Cordially Jess

Tattooed brows?!

Hi Ladies!

Let’s talk BROWs.

I’m a big brows girl. Brows have such an amazing transformational power, with its ability to enhance, boost, and polish your overall look!

I was never blessed with full, dark, even, and beautiful brows, and so I had to use makeup to help enhance my brows. After years of considering eyebrow microblading and tattoo; I finally went for it, but, if you know me, with much research, of course! After meticulously researching for my perfect artist, who would meet my needs (because they’re going to be permanent!!! Or semi-permanent at least) I finally decided to go with Ashley Dinh as my artist.

Before
After

It’s been almost a year since I’ve gotten my brows microshaded by Ashley. She was very professional with me from start to finish. After consulting with me and listening to my needs, she had me lay down and carefully measured and marked my brows. She then had me sit up to view my mark ups in an upright position, and also had me self-check, giving her the go before proceeding.

She then outlined my brows, applied numbing cream, and proceeded to microshade my brows. I actually fell asleep during the process, and then woke up to beautiful brows! I was really nervous about the pain initially, but it really was minimal to none!

Almost a year later, I am still so in love with my brows!!! It’s definitely made my life easier, as I no longer have to worry about my brows when getting ready. My brows are literally always perfect! Even without any makeup on, I look put-together. I know it may not be for everyone, but if you’re considering semi-permanent or permanent makeup; I hope that this blog post was helpful. Feel free to reach out with any questions; I’d be happy to share more on my experience and my opinions.

Also, please do thorough research prior to booking an appointment. As this is permanent/semi-permanent, it’s important to research your artist, and know what you want. Ashley performs her services in the Kansas City and Wichita area, if you’re interested, here is her website https://www.beautybyashleydinh.com/ and her IG handle @beautybyashleydinh.

Eyelash Extensions?!

Hi ladies!! Ever thought about getting lash extensions?! I initially started getting lash extensions last April as I was getting ready for my trip to Vietnam. Knowing Vietnam’s hot and humid weather, I didn’t want to have to deal with runny mascara (you girls all know what I’m talking about! lol) 

Ever since then though, I’ve been consistently getting my lashes filled, (except for now due to the pandemic situation.)

5 reason why I love about getting my lashes done:

  1. Super convenient and time-saving (not having to deal with falsies or mascara)
  2. I never really had to wear makeup, yet always looked like I had makeup on
  3. When getting ready for a night out, I didn’t have to hassle with gluing on falsies
  4. They enhance your eyes, making them appear more eye-opening and brighter
  5. Makes winking more fun haha

My favorite lash artist in town is Anh aka Be at Cosmebeautyofficial located in Lenexa, KS. Not only is she super sweet, but she also demonstrates excellent hygiene and sanitation (which is important to me as a client). She’s an artist that surely knows what she’s doing, as demonstrated by her motivation to keep up with the latest trends through continuing education. She individualizes your look, and creates a look that suits and enhances your eye-shape. I’ve been with her for over a year now, and have left a completely satisfied and lashified client each time! She is passionate about her work, and quite the perfectionist, not allowing you to leave until not only you, but herself is happy with the work she’s done. I highly recommend checking her out!

Here’s her website: https://www.cosmebeautyofficial.com/

Nakameguro

Okay, so this one’s for all my coffee/espresso fans! When I found out that there was a 4-story Starbucks in Tokyo, me being a coffee addict & lover myself, I just had to check it out! Feature in this post: Starbucks Reserve, Tokyo Roastery, 2-19-23 Aobadai Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 153-0042. So just a heads up, there’ll probably be a wait, but, lets face it, good comes to those who wait (it’s well worth it, you’ll see)! When we got there, we had to check in, were given a number, and were told to return in a couple of hours. No problem; being in Nakameguro, I just took this as an opportunity to explore the district! Nakameguro is lined with cute little boutiques and restaurants, but moreso, if you go during the Cherry blossom season, you’ll find the Meguro River lined with darling Cherry Blossoms (a picture perfect spot)! So take some time to explore the area! Fast forward 2 hours, I was finally welcomed to pass through the double doors of what became known to my heart and soul as Coffee lover’s paradise. Upon entry, you’ll be amazed by the beautiful architectural design of this place; my jaw dropped as the scanning of my eyes quickly landed upon the remarkable shiny copper cask resembling the Japanese Sakura trees of Nakameguro. This structure is rooted from floor to ceiling, and can be appreciated at various angles throughout all 4 floors of the building. The first floor features the main bar; grab a seat and enjoy the talented baristas’ espresso creations. Also Pricini Bakery is grounded on the first floor, I highly recommend grabbing a cheesy pizza and sweet treat here! The 2nd floor features aromatic teas, there’s a tea tasting area on this floor too so make sure to take a taste test here! The 3rd floor features the Arriviamo Bar; grab a cocktail, and head out onto the balcony for a scenic view of Nakameguro district; its quite romantic at night with all of its illuminations. 

TEA in Tokyo

My first feature is on Sakurai Tea House (櫻井焙茶研究所), 5 Chome-6-23 Minamiaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo, 107-0062, Japan . This tea experience was honestly one of the highlights of my trip. Although a tad bit on the pricier side, (we paid $50/person) it was 100% worth it. Because really, when will you ever have the experience and opportunity again? Imagine stepping into a wooden/cooper room, passing by fresh roasted tea atop burners, and a smoking, boiling clay pot of water, and as you’re kindly seated, you glance over, and are met with the most perfect view of the city. Then embarking upon an hour journey of artful tea making by a Master Tea Maker, the elegance, the art, the experience, the show, the tastes, smells, sights, its all absolutely 100% worth it. Entranced by the delicate movements of the Master Tea Maker, you’re invited to experience his works of art freshly made one after another, all paired with well thought out sweet delicacies in between tastings. Here, tradition meets modern day practices seamlessly. I highly highly recommend this experience.

You’re free to check out the site here (however, its in Japanese): http://www.sakurai-tea.jp/

My 2nd feature is on (more affordable) Aoyama Tea House, 5 Chome-3, Akasaka, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0052, Japan, This place is remarkable, it’s like stepping into a fairytale dreamland surrounded by bold, vibrant, and beautiful flowers and greeneries. Its truly a relaxing and aromatic environment; there’s extra O2 here too (being surround by the plants and all)! It’s a nice place to just sit and catch up over tea and/or dessert, or just to come to work, relax, and/or read a book.  It’s cozy and comfortable, yet, invigorating at the same time! I don’t think I could ever become tired of this inviting environment; I truly wish I had a teahouse like this to go to in my hometown; I’d literally be studying and hanging out here all the time! Aoyama Tea House offers a variety of aromatic teas, delightful desserts, and even savory dishes. I tried 2 different types of teas here; an oolong-based, and a green-tea-based one. Both were quality teas! I highly recommend pairing your tea with their 3 petite tea-cookies (strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate), they’re light and delicious, and pair so well with the tea!

Check out their site here next time you’re in Tokyo: http://www.afm-teahouse.com/

Target Find! Gold hoops

Highlight Target Find! I am soo lovin’ these Gold Hoops that I snagged at Target last week for my little FaceTime Quarantine Photoshoot!

Gold hoops are the easiest way so spice up and glamorize an outfit perfect for any day or night time outing! It gives me that extra “diva” flair. Showcase your hoops with your hair up in a pony-tail or a bun, or allow them to just peep through with your hair down!

I found these babies in a pack of 3 (showcasing small, medium, and large hoops) at Target for only $7.99. I’m wearing the large here. Also, love that they’re nickel-free.

Where to next?