Remember my blog post about Estee Lauder and Brian Patterson a few months back? Well, our paths crossed once again and I hope it is the start of a love affair. Love was the theme during the Francis Libiran Bridal Fashion Show at the Weddings at the Peninsula Bridal Fair last June, June being the universal month associated with weddings. The show coincided with the opening of Libiran’s atelier in The Peninsula, so it was the opportune time to promote his 40-piece bridal collection.
Francis Libiran is known for his intricate beadwork and serpentine silhouette. You may drool over his creations here (www.francislibiran.com).
Estee Lauder was tasked to do the makeup services for the 40 models while the Franck Provost team did the hair on all the models. The fashion show marked a sort of “debut” for Estee Lauder as the sponsor of a fashion show, and as such, Estee Lauder skincare and cosmetics were used on the models and celebrities who graced the runway that day. Among the celebrities who modeled the bridal collection were Kim Jones, Iza Calzado,Venus Raj, and Karylle, while Jake Cuenca, Sam Milby, Christian Bautista, among others, modeled the menswear line.
Backstage and behind-the-scenes (where I was), each makeup artist was assigned four models to prep for the show. (I did three male models and a lady.) The photo pegs for the makeup style were clean, fresh, nothing to glam and overdone — right up my alley!
We used the star products of the show, which were the skincare essentials: the Double-Wear Foundation, the Advanced Night Repair, and Matte Primer (which are available in Rustan’s beauty source counters nationwide).
And here’s a few behind-the-scenes shots with my fellow MUAs. Such a fun-filled event!
Estee Lauder and Franck Provost magiciansMy seatmates for the day, Moriel and AninaWho’s your caddy? This was mine.
Thank you, Estee Lauder, for including me in your team for Weddings at the Pen! For the complete range of Estee Lauder skincare and cosmetics, visit Estee Lauder counters in Rustan’s Beauty Source outlets nationwide. You can also log on to www.rustans-thebeautysource.com for the complete online catalog.
When it comes to looking your absolute best, Acie makes it easy. Being a makeup artist is her first love and she remembers her days as a young girl leafing through the pages of Vogue and Glamour, fascinated with a person’s magical transformation through the power of makeup. Her goal is to make every woman’s beauty shine through on the most important day of her life — be it a wedding, graduation, prom, opening of a stage show, or even one’s editorial shoot. As Acie shares, “Every woman is beautiful, it’s simply my job to remind her.”
There he was, a vision of eye candy if you will. He began the session by apologising. He apologised for his lack of command of the English and Tagalog languages, he was, after all, Indonesian.
He warmed my heart. Sigh…., even if he spoke in Hebrew or Russian, it didn’t matter at all, standing a few feet from me was the man of the hour, Albert Kurniawan, NARS Philippines Chief Makeup Artist. His talent and work are legendary. Indonesian influence is not a bad thing. He grew up watching his mother apply makeup and he carried with him an image of a very put together woman who never left the house without her eyes done.
He is the celebrity makeup artist in demand from the likes of Heart Evangelista, Megan Young, Venus Raj, Shamcey Supsup, the Bb. Pilipinas Pageant candidates, Georginna Wilson, Toni Gonzaga to name a few — and the list is endless. He is probably on their speed dial.
What celebrity or model or bride has his hands not touched yet? Obviously mine. I still have to wait for a very red carpet event if I want to be under his beauty spell. I can just hope that one day our paths will cross whether that is on a professional or social level.
NARS Philosophy
The place was packed when I arrived and I should’ve left earlier so I could get a good seat. Sensing it was going to be a well attended workshop, I opted to stand on the side to get a better view of the demo. While waiting for a colleague, Pia Reyes, I took a quick look at the NARS boutique to check out their items.
At the heart of the cosmetic line lies the chic modern luxurious simplicity of its look. Yes simple and luxurious, a contradiction in itself. Francois Nars the creator of his own brand believes that “There are no rules when it comes to beauty. He says, “Whatever makes you look and feel good is right.” It’s unmistakable appeal lies in its ability to make the consumer feel like its a guilty caprice, part of a wardrobe staple or a coveted accessory that makes it part of a lifestyle or simply a state of mind.
Packaging designed by Fabien Baron, reflects Francois Nars’s love of form and function with its black soft casing with his name emblazoned in white. Fashion and Classic Colors are outrageously pigmented because it is designed to make the woman express herself creatively and imbibe her own style. Credit belongs to him with the introduction of The Multiple, the original 3-1 multi functional stick that can be applied to the eyes, cheeks and lips, and who can forget the iconic universal blush Orgasm and its spinoffs? Turkish Delight Lipgloss as famously worn by Kim Kardashian?
Chic, simple and modernChoose your wild!Edited Skincare and Beauty routine simplified, the NARS way. Nuance defined
NARSkin
Albert Kurniawan hit the nail on the head when he began stressing the importance of having good skin as a key essential in having makeup look and feel good on the face. He moisturised the model’s face with the Nars moisturiser and the star of the skincare line is the NARS brightening serum that brightens the skin and dulls the imperfections on the face. Second to that was the application of the primer as a key element in the longevity of the makeup. Their skin line prides itself with the use of prime ingredients that are plant derived and maximising its benefits in giving our skin the utmost nourishment.
With the advent of wholistic living, NARS believes that what we put in our bodies like water, nutrients, antioxidants and supplements should mirror the good things we put in our skin . What he offers is a condensed skincare line that will cleanse, hydrate, protect, refresh and revitalise in order to keep it in its tip top shape. Having good skin is the perfect beauty compliment any woman can have.
Secrets from the Master
Put eye drops first on the eyes to brighten the whites of the eyes and clean out any debris. Eyes look bigger and refreshed.
Feel the skin. Touch the face to see if the face is properly moisturised and prepped for makeup. It should feel slightly tacky. You may apply a light application of BB cream prior to the foundation application.
Powder the skin lightly after moisturing. This will give a satin finish to the skin, a perfect canvas for the foundation application. This step is a no-no in the makeup school, as we were taught the golden rule that creams over creams and powder after powder. The logic behind this is the caking of the skin when you begin your makeup. Albert explained that this step is a foolproof way of making the makeup last longer. I did try it on myself and it does feel like satin when I applied my foundation after. Makeup Myth no. 1 debunked.
Apply foundation with your hands and not a brush. Aside from leaving streaks, the warmth of your hands will activate the ingredients of the foundation making the skin look dewy and well, like second skin. Most NARS liquid and cream products are best applied with the hands as heat activation causes the ingredients in the product to fully sink in the skin.
After the application of the foundation, contour the face using the number 3 motion. Begin at the side of the temple, the hollow of the cheek and ending at the jaw line. He says never to be afraid if you apply blush more than the usual, from the apples of the cheek just on top of the hollow of the cheek and do not go past the ear. Blush will disappear quickly once you’ve finished with the makeup. Apply a highlighter on the high points of the face as a last step.
Line the lower lash line with a light green pencil instead of the white or beige colour. The reason is because in basic colour theory, green counteracts redness and neutralises it. Genius!! All along I’ve been applying the beige liner on the waterline to conceal redness. I really learned something new again. Another Makeup trick learned.
When you apply mascara to the lashes, begin by applying a volumizing formula first. Wait for it to dry and then apply a waterproof one when you have applied your false lashes. This guarantees your lashes will be immune to tears and sweat. I shed a tear as I write this. Tee hee hee hee
Use an eyebrow pencil first to frame the eyebrows. Brush upwards to soften the harsh edges. Fill brows with powder. Whatever is left on the brush, use it at the front of the brow so as not to appear surprised, dense and dark. Use a brow gel to tame the brows and apply a highlighter underneath the brow to give it a finished look.
Essential products to have are the Multiple stick, mascara, Tinted moisturiser, lipstick, blush and loose powder. Essential brushes to have are the blush/powder brush, brow brush, a dense eye shadow brush and a blending brush and lip brush. Concealers are meant to be applied with the fingers hence, no concealer brush.
You may pair a bold lip with a bold eye. Look for balance.
Finished result
Day Look
Nice to see that brilliance also needs a flaw. Sigh.. he forgot to finish the other brow. Evening smoky look. Gorgeous pa rin.
Makeup should have no rules. A vibrant orange lip paired with a smoky eye looks gorgeous.
My Takeaways
Aside from the complimentary photos, sample sachets of the primer and serum, I took away from this workshop a validation of sorts that makeup should be simple enough but also fun. Real and sexy are a state of mind. Simplicity and luxurious can coexist.
Albert’s seminars are still ongoing, from 5:30-7:00 pm, June 20 at the Rustans Alabang Town Center and at Edsa Shangrila on the 27th. Be early, seats can get taken quickly.
This is a very delayed Mothers Day greeting to my aunt, Tina Bonifacio who incidentally had her beauty session with me at the beginning of this year when she attended a nephew’s wedding. I’m paying tribute to her because in many ways she is literally a second mother to my sister Sarina and I, she also being the sister of my mom. My Mom had passed since 2006.
To quote the late Maya Angelou, she is a Phenomenal woman. Her spirituality comes to the forefront to those that know her and even to those that meet her for the first time. It is this for this reason that her words and actions are genuinely coming from the heart and you know that there is a beautiful soul inside. We also chose her as one of our wedding sponsors in 1996 mainly because we hold her in the highest esteem and regard.
Growing up even if she had her family to take care of, she always looked out for my mom and us, always with a kind word, a token or a call to say we were in her thoughts. Humble and unpretentious, she carries herself with grace, intelligence and warmth, it is almost impossible not to be in your best behaviour when you are with her. She simply draws that out from you.
Jackie Onassis once said that, “If you bungle up raising your children, whatever else you do well will not matter.” She has had her trials and successes but one thing that she is most proud of is her children. Two of her children are pastors, the more visible one is Joey Bonifacio who is the senior pastor at Victory Church in Fort Bonifacio. Bonifacio in Italian or Portuguese means Good fate, is this a coincidence? She also has a son she named Andres. Cool huh? Her other children are accomplished in their own right and doing well in their respective fields and careers.
She has nothing more to ask or achieve since she is very content with what life has given her or has to offer her. Although I don’t get to see her much often now, she is always in our thoughts and good wishes. A belated Happy Mothers Day to you and know that you are loved and appreciated always.
The past few weeks have put me in overdrive and stress mode with domestic demands of motherhood coupled with the overseeing of the final phase of the construction of our new home . When Martine De Luna, my friend, told me about a skin pampering morning experience at a new skin aesthetic center called SKINLUX some weeks back, I immediately jumped into her invitation. I really needed one! And oh, my birthday was just the day before so this is a welcome gift so to speak.
Nelly, Who?
Owner Beena Go opened SkinLux Aesthetic and Laser Center when she found a remedy that successfully treated sensitive skin, pigmentation, and a host of skin problems related to ageing. She claimed the best facial she experienced was in Singapore where she is based. The facility used Nelly Devuyst products from Belgium which is considered an exclusive skincare line of products that were used by European royalty using the best organic ingredients. How’s that for pedigree? Ingredients target specific cell membranes and in turn, obtain measurable results, restoring the skin from the inside out. It is all natural and organic so very safe and formulated to treat sensitive skin.
Armed with the knowledge and assurance of the compatibility of the line, Miss Go together with her friend, Dr. Anna Nolido opened the centre in Manila whose objective is to provide quality facials combined with the latest in laser technology while catering to the specific needs of the skin type. The centre also has other body services as well. The staff are pleasant, courteous and Singapore trained so expect quality and professional service once you step in.
Photo from Martine De Luna.
Plush and Lush
Interiors and Rooms are not that clinical or medical looking, in fact they were so plush, that this is the first dermatology clinic I’ve been to that uses Down Comforter instead of the single bed sheet to keep you warm. I felt so indulged and pampered already.
Check out the comforter. A detail I appreciate since I do get cold easily.
Skin 101 The Consult
My skin getting analysed by Skinlux’s in-house Dermatologist. Kirra of Kira’s World and Alex, of The Reluctant Stylist looking on while waiting for their turn. (Photo from Martine De Luna)
SkinLux Signature Facial ++++
I was led immediately to the facial room to begin my treatment. The derma prescribed the signature facial prior to the next procedure that is considered their selling treatment. Revlite. I’m not one to gush and ooh and ahh over a facial because I thought they were all the same. I was mistaken. The experience was like no other because it included a foot massage, too! I asked the therapist if this was a standard service in addition to the facial and she replied a foot massage was really included in the signature facial. This is the +++! My ear to ear grin melted into a quick slumber and I truly was sold on this! Book me for the next one, stat!
Relaxation begins. (Photo from Martine De Luna)OMG, a double chin waiting to happen. Must look into their facial contouring service. (Photo from Martine De Luna)
After the Signature facial, hydrated and primed for the Revlite
Revlite Plus
During the initial consult with the in-house derma, she assessed my skin and she said that my skin texture is great, she concurred that I do have a few patches of dark pigmentation developing in some areas. Blame it on bad habits in the past, she said that Revlite Plus is the perfect treatment to address this problem. It is a treatment specifically geared towards the lightening and removal of tattoos and dark pigmentation on the face and body. Revlite Plus uses laser and IPL photofacial skin rejuvenation that uses short bursts of light that is absorbed by the skin pigments and blood in the vessels. Added bonus is a skin tightening effect, reduces acne and improves skin resurfacing. Is this the holy grail I’ve been looking for in making my dark spots go away for good?
One of my flaws. Ehem, Facial not personality flaw.
If only it could blast away fat too. The Revlite Plus Laser machine
I see the Light!!!! (Photo from Martine De Luna)
I admit, I got cold feet when the derma asked me if I wanted to lower the setting. It felt like a rubber band slapped on your face. Pain was bearable on a scale of 5, 10 being the highest. Maybe I was just too sensitive that day so I asked her to lower the setting to a more tolerable level. It was over in 5 minutes. That was it, quick, easy and my face was not sore at all. I was advised to not use any topical creams for the next 3 days but I could wash my face with cold water after a few hours. Not bad for a first timer.
After the Revlite Plus procedure. Ate Glow ba?
A perfect ending to a well spent morning. Fr. L-R, Alex of ReluctantStylists, Kira of Kira’s World and Martine De Luna of Make it Blissful and myself
Great to meet new friends on a morning like this.
One for the road. Miss Go did not let us leave empty handed. Happy Mothers Day indeed to me.
I will definitely be back, you have raised the bar in facial pampering, you have spoiled me no end. I almost forgot my name. All other facials will pale in comparison. Seriously, can Revlite Plus address my abdominal fat soon? A huge thanks to the staff and Miss Beena Go for the lovely pampering session.
Book your beauty essentials at Skinlux Aesthetic Center, 3rd level of Promenade Greenhills San Juan Metro Manila and may be reached at +632 650 3109. Your path to beauty starts here.
This is the last of my May “Mother’s Day” themed posts. A good way to end a good month, I say!
Peachy and I go a long long way back, since the 80’s. She has my best friend since high school. Partner in time, crime, lime and dime. Everything about her is big. I don’t mean that in a bad way. Anything that she does, she does in a big way. Her laughter is so infectious, even if you don’t know what s so funny, you are caught up in her world of happiness. As best friends, we have had our ups and downs, we went through a lot and it is the bond of friendship that keeps us connected no matter what.
Admittedly, life had taken over and sometimes we are kept in our own world and sometimes drift or lose touch with one another. As we have gotten older, hopefully wiser, we have taken a vow to always keep in touch. Mother’s Day was a perfect excuse to see her again. That morning was a laugh-fest, I couldn’t keep my eyeliner straight on her.
I asked her if she can be my model for my Mother’s day blog series and I’m glad she said yes. I asked her because I wanted to give her a nice thank you gift. Recently, she became a single mother to her two boys, but she has managed to see life as half full and not half empty. What a super trooper.
I can’t even begin to tell you how fortunate I am to be her friend. She has taught me so many life lessons without her telling me with an attitude of “I-Told-you-so attitude. She leads by example and she is in no way a saint or perfect. Life lessons on forgiveness, generosity, living life to the fullest and loving unconditionally are the priceless gifts she has shared with me even if she doesn’t know it.
She works for an insurance firm and is currently in Brazil as a gift for being one of the highest sales top notcher of the firm. Well deserved my friend!
To my Dancing Queen and now Zumba queen, a big shout out to you and may your tribe increase. Love you lots. I want to give you an insight as to how loveable and hilarious Peachy is when she posted her Mothers Day beauty photo on my wall. Thank you, Speachy!
You are the monay in my monalisa smileWith Lipstick only
I first met Jeannette in July of 2013, when our family friend Mike Gomez quietly announced to close friends family and relatives that he was engaged to be married. I have known Mike for more than two decades and I have never seen him or heard he was in a relationship with anyone for that matter.
To whom I asked? I checked out his Facebook page and there she was. Her photo splashed as his FB profile pic. I thought to myself, it was a photo of a lovely woman randomly selected because of her attractive profile. I’ve seen this in a couple of my friend’s profile photos where random photos of people, a cause, places or things that appeal to the person is used as a FB profile photo.
I was immediately informed that the lovely woman is indeed his fiancé. We both laughed ourselves silly. So I asked him for how long did he keep this as a secret to everyone? 12 years to be exact. Huwow! Indeed it was time to settle down. Jeannete comes from a family of eight siblings. They met at the Stock Exchange when Mike was working as a stock broker and she from another firm. It was love at first sight for him. As the saying goes, the rest is His-story.
Unfortunately, the wedding coincided with my family vacation (which was also overdue) and, so I could not attend. I vowed to make it up to them as I was kicking myself in the head for failing to witness this wonderful, humble couple mark their milestone. As the photos were posted on Facebook, I truly saw the love between the two and I missed a fabulous wedding.
When I finally got a chance to meet Jeannete in her mother in law’s birthday celebration, I boldly asked her if she could model for me some time for my bridal portfolio when the need arises. She was hesitant and too shy to say yes. Fast forward to May of this year, I finally got a chance to ask her once more if she can model for my Mother’s Day feature on my blog and she said yes.
The good news is, there is a bun in the oven and she is due on May 19th! In fact as I write this, she will be in labor soon. I can only wish Mike and Jeannete good things and blessings, and parenthood will certainly be the icing on the proverbial cake.
Congratulations and welcome to Parenthood, Jeanete. Family photo session next?
I don’t know about you ladies, but when the temperature goes up and I mean past boiling point, I really don’t want to put anything else on my face except an ice pack. My summer must haves are my go to’s when I need to put something on to look put together or at least presentable. I narrowed it down to 8 items and I swear by each of their claim in beating the heat or just because it’s simply perfect for the hot season.
La Roche Posay Effaclar Mat
Moisturizer to combat oily areas of the face
Available only to the trade, click here where to order them. This is considered a drugstore brand but you may purchase these in HK or Singapore. Like it says it controls the oiliness in the areas that show an oil slick specially o the T zone area and extends the wear of your makeup for another 2-3 hours. Perfect for brides or those that have oily-combination skin. It’s quickly absorbed and your face is perfectly prepped for makeup. Dries to a satin finish.
Makeup Forever Face and Body Foundation
Lightweight Consistency and transfer proof
I’m not kidding when I say this foundation is literally a breath of fresh air in your face. When applied, it feels very cool on the face because of its gel like consistency and the first ingredient in this foundation is water. Unlike other foundations that have hard to pronounce names as the first ingredient in their list, this is a winner for me. Coverage is light to medium and is build able. I wear shade 32 or 34.
NARS Laguna Bronzer
NARS Laguna Bronzer
I really like this bronzer because it doesn’t make you look orangy. It has the perfect brown, gray with tiny flecks of gold in it. You look sculpted without the look of oompa loompa on your face. You can also use this as an eye crease colour to give it depth and warmth.
NARS Bronzing Oil
Look tanned and bronzed without having to look like an Oscar statue
Love the smell and warmth it gives your skin. The only con on this product is its packaging. A bit messy to apply on your body because it doesn’t have a pump to dispense, you have to pour it on your hands. This bottle is on the pricey side but I once saw a fashion stylist rub this in the centre of the legs of the model and her legs looked like a million bucks. Has a faint coconut scent not overpowering but if you like the smell of buko it’ s tolerable.
MAC SkinLight Finish in Superb
Used to cheat perfect glowing skin
This product was introduced to me by another makeup artist friend. She uses this on the high points of the cheek or as a highlighter on the centre of the eyelid and brow bone. When the light hits your face, perfect glowing skin is achieved. This is what gives you the JLo sheen.
Maybelline 24 Hr. Color Tattoo
Creaseless and long wearing
I have a weakness and fondness for eye cream shadows mainly because of its effortless application. This is a drugstore delight. it really doesn’t budge. Just add an eyeliner and you’re good to go. Instant semi smoky look appropriate for the season. Comes in jewel tones too. Love the Tenacious Teal colour if you’re feeling adventurous.
NARS Turkish Delight Lip Gloss
Turkish delight
Not only is this Kim Kardashian’s favourite lip gloss on top of the MAC Angel lipstick, it is truly a universal lip gloss that can be worn by anyone. It adds a very subtle oomph to your lips even when worn bare. Personally I prefer to wear lip stains or lip glosses during the summer, lipstick feels heavy.
Essie in Geranium
Geranium Pandemonium
Essie nail polish is one of my personal favourites because of its colour variety and longevity. I first saw this colour applied in Nail Spa Makati many months ago on a client and I love the pop of colour. Its such a happy colour, your toes and nails look like they’re having so much fun.
Are these your summer must haves too? I’d like to know what yours are.
In this competitive business of beauty, what sets you apart from the rest of the other artists? This goes without saying that first and foremost is the skill and talent you possess, and this industry is not lacking in that department. Aside from the budget and price consideration of the client, I find that going the extra mile to make them happy is the key in adding value to the service you provide. Let me share with you what works for me.
Communication
Most of my inquiries are coursed through text messages, my website contact bar or through email. While SMS messages and email correspondences are quicker, I still find that returning their call is still the best way to effectively communicate with the client or bride. Speaking to them gives them an idea of how you come across to them by your tone or manner in which you speak to them. Sending SMS or email messages lose the emotion and can sometimes be misconstrued and can be a potential disaster in securing the booking. It is also your chance to discuss the terms of the deal and offer something that will spell you’re hired. Not everything is written in stone. I have had to accommodate clients whose budgets are lower than the rates I quoted. It’s up to you to decide if the booking will outweigh its weight in gold.
Make the call
Reward the Award
It is rewarding when you hear you’ve got the client/booking or shoot. Since it is our service that we are promoting, it’s up to you how you want to reward your client. In my case, for brides or individual clients, aside from making them look beautiful, I usually give a token that they can use in their event. It just sends a positive vibe that you care and more often than not, it is much appreciated and they always look pleasantly surprised. For shoots and editorial work, it would be nice to send the editor or the people responsible for booking you, a nice thank you note indicating how much you’ve enjoyed the experience and that if there is anything that they need you to think of you for the next shoot. Remember gratefulness and kindness sets the deal for you.
A handwritten note never goes out of style
Be Updated
As I mentioned in my previous blog about what I learned as a makeup artist, Keeping up with the trends and updating your knowledge and skills will always put you in an advantage. If budget is a concern, you may still keep up with the trends by looking up new methods or application through magazines, seminars and researching thorough the internet can still put you one step up in the business. Know what you’re offering and learn to use it to your advantage so you can make them come back to you.
Face Chart for the Bride.
How do you personalise your business? Share me some of your tips.
This shoot from 2012 was for blogger Cara Manglapus, whose “Barbie” looks were photographed by her friend, photographer Alex Rivera. How’d you like the way I did her eyes and lips? Full story and more photos here: Glam Barbie – Cara Manglapus
