Bri Books

Welcome to Wine Week on Bri Books! Today I'm sharing with you my 3 can't-fail secrets for selecting the perfect wine, everytime. Whether you're making a wine menu for holiday festivities or you're selecting wine for the table whilst out to dinner, these 3 tips will make you an instant Sommolier.  2:20: #1: Start and end with bubbles! In my humble opinion, bubbles are a must for any summer gathering. Served chilled, it’s a decadent way to greet your fête’s first arrivals and toast the end of the evening. I learned this trick from Sarita Cheaves, author of the VineMeUp Wine Activity Book and host behind the Swirl Suite podcast. For a wintertime bubble, I’d recommend  Vigneron Luciano Saetti Rosso Viola Lambrusco Salamino, 2018 ($21), or the Opera Lambrusco di Modena. Lambrusco paired with capapes or passed hor'dourves is a great way to set the tone for the evening. PS, if you’re based in New York, shop Simple Syrup Wine and Spirits for your holiday libations! I love the team there, and I’ve been a fan since 2019. This 2020 Premier Cru from Chablis, sourced from Kings County Wines, one of my newer wine finds and obsessions in Brooklyn, is an insanely delicious chardonnay that could substitute nicely for bubbles.  5:00: #2: Learn the rules, then break them! When I say this, I’m referring to choosing wine based on my own flavor principle: the lighter the flesh, the lighter the wine. Hence I opt for white wine with fish and creamy pasta dishes, red wines with tomato dishes and red meats, and rosé flows best with vegetables. From there, I forget everything I know and opt for a left-of-center pick such as Meinklang “Mulatschak” Weisser Pino Gris ($20), or an orange wine. I frequent Orange Glou in New York, NY for my orange wines of choice, namely Cantina Marilina’s ‘Sikele’ 2022 ($24).  7:00: #3: Indulge in a wildcard liquor for quick cocktails! Wine is fine, but liquor is quicker! This summer, try to keep an interesting, wildcard liquor or spirit on hand for last-minute cocktail requests or simply to switch things up in the heat of the night. I recommend Letherbee Charred Oak Absinthe Brun ($38-$40), or Method Spirits Vermouth.    I hope you're loving Bri Books! If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! Please tell me where you’re traveling to by using #bribooks on Instagram and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.   

The holiday party season is in full-swing—don’t be shocked if you find yourself popping by wine shops frequently during this time of year! I designed this episode to teach you how to shop for wine very quickly, and how to make buying wine an enjoyable and effortless experience. 1:30: Check your local wine shops and follow them on Instagram + join their newsletters: If your local wine shop has TikTok, Pinterest, Facebook Groups, Instagram accounts, or newsletters, get plugged in there, so you’re the first to know about any new opportunities to buy or taste excellent wines. Getting to know your wine and spirits community on Instagram is the fastest way to know what’s new in-store, hours of operations, and find out when they’re holding tastings. Part of the magic of wine shopping is wandering the aisles and getting recommendations in real-time, so get chatty with the staff!   3:00: #2: Take a photo of your favorite bottle labels and file them away. I love to make Pinterest Pins or add them to Instagram Stories highlights for my own reference makes shopping for wine feel like I’m consulting my own personal wine library.  4:15: #3: Pick a budget and don’t budge it! Decide on your maximum spending and your expectations before you enter the wine shop. My personal wine shop rule of thumb when shopping for wine: 3 or 4 bottles for $50. This budgetig rule allows me to try different bottles at various price points without breaking the bank. Alternatively, you can calculate the average price per bottle that you’re willing to pay. For me, I try to keep my purchases at $12-$15 per bottle.  6:45: #3: Consider what you’ll be eating, when you’re buying. If your weekly dinner menu consists of pasta, keep red wine on deck. If you eat poultry, veggies or fish, keep a neutral collection of wines like rose, pinot gris, and reds. Thinking about meal prep when buying wine is a great way to make sure you’re buying wine that you’ll drink and that goes with what you are eating. Bonus: This allows you to budget for wine in a natural and effortless way!  7:45: #4: Pick up a liter of wine in a varietal of your choice for top-value by both flavor and price! For example, I enjoy hearty winter foods that call for red wine. I recommend the Hand Work Tempranillo wine from Spain, imported by T. Edward Wines—it’s round and flavorful with a wooden, deep berry flavor. The flavor improves throughout the week, and it’s perfect for splashing into any pot roasts. I picked up the Hand Work 2021 Tempranillo from Kings County Wines in Brooklyn, NY.  9:30: #5: Ask for and taste what’s new. Remember—wine is seasonal, just like food. When you pop into wine shops, it can be tempting to select the old reliable favorites every time. Every once in a while, challenge yourself by asking the wine shop team if they have any recommendations, any sleeper hits, or interesting bottles. Attending in-store tastings is a great way to experience and taste what’s new, and get to know the new distributors and winemakers that are entering the store. HACK: Join wine shop newsletters to be the first to know of any tastings!  To recap the 5 Wine-Shopping Hacks You Need to Know:  Follow your local wine shops on social media and join their email newsletters.  Take a photo of the wine labels you enjoy, and file them away in your phone Pick a phone and don’t budge it Consider what you’ll be eating wile drinking the wine, and shop accordingly Ask for and taste what’s new—wine is seasonal, just like food   I hope you're loving Bri Books! If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! Please show me what you’re drinking to by using #bribooks on Instagram and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. 

Yes, I try and test a lot of products. But there are some brands in particular that have been knocking it out of the park. I have seven brands, ranging from drugstores to luxury beauty, that I want to introduce you to.  1:25: #1: Neuma - Neuma focuses not just on your natural hair texture as it is, but the hair you want to have. It’s a sustainable, high-performance haircare range. They recently underwent a full brand refresh and re-introduction. I was lucky enough to attend a launch breakfast with Neuma, and ever since then, I’ve been adding these new products to my routine. My favorite products: Neuma NeuVolume Styling Spray ($32), which I’ve been using for months now as a styling product. If you have natural or curly hair and you want your hair to have volume on demand, this is a great product. It’s the perfect fix-all for volume. The Neuma NeuStyling Air-Dry Shaper ($32) adds body and shine for easy, everyday air-dry styles.  5:10: #2: Kerastase Paris - You’ve probably stumbled upon this brand in a hair salon. The brand's Nutriative range is designed for dry hair, and it’s infused with plant-based proteins that help the hair maintain moisture. I love this range for blowouts/ heat protection. The Karatese Paris Nutritive Nectar Thermatique ($24) is great for medium-thick dry hair. After washing my hair and drying it, I add a few drops of this product. If your’e planning a heat-basd style and want to protect your hair, this is perfect for you. Secondly, the Karatese Paris Plant-Based Beautifying Detangling Blowdry Mist ($40) is closer to a traditional heat protectant, and is a valuable part of your leave-in haircare routine. It’s also a great detangler! If you’re doing a lightweight heat-based style and want more protection, both  of these products should be on your bathroom counter.  8:25: #3: OGEE - OGEE is a luxury clean beauty brand, with excellent ingredients throughout. The brand is nontoxic, cruelty-free, and truly beyond ‘clean beauty.’ I like it because the makeup products almost feel like skin care products. The skincare product I love is the OGEE Elixir Nautral Retinol with 2% Bacuchoil ($88).  If you listened to arecent episode of Bri Books, you’ll know I shared some retinol and Bacuchoil based picks. Here’s a link for where to listen. The OGEE Golden Contour Collection ($136) is a collection of supernatural, ethereal, and warm contour shades that’ll add definition and warmth to the face. My favorite shade is TOPAZ, a rosy-peach, and it looks excellent on the apples of the cheeks and all over the face.  12:00: #4: La Roche Posay - This brand has been a Bri Books mainstay for a long time. I want to shout out the Niacinimide 10 Serum ($39) and the Effaclar Salycilic Acid Serum ($39). The Effaclar Salyscilc Acid Serum is a super lightweight acid/ treatment serum that helps tp orevent new breakouts. It’s great as an overall face treatment, and perfect for clearing up active breakouts. The Niacinimide 10 Serum helps to balance out the skintone, and its’ great for all skin (especially sensitive skin!)  14:40: #5: Flexitol - If your skin gets dry during the winter, the Eczema Dermitisis Cream and Hand Cream ($16)  are perfect for you. Scent-free, these intensive moisturizers are perfect for hard-worked hands. 17:00: #6: Nabilah K - Activated Charcoal Fask Mask ($20) is the absolute darling of my collection. A super luxurious, natural and clean beauty brand, so many of the ingredients in Nabila Ki’s range are derived directly from nature with lots of essential oils, etc. Bonus: the brand carries a lot of travel-sized products, perfect for the beauty lover on the go. If you’re on the hunt for a super luxe yet affordable lifestyle brand to fall in love with, I recommend Nabila K!  19:30: #7: Paula’s Choice - This brand is known the world over for its effective yet affordable products. Paula’s Choice products are essentially divided into five categories: Cleanse, Tone, Exfoliate, Treat and Moisturize. My two favorites are part of the Treat phase (Phyotestrogen Renewal Serum), and the Exfoliate phase (2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, $28)). The Phytoestrogen Renweal Serum helps to smoothe the look of my skin, and the BHA 2% Liquid Exfoliant is my go-to nightime treatment for revealing brighter, fresher skin.    I hope you're loving Bri Books! If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! Please tell me where you’re traveling to by using #bribooks on Instagram and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.  Products Mentioned NeumaNeuVolume Styling Spray with Coconut Oil and Avocado Oil ($32 Neuma NeuStyling Air-Dry Shaper ($32) Karatese Paris Nutritive Nectar Thermatique ($24)  Karatese Paris Plant-Based Beautifying Detangling Blowdry Mist ($40) OGEE Elixir Nautral Retinol with 2% Bacuchoil ($88) OGEE Golden Contour Collection ($136)   Niacinimide 10 Serum ($39)   Eczema Dermitisis Cream and Hand Cream ($16) Nabila K. Activated Charcoal Fask Mask ($20) Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant with Salycilic Acid ($28) Paula’s Choice Phytoestrogen Elasticity Renewal Serum ($39)  

Today I’m sharing everything you need for the perfect Clean Girl Aesthetic autumn beauty look. It’s mid-November, and my beauty closet has done its semi-annual turnover. I’ve put away the summer/ early autumn products and I’ve pulled out my heavy-duty autumn-winter winners. This episode will be breaking down my ‘autumn face,’ including a few new picks and my heavy-hitters. We’ll start with skincare and move through to fragrance. 1:45 - #1: Marianella Royal Kalahari Face Serum with Baobab and Mongongo Oil ($68). This face oil is perfect to use after washing your face. It has 12 beneficial nutrients, and the Baobab oil helps to nourish and strengthen the skin while reducing inflammation. This is probably the most regal-feeling and regal-smelling face serum that I own. 2:50 - #2: Fenty Skin Hydravisor Mineral SPF 30 Moisturizer ($39). Hydravisor is my favorite sunscreen to put on under makeup in the autumn/winter. It gives shine without looking greasy, and it’s the perfect everyday autumn sunscreen--remember, you should be wearing SPF year-round!  3:45 - #3: Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Primer ($47). Laura Mercier’s silicone-free primer has an amazing blurring effect for a matte-yet-hydrated look. It’s the perfect matte protection for those short winter nights. 4:30 - #4: Urban Decay Concealer in shade 70 NN Deep Neutral ($33). This is one of the all-stars in my autumn clean girl beauty aesthetic routine. The concealer comes with a buffing brush on one end of the applicator, allowing you to get an even, airbrushed effect. This multi-use concealer and color corrector gives the skin a natural matte finish for up to 24 hours.  5:55 - #5: Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte’s Beautiful Skin Foundation in shade 16 Cool ($49) - This is one of the most hydrating and long-lasting foundations I've used in a long time. It gives the perfect healthy-looking glow and a brighter, smoother complexion. Because it has hyaluronic acid, it aids in brightening the skin and creating a more even complexion. 6:55 - #6: Urban Decay Hydramaniac Blush ($22) - This blush is juicy-fresh! It gives the perfect hydrated, dewy sheen, which is my favorite clean girl aesthetic during the winter. It’s a vegan formula with marula oil. I love the shade Unhinged, which has a rosy, plum tone.  8:00 - #7: Jones Road Mascara ($31) - Jones Road Beauty is a newer discovery for me. It’s a great brand for everyday makeup bag essentials. The Jones Road mascara is plumping and volumizing, perfect for highlighting your natural lashes.  9:15 - #8: Fenty Beauty Double Cheek’d Cream Blush Duo ($24) - This cheek blush duo in hues Peony Dropper and Mali Boo are perfect for a subtle, glowy, warm autumnal clean girl aesthetic beauty look. It adds the perfect level of shine and light shimmer to my cheeks, it’s one of the best cream blushes, and the shades pair well with deep brown skin. 10:20 - #9: Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Balayage Brow ($28) - This double-ended brow pen helps me sculpt and fill in my eyebrow hairs for natural-looking, flawless eyebrows that stay in place all day long. I love that it’s a two-in-one tool, making it easier than ever for me to maintain a low-maintenance brow routine.  11:15 - #10: Urban Decay All-Nighter Setting Spray ($36) - The UD All-Nighter Setting Spray boosts the makeup vibrancy without adding shine, and it keeps my skin super fresh-feeling. No cracking or flaking makeup here! If you plan to wear a full-face of makeup, you need this setting spray.  12:00 - #11: SuperMush Daily Energy Mouth Spray ($21.60) and Daily Chill Mouth Spray ($21.60). Think of SuperMush as the perfect marriage of superfoods, mushrooms, and inside-out beauty. Mushrooms are super nutrient-dense, are known to positively impact our overall immune system, and encourage healthy gut flora.  14:00 - #12: TOCCA Fragrance Wardrobe ($68) - This luxury discovery set is housed in a precious tin case, and features TOCCA's 9 top-selling scents in travel-friendly fragrance sprays. The scents in this set are so luxurious. My favorite scent is the Gia with peppercorn, tangerine and rose. These fragrances always instantly make you want to be on vacation.  I hope you're loving Bri Books! If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! Please tell me where you’re traveling to by using #bribooks on Instagram and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.  Products Mentioned Marianella Royal Kalahari Face Serum with Baobab and Mongongo Oil ($68) Fenty Skin Hydravisor Mineral SPF 30 Moisturizer ($39) Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Primer ($47) Urban Decay Concealer in shade 70 NN Deep Neutral ($33) Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte’s Beautiful Skin Foundation in shade 16 Cool ($49) Urban Decay Hydramaniac Blush ($22) Jones Road Mascara ($31) Fenty Beauty Double Cheek’d Cream Blush Duo ($24) Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Balayage Brow ($28) Urban Decay All-Nighter Setting Spray ($36) SuperMush Daily Energy Mouth Spray ($21.60) and Daily Chill Mouth Spray ($21.60) TOCCA Fragrance Wardrobe ($68)  

Today on Bri Books,  I’m sharing a, deep-dive on a beauty brand (and homeopathic powerhouse) I know and love: The Organic Pharmacy, and the 7 best products worth your money.  I’m excited to continue our National Skin Health Month storytelling as part of KnowVember, wherein I’m challenging myself to record and publish a podcast episode every day in November.  1:45 - The Organic Pharmacy was founded in 2002 in London. The founder, Margot Marrone, is a pharmacist and homeopath. She co-founded the company as a way to evangelize her holistic approach to health and beauty. To me, The Organic Pharmacy products bookend my at-home spa days. The brand is deeply rooted in Margot’s knowledge of organic ingredients, nature, and the link between the body and mind. I’m sharing the best toner, serums, masks and dietary supplements from the brand--consider this your 101 class on all things The Organic Pharmacy. You can find The Organic Pharmacy at theorganicpharmacy.com, Skinstore, Dermstore, Bloomingdales and more. 4:25 - The Organic Pharmacy Herbal Toner ($65): This super-soothing toner rehydrates the skin. The blend of aloe, green tea and chammomile help to soothe and rebalance the skin. This toner is wonderful after a shower, and sinks into the skin beautifully.  5:22 - Antioxidant Face Gel/ Face Serum ($110): This is a very antioxidant rich product. With ginseng, carrot, rosehip and Gotu Kola, it’s impossible not to be transported to an apothecary in your mind whilst using this serum. It delivers dewy, locked-in moisture.  6:30 - Hyaluronic Acid Serum ($68): This light, easily absorbed formula quenches thirsty skin and locks in moisture. I apply a full dropper of this serum to my face and neck after cleansing and toning my skin.  7:30 - Stabilized Vitamin C Corrective Mask ($65), Retinol Corrective Mask ($65), and Four Acid Peel Corrective Mask ($50).  The Stabilized Vitamin C Corrective Mask ($65) is probably my favorite vitamin C mask of all time. It’s packed with stabilised, super potent (yet gentle) antioxidant Vitamin C to deliver brighter, firmer, smoother skin that glows. The Retinol Corrective Mask ($65) is an incredible nighttime treatment. This mask is perfect for reversing the day's damage caused by the sun and pollutants. The encapsulated retinol doesn't irritate even the most sensitive skin, and the witch hazel soothese the skin.  The Four Acid Peel Corrective Mask ($50) is a gentle yet powerful gelly mask that renews and brightens the skin by gently polisihing away dead skin cells. With citric acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid and tartaric acid inside, this product transformed my dull complexion overnight. It's packed with plant-derived acids from lemon, pineapple, passionfruit and grape. If you need to exfoliate and decongest your skin, this super smooth mask is perfect for you.  11:20 - Immune Boost Kit ($142):I take the Immune Boost Day and Immune Boost Night daily--it's the perfect duo to keep my immune system in tip-top condition. The Immune Boost Night helps me get a good night's sleep and the Immune Boost Day helps me fight off colds.   I hope you're loving Bri Books! If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! Please tell me where you’re traveling to by using #bribooks on Instagram and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.  Products Mentioned The Organic Pharmacy Herbal Toner ($65) Antioxidant Face Gel/ Face Serum ($110) Hyaluroniic Acid Serum ($68) Stabilized Vitamin C Corrective Mask ($65) Retinol Corrective Mask ($65) Four Acid Peel Corrective Mask ($50) Immune Boost Kit ($142)

Happy Healthy Skin Month! The sun’s UV rays don’t slow down just because it’s winter. Wearing SPF should be part of our daily skincare routines, but it’s easy to let this practice lapse during the colder months. In the past, I’ve recorded an episode about the best SPFs for dark skin, and I wrote an article on Glamour.com about the best SPFs for dark skin according to gorgeous girls. In this episode, I’m reviewing and recapping the best SPFs of 2023 that are perfect for year-round use. 1:45: Black Girl Sunscreen Make it Glow SPF30 Spray ($15.99) and Black Girl Sunscreen Make it Pop Lip Gloss ($10.99) - BGSS launched the SPF 30 spray-on sunscreen, and it’s without a doubt their most wearable, lightweight sunscreen yet. Packed with jojoba oil, avocado oil, vitamin E, and glycerin, this lightweight spray protects all skin tones with a radiant glow for on-the-go. 3:30: Bondi Sands Sport SPFSunscreen Lotion 50 ($13.99) - This sunscreen stood out for me, because of its high protection, reef-friendly formulation, and non-greasy formulation. This is the perfect all-around sunscreen--I basically use it as a full-body moisturizer in the summer and autumn months. 5:35: Charlotte Tilbury Invisible UV Flawless Primer SPF 50 ($55.00) - This invisible, weightless, scentless primer is packed with SPF 50 and hyaluronic acid to deliver a hydrated all-over primed canvas glow along with SPF protection. If SPF is part of your skincare routine, this primer creates a flawless invisible base that allows for perfect makeup application.  7:20: L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Invisible UV Fluid ($14.00) - This is the perfect, essential skin-protecting final step as part of your skincare routine. With antioxidants, vitamin C and vitamin E, it does a great job removing the appearance of dark spots and fighting sun damage.  9:15: Bloomeffects Tulip Dew Sunscreen SPF 50 Serum ($65.00) - This ultra lightweight, hydrating 100% mineral SPF is the first ever tulip-based sunscreen. The formulation is silky smooth and it goes on with the perfect milky, silky smooth texture. 11:15: BIO Heal Panthenol SPF 50 Sun Cream ($28.00) - The perfect mild sun cream for daily use, BIO Heal's Panthenol SPF protects and soothes the skin irritated by UV rays and reinforces the skin's barrier. It's super quick absorbing and doesn't leave behind a trace of white residue or a sticky feel. If you have acne prone or oily skin, you'll be pleasantly surprised as this product doesn't cause irritation. The best part? It blends seamlessly under a full face of makeup.   I hope you're loving Bri Books! If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! Please tell me where you’re traveling to by using #bribooks on Instagram and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.  Products Mentioned Black Girl Sunscreen Make it Glow SPF30 Spray ($15.99) and Black Girl Sunscreen Make it Pop Lip Gloss ($10.99) Bondi Sands Sport SPFSunscreen Lotion 50 ($13.99) Charlotte Tilbury Invisible UV Flawless Primer SPF 50 ($55.00)  L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Invisible UV Fluid ($14.00) Bloomeffects Tulip Dew Sunscreen SPF 50 Serum ($65.00) BIO Heal Panthenol SPF 50 Sun Cream ($28.00)

Welcome back to Bri Books! Today I’m sharing with you everything you need in your autumn weekend getaway bag. November is National Skin Health Month, which makes this week perfect for me to bring to you the best picks for your autumn vacation toiletry bag. We’re a couple of weeks away from the autumn-winter holiday season kicking off in earnest. Whether you have family trips, baecations, or a 96 hour jaunt, this episode is breaking down what you need to take with you. Here are 9 products across skincare and lifestyle (spoiler alert: books!) that I recommend you have in your getaway bag.  2:00: #1: Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm ($68) and Elemis Pro-Collagen Glow Boost Exfoliator ($78) - I love this cleanser for any and all travel. It’s perfect for double-cleansing, and feels super luxe to use after traveling all day long. This cleansing product is the essential first step in my daily skincare ritual. 100% mineral oil-free, this cleanser is perfect for effortlessly removing long-wear makeup, daily grime and surface pollutants, and it delivers a deep cleanse to my skin. I follow up the Cleansing Balm with the Elemis Glow Boost Exfoliator, a super gentle physical exfoliation that sweeps away dead skin cells with skin-softening oils like Elderberry and Starflower. 5:15: #2: Saje Natural Wellness Calm-O-Mile Gel Cleanser ($24) - This cleanser is made for sensitive skin, and it’s packed with excellent botanicals like ho wood, blue chamomile, and aloe vera. It has a gentle herbal aroma but doesn’t cause skin irritation. When I’m getting away, you want to trust that you’ll be able to thoroughly cleanse your skin. There’s something comforting to me about using my favorite cleanser when I’m away from home--it’s like an instant shot of comfort.  7:00: #3: Bloomeffects Tulip Dew Cream ($49) -  This lightweight cream is perfect for travel, especially for the dry airplane air. It’s like a buoyant, bouncy, luxurious gel-cream hybrid. I love to add a touch of the Dew Cream to my foundation or concealer to give my skin an all-over gentle glow.  9:00: #4: SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced ($185) - This is a next-generation treatment! This corrective cream is amazing and has been clinically proven to improve visible attributes associated with skin aging. This corrective cream is formulated to strengthen your skin at all stages. With wild fruit flavonoids, Glycyrrhetinic acid, and niacinamide, this treatment helps protect against free radical damage and enhances the skin's natural radiance. I also love the A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced Eye ($116) which is formulated to combat crow’s feet and natural signs of aging around the eye.  12:20: #5: Maelove Fade Away Brightening Serum ($40) - This serum is excellent for fighting hyperpigmentation. It’s formulated with Kojic acid which is great for reducing the appearance of dark spots. The hyaluronic acid and botanical extracts in this product make it feel super luxe and hydrating on the skin. Having a brightening serum is a great way to supercharge your skincare routine overall. I love using it in the mornings--apply a full dropper to the face and massage into the skin. If you’re going away for a weekender, make sure to bring this with you! 14:00: #6: Lush Cosmetics Mask of Magnaminty ($33) - this minty, tingly face and body mask is intensely cleansing without being abrasive. The kaolin clay and peppermint oil rid your pores of debris, and the ground aduki beads exfoliate dry skin. I love this for a deep-clean feeling when I'm out of town. There's nothing as luxe as applying a clay mask, posting up in a hotel room bed, and flipping through a good book. 16:00: #7: Byredo Mixed Emotions Eau de Parfum ($205) - This fragrance is described as a parfum designed to reflect the tumultuous nature of our time. MOOD! The top notes are black currant and mate. The middle notes are violet leaves and ceylon black tea, and the base note is papyrus and birchwood. I love the woody, herbaceous sweetness of this fragrance. It's the perfect everyday autumn signature fragrance. If you’re going on a getaway and want to leave a sultry scent in your wake, this is the fragrance for you. 19:15: #8: “The War Before: The True Life Story of Becoming a Black Panther, Keeping the Faith in Prison, and Fighting for Those Left Behind” by Safiyah Bukhari. This inspiring and harrowing memoir from legendary activist and political prisoner Safiya Bukhari reminds us of the sheer joy that comes from resisting civic wrongs. This book is genuinely life-changing and it catalogs what it was like for Black Panthers who were on the ground working as part of revolutionary movements during the upheavals of the 1960s and 1970s.  21:30: #9: “Slow Living: The Secrets to Slowing Down and Noticing the Simple Joys Anywhere” by Helena Woods. This is the perfect book to take with you on a getaway, because it encourages you to reach within yourself, slow down, and embrace simple living and mindfulness for peace-induced days. I'm obsessed with finding quiet moments that bring simple joys to my life, and this book comes equipped with countless tips, tricks, hacks and recommendations for how to create routines that enrich your mind and feed your soul.    I hope you're loving Bri Books! If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! Please tell me where you’re traveling to by using #bribooks on Instagram and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.  Products Mentioned Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm ($68) and Elemis Pro-Collagen Glow Boost Exfoliator ($78) Saje Natural Wellness Calm-O-Mile Gel Cleanser ($24) Bloomeffects Tulip Dew Cream ($49) SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced ($185) A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced Eye ($116) Maelove Fade Away Brightening Serum ($40) Byredo Mixed Emotions Eau de Parfum ($205) Lush Cosmetics Mask of Magnaminty ($33)  “The War Before: The True Life Story of Becoming a Black Panther, Keeping the Faith in Prison, and Fighting for Those Left Behind” by Safiyah Bukhari “Slow Living: The Secrets to Slowing Down and Noticing the Simple Joys Anywhere” by Helena Woods  

Welcome back! As you know, I’m endeavoring to produce a podcast episode daily for the month. For the first week, I’m focusing on skincare because November is National Healthy Skin Month. The goal is to use November to pay attention to your skin, learn about skin care, and adopt habits that can lead to a lifetime of healthier hair, skin and nails.  I want to discuss one of the best platforms/ publications/ outlets for all things beauty and skincare--that’s Allure! I used to work at Conde Nast where I lead social for Glamour magazine, and desk was a few rows away from the Allure editorial team. Shoutout to Jessica Cruel, the EIC of Allure! I’ve been obsessed with her since I used to bump into her in the halls. I’m so impressed at the volume of work that Jess and her team put out, in addition to the quality and caliber of work. The Allure Best of Beauty Award winners were recently revealed, and suffice it to say, Allure is responsible for a large number of the products on my shelves. I want to share 5 of my favorite year-round picks that I discovered through Allure.com, the Allure Store, Allure editors, and the magazine when it was in print.  3:10: #1 - Sunday Riley Power of 3 Kit - $275: Good Genes Lactic Acid serum, A+ High Dose Retinoid Serum, and CEO 15% Vitamin C Serum. I discovered this set in 2022 through the Allure Store in NYC. What I love: Each of these serums focuses on a target area of the skin, and they’re perfect to use together. In the AM, I recommend the Vitamin C Serum with a touch of face oil + SPF. At night, I recommend the A+ High Dose Retinoid serum after cleansing the skin. When used as part of a holistic daytime/ nightime serum, this entire set is incredibly effective. Read Deanna Pai’s 2017 Allure article about Sunday Riley to understand what all the fuss is about.  5:50: #2 - Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum: $89: This serum is one of my favorite Korean beauty (K-Beauty) products. I’ve been using it for a year after repurchasing it based on reviews on Allure.com and trying it out in the Allure Beauty store. This serum is basically a primer for the canvas that is your face. It’s formulated with precious ginseng and helps to strengthen the skin carrier while being the first step post-cleanse. When I’m doing my routine, I’ll often start out with my Sulwhasoo as the base for my beauty ritual. I gently pat the serum into my skin, let it absorb, and then layer on any additional serums or elixirs.  8:00: #3 - Instytutum RetinOil - $139: This Retinol-based oil is complete with Retinol, algae, and bakuchiol to help retain moisture and even out the skin tone. Bakuchoil does a great job of improving skin firmness and boosting elistaticity. I like to use this product as part of my nighttime skincare routine, because Retinol and Retinoid can slightly irritate sensitive skin, and I wouldn’t recommend going out in the sun without proper SPF protection. I love to put a few drops of this oil on my clean skin in the evenings. If having more flawless, even skin is your priority and you’re OK going to sleep looking like a honey-baked ham, I’d absolutely recommend adding this to cart. 10:42 - #4: UrbanSkinRX Advanced Even Tone Day & Night Treatment - $58: This is my hyperpigmentation hero! I first found the brand via the goodie bag from Myleik Teele’s 2018 retreat. The Advanced Even Tone Day & Night Treatment is an intensive formula with the perfect combination of exfoliating and dark spot-defending ingredients. With 5% Niacinamide, 2% Kojic Acid and 1% Bakuchiol, these ingredients improve the look of stubborn dark spots and  smooth rough texture and visibly reduce the signs of aging skin. And it’s gentle enough to use twice a day, so you can target dark spots day and night! 13:15 - #5: Isa Lazo Facial Oil - $137: This luxe facial oil is formulated with soothing raspberry seed oil, and vitamins E and A. Concentrated with antioxidants, this lightweight oil improves hydration and promotes a radiant overall glow. I find this to be a supremely healing oil that's perfect for sensitive skin. I apply a few drops to my face and neck in the morning and evening, and mix a few drops with my moisturizer and foundation for the perfect lightweight dewy coverage.    I hope you're loving Bri Books! If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! Please tell me where you’re traveling to by using #bribooks on Instagram and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.  Products Mentioned: Sunday Riley Power of 3 Kit - $275 Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum: $89:   Instytutum RetinOil - $139 UrbanSkinRX Advanced Even Tone Day & Night Treatment - $58 Isa Lazo Facial Oil - $137  

Welcome to November with Bri Books! For this entire month, I’m focused on delivering a podcast a day--unedited. It’s been months since my last podcast recording. 2023 has been an absolute blur. As I kick off my goal of recording and releasing an episode everyday this month, I want to start off with softness. We’re talking about how to go softly into the end of the year. If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and SoundCloud! Please tell me where you’re traveling to by using #bribooks on Instagram and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.  1:15 - It’s peak autumn. We’re staring down the barrel of the last 6-8 weeks of the year. When we reflect, it can be easy to remember the failures before the successes. This episode is about going softly into the end of the year.  1:50 - Time is soup. If you’re finding yourself approaching the holiday season with a sense of emptiness or loneliness, that’s normal. I want to remind you-every day is a new year. You can begin again. Wake up again. Try again. Here area a few ways I like to reset my mind and go softly into the new year 3:00 - #1: Reflection from a place of gentleness and softness, not what you haven’t done. When I look at 2023, I think a lot of ‘didn’t,’ instead of what I ‘did’ do. Look very kindly on what you did accomplish this year. 4:00 - #2: Look at where you were two years ago. There’s a trending audio that says, you’re living your answered prayers. Odds are, something you have achieved now is something you used to dream about, and then you look up and you’re living it! You definitely have things to be proud of.  6:00 - #3: Write down a note to self about what you want to feel and see for the rest of the year. Write yourself a short note or a letter. Write to your younger self. Imagine an 8-year-old you, reading about your present-day accomplishments. When the end of year starts to creep around and the language we use can become very reactive, it can feel negative.  7:00 - Change your language around beginnings and endings. I was listening to The Mindset Mentor with Rob Dial, and he called into focus that very often, with our words we aren’t affirming our responsibilities. Instead of framing things as “I have to do ___,” reposition your responsibilities as “I GET to ____.” By changing our language, we’re able to reposition ourselves to affirm gratitude. Also, it helps us realize what’s dragging us down. That simple communication change and affirmation towards what’s a privilege to do vs a responsibility, it’s one of the best ways I know that helps me to do a soft reset. It’s not just a to-do list, it’s a list of things I get to do!  10:23 - #4: Identify the output you want, and go towards it. Myleik Teele recently dropped a podcast episode wherein she made the point that trying on the life you want is FREE. I feel Myliek spoke directly to me with that episode! Just because you don’t have the down payment for an $18 million estate in Connecticut doesn’t mean you can’t still go to the open house on that $18 million estate in Connecticut! Make a day of it! Try on the life you want! If the output you want is: to become more comfortable in new spaces, then try those spaces on! You’re designing your life. If you were to buy a custom-made coat or suit, you’d try on multiple versions beforehand, right? This is a very similar practice to identifying your output and going towards it. A simple way of doing this is going to a bookstore, popping by the New Releases and magazine rack, and pulling a few titles. See what you gravitate towards. When you have an output and you know what you’re going towards, it makes the input and the creation a little easier. It’s the end of the year, so go gently towards this. But now is a powerful time because you can use the shorter days and the earlier mornings to feel out how you want your 2024 to be. This isn’t about making a list and having quarterly goals. It’s about trying it on, seeing if it feels good to you, and going softly as we round the corner in 2023 I hope you're loving Bri Books! If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! Please tell me where you’re traveling to by using #bribooks on Instagram and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.

Welcome back to Bri Books! This podcast episode is part 2 of our discussion all about transitioning from winter to spring (listen to part one here), and the products I recommend for jumpstarting your spring beauty routine. We're talking everything from serums to supplements and everything in between as I share my go-to's for the months ahead.  1:00 - Merit Great Skin Instant Glow Serum: If you know Bri Books, you know I love Merit Beauty. I just included Merit's gloss in a recent episode about my favorite winter beauty picks. The Merit Instant Glow Serum is excellent for creating a well-moisturized base for any makeup or skincare look. The serum has 2% niacinamide, which helps brighten the skin and smooth the texture, which is so important for spring. ($38) - Available at Meritbeauty.com, Sephora. 3:00 - The Face Shop: TFS is one of the brands I most clearly associate with in springtime. Whenever I reevaluate my routine, I look to include more clean, vegan, and eco-friendly products, which always leads me to TFS. The best-selling Rice Water Bright collection is a cleansing line enriched with rice water to brighten and nourish dry skin. The natural ingredients remove impurities while leaving skin soft, supple and evenly toned. 5:00 - Kiehl’s Ultrapure High Potency Serums - Kiehl's re-released an exciting line of products made with 10 ingredients or less. Any of these new serums are great for starting your spring skincare routine, especially the 5% niacinamide and 9.8% glycolic serum. Ultra Pure 9.8% Glycolic Acid Serum ($26) and Ultra Pure 5% Niacinamide Acid Serum ($26) are two of my favorites 6:20 - Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment - As the spring comes in, now’s the time to restore, soften and nourish lips, body, etc. Enjoying this creamsicle-inspired lip treatment is the perfect final touch in the evening or first swipe in the morning. Available at Sephora for $22.  8:05 - CALPAK medium clear cosmetic case in lavender - I’d say CALPAK is one of my favorite brands for all things luggage and travel essentials for spring! The new cosmetic cases from CALPAK are the perfect size to pack all of your products for the weekend or next vacation. The most recent drop includes colors like emerald, lavender, and deep sea. the cult-followed clear cosmetic case recently launched in size medium which is great if you need to grab and go. Available for $85.  9:18 - Eastpak Tecum backpack - This road-ready bag is great for a daily commute or weekend vacation. The newly-launched Tecum backpack is perfect for laptops and cameras, and it helps with the ultimate organization. and will give you one less thing to worry about during your spring travels.    EPISODES MENTIONED Merit Beauty lipgloss review on an episode about favorite winter beauty products Brionna’s Glamour.com article reviewing Merit Beauty   PRODUCTS Merit Great Skin Instant Glow Serum ($38) - Available at Meritbeauty.com, Sephora. The Face Shop Kiehls: Ultra Pure 9.8% Glycolic Acid Serum ($26), Ultra Pure 5% Niacinamide Acid Serum ($26),   Ultra Pure High-Potency 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid  Serum ($26) Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment ($22 at Sephora, $22 online) CALPAK medium clear cosmetic case in lavender ($85) Eastpak Tecum backpack ($110)

Welcome to Bri Books! This podcast episode is all about transitioning from winter to spring, and the products I recommend for jumpstarting your spring beauty routine. We're talking everything from serums to supplements and everything in between as I share my go-to's for the months ahead.  1:00 - Black Girl Sunscreen Make it Pop sunglass for lips - Formulated with SPF50, jojoba oil, and hyaluronic acid, this lipgloss will be my saving grace during the warmer spring days when the sun is starting to reach its full strength. Available for: $8.99 at BGSS or Ulta Beauty. 2:35 - Charlotte Tilbury Magic Body Cream - Inspired by the Magic Cream face moisturizer, this body cream perfect for moisturizing your skin as the spring sun starts to warm up. I love the smooth, gentle, and non-greasy formulation. Available for $65 at the Charlotte Tilbury site. 4:10 - Elemis Pro-Collagen Skin Future Supplements - The Elemis is formulated to improve the hydration, firmness, and elasticity of the skin. I love Elemis because they’re always rolling out the latest and greatest in skincare and wellness. Available for $99 on Elemis.com. 6:45 - La Roche Posay 10% Pure Niacinimide Serum. It helps to clear discoloration and balances the skin tone.  Available for $39.99 on the La Roche Posay site, CVS, and Ulta.  9:00 - Bloomeffects Tulip Nectar Skin Repair Body Balm - To me, this product is one of the ways I like to usher in the return of springtime. I love the fact that it doesn’t have a deep fragrance, making it perfect for nourishing even the most sensitive of skin. Available for $47 online and at Credo Beauty. 11:05 - Revolution Beauty - Revolution Beauty has been a mainstay in the UK, but they’re just starting to crack the US market. I was invited to discover the brand at their first NYC launch event ever! I had my makeup done by Nadia Tayeh, who is known for her glam aesthetic. I was able to meet Sarah Stanford, the US President for Revolution Beauty. Sarah’s beyond knowledgeable about the nuances between the US and UK markets, and she’s hungry to dig into all things American beauty culture. I was also able to testdrive the 5D Whip Lift Mascara and the new Filtr Concealer. Available online, at Target, and Ulta. PRODUCTS MENTIONED Black Girl Sunscreen Make it Pop SPF50 Lipgloss Charlotte Tilbury Magic Body Cream Elemis Pro Collagen Skin Future Supplements La Roche Posay 10% Niacinimide Serum Bloomeffects Tulip Nectar Skin Repair Balm Revolution Beauty 5D Whip Lift Mascara and Filtr Concealer EPISODES MENTIONED Episode where I featured La Roche Posay’s top-selling picks My Favorite La Roche Posay sunscreens and serums   What is your favorite spring-ready beauty pick? Let me know on Instagram! ! If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and SoundCloud! Please tell me where you’re traveling to by using #bribooks on Instagram and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.

Looking for a signature scent? Bri Books has you covered. There's a lot of power in a signature scent--consider it the beauty counterpart to personal style. It can take a while to find a scent that resonates with you, so in honor of National Fragrance Day, I'm sharing my 10 top perfumes and fragrances for 2023 and beyond. These picks definitely deserve a spot on your signature scent wishlist.  PRODUCTS MENTIONED Clive Christian: 1872 Feminine, $595 REPLICA, Maison Margiela: On a Date, $125 Moodeaux: Worthy, $135 bundle Robert Piguet: Fracas Eau de Parfum ($185), Casbah ($215) Lush Cosmetics: Rose Jam Perfume ($22) Lake and Skye: 11:11 ($98) Boy Smells: Hinoki Fantome ($98) Amouage: Escape Discovery Set ($46) Frederic Malle: Portrait of a Lady by Dominique Ropion ($295) Tocca Eau de Parfum: Florence ($80) EPISODES MENTIONED 1. 5 Winter Skincare and Beauty Essentials (Clive Christian Art Deco Blonde Amber fragrance review at the 11:00 mark)   I hope you're loving Bri Books! If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and SoundCloud! Please tell me where you’re traveling to by using #bribooks on Instagram and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.  What is your signature fragrance? Let me know on Instagram!   

Welcome to Bri Books! February is in the rearview, and we're entering what I like to call the ‘winter fake-out period.’ There’s no predicting if we’ll have a mild entree into spring or if the snow will come at last. In this episode, I want to share the beauty essentials that have gotten me through from holidays, to deep winter, to now. This winter, I focused my beauty routine on clean, restorative, hydrating, natural, moisturizing, and ‘fatty’ products--I simply wanted my skin to hibernate for the season, and these are the products that made it possible. 2:20 - Soho Skin Travel dopp kit:  I reviewed it on a podcast episode about my summer travel-worthy skincare picks. I want to call out the lightweight serum. All winter long when I was traveling, this lightweight concentrate held my skin down, thanks to the super moisturizing niacinamide, pepetites and white bark extract.   3:40 - All things Charlotte Tilbury. In the winter, I reach for the Nudegasm face palette, Super Nudes lipstick, or the Matte Revolution lipsticks.  In the winter, my makeup typically consists of concealer, bronz-y pink makeup, lipgloss and mascara. The bronze shades in the Nudegasm face palette provides a dynamic range of colors. Charlotte’s Beautiful Skin foundation  in shade 15 is the perfect liquid medium coverage foundation you can pop on and not have to worry about a thing. 6:00 - Merit Beauty Flush Balm in shade of soft berry- I always use it on the eyes, lips and cheeks. I also love the Shade Slick, which is a tinted lip oil that's infused with rosehip oil and shea butter. The hue I’ve been going for this winter is Cara Cara, a soft red orange. During the day I go for the shade Pink Beet, a cool pink shade for a little gloss on the lips. If i want to be sexy i go for Merit Beauty Shade Slick tinted lip oil in deep brown hue Falcon, which is close to my skin tone.  7:15 - Mara Beauty. If you’re new to the brand, the founder Alison McNamara has a fascinating background. In her past life, she was a TV host, producer, beauty journalist and editor. She even studied journalism and political science at the Sorbonne! There’s something called ‘portfolio career’ about Alison's story. The two products I used up this winter are Universal Face Oil, and Evening Primrose + Green Tea Algae Retinol Face Oil. After I wash my face and spray heritage rose water, I’ll put on the face oil. It’s important to me that my skin is protected. At night after I wash my face and have my pampering shower and bath, I’ll go in with Algae Retinol and Face Oil. 11:00 - Clive Christian Art Deco Blonde Amber fragrance which was part of the Noble Collection. This is the scent that defined my winter. The scent is opulent and decadent with notes of smokey blonde tobacco. It feels embracing, cocooning and warm and nurturing of a scent while also being alluring, I couldn't recommend the Clive Christian fragrances enough!    What products defined your winter? Let me know on Instagram!    PRODUCTS MENTIONED Brionna’s full review of Soho Skin products SohoSkin products Charlotte Tilbury Nudegasm face palette, Super Nudes lipstick,  Matte Revolution lipsticks, Charlotte’s Beautiful Skin foundation  in shade 15 Merit Beauty Flush Balm in shade ‘Soft Berry’, Merit Shade Slick in color ‘Cara Cara’ Mara Beauty Universal Face Oil, Evening Primrose + Green Tea Algae Retinol Face Oil Clive Christian Art Deco Blonde Amber fragrance  

Brace yourselves: the 2022 Cyber Week beauty deals are coming. Here's my curated list of the best brands products to buy during Cyber Week 2022. These are the picks I've been loving (and lusting after) all year, and with up to 50% off full-price items, now's the time to pounce Last year, I recorded a Bri Books episode about what to buy during Sephora's annual December VIB sale, and wanted to share a Cyber Monday-ready curated list. Here's what I'd stock up on if I were you: Caudalie - Cyber Week is here at Caudalie with up to 50% off select products.  I’d stock up on the Vinoperfect Instant Brightening Solution Set which comes with the Vinoperfect Essence, Vinoperfect Serum, and Vinoperfect Eye Cream. Merit Beauty - Merit’s offering 20% off sitewide, free shipping over $40, free signature bag with every first-time purchase, and free returns.  I recommend the La Fete Holiday Essentials. Bread Beauty Supply - 25% off site wide, free full-size Macadamia oil (for hair and body) with purchase. I recommend the deep-conditioning hair mask. Fenty Beauty - 25% off sitewide, up to 60% off select products, free cross-body bag with $125 purchase, free 3-piece set with $100+ order. I recommend the Glossy Posse vol. 5 set of three full-size flip glosses. La Roche Posay - 25% off all orders, free shipping on orders $65+, Up to 25% off order via newsletter. I recommend the Effaclar Acne Treatment System, a 3-step system with Gel Cleaner, Clarifying Solution, Effaclar Duo Bloomeffects - 30% off sitewide through 11/27, + free cleansing jelly with order over $80, 35% off sitewide from 11/28-11/29. I recommend  the Royal Tulip Polish. Augustinus Bader - Augustinus Bader is offering double points on all purchases this choliday season. I recommend the Winter Recovery Set, developed to deliver deep hydration and skin barrier protection. The kit comes with the Serum Nomad, the Eye Cream Nomad, the Rich Cream, and Lip Balm. Share your Black Friday picks with me at @bribookspod on Instagram!

Welcome back to Bri Books! If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and SoundCloud! Please tell me where you’re traveling to by using #bribooks on Instagram and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.  It’s July, and we are approaching high summer! I kicked off the season with a travel “bang”—a work trip to Johannesburg, South Africa for 9 days, during which I put my international skincare routine to the test. In this episode, I’m walking you through my 9 summer skincare essentials, AKA my summer skincare ‘empties.’ Listen to my recent episode about your 6 Travel Essentials for a Summer Holiday! 1:40 - Paula’s Choice Omega + Complex Cleansing Balm (Sephora, Paula’s Choice) - This luxe cleansing balm melts away everything from sunscreen to makeup as the lather transforms from an opaque liquid into a soapy, oily balm. This  Paula's Choice cleanser got me through my travels in Johannesburg, and I love that it leaves my skin clean without feeling stripped. Trust me, when you’re traveling, this is the cleanser you’ll want by your side to help you wash the day away. 3:45 - Farmacy Sweet Apple Meltaway Makeup Cleansing Balm  (Sephora, Farmacy) - I love to use this cleansing balm in the mornings while in the shower. It gently melts away makeup (especially eye makeup) and helps to remove excess oil from the skin. I like to use this on dry skin and slowly add water to build up the lather.  5:15 - Caudalie Beauty Elixir (Sephora, Caudalie)- Caudalie Beauty Elixir has been part of my holy grail travel kit for years, and it's a definitive summer travel essential. The 50 mL bottle of this stuff is perfect for travel, as it's below TSA carry-on liquid limits, and no inflight experience is complete without a super hydrating and luxe misting moment.  I sometimes pair it with The Heritage Store rosewater, which is another year-round staple and summer travel favorite for infusing instant moisture into the skin. 6:15 - Caudalie Reservatrol Lift Face Lifting Soft Cream (Sephora, Caudalie) - I love traveling with the Caudalie Reservatrol Lift Soft Cream as my decadent, almost pillowy moisturizer of choice. Airplanes dry my skin out desperately, and I find my skin can get easily irritated if not moisturized properly. when I travel, I try to keep the Reservatrol Lift Soft Cream in my handbag. It's packed with ingredients like reservatrol and hyaluronic acid, which leave the skin feeling soft and deeply moisturized. 8:00 - Saje Natural Wellness Calm-o-Mile Face Oil - This winner from Saje is formulated for people with sensitive skin. Blended with blue chamomile, evening primrose, and camellia. I always feel like I’m doing a face-plant into a meadow of medicinal flowers every time I apply this product, which is why I run out so quickly. I use it as the final step in my skincare routine when traveling. The blue chamomile reduces the appearance of dryness, and primrose is high in omega-6 fatty acids. When used as part of my nighttime treatment, Calm-o-Mile leaves my face feeling lush the next morning! 9:30 - Pura d’Or Rosehip Seed Oil -  I use organic oils to moisturize my skin after bathing. I love to use Pura d’or Rosehip Seed Oil, as rosehip oil helps to rejuvenate dry skin and improve moisture. Rosehip seed oil restores PH balance to soothe skin and also helps with scalp health. If you want your skin to be moisturized but not oily-slick, Pura d'Or's rosehip seed oil is for you. 11:05 - Lush Cosmetics Ro’s Argan Body Conditioner - This body conditioner is scented with argan oil, rose absolute, and cupachu butter. I add a dollop of Ro's Argan to a few drops of the reship seed oil, mix, and apply it to my skin after showering.  12:15 - Bonus: Lush Posh Chocolate body wash - This is the perfect pampering post-travel shower companion. How can you feel tired after showering and emerging smelling like chocolate?! This body wash is a great product to use when you’re back on your home turf following an adventurous travel season. 13:37 - Bonus: The travel Dopp kit from Soho Skin - This Dopp kit comes with a cleanser, face cream, renewal serum, eye balm, lip cream, shaving gel, and more! It's definitely the travelers’ skincare essential, inspired by the global Soho House community. The products are exclusive to Soho House bedrooms around the world, but I got my hands on a kit and tried it on while on longhair flights between New York City and South Africa. The face cream, shaving gel, lip balm, and eye balm were the stand-out products, and the chic Dopp kit case is perfect for catching all of your skincare needs.  When you travel, what are your essentials? is there a lip balm you can’t leave the zip code without? Show me on Instagram at Bri Books! If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and SoundCloud! Please tell me where you’re traveling to by using #bribooks on Instagram and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.

Welcome back to Bri Books! If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and SoundCloud! Please tell me where you’re traveling to by using #bribooks on Instagram and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.   Summer is in full swing, and travel is ON. IIn this episode, ’m sharing my key carry-on essentials-- matter your destination, these carry-on travel winners will be everything you need for road trips, staycations, long weekends, and more! 1:13 - Calpak Packing Cubes 5-Piece Set - This 5-piece travel cube set is essential for staying organized and keeping track of your items during a trip. I use this set for shoe storage, important document storage, outfit storage, and so much more. I even use a separate cube for technology pieces—chargers, cords, external hard drives, etc. These travel packing cubes help you visualize where your items are, so you don’t have to go ripping through your bag in search of a small item. 2:02 - Saint James Breton Striped Shirt - The Minquiers striped shirt is lightweight, versatile, and embodies the ideal French vacay state of mind. I love this top because it’s a masculine fit in the waist and hips, but the full-length sleeves make it feel perfect for travel. It’s very chic and pairs perfectly with shorts, straight-leg denim, skirts, anything! It’s great to pack in your carry-on bag for whatever the days (and nights!) throw your way. 3:00 - Cadence Capsules - The Cadence travel toiletry capsules are  100% TSA compliant, leak-proof and non-absorbent containers. They can hold everything from skincare to makeup, from medicine to accessories. These capsules let you bring your personal essentials on the go with you, effortlessly. They’re magnetic, meaning you can line them up and put them on a countertop. I use the Cadence capsules to store things like serums, vitamins, earrings, and critical medications whilst traveling. 4:05 - Saje Natural Wellness Pocket Farmacy Oil Blend Kit - This is a collection of 5 relieving oil roll-ons of the best-smelling scents including Peppermint Halo, Fortify, Gutzy, Stress Release, and Pain Release. When I’m traveling in TSA queues, it can be stressful. So I just apply a swipe of one of my Pocket Farmacy faves to my head and a swipe inside my face mask for an instant spa moment. I keep these oil blends in my carry-on at all times for my travels for an instant, natural relief. 5:30 - Snacks! Bring your own snacks! Don’t get caught paying $9 for pretzels and $14 for a dry sandwich at the airport. Make sure you have snacks as part of your travel on essentials because hanger and planes don’t mix. 6:00 - A book and a journal - Make sure you have at least one book or magazine in your carry-on at all times. Travel with a book you’ll actually WANT to read.  Leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and SoundCloud! Please tell me where you’re traveling to by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. Links to Products Mentioned Calpak Packing Cubes 5 Piece Set Saint James Breton Striped Shirt Cadence Capsules Saje Natural Wellness Pocket Farmacy Oil Blend Kit

Welcome back to Bri Books! If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and SoundCloud! Please tell me what you're growing by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. Follow @theBriGarden on Instagram for garden tours, growing hacks, and gardening secrets. On today’s episode, we’re talking about falling in love with the garden this spring. Almost every day, Carla of @gardenplot.57 treats us to vibrant photos of her cut flower garden, homemade skincare products, and dozens of veggies she’s growing in her backyard garden in Cornwall, England. In this episode, Carla gives tips on how to start (and maintain) a garden in a small space, and shares tips on DIY gardening projects we can do right now to get a jump on the season. Carla and I bonded over the amazing book “Floret Farm's A Year in Flowers: Designing Gorgeous Arrangements for Every Season” by Erin Benzakein, an amazing resource that’ll inspire you to step up your flower arranging (and flower growing) game. Carla also shares the secret to getting kids interested in gardening and how to lure them away from the X-Box and towards the garden box.    Carla’s guide to gardening in a small space:  Utilize your patio by planting pots with salad greens, herbs, and dwarf tomatoes.  Go high! Make use of vertical space by creating vertical planters. Archways and trellises allow you to grow “up,” and make use of tiny amounts of space for things like beans, peas, cucumbers and tomatoes.  More gardening resources recommended by Carla and Brionna: Huw Richards YouTube channel and book, “Grow Food for Free” Sandria of A Beautiful Nest Misilla of Learn to Grow Adam Yn Yr Ardd, a wildly talented Welsh gardener Carla's blog Carla's Instagram TheBriGarden Instagram   If you’re new to Bri Books, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and SoundCloud! Please tell me what you're growing by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. Follow @theBriGarden on Instagram for garden tours, growing hacks, and gardening secrets.

Welcome back to Bri Books! If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and SoundCloud! Please tell me what you're growing by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. Follow @theBriGarden on Instagram for garden tours, growing hacks, and gardening secrets. In today's episode, we're talking about all things organic gardening, and how to grow your own food with Misilla of 'Learn to Grow.' Whether you're starting your own garden or you haven't given it much thought, after this episode you'll be yearning to get your hands on some seeds. Misilla is the host of 'Learn to Grow,' a channel on YouTube with over 114,000 subscribers. She's a crafty mom of 4 living and working in the Pacific Northwest. Her videos and social posts consist of garden how-to's, growing hacks,  healthy living ideas, science experiments, DIY projects, and gardening inspo. Misilla's family has been growing food and farming for generations. She's passionate about inspiring others to grow their own food, and she's passionate about getting kids involved in the garden.  Follow Misilla on Instagram @learntogrow Follow Misilla on YouTube at Learn to Grow

In today's episode, I’m sharing with you 5 ways to create the perfect relaxing bath. On these cold winter nights, there’s nothing I want more than to slip into a sea of bubbles and bath salts. I wanted to record this podcast episode to share with you some of my favorite bubble bath products, and my bathtime practices that pick up steam over the winter months.  2:00 - #1: Bath salts! Adding bath salts means I’m able to give my muscles a bit of a break and refresh. My favorite bath salt brand is Kneipp, especially the Kneipp Goodbye Stress Rosemary and Mint Mineral Bath Salt is one of my all-time favorites for everyday use. It’s an incredible blend of essential oils and helps to clear your mind and quiet overactive thoughts. 4:00 - #2: Bath bombs from Lush Cosmetics, especially Rose Jam, which is perfect for sensitive skin. It includes rose oil, rose absolute, lemon oil, geranium oil, and shea butter. My second favorite bath bomb from Lush is the Lemon Crumble bubbleroon which has an uplifting citrus-y scent and is packed with fair-trade cocoa butter, Sicilian lemon oil, and a shea butter center that conditions and softens dry skin.  7:00 - #3: The ‘Be Well’ set from Thirteen Lune comes with a candle, bath/body oil, and a luxe bath salt. I use the full set to create the ultimate pampering experience through this edit of products. As part of the set, you get a Satya + Sage meditation candle infused with amber and clove. It also comes with the Senteurs du’ Orient bath salts and the Elixa Bath + Body serum. The body serum leaves behind a luscious, dewy texture without feeling greasy on the skin. Thirteen Lune is an eCommerce destination designed to inspire the discovery of beauty brands created by Black and brown founders. They do a great job giving each brand a platform to engage a wider audience, and I adore the company so much. 9:40 - #4: Babo Botanicals 3-in-1 Eucalyptus Remedy bubble bath! I keep a family-size bottle of this stuff in my bathroom at all times. It does triple duty as a bubble bath, body wash, AND shampoo. Babo has a lot of fragrance-free products, which are perfect for children with sensitive skin. The eucalypics remedy helps to soothe and calm my skin. For everyday comfort, the Babo Botanicals Eucalyptus Remedy is something I can’t imagine going without. 11:25 - #5: Alaffia Everyday Shea Bubble Bath! It serves ups a creamy, moisturizing bath full of bubbles. Founded in 2003, Alaffia continues to redefine hte natural products industry through its values in beauty, empowerment, and equality. The brand boasts dozens of products from body washes to cleaners, lotions for babies, calming balms, everything. In 2018, Alaffia increased access to its products by adding 2,500 stores nationwide. I like to buy my Alaffia via the Allure Store in New York City.  LINKS TO PRODUCTS AND EPISODES MENTIONED: Bri Books episode: How to Create a Relaxation Routine at Home Kneipp Goodbye Stress Rosemary and Mint Mineral Bath Salt Lush Cosmetics Rose Jam bubbleroon Lush Cosmetics Lemon Crumble bubbleroon Thirteen Lune ‘Be Well’ Set Babo Botanicals 3-in-1 Eucalyptus Remedy bubble bath Alaffia Everyday Shea Bubble Bath  The Allure Store in New York City 

Happy 2022 from Brionna at Bri Books! In this episode, I’ll be sharing a few uplifting tips that’ll help you upgrade your wellness routine this year. I want to use this episode to bring optimism and hope to you as you build out your wellness routine for the months and years to come.  SHOW NOTES 2:15 - #1: Self-care activities! I take my self-care very seriously (here’s a link to an episode about how to create a relaxation routine!) Self-care isn’t limited to skincare masks and bubble baths. In my opinion, self-care activities include moments spent on things like daily prayer and meditation, journaling, massage, acupuncture, and other soothing practices--anything that helps to connect you to your internal self.    3:40 - #2: Sleep care! Raise your hand if you’ve fallen asleep with your personal tech within reach at least once this week. As you know, this isn’t the best thing for our bodies--you don’t want to see bright lights right before bed. Creating (and sticking to!) A sleep care routine is a great way to upgrade your wellness practice. Removing as many stimuli as possible, as early in the night as possible, you’re able to maintain a sleep routine and sleep more soundly, increasing the likelihood of waking up refreshed. Another option: reading a lighthearted book before bed and building bedtime rituals like closing your window shades, lighting a bedside candle, brewing a cup of tea, or misting a pillow or your room with your favorite aromatherapy spray.   6:15 - #3: Build a consistent workout routine that boosts confidence! By reframing your workout practice with the intention of being confident, you’re more likely to be consistent with your progress. My favorite fitness queens are Yoga with Adrienne, Move with Nicole, and Body Fit by Amy 7:45 - These are the products I’ve been introducing into my wellness routine  7:55 -  Cheribundi, an all-natural tart cherry juice. Cherries are one of the most antioxidant-rich superfoods, and they’re scientifically proven to reduce muscle soreness, increase recovery, and reduce inflammation. I love to have my Cheribundi drinks after an exercise session to aid with muscle repair. I also pour a few ounces of Cheribundi into my protein shakes--the tart cherry adds sweetness and cuts down on me having sugar cravings in the early afternoon and diluting the cherry juice with water keeps my hydration interesting. Cheribundi goes a long way in keeping your body strong, taste buds satisfied, and workouts even more effective.  9:35 - SuperMush is a functional mushroom spray you spritz into your mouth and onto your tongue. In history, For thousands of years, people around the world ate fungi daily. Nowadays you’re lucky to find them in your salad. Mushrooms promote healthy gut flora and are vital in our health. Supermush spray is the most immediate and effective way to get a mushroom supplement into your system. I spray it on my tongue after breakfast or when I wake up. The brand is gorgeous---inspired by the culture and music of the 60s and 70s, each spray is a high potency, easy to use, and delicious. If you’re dipping your toe into the world of mushrooms, SuperMushis is a fantastic starting point so you can’t go wrong. 12:00 - Goli Nutrition Apple Cider Vinegar and Ashwagandha gummies! I’ve been taking these gummies for a couple of weeks now. Apple cider vinegar is excellent for cellular function, and ashwagandha root is known to promote calmness and reduce stress.    13:30 - #4: Creating a meal plan and hydration plan! I can’t tell you what to eat, but planning what to eat makes life a lot less stressful. I like to plan my meals for 2-3 days at a time so that at all times I know what I’m having for the next two lunches, dinners, and breakfasts. I’m able to shop at the farmer's market with these meals in mind. In terms of a hydration plan, I recommend you grab a 64 oz jug, 32 oz jug, or 16 oz glass jar, determine how much water you’ll drink each hour, up to 64 oz in the day. Finishing one glass of water after the next creates a feedback loop of completion and consistency, inspiring you to finish the next.    15:30 - #5: Daily dance! Acupuncture and wellness practitioner Jessica Parks of 'Growing Space' recommended the practice of indulging in a carefree 3 minutes of dancing at least once a day. It's a fun way to inject joy and a playful attitude into the day as early as possible. You can find more about Jessica Parks here.  How are you updating your routine in the new year? Share it with me on Instagram at @bribookspod.  PRODUCTS MENTIONED: How to create relaxation routine Yoga with Adrienne Move with Nicole Body Fit by Amy Cheribundi SuperMush Goli Ashwaganda gummies Acupuncture and wellness practitioner Jessica Parks of 'Growing Space' in Brooklyn, NY