By Lora Condon, aka “The Beauty Buster” and the author of SPA WARS
Buying holiday gifts can bring enough stress to negate any joy that the holidays should bring. Everyone is so “wrapped up” in trying to find the perfect gift, only to be disappointed because of sold-out items, not the right price point or not sure if the person getting the gift will really like the item. Here are some of the best gifts I’ve found that fit everyone’s budget as well as taste.
Everyone loves a candle, but take it to the next level with Scandle. Imagine a candle that looks and smells as beautiful on your skin as it does when you light it. The Scandle Body Massage Candle is a luxurious soy based body massage candle that, when burned, melts into a warm, soothing oil that can be used to all over your skin. Scandle is also environment friendly, emitting less soot and toxins than parrafin candles. Try the body shimmer candles for holiday parties. Prices range from $15 to $36 and even have refills to be purchased at www.abodycandle.com.
Laughter is good for the soul and great to share with friends. The perfect girls night out book is Spa Wars – The Ugly Truth About the Beauty Industry. If you’ve ever wondered what your bikini waxer is really thinking, this book dishes all the dirty, behind the scenes, spa secrets. It is also filled with the most coveted beauty tips and best products on the market. Get this New York Times recommended book for only $8.49 on Nook and $14.95 in paperback. www.barnesandnoble.com/w/spa-wars-lora-condon/1030025145?ean=9781450285896
Can a girl ever have enough make-up? No, I didn’t think so! This new brand is quickly becoming the favorite line of New York’s best makeup artists. Glitter, shimmer and an incredible mix of silky powders. The nail polishes are not to be missed and the brushes are divine. You won’t believe the affordable prices and holiday specials. Happy shopping at www.lisicosmetics.com
A fit, toned body never goes out of style, and we all know that exercise is one of the best ways to reduce stress, boost endorphins, and look better. If the Insanity program is a little too insane for you, try Herbalife’s 24 Fit DVD, which consists of 13 DVD’s to be done over a 24 week program that intensifies as your body builds strength. The workout gives three different intensities for each exercise, so feel free to go at your own pace. You can easily purchase the DVD set for $49.95 online at www.goherbalife.com/celebrityweightloss
Celeb favorite fragrance, Stiletto, is a subtle but distinctive scent of musk, vanilla bean and sandalwood. Even if you don’t like musk, you’re sure to love this perfume since it’s so smooth and mysterious. The perfume is packaged in a bottle shaped like a sexy, black, high heel shoe embellished with golden studs. Trust me, every girl wants this. www.nicoleamyfragrances.com
As a professional makeup artist, a licensed esthetician, a Reiki master and a fearless consumer advocate, Lora Condon is a sought after Beauty Expert and Spa Consultant. As a makeup artist, Lora’s work has appeared in publications such as, Ladies Home Journal, The New York Times, Time Out New York and in spots for Good Morning America, The View, Larry King, CNN, Fox News and ESPN. As an esthetician and the owner of “Magic Hands Skin and Body Spa” in New Jersey she he has won 5 awards for her work such “Best Facial” and “Best Treatment” in the National SPA WEEK Awards.
Lora is known as the “Lash Dr.” among her celebrity and socialite clientele and she is New York’s premier Xtreme Lash technician. Lora also honed her skills for the perfect brow under “brow guru” Anastasia of Beverly Hills. She served as the Northeast Sales and Training Manager for Anastasia.
Most recently, Lora authored “Spa Wars: The Ugly Truth About the Beauty Industry,” which brings together her funniest true stories and professional insight gleamed from over 15 years in the industry. Patricia Field and Nick Arrojo both hosted launch parties for Lora’s book and it received rave reviews and write-ups in the New York Times, New York Magazine, American Spa, Spa Finder and numerous other outlets. Visit Lora’s site www.makeupwithme.com.