The Essentials

There are just certain times of the year that I just eagerly look forward to like a helpless little puppy. There's of course the semi-annual Barney's Warehouse sale (I mean who doesn't love fighting over a dress while all the women around you are half naked desperately trying on clothes while hoarding their pile of goodies?! Mind you this is all happening in a large warehouse where men, children and the poor sales clerks are witness to this animal-like behavior!). Then there's the first day of spring where the buds are blooming, the sun is shining and for once you don't need that horrific down puffy jacket. There's something almost transcendental that happens on that therapeutically rejuvenating day. And then there's the Sephora Annual Friends & Family Event. 20% off any and everything online...need I say more? I know, I know your blood is rising as you read this and there's a frenzy starting as you desperately try to make a mental list of the things you need. Deep breath in and out! Beaute Guru is here to make sure you take advantage of this great deal the right way (no buying products that will just sit in your makeup drawer!). I have put together a Top 10 List of all the essentials any beaute aficionado absolutely must have, no questions asked, to help you better shop this event.

Proudly introducing the Sephora Top 10 Beaute Must Haves

10. Laura Mercier Shimmer Loose Powders because there is always that special occasion where the "ladies" need a little extra oomph. If you have no idea what I'm talking about go back to that post (click the hyperlink above).

9. Because we weren't born with perfectly curled, come hither lashes: Shu Uemura Eye Lash Curler

8. Yes random cuts, nicks and stretch marks happen but your porcelain skin doesn't need to become tainted. Carol's Daughter Scar Butter is the first aid lotion you need!

7. Whoever told you raccoon eyes in the morning is hot was lying or just trying to get some. Avoid that disastrous situation with Lancome Bi-Facil Eye Makeup Remover.

6. Ok here's the reality we are all multi-tasking, over scheduled people and frankly it's not healthy to wash your hair everyday anyway. Klorane Dry Shampoo gets you that one extra day while giving your hair that sexy, rolled around the bed look.

5. I have good news! Love at first sight does happen and this is the product that makes it possible: Make Up For Ever Star Powder.

4. This is a no-brainer. We are all trying to avoid crow's feet and that botox injection. Be proactive with Dr. Murad Essential-C Eye Cream SPF 30.

3. The magic wand! And my dearest Lisa can attest to the magical powers this bad boy has: YSL Touche Eclat.

2. Ok, seriously if there's one thing I want you to take away from reading this blog is this- wear sunscreen every, freakin' day! I don't care if it's raining, snowing or sun shining. 80% of all wrinkles are caused by sun damage (and thus why this is number 2 on the list!)! DDF Sun Enhancing Lotion SPF 30.

1. A few things on our number one. Dry hands are not only unattractive but they're awful to touch. Hands age like the rest of our body but unfortunately it's a bit harder to mask the getting older tell-tale signs. So start stockpiling the L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream in both the full and travel size (perfect for carrying on the go)!

Usage tip: The offer ends online on November 2nd so make sure you take advantage of this deal. Enter code FF2009 at checkout. Sephora offers free shipping on all orders for $50 and above so it's an all around sweet deal, delivered free right to your door! Talk about service! On a side note, Benefit Cosmetics is also doing their annual Friends & Family event online through Saturday. Enter code FRIEND09 to save 20%. They too are offering free shipping on orders $50 above if you also enter the code PRETTY50.

The result: All the beaute essentials for the most flawlessly, gorgeous you at a price you can't beat! (Now do you realize why I look forward to this yearly event?!)

Disclaimer: I'm not being compensated by Sephora or receiving any sort of kick back whatsoever. These are the products I covet and use. As a fellow beaute lover I want to make sure you know of the best products and the best deals. I'm just watching out for you!