It’s been a while since I’ve done my last Friday Favorites. If you missed the first one, you can read it here. The inspiration for sharing these things is that although it might not seem like it, there are so many things that I love that don’t always get the chance to make my Instagram or blog. This is a way to share the things I’m loving, in a rather random way, however, rest assured, they’re all good. This week I’m sharing a favorite book, skincare products, my new favorite workout class, and a Youtube channel you need to be following if you’re a blogger or aspiring blogger.
Arianna Skincare
I was recently introduced to Arianna Skincare, and my only wish is that I knew about it sooner! Arianna Skincare’s founder, Miri Torres created the skincare line after her battle with lymphoma cancer. After dealing with aggressive chemotherapy, Miri found herself dealing with skin issues like eczema and and rashes. Miri then set out to heal her skin naturally by using natural products. Miri researched high and low to find effective, natural products. Eventually, her research led her to The Dead Sea. The Dead Sea’s minerals have “provide(d) anti-aging and therapeutic benefits for thousands of years.” Although a splurge, these products are true luxury from the results they give right down to the packaging. I’ve been using the deep cleansing mud gel which I absolutely love because it gives a deep, squeaky clean without over drying. If you have oily, sensitive skin, this cleanser would be perfect for you. However, if your skin is more on the dry side, you may be better off trying this cleanser instead. I’ve also been using their Skin Renewal Facial Peel once a week and I’ve definitely been noticing a difference. This facial peel feels more like a thick moisturizer than a gritty, exfoliator/facial peel. There’s literally no grit, no sharp exfoliators or anything. I’m still not completely sure how this product works its magic, but it certainly does the trick. After moisturizing, once a week, I apply a thick layer of the Skin Renewal Facial Peel and let it work it’s magic for about five minutes. After five to ten minutes, you can then rinse it off. I will say, it does not rinse off the easiest. You may need a couple rounds of water splashing in order to get it all off. I like using a cotton pad to further get it off. The facial peel is great for reducing sun/age spots, removes skin impurities, and is great for those with acne prone skin (me, ugh lol). I love it because it literally feels like it unclogs everything.The best news? Arianna Skincare has a brand new shop on Martha’s Vineyard, so if you’re heading that way this summer you should definitely make a pit stop to get a skin consultation/skin analysis. You can check out their other locations here.
Photo Credit: Equinox
Firestarter class at Equinox
The Firestarter workout class at Equinox is just a short thirty minutes, but don’t let it fool you… it. is. so hard. Not joking, the hardest workout I’ve ever done in my life. Firestarter is a HIIT class with fast intervals that is based on a pyramid system. For example, you get two different types of exercises. You then alternate between the exercises for 15 seconds, 30 seconds, 45 seconds, 30 seconds, 15 seconds, etc. There are three pyramids total. Sound easy? Trust me, it’s not. I recommend drinking a ton of water during the day before you go. I felt a bit dehydrated when I went, and it was so rough. If you’ve never done a HIIT class before, I encourage you to do so, even if it’s not Firestarter. It’s my favorite type of workout because it’s over and done with in 30-45 minutes. There’s very little break meaning you’re burning calories the entire time. If you’re still spending two or three hours in the gym doing cardio on machines…. Just stop. There’s literally no reason to be doing that when you can do a quick thirty minute workout and be done with it. I also swear by the Kayla Itsines BBG workouts. Need exercise ideas? Comment or email and let me know! Also, if anyone’s interested in trying, let me know and we can go to a class together!
Photo Credit: Amazon
The Art of Racing in the Rain
The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein is what I’m currently reading (almost finished) and it’s absolutely incredible. A coworker let me borrow it after she finished it, and I haven’t put it down. If you’ve ever wondered what goes on in a dog’s mind then this book is for you. This book is from the perspective of Enzo, a lab terrier mix, and the dog of Denny, a race car driver. Without giving too much away, this book travels from when Enzo was just a puppy to hist last moments. It will make you laugh, cry, and everything in between. It’s heartwarming, heartbreaking, and truthfully, you’ll never look at a dog the same after reading this. Definitely recommend it.
Photo Credit: James Nord
A Drink With James; Fohr Card Youtube Channel
If you’re a blogger, chances are you’ve heard of James Nord, the co-founder of Fohr . If not, let me give you a little bit of background. Fohr Card is a website for brands, agencies, and influencers who share a love of storytelling to come together and collaborate. In addition to collaborations, Fohr Card is also a great resource for looking at your growth rate across your social media channels. For instance, it gives you a great look at how your channels are currently performing compared to your last 30 days of analytics. Recently, Fohr Card gained a lot of exposure after releasing their “follower quality” algorithm. This algorithm “examines Instagram following, looking for patterns associated with fake accounts and low engagement.” The release of this algorithm has been applauded by most and is a great way for brands to know that they’re getting the real deal when they collaborate with an influencer. It’s also been applauded by most influencers, as it can tend to work in favor for those who are building their following in an honest manner.
One of my absolute favorite things is co-founder, James Nord’s “A Drink With James” Youtube series on Fohr Card’s Youtube channel. If you’re an influencer or just wish to learn more about the business of blogging and everything that encompasses it, these videos are absolutely a must watch. A new video is uploaded each week and on average they’re about 10-15 minutes long. Topics covered include everything from how to pitch yourself to a brand, how to nail your comped hotel stay, why you should send a post draft to clients, how much to charge brands, and loop giveaways to name just a few topics covered. I can’t stress enough the importance of watching these. James has a laid back, no BS personality so you can be sure that every minute is valuable and worth your time. I highly recommend!
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Have a favorite product, article, and/or place that needs to make its way onto my Friday Favorites? Shoot me an email (contact@brunchonsunday.com) or comment below. Have a great weekeend! xo
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