Annual Gift Guide for Her

Looking for holiday gifts for her? Or yourself? Here are some ideas. 

These are all products that I love, own and have gifted to my loved ones and are gifts that I'd actually want for Christmas! Bonus, see below for discount codes too. 

Home Spa Day & Resort Must Haves:

CozyEarth Bamboo Bedding & Clothing

“Like Sleeping In A Cloud” Invest in the best rest with CozyEarth luxury temperature-regulating bamboo sheets. Save 40% off your order with my promo code CE-TARA! You won’t be sorry!! 💤  And don't just take my word for it, Oprah agrees!

CozyEarth luxury bamboo pajamas have made my list every year and for good reason. Their new patterns featuring skiers are perfect for the holidays. Best of all the above discount code applies too their clothing too including casual and travel wear. 

Red Light Therapy 

Red light therapy is all the rage for healthy skin, but there's no need to head to the spa if she has the 

MitoPRO Mobile. This isn't just a colored light, but an over-the-counter class II medical device that emits energy in the red and IR spectrum which may provide: 

• Temporary increase in local blood circulation 
• Relief of stiffness 
• Support for cellular function 
• Relaxation Support for mitochondrial energy production

I swear by it for fine lines too and overall skin radiance, plus the process is relaxing. 

Puffy Headband

Perfect for applying makeup or washing your face these skincare headbands are made of elastic sponge and super soft terry cloth. Great for a girl's night in too. Only $9.99 and available in several colors and patterns too on Amazon.

Eye Massager with Heat

Let her relax and unwind with the “eye massager that went viral on social media.”  Great for headaches or just unwinding after a long day or too much time on the computer. It feels amazing on temples and eyes. Available on Amazon. 

Girl's Just Wanna Have Fun:

ORCA Coolers 

Their new Vino 15oz wine cooler is a beautifully designed, vacuum-sealed wine cup that keeps your wine perfectly cool for hours. Unlike tumblers or bulky Stanley Cups, this still has a wine glass stem. Double walled the Vino comes with a spill-proof BPA free lid - great for by the pool and keeping bugs out. 11 different color options too. 

Love Handle Phone Grips


For the last five years, I haven't held my phone, iPad, Kindle or taken a selfie without the help of a Love Handle strap. I'm constantly getting compliments and questions about it too. 

Trust me, they are soooo much better than those circle pop socket ones that you have to open and grasp. With these you can just loop a finger through it and go. It's great for walking, reading, or just texting and not dropping your phone. I have butterfingers but since having the Love Handle strap I haven't dropped my phone in a long time. 

The new PRO has a kickstand too so you can prop up your device and watch/read easily. Also, the straps can be swapped out to update the style seasonally. 

Oh, and it's magnetic so can stick to certain surfaces, which is how I take my fashion photos when solo or traveling. Best of all, it works with any case or type of phone and doesn't damage your case when you remove or apply. 

Save 10% with code TARAMETBLOG

Something more intimate...

Le Wand Petite 

It's a classic for a reason.  Award-winning, this small wand delivers and is the perfect partner for first-time wand play. Le Wand's Petite Wands are inconspicuous and user-friendly yet bursting with powerful vibrations. USB rechargeable and waterproof with a travel lock, its 6 pulsation patterns and 10 vibration intensities can be indulged in at home, away, in the shower, and as part of solo or shared play with explosive results. Plus, it comes in pretty colors like rose gold too. 

Upcycled IDENTITY LINGERIE

Nightwear she can feel good about and confident in. I recently discovered IDENTITY LINGERIE, a family-run UK brand of ethically handcrafted lingerie and loungewear that promotes self-confidence. Their collection includes their Upcycled Lingerie Drop made from repurposed fabric, luxurious lace robes and matching PJs for couples — all crafted to add a touch of elegance to the festive season. 

Available in classic shades of black, burgundy, and nude, the collection features bras in sizes A to F cups and suspenders with thongs ranging from S to XXL. I personally have their see through bra and red bralette.  

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5 Surprising Benefits of Switching to Shampoo and Conditioner Bars for Frizz-Free Hair

Need the best shampoo bar for frizzy hair? You are not alone. Shampoo and conditioner bars are the new hit with countless people ditching the usual bottled products. And it’s easy to see why. In addition to being planet-friendly and space-saving, solid shampoo has some other major unexpected hair perks—specifically when it comes to reducing frizz. If you’re looking for a new way to tame your hair hangover, here are a few good reasons you’ll love making the change.

1. Reduced Frizz Thanks to Gentle Cleansing

One of the most significant pros of shampoo and conditioner bars is how gently they cleanse. Most traditional liquid versions contain harsh sulfates and chemical surfactants. These can dry your delicate strands and strip hair of its natural oils. But while some bars still contain these compounds, they use lower concentrations, so they can still effectively cleanse without making hair overly dry. This leads to sebum production levels evening out, which finishes with better-looking, smoother hair.

Most solid bars designed to fix frizzy hair are also made with natural oils and butter, like coconut oil, shea butter, and argan oil. These ingredients penetrate the hair shaft, helping hydrate from the inside out. And they coat and seal the cuticle as well. When hair is properly moisturized and coated with the right ingredients, it lies down flat, and you're left with smoother, touchable hair.

2. Longer-Lasting Results for Smoother Hair

Unlike synthetic shampoo which can be difficult to completely rinse out, natural shampoo bars wash out easily. This means hair stays fresher for longer, you don’t have to wash your hair as much and it’s likely to be healthier for it in the long run. This is really the crowd-pleaser. As you transition to a bar, you wash your hair less often, which makes frizzy hair less likely to occur. Less washing and heat means frizz gets booted.

Not only does a solid bar tend to last much longer than its liquid counterpart, but you’ll really get long-lasting value from a quality shampoo bar. One bar often equates to roughly 2-3 bottles of shampoo, depending on usage. You notice the difference.

3. Travel-Friendly and Mess-Free

This is hard to calculate, but in packaging alone, these bars prove to be a space-saver, and travel-friendly option. Shampoo bars are solid, which means you can close them into an airtight container. You’re not going to risk them leaking in your suitcase, and they’re not bound by the 3-1-1 rule, to take a bar on a plane doesn't.

Even if you're not traveling though, the convenience can't be beat at home. Goodbye territory-consuming product bottles, hello compact and manageable little bar. Plus, if you're someone who prefers your bathroom to be on the attractively organized and minimalist side, then solid bars are a natural choice.

4. Environmentally Friendly and Sustainable

And if you’re already searching for solid bars as a way to cut down on your plastic use, salute to you! Traditional liquid shampoos are packed into plastic bottles, many of which end up in landfill sites. On the other hand, solid shampoo bars are far more likely to be sold in minimal, often compostable packaging, which means less waste and a smaller carbon footprint for you.

So, you’re seeking a plastic-free lifestyle and want to reduce your water usage too? Solid bars could be the answer. As well as the sustainability benefits of not having to pump water (at around 50-80% of a liquid bottle shampoo) into your product, solid bars are also made to go the extra mile; using a liquid shampoo uses more water than a solid bar to make too. It’s an all-around benefit to the environment!

5. Healthier Hair, Scalp, and Skin

This one can be an added extra you weren’t expecting. A solid shampoo has a more balanced pH compared to a liquid shampoo, which can contain synthetic fragrances and other additives that can throw hair and scalp pH off balance. With a less abrasive formula, you could find that the hair ends up feeling softer and looks better.

If you’re dealing with a perpetually itchy, dry, or irritated scalp, natural shampoo bars may just be the solution you’re seeking. Their rich, nourishing oils and gentle, non-stripping formulas help calm redness and other symptoms of distress, alleviate flakiness, and help restore equilibrium to the skin on your head. A healthier scalp is the perfect environment for your hair to grow thick and strong, shiny and vibrant without breakage or flyaways.

Tips for a Smooth Transition to Solid Bars

If you are planning to switch to shampoo and conditioner bar, there are a couple of tricks to remember. Your hair might need some time to adjust to the new formula; therefore, you might experience a transitioning period while your hair and scalp acclimate. In the very beginning, you might need some extra time to get rid of the greasy feeling due to the fact that your scalp tends to overproduce oil in response to being cleaned from shampooing. However, this is short-term, so there is no need to worry! Don’t forget to choose the right bar for your hair, one specially formulated for frizz or hydration. Keep them in good condition when not in use to preserve the shelf life of the bars and to avoid them from dissolving into a messy puddle.

A Frizz-Free Future

While you may say the move to a solid shampoo and conditioner bar is small, the results are big! Your hair will be seriously stronger and shinier, and the environment will thank you for it. Whether you are looking for the best shampoo bar for frizzy hair or are thinking of investing for environmental reasons, it’s a win-win. By swapping to hair bars, you’re investing in more than your hair. You’re investing in a healthier, more planet-regenerative lifestyle. Say hello to healthier-looking hair and an even healthier planet, all with one simple hair care purchase!

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How to Choose the Best Experience Gifts for Men in Dallas

Finding the best gifts for men is never easy when you want to make sure it’s really thoughtful. What’s the answer? Experience gifts. Immerse yourself in a whole new experience that you’ll never forget with Giftory. At Giftory, we know that experiences make the best gifts for men. Whether it’s his birthday, anniversary, or just a way to say thank you, there are so many great reasons to give an experience gift. In Dallas, there are so many fun things to do that will fit every mood and personality. Find out how to pick the perfect experience gifts for men in Dallas.

Consider His Interests

The first step to choosing the perfect experience gift is thinking about who you’re shopping for and what they love doing in their free time. Do they like relaxation gifts or something action-packed and exciting, like driving exotic cars? At Giftory, they offer an assortment of experiences in Dallas that cater to all kinds of personalities. From unique and thrilling gifts to something as simple as a wine tasting, there’s a perfect match for him.

Think About Unique, Local Experiences

There’s always something local and unique going on in Dallas. For the man who enjoys experiences where he can appreciate what the Metroplex has to offer, a craft beer tour or fine dining night could be the perfect experience gift. For the sports lover, he will enjoy more than just a traditional gift if given an experience. From race car driving to golfing, the list goes on.

What about the artsy man? There is a lot to gift this kind of man in Dallas. Giftory has curated experiences from Glassblowing Classes at Dallas Glass Art, a tour of the Museum of Arts to a session at the Creative Studio. Just make your pick and you are good to go. Instead of purchasing material gifts that will begin to collect dust, give him an experience he can remember for years.

Make It Personal

Another tip to finding the perfect experience gift is making it personal. Is the recipient obsessed with aerial activities? Consider experiences that involve flying, such as airplane or helicopter rides. There’s nothing more appreciated than a personalized gift that suits your partner’s wants. It’s a way to show you care and know him better than he knows himself. Does he like to try new things, or would he appreciate a more peaceful and relaxing experience? Giftory has countless experiences and options to choose from.

Keep It Practical and Convenient

One of the great parts about selecting experience gifts at Giftory is the ease of it all. Browsing through their website allows you to choose a category that fits the recipient. Whether it be a last-minute birthday gift or an anniversary present that you had plenty of time on, you can find something that works with their availability. Ease is also found within location because, let's face it, Dallas is a big city, and the more accessible something is, the better the experience.

So, if, for example, you are looking for birthday experiences in Dallas, you can opt for a local tour or a fancy food event. The person receives an experience that gets them out and about in this city with a fun event that fits their fancy.

Choose Something Memorable

People tend to remember experiences more so than most other things. If you gift someone a skydiving experience or a spa day, that’s a day of his life that he isn’t likely to forget. The trick is to get him something special that will remind him of the gift well after the experience has ended. Experiences tend to make lasting impressions because they almost always evoke feelings, whether that be excitement, happiness, or even relaxation.

Choose from a variety of categories, such as food and drink tours, outdoor adventures, sporting events, and more! If he loves taking on new challenges, activities like bungee jumping or ATV racing is the perfect fit.

Pay Attention to Reviews and Ratings

Lastly, when shopping for an experience gift, you should always check out some reviews first. This will give you peace of mind that everything will go according to plan. Highly rated experiences are usually experiences that have already been done time and time again. This means you can trust that he will have an amazing time!

Why Giftory is the Best Choice for Experience Gifts

Whether you are enquiring about experience gifts for men in Dallas or any other city, Giftory takes the win. Their thoughtfully curated experience gift options make it easy to find something for every kind of man. Choose from categories with options like driving, flying, food, sports, adventure experiences, and more.

Giftory is unique thanks to its ability to pair experiences with personalities and events. Add the fact that their platform is easy to navigate, and we have a winner.

Creating Unforgettable Moments That Last a Lifetime

To find the best experience for men in Dallas, choose something based on his likes that will be a memory he will never forget. Giftory has exciting, fun experiences your man will like that will surely create long-lasting memories. Birthday, anniversary, or special event, an experience gift will help your present to be remembered forever. Your next great gift is just an experience away, providing many moments to be remembered forever.

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Where do celebrities get their hair done in Miami?

Miami is a hotspot for the glamorous and famous, attracting celebrities who are often in search of top stylists to maintain their iconic looks. With a bustling scene and a flair for the vibrant, Miami's hair salons are revered destinations for star-quality hair treatments and cutting-edge styles. Celebrities frequent these salons not only for the luxury experience but also for the privacy and personalized services they offer.

One of the most sought-after salons among the celebrity circuit is Danny Jelaca Salon, located in the prestigious South Beach area. Renowned for its pristine environment and the team's exceptional skills, the salon prides itself on delivering bespoke hair services to its high-profile clientele. Danny Jelaca himself is a well-known figure in the beauty industry, having styled various celebrities and models for high-end events and publications.

Premier Celebrity Hair Salons in Miami

Miami's high-end hair salons not only deliver exceptional hair services but also offer exclusive experiences to their celebrity clientele, which include tailored care in luxurious settings.

Salon Locations and Ambiance

The mane attraction salon boasts a prime location in the heart of Miami, with a sleek, modern design that offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city. The salon's plush seating and private suites ensure comfort and discretion, attracting an A-list clientele.

Celebrity Clientele and Testimonials

Oribe Salon, renowned for its master stylists, serves many famous faces, with clients including celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Shakira. Testimonials from these high-profile clients praise the salon's excellence in personalized styling and attention to detail.

Rik Rak Salon proudly displays autographed photos of its celebrity patrons on its walls. They cite visits from the likes of Cameron Diaz and Kim Cattrall, who've all expressed their satisfaction with the transformative results and attentive service they received.

Services Offered and Stylists Expertise

Celebrity hair salons in Miami are renowned for their superior service offerings and the unparalleled skill of their stylists. They cater to a high-end clientele with a range of specialized services that reflect the latest trends in hair fashion and care.

Cutting-Edge Hair Styling Techniques

Celebrity hair salon in Miami employ stylists who are well-versed in the latest hair styling techniques. They are constantly updating their skills to stay at the forefront of the industry. For example:

• Dry Cutting: Using precision and artistry, stylists sculpt the hair when it is dry to achieve trendsetting shapes and volumes.

• Balayage and Ombré: Custom hand-painted highlights create a natural, sun-kissed effect, tailored to each client’s facial features and personal style.

• Precision Cutting: Each cut is meticulously crafted to complement the individual's bone structure and desired look.

Exclusive Hair Treatments and Products

Miami’s celebrity hair salons not only offer standard hair services but also exclusive treatments and products that are often not available elsewhere. For instance:

• Keratin Treatments: Utilizing high-end Brazilian keratin products, stylists offer smoothing treatments that deliver lasting silkiness and shine.

• Organic Hair Care: An assortment of certified organic shampoos, conditioners, and styling products cater to those seeking a more sustainable and gentle approach to hair care.

• Reconstructive Treatments: Advanced deep conditioning and bond-building treatments, such as Olaplex, help to repair and protect hair from damage.

Tools To Fight Frizz & Humidity And Get Shiny Healthy Hair

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Step-by-Step Guide: Using an Online Image Size Reducer for Social Media

Photo by Donatello Trisolino from Pexels

Why Properly Sized Images Are Crucial for Social Media

When aiming to make your social media posts pop, sizing your images correctly is key. Different platforms have specific image dimensions and quality requirements, making it crucial to adjust your photos to fit just right. Online image size reducers are here to save the day, offering a quick and efficient way to tailor your images for social media impact.

Choosing the Right Tool for the Job

With so many tools available, it's important to pick the right one for your needs. For a hands-on experience with an efficient and user-friendly online image size reducer, Adobe Express is a great place to start. It offers detailed control and a variety of editing features that go beyond basic resizing:

• Landscape by Sprout Social: Tailor-made for social media, making resizing straightforward with its user-friendly interface.

• Picsart: This is not just for resizing but also for adding that extra flair with creative effects.

• Fotor: Offers detailed control for those who need more than basic adjustments.

What to Consider When Choosing a Tool

• Speed: How quickly does the tool get the job done?

• Ease of Use: Is the interface simple enough?

• Supported File Formats: Does it handle the formats you use?

• Cost: Are the free features sufficient, or is it worth more?

Step-by-Step Guide to Using an Online Image Reducer

1. Uploading Your Image: Go to your chosen tool's website and upload your image. Most tools accept most file types and sizes.

2. Selecting Dimensions: Each social platform has its ideal image sizes, like 1080px square for Instagram or 1200px by 630px for Facebook posts.

3. Resizing the Image: Adjust the dimensions manually or use preset ratios to get the perfect fit without distortion.

4. Quality Adjustments: Tweak the resolution and compression to get the perfect balance between image quality and file size.

5. Downloading and Saving: Download your optimized image, ideally saving it in a format that suits your needs, like JPEG for smaller files or higher-quality PNG.

By following these steps, your images will be perfectly optimized for social media demands, ensuring they look great and load quickly.

Best Practices for Image Resizing

Source: pexels

• Maintain Aspect Ratio: Keep your images natural by maintaining the width and height proportions.

• Enhance Before Resizing: Use sharpening and color correction options to enhance the quality of your images before resizing.

• Avoid Over-Enlargement: Starting with the highest resolution possible will prevent pixelation and quality loss.

Advanced Tips for Power Users

• Batch Processing: If you're handling multiple images, look for tools that allow you to resize in batches for efficiency.

• Understanding Resizing vs. Resampling: Resizing adjusts dimensions while resampling changes pixel density, which is important for specific uses like printing.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues like blurry images or upload problems, ensure you start with high-quality originals and check your tool's limits and settings.

Conclusion

Choosing the right image sizes is pivotal for an effective social media strategy. With the right tools and techniques, you can ensure your posts are visually appealing and perfectly formatted for engagement. Don't be afraid to try different image editor tools to find the one that best suits your workflow and enhances your social media presence.

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Cultural Gifting Traditions from Around the World: Inspiration for Your Next Present

Gifting is a universal language, an expression of love, gratitude, and respect that transcends borders. Across the globe, diverse cultures bring a unique twist to the act of giving, making every present a potential voyage of discovery. 

We’ve teamed with Create Gift Love to explore some of the world’s most enchanting gifting traditions, offering inspiration for those seeking to infuse their next present with a touch of global charm.

The Art of Omiyage in Japan 

In Japan, the practice of omiyage (souvenir gifting) is deeply ingrained in society. These are not just souvenirs in the typical sense but carefully selected items intended to be shared with colleagues, friends, and family upon returning from a trip. The focus is on local specialties that represent the area visited, beautifully packaged to show respect and thoughtfulness. For your next present, consider adopting this thoughtful approach; a locally made, artisanal gift can carry the essence of a place and the warmth of your consideration.

The Warmth of a Cesta de Navidad in Spain 

In Spain, the festive season brings with it the tradition of the Cesta de Navidad, a hamper filled with gourmet goodies, including fine wines, cheeses, and sweets. It's a gesture that extends beyond personal ties, often given by businesses to their employees as a token of appreciation. To embody this spirit, why not assemble a bespoke hamper filled with a selection of delectable treats from across the UK? It’s a way to celebrate shared moments and create new memories.

The Significance of Red Envelopes in China 

The Chinese tradition of giving red envelopes, or hongbao, filled with money during Lunar New Year and other celebrations, is a symbol of good luck and wishes for prosperity. The red color is auspicious, warding off evil spirits. This tradition can inspire a modern take on monetary gifts, perhaps by enclosing money in a beautifully designed card or a small, handcrafted pouch, adding a personal touch to a time-honored practice.

The Thoughtfulness Behind Sinterklaas in the Netherlands 

In the Netherlands, Sinterklaas (St. Nicholas Day) is celebrated with the giving of personalized gifts often accompanied by humorous poems that gently tease the recipient. This tradition encourages creativity and intimacy, showing that sometimes, the most cherished gifts are those that come with a personal touch. Next time you're gifting, consider pairing it with a poem or a personal letter, adding a layer of meaning that material items alone cannot convey.

The Community Spirit of Kula in Papua New Guinea 

The Kula ring in Papua New Guinea is a ceremonial exchange system involving the passing of shell necklaces and armbands across islands. This tradition emphasizes relationships and social bonds over the material value of the gifts themselves. Inspired by this, consider gifts that foster experiences and bonding, such as tickets to a concert or a voucher for a shared meal, highlighting the importance of togetherness.

A Global Palette of Inspirations 

As we traverse the globe through these gifting traditions, it becomes clear that the heart of gifting lies in thoughtfulness, respect, and the joy of shared connections. Whether adopting the meticulous packaging of Japan's omiyage or the communal joy of Spain's Cesta de Navidad, the essence of these traditions can inspire more meaningful and memorable gift-giving experiences.

Gifts That Transcend Borders 

In the end, the most profound gifts are those that carry a piece of ourselves and our cultures, bridging distances and drawing us closer to the ones we care about. Let the world's tapestry of gifting traditions inspire you to give in ways that foster deeper connections and celebrate our shared humanity. After all, every present is an opportunity to convey love, respect, and the beauty of our diverse cultures.

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