HOW TO SURVIVE THE SEPHORA SALE WITHOUT GOING BROKE | Hannah Louise Poston | MY NO-BUY YEAR

[@Krisstreu]

In a sea of "what to buy" "what to get" THIS IS SO MUCH BETTER. I feel lighter watching your videos and not anxious and fomo watching these other rush rush videos. Thank you for doing this project for you, and for us. You're the bees knees Hans.🌼

[@HannahLouisePoston]

Aw, thanks Kristin! I love that you say you feel lighter, that honestly makes my day.

[@bushrafahad9779]

Kristin Calhoun hxnf

[@krisr92]

Hi Hannah I’m not sure you will see this, but I had to comment after watching this video. I have been making my way through your first year (but still loved your video with Julene today), as I am growing tired of the usual KZbin rewind of new product launch reviews. I took your suggestion in this video and looked back at my purchases in 2018. My gosh I spent over $300/month! I also started my “KZbin made me buy it” binge in late 2016, but I have practiced unhealthy spending throughout my adult years. I maintained my $300 record in January, but I am officially on a no buy starting 2/1/19. The decision was a huge relief for me, but I expect there will be rough days/weeks ahead. You are an amazing and inspiring young woman, and I can say that as a “young” 62 year old. 💕💕

[@oliviab650]

Omg “makeup purchasing having s dark under belly” yes. I am going to binge watch your videos I need you and your advice. My makeup addiction is even causing fights between my boyfriend and I because I do spend my last dollar on makeup and I’ve maxed out his credit card on makeup and haven’t been paying it off. Thank you ❤️

[@HannahLouisePoston]

Hi Olivia! I'm glad you found my channel if makeup addiction is having such a negative impact on your life. If you are struggling to change your habits, I really recommend a no-buy. For me, switching the focus from buying to loving what I have was an incredible feeling and helped so much. I also recommend r/makeuprehab on reddit! Keep me updated on your progress, I'm confident that you can make change. xoxoxo

[@oliviab650]

Hannah Louise Poston I love that...I will check that website out for sure. A no buy sounds interesting but idk I feel like I’ll miss out lol.

[@xoxogossipgirlchuck]

girl I just can't stop admiring your hair

[@HannahLouisePoston]

thanks! :)

[@Libernation]

I really like your look in this video.

[@ZeehcTunococ]

Me too! I love her hair and her blown out eye look!

[@suzannegabrielle]

She is a very stunning woman.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

AW YOU GUYYYYYYSSSS

[@Viennafly1]

She looks like a princess! OMG

[@MeridaEllaSDB]

"Why would I trade the money, which I need, for something that I don't need?" Is my favorite savings quote from Warren Buffet. Money is to buy shelter in safe neighborhoods, quality food, education, healthcare, car repairs, and some creature comforts. Money is there to protect you. Let it. Let it stew in savings accounts: emergency, HSA, 401K or 403K, vacation, IRAs, bonds, and tip toe into more complex investments. When trouble brews up, you just pay it and move on. That feels better than new products. We need to have a headspace to feel accomplishment from a saving portfolio, as much as a luxury goods collection.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

LOVE this quote. Thanks for sharing.

[@bushrafahad9779]

Megan Sinnott vcvdh

[@sophieserendipity4164]

It's been years ago that I read your comment here. And it's really spoken to me and helped me save money, letting it stew, etc. Yesterday, my computer broke. It's causing me some stress, energy-wise, organization-wise, emotion-wise because this week sucked so much already. But I can pay for the repair or buy a new computer with my "micro- f*ck off- funds", and move on. And THAT feeling, my money as useful, protective, and keeping me able to work and write and so on, that feeling is sooo much better than that glamourous eyeshadow palette, the gloss set on sale, etc. I'll recuperate quickly, and I will postpone a few things I've considered buying to get my emergency fund back on track. Thank you for your wise words!

[@jessfrezz4764]

Hannah, you could seriously go into life coaching! You give such relevant & deep yet tangible ideas in a non-condescending way 🌸🌺 I’m seriously now considering extending my August no-buy over the sale & through September. Thank you for the time & effort you put into your videos, it’s much needed here in this space - in this generation. 💜

[@HannahLouisePoston]

Aw, thanks, Jess! Sending a big hug!

[@courtney9694]

I do find that when I clean my brushes or my makeup I appreciate it more. It also satisfies that desire for buying new “pretty” makeup since your makeup is now “pretty” as well.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

yes, it's so real!

[@luxeydaze]

You look like Jennifer Lawrence. I agree with you 100%. There have been times I have gotten things on sale and didn’t realized I had the product in a box that was never used. What it really boils down to is being more mindful of things we already have so we don’t impulsively fill the void with things we don’t need. Ugh, girl you speak to me. I subscribed!

[@HannahLouisePoston]

Hi Sonya! yay! I'm so glad this speaks to you and your experience! Thanks for subscribing and commenting

[@Lyranlight11]

I love that you’re so well spoken! What type of books do you read to develop/maintain such a good vocabulary? I’d love to hear from you!

[@jcjccmz]

Hope you don't mind my jumping in. If you read a lot of different things, all the time, from real newspapers like the New York Times to books both nonfiction and fiction, your vocabulary and your writing skills will improve greatly. I'm not sure how helpful it would be to read some of the things available on the internet though. My understanding of the consensus in education is that just reading a lot, over time, will help your vocabulary and your writing.

[@Lyranlight11]

jcjccmz I agree! Thanks for jumping in :)

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I agree that "lots of reading" in general is a good strategy! But I can also add that I listen to a lot of audiobooks, many of them by British writers. They don't have to be the most erudite, for example I listen to a lot of murder mysteries, but many of the best mystery writers have beautiful syntax and creative vocabularies. I'd try PD James, Louise Penny, and Elizabeth George. If you like nonfiction, I recommend checking longreads.com weekly and clicking through to some of the articles they curate. I read a bunch of other stuff too, but those are great places to start.

[@Lyranlight11]

Hannah Louise Poston Thank you for your detailed reply! So helpful! :)

[@depalmafamily]

I would agree on all counts. My mom was a non native English speaker with the best vocabulary and would whip me in scrabble all day. Her secret was reading. Also, many public libraries have free audiobooks through apps like Hoopla and Libby, if subscription services are too much. You may want to read older books since I think nowadays there is an “anti intellectual” bias and I bet work is edited to be simpler.

[@70kers]

Amazing advice. I grew up being told " It's not a savings if your spending money. " I must say that is very sound advice. I luckily over the last few years have become only an insider at Sephora. Which I think feels oddly good and still slightly uncomfortable. Which is why I'm still working on it. Thank you Hannah.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

thank you for watching, Kristi! xoxo!

[@AdrianaKay7]

Day 13 no buy, longest I've ever done! Lots of temptations but feeling good! You look STUNNING! 😍🤩😍🤩

[@HannahLouisePoston]

WOO HOO! Congratulations!

[@NayNay97xoxo]

something I've been doing recently is instead of buying palettes with inspiring color stories, I've been trying to dupe them within my collection. you don't need to own it to be inspired by it!

[@HannahLouisePoston]

totally agreed! I have a couple of videos about this, "duping the vibes" of the norvina palette and the jaclyn hill vault. It works beautifully

[@ZeehcTunococ]

I'm only getting a little $20 item. But I'm asking friends and family if they need anything. My current cart total pushes me over the VIB Rouge line for next year. It's actually really satisfying buying for other people! Given they pay me back of course :D

[@HannahLouisePoston]

:)

[@lisamoya2534]

I try to keep my makeup collection to a moderate amount (right now it fits into one wooden utensil organizer), but watching beauty youtube is often a constant reminder there's dozens of things coming out each month and thousands of "fun" things I haven't tried. It's so amazing to hear someone say, "It's okay to say no to more and focus on the wonderful things you already have!"

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I love watching beauty KZbin and I even love finding out about all the new releases! But I think we HAVE to develop a stubborn individual mindset so that all the excitement doesn't cause us to buy, buy, buy. Thank you for watching, I'm so glad you enjoyed it!

[@beimkohlehydrat2455]

this is brilliant! i love how thoughtful and well-spoken you are.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

thank you!

[@LisaDia14]

All wonderful words of wisdom! Ulta just had 10x and 5x points on purchases. I spent just under $16, and it was non cosmetic items that were planned purchases anyway. I like your “think like a corporation” analogy. And I do! I’m the CEO and CFO of my money. I’m not saving money by buying something on sale if I wasn’t planning on buying it to begin with. My Sephora discount is 15%. Could I purchase an item or two that I have planned on purchasing to get a discount now, yes. But, despite what corporations think, it is not enough of a discount to tempt me to shop with reckless abandon.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

CEO of my money! yasss!

[@GelukkigOne]

Very timely video for me...the nagging guilt of how much I might have spent on eye-shadow palettes became overwhelming yesterday so I tallied it all up. It was 3x what I thought and I almost threw up. I am back on the no buy with you and my life's work will be trying to use up all these eye shadows before I die. Having admitted I am clearly an eye-shadow addict, I'm ready for the challenge.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

it's amazing how knowing we spent too much but not knowing how much it really was can cause so much anxiety. Good for you for facing the music!

[@brooke449]

Just in case u need a friendly reminder bout the cart this time around 😂currently talking myself down lol

[@edeljmc]

I would love to see a walk through of your make up set up and collection

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I'm going to try to film it asap!

[@keziagledhill7238]

this really hits home I wanted the NORVINA PALETTE sooo bad!!!! luckily it came out right around my birthday and I got a gift card so I bought that sucker. I tried to create so many looks with it. Guess what purple doesn't suit me and I actually don't like purple that much....Returned it a week later, what a waste of my energy and time.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

thanks for sharing this! a useful story to remember :)

[@naomilasby7744]

Wishing I could frantically re hit the like button! I feel you so hard, I feel exactly the same way about "space".

[@HannahLouisePoston]

Aw, thanks Naomi! xoxo!

[@kelseyl5958]

Your point about space really resonated with me- I decluttered and panned so much in anticipation of my move that I was able to get rid of a bunch of acrylic drawers once I was in the new apartment and it's amazing. I am no longer as overwhelmed when I sit down to do my makeup. That's not to say I don't still have way more than I should- but it has inspired me to play around with a different item each day. I also finally talked myself out of norvina- did the palette comparison on temptalia and realized the pictures of potential dupe swatches from palettes I already own I actually liked better!

[@HannahLouisePoston]

yeah, it's kind of amazing when you declutter enough so that you can actually declutter some of your storage thingies! That happened to me with my recent closet clean-out. Took a bunch of shelving to the goodwill, it was the best.

[@michellemichael1676]

I think I need to record this and listen to it on repeat all day today! I am so over buying the make up that I DO NOT NEED but I still by it anyway because of the "newness" and initial excitement that is gone the next day. This video is SO SPOT ON in what I need to hear! Not sure I could do a no buy year but maybe take a baby step and do a no buy month and see how I do. Thank you for this inspiration.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

starting small is a great idea! Choose a no-buy that you are confident you can succeed with. I had already experienced a lot of changes in myself by the end of month #1. Thanks for commenting, I'm so glad the video helped! xoxo

[@Jasmine-in-my-mind]

I'm with you-- I'm tired of being manipulated. I'm gearing up for a low-buy next year, currently shopping my stash, clearing clutter, and thinking about what I want in my home. I've already decided that one of my low-buy rules will be "no bargain shopping". I don't need much, and so there's really no reason why I should be watching for sales as an opportunity to stock up on anything.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

that is a great rule. I love the idea of requiring yourself to buy things full price. It means you will only get it if it is worth the money to you, and it totally blocks the corporations from being able to manipulate you. Brilliant! I might mention this in a future video if you don't mind.

[@Jasmine-in-my-mind]

I don't mind at all. :)

[@lilahtov1]

You just earned a follower in me. Not only is your approach a totally new one (to me, anyway, considering all I ever see are recommendations, hauls, unboxings, etc.) but you are eloquent, you've done your research, and you actually practice what you preach! What a breath of fresh air. I am seriously so impressed. (Plus, your eye makeup is stunning, and Poema looks awesome!)

[@HannahLouisePoston]

yay, I'm so glad you are enjoying the videos! Thank you so much for subscribing and commenting! xoxo

[@jcjccmz]

This is one of the most thoughtful things I've seen on the internet in such a long time. I'm a newer subscriber so I'm looking forward to seeing your earlier video. When I was recently researching marketing techniques last week, I for sure read about the illusory "sale," where the company inflates the retail price and then offers a small discount to psychologically trick people into buying where the company will still make a huge profit anyway. When you asked about whether I wanted more space or more stuff, I immediately said "space." Really well done video. And btw, I stopped buying things from Sephora about 2 years ago, when I made purchases during the VIB sale giving the checkout clerk -- when asked -- my VIB account info, and drove home with my purchases to discover she hadn't applied the 20% discount. I had to drive back to the mall and go back to Sephora to get my discount, when I had much more important things to do. I was furious. They told me I was supposed to have given them my discount code to get the 20% off, even though the salesclerk had never asked for it, just my VIB account info. Apparently I had made the *incredibly* stupid mistake of assuming that when she asked me for my VIB info, she was finding my discount code. Instead, I found out you were supposed to play some secret, magic word "game," where I had to demand my 20% discount with the code, unprompted by the salesgirl. I lost it on both she and the manager, telling them what they already knew -- 80% of the customers in there were there for the sale and to pretend it's not happening until the customer gave the secret magic password was bullshit. This is how Sephora treats their customers, and the loyal ones at that. I haven't made a single purchase from Sephora ever since.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

yikes! that sounds like it was a really horrible experience! I'm glad you enjoyed the video even though you are not in danger of shopping the sale :)

[@jcjccmz]

@@HannahLouisePoston I have since been told by sephora employees on youtube that the corporate office directs sephora managers and sales clerks not to mention the discount unless the customer asks for it with their VIB discount code. Other retailers have clerks telling customers as they enter the store about specials going on. Sephora instead has a corporate policy of promoting the crap out of this crappy sale but then not providing the discount until/unless the rewards member states he/she is purchasing with the VIB sale discount code. Like I said in the comment above, this is how they treat their loyal customers.

[@melissa63881]

You look gorgeous ! Thank you for the great advice.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

thanks, Melissa! xo!

[@angeladesilva7913]

With the newest Sephora sale upon us yet again, I am rewatching yours and Hailey Evans' videos. I love what you say here about stopping yourself from placing that order and going to play with your makeup collection for an hour creating as many looks as you can or decluttering (and for me decluttering involves shipping a box to my daughter in law) or organizing or clean your brushes and sponges because it all involves touching and handling your makeup, and then seeing if you still want to buy the items in your cart! Such a good strategy to curb your makeup spending habits! I am going to do just that, plus I have two broken compacts that need to be re-pressed. The Sephora sale for me has to be an online thing which is not as satisfying for me as an in-store purchase like Ulta would be since I live walking distance from Ulta. Its just more inconvenient for me to shop at Sephora because I don't get instant gratification (but I have 2-day shipping) idk, we'll see what happens.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

[@klaudiakozera9055]

I love how glam you look in this video. 😍 Simply gorgeous.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

Thanks, Klaudia!

[@RhondaRambles]

Well stated! I finally finished up my current brow pencil (MAC Spiked, lasted forever) and dug out my back up Anastasia pencils I bought during the Ulta 21 days of beauty event @ 1/2 off. They were dried up and useless 😐. Lesson learned....

[@HannahLouisePoston]

yes! thank you for sharing this! I mean, I'm sorry that happened to you :( but it's good information to have.

[@dcandleonna]

I'm starting a low to no buy too from now until next year. It's true what you said in the video, last night I was cleaning my makeup bag and I realised how many products I already have, and that I want to cherish them more, and stop buying new things I don't need. Subscribed! ❤

[@HannahLouisePoston]

yay, thanks for subscribing, Sherilyn! xo!

[@Sky10811]

Your make up today is amazing

[@HannahLouisePoston]

thanks! xo!

[@donnamcmanus7360]

This is speaking to me in application to quite a few areas of my over buying tendencies.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

Yay! My no-buy year has reached into all areas of my life.

[@cdncinnamongirl6013]

You're content, your perspective, is really resonating with me. I was already on a similar journey, but perhaps not quite as consciously as you are, and that difference is acting as a foil and helping me to see where I wish to go from here. I recently went on a trip, and I historically use travel to bring back some makeup "souvenir"....and this time I just couldn't find anything that I really wanted bad enough to justify. It felt bizarre and unsettling at first, that I needed to want something, but then I let go of the pressure to have an object as commemoration and realized I don't want to want something just for the sake of it. One in, one out is my next commitment to self.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

it's nice that your perspective has started changing organically! That's a great sign. I was so far gone that I had to impose really strict rules, and perspective has changed as a result of abiding by them. But it sounds like your subconscious is really working to make change on its own. Exciting!

[@catchthelightcanyou]

I keep going back to your videos in December to keep me sane from all the rush of shopping. Thank you Hannah, super good advices that on some level I do know but I need someone to repeat it for me! :)

[@NayNay97xoxo]

wow what you said about the fantasy of the new thing often being better than the new thing.... so true!!

[@HannahLouisePoston]

it really is!

[@BiggerinRealLife]

This is amazing advice. My sister just sent me to your channel because we just went through a time of severe financial struggle, and now that we're experiencing some relief, I'm not wanting to go back to my old spending habits. I wish I'd had your voice on my side while I wasn't able to buy and was feeling badly about it, but I'm grateful to have it on my side now that I'm wanting to be responsible with my renewed buying power.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

Yes, in a way I think how we behave when we have more flexibility actually has more impact on our long-term habits and our enjoyment of life. So maybe this is perfect timing! :) I'm glad things are looking up for you.

[@HMMMakeup]

I get what you’re saying about pricing. It’s factual. What I’d wade in with is that some of us only purchase when something is on sale and are very patient in managing our wants. That $4-8 (but usually way more of a discount, at least for me) can really be meaningful...and it isn’t a trigger, it’s the only way we’ll buy. Anything. Because the full retail price is nothing more than a psychological anchor point. I look for value compared to what else is available as a substitute and set what I would be willing to pay (per oz or g/ml) for the higher end product in comparison. Sure, sometimes I won’t get what I’m hoping will become availableat some point but, either way, I’m better off. And, when it comes to cosmetics, there are plenty of fish in the sea. As always, I appreciate your videos and your willingness to let us come along on your journey.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I've never been a person who only buys on sale, so I appreciate you adding your perspective! thanks for commenting.

[@rebecca5379]

You would make a great life coach. 😂 Your videos pull me back to reality and I find them to be so relaxing.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

Thanks, Rebecca! xoxo!

[@goharmartirosyan15]

I am coming back to this video again and again to remind myself of what i should do ! Really sound advice is hard to come by.

[@sharlagelfand]

the literal amount saved is just so real too. like... i'm a beauty insider, so i save 10%. tax in ontario is 13%. it is not worth it for me to go crazy over a sale and blow a ton of money just to save less than sales tax!

[@HannahLouisePoston]

seriously!

[@phoebechristina]

this is EXACTLY what I was thinking with the tax in nyc!

[@fray-adjacent]

This is a belated comment, but I’ve watched this twice already. I’m not affected by the Sephora sale, but in my hazy, poorly defined post no-buy state I’m struggling with with some makeup consumption fomo anyway. Your points are really good. I also want space! And peace. Thanks again; I’m saving this for future reference.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

glad it's helping! xoxo!

[@gloameyedprince]

You are so glamorous in this video! That hairstyle is incredibly elegant

[@HannahLouisePoston]

thanks! I was annoyed with my hair so I just braided it back and pinned up the braids. I can usually leave it like this for four or five days.

[@lindsayduggan7523]

Hannah I love love love your videos! I found you from a link in the make up rehab subreddit! Keep up the awesomeness!

[@HannahLouisePoston]

hi Lindsay! Yay! thanks for watching and commenting :)

[@bestany5517]

I saw this video in my feed and avoided playing it for a while. But I’m glad I did. Your suggestions are very thoughtful and get a little deeper than some other tips I have heard in the past. I’m not on a no-buy, but I definitely am trying to work on my reasons for shopping. Maybe I’ll get to the no-buy place eventually 😊. This video was helpful and I appreciate you making it.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

Maybe you could join no-buy September! You have a week or so to get yourself ready, and it's just 30 days, which is totally do-able. It's not so long that you freak out, but long enough to shift your perspective a bit. I'll be making a video about it on September 1st, let me know if you decide to jump in! Thanks so much for your comment, I'm glad you decided to click "play" and that the video was helpful. xo!

[@phoebechristina]

such a help! thank you! i've been playing around with being more minimalist and also spending less and came across your post on reddit. as your video was playing it motivated me to get up and clean out my collection. i'm putting stuff on poshmark as i type!

[@HannahLouisePoston]

yay, I'm glad the video was helpful! Thank you so much for watching and for commenting. xoxo!

[@agnieszkapilot-bambynek8025]

Hannah, you are genius! 💖 What really blow my mind are the tips of space cost and that of thinking that our stuff was once the fantasy products. I've never seen makeup like this, but it's totally true. Now I'm on a monthly no buy and already been thinking what to buy after. And apparently some of the stuff I've spotted is the fantasy category. I'm constantly seeking green eyeshadows like just recently I've been seeking violets! With violets I ended up having a lot of, but nothing is really stunning. And I've got an eye on some palettes, but truely I've no room for them. I have now serious food for thought, thank you 😘 Have a nice weekend!

[@HannahLouisePoston]

HI Agnieszka! I'm so glad this video was helpful. The thing about space is really on my mind lately, I'm already thinking about doing another declutter!

[@agnieszkapilot-bambynek8025]

Oh, declutter! I'm so ready to watch some 🙌

[@HMMMakeup]

I SO enjoy this type of video from you. This is true materialism: enjoying what we own to the fullest. I will be playing with my makeup a whole lot more over the coming months!

[@HannahLouisePoston]

aw, thanks!

[@sarahschmitz185]

Someone may have suggested this already, but I would love to see you do the “first Sephora orders” video that is going around! I think it could tie in really well with the ideas you discuss on your channel (what products actually stand the test of time, how the novelty of things we are really excited for wears off over time, etc).

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I'll see if I can fit it in!

[@aliciag1257]

Thank you for the great advice! I did not buy anything :) I looked at what I have already, and agree with you in that I already own a lot of nice things. So I will work on enjoying and using what I have.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

:)

[@DoctorBeepBoop]

For the first time ever, I am only buying one item and it’s an expensive product that I’m actually just now running out of. 1 thing and it’s a replacement. It’s a big deal for me.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

yesss go Eccentric Professor goooo!!!! It is a big deal. I'm proud of you :)

[@DoctorBeepBoop]

Hannah Louise Poston You know what? I had a gift card I was also applying the purchase to and there is a glitch on the Sephora website where it wasn’t calculating my gift card, so I had to call. I’m waiting and I start processing “how important is this gift card? Would you buy this item if you didn’t have the gift card”? The answer was absolutely not. I told the woman to cancel it and I’m not going to buy the essence. I realized it’s not worth the money.

[@DoctorBeepBoop]

Hannah Louise Poston It’s interesting because I got a PhD and some of what we had to study were economic theories, so I’ve always been completely aware of what companies are doing and yet it was like I wanted what I wanted and that’s it. Have you noticed another trend in these videos. “It’s time to buy the big-ticketed items because you’ll save the most money.” Yes, if I’m buying 1 item. But ultimately $200 is $200 whether it’s a shit-ton of little items or two expensive things. The logic. My god.

[@shelleysalmond777]

I’ve been pondering what you said about your desire for space being greater then your desire for the item and the value of space. I went through my drawer and pulled out several things that I want less then I want the space. I feel so much lighter removing a few items and seeing my drawers less then 100% full. And I really don’t want to fill that space so I don’t feel the urge to shop to fill that space again. My dilemma right now is how to reduce items in a category I feel overwhelmed by but is a carefully curated collection. What to do when the carefully curated collection feels too big. My one thought is that perhaps that means my carefully curated collection is not as curated as I think. And that I don’t know my items very well. So Currently my solution is makeup playtime and attempting to find something I can declutter and get to know what I have better. And more importantly, not gaining any more items. But I think having my drawers 75-90% full is my goal. I love space. I actually got a new powder and highlight recently and I didn’t love either item and both had ginormous packaging. So I was able to easily return both partly because I really didn’t have a space to put them.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

i'm so glad that concept is helping you! I'm curious about how my own declutter will go. I feel like a lot of my collection is curated but too big, like you say. I suspect that even just getting rid of a few things will help. Makeup playtime is a really good way to get guidance, too!

[@LJernegan]

Love your recommendations! My favorite is going through my past purchases on Sephora to see how many are barely used and how long ago I bought them. Scary. I also go through my collection looking for fun items to use instead of what I want. I usually get overwhelmed. Then I don’t buy another item to add to that feeling.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

that's a great tactic! Thanks for sharing!

[@strwbrrymrmd]

I’m really glad I’ve found your channel, I shopped the sale and it sent me on a bit of a downward spiral. And now Im going on a no buy until Black Friday.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

Ugh, I'm sorry you're feeling down! Making clear no-buy rules and starting with conviction will go a long way towards helping lift your spirits (as I hope you are already discovering). I think a spectacularly successful no-buy between now and black friday could actually be life-changing. Good luck!

[@trex1570]

I loved this video so much. After 2 hrs of makeup play, I have officially emptied my Sephora cart. Also I have enjoy going through my endless (seemingly) samples from Sephora

[@HannahLouisePoston]

nice! those little samples last FOR. EVER. It took me seven moths of my no-buy to use most of them up. Thanks so much for commenting! xoxo!

[@yenoak9730]

You dropped a serious word when you asked "do you want space or do you want stuff?" Every two weeks I'm shifting items and reorganizing in an attempt to simply breathe whenever I open a cabinet, drawer, or closet. I have 5 or 6 items in my Sephora cart right now in anticipation of the sale and I will delete them. I do not need anything else. Not for at least another 6 months. Don't even get me started on backups. I would pay the $50, too, to get back my space. By the way, your makeup look here is stunning. Beautiful and understated. Plus, the earrings really set the whole outfit off!

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I'm so glad this was a useful video for you! I've always wanted more space but it wasn't until halfway through my no-buy year (six months!) that I started to see the incredibly clear connection between my overspending and my feeling of being overcrowded. It's been amazing this year to get rid of things and have that space stay free rather than it getting filled up again right away.

[@CharlisDailyDiary]

Love your message. Thank you. I came over from Georgia Harris.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

Hi Charli! Thank you for commenting! So glad you are here. xoxo

[@cinemaocd1752]

This is such good advice. I am on a no buy now and there was a product that I was going to buy last fall (Wayne Goss Holiday brush) that I missed out on. It restocked the other day and I had it in my beautylish cart and was so, so close to pulling the trigger. I managed to make it through the day without doing it, but I am HAUNTED by the idea that it will sell out again and I will NEVER get it, even though all his holiday brushes are still available from years past. I went through and washed my brushes the other night and I realized I have so many brushes. I really want that brush still, but just handling all my brushes helped me realize that I want to declutter brushes BEFORE I go back and build my collection further.

[@trex1570]

You are turning into my new favorite You Tuber. The book Home growing blew me away! Thank you so much for the reply recommendation

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I'm so glad you read it! I had the pleasure of spending some time with the author in March and she is such a thoughtful, lovely, wise person. And the book! I could barely contain myself, it is so good and so necessary. I made my whole family read it.

[@shezzsky]

Love you channel!! I've been a viewer for several months now. A weird trick I do to curb my spending would be to make collage of all the items on my wishlist and their pricing. I print them in colour and stick it up on my wall near my vanity so then it can help me assess when i do my makeup everyday. For example can i dupe them; be inspired by the colour story, or will i actually use the product or just want it because of pretty packaging etc.. It helps to get the big picture. 😊

[@shezzsky]

By the end of the process I end up realising I dont need a majority of that stuff.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

fascinating! It sounds like a kind of ongoing duping the vibes. Thanks for sharing!

[@jomel6838]

I love watching your videos! You have changed me in a very positive way. BTW, you look especially gorgeous today!

[@HannahLouisePoston]

thank you! I'm so glad you are experiencing change!

[@underthemooon]

This is so perceptive and well thought-out, thank you for another inspiring video!

[@HannahLouisePoston]

yay! Thank you!

[@cutepoke1995]

I am having a hard time with this new sale as it’s my last purchase at Sephora before my year long no buy begins in September these tips really help. I almost put so much in my cart that I didn’t need including a $170 makeup pallet but I didn’t. I took your advice and also looked whithin myself to what I really wanted/needed and that I would value during my no buy I decided I was going to be getting a small list of items that I have wanted for a wile and I am not allowed to put anything else in my cart I am not even allowing myself to look at anything else and once I place my purchase I have to delete Sephora app off my phone . A sulfer spot treatment (just ran out of my spot treatment and need a new one), a nude pinkish cool tone lipstick that I thought would look great during the day (I don’t own many nudes only 1 and it is very warm toned) a ilimanating primer because i only have a Matt one and we are going into the fall/winter soon my skin gets dull in the cold Canada winter, a orange red tinted lip balm, and a peach tone Matt lipstick because I have nothing like that and I felt like it would be quite unique and it’s a look I have been craving to do for a long time. I did the math and know how much it is going to cost and it’s a price I am comfortable spending just before a no buy I am glad I am sticking to my list even though there are things I desperately want to panic buy.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I'm excited for your upcoming no-buy, and it sounds like you've done a really good job of editing your cart to something reasonable and to purchases that you can continue to use and cherish during your no-buy. I have two or three things that I bought at the last minute before the end of last year that I really have been using and loving and caring for this year. But I also wish I had panic-bought less stuff. Excellent job with your choices!

[@cometZphoenix]

thank you for the solid advice!! i'm passing on the sale and this video gave me more confidence in that decision :]

[@HannahLouisePoston]

:)

[@trex1570]

I want your channel to grow and grow! You are so soothing to listen to every video

[@HannahLouisePoston]

aw, THANKS! I really appreciate you saying this :)

[@Jordanavargasf]

Loved the hair on this video you look like a renaissance painting ❤️ stunning !! I buy backups of things that are like cotton rounds, qtips for my kit, disposables, but they are non perishable and I can’t be without them for my MUA kit. And for my own makeup life since I live in Colombia I buy backups when eyebrow pencils that I know will last me 1 month 2 months are on sale, because is something that I actually have just one of. But one time I got a highlight as back up and sold it because I there was no way I was going to run out. I would still buy back ups of concealers. But then again I don’t have a Sephora close by and they don’t sell those products in my country and I wouldn’t buy more than one back up. 🙌🏻❤️ love your thoughts Hannah !

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I think it does make sense to buy backups if you are going to be in a place where you don't have access!

[@garmonbozia_]

Another wonderful video, thank you so much! I ran out of C Firma a few days ago and - much to my dull-ish skin’s chagrin - I’ll be waiting for the sale to pick that up, along with the DE sunscreen since I’m currently using another one which I don’t like. That’s. It.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

sounds like a perfect reasonable plan. this is the way to use the sale to your advantage rather than having it take advantage of you!

[@yesimthatlisa]

Excellent Sale Survival tips! After a few recommendations videos, I couldn't watch any more! I started to get that feeling that I get from pushy sales people like at car dealerships - "This deal is ONLY for XYZ, and I can give you THIS price today!" These sales like Sephora's or Ulta's don't make me WANT to buy at that Special Sale time or want to buy unnecessary things just because they're on sale - I tend not to buy at all at that time because of that "carrot dangling" pushy enticement! I don't want to buy things or bring new unnecessary things into my collection that I don't know if they'll work for me. AND I've reached the point where if I used up and need go to buy an item/product that I've been using, it works for me and I love it then find out there's a sale/discount then okay good for me BUT I agree I don't want to buy just to have back up stock. I've also given up my Treat-myself/Splurge mentality because the last few times things haven't worked for me and/or I look at it to find I just really no longer want that thing so I have to return it which is wasting time and gas money :o/

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I know, I said in this video that I was watching all the recommendations, but I think I've kind of reached capacity! There have been a few I clicked out of.

[@angelapennington4724]

You are so amazing Hannah!

[@HannahLouisePoston]

thanks, Angela! it's nice to see your smiling face in your new avatar :)

[@swisslions]

Love your earrings. Great tips.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

:)

[@amberwings17]

I’m getting single shadows to revitalize my palettes that I’ve gotten bored with! You’ve inspired me with your own z palette to de-pot and put my shadows together in one place and just buy the colors I’ve been eyeing in other palettes as singles. This is also how I’m escaping the colourpop palette sale rn, haha

[@HannahLouisePoston]

nice! this is a really good expression of "would you rather have stuff or space." buying just the few singles is so much better than buying a few new palettes. You get some freshness but nothing that takes up space.

[@ceci_gee]

Thank you!!! You are just what I needed!!

[@HannahLouisePoston]

yay! glad to hear it!

[@quinnminnesota3852]

I love this video and I loved your fabulous April Sephora sale "Rules" video. I picked up my brush and sponge cleaner which I have been out of for quite a while. I tried the cheaper alternatives but I even buy this soap at full price. I made a few other purchases but my spending is so much better and smarter and smaller this year than 2017 and 2016. Since you like mysteries, have you read Jo Rowling's nom de plume, Robert Galbraith? I just got the announcement email for her 4th Cormoran Strike book, Lethal White, but I'm clearly out of the loop since it was a news item last month as Google has informed me.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

Ah, I've never read JK Rowling's mysteries! I think on some level I've always been like "give me Harry or give me nothing." Which is probably why she chose a nom de plume to begin with, lol. I'll keep an eye out for them!

[@OhHiAndie]

Amazing, amazing tips! This came at a great time -- I was talking myself into buying a lot of expensive skincare, because "Hey, it's a good time to try that $120 moisturizer!" You totally called me out lol, and immediately, I was put off from my cart full of certain brands of super-pricy skincare I had ready! I'm not going to be able to afford repurchasing that routine at full price when I run out, so why even try it? Also I think I'm going to spend the sale weekend cataloguing my makeup -- going through email receipts to figure out how old everything is, etc.. It really helps me get a grip on the size of my collection, and how much make I have on the verge of expiring 90% full because I have too much to use it all. 2019 might be my no-buy year. ;)

[@HannahLouisePoston]

yay, thank you so much for sharing this with me! the cataloguing plan is SUCH a good one. I bet it will be a lovely weekend :) xoxo!

[@jenniferlacey6974]

I started using the sales as a way to buy gifts or stuff I use thats not usually on sale, like liquid eyeliner. I get rid of them every three months for safety.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

if you were going to buy it anyway, it's a good time to do it!

[@MeridaEllaSDB]

Great video Hannah! Thanks for mentioning the group think. I used to feel like I was missing out on some deal, but could not calculate it. I've never bought anything at the Sephora sales because 15% is not a sale to me. I have a gift card and I want a couple things, but I still want to hold on to the gift card for a while until I need it for something I run out of. Ulta's sales help me more. The BOGO50% off is basically 25% off for two. I buy a 6 month or year supply of skincare, hair care, and sunscreens in the midrange brands. I'm the opposite, the single rose gold supply basket relieves anxiety; other things are awaiting KonMari... It saves me around $200 a year on staples, and the time running errands.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

Yes, the group mentality is so powerful! I think we have to be super proactive about thinking for ourselves.

[@heleng5253]

I loved this video, and i have 3 points: 1) another tip for spending time with your makeup so that you don't need new things-repress makeup that you've hit pan on/looks messy and it will feel like a new product. You'll also get to know the product and formula really well, as well as feeling like you made something. If you're adventurous you might make franken things and end up with something really unique. 2) i disagree with you slightly on the no backups/sale shopping thing, but I think we are both coming from the same places and ending at different destinations. My low-buy is money driven, and i have a spreadsheet where i count what i have bought and used, with costs. I'm not on a true no buy like you because my goal was to change my look a bit this year without ending up with a monster collection and spending a fortune. I've gradually been replacing things with products from a shop own brand from a shop where i live (not changing all at once because i have allergies so it needs to be gradual). 6 months in I looked at my data and ONLY for the products i had enough data on, i've bought for the rest of the year. When buying in bulk i saw how that shower gel that's 0.30 more but has a different smell and that brand name that's 0.50 more add up, something that you don't see when you buy individually, i saved around 15-20% by replacing various items with cheaper versions. I think if you're mindful about it, it can pay to buy backups. Doing this in a sale would be even better, so long as you stick to your list. Yes, I need to store them, but i have dedicated space because my income is unreliable and unpredictable and knowing that I have toothpaste until January does bring me some piece. It's similar to your video where you looked at your sephora orders and worked out what they cost you a year, except I do it as i buy. The only downside is that the shop released a new range lately so there are a couple of things that could/should be cheaper, but I'm optimistic my next shop will cost even less. 3) you seem to notice loads of things that I take for granted, like space in your shelves and you seem to see such detail in every day life. This is amazing to me. Is there a way to teach it? It seems like you really witness life.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

great tip about creative re-pressing! re: noticing things, I think it's partly just my nature (I've been like that since I was little, it goes with the "artistic temperament" lol), but if you want to, you can cultivate the practice of mindfulness. Slowing down, taking time away from screens, reading more meditative work like poems by W.S. Merwin or the books of Pema Chodron, walking to work instead of driving, setting aside a few hours to cook a healthy meal without rushing, etc. Those are all things that help me stay mindful and more aware of my surroundings.

[@hannahs.b0yfriend.234]

Hey sweetheart, I finally got that youtube account and I'm going to thumb up all your vids. (Hope that's not youtube-cheating...) XOXO!

[@HannahLouisePoston]

SO. EMBARASSING.

[@asdabir]

hannahs.b0yfriend.23 this is so cute lol

[@katerynanikolenko4564]

I think the biggest reality check for me was actually counting how much I've spent on makeup and skincare. I keep an Excel spreadsheet that has all of my expenses written down by category (beauty products, books, food, transportation etc), and it's a really good way to track spending, considering that I buy a lot of my makeup secondhand (I have no problem with purchasing gently used makeup, as long as it's not expired and in good condition). Anyway... I've spent around $900 on beauty-related stuff since December. $900 of my hard-earned money, and I've already decluttered some of those products when I was going through my stash. I know this might seem like a ridiculous number if you start comparing, especially bc I'm counting makeup and skincare as one category, but for ME and MY income, spending habits and general life goals, the pattern is detrimental. I want to curb the habit before it has spiraled down to a disaster.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I agree, checking the actual numbers is a huge wake-up call. That's one of the main things that helped me, too.

[@anniecarola]

I really liked this video, very helpful! 👍

[@HannahLouisePoston]

yay! I'm so glad!

[@amykleine6685]

Do you know about You Need A Budget? It's a wonderful program to keep track of your spending and also to plan and budget. I've been using it for three years and it's life changing. I actually know exactly how much I spend on beauty products and clothes, and even so I still have a hard time cutting back. I am more motivated by the idea of wanting more space, being more minimalist, and not allowing the corporations to own me (as you say).

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I'm totally going to check that out, thank you! it might come in handy next year :)

[@susanne4028]

Very true and smart analysis.

[@heykmeal]

Literally just removed 4 items from my cart just from watching this video lol. Thanks Hannah ❤ My kryptonite really is skincare. I can easily say no to makeup but skincare is another story lol

[@HannahLouisePoston]

so glad the video helped! I've also been a skincare junkie in the past. I still take good care of my skin and use some expensive products, but the no-buy year has made me a lot less interested in all the bells and whistles and new products. I feel you, though!

[@courtneymcgrath1285]

I recently stopped at a TJ Maxx because I was an hour early for a meeting and I wanted to see if they had any basic black pants or skirts, super utilitarian, to wear to work with more editorial tops. The kind of almost Audrey Hepburn slim pants that I seem to find there. And oh my giddy aunt. The amount of makeup and skin care they have on super sale there, stuff that released this year, that was so marked down. It says a lot about worth. And I find the way I value a product is diretly related to how and where I buy it. Which isn't to say I don't like inexpensive products. I have a passionate relationship with wet n wild liquid catsuit lips and the ordinary serums. But those are in the nature of, I love this so much and bonus, it is inexpensive, aren't I clever? As opposed to an ABH palette that barely interested me when it released. Lauren's "Makeup I'm Not Surprised is On Sale" series really helped me clue in that almost everything that I buy because it's on sale has less meaning to me than mekeip I buy because I love it, regardless of the sale.

[@TeresaW1475]

How did I ever miss that first VIB sale video 😂. I'm going to have to rewatch your videos from the beginning. I am only just starting your second Sephora sale video and I have removed $62 of items from my cart. Thank you! ... and after the second video and some time playing with makeup I've removed a further $135 so I'm only purchasing replacement items I actually need.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

:)

[@elizabethj8130]

Beautiful video.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

Thank you!

[@pavlovetravel6323]

Great explanation! Thank you very much for a such good and useful content! :-)

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I'm so glad it's useful! Thanks for commenting!

[@naomilasby7744]

Im just replenishing primer, skincare and perfume. The burgundy shade tarte chrome pot is tempting me hardcore...it would be an absolutely unique addition to my collection that I think I would use this fall, so maybe. Ok let's be real it will probably happen.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I think a single special item is not a bad choice, especially if you were planning to buy it anyway :) If you want, maybe you can do product-in-product-out for it? I think that's what I'm going to do next year in situations like this.

[@NayNay97xoxo]

I hit VIB at Sephora this year AND platinum at ulta this year... both of which I was trying not to do!

[@HannahLouisePoston]

at least you are aware! That's the first step :)

[@the_rvk_lifestyle]

OMG.. I totally see what you mean!!! One person on KZbin said - you have to spend more to save more !!!!! Like, it's exponential in nature!!! It didn't make any sense! I like what you said for the luxury part .

[@HannahLouisePoston]

yeah, it doesn't work that way! If you spend more, you spend more!

[@the_rvk_lifestyle]

@@HannahLouisePoston exactly!!! I was laughing at that weird analysis! And I remember you saying in another video - watching ppl talk abt their Sephora hauls is another way of online shopping! I never realized it ...

[@noor.zkareem2745]

This helps me alot, especially cuz I am on a no buy

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I'm so glad it helps!

[@andystpierre6086]

I’m kinda proud of me, I only bought my skincare routine (which is pretty expensive on its own when you had all the products 😫😫😫)... so the sale was a good time to restock since my bottles won’t last me long enough to the next sale... the only makeup item I want was out of stock, so I’m not that impressed with myself 😂😂

[@HannahLouisePoston]

It sounds like you haven't gone bananas, though! Good job!

[@CarmenPotter]

We want to see your makeup collection some day ❤

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I'm definitely going to film it! hopefully soon!

[@sarahkalnajs5810]

Great video! On a side note.... WOW! You look stunning! Date night? Any chance of a tutorial on this eye look? On a totally unrelated side note, do you ever dress up for Halloween? A Marilyn Monroe look would be perfect on you!

[@HannahLouisePoston]

ahaha I would love to be Marilyn for Halloween! Great idea. Have you seen the Lisa Eldridge video about Marilyn's makeup? It's fascinating. This was not date night, I just went a little extra for this video because I felt like it was a special one :) I'll try to work in a demo of this look!

[@christine5669]

More wise words! As far as sales go, I think to myself, if I wouldn't or couldn't buy the thing I'm desiring at full price, I'm not going to buy it (you may have said this in your first sale video). Right now I really want the aptly named "The Wants" palette from Revolution & EmilyNoel83. I have a 20% off coupon, and it's $20, but I'm still struggling with whether or not I want to let it into my precious space. We shall see 😌.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

yes, I agree about the full price thing! In the first video I recommended that you don't buy anything during a sale that you weren't already planning to buy at full price. I think that's a good rule of thumb.

[@jaysheet1356]

Brilliant & helpful. Sale periods are stretched out nowadays so that ppl make multiple purchases, retailers have more time to restock and sell even more; product recommendations are fun to watch, but I feel like such a rebel when I don't buy a product that practically everyone is recommending....ahem...drunk elephant.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

love that rebellious feeling! :) #newrules

[@cathylafleur33nobuy78]

👍👍👍. I won't spend any money too. It's my no buy year too. And 2019 will be again my no buy. I am tired and bored by makeup compagnies.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

:)

[@kirrisolly-slade1313]

Yes girl! ❤️💕 preach

[@HannahLouisePoston]

:)

[@courtneymcgrath1285]

Also why do we (me too) get super excited over a 15 or 20 percent sale? Why? It's so small. Why does that hook us? But it sure does. Sephora's marketing is full of evil genuses.

[@pinkabuki]

I was hoping that charlotte tilbury would be available online at sephora in time for the sale, but it's not, so that sucks with the one-time use code online.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

:(