“If it aint broke, don’t fix it.” a common sentiment that is expressed when a system or method works well, there is no reason to change it. In this beauty case, I am referring to a tried and tested beauty product called Ponds Cold Cream. Yes the one that our grandmothers and mothers used and continually use to keep their skin supple, smooth and glowing. A recent testimonial by the pint size singer from Australia, Kylie Minogue declared that her beauty secret for keeping her dewy glowing skin is this time tested product. She also mentioned that she preferred to age gracefully as she was not too happy with Botox injections she previously had. The Ponds company welcomed this unabashed declaration and testimonial, as sales of this wonder cream soared 120% in the UK after this statement.
Kylie Minogue, says her enviable wrinkle-free skin is down to using Pond’s Cold Cream (Source)
With the advances in technology, and better research and development, beauty products nowadays have come a long way in terms of advertising and promotion, ease of use, its ability to improve our skin and delay the ageing process and many other reasons to keep the consumer seeking instant gratification for the fountain of youth. Admitedly, I have used many other cleansers and moisturisers aside from Pond’s cold cream and my personal makeup remover is Lancome Bi-facil. But from time to time, I revert back to the tried and tested products and my only complaint is that the tub being sold here in Manila is too small and can be consumed in such a short period of time, you end up using it less than a month. Whereas the ones sold in bottles or with dispenser sprays tend to last you longer.
I am asked from time to time as to what is the best cleanser or makeup remover there is. The answer to that is always what works for your skin type will always be the best anything on your face. Personally, Ponds cold cream was my go to makeup remover since I was old enough to wear makeup. I remember that distinct smell which reminds you of hugging your grandmother or mom to kiss her goodnight. I have an aunt in her early 60’s who religiously uses this product as a moisturiser and cleanser and does not use soap and water to take care of her skin. She looks amazing. Is Ponds’ cold cream really all that great? Is there something you should know about Ponds before giving up on high priced cleansers? Let’s find out why this is still a cult favourite.
Why is Cream Cold?
The selling point of this cream is that it is a cleanser, makeup remover and moisturiser in one. The cooling sensation one feels when this cream is applied to the face is the evaporation of the water content off the skin. The first cold cream manufactured contained almond or olive oil, beeswax and water which did not have a long shelf life and spoiled easily. Through the years, Mineral oil was introduced to replace the olive or almond oil to make the cream more stable and long lasting. The other ingredients are to make the cream emollient. (source: Futurederm.com)
Ingredients
Mineral oil and beeswax. What’s there to be scared of? Mineral oil acts like a humectant by trapping water and moisture into the skin to make it supple while beeswax is a natural ingredient found in lip balms and other cosmetic products. Mineral oil is a derivative of petroleum jelly which is the main ingredient in Vaseline which is also a product that we use liberally on anything from mosquito bites to makeup remover to keeping our skin soft.
Who should use it?
People with dry skin should benefit from this cream as this will address the flakiness and rough patches on the skin. I would recommend using this for traveling specially to countries with cold to extreme temperatures because of the thick emollient consistency. In humid climates like ours, it can still be used, some women apply this on the face and wash their faces with warm water to remove any residue. You may also use this as a shaving cream. It won’t dry your skin like soap does.
Verdict
Ponds cold cream can stand on its own merits despite the proliferation of these expensive makeup removers slash moisturizers. It withstood the test of time and will continue to evolve to suit the changing demands of the coming generation. I asked my dermatologist once what items should I spend on and those that I can save on? Her simplified reply was, whatever that will be washed away with water should be those that we can save on, like soap and cleansers and whatever the skin needs to absorb like moisturizers, serums and creams can be splurged on. However its all a matter of preference. What I hope will not change is its simplicity and understated appeal.
Is Ponds still your makeup remover of choice? Why or why not?
The beauty of workingas a freelance makeup artist, is tying up with a salon from time to time. It is another venue to hone your skills and get a first hand experience of working with real women with real beauty issues or needs. Guess who happened to drop by at Elevation Salon,? Regal beauty herself, Mrs. Amparito Lhuillier! She walked into the salon a little past her appointment and reasoned the Manila traffic was to blame for her tardiness. She just came from her homecoming at St. Scholastica College in Manila.
While waiting for her to arrive , I immediately went to the internet to do some research about her and found photos of herself in many glossies with her trademark look of dark smoky eyes with a red lip, and I was thinking immediately a la Paloma Picasso. Only a few women can rock this look and being of Spanish lineage, it really is fitting although it may sound like a cliche look for most women of the same heritage. Pressure is on when you’re doing someone famous!
In terms of the look, I thought of doing something else for her but something in me decided to stick to her signature look. I will not reveal her age, but she does have a figure and stature of a model still in her prime. Defying gravity you say? (Did I mention she is also a Facial Care Center spokesperson? Beauty Secret #1 revealed. )
Armed with her little baon of beauty staples with her, I was surprised that she carries with her a handful of laminated photos of the hairstyles and makeup looks that suit or she thinks will complement her. This is a woman who knows what she wants! Due to her numerous social engagements, she has perfected her beauty routine to a T and mentioned that she has a lady that does her hair and makeup in Cebu that knows her face like the back of her hand and has been at it for many years now. On top of that this lady does her hair and nails, too, and Mrs. Lhuillier excitedly narrates that she does supply her with all the beauty things she needs whenever she goes abroad to keep her abreast of what’s new.
“Flaunt your assets but hide your flaws”With Thomas Ellsworth Senior Hair stylist at Elevation Salon
I was overwhelmed by her beauty. the hour actually felt like a blur, but she gave me the most wonderful advice:
“Flaunt your assets and hide your flaws”.
I just had to ask her about her famous daughter, Monique Lhuillier, the famous bridal designer who is making her mark in the global bridal fashion industry. Mrs. Lhuillier (being a proud parent) casually mentioned that she gave her daughter a small loan to start her business not thinking how it will succeed. She even told me that in the early years, she would go help her daughter during her trunk shows at Bergdorf Goodman and Lord and Taylor by steaming and packing the gowns and dresses and helping her sort out her orders in her high heels and cocktail dress.
Now that is what I call effective marketing — two chic sophisticated ladies selling bridal gowns!
And, of course, the rest is history. Now she says she can’t even afford the dresses that her daughter makes when asked if she always gets to wear her daughter’s own creations. Being the greatest supporter of Cebu fashion, she also proudly wears the creations of Jun Escario and Phillip Rodriguez alongside her internationally branded couture ensembles.
Spending an afternoon with her was like chatting with an old friend who you have not seen for years. She does get animated and her face lights up when you bring out the topic of philanthropy (which her event that night was all about). She does not have any airs around her, and spoke to everyone at the salon. She treated the staff with humor and grace. She also mentioned that she is planning to join a fashion show next month in Manila and the designer asked her to model and proceeds will go to a charity organisation that she supports. How cool is that? She made us laugh with her humor, and gave us a glimpse of her fabulous life which will always be fascinating to anyone.
Thank you Elevation Salon and Mrs. Lhuillier for a well spent afternoon.
And now, here is my breakdown of her makeup look. I was amazed at how she also combines low end and high end cosmetics when she showed me her lipstick arsenal. She actually uses Fashion 21 Cosmetics in Red Sea as her signature red lip. Mixed with that, she also discovered the color of the season, orange, which she perfectly mixed with her red one. She finally decided on MAC Dubonnet for this particular look. Check out the print of her blouse. She really doesn’t leave home without her red lipstick — or two.
January 2014 launched me right into the bridal scene with the joyous celebration of the marriage of Patricia Ocampo and Antonio Gonzalez last January 3rd, at St. Benedict Church in Silang Cavite. Patricia is the daughter of Larry and Roselen Ocampo who was instrumental in linking us together. (Thanks, Roselen!) Her mom is the showroom director at Kenneth Cobonpue. This is her brief interview with me.
Photo from Jorem and Sheila Catilo Photography
1. Please tell me a bit about yourself. What do you do for a living, what are your hobbies, passions?
“I currently manage a Center that provides Applied Behavior Analysis services to children with developmental disabilities. During my free time I love to read, and write. I also do yoga to stay fit and sane. On weekends, my now-husband and I like to do apostolic work with the Church.”
2. How did you find out about me (Acie Fores Makeup Artist)? What made you want to work with me?
“I found out about you and what you do through my mom who had worked with her and liked her style. You were the first make up artist I did a trial with for my wedding and I chose you right away, not just because you are talented but because you aren’t one of those high-maintenance make-up artists that clients feel they need to please. You are a humble and warm woman who makes one not just feel beautiful but very at ease. You also had a great partner as a hairstylist!”
3. How did you like the outcome of our time together, for your special day?
“I have no regrets in choosing you as my make up artist because you were able to realize my vision of a vintage inspired/day time smokey eyed bride for my special day. I got plenty of compliments for my make-up, which also looked great in the photos and in the video. I was very happy with your work!”
4. What’s one special memory you have of your wedding that you love? Could you share that photo with us?“We don’t have the complete set of photos yet, but please feel free to choose whatever you want to use from the Jorem and Sheila Catilo page. My special memory is probably not unique, but it was the moment right when the doors of the Church opened for me to do my bridal march. I remember seeing my fiancé across the aisle in tears (just as I had hoped), and I was surprised to find myself in tears as well. Tears of joy of course! ” (Photo from Jorem and Sheila Catilo Photography)
Thanks for sharing your insights with me, Patricia! All the best to you and your man!
As a parent and a mother, my day will come when it will be my turn to share my daughter with her special someone and I can only hope that she will be as grounded as Patricia who immediately knew what her priorities are. She found a partner who contemplated and entered the priesthood but the vocation wasn’t meant to be. Click here for the full story.
Another good sign that her partner was really a God given choice for her. Talk about God working in his mysterious ways. Her choice of work and her husband to be were all a big prelude to this big special day. I also have no doubt that based on her work background, the virtue of patience culled from many hours of taking care of special children with needs, the call of motherhood will come second nature to her. I can’t wait to see the next chapter of your lives. I wish you and Antonio more blessings and joy to come.
The Grammy’s just ended and here are the celebrities who I vote had the beauty trends for Spring 2014 down pat. Here’s the breakdown.
Bronze Look
This is by far my best look and winner of the Grammy’s 2014 best looking celebrity. I am partial to this look as I tend to favour these earth copper tones specially for us Asians with a morena skin tone. Sun kissed luminous skin accentuated with copper and earth tones, will surely bring out our amazing features and colour .
Photo from Bellasugar.comPhoto from timing.netPhoto from Vogue.com
Smoky Look
Dark eyes and Nude lips are beauty look staples that will never go away. What’s new is Taylor Swift’s take on it by wearing a metallic eye instead of a matte dark colour like navy or black. Rita Ora deviated from her dark lip look and opted for a nude toned lip colour which balanced her dark smouldering eyes.
Photo from Vogue.com
Photo from Vogue.com
Photo from glamour.com
Bridal
What surprised me this year is that this look was pulled of by women who were known for their rock icon images or just being wild and hedonistic. Pink, Paris Hilton and Katy Perry, well except for Anna Kendrick, pulled off this look so beautifully and seamlessly. A toned pared down look complemented by peachy lip colours is absolutely breathtaking.
Photo from Rouge18.comPhoto from elle.itPhoto from Elle.it
Dark Lips
This look is a carry over from Fall 2013, where dark lips and a very subtle eye was in trend. Some say this look is boring, to me it screams drama where the focus is on the lips which is not your usual red but a dark purple or cranberry colour which is a difficult look to carry because it can scream goth or punk. You make the decision but I say it is a trend that will be a staple in many beauty seasons to come. Want to try an orange lip next time for summer?
Photo from pictures.zimbio.comPhoto from Bellasugar.comPhoto from blogdemaquillaje.com
Lastly, a trend that will never go away and is always seen on red carpet events is glowing luminous skin as evidenced by the photos above.
Which look gets your vote? Smokey? Dark Lips? Bronze? Bridal? I say go and experiment. Give me a shout out I would love to hear from you.
It’s still January, and it’s a good a time as any to make some New Year changes, especially in our makeup habits and beauty routines. By now, you should have at least made the following “makeup resolutions.” If you haven’t, there’s still time to get your good habit hat on!
We’ve just got three all-important tips. We promise if you get these right, your skin will thank you for it!
Makeup Must-Do’s
1. Get enough SLEEP.
I know we’re all busy, and that we all resolve to get more sleep, come the new year, every year! But we can’t stress the importance of enough sleep. Sleep helps our natural canvas — our skin — get the rest and nourishment it needs. In fact, according to research, sleep has the following benefits:
It helps the brain recharge so that it can store new information (And we all know intelligence is beautiful!)
It regularizes our metabolism, helping us keep a steady weight (Health is beautiful!)
It makes us less prone to make mistakes and errors, because rest helps us to be more alert.
It improves our mood: We’re less cranky and spiteful when we get enough sleep. (Of course, a good character is inner beauty!)
It’s good for our heart health.
It helps prevent autoimmune diseases like cancer. Uh-huh, that’s right: Getting enough sleep actually reduces our risk for cancer.
We found this article on the Telegraph UK which pretty much explains why we should wash off our makeup before we go to sleep at night. The results are, uhm, not pretty (no pun intended). Just watch it, and we promise you that you will always wash off your makeup!
A lot of us in the Philippines forget this important step in our skincare regimen. Sunscreen isn’t just for the beach, y’all. With our tropical heat and harsh sunlight, we all need to wear at least 30SPF sun protection on our face. This is especially important for those who work in front of computers all day, too: Monitors and screens emit UV rays which can cause premature skin aging! So yes, even at the office, you still need to apply sunscreen.
“An invitation to innovation, radiant orchid encourages expanded creativity and originality, which is increasingly valued in today’s society.” Photo from Pantone.com
Happy New year, everyone! This Year, Pantone unveils its colour of the year which is Radiant Orchid, a mix of pink and purple, which is flattering on most skin tones. According to Pantone’s Executive Director Leatrice Eiseman, the reason why this colour was chosen was because Radiant evokes sheen and magic like an amethyst with its many facets, a beguiling charm that pulls you in. Orchid has an exotic and complex mystery that encourages you to innovate and be creative giving that touch of uniqueness.
Here are some bridal inspirations for you to consider when you’re planning your wedding this year. Personally, if you choose this as your colour theme, it will look so exotic and different from the usual pastels, nude and blush. For us Pinays, the lavender and berry hue is a perfect complement to our Malay skin tones which can carry its darker tones or hues. For those with Light to Fair skin tones, you may use lighter hues in pinks and violet. All these strong colours may be toned down with browns, taupes, beige to also warm it up.
Photo from minkbeautyboutique.files.wordpress.comPhoto from weddingmania.com
A favourite eye makeup palette that I use is the one from Nars, called the Bridal palette in 9945 which reflects this colour trend. Unfortunately, it is no longer carried by Nars but try to secure one online through Ebay or Amazon. I’ve used these colours on so many brides and it is truly flattering. It gives you a break from all the neutral colours like browns and taupes but it still reads as a neutral colour on every skin tone.
The colors are very subtle but you can use the palette to transform a day look into a smokey darker look in the evenings. The eye colours are Nepal, Ondine, Edie and Night Fever and the most desired blush, Orgasm. It has Mitzi, Baby Doll, Sexual Healing and Roman Holiday for lip colours. You may look up the colours on your own as I’m not good at describing the colours.
Nepal, Ondine are good day colours, and Night fever mixed with Ondine and Edie are good colours for a night out. I hope the photo below will give you an idea on how this palette can be used in your beauty routine, the best part is, we already have these colours in multiples.
This Bridal Palette is a staple in my kit.
Below are my makeup colours that may be interpreted for this colour trend. See what I mean we have it in multiples? If you don’t have any of these yet, start with either a bold lipstick or try a nail colour to see if you like it on yourself. It also can be paired with olive and hunter greens, turquoise and teal, light yellows, gray, beige and taupe. Be bold and daring, who knows this could be your colour too.
Left to Right, MAC lipstick in Rebel, Essie Nail Polish in Big Spender, MAC Lipstick in Up the Amp, Zoya nail polish in Areej, Covergirl Eyeliner Liquiline Blast, Makeup Forever eye shadow in no. 52 and Maybelline Color Tattoo eye studio in Pomegranate Punk.
I’ve been blessed this year with weddings and this is another pre-nup story I would like to share with you. I met this couple at the same Wedding Expo early this year and what can I say, she was my “buena mano“, which translates to may you have good fortune in the Latin American culture, or to be specific, to convey a wish that the first transaction of the day bring good fortune to both buyer and seller.
Rhea Lopez was so sweet when she came to my booth and she instantly liked my work after having gone around the expo to shop around. Her wedding will be out of town, and she sheepishly asked if I was available on her date December 29, 2013. Of course, I was available! I was so touched when she told me that among a sea of makeup artists that day, she liked my work because it reflected her natural beauty sensibility without having to look like Barbie.
I think I am on the right path here. Hahahaha!
Months later, she called to book a pre-nup shoot and, lo and behold, it was also out of town. She hired the services of Kenneth Uy Photography to do her photos and video and he suggested that to have a different look and feel, the shoot be done in Ilocos Norte! Mr. Uy had previously done a pre-nup there and he found so many interesting locations and backdrops that could add drama and nostalgia for this particular shoot. After a few calls and emails, we were on a plane headed to Ilocos Norte on July 19. I was with Gladys Tiosen who also provided the hair services.
Cape Boreador Lighthouse
First shoot of the day was at Cape Boreador Lighthouse. Immediately, one gets the sense of adventure as you are climbing the steps to this lighthouse. It is quite a steep ascent and bride and entourage managed to make it with a slight shortness of breath. What awaits the visitor is a sweeping magnificent view of the seaside.
Paoay Church
Mind you, getting to different locations in Ilocos Norte was not an easy feat, they are distanced very far apart. We shot in Bangui, where the famous windmills are located but we couldn’t go any nearer to the couple or we were going to be in the shot. This was one of the last few shots of the day and Mr. Uy did not want to lose the light, he shot this photo against the backdrop of the famous Paoay Church. As their saying goes, Kumakaway galing sa Paoay.
Love love love this photo.
Sand Dunes
Last shoot for the day. This is where many movies were filmed and story has it that the famous movie of Tom Cruise Fourth of July was shot in the early 90’s. This is where the shoot got edgy and very Vogue Like. The peg for this look was cowboy meets rebel. Hair was very loose and makeup was a carry over from the last two except Rhea requested for a red lip colour to show the edgy side of her. I say very bagay. The wind here was so strong and cold you needed a jacket to keep yourself warm.
The day ended with a lot of photos taken and it was mission accomplished. We headed back to Manila that early evening, and our brief adventure was rewarded with happy smiles and high fives among us.
One of the highlights of working as a makeup artist is having your work published in a magazine. This is a milestone, as your work is magnified and beautifully showcased and captured by a team of professional artists in their own right. From the model, to the photographer , stylist, hair stylist and editor, it does take a village to get that body of work done.
Working in the beauty industry is very competitive nowadays and ask any makeup artist, getting your work professionally shot by a photographer is very difficult to come by specially when you are trying to break in the industry. It is a Catch 22 situation for most of us because for you to book jobs, you need a portfolio to show editors, casting agents, producers, event organizers etc., and you have to find a photographer to shoot your work with a mutual understanding that both parties will benefit from the shoot without hurting the bank. Anyway, that will be another topic on my next blog posts.
Let’s just say, I reached a makeup artist milestone: I was fortunate enough to get a booking with Metro Society magazine recently, and I almost had a heart attack. Moving up na ba ako?! **laughs**
I got booked through Elevation Salon who I work with from time to time when they need my services. The salon was tasked to do the hair requirements of the 14 models hired for that shoot. Needless to say I was in the presence of Makeup gods, namely Byron Velasquez of MAC Cosmetics and Omar Ermita of ShuUemura. Talk about having to pull up from my resume. I was starstruck and I knew I had to show my best considering these are one of my idols in the makeup industry. Clothing and styling was courtesy of the creative stylish team of Bench who can be also featured in their own right in the magazine’s lifestyle sectionals.
The Promise of Youth
The story was written by Toff De Venencia, with a storyline of featuring these promising young ones of varying pedigrees and how they view the world and what they want to be in the real world. The story captured their loves, their passions and their hopes and dreams for the future, and as the title of the section indicates, the kids are alright. What I found impressing about these young adults is how their respective heritages and status in society reflect a call for action towards social responsibility, making sure that they put their own stamp on how they can improve the country, the world and them selves. Quite a different generation from how I was at during their age. All I could think of was the next outfit for the next party.
Pegs for the shoot
Miss Georgia Del Rosario, Managing Editor of the magazine, promptly arrived at the shoot with pegs in hand. Pegs are guidelines that designate the theme, look and feel of a shoot usually shown by photos or references. In this case Miss Del Rosario indicated that since it was a very relaxed and youthful story, casual, comfy and natural comes to mind. No haute couture or very serious poses. As for the makeup and hair, it was very natural, soft and carefree but very stylishly put together a la Banana Republic or a very preppy college bound student ready to conquer the world.
Selfies
As the shoot was wrapping up, I was able to squeeze in a few photos of the models and Byron Velasquez to remember my fun filled day with the Metro Society team.
With Byron Velasquez of MAC Cosmetics
With Byron Velasquez. We first met at a Makeup competition a few years ago and it was for a no makeup look. He won 1st prize and rightfully so. I was one of those that made it to the finals together with 2-3 other women. Due to a bout of chicken pox, I was not able to attend the ceremony.
With Catherine Concepcion
Catherine Concepcion, a regal beauty
With Nacho Tambunting
Talented young actor in love with the theatre
Speaking of pedigrees, this shoot was held more recently and is being featured in the December 2013 issue for their Christmas edition. Mrs. Maritess T. Enriquez the youngest daughter of a retail family scion was one of the women being featured for this spread. She called me to do her hair and makeup for this shoot and I couldn’t be more elated. Rikki Suarez fabulously styled and coifed her hair. The story behind this spread is obviously to show the different ways Christmas is celebrated by these stylish men and women of substance, and how they inject their personal flair into the traditions that make memorable experiences a feast to remember both for their families, friends and loved ones.
Upon arriving at her home, I was so surprised to see an authentic Moroccan tent spread out in her garden complete with Moroccan lanterns and all the Mediterranean trimmings like the tangine tabletop decorations, embroidered ottomans perfectly capped by a matching North African/European menu. Mrs. Enriquez also mentioned that it took a whole day just setting the tent up. She timed the shoot by hosting a birthday dinner for one of her closest friends that day and thought how fortunate her friend was to be hosted in such a gracious and luxurious setup. This is the closest Moroccan experience one can get if taking a trip is not an option at the moment.
It was a magical sight seeing the deep burgundy and orange colour against a rich ornate backdrop of pure Bedouin splendour. The only thing lacking is the camel, the hookah and the flying magic carpet, truly a feast for the senses. I hope that this will delve into your creativity and bohemian side and incorporate these holiday tips into your next holiday celebration. Rustans Department Store carries some authentic Moroccan pieces at the last floor which is the Home and Lifestyle section if you want to recreate some of that exotic Mediterranean feel in your home. Isn’t this a good time to make new traditions into your family? Happy Holidays Everyone!
Here we go… Another Prenup! It’s never enup hahahahaha!!! This time its for the De Chavez – Clerigo Nuptials. This couple is the most interesting one for me, they are both Geneva based, working in the World Trade Organization or WTO. Pam works in the Copyright Development Division while John is assigned in the Informatics Division of the same organization. They are a young couple at the top of the world so to speak, based on their stories, they seem so well traveled, Europe is their playground of choice. Try topping that! Love their website! I wish I could post it but it is a private one. They created it to chronicle their wedding timeline only to find out, it will be a memory bank of wonderful memories with the glorious sophisticated backdrop of Europe! So young yet so accomplished in their own right. It really is so inspiring to see this couple so grounded yet so determined to start their life with a sense of spirituality and respect for one another.
Lucky couple in the Swiss Alps
“Tuesdate”
I met this couple at a Wedding Expo at the beginning of the year and I must say I was the one who was honoured to be chosen by this wonderful couple to be one of their suppliers. First off, the date of their wedding. December 24 2013. Tuesday . Christmas Eve? Really? Reason why this date was chosen? John proposed on January 1 2013 a Tuesday. Tuesday is the day they allot for themselves to relax and devote to prayer time as a couple. John decided that to better remember their milestones as a couple, December 24 is pretty easy to remember right? Pasko na sinta ko!!!! Christmas and New Year are this couples’s anniversaries! Few couples start their marriage with God as the centre of their lives and this couple humbled me in so many ways. Most couples focus on the wedding day itself but this couple chose otherwise and decided to put their energies into the Lord as the centre of their marriage. What a great way to begin a a life together as husband and wife!!! Future couples out there take note.
Prenup Game Plan
The concept behind their prenup was a travel themed one. Land, Sea and Air to be exact. This was a perfect theme because it totally highlighted the couples’ love for travel. First Destination was Intramuros, Land. Location was at Fort Santiago, where I had my wedding reception in 1996. So romantic. Sigh…. Photography was done by the EverReady battery team of Jun Garcia ofExige Photography. Hair was done by Gladys Tiosen. This is how it turned out. Pam and John were such girl and boy scouts they were their own fashion and wardrobe stylists. Each look was perfectly orchestrated with the right outfit, the appropriate accessories and of course a winning attitude. I think they should consider getting a sideline and work with me on shoots!!! All photos below were courtesy of John Clerigo and Pam De Chavez taken from their website.
Fresh na FreshThe Blushing bride and so so in love
Shades of Eliza Doolittle, My Fair Lady talaga
Our Makeup look here was to convey the classic looking bride with makeup suited for a morning wedding. See the Makeup Chart for Makeup details.
Morning Bride. Look #1. Classic Bride. Kate Middleton was the inspiration for this look.
The Second Prenup Look was done at the Manila Yacht Club. For this look, makeup was more on the bronzy side and the hair was supposed to be loose with cascading curls perfectly setup by the bun from the first look. However, we didn’t expect the wind to be extremely strong in this place. We had to use a scarf to tie her hair which Pam brought with her. It was an impromptu prop. We had a good laugh on this take, the lashes were threatening to come off with the force of the wind!!! Love is in the air and so were her lashes. Hahahahahaha!
Second look for the “Sea” themed aspect of the shoot was more of a bronzy look with a reddish brown lip
The Look of Love. Nautical or naughty but nice?
The third and last look of the shoot was the “Air” themed shoot held at Villamor Air Base museum. It was a photo finish for all of us, because of the Manila traffic on a Friday, that held us back, but with luck and prayer, made it before closing time. The third look for Pam was more of a toned down smoky look but Pam requested a glam ponytail to match her gown of black and white, an epitome of sophistication.
Semi Smoky look
Focus your attention to the left. The rain was about to pour when this photo was taken.
Alas, rain had caught up on us and this was one of the few shots that was taken after the downpour. Pam had to change into a cocktail dress for this photo.
Rain was definitely pouring and so as not to waste any more precious time, looked for another place to shoot the remaining images.
Oh one more thing, they had a Save the Date Video Shoot the following week! Location was in Tagaytay Highlands, the venue of their wedding. It was a great day to shoot and John And Pam were eager to do this to maximise their time in Manila before heading back to Geneva. Hair was done by Gladys Tiosen. Video shoot was shot by Mr. Michael Roldan of Exige Weddings.
What a good looking couple they make. I love the crispness of the white outfits.Ready na ready for a closeup.Ako rin ready for my closeup
I am very excited for this wedding and even if it falls on Christmas Eve, this is one union I won’t forget. As the saying goes, when you put God in the centre of your lives, nothing will go wrong. I wish John and Pam the grace and love for one another to unite your hearts in unselfish harmony so that your needs and wishes for one another can be lived in a life that is devoted to serving Him. With a grateful heart, Congratulations to a wonderful couple. See you on the 24th. Cheers!!!
A makeup friend Pia Reyes, extended an invitation to me last October 5 for the press launch of Estee Lauder Fall 2013 Makeup trends. She was also invited by Lillian Yeung Resident Makeup artist of the brand and I also met Fin a fellow makeup artist. I have a high regard for these three women who excel in their field, whose work is showcased in billboards, high fashion glossies and in commercial/film work. Fin was a contestant in the Mega Magazine Fashion Crew Season 2 with my good friend Alee Benson a noted and celebrated hair stylist in his own right.
Blair Patterson Director of Global Artistry for Estee Lauder shared with us the latest trends and techniques for Fall 2013. Guapo hotness diba!!!! He works with Tom Pecheux, the Creative Makeup Director of Estee Lauder during New York Fashion Week.
That’s me with his Guapo hotness. So okay, I don’t have any makeup on, I look like his alalay. He was surprised to find out I was a makeup artist. Talagang surprised! Me too, can’t believe I was in the company of greatness! Tee hee hee hee!!!!
Many lessons were learned or unlearned as Blair did 3 makeup demos to illustrate the trends which proved to be very wearable and applicable even in our humid weather. Let me walk you through them. As the catalog says, see it on the runway, see it on you.
Skin is in!!! Perfect dewy youthful looking skin has always been a timeless staple in beauty trends and serves as a perfect canvass for all makeup looks. Echoing his makeup philosophy, makeup should look natural, sophisticated and timeless.
He mentioned that all women should have 2 kinds of Foundation in their arsenal as skin tone changes depending on the season. He advises to get 2 shades of foundation, one that is 1 shade darker than our skin tone specially during the summer season and one that is matched to your skin tone during the cooler months. Makes sense? Combine both shades to create a 3D effect when applying makeup to highlight and contour the face but in a subtle manner. Stress on the SUBTLE effect. Makeup enthusiasts seem to be doing theKim Kardashian type of contouring and highlighting even on a normal day out which can be too much on a daily basis. He says there is nothing wrong with this makeup application, its just too much to wear everyday.
The biggest misconception about women applying Foundation is that it is used all over the face rather than strategically applying it to areas where coverage is needed. Use Concealer instead to cover blemishes and pat translucent powder all over it to set the foundation. He couldn’t stress it enough, skin should be perfect. This makes perfectly sense since we live in a humid climate, why pile it on and wear a mask?
His take on the dewy skin as demonstrated on the model below. Wish ko lang LOLZZZ!!! Talagang natural no? As the famous makeup artist Bianca Valerio mentioned, oiliness is next to DEATH!.. Sana Dewy not oily. Bwahahahahaha!!! So okay, I forgot to take a photo of the model with just natural looking foundation on. Blinded kasi, he is just too good looking. Promise next 2 photos will show the actual demo. But you do get the point ballpoint as illustrated in the catalog.
Dewy or Oily?
Red Lips another classic comes back in an edgy way, not tomato red or fire engine red but a deep burgundy color. For this look, red lips need to be balanced with a natural eye. In choosing a burgundy colour, look for a blue based tone. He actually took the trend one step further and did an Ombre Lip instead. Ombre Lips are two to three shades of lip colour applied to create a 3D effect on the lips.
To achieve a perfect pout, instead of lining the lips with a liner, Brian taught us to rub the lip brush all over the pencil and apply to the lips. Here is the shocker, he deftly expertly applied the lipstick using his ring finger and patted it so slightly in light layers until he achieved the perfect burgundy color. Start at the cupid’s bow which is the sexiest part of the lip. Any imperfections were erased by a foundation brush dipped into a little concealer and brushed it ever so slightly vertically on the edges as if you are sweeping downwards.
Blair’s take on Ombre Lips
He said this is a neat trick to do so as not to mess up the lip color, the natural sweeping motion will remove the excess color on the edges. Care to try it on yourself? I admit it was tricky at first but the secret is the use of feather light strokes on the edges. I was in awe on how he seamlessly perfected this, his fingers are bigger than mine! Expert nganaman. This model has perfectly blended foundation which I was supposed to take a photo of before he applied the eye shadow and red lip.
Metallic Eyes with Ombre Lips
Lastly, Metallics are coming back in a good way. A very subtle nod to the 80’s era. Metallic doesn’t mean Frosted. He said that makeup specifically eye shadows manufactured nowadays are not the same as the frosted looking ones that make you look swollen and glittering in a bad way. Eye shadows and makeup now are produced to play and reflect light to enhance the features of the face. Pigments are smaller so they reflect light more than absorb it. Cheeks are left natural looking with hollow diagonal contouring using light strokes again. Eye shadows are not expertly blended, but since his strokes are very light, one doesn’t see really the hard edges.
Blair’s take on Metallic eyes with Ombre Lips
More Beauty tips:
Advanced Night Repair or ANR to Estee Lauder fans. This miracle evening serum was applied on the high planes of the face and patted (not smeared) on to give the satin finish to the skin. Not dewy but semi matte. Blair touts this as a all around makeup tool to have. He mentioned that in a photo shoot specially for male grooming, this is always on his Makeup kit. Read the testimonials on the Estee Lauder website as to the wonderful benefits of this great product . I will probably try this beauty tip on brides if I do get the chance to get hold of one small bottle. It’s so mahal but probably worth it. Sabagay, a few drops lang is all you need. Pia and I looked at each other and joked we should get one bottle and share it.
Oh did I mention the wonderful gifts I received that morning? A big thank you to the Estee Lauder team and Lillian Yeung for the pabaon to all the makeup artists, bloggers and journalists that attended the press launch.
Blusher in Peach Passion Shimmer, Creamy Lipstick in Pure Color 75 Forbidden Kiss, Double Wear Stay in Place Dual Effect Powder Makeup in 36 Sand and Sumptous Bold Volume Lifting Mascara in 01 Black, all housed in this blue and white appliquéd cosmetic kit. How lucky can I get? I tried on the lipstick and it is just a gorgeous deep burgundy color. So flattering on any skin tone.
Loot Bag from Estee Lauder
Last minute Chika with Blair:
Trends for S/S 2014 – Geometric Eyes are making a comeback in bronze metallic hues, as seen on Derek Lam’s S/S 2014 collection. Photo taken from En.vogue.Fr website.
Estee Lauder SS 2014 Beauty Trends Derek Lam
Good News for Monolids or those with Chinita Eyes! – The global Spokesmodel for Estee Lauder as seen in the photo above is Liu Wen. A question was asked to Blair as to how do we interpret the runway trend with Asian eyes specifically the ones with Monolids? He said that this should not be treated as a flaw because the fact that the eye doesn’t have a fold or crease, there is a huge area or eye space to play around with colour. No rules, just experiment. Look at the face chart and model to prove his point.
“Pageant Makeup” – When Blair was beginning to apprentice with the legendary Tom Pechaeux many years back, he was asked to do makeup on a model to show what his skill level or artistry was like and if he had what it takes to be in his team. What Blair thought of as great perfect looking makeup with expertly blended eyeshadow and liner, Mr. Pechaux looked at his work and walked away muttering, “it’s pretty but it is pageant makeup”. Blair did not understand what he meant because he did what he was taught in makeup schools only to discover, it was considered Pageant looking. Mr. Pechaeux walked back and messed up his work and said, ‘Makeup should look worn, lived in not too perfect like Barbie.” He instantly had a lightbulb moment and it changed his perspective on how makeup should be applied and how it should transform and empower a woman.
High Def Brows – Blair’s philosophy in makeup as echoed by Tom Pechaeux is the often repeated mantra, “Less is more”. This also applies to the Brows. When Blair first travelled to Asia, he mentioned that he thought he could teach us Asians a thing or two about brow application. Boy was he wrong. He said he was humbled and “schooled” by what he saw in our local makeup artists when they showed him how we do our brows. If you notice in the face chart and in the models during Fashion week, brows are left naturally and neatly groomed and sometimes not even touched. To achieve a well groomed brow, choose one shade lighter than the hair colour and use a spoolie brush to rub the brow pencil in and apply colour to the brows. See the photos in the demo above.
Bronzer first before foundation – To lessen the intensity of the bronzer, apply this first before you apply the foundation. The Foundation will tone down the ruddiness of the bronzer.
Tissue vs. Powder – In setting the makeup, if you don’t have translucent powder, spread a tissue on the face or cheeks and use your blush or powder brush to brush over it. This will help set your makeup because the tissue will absorb the oils in the makeup.
Look younger or look glamorous – Blair also mentioned that here in Asia, the makeup philosophy is to make the woman look glamourous like a celebrity while that in the US, the makeup philosophy is to make the woman look 10 years younger. As an observer, he concludes that it is maybe due to a cultural thing in Asia as we aspire to look like celebrities versus our Caucasian counterparts who are constantly after the fountain of youth.
I now leave the last point to ponder on, and hopefully this insight will give you a glimpse of what the experts have to say about beauty and hopefully choose what beauty standard applies to you. Have fun, pick up a few trends to update your look and experiment, after all, its just makeup.
The very first time I heard of a Prenup before a wedding event was from a cousin of mine, Sandy Henson, who was getting married at that time to her longtime friend and soul mate, Fernando De Achaval in July 22, 2011. She asked me if I could do her Prenup. Prenup? I asked in horror. Why do you need me for a Prenup? Fernando asked you to sign a Prenup? On what grounds do you need to sign a Prenup? These were the thoughts racing in my mind and I immediately told her that a Prenup was such a tasteless way to start a wedding and that she should reconsider her wedding plans to him because I saw a red flag hovering somewhere there. The actual definition of a Prenup is a document that either party signs before a wedding to protect significant assets that one brings into a marriage, in the event of a divorce or separation. So formal and so business like. Not romantic at all.
I felt like I had to be an Ate to her and give her my 5 cents worth of marriage advice because I felt I had to tell her something is wrong. She laughed and told me to chillax because nowadays, a Prenup is actually a photo or video shoot not a document. Susme! Prenups by today’s definition are video or photo shoots of the couple in varying moments of love all captured in digital media for all to see and shown during the wedding reception. This becomes part of their wedding album. Huwow!!!! I never felt so behind the times, considering I’m supposed to know this right?
I said to myself, wow how times have changed; I never had a Prenup during my wedding in 1996 so this Prenup concept was a bit shocking to me. All that I had as a memento of my wedding was a wedding album with 5×7 photos inside it. No video, none of the social media posting that we do get today. I was getting over the shock but soon after felt relieved and excited to be a part of something romantic and magical, and so I agreed, and shock turned into excitement and being honored to be a part of this couple’s magical love train. The shoot was captured by no less than Jason De Guzman of Imagine Nation Photography and Manu Cuevas. Hair was expertly styled under the deft and skilled hands of noted hairstylist Alee Benson. Makeup Used was Nars Bridal Palette on her eyes, MAC Lingering for her brows, MAC Studio Fix Foundation in NC 35, MAC Blacktrack Fluidline, Orgasm Blush, Makeup Forever Sculpting kit and MAC Spice lip liner topped with Angel Lipstick.
Felt the love already. First few shots of the day and there is no feeling of hiya or stiffness between the two. Photographer Jason was excited to see the progress of the shoot.
Lovers Delight. This is one of my best photos. The bride used this for her profile photo in Facebook recently.
Last few shots of the day and they were still in good spirits. Jason couldn’t have captured it any better.
As I write this, Sandy and Fernando have been married for the past two years and I can testify that the mood and feeling captured in these few photos are still shared up to now. When I follow them in their Facebook and Instagram accounts, I see them express their love for one another by posting random acts of kindness , some may call it oversharing or TMI (too much information) but I commend them for keeping the flames of passion burning between them. Nowadays, love can be cheap and overrated, with expressions of motherhood statements about empty promises but not these two lovebirds.
Currently they are trying to expand their family and I wish them all the luck and happiness and I have no doubt it will be sooner than they think. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Love you both Sandy and Fernando. A huge thanks to you for making me a part of your wedding and your lovefest.
