back at personal highlights from another year of blogging.


12 November 2015

Natural and Organic Gifts for Christmas
The list of Christmas Gifts grew so much that I decided to put together another article. You can catch up with my other articles here - Have yourself a Green Christmas: A Natural and Organic Gift Guide 2015 and A Free From Christmas at Holland & Barrett. I write these lists to prove to that you don't need to buy off the High Street there are some real hidden gems out there and better still delivered to your doorstep, no need to fight for parking!

Perfect for Delicate Skins
I am a long time fan of Lyonsleaf and they have several gift set options. How about the Hot Cloth Cleansing Balm Gift Set which contains a Lyonsleaf Beauty Balm, Egyptian Cotton Flannel and a 2 ply muslin face cloth, in a re-usable jute box and the Soothing Calendula gift set contains a 30ml pot along with a soap. 

Luxurious Collaborations
Any product from Bodhi & Birch makes an amazing gift but this year they have collaborated Heartwood Candle Company. You can choose between fragrance sets titled Joy, Peace, Love and Wish. If anyone wishes to buy for me Peace would be my perfect combination Camomile Sky Bath & Shower Therapy and the Chamomile, Lavender & Rose Candle

Hidden Treats
I discovered Scentered Therapy Balms back in April and I have found them to be a wonderful product. The Festive Bauble packaging is a really nice touch for Christmas.

Christmas Crackers
The Rose Tree is a wonderful brand with a nice selection of gift ideas. I particularly like the Christmas crackers chose from eye serum, facial essence or body oils.

Beauty Blogger Top Picks
It’s no secret that I am a huge fan of Odylique. They have some lovely sets but my pick would be the new The Odylique Selection Box which contains seven of their most popular and award-winning natural skin, body and hair care products - Creamy Coconut Cleanser, Calming Rose Super Tonic, Timeless Rose Moisturiser, Superfruit Concentrate, Coconut Candy Scrub, Gentle Herb Shampoo, Ultra Rich Balm

Create your own gift
Another brand offering a selection of gift set for face and body is B Skincare. I particularly like the Festive Pack because you can choose your own combinations of creams to make a gift box.

New Discovery
I have recently had my eye on Ermana and noted that they have some lovely gift set options for men and women.

Shout outs
Other great places to shop are: Bathing BeautyBotanicalsNathalie BondNaturisimoBalmology

I have already started my Christmas shopping and have bought from my lists, I hope you have also found them useful.

Sarah x

5 November 2015

Natural Organic Christmas Gift Guide 2015
I love writing up Christmas Gift Guides because I like to sway friends and family to file the Boots catalogue in the bin and go Green. Swap out those horrible mainstream brands for some beautiful artisan products which show you not only care for your love ones but also for the world around us.

Aromatherapy Inspiration
You all know I'm a huge fan of Bloom Remedies. I cannot be parted with my Serenity Slumber Pillow Mist so imagine my delight when I learnt new for Christmas is the Serenity Slumber Luxury Candle. Marie is also launching The Peaceful Mind Range, perfect for those with over active minds, who struggle to relax and unwind. Look out for the Peaceful Mind set which contains a pulse point roll on and bath oil. In addition there also a Luxury Candle in this scent. Last year I did the majority of my Christmas shopping from Bloom Remedies, they have the best gifts sets so go check them out.

Fragrant Stocking Fillers
If you are looking for unique stocking fillers then turn your attention to Natural Wisdom. They have launched a range of natural, alcohol-free solid perfumes (£12.50 each), which can be worn to scent your skin or hair and also used as a room fragrance with the lid off. Alternatively, take a look at the new Plump & Nourish lip balm (£10 each), which comes in a beautifully tactile reusable cedar wood pot. Ingredients include peppermint, chilli pepper and cinnamon oils, which help naturally plump the lips.

Learn a new skill
Ruth Romano runs regular soap making courses in Cheshire alongside selling her award-winning range of soap and natural skincare products. If you know someone who enjoys getting creative and learning new skills then you could buy a Gift Voucher to spend a day getting creative and take a lovely selection box of soap home with them.

Bath time Soapy Delights

Based in a little barn at the foot of the Sugar Loaf mountain in Wales, The Sugar Loaf Soap Company has a very simple mission, to provide natural, handmade soaps produced from high quality, ethically sourced raw materials. They offer a delightful range of products and gift sets.

Luxury Candles

I adore Petits Rituels’ candles they would make a beautiful gift but if you’re looking for something on a smaller scale the hand-poured wax melts are highly fragranced with an intricate floral design. Simply place in a warmer and light an unscented tea light, as the wax melts the fragrance is released. Also ideal for lining your clothes and linen draws.

Not only does MBotanicals* have a range face and body care they also have some lovely candles. You can choose from Vanilla Bean, Citrus Basil, Gardenia, Rose Oudh, Sandalwood and Tobacco.

Festive Nails

Little Ondine’s Limited Edition Winter Wonderland Collection is the perfect way to get you in the holiday mood. There’s no better time of year for sparkles and with this no-fuss glitter polish you can change your look with ease while you’re on the go from office to family gatherings to all your festive celebrations. The beautifully packaged collection makes a stylish stocking stuffer, secret santa or last-minute gift or even a self-indulgent treat.

Beauty Gift Bags
LJ’s Natural has gift sets which cover all budgets. The Ultimate Luxury Gift Bag contains OMG Serum, Luxury Organic Bath Melts, White Chocolate & Tangerine Organic Lip Balm and Soothing Hand & Foot Formula. Alternatively, I love the festive name “Three Wise Bottles” a set that contains 30ml bottles of Calming Organic Body Lotion, Muscle Relax Organic Body Oil & Balancing Organic Toner. Also check out Stocking Filler Bag, Indulge My Face Gift Bag, Relax Gift Bag and Really Radiant Face Gift Bag.

Eco-Friendly Beauty Treats
You all know I'm a fan of Konjac Sponges and I am excited to see they have added to their product line. The Angel Cloth is an alternative to a muslin cloth, an intriguing product which would make a unique gift. If you like the facial puff sponges there are two new additions Chamomile and Green Tea. For those who use cotton pads how about a more eco-friendly alternative, the Konjac eye pads. The kit contains 8 cleansing pads, a mesh drying bag and a soft clear pouch. This pack can last up to one year.

Vegan Friendly
Blue Labelle are one of my favourite Vegan brands. This year they are offering gift cards which is handy if you are unsure what products to buy. Also there is free gift wrapping and gift bag on all website orders over £10 from Nov 15th, just mention in the comments box if you would like it. Blue Labelle will also be launching 100% organic vegan balm sticks and although primarily to be used as lip balms they can also be used to nourish very dry skin, for example on elbows.

Sarah x

P.S Part 2 to follow.........

Disclaimer - *PR sample

7 May 2015

Petits Rituels Luxury Organic Aromatherapy Candles
It's funny how things work in the blogging world. There are weeks when you start sending yourself emails to check your account still works and other times when your inbox becomes overwhelming. This is not a complaint but I hope it explains why I have blogged two candle reviews in quick succession. We all know that joke about buses, well it my case its candles.

24 February 2015

Pacifica Indian Coconut Nectar Reed Diffuser
I wanted to write about a new reed diffuser I bought a few weeks ago. You may have seen me mention it in my haul video but it’s from Pacifica in the scent Indian Coconut Nectar. Pacifica is a U.S brand and their products are Vegan and promise (on their website) that they never test on animals or use animal derived ingredients.

Reed diffusers are my preferred method of bringing fragrance into my home. I find mainstream room sprays give me a tight chest but no surprises there considering the type of ingredients in them. I definitely do not have the same problems when I use essential oil based scents. I am unable to give you an ingredients list for the Pacifica diffuser because they do not disclose this information. They are within their rights to do this because perfume is protected under trade secret laws. All I can tell you is the packaging states the fragrance is a blend of natural and essential oils and free of phthalates. Indian Coconut Nectar is described as “warm, sultry blend of coconut and delicate creamy vanilla” and I would agree with this. It’s sweet and sugary which matches my personal taste.

The packaging can be recycled and I like the cute decoration on the glass bottle. I am happy with the level of scent the diffuser releases, it is not overpowering and if I ever feel like it’s disappeared I simply rotate the reeds. Pacifica claims the diffuser will last six months and if that happens I will be very impressed. So far so good as the bottle still looks full and I mention this because my last diffuser seemed to evaporate in a few weeks.

I would encourage you to take a look at Pacifica’s product range as they also create spray, solid and roll on perfumes along with candles, skincare and makeup. There are many scents to choose from so I do not think you would struggle to find one that matches your personal preference. 

Have you tried any products from Pacifica? If you use their perfumes do you have a favourite scent?

Sarah x

3 December 2013

Home Fragrance with Natural Soy Wax Candles
Bloggers love candles but every time I see someone mention Yankee Candles my heart sinks. I believe that mainstream candles are full of undesirable ingredients. There are claims that soot from paraffin wax releases carcinogenic fumes. If you suffer from respiratory problems like asthma you may be better off steering clear of these types of candles. Synthetic fragrances are known irritants and may trigger allergies.

A better choice for home fragrance are candles made with a soy base and fragrance with essential oils. It is easier than you think to find eco-friendly alternatives and I have compiled a list of personal favourites, recommendations and a couple that popped up in a Google search.

Hobo + Co - Simple and classic in design to complement your home, making any room feel cosy & relaxed.

Soap Daze - different fragrance options available, Barefoot is a fresh scent that is balanced beautifully with the soft and warm fragrance of sandalwood.

Pure Thoughts - Hand-poured in apothecary style amber glass that creates a rich and inviting glow. The Soy Wax Meditation Candles have been created to enhance your practice without overwhelming your senses.

The Botanical Candle Co - different options available, Late Summer captures the scent of those last weeks of heat and sunshine before the autumn closes in.

Love to B - natural aromatherapy candle using a cotton wick, soy wax and essential oils which are poured into a recycled tin

Made by Coopers - Made from a special blend of Coconut and Rapeseed wax, they are now more sustainable than other waxes on the market and produces a cleaner burn.

Sarah x

22 July 2013

UPDATE 2020: this scrub has been discontinued but Pure Thoughts are still trading, the new product range includes soap, bath & body and candles 

I like products from Pure Thoughts and I have dip in and out of their range over the years. It had been a while since my last purchase so I decided to place an order. If you have been following my YouTube channel you will have heard me mention the Raspberry & Almond Face Scrub.

“Wake up with the sweet scent of real raspberries, ground almonds and a dash of honey. Together they create a healthy exfoliating treatment to help prepare sleepy skin for the day ahead.” 

This scrub is a powder which you mix with water. It can be a bit messy but I do not mind. The beauty of a product in powder form is an extended shelf life and free from preservatives. I do not exfoliate regularly so usually a scrub will expire before I reach the end of the tube. Most of the time a muslin cloth is enough exfoliation for me but every once in a while I like to have a deeper polish. It is a gritty scrub so may not be suitable for everyone but I do find by varying the amount of water I can adjust the consistency to suit me. I will advise that you need to be careful with scrubs as too much, too often can be damaging to the skin. The bright pink/red colour from raspberries just makes me smile. Your face does look like a horror movie when applied as it momentarily stains in colour. 



Overall, I think this is a nice product which does the job it was intended for and it makes my skin feel softer and brighter. I think value for money is great, a 30g jar costs £7 which Pure Thoughts says should be enough for 10 treatments. I also stocked up on some face masks when I placed my order as I like the Banana & Yellow Clay.

Sarah x

28 March 2013

Boujies London Candles
I enjoyed using natural candles and reed diffusers to scent my home. It is important that they do not contain toxic ingredients because of my allergies. An overly fragrance product can make me feel like I have a cold, giving me a block nose and sneezing. A couple of years ago I discovered Boujies candles and when I came across them again at the Spirit of Christmas show, I stocked up. I ended up giving away a couple as Christmas presents but I held onto one.

Boujies candles are hand poured in England, using soy wax and scented with essential oils. I adore the packaging for these candles, it is unique and stylish. There are a couple of candle collections with a large range of fragrances. My Cranberry & Nutmeg candle is from the Maison Vive Collection and costs £12.

I'm not good at describing fragrance but I am sure you can imagine the fruity spicy scent this candle gives. "Succulent red fruits with the sharp hint of tart cranberry blended with seasonal spices of cinnamon, clove and nutmeg, drowned in sweet orange and with a hint of creamy vanilla." I think this gives off a nice strong fragrance that is not over powering but a very noticeable scent in the room.

Definitely check out the website www.boujies.com and have a browse of the other fragrances. Candles from the Maison Noir Collection cost £36 and I would describe the aromas as sophisticated whereas the Maison Vive Collection is fun and fruity.

Have you tried Boujies candles? What fragrances do you enjoy?

Sarah x

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