Is Your Favorite Brand Ethical? Demee Koch Weighs In

October 21, 2021

We all love animals and nature, traveling and learning about new cultures. There are so many beautiful things to try and to experience in this world. However, fast and mindless consumerism can put all the things we love at risk.

Especially in fashion and in beauty we tend to overconsume.
Do we really know what we are buying into and the consequences of our choices? Whilst organic cosmetics and eco fashion are on the rise, lots of brands are only lip-synching in making us believe they are harmless for nature and for the people manufacturing our products.
Why our favorite brands should be aligned with our personal values

Your shampoo brand now may added a sticker that says “vegan“. But hey, more often than not it means that it does not contain any ingredients derived from animals simply because it is made of cheaply available chemicals only.

Your sweater may say “organic cotton“ but it might still be made in Bangladesh under horrendous conditions for the workers.
It is now important to be aware that lots of brands try to jump on the “eco trend“ and start lip-synching.

This is why we ourselves need to make conscious choices by researching products, ingredients, and manufacturing processes on the internet. No one, of course, does not ever want to harm anyone – so why would we go for a brand that has harmful business practices?

Are you aware that unethical brands cannot survive without you? 

We can make an impact every single day. We hold the power on how to direct that impact – is it for the good or for the bad?

For example, we can influence the ban of dangerous chemicals, unethical business practices and nonsense one-way plastic usage. How? Through our purchasing power. The money we spend is the lifeblood of the company. So wherever we direct this lifeblood will survive.
If we would truly practise our purchasing power through conscious actions, we will be able to strenghten the brands that share our values.

We are living in the age of (almost) unlimited access to information through the internet. It’s time to make use of that wisely. Are the brands really true to their word? Do they care about environmental protection and the local communities in which they produce? Personally, I would only resonate with brands that are true to my values. And I believe we all need brands that are sincere with their social impact.

Ask yourself: How do you make your purchase decisions? What keywords are looking into? And now, evaluate is it a hype or a seasonal trend? From there, you can make a conscious decision. Let’s truly understand our purchasing power and re-think the brands we buy into by practicing conscious actions.

 
From there, you can indeed look good, feel good and do good.

About Demee Koch Demee Koch is the CEO and founder of a brand that is silently disrupting the beauty industry. With two decades of experience in the industry, she has launched the Conscious Beauty movement with her new brand and has been supported by leading industry experts and royalty. The Swiss Filipina’s approach to beauty, selfcare and products mirrors in the brand called DE MOI®, whose products are developed by a team of game changers under a no-nonsense philosophy. With a 360° impact approach, and according to the principles of honesty and fairness, the brand creates result-oriented products under the high Swiss quality standard. Since 2005, Demee has shared her knowledge of conscious entrepreneurship as a trusted business advisor and director with successful global brands in fitness, fashion and beauty. Philanthropist Demee Koch is an advocate for inclusion and women’s empowerment. She was awarded Most Influential Filipina In The World 2019, and holds the “Ambassador of Peace” role with the Universal Peace Federation UK.

The Only Scent Worth Wearing: The Harmonist’s New Yang Collection

Currently coveting the new Reconsidered Yang Collection, which is available to you lucky peeps on Oct. 22. Hey, if there is a scent lover in your world – this is for them. Or in my case – me, me, me!

The Harmonist is about to relaunch its Yang Collection and I could not be more excited: five radiant aromas, reconsidered in a new parfum concentration.

The five elements – wood, fire, earth, water and metal – are regarded as the building blocks of all natural phenomena. Interconnected yet opposing, they enhance and diminish each other. Wood feeds fire, but it also parts Earth.

“Golden Wood, Desired Earth, Velvet Fire, Matrix Metal, and Sacred Water are vibrant, assured aromas,” says founder Lola Tillyaeva of the Yang Collection. “Warm and radiant, they are designed to energize and nourish the wearer, much like the sun’s light. While we are immensely proud of the collection, which was conceived in collaboration with my dear friend and nose Guillaume Flavigny, The Harmonist is an ongoing conversation. Fragrances must be allowed to grow and evolve, like people.”

Using the original formulations as a starting point, the collection’s scents were reconsidered as parfums, a concentration that allows ingredients to better reveal their depth and character. The result, as always at The Harmonist, is a refined balance between the fragrance’s harmony and the individuality of each ingredient.

Fragrance Descriptions

Golden Wood

Woody · Citrus · Oriental

Golden wood is a noble aroma that comforts and consoles. Its gourmet and woody notes nourish the wearer, like the strength and vitality of a centuries-old tree.

Notes: Bergamot, Mandarin, Bitter Orange, Bees Wax, Pear Granita, Guaiac Wood, Oak Wood, Tonka Bean, Cabreuva

Desired Earth

Oriental · Spicy · Woody

Desired Earth is a majestic aroma that intrigues and inspires. Its powerful notes of spice and wood elevate the wearer, like the summit of the highest peaks.

Notes: Elemi, Cade, Immortal Flower, Red Cedar, Myrrh, Tolu Balsam, Vetiver, Iris, Vanilla

Velvet Fire

Aromatic · Woody · Oriental

Velvet Fire is a charismatic aroma that arouses and ignites. Its sensual combination of woody notes impassions and illuminates the wearer, like the sun’s caress.

Notes: Clary Sage, Cypress, Myrtle, Neroli, Saffron, Tobacco, Cistus, Tonka Bean, Oud

Matrix Metal

Woody · Metal · Musk

Matrix Metal is a powerful aroma that emboldens and strengthens. Its hot-cold accord is contrasted by metallic notes and creamy freshness, bringing clarity to the wearer, like the burnished surface of a blade. Notes: Metallic Notes, Cardamom, Nutmeg, White Tea, Cyclamen, Vetiver, Sequoia, Sandalwood, White Musk

Sacred Water

Citrus · Marine · Floral

Sacred Water is a fluid aroma that stimulates and settles. Its notes of citrus fruit, fresh spice and minerality both invigorate and soothe the wearer, like the unfolding expanse of a tranquil sea.

Notes: Citron, Mandarin, Fresh Ginger, Magnolia, Orange Blossom, Laminaria Seaweed, Amyris, Grey Amber, Cedar

Known as the Wuxing, they have been used to interpret everything from the cosmos to our internal bodies for millennia. They were also the inspiration behind our initial collection of ten signatures scents.

“Each of us possesses all five elements within us. But we are guided by a particular element, which is informed by the date, time and location of our birth, as well as our gender.”

To find your element or to better understand the energies operating within you, click the link here: Find Your Element. (This is the fun part)

Meet the creator:

Lola Tillyaeva: Merging the art of haute perfumerie with the tradition and philosophy of Feng Shui, Lola Tillyaeva (Till) launched The Harmonist in 2016 as an expression of a desire to render balance and harmony through the power of scent. Committed to a life-long quest to understand the mysteries and wonders animating life’s fundamental questions, Lola envisioned a unique fragrance house founded on the wisdom of Feng Shui, translating its principles into perfumery. Articulating a recognition that each individual possesses his/her own distinct birth element, Lola imagined The Harmonist as a vehicle to offer clients an enhanced and personalized experience in finding balance and well-being through our unique collection. With a mission of empowering clients to strengthen their self-knowledge and well-being, Lola has emerged as a singular voice within the wellness and beauty space, continually lending new purpose and possibility to the art of perfume.

To find out more about Dr. Tillyaeva,
visit www.lolakarimova.com
www.lolatill.com

THE ART OF SCULPT(ery)

October 19, 2021

As a sucker for all things wellness and beauty it would be to no surprise that I would fall into the influence of body sculpting. Spending so much time on Instagram I began to see an increase in influencers speaking about a lymphatic drainage massage, and one in particular: @sculptery

I was already familiar with the benefits of a lymphatic draining, and how it applied to those post op. Being a gentle massage that encourages movement of lymph fluids around the body it helped the system remove toxins from the bodily tissues: aka, fix bloat, boost immunity and aid in weight loss. Additional benefits from the massage were improvement in the skin appearance – perhaps a major reason why people choose this as part of a facial.

Therefore, what was so special about Sculptery and how it applies to ‘sculpting the body’? At first, I figured it was a fad, just having multiple influencers do the usual promo shout to create buzz. But as any junkie needing their fix, you bet I made a quick appointment.

Entering the premise, I was greeted by Sarah the owner and specialist that would be conducting my session. She was perhaps one of the friendliest people I had ever come across. As we began to discuss the process she started with the usual, “are you familiar with wood and ice massages?” I smiled and said I did, feeling confident on what I knew.

That’s when I began to be blown away. She knew her stuff. Having over 10+ years in the business, and being a success story herself, she dived into explaining the treatment.

“Our SCULPTERYWood Treatment is an exotic unique technique in which custom wood, metal & jade instruments are developed to contour & shape the body & face. Wood Therapy has been practiced for centuries throughout the world in Oriental & Latin Countries where Therapists used wood for therapeutic purposes.

Our technique is one of a kind. After researching the techniques of maderaterapia, we created SCULPTERYWood where each instrument has a specific use to treat an area of the face or body. SCULPTERYWood increases blood circulation, has a sculpting & toning effect on the skin, while increasing the production of collagen & elastin’s. Our unmitigated treatments will aid in cellulite reduction, enhance a lifted buttock, create a contoured waistline, and will aid in smoothing out unwanted bulges. Best part of these treatments is that they are all natural, non-invasive, with no downtime, and you are sure to see results! “

Handing me a pair of disposable skivvies and stepping out of the room, it was time to get started. She began with specific movements, explaining the reasoning behind each. First on my back, then to my side. I found it odd having a mirror right in front of me, but as she continued her process the results were visible and undeniable. I was in in complete shock at the immediate results, and she laughed stating, “I love hearing when they see it.” I kept the rotation as she did the other side and my stomach.

This wasn’t so bad. Suddenly, she reached into a freezer noting, “ok, this is about to be a love hate relationship.” Confused at first, I looked over to see what she meant, and realized she was holding a product named “snatchsicle” which immediately told me, ‘It’s about to get real cold in here.’ Trying to be brave I was taking the ice on my body like a champ, but eventually began to feel the tingles. Luckily, this was towards the end.

45 minutes later, I was standing in front of the mirror visibly seeing the difference. It was so great, that I immediately asked how soon I would be able to come back. She noted this would be possible every other day but noting that it’s not necessary for everyone as all bodies react and show results differently. As you guessed, I made the follow up and 3 days later got the same procedure done. I felt great after but wasn’t sure on how visible results would be to others, until my girlfriend saw me and said, “damn, you’ve lost a lot of weight!” – as if that was not enough, my once tight pants were loose, my skin was tighter, and I just felt good.

Moral of the story? If you are looking for a jumpstart for any weight loss goals, do not hesitate, and make your appointment TODAY! They are local in Beverly Hills, and you will be thanking us later.

Wondering on the downside of the procedure? Well, you mustpee a lot – and the non-invasive procedure will run you up $250+ per session. But hey, isn’t it time you invested in yourself?

Sculptery Boiler Plate

Did you find yourself out of shape post quarantine? Are you looking to shed the excess baggage? 2021 is the year of change. One way to feel better in your own skin is to get back to your ideal size and shape – no tedious diets, exercise or surgery necessary. How, you ask? There is a self made boss babe who can get you feeling like a brand new you!

Cue Sarah Elizaz, the self proclaimed Madam Snatched. Sarah owns and runs Sculptery, unmitigated body sculpting here in Los Angeles. It is a safe, needleless approach that is gaining attention from everyday people and celebrities alike!

Sarah became well versed in the art of body sculpting through her own tough journey after gaining 70 pounds. She researched non-invasive beauty treatments that would help with weight loss and came across wood therapy. After one treatment, Sarah was underwhelmed. Convinced there had to be a better method, she started training in several body sculpting methods. NOW, with over fifteen certifications dedicated to her craft from master trainers with medical experience in locations like Colombia, Brazil, Thailand and more, she is proving herself to be an unstoppable force. Sarah’s motto: “You can’t beat the person who refuses to give up.”

Sarah drew inspiration from her parents. Sarah’s late mother worked in the beauty industry and introduced her at a young age to what would later become a passion, allowing her to collect over 18 years of experience in the beauty world. Sarah’s father is a renowned, retired plastic surgeon who helped her further understand the human body and how the skin reacts, fat cells, cellulite, etc. Sarah took this knowledge, alongside her bachelors in international business at San Francisco State University and created what we now know as the Sculptery technique.

Sarah is currently three times certified in radio frequency, cavitation, vacuum therapy, laser liposuction. Some of Sarah’s specifically recommended services include:

  •  Masters of Wood & Ice body Sculpting
  • Needleless Fat Dissolving Injections
  • Self sculpting at home kits

Which treatment intrigues you? Sign up today and get that much closer to becoming a better you


Maya Apothecary

October 13, 2021

Maya Apothecary is a luxury, organic skincare company that is revolutionizing self-care. Created by Alyeria Faith, Maya Apothecary is 100% natural and organic and is infused with elevated sound & healing frequencies to help unlock every woman’s true power and potential. The brand recently held its EXCLUSIVE launch party, which was backed by brands that also support the mission of ‘self-love’ and wellness: Child of Wild, Slip, Magic of I, Art of Tea, The Moon Deck, and more.

Alyeria is on a soul-lead path building her own vision, and inspiring women to take empowered action in her wake. Through her relentless obsession with personal growth and an unwavering commitment to living life on her own terms, Alyeria found her way into the beauty industry with a vision to awaken the collective feminine through elevated skincare, which introduced Maya Apothecary.

“Maya Apothecary and the VYB skincare line are really an expression of my soul. The mission behind the business is to give women the keys to step into their power and manifest the life of their wildest desires with more pleasure and ease than ever before,” Alyeria shares. “Through ritual skincare products, infused with elevating and healing frequencies, we offer women a new way to slow down, get intimate with themselves and return to their true essence.”

The entire brand delivers transformational skincare that bridges ancient natural healing wisdom and modern science by utilizing both in its unique formulations. Grounded in sustainability, with a strong commitment to caring for people and the planet, we use only natural and organic, fair-trade ingredients, delivering the very best products with as little environmental impact as possible. It’s a way to slow down, get intimate with themselves, and return to their true essence.

“All of our skincare lines, developed by leading skincare scientists, in collaboration with renowned alchemists, are infused with specific frequencies that activate the cellular memory of the bodies natural healing wisdom, to connect you to the true nature of your being,” Alyeria shared.

Partnering with these brands for the launch was a no-brainer. Each of these brands align with the theme of ‘self-love’ and honoring ‘me-time.’ Needless to say, it’s a little something that we need more of.

Nope, Not Even Close To Being Sick Of Pumpkin

October 6, 2021

Pumpkin spice and everything nice – bring it on! Some of our Fall skincare picks, all starring, drum roll… pumpkin. And for good reason – pumpkin enzyme is a major powerhouse for all things great skin.

Banish is a line of effective and natural formulas created as an affordable solution for acne scars. Inspired by nature to reveal glowing skin, the Pumpkin Enzyme Mask is formulated with natural pumpkin enzymes and AHA glycolic acid to exfoliate and improve skin clarity!
WHAT:
  • Banish focuses on using effective and natural ingredients proven to repair the skin
  • Banish Oil is a Vitamin C serum made fresh to order each day in California.
  • All the jars and bottles are made with recyclable glass; all the shipping packaging is made with recycled materials that are FSC certified
  • Banish has their own recycling program for customers
  • The products reduce the look of old or new acne scars
  • Their mission is to banish the shame that comes with acne and scars, and built a community of people who spread skin positivity
This spicy detoxifying face and body polish is infused with a powerful pumpkin enzyme, crushed bamboo and jojoba microbeads to help cleanse the skin of dead cells. Skin will be left feeling silky smooth, soft and radiant, while combating visible signs of aging and being protected from environmental toxins.
This powerful, triple-action manual, chemical and enzymatic exfoliating treatment addresses a dull, aging, and congested complexion in three ways: exfoliates with Pumpkin Enzyme, reveals with Alpha Hydroxy Acid and polishes with Aluminum Oxide Crystals. Helps even the appearance of skin tone, smooth the look of fine lines and wrinkles and clarify to reveal skin that looks smoother, younger, radiant and revitalized.