9th Birthday-to-Birthday Giveaway

Beautiful Basics was born on March 15, 2011. 9 years ago. 9 years! That's nearly a decade of blogging and sharing my thoughts with you all. I can't even believe it.

My 8th year of blogging might not count, though, since I had to take the entire year and then some off to heal from a concussion and chronic neck pain from a car accident. I've seen doctors, gone to physical therapy (twice), and started practicing yoga. I'm not back to me yet but I'm getting there and coming back to Beautiful Basics is a huge step in the right direction and it's time to celebrate.

It's time for the annual Birthday-to-Birthday Giveaway and one of you can win a really fun sample bag full of beauty goodies, both samples and full-sized products. I'll be showing you looks at what is inside on social media.

The giveaway will run from March 15 (my blogiversary) to April 10th (my 33rd birthday). You can live anywhere in the world for this one but I do reserve the right to hold off on shipping until the coronavirus pandemic slows down a bit. I, like I'm sure many of you, am self-quarantining to stay safe.

To enter simply use the Rafflecopter form below. You can do as many or as few of the options as you would like. All entries will be verified, though. Good luck and stay safe out there!

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Green Leaf Naturals Review + Giveaway

Aloe is an illustrious ingredient for both health and beauty. It is a true superstar. Aloe has been used for thousands and thousands of years. The first recorded report about the spiky, green plant comes from Ancient Egypt and dates back at least 6,000 years ago. Both Cleopatra and Nefertiti held the juice of the aloe plant in high regards and used it in their daily skin care and beauty routines. We're lucky in this day and age, though, because you don't have to be an Egyptian Queen to be able to use aloe to keep your skin looking it's best.

It also doesn't have to be expensive or hard to get thanks to Green Leaf Naturals, a natural skin care company creating healthy, non-toxic beauty products made with aloe, among other really great plant ingredients.

This company (check out their backstory by clicking here) started off with pure Aloe Vera Gel, growing to include the Aloe Vera Spray and then branched out from there. I got to try both Aloe Vera products and the entire range of Women's skin care so grab a snack, settle in, and keep reading.

All Green Life Naturals products are free from parabens, SLS, petrochemicals, dyes, added fragrance, alcohol, and anything else that would make you tremor in fear of toxicity. The line is cruelty-free, all natural, and made in the US.

Let's start with the Aloe products. The Aloe Vera Gel and Aloe Vera Spray are both fantastic. Green Life Naturals uses Texas grown, and Texas Department of Agriculture certified, organic aloe vera plants that they cold press to create their Aloe Vera Gel and Spray. The gel is made with 99.75% organic aloe while the spray is made with 99.8% organic aloe.

Few products are as versatile as these two. I personally like to use both for full body moisturizing, as a facial serum, to cool my post-sun skin, in my hair as a sort of leave in conditioner and softener and I know I'll be using it constantly this summer to calm bug bites. There are a ton of other ways to use them, though! I've read so many things stating that aloe is great for acne scars even. The only difference between the two is that the spray has no thickeners in the formula. I love the idea of having aloe vera in a spray form but you know how sometimes spray products come out leaving huge drops in one place while another ends up bare? Well, this spray aloe is incredible in how even and fine the spray comes out. My Dad is really into it as well. He gets really itchy legs from medication and this aloe has been a necessity for him!

The Amazing Aloe Vera Moisturizing Cream couldn't be any better of a facial moisturizer. It does everything that you would expect a great skincare product to do and it does it at an extremely affordable price. You get a 4 oz jar for $19.95, which is unheard of in the natural beauty world. I love it and when I say I love this stuff I mean I love it A LOT! It has somehow changed my skin in such a dramatic and beautiful way. My skin is so much softer, smoother, more clear and much more plumped up. I have dry, sensitive skin but my skin always looks hydrated with this easily absorbed cream and I love what it's doing for me. It works even better than a lot of very high-end products I've tried and I can't recommend it enough.

The brand recently launched a trio of facial care products that I'll now dive into starting with the Amazing Aloe Vera Facial Cleanser. This lotion-like cleanser is so gentle it feels like a dream on the skin. It cleanses but moisturizes and softens at the same time. It's perfect for sensitive skin like mine but would also be great for all skin types. It leaves skin balanced and feeling healthy.

The Amazing Aloe Vera Facial Toner is another one of the new products they recently released. I'm not a toner person, or at least someone who uses toner regularly, but this one is so refreshing thanks to the aloe and witch hazel combination. This helps to clean any residual residue left behind, close the pores, sooth, refresh and give your skin a healthy glow. It has little to no scent and feels beautiful on the skin.

The final newly launched product is the Organic Rosewater Spray Facial Toner. You guys know I don't love anything rose. I always feel like I'm suffocating or choking when I'm wearing something with a rose scent but let me tell you who loves rose. My Mom! She adores anything rose scented and she is thoroughly enjoying this 100% Organic Rosewater spray.

I was also sent the adorably giftable Body Butter Sampler 3-pack. This trio is comprised of three 2-ounce jars of raw, unrefined butters that are intensely rich, hydrating, and protective of the skin. You get the African Shea Butter, Mango Butter, and Cocoa Butter. All 3 are decadent but I'd say my favorite is the Cocoa Butter. Or maybe my favorite is the Mango Butter. I have to say, the Cocoa Butter is the best smelling Cocoa Butter I have ever smelled in my life. It is so good! Of course, they start off a bit hard but melt as soon as you get them warmed up and you can use them for basically whatever you could ever want to use them for. I especially like them as lip and cuticle balms, heavy-duty foot cream, and any really dry bits of skin I get. I have eczema and they've all been really helpful. And again, they would make a perfect present for anyone! 

They also have a men's line of products. To learn more about Green Leaf Naturals and their products you can visit their website by clicking here. You can also find them on Facebook and Instagram. The brand also offered to do a giveaway, so keep reading!

I am so excited to be able to do this giveaway for my readers in the US of the Amazing Aloe Vera Facial Cleanser, Amazing Aloe Vera Facial Toner, Organic Rosewater Spray Facial Toner, and Amazing Aloe Vera Moisturizing Cream. To enter simply use the Rafflecopter form below. You can do as many or as few of the entry options as you would like, but all entries will be verified. Good luck!

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(FTC: These products were sent to me for free for review consideration by the company. I am not being compensated for this post. None of the links above are affiliate links. All thoughts and opinions are my own.) 

7th Blogiversary + Birthday-to-Birthday Giveaway

Beauty is a lot more than just skin deep, but having clear, glowing skin or shiny, healthy hair can do a lot for your confidence, which in turn makes you more beautiful than you already are. Confidence is key and feeling good in your own body is really important.

I wrote that in the first paragraph of my very first blog post on the 15th of March, 2011. You can click here to read that post if you want.

It's been 7 years since then. 7 years since a very ill, sort of lost 22-year-old me decided to try something new, to try to find something I could be passionate about. I needed to find something I could pour my heart and creativity into since I could no longer work or do something that I felt was productive. I was sad and grieving the loss of whatever a "normal" life is supposed to be. I went from being able to do anything and everything I could have ever possibly dreamt of and endless possibilities to being unable to accomplish much more than getting a load of laundry done once a week. When I first got sick in 2009 I truly thought that I would get better but with time I found myself getting a little worse each and every day.

I wasn’t doing anything and I desperately needed to do something. After a year and 4 months, I couldn't allow myself to be down any longer so I decided to make a list. I made a list of things I enjoyed, trying to figure out what sort of thing I could and/or should start doing. I've always loved writing and I also realized I had long enjoyed reading beauty blogs and watching beauty vloggers on YouTube. My love of beauty and my deep affection for writing combined to become my something, my passion. Beautiful Basics was born and here we are 7 years, 409 blog posts, and thousands of followers later. I'm 30 now and much worse but I really do love this blog.

A few of you have actually, surprisingly been here since the very beginning but the majority of you haven't. Beautiful Basics started off as something incredibly different than what it has become. I originally shared very basic bland, boring DIY beauty recipes using stock photos. It was sort of awful. I didn't know how bad it was then, obviously, but I sure do now. Thankfully, it took on a life of its own and somehow morphed along the way into what it is now, which is something I am really proud of.

I can't tell you how much it all means to me and how much each one of you means to me. Each time you read my posts or leave me a comment I am so full of gratitude. I am so thankful for each like and each interaction. I mean that, more than you can ever know. And when companies reach out to me? I'm very thankful they want to work with me. I'm very thankful you want to read what I have to say. The support has been incredible and I'm just very thankful in general.

You've probably already guessed it from the title but it's time for the annual Birthday-to-Birthday giveaway. This giveaway spans the month between my blogiversary and shortly after my birthday, my 31st to be exact, which is why it's called the Birthday-to-Birthday giveaway!

I have a box full of goodies, a wonderful DIY beauty book and a necklace to give away to one of you Beauties! Inside the box there are full sized products, deluxe samples, and a few foil samples, too. There's an amazing mix of stuff! There's even a Kari Gran Essential Balm which is worth $98 alone! The book is called Pure Skin Organic Beauty Basics by Barbara Close. And the necklace is a Chloe + Isabel La Vie en Rose Convertible Necklace. This necklace is worth $56 so this giveaway is huge! I'll ship it anywhere in the world so you're all more than welcome, and encouraged, to enter!

All you have to do to enter is use the Rafflecopter form below. You can do as many or as few entries as you would like. All entries will be verified! Good luck!

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Summer 2017 Giveaway

Summer is almost over. Excuse me while I go cry in a dark corner for a while. Just kidding... sort of! I just can't believe fall is already knocking on our proverbial doorstep. How does time go by so quickly?

I usually do a giveaway like this with products perfect for the warmer weather at the beginning of the season but this summer has been kind of crazy for my family and I. If you don't follow Beautiful Basics - The Sick Life then you're probably not aware of my health problems, as well as my Dads. He hasn't been well all summer, in and out of the hospital, and then last week I wound up in the ER with the worst pain I have ever been so unfortunate to experience. I ended up with a diagnosis of Trigeminal Neuralgia and I've been put on a medication that is making me feel not so good. That's why I didn't post last week and why I'm keeping it pretty simple with a giveaway this week.

On a side note, you can check out the blog post talking about my new diagnosis by clicking here or you can just visit The Sick Life by clicking here if you're interested.

Okay, on to the giveaway! That's why you're really here, anyway, so I won't keep you from it any longer!

The winner will be receiving some skin care goodies from Goddess Garden, Pacifica, and some cute little baby samples.

This giveaway is open Worldwide. You can do as many or as few of the options below that you would like, except for the one mandatory free entry. All entries will be verified. This giveaway isn't sponsored in any way. Good luck!


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Talk About Oral Care - WooBamboo + GIVEAWAY!

Earth Day is coming up on the 22nd of April so I thought today was the perfect day to talk about WooBamboo and their line of awesome eco-friendly (or as they say, eco-awesome) oral care products. The company actually launched on Earth Day 2013 so they’re coming up on their 4th anniversary and in that fairly short amount of time they have become available in over 2.500 stores and more than a dozen countries. Instead of traditional plastic, they create toothbrushes made of natural and sustainable bamboo so the handles are completely biodegradable, meaning less waste! That’s a big win for Mother Nature!

The bamboo used to make WooBamboo brushes is called Moso bamboo and is grown naturally without any chemicals, pesticides or toxins in the mountains of China. It’s also sustainably grown and harvested. The handles of the brushes are coated with natural wax to keep it smooth and dry and the bamboo itself is antimicrobial, naturally, so you’ll never have to worry about what germs might be growing and breeding on your toothbrush.

They offer an entire line of toothbrushes for every member of the family, including your furry children! They’ll also soon be launching toothpaste (in some really amazing flavors) and mouth rinse. My family, including Hunter the cat and Cooper the dog, has been using WooBamboo brushes and we’ve all become huge fans of their brand and their products.

In all honestly, there’s not much difference between a bamboo toothbrush and a traditional plastic one besides the fact that it’s a sustainable and eco-friendly product you can feel good about using. They work just as well, if not better than any other toothbrush I’ve tried. I love the smooth handles and the density of the bristles. They do a great job of cleaning my teeth and they also happen to be quite pretty so they look great sitting next to my sink. Even Cooper and Hunter have been enjoying using theirs, it’s adorable!

Top: Slim Handle
Bottom: Standard Handle

As for the adult sized brushes, they offer a standard handled brush or a slim brush. They also come with super soft, soft, and medium bristles, depending on your preferences. The pet brushes available are a small breed brush (perfect for cats or small dogs) or large breed brush (best for dogs). 

They also have floss, which is made of natural, biodegradable silk and coated with natural wax. It comes in the coolest floss container you’ll ever see!

You can learn more about WooBamboo by visiting their website. You can also find them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

The brand was also kind enough to send me some extras so one of you will be receiving this awesome sampler set so you can try their toothbrushes and floss! Simply use the Rafflecopter form below to get entered and good luck! All entries will be verified.

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6th Blogiversary + 2017 Birthday-to-Birthday Giveaway

Today is a really special day because on this exact day six years ago I decided to try something new and enter into this world that I essentially knew nothing about. I was never really someone to put myself out there but I decided to take a chance and here we are six years, hundreds of blog posts, and thousands of followers later.

Many of you already know the story but I’ll dive into it just a bit for those of you who might be new around here. Beautiful Basics was created because I became ill in 2009 at the age of 22. I went from being able to do anything and everything I could have ever possibly dreamt of doing to being bedridden most days. When I first got sick I thought with all of my heart that I would get better but with time I found myself getting a little worse each and every day. I can’t even tell you how hard it was to go from being a normal 22-year-old with a job I loved and endless possibilities to being as sick as I was. I wasn’t doing anything and I needed to do something.

I really thought long and hard about things that I enjoyed and what I could possibly still do. I couldn’t go for a run or take up mounting climbing or anything strenuous so that narrowed my possibilities. In my free time, which was essentially all of my time, I watched a lot of beauty videos on YouTube and I read a lot of beauty blogs. I realized how much I loved it and wanted to try it myself so Beautiful Basics was born. It started as something very different than what it has become. It was originally a place where I shared very basic beauty tips and hacks but it morphed into a natural beauty blog where I now primarily review natural and organic beauty products. It kind of took on a mind of its own and continues to grow and change. Something born out of desperation for something resembling normalcy and out of a feeling of uselessness and hopelessness has become a wonderful outlet for me to write, which I love to do, and talk about beauty, which I also love.

I also created Beautiful Basics – The Sick Life as a way for me to share my journey to being well while living with chronic illness. Blogging has changed my life in a lot of ways because I have a way to get out my feelings while forming relationships with all of you. Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or if you somehow stumbled upon my blog today I want to tell you how thankful I am for you. I am truly grateful for each and every one of you.

The past 6 years of creating content for Beautiful Basics and being able to interact with all of you has given me hope and something I absolutely love to do. I appreciate this all so much more than you could ever know. I could have never imagined how many people would read my words or what companies would want to work with me. Each day brings something new and exciting into my life. Each like and comment you leave me mean a lot and I’m looking forward to continuing this journey with you all.

Today I’m launching the annual Birthday-to-Birthday giveaway for this year.  I put together one of those super popular sampler bags you all seem to enjoy. I like to do this as a way to say thank you. I only wish I could give you all a special prize because you mean a lot to me.



There is only one mandatory entry for the giveaway and after that you can do as many or as few of the options as you would like. Be sure to check out the terms and conditions. All entries will be verified. Good luck!

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Marin Bee Review and GIVEAWAY

Marin Bee is a fairly new company hitting the green beauty scene with bee-loving and environmentally friendly personal care products. This company, founded by backyard beekeepers Debra and Bill Tomaszewski, has a mission to help spread the word about the worldwide die-off of the honey bee due to Colony Collapse Disorder and other environmental factors.

The pair also started a nonprofit called the Planet Bee Foundation, with a goal of empowering the next generation of environmental stewards. “Planet Bee offers free and low-cost backyard beekeeping workshops and hands-on bee education lessons to schools, nonprofits, community gardens, environmental centers, businesses, and communities.”

A portion of the profits from Marin Bee products purchased goes directly to the Planet Bee Foundation. So when you click that checkout button to pick up a product or two you’re not only getting a natural, non-toxic and cruelty-free product but you’re also helping to save the planet in a small, but meaningful way.

I can’t tell you that I’m an avid shaving cream user because I lean towards the lazy side and just use whatever shampoo, conditioner or soap is already in my shower. I mean it. I’m super lazy when it comes to removing hair so I usually just give myself the quickest pass of a razor ever but Honey Shave is such a rich and luxurious cream that gives you a taste of an ultra luxurious spa treatment right in your very own shower or tub.

Made with luxe hydrating and conditioning ingredients you need only a small amount of this concentrated cream to coat the surface of the skin. The formula allows your razorblade to glide effortlessly along your soon to be super smooth and silky skin protecting the skin from any nicks or cuts and making sure you get as close a shave as possible. Without any artificial fragrances or chemicals this cream smells a bit herbal, a bit citrusy and very spa like. It’s very gentle and I find that it leaves my legs feeling soft afterward, as well, without feeling like there is a thick coat of anything left behind. They just feel naturally moisturized and supple.

 Marin Bee’s Lip Repair is an uber glossy, smooth and soothing lip balm with a touch of light pinkish color and some shimmer. It’s thick and hydrating but not sticky so it’s a perfect winter balm for day to day. They even suggest you can use it before bed but I’m not someone who likes to put on shimmer to go to sleep. The formula would allow you to wake up with ridiculously plump and juicy lips, though!

And now for some extra exciting news (although, you may have already guessed it from the heading of this post)… it’s time for a giveaway! With Valentine’s Day coming up now is the perfect time for soft lips and smooth legs so one of you Beauties will win this pretty pair for yourself. If you want to enter to win Honey Shave and Lip Repair just follow the Rafflecopter prompts below. Good luck!

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Talk About Cosmetics - Pixllady Lipstick + GIVEAWAY

Hey there, Lovely! Welcome to the first post on Beautiful Basics in the new year. Can you believe it’s 2017? I don’t know how last year went so quickly but I guess that happens as you get older, doesn’t it? With a new year comes new (whether newly launched or simply new to me) brands to discover, new products to try out, and new and reviews to post so I can share my thoughts with all of you and today is a perfect review kind of day and guess what we’re talking about? One of my absolute favorite types of beauty products to blog about and to just wear in my daily life, lipstick!

Traditional lipstick can be really scary with a terrifying roster of toxic ingredients but every day more and more green beauty companies are coming out with beautiful, hydrating and healthy lippies that prove green can be glam. Pixllady Cosmetics is one of those companies. With 100% natural, vegan and cruelty-free lipsticks in a range of stunning shades, you’ll want to collect them all.

Simply made but beautifully formulated this line of lip products is made with ingredients like Organic Sweet Almond Oil, Organic Unrefined Coconut Oil, Candelilla Wax, Unrefined Shea Butter, Cold Pressed Castor Seed Oil, Vitamin E, Boron Nitride, and Organic Benzoin Resin and may also contain Mica, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, and Manganese Violet for color. Each tube of Pixllady Lipstick is smooth, buttery, and gorgeously pigmented. I have 3 of them and really enjoy each of them!

I also have the Cocoa Shimmer Gloss that is rich and luxuriously moisturizing while giving the lips a shiny, shimmery finish. It’s lovely on its own or layered on top of lipstick. It’s got a yummy cocoa butter scent and flavor that is absolutely dreamy!

Now on to the colors! I selected Brussels, Sofia, and Budapest. All 3 are surprisingly wearable and flattering. I like them all and can’t decide if Sofia or Brussels is my top pick so it’s a toss up between the 2.

Budapest, Brussels and Sofia

Brussels is described as “a warm rose with medium coverage and a satin finish.” This particular shade is a bit lighter than what I normally gravitate towards and I really love what it does for my complexion!

Sofia is described as “a beige-rose with medium coverage and a satin finish.” This is a perfect MLBB (my-lips-but-better) shade for me and makes my lips look plump and perfected.

Budapest is described as “a dark brick with high coverage and a satin finish.” This is the only one that surprised me color-wise because it looks much more brown in person. It’s a chocolate kind of color on me. Once I saw it in real life I wasn’t sure I would love it on me but I actually do! I’ve even gotten a couple of compliments about it when I’ve worn it. This is a very on-trend shade since it’s kind of reminiscent of shades from the 90s!

Top Row: Left - Brussels  Right - Sofia
Bottom Row: Left - Budapest  Right - Cocoa Shimmer Gloss

Like I mentioned above, all of these lip products are super softening and feel like they do an excellent job of hydrating, smoothing, soothing, and protecting the lips. They have a very light scent that is uplifting and fresh but doesn’t appear to linger. I’m a big fan! 

As for other colors I would love to try, I’ve got my eye on South Beach! I think it’ll be the perfect warm weather lip color! The entire collection is beyond pretty, though, and I don’t think you can make a wrong choice! In fact, one of you Beauties will win your choice of lipstick! How awesome is that? Simply enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter form below.

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Adventure Awaits Giveaway

Lately, I’ve recently been really interested in mountaineering (or reading about epic Everest, Lhotse, K2 and Annapurna ascents, anyway) and the idea of seeing the world. Since summer is the perfect time to explore I put together this little adventure themed bag to give away to one of you.

I found this bracelet on Etsy and I couldn’t pass it up. The second I saw it I knew I needed to get one to give away so the star of this bag is this aluminum cuff with one of my favorite quotes on it.

Also included, an Unscented Portland Bee Balm, Mint Portland Bee Balm, perfectly portlance foil samples from John Masters Organics and Briogeo, and 3 EO Hand Sanitizer Wipes in Lavender.

This giveaway is open to all of you, regardless of location in the world. There is only one required entry and after that you can do as many or as few of the entry options as you would like. All entries will be verified. Good luck!

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May Goodbeing Review + GIVEAWAY

So…. I’m not really in love with my May Goodbeing box. I know, sad. It’s okay, though, because it’s bound to happen at some point in time, right? Not every single person receiving a subscription box will be totally happy with it, but there is always the potential for the next box to be incredible.

I said this last month, too, but I’m not really sure how this box was customized based on my preferences. I can’t handle any smell and every single item, with the exception of the mascara (which I love!), has a pretty strong scent.

If you’re unfamiliar with Goodbeing here’s a quick breakdown – Goodbeing is a customizable subscription service with several different plans to choose from. You can purchase a subscription or a single box for yourself or as a gift for someone else. Depending on which plan you purchase you can pay as little as $18 for a subscription or $21 per box if you would prefer to pay as you go. Each month you will receive 4-5 trial-sized (and sometimes even full sized) products that have been selected for you based on your member profile. You get to tell Goodbeing exactly what you like and dislike in the in depth survey you are asked to fill out when you sign up. You can specify scents you like and dislike, particular shades of cosmetics you’re interested in, and what your skin is like.

You can also check out my past Goodbeing reviews by clicking on the month – December, January, February, March, and April.

This month I received:

Pacifica Dream Big Mascara

Province Apothecary Replenishing + Enhancing Eye Serum

Board & Batten Regenerating Steam - Herbal Facial with Vitamin E Serum

Green & Gorgeous Organics Lavender Dry Shampoo

Moondani Naturals Breath Spray

Pacifica actually sent me their Dream Big Mascara a couple of months ago (check out my review by clicking here) and it’s become my absolute favorite. This magical tube of mascara, alone, retails for $16. You have to try it for yourself. It’s good stuff!

As for everything else, it’s a no go for me. The Breath Spray will be going to my Dad. I can’t try anything else but that means each of these items will be going towards the next natural beauty bag giveaway that I host so it’s a win for you guys!

I’m going to try to fix my profile to hopefully get things I can fall in love with next month. 

If you're interested in signing up for Goodbeing you can click here to receive a free bonus item in your first box! If you want the chance to win a Goodbeing box use the Rafflecopter form below to enter. Open only to those of you in the US. All entries will be verified. Good luck!

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Juice Organics Giveaway

I know how much you all love giveaways (I do, too!) and thanks to Juice Organics and Goodbeing one of you Beauties will be the lucky winner of the Volumizing Shampoo and Conditioner Bundle.




This Leaping Bunny Cruelty-Free and PETA Cruelty-Free Certitifed line uses at least 70% organic ingredients in each of their products and you don't have to worry about parabens, petroleum, propylene or butylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfates, phthalates, PEGs, TEA, DEA, GMOs, silicones, artificial dyes or endocrine disrupting synthetic fragrances.

To enter to win this hair pair simply use the Rafflecopter form below. All entries will be verified. US only.

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April Goodbeing Review + Giveaway

I just want to quickly say thank you so much for all of the wonderful birthday wishes. I had an amazing birthday and I’m looking forward to seeing what my 29^th year brings.

So, what are we talking about today? The ever-famous Goodbeing and my April box. I have so much fun sharing the contents of my Goodbeing box every month because the majority of you seem so interested in this eco-friendly subscription service and the contents of their boxes. I’m also doing another giveaway so be sure to read through to the end of this post for your chance to enter to win.

If you’re new around here or you’re simply unfamiliar with Goodbeing here’s what you need to know: Goodbeing is a customizable subscription service with several different plans to choose from. You can purchase a subscription or a single box for yourself or as a gift for someone else. Depending on which plan you purchase you can pay as little as $18 for a subscription or $21 per box if you would prefer to pay as you go. Each month you will receive 4-5 trial-sized (and sometimes even full sized) products that have been selected for you based on your member profile. You get to tell Goodbeing exactly what you like and dislike in the in depth survey you are asked to fill out when you sign up. You can specify scents you like and dislike, particular shades of cosmetics you’re interested in, and what your skin is like.

If you want to know more about what I found when I opened my April Goodbeing box then keep reading, but if you want to check out my past reviews feel free to click on the months and the review will open in a new window – December, January, February, March.

The whole point of Beautiful Basics is to share my honest opinion with you all, good or bad. And I’m sad to say that I’m unhappy with this months Goodbeing box. Every other month I have felt like the box has been perfectly tailored to me and my preferences but I was really disappointed with this particular box. I don’t feel like any of my tastes were taken into consideration when selecting products to send to me.

I received:

Zoe Organics Insect Repellent (Full Size - $20)

Meow Meow Tweet Makeup Remover & Cleansing Oil

4 samples of Juice Organics Volumizing Shampoo & Conditioner

Bonnie Resurfacing Enzyme Mask

Moondani Natural Breath Mist

(I don’t have any details about this. I didn’t receive a card for this product. I did, however, receive a card for the HAN Eyeshadow so I contacted the company and asked if I was supposed to receive one of the eyeshadows, I’ll let you know what they say)

ME to WE Education Rafiki Bracelet ($10)

I’m not able to use the Zoe Organics Insect Repellent, Meow Meow Tweet Makeup Remover, Bonnie Resurfacing Enzyme Mask or the Moondani breath mist because of their scents and/or ingredients so these will all be going to family members.

I really love having another ME to WE Bracelet. This is the third consecutive bracelet members have received and I’ve seen some complaints but I absolutely love them and what they stand for. I will never, ever complain about getting one of these super cute bracelets! I’ll also be able to use the shampoo and conditioner.

Goodbeing in general is a great service and with any subscription box some months are going to be better than others. This is the last box of my subscription and it was pretty much a miss for me. I am, however, giving one away so hopefully one of you will love the contents of this box much more than I did!

In the meantime, if you want to sign up for Goodbeing you can click on this link! 

To enter, simply use the Rafflecopter form below. All entries will be verified. This giveaway is open only to those of you in the US. Good luck!

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(FTC: This box was provided to me free of charge by the company for reveiw consideration. They are also giving away a box to one of you for free. I am not being compensated for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)

Beautiful Basics 5th Blogiversary

I’m 28 years old (turning 29 on April 10th) and since 2009 I’ve been living with chronic illness. I’m disabled and unable to live the typical life of a twenty something, but I don’t let that stop me from living a happy and positive life. Life is what we make it so it’s really important to keep an open and positive mind and to embrace every day and every moment. Life is short but life is also beautiful.

Beautiful Basics was born when I became ill. I have Lupus, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Migraine, and some other not very fun stuff as well. The original thought and hope when I first became sick was that I would get better but as time passes I find myself getting worse and worse. It was really hard for me to go from working to being disabled and unable to do much of anything so I sat down and thought long and hard about what I could do and what I wanted to do with my time. 

I have a passion for all things beauty and green living and I’ve always loved reading beauty blogs and watching vlogs on YouTube so I decided to try my hand at blogging. Beautiful Basics was originally a place where I shared very basic beauty tips and hacks but it somehow morphed into a natural beauty blog. I now primarily review natural and organic beauty products. It kind of took on a mind of its own and continues to change right in front of my eyes. I never could have imagined how much my little piece of the Internet would grow and what it would become. Something born out of desperation for something resembling normalcy and out of a feeling of uselessness and hopelessness has become a wonderful outlet for me to write, which I love to do, and talk about beauty, which I also love. 

The past 5 years of creating content for Beautiful Basics and being able to interact with all of you has given me hope and something I absolutely love to do. I appreciate this all so much more than you could ever know. I could have never imagined how many people would read my words or what companies would want to work with me. Each day brings something new and exciting in to my life. Each like and comment you leave me means a lot and I’m looking forward to continuing to grow Beautiful Basics. I can’t wait to see what the next 5 years will bring about!

As a thank you to all of you, whether you’ve been here since the beginning or if you somehow stumbled upon my blog today, I want to give you all the chance to win some fun goodies that I’ve been collecting. You can enter 1, 2, 3 or all 4 giveaways if you would like; However, you can only win one of the prizes. Each giveaway has a separate comment option so you can leave several comments down below. Each giveaway will be open until the 15th. 

There is only one mandatory entry for each giveaway and after that you can do as many or as few of the options as you would like. Be sure to check out the terms and conditions to see where each prize can be shipped. All entries will be verified. Good luck!

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Talk About Fragrance - Pacifica (+GIVEAWAY!)

While I’m someone who prefers to go be fragrance free a lot of you have told me that the thing you miss most since going green is perfume, so today I’m here to tell you that you can smell beautiful without dousing yourself with highly toxic and dangerous chemicals.

Pacifica has mastered the art of fragrance and has a line of solid, spray, and rollerball perfumes created with only healthy, vegan, and cruelty-free ingredients. They have so many different scents, whether you’re a fruity or floral kind of gal, and you are bound to have something you’ll fall head over heels for.

Even I, the Queen of Unscented, has found a Pacifica fragrance that I really like (Hawaiian Ruby Guava) and don’t mind when my Mom wears their products around me. Each of their fragrances is true to life and pure so there is no gross chemical smell or lingering stench.

I was recently sent some of their lovely fragrances in the form of the Daydreamer Roll On Trio as well as the Hand Cream Duo.

The Daydreamer Roll On Trio comes with .33 oz Roll On Perfumes in Tahitian Gardenia, Indian Coconut Nectar, and Tuscan Blood Orange. This trio has a $36 value but it sells for $19. This would make a perfect gift for anyone who loves fragrance! Each one is travel friendly and pops easily into any handbag for scent touch ups anywhere, anytime.

Tuscan Blood Orange is a “sparkling orange, spicy Italian mandarin and red raspberry notes”.

Indian Coconut Nectar is a “warm, sultry blend of coconut and delicate creamy vanilla”.

Tahitian Gardeina is a “sweet, smooth and slightly citrusy aroma reminiscent of jasmine, sweet orange and tea leaves”.

My Mom is a huge fan of Tuscan Blood Orange, in any form, and loves this rollerball and it’s matching hand cream. She likes to apply it on her pulse points and wears it on a daily basis. This is such a sweet and fresh fruity scent and it’s really nice. My favorite, however, is Indian Coconut Nectar. This fragrance is so rich and warm but also light and fun. It reminds me of summer and I really like it.

I have not been able to test out the Tahitian Gardenia because I’m allergic, but my Mom has smelled this scent before and she really likes it. Since I can’t use it and my Mom can’t use it around me, I’m giving this away to one of you! Read through to the end to see how you can enter to win.

 The Pacifica Hand Creams are ultra rich and hydrating and combine an ultra moisturizing formula with a fragrance that isn’t overpowering. The scent is nice and lasts without being too strong. The tube that houses this hand cream is perfect for keeping on your desk, because it’s gorgeous, or popping into your purse for revitalizing and soothing your hands on the go. 

Have you tried any fragrances from Pacifica? Do you have a favorite? Let me know what you think about the line in the comments. If you want to be entered to win the Tahitian Gardenia Roll On simply use the Rafflecopter form below. US only. All entries will be verified. Good luck!

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(FTC: These products were provided to me for free from the company for review consideration. I am not being compensated for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)

Planner Giveaway!

I’ve been a big, huge, enormous fan of paper planners for years. I used them in high school, then college, and continued into adulthood. I’ve noticed that lately paper planning has become a trendy thing with YouTube channels devoted to decorating and planning videos. I’m not that obsessed but I do love using my planner as a sort of memory book, writing down important events and things that I want to remember. I also use my planner for blogging purposes, medical appointments and keeping track of symptoms, and my shopping habits.

I usually pick up a new planner every year from Target (anyone else here absolutely love Target? I could spend hours in there just getting lost and looking at everything) and last year I picked up a Sugar Paper Planner that I really, really loved. Recently, however, I won an Erin Condren gift card so I’m currently using one of their LifePlanners. I’m still getting used to it because it’s quite different than my last one, but I am really enjoying it. Check out my cute interchangeable cover in the photo below. Isn’t it the cutest? That’s my favorite picture of Hunter and I’m so excited to have him on my cover.

Anyway, before the Erin Condren came into my life I was planning on using this one from Sakroots. I’m not going to be using it now, though, so I wanted to give it away to one of you!

All you have to do to enter is use the Rafflecopter form below. It may take a moment or two to load. All entries will be verified. Good luck! Open Worldwide.

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Fall Travel Beauty Bag Giveaway (CLOSED)

I haven't always appreciated fall and all the beauty it has to offer, but this year I am fully embracing it and my love for the changing leaves, crisp air, cute sweaters and boots, and just about everything else that makes this beautiful season what it is. When I was younger I would have told you that summer was my favorite season but I think I have to go with fall now and even my pup, Cooper, is loving it! To celebrate fall and this magical time of year I have a little giveaway for you today.

One lucky winner, from anywhere in the world, will win this cute bag full of beauty goodies. The beauty products in this bag aren't very fall-ish but they're all great anyway! The travel-sized goodies inside the bag are Coconut Shampoo and Conditioner from Desert Essence, Shikai Yuzu Shower Gel, Juice Beauty Nutrient Moisturizer, and a Whole Foods Organic Lip Balm in Cranberry Orange.

To enter the giveaway use the Rafflecopter form below. It may take a moment or two to load. You can do as many or as few options as you would like. All entries will be verified. Don't forget to "like" this post and good luck!

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Whole Foods Travel Bag GIVEAWAY! (CLOSED)

I don't live anywhere near a Whole Foods, which is kind of sad but is ultimately a good thing for my bank account, but my parents were in Portland during my Dad's Bone Marrow Transplant and my Mom managed to snag a couple of these awesome travel bags that have a retail value of $40. I had her get one for me and I, of course, couldn't forget about you guys so she grabbed one for you as well.

I'm going to open this up to all of you, whether you're located in the US or somewhere super exotic that I've never even heard of. However, if you're an International reader and you happen to be the lucky winner I'm going to remove the nail polish from your prize. If you're in the US you'll get everything featured in the pictures.

Without further ado, to enter the giveaway give this post a like and use the Rafflecopter form below. It may take a moment or two to load. There is only one mandatory entry and after that you can do as many or as few of the options as you wish. All entries will be verified. Good luck!

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Talk About It - Chloe + Isabel (+GIVEAWAY - CLOSED)

A little while ago on the Beautiful Basics Facebook page I asked you all if you would be interested in seeing posts about things other than beauty. The majority of you said you would love to see some fashion and style posts so today we're trying something new and talking about jewelry.

I've been watching Royal Pains on Netflix and the two leading ladies wear the most spectacular and drool worthy necklaces, as well as other jewelry. Anyone else watch Royal Pains? It's great! You should check it out. Anyway, my adoration of the stunning statement necklaces that Divya and Paige wear helped lead me to Chloe + Isabel. I'm seriously, ridiculously obsessed with the product line. I have a few pieces and absolutely love each and every one of them. The quality is impressive, and even comes with a lifetime guarantee, and the pieces are gorgeous. They feature a vast array of jewelry and there is something for everyone, whether you prefer trendy pieces or classics.

I'm hosting a Pop Up through Victoria Mast and if you're interested you can get some really awesome deals and also enter a giveaway at the bottom of this post. Before that though, I want to share a little more about Chloe + Isabel with you.

Chloe + Isabel was founded by a woman named Chantel Waterbury after a 15-year career in jewelry design, development, and merchandising at corporations like Target, Macy's, Gap and brands like Kenneth Cole, Cartier, and Tiffany. With the economy in a not very good place she wondered how she could use her experience and skill set to make a difference in the lives of young women which is how Chloe + Isabel was born. It is a brand that can allow any woman to be an entrepreneur.

Victoria, for example, is a Chloe +Isabel Merchandiser but she is also an actress. Here is her bio from her boutique page: "As a struggling actress, any roles I am cast in at this point are unpaid, so I needed a way to fund my career. Haha! Don't hear that too often! C+I had been a blessing, helping me pay my bills & allowing me to follow my dreams. Since C+I allows me to make my own hours, I can still audition, film, attend classes & work my other jobs. Thank you for all your support! Merci!"

I think the Deco Fanfare Statement Pendant Necklace is one of my favorite necklaces of all time. I love mixed metals and it's such a statement without being too over the top. It's a heavy piece but not in an uncomfortable way. I have gotten so many compliments while wearing it. I like to wear it with a simple, solid v-neck t-shirt and jeans but you can easily dress it up. I can't recommend it enough.



As a lot of you know I am very ill. Part of my illness is that my fingers swell and I can't wear rings. I have the Lunette Open Band Ring and the open design allows me to wear it pain free. I really enjoy it and I feel like it adds a little something special to any outfit.



When bracelet stacking became so popular I was so excited because I love the look of multiple bracelets. It's such a fun way to express yourself. I love how easy this Bead + Chain Multi-Wrap Bracelet is to wear. It's incredibly comfortable as well, which is super important. This bracelet is essentially me in bracelet form. They have many different colors so you're bound to find one you love. You can also wear it as a necklace, which is just as fun!



These Pearl + Crystal Floral Filigree Earrings are so pretty! I can never get over how gorgeous they are. They're not uncomfortable and they don't drag my ears down at all.



Victoria is offering some really awesome deals just for you Beauties if you shop through this link!
Every new customer order gets free round studs (and if you want your specific birthstone you can message her on her Facebook page with your order number and let her know which one you want)
Orders of $100+ get free shipping
Orders of $150+ get a charm or 2 birthstone rings (you can message her about your preference)
And she usually sends freebies for new customers!

If you want to know which pieces are on my wish list I'm really loving the Bora Bora Short Pendant Necklace, Silver and Navy Bead + Chain Multi-Wrap Bracelet, and the Morningtide Convertible Collar Necklace.

If you want to shop and pick up a piece or two (or three or four!) use this link. It should automatically put you into my Pop Up but if it doesn't please select my name, Kassie Harris, from the drop down menu. You can also find Victoria on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.

She is also doing a giveaway for you and I'm so excited about it because the set is amazing! If you enter the giveaway you can possibly win a Lunette Set, which includes the Oval Drop Earrings, Stackable Cuff Bracelet Set and Convertible Pendant Necklace. How gorgeous are these?



If you want to enter the giveaway, please use the Rafflecopter form below. It may take a moment or two to load. There is only one mandatory entry. You can do as many or as few of the options as you would like. Good luck!


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