Vida Glam - Winter 2010- 2011 Collection - Images Posted

Vida Glam's most recent collection of jewellry has been posted to the facebook fan page, we are getting closer and closer to our official website launch.  Browse the collection and reach me if you see anything you would like to purchase.  All items posted are currently available for purchase.  See our fan page http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=7470261&id=218331196158#!/pages/Vida-Glam/218331196158

Vida Glam Photo Postings - New Designs

The newest Vida Glam designs will be posted later this week.  Visit Vida Glam's Facebook page, Twitter or our blog for a look at the most recent designs created this week. 

Vida Glam Launches New Logo

We have launched a new logo! A new look, new line, and renewed love of jewelry.

New pieces added to the Vida Glam Facebook Page!

I have recently completed some signature pieces for the 2010 holidays.  Feel free to take a look and let me know your thoughts.  if you are interested in any of these pieces please feel free to contact me at 416-529-5609.

Product Haul - NutriminC RE9 System for Face

Hi there,

About 2 months ago I introduced you to Melissa Hoffmann, a consultant for Arbonne who swears by the benefits of the products she stands by.  Recently I had the opportunity to try these products and determine exactly what all the fuss is about. Melissa was confident that I would enjoy the products and the benefits derived from them....RIGHTFULLY SO!  Since I began using the product line I noticed a difference in my skin, the most dramatic change is how soft my skin feels and the desrased blotchiness I usually have without make up.  I have developed a bad habit of running my hands over my cheeks so I can feel the new found softness and I really need to stop this!  I have never been one to say i hae great skin BUT now with these products and in combination of a good diet i.e. eating the right foods that promote health and wellness I can truthfully say I LOVE my skin.   To be specific, my skin is noticablly softer, my pores seem as if they have shrunk ir in some areas disappeared altogether,  especially around my the sides of my nose and my upper cheeks.  I haven't had a single breakout and I have always been sensitive to new products which usually caused either my skin to become too dry, too oily or just breakout.  This product did none of this to my skin.  The system is a seven product, 6 step system for day and night that, when used in combination, offers elements that leave your skin feeling renewed, refreshed and help combat the signs of aging.  As a preventative aging product I am confident to say that this is a great investment in doing just that. We all want great skin, and more importantly skin that can go against the elements each day to emerge soft, subtle and carry that "glowing look".  I've been told this week a few times "wow you look great" the compliment is not specific to my skin but only I know what I have been doing differently.  Go on and try it, invest in yourself.   So often we are quick to drop money on useless items or products that bring little to no benefits.  Here is a line that DOES; so go ahead and bring that glow to your skin that makes the difference.  You can find information on how to get the product my visiting Melissa Hoffmann directly at melissahoffmann.myarbonne.com.  Remember, that beauty begins from within so ensure you are eating right as well!

Vida Glam Continues.....

Hi all, take a look at some pieces photographed this week.  Many, many more photos to come. Check out the link for more  http://picasaweb.google.com/vidaglaminc/VidaGlamImages?feat=email#

Toronto Fashion Week Inspires with an Elevated Edge.

This week we'll see many fashion hopefuls that have made it in the biz and those that are working to breakthrough scampering through the tents at various Fashion Week events.   This weekend I had the chance to attend a fashion show at Lobby presented by Elevations in Style.  It seems that finally someone has caught on to the fact that people want to see clothes on runways that are wearable, impressive and can deliver a influential edge.  Seeing Lady Gaga inspired attire is great for the entertainment front and to even pick up some ideas that can be incorporated into the everyday ward robe but Elevations in Style brought their best and certainly impressed with designs and accessories the likes of  Toronto night scene regulars could truly appreciate...and wear right off the runway. 
What a refreshing take on how to look good with effortless style...the women were sexy, the outfits and accessories looked as if they were made to be put together and the buzz started immediatly after the show ended.  It was apparent onlookers were quickly trying to determine where to get the goods they had just seen on the runway as well as looking  to familiarize themselves with these quick rising newcomers...  a fabulous duo,  Chris Morgan and Natasha Sen co-creators of Elevations in Style.  Should you find yourself in need of a revamped wardrobe or just require some consultation to rise to an occasion by looking your best, look no further, Elevations in Style can deliver....  Check them out at http://www.elevationsinstyle.com

Vida Glam's Contribution to Reduction in Global Footprints..... How can we help you do the same??

UPDATE!! First and foremost, A big thank you to my Aunt Irene Carreiro for being the inspiration behind this new segment of Vida Glam!

Vida glam has unofficially launched another segment to be added to our website (It's almost here!) The once upon a time line!! This line will feature pieces made from recycled jewelry from clients. You can donate your old jewlery to be used as give away pieces for various charitable events. All jewelry donated will be used for the greater good. No profits will be made from donated pieces.

Often we get requests to donate jewelery for charitable events, contests, raffles etc. Donated jewelry will help in more ways than one. By dontated your used jewlery you will:
1) help reduce your global foot print by bringing new life to old jewelry rather than heading for the dumpster; and
2) help on a charitable basis by being a contributor for pieces made to help not for profit events.

Clients can also request re-invention of old jewelry to be recycled from pieces in their collection for themselves. Vida Glam aims to create artistic wearable pieces while being an active participant in reducing waste. We can all play a small part in reducing our global foot print. This is just one way Vida Glam aims to do just that with your help.

Take a look at the Alice and Wonderland Palette....Limited Edition!

This palette was released late last year to commemorate the Alice in Wonderland story retold through the imagination of Tim Buton, a superior talent. Sephora was provided the opportunity and they jumped on it.  The palette contains the top eyeshadows sellers in the Urban Decay lineup.  I managed to get my hands on one but the search was unfruitful during Christmas and even after releases were announced, within hours the palette was gone.  The phrase "sold out" online and at the retail counters has been a common message when it comes to this brilliant collectable palette.  For those of you who had the chance to purchase one enjoy it as it is a pleasure to work with.  The people that did not have a chance to purchase consider yourself missing out on something absolutely wonderful.  Keep your eyeout for future releases of Sephora/Urban decay palettes.

Points, Points, Points.....I love my Points!

I am a points hog, I love points, shoppers points, airmiles points, aeroplan points, HBC points, Sobey's points, Sephora points...I collect whatever I can and it pays off.  This week I got 13 movie passes in the mail from air miles and purchased over $75.00 in cosmetics from Shoppers Drug Mart but didn't have to pay since my points covered the balance.  I went browsing around the aeroplan site to see if I wanted anything from their merchandise category; I didn't, so I will just keep collecting until I do.  north Americans are among the highest point collectors in the world and it shows with retailers and even banks creating point programs to praise their customers with points that can be redeemed for anything from a vacation trip to a rice-cooker. 

Most of my purchases are done using my Aerogold Infinite credit card which collects Aeroplan points for every transaction , if the retailer has their own points system then I end up collecting points on that program too for the same purchase!.  The trick is to ensure you pay ALL of your credit card balances by the end of the month to avoid interest charges.  I have saved hundreds of dollars over the the years using multple points programs and it is worth carrying all those extra cards.  Most people have multiple credit cards, to save money and keep your credit score high I suggest you cut up and close off all your credit cards expect for one, a card that has the least amount of interest but still allows you to collect points.  Even if there is a annual fee for the card you usually have that paid off several times over within the year if you use your card often to make your purchases.  So readers when economic times get tough people usually become imaginative with ways to curb spending, reduce interest charges and save money.  Just because the tough times look like they are behind us doesn't mean we have to resort to our past way of frivolous spending.  I suggest you all take the time to begin collecting points you will be thrilled at all the things you can buy over time, its like Christmas arrives more than once a year! 

The Mascara Icon Would Agree

Tammy Faye Baker,  the mascara icon would have loved the latest product I purchased.  Lise Watier's Feline Mascara HD is amazing.  I became an instant fan, I can't tell you how many mascara's I have gone through to find the perfect few that deliver the results they claim, leave my lashes lengthened, separated and clump free.  I have a couple of favorites;  Maybeline's Great lash mascara is a long time fav, its staying power speaks for itself.  It has been in existence for over 35 years, and for under $10.00 its definitely a product I would recommend based on price and performance. My new favorite that jumps higher in the price range costing $21.00 but still extremely reasonably priced is the Feline HD Mascara by Watier.  Shopper's Drug Mart carries the Lise Watier line in flag ship stores and can be easily found since it seems that every corner I pass I see another one.

This mascara has been packed uniquely with it's top being a fierce metallic red and the bottom portion in animal print.  The mascara goes on smooth, it lengthens, shapes and separates lashes leaving you with a great finished look without the hideous clumping that make me cringe!  Ah finally another good Mascara on the market that won't completely beat my bank  A great upside in these post recession times when people are still being cautious of how and what they spend their funds on.

Luminese Airbrush System Haul

Premium you say.....???? 

It finally arrived.  After having to pay an additional $28.00 CAD for duties and taxes on top of the $274.00 CAD for the product, a total of just over $300.00, I was thrilled when my system finally arrived but had high expectations due to the price and the claims made about the results.
 I did what I was told despite hating to follow instructions; I read the instructions and watched the DVD provided.  I tried the system and here is the final verdict....  NOT WORTH THE MONEY!!
 First of all the product ads indicate that you only have to use a few drops of the make up ( 3-6) to get the coverage you want...ummm no you don't you have to use closer to 10 drops or more.  Already my product try out wasn't going well. The airbrush needs to be held like a pen and so it seemed slightly awkward when I was trying to apply even coverage. Although the coverage was nice and did seem to go on very well it wasn't  better than the coverage I receive from my beloved (and reasonable priced) MAC Studio Fix foundation and pressed powder.  The bronzer was nice but considering the amount you need to use, the supply you get makes the value plummet!  And finally, the Luminese Air System is not very convenient to travel with.  Though you receive a carry case for the airbrush machine and makeup, the case is much larger than the average carry case for all your basic make up needs i.e. foundation, bronzer, eyeshadow, mascara, eyeliner and your brush basics.
 My advice is save yourself the $300.00 and stop by Mac or Sephora.  You can purchase so much more and receive a tremendous amount of value for your money as opposed to investing in a airbrush system that simply doesn't deliver the results it claims to.

Luminese Air System

I just purchased The Luminese Air system.  I am looking forward to the product arriving so I can try it and do a product review on here.  The Luminese Air System is not cheap but promises to give optimum results and guarantees to deliver coverage like to other conventional foundation out on the market today.  We'll see....

Product Review Coming! Melissa Hoffmann for Arbonne

I have another product review coming. I was introduced to the Arbonne Line by Melissa Hoffmann, Independent Consultant and District Manager. Arbonne boasts that these products are safe, completely natural, and beneficial for your skin and health! They are botanically based, and formulated without animal products or by-products, mineral oils, or dyes and chemical fragrances. I am sold in theory now I will try the products and let you know how effective these products really are! Stay Tuned!! 

Visit Melissa at http://www.melissahoffmann.myarbonne.com/

Vida Glam Launches the Cutie K9 Line!

After several one sided discussions with my pooch Chichi, Vida Glam will soon be launching the Cutie K9 Line featuring jewleashes, necklace collars, and pooch inspired accessories.  The Cutie K9 Line will be available on the Vida Glam website once website construction is complete.

If you have any questions please e mail vidaglam@rogers.com with "Cutie K9 Line" in the subject line.
Glaming up K9 cuties, one pooch at a time!

Silver Mesh Rings Available

Classic Tiffany & Co. inspired silver mesh rings available for $20.00 (taxes incl.) each with free shipping!  Email vidaglam@rogers.com if you would like to make a purchase, the more rings purchased the higher your discount!

 

Murano Glass Rings are Here !

From time to time there are jewelry items that I simply love and therefore decide to import and share with you. These rings are not made by me but are equally loved.   I have Murano Glass Rings for sale and they are extremely reasonable. $6.00 per ring.   These rings have been imported from Singapore and are a great addition to any outfit. I have a variety of colors available: gold and white, red, orange, purple and gold, blue and white.  If you are interested please send me an email at vidaglam@rogers.com.  All of these items will be available with images on my website once it is complete.  Indulge yourself!

History. Primitive Man Wore Jewlery too?? Who knew!

As I was researching on the web for further ideas on upcoming pieces I came across an interesting article on the origins of jewelry design.  As I began to immerse myelf in the article I learned that from the very beginning the human connection between modern civilization and ancient  primitive (wo)man can be found in jewelry....yes jewelry!

The article goes on to talk about language or lack thereof, you see, before man could speak there was jewelry, and it took on a form of symbolism.  Jewelry design provided a forum for (wo)man to express oneself much like many of us do today.  When I find myself in a happier uplifted mood I am more likely to wear outstanding bold pieces  such a thick drapping earrings or a long draping necklace with a variety of charm, whereas a down day you won't catch me wearing my large and loud earrings, instead I would more likely be seen with dainty pearl studs.   Thus it dawned on me, jewelry like many things we have evolved with has indeed become an extension of ourselves and by no coincidence.  This can be seen as an innate habit that we as a civilization have brought with us over hundreds even thousands of years.  Jewelry really is an important part of who we are which has helped to explain why I am so drawn to the design, development and creation of my pieces.  This article helped reinforce my appreciation of how a small object can be transformed  to represent art and its ability to act as a small window into the soul, in the past, present and future.

Here is the link to the site where the history of jewelry design is explored further.  Enjoy!
http://www.allaboutgemstones.com/jewelry_history_early_man.html

The First Vida Glam Necklace

I have been inspired to begin creating further pieces this month.  Stay tuned to get a glimpse.  Remember all pieces are unique, you will NEVER see someone else wearing your glam piece. 

Its Gold for Canada

Today is a very happy family day and great news has hit the airways....Canada has won gold on home soil for the first time in history and the honor could not have gone to a better person.  Alex Bilodeau, has made Canada proud and has dedicated his gold medal to his brother who is special needs.  Since having a child with special needs in the family is near and dear to me Alex has become that much more inspiring. Here is link to learn more about our new Canadian hero. http://www.publicationsports.com/profile_view.php?id=2769

Last night was the first time I attended a party in the downtown Toronto scene since my accident in August.  I stopped by Lobby and  I have to say some things don't change, like the women standing aimlessly around the tables of the men that have bottle service, busting out into spurts of dance to garner attention from men that crave to be "seen".  Other things like fashion and accessories have changed since my last appearance on the scene. It seems that chunky jewelery has crawled into mainstream fashion.  Like the men that respond to women vying for attention I too have responded by taking a new turn to my designs in response to the trend jewelry has taken.  Catch a glimpse of these on the upcoming VIDA GLAM site currently under construction.  Until next time.

Welcome

Hello! First and foremost thank you for stopping by and taking the time to read. This week has been very exciting. I finally found a web designer based in Anaheim, California who I will be working closely with to develop the Vida Glam website to launch by April 19th. I have to say a BIG Thank you to Angela Vargas for all her hard work and efforts on the Logo design. She is a genius! If anyone is looking for an experienced graphic designer look no further. Contact me and I can provide you with her digits or e mail.

The Vida Glam pre-holiday launch party in December was great and I'd like to thank all my close friends for attending and providing some valuable feedback.

I have put a pause on creating new pieces since my current inventory is growing a rate faster than I anticipated. This website will help to finally showcase the art I have been working on since my accident.

It will be exciting to finally have a forum to share the pieces with everyone. Stay tuned as I will be announcing the official date of website launch here on my blog.

There is one bit of news I would like to share with you on the glamour front; for those of you looking for a new soft scent, one that won't over power and be offensive to others I suggest Look by Vera Wang. I was introduced to this scent by chance this weekend and I was so pleased with it I decided this must be my next perfume purchase. It represents style, desire, fashion and in my opinion all positive energy. It introduces notes of mandarin, watery greens, litchi and golden delicious apple. It incorporates lily, freesia and jasmine, while also introducing a combination of sweet vanilla, musk, oak moss and patchouli. It is simply delicious and a must have for those who thrive on making a subtle but lasting impression.

Thats all!