A Passion For Makeup
If you know me, you know I’m never without a full face of makeup. It’s my passion, my creative outlet, and honestly, part of who I am. I love everything about makeup the endless possibilities, the chance to experiment with new products, and the ability to create a variety of looks that express my mood and personality.
The Christmas Tree Supply Trip
One October, my father, husband, and I were in full swing preparing to open our Christmas tree farm for the November season. My dad, who usually jumps at the chance to make the annual trip to North Carolina to pick up supplies, was exhausted from working long hours. This time, he asked my husband, Cesar and I to make the trip for him. Of course, we said yes! We’re always up for an adventure.
Packing Light and a BIG Mistake
Since it was just an overnight trip, I packed light, grabbing a small carry-on with the essentials. We hit the road for the five hour drive, buzzing with excitement. Dad booked us into a charming little hotel, and everything was perfect until I realized I’d made a colossal mistake. In the rush of saying goodbye to our sweet fur baby, Bentley, I’d left my carry on bag in my parents’ living room. My heart sank. Not because I didn’t have clothes or clean underwear, but because I had no makeup. None. Zip. Zilch.
Surprising Compliments
For me, going out in public without makeup felt unthinkable. I turned to Cesar in a panic and declared we had to find the nearest store that sold makeup. Thank goodness there was a Walmart nearby! I stocked up on Walmart makeup and grabbed a few clothing items to get me through the day. I wasn’t sure what to expect—after all, I usually reached for high end brands but I made it work.
Total Shock
To my absolute shock, I received so many compliments that day. People couldn’t stop raving about my look, and when I told them everything down to my outfit was from Walmart, they were floored. They couldn’t believe it! It was a moment of revelation for me. The moral of the story? It doesn’t matter if your makeup is high-end or budget-friendly. Confidence and creativity can make any product shine, and you can turn heads no matter what brand you’re wearing.
Southern Roots that made me who I am
Growing up in the South, I was raised to value appearances. My parents instilled manners in me, sent me to etiquette classes, and taught me the importance of always looking polished. For me, makeup is more than just a routine it’s a piece of my identity, a way to express myself, and something that brings me joy. This experience reminded me that it’s not about the price tag but about how you wear it. So go ahead, try something new, experiment with different looks, and embrace the confidence that comes with it. You’ve got this!
With love and makeup,
<3 your Carolina Cupboard Girl!!
Budget-Friendly Drugstore Makeup Favorites
**Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I love and believe in thank you for supporting my passion for makeup!
Here’s a curated list of my go-to drugstore makeup products that deliver stunning results without breaking the bank. These affordable gems helped me create a head-turning look during my unexpected Walmart shopping spree, proving you don’t need high-end brands to shine!
- Foundation: Wet n Wild Photo Focus Dewy Liquid Foundation Makeup, Soft Ivory – $4.92
A lightweight, dewy foundation that gives a flawless, natural glow at an unbeatable price. Make sure to get your correct color. Light coverage but buildable.
Buy it here: https://amzn.to/40lcQhk
- Powder: Almay Loose Finishing Powder, Light/Medium (Matte Finish) – ON SALE $8.90
This lightweight powder sets your makeup with a smooth, matte finish that lasts all day. Another one that it’s important to get the right color.
Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3IO24dp
- Eyeshadow: e.l.f. Bite Size Eyeshadow Palette, Rose Water – $3.00
Compact yet versatile, this palette offers beautiful, blendable shades for endless eye looks. I like how these really made my eyes pop!
Buy it here: http://bit.ly/3UeBQDr
- Eyeliner: Wet n Wild Mega Last Breakup-Proof Retractable Eyeliner Pencil, Black – $2.28
A reliable, smudge-proof eyeliner that glides on effortlessly for bold, precise lines. This eye liner is perfect and stays all day long!
Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3Gti9EV
- Mascara: e.l.f. Big Mood Mega Volume & Lifting Waterproof Mascara, Black – $8.00
This mascara delivers dramatic volume and lift, keeping your lashes stunning even in humid Southern weather. Now although this is a more economic mascara I will be sticking to my go to. I was not the biggest fan.
Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3Ufo0AF
- Blush: MAC Limited Edition Hawkins Blush (Stranger Things Collection)
A vibrant, limited-edition blush with a bright pop of color that instantly elevates any look. (Price varies, check availability!) - Eyeliner Primer: Essence Volume Booster
A must-have for making your eyeliner pop and stay put all day long. $3.99
Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3GLvQ1X
- Eyebrow Pencil: Maybelline Expert Wear Twin Brow and Eye Pencils, Blonde – $4.48
Perfect for filling and defining brows with a natural finish, doubling as an eye pencil for versatility.
Buy it here: http://bit.ly/44PLWzI
- Blue Top Eyeliner: Wet n Wild Mega Liner Liquid Eyeliner, Cobalt Blue – $3.28
A bold, vibrant blue liquid liner that adds a fun, eye-catching accent to any makeup look. I love the cobalt blue, it’s so beautiful and not many blue’s out there that can achieve this color.
Buy it here: https://amzn.to/4lWA7yw
- Lipstick: Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink City Edition Liquid Lipstick, Inspirer – $5.34
Long-lasting, richly pigmented, and comfortable, this lipstick stays vibrant for hours.
These drugstore finds are proof that you can create a gorgeous, confidence-boosting look on a budget. Try them out and let your creativity shine!
Buy it here: https://amzn.to/4f2XrID
Check out our latest recipe here: https://carolinacupboard.com/2025/07/02/delicious-mini-banana-foster-cheesecake-recipe/
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