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Blog Lifestyle

Erin Condren Life Planner | 2015 Review

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

It’s always exciting looking forward to the new year — fresh starts and new goals. One of my favorite things to help me stay organized and keep track of all my new goals is my Erin Condren Life Planner. I got my first Life Planner earlier this year, and I loved it so much that I bought a separate one just for work.

Left, very first Life Planner (Party Pops) Right, 2015 Life Planner (Signature Stripes)
Left, very first Life Planner (Party Pops)                                                     Right, 2015 Life Planner (Signature Stripes)

I’m so excited for my 2015 Life Planner and the extra goodies I got (interchangeable covers, I’m lookin’ at you)! My Erin Condren Life Planner arrived in a purple themed box with pretty purple tissue wrapping.

Everything was neatly packaged inside, wrapped in bubble wrap. I’m so excited for everything! First off, the Planner because it’s amazing! The planner measures 7.25″ x 9.25″ and can fit nicely in my purse. The Life Planners are $50 but you will get a $10 coupon, if you sign up for an account through my link.muffinchanel erin condoner life planner 2015 review stripes covers clips calendar wash tape spiral bound 2014 vs 2015 party pops stripes zen gems jolly jester

This is the 2015 Erin Condren Life Planner in Signature Stripe Blues. I love the colors and how you can always personalize your covers. Having a planner that is pretty makes me excited to use it. I like planning and making lists anyway, but I find myself thumbing through the pages of my current planner and taking it with me just because I like the way it looks.

muffinchanel erin condoner life planner 2015 review stripes covers clips calendar wash tape spiral bound 2014 vs 2015 party pops stripes zen gems jolly jester rulerThe Planner has a transparent ruler which can double as a bookmark inside or out; it just clips in and out of the spiral binding (similar to how the interchangeable covers lock in and out). The spiral ring is thick and durable, but doesn’t make the Planner heavy or bulky. In my two previous planners, the spiral binding has never bent.

muffinchanel erin condoner life planner 2015 review stripes covers clips calendar wash tape spiral bound 2014 vs 2015 party pops stripes zen gems jolly jester ruler coverIt’s not just pretty on the outside. The real fun of all the Erin Condren Life Planners is inside. I love how bright and colorful the designs are on the inside of each Erin Condren Life Planner.muffinchanel erin condoner life planner 2015 review stripes covers clips calendar wash tape spiral bound 2014 vs 2015 party pops stripes zen gems jolly jester ruler

muffinchanel erin condoner life planner 2015 review stripes covers clips calendar wash tape spiral bound 2014 vs 2015 party pops stripes zen gems jolly jester ruler 2015 calendar

Near the front, there is a 2014/2015 monthly view calendar. I like how it goes back to July 2014 in case I need to reference any days. Each month has its own color theme and cute accent designs.muffinchanel erin condoner life planner 2015 review stripes covers clips calendar wash tape spiral bound 2014 vs 2015 party pops stripes zen gems jolly jester ruler closer

Inside the planner, there are tabs for each month to help you easily navigate the Planner. The tabs take you to a colorfully themed month-view of each month.

Just behind each month-view page is the weekly breakdown by day.muffinchanel erin condoner life planner 2015 review stripes covers clips calendar wash tape spiral bound 2014 vs 2015 party pops stripes zen gems jolly jester ruler week calendar The weekly view shows Monday – Sunday across the top with the date clearly posted. The days are broken down vertically into Morning, Day, and Night categories. There are fun little accents that indicate holidays or special observances near the dates.muffinchanel erin condoner life planner 2015 review stripes covers clips calendar wash tape spiral bound 2014 vs 2015 party pops stripes zen gems jolly jester ruler

In the upper left corner of each week view, you will find a monthly mini calendar. This is perfect so you don’t have to keep flipping pages in order to see the entire month page. Along the left column, there is a lined section for Goals & Notes. Obviously, you can write whatever you want in that space. I tend to use it for daily to-do’s or weekly reminders.muffinchanel erin condoner life planner 2015 review stripes covers clips calendar wash tape spiral bound 2014 vs 2015 party pops stripes zen gems jolly jester ruler goals notes

Each month’s calendar has a different color theme, but the same layout. This is amazing for me because the familiar layout makes it functional and easy to navigate, but the new color keeps it fresh and exciting. I remember when I was younger, I’d always want new notebooks before I’d even finished writing in the first — I just wanted a change from the same boring lined pages. That never happens to me with Erin Condren; I love every page and am excited to use it all year!  muffinchanel erin condoner life planner 2015 review stripes covers clips calendar wash tape spiral bound 2014 vs 2015 party pops stripes zen gems jolly jester rulerThe colored tabs will help you navigate to each month.muffinchanel erin condoner life planner 2015 review stripes covers clips calendar wash tape spiral bound 2014 vs 2015 party pops stripes zen gems jolly jester ruler month tabsThe Notes tab in the back takes you to amazing lined and blank pages for whatever you want.

After the Notes section, there are tons of stickers built in to the Planner. There are two sheets of just colored stickers in all sorts of colors — pink, purple, grey, blue, green, teal, etc. And two sheets of “pre-printed” stickers that say things like, “Vacation”, “Day Off”, “Birthday”, or “Party”.

There is a folder in the back of the Planner with the Perpetual Calendar & Contacts insert. I choose to keep this booklet at my desk, separate from the Planner. I love how it’s no longer built in to the spiral binding, so I can transfer it to each new planner every year if I choose.muffinchanel erin condoner life planner 2015 review stripes covers clips calendar wash tape spiral bound 2014 vs 2015 party pops stripes zen gems jolly jester ruler pouch folderThe perpetual calendar is small and sleek. There is a section for your contacts and a Holidays to Remember section.

In the Planner, there is a second folder behind the first (attached). Each folder can hold a fair amount; I’ve never had one rip. I’ll usually put printouts of email confirmations, random notes, or reference materials in the folder.

muffinchanel erin condoner life planner 2015 review stripes covers clips calendar wash tape spiral bound 2014 vs 2015 party pops stripes zen gems jolly jester ruler folder back

There is a built-in clear plastic pouch behind the folders. It comes with cute freebie stickers from Erin Condren. I like to use the pouch for receipts or to hold stickers that I use to decorate my Planner.muffinchanel erin condoner life planner 2015 review stripes covers clips calendar wash tape spiral bound 2014 vs 2015 party pops stripes zen gems jolly jester ruler clear pouch

And now to the extras — ErinCondren.com had a coupon code for a free cover but I didn’t see it until I had already placed my order. I was super sad because I would have to pay separate shipping if I “purchased” the cover on its own. I emailed their customer service, and Anne was very friendly and helped me to cancel my first order so I could re-order my planner and take advantage of the free cover promotion without paying separate shipping.  Great customer service is just another reason why I will continue to use Erin Condren planners for years to come.muffinchanel erin condoner life planner 2015 review stripes covers clips calendar wash tape spiral bound 2014 vs 2015 party pops stripes zen gems jolly jester ruler interchangeable covers

I got two of the interchangeable covers — Jolly Jester and Zen Gems. This is my first time buying the interchangeable covers, but I am excited to have variety and to continue reusing these for all of my future planners. The covers are the same durable, laminated plastic that will protect your planner and it easy to wipe clean.

muffinchanel erin condoner life planner 2015 review stripes covers clips calendar wash tape spiral bound 2014 vs 2015 party pops stripesI personalized my free cover — Jolly Jester. I really love the colors on this cover and how subtle the personalization is.

muffinchanel erin condoner life planner 2015 review stripes covers clips calendar wash tape spiral bound 2014 vs 2015 party pops stripes zen gemsAnd I bought the Zen Gems cover. These geometric flowers are so pretty. I love how the personalization is in rainbow colored letters!

muffinchanel erin condoner life planner 2015 review stripes covers clips calendar wash tape spiral bound 2014 vs 2015 party pops stripes coil clipsI also bought a pack of the coil clips. I thought these would be good for keeping track of invitations or pictures within the planner. I don’t know how many times they can be reused, but I tried one out and it was easy to use and you might be able to get a second use out of them as well.

And finally, you can never go wrong with the elastic bands. I really like the platinum color; I think it goes best with the covers I chose. For me, it’s functional and also seems to visually tie it all together.muffinchanel erin condoner life planner 2015 review stripes covers clips calendar wash tape spiral bound 2014 vs 2015 party pops stripes elastic bands

If you’re considering Erin Condren for a new planner, definitely go for it! And don’t forget to use my link to make your account for $10 off your order. 🙂

Want to see more about my older Erin Condren Life Planners? Check out my very first planner review, or this 2014/2015 Life Planner Comparison or read about the new Erin Condren Notebooks!

Check out my 2016 Erin Condren Life Planner Review.

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Categories
Blog Lifestyle

Getting Ready for a Special Event

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

When you have a special event to attend, whether it be a birthday party, a graduation, a school dance, a wedding, or just a big date, you want to look your best.

Big Event Countdown!

1 month:

  • If you aren’t already, get into some kind of fitness routine. Exercise will help you feel healthy and energized. Nothing gives you that radiant glow like a healthy body, so go for a walk everyday or step it up and play a sport or go for a run. When your body is more fit and healthy, you’ll feel and look your best.
  • Diet is key to looking and feeling great from the inside out. Be sure to get your fair share of fruits and vegetables, or try a fun juice cleanse! Don’t forget to drink plenty of water and avoid processed foods.

2 weeks:

This is the time to knock out some of the easy things!

  • Hair cut/color – If you’re in need of a cut or a trim, now is the time to do it. Freshly cut hair can sometimes look too harsh or you may not be used to styling it. Getting your cut or color done two weeks before the big day gives you time to get used to/fix your lovely locks.
  • Plan your hair and makeup look. Don’t wait until the last minute; try out hairstyles and makeup looks that you’re curious about. Will you have your make up professionally done? You still will want to know the overall type of look you want. Practice makes perfect, so experiment and have fun. Once you have the look you love, take a picture. You will want to refer to it leading up to your big day.
  • Plan your outfit! Just like with your hair, make sure you have your entire outfit ready (accessories included); if not, now is a good time to grab a friend and get some inspiration from your favorite store (or even you friend’s closet).

1 week

Getting so close to the event! So exciting!

  • Eyebrow waxing! If you’ve never gotten your eyebrows waxed at a Benefit Brow Bar, I definitely recommend it. Waxing your eyebrows professionally will ensure the perfect shape for your face and help define your features. If you have any redness or bumps, it’ll have gone by the big day.
  • Face masks will help exfoliate the skin and even skin tone. Try the GlamGlow SuperMud or TingleExfoliate for amazing results. Repeat every few days for super glowy skin.
  • Finalize your outfit, hair, and makeup. Make sure you have everything you need to walk out the door to your special event.
  • Deep-condition your hair. Using a 5 minute hair mask can help your hair feel soft and look shiny.
  • Lips scrub & condition your lips. I love the Fresh Sugar Scrub with the Dior Creme de Rose lip balm.

2 days

  • Manicure/Pedicure. Freshly painted nails will really pull the look together. I like to get a pedicure at a salon because it’s super relaxing and I love the fun designs & colors to choose from but I usually like to do my manicure with my Sephora Gel Shine kit. French manicures are my go-to for any special event.
  • Teeth whitening is an easy way to brighten your look. I really like the Crest whitening strips because they are quick and do a great job brightening your smile.
  • Biore pore strips can help to remove stubborn blackheads and reduce pore appearance. I like to exfoliate and then wash like usual with my Clarisonic Mia before using the pore strips.

1 day

  • Face mask/ spot treatment. Target any blemishes with a soothing acne gel. I really like the Grease Lightening Cleanser from Lush. Or just dab on a small amount of any face mask onto troublesome spots.
  • Double check that you have everything you’ll need for the event; from head to toe.

The Big Day

  • Shave your legs and moisturize. Soft and smooth skin will help you feel great on the big day
  • Don’t forget the deodorant! The final stages of getting picture perfect for your special event can cause you to sweat and stress, but with a good deodorant/antipersperant, and least you’ll smell great and feel fresh.
  • Prep your skin. Primers and serums are your best friend. They’ll help your makeup stay put and keep your skin looking bright.
  • Use a makeup setting spray like the Urban Decay All Nighter. 
  • A splash of your favorite perfume is all you need before you walk out the door!

You’re all set for your special day! Let me know your tips for getting picture perfect for your big event in the comments or tag me in a picture on Instagram (@muffinchanel). I’d love to see all of your looks!

Categories
Blog Health + Beauty

10 Spring Break Beauty Tips

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

It’s still snowing in some parts of the US, but in just a few days it will officially be spring! Which means that, for some of you, Spring Break is here or is just around the corner!

As you dig your bikinis and flip flops out of storage, it’s important to remember these Spring Break Beauty Tips whether you’re going to Cancun or hanging out with your family by the beach!

1. Drink plenty of water. Water is your best friend. It’s important to stay hydrated especially when out in the sun for extended periods of time. But also, if you’ll be traveling for your break, nothing will help your body acclimate faster than staying nice and hydrated.

2. Give your skin a break + let it breathe a little during your vacation. Try out some “no make up” looks if you choose to wear makeup. Otherwise, go for a natural sunscreen + chapstick only dewy look.

3. Try a fresh and fruity cleanser. Clean & Clear has this oil free pink grapefruit foaming scrub. I love the way this cleanser smells; so clean and fruity! It’s awesome and has these gentle exfoliating beads that help smooth away rough spots. It also contains salicylic acid which helps clear my skin up!

4. Use Sunscreen. Lots of it. Everyone wants to come back from spring break with a nice healthy glow, but be mindful about how long you’re in the sun. Sunburns are serious so apply a UVA/UVB sunscreen often and wear a hat or stay in a partially shaded area. Make sure to use it on your face and body.

5. Try some no-heat hair styles. If you’ll be in the sun but out of the water, opt for some fun braided, no-heat hairstyles. Braids are a soft, feminine way to keep your hair out of your face while giving you a nice, put-together but beachy look.

6. Try some new hair ties! Hold your braids together with cute, fun hair ribbons. If you haven’t used these ribbon hair ties before, definitely give them a try. They prevent breakage and come in a variety of colors. Check out some of the different varieties: here, here, and here.

7. Lock in the moisture in your hair. The sun + chlorinated or salty water can dry out your hair. If you’ll be in and out of water, try first to wet your hair and coat the ends with conditioner to lock in moisture.

8. Exfoliate. Pre, during, and post Spring Break. Exfoliating is the best way to keep your skin super soft and vacation ready. Before you embark on your journey, exfoliating will help you apply sunless tanning lotion evenly and prevent streaking. During your excursion, exfoliating will keep your skin from peeling or flaking from being out in the sun. And once you’re back home, it will help keep you looking glowy and fresh! I like to use the brown sugar and oatmeal body scrub from the San Francisco Bath Salt Company.

9. Get a Mani/Pedi. Nothing says Spring Break more than fun bright nail color! I like neon and bright pink nail polishes. Bright nail color can help you look extra tan. I really like Collide by Ilamasqua.

10. Hydrate your skin with an After Sun Lotion. I really like this lotion from Hawaiian Tropic it has aloe and feels nice and cooling on your skin after a long day in the sun. Your skin will thank you.

What are your plans for Spring Break? Share your Beauty Tips in the comments!