The Best of the Best!

So I have only been reviewing for five months--a relative newcomer when compared to those who have been at it for years.  With that said, I've managed to raise my Amazon rank within the top 1500. I've done this by joining and receiving products through Facebook groups that support their members, have wonderful admins and encourage a sense of community.  These groups support cross posting, refuse to engage in unnecessary drama, and are transparent in terms of the rules.  A few even offer members tips on the reviewing process and even recommend other highly respected groups.  Now I know you're curious....just what groups fit these lofty criteria?  I have three I absolutely love, and I'm about to spill the beans.  Whether or not they are accepting members is something you may have to investigate.  If, however, you are offered the opportunity to join any of the three, jump at the chance.

Amazon Select Few

Monica Dillon and Tiffany Lynne Grier Norman are the amazing admins who facilitate this group.  Select Few is more of a "family" of reviewers, and the admins have even linked a separate page where members freely socialize, ask questions and get amazing tips for successful reviewing.  Through this group I've had the opportunity to review curtains, linens, power banks, wigs and even a crown. I've also made some amazing friends.  

Simply Exquisite

Lori Marie Timms and Jennifer Fuller rock this group.  Zero drama, great products and a warm and welcoming tone set this group apart.  These ladies are uber organized as well and all forms are easily accessible.  Through this group I've reviewed bakeware, dog toys and even a Bluetooth speaker light bulb.  

Amazon Reviewers Crib

I'm new to this group, but even after a few days, I'm super impressed.  Missy Kahles is the only admin I've this far encountered, but Marsha Bwick, Maita Samonte, Biangg Abe, Dona Jaye, Ehsuch Emma and Renzy Greenlee are also listed.  I was approved for a Bluetooth baseball cap by Missy.  The process was so slick, I had to mention it.  Missy keeps a master thread where she posts the names of the winners for each of her promotions.  Once that is posted, she at a designated time calls every winner to a chat.  Winners acknowledge their presence, and when every winner is there and ready to go, Missy asks that the product be added to each person's shopping cart.  Once added, she distributes codes either as a whole group code or individually.  Once the product is ordered, the order number is left in chat.  It was so organized and efficient, and long time members knew the routine.  I was in awe of Missy's organization!  Great group.  

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These three are just at the top of my list of favorites.  There are of course many, many more.  Crystal Clear Reviews and Lady Luck are fabulous, and Addicted Reviewers is large but offers limited numbers of some really high end items.   Please feel free to post your own favorites in the comments!    

Fabulous Scale for All You Ebayers!

Accuteck Scale

This digital postal scale from Accutek is perfect for anyone who does a lot of shipping. I am an eBay Power Seller and send out dozens of packages a week. When I first started, I would estimate shipping charges on the listing, then take the package the post office for mailing when the item sold. The first time I estimated shipping on an item to be $12.50 and it ended up being over $25, I knew I needed a scale. This Accuteck device has been a money saver! First, this is a platform scale with a raising lid for accuracy on even the most awkwardly shaped items. It will display the weight for anything from .2 oz. to a whopping 50 lbs.--quite an impressive range for a compact scale. All weights are displayed on the brightly back-lit LED screen, making it easy to read in any lighting. I appreciate as well the option for ac or dc power, as I do a lot of fairs and festivals where people want to purchase items and have them shipped. Thus far I've used it on over three dozen purchases, and the weights have been spot on when checked at my local post office. Finally, and this might not be important for everyone, but the scale will display in ounces, pounds or kilograms--truly a bonus in our household as my husband is a Brit and prefers kilograms. Highly recommended for anyone who demands accuracy and quality. Note: I received this scale at no cost in exchange for an honest review.

Stop Settling For Ordinary!

Stunning Hand-painted Wine Glasses

This pair of hand-painted wine glasses by Valentina Paris are simply exquisite.  I so wish my photos could do them justice.

First, these glasses are large red wine glasses with generously sized bowls for allowing the emergence of bold favors and aromas (plenty of room for swirling).  That becomes an important factor, especially with reds.  I, however, would also feel comfortable serving a mousse or trifle out of these! They are just too fabulous to relegate to wine drinking alone.  

It is most certainly the large size, coupled with the stunning abstract art, that make these so breath-taking. The artistic curves and waves feature a pale southwestern blend of muted shades that lend this set a rich, sophisticated appeal certain to enhance the aesthetics of any table. I also appreciate that the stems are substantial and elegant, with plenty of space for a firm grasp.

I love these glasses so much that I've added flameless tealights, some wired ribbon and a few flowers to create a stunning centerpiece for our new dining room table. I would love to see a holiday set created!

Overall, I can't recommend these highly enough for form and function.  They're bold statements disguised as glasses!

~note: I received a discount on these amazing glasses in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.