Most of the time, simple is best. It keeps things fluid, effortless and comfortable. Michaela is all that. Just in her short story below, we met through her now husband, who is my chiropractor at Intercare. I wasn’t expecting anything from that meeting since I figured Michaela already had finalized her makeup artist options since the wedding was a few months away.
Both families come from a line of professionals and achievers, I admire the values that her mother Tang and father inculcated in their children. Seeking higher education is always worth pursuing more than the material values that are fleeting and superficial. I also saw how the family came together and pulled out all the stops, to help, soothe and calm a nervous bride specially as the magic hour is nearing .
This is what class is all about. I love how you were so cool and calm throughout your preparations and your inner glow definitely showed through, just like how a blushing Bride should be. Thank you for making me a part of your love journey, I wish you and Miguel a happy and prosperous marriage filled with blessings, joy and happiness.
1. Please tell me a bit about yourself. What do you do for a living, what are your hobbies, passions?
Hi! I’m Mika. I’m an architect who specializes in sustainability. I work with the Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Carbon Lab team that does a mix of ensuring energy efficiency, low carbon and LEED/WELL consulting.
During my free time, I love to paint, eat BBQ popcorn + watch movies, hike, play board games, and skate. I started skating with my sister earlier this year, and we both love it so much that we go at least once a week.
2. How did you find out about me (Acie Fores Makeup Artist)? What made you want to work with me?
I first heard about you from my (now) husband Miguel. He randomly gave me a calling card saying his patient was a make-up artist and I should try her out. Admittedly, I didn’t call you RIGHT after that, because in my head – “he does not know the difference between foundation and primer” But a few days later, my tita had mentioned you too, saying that her friends had worked with you previously, and that you had made all her friends look amazing!
3. How did you like the outcome of our time together, for your special day?
Today’s forecast, bridal showers
I liked you trial pa lang! Haha! By that time, I had tried na three make-up artists and was already getting frustrated that I had not found “the one” for my big day. I sound so arte, but my skin is actually so sensitive. (Full make-up really feels like a chore because of how heavy it feels on my face.) I had broken out in rashes after the trial with make-up artist #3, and ended up with a bad stye with make-up artist #1. I was close to picking make-up artist #2 just cause I did not break out into rashes after the trial. Buti nalang, Miguel and my tita mentioned you. So, I said, “Sige na nga one more trial.”
The minute you started prepping my skin I knew na you were different. I mean, how many people have tried a make-up artist who will exfoliate their skin and then massage it before the make-up?
As the trial went on, you airbrushed my make up on. (My first time to try airbrushed make-up) Not only did it feel great – feeling like I didn’t have any make-up on my face, but I loved how you made me look too! I felt the make-up looked so natural – like I was still me, but a flawless, glowing version of me! Totally what I was going for, for my big day!
So of course, on the day itself I sat on the make up chair with no worries at all. The full trust I had in you made all the difference.
4. What’s one special memory you have of your wedding that you love? Could you share that photo with us?
It’s not the wedding itself, but the day before. Getting ready with my family was such an intimate time for me. This includes both my immediate family and my extended family. My extended family – siblings of my parents and their children, were with us prior to the wedding too. They all came to Tagaytay the day before and we spent the night hanging out. I felt as if they were all hand-holding me all the way to the wedding.
5). What was a good beauty moment for you during the wedding day itself?
Can I say none? Haha! It’s not that I didn’t feel beautiful on the day, but I didn’t have what I would call a beauty moment. The day was beautiful over-all, because of the way everything fell into place.
6) Favourite beauty product, application used during your wedding and why?
If you cant get to a dermatologist, this is the next best things to flake off dead skin cells and give you a smooth canvas, ready for makeup.
I really loved the Cure Aqua gel exfoliator that you used on me. I felt like it got (cause i use it regularly now) all the gunk/dead skin cells out. I also liked the eye massage. Felt great to get a facial massage on the day itself!
7) Any bridal tips you want to share for future brides planning their wedding?
Find the best suppliers for the big day – suppliers you are happy with, then on the day just watch them all work their magic and watch everything fall into place.
8) What is one thing you could change during your wedding preparation?
I don’t know if I would change anything to be honest. Wedding planning was definitely stressful, but the day itself – the ceremony and dinner went perfectly. Everything that happened prior ended in something beautiful.
9) Any beauty rituals you did or received that you want to share?
None really, aside from the Cure Aqua gel exfoliator that I mentioned in # 6.
10) Favourite photo of you during the wedding and why.
The wedding ceremony was quick, and felt surreal. I didn’t realize I was smiling and laughing a lot too throughout the ceremony. So when I saw the photos, it was such a pleasant surprise to see so many photos where Miguel and I were just laughing. It’s such a great reminder of the day that unfolded, and how much fun we had (and have) together.
I was humbled and touched that choosing me as her makeup artist was due to the fact that my newfound career 12 years ago influenced her love for anything makeup . This was confirmed by her mother and by Cara when I was tasked to do her wedding. I was still not sure because Cara is an influencer and has a strong following. She definitely can challenge my makeup skills on her IG page so I countered. My style leans toward a more romantic look and I wasnt quite sure this is the look she wanted. Obviously, I was kilig when she insisted I do her face. Thank you Cara!
Every wedding is different, and how Cara and Jon met was not in a traditional sense wherein they were introduced by friends or they met at an event or social gathering. Nowadays, social media has now become the new dating dynamic that replaces the old methods of meeting new people . Bumble is the new best friend that connects people virtually.
I’ve known Cara to be a doer and a go getter, she started a clothing line Crow, now temporarily on hold due to new priorities at work, she has been very outspoken with current issues. She also has a generous spirit and a big heart, she helped raise funds and took care of her long time nanny who sadly passed away from cancer while running her business.
Jon, you married the right woman! Fearless, strong and built with a heart of gold. Bumble was the right matchmaker!
Here are excerpts of my Behind the Veil conversation series with Cara.
1). Please tell me a bit about yourself. What do you do for a living, what are your hobbies, passions?
I work as a brand manager for a wellness company but I started my career in the local beauty industry serving as the marketing lead for several cult favorite and home grown brands. I love anything to do with beauty.
2). How did you and Jon meet?
Bumble!
3. How did you like the outcome of our time together, for your special day?
I loved it as you were already someone I’ve known pretty much all my life so it was very comfortable and pleasant.
4. What’s one special memory you have of your wedding that you love? Could you share that photo with us?
When I first saw the entire look come together — I don’t wear dresses at all and while I love fashion and beauty, I don’t consider myself a girly girl. It felt nice and different to be dressed up in a wedding dress!
5). What was a good beauty moment for you during the wedding day itself?
I normally have dry and flaky skin so the fact that my skin looked glowy and well moisturized was a great beauty moment.
6) Favourite beauty product, application used during your wedding and why?
I loved airbrush makeup since it was my first time. It was soothing and different from my traditional makeup experiences.
7) Any bridal tips you want to share for future brides planning their wedding?
I think skin prep is really important especially for brides like myself with really dry skin. It truly makes a difference!
8) What is one thing you could change during your wedding preparation?
Nothing, everything went as planned!
9) Any beauty rituals you did or received that you want to share?
I got a facial, had my hair toned and got eyelash extensions prior to the ceremony. I also got nail extensions.
10) Favourite photo of you during the wedding and why.
Because it was the first time I tried the entire look with hair and makeup!
Tis wedding season!! I met Raisa through her mother, Rosette Gana Benedicto, her parents and mine go a long way, they were friends since way back in the 60’s, maybe even longer.
A call came to me through her younger sister Carmela Gana Araullo that Rosette’s daughter is getting married and they were asking for my rates. If you read the story below, it turns out her mom Rosette really wanted me to do the hair and makeup for Raisa! The last time I saw Rosette was from the Velada. Velada is a jubilee celebration of the homecoming of the alumnae culminating in an evening of song and dance. Our alma mater is the Assumption College! I was deeply touched since I haven’t heard from Rosette in so many years and she remembered me for her daughter’s special day.
Oh Raisa, thank you for making it so easy for me, Rosette You raised a good daughter right here.
Below is our conversation with Raisa.
1. Please tell me a bit about yourself. What do you do for a living, what are your hobbies, passions?
“Hi! I’m Raisa Benedicto. I’m a Pediatric dentist by profession (but one of the lost boys from Neverland by heart). I like to read and play tennis during my spare time. and I LOVE dogs.”
2. How did you find out about me (Acie Fores Makeup Artist)? What made you want to work with me?
“When my mom heard I got engaged, she instantly said, “We HAVE to get Acie as our make out artist.” My mom trusted you, so I trusted you. and like any millennial, I immediately stalked your portfolio on Instagram – definitely liked what I saw! and the rest is history!”
3. How did you like the outcome of our time together, for your special day?
“It was perfect! Although I was a little frazzled on the day (as all typical brides are) you made me feel so comfortable and distracted. I appreciated all the small talk and the explanations to help keep the edge off. “
4. What’s one special memory you have of your wedding that you love? Could you share that photo with us?
“I’m probably still on a wedding high, so it’s pretty hard to pick a favorite one. The day went by so fast; it was such a blur. What did stand out, though, was the surprise father daughter dance, we had planned for the guests.
This photo isn’t very flattering of us, but it captures our dynamic together as father and daughter. We’re both not performers and definitely not dancers, but it was a fun production and even more fun bonding time spent with my dad.”
5). What was a good beauty moment for you during the wedding day itself?
“Honestly, I’m not the type who wears make up or fixes myself up everyday. In fact, I just recently learned how to use foundation and concealer. That being said, the entire time I was being made up felt like a dream to me. I especially felt my best once I stepped into my finished dress for the first time.”
6) Favourite beauty product, application used during your wedding and why?
“For some reason, what really stuck with me was the face mask and the facial massage. It wasn’t something I normally witnessed during bridal make up sessions. I enjoyed being pampered.”
Before the makeup application I apply a mask to the bride’s face and use a Jade roller on top to massage the product in the face.
7) Any bridal tips you want to share for future brides planning their wedding?
“LET GO on the day. There’s no point in stressing over little details. Everything is going to be perfect whatever happens. The wedding is just for the festivities, but don’t forget what the day’s focus is truly about. “
8) What is one thing you could change during your wedding preparation?
“Maybe having an airconditioned prep room – that was one thing I overlooked/didn’t bother to think about. Either way, the villa I stayed in was breezy enough. I really wouldn’t have changed anything.”
9) Any beauty rituals you did or received that you want to share?
“The complimentary facial spa treatment I got from Dermalogica (c/o you, Tita Acie), was absolutely FANTASTIC. It was so relaxing and soothing, just what I needed right before the wedding.”
Photo from Rustans Beauty Source
10) Favourite photo of you during the wedding and why.
“I don’t usually enjoy having my photo taken, but that day I had enough confidence to pose and emote. My photographers were amazing at making me look like I knew what I was doing, but the real MVP was my HMUA for making me, not just look, but also feel, like I deserved to be in the spotlight. I loved that my make up was so light and natural-looking that my freckles were showing through. My eye bags seem non-existent!”
Last January 18 2016, I had the chance to make up the beautiful Pia Angeles during her wedding in St. Joseph The Worker Parish, Baguio. (The reception followed at the Camp John Hay Clubhouse.) Pia comes from a family that like to cook — her mother, Lenee Recio Angeles, makes an amazing chicken relleno! Speaking of family, though: Pia’s wedding was planned and brought to life by all of her friends who had talents and businesses that they wanted to share with her. Her giveaways were so reflective of her easy going nature: an eco friendly bag with goodies from Baguio, all lovingly put together by her friends and family. I also love the hashtag that was chosen for that special day, #kprinmind2016 a play on their initials. Unforgettable diba?.
As a bride, Pia is very down to earth bride no fuss not difficult at all. She gave me her full trust on how she would look on her wedding day and I was very happy I was able to deliver!
1. Please tell me a bit about yourself. What do you do for a living, what are your hobbies, passions?
I’m Pia, I was a single mom to a 6 year old boy, Andres. I work 2 jobs, mostly financial work for corporations. I handle the finances and do the budgeting and day to day accounting of funds. I enjoy both my jobs… and it still allows me to be home by 6 to spend time with my family. I enjoy cooking and baking… It is really my passion. If I’m stressed, I cook or bake something and even if I have to clean up after, I don’t get as tired as I should be. I enjoy cooking and baking with my son… I teach him a thing or two. We also enjoy doing arts and crafts together.. from DIY kiddie storages, diy chalk paint, bottles, kids toys and magnets… I love doing all these things with Andres and Kevin even if Kevin always outshines me! Ha ha!
2. How did you find out about me? What made you want to work with me?
I met Acie last 2015 during my best friend’s wedding. Her sister, Mariella Uy learned about her from her good friend, Monse del Rosario. Mariella got Acie to do make up for Maia’s bridesmaids. I was pleasantly surprised with my make up during that date — I think by far the best I’ve had! (and I’ve been a bridesmaid a few times). Everyone complemented my make up during the wedding. My dad even said “Ay maganda ka pala!” That’s his carino to me… Hehe! But that means he was also pleasantly surprised with how pretty I was. So the day I got engaged, I remembered Acie and thought, “Hey, I want her to do my make up for my wedding!”
3. How did you like the outcome of our time together, for your special day?
I enjoyed our sessions and I think both my mom and sister also did. Acie and her team were on schedule and professional. It was also a very light session: no one was panicking, no one was rushing (or so I think! Haha!). Acie and JayMar really knew how to work with photographers and videographers. It was easy. I had such a good time.
4. What’s one special memory you have of your wedding that you love? Could you share that photo with us?
One special memory I had during the wedding was my wedding march… Seeing my son waiting for me… made me nervous but excited… seeing my parents made me more excited too…. and to see all my gue
sts smiling.. I felt so much love and warmth from everyone! Finally… seeing my fiance — I couldn’t stop smiling! Everything just felt right, everything felt magical.
Hair : JayMar Martinez
Gown: Rosa Clara
Wedding Coordinator: Chinkie Uy and Trina V. Millan
When I’m obsessed with something, I go on a hunt until I have it. I’ve been following Charlotte Tilbury for quite some time ever since she made a video collaboration with Lisa Eldridge, another makeup idol of mine. Charlotte Tilbury has been in the makeup business for the past 20 years and has worked with many famous photographers like Mario Testino, Terry Richardson and has collaborated with many international makeup brands like MAC Cosmetics and has painted the faces of well heeled personalities like Penelope Cruz, Sienna Miller, Cara De Levigne and Kate Moss and she did the makeup of Amal Clooney. Growing up in Ibiza Spain surrounded by a creative family, she was surrounded and shaped by the colors and scenes of that area.
I finally got to visit her flagship store in The Grove in LA. Her concept for her line and freestanding store is a throwback to the 30’s and 40’s era where silver screen sirens encapsulated the essence and glamour of the times. The Art Deco feeling in her packaging is so evident in her belief that it was a golden age for mysterious and glamorous women.
Art Deco Inspired DisplaysHer Signature looks are grouped in sections and contains all you need to recreate them.
One of my favorite looks is the Uptown Girl and The Vintage Vamp.
Wonder Glow covers a multitude of skin tones .Her Magic Skin Trilogy which gives you the candlelight glow.
Her Magic cream is what I was after.
Her Filmstar Bronze and Glow Sculpting Powder and Airbrush Flawless Finish Powder Compact are her two of her Bestsellers. My shade for the airbrush powder is Medium. Her sculpting palette is the perfect warm brown that is best for fair to medium skin tones. No orange loompah loompah color here.
Packaging is consistent with her love for the Art Deco era. Gorgeous. To the extreme bottom left is the photobomber MAC s Oval 6 brush.
Her Filmstar Bronze and Glow looks like a minaudiere. Powdering your nose never looked so elegant in her Airbrush Flawless Finish powder compact.
Swatch of the Filmstar Bronze and Glow powder. Its buildable and suited for light to medium skin tones. It reminds me of the NARS Bronzing powder in Laguna with light flecks of gold.
Charlottes Magic Cream that evokes memories of our grandmothers cream potions. This is the bomb!
This Cream is composed of peptides that stimulate skin collagen, Hyaluronic boosters that plump the skin, Vitamin E and rosehip oil to revive the skin’s appearance. It’s antiaging, and has an SPF of 15, all good stuff to restore your skin to youth levels. She has put skincare in the forefront of her product line as she is a firm believer in having good skin before any makeup application.
I wasnt able to get a hold of her cream since I have so many jars of moisturizers that I need to use and finish and I wanted to put this on hold. However I was able to get a sample and I used it during the summer. It is very creamy, emollient and hydrating. I was a bit hesitant to use this on my normal to combination skin as I didn’t want to have anything heavy on my face. What it does is, when applied before makeup application, one gets the dewy and JLo glow. Not bad but in our weather, it may give you a slightly greasy feeling during the course of the day. I would use this in the cooler months when our skin will not create excess sebum.
It is a great moisturizer for those with dry skin as it instantaneously transforms your parched skin into an oasis of moisture. It has a slight odd smell but disappears and does not really bother me at all.
Charlotte Tilbury products are on the pricey side but if you want to spoil yourself, it’s worth it. Locally her products are available at the MUP store. You may follow Charlotte Tilbury in FB, YouTube and Instagram for her videos and products.
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.
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.
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.
