PopSugar MustHave November 2015

 PopSugar MustHave is a monthly lifestyle subscription box. I call it a Christmas stocking in a box and I look forward to it every month.  It's filled with items that I might not purchase for myself, but that I will use and love. Just a bit of luxury.

The usual subscription box is $39.99/month plus tax ($42.65), but if you purchase 3 or 6 month subscriptions, there is a little discount. And, they have discounts every month if you find the codes. The current discount code is REFER5 for $5 off your subscription. I bought a 6 month subscription last month and had a discount for Black Friday. I totally forgot to change my subscription when the 6 months ran out and do another 6 months. Right now, I'm holding out to see if they have another Black Friday deal. If so ... I'm doing a 6 month and cancelling my month to month.

November's inspiration was Friends& Family, Gratitude, Giftings and Festivities. Seems appropriate for the time of year. As usual, I was scoping the mailbox for my box and was happy when it arrived. First thing I noticed was that it was big and it was heavy. Hmmm?

Deepa Gurnani Katie Crystal Headband: In a Limited Edition Box, I  received a Deepa Gurnani Crystal necklace. I really love it, so no surprise I love the detailing of this headband. Retail $56. I'm wearing it now as I write.






Tarte Cosmetics Beauty & the Box Eye Shadow: Such cute packaging. And it was a candy theme. The colors are Lollipop, Bubblegum, Jellybean, and Taffy. The combination is great. Matte and creamy with a hint of shimmer. Supposed to be formulated to last 12 hours. From my research, it looks like vegan also. Since I don't see a lot of red, I believe it may be. Other Beauty & the Box eyeshadows on the website are listed as vegan, but I couldn't find this one. Retail $22

West Emory Bingo Set: OK, I admit, I was a little iffy. This is what made the box big, and heavy. It is not just cheap paper. The boxed set has large cardboard playing cards, a tracker, and push-out circles for placeholders and for the number system. It could be a fun and simple game with family and friends over the holidays. Retail $20





Capri Blue Mercury Jewel Box in Rain. Candle has a very floral fragrance and the hand-blown recycled glass jewel box is really pretty. I have to use the candle a lot because I think it will be fun to use the box on my dresser. Retail $18.95

Gramr Gratitude Co Exclusive Thanksgiving Postcard Pack. What a nice reminder to thank people for doing something nice over the holidays, or just thank them for being themselves and being present in your life. A simple postcard is a quick reminder that they are appreciated. Retail $10. Also included a code for $15 off a subscription. 


Terrapin Ridge Farms Pecan Honey Mustard: HMMM ... I'm interested in giving this a try. Haven't sampled yet, but the combination sounds interesting. And it seems festive, and a little decadent, for holiday meals. Retail $6

Special Extra Inkdot Gift Card: This $20 gift card can be used for turning digital pictures into something longer lasting ... prints, coasters, etc. I am usually not a fan of gift cards, but since this can be used without requiring extra money added, I find it a winner. Retail $20. 

So, what do I think? I think PopSugar is really doing a great job with curations. Interesting combinations of products. Things I wouldn't necessarily purchase for myself, but really enjoy. Things I can use for gifts that my friends will love. And, fitting a theme without being too bound by the theme. Retail $132.90-$152.95 if you count the gift card, which I do since it can be used as is. Even at the regular monthly price of the subscription, it has great value. 

PopSugar MustHave October 2015

 PopSugar MustHave is a monthly lifestyle subscription box. I call it a Christmas stocking in a box and I look forward to it every month.  It's filled with items that I might not purchase for myself, but that I will use and love. Just a bit of luxury.

The usual subscription box is $39.99/month, but if you purchase 3 or 6 month subscriptions, there is a little discount. And, they have discounts every month if you find the codes. The current discount code is MUSTHAVE5 for $5 off your subscription.  Black Friday they had a special for $75 off a 6-month subscription. So, my $214.70 ($35.78/box) came to 139.70 ($23.28/box). Not a bad deal when you consider all that's in it. 

It's been a whirlwind past six weeks, so a little luxury was needed for relaxation. I had not paid attention to when my box may be arriving, so it was a pleasant surprise to see it on my doorstep. 

First glance in the box and I noticed 2 things. First was the card noting that for every box, PopSugar made a donation to Right Action for Women in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I appreciate that companies I support are willing/able to support good causes. 

Next thing I saw was that the other contents were eclipsed by the Savvy Sleepers Luxury Satin Pillowcase. Yes, I actually do use white linens. I know some people don't. The 100% satin is supposed to prevent sleep wrinkles, reduce hair breakage, and protect salon blowouts. Well, I don't do blow-outs, but the other benefits sound good. It is very soft Retail $36. Also a gift card for 20% off a purchase. 

After lifting the pillowcase, the other contents were revealed. 

  And, also, the trifold card identifying and describing the contents. 

 Who doesn't love comfy house socks? Anyone? So, I'm happy with Richer Poorer Hope Slipper Socks and I'm wearing them while I write. Soft and cozy. Grippers on the sole to prevent slippage. And pink to highlight the cause of the month. Of course, I feel like wearing pink isn't quite enough, but it identifies the cause, and that's important, too. Retail $15.

Every box comes with food. I've heard great things about Belgian Boys De Stroopwafel. It's filled with caramel to be crunchy on the outside and creamy chewy on the inside. But, with dairy and egg, this will be gifted to a grateful friend. I won't tell her about the 200 calories per waffle (400 calories per package, yikes!!) Retail $1.59

There were some liquid items that were bundled together in a plastic bag. I didn't have leakage issues, but I've heard others had trouble with the Honest Company Sea Salt + Sugar Body Scrub. I am a big fan of Honest Company and I like scrubs, so this is a win for me. I don't know if they did different scents, but I love the lavender vanilla. Retail $17. Also a coupon for 30% off a bundle purchase. I may consider using it.

In the same bag was It's a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product. It says it's sample size and not for resale and I can't find it on-line, so I am uncertain if the suggested retail is correct. But, It's a 10 partnered with Right Action for Women to provide financial assistance to women for screening. It's Leaping Bunny certified. It is supposed to offer 10 benefits in every bottle including detangling, defrizzing, shine, etc. I'm willing to give it a go. It smells fresh and clean and has a silky feel. Retail $11.96. This was listed as a Special Extra. 

Some fun items in the box included Easy, Tiger Brown Paper Liquor Bag Set. These are cute and fun and will be perfect for gifts of wine. Retail $8

And another fun item is Why Not Me? by Mindy Kaling. So, Mindy is just plain funny and she says what the rest of us often think. And I love the sarcasm. I think this will make a nice light read. Retail $25, ($15 on Amazon). Some subscribers received autographed books, I did not. That's OK.

A Special Extra was a $40 gift card from Danielle Stevens Monogram Collection. So, I'm not really a fan of gift cards in boxes that require me to give a credit card or spend more money. And since nothing currently available in the collection is under $50, this card doesn't really excite me.

So, what do I think? Retail value of the box including special extras was $154.55. Take out the gift card that doesn't have value unless you spend, it comes to $114.55. Take out the $10 for the Amazon price of the book and we're at $104.55. Take out value of the hair care sample (which I like, so I think it does have value) and we're at $92.59. So, it's not the highest value PopSugar box, but I think it's a fun box and I appreciate the cause they are highlighting. Next month is inspired by gratitude, friends & family, festivities, and gifting. Perfect theme for Thanksgiving.

PopSugar MustHave September 2015

 PopSugar MustHave is a monthly lifestyle subscription box. I call it a Christmas stocking in a box and I look forward to it every month.  It's filled with items that I might not purchase for myself, but that I will use and love. Just a bit of luxury.

The usual subscription box is $39.99/month, but if you purchase 3 or 6 month subscriptions, there is a little discount. And, they have discounts every month if you find the codes. The current discount code is MUSTHAVE5 for $5 off your subscription.  Black Friday they had a special for $75 off a 6-month subscription. So, my $214.70 ($35.78/box) came to 139.70 ($23.28/box). Not a bad deal when you consider all that's in it. 

I'm super late in my postings. It has been a hectic many weeks with a long vacation ... that I haven't blogged yet, and then some crazy family and work stuff. My October box is arriving, so I have to share my September surprise. This was waiting for me when I got home from vacation. I admit, I had peeked at spoilers, I always do. 

 

As usual the tri-fold card with the item descriptions is always helpful.

 

I really like the Hudson + Bleecker Labyrinth Onyx Travel Trio. The plastic pouch is TSA friendly and I can vouch for that as I have already used it. The bags are labeled for shoes and lingerie, but they are the same size so can really be used for anything. I like tidy and organized packing and I have used these also and was satisfied. It's nice opening an organized suitcase that has pretty sectionals. Retail $42

I really like the Kris Nations "XO" Stud Earrings. I'm kind of into the mis-matching these days, so a pair of earrings that coordinates, but doesn't match is fun for me I like the bras and 14-goldd plate. It shouldn't cause discoloration and will last. Retail $35

I have wonky pale eyebrows. I'm kind of excited (and a little intimidated and nervous) about trying the Too Faced Cosmetics Brow Envy Shaping and Defining Kit. The kit comes with stencils and a guide for the ideal brow shape for eye shapes and instructions for defining the arches. You color inside the stencil and groom what's outside the stencil. As a chronic over-plucker, this may help be stay balanced between waxes. And, as someone with pale brows, I like the ability to add a hint of color to enhance the definition. I have actually used the brow tint and really liked it. Retail $39

Briogeo Rosarco Milk Reparative Leave-In Conditioning Spray. I read the ingredients. No milk and all plant-based with coconut oil among other things. I'm often quick and on the go after the gym, so this will go in my gym bag to increase the speed of my post-workout ritual. It smells nice, too. Retail $20

NCLA So Rich Vitamin E Enriched Cuticle Oil: This is great for me. I can't wear polish, so I don't do manicures very often. But, I work with my hands and it is important they look decent. I love cuticle oils to keep the cuticle soft and the nails shiny. Retail $18

No complaints at all from Nourish Snacks Almonds to Cherries.  I admit, I ate this as soon as I took the picture. Salty and sweet with a little tart. Perfection. Although this is honestly the right proportion. 200 calories and 6 grams of protein. My only complaint is I wanted MORE. I did check the ingredient list and there was nothing added. Just roasted almonds and tart cherries. Retail $2

So, what do I think? I think that PopSugar MustHave has been getting better and better. Total retail $156, so I also really appreciate the value.

PopSugar MustHave Fall 2015

PopSugar MustHave is a monthly lifestyle subscription box. I call it a Christmas stocking in a box and I look forward to it every month.  It's filled with items that I might not purchase for myself, but that I will use and love. Just a bit of luxury.

The usual subscription box is $39.99/month, but if you purchase 3 or 6 month subscriptions, there is a little discount. And, they have discounts every month if you find the codes. Black Friday they had a special for $75 off a 6-month subscription. So, my $214.70 ($35.78/box) came to 139.70 ($23.28/box). Not a bad deal when you consider all that's in it. A few times a year, they release a Special Edition Box. I have found that the past few months PopSugar MustHave has been hitting it out of the park, so I couldn't resist the Fall Style box for $100. 

The Special Edition Boxes are packaged a little different from the regular monthly boxes. The box is packaged inside of the shipping box. Each item is individually tissue wrapped and then the entire contents are wrapped in tissue. Of course, a fold-out is included with a description of the included items. 

The Fall Style box arrived earlier than I expected. I love how the Special edition boxes are packaged differently. Sleek black boxes. Individually wrapped items. I feel like a kid on Christmas morning opening all my gifts. 

The first item I opened with Canvas Home Dauville Coasters in Platinum: These were what gave the box serious weight.  The hand-painted porcelain coaster have a platinum finish that is mirror-like. I was impressed at how pretty they are. They will add a touch of actual style to my living room. I only wish they had a holder so that when I stack them, they will stay in place. Retail $46





Next up was Tatcha Classic Rice Enzyme Powder: I cannot wait to try this. I am a big fan of gently enzyme exfoliation and the reputation of rice enzyme powders are amazing. Just a little powder in damp hands and gently rub into the skin. The bottle it is in is also really nice, which I think gives a reflection of the quality of the contents. Retail $65. 

Then I opened Smith & Cult Nailed Lacquer in No Poem. This deep color is described as the perfect transition to fall. It is dark greenish. I like dark colors, so I'm happy. The lacquer is supposed to be long-lasting. We will see because I am hard on polish. I love the bottle. Once again, I think the packaging does tell a story about the contents. I couldn't find any information about animal testing or animal products. I did think the names and colors of their products on-line are really cool.  Retail $18. 

Becca Cosmetics Ombre Rouge Eye Palette: I actually did find some information about animal testing and animal products. The company is looking for plant-based alternatives and does not do animal testing. I checked the ingredients of this product ... plant-based. Anyhow, I love the five shades in the palette and the mirror inside the case. These colors work for me. And, I appreciate the "how-to" guide included because I am not talented or creative when it comes to applying makeup. Retail $40. 

Deepa Guarnani Aria Necklace. This I really love, and it surprised me. First glance and it looked like costume jewelry, which I'm not a big fan of. But, the crystals are embroidered onto fabric and it's handmade in India. The length is great to wear with a V-neck. I actually think it can nicely dress-up a T-shirt and jeans. And, another great feature is the jewelry bag it came it. It's pretty and it's generous in size. Retail $90





Swing Design Aura Lacquer Aquamarine Valet Tray: I really like it. I admit, I was surprised. It's lightweight, but I love the blue base in the white box. I think I will find great use for it on my dresser or desk and it adds another touch of style. Retail $54

Final opinion? I love the Fall Style box. I hate using the word "class," but I do really feel like the selections add a class and style to the home, wardrobe, and beauty routine. I am really really happy that I jumped in again. Honestly, they do get better and better. I probably wouldn't have picked any of these items to purchase for myself, but I will love and enjoy each and every one of them. Total retail $313. So also a great value for the $100.

PopSugar MustHave August 2015

 PopSugar MustHave is a monthly lifestyle subscription box. I call it a Christmas stocking in a box and I look forward to it every month.  It's filled with items that I might not purchase for myself, but that I will use and love. Just a bit of luxury.

The usual subscription box is $39.99/month, but if you purchase 3 or 6 month subscriptions, there is a little discount. And, they have discounts every month if you find the codes. The current discount code is MUSTHAVE5 for $5 off your subscription.  Black Friday they had a special for $75 off a 6-month subscription. So, my $214.70 ($35.78/box) came to 139.70 ($23.28/box). Not a bad deal when you consider all that's in it. 

I'm always happy when I receive my email notifying me the box has shipped. I stalk the tracking number like a hawk. And, I'm happy when the box arrives in the mail. I usually open it right away, but sometimes it takes me some time to take pictures and do a little test to see what I like and what I love from the box. So, here we go. 

I really like the theme this month. It's perfect for end of summer/back to school

First look inside the box. Nicely packed. 

Handy card detailing the contents

First item that you see in the box is the Happy Jackson Yay Lunch! Lunch Box: Since I take my lunch to work most days, lunch box items are always appreciated. Putting a sandwich in here just seems a little more grown up. I really love the fabric elastic that wraps around to seal. It just adds something to it. Retail $10

Next item that caches my eye is Southern Culture Shortstacks Pancake and Waffle Mix in Birthday Cake flavor. I already use this product. It's actually vegan and if you use non-dairy milk, it stays vegan. One of my favorite weekend breakfast indulgences, so I won't say no to having a little more of it. Retail $7.99

You notice a brown box in the box. This contains the Pastel Best Day Ever Mug. I am a fan of fun coffee mugs. I'm usually the Debbie Downer and a little dark and twisty, so it actually adds a little whimsy for me. I kind of like using it like the day after I use my Zoloft mug. And it fits well with my Life is Good mug. I enjoy sipping coffee from a mug on weekends instead of rushing out with a thermos. So, thanks. Retail $12

And, then we start going deeper. I am always a fan of trying new products. Royal Apothic Tea Balm Firming Eye Treatment smells gentle and clean. It has a nice thick creamy, but non-greasy, texture. I will enjoy adding it to the rotation of eye cream. And, really, the packaging is adorable. Retail $36. 

Meri Meri Toot Sweet Pink Stripe Napkins have a little more of a spring/summer party feel than what I think of for the end of summer. But, they will come in handy for festive occasions likee birthdays and baby showers. I'm not excited, but not disappointed. Retail $5.95

American Colors Mediterranean Plaid Scarf. This apparently came in a variety of colors. I really love the blue and pink. It's 100% cotton gauze and super soft. It's also huge, so can be worn in so many ways. Some reviews weren't a fan of the plaid, I think it's a perfect fall accessory. And, I never can get enough scarves. Retail $79. 

MyYogaWorks 3-month trial. I like yoga. I hate getting in the car and going to the gym. They don't ask for a credit card, so I don't have to remember to cancel if I don't want to continue using it. I am going on a long vacation soon, without Internet access, so I don't want to miss 1/3 of the value of this, so I'm trying it out when I get back in October. Retail $45.

Special Extra: Folgers Iced Cafe Caramel Macchiato Flavored Coffee Drink Concentrate. There are lots of artifical ingredients in this and some are just listed as artificial flavor and color. I can add it to non-dairy milk, but I haven't gotten around to trying yet. The label says "may have dairy." So ... what do do? I may gift it. Retail $4.99. 

My verdict:I like the box. I'm not over-the-top excited, but it's a good solid box that fit the theme. I'm not disappointed and I will use almost everything in the box pretty regularly. And, I'm not disappointed with the value of $195.94 (not including Special Extra Item).