Sephora VIB Sale Haul + Budget Beauty

This is a post that I don't usually make- a true haul post.  However, there's a few related subjects I want to touch on.  Namely, how to be a budget beauty.

Many of my North American readers know that this is one of the two Sephora VIB sales each year.  For five days, VIBS (Very Important Beauty Insiders- minimum purchase $350/yr) get 20% off all purchases. That's when many stock up on skincare or pick up the items that are usually out of reach.

Although I enjoy blogging about beauty, I'm not wealthy and do not receive press samples.  So, how do I do it?  First, I have a good job and my other bills are manageable.  I consider this part of my entertainment budget and try to stick to one.  I also buy all of my beauty items with cash or debit so there are no end-of-month surprises.

I also participate in every rewards program that I can, and try to stack coupons with sales.  I brought two gift cards I received from Viggle with me to the sale this time.  I've actually earned $130 in Sephora gift cards from Viggle in five months, so it's a fabulous reward program.  It does require changing how you watch tv, but that's the type of payoff that makes it worthwhile.  I also recommend brand programs like Dior Diva.  Ulta offers cash back in my area, so I buy as many staples as I can and roll my points frequently.  All of those small rewards programs combined make a difference in the amount that I'm spending on products.

That said, I'm going to do something I rarely do- actually show you my haul. I combined trips to Sephora and Nordstrom with a few GWPs.

The whole thing:

These are the goodies from the Sephora sale.

My Clinique purchase and Nordstrom bonus:

It should be clear why I'm very content right now.  And true to my raves about the Le Metier de Beaute Hydra Creme lipstick, the only lip products I got were in the GWP.  I look forward to bringing these to you over the next little bit.  The next 3 days of NOTD shots are brand new purchases.  I am a little perplexed as to how I ended up buying 5 very neutral nail polishes...

Oops!