Tag: review

review

Five Multi Purpose Products For Hair, Skin & Body

July 20, 2017

I am trying to simplify my life and make sure I am only using items I need and love. I try to invest in products that will save me time and help me as I work, train and frankly just live. I hate having a bunch of products in my gym bag as it takes up to much space and I often don’t use them all. If you are like me and are trying to simplify your life or just find some new products that are the best bang for your buck, I am listing five product that are great multi purpose products you gotta have. I picked five hair, beauty and/or body products that tackle two (or more) things at once thus saving you time, money and frankly space in your gym bag or carry on if you are traveling. Check out the video below and or hit the links to get ya shop on! Multi Purpose Products For Hair, Skin & Body Items Mentioned Dr. Bronner Hand Soap Brita Sports Bottle Q-Redew Steamer Olay Facial Wipes Rivers et Roses Candle

Prime Day Picks for Fitness, Beauty and Health

July 10, 2017

If you follow me on Instagram, you know I am a faithful Amazon Prime user. From groceries to health products, it’s become my assistant in the palm of my hand. Amazon Prime Day is July 11 and is full of nothing short of an epic Day of Deals. From TVs to kitchen products, Prime Day has become like Cyber Monday. Additionally, this is the time to join Amazon Prime or grab any Amazon product items you have been wanting on sale for little to nothing. If you have never shopped on Prime Day then here are a few tips about shopping on Prime Day courtesy of Forbes.com. New deals will be posted every five minutes for 30 hours until 3 a.m. ET on July 12. Downloading the free Amazon App is probably the best tool to guarantee that you don’t miss the deal that you want. And make sure to turn on the alerts! Use your desktop or laptop computer for purchases. While Amazon’s app is great for browsing and finding upcoming deals, it’s best to make the actual purchases on a computer, especially if you’re heavy on the multi-tab usage. If you aren’t a Prime member, it’s a good time to take advantage of a 30-day trial. Make sure your Prime account is in good standing and all personal information is correct and updated — deal urgency is obviously a factor here so any lost time could get be a deciding factor in getting that sweet discount. Now that you got the 411 on Amazon day, here are some of my must-have products on Amazon. Check out the links below to grab some deals! FitHair Foundations: I can’t start my recommendations of things to get on Amazon without giving myself a shout out. Yes, the FitHair Foundation book will be on sale for Prime Day! Here are three ways you can enjoy the sale! For my bookworms, buy the printed edition and get a digital copy for free. For those who are on the budget or just want the digital copy? Grab it for $2.99. Don’t have any money and want to read it? Grab it for FREE with Kindle Unlimited. GET IT NOW! Health & Fitness Nathan’s Sports Bottle Santevia Alkaline Water Filter Matcha Tea Kit Mission Cooking Towels Breville Juicer Omega Juicers My Favorite Sports Bra Blendtec Blender My Favorite Running Shoes Non – GMO & Vegan Protein A range of Supplements & Vitamins Meal Prep Containers Numi Tea Rhythm-Superfoods Clean Water on the Go – Brita Nut Milk Bag Hair & Beauty Camille Rose Natural The Mane Choice Alikay Naturals Slapcap Now Essential & Pure Oils Tarte Cosmetics Burt’s Bees Beauty Dr. Bronner’s Products Hair Steamer Olay Wipes Scunci Accessories Nubian Heritage Bobbi Boss Hair CRYSTAL Essence Mineral Deodorants

How To Make Homemade Raw Walnut Milk

June 22, 2017

Walnuts are one of the best nuts to consume. They are an excellent source of anti-inflammatory omega-3 essential fatty acids, rich in antioxidants. Additionally, they are a great source of manganese and copper and biotin. They are one of the best nuts to consume for healthy hair from the inside out. So if you have hard time-consuming walnuts, why not try drinking it in the form of milk. See how I make my own homemade walnut milk. Items Needed to Make Homemade Walnut Milk 1 cup Walnuts 2- 32oz of Alkaline or spring water 1/4 tsp. Sea Salt Elle’s Best Nut Milk Bag (see below on how to save on this) High-Speed Blender Bonus: You can add a sweetener of your choice if you want your milk sweeter or add a little flair with some cinnamon or vanilla. How to Make Homemade Raw Walnut Milk It is so easy to make your own nut milk and taste so much better than most store-bought and premade milks. Check out this video where I show you how I make the homemade raw walnut milk. Instructions on Making Walnut Milk Soak walnuts for about 4-6 hours or overnight Drain and rinse walnuts in strainer Place all ingredients into blender and blend for about 60 seconds Strain milk through nut milk bag into mason jar Store for up to 3-5 days The Key to Homemade Milk: The Nut Bag Elle’s Best Nut Milk Bag is a large 12″ X 12″ commercial grade nut milk bag made of fine mesh nylon cheesecloth. It is reusable and functions perfectly as an all-purpose strainer and cold brew coffee filter. You can us the bag for many different things such as milk, juice tea, and cold brew coffee. I absolutely love this nut milk bag. I have had a few other ones as I indicated in my pumpkin milk video and they have not lasted as long as this one. Having a quality nutmilk bags actually, saves you in the longer term by providing more product and a much creamier milk. Discount on Ellie’s Best Nut Milk Bag The folks at Elle’s Best offering you a discount on your purchase plus some freebies. You will get a free e-book Ellie’s Best free e-book filled with recipes and how-to videos. Use Product Code: Alexandria to save and with your order. (Note: This discount and special is only for their website and not Amazon or any other sites you may find the bag on.) Now that you got the big secret to it all I know you are wondering… What To Do With The Left Over Pulp? Now that the milk is removed you can store the remaining bag contents in the refrigerator and use in a variety of dishes such as cookies, pancakes, muffins and much more. I add it to my oatmeal to make it creamy and add extra protein. Likewise, you can just discard it. No shame in that!

Mizuno Wave Rider 20 Review

November 10, 2016

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Mizuno If you are following me on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter, you probably noticed I was at DICK’S Sporting Goods Store in Allen, Texas to attend a special intimate event with Mizuno and learn about the Wave Rider 20. Since I am training for my next half and full marathon and RRCA Running Coach, I understand how vital picking the right shoe. Investing in quality and proper shoes helps prevent injuries and damage on your body. Mizuno Wave Rider 20 Review I was able to bring my fellow runner and sneakerhead Monisha of Runner’s Revelation with me as my guest. Since we both run and speak to or assist with runners, we got a chance to learn directly from Mizuno District Manager on their longest-standing shoe – the Wave Rider 20. The Wave Rider 20 reflects 20 iterations of refinement to deliver the right blend of soft cushioning and a smooth heel-to-toe transition. Mizuno franchise was the first to incorporate Wave Technology®. The Wave Rider 20 features new cloudwave® technology – designed using convex (u-shaped) geometry. This gives you a well-cushioned, flexible shoe with the support you need directly on your heel. The curve in thecloudwave® is longer and gentler to convert more of the runner’s heel impact into forward motion. You can identify the wave by looking at the white area on the bottom of the shoe. You will see the wave in pink… Waving* So what’s different? New cloudwave technology is the primary difference between the Wave Rider 20 and previous models.In addition, the midsole has been redesigned with comfort and durability. This improvement allows your feet comfort from running to explosive jump jacks during boot camp. Also, the shoe box is beyond AMAZING! After chatting with the expert and testing it out, I recommend this shoe for Runners who seek a Neutral Cushioned. These shoes are intended for runners who have a higher arch that does not pronate or collapse in very slightly. If your running show is the stability category like myself, then I suggest these shoes for Cross Training or Training Shoes. Training shoes are shoes that are used for the gym or boot camp, which is what I use them. They have enough arch support to allow you to run during workouts but plenty of breathing room and flexible for various gym circuits. After learning about the Mizuno Wave Rider 20, we had a mini photoshoot, scavenger hunt and grabbed a little bit from the uber healthy snack bar. The scavenger hunt was tiring as we had an adventure looking around DICK’S Sporting store for items. I didn’t realize they had soooo much stuff there. They have a little bit for every type of sport. You can check out my Facebook Live Video Anywho. If this interest you then you can check out the Wave Rider 20 nationally at your local DICK’s Sporting Goods, run specialty stores and online retailers with a retail price of $119.99. You can also learn more about the history of the Wave Rider and purchase a new pair at http://bit.ly/2eeZygl This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Mizuno. All opinions are my own.

3 Things I Learned | The Boss Network Recap

September 15, 2016

Just a few weeks ago, I attended the Boss Network . I took a lot away from the event as I am continually seeking to evolve as a person and business owner. For those of you who couldn’t’ make it out, I did a recap of the three things I learned at the event. 3 Things I Learned | The Boss Network Recap A Woman In Her Purpose is a BOSS One of the biggest notes I learned before the panelist shared their insights for the night, focused on how the women pinpointed success to being in their purpose. Each woman had a different story and different walk in life. Not all entrepreneurs who hated their jobs and “the man.” Each woman held various positions and are BOSSES at what they were doing. No matter if you’re working in corporate, consulting full-time or owning your own business if you’re living in your purpose then 9-times-out-of-10 you will be successful. As we evolve, it’s okay to take new chances and try new things but remember your purpose. Purpose is everything. “ If it’s not in my purpose then I don’t do it. @RealMichelleW “ Evolving is Critical Evolving is part of your purpose. The honest sit-down chat with Michelle Williams really highlighted how important evolving is. Michelle was open and honest about how she too is evolving, learning and changing on a very personal level. While we know her as part of ⅓ of Destiny’s Child, evolved in the singing channels, did some acting and another shift into being in the home/bedding industry. Years ago, Michelle knew she wanted to design and offer items for the home. Instead of launching tons of items for the home at one time, she started with one department – bedding. No one told her how to do this, but she figured it out. She hired the right people she needed, learned and did it. “Sometimes there isn’t a how-to. Sometimes u do a how-to when u do it.” Evolution is critical to obtaining and walking in your purpose. It’s okay to let go of the past items you did and try new things. Don’t be afraid to show u don’t know. U probably were put in that place b/c u didn’t. @TheBOSSNetwork #leadin2016 EARN IT The last piece of advice I learned at the BOSS Network was the acronym EARN It. E(Education) A(Ask) R(Risks), N(Network) . Whatever you do make sure you earn it. Here is the breakdown. E: EDUCATION Education is vital to whatever you are doing. It is essential in today’s fast-paced world. No matter if it’s a degree, on-line program or an additional certification, always make sure you’re learning in some form. Never stop learning and never stop growing. A: ASK FOR WHAT YOU WANT The a is self-explanatory. We often want things but don’t ask for it. No one is gonna just hand stuff to you – well unless you’re a kid. R: TAKE INTELLIGENT RISKS Risks are a part of life. That is part of evolving; however, be smart about it. Don’t just make decisions just because. Be smart. N:BUILD YOUR NETWORK Networks are critical. It’s not about going to the right networking events or having a million followers. Being authentic and having a great support system and folks within your network that you give and also receiving.

Benefits of Pineapples for FitHair & Body

August 5, 2016

Pineapples are one of my favorite fruits to have after a workout and as a great snack when I am feeling sluggish. Pineapples contain a variety vitamins and minerals, which make them a great fruit source for your hair and body. The top two nutrients in pineapples are Vitamin C and B6 and even Folate. Benefits of Pineapples for FitHair & Body Vitamin C: Vitamin C is critical to keeping the immune system strong. If you have a cold, eating some pineapple each day may help to shorten the duration and alleviate your symptoms.Vitamin C content in this fruit helps to fight against hair loss. Simply eat some pineapple each day to strengthen your hair follicles from the inside out. B6: B6 is one of the most essential vitamins hair and skin. It helps the body produce antibodies, break down proteins in order to supplement them to your body systems. Folic acid: B9 known as Folic acid is also another essential B vitamin. It’s a key focus essentially for women who are pregnant as it’s been said to help protect the fetus from certain defects Pineapples Helping Joints & Inflammation Pineapples have been used medically for decades in assisting the body with inflammation. Enzymes are fascinating and essential biological catalysts that are involved in almost every single process in our bodies. Systemic enzymes work holistically—meaning they work throughout the entire body—supporting overall joint health. Bromelain is the pineapple enzyme in Wobenzym N and one of the main ingredients in the product. This product is used by athletes in order to help recovery and maintain healthy joints, mobility and flexibility. Giovanni Cosmetics 2chic® Ultra-Sleek Leave-In Conditioning & Styling Elixir Detangles hair for easy manageability Tames frizz & flyaways Provides protection against heat damage Conditions & hydrates each strand for an enviable shine Nourishes each tress with vitamins Pineapple Green Juice 1 Cup of Pineapples Scoop of FitHair Green Supplement Ice and water Blend together and enjoy! Pineapple Watermelon Salad

DIY CROCHET FREETRESS SENEGALESE TWIST

May 3, 2016

I love crochet braids. Now that I have learned how to cornrow my own hair, using pre-twisted hair helps me achieve the look of twists in a few hours. It’s a great protective style while working out or just to switch up your hair style for a few weeks. I love this style even more because it’s much easier and healthier on the hair than individual boxed braids or twist. Here are a few tips and products that will help you install and maintain your crochet twists. DIY CROCHET FREETRESS SENEGALESE TWIST MY TWIST: FREETRESS SYNTHETIC HAIR SENEGALESE TWIST SMALL (1B & 1B/27) RESULTS USING SMALL FREETRESS SENEGALESE TWISTS Results of crochet in Freetress Sengalese Twist on my hair. I talk about the amount of packs I used, as well as the way I added my signature blonde in. RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS FOR SENEGALESE TWISTS Products Mentioned Evolve “Perfect Edge” Bamboo Brush The Mane Choice Biotin Infused Styling Gel OBIA Natural Hair Care Curl Hydration Spray Nourish Organic Replenishing Argan Oil with Pomegranate & Rosehip NOW Avocado Oil Stay Connected Instagram | Twitter | Facebook @Alexandriawill Instagram | Twitter | Facebook @TheFitHair Just Alex Facebook Twitter Instagram Tumblr Pinterst: The FitHair Way Facebook Instagram Twitter: This video is not sponsored. Disclaimer

Clinique Play with Pop Review

March 1, 2016

Lately, I have been attending a few beauty events thanks to Bella Kinks. This past weekend she invited us to attended Clinique’s Play with Pop event in Dallas to learn more about the brand and obviously checkout some makeup. The company launched there pop lipsticks, which include a range of colors that compliment a variety of skin tones. Clinique Play with Pop Review The event took place around a food truck. The truck went to a variety of popular malls within the Dallas metroplex. At each stop, the event had product giveaways, popcorn, music and the latest lipsticks from Clinique. I brought along my fried Alexandria Gillard, who is a stylist within the DFW area for some beauty and girl time. With great weather, I let my hair be free in the wind thanks to using a few products to Nunaat’s StraightFromBrazil #patauaoil line. A lot of the colors compliment a variety of skin tones including darker ones. After playing in makeup, we grabbed a complimentary box of Uptown Popcorn then had some fun. We did a little karaoke thanks to this cute mobile dubsmash. Hot-line Bling Anyone… It’s true, lip color can change not only your look, but your mood too. Case in point. The popcorn and singing was a blast but I have to be honest, the event didn’t have a big “pop.” The giveaways weren’t from the actual line, which was a major disappointment. I liked a lot of the colors from the line but only two really stood out from what other beauty companies have had for years. Regardless of this downside, it was great to learn about the brand and enjoy a little fun in awesome weather.

Julia Pearl Southern Cuisine Review

February 18, 2016

A few weeks ago, I went to the new Julia Pearl restaurant in Plano, Texas. It’s a unique restaurant offering favorite southern staples with a twist. The restaurant is a Southern-inspired restaurant from chef Tre Wilcox, the creative director, will feature dishes such as deviled eggs topped with crispy chicken skin and the famous shrimp and grit signature dinner. According to the release: Leading the kitchen as Culinary Director is renowned chef Tre Wilcox. With experience helming some of Dallas’s best restaurants, Wilcox is providing his expertise in menu and recipe development, pricing, food cost, staff training and restaurant operations. The menu reflects the team’s dedication to serving fresh meats, produce, bread and dairy sourced from local farms and ranches whenever possible…With an open layout featuring a range of materials including exposed bricks, wood and leather, Julia Pearl Southern Cuisine boasts 6,000 square feet of space, complete with a main dining room, private dining room and a spacious bar showcasing a vast selection of local beers and craft bourbons. The warm and hospitable environment is perfect for relaxing with family and friends for lunch, dinner or weekend brunch. Local art will adorn the walls to complete the atmosphere as diners linger over good food and good drinks. Now that the formalities are out of the way, here is my quick review of Julia Pearl and recommended foods to have at the restaurant. Julia Pearl Southern Cuisine Review Cocktails: Jazzy Belle or any wine The restaurant has a unique list of handmade cocktails but my pick was the Jazzy Belle. If this isn’t your cup of tea, I recommend the wine as they have a nice selection. Appetizers : Devil eggs We choose the gumbo and fried green tomatoes but after speaking with multiple people the devil eggs seems to be the winner. Note: Anytime I see fried green tomatoes on the menu I get it because I love them. Being blunt and honest, I was disappointed the fried green tomatoes. Biting or cutting into the appetizer should result in one flavor combustion but it didn’t. Simply adding extra sauce from the shrimp might solve this issues. The gumbo, my friend really liked it but I am stickler on gumbo due to my family being part cajun so it’s no Bueno for me. Meals: Anything… One of the signature dishes is the shrimp and grits. I can’t say much more than you guys have to try this dish and then thank me later. There isn’t much I can describe except go have it now and again in a few weeks. It’s just that damn good. I tried the catfish dinner because the photos on the site looked good and I wanted a non-signature dish to test the restaurants flare. Let me pause to give a round of applause for the perfection of this piece of catfish. From the crispy batter to the oozing flavored packed juices made each bite down-right heavenly. The mashed potatoes and green beans served on the side become optional dipping sauce for the fish in my plate. By the way, Chef Jermaine, the executive chef, answered a lot of questions regarding the concept, restaurant, food and confirmed this perfection of fish was fried not baked. LOL I also gave feedback regarding my dish as well. Major Kudos to him. Desserts: TBD Since I was told they had exceptional desserts, we had the lemon pound cake with ice cream and berries. Unlike most traditional lemon cakes, the lemon flavor is mostly drizzled onto the cake instead of being being mostly baked into the cake. You may or may not like this depending on your preference. Other options are bread pudding and velvet cake. There is a third option, but I don’t consider vanilla ice cream and fresh berries a special dessert if you get my drift. I am iffy on the dessert options so I am returning at a later date for dessert and wine. Brunchin For my brunch loving folks, Julia Pearl Southern Cuisine, is now serving brunch. The menu will include house-made biscuits, sausage gravy, parfait with yogurt, fried catfish with cheese grits and scrambled eggs. Do I recommend the restaurant. Yes. I do. Will I be back? Yes. Especially for brunch. Make sure you hit the gallery for my quick pics or secure reservations on there website juliapearlsoutherncuisine.com

3 Reasons I Love Huetiful Salon in DFW

January 29, 2016

“We are client and customer centric. Everything we come up with inspired by the needs of our clients.” -Ken of Huetiful and Huetiful Salon This past weekend, I was able to attend the gran opening of Hueitful Salon in Dallas Ft. Worth. It was a great night with awesome company and tons of information. I am very excited to see the new textured salon here within the DFW area. If you are considering booking an appointment, here are three reasons why you should head out to Huetiful Salon. Huetiful Salon in Dallas Ft. Worth Staff: The staff at a salon can hinder or excel a shop’s reputation. Within the salon are some of the top industry stylist individually but collectively in the salon they work as a single unit. At Hueitful, stylists are not competing against one another but instead a big-fun-loving-educational-curl-team. Everyone is an hair educator and edge slayer. Nina Christmas, Creative Director of Huietiful noted, “Think of the staff as the staff at your dentist office. You take care of your teeth daily with brushes and flossing daily, but the dentist assist with structure, deep cleaning and to address other issues beyond what you may see.” Everyone works together and since Ken, owner Hueitful and Hueitful Salons, picks the best you don’t have to worry about, which stylist is the best colorist or blowouts. Just book , enjoy and get ready to stunt on the gram. Salon: From focusing on textured hair to the modern simplicity decor, Hueitful is not the typical salon. They offer over 50 services from bantu knots, color to nano treatment and deva cuts. “We are client and customer centric. Everything we come up with inspired by the needs of our clients.” says Ken. How client centric is Huetiful Salon? Upon arrival, you will immediately notice a very small lounge/sitting area, which is due to their focus on minimum to no wait time from the moment you walk through their doors. (*Raises hands!) Since there is only one stylist per person, the process is client attentive. The salon boost clients can book an appointment for a blow out at 7am and be able to make it into the office by 9am. Steam Treatment – By now you should know the importance I place in water especially within the body. The entire salon understands the same importance with the focus thanks to the Huetiful Steamers. The Huetiful Steamer is specifically designed for the unique needs of curly and wavy hair, restoring moisture 5x better than deep conditioners alone. Ken states “the steamers allow the opening up the cuticles of your hair to allow any conditioner you choose to penetrate better and work more effectively, replenish moisture lost and reducing breakage and split ends caused by dry hair. ” This treatment is heightened thanks in part to their new and expanded product line. I have to admit, I was a huge fan of their shampoo and conditioner, which I was able to try last year at The Natural Cole’s How-To Event in Dallas, Texas. After chatting with, Tasheara Neshell, Senior Stylist at Hueitful Salon in Dallas – Ft. Worth, I am itching to test out the steam and their latest foam mousse, which is formulated to wrap, style and sleek a variety of different hair textures and styles. If you are not in Dallas, you can check out the salons in Chicago and Atlanta. http://www.huetifulsalon.com/about.htm. Don’t forget to check out more salon grand opening pictures above in the gallery. Huetiful Salon Dallas-Ft. Worth is located 2410 W Abram Street Arlington, TX 76013 866.708.7015