CRAWLING OUT OF HIBERNATION
With 33 fabulous years in the beauty industry, I’ve become the go-to gal for product recommendations. I’m often asked, “What are your absolute must-haves?” Well, today, I’m spilling the tea on the products I truly love and trust—because sharing is caring (and looking fabulous is a must)!
- Renée -
Spring is (Almost) Here—Time to Get Our Lives Together
Winter had us in a chokehold, but we survived—and now it’s time to shake off the seasonal slump and start acting like functioning humans again. People are decluttering their homes (and their questionable life choices), pretending they didn’t completely abandon their New Year’s resolutions, and booking vacations like they’re influencers with unlimited PTO.
With warmer days ahead, everyone’s suddenly in the mood for spring cleaning, glow-ups, and getting their sh*t together—or at least pretending to. And because I love a good refresh, I’m sharing a few of my favorite must-haves that have been getting me through this seasonal shift—whether it’s skincare, wellness essentials, or little luxuries that make life easier (and way more enjoyable). Here’s what’s going down as we crawl out of hibernation and back into the real world.
The Irish Skincare Secret That Saved My Menopausal Face (And My Husband Stole It).
I picked up this face cleanser while I was in Ireland for a wedding at The K Club—which, by the way, is stunning (but the food? Tragic). While I was there, I hit up the spa, stumbled upon this skincare line, and instantly fell in love.
Now, let me set the scene—my LA skin was in full meltdown mode from the cold, dreary, zero-sunlight situation. I used this cleanser once and, I kid you not, my skin transformed. I used to be an oily mess, but thanks to the absolute joy that is menopause, my face is now Sahara-level dry. This stuff brought it back to life.
And get this—my husband has been secretly using all of it too. And, of course, his skin now looks 10 years younger while I’m over here just trying to stay hydrated and keep it together. So rude. But honestly, this whole product line is amazing, and if it can survive an Irish winter and menopause, you know it’s good.
The Carry-On That Finally Gets Me (And My Chronic Overpacking)
Listen, I overpack—it’s just who I am, so let’s not pretend I’m changing. My carry-on is usually the overflow zone, bursting at the seams with all my just-in-case essentials. But this little travel unicorn? It actually fits everything I need without making me feel like I’m playing an aggressive game of luggage Tetris.
It’s small but deceptively roomy, with a front pocket for my laptop (because yes, I work a lot), plus space for my chargers, slippers (long flights require max comfort), and all the random little things I insist on bringing. And the best part? It’s loaded with all the bells and whistles—clever compartments, smooth wheels, and smart features that make it worth every damn penny.
Oh, and I got it in white… and somehow, it’s still white. Miracles do exist.
The Show That Shook Me to My Core (And Left Me Fuming)
I started watching this series without knowing a damn thing about it—Apple Cider Vinegar (yeah, weird title, right?). Turns out, it’s about a woman with brain cancer. And if you know me, you know this is a subject I avoid like the plague—my sister Robyn passed away from brain cancer five years ago, and it’s still too hard.
So why did I keep watching? No idea. Maybe I was in a strange headspace, but I stuck with it. And let me tell you—I am freaking furious. This true-life story had me confused, heartbroken, and downright livid. If I ever saw this woman in real life, someone would have to physically hold me back. Spoiler alert: she’s a fraud—giving people false hope, twisting the idea of wellness, and ultimately proving that some people will do anything for attention.
And yet, I can’t stop thinking about it. Maybe because, at the end of the day, the one thing I’ve always held onto is hope—because sometimes, that’s all there is. And yet, my sweet baby sister still lost her battle.
I have a wild story of my own that maybe one day I’ll share, but for now, this is all I can say. Watch this show. It’ll make you think, it’ll piss you off, and if nothing else, it’s a reminder that not all "wellness" is what it seems.
"Midlife isn’t a crisis, it’s a damn awakening.
Wiser, bolder, and completely done with the BS
—now that’s a badass."
The Hand Cream That Saved My Overwashed, Sandpaper Hands
While in Ireland, I stumbled upon what might be the best hand cream ever—and trust me, my hands needed it. I may or may not have a slight OCD-level obsession with washing my hands (it’s my thing, don’t judge), and as a result, they’re so dry they literally feel like sandpaper.
Now, I try to put on lotion, but let’s be real—by the end of the day, I’m exhausted and just grateful to sit down, so yet another self-care step isn’t exactly at the top of my priority list. But this cream? Total game-changer. After just a couple of uses, my hands felt soft, smooth, and—dare I say—youthful again.
It’s not greasy, which I appreciate, and even if it was, I wouldn’t complain—because it freaking works. Obsessed.
The Tea That’s Basically a Warm Hug for My Nervous System
I’m not saying this Organic Ashwagandha Turmeric Tea has magical powers, but I am saying that after one sip, I felt like I had my life together (even if just for a moment). This blend is packed with ashwagandha, turmeric, and ginger—AKA the holy trinity of calm, balance, and anti-inflammatory goodness.
Now, I don’t know if it’s actually balancing my chakras or rejuvenating my nerve cells like some ancient Ayurveda guru, but what I do know is that it makes me feel less like a stressed-out gremlin and more like a functioning human. Plus, it’s organic, comes from the beautiful Luxmi Estates, and doesn’t taste like dirt (which, let’s be honest, is a risk with anything "superfood" related).
Also—ashwagandha has been doing its thing for 6,000 years, so clearly, we’re the ones late to the party. If you need a moment of peace in your day—or just want to pretend you’re a wellness goddess sipping on ancient wisdom—this tea is it.
The Cashmere Set That Had Me Feeling Chic (and Comfy) in Ireland
So, those Quince commercials? Yeah, they got me. I grabbed a cashmere set before heading to Ireland, knowing it was going to be cold, and let me tell you—this was the MVP of my entire trip. A sweatsuit, but make it elevated.
Obviously, I got black (because duh), and I wore it everywhere—working, lounging, out to dinner, and even on my flight. It’s crazy comfortable, not itchy, warm but not too warm, and effortlessly chic. And the best part? It’s affordable (well, for cashmere). If you’re looking for a travel outfit that’s cozy and stylish, highly recommend it.
My Friday Night (and Anytime-I-Need-to-Chill) Drink
When Friday hits, this is my go-to chill drink—yet another gem I discovered in Ireland. This cocktail is basically a cure-all for me: stress? Gone. Can’t sleep? Knocked out. Need to unwind? Done. Got a cough or a cold? Magic.
Enter Redbreast Irish Whiskey—smooth, delicious, and dangerously easy to sip. I mix it with the amazing tea I mentioned earlier, add some lemon and raw honey, and boom—the crème de la crème of hot toddies. Cozy, soothing, and exactly what I need to end the week right.
Thank You, Lovelies!
I’m so touched by all your sweet emails—it means the world!
I’ll keep sharing my favorite finds because, honestly, what’s life without a little fabulousness to pass along? If you have any questions or need help finding something special, don’t be shy—shoot me an email, and I’ll do my best to help you out.
Xoxo,
Renée 💋
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