1. Teakwood + Tobacco Soy Candle
$20
On my birthday week, my friend Roberto came to my doorstep with the most beautifully wrapped present. It came in a black translucent box with black ribbon and black tissue paper. I was floored by the gift wrapping, alone, since he put so much thought and effort into reflecting my style. Inside was this soy candle that smelled amazing. I’m extremely picky with candles, so I was really impressed that he was able to get the scent on point. I typically strive for musky and natural smells, like pinewood and cedar, so teakwood and tobacco is a similar combination. As much as I liked the scent, once I lit the candle, I could barely smell a thing. It was pretty anticlimactic, since it’s so rare for me to find one that I actually like. I think this would be perfect for an intimate space, like a desk or bathroom. If you want it to fill up a large area, like a bedroom or living room, then you would need a cluster of 2 or 3. This taught me that you can never truly tell what a candle smells like, until you set it.
2. Ruby Woo Lipstick
$15.30
I am a very loyal MAC consumer when it comes to lipstick. My friend, Angela, brainwashed me with MAC Cosmetics in middle school, so I haven’t bought any other lipstick since. I love their matte selections, since they have so many rich and bold colors. Their lipstick also doesn’t smudge and lasts all day long. I only have to reapply it once, if at all, throughout the day. Their packaging is my other favorite part, since the lipstick comes in sleek black tubes. I have accumulated many MAC lipsticks, but I’ve never owned one of their classic red ones. I will be dying my hair bright red, next month, so I wanted to get a shade that will match.
3. TOWEL SET
$41.24
You know you’re getting “old” when you ask for towels for your birthday. My house has a plethora of towels, but 95% of them are plain white ones. The only set that actually belongs to me is a black and grey tribal printed one. I bought it for college and have been using it for over 6 years. After interchanging between this and my mom’s old white towels, I thought it was time to switch it up and add another color. This blush set includes 2 washcloths, 2 hand towels, and 2 bath towels. It’s always a good feeling when you get something that’s not only useful, but will last for years to come.
4. SNORLAX PLUSH
$19.99
I’ve been wanting a Snorlax plush for so, so long. I just never bought one because I struggled with my “want vs. need.” My friend, Emily, actually surprised me with this Snorlax on my birthday. It sparked me with so much joy, so I guess I needed it, after all. For 3 nights in a row, I snuggled with it, like a 5-year-old, and every time I look at it, it makes me happy. I didn’t think I was a stuffed animal person, but now I want an Umbreon, Totoro and Puppycat to complete my collection.
5. BOTTLE OPENER
$12.99
I hardly drink beer, but a bottle opener is such an essential kitchen tool. If you ever have people over, there’s always bound to be someone asking for it. I stumbled upon this beaut on Pinterest and knew that I had to have it. I mean, cat-shaped AND gold? This bottle opener was basically made for me. My best friend, Ann, got it for my birthday, which was the perfect timing. I used it immediately to open a bottle of rose at my party.
xx
Dana