It’s extremely rare that I find a blog that sucks me in. I’m completely immune to Perez Hilton. I can walk right by even the most fetching US Weekly cover. So, when I happened across Smart Pretty and Awkward and then spent hours — literally — lost in its posts, I knew I had to share.
Molly Ford is the smart, savvy, talented and pretty founder of Smart Pretty and Awkward, a blog that she began in 2008. Her frequent posts include well written and surprisingly sage advice (she’s only 24) on how to live a life that is smarter, prettier and less awkward.
I am excited to share her guest post today—the only guest post I’ve ever published here – as I know you too will become addicted to SPA. xo, CB
How to be Smarter, Prettier and (less) Awkward…
When Getting a Massage…
How to be Smarter: If you are worried you might feel uncomfortable with a masseuse of the opposite sex, ask for someone of the same gender. It’s also okay to ask the receptionist when you make the appointment what to wear or not to wear; this is especially true when on vacation or in a different part of the world, where massages might vary a little from what you are used to.
How to be Prettier: Do not get hair done beforehand; the massage might include scalp work, and/or lying down might flatten your hair. If you would like to get your hair done the same day, do the massage first.
How to be (less) Awkward: Just like you brush your teeth before the dentist, make sure you smell okay before a massage.
When Getting a Manicure or Pedicure…
How to be Smarter: During a manicure, once the nail technician starts applying polish, you won’t be able to use your hands. So before she starts applying polish, turn to a really big article in the magazine you are reading so you have something to read the whole time without needing to flip the page with wet nails.
How to be Prettier: Pedicures requires you to plan ahead and have appropriate footwear with you. Don’t wear tights to a pedicure, but rather pants or shorts that can be rolled up. Also, bring an old pair of flip flops to wear home if the weather is warm enough, otherwise, ask to have your toes wrapped in cellophane (most salons should have this) before you put them into your shoes to prevent chipping or smearing while they are still slightly wet.
How to be (less) Awkward: Some people get their nails done once a week, some once a month, and some once a lifetime. Remember that even if this is just another part of your weekly beauty routine, for some people sitting around you at the salon, this a big indulgence. Let them enjoy their splurge without you yakking on a cell phone next to them, and let yourself enjoy the process without the outside world butting in via texts/emails/calls (and avoid the worry of handling the phone with wet nails).
When Getting a Facial…
How to be Smarter: There is really no reason to pay full price for any salon trip. So many online programs give you great deals, tailored by city or service. But while most people do a lot of research to figure out the best price, once you have narrowed down your options, the next step is more research. Call ahead and speak to one of their skin specialists, asking about different options and what they recommend for your skin type. At good salons or spas, this should all be done for free. The more questions you ask ahead of time, the better results you will get.
How to be Prettier: Double up procedures; ask if you can get your eyebrows or lips waxed either before or after the facial (this is dependent on your skin type and type of facial getting done. In some instances, too many procedures could irritate your skin). Some places also gives a discount if you get two services at once, so ask.
How to be (less) Awkward: Never get a facial done the day of a big event. Your face will probably be red after, and the full effect of a facial takes anywhere from a few hours to a few days to set in.
Want more? Head to http://smartprettyandawkward.com/ for more of Molly’s smart, pretty and (less) awkward tips.
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