https://www.instagram.com/tv/CMoaH3VH_MU/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Feel Good, On the Go Makeup Video

Did you know that feeling good about yourself makes you more productive? Here’s an on-the-go, feel good  makeup look that could make each day feel a bit brighter 🥰

[My apologies for the background noise due to repairs in my home]

 

Everyone these days are glued to a gadget , sometimes multiple ones, to make us feel connected and entertained.  Meetings and work from Home are now conducted electronically through multiple platforms like Zoom, FB Messenger Video, Viber etc…  Digital presence has given rise to women and men (yes including men), to look their best in their meetings since you are with other members of your office team or clients and looks matter.

I’ve seen an increase in RingLight or other LED light panel usage online, including would you believe my favorite parish priest as well?   You see a round white halo in their irises to indicate that they are using good light to look good.

It may feel a bit trivial to put makeup on in these difficult times but it can help us put some semblance of routine by separating a workday from a weekend.  The idea of putting a game on face gives you a boost to start your day and make you feel better.  The ritual of putting yourself together and looking polished makes you feel centered and focused amidst these unsettling times.

So I hope I gave you a refresher and a quick makeup routine that you can incorporate in your daily life.

 

What are your beauty routines that you can share with me?

 

Makeup Used:

Face/Eye Prep:

Makeup Forever Ultra HD Serum (used as a primer)
Inglot HD Foundation Shade 75
Rephr Brush 19
Maybelline Fit me Matte Poreless Powder in shade 220
Maybelline Fit Me Concealer in shade Medium

Eyes/Brows:

Shu Uemura BrowSword Pencil Walnut Brown
Shu Uemura Soft Lasting Gel Pencil in 02 Med brown
Happy Skin Glam Squad Denise Go Ochoa Eye Palette
Artnet Eyeshdow Brush 116
Smith Cosmetics Blending Brush 222
Hakuhodo Pencil Point brush
Koji Eyelash Curler
NARS Climax Mascara

Cheeks:
MAC Persistence Lipstick used as cream blush
Makeup Forever Artist Face Color S214 Powder Blush
Makeup Forever Artist face Color H106 Highlighter
Smith Cosmetics Brush 222
Fan Brush
Dior Backstage Contour Palette

Lips:
Shu Uemura BG 935
Makeup Forever Artist Rouge Mat M 102

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CMoaH3VH_MU/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.facebook.com/messenger_media?thread_id=3127037880734143&attachment_id=172688001190615&message_id=mid.%24gAAscBj4Ukb9-S-BkQ14GpBgpLZhl

Evening Skincare Routine with Makeup removal

In this series for #skincareforwomenover40, here is another video and blog post on what I do to make my 50+ something skin supple and hopefully delay the aging process.  While it is not problematic, caring for it still requires a little boost and TLC to keep it from going south.  So here is my step by step guide on how I care for it.

 

  1.  Remove your makeup and traces of dirt from your face with a gentle cleansing milk,  Squirt a few drops on the cotton pad and swipe from the center of the face,down the neck and forehead.  Use another cotton pad to remove eye makeup and swipe down and remove all traces of liner and mascara with a cotton tip.

 

Light cleansing milk to remove makeup and dirt in the face. Apply with a cotton pad and swipe from the center of the face, down the neck and the forehead.

 

2). Wash your face with a mild soap, I like the transparent soap Pears, as this reminds me of my childhood.  It leaves skin with no soap residue.

TIP: You can use your eyebrow spoolie spritzed with water and swipe the soap until  it forms a transparent paste on the spoolie and apply on your eyebrows to groom hair strands into place.

 

3). Exfoliate with Cure Nature Aqua Gel ( 2-3x/week) to remove dead skin cells on the face.  Apply this onto cleansed face and swirl the product on your face until you feel water beads form and lift up dead skin flakes from your face.  Rinse with water.  This is called gommage exfoliation.

This is perfectly non irritating on the skin since this product is mostly composed of Hydrogen water so no harsh chemicals will leave your face stripped of its natural oils, just dead skin.

 

 

4).   Apply your favorite toner to bring back the PH balance of the skin, I use Dr. Hauschka Clarifying toner.  I like the Rose smell and its not drying at all.  Either Spritz this on the face or apply with a saturated cotton pad.

 

5).  You can skip this step if you’re too tired, this is an added treat for your skincare routine.  The Mini Nuface Trinity is a FDA approved home device that mimics the laser procedures in the Dermatologist’s clinic.  While this will not replace a stronger current and effects in a professional medical clinic, this is a good alternative in experiencing anti aging benefits at home.  It is a 5 minute face lift using microcurrent that will tone and smooth out wrinkles.  You have to apply a face mask like consistency from the gel provided, it is Hylauronic acid and any excess can be massaged in the face.

 

For the first 2-3 months, use it 5x/week and thereafter, can be used 2-3x/week. For Maintenance, use as needed.

 

6).   Apply your favorite eye cream on the contour of the eye and on the undereye area.  I use Estee Lauder Perfectionist Cp+R,but I apply sparingly as this can be thick.  I switch eye creams depending on the season.  During the summer months, I use a water gel eye one and for cooler months I use this one.  As we age, ceramides can plump the skin surrounding the eye and reduce the lines around it.

 

 

7).  Apply your moisturizer, I use Sonia Roselli Water Elixir, again filled with Ceramides.   It is light and easily absorbed in the skin.  Massage into face and neck area.

The Dynamic Duo of Skin plumpers and hydration, this has multiple uses aside from its moisturizing properties. Scrape a little powder blush for a creamy flush on the cheek, mix a little pump into your foundation and you have a tinted moisturizer with skin benefits.

 

8).  Lip Balm

Often neglected but dry parched lips is a telltale sign you are not properly hydrated.  Apply every day and night to make lips smooth and kissable anytime of the day.

 

https://www.instyle.com/beauty/lips/smiths-rosebud-salve-lip-balm

 

So that’s it and hope you learned something new or maybe you needed a refreshed skincare routine, share with me what your evening skincare routine essentials are , I would love to hear from you!

 

 

Skincare for Women over 40 and above… and then some

Disclaimer:  The products featured here are not a paid promotion, these are products that I use and work for my skin type.  Please consult your Dermatologist or Skin Esthetician if you suspect you may be allergic to any of the ingredient components of the items featured here and to prescribe what will work for your skin type.

 

 

For the past 20 years, I’ve had oily to combination skin and as I’ve gotten older, my skin type had changed to Normal to Dry. My Dermatologist had said that this is due to changes in my body chemistry and hormones brought about by aging.  My normal areas like the cheek and sides of the forehead have gone dry and have patchy skin sometimes while my T-zone is not as oily in my 20’s.

Because of Aging, my face needs a little boosting, my jowls have slowly been more prominent, blame it on what doctors call a texting neck since we spend a lot of time hunched up looking down on our phones, my jawline needs definition and eyes have become a  little puffy due to poor diet choices and lack of sleep.

 

 

So here is what my skincare routine looks like and sometimes, depending on the weather, where my skin tends to be oily during the summer months and dry in the cooler months, I switch up skincare products to address current skin issues.

 

  1.  Cleanse the skin –  Use any cleansing soap that suits your skin type and make sure that it doesn’t strip your skin of its natural oils.  Over cleaning your face sometimes can make you produce more oil due to the lack of moisture and hydration in the skin.  If your face feels tight after a wash, your soap may be a bit too drying.  Switch to a milder soap that’s good for sensitive skin.

 

2). Tone –  Look for a toner that has no alcohol that can further dry your skin.  The purpose of a toner is to bring back the ph levels of your skin, remove the last traces of dirt in your face and remove minerals and chlorine from the water.  It also closes the pores.

I like the Japanese variant, the Elixir Lifting Moisture Lotion II, (a Shiseido product), good for normal to dry skin.  Its watery texture doesn’t leave skin feeling tight, just refreshed.  It contains Collagen to lift skin and give it a dewy effect.  I’m so happy with the purchase, I added a refill so I won’t run out.

 

3). As an added boost, I apply a Hyaluronic Acid to retain moisture in the face and plump up the skin.  When skin is plumped up, fine lines are not visible.  When skin is hydrated, it helps in cell production because skin is not fighting hydration.  Why I like this brand?  Its lightweight and easily absorbed in the skin.  The name Mineral 89 is derived from the number of minerals found in the volcanic water used in this formulation.  This acts as a moisturizer as well.

Alternatively, I use a Vitamin C and E serum prescribed by my dermatologist to brighten and plump my skin.  Pictured above.  I squirt 3-4 drops and apply on my face.

 

4). Moisturize –  Because of our tropical, humid weather,  most women shy away from oils because it will make their skin oilier.  With better research and development over the years skincare products have improved in texture, its availability to penetrate skin and since this is plant based, the science behind it supports the claim.    This is one of my favorite moisturizers because it’s easily absorbed and doesn’t feel heavy on the skin.  Apply a 3-4 drops and warm it against the palm of. your hand and massage it in the face.

 

https://buy.cosmeticsnow.ph/iteminfo/clarins-face-treatment-oil-lotus-30ml
Easily absorbed and not oily at all

 

5). Massage –  I saw this roller being demoed in a store in Japan, and what it does is, the rollers simulate physical kneading by a face esthetician on your face and neck to make it firmer and help contour the face.  For aging women that’s the jowl and jawline area.  The solar panel in the middle of the handle acts as a microcurrent, you know you’re doing it right if you feel a slight tug when you roll it across your face.  You can use this for the arms as well.  You may purchase this at Sephora online.  If this doesn’t fit in your budget, you may look for dupes in shopping sites but look for one that has platinum coating not plastic to minimize irritation.

What is pictured above is a dupe and the solar panel is missing.  The thicker roller I alternate using, not pictured here, contains the solar panel.  I was experimenting on the different rollers.

https://duty-free-japan.jp/narita/en/goodsDetail.aspx?sCD=5527450055
Refa Carat Roller simulates kneading techniques to depuff and refine the contours of the face.

 

6). Lash and Brow Serum –

I’ve tried the expensive ones but nothing worked,  I made a simple recipe using the Essential oils from Young Living and researched on the recipe.  (I’m a member of Young Living Oils), It’s made from Castor oil, Lavender, Cedarwood, Rosemary and Vitamin E oils, ingredients that help lengthen and speed up the growth of lashes.  I apply this on my brows and lashes 2x/day.  See results in 6 weeks to 2 months if applied religiously.

If you’re applying brows and mascara during the day, skip this step and apply at night.  It does work and most of all doesn’t cost a lot.

Lash Serum DIY
Lash Serum DIY

 

7). Eye Serum –

I use this eye roller from Clinique as it contains caffeine to depuff and lighten the eyebags.  Again, aging hasn’t been kind to my eye area, the top eye are is slowly sagging creating a hooded effect.  To counteract this, by day I use the lighter eye serum and at night I use a slightly thicker eye product and apply on the top corner and contour of the eye avoiding the lid and in the undereye portion as well.  The rollerball gives a cooling effect.  Put this in the fridge to maximize the cooling effect.

 

 

 

 

8). Massage eye area

This pandemic has caused me severe retail therapy habits.  This led me to this gadget that vibrates and helps the eye product penetrate the eye area.  Battery operated, it’s perfect for the smaller parts of the face and doesn’t cause electric shock.  It feels like a soothing hum that can put you to sleep.  It also helps in the circulation around the eye area, an often neglected area.  It helps minimize puffiness, use this around 1 minute per eye area.

https://www.fishpond.com.hk/Beauty/24k-Golden-Pulse-Facial-Massager-Beauty-Bar-Micro-Vibration-Face-Lift-Massage-T-bar/9999341882051
Soothing, helps in the circulation around the eye area.

 

9). Sunscreen

The Holy Grail of Skin protection, again this is water based and does not feel heavy on the face.  Since its geared for sports activity, the longevity of this sunscreen will last longer and give your UVB/UVA protection a longer coverage.  Dermatologists can never stress enough the importance of applying sunscreen as this prevents aging, wrinkles and pigmentation on the face. I’ve worn this under makeup and it doesn’t cause flashback.

I also caution Brides and clients sometimes to shy away from a high SPF as this gives a white cast on the face when photographed.  An SPF of 15-30 is good if worn under makeup.

 

This is the must have if you want to skip the 5 steps of skincare.

 

9). Lip Balm

One of my staples both in my personal and client makeup kit,  I bought this in one of my trips to France and discovered this in their pharmacies.  This was recommended by their in house sales staff as a bestseller.  It contains Honey, plant extracts, Shea Butter and Grapefruit essence, one jar is sold every 2 minutes!  It combats dry lips in the winter and she also taught me you can use this in the face when you have dry patches.  I bought a jar and 2 lip bullets to carry around with me.  It is now available locally in major department stores.

https://www.cultbeauty.com/mt/en/nuxe-reve-de-miel-lip-balm.html
You can use this on dry patches on the face too.

 

Do you have any skincare products you want to share with me?

You may purchase these products online at Sephora.com; Amazon, Lazada, Shopee and in Sm and Rustans Department Stores

 

Mothers Day Summer Makeup May 2020

I dedicate this video to All Mothers and daughters whose bond may never know the immense love they have, misunderstood in some ways but always a very powerful one. It will shape every relationship a daughter makes.

We had a blast doing this video and she even offered to edit it for me. Me thinks she wants to get away from doing her last projects for class.

The Sun was shifting and the light was a bit of a challenge. Anyway enjoy our takes on the Summer bronzy look. Thanks for watching!

Face:
Benefit Porefessional
Urban Decay Naked Foundation Shade 4
Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer in Sand
Laura Mercier Translucent Setting Powder
Physician’s Formula Butter Bronzer 6676
Sunnies Face Airblush in Peached
NARS Liberté blush
Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter Shade 5
Milani Highlighter Dayglo
Too Faced Hangover 3-1 setting spray

Eyes:
Innisfree Eye pads
Urban Decay Primer Potion
NewBorn Eyebrow Pencil B6
Milk Kush fiber gel brow in Grind
Urban Decay Born to Run palette
They’re Real Benefit Mascara

Lips:
Sunnies Face Lip Dip Girl Crush
Fenty Gloss Bomb Fenty Glow

 

I dedicate this video to All Mothers and daughters whose bond may never know the immense love they have, misunderstood in some ways but always a very powerful one. It will shape every relationship she will make. We had a blast doing this video and she even offered to edit it for me. Me thinks she wants to get away from doing her last projects for class. The Sun was shifting and the light was a bit of a challenge. Anyway enjoy our takes on the Summer bronzy look. Thanks for watching! Face:Benefit PorefessionalUrban Decay Naked Foundation Shade 4Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer in SandLaura Mercier Translucent Setting PowderPhysician’s Formula Butter Bronzer 6676Sunnies Face Airblush in PeachedNARS Liberté blushCharlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter Shade 5Milani Highlighter DaygloToo Faced Hangover 3-1 setting spray Eyes:Innisfree Eye padsUrban Decay Primer PotionNewBorn Eyebrow Pencil B6Milk Kush fiber gel brow in GrindUrban Decay Born to Run paletteThey’re Real Benefit MascaraLips:Sunnies Face Lip Dip Girl Crush Fenty Gloss Bomb Fenty Glow

Posted by Acie Forés on Monday, May 11, 2020

Lockdown/Work from Home Day Makeup Part 2

Hello Everyone! Thank you for your love!!! Since I forgot to include the brows and eyes in the first video, I’ve also broken down the video in minutes so you can skip to the tutorial where you want to go directly to.

In the future videos as my editing skills get better, I will make shorter ones.

Comment below if you have any questions.

Enjoy and See you all soon!

Products Used:

FACE:

Makeup Forever Reboot HD Y365

Inglot HD Blush 81

Shu Uemura Colorless Face Powder

Addiction Gold Reflection 002

Nars Blush Madly

Hoola Bronzer

Mac Fix+

The Balm Maryloumanizer Highlighter

EYES:

Eve Pearl Salmon Concealer

Graftobian Buttermilk HD used as concealer

IT CC Full coverage cream Medium

Shu Uemura hard 9 Seal Brown 2

MAC Brow Shader Browning/Porcelain

Maybelline Color Tattoo 24 hr Socialite and Pomegranate Punk

Urban Decay Eye Glide Corrupt

MAC Chromographc Pencil NC15/NW20

Miniso Fix it Makeup Corrector Pen

Koji Eyelash Curler

Maybelline Lash Discovery Very Black

LIPS:

Lisa Eldridge Velvet Muse

Urban Decay 24/7 LipPencil Broken

JLo Inglot Lip gloss Burnt Sienna

 

 

 

#acieforesmakeupartist
#thewayacieit
#supportgigeconomies
#supportfreelancers

0-5:44 Brows
6:57-10:07 Eyeshadow
10:42-14:46 Eyeliner
14:57-15:50 Mascara
16:08-16:41 Clean Up Undereye
16:43-17:20 Concealer Tip
17:35-19:30 Blush and Highlighter
19:55-20:13 Eye tearduct Highlight
20:18-21:32 Bronzer
21:48-22:01 Noseline
22:12-23:02 Lining lower eye
23:12-25:48 Lipstick Depotting Tip
25:54-26:31 Concealer Eye Application
26:53-30:31 Lips

Lockdown Makeup Brows-Lips Part 2

Hello Everyone! Thank you for your love!!! Since I forgot to include the brows and eyes in the first video, I've also broken down the video in minutes so you can skip to the tutorial where you want to go directly to.In the future videos as my editing skills get better, I will make shorter ones. Comment below if you have any questions.Enjoy and See you all soon!#acieforesmakeupartist#thewayacieit#supportgigeconomies#supportfreelancers0-5:44 Brows6:57-10:07 Eyeshadow10:42-14:46 Eyeliner14:57-15:50 Mascara16:08-16:41 Clean Up Undereye16:43-17:20 Concealer Tip17:35-19:30 Blush and Highlighter19:55-20:13 Eye tearduct Highlight20:18-21:32 Bronzer21:48-22:01 Noseline22:12-23:02 Lining lower eye23:12-25:48 Lipstick Depotting Tip25:54-26:31 Concealer Eye Application26:53-30:31 Lips

Posted by Acie Forés on Monday, April 13, 2020

 

Lockdown , Work from Home (WFH) Makeup Part 1

Hey Everyone!
I have a renewed respect for makeup artists that film tutorials! Talking and applying makeup is not easy! I’m not comfortable in front of the camera, I prefer to be behind it. I miss doing makeup on someone and that is my comfort level.

It’s 30 min long, I’ve tried to incorporate a few tips, Its my first makeup video, enjoy the bloopers, I’m learning to edit and film DIY, comment if you enjoyed or liked this. Looking forward to hearing from you.

Product Breakdown:
FACE:

Jung Saem Mool Skin Nuder Foundation Medium Deep
Naturactor Cream Concealer S52
Charlotte Tillbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Powder Medium 2
Rimmel Insta Duo Contour Stick Medium
Glossier Cloud Paint Beam
Hourglass Ambient Lighting Palette
Charlotte Tillbury Filmstar Bronze and Glow Medium
NARS Dolce Vita Blush
Tatcha Dewy Skin Mist

EYES:
Shu Uemura Hard 9 Seal Brown 02
Jung Saem Mool Refining Eyeshadow Double Saddle Brown
MAC Fluidline Our Secret
Maybelline Lash Discovery Very Black
KOJI Eyelash Curler

LIPS:
Lisa Eldridge Velvet Beauty and Velvet Fawn

BRUSHES USED:

FACE:
LQ 11 Buffing Brush
Suesh Duo Fiber Concealing Brush
Hakuhodo Highlighting Powder Brush
Hakuhodo Contour Brush Ita Bake 60
NARS Yachiyo Blush Brush
MAC 159 Synthetic Brush
RanMor Fan Brush

EYES:
Clinique Spoolie Brush
Hakuhodo F 8431 Ougi Tsubomi Eyeshadow Brush
Hakuhodo J5523 Blending brush
Bdellium Tools 762 Angled Brush

 

Lockdown, WFH Makeup

Hey Everyone!I have a renewed respect for makeup artists that film tutorials! Talking and applying makeup is not easy! I'm not comfortable in front of the camera, I prefer to be behind it. I miss doing makeup on someone and that is my comfort level. It's 30 min long, I've tried to incorporate a few tips, Its my first makeup video, enjoy the bloopers, I'm learning to edit and film DIY, comment if you enjoyed or liked this. Looking forward to hearing from you. Product Breakdown:FACE:Jung Saem Mool Skin Nuder Foundation Medium DeepNaturactor Cream Concealer S52Charlotte Tillbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Powder Medium 2Rimmel Insta Duo Contour Stick MediumGlossier Cloud Paint BeamHourglass Ambient Lighting PaletteCharlotte Tillbury Filmstar Bronze and Glow MediumNARS Dolce Vita BlushTatcha Dewy Skin MistEYES:Shu Uemura Hard 9 Seal Brown 02Jung Saem Mool Refining Eyeshadow Double Saddle BrownMAC Fluidline Our SecretMaybelline Lash Discovery Very BlackKOJI Eyelash CurlerLIPS:Lisa Eldridge Velvet Beauty and Velvet FawnBRUSHES USED:FACE:LQ 11 Buffing BrushSuesh Duo Fiber Concealing BrushHakuhodo Highlighting Powder BrushHakuhodo Contour Brush Ita Bake 60NARS YAchiyo Blush BrushMAC 159 Synthetic BrushRanMor Fan BrushEYES:Clinique Spoolie BrushHakuhodo F 8431 Ougi Tsubomi Eyeshadow BrushHakuhodo J5523 Blending brushBdellium Tools 762 Angled Brush

Posted by Acie Forés on Sunday, April 5, 2020

Behind the Veil Cranbourne David Nuptials

I’ve met Raeanna twice, once during the Bridal Trial and the second was on her wedding day.  When I went to her apartment, what greeted me was a tray of cookies just freshly baked and her mother and boys waiting to be fitted by their tailor and designer.  Introductions were immediately done and I also met her fiancee who made us feel at ease.  Raeanna immediately ushered us (my hairstylist and I)  into her room to start the trial where she made sure our comfort was being attended to.

While our communication was through SMS, I got the feeling that Raeanna had that easy going vibe, which made communication seamless.  All she wanted was to be her best version of herself without the feeling of being too made up.  She hardly wears makeup, according to her, a swipe of lipstick and sunblock is all that she can do to make her ready for the day.  I don’t blame her as this is also sometimes my 5 second makeup routine when my day is about to get overwhelming.

This was the Bridal Trial of Raeanna.

Below is how our day was spent :

1). Please tell me about yourself, what do you do for a living?  What are your hobbies, passion?

I work for a hotel and restaurant management company, working on new projects.  I like to run, I was a former triathlete and I bake.

 

2). How did you find out about me (Acie Fores Makeup Artist), what made you want to work with me?

You were referred to me by my friend Monica Alturra, I wanted to work with someone who came recommended by someone I know.  There are a lot of Hair and Makeup artists out there, and some of them would change the Bride beyond recognition and I didn’t want that at all.  As an “older” bride, I wanted to still look and feel my best but age appropriate.  I didn’t want to look “matronic” or a “Tita of Manila”.  I also appreciated that the Bridal trial was incorporated as an option, other HMUA didn’t.

3). How did you like the outcome of our time together for your special day?

I loved the outcome, it was exactly what I wanted to look like.  Very light and natural in the photographs.  You captured the personality of each of us, (the Maid of Honor my younger sister had a more dramatic look while my older sister had a natural look).

4) What is the one special memory you have of your wedding that you love?  Could you share that photo with us?

 

Love this light hearted moment, Bride Raeanna was breaking into dance as she was coming out of the bathroom to change into her gown.

Every moment was very special, to be surrounded by close family and friends.

5). What was a good beauty moment for you during the wedding day?

 

The entire experience of the hair and makeup was “a good beauty moment” because it was easy and effortless, no fuss.  I didn’t have to worry about anything.

6). Favourite Beauty product, application used during your wedding day.

L-R 24K Beauty Bar, Q10 Eye pads, Vichy Masque Peel and Dr. Morita Hyaluronic Essence Mask. These were used during her trial and on her wedding day.

 

My new Dior Palettes which fall under the warm earthy colours look good on almost everyone. They are now available at SM Makati

We loved it all!  We ended up buying the eye pads, water gel exfoliation peel, and we tried to get the same Dior lip and eye palettes.  The Vichy Face mask was the best since I have very dry skin.

7). Any Bridal Tips you want to share for future brides planning their wedding?

 

 

Get a team that you can trust preferably recommended by someone you know.  All my suppliers were tried and tested so I didn’t have to worry about whether they would be Ok or not.  Be organised, don’t leave things to the last minute.  Don’t sweat the small stuff and don’t go overboard with little details that unnecessarily cost money.  Make a realistic budget and stick to it.  After all the bills were paid, I was happy that I was less than 10K over my budget estimate!  Focus on the marriage, not just the wedding.

8). What is the one thing you could change during your wedding preparation?

I should’ve made sure that you and JM ate lunch on time!!!!  So sorry about that…

9). Any beauty rituals you did or received that you want to share?

They are the best in facials!

I did the regular facials every month leading up to the wedding.  I should’ve insisted that the groom apply sunblock while at the beach and pool before the wedding so he wouldn’t look so dark and peeling on our wedding day.

10). Favourite photo of you during the wedding and why.

 

Collecting her thoughts before the Bridal March.

 

This is one of my favourite photos, to keep the edge off, goofy photos are what make any event fun and light.

It was so hard to choose a favourite because there were so many good ones that just captured the moment.

 

Thank you Raeanna and family, may your new life ahead be filled with joy, happiness, love and support and moments that will bring out the best in each one of you.

Bridal Retouch Kit – Thank you Bride

Weddings are the bread and butter of a makeup artist.  Depending on the level of expertise and length of years a makeup artist has put for some it’s commercial, TV and film work.  Mine is the former.

For my Brides, as a way of thanking them, I offer them a retouch kit to be used on the wedding day.  This gift is given regardless whether she has a second look or not, this is what I offer them.  To add more value to the package, I also give them a facial GC  from reputable derma salons or clinics to be used weeks before their wedding day to ensure glowing skin.  I admit I splurge a bit even if it is not included in the package.  She may opt to have another one a week or a few days before to give her the much needed de stressing moment.

Makeup artists have to be creative in their marketing and selling skills to attract that discerning Bride.  The skillset is there, but the name of the game is how to up the ante in the marketing scheme.

Below is a sample of what my retouch kit contains.  Budget will play a big role on what you want to spend for this but its all in the creativity as to where you want to source.  I source mine through online sites, department stores, and brand tie ups.

I buy in bulk, and I look out for sales so I can stock up.  But be mindful of expiration dates, you don’t want your bride developing a rash or allergy because of this oversight.

 

Basic Retouch Kit Must Haves

  • Tissue
  • Blotting Papers
  • Cotton pads, disposable Mascara and lip wands, Q-tips and sponges
  • Powder
  • Concealer (can double up as face fdtn) depotted in a container
  • A new tube of Lipstick or you may depot into a container
  • Wipes and Cleansing Oil
  • Lash Glue
  • Calling Card

Add Ons:

  • Sewing kit
  • Ecological Straw
  • Eye and face serum (as shown above)
  • Hairspray
  • Face Masks
  • Nail File, Bobby Pins (this should be provided by the event coordinator )
  • Double sided tape (this should be provided by the event coordinator)
  • Misting spray
  • Essential oil
  • Elastic Hair band

It’s up to you on how you want to save or splurge, with consideration to your budget and your rapport with the Bride.  Personally I like the Brides I’ve worked with, so sometimes I get carried away.

I always explain what s inside the kit and let her know this kit should be entrusted to her Maid of Honour or the Event Coordinator that’ s assigned to her the whole evening or afternoon.

Share with me your kits and if you have any items that are not included in mine, I would love to see what you have.  Do you give retouch kits to your Brides?

 

 

 

Behind the Veil: Sistoza -Siy Nuptials

I’ve been blessed to have been in the company of brides who were easy going, and very calm during their wedding days.  Paulinne is no exception.  A lawyer by profession, we met at a Bridal fair and her gown designer was right across my booth so yes it was a good day for me.

Even during her pre nuptial shoot, she and Wilson were very accommodating, relaxed and good natured despite the heat index.

Thank you Paulinne for taking the time to answer my blog questions and I wish you both, a lifelong marriage filled with love, happiness and children.  I hope your milestones will be surrounded by your loved ones sprinkled with spiritual blessings!

 

  1.  Please tell me a bit about yourself. What do you do for a living, what are your hobbies, passions?
It’s always comforting to know your loved ones are with you on your special day.

“I like to read.  My favorite novels are Pride and Prejudice and Jane Eyre. I also like to watch film adaptations of the books I read.  Somehow my passion for reading led me to endure the demands of law school. Although I’ve been in the practice of law for nine years, my aptitude for sleeping never waned, like my stage fright, which is ironic considering I ended up in litigation. I have a soft spot for dogs as well. I’m simple, and I get uncomfortable when there’s too much attention.  That’s also why I don’t wear makeup, although I sometimes put on a lipstick instead of my everyday tinted lip balm.”

2).  How did you find out about me? (Acie Fores Makeup Artist). What made you want to work with me?

This was Paulinne’s Bridal Trial

“My husband and I came upon Acie Fores’ booth at our first wedding fair in Mall of Asia.  We noticed that her things were clean and organized.  She was the last makeup artist we’ve seen that afternoon, but she’s the first one we actually talked to.  We had a quick trial makeup, where I refused to put on false eyelashes. I felt comfortable talking to her, and I liked how she enhanced my look that my husband still recognized me with makeup on.  And I saw that she has MAC products, which don’t irritate my skin.”

 

3). How did you like the outcome of our time together for your special day?

“Although I’m not used to having so much makeup on my face, I loved how simple and radiant I looked on my wedding day. It was just how I wanted my bridal look to be.  I looked clean.”

 

4).  What’s one special memory you have of your wedding that you love? Could you share that photo with us?

“I can still remember when the curtain opened and I smiled as soon as I saw my groom standing at the other end of the aisle.  I forgot I was supposed to keep my head bowed down until they told me to look up.  I was so overwhelmed by the attention that I tried to keep my eyes on Wilson as I walked towards him.  That was a magical moment for me.”

 

5).  What was a good beauty moment for you during the wedding day itself?

 

“It was the way my husband looked at me as I was walking towards him. He even forgot he wasn’t supposed to kiss me yet.”

 

6).  Favorite beauty product, application used during your wedding and why?

I used Ardell Natural Lashes in 110

“I’m not into makeup, but I trusted Acie’s choice of beauty products.  Any face product is always a hit and miss for me, and I was just glad I didn’t breakout after the wedding. I also heeded Acie’s advice and let her put false eyelashes on me. I was so comfortable with my look that I didn’t even feel I had them on. I don’t recall what Acie used, as I was drowsy during the preparations, but I particularly liked the mist.  I felt refreshed after that.”

 

7).  Any bridal tips you want to share for future brides planning their wedding?

“Since a wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event (ideally), choose a wedding supplier you feel you could trust. Take time to look around, talk and listen to them. Choose the ones who also listen to you”.

This was Paulinne’s retouch and second look. We were given 15 minutes and pardon the lighting, they were on their way to the reception.

 

8).  What is one thing you would change, if you could, during your wedding preparation?

“Getting overwhelmed during the first few weeks of wedding preparations that we acted rashly in booking a supplier, which we had eventually cancelled.  Other than that, we were happy with our choices.”

 

9).  Any beauty rituals you did or received that you want to share?

“I basically did everything Acie suggested. I got a facial at Dermalogica, and I put on hyaluronic acid mask the night before the wedding. My face not only looked clean, but it felt clean as well. Our photographer even remarked that I had no pores when they did close-up shots.”

10).  Favorite photo of you during the wedding and why.

 

This is my favorite by Blufish.

“In both photos, I remember feeling so thankful for being loved. I have waited a long time for love, and when it finally arrived it was more than I could ever hope for. It wasn’t smooth-sailing, or even close to perfect, but it was true and certainly worth the long wait. It’s the kind of love that I bravely chose for myself, and most of all, it chose me and stayed.”

Taken by a guest

 

Behind the Veil Cacho Llige Nuptials

Cool weather, Christmas spirit in the air, shopping madness, epic Manila traffic, a few ingredients that make December a very busy time of any year. Christmas preparations and families coming home for a celebration make it an ideal month to get married.  They bring in the warmth and cheer of the Holiday season and the festive Christmas decorations alone bring another cheer dimension.  In another blog, I’ll list down top reasons why having a wedding in December is not being selfish.  Here is another instalment of my Behind the Veil series with Mercedes Cacho.

This is what Mercedes had to say regarding her wedding preparations for her big day.

1)  Please tell me about yourself, what do you do for a living , what are your passions, and hobbies?

 

Those shoes!!!! Love her style!!!!

 

My name is Mercedes Cacho. I am the Creative Director for InFrame Media Productions Australia. I’d consider myself a very visual and creative person, so my hobbies are sketching and painting. My biggest passion is styling and fashion.

2) How did you find out about me (Acie Fores Makeup Artist)? What made you want to work with me?

You were recommended by my family.

3)  How did you like the outcome of our time together, specially on your special day?

Acie and her team were wonderful, very professional.

4)  What’s one special memory you have of your wedding that you love?  Could you share that photo with us?image1.jpeg

5)  What was a good beauty moment for you during the wedding day itself?

Getting ready with Acie, I love her face masks, they were so refreshing!!!

I normally use a mask with Hyaluronic and collagen in it because I want the face of the Bride to be soothed, and hydrated and appear brighter. You can get this at any Watsons branch.

6) Favorite beauty product, application used during your wedding and why?

I really liked the lipstick Acie and I chose.  It was a subtle rose pink color from Project Vanity “Woke up like this”.

In collaboration with Project Vanity and Pink Sugar, this is one of the colors they came up with. Perfect for Brides.

7.  Any bridal tips you want to share with future Brides planning their wedding?

You will probably break out a week before the wedding from the stress of it all.  If you can, I suggest going away for a short relaxing weekend, or do whatever you can to avoid it.  Apply a face mask or get a professional facial.

Jade Roller for Face - Anti Wrinkle 100% Natural Jade Stone Roller - Anti Aging Skin Slimming Massager - Original Real Double Jade Facial Roller - Massage Therapy Tool for Neck and Eyes Beauty
I use this in conjunction with a face sheet or mask to really make the product sink in. It also relaxes, and tones the face and prepares it for th make-up application. It reduces puffiness specially when the Bride has shed some tears the night before. Make sure you are getting the real one made out of jade and not plastic. Jade is cool to touch.. I put this in the refrigerator the night before for extra cooling effect on the face.

8.  What is one thing you could change during your wedding preparation?

Sleep in a little longer.  I was so excited, I woke up at 5 am.  Acie arrived at the scheduled 9 am call time.  I could’ve gotten another solid hour!

9.  Any beauty rituals you did or received you want to share?

Image result for dermalogica rustans
This is my personal gift to the Bride. Highly recommended as part of her skincare regimen before the big day, I want my Brides glowing and radiant. Head to Dermalogica Rustans for their menu of services.

I never get used to get regular facials.  However it was highly recommended by Acie.  I’m so glad I did it!  My skin loved it and I found the experience to be so relaxing!  Now that I’m back home in Australia, I now book facials regularly.

10.  Favourite Photo of you during the wedding and why.

This is one of my favourite photos, it reminds me how beautiful the whole evening was!  All the stress of planning turned into happy moments which made all of this possible.

image2.jpeg

 

 

 

Behind the Veil… Benedicto Rodriguez Nuptials


Tis wedding season!!  I met Raisa through her mother, Rosette Gana Benedicto, her parents and mine go a long way, they were friends since way back in the 60’s, maybe even longer.

 

A call came to me through her younger sister Carmela Gana Araullo that Rosette’s daughter is getting married and they were asking for my rates.  If you read the story below, it turns out her mom Rosette really wanted me to do the hair and makeup for Raisa!  The last time I saw Rosette was from the Velada.  Velada is a jubilee celebration of the homecoming of the alumnae culminating in an evening of song and dance.  Our alma mater is the Assumption College!  I was deeply touched since I haven’t heard from Rosette in so many years and she remembered me for her daughter’s special day.

Oh Raisa, thank you for making it so easy for me, Rosette You raised a good daughter right here.

Below is our conversation with Raisa.

1. Please tell me a bit about yourself. What do you do for a living, what are your hobbies, passions?

 

“Hi! I’m Raisa Benedicto. I’m a Pediatric dentist by profession (but one of the lost boys from Neverland by heart). I like to read and play tennis during my spare time. and I LOVE dogs.”

2. How did you find out about me (Acie Fores Makeup Artist)? What made you want to work with me?

 

“When my mom heard I got engaged, she instantly said, “We HAVE to get Acie as our make out artist.” My mom trusted you, so I trusted you. and like any millennial, I immediately stalked your portfolio on Instagram – definitely liked what I saw! and the rest is history!”

3. How did you like the outcome of our time together, for your special day?

“It was perfect! Although I was a little frazzled on the day (as all typical brides are) you made me feel so comfortable and distracted. I appreciated all the small talk and the explanations to help keep the edge off. “

 

4. What’s one special memory you have of your wedding that you love? Could you share that photo with us?

“I’m probably still on a wedding high, so it’s pretty hard to pick a favorite one. The day went by so fast; it was such a blur. What did stand out, though, was the surprise father daughter dance, we had planned for the guests.

This photo isn’t very flattering of us, but it captures our dynamic together as father and daughter. We’re both not performers and definitely not dancers, but it was a fun production and even more fun bonding time spent with my dad.”

 

 

5). What was a good beauty moment for you during the wedding day itself?

“Honestly, I’m not the type who wears make up or fixes myself up everyday. In fact, I just recently learned how to use foundation and concealer. That being said, the entire time I was being made up felt like a dream to me. I especially felt my best once I stepped into my finished dress for the first time.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

6) Favourite beauty product, application used during your wedding and why?

 

 

“For some reason, what really stuck with me was the face mask and the facial massage. It wasn’t something I normally witnessed during bridal make up sessions. I enjoyed being pampered.”

 

Before the makeup application I apply a mask to the bride’s face and use a Jade roller on top to massage the product in the face.

7) Any bridal tips you want to share for future brides planning their wedding?

 

“LET GO on the day. There’s no point in stressing over little details. Everything is going to be perfect whatever happens. The wedding is just for the festivities, but don’t forget what the day’s focus is truly about. “

8) What is one thing you could change during your wedding preparation?

“Maybe having an airconditioned prep room – that was one thing I overlooked/didn’t bother to think about. Either way, the villa I stayed in was breezy enough. I really wouldn’t have changed anything.”

9) Any beauty rituals you did or received that you want to share?

“The complimentary facial spa treatment I got from Dermalogica (c/o you, Tita Acie), was absolutely FANTASTIC. It was so relaxing and soothing, just what I needed right before the wedding.”

 

Photo from Rustans Beauty Source

10) Favourite photo of you during the wedding and why.

 

“I don’t usually enjoy having my photo taken, but that day I had enough confidence to pose and emote. My photographers were amazing at making me look like I knew what I was doing, but the real MVP was my HMUA for making me, not just look, but also feel, like I deserved to be in the spotlight. I loved that my make up was so light and natural-looking that my freckles were showing through. My eye bags seem non-existent!”

 

Gown:  Richie Ortega Torres

Makeup :  Acie Fores

Hair:  JM Martinez

Photographs: FB:  GIBSAM Photography  IG:  @GibsamPhoto and from the Bride
Raisa G. Benedicto, DMD
Pediatric Dental Specialist

Kris Bacani Bridal Masterclass

“A class taught by someone who has expert special skills and knowledge in a specific area” this is the definition of a Masterclass according to the Cambridge Dictionary . I first met Kris at a Makeup Designory seminar a few years ago and she discussed what being a makeup artist entails and the next class I saw her was in another Makeup Forever seminar again, discussing makeup related topics.

Kris Bacani held her provincial masterclasses  for Bridal makeup during the month of May 2018 and my friend Marissa Narvaez of The Makeup Central invited me to join her in Baguio for this class.

This class was sponsored by Makeup Forever and by Lemons and Olives, a Mediterranean cafe in Baguio City.  She was assisted by Paolo Carantes San Juan a former student of hers.

Registration Area

 

A most awaited surprise, the Loot bag!

 

Makeup Forever Buffet

 

Mich Molina in a very simple bridal look minus the lipstick. Sorry I wasn’t able to capture her finished.

 

Skin Prep and More, Makeup primers, Contour palettes. HD Blushes, and Makeup forever finishing powders

 

Leaving no inch of space, these are the colors she used for the demo to create a day and evening look.

 

Inside the Loot Bag were sample sizes of Makeup Forever Sens eye remover, HD Concealer, HD Foundation, Red Lipstick and more sample sizes of the Matte Primer, Water Blend and Ultra HD Foundation.
This was the second part of the Demo, the Airbrush Bridal look for evening. Photo from Kris Bacani IG.

 

TIPS for Bridal Makeup

 

  • Encourage a trial hair and makeup before the wedding, that way you address all the issues, wants and needs of the Bride that will pertain to her look, color scheme and wedding theme.

 

  • SkinCare is the most important step in preparing the Bride’s skin.  Her skin should be cleansed, toned and moisturised according to her skin type.  A Facial is a must and should be done not later than 2 weeks.  Abrasive facials should be avoided so as not to cause further breakouts in the skin.

 

  • If there are imperfections in the skin, correct them first with the appropriate correctors, or color neutralisers before applying any foundation or base, apply the correct primer that’s suited for her skin type.

 

  • Apply highlights to the face first before the contour shades.  Set face with powder avoiding the eye area.

 

This loose powder can be used as a contour shade.

 

Laura Mercier Translucent Powder is Kris’s go to setting powder. Now I see the hype.

 

  • Apply a cream cheek color with your fingers and and blend.  Layer this with a powder blush and use a stippling brush to blend and remove any harsh lines

 

  • Spray the face with a Mist and Fix spray or setting spray to add longevity to the makeup’s staying power.

 

  • Use waterproof products to withstand elements like sweat, tears and humidity.

 

  • Apply  lashes that are appropriate to the eye shape and look of the makeup.  Here is a sample of the lashes she uses.

 

 

 

  • After the eye makeup is done, clean up under the eyes, apply the concealer to conceal and brighten the undereye area.  Set with powder.

 

  • Apply lipstick.  Use a lip liner to fill in the lips and and add the lipstick.

 

  • When using airbrush makeup, its best to use a silicone primer first and a silicone base.  It provides a skin like texture and is not cakey.

 

 

 

After the class, Photo credit from Grace Pasoquin.