I’m My Favorite Person to Shop for—Here’s How I’m Budgeting $150 at Nordstrom this Season

Sometimes when I’m shopping for family and friends, I’ll tell myself I can get one thing and one thing only—it’s an attempt to prevent me from spending too much money. But I usually end up finding a loophole and/or bamboozling myself. I’ll pick one item that’s more expensive than if I had bought five smaller things. This Black Friday season I’m giving myself spending caps at my go-to retailers. For Nordstrom, that amount is $150, and I’m treating myself to four beauty products: Anastasia Beverly Hills’s Brow Kit, Westman Atelier Petite Fête Makeup Set, Mac Prep and Prime Primer and Setting Spray, and a sculptural colorblock candle. 

Anastasia Beverly Hills Natural and Polished Eyebrow Kit

I have made an appointment to get my eyebrows shaped for the first time in five years. Once they are done, a two- or three-part brow routine won’t feel like a waste of time. I will want to keep them looking prim and proper again.

This comes with two different brow pens and a clear brow gel. One of the pens is thin like a very sharpened pencil—great for drawing individual hairs and a subtle look. The other is rectangular and will be used for making my brows look full. The finishing piece is the gel that will hold everything in place and I’ll wear it alone for less makeup-ed days. 

Westman Atelier Petite Fête Edition Makeup Set

Though I feel confident using the word ‘favorite’ with respect to numerous makeup products, the same cannot be said with respect to brands. Westman Atelier is one of the rare exceptions, I have not met a product I don’t love.

The brand is quite chic and luxe so sales are not commonplace. I make the most of any and every opportunity to shop its products at a discount. One of these ways is through its value sets such as this limited edition holiday one that features three products. The first is a mini Anne Hathaway-used Eye Want You Mascara in a pink tube (the original is red), Michelle Pfeiffer-worn Baby Cheeks Blush, and an inimitable Lit Up Highlight Stick. I’m going to use this set as the light version of my usual makeup routine. 

Mac Cosmetics Prep and Prime Primer and Makeup Setting Spray

This is somehow both a primer and a setting spray?! That seems impossible, but you know, never look a gift horse in the mouth. It’s been around for decades (I think) but I’ve only gotten around to using it this year and I hate myself for it. A quick spritz before my makeup, one after, and my beat remains in place regardless of whatever my face is subject to or fabrics it makes contact with. 

Hay Colorblock Pillar Candle

I haven’t yet decided if I’m going to gift this to myself or someone on my holiday shopping list. It’ll work out regardless. If you decide not to burn it, fabulous—look at that statement piece on the counter! But if you do (me) you’ll end up with a cozy home and wabi sabi decor.