Chic Beauty Bundle Giveaway

We're giving away a $100 beauty bundle filled with some of our favorite Chic Luxuries including:

Borghese Salt Scrub, Foaming Gel and Lotion
Frizz Ease Straight Fixation
Dove Conditioner
Capiforce Split End Serum

Avon Blush, Lipstick, and Moisture Therapy Lotion 

Aussie Shampoo
Herbal Essences Shampoo
Pantene Conditioner
Essie Nailpolish
Milani Lipstick
SoftLips Lip Balms (2)

and More

Contest ends September 24, 2011. Please see our Giveaways page for complete rules.

To enter click "comments" link below and leave a comment. 


Bonus entries available (please leave a comment after completing each for bonus entries)

1. RT: I just entered @ChicLuxuries Giveaway to win $100 Beauty Bundle http://ChicLuxuries.com

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FREE Bang Bang Shrimp at Bonefish Grill

I love a YUMMY luxury especially when it's FREE!  Click HERE to get a certificate for a FREE Bang Bang Shrimp Appetizer from Bonefish Grill with a $15 purchase. Note a facebook account is required.

Offer ends 9/9/11

Princess for a Day ~ A VERY Chic Luxury!

I was giddy with excitement when I was chosen last year as My Carolina Today's very first Makeover recipient.  I received a Princess for a Day makeover compliments of My Carolina Today and Douglas Carroll Salon & Spa and it was the epitome of a day filled with Chic Luxuries.  

It began with a videotaping in my home by Justin from My Carolina Today who couldn't have been nicer.  Next, I met with My Carolina Today's Executive Producer, Kim Green, and Host, Sharon Delaney, (loved them both) for a quick taping on the morning of the makeover. My incredible day of pampering included a luxurious massage, facial, mani, pedi, makeup application and consultation, photo shoot and the highlight of the day was having my hair cut, colored and highlighted by Douglas Carroll himself.  Doug is a true artist in every sense of the word.  I am in awe of his skill and technique in hair styling.  A snip snip here, a snip snip there and Doug magically (and seemingly effortlessly) turns out one sensational hairstyle after another. And, I'm confident he could do so with his eyes closed.

The beautiful Sharon Delaney, Host of My Carolina Today

Douglas David

Prior to the makeover, my hair had turned that dreaded orange-brassy tone~YUCK! Doug told his assistant he was going to use "toe head" for the highlights. Platinum?!?! I started squirming in my chair! I thought to myself "What have I gotten myself into?". Doug explained in order to counteract all the warmth in my skin, he needed to go with cool undertones.  I had always used neutral tones in haircolor because I thought cool shades would make me look washed out.  This is why he is the professional and not me!

I was ecstatic with the results and my new hairstyle, color and highlights.  If you're in the Raleigh area, treat yourself to a visit to Douglas Carroll Salon and Spa, it's a chic luxury you deserve! And be sure to check out My Carolina Today weekday mornings at 11:00 on NBC-17 and visit their website to enter to win your own fabulous makeover.

A great big thank you once again to Doug and the staff at Douglas Carroll Salon and Spa and to Kim, Sharon and Justin from My Carolina Today for making me feel so special. It was a day I will never forget. xox

Avon Dreamers ~ A Chic Opportunity

If you're like me, you love getting great skincare products, makeup, jewelry, and gifts at a discount. Or maybe  you've been thinking about starting a chic and beautiful business of your own. If so, Avon may be a perfect match for you.  With earnings up to 50% (guaranteed 40% in first four orders) and endless opportunities to win some incredible prizes, Avon offers one of the highest commission structures of any direct-selling business.

Maria Tirotta, Senior Executive Unit Leader with Avon, is the wonderful Representative who sponsors all of the Avon giveaways for Chic Luxuries.  Maria is incredibly generous with her team as well and offers each new Representative that she appoints a chic gift (currently it is Avon's newest perfume, pictured below, and a wristlet).  Maria also sponsors contests every two weeks for her team.  In a business built on relationships, it is no surprise Maria ranks #16 of more than 600,000 Representatives across the U.S. in unit sales. Maria is the kindest, most giving woman you will ever meet and an incredible team leader.

For less than the cost of a few lipsticks ($20), you can start your own Avon business. Email Maria with your contact info and she will personally call to answer any questions and help you start your chic and beautiful career.

Look for an opportunity to win an Anew skincare bundle, valued at over $125, from Maria coming soon on Chic Luxuries.  Join the Avon Dreamers Facebook page for more giveaways and contests. Maria's website can be found at youravon.com/mtirotta.

Diana Gould Ltd ~ Chic & Gorgeous Floral Decor

If you're planning a wedding, bar/bat mitzvah or corporate event in the NY-Westchester area, be sure to check out Diana Gould, Ltd for spectacular floral and event decor. Like the flowers Diana hand selects at the NY Flower Market to transform into exquisite arrangements, a business that started in her basement over 25-years ago has become a work of art in itself.  Their 30,000 sq. ft. showroom is where the magic begins. The highly creative staff at Diana Gould Ltd. can transform any venue into a breathtakingly beautiful setting that will have guests ooohing and aaahing at every turn.

Diana Gould Ltd. has been featured in countless magazines and newspapers in the Tri-State area and I was thrilled to watch the company make their national television debut last year when they appeared in an episode of The Apprentice. In the boardroom, Ivanka Trump commented "The flowers and decor were gorgeous".  No surprise there, Ivanka!

I have the best memories of working for Diana Gould, Ltd.  I was treated like family and Diana is a caring and wonderful mentor. Her energy, passion for flowers and design, her tireless efforts to make her client's dreams a reality, and her limitless talent and ingenuity are the reason thousands of clients have turned to Diana Gould Ltd. when planning their most special occasions.

Diana Gould's showroom and production facility is located in Elmsford NY, they also have an office in their Manhattan townhome. Visit them at DianaGouldLtd.com or call 1.914.347.7134 to schedule an appointment.

Dermae A Salon Skin Treatment Alternative

Dermae sent me their Microdermabrasion Scrub for participating in a trial study for one of their products.  This award-winning scrub utilizes a crystal blend system to remove deal skin cells and remove excess oils.  Dermae recommends using this product twice a week. It was much more gentle than I thought it would be and left my skin sooooo soft. I've used it for a couple of weeks with the Clarisonic and my sun spots appear to be fading...maybe even a couple of lines....YIPPEEE!!!

The Microdermabrasion Scrub also contains what I can only describe as a "happy surprise" when you apply it to your skin for the first time...it smells exactly like lemon ices. The combination of the crystals and the scent is so refreshing and energizing, it makes washing your face a treat. I really enjoyed this product and will continue using...now off to have a lemon icey! ☺

Item #0690ea, 2 oz. retails for $32.50, dermae.com

Freshology ~ Gourmet Luxury

The fabulous folks at Freshology sent me one-week of gourmet meals (21 meals and 7 snacks).  I'm always interested in eating healthier and losing weight, and since I'm not exactly a candidate for Master Chef ((I find scrambled eggs a challenge), I felt as though Freshology was heaven sent.

At the end of the 7-day GETSLIM Gold Plan I definitely had more energy and another nice perk...I lost 10 lbs.! I can't remember the last time I was able to lose 10 lbs. in a week...if ever. Typically, I eat one cookie and gain a pound, and it seems it can take a week to lose one, never mind ten.

I had received less than stellar feedback from friends about other meal delivery plans so I was blown away when I tasted my first Freshology meal.  It was as though I was dining in a fine restaurant! I could literally write for days about every meal because they were THAT good. Fresh tuna was a special treat since I've never had it. Freshology's oatmeal was the best I've ever tasted, and their biscotti was scrumptious, as was EVERY meal and snack! When it comes to food, I think pictures tell the story best..

Freshology's Seared Talapia over Corn, Tomato and Scallion Salad

Fresh Mixed Green Citrus Salad topped with sweet and ripe mangos, and CleanFish Grilled Shrimp

All Natural Fresh Vegetable Egg Crepe with Turkey Sausage and Braised Peaches

Lean Burger topped with sauteed onions, crumbled blue cheese, mixed greens and fresh apples, all layered on a whole wheat bun.

another fav ~ Hazelnut Cookies

The meals arrived via FedEx packaged in individual eco containers, then in a styrofoam cooler with ice packs, then in a cardboard shipping box.  I received the GET SLIM Gold Plan which includes 3 fresh gourmet meals and a snack per day shipped 2 times a week, they also offer a GETSLIM Silver Plan which includes frozen gourmet meals. There is also a FRESHMOMMY program for post-natal women, an ala carte program and a GETSLIM with the Stars program.

The cost is $47.95 per day plus shipping for the GETSLIM GOLD and $35.95 for GETSLIM SILVER, but checkout their website and facebook page for special savings offers. It is a pricey chic luxury, however, for me, my health and the convenience of not having to grocery shop and prepare meals is priceless and when I think of how much $$ I spend dining out in a week, this isn't much more.

Overall, I was thrilled with the results from Freshology and HIGHLY recommend it to anyone either looking to lose weight on a healthy and delicious gourmet plan and/or the convenience of freshly prepared gourmet meals delivered to their door.

Many thanks Freshology for your generosity and for helping so many of us live a healthier life.  xo

L'Occitane's Luxurious Angelica Line

L'Occitane graciously sent me their ENTIRE Angelica line from a contest I won on Twitter! I couldn't wait to try it.  The packaging is exquisite and the scent delicate and beautiful. (I have a pet peeve about putting a skincare product on my face that has a strong odor).  When I opened the first bottle, I imagined strolling through breathtaking gardens in the South of France...definitely a pleasant way to start or end the day!

I received the following Chic Luxuries ~

Angelica Hydration Cream 1.9 oz., item #197349, retails for $39

Angelica Eye Roll-On, .3 fl. oz., item #187397, retails for $26

Angelica UV Shield SPF 40, 1 fl. oz, item #197363, retails for $34

Angelica Gel Cleanser, 6.7 fl. oz, item #197325, retails for $20

Angelica Protective Lotion SPF 15, 1 fl. oz, item #197356, retails for $34

Angelica Face Toner, 6.7 fl. oz, item #197332, retails for $20

These products compliment each other perfectly to provide a luxurious skincare experience for your face. I found a little product goes a LONG way. The Hydration Cream, UV Shield and Protective Lotion all absorbed quickly into my skin and were not at all greasy or heavy. My fav products from the Angelica line are the Hydration Cream, Gel Cleanser, and Eye Roll-On. I used the Hydration Cream at night on my face and neck, it instantly smoothed the wrinkles in my neck and made my face feel silky smooth. As the name implies it has a rich and creamy texture. 

I prefer lots of bubbly suds in a cleanser but didn't expect a gel cleanser to foam so much, I loved it! I've been using the Angelica Gel Cleanser with my Clarisonic and together they have their work cut out for them.  

The Angelica Eye Roll-On is wonderful in the morning for "de-puffing" eyes.  It's a cool and refreshing "wake-me-up" for eyes! I can't wait to try it when traveling.  

I've used the entire product line for 6 weeks and see slight improvement in lines and wrinkles. My skin is definitely not as dry. I'm enough of a realist to know the damage from years of sun worshiping will not disappear over night however I'm optimistic, with continued use, I will see even more positive results. I've read reviews on L'Occitane's Divine line, it sounds as though it contains more advanced anti-aging properties. I'm anxious to try it to see which line my skin responds to better.  

Either way, I'm encourage by what I've seen so far and L'Occitane has found a new customer.  Thank you again L'Occitane for these awesome Chic Luxuries. xox

Spaweek & EM Chocolatier ~ A Perfect Pairing

I was delighted to receive this Ruby Tower of Sweets compliments of Spa Week and EM Chocolatier from a recent twitter contest. (Photos from www.SpaWeek.com)

If you haven't been to Spa Week's website, it is a must see! It is one of my favorite sites overflowing with Chic Luxuries.  Prepare to spend some time visiting as you are virtually transcended from one spectacular spa destination to another.  The site is also chock full of beauty and health and wellness tips, and don't miss all the FABULOUS specials and contests.

Spa treatments and Chocolate...it doesn't get any better than this!   Unexpected and unusually high temps of over 100 degrees caused the chocolates to melt in transit, but did that stop us from enjoying them? Not for a second! We popped them in the fridge and thirty minutes later we were in taste-testers heaven!  The chocolates arrived beautifully packaged in blue logo boxes tied with brown ribbon (love that color combo).  The truffles, packaged 12 to a box, held up wonderfully in the heat and were as exquisite as they were delectable.   The 24-piece assortment of chocolates were each artistically decorated...almost too pretty to eat, but somehow that didn't stop us either.  We particularly enjoyed the chocolates with nuts (I'm fairly certain one family member who shall remain nameless was actually hoarding them) ~ Ya gotta be quick around here when it comes to gourmet luxuries particularly when they are as scrumptious as EM Chocolatier's. The Ruby Tower of Sweets retails for $50.

Thank you again to Spa Week and EM Chocolatier for providing these chic and delicious sweet luxuries.

Swimways ~ Affordable and Fun Luxuries

There is no where I am more at peace, except maybe on a beach gazing at the ocean, than in my swimming pool.  It is far and away the single best luxury purchase I have ever made. I spend hours in it relaxing, swimming, exercising, doing handstands (yes, I know I sound like I'm ten) and shooting hoops using the 2-in-1 game pictured here. Swimways 2-in-1 game converts from a basketball hoop to a volleyball net.  I've had this game for 7+ years and although it's a little beat up, it has held together remarkably well having been out in the direct sun six months each year.

Swimways Customer Service is as fantastic as their products.  They have replaced the basketball net free of charge numerous times (I'm almost embarrassed to call them for another they've replaced it so often).  They carry a number of pool toys, games, floats, pool decor and backyard games.  My other favorite item is their Adult Spring Float which provides protection from the sun for your face. It appears to be sold out on their website, however, a store locator is provided. I've found a large selection of Swimways products at Bed Bath and Beyond as well as at Leslie's Pool Stores. Checkout their website at Swimways.com ~ through September 5 EVERY item in their online store is reduced 20-70%.

2-in-1 Game #00381, on sale for $110.95

Spring Float with Canopy item #13067 

Chic Luxury at its Finest ~ Bailey's Fine Jewelry

I was lucky enough to receive these STUNNING earrings from the John Hardy Naga Collection (ARV $499) from the very generous Bailey's Fine Jewelry. I have been a long-time admirer of the entire John Hardy Collection so I literally jumped up and down when I heard I had won these.

I love Bailey's not only for their incredible selection of jewelry but they are a family-owned business that gives back to the community and to their customers.  Their community spirit, philanthropy, and stellar customer service has won them numerous awards.  They also have been known to host "Finders Keepers" events where they hide their signature Bailey's Boxes filled with awesome baubles around town for unsuspecting and very lucky folks to find.  Talk about random acts of kindness! Can you imagine sitting down on a park bench and spotting a Bailey's Box?  WOW!  What a fabulously fun idea!  I can't think of a single woman I know who wouldn't love to find a Bailey's Box in her Christmas stocking, in the mail, or as a gift for any occasion....and they can!  Every purchase comes wrapped in their signature Bailey Box which is almost as beautiful as the treasures inside.

If you are in the Raleigh area, I encourage you to visit one of Bailey's five locations in Raleigh's Cameron Village, Crabtree Valley Mall, Cross Creek Mall in Fayetteville, Rocky Mount or Greenville. Or visit them online at www.BaileyBox.com and experience Chic Luxury at its finest.

Thank you again Bailey's for your generosity and the gorgeous earrings! xoxo

Boston Proper and Marshalls Finds

I am crazy in love with Boston Proper's clothing, their buyers do an outstanding job of selecting unique pieces not easily found elsewhere.  They have a convenient return policy which is important to me particularly when purchasing clothing online.

This Sleeveless Ruched Knot Top  is one of my recent finds for summer, it has quickly become a favorite that I can wear anywhere with a pair of jeans or dress up with a pair of black slacks, strapy sandals and sparkly jewelry. It retails for $39.  I paid $19 with a $20 coupon that Boston Proper sent me good on any purchase.  The Sleeveless Ruched Knot Top is available in 4 colors, item #839309J1 for $39.99 from BostonProper.com.

Marshalls is one of my favorite shopping destinations.  You never know what treasure you are going to find.  I was in a fast-food restaurant carrying this pocketbook and one cashier said to another "Ooooh, she has one of those $1,000 pocketbooks" to which I replied "Marshalls $14.99 ~ Thank you very much!".

Avon's Touch and Glow Palette ~ Very Chic!

After years of sun worshiping and a few more wrinkles than I care to count, I am always looking for a product that will provide a sun-kissed look without appearing "fake".  This cream-to-powder palette in shimmery shades of gold, pink and bronze does just that. To apply: swirl a blush brush around palette and dust lightly all over face.  Can be applied over or used in place of foundation. The lighter shades can also be used as a highlighter on eyes, use finger or eyeshadow applicator to apply.

mark. Touch and Glow Palette includes 9 shades that, when combined, provide an all-over radiance to face, item #271-760, retails for $15 and is available on Maria' Tirotta's Avon website, click HERE to visit site.

BONUS! From now until September 30, Maria is offering these sparkling Princess-Cut CZ Earrings (a $20 value) to followers of this blog with any $15 purchase from her website. There is also a FREE shipping code that may still be available, worth a try...select "direct delivery" and enter code "FIRSTREP" at checkout.  To receive earrings email AvonDreamers@nc.rr.com by September 30 with your order number, name and address and "Chic Luxuries" in the subject line.  Earrings will ship separately from your order.

Chic Travel Luxuries - Marriott World Center

Whether you are traveling alone, with friends, as a couple or with the kiddies, The Marriott World Center has something for everyone. I visited this fabulous destination, located minutes from Disney World, twice in the past five months with friends and am planning to return again in September. The World Center recently celebrated their 25th anniversary and the resort never looked better. 

The focal point is their amazing waterfall pool complete with water slide and Pavilion...and, oh yes a million gallons of water ~ HOLY COW! As a swimmer, a pool is a must for me when traveling and MWC has six including a zen pool which provides quiet relaxation. Golf, a spa, activities for the kids, comfortable and pristine rooms with private balconies and an array of packages make this the perfect chic luxury vacation destination.

I love the Marriott brand and this resort is one of the nicest I've been to, it is a level 5 and is much finer than some of the resorts which they rate 6.

Marriott World Center offers 10 restaurants and lounges including a Japanese Steak House and a Food Court which has many quick and affordable options for lunch and an outdoor eating area next to the waterfall pool...heavenly. There is a Starbucks in the lobby for your morning or afternoon caffeine fix (note this Starbucks does not accept Starbucks gift or gold cards).

I found a great deal for my September trip using AAA, code EA7 which is good at select resorts through December 31, 2011.  Note: I could not find availability using this code at too many Marriott resorts, but this one had several dates to choose from and included parking (typically $7 per day), breakfast for two each day (a huge savings) and a $129 room rate per night +tax. This special AAA rate amounted to $50 less per night than my April trip which didn't include parking or breakfast.

If you are planning a stay at this or any other Marriott, I highly recommend joining their rewards program and applying for their Premier card. The card has an annual fee of $65 (increasing to $85 in October), however, it includes a complimentary night each year in a Level 5 resort (i.e. World Center) plus other perks such as priority late checkout, bonus rewards points and 50,000 points after your first purchase (enough for a two-night stay at The World Center). In other words for $65-85, new card holders will receive enough points for a 3-night stay at this or many other Marriott destinations after their one-year anniversary and making a first purchase on the card.

The resort is a 10-mile drive from Kissimmee Amtrak and 15-miles from Orlando Airport. There is a Hertz car rental and private transportation service available onsite, however, we found calling a local taxi company saved us about $15 for a 10-mile drive.

For reservations call 1.800.380.7931 or visit MarriottWorldCenter.com.

White Pear ~ One of My Best-Ever Finds

I discovered this North Carolina company a few years ago and OMGosh! my skin could not be happier. As a swimmer, I had VERY dry itchy skin.  White Pear's Oatmeal, Milk, and Honey skincare line cured it in a matter of weeks. Its clean fresh scent is captivating and long lasting but not at all overpowering. One of my guy friends got a "whiff" of me hours after I applied it and said "The person who makes that should be a millionaire!". I totally agree.

White Pear makes a complete line of all natural skincare products including soaps, body lotions, and sugar scrubs in a delightful array of scents such as White Tea and Ginger, Pears and Berries, and Lavendar Vanilla. Check them out at WhitePearShop.com 

Jenni K Jewelry ~ Handcrafted Luxuries

If you're not from North Carolina, you may not have heard of one of our state treasures, Jenni K Jewelry.  Located in Greenville, Jenni K Jewelry produces some of the most gorgeous handmade sterling silver jewelry I have seen. Having owned a jewelry business, I am not easily impressed with jewelry regardless of the price, however, Jenni K continues to delight with uniquely beautiful designs at a reasonable price for handcrafted sterling silver. Every August, Jenni K holds their annual 50% off sale and each year I treat myself to a new bracelet. Here is this year's purchase...

Item #SQ-3, Retails for $115, 50% off = $57.50 ~ I ♥ a chic luxury at 50% off!

The Sweetest Little Luxury...

If you ask me there is no sweeter little luxury than a Lindt Chocolate Truffle.  I usually have to close my eyes when I walk by them in the grocery aisle for fear I may buy every bag on the shelves and eat them before I get home.  I first tried Lindt truffles early this year after winning a package of them on twitter. Recently a male friend of mine was talking about them on his facebook page and couldn't remember the name, but from his description which included "a little piece of heaven", I knew exactly what he meant! This week they were on sale for $2.99 at CVS and I couldn't resist. My favorite is Milk Chocolate Hazelnut. Their creamy center is delightfully decadent and the chocolate is as smooth as silk.  They make a nice hostess or "thinking of you" gift for someone special or to share with your family.  I like to leave them on bedroom pillows when we have guests over...assuming I don't eat them first.

Coach ~ A Chic Luxury First

Welcome to Chic Luxuries! I thought it would be fitting if my first blog post was about a favorite "first" purchase. I had a milestone birthday this year and thought I would FINALLY treat myself to the Coach Rocker Bag that I have been eyeing for months...okay maybe years. This totally chic luxury retails for $278 at Coach BUT, if you're lucky enough to have a Coach Outlet in your area, you may be able to find one there for less than half price. I paid $125. Even at full price, this bag will not disappoint.

I am not a huge collector of handbags as some of my friends are, although there was a time I changed purses each day just to match an outfit. Something tells me I won't be changing handbags again anytime soon. I absolutely adore this bag and it has gone EVERYWHERE with me. I especially like that it can be worn all year long and matches just about everything in my closet. It also has a pretty pink lining which makes finding keys and lipstick easy and it is the perfect size for me.

My only advice would be to not wait as long as I did to purchase one!