Bahamas – 242Blqrze

Sanitas Skincare – 1 Week Recap

July 28, 2017August 18, 2020 by http://242blqrze.com, posted in Skin Care

Hello Beautiful,

If you follow me on Instagram, you would’ve known by now that I’m currently using Sanitas Skincare facial products for normal skin. The kit was suggested to me by the estheticians at Windrose Spa at the Compass Point Resort, Nassau, Bahamas.

Read my review on my Spa experience here.

I started using the products, Sunday July 17th, and since then I have seen slight progress. I cannot wait to see what my results will be like in a month. The products are small and came in a little travel bag. The following are included in the package:

1 – Lemon Cream Cleanser
1 – Glycolic Citrus Cleanser
1 – GlycoSolution 5%
1 – Moisture Mist
1 – VitaRich Serum
1 – Antioxidant Moisturizer

The kit also comes with an instructions sheet, that tells you which products to use, one after the other, and which ones to use on specific days: Exercise Day and Rest Day, just like a real workout regimen.

I must admit I started my regimen wrong. I thought exercise days, and rest days meant days when I was highly active and days when I was relaxed, respectively. However, after following up with Ansharday, an esthetician at Windrose Spa, I learned that Exercise days were the days I “worked out” my skin with the stronger products such as the Glycolic Citrus Cleanser and the GlycoSolution, whereas the Rest days were the days I “rested” my skin with the more gentle products like the Lemon Cream Cleanser. Once I learned that, I got it right!

On Exercise Day its recommended you use the following:

Glycolic Citrus Cleanser: Stimulates healthy cell growth by thoroughly removing dead skin cells, dirt and oil.
GlycoSolution 5%: Exfoliates the skin and gradually tones hyperpigmentation and fine lines.
Moisture Mist: Helps to reduce irritation prior to applying your serums, oils, treatments and moisturizer while softening and smoothing your skin’s texture.
VitaRich Serum: Accelerates skin renewal and prevent premature signs of aging by deeply hydrating the skin. It also firms and smooths the skin.
Antioxidant Moisturizer: Deeply nourishes the skin while delivering a plumping effect. The result is a firmer, brighter and younger-looking skin.

On Rest Day its recommended you use the following:

Lemon Cream Cleanser: Hydrates skin while thoroughly removing dirt, excess oil and impurities.
Moisture Mist
VitaRich Serum
Antioxidant Moisturizer

I don’t know which product is my favorite. I love them all! Especially after seeing results.

My facial skin use to be dry, and very hyperpigmented. I started to notice fine lines around my mouth, nose and eyes and I have a lot dark spots.

Now, my skin is soft and moisturized. My face looks more youthful and firm. I’m noticing my complexion is becoming more even and toned, and although I still have these annoying dark spot, I do believe they will fade after a month or so. It’s only been a week.

All the products feel gentle, even the GlycoSolution 5% that burns a little when applied isn’t as bad as other products I’ve used that have burned me, dried my skin, bleach my carpet or smell like a cleaning product.

So far I’m satisfied with these skin care products and I’m happy with results.

My regimen is as follows:

Exercise Days: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
Rest Days: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

If you’re interested in trying the Sanitas Skincare visit your local spa or dermatologist as the product isn’t easily found over the counter or online because Sanitas wants you to use the products specific to your needs after a professional consultation.

If you live in Nassau, Bahamas or visiting, make an appointment or walk-in to Windrose Spa at the Compass Point Resort, maybe have a facial and find out which Sanitas product or kit the estheticians will recommend for you!

I guarantee you, you won’t be disappointed.

Tell them 242BlqRze sent you!

Xoxo,

Conesha

#OOTD: Blazer and Bicycle Shorts

July 24, 2017July 24, 2017 by http://242blqrze.com, posted in Fashion, Fashion Tips

Hello Beautiful,

Life is coming at me fast this summer! I don’t think my closet can keep up with my invites. But I’m grateful for being busy, because I get bored easily.

Oh! And my birthday is in a few days (weeks actually), which means my style has to grow up with me as I get older.

Thats the fun in style. As your life grows, your style evolves. So when Pandora invited me to a “girls night out” at their boutique on Bay Street, Nassau, Bahamas, I figured I would put on my GROWN and sexy to commemorate the final years of my 20 somethings.

Here’s what I wore…

Neon Yellow Blazer

Black Plunger Neck Body Suit

Floral Multi-Colored Short Pants

Gold Metal Belt

Black & Gold Ankle Strap Chunky Heels

Black & Gold Clutch

L’Oreal Paris Relaunch in Nassau, Bahamas

July 21, 2017August 18, 2020 by http://242blqrze.com, posted in Beauty, Lifestyle, Music, Music & Books

Hello Beautiful,

L’Oreal Paris is relaunching their Hair, Makeup & Skincare products in the Bahamas and had a launch event on Friday, July 14th to celebrate.

Fortunately for me, I found myself on the invitation list, and had an amazing time at the event! I learned so much about L’Oreal and its diverse subsidiary brands, one being Maybelline, a favorite of mine.

Do ya’ll remember when I met the Maybelline trend squad last year September? Click here to see the video from our day away workshop in Eleuthera, Bahamas.

Now… back to the L’Oreal Awakening event! It was nothing short of GLAMOUROUS!

After taking a few pics on the step and repeat, I walked into the Melia Ballroom to purple floor lights, high cocktail tables and a big screen that said “L’Oreal” above the stage. I knew I was in the right place!

To my right was a beautiful sweet treats buffet filled with cotton candy, macaroons, bubble gum, cookies and cupcakes! Yum, yum, yum! To my left was the bar serving soft drinks, and wine! Oh… and natural fruit popsicles!

I found myself a vacant table and chair at the centre of the room, with a great view of the screen and stage.

The host, Bahamian singer Bodine welcomed the crowd and introduced the first speaker. Through out the night international reps for L’Oreal, Maybelline and Garnier spoke about the brands, their affiliation with one another and their target markets.

During the presentation breaks, I visited the different brand booths around the room. The first booth I stopped to was the Garnier Hair Care booth. There I met Bre & Tanisha, two of the Garnier’s representatives. These ladies were so friendly and knowledgeable. They told me all about the Garnier’s shampoo and conditioner sets such as Whole Blends and Green Tea, their formulas, and which ones were best for certain hair types. I also learned that Garnier’s products are paraben and silicone free, and that they carry a vegan shampoo and conditioner, which tells me Garnier is a very health conscious brand.

Throughout the night, Bodine, the host asked trivia questions based on the presentation. I didn’t win any of the trivia prizes, but I already felt like a winner just being in the room.

Curiosity wouldn’t let me keep still. The next booth I visited was the Maybelline booth.

Being a big fan of Maybelline’s lipstick, I was like a kid in a candy store when the rep showed me all these cool colors for fall and most importantly for my chocolate complexion. There was a lot of “Oooo’s” and “Ahh’s” from my side of the table. I had the rep write down the name and numbers of the lippies and I will be visiting one of Nassau’s several Lowe’s Pharmacy’s to purchase them.

In real cocktail style there were hor’dorves waiters floating the room, making sure every one had their small bites of deliciousness. I ate a little salmon on a toasted bread, some cheese with grapes and quiche. Oh! And let’s not forget my white wine with the popsicle in it! That was a surprising twist on my favorite cocktail.

Apart from the awesome candy buffet, delicious hor’dorves, and amazing decor, the DJ was playing the latest “party girl” hits and there was even an instant photo booth with props.

Of course there was no way I could leave the event without visiting the L’Oreal station. I honestly saved the best for last! L’Oreal has always been an affordable makeup brand that was raved about, and I’m so happy they’re introducing more darker shades for the coloured woman.

The L’Oreal representative tested the Infallible Matte Finish foundation in the color 112 on me, and I instantly fell in love!

Apart from foundations, the L’Oreal rep introduced me to L’Oreal Infallible Paints lipglosses, and liquid liners that I didn’t even know existed. I may have to cheat on Maybelline with a few of these L’Oreal Infallible products (covers face). Their colors are amazing for summer, especially the electric blue eyeliner!

I can go on, and on about my experience at the L’Oreal Awakening Relaunch event! It was truly enlightening, fun and glamorous. I was already a fan of Maybelline and L’Oreal but now I’m a bigger fan of these brands and a new fan of Garnier.

I made a list of products I’m going to purchase from each brand, but the L’Oreal Infallible line has truly made an impression on me. Thank you Lowe’s Pharmacy (Nassau, Bahamas) and L’Oreal Paris Hair & Makeup!

See more pics from the L’Oreal Awakening Relaunch Event:

Spa Day at Windrose Spa

June 30, 2017August 18, 2020 by http://242blqrze.com, posted in Lifestyle, Skin Care

Hello Beautiful,

By now I should be a “Spa Connoisseur”! Whenever I get the chance to show myself a little tender loving care, my first thought is to book a service at a spa. Either for a massage, facial, or pedicure.

I’ve visited some of the top spas in Nassau, Bahamas, but I was unaware of this little quaint but comfortable spa tucked away in Compass Point Beach Resort called Windrose Spa. It’s the best-kept secret of spas in the Bahamas and it was one of my BEST spa experience to date!

The spa is literally small in size, however, it gives you a more island-like feel, as opposed to a big luxury spa. Through the windows of the spa, you have the most amazing view of the ocean over colourful huts and trees.

To get my services started I was offered a glass of fruit diffused water as I filled out client information form. Shortly after, my massage therapist Sophia introduced herself and explained what services I would enjoy. I had the “Tour de Windrose Spa” package which means Explore Windrose Spa in French, and it allows you to experience all areas of the spa – body, face, hands and feet.

As Sophie explained, the package included a 30-minute body scrub, back massage, facial, and pedicure. It also included an express manicure but I was wearing acrylic nails (bummer), so I didn’t have the manicure. Next time, I will!

Sophie ushered me into the room and allowed me a few minutes to disrobe. Windrose Spa also offers you disposal undies and a shower cap.

Although I’m no stranger to massages, I’ve never had a body scrub done before but I quickly figured out it was the reason for the large soft foil paper on the massage bed.

Sophie used a caramel macchiato scent body scrub on me. The smell was divine especially since my service was at 9:30 in the morning, the coffee smell woke me up. She explained that the scrub was to remove any dead skin cells and would leave my skin feeling soft to the touch. After about 20 minutes of scrubbing, I went into the shower to wash all of the exfoliant off.

I was already feeling soft to the touch! Even my elbows and ankles felt new. Sophie then applied a moisture because as she explained the exfoliant strips the protective layer of moisture from your skin, so I had to moisturise again after the body scrub. The body scrub is recommended once per month.

From the body scrub and moisturizing, Sophie went into the back massage. I remember Channa Cius, the manager of Windrose Spa telling me, “none of the massages are the same and typical because the therapists at Windrose, listen to your body and massage you based on your needs”. Sophie proved her oh so right! She identified knots in my back and shoulders and paid close attention to those areas. I became so relaxed, I fell asleep for a minute or two… or ten!

The massage went into the facial. You could smell the organic, au natural mix of plants used in the facial products. Sophie cleansed my face twice: once to removed my makeup, and a second time to cleanse my skin. She went through the facial steps of light steaming, exfoliating, and using a warm towel but my favourite part of the facial was when she applied tea tree mask with a brush. Tea tree purifies skin. Once again she removed the product with a warm towel and then moisturised my face.

“Alright, and you’re all done.”, Sophie said removing a soft headwrap that she had applied to protect my hair and keep my hair out of her way. I felt amazing after…. AH-mazing! And as I got dressed it hit me! I didn’t feel oily or sticky. The products used were lightweight and organic, leaving me feeling light, airy and rejuvenated.

Next was my pedicure! I love to see well-groomed feet, especially with a pretty polish! Sophie directed me to the polish racks showing me what was regular, gel or had a gel finish. Windrose Spa carries a lot of Essie polishes which is a plus for me because it’s my favourite polish brand and one I use a lot!

I couldn’t decide between three colours, a pink, an orange, and a greenish blue… in the end, I chose an orange colour which is Essie’s On the List from their new gel couture line. It’s a colour that screams summer.

Channa did my pedicure, and she was ever so gentle. We had a good conversation about skin care, Windrose’s product partners and the meaning of the name Windrose. A wind rose is actually the centre of the compass, and the Spa is actually in the centre of Compass Point as it sits between the restaurant and the resort. Clever isn’t it?

Channa wrapped up my pedicure and our conversation, with an even bigger surprise than the experience itself, “After your service, you’re allowed to have lunch at the restaurant or lounge by the pool and experience Compass Point itself a little bit” she said. This can also be your experience… trust me, I want it to be your experience! Everyone should live like this for at least one day in their life!

Channa Cius and her team at Windrose Spa truly know how to deliver a spa experience the island way! And after all, isn’t that what you came to the Bahamas for?! Whether you live here or visit it… you can truly appreciate a personal, detailed spa service from friendly staff and complimentary perks.

This summer, contact Windrose Spa to treat your family, friend or you and your significant other to a “Tour de Windrose Spa”. I can guarantee you, you won’t be disappointed… AND YOU WILL BE BACK!

See more of my day at Windrose Spa at Compass Point below:

OOTD: Simple Summer

June 26, 2017August 18, 2020 by http://242blqrze.com, posted in Fashion, Outfits

Hello Beautiful,

Summer is officially here and it’s the perfect reason to let loose and have fun!

My idea of Summer fun is being surrounded by the water. Although I’m already surrounded by the water, just by living on an island, when I say surrounded by water I want ever spare moment I have to be spent on a beach.

The water calms me on one hand and ignites my wanderlust spirit on the other. I’ve even been considering working on a boat for a year, travelling the world, making some money and blogging about! If the opportunity comes I’ll take it, hands down!

So, I spent my first Sunday of Summer by the water, soaking up the sun and eating a daiquiri to cool down.

Here’s what I wore:

Beige Crochet Crop Top

Distressed Oversized Boyfriend Jeans

Floral Beach Cover Up

Floral Strap Ups

P.S.. Doesn’t something look different about me? Comment below and tell me what it is.

Xo,

Conesha

Father’s Day: Pico’s Perfect Gift

June 14, 2017June 14, 2017 by http://242blqrze.com, posted in Fashion, Lifestyle

Hello Beautiful,

Father’s Day is one of those silent special days that you forget all about, then it sneaks up on you and your left feeling guilty that you got your father, husband or baby daddy nothing. Not one thing!

Did you even know Father’s Day is this Sunday?! Yes ma’am it is!

I know, I know… You do not have a gift! No worries… I got you!

My pick for this year’s Father’s Day gift is a PicoLapelle Pin. This year seems to be the year of the gentleman and every man should have this piece to look and feel dapper. The Pico Brand is a Bahamian-Owned luxury men’s accessory company specializing in lapel pins and pocket pieces.

PicoLapelle was launched in 2014 by GQ magazine collector and men’s fashion lover, Keron Wood. His hobby and love for fashion inspired him to tap into the men’s fashion industry, thus launching a brand that focused on a men’s fashion staple, the lapel flower. At the time, wearing a lapel pin was not the trend in the Bahamas. Thus making Keron and PicoLapelle pioneers to boost the trend and sell the pin.

The first PicoLapelle style made was the PicoLapelle Bloom. It embodies a full bloom flower made from fabric and is hand sewn. Three years later, and the PicoLapelle are offered in 7 styles.

That gives you a good selection to chose from for the different fathers in your life. I had a chance to view the PicoLapelle portfolio and there is something for the old and young fathers. However, if I had to make a suggestion on which PicoLapelle to get for the younger fathers… I would say one of the Pico Wood pins.

The Pico Wood pins are unisex (which means you get to borrow them, girlfriend). They’re the hottest trend in lapel pins for Summer 2017 and a personal favorite of designer & CEO of The Pico Brand, Keron Wood.

Keron says it’s his favorite, ‘not because of its a combination of his middle name and last name (Keron Pico Wood) but because it’s a unique style that combines art, culture, and class.

Maybe your father or the father in your life is a little more settled. For him, I would suggest the “Moncur” pin. It’s subtle but gives the outfit a little extra sharpness.

Besides the lapel pins, The Pico Brand offers pocket squares as well. These vibrant, classic men’s wear essentials complete any blazer, whether worn formally or casually. Keron also hinted about new products in the upcoming future. However, we’ll have to stay tuned to The Pico Brand’s social media outlets to find out what they are, but whatever they are I know they will be amazing! Be sure to follow The Pico Brand on Instagram and Facebook.

The PicoLapelle pins range from $20.00 to $50.00 according to the style, and the Picopockets are 25.00. Not bad for quality, long-lasting, products that any “Dapper Dad” would appreciate. Also, this Father’s Day, The Pico Brand is offering special bundle deals with up to $10.00 worth of savings!

I haven’t started my Father’s Day shopping yet, but that’s because I already know I’m getting my dad a Pico Bundle for father’s day. Any man can wear a lapel pin, but a PicoLapelle pin is a Bahamian luxury, gentleman quality, and design original.

Sunday is soon here! Get your dad the perfect Pico gift!

Xo,

Conesha

#OOTD: Pop of Summer

June 8, 2017June 7, 2017 by http://242blqrze.com, posted in Fashion, Outfits

Hello Beautiful!

Summer 2017 is almost here and I can FEEL it! The heat & humidity is back (not that they went anywhere), and everyone is doing anything for a little cool down!

In the Bahamas, I feel like we have Summer all year round. Despite a little cold in February and a little rain in April, the Sun still shines like a bright Summer day.

Summer is the “Fun” season! And I like to dress accordingly. My favorite fashion trend to wear in the summer is Color Block.

I know they say, “It’s Better in the Bahamas” and that is definitely true in the Summer.

To kick off my summer, I went to a Fete (French for Party). It was on the beach, crowded with people and nothing but good vibes all night long.

Here’s what I wore:

Electric Blue Monokini

Yellow Linen Shorts

Neon Pink Pineapple Clasp Belt

Gold Strap-Up Sandals

Gold Jewelry

Black & White “Bahamas Chain of Islands Clutch” from Pursenal Paradiyse

Xo,

Conesha

OOTD: Classic Red and Black

May 29, 2017May 28, 2017 by http://242blqrze.com, posted in Fashion, Fashion Tips, Outfits

Hello Beautiful!

In March of this year I visited Nashville, and for the first time, I had a hard time finding clothes for Me.

You may not know, but most businesses (especially clothing stores) tailor their inventory to the likes of their consumers and the Forever 21 at the Opry Mills Mall in Tennessee was no different.

Nashville has a boho-chic meets country style, and I’m a city/island girl, so I was having trouble finding clothes that fit my personal style. The selection just wasn’t Me.

That was until I went looking on the clearance rack!

There, I found me the cutest velvet, baroque print, red and black mini skirt for $4.00! Yes, you read right… $4.00.

I was so excited to wear it as I loved the way it looked on Me. So when I decided to attend the Island of the World Fashion Week show this month, I figured it was the perfect occasion.

Here’s what I wore:

A Black Back Out Body Suit

A Black & Red Velvet Baroque Mini Skirt

Black Strap Up Tassel Heels

A Black Suede Clutch

Minimalist Michael Kors Jewelry

Look out for more pics and my experience at the Islands of the World Fashion Show this Thursday!

Xo,

Conesha

PANDORA: Petals & Pumps Party

May 25, 2017May 25, 2017 by http://242blqrze.com, posted in Lifestyle

Hello Beautiful,

PANDORA is one of my favorite jewelry brands. Its always one of my easiest gifts to give and most desired gifts to receive.

I’ve been collecting and purchasing PANDORA jewelry pieces since 2009, with my first piece being the Moments Sterling Silver Charm Bracelet with a Barrel Clasp. It was a gift from my best friend. Since then I’ve gotten a pink leather bracelet, a pearl ring, the PANDORA Charm Necklace and lots of charms for my bracelets.

I love to give PANDORA charms as gifts on special occasions, and they have something for every occasion! When I turned 21, I bought my mom the little girl charm and gifted it to her with a note saying, “21 years ago today, You had a little girl, and she was Me.” She has since bought a little boy charm as well, to signify my brother.

My PANDORA charms tell stories of one of my best friend’s and I obsession over cupcakes, stories of travel, a reminder that I am a Black Rose, and love, love, love!

So when the PANDORA boutique located on Bay Street, Nassau, Bahamas invited me to their Petal & Pumps themed mixer to celebrate the store turning 2 years in business, and the release of the PANDORA Rose Iconic Set, I was there… no questions asked!

The event was everything PANDORA. It was stylish, classy and pink!

There were pink peonies, pink balloons, pink champagne flutes and get this… a PINK carpet! Not the red carpet honey… the PINK carpet!

The crowd rocked to the sound of DJ Safire as she mixed Hip-Hop, Pop, and Soca’s recent hits.

I was excited to be there as I mixed with loyal Pandora customers, lovely Pandora staff and 4 of the Caribbean’s top Bloggers… all hailing from the Bahamas, and all looking as stylish as ever!

The little boutique was packed, so after a few excuse Me, excuse Me, I’m sorry… excuse Me’s, I made it to one of the stores sweetest sales reps. It’s unfortunate that I didn’t get her name but she had a pleasant smile and was very helpful. She showed me thumb rings, earrings, necklaces and made sure I entered my name in the raffle drawing. I didn’t win the raffle but I already felt like a winner just being there.

Although I was enjoying the party, I couldn’t pass up the chance to meet the lady behind the magic, owner of the Pandora Bay Street Boutique, Nirvana DeWeever. She told Me how the event was really a “welcome and thank you” to their customers ‘who’ve made them a success’ for the past 2 years.

I asked her about the theme of the party, why was it called “Petals & Pumps”? “We’re coming out with a new pump stiletto charm with the red bottom”, DeWeever explained, “coming out this Summer” she continued, “and also we’re celebrating the new Rose Gold Collection and the [Rose] Iconic Bracelet.”

Lastly, I asked Nirvana to help me decide on which Pandora earrings to get. I have no Pandora earrings and I was undecided whether I should get some classic, everyday wear earrings or… get the Shimmering Rose Stud Earring, which I really love and I think represents my BlqRze (Black Rose) brand. Nirvana suggested I get the Rose Earring or some Rose Gold earrings. “I think you should do Rose” she said, “Rose [Gold] is big for the Summer and Roses are what’s trending.” My heart smiled… Rzes, we are trending!

Nirvana told me not to move, because she had a gift for me, but in the interim I lost the sales representative who was assisting me. Mrs. DeWeever came back with a small PANDORA bag (the one that always excites me) and I thanked her for my gift, my invitation to the event and for answering my questions.

The party wasn’t over yet. I ate the delicious Hors d’oeuvres that were floating around by a server, munched on the best tasting Macaroons I’ve ever had, sipped some more bubbly and had a little girl chat with fellow Bahamian blogger, Aneka, of Cay to Style about our outfits and false eyelashes.

By this time I had totally forgotten to get my Shimmering Rose earrings, but I guess some traditions aren’t meant to be broken. Most, if not all, of my Pandora pieces were gifts and I will simply add that to my wishlist. I bet you I’ll have them by June 1st *winks* and until then PANDORA Bay Street gave me the cutest encrusted stiletto charm to keep me satisfied.

Overall, the event was a hit! It was definitely in line with PANDORA’s ‘DO’ global campaign, that celebrates strong, passionate women like Nirvana, the other Bloggers, You and I, and to empower us to do what we feel is our purpose with confidence and unique style.

I truly enjoyed myself, and I look forward to the PANDORA Bay Street location turning 3!

See more pics from the PANDORA “Petals & Pumps” party below:

#OOTD: Petals + Pumps

May 22, 2017May 22, 2017 by http://242blqrze.com, posted in Fashion, Outfits

Hello Beautiful!

Spring Fashion is best known for Floral Prints & Appliqués, so when I got invited to the Pandora Bahamas 2nd Anniversary “Petals & Pumps” Mixer, I felt that I should bid Spring a farewell by wearing the theme… Petals & Pumps!

I don’t know about You but, I dress from my feet upward. So I already knew I wanted to wear my blue suede pumps. They’re my absolute favourite. I just needed a dress to compliment them.

Luckily for Me, there was a dress waiting at one of my favourite clothing stores in Nassau, Bahamas, JaDazzles!

No matter the occasion, JaDazzles always has an outfit that fits my body, and my style! Pumps check! Dress Check! I was on My way to the Pandora event.

Here’s what I wore: