After some debating and researching, I bit the bullet and finally got Sennelier oil pastels! If you are not familiar with Sennelier, they are one of the top art manufacturers in the world and sell a variety of mediums, including watercolors, acrylics, inks, and gouache. Most of their 24 piece oil pastel sets are sold out right now so I went ahead and bought the 72 piece set. I don't normally buy high quality sets like this but after some encouragement (Thanks Sorian!) and my Mom asking what I wanted for Christmas (thanks Mom!), I felt ready for them.
I can already tell these oil pastels feel different. Just the sheen on them makes them look gorgeous. I will swatch with them and try to create a drawing tonight. I'm super pumped and can't wait to share how I use them!
Ps. The art manager approves.