From the MECCA Group Chat: Cupid-Approved Gifts and Weather-Proof Makeup

I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again – I am the daughter of the most festive woman on earth (last year she left her Christmas tree up until February. She then switched out the decorations and started calling it a ‘Valentine’s Day tree’), which means every holiday is an excuse to celebrate. Don’t be a Scrooge! Treat the people you love most – romantic or otherwise – this Valentine’s Day with something that smells heavenly. Cupid-approved options include the MALIN+GOETZ Otto Supercandle (a contemporary take on the traditional rose scent – and pink), Sol de Janeiro’s Cheirosa 68 Perfume Mist (the scent of vanilla, jasmine and dragonfruit and, you guessed it, pink!) and Diptyque’s Valentine’s Candle Duo (two iconic candles, in red and pink).

As great philosophers like Suga Free and RuPaul once said, “If you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready.” These days, the weather is wildly unpredictable at the best of times, so it’s important to prepare your makeup for anything. Lucky for us, Lori Taylor Davis, the Global Pro Lead Artist at Smashbox Cosmetics (a brand known for its incredible primers) is an expert on the topic.

“Makeup’s longevity is always increased by including primer,” Lori says. “Also, specifically for mascara, a mascara primer will always keep the product from sliding or smudging. And if you really want to bulletproof your makeup, instead of misting a setting spray at the end, you can apply it with either a beauty sponge or a very big fluffy brush. Don’t sweep – pad it on over your full face of makeup.”