Vivrant Thing!

Beauty products are important.  Case in point: this weekend Mikita and I decided to start off our epic three-day/two-night sleepover by taking our girls to the zoo.  Too bad that we didn’t check the weather report before stepping out in the midst of the first Heat Wave since 2013.  Trust me: penguins, manure and 90 degree temperatures don’t mix!

Cooling off at Turtle Back Zoo

I’m sweating bullets (probably shouldn’t have had those two glasses of Riesling pre-field trip) and poor Misa is literally about to fall out. We can’t even sit down in the shade because 1) there is no shade and 2) somebody decided to paint the metal benches black.  In the midst of this emergency, I look over at Mikita and she's digging in her purse.  I’m thinking that she’s about to pulls out some water or a pocket fan.  Instead, she starts handing out blotting papers!  I’m sure that the five of us were a sight.  Two women in platform sandals and jewels, and three girls walking around blotting their noses and foreheads!

Vivant Beauty, located on 121^st and St. Nicholas, is our type of place.  This black owned shop is several steps above the local beauty supply stores in Harlem.  It stocks make-up, skin care, and hair care from brands like OPI, Mario Badescu, and Hair Rules.  There is an emphasis on high-end brands, and natural products.

The owner, Desiree, is knowledgeable and incredibly sweet.  Seeing that I was wearing cornrows she guided me toward Girl + Hair a line of hair care geared toward braids and weaves.  The bottle has a nozzle top that allows you to insert the product directly onto itchy, dry scalps.  On top of the great products and attentive service, Desiree offers generous free samples with purchases.

Visit Vivrant Beauty if you are in the neighborhood.  If you aren't it is definitely worth the trip Uptown.  

220 St. Nicholas Avenue

New York, NY 10027

212-865-0100