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MY EXPERIENCE WITH UNDER EYE FILLER //

Tuesday, 29 August 2017



Just over one week ago, I did something that I have been thinking about and wanting to do for some time now - I got under eye filler. My under eye lines and discolouration have always been a big issue for me and have always been a major source of self consciousness. And the thing is, it's not like this is something new, I have always had eye bags. I remember going to the doctor when I was little and him asking my mother if I was there for my eye bags.. that day has stuck with me ever since and that was when I was about 6 or 7. Since then, I have tried pretty much everything to hide them - expensive eye creams, roll on treatments, concealers, you name it. Finally a couple years ago, after doing some research, I found out there was such thing as under eye filler that helps with correcting this issue. I had gone for a consultation last year to have this done but at the end of the day I chickened out. I recently visited The Vanity Lab for a microderm abrasion treatment, and decided to bring up the issue again with them. After talking with he was super informative, and was able to answer all of my questions and concerns, so I felt comfortable enough to go ahead.

BEFORE/AFTER

When I posted on instagram stories the day of the treatment, I could not believe how many messages I got from women who are suffering from the same thing. Whether it was dark circles or deep tear troughs, question after question came rolling in. It was crazy yet almost comforting knowing I'm not the only one and it makes me so happy to be able to share my experience and bring a bit of light to an otherwise shadowed topic. I wanted to share with you some of the most frequently asked questions I received and if there is anything I've missed or if there are any other questions I can answer please feel free to and I would be more than happy to help!


1. WHERE DID YOU GO?
I went to the Vanity Lab in Yaletown, Vancouver which I would highly recommend. Dr. Jalali is all about keeping things natural and highlighting your natural beauty. He was also super informative and ensured I was comfortable and confident going ahead with the procedure.

2. DID IT HURT?
No! Dr. Jalali applies a topical numbing cream to where the initial prick will happen, you will feel the tiniest pinch initially. He then uses not a needle but a thin titanium cannula to go through the initial hole and fill the area. It definitely does not hurt, it's just a little strange knowing there's a tube inside your face!

3. WHAT KIND OF INJECTABLE DID THEY USE?
They use a filler called Teosyal which is a bit of a more expensive option however it is the smoothest you can get and the best option for such a sensitive area like the under eye. 

4. HOW LONG DOES IT LAST?
It can last anywhere from 7-9 months depending on how fast your body metabolizes the filler. For example, people that work out often, their bodies will metabolize the product a bit faster. So no problems here! lol

5. WILL IT ALSO HELP WITH DISCOLOURATION?
Yes! I noticed an immediate difference, but for some even darker circles they will fade overtime. 

6. HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Depending on how much filler is needed you can purchase half a vile or a full vile. Half a vile is $349 plus tax, and a full vile is $649 plus tax. I did a full vile but there was a bit left over, so they will keep it in the fridge for me until I come back for my check up and if I need a bit more they will use that. You can also do the full vile and save it for your next treatment. 

7. WILL YOU BRUISE?
No! Right before getting it done I was talking with one of my girlfriends who has experience with lip fillers - she warned me that I will experience some bruising and to cancel plans for that day and the next day. However, I had not one single bruise, I even had people over that night with no problem!

8. WOULD YOU RECOMMEND THE SERVICE?
1000% yes. Honestly this treatment has changed my life. The way I feel about my skin and the comfort I now feel without wearing makeup is amazing. The day I got it done, I came home and was looking in the mirror and could have cried I was so happy. It is a subtle difference, not a super drastic change, it simply makes me look and feel fresh faced, and beautiful. There's no better way to put it. 

I used to always have to use a photo smoother to smooth my under eyes in photos, but not anymore. The photo below is with absolutely no editing of my under eyes.

I cannot thank The Vanity Lab and enough for their amazing service and expertise. 

xx
Tessa

Posted on 10:18   Labels: , , , ,    No comments

THE TRUTH ABOUT HAIR EXTENSIONS //

Sunday, 20 August 2017






Top: MACCS the label

This past week I visited Brush Salon to give my hair a little jeuge-jeuge. Usually when I'm shooting blog content or when I'm going out I add clip in hair extensions to give my hair a bit of extra volume and length. I had been thinking a lot lately around getting something a bit more permanent to save me that extra step in getting ready each day. I of course went to my forever go-to salon Brush to have this done because they are the absolute best and always know what's best for my hair. When I first had them put in my IG DM was flooded with questions from women wanting to know more so I wanted to put together a little FAQ and sort of debunk any hair extension myths for anyone interested in getting them done! Also, if you are planning on taking the leap into the fabulous world of long luscious locks, I would highly recommend going to Brush as I always do - they take hair very seriously and will only do what is best for you, plus they use the absolute best products to ensure you are well taken care of.


1. WHAT KIND OF EXTENSIONS DID YOU GET?

These are tape-in extensions. There are quite a few different kinds of extensions but tape-ins are supposed to be the best option and allow for no damage to the natural hair. I had always heard of tape-in extensions, but I never realized that they were straight up TAPED IN. It was bizarre to find that out! They legit peel the hair off a sticker and tape it into your head! Having the hair on a strip allows the stress of brushing/pulling to be on a long strip of hair vs. say when you get clamped in hair extensions where it's clamped to such a small section you can risk pulling it right out. 

2. HOW LONG DO THEY LAST?

These will last anywhere from 6-8 weeks depending on how fast your hair grows. The hair itself will last up to a year with proper care, you would just need to have them re-taped about every 6-8 weeks.

3. ARE THEY DAMAGING?

No. This is one of the BIGGEST myths of hair extensions - even for myself. I always thought I needed to stay far far away because my natural hair is a bit damaged as it is and I never wanted to risk any further damage from getting hair extensions. Now, don't get me wrong, when I was younger, my older sister got sort of a glue/clamp hybrid type hair extension done, and yes, those were damaging as they are straight up glued onto little sections of your hair!!! I remember her pulling little chunks out as they came loose/broke off - YIKES!! However, again, these are tape-ins - they are the best on the market and with proper care will not damage your natural locks. 

4. ARE THEY HEAVY?

There's obviously and definitely some extra weight back there that takes some getting used to. That being said they never actually feel 'heavy' or that they're pulling or weighing me down.

5. CAN YOU STILL WEAR YOUR HAIR UP?

Yes! The tape is invisible and flexible - they've also hidden them so well I have no problems doing the most adorable high ponies! That's actually been my go-to hair style since getting them done - so cute with all those locks!

6. HOW MUCH DO THEY COST?

The set I got was 16" long which was definitely long enough for me! The 16" were $875, you can also get 12" or I believe 18" but I'm not too sure on the pricing of those. I think I could have almost done with the 12" to make it a bit more budget friendly. 

Also, after the 8 weeks when it's time to have them re-taped this costs around $200.

Honestly, it seems like a big number at first, but if you think about it, it's just the initial cost of the hair and that will last you a year or maybe more and then the re-tape fee is even less than a usual salon visit. It's definitely a treat-yo-self type situation but I definitely think it is worth it. Put a little away every week so you can go all out - you won't regret it.

xx
Tessa

Posted on 09:13   Labels: , , , ,    No comments

5 WAYS TO CREATE AN INSPIRING SPACE //

Wednesday, 16 August 2017

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #GladeAtmosphere #CollectiveBias

Many of you know that I recently aquired a new office space, before that, I worked from home every day. Now, I go into the office maybe 2-3 times a week and the rest of my days are again spent working from home. Having a home office can be a blessing and a curse - you’re in the same space all day and all night, and mainly by yourself. It can be difficult to keep motivated and inspired. I wanted to share with you five ways I’ve learned to keep my space fresh and inspiring when I’m working from home.

5 WAYS TO CREATE AN INSPIRING SPACE

1. Keep your space clutter free and organized.
There’s nothing that gives me more stress and anxiety than a clutter-filled and disorganized space. Keeping not only my work space but my home in general organized and with as little ‘things’ as possible allows me to have a fresh and relaxed environment, free to let my creativity flow!

2. Inspiration boards.
No not Pinterest, I’m talking good old fashioned magazine clippings, fabric swatches, inspirational quotes, things that make your heart happy. Pick up a cork board and start creating an inspiring pin board that makes you want to jump right in. Hang it somewhere you’ll see it everyday for a constant reminder of your personal brand and what inspires you.

3. Put what you love and what you’re working on front and centre.
For me, being a clothing designer, I keep a clothing rack next to my desk so I can hang any pieces I’m working on, or just pieces that I love and that inspire me. If I’m working on blog content, I will hang any new pieces I’ve acquired to keep them top of mind when content planning. Having these items front and centre help me to stay focused and motivated on my latest projects.

4. Post your weekly/monthly/yearly goals.
It’s so important to have what you want and where you’re going top of mind. I like to write out my goals, whether it’s something I’m working on for the week, the month, or the year, and post it somewhere I will see it everyday - for me that’s my desktop, but you could post it on a mirror or wherever will help to keep it top of mind.

5. Pick up a fresh inviting scent.
There’s just something about working away with a candle burning that I just love! It makes my space feel that much more inviting and cozy. I picked up a couple new scents from The Atmosphere Collection™ Fine Home Fragrance by Glade® - N°1 Enraptured™ – Jasmine and Cedarwood and N°2 Bright™ – Sweet Pea and Pear. They both smell amazing and allow me to switch up my scent depending on my mood, the Jasmine and Cedarwood is enchanting and perfect for hubby, whereas the Sweet Pea and Pear is perfectly sweet and gorgeous on a spring/summer day. You can also save $1.00 when you buy any one Glade® Atmosphere Collection™ product at any Kroger stores so it’s the perfect time to refresh your space with a new scent!

xx
Tessa



Posted on 08:07   Labels: , , , ,    1 comment

5 REASONS YOU SHOULD HOST A SUMMER SOIRÉE //

Friday, 14 July 2017



















With the peak of summer in full swing, now is the perfect time to plan an impromptu patio soirée with some of your best babes (or a party for two with your significant other). With Canada turning 150 this year, President's Choice is celebrating summer with new takes on Canadian classics with the new PC Insider's Collection. I'm talking poutine flavoured smokies, maple infused marshmallows, lemon raspberry cheesecake truffles, fresh cold brewed coffee and more! I'm all about easy peasy and President's Choice is a no brainer - delicious flavours and classic simple items that will please everyone. I mean what is more summer than a smokie and roasted marshmallows?! 

I always find summer comes and goes so fast, it's hard to soak up every minute of it, so I'm sharing five reasons you need to host a summer soirée!

1. CATCH UP WITH YOUR BABES

With the craziness of life friends can sometimes get put on the back burner. Summer is the perfect time to set a date and get your favourite girls together to gossip and celebrate the season. I love nothing more than summer nights with my best girlfriends on the patio.

2. INDULGE

Weekends and summer get togethers are the perfect excuse to indulge just a bit - try new foods, savour different flavours and sip on yummy drinks. Like is all about balance and there's nothing like ending the week with some serious nostalgic comfort summer foods. 

3. CELEBRATE CANADA

Canada recently celebrated a huge milestone birthday - 150! Time to celebrate with some Canadian classics - mama needs a bacon infused cesar!!

4. ESCAPE THE HEAT

There's nothing like a cool bev on a patio to beat the summer heat. We made these little personal cold brews and put them on ice for easy summer sipping - so yum! 

5. YOU DESERVE IT

You have likely been working hard all year - with work, school, or whatever it is that occupies your mind, a summer soirée is the best stress reliever and the perfect way to celebrate your hard work and take in the summer. 


Share how you celebrate summer with President's Choice by using the hashtag #PCInsidersCollection!

xx
Tessa

Thank you to President's Choice for partnering on this post. 

Flowers c/o The Flower Factory.

Posted on 09:07   Labels: , , , , ,    No comments

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF GIGI //

Tuesday, 30 May 2017

Thank you to Purina and Petsmart for partnering on this post. #purinamysteries #collectivebias










At this point I'm sure you all know my little fluff ball Gigi, who I wrote about here, and who I am constantly posting to my instagram stories. Gigi is our little fur baby and I don't think it would be possible to love her more. We've had Gigi since October and have loved nothing more than having this little pup in our lives, she brings us so much joy so we are always striving to make her the happiest we can and treat her to some of her favourite things whether that's a trip to the doggie park, a  nice long walk, or a visit to Petsmart to pick up a new toy, or her favourite treats.

1. Gigi's day always starts with breakfast, we recently picked up the new Purina One Smart Blend and she absolutely loves it! She is so funny, she'll eat it all and always after every meal has a little burp and I die everytime. 

2. After breakfast we take Geeg on her first walk of the day where she almost always tries to drag us to the doggie park. 

3. After that, it's time to pack Gigi's waterbowl and bed and head to the office! Gigi used to hate long rides in the car but now that the weather is nice she lives for sticking her head out the window and feeling the wind in her fur - you should see the peoples faces as we drive by!
When I made the move out of my home office to an actual space in the city, one of my biggest concerns was being able to bring Gigi. Thankfully everyone in the space was open to it and she even has a friend to play with as two of the guys have a little Boston Terrier named Lulu so it worked out wonderfully! Gigi and Lulu are the resident office pups and they are two of the sweetest girls, so we're always sure to keep the cupboards stocked with some of their favourite treats including Purina® Beggin’ which they go crazy for! Gigi will play with Lulu for most of the day and sneak through the back hallways into the other offices to visit with the other tenants. We also get shoppers and visitors at the space and Gigi loves greeting them and immediately rolling onto her back for belly rubs.

4. After work Gigi and I head home where she has her dinner, nighttime walk, and waits patiently for Danny to get home and give her lots of love. 

Our little Geeg is so full of love and we are definitely guilty of spoiling her here and there (I mean, look at that face!). You can treat your pet too because for the month of June, when you spend $40 on Purina products at Petsmart, you will receive a free $10 Petsmart giftcard! Perfect for stocking up on your pets favourite food and treats, and even throwing in a fun new toy! For more information, and to redeem your gift card click HERE, you will be able to upload your receipt until July 9th 2017.

xx
Tessa

Posted on 08:15   Labels: , , ,    1 comment

NEW FAUCET NEW ME //

Thursday, 25 May 2017











I used to never want to invest in Danny and I's apartment. I always felt that since we were renting there was no point in putting that much effort into decor etc. However, lately I have come to the conclusion that I am SO wrong. Even though we are renting and it was only supposed to be a temporary thing until we bought a house (que insane housing market surge) now we're nearing two years here! I've decided it's better to invest in where you live and really make it your home because you can always take your belongings with you and incorporate them into your new space. 

That being said, we recently switched up our old dingy faucet for the new Huntley Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet by American Standard which we picked up at Home Depot. You wouldn't think a new faucet would be as life changing as it is! The design is so sleek and the water pressure and options are so smooth! I love how you can adjust the spray settings and it even has a mister!!! Perfect for fresh flowers or herbs. It also has a detachable head for those items that don't quite fit under the faucet (like Gigi). It's crazy how the slightest change can switch up your space's whole vibe. You know when you get something new and you just want to reorganize and refresh to make room for your new glorious item? That's how I feel about our new faucet (ahh the little things in life), so excuse me while I clean and reorganize my whole kitchen! 

xx
Tessa

Thank you to Home Depot for partnering on this post.

Posted on 10:24   Labels: , , ,    No comments