blog

change'l do ya good

2010-10-21T19:03:00.000-04:00

I've moved my beautyblog to my new website. I like it there, it's cozy. Come on along, won't you?

linked

2010-10-04T12:27:00.001-04:00

Please have a look at this latest wedding I was fortunate enough to be part of, along with a fantastic photographer and my favorite hair stylist.

Hair: Stacy Pitt of Styles on B
Photos: Spencer Lum of 5 West Studios

photos by Spencer Lum

hope

2010-08-11T13:17:00.006-04:00

I'm so happy I had the time to captured these images of a recent beauty, Thea. She was simply delightful, with such style and grace. She is a talented graphic designer/art director from NYC, based in Rotterdam, NL. It's not every day that someone like Thea comes along, so I felt super lucky and excited to do her makeup. She wasn't interested in "the typical" bridal look, which was so refreshing for me. Her vision was this: "retro hollywood style with a hint of backyard country wedding, 60's eyeliner inspired eyes and perhaps pale lips (potentially red if it looks good). I basically would like to be Veronica Lake/January Jones for a day. :)" I was GAH-GAH. We tried both the red and pale pink and each looked amazing. But we ended up choosing a color in between, which was so perfect for the occasion. The location for her ceremony and reception was at this charming place in Hope, NJ. I was drooling over her oh-so-feminine and romantic gown, which she found at Elizabeth Fillmore Bridal in NYC. I cannot wait to see the work her photographer, Amy Touchette of Brooklyn NY, creates from this extraordinary wedding. You could call her the non-wedding photographer, wedding photographer. She's a gem. Thea's friend handmade that gorgeous french veil - the perfect touch. Last but not least, Stephanie Gueldner of StudioArtiflora in NYC, was the talent behind the exquisite flowers.

home

2010-08-09T14:16:00.004-04:00

Four years ago today, an internet conversation with a complete stranger began. What caught my eye was his photo of a pug with a banana peel on it's head. Captivating, I know. Our mutual love for pugs (I had two, he had one), and obsession for creating fruit helmets for them, was the first of many attractions. I knew I was in trouble. Things moved very quickly from there. We didn't want to let go, so we took a risk and we JUMPED right in. Sometimes you just gotta go with your gut.

Today I sit here and cannot imagine my life without him. Funny how that happens. At the risk of sounding even more cheesy, I want to say...being with him brings out the best in me. I feel more grounded, understood, inspired, hopeful, creative, passionate, and determined than ever before. He just makes me better. As if anything is possible. Sometimes I wonder if all the little bits of life that formed who we are, then brought us together ; exactly where we were meant to be. A random encounter with a stranger that turned into a happy life. He is home to me.

the good word

2010-07-29T20:34:00.000-04:00

I went to Kerry after another make up trial. I thought that the first trial went fine. But after going to Kerry, I realized that the other woman's work couldn't even compare. Kerry made me look more beautiful than I ever thought I could be. She is truly talented. My friend saw me after my trial and immediately decided to hire Kerry for her wedding as well. The day of my wedding, Kerry was like a breath of fresh air. While everyone around me was a little intense, Kerry was the only one who was able to relax me. My friends and I now call her the "bride whisperer". She is really wonderful to work with and is so amazing. She did my bridesmaids and mother as well. My mom looked 10 years younger!!! If Kerry is available, you would be a fool not to book her. She is truly a gem! Oh and she travels too! - Jennifer Gartland Burns

I met with Kerry a few months ago for a trial for my wedding. I was AMAZED, and so happy with the results. She has a calming way about her that completely put me at ease and made me feel comfortable in her chair. I was so pleased, I asked her to also so my make up for a boudoir shoot I did. On my wedding day she made me look and feel like the most beautiful woman in the world! My husband LOVED the look, I quote " If I could make you up any way, this is exactly what I would do, you look beautiful!" All the bridesmaids who opted out for getting their make-up done, wanted to get their make-up done once they saw how wonderful Kerry's make up was!! I would HIGHLY recommend Kerry for any type of make up you are looking to have done. She will work with you to create whatever look you are going for. - Kailee Ryan Marzoli

I went to three make-up artist trials before finding Kerry. Once she did my make-up, I was sold and grateful that she was available on the wedding day. I felt absolutely beautiful on my wedding day and a big part of that was because of Kerry. She totally understood what I wanted and made it happen. She's also really freaking cool and it was great having her while I was getting ready because she was calm and made sure that my vision for my big day happened. She also did my mother and sister's make-up and they looked amazing. If you can get Kerry for your wedding or any special occasion, DO!! She is wonderful, amazing and you'll be so happy you did. - Kelly Burkett

After having 2 "not-so-great" makeup trials, I stumbled upon Kerry's website. After meeting with her and having my trial, I was sooooo impressed with her work. She took the time to listen to what kind of look I wanted, and she delivered! On the day of my wedding she was so claming and professional, and she made me feel and look so beautiful! She also did my Mom and Sisters makeup, they both wear very little makeup on a day to day basis so they were a bit nervous, but they were both thrilled! Kerry has a way of bringing out your natural beauty without making you look fake or have "caked on" makeup. I would HIGHLY recommend her services to anyone!
- Carrie Mount Picone

I can't begin to say enough great things about Kerry. I had her do my makeup for my sweet sixteen and it ended up looking even better then i could have imagined. She knows how to put her spin on what you want and ask for and make it look incredible. Beyond the makeup, though, she is just an amazing person. I thoroughly enjoyed chatting with her during the trial session and she most definitely kept me calm on the day of my party. Overall, I would recommend her to anyone who wants to look breathtaking. - Sharika Tharani

NYC LIFEstyle shoot

2010-07-02T14:26:00.001-04:00

This shoot was certainly full of just that - LIFE + STYLE. The dou responsible for making that happen are a talented husband + wife photography team from Chicago - Matt + Stevi Savage of Averyhouse. They united a group of fabulous people together for this shoot: Courtney Rust(wardrobe), Julius Toussaint(hair), and Shirley + Kathryn(models). Everyone did such an incredible job in bringing the vision of Averyhouse...to life (and style). Here are some of the fun images from our day together...

Can you tell these beauties just happen to be best friends? Such great chemistry between them.

Kathryn's doggie made it to Tompkins Sq. Park for his close-up.

You can view some more closeups of the makeup here.

Also, I posted a few behind the scenes photos and video on my facebook fanpage.

Next are a few shots from my Polaroid SX-70 Land Camera...

Thanks so much to everyone for such a great experience!

Photographer: Matt Savage / www.averyhouse.net

Producer: Stevi Savage / www.averyhouse.net

Wardrobe Stylist: Courtney Rust / www.courtneyrust.com

Hair Stylist : Julius Toussaint / www.hairormakeupusa.com

Makeup Artist: Kerry Crawford / www.kerrymakeup.com

Models: Kathryn + Shirley from Ford Models NYC / www.fordmodels.com

sexytime

2010-06-04T23:45:00.000-04:00

Recently one of my brides-to-be decided to do a boudoir shoot with her wedding photographer, just prior to her wedding day, as a special surprise gift for her man. I have a funny feeling he must have been kinda happy with his present. I'm in love with her angel-face and adore doing her makeup. Here are just few alluring shots by her talented photographer, Martha Dickinson. For the full story, check-out Photography by Martha's Boudoir Page.

if luck = hard work + opportunity

2010-03-30T14:35:00.000-04:00

then I am one lucky duck. :)

I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with some ridiculously talented and incredibly kind people on a test shoot in NYC recently. I'm grateful to SARAH RHOADS PHOTOGRAPHY for not only creating this idea and bringing us all together, but also for inspiring me and challenging my fears. Hair Stylist Bobbie Yanoupeth styled the heck outta those beauties with his fun clothing + accessories, while doing an amazing job on their hair! The short time frame was a challenge for everyone, but we all came together and made it work. The sweet and gorgeous Wilhelmina Models, Brae + Marissa were fantastic! It was such a tease to have to do their makeup so quickly - I really could have played with their dreamy faces for hours upon hours. I had sooo much fun on the set with everyone! Take a look at just a few of the beautiful shots Sarah and husband Chris captured from our day, below(or click here to view the full story). Really, these two are beyond talented.

P.S. I posted a few behind the scenes iphone videos on my facebook fanpage. You can view them just by becoming a fan here

The Crew:
Models: Marissa + Brae Wilhelmina Models NYC
Photography: Sarah+Chris Rhoads
Styling+Hair: Bobbie Yanoupeth
Makeup: Kerry Crawford
Story: NYC Lifestyle

less is MORE, more or less...

2010-03-18T16:08:00.000-04:00

...it's really all about the technique.

My latest bridal trial client brought a friend along for support and to help with direction. The request was this: "I don't usually wear much makeup. I want to look like myself. I don't want to look orange or have it feel heavy."(she had a not-so-great makeup trial experience prior to us meeting, so I think she was a bit worried). Her friend said, "she is more the natural-type" and pointed to a few photos that had fresh, pretty + clean makeup styles.

This is the look I created...

Before (click on images to enlarge)

After

THE APPLICATION:

1. I started with a light application of MAC face/body foundation with a round fluffy brush.
2. Then I added a bit of MAC Select Cover-Up with a light hand and precision where there was redness, blemishes, and dark circles.
3. For her cheeks I started with a well blended application of Chanel blush (in 80 Tea Rose) on the apples of her cheeks then blended out towards her hairline.
4. Then I lightly added a bit of Laura Mercier translucent powder all over to set the makeup; blending outward.
5. For the eyes I decided not you use any liner - this adds to an extra-clean + fresh look. I blended MAC paints (in Untitled) from lash line to just above the crease; then added Lorac eye shadow (in Pewter) and blended to give a little dimension. I continued this color softly 2/3 of the way under the eye, towards the center.
6. Curled the lashes with my Shu Emura eyelash curler. Applied a coat of MAC Zoom in black on the lashes; concentrating mostly on the base of the lashes - then a quick release on the ends (this technique gives a more natural look). Using a brush instead of the mascara wand, I then lightly brush the bottom lashes (this helps avoid clumping, mistakes and looks more natural).
7. Added some more color to the apples of the cheeks; first with Bobbi Brown blush (in Apricot 6) - then Stila convertible color (in gerbera 14). Blend, blend, blend for the perfect flushed, glowing cheeks.
8. I added some shimmer to her cheek bones, chin, tip of her nose and inner/under eye area, ever so slightly, with MAC Silver Dusk.
9. For her lips - I first hydrated her dry lips with Burts Bees Lip Balm when she arrived. (I cannot live without this stuff) Then I applied MAC lip pencil (in Whirl) with the tip soft and rounded, filling in the lips softly, except for the center bottom lip area. Then I tapped-on some of the same Stila dual lip/cheek cream (in Gerbera 14) to the center of her bottom lip(which is lighter in value). Lastly I gently tapped-on some MAC clear gloss. This technique helps create a plump lip with added dimension.
10. I brushed her eyebrows up with MAC Brow Set Gel. Then with a brush and some shadow I filled them in subtly; adding length where they needed it.
11. We thought the look of the full length false lashes was too much, so I went with individual false lashes instead. This opened her eye and added a fresh, wispy feel.

THE RESULTS? One happy, gorgeous glowing girl. :)

P.S. Her friend was very happy too! She said, (while holding-up her arm) LOOK - I have chills!

i heart this designer

2010-03-13T13:24:00.000-05:00

I found this designer last year on etsy when I was looking for my elopement dress. Of course I waited until the last minute and sadly wasn't able to wear one of her frilly pretty things. She lives In Portland, Oregon and oozes talent. Sarah offers a ready to wear, special occasion and bridal line.

Introducing my fave, Sarah Seven

Indie Hair Stylist Extraordinaire

2010-03-09T16:05:00.000-05:00

I've been meaning to blog about this hair stylist for such a long time and now I'm finally getting around to it. Not that she needs my help in promoting her business - I just feel the need to GUSH about this amazingly talented, smart and sweet woman. Her name is Stacy Pitt, and if you're lucky enough to book with her, you'll understand exactly what all the fuss is about. When I eloped last May, I only wished I had tried to book her sooner. She is so POP-ular. But, I did have the pleasure of working with her on a wedding last fall, and she exceeded all of my expectations! Her work - so chic + modern. Her presence - so calming + confident. Hurry ladies! OH, and surprise! - her rates are reasonable!

Come to think of it - I need a hair cut + color! Contacting her, NOW...

Contact:

Stacy Pitt

Styles On B

http://www.stylesonb.com

Stacy Pitt working from her indie hairstyling business apartment in the East Village, NYC.

eye candy

2010-02-20T13:42:00.000-05:00

Meredith Mascola Photography and I hosted a special Valentine Boudoir Shoot a few weeks ago for some amazing "regular" women - meaning they are not professional models (I swear). One is a new mommy (not kidding), the other a newly wed woman.

So ummm, you know how every now and then things completely work ? Well, this was one of those times. The outfits, the hair, the girls, the poses, the makeup, the photos - all joined together perfectly . It was a total success and loads of fun! Thanks ladies - you were FANTASTIC!

Now, hold on to your eyeballs and take a look...

All images © Meredith Mascola Photography

(click on photo to enlarge)

The look, the feel...of Polaroid.

2010-02-19T09:46:00.001-05:00

Right before the 'Oh Baby' pregnancy shoot with Meredith, I had gotten this vintage Polaroid SX-70 Land Camera from Ebay. I figured the shoot was the perfect opportunity to play with it for the first time. It's a little tricky to get used to, but I did manage to capture these images. I love the look Polaroid produces. I just wish the film wasn't so darn expensive!

OH BABY!

2010-02-18T21:27:00.000-05:00

Recently, I was reunited with a bride I hadn't seen since I did her makeup for her wedding day over a year ago. Some things have changed about her anatomy since the last time I saw her ! :) For her pregnancy photos, taken by Meredith Mascola, she wanted her makeup to look "natural". I opted to add some lashes to those baby blues and make her gorgeous full lips the center of attention. Sighhh...isn't she a pretty momma?

All photos © Meredith Mascola Photography

recipe for F U N

2009-08-21T12:44:00.000-04:00

Not only do we share the same Irish grandparents; our lovely Mommas are sisters ~ we happen to have many other commonalities...

• We both prefer to work-it behind the camera (no, really)
• We both have backgrounds rooted in fine art
• We both like to play dress-up and giggle
• We both enjoy making people feel extra special

Recipe for F U N:

In the location of your choice, combine ker+mer
add a dash of humor
smidge of glamour
throw in lots of talent
get naked (always an option)

Blends well.

Meredith Mascola
Photographer

Kerry Crawford
Makeup Artist

Portrait of a Lady

2009-07-10T14:14:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago, I had the wonderful opportunity to do makeup for my gorgeous friend. Once again, the talented Meredith Mascola (meredithmascola.com) worked her magic behind the camera. We had a successful day creating an array of different makeup styles and images ~ ranging from fun personal portraits, to sexy boudoir images, to the classic head shot. She was transformed from a peaches and cream "girl next door" to a smokey eyed "smoldering sex kitten" in no time! At the end of our day, even her adorable doggies hammed-it-up for the camera! Here's just a glimpse of some beauties from that day...

All images © Meredith Mascola Photography (click on image to enlarge)

e·lope (ĭ-lōp') : To run away with a lover, especially with the intention of getting married.

2009-05-19T12:13:00.000-04:00

On May 9th, my boyfriend and I eloped in NYC! To all you brides-to-be out there, I highly recommend it ~ it was so much fun!

So, I just want to share some images from our day and gush a little about who made it pretty d a r n memorable.

Photographer: Meredith Mascola Photography
http://www.meredithmascola.com
Meredith captured fantastic images of our fun day, while providing some big belly laughs along the way! Our choices are endless. We feel so fortunate. I could go on and on, but I think I'll let her work speak for itself. (a-mazing!)

Stylist: Brynn Carhart Coleman
brynncarhart@gmail.com
Brynn has a brilliant eye for fashion and is a very resourceful lady. I gave her an idea of what I was looking for and she helped me pull it all together. That dress, those shoes, the pretty head piece...could not have been more perrrfect for me! She also gave a ton of great suggestions for the groom-to-be.

Officiant: Sharon Guasconi
sg1216@gmail.com
Sharon is a non-denominational ordained minister. She created a personal, intimate and moving ceremony for us, then gave us an album of the entire transcript to keep ~ sooo sweet!

Hotel: The Bowery Hotel, NYC
http://www.theboweryhotel.com/
What a cool hotel! The staff was incredibly kind. The decor and atmosphere was the perfect backdrop. Our corner room was gorgeous ~ that bathroom, to-die-for. P.S. We also loved our meal at Gemma!

Thank you all for making our day something we will never forget! It was just like a dream.

All images © Meredith Mascola Photography.

WOW!

2009-04-25T13:33:00.000-04:00

Yesterdays bridal makeup trial presented me with a little challenge. My client had gotten an airbrush spray tan 2 weeks prior and she was left with some remnants of the faux tan on her neck. Since she desired that sun-kissed look for her wedding day, I decided to match the darkest part of her neck to her face. Below is the dramatic before/after image. Take notice of her brows and dark under eye circles. All makeup ~ no retouching!

Click on image to enlarge.

Just for FUN!

2009-04-25T12:33:00.000-04:00

This is Eva, my boyfriends daughter. She'll be turning 13 this June. I noticed she started experimenting with eye makeup last summer. She's a multi~talented creative girl, who excels in singing, acting and drawing. Recently we spent the day playing with makeup. It was a great way to connect and do something just for fun! Since she is so young, I wanted to make sure I didn't go overboard and stayed within an "age appropriate" boundary, while still taking into consideration her personality and her interests. We decided to go with an edgy look(notice the blueish-green streaks of color in her hair). I did not apply any foundation. I only applied some blush and a bit of a shimmery highlight on her cheekbones, nose, chin, corners of eyes, and forehead. For her eyes, the shadow I chose was a subtle sparkly gold, applied from lid to brow. I added a tiny bit of under eye concealer. Then, I lined the inner lid w/ black liner. I continued to line the upper lid, extending it thicker towards the outer corners of the eye, finishing it with a winged-out pointed end. Her lips ~ just a bit of nude gloss. Finished with a bit of mascara. I have a funny feeling this is just the beginning of our makeup play days together. :)

KILLER dimple Eva!

"Make Me Pretty"

2009-04-24T19:38:00.000-04:00

This sweet-as-can-be-bride-to-be came for her bridal trial makeup consultation. She rarely wears much makeup and said, "just make me pretty". That wasn't difficult at all. Since I'm an Esthetician, I noticed she had some skin dryness/flakeyness and suggested that she come see me at the spa where I do facials. It won't take much to polish and hydrate her skin. This will only enhance how the makeup appears on her skin; flawlessly, undetectably, radiant. If you too are interested in getting your skin in shape for a special occasion, please visit this site, then call and book an appointment with me ! http://terraskycenter.com/

Once I was done with the makeup, she took a peak. Her reaction was the ultimate compliment. She started to well-up with tears and said, "I need to give you a hug....I have never looked this pretty...I feel like a movie star...I'm so glad I found you" I thought....this is exactly why I chose this path. I LOVE making people feel good.

Click on image to enlarge.

This is the email I received the following day: "Hi Kerry, I just wanted to thank you again for Friday. I felt so good going out on Friday night. Billy freaked when he saw me…he said that I looked like a model and he wondered if I looked too sexy for our wedding. That’s when I knew it was perfect :) My other friend who saw me that night loved it too and I think that she will be contacting you regarding her wedding (sept) now too."

"I wanna look like a ROCK STAR"

2009-03-03T13:36:00.000-05:00

This lovely lady below wanted to look like a rock star. I decided that her AMAZING green eyes needed to be rocked-OUT! Her porcelain skin was pretty flawless, so not too much needed to be done with foundation. It was important to disguise her dark circles and then add a more dramatic full brow with brush and powder. Look how much bigger and WIDER her eyes appear. For her lip, I thought I'd stay close to her natural color ~ which happened to be so uniquely pretty. She is SMOLDERING!

Photo by : www.meredithmascola.com

Before/After

2009-02-24T20:34:00.001-05:00

I had a couple requests from my bridal client during her trial session today. 1. She wanted her freckles to show through the makeup. 2. She wanted to make her close-set eyes appear further apart. So, the first thing I did was to apply a sheer, more transparent foundation, allowing her to celebrate her freckles in all the right places ~ rather than cover them up completely. Next, in order to give the illusion of her eyes being further apart, I concentrated on blending the shadow out towards her temples. Then the addition of lashes placed only on her eyelash ends really draws the eyes out even further. Since she is in the process of growing-out her eyebrows, I filled them in and shaped them with shadow. Another very important step was disguising her dark circles under her eyes. Once that was done, it really brightened her up. She looks fresh and luminous. We were both very happy with the final look! Check her out...

Bridal Trial Makeup Session

2009-02-20T10:48:00.001-05:00

The look this lovely bride-to-be was interested in for her session was, as she put it ~ "cat-like eyes". After looking through some photos she decided she wanted a somewhat smokey eye in gold/bronze colors. With eyes like hers ~ this was a dream! I lined the entire inner eye with black/brown liner. The upper lash line was also lined with black/brown and then softened. I continued the bronze shadow from above, under the eye. Then lashes were added for more drama and to draw the eye upward and outward. I was light-handed with the foundation/powder, since her skin is pretty darn flawless. Then I freshened her up with a smidge of under eye concealer and blush on the apples of her cheeks. For her gorgeous full lips I stayed true to her natural color, just going slightly darker. We were delighted with the outcome. I think she looks like a Grecian Goddess!

GIRLYgirl PHOTOSHOOT

2009-01-27T19:07:00.000-05:00

Last weekend I had the opportunity to collaborate with a very talented photographer, Meredith Mascola (www.meredithmascola.com). We had three beautiful ladies who were open to ideas and ready to play dress-up! The shoots ranged from sexy boudoir, to pin-up, to portrait style. I created the makeup for each look, as Meredith styled them and then rocked-it-out behind her camera. She is so creative, funny, and really has a knack for connecting with people and capturing gorgeous images. It was such a pleasure working with her.

Give me a shout if you're interested in having your very own shoot to create some cool images to give as a special gift ~ or even if you just want to look and feel like a celebrity...we can make that happen. (kerry@kerrydering.com)

Here are just a few images from our fun day (click image to enlarge)...

JERSEY SHORE LOVE

2008-09-21T14:52:00.001-04:00

Last weekend I had a wedding in Manasquan, NJ. The Bride, Brynn, wore the most ridiculously beautiful gown, ever. Her Bridesmaids were able to choose their own style dress within a color palette of pinks and purples...which made it really unique and incredibly pretty. Here are some shots of those lovely ladies...

TRIAL & error

2008-09-16T17:36:00.000-04:00

Trial makeup sessions are a chance for the bride and I to meet, get to know each other and chose the makeup style that she feels the most comfortable with for her wedding day. Sometimes clients are unsure of the look they want, so through TRIAL & error, we will experiment with different makeup styles until we get it right and make it work. It's important that you love your look, feel comfortable, and most importantly ~ feel like yourself!

This before and after photo is of one of my brides, Meredith. She was not completely sure of the look she wanted. She rarely wears any makeup at all. We first decided to go with a smokey, somewhat dramatic eye. While she really did love the way it looked, she didn't feel like herself. I think she looks pretty amazing, but of course wanted her to be happy.

After thinking about it for a little while, she decided that a contour style eye was more her preference. She told me that she didn't want it to be as smokey, that she liked it lighter on the lid area and trusted that I would be able to make these changes (without having another trial session) and create it on her wedding day.

The next two photos were taken on her wedding day by her photographer, capturing me working, and the final look on one very beautiful, happy Bride.

Next is Danielle... we met last May at her NYC apartment for her bridal makeup trial. Not totally sure of what she was looking for, she gave me a photo from a magazine of the makeup style she thought she might like. This photo below shows the final look after the session. Since she did not completely love the eyes, but wasn't sure of the look she wanted, she took some time over the summer to really think about it and then came to me for her 2nd trial last weekend.

During this session I only worked on the eyes; no foundation, lip or cheek color was done. This is her before photo:

She decided that she wanted the entire eye lined in black, including the inner eye area. She wanted her lid lighter, her crease darker, and the inner corners of her eyes given a strong highlight. Lastly, she wanted me to add a soft shimmery gold color along the bottom. Below is the finished eye, which we both LOVED! I can't wait for her wedding this October!

KATE'S FATE

2008-08-05T11:10:00.001-04:00

About a month ago, Katie found my makeup ad on theknot.com and contacted me to set-up a bridal trial makeup session. She lives in NYC and was getting married in NJ on Aug. 2nd. Out of all the possible towns to be getting married in, she just-so-happened to be tying-the-knot in the town I live in, Westfield, NJ! This made getting together very convenient, since her parents live here as well. I say... it's fate, Kate. :)

These first two before and after photos were from our trial session.

She gave me an idea of what she was looking for, and this is what we came up with...Before Katie's big day, I took into consideration everything we talked about during her trial and made some adjustments here and there, giving a more refined, polished look. I'm happy I was able to quickly capture the next photos before leaving.

She was breathtaking! With a smile like this......how could I go wrong?

Here she is with her lovely Mom. Congratulations Katie, it was a pleasure!

NO BRIDEZILLAS HERE

2008-06-17T16:17:00.001-04:00

I feel fortunate to be able to say that I haven't experienced any Bridezillas (yet). In fact, the ladies I've had the pleasure of working with have been so lovely and peaceful. Here are some shots of recent Brides.This is Kristin. She is the sweetest girl ever. On the morning of her Wedding day, I met her at her suite in Jersey City, NJ overlooking a spectacular view of NYC, ready to create her bridal makeup!

Hair and makeup complete, now it's time for the gorgeous gown...she looked simply stunning. I wish her hair stylist lived closer, she rocked!Kristin's Mom looking very Bridget Bardot-ishly sexy!

Here are a couple amazing shots from Kristin's photographer, Roberto Falck. robertofalck.com Congratulations Kristin and Tracy!

This is Jennifer, my porcelain skin bride, who is such a doll. She wanted a dramatic eye using brownish matte hues and lashes for days.

The challenge was the fact that she has extremely straight(yet long) blonde lashes. They needed to be curled and given a few coats of waterproof mascara before I added some false lashes on the outer corners...and ~ WAHLAH!

I think she kinda looks like Madonna here. Love this shot. Her fiance had just sent his Mom up with a gift ~ oh, just some ridiculously beautiful diamond earrings!

Here she is getting ready at The Chanticlair in Short Hills, NJ, looking picture perfect.

MAKEUP 101

2008-06-17T11:16:00.000-04:00

This is Neely. She is a very busy mother of 2 young children, who felt her makeup routine needed some updating. STEP 1: The consultaion. I went to her home to check out what her makeup bag looked like, discuss her lifestyle/needs, and talk about her budget. I requested that she be wearing her makeup as she would on an average day when I arrived, so I could get a sense of what she might need to focus on. This is how she looked. Hard to tell, but yes, she is wearing makeup. She is wearing foundation, eye shadow, and blush. It's just not the best application or colors for her. After that first meeting, I decided it was best to give Neely some tips on how to do a quick, fresh, modern looking makeup application, since she is a somewhat conservative mom who's always on the go. STEP 2: Shopping! I arrived with a plan, a list of product suggestions and then we were off to the Mall at Short Hills. We spent about an hour choosing the right colors and product for her skin tone and specific needs, and then headed back to her home for the lesson. STEP 3: The Lesson. I showed Neely how to apply the makeup on one side of her face, and she then duplicated it on the other side...she was a pro! The changes here are subtle, but very effective. She tends to get red and blotchy and the foundation chosen provided a very even, full-coverage without feeling heavy. We used an all-in-one color for both lips and cheeks providing a quick, fresh approach. We concentrated on the apples of her cheeks for that youthful, healthy glow. For shadow I stayed warm and neutral, enhancing her pretty hazel eyes. I should also note that she had started coming to me for facials since our 1st meeting and her skin was definitely looking healthier. How happy does she look?!
If you are interested in a makeup consultation, personal makeup shopping, and/or makeup lesson please contact me. kerry@kerrydering.com

TOTAL WELLNESS at CANYON RANCH

2008-06-16T18:56:00.000-04:00

I decided that I wanted to celebrate my 40th year by nourishing my mind, body and soul. Going to Canyon Ranch in Lenox, MA seemed like the perfect place to find what I was looking for. My trip was at the end of May and I have to say, it exceeded my expectations! It was truly transforming. I indulged in a hot stone massage, an anti-aging facial, a body treatment called euphoria, a spa manicure & pedicure and an amazing barefoot shiatu massage! I was thinking "I could really get used to this sort of treatment on a daily basis" :) I felt so spoiled and cared-for as I walked around the grounds in my robe. The food, the staff, the yoga and meditation, the fitness classes, the speakers were all FANTASTIC! I cannot wait to return! It definitely gave me a huge jump-start for living healthier. I hope I can keep that ranch feeling going. FOURTY~ SHMOURTY!!! I've never been happier or felt better in my life. :) For detailed information on how you can save some extra money on YOUR C.R. experience please email me: kerry@kerrydering.com

SKIN DEEP

2008-06-16T13:11:00.000-04:00

Gone are those days of basking in the sun for hours with baby oil. What? Yes, it's true. I was a child of the 70's after all. It seems I was trying my hardest to make my fair Irish skin what it was not meant to be. Sure, I looked tan and "healthy" but it was all too consuming and exhausting and turns out ~ DAMAGING. So many burns, so much time and money waisted in tanning beds. Ahhh, if only I knew then what I know now....blah, blah, blahhhhG (thank goodness for the faux tan).
Thankfully, times have changed and so has my lifestyle. Now, I'm a Licensed Esthetician (Skin Care Specialist). So, it's my job to take care of my skin and help others do the same. Although my sun damage has been done, it doesn't mean I can't make a difference in the health of my skin now. I don't think it's ever too late to care for yourself and truly see healthy results. There are many things we can do without having to "go under the knife"(not that I'm opposed to that) that will change the way our skin looks and feels.
HERE ARE A FEW TIPS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
1. REGIMEN: Have a skincare routine that you follow regularly, using quality products that produce great results for your special skin care needs. I recommend starting with the basics; cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize....and then eventually build on that. I use a great product called Naturopathica. To learn more visit www.naturopathica.com
2. FACIAL: Get a professional facial. The one question I get asked most often is, "How often should I get a facial". My answer is this: While this can be different for each individual, a good "rule of thumb" is to remember to get a facial with each changing season ~ so, 4 times a year. However, the more attention you pay to your skin...the healthier it will be. I have some clients that come to me once a month and some once a week. Also, the trick is to invest in the appropriate product to maintain the health of your skin between visits. Visit www.terraskycenter.com and call for a facial appointment 908.277.1222.

3. DOCTOR: Find a great dermatologist and go for your yearly check-ups! I've found someone I highly recommend, Dr. Lisa Coppa at the Laser + Skin Institute in Chatham, NJ. L+SI utilizes the latest technological advancements to offer a wide range of treatments for all dermatological concerns such as skin cancer, eczema, acne and hair loss. I've gotten Photo Dynamic Therapy, which is a laser treatment that successfully addresses precancerous sun damage. I'm very happy with my results! For more info. go to http://www.lsinj.com

4. PROTECT: Wear a sunscreen with UVA AND UVB protection and then enjoy the warmth of the sun and get some vitamin D! I recommend Anthelios SX. Visit http://www.anthelios.com for detailed information.

5. DIET : A poor diet can create major skin problems. Since you are what you eat, eating more health conscious meals; whole foods rather than processed, organic fruits & veggies, fish and a low carb/refined sugar diet, will make a big difference in the health of your skin. I recommend Marian Buck-Murray MA HHC. She's a Nutrition Coach and Longevity Diet Specialist. Contact info: marian@goodfoodsolutions.com 973-762-6727

WHAT A TOOL!

2008-06-16T12:40:00.000-04:00

I cannot live without my brushes from billybBEAUTY!!! He has thought of everything. They are the perfect size and weight and produce amazing results! YAY Billy B!

JUST ADD WATER

2008-06-16T11:45:00.000-04:00

Back in May, I attended the Makeup Show in NYC. One of the Events I experienced was a hands-on master workshop called Red Carpet Beauty, with celebrity makeup artist Joanna Schlip.
She revealed some secrets to long lasting makeup that will be flawless in photographs, video and in person. One of my most favorite techniques that she demonstrated was to ADD WATER to your eye shadows and apply it WET. Just like painting a watercolor....I LOVED THIS!
Starting with a wash of the darkest value first, then blending and adding colors creates a unique marble-like effect. After that dries and sets, add dry shadow in lighter values and blend, blend blend. This shadow will not smudge or budge until you're ready to take it off! WOW!

IT'S ALL ABOUT THE LIGHTING

2008-06-16T11:18:00.000-04:00

Yup, it's true. Lighting is the key. If I didn't have my portable light to take with me on location ~ well, I might be left in the dark (literally). You never know what sort of lighting you might get, so it's best to come prepared with your own. I use the Lowel Tota-Light. www.lowel.com It's light-weight, easy to assemble, and provides ideal lighting for applying makeup.