Tuesday, March 30, 2010

if luck = hard work + opportunity

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

Thursday, March 18, 2010

less is MORE, more or less...

...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!





Saturday, March 13, 2010

i heart this designer

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







    



Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Indie Hair Stylist Extraordinaire

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

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