20 Questions...with Dr. Michael Huwe, creator of Obsessed Minerals Cosmetics

In my journeys, I have the priveledge to meet so many wonderful, and fascinating people, and most recently, I had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Michael Huwe, creator of Obsessed Minerals Cosmetics.
I am in awe of successful women and support women owned businesses whenever I can and encourage you to do so as well, especially those made in my hometown!

I fell in love with Michaels' shadows the minute I saw them! The colors are vibrant, sparkling and just plain beautiful, so I just had to ask her a few questions, because inquiring makeup minds and lovers want to know!
Who is this woman behind the Minerals?!

20 questions with Dr. Michael Huwe - creator of Obsessed Minerals cosmetics


1. How did you get the name Michael?!
mh- My mother named me for her father, her favorite cousin, and her favorite nun.

2. You started your career as a chiropractor...why the switch to makeup?!
mh- I've always been obsessed with makeup, I have had the biggest collection of all my friends for as long as I can remember...then one day someone suggested I start my own line. With my background in natural medicine, I thought it would be a good idea to keep this in mind and create a line staying as close to natural as possible, but still enough great pizazz to be worn on the runway!

3. How is Obsessed Minerals different than all the other mineral makeups?
mh- Most mineral makeup is loose or baked...which is either difficult for the average woman to apply, or comes off very dry leaving very little color behind. Obsessed Minerals is pressed with ingredients which allow the full pigmentation to come through, as well as, maintain the look for the enitre day! In addition to the great color payoff, Obsessed Minerals' specialty is the wide color choices which include incredible color undertones found with no other manufacturer. I strive to come up with unique makeup giving eveyone an individualized look.

4. What is your vision for your company?
mh- My dream is to become the leading creator of dramatic color and the number one choice of makeup artists! Hopefully, Obsessed Minerals will eventually be found in all great makeup stores!

5. Have any celebrities been wearing your makeup?! If so, who?!!
mh- This is a great question....and the answer is yes....however, Obsessed Minerals has been tested and used by some of the biggest name celebrity makeup artists...who are under contract to other companies. This makes it difficult for me to name names as I don't want to violate any contracts. That being said, Obsessed Minerals was mentioned in Glamour Magazine's online site, Glamour.com with this article:
Also, be sure to check out Glady's Magazine...a great magazine for women who are breaking into the modeling industry. Obsessed Minerals made their editors choice, as well as, their #4 makeup product! Although the issue doesn't state that the cover model wore my shadows, the owner/editor told me that Kim Alexis was wearing Obsessed Minerals and loved it! For those who are familiar with celebrity makeup artists, Obsessed Minerals found a friend with Ve Neill, who loves our shadows and uses them frequently!

6. What are your personal favorites in your line?
mh- I have so many favorites....my absolute obsession would be the eye shadows! I am constantly looking to create new awesome colors that no one else has. I love adding iridescence and sparkle. I also adore the lipsticks....it has taken a long time to create a great formula that looks great and feels good on. My foundations are sweet...incredible coverage, yet you feel as though you have nothing on! I can't forget my awesome lip glaze! They are beautiful and infused with peppermint oil, which is a natural lip plumper! I will tell you this....I don't offer anything that I won't personally wear or am proud to sell. So, it's hard to choose any one thing, as I love them all!

7. What's it like in your makeup lab?!
mh- Right now my makeup lab needs reorganized! It's actually difficult to get in the door! We built the lab before we realized how much room would be needed. I have stacking bins full of containers, a hydraulic press, and tons of shelves full of containers of my 660+ concoctions! Not to mention multiple types of heating equipment, a chair for company, a television for those long days, and boxes for containers that have no home.

8. If you were stranded on a desert island, what 3 items would you have?
mh- Hmmmm. Toothpaste! Oh, do you mean makeup? I would have to have eye liner, lipstick, and mascara. I think with those three items you can still pull off a look. If I could add a fourth I would take my foundation...but I could survive without it!

9. Who is your dream celebrity to endorse your makeup?
mh- Wow! That's a tough one! It would depend on who I was targeting....for the young I would have to go with Taylor Swift or Rhianna. For ladies my age and older....either Oprah or Sarah Jessica Parker.

10. Where can we find Obsessed Minerals?
mh- We are in several Pittsburgh locations: Huwe Chiropractic in Bridgeville, The Nutrition Shop in Wexford, The Southpointe Spa and Salon in Canonsburg, and Bangz in Bridgeville. For anyone not in the Pittsburgh area our website is www.obsessedminerals.com get on the mailing list for any specials that might be running.

11. When you're not creating makeup, what are you doing?
mh- I still practice Chiropractic one day a week, I maintain all the book work for our Chiropractic office, I teach Pathophysiology for DeVry University, and I have three kids ages 8, 12, and 15...all of which are very active in sports, I am their chauffeur, which is in itself a full time job.

12. How did you start your own company?
mh- Actually, this is the second company I've started, the first being our Chiropractic office. I learned the first time around that there are always people to ask if you don't know how to do something. So I did a lot of research as to what went into various types of makeup, bought ingredients, started mixing things up in my den and pushing my trials on my friends. I took their opinions and worked to change whatever was negative. One of my close friends then offered to have a makeup party for me before I started pressing out my powders, which was very successful. I took any money I made from selling my start-up products and kept putting it back into the business. I bought more containers and more ingredients. My friends had more parties for me. This continued until I managed to aquire the equipment I needed to create more professional looking products and build a lab to keep the ingredients in a sterile environment. I did cheat a bit and use some credit cards, but have worked very hard not to go into debt with this project. As, I continued, it occurred to me to get professional advice about the quality of my shadows, specifically, as they are my most favorite thing. So I emailed various celebrity makeup artists and started sending out samples. This is what has led me to where I am this far.

13. Any advice to aspiring entrepreneurs?
mh- Utilize the internet! The best tool I have used is researching the internet for everything! LinkedIn is one of the best sites out there! Another entrepreneur turned me on to it at a chance meeting at the post office....that was a lucky break! You can find anyone you want if you look hard enough and most are friendly enough to drop you a return note and give you some advice on how to acheive your goals! I have found buyers for the majority of the stores that I am interested in breaking into through this site. My other advise is don't take any pay for yourself until you are well established...therefore you need other income while you are starting. Take every dime that you've made and put it back into your new business. Network your business with everyone! You never know who might be able to help you.....everyone know's someone....who might know someone else....who might be able to help you!

14. Where do you get your inspirations for your palettes?
mh- Sometimes I see someone on TV who has a great color combo going on, so I slip into the lab and put the colors together. Sometimes I put things together to go with an outfit I plan to wear and think it's something others would love. Believe it or not, I think about colors all the time...I even dream about them! Sometimes my best ideas come when I'm either sleeping or about to fall asleep.

15. Who is your favorite makeup artist?
mh- I have several, locally I adore Patty Bell and Bethany Montecalvo, Hollywood wise, I really like Sam Fine, Ve Neill, Patty Dubrof, Mai Quynh, Lizbeth Williamson, and Lorrie Turk.

16. Besides Obsessed Minerals, do you have any other favorite makeup lines?
mh- I have so many favorites....here is my list: MAC, Makeup Forever, Too Faced, Nars, Urban Decay, but of course my number one is my one line....I never thought that I would love the quality and colors more then those previously listed, but I do!

17. Is your makeup green & cruelty free?
mh- Obsessed Minerals is made with the finest, natural ingredients...especially if you stick with the loose products. When you get into the pressed, you have to add in an anti-microbial, and a mineral oil substitute. However, these items are still much more kind to the skin then the harsh chemicals used in the usual brands. Ironically, mineral oil is a natural oil that is non-harmful, yet, people are afraid of it due to it being a petroleum derivative....so cosmetic companies steer away from using it, hence the mineral oil substitute. As far as the cruelty free question, our cosmetics are in no way tested on any animals other than myself, my friends, and occassionally my children!

18. Who inspires you?
mh- So many people, but, mainly my husband! He is the most encouraging, open and optimistic person I know. He always backs my "crazy" ideas and is constantly working for my benefit and to help me succeed.....From a professional stand point I would have to go with Jerrod Blandino (makeup artist founded Too Faced Cosmetics), Mary Kay Ash (needs no introduction) and Frank Toskan and Frank Angelo (founders of MAC).

19. What's in your makeup bag?
mh- Bag? Ha! Two drawers! When I say I'm "obsessed" with makeup, it's a severe understatement! I have always had a huge collection of makeup, primarily eye shadow. Now that I have my own cosmetic company, I have so many things that it actually takes two large drawers and some of my countertop to hold all of my favorites! BUT, if you mean what do I take with me when I leave....I only take lipstick! The eye shadow never needs re-applied, the only reason I need lipstick is when I eat it often diminishes...so I like to re-fresh.

20. What are your hopes and goals for 2010?
mh- This is the year I want to break into mainstream retail! I am in the process of finding eye catching packaging and working on getting approval from some of the best buyers in the industry! Hopefully before the year ends, you will see Obsessed Minerals on the shelf of your favorite store :)


Thanks Michael...I wish you continued success!

From Frumpy to Fabulous in just minutes!

Recently I was interviewed by author, Elizabeth Donovan, M.A. and offered some advice for moms on how to look their very best.
Making up moms is one of my favorite subjects, as I have done many mom makeovers, and as a working wife and mother of two boys, I know all too well, the sleepless nights & stress filled days!
Below is a reprint of the article from Parenting Pink web site...enjoy and thank you, Elizabeth!


As moms, we are warriors of daily chicken nugget battles, dirty diaper duty, running tactical night time nursing missions, soldiering on as we run our 10th carpool of the evening, and manning the position as CEO of everything from drool to teenage drama. It’s no wonder that we often lose ourselves in a fashion abyss of over-sized sweat pants, Adidas sneakers, and forgo any signs that we used to wear make-up.
But just because we are busy moms, doesn’t mean we have to completely let ourselves go, does it? According to Patty Bell, a film and television make-up artist, absolutely not: “Time is crucial to moms, and sometimes adding just a touch of makeup can instantly take you from frumpy to fabulous in an instant.” Bell has transformed many moms on popular “makeover shows” and believes if moms take a few extra minutes for themselves in the morning, you can look and feel your best. Not to mention your new-found self confidence will make you a better parent!

Transforming the way you look whether you are a stay-at-home mom or a working mom doesn’t have to be costly or time consuming. Minutes and seconds are precious commodities in our lives and so our sense of fashion needs to fit into overly crammed schedules. Changing small parts of ourselves has the added benefit of boosting moms self-esteem. In fact, recent studies have shown that by changing something positively about the way you look can have a profound effect on a woman’s self esteem. Moms feel better, look better, and are better moms when they take a few minutes to take care of themselves.
Try these time-saving tips to boost your self esteem and instantly transform yourself from frumpy to fabulous!

Get your mommy groove back with new underwear:
“One of the best things women can do to improve their look is to start with the right underwear,” says Rachel LeRoy, author and owner of intimateguide.com. “Visible panty lines make any pants seem out of date.” It’s also important for busy moms to take a moment to find a bra that fits correctly and is comfortable. “The right bra can take years off by lifting breasts to where they should be and giving shirts the right shape,” discloses LeRoy. Got a little “muffin top” or unsightly cellulite on your post-baby body? LeRoy suggests moms invest in a pair of “slimming shape wear” that she says can “take off close to 10 pounds in 2 minutes.” Women in general tend to think about what they wear on the outside more than underneath. “When women update what’s “under there”, it makes a huge difference! ”

Accessorize it:
Make your outfit and personality “pop” by adding a few accessories before you run out of the door in the morning. “Accessories are a great way to add instant flair to any outfit without breaking the budget,” says Nichelle N. Pace, founder and editor of stylemom.com. “Big statement necklaces, bangle bracelets, scarves, and a fantastic pair of pumps are perfect wardrobe enhancements,” she says. But what about the stay-at-home mom who feels trapped in her jeans and sweatpants? Pace has the perfect way to accessorize for her too. “If you’re wearing jeans and a fitted white t-shirt, just add a colorful scarf for instant pop,” she advises. And accessories don’t have to cost you a small fortune. “Chico’s has some great accessories for mom’s on a budget,” says Pace. So go ahead, toss on a scarf or a few bangles, you’ll be glad you did!

Take the 3 minute make-up challenge:
“Makeup can make a big difference,” says Crisit Miller, owner of houppette.com. Miller believes that by taking a few extra minutes in the morning, moms can quickly transform from frumpy to fabulous. “A tinted moisturizer with SPF, concealer, cheek cream blush, Mascara and lip gloss can make a huge difference,” believes Miller. “It will brighten the complexion, get rid if tired eyes and give her a polished look in 3 minutes!” Three minutes? Now that’s a little time most moms can afford in between swigs of coffee and changing dirty diapers.
• Pay attention to your skin tone. Even moms who do apply make up can still have a “washed out” tired-mommy look if they apply the wrong type to their skin. Miller suggests for moms that have redness in their complexions use peach tones for cheeks and lips. For sallow or olive skin, choose pinks! And, “sheer textures for a wash of color will look natural and soft, perfect for everyday and super easy to apply!” The idea is that moms shouldn’t feel overwhelmed when applying make up. A little bit goes a long way.
• Don’t forget to glam-up yourself in seconds with lip gloss. Every mom knows that seconds are precious when you are trying to do a thousand things at once, but make-up artist Patty Bell insists that it doesn’t take much effort to look and feel like a million bucks.”Don’t forget the lip gloss to glam up your “mom-ness,” says Bell. “Rosebud’s strawberry lip balm adds a touch of color and is a great all round moisturizer for lips, nails, hair and skin- another great time saver,” she says. “Any lip gloss instantly brightens your face and smile, giving you a younger look.” Another great perk about lip gloss is that you can apply it just about anywhere so it’s the perfect item to spice-up the look of moms-on-the-go.
• Say good-bye to those dark circles. “Nothing says tired mom like circles under the eyes,” confesses Bell. “Concealer is a mom’s best friend, and another product that can take a few years off.” Bell recommends Yves St.Laurent’s Touche Eclat concealer as it not only conceals dark circles, but also highlights and brightens eyes without appearing cakey.

Shop your closet Swap Parties:
In need of a new mommy wardrobe makeover but don’t want to spend the cash? Then swap your wardrobe instead! Nichelle N. Pace, founder and editor of stylemom.com, has discovered the key to keeping her wardrobe updated and fashion savvy, “Get the wine and cheese, a sitter for the kids, and invite your gal pals over for a swap party,” she says. “Most of us have things in our closet, some even with the tags on it that we haven’t worn or may not like the fit anymore.” Simply send out invitations to your gal pals requesting clothing in good
condition and a variety of sizes. Not only is this a great way to update your look, but it provides moms with a wonderful way to laugh and bond. “Swap parties are a super fun way to not only get a new outfit or item for your wardrobe, but also just another good reason to get together with the gals,” advises Pace.

Keep a “Play dress up” mentality.
Pace, also encourages moms to have a playful attitude when picking out an outfit. “When getting ready for a night out or an event, invite a girlfriend over for another perspective to get some new ideas,” says Pace. “Remember, most women don’t run out of clothes, we run out of ideas! Don’t be afraid to get creative and express yourself.”
Remember, you don’t have to spend a lot of money or take hours at a time to make small changes to your wardrobe and personal style. By making a few basic changes, moms can feel and look like a fabulous at any age!

We've won Wedding Wire's Bride's Choice Award 2010!

What an honor to be chosen one of the top makeup artists and hairstylists for Wedding Wire.com!
Thank you to all of our 2009 brides for the honor to be a part of your very special day...this one's for you!
Press release- for immediate release:

Pittsburgh, Pa. 1/19/2010 - WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, just announced that On Location Hair and Makeup has been selected to receive the 2010 Bride’s Choice Awards™ for outstanding makeup and hair services.
The annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ recognizes and celebrates excellence in quality and service within the wedding industry, as determined by recent reviews and extensive surveys from over 500,000 newlyweds.

On Location Hair and Makeup is among the top five percent of all vendors in the WeddingWire community, which includes over 100,000 wedding professionals across the US and Canada. Awards were given to winners across 19 different service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers.

“We are excited to recognize and honor the success of the top wedding professionals within the WeddingWire Community” said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “The annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ program has given us the unique opportunity to highlight the best wedding professionals in each region as reviewed by brides and grooms who have utilized their services in the past year.”

We are happy to announce that On Location Hair and Makeup is among the very best makeup artists and hairstylists within the WeddingWire Network, which includes WeddingWire and Martha Stewart Weddings. We would like to thank our past newlyweds for nominating us for the 2010 Bride’s Choice Awards™.

For more information, please visit our WeddingWire Storefront today!

About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 100,000 reviewed wedding vendors nationwide, from wedding photographers to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge. For wedding vendors, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. In addition, WeddingWire has partnered with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) to provide its network of local vendors and online wedding-planning tools in the Weddings section of www.MarthaStewartWeddings.com. For additional information, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.

So you want to be a makeup artist?!

I get numerous emails from so many girls, and guys, wanting to be makeup artists.
Many want to know where to start, how I got started, can they shadow me, intern with me, teach them, etc., but my 23 year career did not happen overnight. It's been a long, wonderful, very rewarding career and one that I still cherish and enjoy to this day.

But, before you start, you may need to ask yourself a few questions before taking on such an incredible journey as a makeup artist.

Do you love making others look and feel good?

Do you love to travel, make a lot of money and meet interesting people?

Do you love playing with makeup and creating beautiful new looks?

...those are the plus sides of being a makeup artist. Now consider this:

How about working long hours, nights, weekends, sometimes holidays, and having no set schedule?

Do you like not knowing when your next job, or paycheck may be?

Are you good at promoting yourself to get clients?

...then this may be the job for you!

The best advice I could give is to someone wanting to be a makeup artist is to get your cosmetology license for hair and makeup or check out the fabulous makeup schools such as: Joe Blasco, Westmore Academy or MUD.
My esthetician teacher once gave me the best piece of advice, "the more you know, the more you are worth."

Many schools today have teachers that are actually working in the field today, so their first hand knowledge really adds to the curriculum. There you can learn the basic fundamentals of makeup application, prosthetics, special effects, and so much more.

And in todays economy, with most major companies cutting back, his advice is still holds true to this day.

There are very few openings as full time makeup artists with television studios or production companies these days, and the ones who are there value their positions and are the best in the industry, or they wouldn't be there!

The majority of makeup artists work freelance, that means working for several companies, as an independent contractor, throughout the course of your career.
It also means being "on call", 24/7, whenever a production needs you, the call goes out to find a makeup artist, ASAP... and more often than not, whoever answers the call first, gets the job.
As a freelancer, that means, you must be willing & able to accept any job that comes along if you want to get paid, or eat!

There are no benefits, sick days or paid vacations being a freelance makeup artist. You pay your own health insurance, and find your own clients, find a replacement if you are ill...quite simply, if you don't work, you don't get paid.

But when you do work, those jobs can be very exciting.

It's best to have a portfolio, or photos of your work, if you want to get hired or have an agent. They need to see what your makeup skills look like in print in order to hire you.

If you don't have one, find yourself a reputable fashion or commercial photographer in town, and offer your services in exchange for pictures for your portfolio.

You will have to do a lot of volunteering and assisting at first just to build up your resume.

I also suggest working in the department stores, or a hair salon, to develop your skills. There you have unlimited access to make up different faces on a daily basis. You can also begin to build your makeup kit as most companies offer gratis to their employees, as well as training.

Work can also be found by calling the television & local cable stations, newspapers, magazines & local film office, and volunteering your services. But, most companies have their steady artists that they call upon regularly, so getting hired right away can often be very difficult.

There are always job postings on Craigslist looking for makeup artists for independent films. They usually don't pay, but it's a good way to break into the film business and get your name in the credits.

Once you establish your name in the industry, that is just the beginning. You must form good solid and trusting relationships with your clients to keep them returning.

There is no room for mediocrity, and sloppy makeup application- you must strive to be your absolute best, on every job, as only the strong survive in this highly competitive market.

That means not only being the best makeup artist, but: arriving on time, having a clean, organized makeup kit, avoiding gossip, and knowing on set etiquette and being able to deal with talent of all backgrounds, races, religions, sexes, political parties and respecting their individual opinions and privacy.
It also goes without saying, but one MUST have: a cell phone, computer, printer & a car these days as many job details are sent via email and even text. (NYC is one of the few places that you won't need a car to get around town).

Remember, you are hired because of a specialized skill and unique talent that you bring to the production, and one that involves not only makeup, but making the talent feel comfortable and at ease as you are the first one they meet.
Honor this profession, and remember the Max Factor's, and George Westmore's of the world who have paved the way for all of us to continue to strive and excel in one of the best jobs in all of show biz.

written by: Patty Bell
model- Tiffany Fluhme founder and CEO of Fluhme Cosmetics
featuring: Fluhme Cosmetics

Easy Ways to Maintain a Holiday Glow...no matter how tired you are!

... a recent article I was quoted in by Rebecca Giantonio...thanks Rebecca!

It’s mid-December, which means the holiday rush is in full swing, most are struggling to meet end-of-year deadlines at work, and there are holiday parties a plenty. This all translates to long days (and nights), which bring dark circles, dull skin and an abundance of other beauty issues. The good news is you can still look radiant and refreshed with less sleep than usual, thanks to these tips from celebrity makeup artists and beauty experts across the country.

Hydrate
Hydration is key. Drink the requisite eight glasses of water a day and switch to a heavier moisturizer. Dr. Brooke Jackson, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of The Skin Wellness Center of Chicago, suggests minimizing use of products containing retinoids and alpha hydroxy acids as they can be too drying in the winter. She also cautions that drinking red wine while on certain medications can cause skin irritation, so monitor your alcohol intake and changes in your skin.

Exfoliate
Removing dead skin cells gives tired, dry skin a glow. Concoct a homemade mask, massage into your skin using a circular motion, and rinse clean. For oily skin, mix lemon juice and a little salt. Be careful with the amount of salt you use; the mask should be grainy, but not too harsh on your skin. If your skin is normal or on the dry side, combine honey and sugar.

If you don’t have time for a mask, grab some leftover gin from the holiday festivities. Narine Nikogosian, one of Los Angeles’ best-known skin care experts (her client list includes Jessica Alba and Charlize Theron) and author of Return to Beauty: Old-World Recipes for Great Radiant Skin (Atria Books, November 2009), suggests this unexpected recipe. Mix two tablespoons of gin with a quarter-cup of tonic water to quickly balance and tone oily skin laden with last night’s makeup.

Illuminate your skin
Brighten skin with products designed to do just that. Celebrity makeup artist Chris Lanston, who has worked with Kristin Davis and Miss USA among many others, suggests mixing a face lotion containing mica with your foundation to make skin glow. Brush on a light dusting of pale peach or pink blush. A little blush goes a long way on a tired, pale face!

As a finishing touch, opt for finishing powder. “Translucent powder can create a cakey-white look. Blot with finishing powder, which will brighten under the eyes, highlight certain areas, absorb oil and minimize fine lines,” says Christopher Drummond, an esthetician and makeup artist who has worked with celebrities including Jennifer Lopez, January Jones and Kimora Lee Simmons.

Try Christopher Drummond Beauty Finale Finishing Powder, part of Drummond’s 100 percent natural, vegan and organic-based beauty line. Another great product that gets the job done: La Prairie Cellular Treatment Illuminating Face Powder, which contains a light-diffusing polymer that gives skin an ethereal appearance.

Enhance eyes
Take just a few minutes to concentrate on your eyes. They're the focal point of your face, so banishing puffiness, hiding circles, and brightening them will make you look much more awake. Reduce puffiness by applying cool green or chamomile tea bags (keep some in the refrigerator) to your eyes when you wake up. Both will soothe, and green tea contains antioxidants that help minimize swelling, says Dr. Jackson. To counteract fluid build-up before bedtime (if you're lucky enough to catch some Zs), prop up your pillows so your head is slightly elevated as you sleep.

Mask dark circles with a lightweight concealer. Patty Bell, film/television makeup artist and owner of On Location Hair and Makeup in Pittsburgh, suggests picking a yellow-based one that will counteract the purple shadows under eyes. Dab a small amount under your eyes and smooth with your finger. Your body temperature will blend the makeup better than a brush.

Bell is a fan of Yves Saint Laurent’s Touche Eclat Radiant Touch. “It’s a staple in my makeup kit,” says Bell. “It highlights and brightens the under eye area without ever looking dry or cakey. One news anchor I use it on calls it her liquid gold!” Lanston swears by Benefit’s thick boi-ing “industrial-strength” concealer. “It’s magic!”
Next, rim the lower inner corners of your eyes with a white eye pencil. It reflects the white of your eyes, making them look brighter. Another option: Celebrity makeup artist Mally Roncal suggests a dab of soft, shimmery white eye shadow on the inner corner of your eyes. Try the Mally Beauty Lightwand Eye Brightener to fake those eight hours of sleep.
Finish with a coat or two of mascara to give the appearance of bigger, more alert eyes. “Brighten the whites of your eyes with navy mascara,” says Bell. “Avoid mascara on the bottom lashes. It may cause shadows under the eyes, only accentuating dark circles. And if you’re going to wear eye shadow, avoid pinks and purples, which make eyes look tired and red.”
Get physical
One of the best beauty tricks around, exercise boosts blood flow and pumps water throughout your system, resulting in a healthy glow. A mere 10 minutes of brisk physical activity will increase your energy level for up to two hours. Take the time to walk around your neighborhood, run up and down your stairs, jump rope, or bicycle, and you'll feel and see the difference.
Only have a couple minutes? Try this yoga trick, taught to acclaimed yoga instructor and Connecticut resident Khadi Madama by her yoga teacher. “This pose instantly revives a complexion,” said Khadi. “It brings the circulation back into the face to give it a nice glow, and my teacher claimed it could even alleviate wrinkles.”

To practice the Standing Cow Pose, slowly bend forward from the waist for 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Let your shoulders, neck and head go limp. Breathe deeply, letting out tension. Slowly stand back up, keeping your knees slightly bent to avert lower back strain.
reprinted from Hartford Womens Style Examiner.

Congratulations Colleen and Henry!

My wedding season is winding down and this wedding on 10/24/09, was one to be remembered!
I did the brides' sister's makeup for her wedding many years ago, so it was quite an honor to be asked back again by the family.
Once again, another gorgeous bride to work with, one so pretty she could actually model!
My assistant, Rachel, and I arrived at the brides home in Fox Chapel and had so much fun getting Colleen, her family and 8 bridesmaids ready for the big day.
I then proceeded to the church and on to the reception at the Fox Chapel Golf Club to keep her looking fresh and beautiful for her photos taken by photojournalist, Jeff Swensen.
Colleen looked spectacular, as did her groom, Henry Simonds, grandson of Elsie & Henry Hillman.
Thank you again to the Daily family and Colleen for allowing us to share in your very special day.

We got published on Wedalert.com!

Our recent article regarding trial runs for brides was just picked up by WedAlert.com...what an honor for us!
If you are considering hiring a makeup artist for your wedding, please read this article for a few tips!
www.wedalert.com/blog/2009/10/brides-guide-to-makeup-trial-run.asp
And, we wish you the best to you as you plan your big wedding day!

photos courtesy of Paul Meyer photography.