Informative

How do I get a good make-up system on a budget ?

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How do I get a good make-up system on a budget ? Guide to getting bang for your buck on a 100 Dollar budget.  

 

I've never been a Women who can spend 10 dollars on a dress and 100 dollars on shoes. I'm all about balance and sometimes balance is about money in the right places.  When I touch on budgeting I must say that buying high end names doesn't make a product anymore effective then a product you pick up in a drug store. I think spending more on the right items are more effective. I put together a chart that can be a guideline when shopping on a budget I also have put together links and suggestive purchases when trying to stick in this budget. The good thing about a budget is when you spend less in one area you are able to spend more another area without exceeding your overall budget 

 

 This Chart is generated based off the most common areas women shop. Feel free to tailor this to match your makeup needs. Example: Exchanging eyeliner for brows (Probably something I would do)

 

This Chart is generated based off the most common areas women shop. Feel free to tailor this to match your makeup needs. Example: Exchanging eyeliner for brows (Probably something I would do)

Eyeliner & Mascara:

there is so much flexibility in this category. Believe it or not I've purchased some really high end Mascara's that would cause me to tear all day because of the fragrance. Then I would grab a pharmacy brand and my lashes would look amazing all day. 

Nyx Felt tip colored liner 10.00

http://www.nyxcosmetics.com/colored-felt-tip-liner/NYX_307.html

Wonderlash by Rimmel 7.00

http://us.rimmellondon.com/products/eyes/wonderlash-lift-me-up-mascara

Maybeline Rebel Black Lashes

http://www.maybelline.com/Products/Eye-Makeup/Mascara/the-falsies-big-eyes-rebel-black-waterproof.aspx

 

Lipstick:

I really hate to say this I am not loyal to my lipstick. The market is super competitive sometimes I can take a trip to my neighborhood beauty supply store here in jersey and stumble across the most magical lipstick for 5 dollars. (inserts shocked face emoji here) 

Colour Pop 6.00

https://colourpop.com/product/dopey/

Nyx Lingerie Liquid lipstick 

http://www.nyxcosmetics.com/lip-lingerie/NYX_315.html

 

 

 

Primer & Foundation: 

Primer & Foundation collectively take up more then half of your budget. I am a firm believer that this an area you don't want to cut cost to much. Get a good primer to protect your skin because you can end up paying for this in the long run. Even if you decide to get a decent primer and foundation that's less pricy go for a good primer. 

Sephora Amplifier Primer 16.00

 http://www.sephora.com/beauty-amplifier-afterglow-primer-luminizer-P403326?skuId=1763200

 Two Face Primed & Poreless 30.00

http://www.sephora.com/primed-poreless-skin-smoothing-face-primer-P241301?skuId=1147883

Maybeline Fit Me: 8.00

http://www.maybelline.com/Products/face-makeup/Foundation/Fit-Me-Dewy-Smooth-Foundation.aspx

La Girl Concealer 5.00

https://www.lagirlusa.com/HD-Pro-Conceal-2243.html

"When your are buying make-up on budget simplicity is key"

 

 

11 Options For Braids This Spring

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"Crown Braids"

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"2 Braid High Buns "

"Traditional French Braid"

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"Half braided ponytail"

"Traditional Cornrows"

"Heart Shaped Braid"

11 Options For Braids This Spring

 

I can't emphasize enough how much braids are trending again. As seen in previous post braids have made there way to runways for 2016. This trend has changed from the traditional straight cornrows to multiple styled braids. The benefit of wearing braids is if they aren't applied to tight they protect your hair from heat for a while. I find this is a easy method when wanting to do hair treatments or deep conditioners that require long sit times. Braids can be dressed up or dressed down depending on your choice of style. As demonstrated find different braid options to fit your spring and summer style. Braids are perfect for beach days. Braids are also ideal for the everyday women on the go who doesn't have time to manage or upkeep straight hair or curls. When removing braids you are also able to achieve a wavy wet hair style look that can be worn additional days after. 

“A girl without braids is like a mountain without waterfalls.” 

"Center Fishtale Braid"

"Braided Roses"

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"Goddess Braids"

"Mohawk Braid"

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"Box Braids"






How do I Discover What Type of Makeup Artist I Am?

in

A few weeks ago I decided to go makeup shopping, keep in mind most of my makeup shopping is done online. Buying makeup wasn't the plan and I honestly hate going to buy makeup when my face isn't put together. I feel I'm often judged and overlooked. Makeup is my forte and I still need help occasionally, we all do. I'm in a makeup store that will remain nameless. Approached by a consultant with the most amazing makeup on her face. The artist seemed so bothered and unhappy at work, I even felt miserable looking at her. During my assistance from her and a pretty long dialogue, while listening to her say she "feels trapped" because this isn't what she wants do, I thought to myself "How do I discover what type of makeup artist I am?"

I am here to save you a little time with some suggestions on how to figure out what type of makeup artist you are, when trying to gain stability in the industry. First in order to give you the proper insight follow this questionnaire with me. This will allow me to make a few pointers.

 

1. When scouting for makeup jobs I look for the following requirements?

A. Schedule flexibility, full day compensation and networking opportunities.

B. Interaction with people and more secure work hours.

C. Training, classes and no specific schedule requirement

2. When I browse online I gravitate towards the following categories?

A. Inspiration, color theory, colors patterns.

B. New makeup launches and up and coming brands.

C. Beauty tutorials.

3.  When shopping for makeup products what do you look for?

A. I look for complexion variety and texture. 

B. I look for packaging.

C. I look for ingredients.

4. When stocking my makeup kit the first things I grab are?

A. Hygiene, make-up removal, lashes and tweezers.

B. New must haves and trend make-up.

C. Skincare tools, skincare, make-up with skincare benefits.

5. When applying makeup this portion is the most important for me?

A. Complexion is key.

B. Eyes or lip.

C. Prepping the skin.

6. When creating a makeover my opening question would consist of?

A. What are you wearing, what type of event are you attending?

B.  What’s your favorite brand?

C. What’s your makeup routine like?

7.  When doing a makeover I allow my clients to?

A. Watch me in the mirror throughout the entire makeover.

B. Pass clients the mirror at the completion of make over.

C. No mirror preference but likes to talk my client through each step of application.

8. When promoting my business the following promotional tool is most important for me:

A. My professional website

B. My Instagram

C. My LinkedIn

9. When I shop for make-up most of my shopping is done in the following places:

A. Alcone, Mac pro, Nigel’s, Ricky’s, Pros

B. Sephora, Macy’s, Ulta

C. Spa’s, Blue Mercury, Bloomingdales

10. What clients do you aspire to have mostly?

A. Industry professionals

B. Frequent visitation from all clients at work setting.

C. Mature, circle of friends, community

11. How often do you attend tradeshows?

A. Very Seldom

B. Yearly or monthly

C.  Works for tradeshows often


Mostly A:

Freelance Artist

If you are reading this category you are most likely a freelance artist who doesn’t have a full time job. Freelancing and taking gigs on a day-to-day basis is a full time job for you.  Your definition of pleasure is managing yourself and you have minimal desire to have a boss.  Artistry is your passion and you are a really strong artist. As an artist you don’t think about products first you think about the end result first. You are very visual and care about the overall presentation. Finding yourself shopping for tons of hygienic products to please your high profile clients. Your current make-up kit is decked out with products to create the perfect complexion palette.  Often housing one full brand assortment in your kit by category. Example: One brand for complexion, one brand for eyes and one brand for lip.

Common Job Location: Photo-shoots, fashion shows, film and television.

Attributes:  Energetic but can appear to be a little standoffish at times. Favored by many. Out going personality. Calm body language.

Appearance: Very clean and classic make-up such as bold lip hairpin straight or sometimes pulled back. Cool wardrobe and accessories.


Mostly B:

Product Artist

If you are reading this category you mostly like work in a sales environment of the make-up industry. Exceptional product skills when it comes to delivering how the products function and benefits. You enjoy make-up shopping for the new must haves and get excited when you see pretty packaging. Sometimes as a product artist you can by-pass the thought of hygiene supplies, as product are your main priority. When taking side make-up jobs your clients are looking to you to inform them about the new trends that are currently taking place.  You thrive off of the interaction by getting to know new people who love make-up. You are an exceptional listener and speak very clear a concise when talking about beauty.

Common Job Location: Store Environment 

Attributes:  Great listener, Clear and Concise speaking very eager.

Appearance: Bold eye shadow, Often likes eye color and are not worried about playing it safe with appearance.


Mostly C:

Education Artist

If you’ve made your way to category C most likely you are an education artist. You change the perception women have on their current routine due to your in-depth knowledge about the products they are using.  Have a background in skincare and aesthetics. You are often hired to speak on behalf of brands as an educator. Skincare is an area of expertise for you.  Public speaking and beauty seminars are your niche. Often selected to speak on behalf of brands for appearances or for educational videos.  Ingredients you speak to naturally and are well spoken when speaking to result products give you as well as clinical studies.  You cater to informative needs of your clients. 

Common Job Location: Spa or Store location.

Attributes: Calm, tranquil, great spirit, great presentation skills, strong writer and great public speaker.

Appearance:  Wears clothes that are comfortable, clean skin, focuses on complexion with light make-up. 


Mixture of A, B, and C:

Veteran

If you are reading this category you most likely have a mixture of mostly A & B with Minimal C’s. Chances are you’ve been in the beauty industry for a few years and have experienced all 3 make-up phases in your life.  You thrive off the excitement and honor behind doing freelance work as well as working with upscale clientele. Understanding that being a product artist or education artist can provide momentary stability in between make-up gigs. Booking entertainment can fluctuate and has no guarantee of something permanent unless you are on a work contract.

Common Job Location: Store, Photoset, Film set or Spa’s as in house make-up artist. 

Attributes: Broad perspective, Influencer, motivates people when talking. Great presentation skills, strong writer and great public speaker.

Appearance: Magazine worthy make-up on the face, amazing skin and amazing style.

What's the Value of a Makeup Artist?

in

Currently in flight on my way to Vegas for a 3 day work trip. Nearly missing my flight and running the entire airport like a marathon. Sometimes you question yourself "Is the hustle worth it?" Of course it is. I propose the question because as a makeup artist we spend time compiling a resume of work and taking several gigs that sometimes lead to dead ends. What's the value of a makeup artist?

We've all noticed the makeup industry is overly saturated, however your current value shouldn't be based off of the state of the industry. Face it we haven't witnessed Celine drop the price point off of purses because of plethora of knock off versions in various retailers. This means trusting your expertise and understanding the value of your work and setting yourself at that price point.

When creating rates for you this shouldn't be based off of the competitiveness of the market. Rates should solely be based off of your experience and expertise. This works in both aspects if you haven't gained experience in your industry you should scale back in terms of what you charge. The best way to gain experience in your field is by exchanging your free time and services for experience or print work.

Speaking from experience I found myself adjusting my rates because of the competitiveness of the market. Clients asked why don't you charge more? your level of work and your overall presentation is worth more than what you are charging. I firmly believe in charging your worth, be selective, all business isn't good business. Sticking to this mindset, I've been able to book more quality work.  

How Long Do I Keep Makeup Before it is Time to Toss It?

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I decided to write this article because I work in the cosmetic industry and I see women buy tons of makeup but are not conscious of how long they should keep the products, which really isn't good for your skin in sensitive areas.

How to identify the shelf life symbol? This is usually located on the back of your product next to the barcode. You will see an open jar that may have 6M or 12M as demonstrated below, M=Months this is how long you should keep a product before you discard it.

  • Mascara: Toss your mascara after 3 months. Mascara has the shortest life span of all makeup because the risk of transferring bacteria back and forth from your eye into the mascara tube is so great. If your mascara starts to dry out before its 90 days are up, throw it away. Don't add water or saliva to your mascara to rewet it. Doing so will only increase your chances of getting an eye infection.
  • Eye Pencils: Eye pencils can be kept up to 2 years. To make sure you're using a clean tip, sharpen before each application.
  • Eye Shadows: Keep your applicators clean and your liquid shadows should last 12 months. Powder shadows will keep up to 2 years. 
  • Lipsticks: You can stow your tube lipsticks and your lip pencils for 2 years. As with eye pencils, sharpen your lip pencils before each use.
  • Blushes and Powders: Discard your cream blushes after a year, powder blushes and powders after 2 years.
  • Foundation and Concealers: Moisturizing foundations and stick concealers can hang around for 18 months. A 12 month shelf life applies to both oil-free foundations, which can dry out quickly, and liquid concealers. 

Using clean brushes and sponges will help lengthen the life of your cosmetics. Be sure and wash or replace your applicators frequently.