Kathryn Kyte

The Halloween season is here and with that comes a ton of opportunities to make delicious and simple treats for you and your guests. Whether you’re looking for something sweet, healthy, creepy or downright alcoholic, there are plenty of options to get DIY-ing. 

Here are 10 recipes and treats that you can whip together in no time. Let us know what treats you’ll be cooking up this Halloween by tweeting @YahooStyleCA.

Vampire blood drink

Looking for a refreshing adult beverage that has dark undertones? Take a note from Martha Stewart and combine white wine, grape juice and raspberry sorbet with some lime juice. You can opt to chill it or serve as is. To make for guests and yourself you’ll need the following: 4 cups of Concord grape juice, 750 ml sparking white wine, 1/2 cup lime juice (preferably freshly squeezed) and 1 pint of raspberry sorbet (do a scoop for each cup). (Photo via Marthastewart.com)

Halloween party mix

If you’re tight for time but want to make sure that your friends have something to dig their hands into -- opt for a big ol’ bowl of party mix, Halloween-style. Throw together caramel corn, pumpkin candy, pumpkin seeds, almonds, chocolate chips or M&Ms, pretzels, Chex Mix and regular popcorn. You can finish it off by drizzling butter, peanut butter or maple syrup over top of your snack mix, ‘cause why not?

Marshmallow ghost pops

Halloween is no time to shy away from such fluffy, gooey goodness. Grab a bag of marshmallows, 15g of white cooking chocolate (e.g. white chocolate melts, Bakers chocolate, etc.), lollipop sticks or straws (cut these in half), black frosting, sprinkles and a wooden toothpick for the final touches. Microwave the white cooking chocolate together (30 second intervals or as per package suggests) and stir gently. Put the sticks of straws into the marshmallows and either dip the marshmallow stick into the bowl, rotating in circular motions, or take a spoonful and drizzle the chocolate over the marshmallow. To finish, take the black frosting and paint the eyes and mouth of a ghost. You can either use the toothpick to guide or opt for black frosting that comes from its own squeeze tube. Finish it all off with sprinkles. (Photo via Dear Crissy)

Mummy pretzels (white chocolate, chocolate or both)

If you’re looking for something sweet and salty this is good recipe to embrace, and it takes under 30 minutes to do. What you’ll need: A bag of pretzel rods (18-20 rods), white and black candy melts or melting chocolate, candy eyeballs, orange and/or black sprinkles, parchment paper and a ziplock bag or two. Check out how to make them here.  (Photo via My Recipe Magic)

Witch pretzels

Keeping with versatile pretzels, here’s another quick recipe that is super easy and great to serve. Basically, repeat the same steps as you’d do with the mummy pretzels except add green food colouring to the melted chocolate. Then, when it’s setting, place a silvered almond at the tip of the rod to create a creepy fingernail. Let that dry a bit and use a toothpick to etch lines that resemble knuckles. You can either let them all sit on the table to air dry, or cool them off in the fridge, but the end result is creepily good. (Photo via candy.about.com/Elizabeth Labou)

Halloween mud candy

Think of this like you do when you have leftovers in the fridge and you mash everything together to make---well, whatever comes to be. Melt bittersweet chocolate and pour over parchment paper (on a baking pan), using a spatula to spread an even layer (approx. 1/4″ thick). While the chocolate is hot start placing your desired candy (M&Ms, Kit-Kat bars, chocolate chips, gummy bears, almonds -- basically whatever you want). Then place it all into the fridge to chill for 30-45 minutes, making sure the chocolate has hardened. Take the chocolate out of the fridge and cut/break into pieces to serve. (Photo via Just a Taste)

Candy corn jello shots 

People are always looking for different ways to mix up their jello shot intake, and thanks to the inventive mind of Laura Gummerman at A Beautiful Mess, there’s a sweet new shot worth trying. Head here to follow the step-by-step instructions. Now you have an excuse to swig back more vanilla vodka. (Photo via A Beautiful Mess/Laura Gummerman)

Vampire teeth

If you’re looking for a healthier option this Halloween season why not take a bite out of this recipe? All you need are apples, mini marshmallows, creamy peanut butter and slivered almonds. Cut the apples into wedges (1″ - 1 1/2″) and place them facing one another. Take a dollop of peanut butter and spread on top of each side, as well as on top of the wedge to act as a sealant. Then, take your mini marshmallows and line them on top of the peanut butter (similar to the whole ants on a log analogy) and “seal” together both wedges like lips. Then take the slivered almonds and slip them in as fangs.(Photo via Marthastewart.com)

Rice Krispie pumpkin treats

For this tasty treat, you will need three tablespoons of melted margarine, six cups of Rice Krispies cereal, 10 ounces of mini marshmallows, green Mike and Ike candy, and orange food colouring. In a large bowl, melt the margarine in the microwave. Remove and then slowly add in the marshmallows into the bowl then place it back in the microwave and heat until mixture is soft. Add a couple of drops of food colouring to get the orange tint. After that, wet your hands and roll the mix into small fist-sized balls and then place them on a pan lined with parchment paper. Place the Mike and Ike candy as a stem inside the ball and let sit. Enjoy!  (Photo via Food.com)

‘Boo-nana’ pops

Photo via sot/Getty Images

Having two children while in your 20s can be a real life lesson. 

I had my first girl at 23 and now, five years later, I’m expecting my second. I’ve started to notice how much can change in just a fist of years. I’ve been trying to wrap my head around how I’ve “aged” from pregnancy to pregnancy and wanted to share my concerns, lessons and advisable solutions, which can come in handy for any second-time mom, no matter the age. 

You’re pregnant again. Now what?

Seems like it would have been a no brainer, but this time around the big questions is if going with a OB-GYN or midwife (again), is the right choice. My last labour was five hours and they called it “natural” but pulled every method possible to get that kid out in speedy time. My midwife didn’t deliver because the doctor had to intervene, a.k.a. I underwent induced labour. 

After a brief health scare during the second trimester, I thought I would be safest to deliver with an OBGYN, but my doctor assured me it wouldn’t affect birth. So, we’ve decided to try the midwife route again since the first time around we experienced wonderful care. 

Keep your options open -- every pregnancy is different.

Prenatal care

Another concern: the prenatal vitamins. 

Going over the brands offered today I’m much more aware and interested in the organic versions. However, I still can’t remember if five years ago I used Materna, Centrum or Equate. Sound familiar? I want to use the same brand because my first baby was so healthy. I ended up getting a different brand (gasp!), but I’m doing fine so that concern is taken care of.

Boy or girl?

Oh, the concern of gender: is it a baby boy or girl? Our answer is coming soon. Picking room colours, theme, baby registry, outfits, etc, it’s all on the brain. But, It’s a whole new playing field five years later. I remember with my first, I scanned everything possible for my baby registry. I also ended up getting a lot of hand-me-downs. This time I look forward to perhaps choosing a few designs and outfits of my own (out of this world with selection and cuteness!), and not needing to accept items I know now won’t serve any purpose.

The baby gap

Having a second child also begs the questions of age gap preference. I wanted a four year age difference, basically waiting until my first little one was in school. I also wanted to soak it all in with my first born. I still can’t imagine another love as powerful as ours.

I struggle with the thought of not getting to rest as much with the second tyke, like I did with the first. Nothing beats relaxing during the first pregnancy. The nights alone, the last minute trips, the last few date nights without worrying about the wee one, the freedom of browsing shops, Pinterest for cute baby things, and the list goes on. Well, those lazy days are over I’m thinking because not a day has passed since the birth of my first, that I haven’t had alone time and simply not worried about what she’s doing. It’s impossible not to think about it. Now with two to worry about...I should say goodbye to my own headspace now, what’s left of it.

Baby stamina

Speaking of headspace: I do still make my best effort to keep fit during pregnancy. Just like my first, I’ve been making time for prenatal yoga and walking a ton. The second pregnancy, I find at least, keeps you more active simply ‘cause you already have one of them to look after and play with. I’m concerned with the amount of energy I’ll have no caring for two kids. I hear the post weight melts off thanks to running, after popping out two babies. I can’t bloody wait.

The diet

A lot has changed since my first pregnancy food wise, too. There’s a new super food every week, there’s a new scientific study released on the regular, and there’s a lot more organic options available. I learned so much when I became pregnant at 23. 

I tried new foods I never tried before or dreamed of making (avocado, sweet potato, for example). I basically learned how to cook only because I got pregnant. 

All the fuss over food sourcing and choosing organic, local options definitely consumes my head (and budget) daily. I’m more paranoid over what I choose to eat because I’m also trying my best to make sure whatever goes in my mouth benefits my baby and I. 

As for cravings: It was steak last time, but this time around it’s chicken that turns me off. It’s been great having another pregnancy during the summer though -- thank you, unlimited watermelon!

Baby shower, anyone?

In five years’ time I do regret getting rid of a lot of our baby things. We all do it, right? We pass things along in a circle of family and friends, expecting to get it back for when “the next baby” arrives. Thing is, apparently we don’t get a baby shower for the second pregnancy? Different families have told me this. Is this the case? Why? I believe every life deserves to be celebrated (and endless showering of diaper supplies really goes a long way). There, I said it. I threw my girlfriend a second shower, but named it a diaper party because everyone was gasping at the idea of a second shower. And heck I’d do it again.

Ouch, my 20-year-old body:

OK, let’s talk about the physical aspect of pregnancy no. 2. I had one pregnancy in my early 20s, as a college kid, and this one is towards the end of my 20s while being a career woman. 

I didn’t start out this pregnancy as thin as I did my first, nor as in shape, nor as rested. 

As mentioned above, I do my best to keep with prenatal exercises and finding that personal time is a hell of a lot more challenging for round two. 

It will come. Everything comes with time, right?

Support system

Now with round two, I have a better idea of who’s sticking around because that they stuck around with the first time. A woman goes through a big flux in friendship changes, especially if, like me, you’re the first to have kids in your “circle.” I’m not expecting much more now, except for people understanding that helping me means not just holding the new baby, but making the other one feel just as loved. Oh, and maybe bringing over a fresh meal or two. 

You can not be too shy to ask for help

As for our relationship: because of the five year gap I think there has been some areas where we’ve needed to “remember” the pregnancy lifestyle, the changes, the mood swings. I depend a lot more on my boyfriend after work and on the weekends to ensure he’s playing as much as possible with our daughter. Mama is tired. 

I think it’s important for people to know that even though you’ve been down this road before, it’s gotten a bit weathered and -- some extra TLC for growing family can go a long way.

The fashion statement

To grow on one of the previous sections: A physical concern is that my right hip is hurting (words I never said as a 23 year old mother). I’m cramping more, too, boobs are already bigger, I’m noticing more uncontrollable acne this time around, and simply put, I don’t care what I’m wearing as long as I’m comfortable. 

My first pregnancy was like a maternity runway every day. I spent all my time browsing vintage stores looking for the sweetest statement pieces for my bump. I attended film festivals and music events and people could hardly tell I was pregnant because I looked so good. 

This time I come with a little more cushion and a lot less time and energy than before. I dart straight into the maternity section to find more comfortable options. I hope once my belly pops I’ll be dressing it up again, you know, in tighter style pieces because I do care about I look -- I’m just busier.

The main event: birth

There’s the ongoing mind worries and ongoing curiousity. I have been filled with stories from my friends and family about light labours and 24-hour long labours. What I have heard is that the second one flies out. No birth is the same, but my mind is consumed with thinking about the unexpected, regardless if I’ve done it before. 

Still, will my pelvis still be narrow? The doctor oddly talked about this following the forceps and induced birth -- my midwife told me not to worry. 

Will my water break naturally or in some public place? Will it break in the hospital? 

Can I hopefully do a better job of “breathing through the moment” or whatever they called it?

My takeaway from it all 

After recently getting inspired to run (from my couch) following the Olympics, I’ve decided to challenge my new aches, pains and pregnancy gains. I’m going to start training. Thinking as an Olympic athlete, I’m also eating, stretching, exercising, meditating and doing everything I possibly can to create a stronger body. 

By knowing I’ve done my best to prepare, regardless of the outcome, I know I’ll be mentally and physically strong post birth. 

I want to be able to immediately hold my baby, experience skin-on-skin right away. 

Not every athlete wins the race, but I’m definitely looking forward to crossing that line knowing I’m creating my healthiest self for my growing family. 

My amazement of film began when I was very young.

I remember being six and TV Ontario was playing a film where Charlie Chaplin was sitting on a bench with an actress, a silent scene playing out. The guy who was narrating the film started talking about how the characters on screen “love each other” but off screen that’s not the case at all. It showed them fighting. 

Instantly I thought, “This is incredible. They’re pretending and creating a reality that looks real but it wasn’t real. It was magical.” 

I never suffered from not knowing what to do in life, what I have suffered from is people stopping me from doing it and having the courage to fight around that.

I grew up on film sets all over the world, Los Angeles being one of them, and that was thanks to my father, who’s a filmmaker. I could brag about his accomplishments -- but that hasn’t helped me over the years. Nor is he me. 

First lesson: just because you have a family member in the film industry doesn’t mean you get the part. In fact, I auditioned for a part and was on the verge of getting it (in Canada), only to be told that because I was his daughter I wasn’t going to receive it. It made no sense, but it happened. Doesn’t make me less proud of him in his work and his teachings, but sure as hell discouraged me.

You learn, even at a very young age, what you need in the acting world. You need an agent, and basically you learn fast that you have to deal with other people to help you get a job. It’s not like some professions where you study and you’re brilliant, you pass your exams, and your credentials on paper help you land the job. That isn’t acting. 

In acting, you constantly have to present yourself to the best ability and realize you may not get picked -- it’s an insane life of rejection. You’re always living on the edge, you’re very emotional, you have to be open to things and often you don’t know how to turn that off -- well I didn’t when I was growing up.

I also didn’t have a stage mom mother like a lot of other teenagers had, you know, the mother that pushes hard for you to land opportunities and their life revolves around making you a “star.” I’m my own stage mom. 

Looking back I wish I was more proud of the decision of controlling my own career: booking my own appointments with agents, getting myself into Toronto, putting my portfolio together -- all as a young teenager. 

Instead I was concerned, worried, stressed, frustrated, insecure -- I wish I embraced my rebellious and independent nature more. I also wish that when certain moments came into my life I capitalized on them more, right away. Opportunities only come so often and once you get your foot in the door you need to jam it through. And for everyone giving an opportunity to you there are ten others ready to take it away, or get under your skin, or frustrate you...or all the above. 

I remember being told “how dare you make a music video” after I had been asked to do so by a music artist who was displeased with the work that the previous Canadian company had done. Apparently, I couldn’t just accept such a proposal and had to go through “the process” that is required when major corporations are involved. “You have to be able to communicate with us so we can decide if we will go forward, that’s how the Canadian system works.”

Again, people trying to stop me. 

So, I left Canada and found my tribe in the U.S., specifically in L.A. I quickly found out that Americans are very open to artists, everyone has a place in the arts. I wish I could’ve maybe tried to stick it out in Canada, but I didn’t have the patience nor the muted tongue when it came to B.S. grant applications, which are a major part of the Canadian film industry. 

I’m not putting down Canada, but I’m not feeding the machine with lies I once told myself: it’ll change, this will get better in Canada, there will be more parts, there will be more variety, it won’t always be so streamlined, there won’t be so many regulations, you will find a place. Over 13 years later and I still haven’t returned, except to visit family and do the odd gig here and there. L.A. is home.

In the States if you find something you want to do you go and make it happen--you don’t worry about getting a grant to fund a film. The Coen brothers got money from their dentist. 

So younger self, again don’t get caught up in roadblocks, find a way around it, create, make it happen. 

While in Canada there were few opportunities to learn and create, film schools and programs weren’t as prevalent as they are today. But, within six months of me studying at the NY Academy I had a 60mm camera in my hand and made four short films. 

I may not be famous or a big star, but I’ve taken what I learned and made a name for myself. I’ve learned that it’s OK not to know everything, not to put yourself through the ringer--it’s OK to have empathy for yourself and go through the process, it doesn’t all “just happen” in an instant. It can, but when it doesn’t that’s fine, it’s not because you’re not deserving. 

Sure it’s different for every individual no matter where you are in the world. There are obstacles, but being fearless and going for it, is what you need to drill in your head. 

As actors all we want is the audition. Everyone should watch Casting By, whether they’re wanting to enter the film industry or just want to get some sense of it. It’s all about a remarkable women who fought the industry and has forever left an impression we only dream of making. 

All photos via Getty Images

Magnesium is one of the most important macro-minerals we need in our bodies, but millions of people don’t get enough of it -- and many of them don’t even know.

There’s a laundry list of benefits associated with magnesium: from helping regulate potassium, sodium and calcium levels, to being needed for over 300 biochemical functions in the body, to overall cellular health -- making sure you are getting enough of the mineral should be on your daily to-do list.  

While you can’t always decipher if you have a magnesium deficiency by simple blood tests (since most of the magnesium in the body is found in the bones and cells), there are warning signs to take notice of. Muscle spasms, leg cramps, insomnia, fatigue and anxiety are among some symptoms that could indicate there’s low levels of magnesium in the body.  

Green leafy vegetables that are packed with chlorophyll are sure bets when it comes to absorbing magnesium, but they’re not the only foods that are high in the electrolyte. 

According to the Dietitians of Canada website, men ages 19 to 30 should intake approximately 400 mg per day while women ages 19 to 30 should intake 310 mg per day. 

Here’s a selection of foods that you should idle for magnesium-rich benefits. In addition to these foods, supplements and even magnesium oil (to be rubbed on your feet for example) are other options to improve your levels. 

Pumpkin seeds, squash seeds (without shell)

Serving size: 60 mL (1/4 cup)

Magnesium: 307 mg (approx.)

Brazil nuts (without shell)

Serving size: 60 mL (1/4 cup) 

Magnesium (mg): 133 mg

Almonds (without shell)

Serving size: 1 cup 

Magnesium: 80 mg

Spinach

Serving size: 1 cup

Magnesium: 157 mg 

Chard 

Serving size: 1 cup

Magnesium: 154 mg

Salmon (cooked)

Serving size: 75 g (2 1/2 oz)

Magnesium: 92 mg

Halibut

Serving size: 75 g (2 1/2 oz)

Magnesium: 80 mg

Yogurt or Kefir

Serving size: 1 cup

Magnesium: 50 mg

Avocado 

Serving size: 1 medium size avocado

Magnesium: 58 mg 

Dark chocolate

Serving size: 1 square

Magnesium: 95 mg 

Peas, black-eyed peas/cowpeas (cooked)

Serving size: 175 ml (3/4 cup)

Magnesium: 121 mg

Soybeans

Serving size: 175 mL (3/4 cup)

Magnesium: 109 mg

Soy nuts

Serving size: 60 mL (1/4 cup)

Magnesium: 99 mg 

Flaxseeds

Serving size: 30 mL (2 Tbsp)

Magnesium: 78 mg

Cashew butter

Serving size: 30 mL (2 Tbsp)

Photo via Stella/Getty Images

By: Mel Carrey

Almost a year ago, I was working an event and this woman who looked about my age looked at me and exclaimed, “How do you work in PR and have kids?!” 

Then, another woman of the same age who had overheard prompted me, wondering if it was possible to have this career and kids too. She was genuinely, deeply intrigued and concerned for her own future. She really wanted to know if it was possible.

Let’s take a look back before fully diving into these inquiries.

At age 20, I entered the field of public relations for all the stereotypical reason our professors shot down: I wanted to be known for throwing the best parties, knowing the coolest people and working the hottest fashion shows. I quickly immersed into the music and film scenes, hitting the clubs nightly with my new boyfriend. We took pictures with celebrities (of course making sure they remembered my name). It was a fast-paced life, a sleepless life, a party life, and a super entertaining life. 

When I got pregnant 24 months into our relationship, we knew we’d be the best damn parents. The most loving, the most nurturing, the most fun. 

After my daughter was born I left the television show I had been working on to pursue some work-from-home opportunities. The self-employed era was really picking up and I didn’t have maternity leave, so I was perfectly content to make some side cash. I started working hockey events, fashion shows, music events and festivals. Each were done on my own time and I made it work, with my baby by my side.

But when contract life wasn’t paying the bills, I started looking for typical PR agency roles -- something I had never done before. I had no previous interest in working within an agency or corporate PR environment. However, now that I was a mom, I had to pay the bills.

The first agency that hired me came fresh out of two years of working at home. They were impressed with my background in events and my education -- it overshadowed my lack of actual office life. I was part of a team of great young women, job-focused with boyfriends, dogs and their own stories...but none had the same responsibility of a child at home. 

As my first job away from my daughter, it clouded my thought process and left me very unhappy. The hours weren’t working, it was too far from home to make it back on time to pick her up from daycare. These were real life problems. I used to work around the clock when I worked in TV. Management tried to reason with my needs but the truth was: this is PR and you have to put in those extra hours to make the client happy and to ensure that events run smoothly. There’s always last minute hiccups, changes, additions, stresses --  like many jobs, you need to be 100 per cent all in, for each and every challenge. You also need to be flexible.

I was eventually laid off. I can admit now that I had a lot of growing up to do back then. I then went back to the work-from-home contracts again which lasted a couple of months. I flirted with a few agency contracts, but nothing full time.

I kept getting attracted to small agencies where all the work is left to a team of three people or so, and that tiny group makes shit happen! Soon I became at the mercy of a boss, like most of society, being told what to do, when to do it and how to do it. I realized something: I’ve been doing things my way for a while and although it’s slightly more unconventional, perhaps I have something to offer? Perhaps I’m boss-of-myself material?

By summer 2015 I was speaking with startups and a community hub, which housed a whole lot of them (startups). My daughter entered kindergarten and I entered the real world of grinders and around the clock hours. It was thrilling, it was new, it was in tech, and it was very, very, very low paying.

I started to think about the situation again. I knew I wanted to help others yet stay in control of my own hours. I knew this. My child was four now, and I wanted to have another. I was at the liberty of seeing her more because I could balance my low-paying job with attending to her. It was the best time of my PR mom life, however, it wasn’t going to keep us afloat financially. 

So, I made the decision to apply to yet another PR agency, again a small one. It was the fasted turnaround: I was hired right away and put into a senior role. On the first day of work I kissed my daughter goodbye and knew this change was going to give us more dough to play with and we would be happier. 

After almost a full year of working my own hours, I was thrown into agency life of a small team, underpaid and overworked. I was quickly thrown of my high horse, struggling to reason with management. Don’t get me wrong: I was enjoying and succeeding in the work, clients were happy and I had built some solid bonds. 

I also wanted to stand up and defend what a “proper work culture” is today.

I had a taste of this new wave of startups and tech entrepreneurs, which had trickled thoughts in to my own mind. I think it’s about considering the mental health of employees and recognizing that you get more out of a team that is taken care on various levels. I know this may sound idealist, and I’m perfectly aware that when joining the field of PR it’s known you typically don’t get credit where credit is due. The image that the thank you’s go to the higher ups, the company president, not the account managers. I get this, I get this. 

Listen, I’m not calling out PR agencies big or small, I know there are amazing places to work out there. This letter is more to encourage your that are reading, whether you’re a working mom or a single male, to do your research. Don’t settle until you have found your true work family. We’re talking about your life here. 

Today I have a boss I report to and a team I work compatibly with. I’m not running the show on my own, but Im running with my pack that I found after years of ups and downs. I’m not the only mother anymore, I’m one of many. My voice is heard, my opinion is considered, and my work gets done. I’m happier than I’eve ever been and thanks to this happiness and amazing find, I’m blessed to be able to embark on my first official mat leave to have baby no. 2. Funny thing: I’m terrified to leave work. I live to work and I work to live. If you’re reading this don’t stop searching until you can proudly admit those words.

Live to work and work to live. 

One of our favourite pastimes may be sweating it up in a Zumba class, or perhaps running laps, but what’s not so fun is the stinky clothes that follow. Tossing them in a huge laundry pile to sit is a surefire way to get an ungodly, foul smell that looms in your home. Or perhaps they don’t even make it to the laundry, and (gasp!), remain in your gym bag overnight. In both cases, not tackling those workout clothes head on can lead to more than an annoying stench -- it can actually ruin your gear.

Thankfully, we're here to help. Check out this step-by-step guide on how to get your workout clothes as clean as possible -- and make them last as long as possible, too.

Key to note: Since most athletic clothing has spandex or lycra fabrics, fabrics which repel water so you stay drier, you need to make sure water is in fact a big component to the cleaning process. 

Here are some go-to steps to take when handling the dreaded workout clothes:

1) After use, turn your clothes inside out -- expose those pit stains. This also helps preserve colours. More importantly, your body oils, bacteria, dead skin cells and other icky things that latch onto the inside of the clothing are fully exposed.

2) Before you throw the gear into the washing machine, soak your clothes. Do this by adding cold water with vinegar (a half cup is plenty) in a bucket, then let your clothes sit for 15-30 minutes. Vinegar helps kill bacteria, so it’s essential to incorporate into the mix.

3) After you’ve soaked the clothes, toss them into the washing machine and add a small dollop of detergent. Don’t overdo it -- you could end up creating more problems since the detergent often only masks odours. 

4) Adjust the settings to cold water and gentle cycle to prevent from your clothes shrinking or fabric being worn and torn. 

5) If you happen to have an extra stinky set of garments, add a scoop (up to two ounces) of vinegar during the rinse cycle of the wash. You can also opt for baking soda, as it too helps with deodorizing. 

6) Air dry your bra, socks, underwear etc., instead of tossing them in the dryer. Or, if you swear by the dryer, make sure to put the heat on the very lowest and most gentle cycle.

7) Don’t forget about your gym bag as it is what’s carrying those sweaty clothes around. Try mixing detergent, warm water and lemon juice (preferably squeezed from an actual lemon) -- the combination will help break down smells associated with sweaty garments. Scrub the inside of your bag (using a brush or by hand) before placing it in the wash on a gentle cycle. Hang dry.  

If you want to enhance your cleaning experience there are a couple of products worth investing in, too. 

Photo via Getty/Choreograph

By: Mel Carrey

Dear mom-to-be,

I need you to know that emotions will run deep at different times, even if you think you’re the luckiest, happiest, most grateful mom on the planet. You’ll get hit with that one time you’re feeling good again, young and energetic and think, “maybe I should go out tonight, not a date night -- girls night!”

But who do you call?

You realize it’s been 18 months and your friends don’t think to call you anymore to dance because, well, it’s not your lifestyle at this time. You realize he’s not pouncing you spontaneously anymore either because you’re usually too tired. 

You start to remember the good ol’ days, the younger days, the memories. When the tears start swelling mom-to-be here’s what you do: 

Get. Over. It. 

Shake your head and realize you’re crazy for ever wanting to turn back time. In five years, you’ll look back and think today was the “good ol’ days.” Sure, you can want it, but not all the time. It’s way more exhausting being 20 and fit than 30 and set. I have read letters to other pre-mom selves and have bawled my eyes out over and over again.

So I decided it was time to share my own perspective, drawing comparisons that can help us live in the moment when the times have us drifting off to those earlier days. Note: crediting my baby for who I am today has been the best coping mechanism for me.

Feelings

Pre-mom: Feeling like it’s the end of the world when you fight, breaking up with girlfriends, crying over drunken rants, gain five pounds. The struggle is real.

Mom-self: Loving someone this much hurts so much. Compassion is burning. My boyfriend is such a hot dad, and I think I’m actually starting to like my mom.

Vanity

Pre-mom: Spending endless, pointless hours in the drugstore, checking out the new department store brands for the latest lip gloss and mascara. 

Mom-self: I’m now surrounded by a little person who loves me and only me and a boyfriend that loves me for giving him the greatest love of all. If that love and messy buns isn’t true beauty, then I don’t what is. Although I do admit, I miss spending endless hours in Shoppers and just thinking about myself. 

Food

Pre-mom: Avocado? Ew.

Mom-self: What is organic and locally grown? Why did I not care about what goes in my body before? Thank you babies for making me wiser and healthier --we’re going to live long lives together.

Conversation

Pre-mom: Who you slept with, how to have sex like that, what to pre-drink, how I hate my job, how she ditched me at the bar, how we spent all weekend at his house watching movies without leaving the bed, worrying about what to order in.

Mom-self: It’s true, it’s all about poo. Also: dinner, playdates, what she said, what she did, what she ate, how we should do it but we probably won’t. Oh, and calling out our friends who don’t have kids yet. 

Exercise

Pre-mom: Dance floors, five nights a week.

Mom-self: At home prenatal and postnatal pilates and yoga DVDs. Sure, I’m allowed to join a class but I usually practice wherever my baby is sleeping because that gives me peace. I’m totally attempting to embark on the fit mom bandwagon for the 100th time during my “free time.”

Sleep

Pre-mom: Ritual

Mom-self: No sleeping in -- but who cares? More time to watch my monkey grow. But...I may pass out today, so somebody please help!

What’s in the purse

Pre-mom: Gum, cash, mickey of vodka, smokes for social settings, lighter to help a friend in need, birth control.

Mom-self: Oh you mean the purse my sister bought me at Christmas for nice times and no kids stuff rule? Gum, crumbs, juice box, water, crackers, smushed fruit, wipes, hand sanitizer, broken crayons, receipts for doodling, hair elastics, McDonald’s toys. And, no more birth control.

Social life

Pre-mom: Booming. New friends every weekend!

Mom-self: I have a new best friend now. Although unplanned, I am super grateful to have had babies in my 20s. To each their own timing, every couple writes their own rules. We are unmarried and richer than ever with two babies to call our own. I’m blessed for the time and energy I have to spend on them. I’ll never forget my first blood test after I found out I was pregnant...I was crying. As the nurse took my blood she asked “Why are you crying?” Not wanting to reveal too much I just told her I’m anxious. She responded saying that I was lucky and she and her husband have been trying for years to get pregnant. I was forever grateful from that moment on and my former social life did not matter. 

Love

Pre-mom: I’m never settling down. But when I accidentally fell in love I had no idea it as going to hit me so hard. We partied good together. Endless events. This meant drinks, smokes, poor diets and awesome late nights coming home at the break of dawn.

Mom-self: And baby makes three. Move over hunny because there’s a little miracle sleeping between us now that I can’t stop staring at even when she’s asleep. Oh, but when you look at her that way I fall in love all over again. Only this is deeper, more profound, more nerve-wracking. I know you want to hold me tight, but you love her cuddles too.

Mental health

Pre-mom: All intact, aside from some school stressors, the odd flirt with a dangerous diet, but hey I got it under control.

Mom-self: I love my baby more than anything, but...I think I have anxiety. I was aware and read about postpartum depression, but I know I’m not depressed. It’s just because I haven’t been sleeping, I think. Then there’s all this negative news, too, it makes me so worried about my child being raised in this world. I think about how I need to make sure I’ll be here for her for the rest of our lives, but how long will that be? I’ll have to stay strong for her. So that’s what I’m doing to do. I shut out the negativity, talk to a few friends about my thoughts, laugh, maybe take up writing to help sort through things, and even talk to my doctor. These emotions are normal, I need to remind myself of that over and over again.

Dear pre-mom-self: 

When you hear the nurse say “you’re so blessed to be pregnant. My husband and I have been trying for years,” you’ll wipe your sorry tears and your view of life will change forever. You’re 23, and while you keep thinking that “young mom” wasn’t supposed to be you, it is, and you’re going to be fine.

Pre-mom self: You are young, determined, stubborn and fun. As an older sister to three girls and the daughter of divorced parents, you were not going to settle any time soon. Alone time was much needed.

You were a dream chaser. You moved to the big city to follow your dreams of becoming a big career woman with your name in the lights. Sure, the friends you left behind are settling, getting married and having kids, but not us. Twenty year olds in the city do not settle down that fast. 

You should see what you’ve become now. The route was a little longer but, man, you’re in a place you could never have imagined. Who is this mom-self we admire so much? 

You graduated, pre-mom self. You worked through college, made incredible things happen in this big damn city and you graduated. When you signed up for school did you have any idea you’d be carrying your 16-week old baby all wrapped up in your belly, across that graduation stage?

Did you ever think at 23, the love of your life, whom you met six months into school, would be in the audience cheering and clapping for you and your growing family?

Did you ever think that moving your ass to the big city to chase dreams would have you chasing toddlers in dirty diapers?

That you would be making your three annoying sisters all proud aunties while they’re still in their teens?

That you could still have the career you worked so hard to build, but just after you got your family settled?

I know you’re around, pre-mom self. Because we’re both still chasing dreams, loving life, growing a career and still stubborn as hell. Only now we’re doing it with a bit more back up, and our squad is growing now with baby no.2 on the way.

Did you ever think we would want to give birth again after what we went through?!

Well, pre-mom self, we’re stronger, wiser and more determined than ever. We’re still in the minority, making it all work in the big city as a young family. This gives us an edge that I know you dig. 

Image: By Invite Only | Yu Ahn Cluster Necklace

You’re probably used to seeing citronella candles to ward off mosquitos, but what if you your own jewellery could repel the pesky critters?

Enter By Invite Only, a Singapore jewellery company that is warding off mosquitos with its new line of accessories. 

The Yu Ahn Collection is the company’s new jade-coloured line (jade is a Chinese colour symbol said to protect against evil and bad luck), that comes with pendants equipped to hold refillable citronella balls. 

Image: By Invite Only | Yu Ahn Cluster Necklace

The bracelets and necklaces are made with stainless steel while the Yu Ahn Square Bracelet also incorporates onyx and rhodium plated chains into the design. Each item comes with three citronella mosquito repellent beads (under $5 CND for the batch).

The demand has been so high that the collection is currently sold out, but those interested can sign up for a waiting list until stock is replenished. According to the website, By Invite Only focuses on “producing style-lines that are constantly replenished to give buyers fresh choices,” so the sold-out dilemma shouldn’t last long, hopefully. 

Prices ranges from $45 CND to $62 CND. 

Trixie Khong, the company’s founder, recently told Mashable that people aren’t always keen on bringing mosquito repellent with them everywhere they go even though “mosquito-borne diseases are a problem in Singapore.” So she decided to “combine the concept of safety with fashion.”

By Invite Only | Yu Ahn Square Bracelet 

Like many other countries, Singapore is currently dealing with the Zika and dengue viruses, both of which can be spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. According to health officials, there are over 275 Zika cases in Singapore and surrounding states (such as Johor). Singapore has reported two cases that involve pregnant women. 

Just today nine more locally transmitted Zika virus cases were announced in Singapore.

Thus far, the Zika virus has been reported in 67 countries and territories. 

Getty Images

When a vegetable is good for your face and your health, it’s a eureka feat. Artichokes are becoming more and more sought after for multiple health reasons, but let us not forget it was the ancient Greeks and Romans that first discovered its glorious benefits eons ago. Artichokes come packed with nutrients, which aid in the battle against illness and also act as source of healthy living. Belonging to the Cynara family, the base of the artichoke (known as the “heart”) and the fleshlike portion of the leaves are the points of desired eating. The core of the artichoke (called the “choke”) is not edible. Artichokes are usually best eaten after being steamed or boiled for upwards of an hour (depending on the size of the artichoke) and there are a variety of recipes that you can work the nutrient-packed green into. 

Here’s a breakdown some of the core benefits of artichokes and why they should be a mainstay in your diet. 

Antioxidant rich

Artichokes are rich in antioxidants, which can help battle illnesses like cancer, as well as give a much-needed boost to your immune system and increase circulation throughout the body. In fact, artichokes contain more antioxidants than red wine, blueberries or dark chocolate. Foods high in antioxidants are known to combat free radicals that can damage cells and cause problems in the body.

And rich in potassium, too

Potassium replaces electrolytes in your system and are helpful in offsetting the levels of sodium intake, in turn lowering your blood pressure. Magnesium, which is also found in artichokes, can also help normalize blood pressure and regulate blood sugar levels. 

High in fibre

Artichokes are high in fibre -- and we all know how important it is to get fibre into your system. Artichokes have the highest amount of fibre among vegetables and most grains. One medium artichoke has approximately 10 grams of fibre, which is approximately 40 per cent of the recommended daily intake.

High in vitamin K

Artichokes are a source of vitamin K, which in addition to helping with blood clots and bone strength, reduces damage to neurons in the brain. Research continues to show links between vitamin K deficiency and Alzheimer’s disease. Artichokes act as a vasodilator, so its properties can open blood vessels and allow more oxygen into the brain, which then can improve one’s cognitive ability.

Low in calories

Artichokes are low in calories and fat, but high in fibre so you feel fuller. It depends on the size of the artichoke, but on average you’re looking at 65 calories or less per serving, for a medium-sized artichoke, which is pretty great. Plus, since you peel back layers of leaves the amount of time to eat it in entirety can lead to a better speed-to-eating ratio (a.k.a. it’s not just one bit and you’re done).

Aids in digestion

Artichokes improve digestion and the artichoke leaf extract has been noted to relieve indigestion pain, including acid reflux. The artichoke leaf extract can help increase the flow of bile in your system which helps you break down food and digest fats faster. 

Strengthen bones

 Artichokes can help with bone health because vitamin K is present in the vegetable, which helps to strengthen bones. Artichokes also produce collagen, which helps with connective tissue and bone density. Iron is also present in artichokes, which again increases bone strength.  

Lower cholesterol

Artichokes can help reduce cholesterol levels. Being that artichokes are so rich in soluble fibre, they help lower cholesterol and balance blood sugar levels. The artichoke leaf extract has increasingly been linked to a natural means of lowering cholesterol and decreasing symptoms related to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). 

 And they’re good for your skin, too

Artichokes also have skin benefits. The antioxidants found in artichokes can potentially aid in the prevention of wrinkles. Like many other anti-aging ingredients, the nutrients found in artichokes can help improve skin elasticity and hydrate skin. These nutrients can also strengthen and elevate your shine in your hair. Products like Green People’s Quinoa & Artichoke Shampoo have already tapped into this growing trend. 

Keep in mind

There are concerns associated with artichoke leaves or extracts, particularly those with gallbladder disease, pregnant or nursing women, young children and people who suffer from kidney or liver disease. Make sure to consult a healthcare provider if you are concerned.

What’s your favourite way to eat artichokes? Let us know by tweeting @YahooStyleCA.

Instagram/dollyparton

There are few women that have braved the entertainment world quite like Dolly Parton. Her decades worth of contributions to the music industry have won her countless accolades, and now with the release of her 43rd studio album, “Pure & Simple,” Parton once again proves why she’s a Hall of Fame-inducted singer and songwriter with a new rainbow of love songs.

But it wasn’t always about the spotlight for the small town, working class girl from Tennessee who grew up with 11 siblings. Her confidence, which radiates from her eyes to her voice, comes from years of life lessons, many of which were experienced alongside her husband of 50 years, Carl Thomas Dean.

“Pure & Simple” reverts back to humble beginnings -- those trivial teenage moments of lust as well as the savoury love stories that spray the heart.  

When it comes to self-esteem and managing one’s life, Dolly told Yahoo Canada that it’s important to “embrace yourself and pace yourself, and don’t wear yourself out.” 

Looking back at her legendary career and thinking of what she would say to sixteen year old Dolly, the eight-time Grammy winner furthered: “You should do as much as you can, but you don’t want to burn that candle down before other people get to see it glow.”

The country music icon comes with a signature look, one that was adopted from a woman she knew long ago. “I’ve modelled myself after the town tramp from my hometown,” she said. “I thought she was beautiful even though she was a bit overdone. I wasn’t a natural beauty so that was beauty to me.”

From her bleach blonde locks to accessory-heavy, flashy outfits complete with sky-high heels, Dolly Parton’s look may come off as too much to some, but she could care less what anyone views her as.

Instagram/dollyparton

“I just feel comfortable the way I dress. I’ve never been uncomfortable with myself and frankly if I’m comfortable with me then other people that are around me are too,” she says with cheeky confidence. “I know I look artificial, but I like to think I’m totally real where it really counts.”

“I think everybody should just work and live within their own comfort zone,” she adds. “You should dress yourself and do whatever makes you feel more comfortable in your own skin and in your own personality.”

After all, it’s about “being true to yourself, to your basic principles, values, and buckling up and going for it.” 

She recently told “Larry King Now” that the two most important characteristics to her are “honesty and being on time.” 

As for her true beauty secret? In a press conference held in Toronto, Dolly jokingly credited “good makeup, good lighting, good doctors,” to keeping her youthful glow in check.

Dolly Parton is currently on her extensive tour which crosses into 60-cities including multiple stops across Canada. 

It can happen to the best of us intentionally or unintentionally: your other half starts stealing your tees and distressed denim look and you’re totally fine with it. Couples can begin to mimic each other -- and soon one’s wardrobe has cross-pollinated with his or her main squeezes. Celebrities are also privy to this emulation, and sometimes celebrity couples become so closely cloned that these still frames are moments forever etched in your mind (we’re looking at you Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears circa 2001.)

Scroll through the gallery above to see some of our favourite times celeb couples have twinned on the red carpet or elsewhere. 

Britney and Justin aren’t the only ones...here are 10 other celebrity couples (some on better terms than others) that highlight a fashion unity of Hollywood proportions. (Photo via Getty Images)

Victoria and David Beckham

Similar to that notorious image of Britney and Justin, there’s another famous duo who brought matching outfits to a new level. Throughout the years, the Beckhams have kept their style on point, complementing each other’s looks on the regular. Can anyone wear white as well as these two can? Really though. (Photo via Getty Images)

Kanye West and Kim Kardashian

Kimye have continuously shown off their matching styles -- some of which are outrageously in-your-face. At the 2016 Met Gala, the duo went all silver, with Kim in a Balmain gown and Kanye in studded Balmain jacket. You can also catch the couple in similar oversized coats, suits and distressed denim on the regular. Mrs. Kardashian-West has even praised her hubby for transforming her style for the better. “I mean, back in the day I thought I had the best style,” she said in an interview with CNN Style. “I look back at outfits and I'm, like, mortified.” (Photo via Getty Images)

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge

Even British royalty aren’t afraid to look like classy waiters, as can be seen in this photo of William and Kate from their college days. The famed duo typically keep things simple, elegant and refined on their outings -- expect collared shirts and wool sweaters a plenty. The Duke and Duchess recently attended American’s Cup in Portsmouth, England, decked out in matching polos --because of course they would.

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt

When Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie showed up to the 2014 BAFTAs in matching tuxedos, it was hard not to take note. Angelina chose a Saint Laurent tuxedo while Brad went with Valentino tux, and both pulled off their looks perfectly. Angie’s open necktie and crisp white shirt combined class with comfort, and Brad added an extra dose of Hollywood glam with a fitted suit and clean cut look. Each awards ceremony these two attend they continually bring their A-game star presence without overdoing it. (Photo via Getty Images)

Brad Pitt and Gwyneth Paltrow

Clearly Brad Pitt takes inspiration from his right hand woman (or it’s just coincidence....maybe.) Sure, they’re not wearing the exact same thing, but does that even matter when not only their hair, but jawlines and faces in general look completely twinsied-up? The two dated back in the ‘90s and oozed laid-back sexiness in these long black trench coats. They’re even posing the same. (Photo via Getty Images)

Beyonce and Jay Z

Queen Bey and Jay Z are two entertainers that know how to stun on and off stage. The duo’s combined net worth is well over $1 billion, so you can expect them to not shy from lavish living and top drawer clothing purchases. But they also aren’t ones to shy away from dressing down in denim (or in this case, matching bombers).  (Photo via Splash News)

Aaron Paul and Lauren Parsekian

“The Path’s” Aaron Paul and his wife, Lauren, are also fans of leather, but cool it down a notch by pairing their leather pants with double-breasted coats. The two wed in 2013 and are constantly side-by-side, especially if there’s a music festival happening. There’s an effortless approach to their styling, whether they’re sporting overalls, beachwear or tailored overcoats, they simply gel together. (Photo via Getty Images)

Jessica Biel and Justin Timberlake

The casually cool couple keep a relatively low key profile, but when they do spread their celeb wings, they often do so in harmony. Their urban dweller style includes cozying up in similar jackets -- whether it is a suit jacket, bomber jacket, or fine-threaded peacoat, the double J team enjoy their layers. Like many of the couples on the list, the married twosome like to wear a lot of black. (Photo via Splash News)

Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher

This T-shirt and jeans loving duo can regularly be seen at sporting events and venturing around L.A., often wearing their go-to teams’ jerseys or T-shirts. In fact, while many get all dolled up for a date, Kunis told Us Weekly that the two have white T-shirt date nights. The two took their vows in 2015 and are currently expecting baby number two. (Photo via Splash News)

Johnny Depp and Amber Heard

In need of an IV drip, anyone? 

It may have sounded odd 10 years ago, but in today’s innovative and interpersonal economy, cosmetic medicine is a booming business that continues to breed.

Medical spas have become fixtures in major cities across around the world. The “always on” lifestyle has prompted professionals to seek out new ways to obtain streamlined boosts of energy and overall wellness, in hopes of staying rejuvenated, alert and productive. 

Enter REVIV.

Formed in 2010 by a group of certified physicians including ER doctor Johnny Parvani, REVIV is a wellness spa that offers infusion treatments and booster shots that are packed full of essential vitamins and minerals. Celebrities like Rihanna, Chrissy Teigen, Kelly Osbourne and Cara Delevingne have already embraced the wellness company that brings the notion of health cocktails to a new extreme. While it may have entered the spotlight for being hailed as the new “hangover cure,” REVIV’s specialized formulations are said to help with everything from hay fever to jet lag.

Available now in four U.S. cities including the inaugural Miami location as well as New York, Las Vegas and Los Angeles, REVIV has also expanded internationally with 38 locations and counting. The strongest push has been seen in the last two to three years and just last month REVIV launched in Hong Kong, cementing its presence on four continents.

Over 60,000 treatments have been administered thus far and a couple of months ago Canadians juiced into bourgeoning company, launching the flagship REVIV Canada location in downtown Toronto. 

So far the med spa has done over 250 infusions, servicing a key demographic of busy young professionals who simply don’t have an off switch.

“Well over 85 per cent is repeat customers,” explains founder & GM of REVIV Canada, Christopher Chapheau.

A young professional himself, Chapheau’s foray into the wellness world was ignited many years ago. A “health nut,” former competitive rugby player and a disciplined fitness competitor, Chapheau instantly found purpose with REVIV and began the process of bringing it to Canada. Believing wholeheartedly in the service, Chapheau continues to practice what he preaches as the main soundboard for REVIV Canada.

Yahoo Canada decided to check out REVIV up close and learn more about its background and why it’s so darn attractive.

How it works

Upon arriving at REVIV Canada, clients begin the intake procedure, receiving a medical questionnaire that asks various questions regarding one’s health background and lifestyle. After filling out the pages you then undergo a consultation with a registered infusion-vetted nurse (hired from top hospitals in Toronto, ERs, and IV teams) where vitals are taken including your heart rate and blood pressure as well as details such as your height, age, sex and weight. If you are fit for a treatment you then speak with a physician (via Skype), and after you’ve been OK’d from him or her you’re good to get infused. 

For the first visit expect at least 45 minutes from “walk in to walk out,” according Chapheau. After your first consultation your time in decreases since you’ve already been charted therefore you only need to deal directly with the administering nurse.

As mentioned above, entering the medical spa does not guarantee you a treatment, and as I saw first hand while doing my own treatment (we’ll get into that later), people are turned away. And no doctor’s note will push that no to a yes, FYI.

“We’ve had people come in who’ve thought they were perfectly healthy, but their blood pressure was reading very high so we simply couldn’t and wouldn’t treat them. If someone’s blood pressure is past a certain point we advise them to speak to their physician,” Chapheau says.

He echoes: “There’s zero point in taking any risks as a patient and for us,” and REVIV’s ethicacy, medical protocol and professionalism is what he believes to be instrumental in the company’s success.

As detailed by Parvani: “Treatments are based on the Myers’ Cocktail, which was formed back in the ‘70s at John Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland.”

What you get is a concoction of electrolytes and vitamins -- think a mix of B vitamins, vitamin C and magnesium, for example -- and the IV treatment can help boost the immune system, energize, curb chronic fatigue and pain, increase alertness and help cure hangovers, among other boasted benefits.

Yet the foundation of REVIV is surrounded around wellness and hydration.

At REVIV, you can receive IV infusions and booster shots, broken up into “health and wellness infusions” and “recovery infusions,” to be more precise. Key to note: in REVIV’s recovery infusions there are medicinal active ingredients such as pain killers, anti inflammatory meds, antacids and anti-nausea meds. Again, the essentials to help treat concerns like the flu, hay fever and so forth. 

“The way the vitamins and minerals are being delivered allows you to get instant results and 100 per cent absorption because it’s going directly into your vein and tissue,” explains Chapheau. And since the formulas are water soluble, “anything your body doesn’t use is naturally flushed out, running no risk of toxic build up.” 

While it varies with each person, generally results are felt immediately and last for a number of days. The intermuscular injections (a.k.a. the booster shots) are slower to release, providing an “extended benefit that can last upwards of a week.” Each infusion bag lasts between 20 and 30 minutes.

“A lot of customers will come in and get IV infusions and the immediate results make them feel fantastic, lasting a couple of days, but they’ll also get a booster shot to increase the longevity of the wellness effect,” he says.

Services and pricing

REVIV’s infusions include the “Hydromax” (pure rehydration), “Ultraviv” (nausea relieving), “Vitaglow” (glowing skin) and the “Megaboost” (multipurpose health). Oh, and don’t forget about the “Royal Flush,” which is a double whammy: you get two bags (Ultraviv and Megaboost), pushing both infusion and recovery formulas into one. It’s like a double espresso for the body, but with an extra aid to prevent a pummelling crash.

REVIV’s booster shots like “B-12″ and “Slimboost” offer a wedding of energy and metabolism-heightening inducers and they run between $25 and $50. The IV drips ring in between $100 to $150, and $275 for the deluxed-up “Royal Flush.”

REVIV Canada’s medical director, Renier Van Aardt, is the president of the Canadian Association of Aesthetic Medicine (CAAM) and also a family physician based out of Halifax. 

In 2000 Van Aardt became interested in laser medicine and by 2004 he had “transitioned completely into cosmetic medicine.” It seemed only fitting to add something like REVIV to his medical arsenal. Two other seasoned physicians from Toronto have been contracted to also assist with such treatments.

Sure, we all hope to guzzle eight glasses of water a day, but actually succeeding in doing that is not a reality for most of us. As Renier notes: “The main purpose of REVIV is hydration; to get your optimal fluid level. The formulations are simply to support health--these are all vitamins that we would get in our diet, but in a much lower concentration.”

“When you take vitamins by the mouth, they actually lose quite a large component through the liver before getting into the bloodstream,” he explains.

The REVIV model

Van Aardt was also the doctor that vetted the roster of REVIV’s Toronto nurses.

“I assessed each of the nurses and their skill set to make sure they had the aptitude to place the intravenous in a clean inflict manner because it should be as painless as possible. We don’t want to inflict any trauma when people are having intravenous infusion treatments,” he explains.

To be clear: you’re not sitting with a needle in your arm. The needle is used for a split second in order to insert the small tube for the IV drip -- so if you’re all clammy about needles, take a breath and that’s how fast the prick takes. Seriously.

Chapheau draws a correlation between what REVIV is doing and what one would experience inside a hospital room.

“There’s a reason why when you go to an emergency room at a hospital for whatever illness, one of the first things they do is put an IV in your arm,” he says. “We’re taking the most effective way to deliver any active ingredient to your body that the medical industry has been using for eons and we’re using it to deliver essential vitamins and minerals to your body.”

“It’s not like we are reinventing the wheel,” furthers Parvani. “Sure we put our own spin on it, but essentially we are just commercializing this, offering it in a very non-clinic type atmosphere.

Speaking of atmosphere, REVIV Canada’s set up is tranquil and serene, and houses an open lounge area (there are private room options too) that invites you to shut off while watching looping documentaries. You can also strike up convos with fellow “REVIVers,” expanding your social circle drip by drip.

Treatment frequency

In order to receive a treatment you need to be clinically sober, but the stipulation as to how often you can come in seemingly varies. Yet there is still a criteria: “We won’t let you come in and do more than three consecutive recovery treatments in two weeks,” states Chapheau. “And, this is tracked in our system.”

Van Aardt suggests that clients come in weekly at the very most, but speculates that the average person would probably do a treatment once a month, perhaps on a special occasion or if there is a pressing symptom, for example.

“If there is a reason why you’re feeling more dehydrated, like the flu let’s say, this would be a very good way to give you a boost and help you get back on your feet,” he explains. “Maybe you went to a music festival or a wedding and you’re dehydrated so you need to get yourself back to your normal routine, this can help.”

He also believes REVIV is a better choice than swigging back an energy drink, or six. 

“I’m not really a fan of energy drinks because they contain a high percentage of caffeine, which is a diuretic. It may give people a temporary boost but they’ll be a big downer pretty soon after. Not only will they come down from the high of caffeine, but they’ll be less hydrated as well. REVIV is a much more physiological, supportive treatment for optimal health than energy shots would be,” he says.

But don’t look at REVIV as a fast fix that will produce miracle results.

“Health and wellness is a lifetime commitment and something that should bring pleasure and satisfaction to the client,” explains Brittany Gordon, a personal trainer and nutritionist from Caven Nutrition Group.

One shouldn’t neglect the importance of healthy living in this equation too. To obtain optimal health Gordon advises eating whole, natural foods and moving away from overly processed food items. Abiding by these small dietary changes, Gordon’s clients have noted boosts in energy, weight loss and a better digestion.

It’s all about the hunt for balance.

Parvani views REVIV as a combination of eastern and western doctrines. 

“Eastern doctrines think of things in accordance with balance -- any system with balance is going to function more optimally, whereas, with western medicine, we tend to think of things as diseases and treatments. I like to think of REVIV as a combination of this.”

“Whether it be an external factor, you know like being out in the sun all day and dehydrated, or something internally like a cold or flu, we use western techniques to bring the body back to balance.”

Finding this balance is essential, but balance to me may not be the same balance you need and it is important to also know that one can go overboard trying to obtain this equilibrium.

“It’s definitely possible to go overboard on vitamins and minerals,” Gordon states. “Although our body does a good job of processing and flushing out what it doesn’t need (think water soluble vitamins), when asked to do this too much it becomes taxing on the body.”

Brittany also points out another concern, which is the overuse of micronutrients that could lead to the “creation of nutrient imbalances.”

“Most micronutrients work with each other one way or another. Too much of one and not the other throws off the relationship, which can lead to minor or more severe issues,” she furthers.

According to Chapheau, REVIV Canada’s most popular cocktail is the “Megaboost” since it is a cluster of nutrients (vitamin C, magnesium, etc.,) paired with a “Slimboost” injection (amino acid, vitamin B complex). Essentially you are getting an all-encompassing body pick-me-up and a metabolic boost in one sitting.

Testing the service

After fulfilling the preliminary requirements, it was time to test REVIV’s treatments first hand. As someone who lives a 24-hour lifestyle (it is currently 4 a.m.), has a history of insomnia and sleep deprivation, and is not afraid to admit energy drinks are regular remedies -- an option to fuel-up REVIV-style was more than intriguing.

Vein-snapped and ready, REVIV’s “Megaboost” formula was prepped for my intake. During the drip session I felt anxious at first, not because I was sitting with an IV in my arm per se, but because I wasn’t emailing, texting, talking, working, reading -- I was doing nothing at all. 

While sitting and watching a mob of fish swim through a TV screen, others came into the building. Personally I don’t typically associate IV’s with relaxation so that was an adjustment, one that I think would permeate with more visits.

Nonetheless I got over my batch of first-time jitters and continued to feel the cooling sensation within.

I also played witness to a couple that came in and when one of them failed the screening process, they were politely told that REVIV wasn’t in the cards for them on this particular day. That impressed me. 

After about 30 minutes (I didn’t really know when the bag was empty), I was released into the world to feel the after effects of good ol’ REVIV. 

Immediately, I didn’t feel too much (full disclosure: I was late and had just over an hour to pack and catch a train out of the city), but soon after I found myself mellowing-out, but still sprouting with energy, if that makes sense. I also felt like I had gotten more sleep than I actually did. Throughout my travelling and the next day the feeling continued; I truly did feel balanced out.

For my next cocktail Parvani’s advice:

“Try the “Megaboost” and “Vitaglow” at the same time and subsequently the “Slimboost” injection. The “Megaboost” gives you lots of fluids, the “Vitaglow” has the miracle master antioxidant, glutathione, and “Slimboost” will help with metabolism and increase the duration of what you would get from the other two.”

Future of REVIV

“I think the future of this is endless. I like to compare it to botox ‘cause when botox came out 10-15 years ago there was so much controversy, but nowadays it’s become so commonplace. Plus, people are finding new uses for it,” Parvani says. “I really think if we fast-forward 10 -15 years you’d find something like REVIV at every corner.”

REVIV doesn’t just seem like a service, it’s a service as a lifestyle, one that according to Parvani has unintentionally helped improve people’s skin, hair and nails. 

All I know is it’s hard not to imagine what’s next: a REVIV club where instead of dancing people chum up while receiving an infusion? Universities where break time is perfect for a REVIV shot? Roving infusion pods that pop up on the regular? REVIV sleepovers? Too far?

Let’s face it: being fit takes work -- a lot of work. And celebrities are no stranger to pushing things to the limits. We’ve already talked about some of the crazy diets that stars swear by, but for some roles, diet is just one half of the equation -- there needs to be some serious fitness effort too. 

Whatever way you look at it there are extreme methods that celebrities employ in order to maximize the authenticity of their role on screen. Scroll through the slideshow above for some of those daring actors and actresses that have stepped it up hard when it comes to certain film role requirements and let us know what you think by tweeting @YahooStyleCA.

Blake Lively - “The Shallows”

One of the most recent actress to take the plunge (literally) is Blake Lively for the summer blockbuster “The Shallows.” Lively cites the experience as similar to “training for a marathon. She credited her trainer, Don Saladino, for helping her get fit “in the most healthy way.” Also, the filming began eight months after Lively had her first child and her “body was already completely different than what it normally was...by the time I was done the movie...I had muscles that I had never had before.” Speaking to E!, Lively noted: “This was six weeks straight, six-day weeks, no lunch breaks, 13-hour days, four-foot waves at all times.” Her nutritionist also provided what her diet was like, which consisted of the “80/20″ eating mentality.

Jennifer Lawrence - “X-Men: First Class”

Jennifer Lawrence credits her friend and trainer Dalton Wong for helping her get into shape for the film, and also creating a lifestyle that was manageable for her. 

Some of the key takeaways from their plan: Mix salt water in with your regular water, lemon water, and coconut water, throughout the day (sipping water throughout the day is key, too); portion control and eating in moderation, getting solid rest even if it means a power nap; making fitness fun so it “doesn’t feel like exercise,”; occasionally have 75 per cent dark chocolate; knowing what to drink alcohol wise (cut the fruity drinks, stick with vodka sodas or wine); strengthening your posture and maintaining stress such as “inhaling through the nose, filling your lower belly, lower rib cage, then up through your chest and throat, Wong writes. “Exhale through the nose for a count of three.” Wong also made sure to break up her fitness exercises throughout the day. 

Gerard Butler - “300″

Talk about impressive. For “300,” Gerard Butler and his trainer Mark Twight trained for three months straight. According to Men’s Health this muscle-heavy circuit went like this: 25 pull-ups, 50 deadlifts (135 pound weights), 50 push-ups, 50 24-inch box jumps, 50 floor wipers, 50 single arm clean presses (using a 36-pound kettle ball) and 25 pull-ups -- and this was all with no resting period between exercises. He also did other intense fitness activities like sword fighting under the training of Venezuelan bodybuilder, Franc Licastro. “300″ made $70 million in its first weekend, so suffice to say Gerard Butler is thankful for the cut and the coin. 

Daisy Ridley - “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”

If you follow Daisy Ridley on Instagram, you may be aware of her ongoing workout routines, particularly her #fitnessfriday videos. These videos date back to when she was training for the coveted role in “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” a role that has her making some serious sprints in it, among other physical moves. 

Have a look at this video to see what kind of training she underwent. What’s also empowering is that Ridley is very open about her battle with endometriosis and polycystic ovaries, and her exercising shows such battles aren’t going to get the best of her physically. 

Filming has recently wrapped on “Star Wars: Episode VIII,” which has also seen Ridley’s routine stepped up. Her system: warm-ups, three rounds of activators, two circuits of three rounds and a finisher of 20 seconds on 10 seconds on five rounds. She combines exercises like air squats, kettlebell lifts, bench presses, lunges, and more, which vary up from week to week. Better than simply writing, how about watching one of her more recent videos below.

Tom Hardy - “The Dark Knight Rises” 

While it may not be as extreme as some of the above, Tom Hardy knows how to bulk up quick.  According to Men’s Fitness, Hardy’s workouts were split up throughout the day (similar to Lawrence), and the muscle training would start in the morning, then lunchtime, then early evening, and finally before bed. Each session would last approximately 20 minutes, focusing on strength training. He allegedly put on 30 pounds in three months. Hardy also transformed his body for other films including “Bronson” and “Warrior.” About “Bronson,” he told Ask Men: “There was no official regime. I did very non-specific exercises such as press-ups, push-ups, ab work and resistance training with the help of my Pnut, who is a 16 stone of pure muscle and also an ex-U.S. Marine.”

Chris Pratt - “Zero Dark Thirty” and “Guardians of the Galaxy”

For his role in Kathryn Bigelow’s big-time movie, Chris Pratt’s daily life went like this: 500 pushups, five miles of running and working out at the gym all while barely eating anything, according to his interview with People. Although it may have worked in the short term, he “felt terrible afterwards, had to get shoulder surgery, and wore [himself] down doing that because [he] didn’t have the proper coaching.” Luckily he learned from his mistake and for “Guardians of the Galaxy,” he actually ate more food (taking in approximately 4,000 calories a day), but made healthier food choices, drank lots of water, and didn’t get into the starvation mode he did in “ZDT.” He dropped 60 pounds for the role and did sessions of P90X, swimming, boxing, kickboxing, running and a triathlon, according to Men’s Fitness.

Christian Bale - “Batman Begins” 

Christian Bale is one of the most dedicated actors (if not the most) when it comes to bulking up and slimming down for roles. When he played Trevor Reznik in “The Machinist” he turned his body into an emaciated form. For “Batman Begins” he got exceptionally sculpted using plyometrics, core and resistance training. Other films he’s had to lose/gain weight include: “Rescue Dawn” (lost weight), “The Prestige” (gained weight), “Terminator Salvation” (lost weight) and “The Fighter” (lost weight). You can only imagine what this must do to his body, but anything for the craft, right?

Mila Kunis & Natalie Portman - “Black Swan”

By no means is what these two ladies did for their roles healthy, but they had to make their characters believable. Similar to what Bale did for his role in “The Machinist,” Mila Kunis and Natalie Portman underwent a drastic transformation to extremely petite sizes for their roles as ballerinas in “Black Swan,” with both women dropping below 100 pounds. Portman’s diet apparently consisted of mainly almonds and carrots. She also trained heavily, over 7 hours a day and sometimes she even worked out over 12 hours a day. Kunis did things a bit differently: she stuck to a 1,200 calories a day, trained four hours a day, seven days a week, for seven months. Kunis has been famously quoted as saying “It took 5 months to lose 20 pounds for ‘Black Swan’ and five days to put it all back on.” 

Zoe Saldana - “Guardians of the Galaxy”

Zoe Saldana is not only a talented actress, but she knows how to stay fit and healthy (and she’s no stranger to peculiar beauty regimes, too). In a Shape Magazine feature, Saldana’s trainer Steve Moyer explained what Zoe did to get into the immaculate shape seen in the film. “I like to combine three or four exercises in a row to keep the workout moving and take advantage of the time....I do lots of cardio and core...I like to do a leg exercise like squats followed by a core exercise like plank pushups, followed by a cardio exercises,” he told the magazine. He also mentioned that the actress used MoyerMeals, his own meal delivery service, consisting of “gluten-free, no added sugar, nothing artificial--balances meals that taste great too. Every meal is a lean protein mixed with a complex carbohydrates and vegetables in a perfect balance.”

Zac Efron - “Baywatch”

From sheet masks to fermented ingredients, DIY beauty hacks to LED light therapy, there’s a lot to be gained from Korean beauty care. We’ve even consulted beauty guru, Michelle Phan, about her go-to products and treatments, which we’ve divulged below. Phan notes she’s been using Korean beauty products for years and “swears by their skin care products.” 

Scroll through the slideshow above to see some of our favourite Korean beauty products, and let us know which ones you’d try by tweeting @YahooStyleCA.

Here are some of the top K-beauty trends and brands you need to know about. 

Cremorlab

Cremorlab is one of Michelle Phan’s top products. The main foundation of Cremorlab products focuses on T.EN. (thermal water therapy, eco-energy, and natural nourishment). It’s all about hydrating and maintaining ultimate health of your skin, and Cremorlab has a selection of products that boast just this. The Mineral Mist Water spray is a perfect grab-and-go pH product. Simply spray your face or neck (pre- or post-makeup) from eight to 10 inches away, and let the T.E.N thermal water lightly coat your skin, giving a refreshing and moisturizing seal. Also note the T.EN. Cremor Cleansing Veil wipes which have sunflower and green tea extract (to help moisturize and soothe) or one of the multiple face masks Cremorlab has to offer, made to help with everything from blemishes to improving overall skin complexion. 

Sheet Masks 

Sheet masks are a popular K-beauty ritual, and many come in bundles to maximize your dollar. While regular face masks are handy, these contoured masks really hold tight to your face, giving you an all-encompassing moisture-rich zest. Choose from bundles focused on anti-aging to brightening to hyrdation remedies, or try this power combo pack to get a bit of everything. The length of time varies, but expect to have the mask on for at least 20 minutes in order to get best results. 

LED Therapy

LED devices are extremely popular these days -- and Phan even notes that every night she uses the Quasar MD Plus red LED light therapy device to rejuvenate her skin. Apparently the Quasar MD Plus allows you to “pamper your face with four times more power than the competition,” helping combat aging skin. Other hyped systems include this celeb-favourite LED mask, which will run you a cool $3,000. The premium devices are intense and get deep into the skin, helping reduce wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and other skin imperfections. One Korean beauty professional even noted such devices are like “FitBits for the skin.” 

Be the Skin

Another favourite of Phan’s is the Be the Skin product line. There are many cleansers, creams and toners to try out such as the Botanical Pore Serum and Botanical Pore Toner. Both the serum and toner are packed with natural ingredients and Alaskan glacier water. The pore serum is ideal for normal to oily skin and helps to control grease, while the pore toner is great to use after you’ve completed your serum cleanse. Make sure to apply the pore serum to your T-zone (and any additional oil-heavy areas) and for the toner, use only a dime-sized amount on a cotton ball and dab over skin. 

Hair shading

We know all about shading in our eyebrows to add thickness, but another K-beauty trend that has been picking up steam over the last couple of years is to take that one step further. Simply brush eyeshadow along the hairline, which helps to sculpt the hair and the face. This process can also be dubbed as “hairline contouring” and can help smooth out things like a widow’s peak. Of course, it is suggested you use an eyeshadow that matches your hair colour so that it blends in and doesn’t draw too much attention to your scalp. Simply use a soft bristled-brush to apply the shadow and voila. (Photo via sokoglam.com)

Cushion Compact

You’ve probably been noticing the push for this new-ish way to apply makeup, whether it is for bronzing or not. Charlotte Cho, founder of Sokoglam.com noted that a cushion compact should be looked at as BB cream but in a condensed form. Cho told Glamour, “In Korea, the cushion compact is considered a fusion of skin care and makeup because it doesn’t just cover your skin, it also improves its look, feel, and health.” One of the items Cho recommends is the Banila Co VV Bouncing Cushion, which has SPF 50, infuses the skin with collagen and isn’t messy when it comes to discarding excess foundation. Another option is VDL’s Beauty Metal Cushion Foundation which is long lasting, doesn’t cake your face and comes with a metal plate to help with cleaning and measuring the right amount of foundation to use. 

Egg White Products

At some point in your life, you’ve probably dealt with dark circles under your eyes. There are numerous causes that contribute to this, one being it’s part of hereditary genes. Others include consuming too much sodium, lack of sleep, allergies, irritation from makeup removal and some even suggest sleeping on your stomach can increase the puffiness and dark circles around your eyes.

We’ve heard the “drink water, consume less alcohol” assertion, and of course the “get more sleep” plea, but sometimes we need more help. Plus, the skin around your eyes is the thinnest and this is why it’s important to be safe with what you choose to put on your face.

There are fixable solutions that can help. For those wishing to remedy the situation, here are some products and simple tricks to aid in the combat against dark eye circles and bags. Keep in mind that you don’t need to cover up dark circles, these examples are just for those who are on the hunt for options. Always consult a skin care professional if you have any concerns. 

Scroll through the gallery above to see some tried, tested and true solutions for undereye bags and dark circles. 

Preparation H

Take a note from celebrities like Sandra Bullock, who swears by the hemorrhoid ointment cream. This OTC cream serves its actual purpose (relieving hemorrhoid pain) but many also use it to help reduce puffiness and under-eye discolouration. Simply dab and gently smooth the cream under your eyes. Key to note: this is a temporary fix on restricting blood vessels, it is not going to magically make your dark eye circles disappear forever. Prep H is made with Phenylephrine, so if you have sensitive skin be wary as constant use could lead to skin thinning and eczema. Also, be very careful not to get this cream in your actual eyes because it is made up of ingredients like hydrocortisone, which will burn and cause serious discomfort. 

Tea bags, spoons, cucumbers, ice

All these items (and cutlery) can be used to reduce puffiness and help rejuvenate. The common denominator among all of them? Coldness. Freeze caffeinated tea bags (the choice of what kind is your call) and rest them on your eyes for at least 10 minutes. Tea bags contain natural diuretics and they induce vasoconstriction, so they’re said to help decease puffiness and calm the vessels under the skin. You can also do the same with cucumbers -- kind of like having your own DIY spa experience. Another option is to freeze (or cool) two spoons (for at least 10 minutes) and then hold the spoons with the bottoms directly on your “bag area.” Or, if you’re like me and kind of impatient, try taking ice cubes and place them on your eyes for about three seconds. (Photo: Getty Images)

Orangey-red lipstick 

This concept is really cool. YouTube beauty guru Deepica Mutyala did a great video on how lipstick can help counter the blueness of dark circles. Essentially, before you apply foundation, take any lipstick that has a red-orange tint to it and using a makeup brush, apply it under your eyes (and under your brows if needed). After you’ve painted your spots with red, blend in your foundation over top. (Photo: Youtube/Deepica Mutyala)

Eye masks

There are plenty of cooling ice masks available, but Sephora is one go-to spot to find a selection that can really cater to your individual needs. The Sephora Eye Mask Collection offers a wide range of masks that help with everything from moisturizing your skin to detoxifying to refreshing tired eyes. Also, the price is reasonable, so you can switch up from the avocado to the pomegranate mask without feeling guilty about spending heaps of money. Also check out Karuna’s Renewal+ Eye Mask for deeper conditioning and treatment of fine lines, puffiness and dark circles. 

Concealer

We’ve all used our best (or whatever is on hand) concealer to hide imperfections, blemishes and sometimes even eye bags. The problem is many concealers sweat off your face after time in the sun, or simply don’t do the trick even after multiple applications. The 12-hour Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Waterproof Concealer (say that three times) is a great waterproof concealer with a matte finish that also helps with dark circles and holds up in the sun. It’s also very compact and convenient. 

Concealer

Another trusty, waterproof and opaque cover-up is IT Cosmetics’ Bye Bye Under Eye concealer. This has been a buzzed about product for years and thanks to its anti-aging serum and vitamins, it helps decrease redness, bags, dark circles and age spots. 

Orange-tinted Concealer

Just like the orange-to-red lipstick shade, opting for concealers that have an orange base is a good idea. Choose shades like tangerine or peach depending on skin tone. The Bobbi Brown Corrector comes in a variety of shades so you can select the proper pigment that aligns with your skin. 

You can limit the amount of concealer you use if you select the correct colours for your skin -- this means not going with a colour that is the same as your actual skin tone. Using a colour chart is helpful in determining what shade works well. For example, for fair skin choose a pinkish concealer, for olive or tanned skin choose a more yellow-y concealer, and so on. This video is pretty helpful and gives you more of a visual when addressing the makeup-to-eye bag ratio. 

When it comes to owning an online empire with tact and class, Michelle Phan is a name that comes to mind time and time again. Known for her beauty, fashion and wellness emporium, Phan is one of the most recognizable YouTube beauty gurus -- but that just scratches the surface. Phan, an award-winning content creator, also co-founded the makeup subscription service, Ipsy in 2011, penned Make Up: Your Life Guide to Beauty, Style, and Success --Online and Off and just this year stepped into the world of webcomics, creating “Helios: Femina.”  

If that wasn’t enough to manage, in March 2015, Phan partnered with Endemol Beyond USA and created the ICON Network. ICON is a community of influential creators that collaborate with the digital production and distribution company, (Endemol Shine Beyond) to create content on everything from life advice to beauty to fitness. 

“Through my partnership with Endemol Beyond, ICON is the place where creators have a home to work with each other in a collaborative environment. It’s a place where they can be mentored and create something that is bigger than they could do on their own,” explains Phan.

The network first launched in the U.S. and the U.K and within one year has expanded to Germany, France and most recently Asia. The network has amassed over 400,000 YouTube subscribers, over 50,000 Facebook fans and over 9,000 Twitter followers. 

Beginnings

Phan’s interest in beauty started young, after spending a lot of time at the salon where her mother worked. After she was “finally allowed to wear eyeliner” she began experimenting, reading magazines -- much like any teenager. She began noticing how makeup made her feel, particularly “the sense of confidence, beauty and empowerment” it gave her.

Soon she started posting vlogs on the Xanga platform, an early blogging platform. After noticing her growing network was gravitating mostly to her online beauty tutorials, she started to elevate her skills and posted more beauty guides, rapidly. Clearly, Phan has capitalized on this over the years, with Forbes estimating she took in approximately $3 million in 2015 (Phan has quoted the number is lower than reported). 

But, as the 29-year-old is quick to note, her rising stock took time to achieve and the beginning stages required a lot of patience. It still does today.

“The life I lived before YouTube was pretty much that of a struggling artist. I moved several times, my parents divorced, and later my mother and stepfather separated,” she says. “I became an art student and worked as a waitress to put myself through college. I have continually pushed myself to evolve and grow since then.” 

Starting as a YouTube creator is not as easy as one may think, and narrating a portal that is unique and unlike others takes the same dedication and insight one would see with conventional programming. If you’ve watched any of Phan’s videos, read her online content or simply followed her social media dialogue, you can note her professionalism, but also her ability to keep people entertained. 

“I wanted to create a story and almost bring a more theatrical element to my videos,” says Phan. “If you’re always putting out the same videos, people get bored and they move on. I think because I constantly evolve and grow with my audience, I’m able to stay relevant.”

Staying relevant is extremely important in the hyperactive world we live in where every moment followings can rise and fall just as fast. And learning what an audience wants isn’t an easy job. With social media and online forums there is a level of trust you have to have in yourself first to gain an audience that believes. 

“My first video was awkward. Editing myself was so embarrassing. But, I posted it to YouTube and didn’t look back. To my shock the next day it had over 10,000 views and surpassed 40,000 by the end of the week. It was incredible to read the comments and have people all over the world thanking me, asking me how to do a smoky eye, or an acne coverup. The comments kept pouring in and that’s how it all began,” she says.

Entrepreneur spirit

In 2015, Phan made both Inc.’s and Forbes 30 under 30 lists. Her burgeoning enterprise has spread across the globe, bringing together inspiring, creative and original content that speaks not just to the millennial generation, although that is the audience that is most tapped in. 

Five years ago Phan’s plan was to build a network and launch of makeup line--two feats that she has accomplished. In August 2013, she launched her own cosmetic line for L’Oreal called em by Michelle Phan. She also became Lancome’s first official video makeup artist. 

Her most prominent venture, the subscription beauty service, Ipsy, is said to be valued at $800 million and currently has over 1.5 million subscribers. The company’s mix between glam bags and trending briefs has hooked people, and it’s also opened doors for brand exposure. The “glam bags” (which run $10 a month) come packed with select products from eyeshadows to jewellery; any company would be silly not to realize the exposure this can do for their brand. Currently, "glam bags” are shipped within the U.S. and Canada.

Ipsy Open Studios is open to everyone who wants to create and all tools and resources are provided to help enhance creative and connective productivity.

Empowerment and authenticity 

Phan’s ability to connect with audiences on a very personal level remains one of her strongest assets, and this is something she doesn’t take lightly.

“The message behind all of my videos and my work is to empower young people. I want to inspire them to be brave and remind them that they have the freedom to dream,” she explains.

You can note this message in every one of her videos, even in her sendoff of “good luck,” which is an encouragement for people to try new things: a look, a new perspective on life, a new chapter. 

She also speaks about the importance of authenticity, especially if you’re trying to build your brand online. 

“For the longest time, people have been exposed to the superficial and facades,” she notes. “The Internet brings a refreshing, authentic point of view that people have been searching for.”

Even with its powerful platform, those wishing to pursue an online marketplace in some capacity need to keep their priorities in check.

“Don’t do it for the numbers and don’t do it for the fame because if you do, you will be disappointed. When you set that expectation to have ‘this’ many subscribers and you want to make ‘this’ amount of money, you burn out really fast.”

She advocates the three Cs: content, consistency and collaboration. 

“Videos need to be high-quality so people can watch, share and learn. And uploads need to be consistent so subscribers get something new each time they come back.”

Inspiration and advice

At the start of 2016, Phan uploaded a video of her quest to find out more about her heritage. Throughout the video she offers enlightening quotes, visuals and an overall hopeful sentiment to everyone watching. She also lets viewers get an inside look at her musings, food excursions and simple day-to-day happenings.

“I am inspired by everything around me: technology, books, different cultures, even food.”

Her tenacious and independent nature has kept her hungry and she even told her mom (whom she cites as her biggest inspiration) that she would retire her when she hit 25. “Whenever I give my word, I kill myself so I do it--that promise becomes my purpose, and my purpose and biggest achievement has been retiring my mom as fast I could.”

It’s been over eight years since Phan began her foray into makeup video tutorials and while the landscape has changed and new applications (Snapchat for example) have popularized, there are still simple principles that Phan employs. With more than 8.5 million YouTube subscribers, Phan is aware of what works and what doesn’t. She’s also aware of people’s misconceptions, perhaps ignorance to the craft. And, she’s aware of YouTube’s evolution.

“When YouTube was first gaining popularity a lot of creators were focused on producing a viral video that would be seen by millions. Now YouTube has become more of a business platform where content creators have their own individual channels and they can build a true following and a brand.”

It’s this acknowledgement that has the Boston-native mentoring newcomers to the scene, explaining that it’s important for creators to understand that growing a following takes time. 

“You need to build solid content on your channel so that people know it’s worthwhile to subscribe to you. Consumers are most likely to choose a brand that they have a connection with.”

Those wishing to take the plunge should do so in baby steps, says Phan, testing the waters before jumping both feet in. 

“Start small and see how far it can take you in your spare time. See if you can monetize it and once you make a small living then decide if its something you want to pursue full time.”

As mentioned, Phan really stresses building content that is authentic, and as we have all come to see, our minds are constantly fleeting so keeping a hold on an audience is vital to one’s success.

“People want to be part of a larger story. It’s not just about the profits, but also about your message. When you have a message people want to be part of the rest will come.”

Her most recent endeavour, the “Helios: Femina” webcomic is yet another example of Phan’s creative mystique -- a digital comic book with new chapters coming out every Sunday, and yet another way for fans to follow along and connect. The series also focuses on the cornerstone notion of empowerment and has been years in the making. In fact, Phan came up with the concept at age 11.

“It was very important to me for the storyline to be centered on empowerment. By sharing one powerful story I believe you can ignite a movement and create a positive, supportive community.”

 Work/life balance

“Recently I’ve focused on working smarter instead of harder to create a better work/life balance. Staying present and consciously thinking positive thoughts, especially in moments when you are feeling down, is something I try to practice daily. Finding and nurturing your passion not only helps to develop self worth but can also build your drive and purpose.”

Since we know the love and appreciation Phan has for beauty products we couldn’t help but ask her what she’s into these days. 

Here’s what she’s all about as of late:

Makeup

- Colorpop eyeshadow creams

- IT cosmetics’ Universal brow pencil 

”I give it to all my friends regardless of their hair colour because the neutral taupe colour works with all hair and skin colours.”

Go-to product

- A good black eyeliner (such as her own em waterliner)

Tip(s): “You can use it as mascara by blasting it with a hair dryer until it melts, then use a spoolie brush to comb it through your lashes. You can also use a hair dryer to turn the pencil into a gel liner and an ombré gradient eye shadow--it thins out the texture of the eyeliner so it creates a gray colour, and then you can work your way up to the black shadow.”

Fragrance

- Essential oils such as lavender and rosequartz

“Essential oils are great for summer because they are not alcohol based like traditional fragrance formulas.”

Hair

“It’s not healthy to wash your hair everyday so I use a lot of dry shampoo. My favourite is Sexy Hair Dry Shampoo -- it revives my hair in one easy step.”

Actress Jaime King recently joined forces with Gardner and the Gang to launch The Lion’s Heart, a gender-neutral children’s clothing line. While King is certainly not the first to invest in all-inclusive apparel, she is bringing more attention to the importance of genderless clothing options. 

King opened up to People saying, “Somehow, the world decided that boys belong in blue and girls belong in pink and anything other than that is weird or strange and in some ways frowned upon--as if allowing a boy to wear purple or hot pink is steering them in the wrong direction.” 

The Lion’s Heart collection features “playful prints that are both meaningful and fun” and some of the prints show “animals that you’d typically not see in the animal kingdom getting along, sharing a milkshake.” Items from the clothing line run between $40 - $150 and are available for babies as small as nine months up to children of eight-years-old. 

In a time when spreading gender equality and acceptance for all is increasingly vital, we thought to put together some of the best genderless clothing lines and collections that are available for both men and women. 

Photo/Genics+Co x Madison Paige

Madison Paige has taken her androgynous self into the world of fashion design. The gender-neutral model, musician and social media influencer partnered with L.A.-based Photo/Genics Media’s clothing outlet, Photo/Genics+Co, to create five pieces available without gender stipulation. Choose between the “Reverse Me Tee” or the “Philosopher Snapback” hat. The “Sacred Muscle Tee” is a real standout too. In an interview with Nylon, Paige talked about how the cut is not to be exclusive for either gender: “The whole line is oversized T-shirts that fit the body of both a man and a woman,” she said. “They’re not cut in a certain way to promote any type of curvature of a specific body. Even the smaller sizes are still oversized, so it fits everybody.”

Zara

Zara’s Ungendered collection has been available for years now and the selection includes sweatshirts, T-shirts, jeans, bomber jackets and more. If you’re looking for comfy neutral colours at reasonable prices, Ungendered is a safe choice. 

Muttonhead

The Toronto-based clothing company is one of Canada’s best fair trade retailers when it comes to gender-neutral clothing, hands down. You can choose from a wide range of items (that aren’t just basic tees, although there’s nothing wrong with that) including an assortment of funky dress shirts, every colour of sweatpants, a reversible travel vest or board shorts. There’s also selections of accessories and grooming products as well as items for kids. Check out their S/S 2016 collection here. Muttonhead expands far beyond just your basic clothing staples, offering goods for yourself and for the home. Expect to find exclusives from Muttonhead as well as from brands like Naked & Famous. 

Nicopanda 

Nicopanda falls on the more expensive side of the clothing spectrum, but if you have the funds it’s worth looking at. The brand comes from the creative mind of Diesel designer Nicola Formichetti, who drew inspiration from Japanese anime and Hello Kitty. You’ll notice a bevy of black, pink, white and peach items all with eccentric details. Ruffled, pleated, deconstructed--Nicopanda offers daring silhouettes that break down any notion of gender stereotyping. Cutout hoodies, ruffle-racer tanks, oversized parkas, and ribbon jeans are among the choices. 

Gender Free World

GFW Clothing's online store offers various styles that can be sported by men and women. Those modelling the clothes are seemingly everyday people, showcasing different body types and looks. They house Tom-Boi briefs and boxers, printed short-sleeved shirts like this and tanks with the message “just me, no labels.” 

Butchbaby & Co. 

Butchbay & Co. celebrates pregnancy and opens a new lens on maternity wear. The company states it’s the “first ever alternity wear for pregnant masculine, transgender and queer individuals.”

FLAVNT Streetwear 

FLAVNT’s story continues to grow and this past March marked their fifth fundraising partner, Jett. The company not only offers genderless clothing but also helps support the LBGTQ community and broadcasts various stories from those struggling with acceptance. FLAVNT donates 15 per cent of sales to individuals wishing to undergo gender confirming surgeries. From skull-stained sweaters to tie-dye T-shirts to the “Wish You Were Queer Koozie”--there are plenty of eye-catching finds. 

Greyscale Goods