Friday, July 30, 2010

Feature Friday by Lindsay Milan - "Sisters"

Happy Friday, JF Beauties!

Today, I thought I'd introduce you to one of my sisters, Sarah.  Graceful, smart and beautiful.


I grew up in a house of 'girly-girls' girls - barbies were always everywhere, we had every color of nail polish in the rainbow, and in my very first school picture, my bangs were teased and curled.  (Imagine a preschooler with bangs bigger than her head).  Nevertheless, one of my most favorite Playschool playsets as a kid was a mock beauty salon station (go figure, right?).  It was the bee's knees, complete with brushes, combs, make-believe makeup, and even a wind-up blowdryer. And who were my "clients?" My sisters, of course!

Well, I guess some things never change because during a recent visit home, with a brand new curling iron, just waiting to be tested out, who was my test subject?  My sister.  She had just walked in the door from a long day's work, but even so, she was willing to sit through an updo at ten o'clock at night.  Because that's what sisters are for, right?


And so, as I curled and pinned, we gabbed and chatted away, and the photo above is what I came up with.  Yes, friends, the test run of the new curling iron proved successful!


After all was said and done (and styled), Sarah and I shuffled off to sleep.  Although, my sister's slumber was far more stylish and graceful than mine, and she woke up the next morning with her 'do still completely intact.  Me?  Well, I woke up with bangs resembling a horrible version of that school picture I mentioned earlier...

Have a gorgeous weekend, beauties!  
Until next time,
xo Lindsay


Thursday, July 29, 2010

Guest Blogger Thursday:::Tracee Dolan with Affirmations, Intentions & Mantras!!!


Affirmations, Intentions & Mantras!

At the beginning of every yoga class I ask my students to set an intention. It is a very common practice. Setting an intention is an in the present positive message to yourself. As I have touched upon before, our inner critic runs the roost in our everyday inner monologue. We are SO hard on ourselves! It's our brain's job to think- so during your yoga practice thoughts may or may not run wild. Sometimes we are even judgmental to ourselves for that normal occurrence!

So pick an affirmation, intention & mantra and stick with it for a whole day!

Affirm that today is a beautiful day. Set an intention of gratitude. Repeat a mantra that resonates with your body, heart & mind. It's your choice! You can google a specific quote or even install an affirmation iphone app. seriously! Try it when you are brushing your teeth, sitting in traffic, or notice a negative self defeating train of thought.

Sure, Positive self talk makes for a great comedic skit- I'm sure you all remember Stuart Smalley; of "I'm good enough, I'm smart enough  and gosh darn it people like me" fame. But, there's lot of truth to that humor. There almost always is  :)

Tracee Dolan is available or group or private instruction. Please feel free to contact traceeteachesyoga@gmail.com and mention the Jennie Fresa Beauty Library when you do.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

What's Happening Wednesday: We're nominated for a Wedding Blog Award on Aisle Dash!!




Yesterday started out like any other ordinary day.  I woke up, put my best foot forward, had a cup of coffee and off to work I went.  Then, a few proposals, a few emails, and two more cups of coffee later, I got the most exciting news!  Jennie Fresa Beauty, yes, our little engine that could blog, was nominated by Aisle Dash for a Wedding BLOG Award!!  Now, if you're a bride-to-be or a wedding industry professional, you're already familiar with this ULTIMATE wedding planning resource that covers everything you need to know about gowns, beauty, budget, etiquette, and more!  For those of you who don't know, let me enlighten you!

Anne Chertoff, formally the Senior editor at Brides.com and with Martha Steward Weddings before that, is now the Editor in Chief of Aisle Dash.  I had the pleasure of meeting Anne a few times over the last year at some of our Wedding Row events.  She is super nice and let's just say, after 10 years in the industry, she knows weddings!  She is also the creator of her own bridal blog, From "I will" to I Do".

Check out this line up of industry experts that are judging the contest:

Colin Cowie---Celebrity Event Planner and Interior Designer
Marcy Blum--World Renowned Event Planner & Author
Mark Ingram--Fashion Designer and Owner of Mark Ingram Bridal Atelier
Liene Stevens--Founder of Splendid Communications

So, my day went from good to super-duper fabulous just like that!!  Thanks to all of my wonderful brides who nominated our blog!  We are so excited and so honored!!

The winners will be announced on or around August 18th!!  Keep your fingers crossed!!

XO

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Beauty Tip Tuesday: Don't get brassy with me!



The sun is harmful to more than your just your skin.  Sun also breaks down pigments in your hair causing your soft, golden locks to become dry and brassy.  Here are a few tips to keep your hair from frying and to keep your color from fading:

1.) Wear a hat or scarf as often as you can, especially during outside sports.

2.) When you're at the beach, apply a rich leave-in conditioner to your entire head and tie hair into a low bun.

3.) Try washing your hair with a purple-tinted shampoo such as Shimmer lights by Clariol.  The purple tint helps to neutralize redness.  This is REALLY helpful if you are blonde, silver or a brunette with hi-lights.

4.) Use a hot oil treatment once a month.  VO5 is old fashioned but hey, it works!!

XO

Monday, July 26, 2010

Must Have Monday: Taupe-Beige Nails




The fashion directors at Chanel really know how to stay ahead of a trend.  In the Spring, they launched the nail color, Particulieve, a purple-based grey that became THE color to wear.  One might think that a muted, mushroom-tinged color is not appropriate for the summer but that's not the case this season. Any fashionista will tell you. The dark nail trend remains consistent in places like NYC, London, Milan and Paris.

You can splurge on Chanels lacquer for $23 or try out a more affordable version by Rimmel, called Steel
Grey for $3.99.


XO

Friday, July 23, 2010

Feature Friday by Jennie



I have always been inspired by French style!  If you've been to the Beauty Library, you can probably tell from the romantic colors, birds, trellis patterns and my "springtime in paris" music setting the mood.

I was so happy to be a part of this amazing wedding earlier this season.  Danielle and John got engaged in Paris so it was only fitting that they would have a wedding with some Parisen flare!

Danielle is just as beautiful inside as she is outside and one stylist bride, I might add.  For makeup, we created a look that was a perfect enhancement of her natural beauty, with soft shades of taupe and gold swept across her eyes and a burst of raspberry gloss to complete the look!!

Don't you just lOVE her aqua pumps?!!

The entire day was pulled together by an incredible group of CT vendors:

Ceremony: Saybrook Point Inn & Spa
Event Planning & Design: Jubilee Events
Photography: Carla Ten Eyke
Gown: The White Dress by the Shore
Makeup: Moi
Macaroons: Le Petite France Bakery
Floral: Blush

XO

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Blueberry Bliss!

Hello Friends!

Today I’d like to talk about one of my favorite foods on this planet - blueberries! Now that they are in season, they are pretty affordable and I find myself at the local market buying 6 containers at a time. I sit and eat the whole pint in 1 sitting! In fact, I even brought a pint to the movies with me last week —you can eat them one-by-one just like popcorn but they are so low in calories, high in fiber and contain cancer-fighting antioxidants!

Blueberries are phytonutrient superstars. These fruits contain significant amounts of anthocyanadins, antioxidant compounds that give blue, purple and red colors to fruits and vegetables. In addition, blueberries also contain ellagic acid, another phytochemical that has been shown to prevent cell damage. Blueberries are also important for heart health! While wine, particularly red wine, is touted as cardioprotective since it is a good source of antioxidant anthocyanins, a recent study found that blueberries deliver 38% more of these free radical fighters. In this study, published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry, researchers found that a moderate drink (about 4 ounces) of white wine contained .47 mmol of free radical absorbing antioxidants, red wine provided 2.04 mmol, and a wine made from highbush blueberries delivered 2.42 mmol of these protective plant compounds. Blueberries are a very good source of vitamin C, manganese, and both soluble and insoluble fiber like pectin. Blueberries are also a good source of vitamin E. 

Here is a recipe to get you going on the blueberry craze:

Blueberry Crisp (modified from Apple Crisp Recipe in Clean Food by Terry Walters)
Filling:
6 cups of blueberries
¼ cup maple syrup
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/3 cup dried currants
1 tablespoon whole wheat pastry flour or brown rice flour

Topping:
2 cups rolled oats
1 cup whole wheat pastry flour or brown rice flour
½ cup chopped walnuts
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
½ cup maple syrup
½ cup canola oil

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. 
To prepare filling, place blueberries in large bowl. Fold in syrup, cinnamon, and currants. Sprinkle on flour and gently fold until combined. Spread mixture into a 9 X 12 baking casserole. 
To make topping, use the same mixing bowl and combine oats, flour, nuts and cinnamon. In separate bowl, whisk together syrup and oil, add to dry ingredients and mix until crumbly. Spread topping evenly over apples, cover with foil and bake 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20 minutes. Remove from oven and serve. 

Stay tuned for more nutrition info to come in 2 weeks...I’d love to hear from you!

Peace & Veggies,

Jane 



Jane Ashley, MA, CNC, AADP, is a Nutritional Counselor and Health Educator. She is also the Director of Consumer Communications for Eat Right America™. Her passion is to help women create balance in body, mind and spirit. She helps women who struggle with stress, lack of energy and excess weight take action to reach optimal health through good nutrition. She loves to cook, run, teach cooking classes and runs monthly women’s groups called “Feed Your Soul—for Women on the GO.” She also runs corporate wellness workshops and participates in public speaking events. Jane offers a personalized coaching program or group classes. Special rates apply for fans of Jennie Fresa :) Check out WellnessWithJane.com!

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

What's Happening Wednesday: JFBL on Bloom Talk Radio




B           be positive
L           love what you do
O           organize your life
O           own your life
M           make it happen

Barb Scala is the host of BLOOM Talk Radio , and the author of Sanity Savers: Tips for Women to Live a Balanced Life.  I had the pleasure of meeting Barb a few weeks ago and she has kindly invited me to be a guest on her talk show!!

To learn more about Barb and her show, click here!

I will be discussing a healthy approach to beauty LIVE on BLOOM Talk Radio on Thursday, July 29th 3:00pm, EST

Hope you can tune in!!

XO

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Beauty Tip Tuesday: HEAT proof makeup!


Many women are concerned with the longevity of their makeup, especially in a hot and humid climate.

Today, I thought I would share a few pro tricks for keeping makeup in place during the summer months!

Lips:  dab a little moisturizer on your lips and fill in your entire lip with a lip liner pencil in lieu of lipstick.  The wax from the pencil lasts longer and is richer in pigment, so it wont fade as quickly.  If you want a little shine, just add a little gloss on top.

Eyes:  Try switching from pencil liner to liquid liner, which has more intense color and hold up better in heat.  Avoid kohl pencils which have a tendency to smudge and run.  For eye shadow, try layering products.  Draw a thicker line on your top lash line with a pencil and then layer a cream or shadow on top to create a smokey eye with great lasting power.

Cheeks: Try dabbing a little of your red/coral lipstick on the apples of your cheeks.  Then apply a sheer dusting of your everyday powder blush on top.  You'll get a nice flushed look that won't fade away in the heat.

Face:  Try using a light texture foundation or a tinted moisturizer instead of full coverage.  Natural-looking textures are best in the summer.  Think light weight.  If you get greasy, try using blotting papers which absorb excess oils without removing your makeup.

XO

Monday, July 19, 2010

Must Have Monday: Keratin Hair Treatment!!



Two weeks ago I had the keratin hair treatment and I absolutely LOVE it!!  I have naturally curly hair but I blow dry it straight every week, which can be a hassle.  I was so excited to try it out!

Here's what you should know: the keratin treatment is not a chemical treatment.  It lasts for about 4-5 months depending on your hair.  It's a revolutionary process that shines, smoothes and improves the health of your hair.  It was discovered in Brazil about 10 years ago.  My stylist told me ahead of time that my hair would not be completely straight, but would be "frizz free" and really easy to blow dry straight.  The treatment took about 2 hours to complete.  She carefully apply the wet keratin treatment to my locks, one strand at a time and then sealed it into place with a 450 degree flat iron.  My hair never looked more shiny!!  

There are a few rules you must follow after the treatment.  You cannot wash your hair for 3-4 days ( I went 5 just to be safe).  You can't tie your hair back or tuck it behind your ears for the same corse of time.  When you do wash, you must use a "sulfate free" shampoo.  I'm using PUREOLOGY shampoo and conditioner, recommended by my stylist.  ( It's available at Target! )

The results are amazing (and worth the hefty, $350 price tag)!  Even in this humid, heat wave, I am frizz-free!!  I am sold for life!  If you want to try the treatment at a reputable salon with a certified stylist, I suggest Luisette at Salon East in Branford, CT. (203) 488-2827

Tell her I sent you!! :-)

XO

Friday, July 16, 2010

Feature Friday by Nedelyn Perry

In addition to styling hair for the Jennie Fresa Beauty Library another aspect of the beauty industry that I've always had a passion for is skincare.  Currently, along with doing hair I also provide skincare services at the Beauty Library's Mini-Spa. Many of our brides that come to the Beauty Library say they want a natural glow on their wedding day.  I tell my clients that they can achieve the "natural glow" simply by taking extra care of their skin. Getting a facial on a regular basis is a great way to maintain beautiful, flawless skin.  Along with a routine facial you must make sure you wear sunscreen everyday (rain or shine).  Gone are the day's of basking in the sun with nothing but baby oil and a light reflector (remember Magda from There's something about Mary?).  The benefits of wearing a sunscreen are that it helps prevent age spots, premature aging and most importantly skin cancer.  Once you make this part of your daily routine you will notice that your complexion will appear fresh and have that youthful glow! Remember it's never to late to get serious about your skin.
If you're interested in booking a Facial Treatment with your's truly at the Beauty Library's Mini-Spa please call 860-469-5325 and If you mention this blog post you will recieve 25% off your 1st  facial service.
Now slather yourself with sunscreen, grab your sunglasses and have a Great Summer!

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Basic Meditation Tips from Tracee Dolan Part II :: for JFBL Guest Blogger Thursday!



I've posted about meditation before, but I also know that it is QUITE hard to start a regular meditation practice. So here are some new tricks & tips to help you feel great! 
Meditation Part II:

A regular meditation practice will increase concentration, lessen anxiety, and a emphasize general feelings of happiness. But how do you get started right? It's so much easier than you would ever think.

A few tips for starting your own very basic meditation practice:
  • Set aside 5 minutes 10 if you are motivated!
  • Find a quiet space (the beach is pretty perfect)
  • Get comfy, sit down, lie down, whatever works for you!
  • Turn off the ringer on your phone & set the alarm for the amount of time you wish to meditate
  • Slow your breath as you inhale and exhale through your nose
  • softly close your eyes & allow your eyes to rest behind your eyelids
  • feel every part of you relax starting with the crown of your head down to your toes (imagine bath water when you pull the drain). 
  • let go from within, rather than letting your eyes scan your body as you breathe and let go.
The best tip I ever heard for beginning meditation practice was to allow your self the sensations of each inhale and exhale. If your mind wanders, then so it goes, let it go and return attention to your breath.What does it feel like to breathe in? What does it feel like to breathe out? That is your meditation. Let go as you examine the sensations within your body as you breathe. If clearing your mind is rough in the beginning, think of a mantra or an affirmation that you can repeat as you practice your meditation. Keep it positive and have fun with it. The end result is 'emphasized feelings of happiness and it's yoga & meditation practice not yoga & meditation perfect, you'll get there!

Still unsure? youtube a chakra meditation! go to youtube and check out these chakra meditation  links. Or type in some key words of your own. There are many guided meditation videos to choose from!

A 10 minute meditation paired with a JFBL fassage seems like a perfect afternoon to me!
   
Tracee Dolan is available for private or group yoga instruction. Please feel free to contact traceeteachesyoga@gmail.com

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

What's Happening Wednesday: On Wedding Row: Bridal Gown Sample Sale


Attention Brides!  Our neighbors over at The White Dress by the Shore are having a sample sale this weekend!  It's one day only, so don't miss out on these GREAT discounts!!!

Saturday July 17th  10-4pm

For more information:  Click here!

XO

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

beauty tip tuesday: Don't be hard heeled!


 I practically live in my flip flips during the summer months and boy do my feet pay for it.  Although I am pretty faithful to a biweekly pedicure, sometimes that isn't even enough!!  

Let me share a few tips to help keep those toes pretty and smooth in between spa visits:

1.) Soak feet in a warm tub filled with warm water.  Sprinkle in some bath salts and a few slices of lemon (citric acid which helps to brighten and exfoliate skin) to the water.

2.) Soften heels and calluses with a foot file.  Try Diamancel Diamond File.

3.) Shop your medicine cabinet for a rich moisturizer and apply it to your feet.  If it's good enough for your face....

4.) Apply a shine enhancing top coat to give polish a little more lasting power!

XO

Monday, July 12, 2010

Must Have Monday: ARBONNE Awaken sea salt scrub


get your day started right!!  here is a truly luxurious product that everyone has to try!  this sea scrub scuffs off any dry skin cells while completely refreshing your senses!  i have been using it in the shower every few days for about a month now!!  My skin has never felt more smooth or looked more glowing!!  I don't even need to moisture after I use it because it leaves my skin so hydrated and soft.  The scrub is made with the purest essential oils and earth minerals.  You have to try it!!


xo

Friday, July 9, 2010

Feature Friday by Kelly Sharkey


Hello Lovely Ladies! Let me introduce you to the lovely Kathleen Pollock, who married her prince charming, Kirk, on June 26th, 2010.

I met Kathleen at the Avon Old Farms Hotel in Avon, CT and she was all smiles when she greeted my assistant Melissa and I at the door.


I had the pleasure of doing both hair and makeup for Kathleen and her bridal party and what a wonderful group they were to work with!
Congratulations Kathleen and Kirk! I wish you both a lifetime of love and happiness!
xoxo, Kelly

(Photos were taken by Kathleen's wonderful sister, Mary. I can't wait to get my hands on the professional shots! Stay tuned!)

























Thursday, July 8, 2010






















Hello friends!


Today I’d like to share some very important info with you about whole grains. I hope to break the fear of carbs MYTH—these are GOOD carbs and will NOT make you fat! We need a good variety of grains in our diet for fiber, nutritents, and fuel for our bodies! Grains will power you up with energy for great workouts as you work towards optimal health and dietary excellence. (The info below is borrowed from the school where I did my nutrition training, The Institute for Integrative Nutrition, in NYC. )


Whole grains have been a central element of the human diet since early civilization. Humans ceased being hunter-gatherers and settled down into farming communities when they were able to cultivate grain crops. People living in these communities—on all continents—had lean, strong bodies. In the Americas, corn was the staple grain. In India and Asia, it was rice. In Africa, people ate sorghum. In the Middle East, they used wheat, making pita bread, tabouli and couscous. In Europe, corn, millet, wheat, rice, pasta, dark breads and even beer were considered health-providing foods. In Scotland, oats were a staple food. In Russia, they ate buckwheat or kasha. Very few people were overweight.


Whole grains are an excellent source of nutrition, as they contain essential enzymes, iron, dietary fiber, vitamin E and B-complex vitamins. Because the body absorbs grain slowly, they provide sustained and high-quality energy.


The quickest way to create great grains is to experiment and find what works for you. Remember one cup of dry grain yields enough for 2 to 4 people. Basic directions are above.




1. Measure the grain, check for bugs or unwanted material, and rinse in cold water, using a fine mesh strainer.

2. Optional: soak grains for one to eight hours to soften, increase digestibility and eliminate phytic acid. Drain grains and discard the soaking water.

3. Add grains to recommended amount of water and bring to a boil.

4. A pinch of sea salt may be added to grains to help the cooking process, with the exception of kamut, amaranth and spelt (salt interferes with their cooking time).

5. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for the suggested amount of time, without stirring during the cooking process.

6. Chew well and enjoy every bite!


© 2010 Integrative Nutrition 2/10



Stay tuned for more nutrition info to come in 2 weeks...I’d love to hear from you!


Peace & Veggies,

Jane


JaneScottAshley@gmail.com




Jane Ashley, MA, CNC, AADP, is a Nutritional Counselor and Health Educator. Jane’s passion is to help women create balance in body, mind and spirit. She helps women who struggle with stress, lack of energy and excess weight take action to reach optimal health through good nutrition. She loves to cook, run, teach cooking classes and runs monthly women’s groups called “Feed Your Soul—for Women on the GO.” She also runs corporate wellness workshops and participates in public speaking events. Jane offers a personalized coaching program or group classes. Special rates apply for fans of Jennie Fresa :) Check out WellnessWithJane.com for more info!


Wednesday, July 7, 2010

What's Happening Wednesday: Clue #3


Something to do with cat eye glasses and pearls.......


XO

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Beauty Tip Tuesday: Don't get burned, literally.


What do I need to do to convince women that looking like an old leather bag or a rusty bike isn't attractive at all?!  {big sigh.}  

You remember Magda, from Something About Mary, don't you?!  Not good.  I have come to terms that my preaching doesn't resonate with everyone and bearing in mind that accidents do happen, I want to share a few tips for soothing a sun burn.....just in case.

1.) Start drinking water right away.  You're body looses a lot of fluid when you get burned, so try drinking a glass of water every hour until the burn starts to go away.  And, stay out of the sun for a few days.

2.) Take a few aspirin, and pile on a cooling gel like Aloe Vera ( you might want to keep the gel in the refrigerator).  You can also try an old remedy of cold black tea compresses.  I hear black tea really helps to calm the redness and relieve the burning sensation.

3.) Start moisturizing your skin right away.  Vaseline Intensive Care lotion or Cocoa Butter are both really good.  Also, look for lotions that contain Coffee Berry, known to aid cell renewal.  Try not to pick or peel the dead skin and wear loose fitting clothes for a few days.

4.) Find a local salon that offers, a natural-looking spray tan and start wearing SPF 30+ everyday.

XO


Monday, July 5, 2010

Must Have Monday: Er'go Soy Candles


If you know me well, you know I have a sweet tooth!  Ask my husband, he'll tell you that just about every evening, I have a craving for something sweet.  Most of the time, I resist my urge to snack but every once in a while, I just can't help it.  There's nothing like enjoying a cold glass of milk and some cookies while catching up on an episode of the Kardashians.

If only there was a way to feed my craving with out the calories....

Well, I may have found the answer.  Last week I received a delicious gift from my friend Chelsea.  A "dark chocolate" scented candle by Er'go!!  My entire house smells like a fresh, baked batch of cookies, even long after I blow out the candle!!

To boot, Er'go candles are made with 100% chemical-free vegetable, soy wax, so they are completely safe and eco-friendly.  The company uses the finest essential oils to ensure that each candles gives off a fragrant aroma each time you burn it.  The collection has so many decadent aromas to choose from!

What a lovely (and slimming)  gift!!  Thanks, Chels!

XO



Thursday, July 1, 2010

Feature Friday by Lindsay Milan - "The Beauty of a Trial"

Happy Friday, JF Beauties!

Before you all head out to your Fourth of July festivities, here's a little beauty inspiration to take on the road!

As any of you gals who've booked with JF Beauty Library know (shout out to our 2010 brides!), we encourage setting up a trial appointment before your wedding. It's always nice to meet our brides in person, and this way, we can get to know each other a little bit. It also allows us to create a special, customized look unique to you! After all, that's what we're all about here - establishing a cozy, boutique, beauty destination, where each gal can walk through our doors, and leave feeling like the best version of herself!

Trials are a great time to try out different looks, especially if you haven't quite decided on a style yet. Bring in pictures of your dress, and any hair or makeup photos that inspire you - they can be pages ripped from a magazine, or photos of yourself! Don't forget to bring in any hair accessories (i.e., sparkly clips, headbands, or veils) so we can incorporate them into your style!


Jessica, shown in the photos above and below, is one of our brides this season, and she is lovely! She has gorgeous, sun-drenched, golden locks, so it was only natural for us to try out two different styles during her hair trial! There are so many options, it was tough to choose! We opted to try an updo, and a "half-do," as I like to call them (which means, half your hair is up, and the other half down). Jessica chose the second "half-do" option for her special day, and I know she'll rock those locks all the way down the aisle! Feel free to draw inspiration for your own wedding day hairstyles!


That's all for this week, beauties! Remember to keep those hairsprayed 'do's away from the fireworks, and have a safe and happy holiday weekend! Until next time...

xo, Lindsay



JFBL:::guest blogger:::Tracee Dolan ON yoga mats.


This comes up alot! What yoga mat do instructors recommend? Yes, there is the 6.99 job lot, tj maxx, marshalls deal. Use one of those for starters for sure!

Sticky mats are great for hot yoga. Jade & Manduka are the main brands. I favor Jade, but I currently use a Manduka mat. The Ny times recommends the Original Eco Yoga Mat.
Another eco mat yoga maker is Prana. With any of these recommendations I promise! you can't go wrong :)
I also recommend a yogitoes cloth for your mat. If you are just starting out and want to use a regular inexpensive mat, go for the yogitoes as an add on.
It's about 50 bucks and you can wash it whenever you please-throw it over your mat- while you decide if it is worth it for your practice to purchase a sticky mat.

Yoga mats are a newer addition to yoga! Especially since yoga has been around for 5,000 years. So, practice where and when you want to & try your very best not to get caught up in the gear. :)

Tracee Dolan is available for private & group instruction. Please feel free to contact traceeteachesyoga@gmail.com