The Best You – Page 3 – Urban Suburban Mommy

What’s in for Fall hair

Posted on October 5, 2016 by ericahwearing Posted in The Best You .

My favourite time of year is here FALL🍁🍂🎃☕️
I love the oversized scarves, big chunky cable-knit sweaters, pumpkin spice lattes, yummy smelling candles, the crisp air on a sunny beautiful day 😊

I definitely go on a “little” shopping spree to purchase new boots, jackets, purses – you know, the definite must haves of fall😉

There’s nothing more fresh then to have a hot new haircut and colour to go with your new look .

Metallic hair colour

We’ve all seen the bold bright colours and soft pastel shades that have been making a huge statement but there is something new on the scene and that is metallic hair colour
Here’s a few I’m In love with this season

Metallic work by Guy Tang

How about adding a fringe to your fall look
It’s one of the hottest hair trends for fall winter 2016/17

I love how on the runway we have seen such versatility in styles.

From pin-straight hair too super long hair, crimped hair, slicked hair, pin curled hair, braided hair – so much to choose from!
My favourite style that looks good on almost anyone is a natural looking textured wave.

Hope these tips inspire you to get out there and freshen up your look for fall 💇🏻💁🏻💆🏻

Erica H. Wearing has been a stylist for over 16 years and she absolutely loves what she does . “It’s a great feeling to help people feel and look their best when they leave my chair. I wouldn’t trade this for any other job in the world!”
Check out Erica at Ka!Boom Hair Salon 1129 West Pender Street, Vancouver B.C .
(604)681-6003

hairbyericaw

Preschool jitters and anxiety. And that’s just you….

Posted on September 9, 2016 by Lauren Millman, B.A. Social Psychology, Behaviour, International Best Selling Author Posted in The Best You .

It’s here.

It’s happened.

In the blink of an eye, they’re suddenly big kids, and the first day of school – or preschool or daycare has arrived. Continue reading →

The best summer hair and beauty regime tips and products

Posted on July 28, 2016 by Urban Suburban Mommy Posted in The Best You .

Summer is here and there’s nothing more I love to do then head to the beach or lay around poolside – okay, now I’m getting carried away. There is no lying around poolside with my two year old son 😏😉

Erica Wearing – under a hat, taking her own good advice.

There are a few essential items I like to carry with me in my beach bag, the most important of which are sunblock, beach towels, water, snacks. There is also is a very important hair care product tucked away in there also – that is hair sunscreen. Most are easy to apply, just spritz it on throughout the day. This will help your hair from becoming brittle and dry, and also help colour from fading.

Here are a few to try that won’t leave your hair feeling greasy:

: Wella Sun

: Paul Mitchell Sun Shield Conditioning Spray

: AVEDA Sun Care

: Pureology Essential Repair

When soaking your self in the pool, the last thing you want to do is destroy the beautiful hair colour you just had freshened up for the summer. If your going to go under water these are the tips you need to follow or you will be left with a lovely green tint and can kiss that $$$ beautiful blonde hair goodbye!

Always pre rinse hair. This will act like a shield and helps slow the absorption of chlorine.
Use a leave in conditioner or spray in conditioner.
Oil based or silicone hair products. This will help protect your strands while leaving them hydrated

: Davines Absolute Beautifying Potion

: Moroccanoil Light Oil Treatment

: EVO Day of Grace

: EVO Happy Camper

Some great shampoos for chlorine removal and product build up are:

: Malibu Swimmers Wellness

: AVEDA Sun Care

: Kevin.Murphy Repair-Me.Wash

And great hair treatments and masks for after sun and beach/pool hair care:

: AVEDA Sun Care

: Pureology Hydrate Hydra Whip

: Davines Nourishing Hair Building Pack

: Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask

Hydrate and protect your hair from the sun just as you would protect your skin. Wear a hat – that will definitely help colour from fading, and most importantly, wrinkles!

Have fun splashing around 😎🍸🌊

hairbyericaw

5 Communication tips to make sure you are heard

Posted on June 27, 2016 by Urban Suburban Mommy Posted in The Best You .

When you speak – you want people to listen (especially our partners and children). Although most people think that if you yell, you will be heard. It’s quite the opposite. I have put together 5 effective communication strategies to help you succeed in the art of conversation and ensure that your message is well-received and understood.

1.Stay Calm and Be Positive

Use your words to help you, not sabotage you. If you communicate with anger and negativity, no one will listen. If you’ve got your back up, you need to address it – before you start talking. Take a timeout so you can calm down and see clearly. Often, when you wait it out, your perceptions will change and you can reclaim your perspective. Calm tells the other person that you want to address the issue as a win-win situation.

2.Choose Your Words Carefully

Before you speak, consider the words you choose. Never begin a conversation on the attack. If you start a sentence with You, Why or What, you may come across as accusatory and your conversation will be interpreted as ‘I’m right, you’re wrong’. Try instead to start with “I” phrases that take ownership of your feelings such as, ‘I noticed that…, I appreciate it when you X, and when X happens, it…, I know it was with good intentions that…, , or, I love that you’….When you begin your sentences with feelings about the other person first, the other person is more likely to welcome being invited into the conversation and hear what you’re saying.

3. Watch Your Tone

Your tone sets the stage. The tone you take can make or break a conversation regardless of the words you use. Even the nicest of intentions can sound hurtful or accusatory, if you choose the wrong tone. How do you keep your tone on track? Keep calm and positive, but don’t forget to also be kind and firm. You can talk all you want, but if your tone is sending a different message, nothing you say will help you.

4. Consider Your Body Language

What is your body saying about your intent? If you want to be heard, not only do you have to watch what you say, but you also have to be mindful of what your body is saying as as well. Direct eye contact is key. Holding your phone, a pen, a food item? You won’t be taken seriously if you’re trying to convey a message while multitasking. Focus on one thing. If you want respect and validation, you also have to give it.

Get on-level too.

That means, if the other person is standing, you stand. If they’re sitting, you sit. Your goal is not only to create rapport and buy-in so your party listens, but also demonstrate that you are equals in the conversation.

Conversing with your children? Get down to their level. You don’t want to be over-bearing, a bully, or be a parent who imparts a dictatorship style of parenting. Fill their power buckets. Empower your children. That is, after all, your job.

5. Be Thankful

Giving thanks is an important step that many people forget. Let the other person know you appreciate them for not only taking the time to listen, but for hearing you and taking part in the conversation. Gratitude sets up a positive platform not just for the relationship and your expectations, but also for the next time you need to get something off your chest. All relationships hit bumps in the road and require continual communication to overcome barriers.

When you feel thankful, you allow the other person to feel thankful too, and that’s good insurance for the next time you need to have a conversation or chat with your child, or anyone for that matter.

Final thoughts: Listening and hearing are two different things. Hearing someone speak is not the same as listening to what they’re saying. Listen. Be an active participant. Lead by example.

Happy Communicating!

In practice for over 12 years, Lauren Millman is a highly sought-after Toronto Marriage & Relationship Coach and Counsellor, Mental Health Practitioner and Parenting Specialist, and is a member of the Ontario Association for Family Mediation. Lauren is a regular guest contributor on TV’s Rogers Daytime! York Region, and The Mediation Station. She has also been a guest on SiriusXM Radio Canada. Lauren is an international best- selling author, writes regularly for several online publications including Brazenwoman, PinkandBlue North America, and SiriusXM Canada, and was recently featured in the Toronto Star. Lauren continuously gives back to the community. In 2014, Lauren was the Recipient of the International Women In Leadership Award.

Managing your fro and frizz in the humidity

Posted on June 23, 2016 by Urban Suburban Mommy Posted in The Best You .

We all have those horrible hair days where humidity gets the best of us.

My hair turns into a huge frizzy mushroom head.

(Urban Mommy Elisa and Suburban Mommy Michelle chime in here to add a resounding ditto! Huge fro and frizz all around!)

Real Sexy Hey 😂😂😂😉

As a professional stylist I am always interested in finding new products that help hair perform its best. I’ve come across some great new products that we started to carry In our salon @kaboomhairsalon called evo

I’m loving our new line!

I thought I would share a few of my favourites to battle those frizzy, big hair kind of days. I also have a couple of hair styling tips that should help you out on those hot summer days 😎

The Great Hydrator Moisture Mask – Conditions, adds moisture, reduces frizz while greatly improving hair manageability

Happy Campers – Leave in moisturizer. Restores moisture and protects from the sun

Easy Tiger Straightening Balm – Tames curls and those fly always with weighted conditioning

Icon Welder – Helps protect hair form hot tools and humidity

Love Touch Shine Spray – Helps protect from humidity and fight frizz

The Therapist – Calming shampoo and conditioner. Prevents fading colour, hydrates and moisturizes dry frizzy hair

evo products

And here are a few of the most popular looks for this summer. Taming the mane has never been easier than with these styles, even in the humidity:

Braids braids braids. Love this look. Not only is it a great way to keep your out of control mane tucked away from the face it also is a softer pretty style that’s one of the hottest hair trends for summer 2016

Another hot hair trend that goes great with your bikini poolside, or perfect for a sexy date night is the tight and slicked back. It’s hot, clean and perfectly under control.😍👌🏻

Remember ladies, always treat your hair like you treat your skin. With lots of moisture and love. ❤️

hairbyericaw

How to tackle those stubborn greys or embrace them with Erica Wearing

Posted on May 19, 2016 by Urban Suburban Mommy Posted in The Best You .

There are some lucky ladies like myself who have to deal with stubborn grey hair.

Going to the salon every 3 weeks to get your roots done can be costly . To get you threw those next rough couple of weeks there are some great products that will mask those greys

Bumble & Bumble Dry Hair Powder

This dry shampoo comes in four different shades.
There are also all different types of hair filler powders: hair chalk, hair sticks, hair mascara wands. All of these options could be found at drugstores or beauty supply stores

Some styling tips for masking the grey roots besides the cover ups

Try an off centre deep side sweep part or if your feeling like trying a new look ask your stylist to cut a fringe . These two styling tips are great because you don’t have one solid part line that screams “Hi! Look at these grey hairs popping out the top of my head!” 😉

Now if there are mommies out there that want to keep the grey and grow out there natural hair colour, there are ways to do it without having to look like Pepé Le Pew . Please go to your hairstylist and have them work their magic by stripping out the colour, getting you to the lightest shade of blonde. Hey why not try platinum blonde – maybe you will want to be a blonde bombshell for a while 💁. This will help the whole process; just blend way better then grey roots with dark brown ends.

As for the Daddies out there, there’s nothing more sexy to me ten salt and pepper hair on a man. I know, I know, it’s not fair that men look distinguished and sexy with salt and pepper hair and when us ladies have shades of grey poking out our heads it’s frowned upon. If you dads want a bit of color brought back into your hair please see a professional. I have seen way too many men walking the streets with glowing auburn hot roots with dark brown ends 😝 . That’s a big no no!

My handsome husband rocking the salt and pepper 😍

hairbyericaw

Dressing boys can be fun – with celeb stylist Alissia Marciano

Posted on May 11, 2016 by Urban Suburban Mommy Posted in Mommy Approved, The Best You .

Who says boys are no fun to dress?!

Les Gamins G&R bow tie

Being a woman and a mom, I’ve always incorporated boyish elements into my code of dress. So when I became a mother to two boys, it was a thrill for me to be able to create cool boy looks and drape them on my lovable, little monkeys.

It can be challenging to find stylish duds for little men. I do find that there is a lack of good options when i walk into independent kids clothing boutiques.

For high street stores like Zara Kids, they do have quite a good array of options when it comes to basics – ie: your skinny black jean, lowered crotch jeans and nice thin cotton t-shirts. But when it comes to unique pieces to layer, it can seem like you have to search high and low before finding that perfect piece. Here are a few designers and pointers that will make your fashion hunt a lot easier.

Remember not to shy away from fun patterns when dressing boys. Mix and match and have a blast – after all you’re only a kid once. (I think…)
Kids can wear boy ties too! A nice way to dress up a boys look for a special occasion or dinner out is by choosing a bow tie with a playful pattern. I really like skulls on little boys. Check out the bow ties below. My favorite label is Les Gamins G&R. They are available online…get yours while they last!
Just like for women shoes are also a hot accessories for boys. They add personality to any little ensemble. Vans are definitely my go-to, but check out AKID as well for some great styles.
HAVE FUN – these petit munchkins won’t always let you style them so take advantage while you can!

Skull Skates

Move over sneakers, there’s some serious kid kickass shoes coming atcha!

NUNUNU biker overalls

Bacabuche striped tee

Joah Love Neal triangle shorts

NUNUNU lowered cross pants – half and half pant

Ezzerkezzer has some really cool lightning bolt tees and graphic pants

Vans, every boy should own a pair. Or two. Or three…

Mama’s still got it! And celeb stylist Alissia Marciano tells you how to wear it for Mother’s Day

Posted on May 6, 2016 by Urban Suburban Mommy Posted in The Best You .

As mothers and women we should never want to sacrifice style for comfort. But I do understand, being a mother myself, that wearing 6 inch heels is not always conducive to running around after our kids.

I’ve found that it is possible to look chic and feel comfortable at the same time amidst our motherly challenges;) The trick is to look like a lady but be able to play with the boys. It really is no fun it we can’t get a little dirty…..

Here are a few tips and options for stylish and effortless ensembles to wear on Mother’s Day.

1. A great option instead of wearing a long dress (which may get in the way, or tripped upon) is a jumpsuit. It’s effortlessly chic. You may even find yourself falling asleep in them:) Add your own personal touch by choosing your favorite color and texture in a belt.

Jumpsuit by Electric Feathers

Jumpsuit by Black Crane

2. Some of us are so comfortable in our jeans. Even though I’m a HUGE advocate to dressing up there are a few exceptions to my style rules. If you wear black or dark blue skinny denim and pair it with a luxurious silk Kimono jacket then the entire casual denim look can be transformed into an exotic Mother’s Day outfit.

Printed Kimono Court by Cher Michel Klein

3. I’m always on the hunt for a unique stripe. This cocktail dress is perfect for a Mother’s Day brunch. This style and silhouette are extremely flattering on every body type.

Dali Stripe Claire dress by Samantha Sung

4. A Bohemian-inspired skirt look. Feel like channeling your inner hippie child? Or simply cannot get enough of embroidery when the hotter months are upon us? Well, Isabel Marant is the queen of this vibe. Pair this look with a pair of K Jacques and the South of France for Mother’s Day awaits you:)

Etoile Vince Top by Isabel Marant, Etoile White Vittoria Skirt by Isabel Marant, Sandals by K Jacques

5.Dare to wear: For those of us who like to be a little more daring – this pant look is the perfect ensemble to make a lasting impression.

Top and Pants by Electric Feathers

Alissia Marciano is an international fashion and wardrobe stylist, as well as, an on-air celebrity fashion host. Currently based in Los Angeles, she has worked and forged her talent around the world in such cities as Paris, New York, Vancouver, and Toronto. From guest appearances on Rachael Ray, to the countdown to the Oscars on the red carpet with E!, and co-hosting Look A Like and Sexy Girl, Alissia is a prominent figure in the fashion industry and her success has earned her the reputation of a highly sought after international fashion and celebrity stylist. Beyond fashion and music, Alissia’s portfolio includes an extensive list of advertising clients including Diesel, ESPN, Nike, Acura, Orbit, and CAT. Her eclectic mix of femininity and rock n’ roll has graced the pages of such publications as L’Uomo Vogue, Neo 2 (Spain), Entertainment Weekly, New York Moves, Wonderland (Japan), The National (UAE) and Filler to name a few. In addition to her work in the industry, Alissia has two beautiful boys with whom she shares many wonderful adventures and creates lasting memories with, surfing and skateboarding being two of their favorite activities.

alissia marciano @alissiamarciano

Hair stylist Erica Wearing dishes on hair style and colour trends for Spring 2016

Posted on April 14, 2016 by ericahwearing Posted in The Best You .

With the flowers blooming and the sunshine finally warming us up we all like to brighten up our looks and freshen up our cuts. If your looking to do so, here are some inspiring cuts and colours for spring/summer 2016 to keep you on trend and looking like a hip mama.

This season is very versatile. There lots are of shades and cuts to choose from: lobs, long layers, choppy bobs, blunt bobs, blunt fringe – whatever it is you love, rock it!

Women’s hair 2016

I’m loving a fresh fringe for the season change. It can shake up your look completely, leaving you feeling youthful and making those eyes pop.

My lovely friend Jen Ly took me to a violet rose shade, and I’m absolutely loving it! Check her out on Instagram byjenly.

Here are some more shades of blonde I love:
Icy cool blonde
Warm rose gold with violet undertones

Beautiful shades of the rainbow. I prefer the softer pastel shades like these – they aren’t as permanent and the fade out is beautiful as well.

A beautiful change to warm up the completion, “Ronze” a mixture of Browns and copper tones

Men’s hair 2016

Tell your man he has to look fresh next to his beautiful lady. Here are some great cuts for your handsome fella.

Toddler hair 2016

We have all seen those poor little kids with the bozo haircut they got from a heartless stylist – or I should say butcher! Some great advice mommies, take them to your own stylist. They will do a fabulous job on your little Muffin’s hair.

Here is a great photo of my handsome lil guy after I cut his hair. He was so good I fed him lots of frozen blueberries and put on a good cartoon to distract him.

alissia marciano hairbyericaw

Pre & post natal fitness tips with Trisha Enriquez

Posted on March 18, 2016 by urbansuburbanmommy Posted in The Best You .

We sat down with fellow mom and certified Pre and Post Natal Fitness Specialist Trisha Enriquez to talk about health, wellness and feeling great!

Photography by: Leon Chai

1. Tell us the main differences between pre and post natal fitness?

By definition, prenatal fitness would be activity you would do before the birth of your child and postnatal would be exercise after the baby is born. With that said, I believe it is important to be active and fit during your pregnancy to assist in an optimal recovery after the baby is welcomed into this world!

2. Many women are hesitant to work out while pregnant – what is your take as a fitness specialist?

It is always important to speak with your physician before doing any activity. Most cases, if you were exercising prior to pregnancy you can continue to do so at a lower intensity. Keep in mind, the supine (laying on your back) position should generally be avoided when exercising during pregnancy. Of course, if you feel any pain or discomfort during activity, always stop immediately and contact your doctor if pain persists.

3. What is core rehabilitation and why do you specialize in it?

It is important to ‘restore your core’ after having a baby and not jump right back into your regular activities. I’m certified with Bellies Inc. and believe that their training method is ideal and optimal for the postpartum woman.

4. How important is pelvic floor health?

Every woman should see a pelvic floor physiotherapist. It is always recommended to get a detailed internal assessment prior to any activity. Your pelvic floor physiotherapist can give you a professional opinion on what activity you can and cannot do.

5. Is it harder to “claim your tummy” back after you have had more than one child?

Not necessarily. Every body is different and every mother will respond differently to exercise and eating. It is important for every mother to take their time and ease back into working out. Always remember, progress happens over time and not overnight.

6. Tell us how your virtual coaching works?

The customized coaching program starts with a questionnaire and is followed by a detailed phone consultation where all the information is discussed prior to designing a mother’s personalized plan. The program is provided via email, but the virtual coaching relationship is a two-way street where clients can let me know when something isn’t working and if anything needs to be changed. The plans are meant to be flexible and make sense for every individual’s personal lifestyle. Ultimately, my job is to ensure mommies are doing their job well, so I try my best to motivate and keep them on track.

The 30-day challenge is a standardized meal plan (supported by yummy recipes) and an easy-to-follow home workout routine – it’s an awesome way for any mother to kick start their fitness journey. The next 30-day challenge launches April 1^st, so if you’re interested, click here.

Trisha Enriquez is a Toronto native with over 15 years experience in the health and fitness industry. She is a certified Nutrition and Weight-Loss Coach and a certified Pre and Post Natal Fitness Specialist who makes losing weight for mommies not only doable, but fun! Trisha is also an official Bellies Inc. trainer which allows her to be more specialized in core rehabilitation, pelvic floor health, and diastasis recti. Trisha is becoming more and more known for the development of her “No Tummy Mommy” programs that mothers all across the country continue to seek her virtual coaching to help get into the best shape of their lives after having a baby!

As a Human Biology graduate from the University of Toronto, Trisha has a strong scientific foundation of the human anatomy and physiology. Furthermore, she carries years of experience working for some of North America’s largest sports supplement companies, where she managed the branding and marketing for various female weight-loss products. Trisha has also written articles published in some of the most popular health magazines on store shelves today, including Fitness Magazine, Oxygen, Fitness Rx, and Muscle & Fitness Hers.

notummymommy

5 must haves for spring from celeb stylist Alissia Marciano

Posted on March 14, 2016 by venicealissia Posted in Fame & Fam, The Best You .

Some mamas associate spring with cutesy overly feminine looks but I like to add little tomboy edge mixed with some badass accents to give a truly unique and eye catching style. Let’s add a little attitude this season – you never know what will happen:)