Welcome to Bri Books! Ready to get into wine? These 8 books all about the magical world of vino can help. In this episode, I’m sharing the top 8 books for wine lovers (and beginners). Consider this the ultimate wine lover’s reading list.
‘Volcanoes and Wine: From Pompeii to Napa’ by Charles Frankel. This book was probably one of my favorite wine-related reads of 2023. In ‘Volcanoes and Wine,’ geologist Charles Frankel introduces us to the volcanoes that are among the most dramatic and ideal landscapes for wine making. From California to the Canary Islands and beyond, Frankel gives an in-depth account of famous volcanoes and the wines that spring from their soils. He details each volcano’s most famous eruptions, the grapes that grow in its soils, and the people who make their homes on its slopes. This illuminating guide will be indispensable for wine lovers looking to learn more about volcanic terroirs. ($18) University of Chicago Press, Amazon)
‘The Wine Savant: A Guide to the New Wine Culture’ by Michael Steinberger. ‘The Wine Savant’ is a punchy, educational, and downright entertaining introduction to all things wine culture. This book is valuable for wine drinkers and oenophiles alike. From three-buck Chuck to priceless Bourdeauxs, this book gives the inside scoop on the key concerns facing a new generation of wine lovers.($10) (Amazon, Barnes & Noble, WW Norton, Abe Books, Penguin Random House Canada)
‘Enoteca: Delicious Recipes in the Italian Wine Bar Tradition’ by Joyce Goldstein. Renowned chef, author, and teacher Joyce Goldstein explores the origins of enoteca culture and cuisine in Italy, one mouthwatering recipe at a time. With sumptuous color photography throughout, this cookbook expertly pairs classic Italian fare with equally delicious wines, enabling anyone to recreate the enoteca experience at home. ($6) Amazon
‘Fire + Wine: 75 Smoke-Infused Recipes from the Grill with Perfect Wine Pairings’ by Mary Cressler and Sean Martin. Consider this book your one-stop guide for elevationg your BBQ game and wine knowledge simultaneously. With 75 recipes that pair smoky goodness from the grill with the wines of the Pacific Northwest, this book is the perfect marriage of pitmaster expertise and sommelier sensibilities. With recipes that celebrate smoked and grilled food (and the wines that pair best with them), this wine-meets-cookbook ticks all the boxes. ($20) (Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Penguin Random House, Target, Abe Books)
‘Movers and Shakers: Advice from the Women Changing the Alcohol Industry’ by Hope Ewing. This book is a collection of industry advice and tips, beverage history lessons, and feminist takes on the professional challenges faced by women in the alcohol industry. Hope Ewing dissects how women are paving the way and creating a more inclusive and sustainable world full of delicious drinks. A veteran bartender, Ewing had grown impatient with the surprisingly outdated perceptions of women in the alcohol industry. Entrepreneurial and ambitious, often the first in their fields, the women she knew in the business were leaders, mentors, and trailblazers. In ‘Movers and Shakers’, Ewing seeks out the ambitious, entrepreneurial women business leaders, mentors, and trailblazers, and shares their stories with us (along with invaluable advice and insights into a wildly and rapidly evolving industry. ($17) (Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Thriftbooks)
‘VineMeUp: An Activity Book Celebrating The Melanated Wine Enthusiast’ by Sarita Cheaves. – Created shortly after the beginning of the pandemic lockdown, Sarita Cheaves channeled her wine knowledge and her love for all things quirky and quizzical into this brilliant and delightful activity book. This book is a compilation of her experience in the wine industry and her commitment to uplifting Black and brown wine experts, influencers, and thought leaders alike ($6) Amazon, ($25) Vinemeupdc.com
Natural Wine for the People: Natural Wine for the People: What It Is, Where to Find It, How to Love It’ by Alice Feiring. This book is the perfect compact illustrated guide to the emerging and enormously popular world of natural wine, a style that focuses on minimal intervention, lack of additives, and organic/ biodynamic growing methods. In ‘Natural Wine for the People,’ James Beard Award-winner Alice Feiring sets the record straight, offering an accessible guide filled with easy definitions, tips and tricks for sourcing the best wines, whimsical illustrations, a definitive list to the must-know producers and bottlings, and an appendix with the best shops and restaurants specializing in natural wine across the country, making this the must-buy and must-gift wine book of the year. ($18) - Penguin Random House, Amazon, Kitchen Arts & Letters
‘99 Bottles: A Black Sheep’s Guide to Life-Changing Wines’ by Andre Mack. In this entertaining, informative, and thoroughly unconventional wine guide, award-winning sommelier, winemaker, and wine educator André Mack presents listeners with the 99 bottles that have most impacted his life. Instead of just pairing wines with foods, Mack pairs practical information with personal stories, offering up recommendations alongside reflections on being one of the only African-Americans to ever work at the top level of the American wine industry. ($15-$25) (Amazon, Thrift Books, OKSomm, Abrams Books, Bookshop.org)
If you’re new to the show (and loving it!), leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and Spotify! Please tell me what you’re drinking to by using #bribooks on Instagram and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.
Wine Week Episodes
Welcome to Bri Books! With the holiday season in full swing and 2024 on our doorstep, I’m sharing the 9 best gifts for the wine-lover in your life (or for yourself—I won’t tell!) If you’re searching for a unique gift for wine-lovers, look no further. In this episode, I’m breaking down the best go-to gift ideas for oenophiles. Spoiler alert: none of these is a bottle of wine. Shocker! Here are the silly, practical, and downright delightful gifts that any Bourdeaux babe or Chardonnay-sipper on your list and in your life. Instead of buying another bottle of vino, consider these cool and unique wine gifts for wine-lovers.
Consider this your go-to wine gift guide for the 2023 holidays and 2024:
Argaux “Year of Firsts” Wine Gift Box: This brilliant collection of wine gift boxes are curated to celebrate the birth of a new baby ($85), wedding anniversary,($150-$400), or an engagement ($100-$200). This genius (and thoughtful) gift is a reminder that every milestone matters, and it’s the perfect gift to remind the wine lover in your life to savor life’s moments, both big and small. The wines are hand-selected by Argaux’s team of sommeliers, and the gift sets are customizable.
Vinebox 12 Nights of Wine ($150): This exclusive wine sampling set is perfect for wine snobs and beginners alike. The 'Holi-Day collection features 6 reds, 5 whites and 1 rose. the T’was the Night collection boasts 7 reds, 4 whites, and 1 rose—perfect for kicking back by the fire (or by the television.) With a new wine to sip each night, this gift will keep your oenophile entertained for at least a fortnight. Win-win!
Recanter Wine Breather Decanter ($50): A unique sommelier-style decanter that grates, serves, and rebottles unfinished wine, this gorgeously designed decanter is the perfect centerpiece for any wine obsessive’s table. It’s easy to use, cleaning is a breeze, and the stainless steel and silicone topper allows you to flip and secure the decanter onto the wine bottle and rebottle any unfinished wine—without a spill!
Stemless Aerating Glasses ($50): The aesthetically-oriented wine lover on your list will swoon over these stemless aerating glasses. Simply pour your wine into the central cell, and watch it cascade into the glass, instantly releasing the wine’s full bouquet of flavors and aroma.
Bathtime wine holder ($38): Because bath time is a ritual! The casual wine-lover on your list (with a sense of humor) will be tickled by this artfully designed wine holder. It easily suctions to the tub or shower wall, making it perfect for sipping whilst sudsing.
Wine glass baseball cap ($18): Looking for a wearable wine-related gift? Look no further than this painfully chic wine glass dad hat/ baseball cap. The wine glass decal will draw smiles from across the room, and will shield you from that post-hangover sunshine.
‘The World in a Wineglass’ by Ray Isle book ($17): Drawing on his deep knowledge and genuine appreciation for winemaking, Ray Isle takes us on a tour of hundreds of independently owned wineries around thew orld—from France to Oregon to Chile and beyond. The bibliophile on your list will be thrilled with this gift, which brilliantly destigmatizes the world of wine while injecting a bit of wanderlust.
Wine puzzle ($38): Step into a daydreamy, imaginative world of puzzling with this 1,000-piece set inspired by red, white, and rose wine. Bonus points if you help the recipient put it together over, you guessed it, a bottle of wine.
Wine bottle candle ($75): Okay, okay, I actually really want this for myself! This realistic wine bottle-shaped candle is a complete showstopper. At once romantic and deeply practical (who doesn’t love a candlelit meal?), the hostess on your list will love this cheeky gift.
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)
Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte’s Beautiful Skin Foundation in shade 16 Cool ($49)
SuperMush Daily Energy Mouth Spray ($21.60) and Daily Chill Mouth Spray ($21.60)
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
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
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)
“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:
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.
EPISODES MENTIONED
PRODUCTS
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.
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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
EPISODES MENTIONED
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
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