There is something really special to me about shopping at a make-up counter. Growing up going to Macy’s with my mom and sister (what seemed like at least once a month), I remember loving when we parked by the beauty department (instead of the men’s department, obviously). Walking through all of those beautiful colors, scents, and perfectly made-up women was enough to set the foundation of a very dangerous addiction in my life: a love of all things products.

I still find myself popping in Macy’s (1300 Market Street) whenever I get the opportunity. Not only is the building one of my favorites in the city, but their beauty selection is a breath of fresh air away from the bustle of the city. Earlier this month, I was graciously invited by Clarins to attend their #ClarinsGlow event, held right at their Center City counter.

We were led through a presentation of each of the colorful & inventive products from the Clarins Spring 2014 collection by celebrity make-up artist Jean Fayard. The goal of the line is, very appropriately after the winter we’ve had, to bring radiance back in the skin.

Some of my favorite products were the Golden Glow Booster ($30) for adding subtle color to your face, the Multi-Blush Cream Blush ($30) which Jean described to us as the “perfect taxi cab make-up” due to all of its uses, and the Sun Care Oil Spray ($35) for protecting your body and hair from chlorine and salt water.

I was really impressed with the quality of the products and their beautiful packaging. Because my skin is a little volatile, I have been adding in each product to my routine slowly, and I haven’t had a chance to try everything yet. Some of my friends from the event (like B of Just B Beautiful and Ashley of The Bronzed Bee) have been raving about the Double Serum ($85), and I really think I am going to like the Radiance Boosting Complexion Base ($37) to even my skintone.

Even though I like to think I live large, I obviously can’t buy everything I want right now. So I keep a list on my phone of every beauty product I’m seriously interested in. Then, when a site or store is running a sale, or I have a coupon, or can get a sample, instead of buying something spur of the moment that I haven’t looked into, I consult my list. This method has resulted in me picking up some really great products I have already researched and love immediately after buying. If any of these items spark your curiosity but turn out to be a little out of your price range, do a little research, and add them to your list. You won’t be disappointed! xx

Disclosure: I was gifted several products from the Clarins line in my gift bag from the event. All opinions are my own. (I just really love make-up . . .)