My New Friend from France, Polette Eyewear

Eyewear have always been a staple in my wardrobe. I’ve always had a large variety of costume glasses of different shapes and sizes. I’d much rather have a bunch of affordable styles instead of one or two fancy ones.  I like variety but I’ve also been known to lose and break them (unfortunately!). Late last year I was contacted by Polette eyewear in France and offered a spot on their blogger team. In exchange for sharing my fav glasses from the site, I get to pick a couple pairs EACH MONTH.  Perks of the job guys, squeeee! I can’t wait to stock up and share new shades every couple weeks. My First Polette Eyewear Order:  Devil – rose coloured lenses Léosummer – yellow/green fashion lenses Gracie Mile B – blue/black lenses Polette has a pretty neat story. Founded by Pierre Wizman, a young entrepreneur at 16, he launched the website in 2011 with his biz partner and just like that, they were in business. Their goal was to be the only intermediary between the consumer and manufacturer to cut down on price without skimping on quality.  When you visit polette.com you’ll see there’s a wide selection of styles starting at $6.99. One of the cool things about placing your order is first you pick the frame, then lenses (anti-scratch, reflective), then lens tint (ex. red/black), and finally tint level (red ones above are 85%). I didn’t really understand this at first but I know for next time now! I’ll be posting my new glasses monthly as they arrive. Would you like a pair too? It’s been ages since I did a contest so enter below and we’ll send you your choice of glasses including prescription if you need them (mine are not prescription). Contest doesn’t include Vintage or L’Atelier collections. BONNE CHANCE! <3 CASIE a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Indecent Disclosure: ROACH BAIT

When I started blogging 10 years ago I had no idea it would turn into a thing. I knew about 3 bloggers in the WORLD and I merely started ‘THIS IS MY LIFE’ as a way to keep memories. In 2009 I was given my first products for review. I was contacted by Matchstick Marketing and tested out a Zune (that old MP3 thinger) and also a vibrating mascara from Maybelline. I popped into the washroom at my office to record this video of me testing the mascara. I told the world I was sent a product for review and they gave me some to share with friends.(See original 2009 post here.) I was digging through an old hard drive when I found a note I’d made about ‘roach bait’, no not an insect killer, the marketing ‘bait & switch’ used in undisclosed celebrity endorsements.  I’ve not heard about it since but it distinctly reminds me of what’s happened with blogging. Roach Bait n. A marketing message delivered by an actor posing as a regular person with the intention of having that message passed along to many other people. 2001 (earliest) Then, there’s the ‘roach bait’ technique. Under this scenario, the paid huckster doesn’t necessarily buy a drink for others. He’s often found sitting in a prime spot at a bar or club, very visibly drinking Brand X. He talks up the brand big-time in the hope the good word will spread. —Theresa Howard, “Freebies take on brash new form,” USA Today, May 15, 2001 Sound familiar? Bloggers and people with some achieved sphere of influence are constantly called upon by brands and agencies to eat, drink,  wear, and visit places with hopes the’ll share that experience online. The thing is, as a reader, observer, we never really know if the person is…

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Relaxation Station: Saje Wellness & Essential Oils

This week I went to a nice little event at the new Saje Wellness store on Queen Street.  During TIFF I went to the NKPR IT Lounge and was introduced to the brand. When I told my friend I was using oils she called me a hippie but this is NOT that old school hippie stuff! There are heaps of benefits to using essential oils, read about 9 benefits here from Balance Me Beautiful. Saje Wellness uses all natural oils and has heaps of different wellness products and accessories. My first experience was this little pocket pharmacy. It’s awesome to keep in your purse or carry-on when travelling. My fav product is the Peppermint Halo that’s amazing for headaches. It’s cooling and calming and now one of my ‘essential’ items. I was pretty impressed to see how big the store was and how many products they have. They hooked up us bloggers & media peeps with our choice of nebulizer. It helps reduce dust and other common allergens while creating a pleasing atmosphere of aromatherapy. I picked the Aromagem in black because I thought it was sexiest! One thing I learned last night was that the recommended 10-15 drops was too much for me. It really fills the air and I found 5 drops to be enough. Saje has 22 locations across British Columbia, Alberta, Winnipeg and Ontario and you can check out their products at saje.ca. I’m SO ready for the weekend. It’s my sisters birthday on Sunday and we’re staying at the Royal York Hotel. I can’t wait, it’s going to be super relaxing! Might just bring my nebulizer to fill the air with aromatherapy. Happy FRIDAY!  

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Target Canada: For good times and bad times, I’ll be on your side forever mooooore!

Before I get to todays regulary scheduled news blog post I would like to take a minute to remember some of the great times I’ve had with Target Canada over the years. I have a few posts posts mentioning the brand and had the opportunity to work with them on a few things since they arrived in Canada. I’ve visited a store nearly once a week since one opened close to my house about a year ago. Did nearly all my holiday shopping there too! A photo posted by C A S I E S T E W A R T (@casiestewart) on Sep 9, 2012 at 12:28pm PDT Who remembers that AMAZING Target Lounge at World Mastercard Fashion Week a few years back??? Toronto has NEVER seen such luxury. And we probably won’t again tbh. It was marvellous. Food, open bar, two floors, charging stations, tables to work at, open every night before, after, and during the shows. I’ve never had such a great time at WMCFW. Oh behalf of media & bloggers, everywhere, thank you Target for showing us how to really go ALL OUT. Let’s not forget the recent Toms for Target collab. They sent out Together Sweaters to bloggers and media around North America to promote the collection. So cute. Keeping mine forever. This blanket from the Toms for Target collection makes a great poncho. Can’t wait to open the cottage again. Got my Instax Camera from Target this summer. Decorated our roof patio with Target things this past summer including items from the Oh Joy for Target collab. Target partnered with popular bloggers/Pinners to create a whole collection. Thanks for recognizing us internet people! A photo posted by C A S I E S T E W A R T (@casiestewart) on Jul 13, 2014 at 2:22pm PDT And finally, I’m…

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Like Whoa, Whoa Wednesday!

Whoa, whoa, whoaaa! It’s already Wednesday and I feel like I’ve lived a week since Monday. There’s lots going on and I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed today but I can handle it. It’s that nervous excited feeling that keeps me going.   Sean got a new needle for his turntable so threw this record on last night and sang out loud while cleaning the house. I’m working to get our spare room turned into a nice little office now that I’m working from home. I hope the neighbours didn’t mind that I put it on repeat, a few times. Bennie and the Jets is one of my ALL TIME fav songs. I had a really great lunch meeting yesterday and am finally putting some production wheels in motion for two projects I can’t talk about. I’m pretty stoked that our film Behind the Red Carpet is now on CBC’s website too. (See here!). Went to Local in Liberty Village and had 1 fish, 1 chicken taco. THEY WERE DELICIOUS. Sunday is my sisters birthday and I booked us a room at the Royal York Hotel. I have never stayed there and it’s one of those places I’ve always thought of as very ‘Toronto’. Tomorrow is my slowest day of the week and I’m looking forward to working on some blog stuff, playing ukulele, and treating myself to a new mani. It’s a weird and wonderful world I live it in but I wouldn’t change it for anything! Hope there’s sunshine where you are and if not, ALWAYS BRING YOUR OWN SUNSHINE! <3 CASIE

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Travel Tuesday: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

You ready for vacation? This week we’re looking at Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Yes, I like Pina Coladas. Currently browsing packages and flights to Punta Cana because I need to ditch this cold and soak up some sunshine! It feels like -30 in Toronto today! My sister went to Dominican a couple years ago and since I’ve been to a bunch of the surrounding islands (Cuba, Puerto Rico), so it’s on my destination list. One of the things I love about the Caribbean is the beautiful blue water. I adore being near the ocean and salt water on my skin. It’s also a great opportunity to practice my Spanish. Since I’ll be travelling alone, I don’t really have to speak to anyone if I don’t want to!  One of the best things about going on a solo trip is plenty of time to do whatever you want and/or keep to yourself in silence.  You might be thinking ‘but you are so outgoing!’, truth is, I really cherish my alone time and everyone needs to recharge their batteries. I’m one of those ‘outgoing introverts’ if you can believe it.  Travelling alone is an excellent way to explore a new city or country. If you’ve never done it I HIGHLY recommend it. Does this not look wonderful? I’m looking to stay at a quiet resort without kids. I’d rather be amongst seniors than people on family vacation! Aside from vitamin D and relaxation, this trip is to put finishing touches on my book before it comes out in March. A photo posted by GoDomRep (@godomrep) on Nov 11, 2014 at 4:31pm PST My ideal spot is an all-inclusive resort on the coast with white sand beaches where you can catch a few waves. Last time I went surfing was 2013 in Costa Rica so I’m dying to…

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Behind the Red Carpet Film is Coming to CBC!

From Internet, to Big Screen, to TV! Ladies and gentlemen, it’s with great pride I share with you that one of the documentaries I was in recently is going to be featured on CBC! Behind The Red Carpet, an in depth look at what goes on behind the making of one of the worlds biggest film festivals will be featured on the CBC Documentary Channel on Feb. 23rd, 2015 at 9pm. Watch the Promo Trailer In a world of smoke and mirrors, we expose the movers, shakers and key players who puppeteer the brightest talent and engineer the most exclusive events during one of the biggest film festivals in the world. Top Special Interest Movies for Today in New Zealand In other news, I was informed by our Director/Producer that Behind the Red Carpet is a Top 10 Film on iTunes in New Zealand in the Special Interest Category. I’m so happy! I’ve tagged all my friends and family in NZ to give it a watch. You can download or rent it here. There’s likely going to be a media screening and event at CBC and I think it would be really cool to invite some of you guys (if I can!). Please share this post with your friends and family, would love you to watch it! If you can’t wait till then, rent it on iTunes or GooglePlay. Check out the film on IMDB or the website for more info. Will keep you posted of any other details around the film! Thanks for tuning in and supporting me in all my adventures! 🙂 CASIE    

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Blue Eyed Baby: New Air Optix Color Contacts

When was the last time you had your eyes checked? For me it was longer than I could remember so when Air Optix Colors invited me to visit an eye doctor for an exam and look into color contacts I was all in. Depending on your age and risk factors, adults should see an eye doctor every 1-3 years. Over the holidays I saw Dr. Acs at Toronto Eye Care. Turns out I’ve still got healthy eyes and don’t need a prescription. I was super impressed with the technology they used to creep inside my eye, look at my retina, and take images. It’s really been a long time because I don’t ever remember having photos of my eyes taken by an eye care professional. Here’s a look at the back of my eye and the retina. I was a little freaked out when I saw them but Dr. Acs confirmed this is exactly what a healthy eye should look like. Crazy eh! The little spidery things around the edge of this photo are my lashes. My first experience wearing contacts as an adult was in November last year after attending the Air Optix Colors Canadian launch. Remember those vibrant Sterling Gray ones? (see post here) I loved how they changed my look and they went well with my violet hair. I really wanted to try Brilliant Blue but they didn’t have them at the event so I picked up Brilliant Blue over the holidays. I love my natural hazel eyes but changing things up is fun too. I put these in and wore them for and entire day and to dance rehearsal. They’re comfortable and I forgot I was wearing them until I looked in the mirror. They’re so bright! I was a bit freaked out about removing them but Dr. Acs gave me some pointers and…

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It’s Great to Be a #GirlBoss

The week started out with a really exciting meeting and just got better and better. I’m behind on today’s blog and have heaps to catch up on. If this week is any indication of what’s in store for 2015, it’s gonna be a REALLY good year. Finishing up at the 1188 Films office for the day and waiting for Keri to pick me up. We’re having a long over due blog party at her place tonight and I can’t wait. Nothing like a good old fashioned night on the couch with your BFF to wrap up a great week. Lots of exciting things comin’ on the blog next week. I’m actually more organized with posts this year than ever before. Here’s hoping you have a great weekend! With love, <3 CASIE

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TBT: Diary of a Background Performer

Years ago I used to work in film & tv as a background actress. I spent hours, and hours sitting in holding waiting to be called to set. It was a really fun experience and I met heaps of cool people. One summer I spent months working on the set of American Pie: Beta House. There were heaps of really cool people on that set including now CP24 weather reporter Patricia Jaggernauth, recording artist Ish Morris, actress Meghan Heffern, and my sister (who had her own trailer for part of the summer).  Eugene Levy was in it too. Below is a little diary entry  wrote while sitting in background holding on the set of Degrassi at Degrassi High in 2008. This photo was taken years later when I worked at MuchMusic & MTV and was given a Degrassi shirt. I started thinking to myself as I sit in Background Holding for Degrassi High…. Here I am working on a show I’ve never seen surrounded by a bunch of people whom either I’ve met over the last six weeks or are new faces. Its’ great. I hear the sound of “Its Raining Men” on the set, I’ve managed once again to avoid being used or getting on camera. (This is often a goal! lol) It’s a total dream when you get to spend the day sitting in Holding, getting paid to do whatever it is your little heard desires until they call for lunch or “everyone on set”. I’m hoping that today I make it until lunch. My first experience as a Background Performer was working on the set of “American Pie presents Beta House”. I was booked with my sister to do four days of continuity at a mansion in Thornhill. The place was beautiful! We met at Background Holding,…

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Fashion File: #LillyforTarget, Joan for Céline, #mycalvins

Here we go, couple great fashion stories yesterday! I also had my hair done. Stopped into The Loft, Queen West and decided it was time to ditch the violet and bring back blonde. I love the decor in there, it’s all vintage and charming, the furniture,  old trunks, china plates, brass fixtures. Reminds me of Mum’s house growing up. I’m heading back there Friday afternoon for a Dermalogica facial. I’m addicted, I’ve been getting them on a regular basis for a year now. A photo posted by C A S I E S T E W A R T (@casiestewart) on Jan 1, 2015 at 10:23am PST Target announced their latest collab, Lilly Pulitzer for Target. The collection comes out April 19th AND Target Tweeted me IT’S COMING TO CANADA. I’m so stoked. I can’t WAIT to redo our rooftop patio and spice up the cottage Palm Beach Style. I’ve reached out to my friends at Target to see if I can get involved or at least front of the line on opening day. Read more about the collection in the release from Target here. Chalk this on the life goals board! Author, fashion icon, and one time Vogue editor Joan Didion was named as the new face of Céline at 80. You’re never too old to have great style! I love that they’ve made this decision. Read more about it on Vogue or anywhere else that reports fashion. In other news, The Biebs is the latest to join the ranks of notable celebs to post for Calvin Klein. He’s all grown up and totally catching some heat for the campaign but mostly because some of the shots look weird. I reckon the one shot looks like his head has been shopped onto his own body and it’s ver giraffe like. See the video below. The…

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Travel Tuesday: Let’s Go to Thailand

Pack your virtual bags, we’re going to Thailand on the blog today! What better time than now to share travel stories of places warmer than Canada?! During winter we all think about planning a getaway to somewhere sunny and warm. I’ve got posts ready to publish each Tuesday for the next few weeks taking you on adventures to popular travel destinations like Thailand, Australia, Costa Rica, Mexico, and more. So, if you’re sitting at your desk or hibernating inside you house, I invite you to come on a virtual vacation with me. I arrived in Bangkok and spent a few days there before heading to Chiang Mai. In Bangkok I visited the floating markets, ate on Khao San Road, and cruised around the streets picking up souvenirs. In Chiang Mai we rode bikes, visited some temples, night markets, saw a lady boy show, and experienced torrential rainfall. I also went to the Shangri-La here and it is FABULOUS. My most favourite places were Koh Tao and Koh Samui. Koh Samui is said to be the best place to go for relaxation after bustling days in the busy city centres of Thailand. It truly is a beautiful place. If you’re interested in visiting Koh Samui, you can learn more on this site about Bangkok Koh Samui. I also loved getting massages. For only a few USD/CAD you can get an hour massage. It was common for me to get more than one a day, so spoiled. Look at this pampering! For a few extra bucks across the street you could get the full expereince with Absolute Angels Bangkok, if only I was single! We took a 2 hour ferry across the ocean and although beautiful it was REALLY rough. People were throwing up off the back of the boat and seating…

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Day 5/365 and We’re in Business, Baby!

What a whirlwind yesterday was whoa. I took a walk to get my nails done (manicure Monday!) and decided it was cold enough (-20 something w/ windchill) to whip out the vintage mink coat I inherited from Sean’s aunt via his mum last summer. Went well with my new YSL glasses & long read leather gloves. This coat is heavy and insanely warm. After about 10 minutes of walking, I opened it to get some air, I was sweating! I know how people feel about fur but this thing is already made and would be sitting in a closet if not worn by me. It’s back in hanging in mine now for a special event in the dead of winter. A friend of mine loved the coat but didn’t like the fact it was mink (understandable). She got a really similar faux version from Lily Lulu Fashion. It looks great and can’t even tell it’s faux fur. A floor length mink coat really isn’t practical for a girl on the go. Chuckling to myself as I wrote this. A few years ago I made a New Years resolution to take care of my nails. I’m not really into ‘resolutions’, I like setting goals all year but I felt this was something reasonable. Having your nails tidy and polished makes you look put together. Notable.ca posted yesterday that having your nails done is one way to look richer than you might be. I got this fancy shellac design to kick of the start of 2015 business. You like? In other news, my hair is crazy right now. I can’t decide that to do with it. It’s the awkward in between stage before a bob and the colour is so faded. I’m bored with it. Looks like I’ll be rocking hat head…

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Ok Here We Go, Bundle Up! ❄️

Ok it’s back to the grind and totally freezing outside. I know it’s hard to keep your head up but you MUST. Your attitude will shape everything around you. Grab some summer photos and keep them close by for inspiration. Make sure you have super warm gloves, hat, scarf, jacket, boots. The only way to get through this it to bundle up! It appears that I am frozen in. #dlws pic.twitter.com/ScBHTDmsv5 — CASiE STEWART (@casiestewart) January 5, 2015 Here’s to a great first day back. I’ve planned out heaps of new and old things to write about and I can’t wait to share. With love, CASIE * Also, on a positive note, I feel it’s appropriate to bust out my vintage mink coat!

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