Last Minute Beauty

New Year's Eve came out of nowhere this year didn't it? This winter has been so crazy, I'm still amazed how fast the time has flown! Unfortunately, as NYE falls mid-week I am in the office today and won't have much primp time before the night out in the city. My friends and I aren't going super crazy with plans, but I do want to get dressed up and make the night special. Like many I turn to Pinterest for quick inspiration, and have found the following ideas suitable for tonight's festivities and my budget: 

G L I T T E R   E Y E L I N E R

I love glitter and I'll wear it any day, not just NYE or a special night out. I recently discovered this Urban Decay glitter eyeliner and love it. At first I was afraid it was going to bring me back to my middle school mistakes but honestly it does a lovely job at highlighting your eye by catching the light. I also like that the gold is a subtle alternative to a sometimes harsh black liner. 

C A T   E Y E S

Another popular option is cat eyes which are literally everywhere this year. I'm a little nervous to be attempting cat eyes tonight in my rush primp session, but I do have it on my list of to-do's. I've read many reviews on liquid versus pencil and have decided that my shaky hand will have to go pencil. 

Thinking about trying it out tonight? I found some awesome how to's here and here. And if any of you want extra cat eye oomph, false eye lashes can be the final touch. 

B O L D    L I P S

As you all know I love lipstick, and the brighter the better, which is why I love the Heat Wave color by Nars. 

C L A S S I C    L I P S

If you are new to lipstick or cautious with color, this classic Revlon red is an affordable and long lasting option. It's also a great idea to test drive new colors with drugstore brands as it is less of a commitment in terms of cost.

If you do decide to wear lipstick, don't forget to bring along chapstick for moisture in between reapplying! 

P A R T Y    N A I L S

Gold or silver? Shiny or glittery? Always a toss up for me. Last week I got a manicure in the Essie Ignite the Night and I am obsessed and am looking to get a touch up for tonight.

For a gold option the limited edition OPI 18k Gold nail polish looks a m a z i n g, but the price tag is just ridiculous. I'd say use it as inspiration and find a better alternative, and if any of you find an alternative that is just as chromed out, tell me ASAP!

Hope these last minute primp ideas help you all as you get ready for the big night out! Be safe and have a blast! Cheers to a great end to 2013 and an awesome beginning of 2014!

- Suzanne

Week of December 30

Well gals, we made it - it is the last few days of 2013! Time to finalize plans for New Years Eve and start sorting out some resolutions and goals for next year. Here is everything you need to know for this week:

B O O K  C L U B

Tonight our book club is discussing Where'd You Go Bernadette? I am very excited to hear what other people thought of the novel. If you've read it, take a look at our discussion questions and let us know what ya think. Next up, Jess Walter's Beautiful Ruins for January book club. Check back soon for book club guides.

W I N T E R  W O N D E R L A N D

Now that the holiday party season is winding down, it is the perfect time to plan a winter getaway with friends or family. A ski trip to Stowe or Sunday River would be just the thing to banish the winter blues. Plus, heading to New Hampshire, Maine, or Vermont is the perfect excuse to wear some of these awesome boots.

G L I T Z

Need last minute plans for NYE? Searching through Eventbrite and Facebook reveals some good options around town. I'm eyeing this super-cheap dance party at North Star....hmmm.....

Have a great week!

- Cameron

Cheers

Discussion Questions for Where'd You Go Bernadette?

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Aside from a super-cute cover, Maria Semple's Where'd You Go, Bernadette? gives us plenty to discuss!

1. First things first, what letter grade would you give this book and why? 

2. Is Bernadette crazy or just misunderstood? Audrey?

3. Did you find the book relatable, or too far-fetched? Which character did you find most relatable?

4. Were Bee's hateful feelings towards her father in the second half of the book justified?

5. Why Antarctica? Is this symbolic? Did this book make you want to go there?

6. Did you like the format of the book? Would you have preferred it to be written traditionally?

7. Architects and other creatives are often seen as "crazy" by others. Did you see any similarities between this book and Loving Frank? 

8. Do you think this book is a comedy? beach reading? innovative? immature? How would you best describe the book as whole?

9. Who would you love to see play each character in the movie? (I am thinking Julianne Moore as Bernadette)

- Cameron 

Reflections Before the New Year

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We hope you all had a very, merry Christmas with your families!  If you're already back at work, just power through the next two days and it'll be the weekend again.

Since this month and year (yikes) is scarily coming to an end, it is nice to reflect on the past year.  2013 was one of funny moments in pop culture and more serious on the home front here in Boston.  Although I do not take New Year's resolutions all that seriously, I am going to be tougher on myself for 2014.  But before I know where I want the next year to take me, I think it is important to ask yourself questions, such as these, as part of a self-evaluation.

Okay, now that you've done that, it's time to plan out what you're wearing to ring in the New Year!  Let that hair down (or keep it up for helicopter ponytail "dancing")!

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We'd love to hear what you have planned in your self-reflection and/or NYE plans!


- Meredith

MERRY CHRISTMAS

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Christmas Eve

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- Cameron

The Week of December 23rd

photo via, caption inspiration via

How tempting is Ryan's offer?!  Merry Christmas week to you!  Last week's storm came and went, and we're facing a pretty cold on Wednesday, but at least your travel plans will not be threatened by dangerous weather.  If you're lucky enough to not be working until the 2nd, what are your plans?  We'd love to read your comment/tweet!  Here is what you need to know about this week:


B O O K  C L U B
Keep up with us in this month's read, Where'd Ya Go, Bernadette?  We'll have discussion questions up on Thursday.  If you're still undecided, check out this (comedic) confirmation that dudes find girls who read attractive!


E N T E R T A I N M E N T
Do yourself a favor and watch SNL hosted by Jimmy Fallon this past weekend.  Clips from the show essentially went viral yesterday, and the cameos ( 1 // 2 // 3 ) were epic as usual whenever JT is on stage.

I am looking forward to seeing American Hustle during vacation (especially since it filmed here last year!) and this honest interview with Bradley Cooper is a must-read.


L O C A L
Let's not forget how much talent stems from Boston.  These Berklee students beautifully performed an unexpected Christmas carol at the Museum of Fine Arts recently.

Frozen Fenway starts up again on Saturday the 28th.  There's a new attraction this year to boot!

A huge surprise was just announced for 2015 at Fenway, and I would love to get in on this.  One must wonder... what can't America's most beloved ballpark host?!

We recommend to not spend 12/26 making any necessary Christmas returns.  It is also wise to check a store's policy before you leave the house so you're aware of boundaries and avoid conflicts with the saints who work in retail, especially this time of year.


Y E A R  I N  R E V I E W
Start your resolutions now in unplugging while home for the holiday.  Check out another article directed toward serious cell phone addicts who may need to change their ways.

Before we face 2014 head on, let's reflect on this past year through pictures.

What is there to do Boston on New Year's Eve?  Excellent question.  Find options and tickets here.


Merry Christmas, readers!  We hope Santa is good to you! You know he reads our gift guides, right?!

- Meredith

Sunday's True Confession

Yale University Art Gallery

You might be shocked to learn that the JUGs occasionally leave the wonderful metropolis of Boston. Though none of us have cars, we are all fans of a good roadtrip now and then. I recently took a little trip down to New Haven with my family and explored the Yale Art Gallery. Without a doubt, it is one of the best art museums in New England. From Ancient China to Picasso, the *free* gallery has something for everyone.

- Cameron

Dressing Up Your Drink

cin cin // bottle santas // map tote // life jacket // custom photo label // canvas

We're popping things off right today, in honor of my birthday!  A friend of mine recently asked for suggestions on how she could dress up a bottle of booze she was giving as a gift.  Despite considering myself a creative gift giver, I realized I have never gotten into what can be an art form.  Everyone loves what is in the bottle, but here are some ways to dress them up with DIY or low budget finds... all of the above are $15 or less!  Sláinte!


- Meredith

Holiday Gift Guide Vol. 7: The Unknown

For our last installment of gift guides we are featuring the perfect gift for "the unknown." What we mean is, for that person that you barely know, or if you do know them, seems to have it all, is extremely picky and is just all around impossible to buy for. Let's be honest, we've all got somebody that fits into this category. And if any of you are turning to gift cards this year, here's a little information to make you feel less guilty: according to Mashable, gift cards are the hottest gift item for 2013. 

To complete the perfect gift card purchase we've got the round up of the best cards to give and receive. After all, no one wants one that they'll never use!

1. First off, the ultimate gift card for all is the American Express card that can be used virtually anywhere. No need to say more.

2. For foodies and health nuts we recommend cards to William Sonoma or Whole Foods. Trust us, these are great for purchasing any guilty pleasure food items that you wouldn't necessarily buy yourself on an average day (hello, tis the season to 'treat yoself').

3. For a tech enthusiast or student, an Amazon or Apple card is sure to get good use towards a larger, much wanted item. Like the AmexCard, an Amazon card can be used purchase nearly anything.

4. Lastly, for that girl or woman that is impposibly picky - a Sephora card (hello, the candy story of pampering products) or a Piperlime card (good for Piperlime, Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic, and Athleta) will be much appreciated. 

- Suzanne

Introducing BollyX

(Left to right: Mayuri, Shahil, Minal)

This Wednesday we are featuring a special Who’s That Gal - a review and recap of BollyX, the new Bollywood-inspired dance-fitness class to hit Boston and New York. 

A little background on the class - it is a 50 minute cardio workout cycling between high and low intensity dance sequences along to latest hip hop and Bollywood beats. You’ll be sweating, laughing, and dancing all at the same time. Trust us, we did it.

To give you a little more background on the workout, BollyX was founded in June of 2013 by the award winning Bollywood choreographers Mayuri Bhandari, Shahil Patel* and Minal Mehta, and unsurprisingly, all three have incredible experiences previous to starting their joint venture. To prove it, here are 3 quick and insane facts about each founder:

M A Y U R I

1. Founded MOKSHA, a non-profit that teaches dance movement to blind, deaf, and mentally challenged children in India.

2. She recently has been cast for a lead role with Cirque Du Soleil.

3. She was one of the finalists on the TV show “Just Dance” (India’s version of “So You Think You Can Dance”).

S H A H I L

1. Had never danced before college where he taught himself with online videos during study breaks (he double majored at UC Berkeley in Econ and Psych).

2. In 2009, Shahil led the first-ever Bollywood dance team to the Semi-finals of NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” with a hit performance to Slumdog Millionaire’s “Jai Ho!”

3. He has choreographed, produced, and led over 200 Bollywood performances for high-profile clients nationwide including Walmart, Pepsi, Wyndham, Cisco, DIRECTV, eBay, Infosys, IGN, GE, ATT and more.

M I N A L

1. At UC Berkely, Minal trained in acting and Kathak (a North Indian classical dance form) and led her UC Berkeley Bollywood dance team to sweep all national competitions in 2005.

2. She wrote and performed her own song for South Asian Sister’s yearly production “Yoni Ki Baat.”

3. After graduating from UC Berkeley in 2005 with a B.A. in Economics with Honors she continued onto Harvard Business School in 2011 with a focus on strategy and marketing.

Now that we all understand just how talented the BollyX team is, let's get back to the class. 

Last Monday, Cam, Meredith and myself, along with a few friends and bloggers, participated in our first ever BollyX class. For some it was also their first ever dance-fitness class, which added to the anxiety walking into Cambridge’s Dance Complex. Luckily, as soon as the music turned on and Mayuri started moving, the class (comprised of as many men as women) took off into a fast paced whirlwind of fun dance moves as the BollyX team danced beside us encouraging us through each and every move. 

We moved fast, we broke a serious sweat, and we had blast. I think we even each picked up a few new moves to try out on the bar dance floors...Point anyone? Tell the DJ to pump it up!

In conclusion, if you are looking for an awesome workout that is an unbelievably fun and unique bonding experience for you and your friends, please check out BollyX. No previous dance experience or skills are required, all you need is a positive attitude and the willingness seriously work it.

Classes start at just $12 and are available and Cambridge Dance Complex, VIM Fitness, and BSC Fenway. Go to the class schedule here and sign up, you won't regret it!

- Suzanne

*We are pleased to announce Shahil is our first male feature (of hopefully many) on the blog!

Holiday Parties, JUGs Style

Holiday parties: there's the office kind where you have to be appropriate and (should be) conservative, and there's the personal kind where it's a house party yet you might want to dress up because... 'tis the season!

No matter which you're attending, here are some budget-friendly outfit ideas for you to pull a look together somewhat more than the average night out, even if you're going from day > night!  Plus, with saving on your outfit, you'll be able to cab it home safely!

from top left: 1 ($50) // 2 ($34) // 3 ($35) // 4 ($44) // 5 ($40) // 6 ($50)

- Meredith

The Week of December 16th

Happy Monday, gals! Is everyone feeling the holiday cheer as we count down the days till Christmas?! Here's what's going on this week in Boston, the week of December 16th...

A R T S   &   E N T E R T A I N M E N T

Still time to catch everybody's favorite, The Nutcracker performed by the acclaimed Boston Ballet. The show goes on till December 29th, get your tickets here.

Looking for other versions of the classic?  Try The Urban Nutcracker, where dance meets diversity. Performances are held at the Back Bay Performance center and tickets start at just $25. 

Get a little more risqué with The Slutcracker, the burlesque version of the classic The Nutcracker. It always receives rave reviews and I am personally dying to make it to a show. Check out the showtimes here, I'm hoping to go before the weeks end! 

A R O U N D   T H E   ' H U B

Looking for more outdoorsy holiday themed activities? Along with casual strolls through classic streets in Beacon Hill and Back Bay to admire some of the best holiday wreaths in the city, don't forget to skate the Frog Pond and check out Faneuil Hall's light show Blink!

B L O G O S P H E R E

Beyonce pulled what was probably the craziest marketing move of 2013 by releasing a new album in total secrecy. Have any of you downloaded it or caught some of the new songs? Discuss.

Jennifer Lawrence looks amaaazing lately and her dress (and performance) in American Hustle is getting lots of attention, rightfully so. 

This DIY Gold Leaf Lampshade is on my "must try" list.

Happy birthday to co-author, Meredith on Friday!! Woooo!

E A T  &  D R I N K

Looking to cozy up and still enjoy a night out? JUGs Approved restaurant & bars with fireplaces include: Warren Tavern (Charlestown), Upstairs on the Square (Harvard Square), and Bondir (Inman). Other cozy bars that we love include: The Times (Downtown), 21st Amendment (Beacon Hill), The Sevens (Beacon Hill) and The Waterfront (North End). 

S H O P P I N G 

Still looking for gifts? We've got you covered here with our carefully tailored gift guides. 

Wishing you all a fun and productive week!

- Suzanne

Photo Credit: Pink Peonies

Sunday's True Confession

Sandy Hook: One Year Later

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We need to take a mental break from shopping, the impending snow tonight and holidays, for now.  As much as I would like to post something on a likely JUGs subject, today is an important day in history.  I would like to reflect on the lives lost and those we should honor given last year's tragic attack on Sandy Hook Elementary School. There were many innocent lives lost, none of which will be forgotten, especially Emilie Parker, featured in this powerful video above.  Please take some time today to reflect and remember before signing this important petition.

- Meredith

Editor's Essentials: Suzanne's Lust List

Per usual my "Christmas List" is all over the place and to be honest I really haven't nailed down specific items. That being said, I am thinking a lot about adding some wardrobe staples like this classic black drop waist dress and low booties, as well as some classic apartment goodies. For example, to add color in a not-so-feminine way, I've got my eye on these euro shams and this fun jungle pillow. I love a good style read and coffee table book, so Alexa Chung's new book, It, is very high on my list as well. To organize my bureau I love the idea of this antler jewelry organizer and this adorable jewelry box. Other random things on the list: gold circle mirror, ombre faux fur throw, leopard fold over clutch for nights out with the gals, mirrored sunglasses, happy art prints, simple earrings, and of course, I always love a new 'stick.

In case you missed it, check out Meredith's and Cameron's Lust Lists!


- Suzanne

Holiday Gift Guide Vol. 6: The Girl Who Has Everything

We all have those friends or family members that are simply impossible to shop for. They either have a shopping addiction of their own, or make more money than you, or are just plain picky. But, even though these girls are kind of a pain in the rear, we still love them! So here are a few JUGs approved experiential and subscription gifts: Celtics Tickets // Classes at Health Yoga Life // Gift Certificate for a Mani at MiniLuxe // Gift Certificate for a Blowout at DryBar // Subscription to Real Simple // Starbucks Giftcard // Birchbox Subscription.

- Cameron

Daily Read: That Kind of Woman

No, it's not a day for a true confession, but I'll be honest... I am overwhelmed by most tumblr accounts throughout the interwebs and admittedly do not often look at them.  There are millions out there; some that are visuals only, others a mix of visual and written works.  At any rate, I came across one a few months ago that I immediately added to my feedly reader due to its thought-provoking, inspiring (and often raw) content.
Although JUGs got its name for a female-centered audience, That Kind of Woman has some quotes (slash relationship advice) that men may appreciate.  Without getting too deep, here are some of my favorite posts from recent weeks:

I find these posts relatable one way or another, and respect the author, Kat, for her keen eye for content that is pretty damn applicable for 20-something females, regardless of the stage of life they're in.  The blog's mission is just a blurb but really encompasses what Kat thoughtfully presents: A website dedicated to the things that inspire a young woman with a good head on her shoulders, an overactive imagination and a constant question on her mind: what kind of woman is she?

This blog is one of my favorites because it breaks up a lot of the fashion-focused content I feel is a bit strong, and brings you back to earth.  I applaud Kat in her findings, her personal writings, her advice to readers and hope she continues to present this for years to come!

- Meredith

photo sources are all from tkow

DIY Christmas Lights

We've already had many mentions of the holiday prep on the blog including gift guides, wrapping ideas, holiday outfit inspiration and christmas trees for small spaces, but we have yet to discuss my favorite part of holiday decor - lights!

Lights are the perfect way to add sparkle and holiday cheer to your apartment, and can act as a great alternative to the sometimes high maintenance christmas tree. Plus, it is totally acceptable to leave lights up almost year round!

Here are just a few links with fantastic and simple DIY ideas for lights, candles and tea lights to help you warm up your apartment for the holidays!

- Suzanne

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Week of December 9

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F I T N E S S 

Tonight is the night! JUGs is hosting "Let's Dance" tonight at Bollyx sponsored by Muscle Milk. Local bloggers, fitness experts, and Boston residents will be gettin' their Bollywood groove on... we CAN'T WAIT! The event is sold out, but keep an eye on our eventbrite page in case we get any last minute openings. And don't forget to catch the buzz on twitter at #BlogDanceBollyx

In other fitness news, SoulCycle is opening in Chestnut Hill in March - right at the exact moment when we'll have given up on our New Year's Fitness Resolutions, so this is perfect timing to keep us inspired.

S H O P P I N G

Blergggg, how is it already mid-December? Time to get serious about holiday shopping. No worries, JUGs has ya covered with a gift guide every Thursday, and as a bonus, we're putting out our own wishlists too.

The JUGs are also super excited to check out the Newbury St. Handmade Market Popup Shop which will feature items from local etsy artisans from December 4 - December 24. We know these nautical soaps from the Bower Studio would make the perfect stocking stuffers, and maybe we'll indulge in one of these Rocked Jewelry python rib necklaces for ourselves!

C E L E B

Yep, Amanda Bynes is out of Rehab. What do you think - will she go back to making our fav movies (i.e. She's The Man) or is she destined for a Lohanesque downward spiral? Speaking of Lohan, have you heard that she is dating Liam Neeson's 18 year old son? (or is she?) Either way, YIKES! 

B L O G O S P H E R E

We had a blast last week mixing and mingling at the Boston Bloggers Holiday Meet + Greet. We chatted with some of our favorite bloggers like Prim & Propah, Dear Friend, Boston Day Book, Long Distance Loving, and Boston on a Budget. And we are super pumped to be featured during Prim & Propah's holiday giveaways this week - keep your eyes peeled for our guest post.

B O O K   C L U B

Read along with the JUGs! This month: Where'd You Go Bernadette? by Maria Semple.

Have a great week!
- Cameron

Sunday's True Confession: I Memorized My Credit Card Number

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Yes, okay... I have (had?) a minor shopping problem.  Like any other shopping addict, I memorized my credit card number a while ago.  It's just easier in case you happened to forget to change wallets, or for faster online transactions.