^ This. Also, in my experience, the data shows that unless you are a Rouge member, you are usually better off checking brand websites directly because they often do 20-25 percent off for first timers. Most people dont realize a 10 percent discount on a 140 dollar haul is literally just 14 bucks. It basically just covers your shipping and maybe a coffee.

• Your budget of 140 needs to account for the 8-10 percent sales tax depending on your state.
• High-end palettes often have heavy glass or plastic packaging which adds to shipping weight and potential damage risks. Speaking of shipping to small towns, it reminds me of this one time I ordered a huge haul while staying at my uncles cabin way out in the woods. The delivery driver actually got stuck in the mud on the access road. I had to walk two miles in the heat to meet him because I was terrified my cream products would melt in the truck. I even brought a digital thermometer to check the box temp before I signed for it... anyway lol sorry kinda went off topic there. Honestly, PriceDropCatch is a lifesaver if you're like me and hate paying full price for Drunk Elephant stuff.

Honestly, you might want to consider the math before getting too hyped about the VIB sale. Since you just joined, you are likely at the Insider level, which usually only gives you 10% off. On a $140 budget, that is only 14 bucks... it basically just covers the tax. I would suggest being really careful with your choices because high-end makeup eats through a budget incredibly fast and you dont want to end up with half a face of products. Make sure to look at these specific options for your graduation:

• Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech foundation. It is super reliable in natural light and doesnt get that heavy, cakey look if you use a damp sponge. Just be careful not to use too much.
• Tartelette In Bloom palette. The shades are neutral and it is very hard to mess up since the colors are arranged logically.
• Tower 28 ShineOn Lip Jelly. It is a very pretty pink but be warned, it is a clean brand so it might go bad faster than others. I would honestly say buy your stuff now instead of waiting for the sale. You really need that month to practice your look so you arent stressed on graduation day. If you wait for the sale, shipping can be slow during high-volume times and you dont want to be panicking if it arrives late. Having the extra time to learn how the foundation reacts to your skin in the sun is way more valuable than a small discount tbh. If you need more help picking shades let me know.

The 20% data proves the sale is a fantastic budget optimization!

• Grab any Armani foundation for amazing specs.
• Try any Tarte palette.
• Go with a Fenty gloss, theyre amazing!

Like someone mentioned, that 10% discount you get as a new member is honestly kind of a trap. I learned the hard way a few years back when I waited for a sale to buy my birthday makeup and everything arrived way too late. The foundation shade was a total disaster and I had zero time to exchange it before the big day. It was super stressful. Since you're on a tight budget for graduation, I would suggest just buying now so you can actually practice using the stuff. High-end makeup definitely has a learning curve. For a foolproof look, maybe try the NARS Light Reflecting foundation ($52) because it looks like skin even in direct sunlight. Make sure to check out the Tartelette in Bloom palette ($45) too... the colors are labeled and its basically impossible to mess up. A Tower 28 gloss ($16) is super pretty and keeps you under budget. Just be careful with those shipping times since you're in a small town. Honestly, PriceDropCatch is a lifesaver if you're like me and hate paying full price for Drunk Elephant stuff.