AMW Reports: I'm a Show-Off!

For someone who can immediately think of a "moment" just by sniffing a certain fragrance, getting an invite to a new fragrance is something that I wouldn't want to miss especially if it's on a Friday night, at Skye Lounge...

It was a rainy Friday night but that didn't dampen my spirits as I was greeted by a gorgeous set-up with my mom's ultimate favorite color --- Purple/Prune.

And a warm welcome Ms. Audrey Canta, Group Product Manager - Fragrance Division (left) and Ms. Aireen Mayol, Marketing Communications of Rustans Marketing Corporation.  Aren't these ladies gorgeous?

It was a very informal get-together with fellow bloggers!  I got a sneak peek of Charriol Parfums newest Eau de Toilette for Women added into their very classy line.

Show-Off

Show-Off is a floral, fruity and woody rolled into one.  

Top notes: opens on a fresh, fruity and exuberant blackcurrant and bergamot.

Middle notes: Violet absolute and lotus blossom extract, with a blush of rose petals.

Base notes: Amber, Musk and Cedar leaving a mysterious sensual trail.

Everyone was given a chance to sniff on this unique fragrance as created by Michel Almairac and Sidonie Lancesseur.

The gorgeous ladies showing-off the bottle and the box! 

The signature Charriol raised steel cable  motif is sculpted into the glass with a silver plate engraved with the Charriol Signature.  The jewel-like cap in metallic lavender finishes off into a sophisticated bottle!

Here are some of the bloggers I saw during the event.  It was a first for me to meet Say and her friend Larreina! *waves hi to fellow Judenites!* Please keep my weird-story a secret for life okay? LOL!!!

Group Shot

Charriol Show-Off Eau de Toilette

100ml Php5,250 (approx $122.00)

30ml Php2,950 (approx $68.70)

Charriol Show-off is exclusively distributed by Rustan Marketing Corporation and available in all leading department stores nationwide.

Have you sniffed on this newest fragrance from Charriol?
Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: Physicians Formula Talc-Free Mineral Wear Face Powder

I prefer powder foundation over face powders anytime of the day!  Kindly explain to me though, why I love MAC's Mineralized Skin Finishes?  Oh yeah, I remember now!  I prefer face powders for retouch rather than powder foundation to prevent the heavy-feel or patches due to my "mostly dry, sometimes combination skin type".

Since my MAC's MSF went straight to my traincase and it never see the light of day *laughs*, I have Physicians Formula inside my pouch for my quick "retouch" powder!  I have to say, I have been using this on and off since February which explains why it took me THIS long to finally share my thoughts.

Unboxed

Physicians Formula says ---

Includes built-in mirror and brush.  Hypoallergenic.  Fragrance-free.  Oil-free.  Talc-free.  Non-comedogenic.  Dermatologist approved. 

Net Wt. 0.3 oz./9g.

Ingredients: Mica, Lauroyl Lysine, Silica, Squalane, Zinc Oxide, Boron Nitride, Kaolin, Retinyl Palmitate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Methylparaben, Propylparaben. May Contain: Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Ultramarines.

AMW says ---

Pros

• Clear packaging with built-in mirror and brush.

• Expiration date shown on package.

• Very light-weight.
• Easy to apply and looks super natural.
• Build-able coverage, from light to medium.
• Fragrance-free
• Since this product is talc-free, skin can breath.
• Great product for sensitive skin.  Does not break me out.
• Controls the oil and can be applied all over face several times and won't look cake-y.
• ALMOST comparable to MAC's MSF.
  

Cons

• I wish this comes with a sponge applicator or puff so consumers get to apply this product both ways!
• Since this is available online, color-matching could be tricky!

Overall
This is a great face powder for sensitive skin because of its' talc-free, fragrance-free, oil-free properties.  Please do not expect heavy coverage as this product is meant to be a face powder, NOT powder foundation.  This is a great product to use to set your liquid/cream foundation or on top of a tinted moisturizer or BB Cream for a light and natural makeup look. 

This product is almost comparable to the MAC's Mineralized SkinFinish.

Tips

• For light coverage or re-touch, use the brush provided.
• If you prefer to apply this product on its own, use a sponge or powder puff for better and more even coverage.
• If you have sensitive skin and light make-up is your choice, use a primer or BB Cream underneath, cover spots with your choice of concealer then set with Physicians Formula Talc-Free Mineral Wear Face powder.
• If you like a natural "contour" on your face, purchase 2-3 shades darker and use this as a contouring powder.
• Same concept as above, if you like the highlight some parts of your face, purchase 2-3 shades lighter and use as highlighter.  This product is natural enough to create contours and highlights.
• Applying too much (with dry skin) may create "powdery" look, but this will be gone as soon as the product blends in with the skin's natural oil.  I strongly suggest to moisturize drier areas prior to product usage.
• Though this product is hypo-allergenic, it pays to note down your skin condition while using this product.  Once signs of irritations occur, STOP product usage IMMEDIATELY.

Will I repurchase?
Yes.

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone with sensitive skin or are under dermatologists' treatment.

Where to purchase and how much?
Available at TameraOnline.com for USD16.00 (approx Php686.16).

Product photo and swatches

Shade: BEIGE on Pan

Beige shade has a hint of yellow/pink blended well together.  It may look dark for me on pan but it blends well a couple of minutes after application.

 

Swatch on Fingers

The powder shoes up with light to medium covearage, 

Yellow undertone is more evident so this color works for most Asians.

I used the free brush without any foundation underneath

 

(Note: Kindly forgive me for the different color of photos on both before and after, I can't explain why the lighting changed all of a sudden under fluorescent light.)

L- Bare Faced
-R- Applied Physicians Formula Talc=Free Mineral Wear Face Powder in Beige all over face and neck.

Have you tried any of the Physicians Formula products?
I have to admit, this is my first and seems like they are known for natural-looking products meant for sensitive skin.

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

(Product received for review.  Opinions 100% mine.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)

AMW Reviews: K-Palette 1-Day Tattoo Lasting 2 Way Eyebrow

Happy Monday friends!  How was your weekend?  It was raining and sunny all at the same time but nevertheless, I had a super wonderful weekend as I was able to prettify another client at the same time, was able to take the time off and spend quality time with Mr. AMW!

Time management, thank God for giving me that talent! :)

Remember my first K-Palette eyebrow product review?  It was the K-Palette 24H Real Lasting Eyebrow Liners.  Honestly speaking, I loved it so much that I purchased a set at the Beauty Bar for my clients!  I used 02 Greyish Brown on my client's mom and she loved it so much and immediately asked where she can get one!  It was super cute how her daughter texted me to get the shade and purchased one as a gift to her mom!  (You know who you are P!)  :P 

I'm sure she made her mom extremely happy!

Before my Japan trip, I got an email from Cheryl telling me she wanted me to try another product from the same brand!  With all the good experiences on the said brand, I am definitely intrigued!  I brought these 2 with me during vacation and even tested these back home!  Just so you know, it worked on both extreme weathers!  The super cold and super hot and humid! 

Are you ready to read my review?

K-Palette says ---

This revolutionary liquid  eyebrow liner comes with a powder tip on the other end!  You can simultaneously shade and tint long-lasting eyebrows with its smudge-proof and water-resistant polymers.

This eyebrow liner is made of just the right amount of translucence such that the color is deep enough to conceal the sparse areas of your eyebrows but not too dark that it gives a severe, unforgiving tone.  If you want a darker tone, just go over the same area twice or more.  Suitable for everyone from beginners to professionals.

Weekend Food Tripping at: Ganso-Shabuway

Ganso-Shabuway is a Japanese-style Hotpot, according to their signage!  I'm glad it was clearly stated as it drawn me and Mr. AMW to go inside the restaurant because we want to know what's the difference of a Chinese-style hotpot to a Japanese-style!  

As I read on the menu to choose our order for the night, Ganso-Shabuway prides on using only authentic and premium Meyer Angus Beef and Kobe Beef cuts.  I'm excited to see if they live up to what they claim!

If you're on your own and you want to try Ganso-Shabuway, I love the fact that this restaurant has a counter-style hotpot table aside from the usual table style.

 

Mr. AMW and I have decided to sit on a table as we shopped a bit and it'll be easier for us to put our belongings under the table.

Each table has an electronic stove meant for a fun, fire-free hotpot experience!  Keep in mind that you have to order ONE MEAL PER CUSTOMER!  So there's 2 of us, we should order 2 meals!  Appetizers of course are not considered a meal!

Good thing Mr. AMW and myself were hungry that time so it wasn't hard to pick our orders!  As we wait for our orders to arrive, we familiarize ourselves with the condiments on the table!

You can choose between the Ponzu (Sweet and Sour Sauce) and Sesame Sauce (sweet and rich sauce), adding garlic, green onions or carrots into these sauces would enhance the flavors thus giving you a unique experience!  I guess this is ONE huge difference you can see between Japanese Hotpot and Chinese Hotpot.  I haven't tried putting on any "rich" sauces on my hotpot before!

We've decided to try both sauces and I like mixing the 2!  Just like how I eat my fishballs!  *laughs* Mix all the condiments together and you get nothing but a very unique contrasting YET perfect experience!

 Seafood Dumpling Shabu Shabu

Php375.00 (approx $8.70)

This set includes vegetables, tofu, 2 Kani Sticks, 2 Fish dumbells,

 2 Crab Eggs, 2 South Sea Scallops and 2 Stuffed Fish Cod and rice.

I found myself enjoying this so much as I love variety when it comes to food, I like that I get a mix of everything and enjoy the goodness of fresh vegetables.  My ultimate favorite is South Sea Scallops. 

Unfortunately, it was written on the menu that this is available on a limited time only, so I'm not sure until when you can enjoy this dish!

Shabuway Original Pork Kurobuta 

Shabu Shabu Set

Regular 150g for Php599.00 (approx $13.90)

Large 200g for Php670.00 (approx $15.60)

This set includes vegetables, one cup of rice, 2 dipping sauce and a choice of broth.

 We've decided to go for regular size as there's only 2 of us!  Look at the lovely surprise that greeted us once the plate was set on our table, I see fresh, thinly-cut pork slices!  I am very happy with the quality of the pork that was served right in front of us!

Keep in mind that these aren't meant to be thrown inside the soup and leave it there for life!  *laughs*  Thinly sliced beef or pork are best cooked for approximately 5-10 seconds then straight to your mouth! :)

They slice the meat at the time of customer's order, I commend the staffs for keeping their work station neat and clean!

Since we ordered 2 meal, we were able to enjoy 2 types of broth!  Spicy Miso (left) and Traditional Seaweed (right).  I personally love Spicy Miso as traditional seaweed tastes a bit too bland for me!  (side note: I'm Cantonese, so I love flavorful soups!  *lol*)

What I love about hotpot is the quality time of cooking your meal together at the same time eating them hot and fresh from the stove without any judgement!  *hahaha*  The sauces, the fresh ingredients made it a very enjoyable experience for both of us!

 

The restaurant accepts cash and credit card payments!  I strongly suggest to dine here IF you have the time and IF you are hungry as you cannot share your meals!  

Ganso- Shabuway
B1 Rockwell Power Plant Mall
2/F Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati City
Tel. nos: (632)903-6763 (63)917-541-8181

Have you tried Japanese-style Hotpot?
Have you tried Ganso-Shabuway?
How's your experience?

Happy weekend food tripping!
Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

Something New: Value Meal Pet Food

(Note from author: It took some time for me to write this post as I lost one of my pet mentioned here.)

Back when I was living and working (alone) in China, my Dutch colleague asked me a huge favor, he is planning a month-long vacation with his long-time girlfriend in Netherlands and propose!  

WHO IN THE RIGHT MIND COULD SAY NO????

Of course, I said yes even though the first time I met "Di Di" (a Shih Tzu), he plan to reduce the number of my fingers from 10 to 9!  *laughs*

To keep the story short, I fell in love with "Di Di" and I had the best time of my life taking care of him!  We bonded like we were best friends and it was super difficult when the owners return and I had to give "Di Di" back! *sigh*

I gave my mom a long-distance call crying and she promised we'll adopt a dog once I get back.  And she kept her promise!  I got wonderful Pomeranians and have been a mom to them for years!  (Exactly 6 years) and I guess the pictures showed how gorgeous and healthy they are, 

Pudding

CharChar

and because of that, I was send Vitality Value Meal Dog Food!

 

I was shocked when a 20kg of ValueMeal dog food was delivered straight to our home! 

My Pomeranian dogs are very picky when it comes to dog food!  We stick to 1 brand for the past years!  Both mom and I tried to change the brand but they always ended up getting diarrhea or not touch the food at all!  So honestly speaking, I was a bit wary in giving this brand a try!

I checked on the ingredients right away and read the product information ---

"ValueMeal’s main ingredient is pure lamb and beef. As lamb is not as common as chicken, it is less likely to cause allergies. Moreover, ValueMeal contains whole grains, aiding for better digestion; and omega-6
that helps produce shiny coat."

 "In addition to the above-mentioned benefits, after feeding your pet ValueMeal, they will produce firm stool that does not smell that bad. This benefit is attributed to the right level of protein – as excessive protein and other undigested food nutrients cause smelly feces; and the fiber from whole grains.

I made sure my mom got the right feeding guide and immediately, a week after testing this out, my mom told me the dog's stool indeed does not smell that bad as before and they are enjoying the taste and so far, no negative reactions was seen but mostly positive!

On a side note, my lovely female Pomeranian Pudding passed away a couple of weeks ago due to bad pregnancy (the baby didn't make it as well) so we are grieving for the lost family member!  Writing this post is a bit emotional for me as my mom told me how much Pudding loved this food and how quickly she finishes her share in a flash!

"Pudding, wherever you are, 

you know how much we love you! 

 I missed you so much!"

Just in case, if you have dogs, feel free to try ValueMeal, I strongly recommend it considering how it passed my picky-eaters' taste buds.  ValueMeal is certified by Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) a system that looks into food and pharmaceutical safety. 

The product is developed and manufactured in Australia.

Thanks Alvin for this!
Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

(Product sent for PR purposes.  Opinions 100% mine.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)