Sparkling Ice Teas New Flavors – Product Review

WHAT: Sparkling Ice®, part of the Talking Rain® Beverage Company portfolio, announced a new packaging design for its great tasting, zero calorie, Sparkling Ice Tea product line, which now includes Lemon Tea, Raspberry Tea, Peach Tea and new Half & Half flavors.

Sparkling Ice

The introduction of the Sparkling Ice Tea collection in early 2015 provided the brand with a new opportunity to expand on-shelf presence at retailers nationwide by offering a variety of products in assorted categories to meet a wide-range of consumer demands. The new packaging features bold colors and bright fonts designed to reflect each of the Sparkling Ice Tea flavors and refreshing characteristics.

As part of the new design debut, Sparkling Ice will also merge its current Sparkling Ice Lemonade with Tea product into the tea collection, renaming the flavor “Sparkling Ice Tea Half & Half.” Half & Half has the same great taste that consumers have come to love, and makes the perfect addition to Sparkling Ice Tea’s line of refreshing pick-me-ups that deliver just the right amount of fizz.

The full Sparkling Ice Teas collection now includes, Raspberry Tea, Lemon Tea, Peach Tea, and Half & Half flavors.

WHEN: April 5th, 2016

WHY: As the leaders in the sparkling water category, Sparkling Ice continuously seeks out new opportunities to meet the demands of our dedicated customers. Through the redesign and expansion of its Ice Tea collection, Sparkling Ice is responding directly to consumers searching for healthier beverage options.

WHERE: The new teas packaging is currently available in select retail outlets across the country via single serve bottles. For more information about Sparkling Ice products and flavors, please visit www.SparklingIce.com and www.facebook.com/SparklingICE.

About Sparkling Ice Beverages:
Sparkling Ice beverages combine sparkling water, natural flavors, fruit juice, vitamins and antioxidants to offer a great tasting lightly carbonated beverage, all without the calories. Sparkling Ice is the Bold Side of Water, offering a bold, flavored, lightly-carbonated beverage that appeals to all age groups. Available in eleven refreshing flavors: Black Raspberry, Orange Mango, Pink Grapefruit, Kiwi Strawberry, Coconut Pineapple, Pomegranate Blueberry, Peach Nectarine, Lemon Lime, Crisp Apple, Cherry Limeade, Strawberry Watermelon and new in 2016 Black Cherry. Sparkling Ice Lemonades, launched in 2013, are available in three refreshing flavors: Classic Lemonade, Strawberry Lemonade and Peach Lemonade. Sparkling Ice Teas launched nationally in 2015 and include Peach Tea, Raspberry Tea, Lemon Tea and Half & Half flavors. SPARKLING ICE can be found in retailers nationwide. Sparkling Ice is part of the Talking Rain family of beverages, and retails for $1.19-$1.29. To locate Sparkling Ice, visit www.sparklingice.com/locate/.

Review – 

Truthfully, we consume too many beverages that are not healthy.  Our selections are either loaded with sugar, sodium, acid, or caffeine.  In a previous life (teaching Nutrition and Foods) I learned that anything your body craves is considered a deficit.  This means your body has a lack of the proper vitamins or minerals.

Sparkling Ice is a great substitute from our normal unhealthy beverages because it’s caffeine free, gluten-free, and zero calories.  To make this beverage more appealing, it comes in a variety of flavors!

My first connection with the product was actually through my husband.  He tested one for me (smile) and said, “Kim this tastes really good!”  From that point, I have started to sip Sparkling Ice as a soda substitute.  My favorite flavor is the Raspberry Tea.

Take my advice and try Sparkling Ice Tea to get on track with your dietary needs!

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Wildfox and Nordstrom Fragrance Event – Walk on the Wild Side

Stop by Nordstrom Montgomery Mall during their Beauty Trend Week for an exclusive Wildfox Fragrance Event! Take a walk on the wild side by dropping by the Wildfox counter to experience a scent journey that’ll leave you feeling dreamy. For an added bonus, layer Wildfox body crème frosting plus a spritz of Wildfox juice. See complete details below:

WILDFOX Fragrance

Nordstrom Montgomery Mall
Saturday, April 16th – 10am-9pm
7111 Democracy Blvd, Bethesda, MD 20817
(301) 365-4111

Follow Nordstrom Beauty:
Twitter: @Nordstrom
Facebook: facebook.com/nordstrom
Instagram: @Nordstrom
Pinterest: pinterest.com/nordstrom
Blog: blogs.nordstrom.com/beauty
#Nordstrom

RESPECT by PRSVR – DC Lifestyle Boutique Grand Opening

Washington, DC’s fashion scene has something to celebrate! The newest RESPECT by PRSVR Lifestyle Boutique will be opening in the city April 15th. Located in the historic Shepherd Park neighborhood at 7610 Georgia Ave NW Washington DC 20012​, PRSVR will host a 2 day opening celebration on Friday, April 15th and Saturday, April 16th.

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Brandon Williamson, CEO of PRSVR, has been waiting for the opportunity to have a presence in the DC market. The Chicago born Elevated Lifestyle Brand will introduce a new concept where the entire store will be for sale. The lighting, art, furniture and of course the clothing!

RESPECT by PRSVR will launch with a 2­Day Grand Opening Featuring:
Friday 4/15/16​: Slayed ­ A Presentation of Style for Spring 2016 (7 PM­10 PM)
Saturday 4/16/16​: Squad Up: A Pop­Up BBQ for Cool Kids and their Parents (12 PM­4PM)

Currently operating a flagship store on the famous Michigan Ave, the family owned fashion powerhouse is ready to show a different side of the brand. PRSVR, which stands for Persevere, is based on thefundamentals of Passion, Resilience, Sacrifice, Values, and Respect. The Georgia Ave location, named RESPECT by PRSVR, will be the second of 5 new locations to open around the world. “We aim to fill a void in the marketplace. PRSVR is a brand that caters to families living and working in the city, and offers a unique shopping experience for those who strive to follow their passions”, says Margaret Williamson, Brand Manager for PRSVR. The store will feature one-of-a-kind artwork, clothing, footwear, and furniture all from minority and independent designers. “We are bringing back the old school boutique. The place you went to find that piece that no one else will have!,” says Brandon Williamson, CEO and Designer of PRSVR.

The DC outpost will be the brand’s only brick and mortar presence outside of Chicago. RESPECT creates an environment where men, women, and children will find unique pieces of clothing, footwear, and home decor to elevate their lifestyles. RESPECT by PRSVR is created for the new generation of “ballers and gangsters”, for those entrepreneurs and millennials who turn their passions into paychecks.

Experience the PRSVR lifestyle via www.shopprsvr.com, @PRSVR, and @RESPECTDC. For more
information, contact Margaret Williamson at 855­BY­PRSVR, or info@prsvr.com.

To attend the grand opening events, please RSVP to RSVP@PRSVR.com. For all media inquiries, please contact​ ​candice@candicenicolepr.com.

ABOUT PRSVR, or Persevere- An Elevated Lifestyle Brand owned and operated by husband and wife Brandon and Margaret Williamson. The Chicago based company caters to those who live and work in the city. “Our goal is to create stylish, yet functional pieces that complement a busy lifestyle,” says CEO Brandon Williamson. Launched in September of 2012, the collections of travelwear, footwear, and luggage are sought by celebrities, bloggers, stylists, and everyday city dwellers. Standout clients include basketball star Kevin Durant, actress/singer Zendaya, and Hip Hop artists Chris Brown and Nicki Minaj. The brand has been featured on Empire, in a McDonald’s commercial, and in several publications including the Chicago Sun Times, Fashion Bomb Daily, Good Day Chicago, XXL, 360 Magazine, and Athlete’s Quarterly.

GO YOU! ACTIVE EVENT FEATURING ROZONDA “CHILLI” THOMAS – Macy’s Lenox Square Mall

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Lenox Square Mall

SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016

12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Join Macy’s for a fabulous health and wellness-focused event featuring Fitness Expert, Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas as she teaches you the dance moves from her hit single “Body”. Also, there will be fun challenges provided by the Fitness organization Divas in Defense!

Plus, see the newest looks in activewear from head to toe.

Chilli Thomas

For more details visit: macys.com/events or RSVP visit www.gochilli.eventbrite.com. #goyou

Handbags in The City – Luxury Fashion and Accessories

Handbags in the City is the ultimate fashion and luxury lifestyle destination in the Baltimore City area. The accessories boutique takes pride in extraordinary sales, unique styles, and excellent customer service.

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Carrying some of the world’s most popular designers; the accessories boutique has everything from handbags, clothing, jewelry, luggage, and eyewear.

Tory Burch Michael Kors WatchesZac Posen 2Gucci Sunglasses

I have always been a fan of the luxury brand, visiting their Instagram account for new merchandise.  The boutique itself is a beautiful site and the perfect shopping destination if you’re ever visiting downtown Baltimore.  Let them know that Style + Life + Fashion sent you.

It’s great to have a trendy bag but you can’t beat the quality (and longevity) of a well-made purse.  Visit Handbags in The Cityyou won’t be disappointed!

Quick Fact: Handbags in The City also completes phone orders and will ship to anywhere in the U.S. Customers have to pay the shipping fee, but will exclude tax.

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Shirley Murdock Celebrity Interview – Ain’t No Love Like A Mother’s Love

Style + Life + Fashion had the opportunity to interview Shirley Murdock, R&B singer-songwriter and superstar.  She can also be seen performing during the upcoming event, “Ain’t No Love Like A Mother’s Love” on April 9, 2016 at the Murphy Fine Arts Center.

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Who are your inspirations? (as in other artists)

My inspiration comes from artists who sing from a deep place, able to not only tap into their emotions, but make you experience the story and make you feel something thru the songs they sing: Aretha, Gladys, Stevie, Patti, Luther, Michael Jackson, Shirley Caesar, The Clark Sisters.

How did you get started as an artist?

I was discovered by the late Roger Troutman, front man for the funk band Zapp. He heard me singing “Jesus Is Love” for a gospel crusade, on a cassette tape that my cousin Jill beg my mom for a copy to let him hear.

Like the many previous offers that I received to do R&B, I said thank you, but no thank you, because after giving my life to the Lord at 15 years old, I believed I was only suppose to sing Gospel. Roger informed me that he didn’t have any connection there, but left the door open, should I ever want to give it a try.

I basically left there asking God why are the only doors opening are R&B and not Gospel? After praying, soul searching, talking to my family, pastor and remembering that my relationship and witness was constant, regardless of the jobs I’ve held. We take our faith and light everywhere God plants us.

So, I walked by faith thru the open door and it’s been and continues to be an amazing journey!

Who are your favorite singers?

As mentioned before, Aretha, Gladys, Stevie, Patti, Luther, Michael Jackson, Shirley Caesar and The Clark Sisters are my biggest inspirations, but I have to say, I love me some Whitney Houston, Vesta and Teena Marie, Natalie Cole (Gone Too Soon) and Mariah Carey, Beyonce, Lalah Hathaway, Kelly Price and Mary J. Blige!

What do you think about when your preforming?

When I’m performing, I think about how incredibly blessed I am to be living my dream and how these wonderful people have played such an incredible role in making that happen. It’s very humbling, because there are so many artists out there to choose from. I’m grateful, because it doesn’t have to be me!!!

This make me want to give my audience my all. I’ve been given so much, now it’s my turn!

What else can we expect from you in the future?

These 30 plus years in the business has allowed me to hone my skills as a singer, writer, arranger, actor and speaker. My desire is to continue to use my gifts to bring joy and inspiration to the world. I have books to write and Master Classes to do, to share knowledge and experience with the next generation.
I think we should die empty!!
I’m currently working on a “Life Song” project that has a nice balance and blend of inspirational songs with songs about life and love!

Sally Hansen x PRIV App – Airbrush Legs Makeup

This spring, Sally Hansen® is bringing bare-legged beauty to your fingertips. The brand is teaming up with PRIV, a popular on-demand beauty app that allows users to order their favorite beauty services right to their doors. The partnership will bring the brand’s revolutionary Airbrush Legs® Leg Makeup directly to women in select markets across the country. Beginning in April through August, consumers in New York, NY, Hamptons, NY, Los Angeles, CA and Austin, TX will receive a professional application of Airbrush Legs® Leg Makeup from one of PRIV’s top stylists with any beauty service ordered through the app or on PRIV.com.

The coveted product will be applied right in the consumers’ own homes by an expert makeup artist, who will also teach fans how to use the spring essential with a step-by-step tutorial during application. As an added bonus, fans will also receive a complimentary bottle of Airbrush Legs® Leg Makeup.

One of Sally Hansen’s best-selling products, Airbrush Legs® Leg Makeup is a lightweight leg makeup that leaves legs looking smooth and sexy all day long. The formula infused with Palmaria Extract, helps cover imperfections like veins, freckles or bruises and stimulate microcirculation. This long lasting, fast drying formula is transfer and water resistant. The spray-on formula blends seamlessly into skin for gorgeous and flawless legs. It is available in six natural-looking shades with a luminous finish: Fairest Glow, Light Glow, Beige Glow, Medium Glow, Tan Glow, and Deep Glow and is also available in a Lotion form.SHS3703_ABL_00FRSTGLW_CNnw_1900x1900PRIV is a one-stop destination for every beauty and wellness need. The app brings together services from every aspect of the industry, allowing fans to order their favorite services like blowouts, massages and haircuts directly to them anytime and anywhere in multiple markets across the US and UK.

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WHAT AIRBRUSH LEGS COSTS: $13.99

WHERE TO FIND IT: Drugstores nationwide

Lotus Bliss Therapeutic Massage and Wellness Center – Spa Week

It’s been a while since I’ve indulged in a good spa service. Life can get very busy and we often forget to take time out for ourselves!

Luckily, we can (all) visit the spa and still splurge on a new pair of pumps.  Spa Week is a great time to check out local wellness or beauty centers.  Anyone can sign up on the website and find discounted treatments.  A few of the $50 services include Eucalyptus Mint Massage, Cat-Eye Lash Extensions, Aloe Vera Jelly Pedicure, or Chemical Peel Treatment.

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I was invited to visit Lotus Bliss Therapeutic Massage and Wellness Center.  The service I received was the Custom Lotus Bliss Massage.

Prior to starting my treatment, the owner (Nicole Stokes) shared a few facts:

  1. The center specializes in wellness and all of the products used are organic (bath salts, lotions, candles.)
  2. The services also include special enhancements such as sinus relief massage, scalp massage, thermal softening treatment, and custom aromatherapy.
  3. The practitioners have a medical or science background which enhances the total spa experience.

 

Lotus Bliss Spa Review – 

My massage started with selecting a few essentials oils, depending on my personal preference.  I made the selection based on relaxation.  From there, I was able to smell the aroma while Nicole created a special lotion. My treatment also included a stimulating face massage (infused with essential oils.)  The steam instantly relaxed my facial muscles and allowed for easier breathing.

Nicole also shared information about the Chronic Pain and Lymphatic Massage.  This particular treatment is encouraged (or suggested after doctor recommendation) for those suffering with specific illnesses such as fibromyalgia.

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The experience of visiting Lotus Bliss Therapeutic Massage and Wellness Center was truly an educational session.  I learned a lot about aromatherapy and the health benefits associated with receiving a massage.  The center also sales products to their customers that will enhance their body treatment at home such as bath salts, essential oils, or massage balls.

Visit their website to learn more and book an appointment.

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Home Decor Spring Trends 2016 – Fox 45 Morning News Segment

Everyone’s updating their home for the Spring season!  Whether it’s purchasing new pillows, curtains or adding tulips to a vase, new decor can uplift any space.

Last week, I hosted a Lifestyle Segment on Fox 45 News discussing home decor trends with a technology flair.  Blindsgalore is a window treatment company, specializing in Bali Blinds.  This particular type of home blinds is considered eco-friendly and it operates from a smart phone/table app or remote control.  Customers can open their blinds while sitting on the couch or in a different area of the home!

A few of the other products shared included the Mcushion Massage Pillow, BedJet Climate Comfort System, and MyIvation Lamp.

Special thank you to Burlington for (also) supporting this segment and providing additional home products!