TRUE REVIEW: Mehron Barrier Spray

MUAs MUST READ: TOP 6 THINGS PHOTOGRAPHERS DONT WANT TO SEE!

Hey Blossoms,

After asking MANY photographers and TONS of research. I've compiled the top 6 (yes 6, and I'm glad I have your attention now) things photographers do NOT want to see from YOU, the makeup artist on set. THIS will be a 2 part special so be sure to follow this blog for more.

Let's begin, shall we?

1. Park your ego, a real team is at work.

You do the most amazing cut crease looks, your "no makeup" makeup look IS virtually and digitally undetectable. GREAT! Now place your ego in the trunk of your car before you go on set. You do a stunning job, you're talented, you may even be sought after. The photographers know this. That's WHY you were hired. If you let your ego get the best of you the word "booked" just may become obsolete in your list of makeup artist terminologies. There is no "I" in team, cliche but true... get it? Got it? GOOD!

2. You have 20/20 vision, that's nice. Use it to see what the photographer wants.


Photographers know you want everything you work on to wind up in your portfolio but realistically that won't happen. So you really want an avante garde piece but you are on set of a shoot that's aiming for something that parallels an Abercrombie & Fitch print ad. I know...I know...it'll be alright...now back away from the MUFE Flash palette...

3. Did you really bring more equipment than the photographer, stylist, model and maintenance man of the studio combined?? *blank stare*

I'm pretty sure Picasso wouldn't approve! True artists have what they need. Stop treating your makeup kit like your savings account. There is no need to "save for a rainy day". You will NEVER go on a set booked for 5 models and end up with 50! So there is no need to bring every piece of makeup you've ever bought. Furthermore, let's see you fit 10 eyeshadow palettes on that little countertop area designated for makeup. *I'll wait...*

Remember rule #2. Use your 20/20 vision to see what you will truly need and just bring that.

An over packed kit can lead to lost items, broken items, stolen items and an overall unorganized looking kit. 

4. NOT ANOTHER MODEL!
No,this isn't the title of the newest blockbuster horror flick.

Models are used to having their makeup applied, hair pulled, body twisted and turned, clothes place on, shoes pulled off before most of us even have a cup of coffee.

 So if a model offers you a short cut (by giving you tips on what works best on their skin) or helps you avoid a disaster on their face, pay heed. For example, if a model states she is a chronic blinker and tears excessively , skip tight-lining unless the look your going for is "streaked face raccoon". Take what applies and throw the rest out. This is NOT a threat to you as a MUA but actually a bonus. Models NEED MUAS. You may get booked again to work with that same model if she feels comfortable with you and you actually treat her like a person and not just a face.


Most importantly, the photographer wants the model happy and focused so that the perfect shot can be captured. If you are known to upset models or cause unnecessary tension with the models then you will NOT be called back in to work. It's not about YOU remember, in case you forget, refer back to #1 & #2.

 5. Light makeup please: FLAWLESS & NATURAL

Yes, that's right. The photographer wants the model to look flawless AND natural. Makeup artist aim for years to perfect this look.  Clean beauty is where the real money is. Flip through your favorite magazines and check out the work of your favorite big time makeup artists and you will see that the "no makeup" makeup look is what rules. So get use to it, get comfortable with it, work hard to perfect it and be sure, if you have dreams of seeing your work in a major magazine and/or on the red carpet, your portfolio reflects this!

6. Time + Talent x Professionalism = MONEY


Time on a shoot can fly by. Between makeup, hair, wardrobe and all the in-betweens it can feel like a whirlwind. So move expertly and work diligently. Time management is key and frolicking is frowned upon! Photographers want to see a level of professionalism from you that rivals (and in some instances far surpasses) their own. Basically, your professional presence needs to stand out, long after you've physically left the set. It's that type of impression that will have you booked with that photographer time and time again. So remember the time management and talent you bring to the table times your level of professionalism will equal MONEY (in the bank) for you for future booking. Simple enough, eh?

That's it, 6 simple things photographers DO NOT want to see and what you must do to overcome them. Photographers will appreciate your understanding of the aforementioned. Apply it to your business and the results just may surprise you!

What has worked best for you in your makeup artist:photographer relationships?

Until Next Time,

Later Blossoms

SAM FINE APPOINTED AS CREATIVE MAKEUP DIRECTOR FOR FASHION FAIR COSMETICS!

HEY BLOSSOMS,

GUESS WHAT?!!!

SAM FINE APPOINTED AS CREATIVE MAKEUP DIRECTOR FOR FASHION FAIR COSMETICS!

In his new role as Creative Makeup Director, Fine, a 20 year makeup artist veteran, will apply his accumulated artistic acumen and fuse it with Fashion Fair's brand DNA, to advise on the creation of new products, enrich its color palette and make in-store appearances.  In 2012, Fashion Fair will unveil Sam Fine for Fashion Fair trend collections, starting spring 2012.  

From Chicago, Fine worked for two years as a makeup artist for Naomi Sims Cosmetics in stores before embarking on a successful freelance career.  His talent has appeared on the covers and pages of Cosmopolitan, Harper's Bazaar, Essence andMarie Claire; he was chosen as the first African-American spokesperson for Revlon and Covergirl Cosmetics; and he earned a devout following from star clientele, including Jennifer Hudson, Vanessa Williams and iconic supermodels Iman, Naomi Campbell and Tyra Banks.  He authored a best-selling how-to beauty guide, Fine Beauty: Beauty Basics and Beyond for African-American Women, and followed it up with his instructional DVD, Fine: The Basics of Beauty.

"Sam Fine is a true artist who understands women of color and has built an illustrious career unparalleled in the industry," saidClarisa Wilson, President of Fashion Fair.  "His experience in the fashion editorial world with global beauty brands and celebrities will translate wonderfully with Fashion Fair, and our consumers will reap its benefits.  We're thrilled to have him with us, and you'll be able to track his progress at www.fashionfair.com."

"There's no place I'd rather foster my creative energies," said Fine.  "Fashion Fair was a barrier-breaking cosmetic line since its inception 38 years ago and remains a leader in prestige cosmetics for women of color."  

About Fashion Fair

Fashion Fair Cosmetics, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Johnson Publishing Company LLC, is a global prestige cosmetics brand for women of color. Founded in 1973 in conjunction with the Fashion Fair traveling show, the world's largest touring fashion show which raised over $55 million for scholarships and various charitable causes, Fashion Fair is a trusted and revolutionary brand. Fashion Fair products can be found in 652 prestige stores across the U.S., London, Paris, Canada, the Caribbean and at www.fashionfair.com.

SOURCE Fashion Fair Cosmetics

I will most surely be purchasing a few of the new products developed under Mr.Fine! I am beyond excited. Fashion Fair is going to take its place at the top! Stay tuned for those reviews!

Congrats Mr.Fine!!!!!!!!!!!

Have you congratulated Mr. Fine yet? Send him your messages HERE!

Until Next Time,

Later Blossom

IM 5 MONTHS NATURAL PLUS *LENGTH CHECK*

Prim & Proper Updo! (10 minutes only)

I came across this easy hair tutorial that I wanted to share with you all. This Updo only takes 10 minutes and its great for those dirty hair days. Once again no hot tools needed! I made a couple tweaks to the look just to glam it up. Hope you guys enjoy it.

See more on this post by clicking "Read More" below!

www.thebeautydepartment.com

**By Eleni**

BLOG UNDER MAJOR CONSTRUCTION!!

Hey Blossoms,

I will be moving my blog over to WORDPRESS!!!

I have some amazing things in store! 

Please bare with me as I make the change!

PLEASE BE SURE TO SUBSCRIBE TO MY BLOG ON WORDPRESS!!

My blog will be BIGGER, BETTER & EASIER to NAVIGATE!

Wait until you see all the AMAZING NEW FEATURES!!

Thank you for your patience!

Sincerely,

Sherry Blossom

Theater Makeup: "All That Jazz"

Today was my last day in my Jazz class so I decided to doll myself up! This look is inspired by the movies Burlesque and Chicago. This dramatic look is super easy to achieve and it's great to use for performances or photo-shoots.

"I know a whoopee spot, Where the gin is cold, but the piano's hot. It's just a noisy hall. Where there's a nightly brawl.. And All That Jazz!"

See more on this post by clicking "Read More" below!

Theater Eye Makeup Tutorial:
Start by priming your eyes with your favorite eye primer. Now apply Vaseline on your eye lids with a flat brush or ring finger. The Vaseline will work as an adhesive for the loose glitter to stick to. Apply (by tapping) the loose glitter with a flat brush onto your lids. Now with a small crease brush, create a wing that outlines the shape of your eye with a dark eye shadow. Continue by lining your upper lash line with your favorite liquid liner and creating an large wing at the end. For your lower lash line, start by lining it in white; then under the white liner create a straight black line. This liner effect with make your eyes appear larger. To finish the look, create fake lower lashes by painting dashes with a liquid liner on the lower lash line you created.

I hope you enjoy this look and have fun recreated it at home. Don't forget to add your beauty mole! As you can see my beauty mole is inspired by Dita Von Tease!

Now I leave you with my favorite duet choreographs!

Nowadays/Hot Honey Rag

** By Eleni**

Twist & Links Hair Tutorial (15 minutes)

Here's another fun easy updo that is great for any hair type. The best part was no hot tools were used! For this look I applied Carol's Daughter Hair Milk Curl Definer the day before and let my hair dry naturally. I love her products because it left my wavy hair super soft and manageable with a nice hold. Check out the updo below:

See more on this post by clicking "Read More" below!

Twist & Links Hair Tutorial (15 minutes)
1. Divde your hair half and half
2. Twist in the top half of your hair and pin it. (as seen in the pictures)
3. Combine both halves by tying your hair with an elastic hair band
4. Wrap a piece of hair around your elastic hair band and pin it
5. Now make a Fish Tail braid with the pony tail you created
6. Tuck in the braid, creating a crescent shape, and secure the hair with bobby pins
7. To create more volume loosen up the braid with your fingers
8. Add your favorite hair accessory and you're done

Makeup Look: Dramatic Pinks/Purples
Here's a look I did using Urban Decay's Volume 2 & 3 Palette. Keep reading below for a quick tutorial.

"Laughter is the best cosmetic, So grin it and wear it!"-Benefit 

Urban Decay's Volume 3

Urban Decay's Volume 2

Easy Fun Tutorial:

• Blend 1 & 6 on mid lid
• Apply 2 & 3 on outer lid
• Apply 4 to outer lid creating a small V shape and blending well
• Apply 5 to inner corner
• Apply 3 to lower lash line
• Apply UD 24/7 eyeliner in "Ransom" in inner lash line for that pop of purple!

**By Eleni**

MUST HAVE EYE BRUSH FOR PERFECT CREASE DEFINITION!

Cameo Makeover (easy 5 minute Updo Tutorial)

For all my wavy and curly haired girls, I have a special treat for you! Below is an easy 5 minute hair tutorial that is great to for textured hair. The best part is that no hot tools were used! 

See more on this post by clicking "Read More" below!

Updos are a great way to show off your facial structure and neck

... they also add glamour and sophistication to your style

... and perfect for those bad hair days!

 Hair Tutorial

1. Tie your hair at the nape of your neck

2. Hide your elastic hair tie by wrapping a piece of hair around it then pin it

3. Start twisting small section of your hair (about an inch thick) very tightly

4. After you've created a long twisty, hold down 2 pieces of hairs at the end of your twisty

5. While you're holding the 2 pieces of hair, pull up the rest of the twisty

6. You will see that you've created a small bun/knot

7. Pin and mold the knot

8. Repeat the process until you go all around your head

9. Add your favorite hair clips for added drama!

Makeup Talk: "The Must Haves"

I love using Urban Decay's Rockstar Pencil. It's a great way to add a small twist to your look than using the typical black eye liner. This eye pencil is like a chameleon it blends well with a lot of eye shadows.

Eve Pearl's Highlighter/Blush/Bronzer Classic Trio set is great to use on top of a matte blush and bronzer. It adds a beautiful glow and the highlighter is very pretty!

Below is a few pictures of the simple look I created using Urban Decay's Rockstar Pencil and Eve Pearl's Trio set.

Rockstar 24/7 Urban Decay Eye Pencil

Eve Pearl's Highlighter/Blush/Bronzer Trio

Loving my Cameo Set that I purchased at Charming Charlie's!

 

**By Eleni**

Inglot Pressed Powder Review/ Swatch

30 DAYS TO CLEAR SKIN CHALLENGE

Hey Blossoms,

We all know that no amount of makeup could ever replace plain ol' "good skin". Our skin is the largest organ on our body and our FIRST line of defense against germs and other unmentionable invading somethingorothers floating through the air. We should be viligant in our skin care regimes BUT we tend to forget the fight is BEST fought from the INSIDE out.

What do I mean???

DRINK WATER!!!

Our bodies are made up of approximately 60% water. We need water to live and our skin needs water to thrive.

Forget what you THOUGHT you knew about the benefits of water to the skin. I'm going to give you only 8 shattering truths but trust me there are many more. So, sit closer to your screen and pay attention! Your skin depends on it!

1. Many of you walk around in a state of perpetual dehydration because you do not drink enough water.
2. Water carries nutrients throughout your body and flushes out toxins via urination and prespiration.
3. If your not frequenting the restroom odds are you are NOT drinking enough water!
4. Water aids in maintaining the body's PH balance, pivotal in healing & recovery after sickness.
5. Your skin regulates its body tempersture by prespiring when you become overheated. If you don't replenish the lost fluids quickly then you will become dehydrated. Dehydration is a PRIMARY factor of dry skin!
6. Dehydrated skin can look like the surface of a prune aka WRINKLES(yes, not all wrinkles are "natural" some may be prevented/treated).
7. Without proper hydration, capillary (blood vessels just beneath the skin) circulation is reduced and your skin can lose it's color (think: you'll look tired/sick)
8. Keeping hydrated is imperative for skin repair. Lack of water intake can slow your skin's ability to repair itself resulting in deep wrinkles on mature skin and looking older than you actually are for other women.

Need I go on???

So here's the challenge.

I am committing this month to drinking 1.5-2 liters of water a day. That's 8-9 glasses of water a day.

AND I WANT YOU TO JOIN ME!!!

 For me it's easier to just have my entire day's supply of water in a 2 litter bottle so that I know I'm getting the proper amount and psychologically it's much easier to do. I bought a 2 liter bottle of Sprite..POURED IT OUT and then filled it with water!  I used to love Sprite... so this makes me feel like I'm laughing this challenge right in its face...

For those that may have difficulty with just drinking water for the remainder of the month of August  ...milk and 100% juice does count as well.

EVERY SINGLE DAY until September 3 I will drink ONLY WATER (no exceptions) I am planning on making this a permanent part of my skin care regime and overall quest to health consciousness.

If you cheat and grab an alcoholic drink (which REMOVES water from your body and can dehydrate you RAPIDLY) or drink soda (it does have some water in it but its quite insignificant and won't count towards your daily intake) it's okay. Dust your self off, back away from it and grab a glass of water. Do NOT think you can't continue the challenge because you most surely CAN!

Also, do your best to drink your daily amount throughout the day if you drink any water at least 2 hours before you go to bed you may wake up with puffiness!

Water in conjunction with using my daily skin care products and I'll have clearer skin in no time!

Here's a photo of  the products I use for my updated skin care regime/anti-acne/breakout regime (View my video of how I care for my skin here) I will do reviews of each individual product soon...

Here are candid photos of my skin sans makeup...I'm on a quest to CLEAR SKIN!....BRACE for it please (and you all thought I was kidding when I told you my eyebrows are SPARSE lol)

AHHHHH I must love you all to show you these photos!!

The white cast is actually my acne medication that I place on nightly...

MY PROBLEM AREAS:

Hyper-pigmentation of old acne scars : a few spots on the forehead, both cheeks and chin

I had terrible acne as a teenager into early adult hood and the hyper-pigmentation used to be FAR WORSE. I remember when my skin first began to clear. It was during the summer and I declared to give up soda (ohh how I used to LOVE Sprite) and drink lots of water daily. By the time the fall arrived. My skin had improved 10 fold. Well time for history to repeat itself...


We will support each other and encourage each other to stay on track via my FACEBOOK PAGE! So SEND ME A FRIEND REQUEST! 

So who's joining the challenge??!!

Until Next Time,

Later Blossoms