Behind the Veil : Bianca and Joe Salud

Intimate Wedding

 

“My Dad is here with me”

Bianca lost her father about six years ago to cancer and when  I was prepping her for hair and makeup, that s when Bianca said those 6 words.  Dad was in the form of a yellow and black butterfly hovering among the plants in the garden.

She and I almost teared up.  True enough, the yellow butterfly was hovering until I finished her getting prepped.
I said, “Bianca your dad approves of Joe.”  Right away Bianca nodded and said her dad appeared in her dream and is really happy it’s Joe for her.
Bianca and Joe met at a Coachella concert but they went on separate groups but they shared similar friends.  Based on the best man s speech that night, it was Joe that fell head over heels the moment he met her.
I ve spent a little time with the couple before their December wedding over a beach weekend and you know when they re the right fit.  From what I gathered is that they seem to have a good head on their shoulders, Bianca just finished her MA in Education and Joe has his sights on the family business.
They described their wedding plans and I must say it is so appropriate and fitting to the present times.  S I M P L E not complicated is how they want their special day to be.  They dispensed with the unnecessary frivolities when it comes to the wedding preparations.  The only difficult task was trimming the guest list since both come from big families.
Bianca the ever practical lady, said she didn’t want a big fuss and didn’t need the special treatment since she preferred to spend it on their new home and Joe has plans of taking his Masters abroad.
There are so many positive things going on for this couple and they seem to be the perfect couple.

Your Dad was right Bianca, Joe is the perfect man for you.  You chose well.

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

 I am an Elementary school teacher, I love working with kids, baking, crocheting, and ballet.
2. How did you find out about me (Acie Fores Makeup Artist)? What made you want to work with me?
I’ve worked with you in the past for graduation and loved working with you.
3. How did you like the outcome of our time together, for your special day?
Before Bianca said I Do
It was perfect!! Everything was perfect from the hair to the makeup, got so many compliments about it too 🙂
4. What’s one special memory you have of your wedding that you love? Could you share that photo with us?
I loved that it was someone who I’ve known my whole life and she knew how I liked my make up and what look I was going for. Wouldn’t have it any other way.

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

I loved that I didn’t have to keep stressing over how oily I was or just stress about eyelashes falling or mascara running.

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

I’ve been meaning to look into the Chanel Tan De Soleil and now that I know the color works for me I will definitely make that purchase when I am able to find it.
    7)  Any bridal tips you want to share for future brides planning their wedding?
Intimate Wedding
Don’t stress over all the small things, everything will come together.
   8)  What is one thing you could change during your wedding preparation?
Nothing 🙂
   9)  Any beauty rituals you did or received that you want to share?
I need to exfoliate more, have been forgetting to do that.
   10)  Favourite photo of you during the wedding and why.

These pictures really highlight the makeup and hair which is exactly what I wanted.

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CM6qBSyHSZF/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Brow How

 

“Brows are 90% of your selfies”.

Browgal Productions

 

While eyes are the windows of the soul, eyebrows express emotions best.  They frame the eyes, shape the face and they have the ability to bring your best features into focus while downplaying the flaws.  A popular trend is Microblading  making to foolproof to achieve perfect looking brows.  Choosing the right tattoo artist for this procedure is key.  Since my brows are not that sparse and light, I can still manage to do them myself.

If you have groomed brows, there is less need to do a full face makeup and it makes you look polished, youthful looking and rested.  Don’t worry if you have less than perfect eyebrows, you can achieve an aesthetically pleasing set by having them groomed, trimmed and filled with these easy steps.

 

1). Grooming

 

If you have them professionally groomed, look for a reputable salon or artist to do it.  If you are on a budget, do this once and ask her/him if they can teach you to groom them yourselves after.

Brush your eyebrow hairs upward with an eyebrow spoolie to smooth out the hairs.  Tweeze any unwanted hair from the top and from the bottom to achieve a clean look.

 

https://brightside.me/inspiration-girls-stuff/10-essential-tips-to-get-perfect-eyebrows-205255/
Plucking the brows

 

2).  The 3 point guideline

 

3). Choosing eyebrow color and filling in

Choose your natural brow color and add a hint of your hair color for a uniform look.  If your hair is black, choose a color that’s dark brown, soft brown or taupe to avoid a harsh looking brow.  If your hair is blond with brown eyebrows, get a color that’s in between to create a balanced look.

 

If you’re using a brow powder, apply color with an angled or square tipped stiff brush.  Deposit color in the middle of the brow until the tail.  This is where you want the darkest color to be.  With the leftover color on the brush, move towards the front of the brow where color is the lightest part to give a gradient effect.  Fill in the blank spots.  Brush brows with a a spoolie.  Repeat the process until you get the desired effect.

 

If you’re using a pencil, create a template by starting from he bottom of the brow and draw a line underneath until the tail.  Draw a line on top of the brow until the tail as well.  Brush with your spoolie to remove harsh lines.  Fill in the brow with light strokes of the pencil to finish off the brow color.

 

4). Polishing the shape

Use a concealer or light colored pencil to go over mistakes or over coloring outside the brow area.  This also creates a clean sharp edge to the brow.  You may use a cotton tip dipped in concealer or makeup remover,  Blend with your finger, sponge or brush.

 

5). Setting your brows

To keep them from staying in place, apply a clear brow gel to further keep hairs in placebo brushing upwards.  For advanced makeup tips, use soap brow if you prefer doing this step.  Spritz your spoolie with water and dip it into a clear soap and make a paste.  Brush this on your brows.

 

These are basic simple steps you can try to get your brows in shape and gain confidence to look your simple best every day.

 

 

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

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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!

 

 

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?

 

 

 

The Balm Cosmetics Meet Matt(e) Hughes Long lasting lipstick

Happy New lippy!

While working on a client recently, her choice of lipstick was a matte long wearing liquid lipstick, the current craze nowadays, the one that stays on your lips for days on end.  I ended up giving her the lipstick tube and as soon as I left, I went to the local Beauty Bar here in my neighbourhood to replenish the lipstick.  And then I came across

 

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Meet Matt(e) Hughes Long lasting Liquid lipstick.  These are all from the brand The Balm Cosmetics.  I wanted to update my lipstick collection and these are the colors I ended up home with.

 

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These are nude pinkish brown shades with the exception of a plum looking shade. From top to bottom, Affectionate, Charming, Sincere and Charismatic.

 

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Texture is smooth, is not runny and lasts a good 4-5 hours.  Photos below show a 6 hr time lapse of how long this liquid lipstick lasted.  Excuse the lighting, but I noticed there is a little feathering on the upper lip and is less darker as it was first applied.  I was also careful in dabbing my lips during the meal but there is still color left in fact it is still noticeable and still quite pigmented despite some feathering on the upper corners and a little bleeding on the bottom lip.

 

Taken at 4:00 pm Shade Affectionate
Taken at 4:00 pm Shade Affectionate
Taken at 9:52 pm. After eating a dinner of fish and vegetables and had green tea
Taken at 9:52 pm. After eating a dinner and had green tea.

 

I like the texture of it, doesn’t have that silicon feel although it is an ingredient in the formulation, it doesn’t feel drying or doesn’t feel dry or cracked on my lips.  It has a slight peppermint flavour like a mild tingling feeling but its not so distracting.

Tips on applying a matte lipstick:

  • Exfoliate lips with a lip scrub or a DIY recipe, mix brown sugar and olive oil and mix into a paste.  Apply and scrub into lips until you feel the dead skin flakes come off.  Rinse.
  • Apply a lip primer, a good one to try is MAC Prep and Prime Lip primer
  • Apply matte lip color beginning from the bottom lip and then the upper lip.  Let stand for 15 seconds.
  • When its time to remove, use an oil based cleansing oil like Biore Cleansing oil, let it soak into the lips with a cotton pad and remove gently.

 

Its reasonably priced at Php775.00 and I will definitely make these lippies a  staple in my personal and pro kit.  Perfect for Bridal and everyday looks.  There are 18 shades in total, the shades are named after qualities you look for in a friend or soul mate, a matt ch made in heaven.   Like a loyal friend colors stay true and doesnt feel clingy.

 

Go and get these liquid lipsticks at Beauty Bar and see how these lipsticks stay committed to your beauty kit.

 

MAC Prep and Prime Lip is available at all MAC beauty stores.  Priced between Php 900.00- 1200.00

 

Beauty & Momness: Tips for moms on everyday beauty

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Acie Fores, together with the UMAP team members headed by Charisma Vergara President of UMAP had the privilege to be a keynote makeup artist assistant at the Beauty & Momness event in Evia Center this weekend.  Like all harried mothers with no time to spare for themselves, pampering oneself is key in keeping your sanity intact.  Beauty is not an option but an outlet to express your creativity and spark an inner joy that makes you feel you are right in this world.

In this workshop, UMAP member volunteers taught the ladies how to do their own makeup from skincare, choosing the right products that match their skin type, using the proper tools, applying proper methods and techniques to create a polished looking face ready to face any challenge.

Mom Beauty Tips:

  1.  Skincare is essential in creating a good makeup application.  The 4 key steps of a good skincare routine is cleansing, toning, moisturizing and applying sunscreen.
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Biore products were at the forefront of skincare as they were one of the major sponsors of the event.

 

2.  Choosing the right foundation or Base for your skin depends on the skin tone and type of skin.  Usually when shopping for your base, choose 3 shades of foundation closest to your skin tone and swatch each shade from the jaw line extending to your neck.  When blended, the closes  shade that blends with your neck is the right shade for you.

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LA Girl and Benefit Cosmetics were also on hand to provide the ladies with great looking skin.

 

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This LA Girl BB cream is a great all in one multitasker, it protects, hydrates, and blends easily,

3)  Choose earthy tones for your eye color palette.  For newbies in the makeup sphere, warm browns, plums are your best bets for our brown colored eyes.  They are complementary colors that bring out the eyes.

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A sample of an earth color palette

 

4)  #Kilayislife

When you have groomed brows, half of your work is done.  Groomed brows are easier to fill in whether your preference is a pencil or shadow.  They frame the face and if you’re in hurry, killer brows and a good lipstick color is all you need.

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Start your brows at the end of your nose (1), the arch is above the iris of the eye, and your brow should end diagonally from your nostril to the end of your eye (3).

 

5)  A good lipstick color that also suits your skin tone is all you need to complete basic everyday look.  You can also wear bright colors like red or pink depending on your mood for the day.

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Your lipstick palette may look like this, if you’re the type to experiment and mix shades to create that perfect custom blend color just for you.
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Our major sponsors in full display. Thank you Biore Philippines, LA Girl Cosmetics, Benefit Cosmetics, Inglot Cosmetics, Perfetto Salon and Spa, Jergens, Ellana Cosmetics, Dermagold, NuSkin

 

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Our Model Mom receiving the day look demo with UMAP”S Charisma Vergara, Photos from Michelle Viray

 

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The full Day look. Photo from Michelle Viray

Moms were divided into different skin categories.  All photos below are from Michelle Viray.

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Maryann Obias was assisting moms that were under the Normal Skin category.

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I was assigned to the Combination skin table, here I am assisting her with the concealer application.
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Kathrina Bautista UMAP member as well, assisting her participant with the day look.

 

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Cha flanked by the organizers of the event

 

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Breastfeeding Moms working in the event.

 

Finished Makeup looks under my Combination Table.  Beaming and happy should I say.

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A huge shout out to all our sponsors and organizers who made this event a fun activity for everyone!  Looking forward to the next workshop Moms!

Personal Beauty Makeup Workshop with Memory Crafters and Manila Workshops

I enjoy being in the company of women specially when the topic is about personal beauty or just about anything girly related.  Last Saturday I spent the half of my afternoon with makeup newbies and they wanted a heads up on basic makeup knowhow and I was more than happy to oblige. This is why I together with Memory Crafters and Manila Workshops headed by Rikka Rederico collaborated on a workshop that teaches women how to empower themselves through the magic of makeup.

I’ll be handing over the blog today to Martine De Luna of MakeitBlissful, who agreed to be my model for that afternoon.  She claims to be a makeup virgin and for a hands on mother of two, she wanted to know how she can prepare herself ready to face the world with just a few simple steps in her makeup routine.

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L-R Clockwise, Fast Beauty PH, Marula Oil, Helix D Serum, Beauty Cosmetics, VnM Naturals loose pigment makeup and Biore Philippines

Hi everyone! This is Martine here, I’ll be taking over the blog today, to cover the Makeup Workshop of Acie, as a participant. I was the model for her demo portion, and I have to say I happily wanted to because any opportunity to get a makeover by Acie is totally worth it!

I arrived looking like this:

 

We started by having the participants take out their Biore Cleansing Pads — so handy when you need to clean your face and feel refreshed.  (This can be used in place of our water and soap when it is not available.)  According to Acie, it is “the makeup remover pad in my book.”  I agree! Each tissue is thickly saturated, which assures you that it really will remove every trace of dirt, oil and makeup. I’ve got very sensitive, break-out prone skin, so I need a product like Biore Cleansing Pads.

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After cleansing, we were fortunate to have Fast Beauty Philippines there to teach us how to use serums and natural oils as moisturisers. (Did you know that as Asians, our skin type really isn’t prone to heavy cream-like moisturizers?) The Helix D Eye Serum and the Marula Oil are a serum and oil moisturizer that boost our skin defense against the elements and pollutants that wreak havoc on our skin.

Acie used some of the luxurious Marula Oil on my face, to act as a moisturiser and primer all at once. As usual, I was breaking out and had pigmentations scars, so this product soothed my skin. (I’ve been using it ever since!)

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Acie then applied the Helix D Eye serum to my eye area, dabbing it around the eyeball area and directly on to the eye socket.  (FYI, serums usually take time to take effect since you have to apply it frequently on the area. Around 2-6 weeks usage should produce results.)

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Makeup

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During the makeup portion proper, Acie used a simple repertoire for my face. First, it was important to apply concealer and foundation. Because I’ve got badly scarred skin, this step can’t be missed when I have my makeup done. She also used a combination of highlighters, setting powder and eyeshadows from our sponsor,  V&M Naturals, who are currently developing an all-natural makeup line:

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I love the finished result by Acie! I’m more a “less is more” girl, and she knows this, so her take on my eye makeup was a subtle smoky finish, perfect for a glowing daytime look. Thanks to the Helix D Eye Serum, in particular, and Acie’s layering of foundations, the V&M eyeshadow and highlights stuck to my eyelids for the whole afternoon till the evening! (This is me with my very fussy baby girl!)

Finally, it was the girls’ turn to get their makeup on, after Acie concluded the demo portion. Now normally, Acie’s personal makeup workshop is longer, giving her the opportunity to really do some one-on-one time with each participant. But for this round, the ladies were coached as a group, with Acie providing instruction in rotation.

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At the end, everyone came up with natural-looking, dusky finishes! I’m so impressed! I’ve always been fascinated at how makeup can really transform our looks instantly. Everyone looks glowing and pretty in their photos, don’t you think?

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Thank you, Acie, for sharing your expertise! What I really love about Acie’s workshops are how hands-on she is during each component. Looking forward to more makeup workshops next year! Stay tuned to this blog to receive updates.

Once again, thanks to our sponsors: Biore Philippines (@biorePH), Beauty Cosmetics (@beautycosmetics, for the brushes), V&M Cosmetics (@vandmnaturals, for the mineral makeups), and Fast Beauty Philippines (@fastbeautyPH, for the Helix D Eye Serum and Marula Oil) and Costa Coffee PH for providing us an intimate venue and nourishing us with their snacks.

KODAK SMART LENS Camera

The Glam Squad of Happy Skin

Denise Go Ochoa, Juan Sarte, Mickey See, Jigs Mayuga, are makeup artists.   Not just makeup artists but Manila’s living legends in the beauty industry.  They are literally the dream team to call when its’ your wedding day, or a have a photoshoot in the making, or when you are a Celebrity in need of glam time.

Happy Skin just made that connection 3 degrees smaller by introducing the Glam Squad Collection.

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Glam Squad at your fingertips.

Encased in gold, these eyeshadows are pigmented and colors are very neutral, in earthy tones.  Two shadows, one light and one darker, it makes applying as simple as child’s play.  It has a very light shimmer texture but it glides on very smoothly.  The darker shades are enough to give your eyes depth and dimension.  From a day look to a smoky eye for the evening, it’s all you need for a simple glamour change.

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From top to bottom, Denise Go Ochoa, Mickey See and Juan Sarte

 

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Matte lipsticks to stay all day

The lipsticks are very matte, glides well and lasts a long time.  It has that nude retro 90’s look, nude pinky brown perfect for everyday and bridal looks.  Jigs Mayuga has a deep plum color while that of Juan Sarte’s is a bit on the dark pink nudey beige color.

 

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Top to bottom, Denise Go Ochoa, Mickey See, Jigs Mayuga and Juan Sarte

 

I didn’t get the Lipstick shades of  Mickey See and Denise Go Ochoa because I was running late and I promised to return and try to purchase at a later time.  I’ve tried Juan Sarte’s lipstick and it did stay for a good 6 hours without retouching.  However since I ate Chinese food that day, the oil removed a little of the lipstick and I retouched it but before reapplying, there was a bit of a stain left so the staying power is really good.  Is this  Viagra Glam?

 

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No excuse to have bad eyebrow days.  Shade is Medium Brown

 

I would compare this to the Smashbox eyebrow pencil.  It twists on one end with a very sword like shape and its very thin to give you precise hair like strokes on your eyebrows.  Grooming them into place is simple with a turn on the other end of the pencil for a tinted brow gel.  It’s pretty good, I would compare this to  its Japanese and US brand counterparts and it does the job of giving you perfectly arched eyebrows.

 

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Lock in that lip color with this smooth lip liner.

 

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First Date is the name of this lip liner. This can go with any of the matte lipsticks in the Glam Squad collection.

 

This lip liner is not part of the Glam Squad collection.  I just had to buy it because I wanted to get the free gift with purchase kikay kit bag.  Also in gold.

 

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Final Thoughts:

The collection is  a very precise  collection, just like a well curated art gallery.  All in earthy tones, it is  a very neutral palette that can take you from day to night in a simple tap of a brush.  Pigmentation and coloration is good, not chalky, it spreads smoothly and blends well.  However, there is some pigment fallout but not that significant.   You may start with the eye makeup first, then clean up any fallout and  apply your base or foundation,  concealer and the rest of your makeup after.

The brow pencil applicator needs improvement though, as it is very fragile.  I just twisted it once to reveal the color and 1/4 of its refill broke off.  It is not  a decision breaker but it needs refinement in the twist type design.

The eye shadow palette inside is housed in a sponge like  foam that  protects it from fall.   The metal pans is anchored by a smidgen of glue that is not enough to hold it in place.  I mentioned this to the sales associate and I had mine replaced as one of the metal pans fell off.

Lipstick shades are all on trend with the matte lipstick bandwagon craze but  very well suited to the Asian skin tone.  You can transform  these colors  from sophisticated to glam and chic depending on the shade you get.  It’s matte enough to last half a day with one touch up only.

Get your glam squad collection fast, stocks  are running quickly,  get  all  four of them and have  the Glam Squad at your fingertips.

Glam Squad eyeshadow duo is priced at P899.00, Glam Squad Arch Definer and Brow Mascara is P949.00, Glam Squad Matte lipstick is P699.00 and the Shut up and Kiss Me  Moisturising Matte Lip Liner is P499.00  Available at www.happyskincosmetics.com, Beauty Bar outlets and select SM Beauty Counters.

 

img_0083This is from the collection of Heart Evangelista and it is plum pinky brown beige shade which I think is perfect for everyday.  Line your entire lip with this and apply a clear gloss on top in place of your lipstick.

 

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Swatch of First Date lip liner

 

My thoughts:

I love this collection and like a beautiful art gallery, it is a well curated set, very precise, collection is small enough to give you what you essentially need to make you look like a celebrity.  You can never go wrong with earthy neutral colors since it is universally flattering.

Packaging however can be improved, the eye palette discs have a tendency to fall off the compact.  It is only held with a tiny smidgen of glue.  The eye pencil mechanism is very sensitive, I had to exchange mine because the eyebrow refill broke in half and I only twisted it once.

Will this be a kit staple?  Yes, I can’t wait for the other collaborations with other makeup

 

 

Makeup and Mobile Photography Workshop 2

Here in Part 2, these ladies were up to the challenge of applying their own makeup after the demo.  Photos below are courtesy of Martine De Luna.

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Here are some After Photos.  I’ve assisted the ladies below with their makeup and unfortunately, the other ladies were not photographed, they were busy attending to their own faces.  All 3 ladies wanted a natural, polished look.  Enjoy!

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Workshop: Personal Makeup & Social Media this May!

makeup workshop manila

I’ve been enjoying the private makeup workshops I’ve been holding for clients and friends. It’s always satisfying to teach what you know, because you become a student of your students! Yes, especially when it comes to makeup, because no two faces are alike. I always have a sense of fulfilment when I see a client learn how to confidently put on her makeup.

The good news is, this May 3rd, I’m holding my second public makeup workshop, yay! (My first one was with Tommy’s Coffee last year, if you recall.) This time, I am being hosted by Nailandia Nail Studio and Body Spa, in Alabang, which is a wonderful venue for this intimate Personal Makeup Workshop! It will be for only 8 ladies, and I will be teaching everyone how to apply makeup that’s suited for your face shape and personality. I will also include tips on choosing the right makeup for you! Plus, my good friend, Martine De Luna (a noted freelance content coach for bloggers and small businesses) will be guest speaker for the day, and will conduct a short Mobile Photography for Instagram talk, so that you can know how to capture your best looks using your mobile phone!

Registration is through Nailandia, and slots are limited! To register for your slot, please call or text at  63 9176231491 and make payment arrangements. Once you’re paid, you’re in! And, in addition to the workshop, you’ll also be receiving a goodie bag from our sponsors (to be revealed soon on my Instagram, @aciefores.) Hope to see you at Nailandia! Sign up now at nailandia.alabanghills@gmail.com

Nailandia Nail Salon is located at 2/floor Don Gesu Building on Don Jesus Boulevard, Alabang Hills. Muntinlupa City.