Singles Swag January Review

Singles Swag is a monthly lifestyle subscription boxed aimed at single women to empower and inspire them. While the target audience is single women, Singles Swag can appeal to a wide variety of women, despite their relationship status. Who doesn't love getting a box full of great items?

Singles Swag offers two boxes: 

• Singles Swag Petite which is 3-4 full size products for $24.99 (USD) a month
• Singles Swag which is 6-7 full size products for $39.00 (USD) a month

I have known about this subscription for about a year, but the January box is the first box that I received. 

• Zoe Ayla Classy Rose Gold Eyelash Curler I always enjoy getting beauty tools in subscription boxes, as they are items I use but rarely buy for myself.
  Retail Value $40.00
• Nico New York Silver Bar Necklace This is a very simple and classic necklace. I am not a big jewelry wearer- I ware the same pieces every day- but I am sure I will find someone to gift this to.
  Retail Value $64.00
• Purlisse 6-pc Blue Lotus + White Tea Sheet Mask Set I am huge Purlisse fan and have tried this mask before. I love that we got a full box instead of just one or two masks.
  Retail Value $38.00
• Spongelle Pedi Buffer Spongelle is popular with subscription boxes and I'm not mad about it. Spongelle is basically a sponge that is infused with cleanser that you can reuse (usually up to 14 times). This is a little different because it is a buffer for your feet, but it's the same concept. Looking forward to trying this out!
  Retail Value $16
• Headbands of Hope Black Confetti Beanie This is a fun and appropriate product for a January box. I don't wear hats, but I know I will be able to gift this to someone. I love that for every product sold, Headbands for Hope donates a handband to a child with cancer.
  Retail Value $32
• Pure Comsetics Pure Illumination Light Up Gloss This is hands down my favourite product in this box! Not only is there a mirror on the side of the package (brilliant!) but there is also an LED light built into the wand (extra brilliant)! I am fan of Pure Cosmetics, and this lip gloss doesn't disappoint. Note: Some people received a Real Her lip stick instead of this gloss. I am not a fan of Real Her, so I was excited that I got the gloss!
  Retail Value $22.00
• Socada Milk Chocolate Bar This is Italian milk chocolate, which I didn't realize was a thing.
  Retail Value $5.00
• Total value $217.00

I am pretty happy with my first Singles Swag Box! With the exception of the necklace and hat- both great, just not for me- I love everything in the box! The value is worth what I paid, and I am interested to see what next month's box will hold!

White Willow February 2018 Review

I have been subscribing to White Willow Box, a Canadian lifetsyle subscription box, for a few years now and it is still one of my all time favourite subscription boxes! Boxes are $49.95 each (plus tax and shipping) and ships every other month. There is still time to sign up for the April box, and White Willow currently ships to both Canad and the US. 

Each box contains 4-5 full size and sample size beauty, fashion, home decor, and other lifestyle products. White Willow curates beautiful and unique boxes, with quality products. 

Here's what was included in the February 2018 box:

• 1000 Roses Floral Toner by Andalou Naturals Certified Organic and made with fair trade ingredients, this product tones, moisturizes, and refreshes your skin. The mist has a rose scent, and I am not a fan of rose, but I love how hydrating it is on my overly parched skin.
  Retail Value $17
• Quilted Cross Body Purse Curated in two colours- black and beige- this faux leather purse can be worn over the shoulder or cross body, thanks to an adjustable strap, I love the quilted patterned, and I, surprisingly, don't own a cross body bag. I really love this! This is the first purse that White Willow has included in one of their boxes.
  Retail Value $37
• Rose Flower Mask by Kocostar There are a total of 12 patches that can be applied anywhere on your body for extra moisture. I most likely going to use this on my face, as I LOVE sheet masks. I think it's interesting that these are 'petals' instead of a traditional sheet mask.
  Retail Value $7
• 4-Piece Box of Handcrafted Chocolates by Karat Chocolate Boutique

How beautiful are these chocolates?! Too pretty to eat, but they are also mouthwatering! Handcrafted in Okanagan Valley, the four flavours are:
Merlot, Cherry, Black Current Riesling Ice Wine Chocolate Lava Creme Caramel
Retail Value $9

• Square Gold Lips Dish/Trinket Tray Super cute! White Willow has included items like this before, but I really don't mind because they are all so different in the way they look. This can be used as a catch all, jewelry dish, small serving dish, candy dish, and it can be displayed in so many different rooms in your home. This is a versatile piece!
  Retail Value $19

The February 2018 box has a retail value of $89 CAD, While White Willow is never a high value box, the value is always worth more than I pay. I also love the variety of products- beauty, fashion, home decor, and food were all represented in this box. They do a great job of encompassing "lifestyle" and I can't wait to see what's included in their April box!

Put A Bow On It April Deluxe Review

Up until recently, Put a Bow On It offered two monthly boxes- Premium ($64.95 plus shipping) and Deluxe ($36 plus shipping). Both boxes have a different theme each month, and different items related to "lifestyle". Both boxes contain 4-5 items, and the Premium box is said to have higher value items. Personally, I prefer the Deluxe box. I think the items are just as good (if not better) as the items in the Premium box and I feel that the value of the items are more inline with what I pay for the box.

Sadly, in March, Put A Bow On It announced they would no longer be offering the Deluxe box. This was disappointing as I had recently decided that I liked the Deluxe box a lot more than the Premium box and that I would continue subscribing to the Deluxe box. At this time, I have no intention of re-subscribing to the Premium box.

The theme for the April Deluxe box is "April Showers". I'm not sure what the suggested retail value for the box is, as the printing of my product card was cut off mid-way through the last listed item. Put a Bow On It does not list individual product prices, just the overall value of the box.

Here is what was included in the April Deluxe box:

•  Umbrella a practical item for an "April Showers" themed box. Would have been fun to have an umbrella in a colour other than black or with a fun print on it.
• Kocostar Hair Mask in Hair Therapy This is a deep conditioning hair mask. Cute that they took the "April Showers" theme to mean rain or in-home showers.
• EOS Lotion I am a fan of EOS lip balm and had no idea that they also did lotion! I'm excited to give this a try.
• Relaxing Therapy Colouring Book I feel that the adult colour book, while still on trend and popular, is kind of dated and has been done by subscription boxes last year. 
• Colour Pencils I like that colour pencils were included to go along with the colouring book. 

I think this was a cute box and the items fit the theme. I always feel that Put A Bow On It is sending items that were 'last season' or were included in other subscription boxes but months ago. This subscription comes across, at least to me, as a bit amateur. I am sad to see the Deluxe box come to an end. With this being their last Deluxe box, I has hoped they would go out with a bit of a 'bang'. Instead it felt like they went to the Dollar Store to pick up items and shopped the clearance section of a bookstore.

While I wasn't overly impressed with this months box, I thought it was good.

Little Life Box April 2017

I am an avid follower of A Year Of Boxes, which is a blog that reviews all kinds of subscription boxes- and it's Canadian! Sarah and her team do a great job of reviewing well known, niche, and up and coming boxes. I have been introduced to a number of boxes- some I have liked, some I have not, and some I am keeping an eye on so I can try them if/when they start to ship to Canada. 

Sarah is a fan of Little Life Box and shared a 50% off code, so I thought I would give them a try. April 2017, is the first box I received and I loved it! Before I show you what was in the box, let's cover the basics: Little Life Box is a monthly, Canadian box that features 8-12 health items- food, beauty, vitamins, and other lifestyle products- for $23, plus $5 shipping. 

Here's what was in the April 2017 box:

 

• Camino Chocolate Bunny This is fair-trade, nut-free, and organic dark chocolate. Appropriate because Easter is in April this year. Plus, dark chocolate is pretty good for you.
• Liquid Honey this is 100% Quebec honey, and it also says "wild flowers", does this mean the honey was produced from wild flowers? I have no idea! But I love this! I actually use honey in my morning smoothies to add a bit of sweetness. 
• Kind Bars in Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate I am a fan of Kind bars, and I love a peanut butter & chocolate flavour combination. I'm thinking I'm going to keep these at work for the odd morning that I skip breakfast,
• Caboo Tree Free Travel Wipes these wipes are made from sustainable bamboo- which I love! I will be doing some traveling this summer, and these will be great to have in my bag. 
• Neocell Beauty Bursts in Fresh Mint Chocolate I'm not 100% sure what this is...it syays choclate, but it also says "Gourmet Collagen Soft Chew" and "Dietary Supplement". The back of the package indicates that the ingredients have beauty benefits- skin rebuilder, skin hydration, collagen enhancer. 
• Sinuspax I am actually interested in this product! We had some extreme weather changes about a month ago, which lead to a lot of sinus pain for me. With Spring, I am anticipating some (hopefully minor) sinus issues, This product offers relief of nasal congestion, inflammation, and sinus pain.
• Ingenium Naturals Wellness Blend Tea in Digestion and Energizing These are loose leaf teas, which I like, and I like that they both have specific benefits. I'm looking forward to trying them both, 
• Hemp Protein & Fibre Powder in Berry and Vanilla Flavours Another product that I add to my morning smoothie! I make mixed berry smoothies, so both flaours will pair well.
• Puressential Respitore Spray This product offers relief to sore throats. On the advise of a doctor, I have tried a similar product in the past and did not like it- anything the spray touched (ex my tongue) became numb. I will give this product a try and see if it's any different...but I am a little leery about trying it.
• Bounce Protein Energy Ball in Cacao Orange I've actually tried this product before- but not this flavour- and really liked it! This is something else I might bring to work and keep in my desk for days that I need a little energy boost. 
• Elan Banana Chips My aunt and uncle opened a health food store when I was about 9 or 10, and banana chips were one of the first things my mom bought from their store. I have been eating these for years and love them!

The only thing I didn't like about this box is that they did not provide a product card, which I really wish they had. Overall, I LOVE this box! While this box had a variety of products, most of them were food and beverage based products, which I really don't mind- they are all items I will use. I like to have snacks around my condo to throw in my bag or to bring to work, and I feel the amount of snacks will last all month, if not longer. 

 

Even though I had a 50% off code, I like the price point- about $30 including tax and shipping- and I feel that the value of the box is at least this much. The fact that I love everything (except the throat spray) and that the items are things that I will personally use- no gifting any items to family and friends- adds additional value for me. Another 'value added' is that this box is unlike any other subscription box I have seen. A lot of things to like!

 

I'm excited to see what the May box includes, and from there I will decide if I want to keep subscribing.    

FabFitFun Spring 2017 Review

I have been subscribing to FabFitFun for over two years and they have consistently been one of my favourite subscriptions boxes! This is a quarterly subscription box that costs $49.99 USD plus shipping and it is totally worth it! FabFitFun sends all kinds of products- fitness, decor, fashion, beauty- and the value of the box is amazing. The Spring Box has a retail value of $374 USD, which is more than 7 times what I paid- crazy!

 

Members who have an annual subscription (which I do) get the option of picking some of their products; in this box we got to pick the Gypsy 50 Roundie, Milly Zip Pouch, and REALHER Lip Kit. FabFitFun offers add-ons, where you can add items to your box. These are items that have appeared in past boxes, new items by brands that have been in previous boxes, as well as new items/brands that have not been featured before. For the Spring box, they also introduced a new feature where we could customize our box! We were given the choice between a cuff or earrings, or you could pay an extra $10 and get both!

 

Enough about all that...let's see what was in the Spring 2017 box!!

Gypsy 50 Roundie- This was a spoiler for this box and I was so excited for it! I have a Tofino Towel (the original round towel), which I LOVE, so I was excited to have another round towel. I was a little disappointed- this more of a table cloth/outdoor blanket piece. I still love it and think it's pretty, and I have plans to use it once the warm weather arrives. (NOTE: in the picture above, all the items are on top of the Roundie)
Value $50

 

Milly Zip Pouch- This pouch is water resistant and perfect for keeping wet bathing suits in.This bag came in four colours with four different sayings, and I was pretty sure I had picked another one of the bags. I thought I had selected the blue bag that says "Beach Please", but this is still a fun, practical product that I will get a lot of use out of. 

Value $45

 

Karuna Hydrating Face Mask- I am so excited for this! I love getting skin care products, I love sheet masks, and I love that this product is specifically for dry skin- which is my number one skin care problem. The masks are made from wood-pulp, which I have never tried before. Can't wait to test these out!

Value $28

Deborah Lippmann Nail Polish in Shape of my Heart and Like a Virgin- These are two pretty colours and are perfect for spring. I'm personally not a fan of the colours, so I will likely gift this to my sister or a friend.

Value $19

Briogeo Rosarco Milk Reparative Leave-In Conditioning Spray- This product is supposed to soften strengthen, and improve moisture levels of your hair. It contains argan and coconut oils- both of which I have used on my hair before and loved- so I have high hopes for this product and my hair.

Value $20

Dr Brandt Microdermabrasion Age Defying Exfoliator- I am familair with Dr Brandt as a brand, and again, I love getting skin care products. I have exfoliator that I have been using for the past couple of months, which my skin has gotten used to, so the product is not as effective. I was in need of a new exfoliator; I'm looking forward to trying this. 

Value $79

LUV AJ Diamond Kite Crawler Earring Set- This was part of the customization that was introduced for this box (the other option was a cage bracelet). Made of 14K rose gold, there were two earrings; small studs that will likely become part of my everyday jewellery, and crawler earrings which I have never worn before. Both pars of earrings are pretty and will go well with a variety of outfits and situations. 

Value $85

 

REALHER Lip Kit in Neutral Pink- This came in three colours (Red, Pink, Nude) and I went with the neutral pink (pictured below). I love that we were given a lip kit- pencil, liquid lipstick, plumping lip gloss- and not just one lip product. You can use the products separately or together, and I love that they include empowering messages/mantras on their lip products.

Value $48

In general, I love FabFitFun and I think this box just enforces my love for them! I know people bulk a bit at the price, but this a quarterly box (so you're not paying $50 every months) and the value is crazy. I love the variety of items they include, and I (with the exception of the nail polish) will get use out of all the items. This is an amazing box that everyone should try at least once.

Put A Bow On It March Deluxe Review

I feel that I have doing a lot of reviews recently- books and subscription boxes. So, here is yet another subscription box review. Today I am reviewing the Put A Bow On It March Deluxe Box. 

Put a Bow On It has two monthly boxes- Premium ($64.95 plus shipping) and Deluxe ($36 plus shipping). Both boxes have a different theme each month, and different items related to "lifestyle". Both boxes contain 4-5 items, and the Premium box is said to have higher value items. Personally, I prefer the Deluxe box. I think the items are just as good (if not better) as the items in the Premium box and I feel that the value of the items are more inline with what I pay for the box. 

The theme for the March Deluxe box is "Spring Ahead" and is said to have a suggested retail value of $65 (they do not list prices for individual items on their product card, just the overall value).

• Wedgewood Tea in Fine Strawberry Strawberry is probably my favourite fruit and fruit flavour. This is a loose leaf tea and I'm thinking it would be good as an iced tea.
• High Reed Diffuser in Lavender This item came in a couple of different scents and I would have liked the Ocean Mist one- I love the ocean and I am kinda over lavender...I have so many lavender scented products. I am excited to see this product! Since moving into my new place in December, I have been incorporating scent into my decor and I look forward to using this. Plus, the bottle is really pretty and can be repurposed after the oil is gone. 
• Agrumeto Liquid Hand Soap in Mandarin I have more liquid hand soap than I know what to do with, so I will likely pass this on to a family member or friend. 
• Elizabeth Arden High Shine Lipgloss in Honey Glaze This is a really pretty neutral colour, perfect for spring and one that I will be adding to my beauty routine.
• Wedgewood Jam in Blueberry and Blackcurrant I like that a food item was included in this box. I'm not a fan of blueberry, so I will gift this to someone. 

Overall, I'm pretty satisfied with this month's box. I'm not sure that the items fit the theme, which I'm ok with. I like that they included a variety of items that fit the 'lifestyle' genre and that these are items that I will use or can easily pass on to someone else for them to enjoy.

White Willow February Review

I have been subscribing to White Willow for a year now and this is one of my favourite subscriptions boxes! I was surprised that I have only posted one White Willow review on my blog- the first box I received from them. 

White Willow is a bi-monthly lifestyle subscription box, based in Canada. The price is $49.95/month and the value of each box is around $80. The February box has a suggested retail value of $88.25. Note: All prices are CAD.

Their February box didn't disappoint!!

• Fragrance Medallion by D.L. & Co White Willow frequently introduces me to new products- including this one! The ceramic medallion is to be used in small spaces (drawers, closets, bathrooms) to diffuse scents. Place a couple drops of oil on the medallion every couple of weeks and you are good to go. The scent I got is Thorne Apple (the other scent is Lady Rhubarb). Since moving to my new place, I have been incorporating scents into my home, and I am looking forward to trying this out!
  Retail price $34
• Gold Foil Polka Dot Plate This is a multiple purpose item; it can be used to serve food, under candles, soap dish, catch all... This is super cute and I will likely use it as a catch all. About a week before receiving this box, I made a note to buy a catch all for my daily jewelry.
  Retail price $19
• Lip Macaron by MOR Australia made with a ton of great ingredients- Jojoba, coconut oil, papaya seed oil, beeswax, cocoa butter, and vitamin E- this product will hydrate and nourish your lips, while adding a light sheen. This item was curated in Rosebud, Passion Flower (which is what I got), Lychee Flower, Peach Nectar, and Cassis Noir.
  Retail price $14
• Caramello Pocket Chocolate Bar by URGE Chocolate White Willow frequently includes a food product in their boxes and it is always amazing! This chocolate bar will be no different- 55% Dark Belgian chocolate, creamy caramel layered centre, topped with sea salt. My mouth is watering!
  Retail price $5
• Playing Footsie Foot Soak by Barefoot Venus First of all, I was so excited to see a Barefoot Venus product! I am a fan of this company- I love their products and I love that they are Canadian! I was also excited to see this because a few days before the box arrived, I was thinking how great it would be if subscription boxes included a Barefoot Venus product! Finally, I was excited because this is a Barefoot Venus product that I had never tried!
  Retail price $16.25

How amazing is the February box?! I love everything! I feel that White Willow includes a great variety of products related to 'lifestyle'. The products are also good quality and unique. Every other month, they delivery a great subscription box and this is always the first subscription I recommend to people. 

A Note About Customer Service White Willow has the BEST customer service that I have ever encountered anywhere. Ever. Professional, polite, timely, willing to help. I had a couple of issues in December, no fault of White Willow, because I had moved:

1. My postal code for my credit card no longer matched their files, so the payment was declined. Not only did I get a personal email (instead of an automated form), but White Willow offered to hold my order until the issue was resolved, instead of putting it back in their inventory, where the item might still be available by the time I got the postal code sorted out.
2. The box was delivered to a Community Mailbox and it took me almost two weeks to get the package, even though it was in my building. This was a Canada Post/my Condo Management issue. The frustration I felt with Canada Post/Condo Management made me reach out to White Willow and ask them to mark future deliveries as 'do not safe drop'. This ended up being a complicated process and White Willow did all of the work. I appreciate them looking into this for me and make the necessary arrangements for me to pick up my box at the post office.

Put A Bow On It February Premium Box Review

Put A Bow On It is a Canadian, monthly, lifestyle subscription box. I had subscribed to this box in the past and decided to give them another try. They offer two boxes, Deluxe (which I will be reviewing next week) and Premium, which I am reviewing today. 

The Premium box is $64.95/month plus shipping. You will get 4-5 items a month that are lifestyle related and that fit the theme for that month. The Deluxe and Premium boxes have different themes. The theme for the February Premium box is XOXO and is said to have a retail value of $83.00

• XO Mittens These fit the theme, and are perfect for a February box. They are fleece lined, so they are also super warm. 
• Fresh Sugar Tinted Lip Treatment I have seen this product in Sephora and it claims to moisturize, protect, and smooth lips, and offers sheer coverage or buildable colour. While I was happy to see this product, the shade I received is purple and not for me. 
• Cherry Pick Double Pearls Classic Earrings I will admit that I was super disappointed to see this item; I received the exact same item in another Canadian lifestyle subscription box a few months ago. Since they are double-sided, you can wear either smaller pearls or bigger pearls. I will be gifting these to a friend.
• Cherry Pick Layered Up Double Necklace The necklace is pretty and I do like it! I know some people will like getting necklace and earrings from the same company, but I would have preferred to different brands. I also would have preferred receiving only one jewelry item.With that said, I do like the necklace a lot more than I like the earrings. 

I have mixed feelings about this box. I want to like it because it's Canadian and a lifestyle box. I also like that they have different themes each month, and the products usually fit the theme. I'm not sure how the two jewelry pieces fit the XOXO theme. I don't necessarily think that subscriptions boxes need to have a crazy value, but I do think that the value of the box should at least equal the price of the box. I know the product cards (which does not list individual prices) says the box has an $83 value...I have a hard time believing that. 

This box left me feeling a little underwhelmed...even disappointed. I know there are a number of bloggers who love the Premium box, but it's not for me.

FabFitFun Winter Box Review

I have been subscribing to FabFitFun for over two years and they have consistently been one of my favourite subscriptions boxes! This is a quarterly subscription box that costs $49.99 USD plus shipping and it is totally worth it! FabFitFun sends all kinds of products- fitness, decor, fashion, beauty- and the value of the box is amazing. The Winter Box has a retail value of $252.95 USD.

 D.L. & Co Candle- There were two options for this candle and I received the Bergamot Woods in the silver holder. I am not a huge fan of candles, but the holder is pretty-I already have it on display in my home- and I think it's a great home decor item for a winter subscription box.
Retail value: $44

Anderson Lilley Beach Butter Body Cream- Again, there were two options for this item and I received Siciliam Tangerine which is a scent that I love! I am happy that we got this product...I was looking for a product like this to keep on my bedside table. It's also supposed to be hydrating, so we'll see what it can do for my always parched skin.
Retail value: $24

Butter London Iconoclast Mega Volume Lacquer Mascara- I feel that mascara is a subscription box staple- you really can't go wrong with mascara. I am familiar with Butter London as a brand and I do like them. I don't wear mascara on a daily basis, so I'll probably end up gifting this to my sister.
Retail value: $20

Moleskine 2017 Weekly Planner- This came in two colours and I received the green one. This is probably my favourite item in this box!! I think that planners are the perfect addition to winter/December/January boxes. Moleskine is a well known brand. I love how thin and lightweight their planners are. I love how it's set up weekly and that there are pages for notes. There is a lot I love about this planner! I already have a planner for 2017, but I know that I will find a use for this and I'm excited to start using it!
Retail Value: $20.95

Gorjana Necklace- Again, there were two different necklaces and I selected the Kiernan Double Pendent Necklace. I liked the look of this necklace over the other option (because I have a yearly subscription, I actually get to select some of the items I receive), and I like silver over gold. I keep my jewelry pretty simple and tend to stick to about 2 or 3 necklaces, but I would actually wear this!
Retail Value: $75

Startlight Foundation Pin- With each box, FabFitFun partners with a different charity and throws in an item related to the partnership. This time, they partnered with the Startlight Foundation, which is a charity I am familiar with and I am happy that FabFitFun partnered with them.
Retail Value: N/A

Marie Mae Company Thank You Card Set- These cards are so pretty! I like that they are postcard style instead of the traditional folded card. I also like that they say 'Cheers' on the front; even though these are thank you cards, I feel like you can use them for different occasions. I send a lot of hand written notes, so I'm always happy to add stationary to my collection.
Retail Value: $24

O.R.G. Skincare Mineral Peel Face- I like trying new skincare products, as I am always on the hunt to find a product that can help my forever dry skin. This isn't a hydrating product, but I am looking forward to trying this product. It seems pretty simple to use- spray on, massage off. It promises softer, smoother, more radiant skin...all things that I want for my skin!

Retail Value: $44

Overall, I am happy with the FabFitFun Winter Box! I'm surprised that they didn't include a fitness related item... These are all products that I would use (I would use the mascara if my current tube was nearing the end) and I think they are great for a winter box. I highly recommend this box!

White Willow: March Box

First of all, Happy St Patrick's Day!! Besides work and watching the season finale of How To Get Away With Murder, two things that are not very "Irish", I have no plans to celebrate this day. I will wear the only green piece of clothing I have, a cardigan, in the spirit of this holiday, and of course reflect on my Irish roots.

A couple of months ago, I heard about a new subscription box, White Willow. I saw a lot of positive reviews and liked the products that were being included in the box. I also liked that this is a lifestyle subscription box and that it's Canadian!! This is a monthly subscription and you will get 4-5 items with a value of at least $70. Subscriptions are monthly ($35), 3 months ($34), 6 months ($33) or 12 months ($32), plus shipping.

March was the first White Willow Box that I received...and I LOVED it!! They made a great first impression with their packaging- a crisp, clean white box with their logo. When you opened the box, it said "Unveil your surprise" with their hashtag underneath- which I loved, I didn't have to go searching for it. They also included a welcome card-nice touch- and a product card. Not all subscription boxes include product cards, even though they should! White Willow had pictures of the products, which were numbered and corresponded with the numbered description, making it easy to match everything up. 

So, what did I get?

• Lindo Konjac Sponge: This is something I have received in other subscription boxes, so I wasn't super excited about it. However, I do think it's a great product and something I will definitely use.
  Value: $15
• Organic Infused Basil Oil by La Tourangelle Artisan Oils: First of all I was so surprised and impressed to see this product included! I love the fact that they included a cooking product that I can actually use! I have never seen a product like this included in a lifestyle box and I think it's a fantastic addition! Plus it's GMO free, which is good. It can also be used in a variety of dishes: chicken, fish, pasta, pizza, salad, or with bread. I'm looking forward to using this!!
  Value: $12
• Mudlark Memento Boxed Notes: I am not crazy about the design- I'm not a fan of floral prints- but I hand write notes all. the. time. There are 20 cards in four different designs. I will be using these and I was happy to have more note cards to add to my stationary collection. What I like even more is that the box is pretty solid and magnetic, so it will make a great keepsake box too. Two products in one.
  Value: $18
• LOLLIA "Breathe" by Margot Elena Shower Gel: This is a "perfumed" shower gel...and it definitely has a scent to it! The scent-which is a little too much for my liking- is peonies and white lily. I'm hoping that when I use it in the shower, the water will bring the scent down a lot. It smells nice, if you like a strong floral scent. This was the "big ticket" item in the box and I'm not sure I would pay this much for a shower gel.
  Value: $30
• Oil Serving Dish: Another product that I was surprised and impressed to see included! Especially since it is something that can be used on it's own/with stuff you already have, and/or with a product (Infused Basil Oil) that was included in the box. I love getting kitchen products, especially practical ones that I will use! Even when not in use, this dish will be on display in my kitchen. You can't really tell from the picture, but there is a design of a bunch of grapes on the plate, which balsamic vinegar will gravitate too when mixed with oil. Love, love, love this!
  Value: $6
• Bonus item: Lindt chocolate. This is a well known and delicious brand and I was happy to see it included as a 'bonus' item. 

 What I paid: $42 (subscription + shipping)

Total value: $81 (bonus item not included)

  

The value is almost double what I paid! Even thought the value isn't as high compared to some other boxes (FabFitFun), it's still a great value. It actually has a higher value to me because I like all of the products and will use all of them. Even more value is added for me, because three of the products (oil dish, infused oil, note cards) are products that I have yet to see in a lifestyle box...the uniqueness of the products add value for me.

My first White Willow Box definitely lived up to my expectations and I cannot wait for my April box to arrive!!

Note: All prices listed in this post are CAD.

Topbox Limited Edition: The Kit's Summer Survival

Topbox is a Canadian company which does monthly subscription boxes, as well as a number of limited edition boxes throughout the year. I used to be a monthly subscriber; even though I have cancelled my subscription, I do buy their limited edition boxes, if the content appeals to me.

The content of the Kit's Limited Edition Summer Survival Guide Box did appeal to me, so I bought one. The box shipped mid-August. Honestly, I wish it has shipped earlier so that I could enjoy these products during the summer. By the time I got my box there were only 2 weeks left. 

• Redken Frizz Dismiss FPF Fly-Away Fix Sheets- Described as "dry like sheets", you smooth one over dry hair to combat fly-aways and frizz. The sheets are in the box and not pre-packaged/individually packaged, which makes me wonder how long it will be before they dry out. Also, the box I have is for fine hair, which my hair is not...so I'm serious to see how well they will work.
  Retail Value: $25
  Topbox Value: $25
• Marc Anthony Hydrating Coconut Oil & Shea Butter Moisture Rich Body Butter Dual Packs- I love the smell of coconut and I hope this smells good- since it's in a foil package, I don't want to open it until I'm ready to use it. We'll see what this product can do for my extra dry skin.
  Retail Value: $8.96
  Topbox Value: $1.34
• Avon MagIX Face Perfecter SPF 20- This primer claims to smooth fine lines. I love that it has SPF 20! That alone will make me use this product. It's thicker than any primer I have ever used, but it did make my skin feel smoother.
  Retail Value: $9.99
  Topbox Value: $9.99
• Evian Brumisateur Facial Spray- I LOVE THIS PRODUCT!!! I have been a fan of Evian Facial Spray for years! This product can be used to set your make-up or to keep you skin hydrated- which is what I use it for. This is by far my favourite product, and the one I am most excited about, in this box.
  Retail Value: $15 for two
  Topbox Value: $7.50
• Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Face Lotion SPF 30- This product claims to provide 12 hours of hydration- which I can't wait to test out- and protection from UVA and UVB. It smells like sunscreen, but wasn't nearly as greasy. It did make my skin feel hydrated as soon as it was applied.
  Retail Value: $9.99
  Topbox Value: $9.99
• Illumalift Brightening Cream- This is a Canadian brand, which makes me extra excited to try it. This is supposed to be a primer, that minimizes the signs of aging by enhancing collagen production, while brightening your skin. I'm not sure how I feel about this product...it's kind of like a cream blush and you have to really blend it in, or else you have yellow streaks. It does feel light, which I like.
  Retail Value: $33
  Topbox Value: Unknown...it's a sample size and doesn't say how much is in the sample
• OGX Nourishing Coconut Milk Shampoo- My sister actually uses this shampoo, so I'm looking forward to trying it. It claims to make your hair shine, as well as strengthen it.
  Retail Value: $7.99
  Topbox Value: $1.23
• Saint Cosmetics Eyeshawdow in Lay It Out In Lavender- The packaging is cute, but the colour isn't for me. I would have loved to try one of the other colours they had...basically, any of the other colours would have been more "me" than lavender.
  Retail Value: $24
  Topbos Value: $24
• Barefoot Venus All Cracked Up Repairing Cocoa Butter Foot Balm- Like the rest of my body, the skin on my feet is super dry and I'm always looking for a product to use on them. I was introduced to this brand by Topbox in another box I got, and feel in love with the brand. Besides the Evian Spray, I am most excited about this product! It smells amazing!! It feels thick to the touch, but it goes on super light.
  Retail Value:$17.99
  Topbox Value:$2.77
• Rene Furterer Okara Active Light Shampoo- Not only does this product repair damaged hair, but it's especially for highlighted and bleached hair. I don't do either to my hair, so I'm not sure if this product will do anything for me,
  Retail Value: $29.00
  Topbox Value: $2.18
• Purology Colour Fanatic Multi-Tasking Hair Beautifier for Colour Treated Hair- I am confused by this product...it's a spray that was 21 functions? I did a little googling to try and figure more out; it "primes, protects and perfects colour-treated hair". Uses include leave in conditioner, hair cutting lotion, detanlger spray, hair cuticle sealer, anti-frizz spray, hair shine treatment... I'm still confused. I guess I'll give this a try and see what happens.
  Retail Value: $25
  Topbox Value: $3.73

Total Retail Value: $172.92 (does not include Illumalift Brightening Cream)
Total Topbox Value: $87.73 (does not include Illumalist Brightening Cream)

Don't remember how much I paid for this box, but it was between $30 and $40. Regardless, this box has a great value, almost $90 worth of products. There are a couple of products I won't use, and a bunch I am excited to try. Overall, pretty happy with this box!!

Fab Fit Fun- Summer 2015 Box

I love a subscription box just as much as the next girl, and I have to say that I love Fab Fit Fun! This is currently the only subscription box I subscribed to. 

Fab Fit Fun is a seasonal box that is $49.99 a quarter or $179.99 a year. I bulked a little bit at the price tag, but the value of the boxes are amazing and you get full size products. Also, I like that Fab Fit Fun is not just a beauty box, they send a variety of products.

Something that I like is that they include a card with product information and price. Unfortunately, my box this time around didn't include the card, which was disappointing. Also disappointing is that one of my products leaked in the box...not the end of the world and it could be worse.

My Subscription Addiction did post the reveal card, so I was able to get the product information from that.

So, what did I get?

The Everyday Wireless Speaker by FabFitFun- I was so excited to receive this!! Created by FabFitFun, this is a portable, wireless speaker with an FM radio, smartphone compatibility and bluetooth with microphone! The sound is actually pretty good too. I'm going to get a ton of use out of this.
Value $29.99

Scratch Limited Edition Nail Wraps- I am not a fan of nail wraps...I just don't like them. I will be gifting these to someone.

Value $12

Hello Konjac Cleansing Sponge- "a secret remedy from Korea"...this sponge exfoliates and cleanses. You can use it with your cleanser or own it's own, which is what I'll do. I've heard a ton about these sponges and I'm excited to finally try one!!

Value $12

Vaseline Intensive Care Spray Moisturizer in Aloe Smooth (Sponsored)- FabFitFun includes sponsored items to off-set the cost of the box. This by far the best sponsored item I've received to date. This product claims to hydrate dry skin (HUGE issue for me) and sooth skin after a day in the sun.

Value $7.99

Gorge "I'll Make You Look Amazing" Daily Spray- This is a leave in conditioner, which sounds like you can use it on damp or dry hair. I'm not crazy about leave in conditioners, as they usually leave my hair looking greasy. But I'll give this one a try...it claims not to leave a residue and to repair all hair issues. I have crazy fizzy hair in the summer- thanks naturally curly hair and Ontario humidity!!- so we'll see what this product can do to help.

Value $24.95

Wren 14Kt Gold and Black Sapphire Necklace- As a subscriber, I actually had a choice between yellow or rose gold, and moon, heart or horseshoe. I thought I picked the horseshoe...but I ended up with the moon, which I might have picked. I also thought I picked yellow gold, but ended up with rose gold. I LOVE black sapphires, but the sapphire is super tiny. Still a pretty necklace!!

Value $100

Inkling Scents Roll-On Oil Perfume in Sultry- This product actually leaked...while it was a nice scent to meet me when I opened the box, not so pleasant to have the oil on some of the other products. I'm kind of meh when it comes to perfume samples, generally not liking them. But this one, I like!! "Sultry is a blend of creamy sandalwood, white amber, lotus flower, orchid, Bulgarian rose, and silky vanilla." It smells so good and will be something that I will actually wear! 

Value $25

Tarte LipSurgence Lip Gloss in Envy- Subscribers had the chance to pick the colour that they wanted. This is a deeper pink and great for my skin tone. Bonus that I actually like Tarte as a brand. 

Value $19

FabFitFun x CosmoBody Jump Rope- The past few boxes, the "fit" portion has been a workout DVD, so it was nice to get something a bit different. I like to think that I will use this, but I live in an apartment, and I'm not sure the people below me will be too happy. But we'll see...maybe I'll use it anyway. 

Value $14
 

Headsapce 3-Month Subscription- Generally, I'm not a fan of gift cards or trial subscriptions, just because I know I won't use them. Usually the value isn't enough to buy anything or there is fine print with the trial, so I just don't bother. This subscription, actually appeals to me and may actually use it! This is an app with guided mediation, I've been meaning to get back into guided meditations...this might just be the kick I need to get started again.

Value $38.85

Total Value $275.79 (not including sponsored item)

Another great box with a fantastic value!! There is only one item- the nail wraps- out of ten that I won't use/don't like. 

Like what you see? You can order your own Summer 2015 Box.

Fab Fit Fun- Spring 2015 Box

I love a subscription box just as much as the next girl, and I have to say that I love Fab Fit Fun! This is currently the only subscription box I subscribed to. 

Fab Fit Fun is a seasonal box that is $49.99 a quarter or $179.99 a year. I bulked a little bit at the price tag, but the value of the boxes are amazing and you get full size products. Also, I like that Fab Fit Fun is not just a beauty box, they send a variety of products. They also include a card with product information and price, which I like.

So, what did I get?

 

Jules Smith Scarf- A favourite design with celebrities, this scarf is lightweight and perfect for the spring. The splash of colour will be perfect for some of my work outfits or pair well with jeans for a weekend look.

Value $42

Cosmos Creations Premium Puffed Corn in Salted Caramel (sponsored)- Fab Fit Fun will included some sponsored items to offset the cost of the box. Said to be gluten-free, made without GMO corn, and with all-natural ingredients. Salted caramel is one of my all-time favourite flavours, so I can't wait to try this!

Value: $1.49

Merriweather 3 DVD Set "Intense Body Blast" and $25 gift card- This is a full body workout that takes basic high intensity interval training and combines it with Pilates (which I love). Each DVD is a different level of difficulty and the run roughly 30-40 minutes. I'm really looking forward to using these!! The $25 gift card, which I likely won't use, can be used towards one of over 500 products.

Value: $61

OFRA Cosmetics Eyeshadow Brush Duo (#11 and #20)- I have had the same makeup brushes for years and I'm slowly replacing them with different brushes that I've gotten from subscription boxes. Brush #11 is for eyeshadow application and brush #20 is for concealer or liquid foundation.

Value: $45.90

Yasi Metallic Flash Tattoos-  A variety of designs to pick from and perfect for music festivals, or the summer in general. These aren't my personal style or preference, so I may or may not use them. Might be fun to try.

Value: $36

Rifle Paper Co. Cities Coaster Set- First of all, the box they came in is really pretty and the coasters themselves- featuring New York, London, Tokyo and Paris- are super cute! 

Value: $16

Sprout It App Card & Miracle Grow Gro-Able Seed Pod- I got the Cilantro seed pod, but there are a ton of different vegetables and herbs available. I love the concept of grow your own stuff, but I do not have a green thumb. This sounds super easy; take the lid off, plant the pod (which is biodegradable). The Sport It App (which is a free download) can be customized to your location, and will provide tips and reminders for gorwing your plant. 

Value $1.49 (pod only)

ORLY Nail Polish in Cake Pop- A "subtle pink creme colour", which I'm not crazy about it. It's a good colour for the tips of a french manicure. I do not like this product...it went on really streaky and I had to apply multiple coats just to cover my nail. Even then, it just looked horrible...like a 5 year old painted my nails.

Value: $8.50

 Palmetto Derma Collagen Booster and Restoration Serum- This product promises to do what a lot of serums do: increase collagen, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, slow down aging. Does it work? Only time will tell. It has more of a water texture, as compared to other serums, which I liked, and didn't feel heavy or greasy on my skin. This is something I will definitely use.

Value $48

ORLY Nail BB Creme- You know BB creams for your face? This is supposed to be the same thing, but for your nails. It is supposed to "help smooth, moisturize and brighten natural nails". It's not a top coat, base coat and you're not supposed to use it with nail polish. It has a "peachy tint". Does it do what it's supposed to? No idea, but it did add shine to my nails, which I liked. It also went on MUCH better than the other ORLY nail polish. 

Value $15

Total Value:  $273.89 (doesn't included sponsored item)

What a FANTASTIC value!!! I got 9 full size products (plus a sponsored item) and the value is well over what I paid. I won't use every item, but I will use most of them. Plus, I love the variety of types of products included. I can't wait for the Summer 2015 Box!

If you like what you see, you can order your own Spring 2015 Fab Fit Fun box.

Fab Fit Fun- Winter 2014 Review

Subscriptions boxes are pretty trendy right now and there seems to be a subscription for everything. I think the appeal of subscription boxes are two fold; 1. who doesn't love getting something in the mail that isn't a bill and 2. they are a kind of throw back to care packages. 

When I was in university- which really wasn't that long ago- I would fill small boxes with things I loved or I thought my friends would love, and would send them to friends. It wasn't a subscription, but the concept was the same. I was a fan of the now defunct My Dream Sample Box, loved ipsy for two years before cancelling my subscription and currently subscribe to Topbox.  I had recently heard about Fab Fit Fun and decided that I would give it a try.

Fab Fit Fun is a seasonal box that is $49.99 a quarter or $179.99 a year. I bulked a little bit at the price tag, but the value of the boxes are said to be a $300 value and full size products. Also liked that Fab Fit Fun is not just a beauty box, they send a variety of products. They also include a card with product information and price, which I like.

So, what did I get?

Zumba Move 60 minute DVD & $25 gift card- This would be the 'fit' portion of the box. I love Zumba and am excited to get this DVD. I'm not sure if I'll use the gift card.

Value: $55

Fashion Project $30 gift card- Again, not sure if I'll use the gift card...Fashion Project sells pre-loved fashion items, with a portion of the sale price going to charity. I like the concept. 

Value: $18 (it's a $30 gift card, so I'm not sure why Fab Fit Fun lists the value as $18...?)

Half United Fighting Hunger Necklace- Designed from three bullet casings, this necklace is a fight against hunger. Each necklace sold supports feeding children in need.

Value: $34

Salted 3 month membership- I had never heard of Salted, which is "Netflix for cooking" or online tutorials for cooking. Great concept...but I'm not much of a cook and this membership will be wasted on me- both my lack of cooking and my lack of time to use it- so I think I'm going to gift it to a friend of mine. 

Value: $29.97

Justin's Almond Butter (sponsored)- I am actually a fan of this product and have used it before. It's just a sampler package, but it is marked as a 'sponsored' product.

Value: $0.63

Organic Valley Organic Balance Milk Protein Shake (sponsored)- I've heard of Organic Valley but never tried any of their products. The flavour is vanilla bean, so hopefully it'll be good. 

Value: $2.99

Daniel Stone COCO Candle- This candle uses coconut wax, which makes it 'healthier' (no toxins released when the candle burns) and a 'sustainable wax'. I have yet to burn this candle, but it does smell good! I think it'll be the perfect edition to the table in my living room.

Value: $42

yourMinerals Assorted Eye Shadow Duo- Mineral eye shadow seems to be in every beauty box recently. To me, the main difference between this eye shadow and eye shadow in other boxes, I will actually wear these ones!! No bright blue or green here! The colours I received Swedish Winter (a pearly white, perfect for highlighting) and Brown Hypnotic.

Value: $44

Juice Beauty Green Apple Peel Sensitive- "Spa quality"  exfoliation and a brighter complexion, reduced fine lines and wrinkles. This product has a faint smell of green apple, which is nice. I love products like this and I'm looking forward to trying it!

Value:$39

Lather AHA Hand Cream with Evening Primrose- To me, hand cream is hand cream. It was different to get a jar of hand cream instead of a tube, so there's lots of product. I found it to be a bit greasy and didn't do much for my super dry skin. It does smell really good though. 

Value: $30.00

Passport To Beauty Tibetan Goji Berry Intense Anti-Aging Eye Serum With Retinol- The smell isn't ideal, but it's not too strong- thankfully! The product claims to eliminate fine lines, wrinkles and stimulate collagen. It did leave my super dry skin feeling hydrated, which was nice. 

Value: $88

Special K Snack Bar (sponsored)- Another sponsored product...Salted pretzel chocolate flavour, which sounds delicious! Something I'll bring to work to keep in my desk for when I need a snack. I've never tried this flavour, but I do like Special K bars.
Value: $0.44

Total Value: $383.59 (not including sponsored items)

The value of this box is amazing!!! I got 9-12 products (depending if you count the sponsored items) and they are all high end products. Even if I don't use everything, which I won't, the value is still well beyond the $49.99 (USD), plus exchange and shipping...well worth it! I had originally planned to get one box and cancel my subscription, but I was so impressed that I actually went from a quarterly to a yearly subscription. I can't wait for the next box!!

Note: Before I even received this box, I got an email from Fab Fit Fun saying that one of the product codes wouldn't work in Canada and that another company didn't ship to Canada. In the same email, they included a code just for Canadians and said that we could have our order shipped to them and they would forward it to us. What GREAT customer service!

December TopBox

Topbox is a Canadian beauty subscription box. I had heard a lot of mixed reviews about Topbox, which is why I hadn't subscribed. A couple of months ago, I did try one of their limited edition boxes, and was pretty happy about the value and products, so I thought I'd give the monthly subscription a try.

Topbox is around $14 month, including shipping, and you get 4 samples. You can choose regular packaging or 'environmentally friendly' packaging, which is a reusable organza bag. Also, each month you can create a 'wish list'. Basically, you have the option to keep the products picked that month (which is a surprise until you receive them) or trade it in for something else- 10 perfume samples, two full size Elizabeth Arden products, etc- for the same price. You can add as many options to your wish list as you'd like, but you're not guaranteed to get what you pick. I also like that Topbox includes a card with a description and price of the product and where you can buy it.

Here's what I got in December:

 

1. Kinetics Nail Polish in Up the Rocks: The product claims to have "plasticizers that facilitate smooth, easy application." It applied like any other nail polish I've ever used. This is a pretty colour and is actually similar to the blue I wore on my toes all summer. I won't be able to wear this colour to work, but it'll be great for the summer.
   Retail Value: $15 (15mL)
   Topbox Value: $15 (15mL)
2. Curly Hair Solutions Curl Keepr: As someone with curly hair, I'm looking forward to trying this product, which claims to control frizz! The one product (original) is to be used on wet hair to tame frizz and the other (gel) is to be used to style curly hair.
   Retail Value: $17.50 (8oz)
   Topbox Value: $4.38 (1oz  each)
3. Barefoot Venus Argan Dry Body Oil: I have used Argan oil in my hair and I'm looking forward to trying it on my skin, to see if it does anything for my super dry skin. It is a spray, which I like, and it smells good. It's a tad oil, which is to be expected from an oil, but it's not too bad.
   Retail Value: $15.99 (140mL)
   Topbox Value: $0.91 (8mL)
4. Marsk Natural Mineral Eyeshadow in Seaspray: This is a very pretty green, with a nice shimmer to it...but it's green. I stick to neutral colours, so this will be gifted to someone.
   Retail Value:  $22.50 (1.2g)
   Topbox Value: $22.50 (1.2g)

Total Retail Value: $70.99

Total Topbox Value:  $42.79

What I paid: $13.56

The value of the box is great, compared to what I paid. I'm pretty happy, and will use 3 of the four products. While I do like TopBox, I am not sure if I am going to keep my monthly subscription. I might stick to buying their limited edition boxes (I gifted on to my sister and one to a friend for Christmas, which they both loved!), but I'm going to keep TopBox for another month or two before deciding.