TMS Chicago 2014

Hi Everyone! 

As many of you know, The Makeup Show came to Chicago this past weekend. 

What does that mean? It means all the artists in the area go a little shop crazy, drink lots of bubbles and network! 

Trade show madness!

This year was only two days (Saturday and Sunday), as opposed to last years 3 day stay (Sat-Mon), so for a lot of freelance artists it was a little tough to get some shopping in as weekends can be busy!

I did have a wedding on Saturday, but finished early enough to swing by the show afterwards. I made sure to make a game plan and shopping list before leaving the house... 

photo c/o JenBrownMakeup Instagram

I ran into some local artists who I love that were working the show that day including, Martina Sykes, Jamie Dahms, Bek Lieto and Crystal Portillo -- All of who were working with Matt and Paul over at the Frends Booth. 

Photo c/o Martina Sykes

I also ran into the lovely and talented Nicole Rogers of Bombshell Artistry over at The Makeup Light Booth. 

Photo c/o Nicole Rogers

Nicole had the super fun job of creating different hair and makeup looks on her model Noelle. 

Nicole working her magic, creating a beautiful braided updo. 

photo c/o Nicole Rogers
Final look

Nicole created a lot of beautiful looks throughout the show- you can see more of them on her instagram HERE. 

I have to say, I really love The Makeup Light. I spent a lot of time at their booth chatting with the creator/owner Michael Astalos. His wife is actually a makeup artist, which makes sense considering how well thought out this product is. It prepares you for any situation you may run into as a freelancer. Not to mention, the quality of light is beautiful, and I totally bought one :) I'll be expecting mine to show up sometime next week! 
I'll be sure to write a follow up post after using it a few times ;) 

You can obviously find their products at any upcoming Makeup Show, but you can also find where to purchase through their website HERE.  

After stalking The Makeup Light booth, I had the pleasure of meeting artists, seeing beautiful body paintings, and of course, picking up the last few things on my list. 

Kathleen Price, Kate Johnson, Martina Sykes.

 Cirque Du Soleil artist, Kathleen with Chicago artists Kate and Martina. 

House of Glam Models

Beautiful body painted Models, walking around the show!

Orlando Santiago and Matt Morelli

Mega talented Orlando and Matt repping the Frends Booth!
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One very special moment that I failed to document while at the show, was meeting the ultra talented, Eugenia Weston. Eugenia is an incredible makeup artist and also the owner of Senna Cosmetics. 
She saw that I was working Sunday's show at the NARS booth (behold the power of social media), and took the time to swing by our booth, ask for me, and introduce herself. I was so floored by this gesture, that I didn't think to take a photo-- But this definitely made my Sunday :) 
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 After making my rounds, here is my collection...
A bit modest compared to most :) 

Nurturing Force Blot Out Offensive and Twinkle eye cream

Nurturing Force Airbrush cleaner

London Brush Company Vegan Brush Cleaner

Makeup Forever Uplight, Lab Shine glosses, Aqua Lips, and Face and Body Foundation

Mario Badescu Rose Spray and Drying Lotion

Embryolisse Hydra Mat and Lait Creme Concentrate

BDellium Concealer and Lip Brushes

Alcone Pro Makeup Wipes and Sponges

NARS Blush, Bronzers, Shadows and Polishes

Disposables

Not pictured: The Makeup Light Pro Kit 

Temptu S/B Foundations

Whew! 

Believe it or not, that is not everything on my list! I was hoping to get some time to shop on Sunday since I was a little overwhelmed on Saturday-- I also wanted to check inventory and set a budget. 

I was working with NARS on Sunday, and the Booth was SO busy, that I didn't have any time to pick up the final Items I wanted to get, which included.. 

Senna Cream Blush Palette and Brow Palette

MAC empty palettes

INGLOT shadows

Luckily, all these items are available online and all offer discounts. I'm bummed I missed the show prices, but you can't win 'em all! Next year I won't hesitate on the products I know I love (such as the Senna blush palette, which sold out!), so I can be sure to get the best products at the best deals! 

Overall, it was a great show weekend! It was so fun and inspiring to be surrounded by all that talent. I had a great time chatting and catching up with fellow local artists who I never get to see, both at the show and at the Chicago Beauty Exchange's Beauty Mash Up Event!  

Jen Brown and Nika Vaughan

Nika Vaughan and I have partnered to create Chicago Beauty Exchange. 

click the link above for more info!

We wanted to host an event around The Makeup Show, to introduce local artists to some of the national trade show artists and vendors. 

Here are some snapshots from the event.. 

The bar at Quay Lounge

Getting things started

Jen Brown and Traci Fine

Nina Ottolino and Kristen Pulice

Mel Wilson and Matt Morelli

Juan Jose, Jordana, and Jen Brown

Sam and Emily

Oluwaseyi, Natali, Erica and Evelyn

The crowd!

Nika Vaughan and Mel Wilson

We had an incredible event!
Thank you to all the artists who stopped by even after working the show all day! Thank you to The Powder Group for making an appearance as well! We had a great time and hope to host another event like this for next year's show! 

Sine Qua Non

Hi beautiful people :) 

The other night I had the pleasure of attending a special preview night at Sine Qua Non Salon of a new program they are trying to start called “Sine Style Bar.”

With all the new blow dry and syle bars coming out, Sine saw this as an opportunity to show clients that even a full salon is capable and happy to provide styling services for your night out! 

The event was for industry professionals, bloggers, and writers. It was an example of the new weekly events they plan to host. 

So let's get down to it, here's my experience of the Sine Style Bar. 

Upon arriving I was greeted with smiling faces. Everyone was buzzing and super friendly. I was also greeted with a glass of cava- which I love! 

From there, I had my appointment set with Jac- a super cool chick and incredible stylist on their team for the past 2 years. 

I got to choose from any of the following styles... 

Of course I love the loose, beachy wave look, so I went with "The Hillary."

I told the receptionist that my hair was going on day 3 of no washing and was styled from the previous night before, so I wasn't sure if they'd be able to do anything with it! Of course he suggested a braided style, but then he also offered a wash and blow dry! 

So of course, I opted for the blow dry :) 

Jac, my stylist, was super sweet. She took the time to sit me down and figure out what I liked. She shampooed me and gave me the BEST head massage. EVER. 

From there, she gave me a blow out and followed in with an iron to get those beachy waves. 

Jac introduced me to a new hair product line that only Sine Qua Non is carrying in the city right now! It's a line called R&Co and from what I could tell- it's pretty amazing. It smelled great, it felt great and I am definitely going to buy some the next time I go in!

Aside from R&Co?  

There was this incredible new dry shampoo from Bumble and Bumble that blew my mind. It's called Dryspun Finish. 

Photo c/o Bumble and Bumble

You can put this invisible spray all over the hair, not just at the root. Point being?! 

It can give your hair that texture it needs to hold curl. Which my limp, straight hair, desperately needs!

The End Result... 

Obviously very happy. My hair felt and smelled amazing :) 

It didn't feel product-y, or stiff, I could run my fingers through it, and it lasted for 2 days :)

On my way out the door I was given a little gift bag full of product goodies. 

In the bag... 

A bunch of new hair products for me to try and a Sine Points card-- Works just the same as getting points at Sephora! You can earn points with new referrals, purchases and even check ins! From there you can earn some cash for your next appointment :) 

All in All, it was a super fun event and with lots of very cool people. Everyone was so welcoming, and easy going, and all the ladies leaving the event that night looked pretty amazing. 

Please go check out Sine Qua Non Salons (several locations in Chicago) the next time you're looking for a place to go! And keep an eye out on their website and blog for updated information on the next Style Night

www.sinequanonsalons.com

How to deal with break outs

Let's talk about something not so glamorous. 

Pimples. 

I don't know about you, but recently I have been struggling with struggling weather in the midwest (40 degrees to 80 the next day!), and it's being taken out on my skin! I have also not been drinking enough water--- yes, I'm guilty! 

So here are some products and tips for dealing with those pesky pimples.

Step 1

DON'T TOUCH IT!

This can be tough. Once this guy starts to rear his ugly little white head, all you want to do is pop him! Try not to :) 

I'm so guilty of this, and the end result? Scarring! I have little acne scars on my face from when I would fuss with my face. Not something you want. The best thing to do is to try to treat it and leave it alone! 

You have to wait it out. 

Step 2

Treatment

I recently stumbled upon a treatment that WORKS! 

DDF Acne Control Treatment with Salicylic Acid Acne Medication. 

photo c/o birchbox. 

I received a sample of this little guy, and I love it! It's great for quick spot treatments. I'll apply a little dab onto the pimple right after washing my face, in the morning and at night. Within a day or two- the area is clear! 

You can buy it off their website HERE! 

Step 3

Take care of yourself

I'm a firm believer that everything that goes into your body has a direct effect on the outside. I try to eat as clean as I can (for the most part :)), and drink tons of water! (again, for the most part :))

I know it can be tough to always make the right decisions- I can say that because I recently bought tiny ice cream sandwiches from Trader Joes and I CANNOT stop eating them this week. Hence my little pimple friend under my nose. 

You just have to try to be conscious of where you're sourcing your food, try to eat as many vegetables as you can, and really drink that water! Water helps to cleanse your system. It's necessary. 

Good for the body, good for the skin. 

Some other things to try... 

If you can see a pimple starting, try one of these home remedies!

Baking soda

The miracle worker! Make a paste out of baking soda and warm water and hold it onto the affected area with a warm washcloth over it. The warm cloth will help to open up the pores and allow the baking soda to help kill bacteria. 

This trick is also good for bug bites and rashes! 

Icing

Continually placing ice on your pimple will help to reduce swelling and redness. Place an ice cube in a clean towel and hold against the affected area. Repeat several times. 

Give these things a try and let me know what you think! Have some other remedies you like? Or treatments you love?! Leave them in the comments section! 

Springtime Events!

Hey lovelies,

I have had the pleasure of both attending and hosting some great events in Chicago recently! I wanted to share a couple of the experiences as I'm so excited to see artists coming together--it's all about the community! 

Last week, I attended an open event at Goldplaited: A Finishing Salon. 

I'd never heard of a finishing salon before, so I was curious to check this place out. My friend and fellow artist, Mel Wilson, was the one to pass the invite to me. It called for free bubbles and snacks as well as a complimentary *Trend Style.* 

Trend Style?! Finshing Salon?!

So off we went! 

The salon is in a great location in Lincoln park, and it's adorable. Everything is in gold! I had the chance to meet and chat with the owners, Mal and Corinna Strong. They are sisters who transplanted to Chicago with a love of makeup, hair and making women feel good-- every day. 

They were both so welcoming, and friendly! I thought the salon was adorable. They even have a little back room for clients to reserve for private parties. Probably not a bad idea for a birthday or bachelorette?! 

So what is a finishing salon? 

Think Blow drys, dry styles, and quick makeup applications. 

No cuts or colors here- Just final touches. 

What is a Trend style? 

Ever circulate Pinterest and come across some awesome trendy hairstyles that were just too hard to pull off at home?! And then by the time you master it, the next trend has popped up?! Well, you can come to the salon and pick a trendy style (type of braid, updo, or curl/wave), and have a stylist do the work for you. 

It's a quick easy stop if you're headed to dinner, the theater, or just wanna feel awesome for a day. Goldplaited's goal is to make women feel good all year round, not just those occasions you would expect to get hair and makeup done. 

Who this is good for: 

The woman that needs that weekly blowout! 

Last minute date you want to look fabulous for!

A quick pick me up when you feel blah! 

Who should skip this: 

Brides- Hire a freelancer to come to you the day of- saves you time, energy and gives you that luxury of being truly pampered with a very specific look created just for you. 

www.nikavaughanbridalartists.com

Women who want more of a one on one, specific look!

GoldPlaited 

2803 N. Sheffield 

Chicago, IL 

 Photos C/O Goldplaited's Yelp Page

Another great local event that recently took place was the Enzo Milano Seminar hosted by Chicago Beauty Exchange. I am a co-partner of this super awesome group! To read more about what we do, follow the link --> CBE

Enzo Milano is a pro hair tool company, known to be the first to introduce the clip less iron. We coordinated to have one of their stylists, Sara Jean Stevens, come to host a seminar for the group. Sara Jean is a hair and makeup artist based in Chicago. We have actually known each other for years, so I was thrilled to hear that she was happy and willing to help connect us to Enzo for this event! 

Enzo Irons lined up for demos!

Sara Jean, demo-ing one of the popular irons. 

The "Enzo Wave."

Sara Jean showing a demo on CBE founder, Nika Vaughan. 

 The seminar consisted of product information, styling tips/tricks, instruction on how to properly use the line of tools (as they are a different type of heat source, therefore a different approach than your traditional irons). All the artists who came to the event were also signed up to get a *Free* Iron retailing at $130! 

After Sara Jean showed her demos, all the artists were invited to try the irons themselves either on the model, the mannequin head, or even each other! 

It was a great event! Thank you to Sara Jean for coming out and sharing her knowledge of the products. Thank you Enzo Milano for the free irons! Thank you to Tsubo Salon for letting us use the space! Also a BIG thank you to all the lovely artists who came! Nika and I are trying to create a safe space for artists to meet, connect, share and learn from each other. 

To read more specifically into the event from an attendee first hand, feel free to check out Jocelyn Morris' blog HERE. 

If you'd like to keep up to date about Chicago Beauty Exchange with upcoming classes, seminars and networking events, please feel free to like us on Facebook, HERE. 

Have a beautiful day! 

Midwest ---> LA

Hi Beautiful People,

I have been going through my head about seizing new opportunities in the beautiful land of LA. I just took a trip last week to the sunny city to chat to several artists, producers, PR agents and beauty industry professionals about the work, opportunities, life and how to get to where I want to be! 

Here are some key things I learned and some great advice!

Terri Apanasewicz

Hair and Makeup Artist with over 20 years of experience, represented by Cloutier Remix. 

Terri was kind enough to invite me to her home! I was able to watch as she and her assistant organized and sorted through boxes upon boxes of products that were sent to her-- It was a glorious sight. She had an entire store set up! 

Our afternoon together was very chill, easy going and incredibly inspiring. I had the chance to hear Terri's story of how she came to be, as well as some great words of advice, wonderful stories, and encouragement. 

My take away: 

"Brand yourself as one or the other."

In the midwest you are told upon starting in this industry that you MUST do both hair and makeup. It is completely different on the coasts! While Terri does do both, she mentioned that if she were to do it over, she would choose just one or the other. She said that people don't value it as much, or take you as seriously. It's harder to prove yourself. I found this MIND BLOWING! 

While she does do both, and of course there are some perks to that- for instance, you can book jobs for either talent, which means more income. Another great part about this is that sometimes there are clients that want to work with just one person as opposed to two--Especially those who travel. 

While I will still continue to push myself to do hair, and learn as much as I can, I am thrilled to know that I can focus my professional energy into being JUST a makeup artist :) 

Carla Hawkes 

Producer for PopSugar.

Carla was sweet enough to take the time to meet for a little midday rose :) She was cool, sweet and straightforward about PopSugar and all it had to offer.  

My take away: 

"Just do it."

Carla and I got onto the subject of social media and building a following- creating a community. This is something I've been working on and thinking about for years! She mentioned that having that can be very valuable, not only to get work, but also recognition from cosmetic companies. i.e.; free products! opportunities! etc. 

I told her some of my ideas that have been roaming in my brain for the past couple years and why I've procrastinated on them because, "if I'm going to put myself out there, I want to brand myself from the beginning. I just want it to look and sound REALLY good. It is a representation of me and my business!" Carla came back with the point that there are so many you tubers and bloggers that started with bad sound and poor lighting, but now they are doing amazing things because they were seen and heard-- the quality wasn't perfect, but it didn't matter because they just put themselves out there and DID IT! 

Wake up call! 

Kendra Richards

Makeup and Hair Artist with over 20 years of experience, represented by Cloutier Remix. Also the creator of Heir Atelier.  

I had the pleasure of meeting Kendra back in January at the IMATS (International Makeup Artist Trade Show). Kendra graciously met me for coffee in West Hollywood--I loved chatting with Kendra-- we had a lot of similar outlooks on the industry and even shared some similar experiences. 

Kendra was incredibly encouraging and inspiring. It was fascinating to hear her story of how she really worked, and fought to be be where she is today. 

My take away: 

"It's not about you."

I think this had the biggest impact on me. A lot of times we as artists take our jobs very personally. While what we do can be incredibly challenging and rewarding, it is also very intimate. You have to be personable, friendly, confident and an expert all while trying to connect with your client. Kendra shared a story that resonated with me because I'd been through something similar. She went on to tell me how it affected her afterwards, and how she came to the conclusion that, "it's not about you." Often our clients (especially celebrity clients), have a lot of pressure and a lot on their minds and sometimes, those pressures need to be released and taken out on the closest person to them! You can't let that affect you. 

It's a brilliant reminder. 

Rachel Tung

Reality TV Producer

Rachel is a firecracker! She is someone I was thrilled to chat with. I was so grateful for her to carve out some time in her busy schedule to meet with me! I got more of an insight into reality tv culture and production as well as what it is to be a celebrity makeup artist. 

My take away: 

"Be here."

Be available and ready for opportunity- Show your commitment and dedication and do what you say you're going to do. 

Over all....

The trip was incredibly inspiring and has pushed me to really fulfill this "celebrity makeup artist" dream of mine... So I am taking action, and working towards moving out West! Re-arranging your entire life is crazy, but I can tell it will be worth it in the long haul. Very excited to see what this next chapter will bring! 

Also a BIG thank you to Carol Marshall and Jason Trotter who took the time to speak with me as well! And of course to my lovely hosts, Jason and Haven!! 
 Lots of great advice and encouragement all around-- It was greatly appreciated. 

Current Faves

Hi Everyone,

I hope you're dealing with the yo-yoing weather well! It's been tough on me- not only physically (dry skin!), but mentally as well! Where's Spring?!

I wanted to share some of my current favorite products I've been using during this time to keep my skin and hair in good condition, and to make myself feel good! 

First Up... 

Moroccan Oil Body Souffle and Body Buff

I received these beauties as a gift from a dear friend, and let me tell you... I am in love! 

They are so gentle, and silky, they make you feel like you're getting salon treatments at home. Incredibly luxurious, these two combined are magic! 

image c/o beautycrazed.ca

You use the body buff as a gentle scrub to use while you're in the shower. It exfoliates and hydrates you as well! No more sugar and olive oil scrubs for this girl! I'm spoiled!

The body Souffle is step two of the hydration process. Very light, creamy consistency that hydrates the skin beautifully. 

Best part about these puppies? They are paraben free, and full of all kinds of antioxidants and derived oils to give your skin the best of the best! 

Body Souffle $52

Body Buff $42

Tarte LipSurgence Lip Tints

This product is genius. 

I love it. 

photo c/o makeuptemple.co.uk

I've been wearing these little beauties just about every day since I bought them on a Cyber Monday sale! 

They are a cross between a balm, stain and a gloss. They give a wash of color, hydrate, and are super lightweight. Some are matte, some are glossy. The color range is beautiful, and they are so easy to wear--Now you can throw on a little pop of color without the fuss of lipstick or stickiness of a gloss. 

Plus, Tarte is made in the USA and always formulates their products with some of the best ingredients, without Parabens, mineral oil, and gluten (to name a few!)

LipSurgence Lip Tint $24

Neuma Shampoo and Conditioner

My good friend Nevena of Custom Hair Lounge in Chicago suggested I try these, and boy do I see a change! My hair is lighter, more manageable, and looks great! 

photo c/o neumabeauty.com

My hair is fine, but I have a lot of it. It doesn't hold curl very well, and volume is never an option! 

I was using some sketchy shampoos in the past (I refuse to name names, partially because I'm ashamed!:)), and after learning more about my hair's current condition, I knew I needed a new regimen. 

Nevena suggested I try these shampoos and they have changed my hair's life! It is lighter, feels smoother, and is easier to style! 

Neuma Products prices may vary depending on where you purchase them. You can find the closest location HERE. 

Hope this opened your eyes to some great products out there! Let me know if you've tried them, or have some other favorite products you love. 

And the Oscar goes to...

I don't know about you, but I LOVE award shows! 

I was especially excited to catch the Academy Awards this year. There were so many talented actors stepping out and making a mark- some for the first time!

So here are my picks for the BEST hair and makeup of the night... 

Angelina Jolie

I don't know about you, but when I heard Angelina was going to be at the Oscars-- that was all I could think about! 

I couldn't wait to see how she'd show up and I was left breathless once I did.

She opted for a fun, glitzy, ethereal gown and followed suit with light, pretty makeup. Lots of lashes with a little bit of smokey liner on the outer corners for some definition was just perfect. Clean skin and beautiful soft pink lips. To finish it off, she left her hair down-blown out to perfection. 

Loved it! 

 Sandra Bullock

 Sandra Bullock looked so glam and gorgeous. With the vintage side swept waves and blue smokey eyes, she really stood out! Just a slight color on the lips and cheeks sends the look on a home run. Well done. 

Charlize Theron

She can't look bad. 

ever. 

While she can look good, she looked GREAT! Loved the short hair tucked behind her ear. Effortless and clean. I love that it showcases her beautiful face which was a perfect match of luminous skin, peachy lips, and eyes stood out with a clean swipe of liquid liner. 

Naomi Watts

 I thought Naomi did it right. Love the bold lip paired with lots of lashes, and iridescent eyes, and pink cheeks. It was clean, classic, and effortless. Loved the makeup paired with the casual side swept hair. SO good!

Olivia Wilde

I thought this mom to be was so chic. She went back in time with 60's inspired cat eye and soft pale pink lips. Updated by her romantic wavy updo-- I think it's a perfect match. 

Some stars fell a little short... and here's why!

Calista Flockhart

 Calista almost had it! 

I would have added some shadow on those brows so we don't lose them as much. I also would have incorporated more color- either on the lips or the cheeks. I would have absolutely tight lined her upper lash line. The gaps between the lashes drives me bonkers! 

I think she's beautiful, but just barely missed the mark. 

Cristin Milotti

I've critiqued the lovely Kaley Cuoco HERE for her deep dark lips... and sadly, this look doesn't quite work on Cristin either! It's such a stark contrast against her pale skin and pale dress, that it's a little daunting. If she would have settled for a sheer lip product in that color family or a stain, I think it would have lightened it up a little but still had that drama. 

 Giuliana Rancic

Ms. G! 

I love her, but sometimes her makeup is too much for my taste! I love the idea of this look, but I would have softened those eyes a bit. If they were blended out a little more, I think it would have complemented the dress and overall look better. 

I am also not a fan of completely nude lips (lips that match the skin!), so a little hint of color --peach, or pink-- would have been a nice contrast to help break up the face a little more. 

That was my Oscar rundown for this year! Who were some of your favorites? Was there anyone else you think missed the mark? Share your thoughts below in the comments!