Spa Products

Ballymoon Introduces An Innovative Christmas Shopping Experience

2005-10-20T08:08:00.000-07:00

Christmas shopping brings a lot of anxiety, pressure and inevitability – some very stressed individuals who find themselves struggling with “what to buy and how much to spend, can I afford it” syndrome. Out of stock or out of that size – tired irritable children are all too familiar to Christmas shoppers.

Ballymoon, producers of high quality beauty and skin care products, can’t agree more that this stress is not good for our bodies, mind or soul. Therefore, they decided to give the gift of pampering to their clients each year with the ultimate shopping experience.

“We are always looking for ways to make our clients feel better about themselves – physically, emotionally and spiritually. We have committed ourselves to brining back the simple essence of serenity into people’s lives…we simply want to give people an opportunity to pamper themselves,” said Fran Agar, Ballymoon Co- Owner.

On November 6th, 2005, Ballymoon will be hosting its 5th Annual Customer and Christmas Appreciation event. The event is being held from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Earl Grey Golf Course in Calgary, Alberta and it’s an event that Ballymoon clients hold close to their hearts.

“People should start preparing and shopping in November. Although it might seem early, people who have their shopping done early reduce the stress associated with Christmas shopping and in turn can spend more time spending it with friends and family. We also want to make the Christmas shopping a joyful experience not an ordeal,” stated Agar.

Clients are invited into a Christmas wonderland featuring Ballymoon products. They are showered with pampering complimentary spa treatments by a variety of practitioners, refreshments and appetizers. All guests are welcome to bring friends so they can mingle and reminisce with each other and look together in a non-pressure environment.

All clients are designated with a Ballymoon representative who is available to answer any questions they might have about the Ballymoon line. All representatives have extensive knowledge of Ballymoon’s premier quality naturally based beauty products and therefore can compliment products towards each individual’s unique characteristics.

Ballymoon realizes that during this season, it is also necessary to give to those who are in need. Ballymoon supports the Youville Women's Residence (a charity devoted to helping abused women) and asks for attendees to bring a "new" inexpensive toiletry or gift (i.e. lipstick, toothpaste etc.).

Ballymoon is a mother and daughter owned company. Fran Agar (mother) and Colleen Willoughby (daughter) took a class together in 1996 out of a passion for aromatherapy. Their interest increased and they started training and taking courses extensively in the beauty and skin care industry.

Ballymoon’s product line includes: women, men, children and baby products. Their products can be bought on-line at www.ballymoon.biz, select trade shows, retail stores and by phone at 403-995-1598. Registration for Ballymoon’s 5th Annual Customer Appreciation & Christmas event can be done through their website at www.ballymoon.biz.

Benefits of Facial Brushing

2005-10-17T12:25:00.000-07:00

You can easily enhance your facial exfoliation process by using a facial brush. Facial brushing helps remove dead skin, smooth and stimulates circulation. By stimulating the circulation in your face, your skin tone will improve and help firm the skin. Your skin will become softer and smoother!

Every time you use it – it’s like a mini facial massage! It’s a fabulous way to spoil yourself during your daily facial cleaning routine.

Ballymoon’s facial brush uses natural bristles that are soft enough you don’t have to worry about damaging your skin or it being too harsh.

For optimum results, follow these 4 simple steps. Once you start this routine, you will not want to miss your morning skin pampering.

Step 1: Remove your make-up with Ballymoon's Cleansing Gel and then cleanse with Ageless Essence Ballymoon Daily Microfoliant. Use a small amount on damp fingertips and rub gently in an upward circular motion over wet face & neck then wet your facial brush with warm water and massage your face for about 2 minutes. Rinse well with warm water & pat dry. Save time and improve effectiveness by doing this in the shower every morning!

Tip: Keep your facial brush in optimum shape by rinsing it after use and air-drying it.

Step 2: Spritz with Ageless Essence Ballymoon Exquisite Rose Tonique. Deeply breathe the magnificent scent of the sweet-smelling red roses that created this tonique.

Step 3: Apply Ageless Essence Ballymoon Intensive Anti-Wrinkle Serum gently under and around lined areas of the eyes, face and neck.

Step 4: Using short, firm strokes apply Ageless Essence Ballymoon Days Crème (with fingertips). Do not stretch the skin or rub. After, gently tap area with fingers for half a minute.

Beautiful Fall Skin

2005-09-29T07:36:00.000-07:00

As the fall days approach, your skin is reacting to the weather also. Your skin is starting to get thicker in order to protect your body from the cold - much like animals fur thickening up. And since we are not as lucky as the bear to go into hibernation, a few simple things will keep your skin smooth and soft.

Dry skin brushing is one of the best things you can do for your skin. When first entering the shower or bath, without the water running, on your dry skin brush upwards towards the heart (where possible), legs first, then arms and torso. (By doing this in the shower or bath, you will alleviate the mess made by dry skin brushing).

Do not use this brush for the face; it is far too harsh. Try it for several weeks and you will be amazed at how velvety-soft your skin becomes. Dry Skin Brushing not only exfoliates dead skin cells, it stimulates circulation and helps to clean out the lymph system, resulting in firm, healthy skin.

Try out Ballymoon's Amazing Dry Skin Brush for your skin!

For your face, you can enhance the exfoliation process with using a facial brush. At least three times a week use a facial brush along with Ballymoon's Daily Facial Microfilant.

Our facial cleanser is formulated with Colloidal Oat Extract, (a complex mixture of phytochemicals including flavnoids, saponins and other bioactive compounds). Stated simply it is a natural cleanser with potent anti-oxidant properties which helps to reduce redness and calm skin irritations.

In addition to the Colloidal Oat Extract, we have added Essential oils, natural cleansers, Avocado, Jojoba, Vitamin E and Sea Minerals - Creating a daily cleanser so kind, so gentle and so extremely effective in cleaning. You will notice the difference after the first use.

How To Host A Baby Spa Party

2005-09-19T13:07:00.000-07:00

The birth of a baby is a lifetime change and relationship like no other. The process of it all can be quite daunting also. Becoming a parent is a transforming experience and not only can it leave you exhausted and overwhelmed it can also be lonely. Thank goodness for baby groups!

Baby group activities can include journeys to the library, zoo and the pool. It can be a simple outing even just to the park. Or you might want to try one of the newest and most popular baby activity – a baby spa party!

Babies and children don’t keep track of how many different places you take them. All they want is love, nurturing, time and to be taken care of and a baby spa party is a great way to bond with your baby and other parents and caregivers.

Here are some great ideas on how to host a baby spa party. Baby spa parties work best with no more than 6 – 8 babies and parents or caregivers. You can even just host the party for you and your baby.

If you know of someone who has just had a baby also – this is a great article to pass on to also enhance their new bond with their baby.

Step one is to set the mood in your home

Keep the lighting comfortable but not too dark.
Play your baby’s instrumental lullaby music in the background softly.
Use lavender essential oil around the house. Either in a diffuser, a liquid potpourri burner or let a pot simmer on the stove ¾ full of water and add 10 drops of the oil (keep on low and watch that the water doesn’t boil away).

Step two is to get your home comfortable for all babies

Place out baby blankets for all babies that are attending in a circle and spread them out.
Place a baby book and a small toy at each blanket to keep the babies entertained after their massage (use your own baby's toys, blankets and books, you don't need to go buy new stuff).
Keep your house warm but comfortable (temperature is a key element for massage).
In the middle of the circle have a few bottles of baby massage oil for passing around and a few towels to wipe off excess oil.
On each blanket place a copy of the Benefits of Infant Massage and Massaging Your Baby.

Benefits of Infant Massage
Enhances loving bond with baby
Increases sense of acceptance, respect and trust
Eases symptoms of gas and colic
Promotes longer and deeper sleeps
Helps strengthen and regulate baby’s digestive, respiratory and circulatory system
Relaxes both baby and parent
Provides time to share
Provides quality time
Promotes parenting skills

Massaging Your Infant

Infant massage is best done when baby is quiet.
Keep massage under 10 minutes.
Maintain as much eye contact as possible and describe the massage to your baby.
Warm infant massage oil by gently rubbing oil between your hands.
With baby facing you – hold baby’s ankle and stroke up the outside of the leg and around the thigh. Use thumbs to make small circles up the legs toward the heart.
Massage the soles and tops of the feet in circular movements with your thumbs
Use the same technique for arms as you did for the legs.
Gently massage baby’s belly in clockwise direction with your fingertips or the palms of your hand.
Turn baby over onto belly and massage up the back, with one hand on either side of the spine. Never put pressure directly on spine.
Avoid massaging face and hands, to minimize risk of getting oil in eyes or mouth.

Step three is to have appropriate snacks and refreshments.

For newborn babies offer mothers healthy snacks such as fruit, veggies, cheese crackers. Herbal tea, juice and water are also the best beverages to serve. Some mothers may be nursing and just may not even have time to eat. A simple glass of tea will be extremely appreciated.
If the babies are older and are eating offer finger food, again, select good food choices. Small pieces of cut-up fruit, tiny crackers, little cubes of cheese and mini yogurts are all great selections. (Don’t serve any kind of nuts or anything really hard or sticky). Remember babies are just learning to eat and their eating habits require monitoring.

Step four is to have your scheduling set.

Baby spas are best done after babies morning nap so they aren’t too fussy.
Once guests arrive, get everyone settle around in the circle.
Offer the guests any refreshments and ask them to get their babies into their diapers (re-check to make sure that your house is comfortable and warm).
Once everyone is settled, have the parents or caregivers read the massage page. If they need guidance be sure you are familiar with the massaging techniques so you can offer help.
Pass around the bottle of massage oil and have the parents or caregivers start the massage.
Have everyone speak quietly to the babies and use facial expressions throughout the whole massage – this can continue for around 10 – 15 minutes but no longer.
Wipe off any excess oil on the babies on towels and then get the babies dressed. Consider throwing the clothes into the dryer quickly (to keep the babies warm) – just remember who is whose.
After all the babies are dressed, let the baby play with the toy provided and have the parents softly read the baby book to them. Remember babies are little sponges and are taking everything in. At this point the babies have had enough and you don’t want to over stimulate them.

Step five is to have some fun and relax!

Invite your guests to share in your refreshments and beautiful food you have prepared.
Share in your experiences about being parents, laugh and relax.
To really impress your guests, use Ballymoon’s Angel Wings Massage Oil. It only uses Apricot Kernel Oil, Vitamin E and pure Essential Oils, as this will not clog babies’ pores.
Create a spa bag for the parent and baby.

That’s right a spa bag not a loot bag or goody bag.

Include a travel size baby barrier cream, travel size body butter (for parent or caregiver), baby soak envelope (for diaper rashes) and a spa salt envelope (for parents or caregiver). Ballymoon will even put it in a nice little bag for you.

Your guests will be sure and talk about this for a long time. And your babies will love the experience.

Celebrate Your Birthday

2005-07-25T08:36:00.000-07:00

It's great to get specials on your birthday - and why not! It's your day! A cool way to receive deals on your birthday is to find places that have birthday programs in effect - whether it be a free dinner, discounts etc. Check out this birthday program and sign-up to receive birthday deals:

http://www.ballymoon.biz/birthdayprogram.htm

Speedy Nail Fix

2005-07-21T09:18:00.000-07:00

SPEEDY NAIL TREATMENT: If you don’t have the time to give yourself a manicure, do the next best thing and clean up your nails and cuticles instantly with this nail & cuticle treatment. You will get groomed hands fast.

Nail & Cuticle Treatment

·2 tablespoons of Grapeseed Oil
·2 tablespoons of Jojoba Oil
·3 tablespoons of Olive Oil
·3 tablespoons of Honey
·5 Vitamin E capsules (you will have to break them open)

Mix all ingredients and apply. It will make a few batches but can store it in your fridge to use the next week.

Fighting Sleep Deprivation

2005-07-14T08:53:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like a good night sleep. Waking up refreshed and ready to start the day!

However, for many with sleep disorders, the thought of going to bed can be an aggravating experience. The more they try to fall asleep the more aggravated one becomes with tossing and turning. And then there is the sleep deprivation that falls into place the next morning.

There are many sleep aids that can help one fall asleep. But, perhaps trying some simple routines might be better than medication.

Try sipping a cup of chamomile tea before bed to help you relax
Turn off the TV if you have one in your room
Sleep with the window open (the fresh air is extremely good for rejuvenating you)
Place drops of essential lavender oil on the corners of your pillow before you go to bed

And keep up with pampering your mind, body & spirit - try at home spa treatments before bed, relax (put thoughts aside – go to bed knowing that you did your best today even if you didn’t accomplish everything you wanted) and keep up a nighttime routine.

Diaper Rash

2005-07-13T07:31:00.000-07:00

Nothing is worse than seeing your baby in pain with a diaper rash. But it is quite common for all babies – actually most babies do experience diaper rash. To avoid diaper rash – try changing your babies diapers more frequently and make sure you wipe well. Apply some diaper rash cream also.

An extremely effective Baby Barrier Cream will help prevent redness and skin irritation. Ballymoon’s Baby Barrier Cream is a rich vitamin and essential oil formulation and scented with essential oils of lavender, rose, neroli and chamomile. It is easy to spread and has no sticky residue to clean up.

Solutions for Sore Feet

2005-07-12T09:44:00.000-07:00

It’s the Calgary Stampede (a week long festival that includes a lot of walking, standing and cowboy boots) and being the 5th day in – my feet are killing me! I have a serious case of foot problems. Cowboy boots are comfortable I am sure for the person who constantly wears them but when you only wear them once a year – my feet are crying in pain.

But…a few shots of some Peppermint Cooling Toner on my feet and instantly I feel relief. Here’s a great hint also – put it in the refrigerator for optimum cooling.

Whether you have been on the golf course or walking around any festival, I highly recommend spraying your tired achy feet with this.

Have we forgotten to hold hands?

2005-07-07T08:52:00.000-07:00

As we get deeper and longer into relationships, we sometimes forget the simple act of holding hands with our partners. I guess it’s the comfort we have found in our relationship but it shouldn’t be forgotten.

Holding your partners hand is just a simple way to tell them that you love and appreciate them.

Try it out today! And to make it even more special, make your partner want to hold your hand! No one wants to hold sweaty hands or dry hands. Keep your hands satin soft by giving yourself a daily hand treatment.

Ballymoon’s Satin Soft gives immediate & astounding results. It works deep within the skin’s surface to visibly restore the look and feel of refreshed energized skin and helps moisturize dry cuticles.

By using this daily, you might notice your partner yearning to hold your hand.

Essential Lavender Oil

2005-07-06T13:51:00.000-07:00

Lavender essential oil is incredible versatile! The benefits of the pure essential oil of lavender include: reduction of stress and tension and purification of the body.

Before you go to bed – place drops of lavender essential oil on the corners of your pillow! A great way to wake-up tomorrow morning stress-free!

What is dry skin brushing?

2005-06-28T11:21:00.000-07:00

Dry Skin Brushing is one of the best things you can do for your skin because it helps exfoliated dead skin cells..

On dry skin, brush upwards toward the heart (where possible), legs first, then arms and torso. Do not brush the face; it is far too harsh. Try it for several weeks and you will be amazed at how velvety-soft your skin becomes!

Dry Skin Brushing not only exfoliates dead skin cells, it stimulates circulation and helps to clean out the lymph system, resulting in firm, healthy skin. Check out this Natural Bristle Dry Skin Brushes!

Simple Ideas to To Turn Your House Guest's Stay Into A Five-Star Experience....

2005-06-21T08:39:00.000-07:00

It’s the most wonderful time of the year
With the door bell chiming and everyone telling you
“We are here to stay”
It’s the most wonderful time of the year
There’ll be guests to be hosted, bread to be toasted
And laughing through the home.
There’ll be scary stories and tales of the glories
Of guests of long, long ago…

Yes…It's the most wonderful time of the year….summer.

Whether it’s going to be the relatives, or a friend for the weekend…summertime brings holidays for many and many who want to visit you.

And let’s face it if you have been in the same situation of ringing someone’s doorbell with your suitcase in your hand – you have felt it also - the dreaded feeling of imposing on someone’s home. You would prefer to stay at that five star hotel but it’s just not in the budget this year. Yes, you could stay at that unclean and noisy hotel but that doesn’t quite feel right either.

So, there you are – at someone’s front door. But, what if we changed this feeling of dread? What if you started giving your guests the ultimate hotel experience? Made them feel at home, made them comfortable, made them not feel like they were not imposing, …and then what if they followed your example and did the same for their guests?

And it’s simple to do.

The following 8 steps work even if you don’t have a guest room (and even if you don’t have guests) – you can still give this to yourself…. why not wake up every morning feeling like you just spent the night in a five-star hotel?

The first step doesn’t even cost a penny. Remove the clutter. Even if your guests are staying in your home or on a pull out in the living room – get it organized. Clutter makes people feel uneasy and makes people feel like they are imposing on your way of life. This is a great exercise to do just because also – it will make you feel good. Grab 3 boxes or bags. Designate one for garbage, one for charity or garage sale and one for “doesn’t belong in this room”. Put the clutter as needed in each box. You’ll be amazed how great you will feel by just decluttering your home.

The second step is to have some nice clean sheets (and preferably ones that match). Have two or three pillows for each person. Even if you have to use your pancake pillows from when you were first married at least they you can stack them up to make a whole pillow. This works even for a blow-up mattress…make it look presentable. By just making it look nice, people will feel like they are on a feather bed not on a blow-up mattress.

The third tip is to pick out the nicest towels you have. You will need one bath towel, one hand towel and a face cloth. Give each person his or her own set. Don’t give them a towel that has bleach stains, holes in it and is fifteen years old. You wouldn’t want your guests to wonder, where has this towel been? And do I really want to wash my face with this?

Fresh flowers are the fourth essential. You don’t need to spend a lot of money either. If it is spring or summer, just go out to your garden. Or you can go out to your grocery store and get a nice bouquet for under $10.00.

Fifth is to leave a hand written note thanking them for staying with you, simply write “please make yourself at home, my home is your home”. Even get a guest book and let people write down their experience at your home.

The sixth tip is to get a basket or fancy box (whatever you have in your home) and fill it up with a couple bottles of water, a few granola bars, a package of gum and a few pieces of fruit.
The seventh “nice” thing to do – is let them know you have some certain essentials that they don’t need to pack. Tell them that you have shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste etc.; and that they don’t need to worry about putting all that in their suitcase to spill everywhere. You could even have a few extras – such as some hairspray, a curling iron, a hair dryer, razors etc.

We saved of course the best for last. Pamper your guests! Ballymoon carries the essential products to make your guests feel like they are at home. Consider supplying or giving your guests:

An envelope of spa salts or milk bath
Ballymoon Soap (you should actually always supply each guest a new bar of soap)
Ballymoon's defense sun screen and insect repeller (this is perfect for the summer months while doing outdoor activities)
A Slipperette Set
A Shower Puff
A Feng Shui Candle
Ballymoon’s Ageless Essence Ladies Travel Facial Pack or For Men – Ballymoons’s Mystic Warrior Facial Travel Pack

Items you can have in your bathroom to use could include:
Ballymoon’s Shower Gels
Room and Linen Spray
Ballymoon’s Hand & Body Lotion
Ballymoon’s Body Butter
Foot Toner
Body Spray

Use your creativity when setting up the room! Have the flowers on the nightstand or table and the thank you card beside the flowers. Put the towels on the bed with your small gifts. Open a window and let the fresh air in. Consider spraying Ballymoon’s Room & Linen Fragrance 30 minutes before your guest arrive for a wonderful scent or light up the Feng Shui Candle.
In this busy world – we sometimes forget to take the time to enjoy the people who really matter. And by doing these simple 8 steps you can create a special moment and experience for that guest that they are sure to never forget. And if it happens to be that guest you really don’t want to mingle with too much – no worries – they will love their room so much – you won’t see them anyhow….

This article was actually inspired by a true dear friend who showed me what a five-star hotel experience was like in her home. When I went to visit one of my best friends, Shauna (Schacter) Stuchal, who now lives in Dallas she showed me what it meant to be a welcome guest and because of her I have changed the ways I welcome guests into my home. Thank you Shauna!

How To Create An-At Home Spa Oasis

2005-06-13T10:52:00.000-07:00

Stress-free, hassle-free, downtime…these are words we hear all the time. Why? Because our lives are filled with busy, hectic schedules and we continually hear advice to unwind but in the midst of everything else; we simply forget these words and ourselves.

The environment, stress, food, lack of exercise all play havoc on your mind, body and soul. By simply changing a few things in our lives we would all be healthier. Try getting more sleep, eating healthier, exercising, learning how to manage stress and most importantly – taking time for yourself.

Simply having a hot bath, giving yourself a pedicure, making your own facial sauna, using a facial mask, getting together with friends and having a spa night are all great steps to taking time for yourself. The possibilities are endless and we need to all step back and learn this simplicity because if we are good to ourselves everyone else in our lives benefit.

Not everyone can afford a day at the spa. It’s not only the financial part either; just getting to the spa can be stressful: trying to schedule an appointment, finding a babysitter, fighting the traffic to get there, securing your valuables while at the spa, debating a male or female spa therapist; all these little things can add up to one stressful experience.

Follow these first three steps to give yourself the ultimate pampering of your mind, body and soul.

Establish Scents:

The power of Aromatherapy comes from its ability to affect our sense of smell, one of the oldest and most primitive senses we posses. To start with, disburse tiny amounts of essential oils in the air to fill it will a wonderful aroma; such as lavender to relax, lemon to energize etc.

Establish Lights:
The flickering of candles dancing in the shadows or the subtle glow from a fireplace…creates a wonderful state of relaxation for your mind. Even putting on the dimmer lights is a sure fire-way to heighten your at-home spa experience.

Establish Sounds:
Find some relaxing sounds to add in the background of your home; you want to find something relaxing or inspiring to help put you at ease. However, sometimes silence is the sound you require, if that is it then make sure you establish silence.

How To Apply An At-Home Hair Treatment

2005-06-13T10:13:00.000-07:00

Hair tells a lot about a person. The way a person cuts it, styles it and most importantly how they take care of it. The sun, chlorine, salt, bleach and hair colour can damage your hair.
Protect your hair by wearing a hat, washing it after being exposed to chlorine or salt. Diet is also a huge part in how healthy your hair is. Eat lots of fruits and veggies to make sure you are getting enough protein. Drink lots of water, exercise and get plenty of rest. Your hair will love you for it!

The best & most convenient time to apply a hair treatment is just before you get into a warm bath.

Here are three great hair treatments that you can easily whip up in your kitchen and apply.

Avocado Hair Treatment for Dry Hair
1 cup of Mayonnaise
1 ripe pitted Avocado
2 tbsp of honey
10 drops of Rosemary Essential Oil

Mash avocado, add mayonnaise and honey and blend together. Drop in rosemary essential oil and stir. Massage into hair and scalp. Cover your head with a shower cap.

Then cover the shower cap with a warm towel from dryer. Leave on 20 – 25 minutes then rinse out and shampoo.

Lavender Hair Treatment for Normal Hair
½ cup of Olive Oil
2 tbsp of Honey
12 drops of Lavender Essential Oil
2 drops Tea Tree

Warm olive oil and honey over low heat. Remove from heat and add lavender and tea tree essential oils. Apply to damp hair while oil is warm. Cover head with shower cap, then cover cap with a warm towel from dryer. Leave on for 20 – 25 minutes. Rinse out then shampoo.

To help remove product build-up your hair, try this Apple Cider Rinse:

Apple Cider Rinse
1 ½ cups apple cider vinegar
4 cups of warm water
12 drops of Rosemary Essential Oils

Rub into shampooed hair. Rinse well and then follow with a good conditioner and comb through.

The Five Essential Ingredients to Create An-At-Home Spa Party

2005-06-10T11:59:00.000-07:00

Waiting patiently in the local warehouse grocery line-up, I watched as the clerk scanned through the lady’s cart in front of me. 2 Caseloads of toilet paper, 12 packages of lemon-lime jello, 4 liters of pop, 1 huge pineapple, 4 packages of balloons and a quart of ice cream. The clerk looks up at the lady and says, “Wedding shower huh…I’ve won 4 out of the 6 toilet paper wedding dress creations I’ve been to lately…”.

The lady takes off her glasses, looks down disappointed and turns to me shaking her head. “At the last family shower, I swear that my sister made grandma’s pineapple marshmallow cucumber lime jello salad? And I was told that the wedding dress game was the “hit” of the showers…”.

The desperation is apparent. I get shudders thinking of my last girls event - sitting on that lumpy couch, a nuclear fruit punch explosion drink in my hand soaking through the paper cup and the endless amount of saying “ohh…ahhh” over another Tupperware piece.

Suddenly, all the lights have dimmed and a huge spotlight is shining upon me. I wish I would have done a better job with my hair but oh well…here it goes…

“Dear Fellow Shoppers…Now that we are entering the party months – wedding & baby showers, candle parties, general get-togethers, we must vow together that we will host parties that are spectacular, fresh and FUN for all…we will spoil and pamper our guests…”

And that’s how I got my warehouse grocery card revoked.

But, I’m still a firm believer. The current trend in the spa industry is mobile spa parties; a team of spa professionals comes to your home or function and sets up to give your guests two or three treatments. The cost for a mobile spa party averages $100 - $150 and up per person. However, with some planning, people can easily create their own luxurious private spa party for whatever event you need to host for practically next to nothing. It's as simple as adding some ambinece, some product, some food and some entertaing guests!

The Five Essential Ingredients to Create An-At-Home Spa Party

1. Create the spa atmosphere

Select an assortment of candles (large ones for centerpieces, votives around the room); you want the area to be dimly lit. You might even consider digging up those white Christmas tree lights and hang them around up around the area. If you have a fireplace, turn it on also – the more natural lighting you can get – the better.
Add some music! There are tons of different serene and soothing music you can find at your local CD store. Also, add the touch of water sounds – somewhere you or someone you know probably owns one of those water fountains (if possible – add a few to the area).
Remove furniture from the selected spot – just leave comfortable chairs and tables as needed for the experience. Place tons of huge pillows also around the floor for people to emerge into as they wait for their next spa appointment.
Add some scents. If you aren’t using scented candles, add some scented oil or spirtz the room with a room and linen fragrance. Remember though to keep it to one or a few different scents; you don’t want to overpower people with to many smells.
Get out your best towels! Arrange a big pile of towels for people to use (even better if you grab them right from the dryer before people arrive. You might also want to purchase some inexpensive slippers, and tell the guests to bring their biggest fluffiest robe they have.

2. Serve the spa experience

There are many different options you can go with for your menu. You might want to consider spa foods & drinks (a galvanized steel tub filled with different types of bottled water, fresh fruit and vegetable trays…just focus on healthy foods that are delicious & satisfying). You might also want to consider adding the non-healthy in there also – strawberries & chocolate fondues, an assortment of appetizers (shrimp, cheeses etc.). Of course, wine & mimosas are also a great addition. The main thing is to keep to appetizers – as people will be in and out of their spa appointments, everyone will be munching at different times.

3. Prepare the spa experience
Note: You might want to hire a masseuse, manicurist/pedicurist to come to your home depending on your budget (friends might even want to chip in). If you go this route, the selected spa person will let you know how to schedule your event. HOWEVER you and your friends can also easily do it.

Pick 3 or 4 different spa treatments (the most popular are manicures, pedicures, massages and facials).
Create an instruction sheet on how to give that particular service and provide the products required for this spa experience.

4. Schedule the spa experience

You will need to work this according to how many guests you have but ideally you want 3 people per station.
One person is the giver, one the receiver and the other the fetcher. The giver is the person who will provide the service, the receiver is of course the one who gets the treatment, and the fetcher is the one responsible for helping the giver and also fetching drinks/appetizers etc.
Once the receiver is finished, the giver now becomes the receiver and the fetcher becomes the giver. The receiver should move to another station and become the fetcher – this helps people also mingle, as the groups will mix up.

5. Adding more to the spa experience

Create a station for some light yoga and stretching. In one room, put on a video tape of an experienced yoga instructor and let your friends losen up their joints!
You might want to also add an “extra” experience to your guest’s spa experience. Most of us have friends who know how to make sushi. Have one friend be designated as the sushi chef and have them demonstrate how to do it and then have guests take a try at it! An excellent addition to the day!
Have a dance hour. After all that laying around and getting spoiled – your guests might need a pick me up! Put the spa music aside and put on some funky disco music to get your guests moving.
If this if for a wedding shower, have guests bring gifts that help pamper the bride – consider a big fuzzy bath robe, beauty and bath products, spa gift certificates, even have everyone chip in for a romantic spa getaway for the couple!
If this if for a baby shower, have guests bring gifts that pamper the baby such as infant massage oil, baby bath oil, baby bath towels etc.
Give your friends as parting gifts some inexpensive spa reminders (lip gloss, fizzing bath bombs, manicure sets - see for a list of different gift selections such as these visit Ballymoon! They carry tons of luxurious pampering gifts).

Spa Treatments:
For a facial treatments, try out Ballymoon's Face Masques - made for normal or dry skin...
To end your manicure - try using Ballymoon's Famous Satin Soft! The girls will be in heaven after this treatment!

For more information & instructions on spa treatments, visit Ballymoon's Informative "How To Create A Spa Oasis" section!

Also for any product needed - make sure you visit http://www.ballymoon.biz for high quality and essential face & body spa products.

Facial Mask Recipes

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Here are two great facial masks that you can easily whip up in your kitchen and apply.
If you don’t have the time to make a facial mask – try Ballymoon masques. The masques are made with the finest-quality oils and herbal extracts for superb moisturizing!

Face Mask (helps to soften and tighten pores)
1 egg
1-tablespoon whole milk
1-teaspoon of honey
½ teaspoon of brewers yeast

Beat egg and then mix other ingredients.
Put on over wet face and leave for 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

Papaya Mask (helps to remove dead skin)
¼-cup mashed (ripe) papaya
1-teaspoon plain yogurt
½-teaspoon of honey

Mix all ingredients until paste like. Put on face, leave on for 15 minutes and rinse with warm water.

Note: If you have oily skin – do not allow your mask to over dry. Your brain will register the loss of water in the over-drying process and produce more oil.

This oil will not show up on the skin until about 48 hours after the treatment.

Remember to:
Spritz your toner on your face, this helps moisturize and balance the pH in your skin. It calms, tones and balances your skin. Not only will your face thank you for cleaning your pores and smoothing your skin - the scent of the magnificent sweet-smelling red roses will inspire you.

Follow with a rich moisturizing cream. If you are enjoying your facial steam during the day use a day cream.

If your facial sauna is at night use a rich moisturizing night cream.

Quick Tip – don’t have enough time to have your weekly face mask– Use the Power of your Shower to create a combo facial steam & mask.

You can utilize the effects of the moisture that hangs in the air while in the shower. The vellum on your face is given the same message that it receives when you are having a facial sauna.

Method – After a few minutes in the shower – cleanse your face with Ballymoon’s Daily Microfoliant, while your skin in damp, apply the mask – let it remain on your face – while you continue with your shower.

Note: Your mask will not completely dry which is a good thing, as you will not be exposed to the effects from a facemask that got too dry. And when you are done showering simply exit the shower and just rise off your mask.

How To Create A Facial Steam

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Are you ready for a heavenly way to rejuvenate yourself and encourage some peaceful relaxation? Try your very own Facial Steam.

Facial Steams help rid impurities and hydrate the skin. It is one of the best ways to clean your pores and release toxins.

How to Create a Facial Steam

It is recommended to have a facial steam once a week.

Boil three cups of water and pour into a bowl. Let the water cool down until warm.

Add a few drops of Ballymoon’s essential oils (perhaps Lavender, Sweet Orange or Ylang Ylang) to turn your facial steam into a spa experience

Tip: Are you starting to suffer from a cold or flu? Eucalyptus is one on the best oils to use as a decongestant. You will be amazed how fast it will clear you right up.

Use a towel to create a tent over your head and shoulders.

Hold your head close to the bowl, close your eyes and breath in deeply.

Did you know that everyone’s face has fine vellum hair follicles that act as sensors for many different stimuli? The amount of water in the surface of the skin is tracked by these vellum hair follicles. The brain will not readily release oil out of the pores, if it is determined that this oil will be needed later for lack of hydration.

So when you are giving your face a fine mist of moisture with your facial steam or sauna the vellum on your skin sends a temporary message through that there is indeed enough water so extracting oil from the pores is easy through this process.

After your facial steam, you might want to continue on with your Ballymoon Secret Spa by applying a facial mask. This is a wonderful way to remove excess oil, skin and toxins off the surface of the skin.

How To Give Yourself An At-Home Pedicure

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Pedicures help increase circulation and ease tension. So – give those feet a pick me up with your own pedicure….

First of all, soak your feet in a warm footbath. You might want to add 1 –2 teaspoons of Ballymoon’s Therapeutic Foot Soak in the bath. The antibacterial, antiseptic mineral salts, peppermint essential oil and menthol helps refresh and energize your tired feet while the clove essential oil works to reduce bacteria, discomfort and foot odour.

After soaking your feet for 15 minutes, use a pumice stone or file to loosen and get rid of dead skin. Or you might want to try Ballymoon’s Fancy Feet Foot Masque to exfoliate and smooth. Our foot masque has hydrating extracts, kaolin clay and soothing botanicals with enlivening peppermint.

Simply mix 3 teaspoons of Foot Masque powder with 3 teaspoons tepid water - mix well and apply this amazing masque to your feet and if desired to the lower portion of your legs. Allow to dry. Re-wet with wet hands and rub off vigorously, allowing the pumice to exfoliate and smooth.

The next step is to apply a dime size amount of Ballymoon’s Satin Soft into the palm of your hand and massage your foot. Be sure and cover the whole foot area (top, bottom and ankles). Continue with other foot and then pat dry.

After exfoliating, trim your toenails straight and file edges.

(Caution never trim toenails too far down as this can lead to ingrown toenails).

Next choose your favorite nail polish, paint and allow drying time.

To finish off your home spa pedicure, spray Ballymoon’s Cooling Foot Toner to deodorize and refresh.

Tip: Use Ballymoon’s Foot Lotion or Body Butter on feet (generously) before bed. Then put on a pair of socks and wake up with soft supple feet.

After finishing, schedule yourself to have an at-home pedicure next week; your feet will love you for it.

How To Give Yourself An At-Home Manicure

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Did you know that our hands are one the first three areas that shows our age earliest. We can delay the signs of aging on our hands by following some simple daily steps.

Protect your hands by wearing gloves while gardening, washing dishes, cleaning and in cold weather.

Keep your hands soft and smooth by using Ballymoon’s Satin Soft once a day. It will exfoliate, clean and moisturize.

Most importantly, wear sunscreen on your hands to help prevent age spots.

Once a week, you should also sit down, relax and give yourself your own at-home manicure.

How to Give Yourself Your Own Manicure

Remove any nail polish (Tip: wearing nail polish continually doesn’t allow the nails to breathe and turns them yellow - nail polish remover dries out the nail causing them to split – give your nails a rest from polish at least once a month)

An emery board is a good tool to use when shaping the nails. Remember to file in one direction (not back and forth). Square or rounded shaping is preferred.

A nailbrush with a bit of baking soda (it will get rid of all that unwanted dirt under nails).

In a bowl, pour warm water (big enough to fit one hand) and add: 1 drop Eucalyptus, 1 drop Peppermint, 1 drop Lavender and 1 drop Lemon. Move your fingers around in the bowl for 5 – 10 minutes then pat dry.

Gently push back cuticle using a wet Q tip.

Using a nail buffer, buff nails using light pressure – excessive pressure thins the nail.
Save the best for last! Stir Ballymoon’s Satin Soft, and put a few drops in the palm of your hand. Rub your hands together like you are washing with soap and water for about 30 seconds (be sure not to forget those nails and cuticles you just treated). Lightly rinse off the salt, and then pat dry (make sure you pat – you don’t want to rub off all those beneficial oils!)

Ballymoon has a stunning 10 piece deluxe manicure set to supply you with all the tools mentioned above (a 7 piece convenient travel case manicure set is also available).

After the manicure, you might want to apply a nail strengthener. You can easily create your own with this recipe. As this recipe consists of high quality nourishing oils you should wait for at least 10 – 15 minutes to allow the oils to be absorbed before applying nail polish.

Nail Strengthener

10 ml of Grapeseed Oil
10 drops of Apricot Kernel or Avocado Oil
8 drops of Lemon Essential Oil
3 drops of Rosemary Essential Oil
3 drops of Lavender Essential Oil

Mix all ingredients together and apply.

For a quick nail & cuticle treatment, whip up this recipe – it will make a few batches so you can store it in your fridge to use next week.

Nail & Cuticle Treatment

2 tablespoons of Grapeseed Oil
2 tablespoons of Jojoba Oil
3 tablespoons of Olive Oil
3 tablespoons of Honey
5 Vitamin E capsules (you will have to break them open)

Mix all ingredients and apply.

Here are a few more tips to keep your hands and nails top notch:

To give new life to old looking yellow nails, scrub them with white vinegar.

For really dry chapped hands use Ballymoon’s Satin Soft, and then place a layer of Ballymoon’s Body Butter all over hands. Wear a thin cotton pair of gloves to bed such as Ballymoon's Manicure Gloves. It makes a huge difference.