As one of the most sought after beauty and lifestyle bloggers in Manila, I finally got to meet Patty Laurel Filart up close. I was struck by her easy going personality and warmth, she really didn’t have any of that diva star air around her. In fact, she had a lovely glow to her, due to her beautiful bun in the oven which is quite very soon. We shared some things in common, we both lived in the same subdivision while growing up and she mentioned that she was a teacher in a pre school located there.
Her idea of the shoot was more of a very casual, organic and natural vibe, I was told by Martine de Luna (who organized this shoot) that she wanted her shoot to look like it stepped out of the Kinfolk Magazine. Enter Jelito De Leon who is one of the best Instagram and Lifestyle photographers who captured the essence of her vibe. It was really up his alley since his photos are so clean and beautifully laid out, just like how she wanted it to be. Double that with the presence of stylist Bea Marquez (and all under the wing of Martine De Luna of Make it Blissful, who brought her adorable baby Krista who happily kept up with us), it was the perfect shoot.
I’d love to share some behind the scenes shots with you, followed by the final set by Jelito de Leon (also featured on Patty’s blog: MakeitBlissfulXJelitoDeLeon.)
Beauty enhancements for Patty
FACE and CHEEKS
RCMA foundation in Shinto 2, and mixed with Makeup Forever HD foundation in shade 127
RCMA contour wheel
MAC blush in PeachyKeen
Makeup Forever contour shade in no 2.
Ben Nye Transparent Loose powder
EYES and BROWS
Face shop eyebrow pencil in no. 2
Viseart matte neutral palette
MAC Blacktrack gel eyeliner
False Lashes by Ardell in 110
Urban Decay eyeliner in Zero
LIPS
Inglot matte lipstick and MAC lipgloss in Oystershine
I met my good friend, Marissa Narvaez when I lived in Baguio in 2009 and we both share the same interests and passion which is makeup and more makeup. Admitedly, she began to feed this growing need for a more disciplined approach when she enrolled in the Center for the Aesthetic Studies with Jen Delica on a one on one basis and Airbrush makeup with Georginna Desuasido. From there, she saw a demand for makeup artists in the north and her passion turned into a growing craft where she can impound on the importance of beauty in the self esteem of a woman. We both reciprocate and feed our artistry whenever an opportunity arises for an extra pair of magical hands.
Her gorgeous Indian Bride.
The Bride and her artistUp Close and Sensational
She is currently an entrepreneur in her own right as she and her husband are engaged in the pursuit of wellness and pampering, they own Kuwentong Barbero located in SM, a Manila franchise of Nuat Thai Massage along Marcos Highway and a Spa called Mari Spa on Abanao st. She definitely has cornered her own market. She also conducts Personal Beauty workshops to young women in need of beauty enhancement. Here is a glimpse of a woman who lives and breathes beauty.
Q & A:
What inspired you to get into makeup and did you immediately know that’s what you wanted to do?
My mom and my older sister were my inspiration. Since I was a kid, I’ve seen them glammed up and would always play with my mom’s make-up stash. My sister was a professional model in her early years and I was just in awe seeing her putting on make-up. My penchant for using make up started when I was young.
My first job was working for a 5-star chain hotel and I was required to be made-up at all times! It was not a task for me as I was having fun and in fact, I enjoyed helping out my work colleagues with their make-up application.
When I moved to Baguio, I thought of doing professional make-up but I didn’t get to practice until 2008. Yes, I knew immediately that’s what I wanted to do.
Where did you train or are you self-taught?
Since I was based in Baguio and I was working fulltime, I couldn’t take the long courses offered at CAS back in 2008. I took the one-on-one session with Ms. Jen Delica and took me 3 days to learn everything! That was my first formal make- up training session. I took short courses at Maquiallage Professionel, Make-up Designory and Shu Uemura the following years.
Where do you find inspiration?
Mostly from my make up books, magazines, works of my favorite make up artists and Pinterest!
What’s the best advise a fellow professional has ever given you?
Never stop practicing.
How do you think your work has evolved since you first began working professionally?
The make-up industry is like the medical field. There is always new technology invented. You need to be abreast in learning new techniques. I aim to constantly learn from my mentors by attending their workshops and training sessions. My passion for learning was the key element.
Which one product do you wish you could have or create, to make your life easier?
I wish to have TML The Makeup Light right now. I hope Santa will read this…
One product you never leave home without for yourself or your kit?
Lipbalm!
How do you find time to relax?
I have a massage at Mari Spa (Shameless plug here!)
You conduct personal beauty workshops, how did that come about?
My friends convinced me to teach basic make up application and no one in Baguio has done it yet. What is common here are sponsored workshops or training sessions by network marketing companies.
How would you describe your work?
Brides are my favorite. They always have that radiant glow on their big day no matter how stressed they are. With my techniques, my goal is always to bring out their natural beauty.
Describe yourself in one word
Trailblazer.
My Dream Shoot:
Location: The Mansion House, Baguio City
Photographer: Boy Yñiguez
Model: Acie Romero-Salas (!!!)
Stylist: Candy Reyes
Hair: Alee Benson
Marissa’s Makeup Kit
Marissa’s Kikay Kit
1) Kanebo Media Compact Foundation – Medium Coverage but feels so lightweight in the skin. It also give my skin a glow, which is what Japanese products are known for.
2) NARS Schiap Lipstick – This gives my face the color pop I need everyday. Love Love!
3) Lucas pawpaw Ointment – Best all around everything. I use it on my lips and areas on my face that need moisturising.
4) Lancome Hypnose Mascara – My lashes love the curl it gives.
5) NARS Orgasm Lip Gloss – If its good for the Kardashians, its good for me too.
6) OCC Lip Tar – On days I don’t feel like wearing color on my lips, a pin size of this lipstick is all I need to look put together.
7) My Tweezerman tweezers and Shu Uemura Lash Curler – My handy dandy tools for my lashes and eyebrows.
She is a gifted artist, devoted mother and workaholic, she is a woman on the go or should I say woman on the glow? Book her for your beauty needs whenever you are in Baguio and she will make it a pleasurable experience for you. Her expertise is in bridal and glam makeup, she will not disappoint.
I love my job. Weddings are usually that particular time where emotions of happiness, joy and sadness come into play. I was touched when my friend Rachelle Almario called me to ask if I was available on February 11 to do the hair and makeup of her best friend Lisa Antonio. It was her wedding gift to them. This is the stuff I live for.
BFF. Warms my heart.
Lisa and I share 2 things in common, Rachelle is also one of my good friends and that we both just moved into the Alabang area recently, having our homes built within the same year in 2014. Lisa is an architect, she carries the lineage of the late National Artist Ramon Antonio and her famous aunts the Veloso sisters who are well known for their made to order clothes for Manila’s chic society. Her well appointed home with clean and crisp lines give you an indication of her choice in wedding style. The epitome of chic and sophistication echo the simplicity of her gown bought from Rosa Clara.
Channeling Audrey Hepburn
Calm and Relaxed.
Lisa conveyed her wishes to me by making her hair and makeup very simple, nothing too contrived just effortless. She looked to Audrey Hepburn and Carolina Herrera as her inspiration and immediately I knew what direction she wanted.
This is her other good friend Triccie Syquia who was part of her wedding entourage who I also had the pleasure of glamming up.
Thank you Rachelle and Lisa for the gift of friendship and I wish you and TBoy all the best on your new life ahead.
Photos courtesy of Lisa A. Rodriguez and Randolf Evans Photography. Hair by Tony Dusich
“True art is characterized by an irresistable urge in the creative artist”. ~ Albert Einstein
Rituals — Patrick Rosas’ second book — was recently launched before the holiday season. (I know, I’m late in posting!) The book is a stunning compilation of his latest work in collaboration with six of his favorite photographers: Neal Oshima, Filbert Kung, Marc Nicdao, Patrick Uy, Joan Bitangcol and Glenn Gordon, and the beautiful men and women of Manila of whom he has had the pleasure of working and establishing close relationships with.
Hardbound and covered in pink Vellum paperThis copy is encased in glass, which makes it all more precious and desirable. This version is also on sale at National Book Store.Published by ABS CBN. Proceeds from the sale of the book go to charity. Beauty with a conscience.One of the sponsors, the Estee Lauder Group of Companies was a major contributor to the book. It seems the color red and pink and its varying shades were made to convey femininity in its glory.Roses for Rosas. The red centerpiece meant to channel and exude the passion in the man.Rhoda Campos Aldanese, a former colleague, was kind enough to extend the invitation to me to attend the launch with her. Posing with her own photo. I wish all selfies and I.D. photos looked this good.Rhoda Campos Aldanese Photographed by Mark Nicdao. I also had the privilege of doing her makeup for the Tatler Ball a few weeks before this event.Ladies going to the Tatler Ball. Rhoda Campos Aldanese and Julie Boschi were glammed up by myself and Arvie Matibag for their hair. Whaddya think Mr. Rosas?
Here a couple of my favorite photos from the book.
My aunt, Baby Araneta Forés. I am biased, indulge me. This made the cover of Rogue Magazine recently. Photographed by Marc NicdaoFresh Faced Restaurateur and chef, Margarita Forés. Indulge me once again. No one does the Clean and Fresh look like Patrick does, that’s why he is always in demand for skincare and TV commercials . Photographed by Marc Nicdao.Maricel Soriano like you’ve never seen her before. Glam O Mama! Breathtaking! Photographed by Marc NicdaoGwedolyn Ruais, Miss World Philippines 2011 as Queen Nefertiti. Oh the endless possibilities. Perfect peg. Loving the neck, so graceful and elegant. Photographed by Filbert KungElizabeth Taylor in the house! Dont you wish you had eyebrows like those? Lola Puga Photographed by Neal Oshima.Saving the best for last, Gretchen Barretto as a Masai Princess. Stunning! Patrick Rosas’ muse and dear friend who also helped in making this book a dream come true for him. Photographed by Marc Nicdao
This book serves as an inspirational reference to all makeup artists and lovers of beauty, color and women. Acclaim and praise also belong to the photographers who gave life to the photos which (in my opinion), leaves a powerful impact on the reader.
Rituals was so named because life is all about rituals and its interconnection to the universe. He sought to change the perception that rituals are not meant to be boring but to see the beauty in doing something as a moment and in the moment. The pegs and inspiration that he used and interpreted with his muses are very on point and seem to depict what each of them can magically transform into by the wave of his brush and hand. Magician or Wizard? Both. Just ask these men and women. He is what you call the Philippines’ version of Kevin Aucoin and I agree that he should be put in that same pedestal as Kevin’s as he will always continue to evolve as an artist with as much gusto and verve one can expect from a true artist. I can’t wait for more surprises from this man.
I am truly enjoying leafing through this book, taking my time in admiring each page and seeing endless powerful images of beauty. Dream and forge on as they say. Thank you Patrick Rosas for making me believe.
Rituals is published by ABS CBN publishing and is currently available at National Book Store for P4,500.00.
Time seems to be elusive. I need more of it! As the saying goes, “It’s more precious than gold yet it cannot be earned, bought or saved.” I’ve barely settled in our new home, and then throw in workshops and events attended — and for added fun, serving clients in between —I’ve had no time to sit and update the blog.
I’m not complaining, I just need more time management and extra pair of hands!
Here are a few workshops and events I’d like to share with you in my learning quest to makeup greatness.
TransDerma Event (September 2014)
Having Good skin is always a beauty asset.
I can’t stress this enough: Having good skin is essential in makeup application. What good is a smokey eye, or a glammed up look if the canvass underneath is not healthy and worthy of a closeup or selfie?
Which brings me to the TransDerma products, and the event launching. I considered an invitation from an aunt of mine, Maricel G. Carrascoso ,who is bringing in this wonderful amazing product from Japan: Transderma Vitamin C and Vitamin A.
Both are serums that are plant-based, free of all the harmful ingredients and other chemicals that add to its product longevity. I’m a firm believer in the effects of Vitamin C serum in the face as it acts as an oxidant, skin brightener and overall improvement of the skin. This has been part of my skincare regimen. Add Vitamin A serum to the skin cocktail mix, and you have the best of both worlds in the magic of youth preservation and delay.
Vitamin A serum, on the other hand, is responsible for skin surface exfoliation and reducing fine lines and wrinkles and is applied at night only.
Both serums are not greasy; they melt on contact. The best part is the packaging, which uses pumps for dispensing for ease of use.
Testimonials from these women were enough to convince me that there is room for one more player in the skincare market. Some of these women who tried all the high-end products out there swore that upon switching to this line, their skin never felt better. Why? If you can read the selling point at the photo at the back of the product packaging, it says product does not contain water. Notice how sometimes we apply a product and after a few minutes our skin color turns ashy gray or dark?
Selling point which got me hooked.
Graziella Ronlan, an international makeup artist and expert in skincare teamed up with Swedish doctor. Dr. Alvin Ronlan Docent, to simplify the skin care program by harnessing the power of natural ingredients combined with technological systems for faster skin penetration. Ladies, there are no harmful ingredients or superflous synthetic compounds so it is definitely safe to use. Free of artificial color, preservatives, perfumes and other synthetic compounds, Transderma products are not tested on animals and are suitable for women and men of all ethnicities and skin types.
If this bottle comes with the model shown, I’m getting more than one bottle!Vitamin A to be used at night.
For more information and orders, call Maricel G. Carrascoso at +63 917 886 8860 and Carmen Ocampo Krause at + 63 917 796 3559.
Marche Editorial (September 2014)
It was a Beautiful Affair. I, together with other makeup artists, Nybie Ng, Charisma Vergara, Daisy Talosig and Gem Uy, were invited by Marché Magazine to showcase our Bridal artistry for their October issue. It was a beautifully orchestrated soiree by the Marché Magazine team, headed by Japhilee Zapata, who made our day smooth sailing throughout. Photographer Chris Gallegos made our models very comfortable and gorgeous by way of his easy manner and photographic skill in showing the right angles of our models. Joaquin Ambata Films shot the BTS. Honestly, I felt like I was in a movie set, but unfortunately I wasn’t the one being pampered, haha!
Below are some scenes on what went on that fun day.
Hocus Focus. Making sure her eyebrows are on fleek.My Inspiration and pegs for the shoot.First look done. Where is my gown Inno Sotto?Selfie before I face Chris Gallegos our Photographer.Its a wrap. Second look done!Thank you Japhilee and to the Marché MAgazine team. Hair stylist Rikki Suarezs T-shirt said it all.
Velada 2014 (October 2014)
Being an Assumption alumnae, we have a yearly tradition of celebrating our sisterhood which we call a velada. A velada is a homecoming or reunion of sorts, which is hosted by the youngest batch of HS graduates celebrating 25 years (Silver) followed by the jubilarians celebrating 30 years (Pearl), 35 years, (Jade), 40 years (Ruby), 50 years (Gold), 60 years (Diamond). It is a song and dance extravaganza highlighting the Assumption education and values, and interpreted as a reflection of what it has made us become the women that we are today.
This year, my batch celebrated 30 years, and our theme was “Still One”. My Team and I did the hair and makeup requirements for the show — and yes, I multitasked! I was both performer and an active participant behind the scenes.
Our inspiration for the presentation was Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, to represent the qualities of the Pearl which is timeless, elegant and precious.
Photo taken from the ACHS84 FB Page. Written by Malou Dulce BetchoMakeup Peg. From the MAC ArchivesAudrey Hepburn Makeup PegHair inspiration pegMy Look for the first day of performance
My Batchmates all made up and ready to break a leg. Lally Aldeguer showing us the signature pose that gave us the confidence. Andrew Ferraris is the choreographer that made us look so good. Photo taken from Leia Regala.
Kudos to my glam team that made us look gorg! Marissa Narvaez another Assumption Alumnae whose turn to celebrate her 25th year next year, Alee Benson, Rikki Suarez, Nida, OJ Cacnio, Toni Gutierrez, Kit Fabia and Rochelle Tiosen.
MAC Artistry (November 2014)
Chiqui Ortiz Dingcong sent out a message in our group, UMAP, asking the members who wanted to attend the event of MAC Cosmetics. She announced that she could only accommodate 7 people to come with her, so I immediately signed up. Anything that involves MAC Cosmetics I try as much as possible to attend, regardless of whether it is has something to do with being a guest artist for that day or just attending their wonderful seminars.
They launched their Makeup Artistry Skills In Minutes program, mainly targeting their huge consumer base on how to apply their own makeup and be good at it. It is a series of interactive videos narrated and demonstrated by MAC Cosmetics Senior artists like Gregory Arlt and Caitlin, who were in Manila recently to give makeup demos, and Romero who I consider makeup gods. (Gregory Arlt is the makeup artist of choice for Gwen Stefani whenever she hosts The Voice.)
Videos were splattered on giant screens showing the consumer how to perfect your makeup skills by following the tips given in the monitor. You click or slide the screen to learn how to do each part of your face by simply following the steps. These videos are available for viewing on YouTube for your viewing pleasure.
MAC Cosmetics has again been in the forefront of merging technology with their plethora of makeup knowhow and marketing efforts to complete the personal beauty experience. I have not seen this yet with the other makeup brands, except Clinique, wherein they provide the client with a board with sliding knobs that asks questions as to the kind of skin and face type one has in order to provide them with the right analysis of the product suitable to the area of concern.
Remember this?
Perfect Lipstick application
Brow Perfection
Gorgeous Polished lookWIth fellow UMAP MUA, Emily and Mikee Raymundo Senior MAC Trainor
Singapore was my brief respite last month mainly for my daughter’s gymnastics s competition held at Bishan Stadium. Trying to squeeze my shopping habit in between her training schedule had proved to be a fun experience. Sephora, Takashimaya, MAC Cosmetics, Guardian Pharmacy and Sasa have been my “candy land” and mecca of sorts when I’m visiting. In Hong Kong, it would be the same, except that Mannings Pharmacy is the counterpart of Guardian.
So described below are my “hauls” to satisfy my cosmetic addiction although if I had a bigger budget, I probably would have a preferred client card from the Cosmetics Department of Takashimaya Dept Store. Sadly, no. Some of these items are not new products, but sometimes I am a late bloomer and I usually take a second look and convince myself to just go out of my box sometimes and try them. Below is a recap.
My Singapore Haul
Top going clockwise
MAC Mineralize Charged Water Moisturizing Gel – Lately, I’ve been looking for light moisturizers that doesn’t feel heavy on my face , particularly now with the change in weather, its been so humid. Applying this lightweight cream gel feels so light and literally cool on your face, it is quickly absorbed. Perfect when you’re in a rush and need to apply concealer or foundation right after, it doesn’t slip and slide off. The effect on the skin is similar to that of a primer, it leaves a thin film on your skin but acts like a barrier and protection from the elements in the air.
Hourglass Veil Primer – I first tried this primer at a Sephora store in the US and was completely hooked over by its claim that it provides extra wear for your makeup’s staying power. It really does. It definitely is a pricey primer but so worth it. I just wish it came in a bigger bottle.
Laura Mercier Secret Finish + Mattifying Cream – I know I know, 2 primers? I’m a sucker for anything that makes my makeup last longer. I recently read that this product is the holy grail of mattifiers. Used under or over makeup, it soaks up the oil on the face like a Bounty paper towel. It’s that good.
Hakuhodo Cream/Liquid Brush – Hakuhodo is the Rolls Royce of brushes and it is pricey. It makes use of goat hair and each brush is handmade which makes it the most sought after line of brushes. Hakuhodo is as old as the Geisha industry and famously used by them. Called the Itabake brush, I saw this being used by a famous US makeup artist to apply cream contour and when he blended it using this brush, it seemed so seamless and there were no visible brush strokes on the face as opposed to using a foundation brush. I had to try it for myself.
Hakuhodo J 5521 Highlighting Brush – Also made out goat hair, the tapered end is good for applying highlighter on the high points on the face. This brush will make you or your client feel so relaxed, its that soft.
Cyber Colour Eyeliner and Liquid Eyeliner duo – While my personal preference is a gel liner, this was given to me by the Sasa ladies as a Gift with purchase. The other end is a liquid eyeliner while the other end is a pencil pen. The only drawback is that it is difficult to snap back on after using it, but otherwise it is waterproof.
Lorea’L Eyebrow pencil in Light Brown 02 – I saw this being used in the Lorea’l workshop that I attended last August. While I admire all those YouTubers who preach perfectly stenciled brows as the bomb, Miss Gex Garcia showed us how to wow the brow without looking too dark or harsh. Again I was hooked on this product. This has been out of stock quite a bit so I made it a point to stock up on this while I was at Sasa.
The Balm Bahama Mama Bronzer – I needed a new bronzer since my other bronzer broke out in pieces after a gig and it signaled me to buy one without the fragile packaging. Housed in a sturdy carton like box, it definitely was a winner for me. Plus I don’t look orange is a big plus. What can I say, I’m a late bloomer in discovering this wonder powder. It also doubles as an eye shadow, how’s that for multitasking?
La Roche Posay Anthelios 30++ Sunscreen protection – Packaging is tops, it has a nozzle like tube that squirts out the right amount for your face. It has UVA And UVB protection and when applied, it has a mattifying effect, not greasy on the face. Shine go away.
Bioderma Sebium H2O – One of my favorite makeup removers next to my cult favorite Ponds. Why? Fastest makeup remover without the tugging and pulling. Your face is back to its natural state in seconds. Its good for those with sensitive skin too. I hoard this stuff!
I call her my Electric fan. Tina has been my muse/model of sorts. Good Bone structure, check, lithe and model proportions, check. It helps too when she always encourages you to do your best and is very easy to please. Call it mutual admiration, she best epitomises what I look for in a dream client, her words are always ‘ikaw na bahala’ or “its up to you what looks best on me”. Despite her minimal look of a bare face and a bold lip, she pulls it off very effortlessly. Her shameless plug interview with me humbles me no end and I thank her for making me her artist of choice. Below is the light chat we had.
1. For what kind of event(s) did you hire Acie to create your look?
These are some of as far as I can recall. I may have missed one or two since Acie has been doing my make-up and my daughter’s (Marga) from the time she began her career in this field.
My sister, Sandy’s Wedding (July, 2011) – My make-up, Marga’s, the Bride’s (Sandy’s) and my other sister’s (Nadine’s)My Assumption High School Velada: 25th Anniversary (October 15 & 16, 2011) – My make-up on both days and on the second day, Acie also did the make-up of a group of my HS classmatesThe Belair Pasinaya – May 2012 – Makeup by AcieFlores de Mayo, Makati (May 4, 2012) – Make-up of Marga
2. What did you enjoy about working with Acie? What did you like about her makeup style, as well as her work style/ethic?
Acie is very professional with me and my daughter, Marga, even if she is my first cousin. She comes on time, complete with make-up, paraphernalia, assistants, and even pegs. She takes the time to understand what it is exactly that you want by asking questions about the event you’re going to, what you will be wearing, what you want or do not want. I noticed that she also makes the effort to “size up” your personality and she takes this into consideration as well. From there, she’ll incorporate her own touch and the result is always impeccable! She is very passionate with what she does and her expression of eagerness to do your make-up (every single time!) is contagious. These are only some of the many reasons why I wouldn’t have anyone else do my make-up and my daughter’s, but Acie.
A professional shoot. Makeup by Acie Fores.
What I like most about Acie’s make-up style is that it always turns out to have that natural look, yet my face is strikingly enhanced in all the right places. For someone who doesn’t really wear make-up on an everyday basis, it makes me feel like I’m still myself. My daughter and I get compliments all the time and the make-up stays the entire duration, even if the event is from morning to evening.
3. What are some of your favorite makeup products/must-haves for daily wear?
Ironically, I don’t wear any make-up on ordinary days. I simply put on my favorite shade of red lipstick by Mac or Chanel. This is how I’ve always done it for decades. In fact, I don’t know how to apply make-up. So, on special occasions when I really need to, I call on Acie to do her magic!
You never forget your first time experiences positive or otherwise, it never ceases to be erased in your memory. Sandy was my first bride and my first wedding experience as far as my makeup career is concerned, and it was truly memorable and fun. It’s been 4 years since her wedding and there are 2 additions to her family: 2 adorable female dogs, a Mini Schnauzer named Lexie and a West Highland Terrier Allie. Here she shares her thoughts about her most important day and her beauty favourites which have become her staples that make her feel confident and ready to face the work world.
1. For what kind of event(s) did you hire Acie to create your look?
My pre-nup shoot and wedding day.
2. What did you enjoy about working with Acie? What did you like about her makeup style, as well as her work style/ethic?
It was SO easy with, Acie! She asked me some questions about my style (wedding motif, wedding dress, etc) and what kind of look I preferred. I just told her that I wanted to look clean and fresh (sleepless nights should not show! Haha). That was it! But then again, I knew from the get go that Acie understood me and I personally loved her style so I was very comfortable and more than happy to let Acie do her magic on me. It was a joy having Acie part of my special day and will look back at the total experience fondly.
3. Can you share some photos with us of your look by Acie Fores?
Acie did my prenup makeup.
On my wedding day, Acie also made up my bridesmaids.Me and my gown; makeup by Acie.
4. What are some of your favorite makeup products/must-haves for daily wear?
Some of my recent favorites are:
Lips: MAC lipstick in my usual shade – Dubonnet BB2
Face:
Benefit’s POREfessional as my base / primer
Benefit’s ERASE paste concealer
Make-up Forever Pro Finish Multi-use powder foundation in shade Neutral Honey
Eyes:
Make-up Forever Professional Aqua Eyes – Water proof eye liner pencil (2L /brown shade)
I was chosen to be a speaker at my alma mater, Assumption College last week to discuss my career as a makeup artist to High School students. I was actually thrilled to be hand-picked from a roster of speakers who I found out later on were also fellow alumnae. I was informed by Mara Diego, Course Facilitator, that it was a week-long event that exposes the students to the different avenues they can venture into and serve as a venue for self discovery. It gives them an opportunity to learn and explore the different skills, talents or interests that were not considered careers before. This is where I come in.
It was a trip down memory lane as I walked through the corridors, hallways and the all too familiar excited chatter of students. I was hoping to bump into familiar teachers and nuns, but it was a day full of endless activity and movement of people crossing each other’s paths.
The campus was definitely changing as new buildings were being added to accommodate the growing number of students and the lack of negative space as a result of this was glaringly noticeable. Quite a shock for me and I’m looking at it from a perspective of positivity instead of nostalgia.
On to the talk. My audience was composed of very attentive and behaved ladies. I couldn’t believe they were hanging on to every word I said. The highlight was actually the demo I did on Mara. My talk revolved around the basics of makeup application and grooming to prepare them for the rigors of college life and to some, their entrance into the big world out there to look for jobs.
Highlights of the talk
Makeup Artistry is a growing lucrative industry. Presently it has specific areas in which one can focus their artistry on namely, Print and Editorial, Film and Theater or Stage, Weddings and Bridal and Special Effects. Nowadays, with a growing list of makeup artist celebrities, it is an art and a skill and one has to be professionally trained and licensed to practice it. Makeup artists gain an edge and credibility when one is trained technically.
With advancements in research and technology, cosmetics are now combined with skincare to fit the needs of a busy woman on the go. Cosmetics now serve as dual purpose both to give color and enhancement to the face but at the same time, it can give the skin healing and restorative benefits and delay the aging process as an added bonus.
Social Media has played a huge factor in putting cosmetics and makeup to the forefront and more accessible to the consumer. It serves as a platform for promotion and instant gratification. It also builds a community that serves as your audience to communicate with.
Facial Contouring is not for everyday application. While it gives the face depth and dimension and make you look better in photos, it is not a realistic application due to the skill and time involved for the woman on the go. Contouring is used for purposes of print media and for spacial occasions.
Eyebrow frames the face and varies from individual to individual. As Asians, the 3 point rule will apply depending on the width of the nostril and eye shape. Eyebrows are not symmetrically balanced but it should look similar not exact.
A smokey eye can be worn during the day provided the application and choice of color is not too dark for day. Matte neutral shades in earth tones and in the family of plums enhance Asian tones the best.
Makeup is a continuing learning process. One can never rest on her laurels, one should strive to be better in the next work. Learning can be achieved by reading, apprenticing with other masters and constant practice is a must in order to keep up with the trends in the industry. It should also be considered fun otherwise we lose the main reason why we are in the business. Passion is what fuels the imagination. Lastly Be humble.
In our unpredictable climate here in Manila, you just never know when it’ll rain, when it’ll shine. Admittedly, those times can be frustrating, especially if you’re deciding on what type of makeup to use! Naturally, changes in the weather call for the appropriate cosmetics. And so, I’ve rounded up some “weather proof” picks that can take you from rain to shine (sans the shiny face — no pun intended.)
Essentially, most of the products chosen have to be waterproof, and budge proof in a humid weather like ours. Creamy textures are key in maintaining the longevity of the makeup wear and easy to apply with your fingers. At the same time, you want your beauty products to multitask for you when you are in a hurry. Here are some of my recommendations, which should work for any skin type and lifestyle.
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.
1) Kanebo Media Compact Foundation – Medium Coverage but feels so lightweight in the skin. It also give my skin a glow, which is what Japanese products are known for.
