The Lovelies

Thursday 30 May 2013

SnackBox by Food.ee Review


Lovelies, I have found a new food box for you. And they are right out of Canada! I present to you the SnackBox by Food.ee. For $33+ $6.95 shipping, they send you a box full of new snacks and munchies to treat your buds. Taste buds or friend buds, its up to you ;) I received their May SnackBox. Each box comes with a product feature card spotlighting some of the items in the box and where to find more if you crave so. I will definitely be signing up for a subscription. Here are many reasons why:



(from left to right)
Simply Natural Chunky Organic Salsa: We tried this the other night. Just the right amount of kick. Everything was diced too, not chopped up to the point where it resembled pasta sauce.

Alive & Radiant Veggie Crunch Sweet Onion: These are snack chips made out of onions and they've added seasonings like lemon juice and salt and pepper. It also never ceases to amaze me what we can make chips out of.

RW Garcia Dippers: The shape of the chip has its advantages. You can dip it directly into a jar, for those of use who can't wait for the bowl!

Happy Water: a pure blend of natural spring and lithia waters from two mountain springs found in BC. Sounds really refreshing!

Sea Snax: I can't explain it, but I love these dried seaweed snacks. This is actually already gone. I ate it up the first day. They have enough crunch and enough flavour to satisfy a chip craving.

(from left to right)
Top
ReBar: This is an organic fruit and veggie bar. It boasts 8 servings of fruit and veggies. This makes a great grab n go snack.

LifeBites Dark chocolate and coconut covered chewy dried banana snack: need I say more?

Kind bar: I've received Kind snacks before and I'm never disappointed. They are always filling and full of goodness.

Bottom
Serf Sweets Gummy Bears: These gummies are free of corn syrup. I'm not sure if they are guilt free though... haha.

Cocolico by Wendy Boys chocolate bar: 71% Cacao Blueberry, Almond & Candied Quinoa Dark Chocolate

Kaya Organic Sprouted Sunflower Seeds in Garlic & Sea Salt

I am excited for this new food service and even more thrilled its Canadian! And now you can get your first box at 50% off! The folks at Food.ee have provided a coupon code for my Lovelies. Use the code ONYXMICK and get half of your first box (does not include shipping) Sign up here!

Tuesday 28 May 2013

Tulip Grease Review+(closed)Giveaway!


Happy Tuesday, Lovelies! I wish I could curl up in a ball as well as Mick does. He looks so peaceful and one with the world. Or the bed he's sleeping on, haha. 
Lovelies, today I'd like to share with you a lip balm I received from Jess at Tulip Grease. Tulip Grease is a little indie company with lots of love! Their business is centered around one simple value: love. In fact, the lip balm I'm going to review for you is called Lemon Love! 




I think the packaging is adorable and a great fit for the products. Look closely at the Tulip.....its a pair of lips :) The shape was also kind new to me. Its an oval where most balms are round. It actually is an advantage to be this shape because it does cover more of your lips in one sweep. The balm itself smells like a lemon cake, ready for eating! Handmade with natural oils and waxes. My lips felt so kissable and so soft. There was lots of down time between re-application, so it lasts a good long while. I really enjoyed using this balm and now my purse is never without it! And the love that this little tube gives is more than to your lips. 10% of the proceeds of each sale of Lemon Love goes toward thyroid cancer charities. In fact, a few of the different balms are dedicated to different types of charities. So pick up some Tulip Grease for yourself and spread the love!

One of my Lovelies will get their very own Lemon Love Tulip Grease. Enter below in the Rafflecopter form. Follow the instructions and any invalid entries will be DQ'ed on the spot! Open to Canada and US only please. Good Luck, Lovelies! MWUAH!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Saturday 25 May 2013

Beaute Cosmetics Lips Review



Happy Caturday, Lovelies! As some of you may or may not know, I love anything for your lips! I discovered Beaute Cosmetics , a Canadian brand based out of Alberta. 

Beauté is more than just a line of cosmetics. Beauté seeks to uncover the nuances of a womans personality. From tactful temptress to brash exhibitionist, Beauté has a mix for every motive. (from Beaute Cosmetics website)

They were kind enough to send me a sampling of their lip products to try. The packaging was very elegant indeed, suggesting luxury as well. 

(from left to right) I also have swatches below.
Liqui-gel Stains for Lips and Cheeks in Neon: Now when I first saw this I was a little shocked. It is that bright and electric orange no less. I was not really sure what to expect from this colour.

Weightless Lip Creme in Masochist : A bold red for a bold red lip.

Luminous Volume Gloss in Medusa: A classic nudish pink.

I really how they sent me colours that are in my comfort zone, colours that pushed it a little, and a colour that was out there!

Swatch time!


On the far left I have swatched Neon and blended the far right swatch. It actually is not as bright as it looks in the tube on ky skin. It actually makes a pretty nice orangey blush shade. It had a sheer effect on my lips as well.

In the middle is Masochist. This is definitely a highly pigmented red lip creme. It was non-sticky and felt like it was barely there while delivering maximum colour.

On the right is the Medusa gloss. Instead of a wand, it comes with a brush to put on your lips. The colour output was amazing and the shine was just a perfect. Only a little sticky on the lips but real easy to work with. I had a pretty good pout going when I wore this :)

Lovely Lip products! What's your favourite lip product(s)?
Check out Beaute Cosmetics.


These products were sent to me for review. The thoughts and opinions expressed are mine own. Pucker up ;)

Corpa Flora Review: a New experience for Me



Happy Caturday, Lovelies! This Caturday, I want to share with you a skincare line I discovered that is made right here in Canada! Montreal, QC to be exact. Corpa Flora has created a skin care line made purely of oil.

“ At CORPA FLORA we believe in a more global approach where we can do more with less. Beauty reduced to its most simple and natural perfection without a collection of products aimed at individual skin types or for each skin imperfection. Products that care for the skin and the environment.” (from Corpa Flora's website)

 Now I know what you are thinking, 'just oil?!'. Yes, the skincare line has condensed down what your skin really needs in a simple oil cocktail for your skin. It takes out all the fillers and extras. Just pure botanical extracts. It is up to the user, to add the water. And its very little water too. 


Sorry if everything looks a little used. That's because it, well, has been used by me! Along with this trial set, founder Celine Champigny, also set me the protocol on how to use this set. I read it over and at first I was a little uncomfortable. I had never used a just oil skin regime before. So this was definitely new waters for me. 

The first step in the protocol is using Beaute Divine (on the left). It is a camellia facial cleansing oil. I simply put 1/3 capfull in the palm of my hand and spread on my dry face. Next I add a splash of water and begin to massage the oil into my skin. This makes kind of a white emulsion on the face. Massaged for 30 seconds. Then I rinsed with warm water afterwards. Beaute Divine can be used in the morning and at night. It was also great at removing face makeup.

To create a facial scrub you can combine Beaute Divine with the Rock 'N Rose Ultra-fine exfoliating facial powder. (second from left) Combine the two to make a paste and apply on dry face and massage in for 30 seconds. Rinse well with warm water. The scrub is meat to be used once a week and preferable at night. This smelled like rose water and was really fun to use.

There are two different botanical cocktails to use as moisturizers. One meant for the day, the other meant for night time. Grenadine (middle right) os an antioxidant facial cocktail containing oils from the pomgranate, cranberry, and raspberry. Eclat Citrouille (on the right) is an anti-aging facial cocktail containing oils from pumpkin seed, macadamia, and rosehip seed. It also contains essential oils of roman chamomile, laverder, geranium, and frankincense. After rinsing, leave your skin wet and apply a few drops of the cocktail onto your palm for another spread-and-massage. And that's it! 
This was really easy to follow and after a week, I think my skin enjoyed all these cocktails ;)

The only thing that concerns me is that after applying the facial cocktail, you have to wait a bit for the oils to fully aborb. The oils themselves are quite light and non-greasy. But if you were in a major rush you could just massage your skin a little more to help the process.

I really enjoyed using Beaute Divine and the Botanical cocktails. If you'd like to get your skin a couple drinks (haha) please check out Corpa Flora
Lovelies, have you ever tried an all oil regiment? Would you?

This set was set to me for review purposes. The thoughts and opinions expressed are mine own. And mine own enjoyed this review!

Wednesday 22 May 2013

worldProducts Personal Trio Review


Happy Hump Day, Lovelies! And let's hear it for multi-use products that actually work! *clapping* I'd like to share with you today some products from worldProducts that actually work! worldProducts was started by Brian Phillips. They are based in Toronto, Ontario. All the products are plant-based and contain no artificial colours and scents, no parabens or SLS. Now here's the multi-use part. A lot of their products can be used on skin and hair interchangeably. Now that sounds very useful, but.........Now I've tried multi-use products before and been disappointed. They either did only one of the many things. or did nothing right. I approached these products with some caution. I was given the chance to worldPersonal Trio. The trio above consists of (left to right) 

worldClean: a hair and skin cleanser
worldBelieve: a soothing salve for the skin
worldProtect: a hair and skin moisturizer.

I'll start with the little guy, worldBelieve. I'm actually wearing this on my lips right now :) It doesn't really have a distinctive smell and only melts on contact. Otherwise it stays put. I love it on my lips so far. I haven't tried it on my elbows and knees yet. But judging by the job its doing with the skin on my lips, my knees won't be disappointed. It can also be used to remove static and frizz and add shine to your hair.

worldClean serves as a hair shampoo and a shower gel. It contains Vitamins A-E, Ivy root, cucumber extract, Burdock extract and Calendula. It was pretty cool that I only had to pick up one bottle to do 2 jobs. It was unscented, but I'd say it smelled clean. My hair and skin were squeaky clean afterwards with no weird residue or less-than-clean feeling left behind. I enjoyed using it. A hit! Its also gentle enough to use on baby skin and for shaving. It also boasts to be a make-up remover and make-up brush cleaner.

worldProtect also knocked it out of the park. It also contains Vitamins A-E, Aloe Vera, Dandelion, Elderflower, rosehip and rosemary. worldProtect also nourishes the scalp. I applied some to my hair and it still softened without giving that slippery residue, fake feeling that other conditioners can leave. After my shower I spread it onto my skin. It felt like I was smoothing silk all over myself. It also kept my skin hydrated for 24 hours. Another hit! You can also put it in your hair as a leave-in conditioner.
Still want your smells? No problem. You can blend and personalize your products using any of the worldBlend essential oils. 

Overall, I have to give another hand to worldProducts. Multi-use products that actually work! This Trio is advertised as a perfect travel companion. I'd have to agree with them. It wraps convenience, luxury, and natural all into one. Check out their other products and reviews on well.ca and maybe pick some up :). 

I was sent these products for review. The thoughts and opinions expressed are mine own.

Monday 20 May 2013

Amoda Tea: May Tea Tasting Box Review



Happy Victoria Day Lovelies! In celebration (I love celebrating, can't you tell?) I would like to share with you a new Tea Tasting Service based right out of Canada. The box is called Amoda Tea and is $15/month or $18/month is you live in the US. Shipping is also included in this price. You receive three teas to try out each month. Not too shabby. Today, I'll be sharing the May Tea Tasting Box. The box it came in pictured above is quite smaller and more flat than I expected. I find this a great thing because it definitely cuts down on waste and is recyclable. 

The presentation is quite elegant. I like that everything has been carefully placed and wrapped too. Ech box also contains a newsletter with the origins of the teas, where to find them, and how they came to discover this tea.


Here are the three teas for tasting this month. Each package has tasting notes and brew instructions right on the bag. Also, the bags have a clear backside so you can look right at them. (see pic below) From left to right:

Lord Petersham by the Devotea: a black tea.

Island Coconut by SpireTea: a green tea.

Rooibos Chocolate by Forsman Tea: a rooibos tea

Also included was an extra treat: Caramels infused with Citrus Earl Grey tea by Bad Girl Chocolates. Yum!


I like that you get the three different kinds of tea in one month. After all variety is the spice of life! I definitely like this box and its definitely one I am considering signing up for. You can check them out here.

I was sent this box for review. The thoughts and opinons are mine own. 'Mine own.' I've always wanted to use that phrase :)

Sunday 19 May 2013

Radiant Cosmetics: Beauty with Heart!




I like to call Radiant Cosmetics, Beauty with Heart. They are a cosmetics company that sells fabulous products and gives a portion of their proceeds to aid in the stoppage of human trafficking. If you check out their website, there is a shop and there is a whole section designed to educate visitors on human trafficking.
Their mission statement (from their website): Our mission is to help garner awareness for human trafficking by raising funds through cosmetics, to provide resources for those on the forefront of change, as well as victims of trafficking.
They donate a minimum of 20% of the profits from each purchase to various groups and charities supporting the stoppage of human trafficking. They also have a few suggestions if you'd rather donate directly to the charities. I thought this is a fabulous idea. We all know how much we spend on our beauty products. Why not buy a beauty item that can give back? :)
Radiant Cosmetics are produced in the USA and are never tested on animals. Their paraben free makeup items include Lipsticks, Lip Glosses, Blushes, Mascara, and Mineral Foundation.

I decided to pick up a few items and share them with you. The items pictured above are Radiant's moisturizing lipstick in Park Avenue and blush in Sunkissed.



 Here is a pic of Park Avenue. Its a really deep red-fuschia shade. I really like it as its a daring shade for me. Sunkissed is also a great peach-bronze blush. It does give me that just in the sun look. I have both swatched on my wrist below. The pigmentation of each is quite good. I wore the lipstick out one day and never had to re-apply it. 



Lovelies, go check out Radiant Cosmetics. Pick up a lipstick and help fight human trafficking! Thank you Radiant Cosmetics for having Beauty with Heart!

I purchased these products for review (and use!) and the thoughts and opinions are my own.

Saturday 18 May 2013

May 2013 Ipsy Bag and SeasonsBox


Happy Caturday, Lovelies! I snapped this pic the other night because the furbabies are actually getting along. Onyx is a feisty, dominant girl and often likes to show Mick she's boss. This time around, she's letting him nap. It could be because she is atop my favourite, cozy blanket. 
Let's do some unboxings :)



Spring Fling Ipsy Bag

I really like the bag design this month. I forget how good orange and blue can look good together. Tiffany blue and orange were two of my wedding colours! 



At the top is a Pacifica Roll-on perfume in Tahitian Gardenia.
The middle from left to right:
Zoya Nail Polish in Piaf. I do like Zoya. I like the free 5 formulation which leaves out formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, toluene, dibutyl phthalate or camphor. I kinda wish I didn't get the yellow one though.

NuMe Finishing Serum. It's supposed to give your hair a glossy finish.

yaby Concealer in Vanilla. This shade is way too light for me so this will be given away to my sister. I did email ipsy and they said basically I could just trade it away. :P Not really the response of that I wanted.

Urban Decay Moondust shadow in Diamond Dog. I was really surprised when I found this in my bag. I received a note thanking me for being an ipsy content creator. This was such a lovely surprise! Thanks, ipsy :)

On the bottom is Juice Beauty's Reflecting Lip Gloss in pink. Yay for lip gloss!

So all in all, despite the concealer mismatch, it was not a bad bag at all. :) You can sign up for ipsy here.





May SeasonsBox



 This month celebrates Mothers. The May SeasonsBox is filled with ecofriendly and stylish indulgences that are sure to make every woman feel pampered! (from insert card)


 From Left to Right

Deep Steep Natural Body Wash in lavender and chamomile. I hadn't actually heard of this company before. Shea and cocoa butters hydrate your skin while antioxidants moisturize and tone. Sounds good to me!

Gourmet Body Treats Natural Eye Shadow in Island. This is more of a light neutral shade. I have a close-up pick below.

Zen-ful Natural Rose Bath Bomb. I'm pretty sure I have received this before. Just not sure where.....

Priti NYC Natural Nail Polish in Mermaid Rose. Lucky me, another yellow polish, haha! I'm not really sure what part of of the mermaid or the rose inspired this colour. 



This has been the most beauty products I've seen in a month of SeasonsBox. Now I know there's been some talk of the company changing hands or moving. My shipping notice came from Atlanta, GA. I really hope this is still a Canadian company as its one of the reasons I signed up. SeasonsBox, please take some time to explain the situation for us! The sign up for SeasonsBox can be found here.

Enter my mini FB Victoria Day Giveaway

Thursday 16 May 2013

Bonjour Jolie Grand Opening Box Review

Happy Almost Friday, Lovelies! I'm so thrilled to bring you a review of a new 'Time of the Month' box. This one actually exceeds my expectations. I have seen other boxes in the same category and none of them really appealed to me. When I stumbled on Bonjour Jolie, I was actually intrigued by what they promised. A monthly box of pampering. And they ship to Canada! I had to check it out. When you sign up, you are given a little quiz so they can get to know your preferences and stuff along with times of your monthly cycle.



First off, the packaging and presentation are beautiful! This definitely feels like a gift someone sent me, a care package if you will. 

 Each box comes with a product card. Looks like each month will have a theme. This being their first box, it is appropriately titled 'Grand Opening Box'.
Now, let's just cut to the chase and dive in!

 Here's the main bit: You can choose up to 30 hygiene products, be it tampons or pads. I prefer pads. I know some people may have qualms about getting their pads or tampons prehandled or something. I don't. I figure, its the same as asking out loud in the ladies room 'anyone have a tampon?!' or buying from one of those vending machines. Now that the main bit is taken care of, let's get to the pampering! 




 The Edibles: Incredible!
At the top there is 5 packets of Pukka Organic teas. How perfect?! One for each day. 
There is also an assortment of Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate Square. YUM!
There is also a pack of 479 Fleur de Sel Caramel Popcorn. I have seen a few 479 products in other food boxes and have always wanted to try them.


The Pampering
At the very top is a Lavender sachet. Its scent should help relax you. And if that doesn't work, the Advil next to it will. 
Below that (from left to right)
Indigo-Wild Zum JuJucuzzi Geranium Bath Salts
Pureology shampoo and conditioner sample
Earth Therapeutics Recover-E Cumber Eye Pads. I laughed when i saw these. How cute?
Hempz Age Defying Lotion

And last but most certainly not least: the gift. I received a Stila Mini Lip Glaze in Brown Sugar. :D

My period is on its way, due to arrive next week actually, do this box will be put to the ultimate test! Or am I being put to the ultimate test? Can those chocolates even make it to next week?! Haha

The cost is $16+$10 shipping/month. Out of all the boxes I've seen, this one is just the most comprehensive. I have tea and chocolate and beauty and pampering. Oh and supplies of course! I think it gives a lot more then other TOM boxes. I will be signing up for sure. Please check out Bonjour Jolie and pamper your period. :)


This sample box was sent to me for review purposes. The thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Wednesday 15 May 2013

Bee's Knees Smoothie Scrub and Whipped Buttercream Review


Happy Hump Day, Lovelies, we're almost to the weekend! Today I'm happy to share with you another oH Canada! product review. Bee's Knees Bodyworks is based right out of Chilliwack, British Columbia. The queen Bee herself is Trish Nicol. She is the artisan behind these wonderful bath creations. Her products are always made with the best, natural ingredients she can find. I'll be reviewing (and raving) about two of her products today. The Cucumber Melon Smoothie Scrub: Sugar whipped soap and the Grapefruit Lime Soda Whipped Buttercream. Mmmmm-mmmmm-mmmm! Just thinking about them!



Look at the textures! The smoothie scrub is on the left, the butter cream is on the right. The textures can also give you a clue as to how fresh something is. And these are super fresh! You know the sound whipped cream makes when its just whipped? That kind of airy popping sound? That is what both of these products make when you stick your finger in them. 

The cucumber melon smoothie scrub is pretty divine. The light fluffy pink stuff isn't just good looking either. Its incredibly easy to use. You can use your hands or a scrub cloth like I did. It lathers up nicely with out using too much product. It isn't to rough feeling. It also doesn't leave a slippery residue on my shower when I'm using it. It just washes away clean. And the smell is spot on!

I was a little hesitant about the grapefruit lime soda whipped buttercream. I knew I would love the whipped buttercream part but I'm not the biggest fan of  grapefruit and limesoda together. When I took a whiff, it was kinda like having a Sierra Mist and 7-up. It was so spot on, I have expected to inhale some carbon bubbles! So I massaged it on. I'm glad I did. It contains shea & cocoa butters and is 98% natural. Not only did it keep my skin silky smooth for the whole day, I actually appreciated the smell more. Its like a different citrus burst, not lemon or orange. It was nice. 

I highly recommend you head over to Bee's Knees Bodyworks and check out the shop and pick up your own little treats!

I was sent these products to review with my purchase. The thoughts and opinions are my own.


Sunday 12 May 2013

eScentials Wellness Foam Facial Cleanser and Naturoil Review

 eScential Wellness


Welcome to my first oH Canada! post. I will be using That phrase at the beginning of my post to indicate that this is a proudly owned Canadian business. Let's support our Canadian businesses and artisans!

Today I will be reviewing  eScential Wellness Foaming Facial Cleanser and Naturoil.

eScential Wellness is headed by Nancy Scott. She manufactures her products herself, right in Burlington, Ontario.
Here is their Philosophy taken right from their home webpage:

eScential Wellness is committed to making products that are safe to put on your skin, and effective in what they do. Many of life's small irritations can be soothed by nature's pharmacy - therapeutic grade essential oils. All products are made in small batches, so are fresh, and use only natural Vitamin E as a preservative. Component ingredients are purchased as certified organic, and fair trade, when possible and where noted.

Foaming Facial Cleanser

I like foam. I've always had a fascination with foam and bubbles and making them as a child and it has carried on into my adulthood. So when I had a chance to try the Foaming Facial Cleanser, I was thrilled. I have been using the cleanser for a little over a week now. I'm surprised at how little I need. It usually takes only a pump or two for a good clean lather to cover my face. The cleanser is vegan friendly. It is very very mild on the skin. No irritation or redness on my face! I don't get that slathered in soap feeling I get with store-bought cleansers. It contains organic oils of coconut, olive and hemp that has been saponified. The scent is just a hint of rose geranium. Its great that after rinsing, my skin doesn't get that dried out, tight feeling. Its just clean. Fantastic! To someone whose skin feels like that all the time after cleansing their face, it feels more than great. Definitely a cleanser for you if you want something gentle.

Naturoil For Normal & Combination Skin


After cleansing I follow up with Naturoil Facial Moisturizer. Naturoil is made up of 13 oils. The list can be found on the product listing. The oil itself has kind of a citrus scent to me. The product does settle so you have to shake it before every use. A dab will also do ya. So I had expectations before trying Naturoil. I thought is is just going to be like any other facial oil I've used: really heavy, really oily, and will leave my skin oily for awhile. Naturoil blew those expectations away! It is really quite light. And it absorbs into my skin very fast, leaving no oily residue or feelings. I can put it on before bed and not have to worry about getting it soaked into my pillow. I was thoroughly impressed and will definitely be picking up another one!

Please support a Canadian business and check out eScential Wellness. You can also contact Nancy with any questions you may have. She is super nice and super knowledgeable. Thank you, Nancy! 
Also check out their Facebook Page: eScential Wellness and give them a like! :)

I was sent these products for review. The thoughts, experiences, and opinions are my own honest, raw feelings.

Saturday 11 May 2013

A Fancy Rant: The Sequel

Well, Fancy. What can I say? WTF? WTH? Here we are again. My first rant wasn't enough. So here's the sequel. Mere days after receiving my 2nd Coco Rocha Fancy box, I received yet another invoice from Fed-Ex, charging me the same amount as last time from the sender (you guessed it) Fancy. Instead of getting raging mad, I sent them a polite email:


I have been sent another bill by Fed-Ex charging me $16.46 again for the delivery of my latest Fancy Box. I have attached the invoice. This is getting ridiculous. Is your company doing anything to solve this problem? And It is not just happening to me. Along with my fee refund, which I have to again inconveniently go out of my way to pay, I wish to cancel my subscription to the Coco Rocha box. I signed back up on May 1st or so thinking that things have changed and was looking forward to the May box, but I was wrong. Cancel my subscription and refund the amount. I want my money back. This experience is definitely not worth the hassle.

Simple, pretty concise if I say so myself. They respond with same old vague, run around courtesy that I've become accustomed to. 

Thank you for your inquiry.  This was a mistake made by FedEx.  The customs charges should have been charged to us and not you.  We have refunded you for the charges.  Again I am very sorry about the inconvenience caused.  Please allow 3-5 business days for these funds to appear on your card. We thank you again for using Fancy.


You're welcome? Notice nothing about my subscription being cancelled and refunded. I also took note of the fact that they put the blame on Fed-Ex. Really? Lisa at Girl Meets Box (awesome blog, please check it out) spoke with Fed-Ex and claim that the sender checked off the box that the fees are to be charged to the recipient. And the sender is....Fancy. Hmmm. Before finding that tidbit of info, I was wondering, they have been assuring Canadian customers for months that they will not be charged extra fees. So shouldn't this problem have been resolved by now? Hmm, fishy, fishy.
I also think that they must skim through emails fast or maybe not read them at all because I've had to send emails repeating my questions. 


Is my Subscription cancelled as well? I want that refunded too. 

I decided to just write short sentences and get to the point, hoping it would improve the situation. Their response:


We are sorry to hear that you wish to cancel your Fancy Box subscription. This is a confirmation that you will not be billed in the months going forward. We’d like to thank you for your business and please let us know if there is anything we can do to improve our service going forward. 

I almost laughed at that last sentence there. So many suggestions, I don't know where to start. Notice how it says nothing about refunding me this month's charged. Just that I will not be charged next month and then on. WTF? Can I get an answer here? Can I not just read? Is it me? Yet another email for me to write:

Does this mean the charge from the beginning of May when I resubscribed has also been refunded? I want that money back as well. I do not wish to receive this month's box. 

And yet another answer, just as vague as the last:

Thank you for your inquiry.  If you cancel within 10 days of your last payment then you will automatically be refunded for the Fancy Box.

I'm beginning to think that they have a cut- and -paste approach to answering their emails. They must have a set of answers they are allowed to write. 
So my response:

A simply yes or no would have been a better answer. I see that I paid May 2nd so I should be getting my money back. But I know this email will barely be read and skimmed over. This is evidenced by the numerous emails I've had to send regarding the same questions.
And you can improve your business by learning some actual customer service skills. Vague, automatic answers are not the way to go. I've become so accustomed to your appalling customer service that I know I can probably write just about anything here, because it won't get read.
Also do not blame Fed-Ex solely for these mishaps as I'm not the only one this is happening to and Fed-Ex only follows what the sender (that's you, Fancy) requires. 

I stopped short of insulting reading skill level or anything. I just want answers in plain English! I guess I am asking for too much. 
And finally an actual answer:

Thank you for your inquiry.  Your were refunded for your Fancy Box.  Please allow 3-5 business days for the funds to return to your card.  You will no longer be charged or receive your box.  We are sorry to see you leave and thank you for using Fancy.

My gosh! Did I really have to write that many emails to get the answer I wanted? In the Fancy world, the answer is yes. Did they answer my other questions? No. But I'm through writing them for today. All I can do now is share my experience and save others the headache. So done with Fancy.
DO NOT SUBSCRIBE unless you enjoy hassles and crap customer service!

Beautylishious Bag and TopBox May 2013




Happy Caturday, Lovelies! Today I would like to share my Beautylishious Bag and Topbox for the month of May. 


Beautylishious Bag

Look, Mick is trying to help me open the bag. Thanks, kitty!




Look at all the new goodies! Left to right:

Derma-Soft Wash Emulsion from SebaMed. This is a trial size and protects the skin against dehydration and smooths skin. This is kind of like a purifying oil you could use before your cleanser.

Sanctuary Spa Body Moisture Spray: an light conditioning oil spritz for hydration and a healthy sheen. 

Neutrogena Wave Power-Cleanser: I've never tried deep cleaners like this but I will now! It also came with 2 weeks worth of cleaning pads.

LA Science Follicle Stimulating Shampoo. I think this is to help with thinning hair. Its not really a problem I have.


I also find it a joy to open my Beautylishious bag. Check out Beautylishous Bag!

TopBox May 2013: February Favourites

I was in awe of this year's February regular TopBox, I jumped at the chance of choosing the February Favourites TopBox. This TopBox contained 3 products this time around.



Left to right:

ProFinish Multi-Use Powder Foundation from Make Up For Ever. This can be used wet or dry. I have a closer pic below.

B. Kamins Nutrient Replacement Cream Kx: I've been wanting to try more B Kamins products. Hurray for Canadian companies!

Deborah Lippmann Nail Lacquer in Since I Fell For You. I haven't had a chance to swatch it yet but its definitely a shimmery dark red. I was kinda hoping for Across the Universe. But I do love red polish :)

(Flash from camera makes it appear light then what it is. It is a medium-dark shade)
TopBox is one of the best sub boxes I receive. You can sign up here.

Friday 10 May 2013

The State of Beautiful Onyx & Mick + TreatBox Winners

The State of Beautiful Onyx & Mick



Lovelies, are we having fun yet? I say Ya! I can't begin to tell you how much fun and what a privilege it is to blog for you all. I'm happy to have created a place where subscription box enthusiasts and beauty lovers alike can come visit and, chat, and learn. I'm excited to announce that I'll be expanding the scope of Beautiful Onyx & Mick. 

The Cat's Meow Product reviews: I will start doing product reviews. I feel its important to share your opinion on platforms like this. Product reviews have always helped me make decisions on what I would be worth spending money on. Please check out my first review ever here. Some of my reviews will be sponsored, some will not. I will always disclose which kind it is.

I also will be doing more features on Canadian businesses, both big and small. I think its important to discover what is in your own backyard. So I went looking for everyone! A lot of these businesses can be found on the Canadian Love tab. I'm happy to share my findings. Who knows, maybe you'll find a hidden gem in your neighbourhood :)

I had a request to feature more natural, more organic products. I'm a little embarassed to admit that I haven't used a whole lot of natural or organic products. But what better way to learn then to try and blog?! I will be doing reviews on more products that are pretty good for you. And maybe we can all learn together :)

I will also attempt Empties posts. I've never done one before but I've read a few and its interesting to see what bloggers are loving to the fullest (or emptiness?) I also think I might do an Un-empties type post, where I can rant and give constructive criticism on products that are not going to be emptied by me.

A lot of old favourites will still be around! I will still be sharing unboxings with you. As a sub box addict its a hard habit to kick. And of course more kitties! 
The kitties themselves are loving their new found fame. They definitely know how to strike a pose when I have my camera out. They are also getting more proactive in checking what comes in the mail and not just playing with the ribbons. I'll have them do some kitty reviews too. 

And now the TreatBox winners are.........
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Congrats, Lovelies! I have contacted each of them and they will be receiving their prizes soon. And Lovelies, don't fret, the May TreatBoxes are ready in the wings! Stay tuned ;)

Thank you all for stopping by and reading my blog. Beautiful Onyx & Mick could not be what it is today without my Lovelies, so give yourselves a round of applause. Every follower, every fan, every view makes me smile and dance. I love the little community I've found here in the blogosphere and hope that I am, in some way, helping too.



Stay Beautiful, Lovelies!

Thursday 9 May 2013

The Tasting Box from FoodiePages.ca


Hello Lovelies! Its almost the weekend! I have a special treat for you today. FoodiePages.ca has come out with their scrumptious Tasting Box. Each month you receive a selection of 4-5 tasty morsels all right here from artisan food makers in Canada. The food is produced in small batches so there are limited and also handmade with the utmost care. The cost is only $10.95/month. I jumped at the chance of a Tasting Box.


Can you guess which of these items are already consumed? hehe
Left to right:

Superfruit Smoothies from Boo smoothies, Port Hope, Ontario. This flavour is Mangosteen+Passionfruit. I'm saving this for when I need a boost.

Nut Bar in Pumpkin Pie from Edible Rebellion, Calgary, Alberta. This was so thick it took me awhile to eat, but so filling too! It had tonnes of nuts and dried fruit.

Delicious Kicks Salsa in Roasted Green Cilantro and Tomatillo from Las Salsas, Winnipeg, Manitoba. This looks like a must try on burgers and BBQ.

Zesty Lemon Honey from Heavenly Honey, Blackburn Hamlet, Ontario. This will be a nice citrus zing in the morning with toast.

Spring Marshmallow Bites from Kimberly's Kitchen, Telkwa, British Columbia. These are all gone. Haha. I did not even think to have flavoured marshmallows. I've only ever had those weird coloured ones from the grocery store. These little bites are something to admire. They were flavoured with cocoa, lemon, lavender  and coconut and they were still marshmallows!  I loved them for sure. And really sad they are gone :(

Please check out FoodiePages.ca. If you don't go for the Foodie Boxes, then please check out all the food makers. You might even find one in your neighbourhood! :) 

Saturday 4 May 2013

My First Little Black Bag

I was so excited to hear Little Black Bag was shipping to Canada for a flat rate of $15.95. I was even more excited when they introduced their new VIP Program. You can join the VIP program once you make your first purchase. They charge just $9.95/month and you receive a $10 credit towards your purchase. The credits also roll over if you don't purchase a bundle or item that month. Prices start at $14.95 for a bundle. Stylists pick your other bundle items, which can be 1-2 more items, depending on your style. There are also bonus items some months. For example, this month, every purchase will receive a pixi beauty item. The price of your bundle will depend on what your first item is. A piece of jewelry will be less than say, a purse. Once you have purchased your bag, you have the option of trading away your items for something else you really want. Then they ship it to you and you enjoy your little black bag! This was my very first one and I was pretty happy with it.



Here are my bundle items. On the left is a set of NCLA nail wraps that I got free with my purchase last month. I've been wanting to try these for awhile so I was glad to see them. On the bottom is a Michael Marcus eyeshadow in Seductive ;) In the middle is Ahava's Time to Clear Purifying Mud Mask. I also received a pair of knee highs from Via Spaga. All these items weren't in my original bundle. I actually traded all the other items to get these. And now the  big ticket item..........................




The Cat Lady got a pair of golden cat shoes! I saw them and was like.....I think I need those. LOL

What do you think of Little Black Bag? Will you be joining and getting a purrfect pair of cat shoes? (I couldn't help myself, lol)