Making people beautiful one strand at a time!

Trying new things..

2011-06-13T13:10:00.000-07:00

(Why yes, I do happen to have a camel picture handy, before you judge- lets discuss what pictures you have randomly on your computer.. perhaps under the "private" folder. )
I like trying new things. I think this makes me adventurous. I may have no desire to jump out of planes, off bridges, or hike the Serengeti. Actually, I don't even know if one would "hike" the Serengeti. If not, please feel free to take creative liberties and just insert some place adventurous to hike.

I do- however, love to try new foods, new recipes, and new shopping locations.. okay that one was lame. But you get the point. I also love to try new products. It's no secret that I have an uncontrollable desire to know everything about everything. Did you know that there are almost no wild camels. There is a small extremely endangered population in China and Mongolia.
Crazy isn't it? Lets not even get me started on the sweet wittle Pandas out there. I really need to get on something for this ADD don't I?

My desire to know everything about everything had led me to agree to sample a makeup product called Mineral Hygenics

Mineral Hygienics is a mineral powder similar to the popular mineral makeup you see on infomercials. It's gluten free, talc free, Bismuth free, and a whole bunch of other great things. I've been using said infomercial makeup for years now but have lately been unhappy with the results. I've also wanted to look into retailing makeup. But couldn't decide on which line to use.
You guys know I wouldn't lie to you about a product, or try to sell you anything I don't fully stand behind. I am not being paid for this review. I just wanted to chat about it.

I got my box of foundation samples as well as a foundation brush in the mail today and was excited to try it on. The person I talked to on the phone said that MH was sweat resistant, great for sensitive skin, non-acnegenic, and water resistant. You had me at sweat resistant. I have been known to wear the "hard core" Camouflage airbrush foundation in the summer because I sweat profusely and my makeup is usually MIA within an hour. Lovely. I put on the MH foundation today before I needed to run a few errands. The foundation itself seems to be a bit finer than what I'm used to. This for me is neither a plus or negative. I found the coverage to be a little lighter than the other brand as well, but I also may not have put on my typical amount. It did however give me good coverage with a natural even skin tone. The feeling of the makeup on my face is a bit.. dryer. But not in the sense that it makes me look or feel dry. It just doesn't have the same texture as the "other brand". I realize I keep comparing the two but I don't have a lot of experience with many other brands.
I can say though, that it has been over 6 hours and I have had a small sweaty episode and my makeup coverage appears to be the same as it was when I first applied. I also tried their mineral enhancer which I believe is in "Cool Kiss". I have to say, I LOVE this color. Its great for either a bronzer or even great for contouring. Its not orangey which is a huge plus.

So far, I actually like this stuff. I'm going to wear it for a week and let you know how it wears, and if I notice any break outs. I have super sensitive skin as well as eczema so I'll know pretty soon if this makeup is legit or not! I'm excited though to give this a-go. So far, so good.

Lauren

2011-05-17T15:24:00.000-07:00

It's always super exciting to work with a photographer directly, and even more nerve wrecking to work with their daughter. You see, Laurens parents own Jmark Photography, so no pressure to make sure they had as little photoshopping as possible! Luckily for me- Lauren's a knock out. So A. She didn't ruin my winning streak of gorgeous brides, and B. Easy A on this one! Lauren also has a dry sense of humor like me, and wanted to have a 50's glam look with a bird cage veil. I'm in love.

Lauren opted for Airbrush makeup for her bridal portraits and loved it so much her mom purchased an airbrush set from me and gave it to her for Christmas. I'm telling you, once you go airbrush- you never go back!

Below are some pictures of Laurens bridal portraits followed by her wedding pictures. I also had the privilege to do Laurens MOH's hair/makeup (dark hair with low bun) as well as her mother in laws hair/makeup, and moms makeup. Thanks Ladies! Y'all were a blast!

Sarah Sarah .shes so -fair....uh?

2011-05-17T14:47:00.000-07:00

Its always really cool to see one of my brides featured on the amazing Style Me Pretty blog. Weddings these days are so BEAUTIFUL! I really am starting to want to renew my vows. Especially now that I've been in the business forever and know a TON of talented vendors. Actually, renewing my vows might not be a great idea. How would I chose my photographer? I have a list of amazing photographers I could never choose. I would have to win the lotto, hire them all and just have a gillion wedding pictures. Which, actually is okay, considering I have Zero pictures from my wedding. The ONE job I had my husband do was to order pictures. 6 years later. I'm still waiting. Sure I could do it myself, but its the principal. Oh, and the photographers are no longer in business. Lame.

You know who didn't have any trouble picking their photographer? Sarah. She chose to go with Suzi Q from QWeddings. You definitely can NOT go wrong with Suzi Q! Check out the amazing pictures below.

For Sarahs wedding we did hair and airbrush makeup for her and a few members of her wedding party.

um..check out that flower girls expression.. Priceless!

The end!

Lets be frank...

2011-01-22T18:45:00.000-08:00

I'll bet your wondering why I'm starting to offer so many services. Is it because I want to milk this cosmetology license as much as possible? No.... To make as much money as possible? Nuh uh.. Is it because I want to dominate the beauty industry? Nope. Okay maybe a little.

So lets be frank.

It's because someone will ask me if I've heard/tried this, or that product and if I haven't, I don't like to be left out. I'm competitive that way. I don't like keeping up with the Joneses (sp?).. I like whooping up on them. I'm the neighborhood bully really. Oh, and if we're being really frank, all of the things I offer I use myself. And I have to pay for my habit. Consider yourselves my dealers. Or I'm the dealer and your my buyers. Or you're just my enablers. Either way. I NEED YOU!

SOO when I had a client tell me about Shellac I was embarrassed that I had no idea what she was talking about. I typically don't know a lot about new nail services out there because when I was in cosmetology school lots of the "little old ladies" assumed (because I'm Asian) that I was going to be doing nails. So I rebelled. I stayed as far away from the nail aspect of cosmetology as possible. It's mandatory that you take a certain amount of "nail" hours and have a certain amount of hands on (hardy har har) experience. So I'm no nail novice- but I'm not an expert either. Actually, the thought of touching someones foot makes me vomit. Seriously. I actually vomited at school once during a pedicure. SOOOO- Long story EVEN longer. Shellac. I'm terrible at explaining things but I'm going to try to explain this as simply as possible. Shellac is a hard-core manicure. Its suppose to last 2-weeks and beyond! This stuff is actually safe and wont damage your nails. There is no buffing or filing of the actual nail. Except to shape if desired. So you layer on the special UV polish, base, color, and top coat and set the polish in between coats under a UV lamp. The end results. Beautifully painted nails that remain chip free, stronger, and just as glossy as the first day, up until the last day. They say it lasts 2+ weeks and you could go longer depending on how fast your nails grow.

I don't like to solicit anything I myself haven't tried. I myself don't get manicures because I have NEVER had my nails painted and not messed them up within seconds of having them done or leaving the salon, and B. they chip either within an hour and DEFINITELY by the next day. I think if anyone is a good model for this stuff, it would be me. So I got all the supplies needed and tried it out myself last night. I was planning on taking step by step pictures, but with two little ones running around, a house filled with 6 shedding animals, and the lack of ability to function with my left hand... last night was just a hot, harry mess. As I was applying the polish, I got hair on several nails.. then I smudged the polish trying to shove my hands into the UV lamp inches away from where I was painting them. And then amongst all the commotion I forgot if I put the top coat on one of my hands. It was late. I *think* I put it on. Anyway- I'm writing this "review" 24+ hours later and have to say. Even after I thought one of my nails looked like it melted when I smudged it, it smoothed out on its own while drying, and they are still shiny and chip free today! I even washed dishes, babies, and myself! I'll post again if I find out it sucks later. But so far, soooo good! I'll have to get one of my friends to sit down and be a model for some action photos!

Here is a good review with pictures about CND Shellac

Hannah's Seniors

2011-01-05T09:37:00.000-08:00

I was super excited when I first met Kristi with Kristi Wright Photography for her first Brazilian Blowout. I am drawn to people to have laid back personalities, and a good sense of humor. And that was this little lady. We chatted it up quite a bit and then started talking about wanting to get involved with more senior pictures. (Just and FYI, I had to google the spelling for senior twice now. I keep thinking I'm spelling the Spanish word for sir..annywayy....) So we decided to do a little collaboration and offer ONE senior from each school in Austin a free photo shoot with hair and makeup! Um.. Hello! That's where sweet Hannah comes in.

Hannah contacts- Kristi who then contacted me- where I later met up with both of them at Hannah's amazing house and that's where the fun began!

Kristi and I chatted a bit about the looks she was going for. We wanted to keep her natural and fresh. And earthy. Organic really. I do love some organic! Hannah is soo naturally pretty that it was really easy. She was really easy. The whole day was really easy..really... I'll stop. Just give me a minute.

So if you or anyone you know wants an awesome photographer for any special day be it weddings, engagements, bridals, photo shoots, children, child birth.. (Okay, I don't know how down Kristi would be with photographing the birth of anyone's child.. but I try not to limit her ;) ) just contact Kristi at Kristi Wright Photography.

Oh, and we are still offering the senior sessions so if you know someone.. holla!

Amber waves of...

2010-12-23T21:26:00.000-08:00

I got nothin'. I'm not your monkey! I can't always come up with clever and catchy titles.

Okay- I'm a little hyped up on ~~cold medicine~~ life. I'm not making much sense.

So, I met Amber and her sweet mom and dad at her hair trial at my house. The whole lot of them were really relaxing to be around, asking all the right questions, and just truly interested in the "art" of hair doin'.

Come wedding day, I met with Amber at her parents gorgeous house and did hair and makeup for her, her mom, sister, and a couple of bridesmaids. We laughed the ENTIRE time. I can't thank them enough for such a great time!

Monika

2010-12-02T21:43:00.000-08:00

Monika and I met when she asked me to do her hair and makeup for her engagement pictures. She said she wanted a vintage look. And I do love me some vintage! The only problem. It was like 110 degrees outside and she needed enough time to go home and get dressed, and then meet with the photographer. So longwear lipstick and pinned curls it is! I forgot to mention that Monika is from Poland so she has this beautiful accent, and an even more beautiful heart. The girl loves animals. Which of course means I love her.

Here are a few pictures from her wedding- Could this girl be any more stunning? And such hot bridesmaids!

Whats new?

2010-12-01T08:23:00.001-08:00

I'm afraid to tell you something. And this may come as a shock to y'all. I'm a terrible blogger! I know. I'll give you a minute to compose yourselves...... ready?

So I've been asked a lot about airbrush makeup and if it were easy. And then I get a lot of questions about if it can be done themselves. The answer is yes, and YES! Now, I don't want all my fellow makeup artists getting mad at me because I'm saying something we do is easy. Because, what WE do ain't easy! Airbrush makeup can be complicated. Different situations may come up that would involve a lot of knowledge in the subject in order to address the issue correctly. (Wow. That sounded very grown up of me didn't it?) That being said, you can definitely do your own airbrush makeup. Lessons with a knowledgeable professional will definitely start you off on the right path.

After much deliberation I've decided to start offering airbrush makeup lessons that will come with your own airbrush compressor, gun, and foundation.
Just in time for Christmas I'd say! So feel free to contact me with any questions or if you'd like to sign up for a private or group class!
(This class is not designed for makeup professionals)

PARTY AT CINDY AND BRIANS!!!!!!!!!

2010-09-03T14:27:00.000-07:00

~~KEGGER~~ Upscale Open House at Vista West Ranch! Come see me and the other Uh-Mazing vendors September 11th from 5-8pm at Vista West Ranch. Seriously check out the flyer below made by the fantastic Aimee Villa. And like the other Villa (Bob Vila, and yes I know, two different last names but go with me on this one) she'll turn your wedding from Drab to Fab.. Or Broke to Smoke...in. smokin. Okay. I'm done butchering poor Aimee's name. Something she'd never do your wedding! And something I'd never do to your hair. I now see why "oops, and butcher are two things someone never wants to hear on their wedding day. And especially from their hair stylist.

Come check me out anyway and eat some good food, and have some drinks.. pass out in the super luxurious honeymoon cottage. Whatever.

If you book your wedding at the open house be sure to ask about the super awesome discounts I'll be offering. Book ANNND one of the vendors at the open house and get an even more awesome discount (especially if you book me and VWR)!

High School Senior Portrait Contest!

2010-08-20T20:41:00.000-07:00

I am super excited to team up with Kristi Wright of Kristi Wright photography.

She recently contacted me about wanting to have the Brazilian Blowout done after hearing Becky Brock with BZ Events rave about hers. So- we scheduled for me to come out to her place and while I was there we started talking about how we'd love to be able to work together and how we'd both love to be able to do more senior portraits. Thus the birth of the High School Senior Portrait Contest!

Here are the deets: <--details. I thought "deets" made me sound more young and hip. But I guess by attempting to sound young and hip, and actually saying "young and hip" I actually sound like a middle aged-mom jean-wearin-old lady. Sigh. Where did the time go?

Okay back to the "deets":

Looking for High School Senior rep applicants! Winner will recieve one complimentary Senior Portraits Session with Kristi Wright Photography and professional hair and makeup by LucieMarie! Applicants must be high school seniors graduating with the class of 2011 to qualify. Please submit a photo of yourself or someone you know along with details about yourself and why you should win! We are seeking applicants who are fun with loads of personality! Deadline to enter is September 15th. Applicants under 18 will need parent's approval.

Please E-mail kristi@kristiwrightphotography.com with subject line "senior portrait contest" to enter!

This is going to be a humdinger of a time y'all! Thats right. I said humdinger!

Ashley

2010-08-11T14:18:00.000-07:00

First can I say... I want a purple door!
Here are some pictures of the ever gorgeous Ashley- at her bridal portraits. I also did the hair and airbrush makeup for Ashley and her bridal party as well as her awesome mom on Ashleys wedding day. Ashley got married at Barton Creek Resort and Spa. One of my favorite locations. I haven't gotten the day of pictures back- but you can check them out at Nessa K's blog.

Hodgepodge

2010-07-26T20:12:00.000-07:00

I realize that I normally do individual posts but I am having computer issues so I wanted to get these up here. And I'm limited on time so I knew if I tried to do them all separately it wouldn't happen. But it doesn't mean I don't love you ladies separately. I love each and every one of you equally. Promise!

Cassie
Every now and then you have one of those weddings that make you want to quit the industry. You can't wait to be done, and just be home. Well.. this wasn't one of them! Cassie was a hoot. Except I may start charging extra for people who have an unnecessarily large amount of hair. This girls has A LOT of hair. Like. I think if she just got a trim, she could wig a country of bald people for a week. I don't know why this country is bald, or why they need wigs for just a week. But just go with me here. Anyway. I ended doing hair and makeup for Cassie and her wedding party as well as her oh so awesome mother in law. Guys, her mother in law rocks. I wanted to adopt her. I love, love, love my MIL but should I ever get the opportunity to have an extra.. She'd be my extra!

I first met Cassie when she was doing her bridal portraits at the always gorgeous, and always amazing Vista West Ranch. Shannon Cunningham the photographer who oozes talent was there snapping away while we all laughed and had an awesome time.

We met up again on her actual wedding day where I got to meet her amazing and gorgeous bridesmaids all who got and appreciated my sarcastic sense of humor. All whom I love and adore! Cassie wanted an updo to help stay cool in the "warm" Texas weather, also because of her plethora of hair. We ended up curling the whole thing and putting it up in a romantic but "messy/textured" updo. We went with a "sexy natural" makeup look as well.

Thanks Cassie and family! Love you guys!

Lyndsey-

I met Lyndsey and her mom first for her bridal portraits. They were both really awesome to get to know. Lyndsey's mom and I talked about raising children, and she gave me helpful tips and told me a little about knitting even! Lyndsey is gorgeous guys. I remember seeing her and thinking, wow she's really pretty. Random I know. If you haven't gathered that I am "random" by now, you have some catching up to do! Lyndsey and I talked about how relaxed she wanted her wedding to be. See Lyndsey was super laid back and just really easy to be around. She was definitely a breath of fresh air! I remember her bridal portraits taking a little bit longer than I normally like to take because it was just so calm. I didn't have that sense of rush. Now don't go thinking she didn't make her pictures on time. She did. I personally like to be done sooner than planned that way there is relax time.

On her wedding day she opted for a smooth updo with a low full "bun". I really have to come up with another word for "bun" because for me personally, I immediately think of a ballerina with tight hair and a perfectly round bun. Which is lovely but not for everyone.

Lyndsey also made her own little hair bobby pins to wear on the big day.

I remember her hair curling very shiny too. She's one of those people blessed with really pretty hair, that curls perfectly! Its not fair. You know what else is awesome? She sent me her pictures without me even having to email and ask her. I love her already. I mean, I loved her then- but now I really love her. Border-lining creepy love her. Borderline....

Hayley

Sweet Hayley! I initially met Hayley at her bridal portraits as well. It was in the early AM and the weather was drizzly. Hayley has two sweet doglets who I loved. Hayley wanted a very elegant updo with a classic bun. She also had a tiara/headband that she wanted to incorporate into the hairstyle. I remember Hayley and her mom asking a lot of questions (not remotely in the bad way) and just soaking in the information. It was really great being with them. I love sharing my product knowledge. And despite the not so great weather Hayley was still in good spirits and just super positive. Love her.

On Hayley's wedding day we arrived to a room full of lively bridesmaids. They were good conversationalist! I believe there was even a doctor in the mix. But I didn't score any free RX's out of it. Such a bummer. I kid!

Hayley had a flower girl who was set on a certain hair piece that wasn't really jiving with the "look" of the wedding. I believe the FG's grandmother ended up buying this super gorgeous headband (Which I wanted!) that happen to be worn by THE Taylor Swift <--wink wink! So of course she wanted to wear that one instead of the not so great one!

You know what else I rememeber? Hating Hayley. The girl doesn't have a single pore. Her skin is this gorgeous milky color, without a single blemish. The girl doesn't have a single pore! At least it made my job just a bit easier!

Sigh. So here are her poreless pictures.

Whats This Brazilian Blowout?

2010-07-19T21:26:00.000-07:00

I hate being the last to know about something. Especially when it comes to hair stuff. So about 6 months ago when my sister asked me if I'd ever heard of Brazilian Blowouts I was mad that I had no idea what she was talking about. Then I went to the website and read about the product. And then I got certified. But I was still skeptical. I had looked up reviews and it had great reviews but all the before and after pictures looked misleading. Because lets face it. Anyone who has had their hair blow-dried and flat ironed is going to look like they have great hair. So then I read that they were offering a class in Austin I thought it would be a great opportunity to check it out and ask questions. I didn't' know if they were going to do new a live demo or not, but I had hoped to see if this thing was a scam or not.

Once I arrived to the hotel where the class was, I immediately realized that this was either a very successful scam or a big hit, because there weren't even any chairs available!

So I wont go into detail about the class and spill all the dirty secrets, but I will tell you this. I AM SOLD! They did end up doing a live demo and the girl they did it on had fine but frizzy wavy hair. Once they applied the product and flat ironed, it looked great. But then, they washed it out and then free handed the blow dry. (Meaning they didn't use a brush) and her hair was just as shiny and fabulous as it was when they flat ironed it. It was that easy!

The Brazilian Blowout has a million benefits- its ammonia free so its safe and good for your hair. You don't have to worry about wearing anything in your hair after the service. It lasts 12 weeks (if not longer depending on how you care for it). YOU CAN STILL KEEP YOUR CURL! If you're wanting frizz free hair but want to keep your gorgeous curls, no worries! This is curl friendly. But if you're wanting your hair to be straight this is great for that too! Another awesome perk is that it can actually extend the life of your color! AWESOME! Why do I feel like the Sham Wow guy?

Guys, I realize I sound like an infomercial right now. But I promise, I would not blog about something that I don't like! And I'm just super excited about this product. I am waiting for the lovely Teanna to have some time off work so she can do my hair. I promise to do before and after pictures too. And by after, I mean- air dried after! The REAL test!

If you're just as excited to try this out as I am, give me a call and we can set up an appointment for you to get a treatment done at an amazingly discounted price! I'll be happy to accommodate after hour appointments and/or come to you!

Something Blue

2010-07-08T14:26:00.000-07:00

Come visit with me Sunday July 11 from 1-4pm at the newly upgraded Vista West Ranch. I'll be offering up some pretty awesome discounts on my services as well as free consultations/mini trials!

Glory Laurie

2010-05-22T19:50:00.001-07:00

Okay, so I couldn't think of a title for this one. I can't always be clever.

Laurie is an out of state bride so I was thrilled when she chose to work with us for her wedding. She was also getting married in Fredericksburg, which is a place I've heard many good things about, but have never actually been to. When I first met Laurie she was warning me that she was super particular about her makeup. I don't know about other makeup artists.. but it definitely scared me! Not that I doubted my work- but lets be honest here. Sometimes you meet people who are super particular and are... challenging. So after the hair trial, Laurie kept warning me about her particular-ness. (I know its not exactly a real word but it stays!) So as I was doing her airbrush makeup she did have feedback, but she was not remotely difficult. I had anxiety the whole time waiting for this difficult bridezilla to come out, and she never did. Laurie was actually pretty awesome.

So then I thought.. Okay she'll be more "particular" on her wedding day. And once again.. My friend Laurie disappointed me. She was super chill and great the whole time. Bummer. ;)

We ended up doing hair and makeup for her and her bridal party as well as on her awesome and equally as gorgeous momma. Loved her! And how amazing are these photos? I stole them from the lovely ladies with Anne Marie Photography. They are Ah-Mazing! For her wedding, Laurie chose a romantic textured low "bun" and airbrush makeup.

Making your conditioner work

2010-04-30T21:50:00.000-07:00

Let me start off by saying that I am not a chemist. I don't know exactly which ingredients do what. I do know some are good and some are bad, but if you want me to break down the long list of unpronounceable names on the back of your shampoo/conditioner bottle.. well.. I'll probably be making 95% of it up. So on with the show.
How many of you shampoo your hair, then condition and rinse immediately out with warm water? Whose actually raising their hand? You know I can't see you right? But don't you worry.. I know your out there!
Did you know that you can get pretty decent results even from the cheapest conditioners? By results I don't mean hair repair results, I just me cosmetic results. The better the product the better the ingredients. Although keep in mind, sometimes you're just paying for a brand name. I am aware that not everyone has or wants a thermal heat cap. But if you are ready to invest a little bit on your hair, I would definitely recommend getting one. So for those of you without one here's what you can do.
First- Shampoo
Second- remove as much water from your hair as you can. Do NOT twist your hair or pull at it. You can squeeze up and down the hair shafts but be gentle. Your hair is very stretchy when wet and can break easily.
Third- Once hair is not longer super drippy with water apply your conditioner to the ends and try not to focus too much on the actual scalp. Especially if you have an oily scalp and/or fine limp hair.
Here's where you have several options. You can either wait 5-10 min with your hair up and off your shoulders while the conditioner "processes".
Or you can get a towel and wet it with super hot water (or microwave a wet towel but be careful not to burn yourself) and wrap it around your hair for 10 minutes. This is also the time you would apply your heated cap if you had one.
Now here comes the hard part. Rinse first with a little bit of warm water. Just a little.. Pretty much just re-wet your hair a little. Then turn on that cold water and rinse with as cold of water as you can stand. If you're doing this in the shower it helps to tip your head forward so the cold water isn't hitting you in your birthday suit. Assuming your not showering fully clothed. Okay this can get really creepy really fast. I'm going to move on now.
So really though- that's it. Rinsing your hair with cold water is the Big Secret! Whys that you ask? Well- when you wash your hair with warm water it opens up the hair shaft, and so when apply conditioner and rinse again with warm water, your washing the product right out. If you wash with warm, and then apply the conditioner and then rinse with cold water you're closing the product in with the shaft. So to speak.
Give it a try. I promise you'll notice a difference.

Vendor Shout Out!

2010-04-29T22:37:00.000-07:00

I'm going to show some Vendor love every Friday on my blog. Being that I have a lot of vendors that I love.. today I'll be talking about Vista West Ranch. This place is heaven y'all. <--spoken like Paula Dean.

Not only is this place rustic chic, but the owners are great. I've been to many wedding locations and either A. Have never met the owners. B. Never even was able to contact someone to get directions to the brides whereabouts C. The owners were mean (Boo! They wont be featured on here!) or D. All of the above

I have never been to VWR without seeing Cindy or Brian helping set things up and helping out the bridal/wedding family. They recently got new tables and chairs and reupholstered the chairs to be all sorts of miss matched but in an awesome way. The actual establishment is made of aged wood, has a tin roof, and beautifuly stained concrete floors.

I believe their ever so adorable Honeymoon cottege should be opening up soon as well.

Embarrasingly enough- when everyone was talking about their beautiful new beirgarten I always thought they were saying Beer Garden. Like a little nook for people to go hang out and drink beer. I know. I have no excuse for my, whatever it is you want to call it.

VWR also has a great little bridal room with a claw foot tub *drool* and a wonderfully sized vanity area that is perfect for getting ready. I really do just love this place.

So anyway- Check them out. Its a gorgeous drive. And for anyone who books with them be sure to ask me how you can get a discount on my services!

The perfect Red!

2010-04-06T08:38:00.000-07:00

I may have finally found THE perfect red lipstick! So far its, been pretty universal and I'm definitely in love!

I recently took a class at MAC and the instructor used this gorgeous red lipstick on one of the models and it was love at first sight. With the lipstick, not the model. I'm not attracted to people who are thinner and prettier than I am. ;) I realize now that, that statement alone could offend all of my friends. But dear friends, please know- I love you, but I'm not attracted to you in that way. Okay, I seriously digress.

So this lipstick (can you tell I'm stalling for dramatic purposes?) with any red lipstick needs a good liner prior to its application. Liner will help your lipstick stay on longer and not bleed. However, anyone who has tried the dramatic red lip look, knows that red lipstick bleeds! So a tip/trick is to use this eyebrow wax made by MAC under the lipstick and liner. I haven't been able to rock out my new love yet for an extended period of time yet because its like some sort of beacon for my son who stares at me entranced and then will reach out and smudge my lipstick. You also have to be ready to rock it out. You have own the red. So if your not feeling it, it wont feel you.

Red lipstick isn't fool proof. One shade off and it can age you, age your teeth, and make you look like a hussy. It also has to be applied flawlessly otherwise it will throw off your whole look and just make you look unkempt.

Another red lipstick tip (or for any dark lipstick) is to take a little liquid foundation or preferably concealor and a small concealor brush and line the outer rim of your lips after you've applied the lipstick. This will help mask any mistakes as well as highlight your lips and give a fuller appearance. And who doesn't want fuller lips? Just ask all the famous chicks who inject the life out of their lips!

Okay so the unveiling of the fantastic lipstick!.. Drum roll please...........Soooo, I don't have any mad blog skills and don't know how to insert a drum roll, or even if you can, so lets just use our imagination.

Back to the point.. Next time youre in a MAC store.. hit up the lovely "Russian Red" lipstick. It is a blueish red lipstick that really is just gorgeous! Their "Cherry Bomb" lip liner works fabulously with it as well!

Dana Day!

2010-02-21T19:09:00.000-08:00

FUN.. is the best way to describe this bride and her wedding party. We had such a blast getting these girls ready. Everyone was hilarious and friendly and just great.
Dana (the bride) wanted her hair pulled up into a romantic flowy updo, and natural makeup as well. This girl is so pretty she really didn't need much!

Her bridesmaids also wanted makeup and didn't really have set ideas on what they wanted for hair, so I got to have fun with some updos.

Below are some pictures Dana was great enough to send me.

Her photographer was Anne Marie Photography who are the same folks who did my sisters wedding. (I promise to post pictures soon of that fiesta).

I LOVE their work.. so look below and enjoy.

Addressing some concerns.

2010-02-14T16:10:00.000-08:00

I wanted to take a moment to address some questions and concerns that have come up.

First of all I want to thank everyone for their kind words and well wishes with our new little one! She is amazing and her big brother loves her to pieces. No really, he tries pulling her fingers and toes.. You know, average 2 1/2 year old stuff!

Anyway- While I am still on a light maternity leave, I am trying to find a balance of being able to work at home and still return y'alls phone calls and emails!

I apologize now if there has been or will be any confusion!

I do appreciate your understanding while I sort things out.

Now for the concerns.

I recently had someone ask me if their date was available, and I confirmed it was, and we proceeded to get the date securing ball rolling. I sent said client the contract and then did not hear back from her. This wouldn't be the first time this has happened so the date that had a tentitive hold on it was back up for grabs. Of course once I booked someone else for that day, the previous client contacted me and was upset when I told her the day was no longer available. I definitely understand why she was upset, but I get at least 5-10 emails a day asking about dates. If I held every one of them without the contract- I would be doing 5 weddings a year.

So please know, that I am not in any way trying to do any sort of pressure sale- I just cannot hold a day without some sort of security! I have a newborn to diaper after-all!

Concern #2:

The difference between airbrush makeup and standard makeup:

Now many of you who have done trials with me have heard me say this.. I am not a good sales person. I don't like to push things on people, and I don't like to make someone think I'm pushing one thing rather than the other because its more expensive. That being said. Here is my opinion on what the difference is between my airbrush foundation and standard foundation.

For the standard foundation I use MAC's Face and Body, which is a water-based water resistant foundation. So if you sweat or tear up a little bit, its not going to streak. But it can be wiped off, so you definitely want to blot not rub when/if you cry. This foundation has build-able coverage-so it can get heavy if you have a lot that needs to be covered.
You may also need concealor with this as well. This is great however, if you have pretty clear skin.
The Glamour airbrush foundation has light to full coverage without feeling heavy. Great for skin with a lot of blemishes or red marks. Tear and sweat proof as well as the standard foundation. Maybe a tad bit more so. Usually has longer wear as well.
The Camouflage foundation is the full coverage foundation that is great for covering any discoloration, or if you have oily skin. Also great for tattoo cover up. This makeup is contact proof so it wont smudge or rub off on people and has to be washed off. So crying and sweating is no problem. This foundation can feel heavy though if you have dryer skin. But specialized moisturizer can be added.

Shhhh.. Somebodies getting married!

2010-01-28T21:10:00.000-08:00

Que suspenseful music.. dun dun duuuun. (Is that how you spell Que? Cue- Q, isn't that how you spell the Spanish word for "What"? Well you get the point. I hope. ) No make that- some sort of action movie music.. Okay, play whatever kind of music you want in your head. Whatever puts you in the mood for a secret elopement. I'm not sure how much I'm suppose to say, and not say- so I won't. I'll just talk about this gorgeous bride, and her hair and airbrush makeup.
I met Sarah when she came to my home for a trial. I t was a dark and stormy night, and she was dressed in dark shades, a trench coat and some sort of mafia, Frank Sinatra looking hat. Okay fine, so not really. I think she had some super cute knee high boots. I digress.
So we did her hair trial and all of a sudden she busts out this adorable bird cage veil she found for a steal at an antique store. Be still my heart. I lurve birdcage veils!
So on her actual wedding day, which was a gorgeous Monday morning- we did natural, beachy airbrush makeup and full sexy curls, with her bangs swept back and some to the side. It was an easy day. A. because she's gorgeous as it is, and B. Because she was just so nice. Loved her.
So Sarah, I wish you and Andrew the best!
Now some picture courtesy of the bride and Doberenz Photography.

Amy (May 2009)

2010-01-16T17:02:00.000-08:00

Amy found me via my sister Wendee with Lucies Events. I had only talked with Amy via phone calls and emails and never actually did a trial with her. So on the day of, I was a wee bit nervous but this definitely wouldn't have been the first time I've done a trial-less wedding. Once entering her hotel room, I KNEW my job would be a piece of cake. The girl is gorgeous! I was certain I could throw a bow in Amy's hair and then blow some powder on her face and I'd be done! BUT, we decided to go the professional route.

I ended up doing Amy's moms hair that day as well. But for Amy we did loose curls with natural makeup and darker lips. The weather was rainy and VERY humid. Which is always a concern for girls with naturally straight hair. Luck was on our side and her hair held up rather well! Thanks for being so awesome Amy!

I snagged some photos from her photographers site. Thanks A Bryan Photo!

Married Mary..

2009-12-23T14:48:00.000-08:00

This is a wedding that took place a little over a year ago- and I have been in regular contact with Mary but have neglected to share pictures. For shame, I know!
Mary got married in Leander/Cedar Park so in hopes of saving them some money (and because Mary is SOOOOOO sweet, you can't help but want to help her) I offered up my home for them to get ready. So they accepted, and Mary and her wedding party got ready here at mi-casa. It was quite nice. Everyone was in good spirits and really friendly, I loved her mom (aren't moms wonderful) and her bridesmaids and flower girls were wonderful as well.
(Sorry in advance, but I have to out a little here)
Mary has gorgeous hair. But wanted a really full hairstyle so we opted for extensions which I put in the day of. She also wanted a side swept hairstyle for the ceremony and wanted to be able to rock a different look for the ceremony. So we decided on having it all down for the reception. I pinned it so that it would be sturdy enough to last but easy enough for her to take out and still look great for the reception. We also did soft natural, but a hint of sexy makeup.
Anyway- here are a couple of pictures to tide you over for now!

Hello my neglected blog...

2009-12-23T14:28:00.000-08:00

Sigh.. I think about working on my blog almost daily. Its a lot of pressure you know to put up great pictures and then think of something interesting to say with it. Annnd.. I'm lazy. There I said it. LAY-ZEE. If I could, I'd hire someone to keep up with all of this for me. Hey.. you lookin' for a job?

No?

Well I tried.

Anyway- here are a few scattered photos from previous weddings. I will do individual intros here soon on each one. Promise.. promise to try anyway.

The following was dear Anneke's wedding. The girl is gorgeous as it is, so as always- my job was super easy. I loved her unique dress and you all know I love me some hair flowers and feathers!

We got Anneke and her bridesmaids ready in her hotel room, doing both hair and makeup, and everyone was SOOO SOO nice. It really did feel like we'd known each other forever and we just had a great time chatting and laughing. Loved them all! Peter Staats was the photographer for her wedding and was great about getting these to me. I have no excused for why it took so long!

Sweet Becky

2009-06-21T20:46:00.000-07:00

Sweet little Becky.. That's the first thing that comes to mind when I think of this awesome bride. When I first met Becky at her hair trial, she wanted a really romantic and somewhat traditional updo. Becky has TONS of hair and really wanted to have it neatly piled in curls high on her head, she also wanted to keep her makeup really natural. See, Becky doesn't wear any makeup. She is blessed with natural beauty and fantastically flawless skin. I know.. hate her with me. But hating Becky is impossible. She's too sweet. You know what? So is her mom. Her mom was hilarious and equally as sweet, but just a bit more outspoken. Especially on the big day. Man was she feisty!
Anywho- I met with Becky at Angel Springs Event Center, and right away I could tell this was going to be fun. Becky and her mom were in great spirits. We got started almost immediately and then her photographer showed up. Courtney with Courtneyspraguephotography.com came toting some heavy artillery consisting of a super fancy camera and ladders. Multitudes of different size ladders. I like this girl... I like her a lot! Especially since she took pictures of me from atop one of these ladders. I'm going to put that in my contract- all photos of Angela Parker must be taken from at least 5ft off the ground. Listen- I know the pictures are about the bride and her big day- but if I see another random picture of me and my double chin and/or arm flab I'm going to take a road trip to border town Mexico and get some semi sterile lipo done on myself.
Sorry- where was I? Oh yes.. Here are some photos of the joyous day!

Its 4am.. what are you doing?

2009-06-15T07:10:00.000-07:00

Well I was on the road, heading over to get started on the lovely Anita's wedding. Anita was having a traditional Indian wedding and needed to start getting ready by 5 am! It actually wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. Anita is lovely so it definitely helped!

Anita had originally contacted me when the wonderful folks at EverAfterImages recommended me to her. I love those guys. (And if you're looking for a super friendly and fabulous photographer- contact Debra and Raymond and they'd love to help you out!)

When I first met Anita at her parents home in Round Rock for the hair and makeup trial, I was overwhelmed by their hospitality.
Anita and her mother were both very accommodating and insisted we try the Chi (sp?) Tea that her mother makes, and you'd better believe her mom came back with a lovely silver tray of tea and cookies. SOO good!

So after doing the trial and discussing Anita's desires, I was already prepared for her big day.

We started at the Austin Hindu Temple, which is gorgeous, and I even got to see a horse! I have to say, Indian weddings are BEAUTIFUL! There are so many colors and traditions. But they are long! I believe Anita said her ceremony was 4 hours, and then they were having a reception later that evening. Poor thing must have been exhausted, although she didn't look it!

Later that evening we met up with Anita and her mother at her hotel in Downtown Austin and started doing both their hair and makeup for the reception. Anita changed into a gorgeous purple outfit, and looked amazing!

Here are a few pictures, more coming soon!

Congratulations Anita and Sujit- I hope Boston is treating y'all well!
And thank you for such an amazing experience!

Dangit, I'm soo blog lazy!

2009-05-22T20:40:00.000-07:00

I have neglected to post pictures from previous wedding and bridal portraits. While I am still waiting to get the majority back- here are a few!

Rachael is my new favorite person ever. I'm sorry you guys.. but really- she does dog rescue and just graduated and is going to start practicing veterinary medicine here in Austin! She also had a great personality, and her mom also loves the pooches! Not only that but look at her! She makes my work look soo darn good! She's gorgeous!

Rachael hired me to do her hair and makeup for her wedding and bridal portraits. It was fun getting to know her and her mom. It's always nice to work with someone who shares the same passion as you and who is beautiful inside and out! I just love her. And not in that creep way. I mean, I wont just show up at the clinic with a "sick" dog just to see her.. It would be too expensive! BUT, if I did have a dog or cat problem, because lets face it, I've got three dogs and three ungrateful cats.. There is bound to be a problem at any given time!

Anyway- thanks to Rachael and her mom for being so fun to chat and work with, and a big thanks to Lisa Woods with Nowandthenphotography.com! Your work is amazing. Oh and scroll down a little after Rachel's post and look at the ever so sweet video her husband made her for mothers day! I offered up her husband as Mr. Miyagi and my husband could be Danielson- she graciously accepted!

My dopple ganger..

2009-04-27T12:35:00.000-07:00

After meeting Karen at her hair trial, I knew I was in love!
Karen is witty, gorgeous, sarcastic, and super smart. Just like me. Okay, minus the super smart part. But definitely the gorgeous part! Anyway- Karen was a hoot during the trial, so I was really excited to work with her on her wedding day.
Once there I got to meet her (now) step daughter and her BFF from high school. Both ladies were so cool. We all were laughing until we had tears in our eyes. Which does pose as a makeup challenge, but I was up for it.
We also got to meet Karen's sweet mom, who had her hair and makeup done as well.

I'll post more pictures when I get them. But these will have to do for now, I swiped them from her photographers blog! Thanks Schmitt Photography!

Schmitt Photography!

Seriously, How did I get blessed with such awesome brides?!

Boring Brides....

2009-04-27T12:08:00.000-07:00

Man, there is nothing that makes me lose my hair doin' mojo faster than a boring bride. I had the "pleasure" of working with Mary Amanda a few months ago, and man was it dull, I don't drink caffeine but on this day, I all but shot it up!

Can't you tell?

Okay, so hopefully you've sensed some sarcasms with my first paragraph. Because Mary Amanda, (MAB) was soo much fun to work with. I know I stated so after her bridals, but she really is just an awesome fun, fun, fun person. My little ray of sunshine if you will.
Ross is one lucky guy. But don't think that he's not equally as awesome, he's been a doll since day one.
MAB wanted to have some loose waves with mildly smokey eyes, and just a romantic/sexy look.
Being that she's already gorgeous you can tack this wedding on the "easy money" board!

Photography by: sarah-q

Okay, and the gorgeous background of flowers and hanging votives were done by Wendee and the always amazing Petal Pushers.

I swear, when I get re-married (or have my vows renewed, whichever comes first) I am SO using Petal Pushers!

Nicolina Ballerina

2009-02-28T09:08:00.000-08:00

When I first met Nicole at her hair trial I knew she was a cool chick. She knew exactly what she did and didn't want and our trial only lasted about 20 minutes! Record fast!
Nicole use to be a dancer and went through a torturous hair routine. So she wanted to stay away from anything too tight and pulled back. Nicole had asked for something loose and as natural as an updo can get, with tendrils down the sides. We decided on some fullness up top and knotted curls pulled into a larger "bun".

We got ready at the Vintage Villas off of 620. And that's where I met her awesome MOH and mom. Courtney the MOH had short and fine hair and we wanted to do something that looked elegant and added fullness. So my weapon of choice was teasing! I teased the schnookus out of her hair and I'm sure she cursed me when she was trying to brush it out the next morning. (Well, I don't know if she slept in it- I just assume- because I'm lazy and I would. Not that she's lazy... I'm lazy, not her. you get what I mean)
Nicoles mom Mary Kaye had shorter hair and wasn't too sure that we could do much with it. She did say she wanted body but not bee hive body, so we opted for curling and fluffing.

Robert from Robert Studio was her great photographer. Rare is the occasion that I ask a photographer for pictures after the wedding, and get them as soon as they're posted. <> Robert actually contacted me to let me know they were ready. I totally big fat puffy heart him!
So I've posted some pictures courtesy of Robert.

I've recently received an email from both Nicole and her Mother, and I'd like to share:

Nicole:

"Hi Angela!

I just wanted to thank you for doing an absolutely amazing job on my hair last weekend. My mom and I, along with my MOH Courtney, were so happy with the results!!

I also wanted to tell you that Robert, our photographer, has posted highlight pictures of our wedding on his website. I thought you might want to see them! (Note that my hair looked perfect..... despite the awful wind!)"

Nicoles Mom:

"Angela,

I want to tell you, I received so many compliments on my hair at the wedding! Of course, Nicole was radiant and so was Courtney but people went out of their way to tell me how great my hair looked. It can be scary to put your hair in the hands of a virtual stranger but you rose to the occasion beautifully!Thank you for the great job you did and for making the time fun. We would not hesitate to recommend you if the occasion arises.

Sincerely,

Mary Kaye "

I had a great time working with you guys and just love your friendly and funny personalities. I hope to hear from you in the future and wish nothing but good things and blessing for you all!

Thanks for making my time with y'all such a blast!

2009-02-22T13:57:00.000-08:00

On of my bestest friends Jacquetta, was going through a hair frump. Jacquetta is the icon of all that is a fine and thin haired chick-a-dee. She's been battling this dilemma all her life, and to combat it, she's been perming her hair on a regular basis to add some body. Jacquetta had told me that she was tired of spending so much money having her hair permed but didn't want to succumb to her flat hair.

So after weeks of talking about it, she decided to take the plunge and let me do what we needed to do to add texture and body to her hair.

Jacquetta had mid back length hair that was partially curly from a previous perm and mostly straight. Many people don't realize that longer hair can add a lot of weight and cause more "flatness".
We both decided that taking a lot of the bulk out of her hair was the best idea. We also had to keep in mind that she has a round face and that we need to be sure to keep that in mind when choosing a style.

Thanks for letting me chop your hair off! I love ya!

2009-02-22T12:30:00.000-08:00

I am happy and sad all at the same time. I'm happy because I've gotten to meet such a great person, and sad that our adventure together is over. I went on location to do hair and makeup for Mary Amanda on her wedding day this Saturday. Before that I had met with Mary Amanda several times, first time was to do a hair trial, second was at an open house, and third was to put extensions in her hair. All three of those times were a hoot. Mary Amanda has a truly bright personality. The minute you meet her you want to be her friend. She is just so... fun! I've had the best time getting to know her and her new husband Ross. Who is just as friendly as she is. These two have a great spark about them and you just know that they're going to make it.
I was a bit intimidated at first to work with Mary Amanda because her sister is a hair stylist as well, but doesn't enjoy doing the "fancy stuff". Anytime you work with a stylist you wonder if they're secretly judging you and thinking that they could be doing better. I know I would! But after meeting her sister on the day-of I knew that she wasn't at all like me.. she was super sweet and non-judgemental! (Wait, I mean, I'm super sweet and non-judgemental too, just not now, well, I mean I was sweet I think. Anyway, you get what I mean! )
Mary Amanda's mom is this soft spoken, sweet lady who loves to ask questions, and just get to know you. I loved her whole family!
So anyway, Mary Amanda wanted her hair mostly down with some natural waves. She was concerned that her hair was too short in the front and that curling it would make it even shorter, so we got together and put in some extensions that would not only fill in the shortness from the front, but also add a little extra fullness. Mary Amanda was a little scared at first, but the second we were done with the extensions she swore she needed to have them in 24-7 for the rest of her life!
On the big day, we curled her hair with a larger barrel curling iron and added a few flowers given to us by her florist the ever so amazing Petal Pushers. We also did very natural makeup with a bit darker shadow. We also did individual false lashes on the outer corners of her eyes to "flirt" up the look a little.
I've posted a few non-professional photos, and can't wait to get the "real" ones!
My sister Wendee was her coordinator and if I had a dollar for how many times Mary Amanda and her mother raved about her and all her help, I could retire!

On with the show:

I apologize for the whiteness of this picture, I am not a professional photographer!

Happy Valentines Day!

2009-02-14T21:00:00.001-08:00

Happy Valentines Day everyone! And what a Valentines day its been. We have officially welcomed a new member to our team- Tavia Williams who has been doing professional makeup for over 7 years and is now doing hair and makeup for us. Tavia is a great asset to our team, and we look forward to many more weddings with her! I've tried getting better at taking pictures at weddings. This Saturday was SOOO busy it was hard to get pictures done. But, I have a few! So I'll share them and add when the photographers send me theirs. Some of the pictures are for hair and some for makeup.

What can I say?

2009-01-29T21:49:00.000-08:00

I have been a bad blogger.. You know it, I know it, They (whoever "they" may be) know it. So what can I do to be a better blogger?

More pictures you say? Well here's a little confession.. I'm a pansy. A wuss I tell ya. And I am horrible at getting photographers to send me their pictures. I ask them once, they forget.. Asking them twice.. something I'm working on.

My photos- Well- looks like you'll just have to settle for them now. I have found my charger, and my camera (as poor as the pictures are) is ready to go!

So I promise to try to blog about anything and everything if not on a daily basis, then on a weekly basis.
Feel free to contact me with any questions or anything hair/makeup related that you'd like answer to.

Vista West Ranch Open House

2009-01-11T22:42:00.000-08:00

Come celebrate the re-opening of the gorgeous Vista West Ranch on January 14th from 5-8pm. There is going to be a lot of top notch vendors, and not to mention the totally rad discounts you'll be getting by booking the vendors that night. Cindy the owner, is battling (and winning) breast and lymphnotic cancer. So she had taken a much needed break from VWR and has had her last chemo treatment in December. So come by, check out the awesome scenery and if anything just to say high to Cindy and get one of her wonderful hugs!
-I am so gonna make her a free hugs sign now!

Vista West Ranch
4505 McGregor Lane Dripping Springs,TX 78620 512-894-3500 info@vistawestranch.com

Wedding Bells are closer to home!

2008-12-13T08:14:00.000-08:00

Last night my ever so slightly prettier sister was proposed to by her boyfriend of 5+years! I've known about this for some time now and I typically tell my sister everything, so keeping this a secret has been killing me.

Since our dad passed away 2 years ago, and my mom is a little short on English, Chris (my future brother-in-law) asked me for my permission to marry my sister. It was the sweetest most romantic thing ever!

So last night, we all planned to go to my moms house for our traditional Christmas cookie making, and I wondered if Chris was going to propose to Wendee there. I had hoped he wouldn't because I was afraid one of us would say something to ruin the moment. Tact is something we lack in situations like this!

I was going out of town for a week the next day, and Chris said he wanted to do it before I left so I had been texting him all week prior trying to get a clue as to when..
So my significant other and our dependant were doing some last minute shopping before arriving at my moms, when I received a very unfriendly phone call from my sister.
This is how it went-
Ring, Ring.. me-"Hello?"
Her-"You (insert profanity that rhymes with witch)"
Me-"What?!"
Her- "You know what"
At this point, I know what but I've kept this a secret for a month or two, I'm not going to ruin things in-case its not what I think.
Me-"Seriously, I have no idea what your talking about"
Her-"Yes you do"
And we continued arguing back and forth for a few more minutes until finally she told me that Chris proposed on the way over and he told her I knew.
It was all very funny and sweet. I am honored that Chris trusted me with such a secret and so touched that he asked for my permission.

Congratulations Wendee and Chris! I can't wait until the wedding!

Mary Amanda and Ross forever!

2008-12-08T22:46:00.000-08:00

My darling sister recommended me to Mary Amanda and boy am I glad she did....

I had some car issues on my way to Mary Amanda's hair trial, and even though I wasn't late, I thought I might be by a few minutes. So when I called Mary Amanda she was so very sweet and cool about the whole thing. She was very easy to talked to and it felt like we'd been friends for years. So when I arrived at her house I instantly realized that this would be one of those super easy jobs. She was gorgeous! The best way I can describe Mary Amanda is "shiny". Not in the oily sense. But just her personality and spirit. She's just great. AND- she's an animal lover! Gotta love that! So anway- I had a great time doing her hair and makeup and even got to meet Ross. He was so kind and accomidating and you can tell they were just meant for each other.

Mary Amanda and Ross had their engagement photos that day with Sarah Q (which is also where I "borrowed" the pictures!). Sarah is a great photographer and the first picture is where I think she actually captured the elusive True Love on film.

I can't wait to work with you again Mary Amanda and I KNOW you and Ross will have such a great life together.

What have I done?!

2008-12-08T14:14:00.000-08:00

I've decided that since I don't have a "gallery" page on my site I would post a few non-pro pictures on here so that A.) I can show of my fabulous photography skills *Please note the hint or less than subtle note of sarcasm...and B.) So you can get an idea of what we have done. Please keep in mind that most of these pictures are from hair trials.

Why add that disclaimer? Because during a hair trial we are playing around with your hair and deciding on what you want to do- so there isn't a ton of product, and the hair isn't as neat and tidy as it would be day-of.

Why no makeup pictures you ask? Well, there may be a few but for the most party, my overly priced rinky dink camera doesn't take great makeup photos.

So anyway- here are a couple of pictures- I'm far too lazy to post them all so this'll have to do!

No words

2008-11-23T08:26:00.001-08:00

I don't want to say anything other than- prayers, and many thoughts...

Little Miss Mrs. Kimmy!

2008-11-21T20:52:00.000-08:00

(okay- maybe it's just me, and my lack of web doodling knowledge- but I didn't realize that if you click on the pictures you can pull up a larger and better picture!)

Today has been one busy busy day. I got to go on location and do an old friends hair and makeup for her wedding. It's a rare treat to be able to do hair and makeup for a bride and then get to stick around to see how they look afterwards. I don't have pictures yet of the actual wedding and wedding party but I do have her engagement photo's that I did last month. (Hey- I'm not slacking I just got them!)
Kim (Kimmy) is such a sweetheart. We use to be BFF in the first grade but somehow drifted apart. Now she's BFF's with one of my good friends Jacquetta- Say it with me Jah-Queh-Tah. Very good!
Anyway- Teanna and I had the privilege to do Kim and her bridesmaids hair and makeup as well as Kims mother and "Me-Mah". We had a great time chatting and just enhancing everyones beauty. I don't know how we've gotten so lucky that we have yet to run into any Bridezillas. I know I just jinxed it, and even if I did have a bridezilla I certainly wouldn't write about it. Not on this blog anyway.. I kid. I really haven't had any bad brides. So, so far I've loved every single one of them!

Okay back to Kim. I was invited to her actual wedding which was wonderful. We unfortunately didn't get to go to the ceremony because on the way there, I was rear-ended! The crazy person decided he didn't want to stop and wait at a red light. He was busy talking on his phone. We're all okay just a bit sore.
So anyway, we missed the ceremony. And I know its tacky to skip the ceremony and go straight to the reception, but we didn't want to just not come. It was nice being able to do a couple of touch ups for Kim during the reception. Kim is naturally gorgeous so lucky for me, anything I could have done would have turned out great. So here she is thinking I'm some sort of magic worker when in truth- there wasn't much to do! Kim has wonderfully natural curly hair so it was fun to work with her natural curls.
Kim's dress was absolutely gorgeous and I was in LOVE with her cute red heels. Her bridesmaid dresses were beautiful and classy and so were the ladies in them.
I think the sweetest part was the father daughter dance that had a song that had all of us in tears. I have no idea who the singer was- some Canadian singer with a song about telling her daddy to let go- sooo sweet.

Kim, if your reading this- Thank you for letting LucieMarie be a part of your big day and we just know that you guys are going to live a long happy life together!

Super Stacys!

2008-10-19T15:50:00.000-07:00

I had such a blast doing hair and makeup with Teanna on location for Stacy's wedding. Stacy and her family and friends were a hoot and absolutely He-Larious!
Stacy is beautiful to begin with so it wasn't much of a challenge doing her hair and makeup. I had originally met this bride (I had to use bride because I've already said Stacy like a zillion times!) when she scheduled a hair trial and I noticed she was super laid back and immediately makes you feel like you've known her forever. So it was of so surprise that on her big day, she was just as calm and fun to work with. And you are who you hang with right? Her friends and family were just so sweet and we were laughing the whole time. If every job was like this one, I'd be paying to do peoples hair and makeup!

All Pictures courtesy of Stacy Cross of Stacy Cross Photography. I work with a TON of photographers and not only was she able to take a photo of me that I'd actually post- she takes amazing photos. I had originally taken some pictures with my own personal digital camera and had intentions on posting them on here until I saw Stacys Blog . Her photos were gorgeous and I couldn't post any of my silly little grainy digital camera pictures on here.. I just couldn't. Stacy was super sweet and has one of those personalities where you want to be their friend. You know there's probably never a dull moment with her. I big fat puffy heart her!

Rory and Bill Bob

2008-09-29T22:02:00.000-07:00

When Rory contacted me and said he wanted an over the top GLAMOROUS wedding, and he wanted his groomsmaids to look the part, he was serious! Think- Chandeliers hanging from hundred year old lit up oak trees, feathers and floral center pieces, bouquets, boutonnieres and hair accents. Sexy golden lace groomsmaid dresses and two very handsome grooms.. two fabulously talented and might I add beautiful hair and makeup artists accommodating your every beauty need. Whats not glamorous about all that?!

These guys and their family were a hoot to work with. I loved how laid back everyone was and how everything turned out. The ceremony was at the beautiful Red Corral Ranch. Traveling on-site to weddings and ceremonies, we are pretty use to getting people ready in the most crowded cramped areas, and this location is anything but. They have cute little bungalows for folks to stay and get ready, a pool and plenty of room! The always amazing Petal Pushers were the florist and made these fabulous center peices as well as the bouquets and hair accents. Lets face it, they pretty much decorated the whole place!

Chris Carson was the photographer and did an awesome job capturing all the fun moments of the day. The groomsmaids dresses were amazing and just the whole she-bang really put the G in Glamorous! We really enjoyed working with these guys!

Thanks Rory and Bill Bob- We wish you the happiest of the happiness!

All photos curtousy of Chris Carson Photography

I solemnly Swear....

2008-09-29T15:07:00.000-07:00

... to be a better blogger!
I am no good with technology. So thankfully my sister Wendee of Lucie's Events has agreed to help me out and make my blog blogalicious. So what if I owe her years of free hair services and my second born child. (she can't have my first born, I'm far too attached!) My blog will be pretty and I'll do my best to stick with it!
I know its long past due, and I've had people ask me about my blog so they can leave comments but computer stuff makes me dizzy!
So I plan on posting a few of my past weddings on here; at least from the past month or two, and hopefully stay caught up after that.

Anyway- Whats new you ask?
Well, Teanna and I have been super busy lately that we're in the process of hiring another makeup artist/stylist to help out. It's been a difficult process because I'm so picky of who we hire, and who I can trust to ensure that our clients are well taken care of. I think its also because I have control issues and working with Teanna for so long, she gets me and needs no direction on what to do. I'm certain I'll find someone who will be the right fit.

I feel VERY blessed that LucieMarie has been so successful that I need help and that I've had really nothing but amazing clients spreading the word! I know there are a zillion Bridezilla shows out there, but luckily we've had nothing but the coolest most laid back clients. I always want to hang out with them afterwards!

In conclusion, we've been doing great, and I'm going to do better to keep my poor bloggie up to date!

Hair Today....Gone tomorrow?

2007-12-29T18:45:00.000-08:00

There are many things we do to butcher our hair. Don't get me wrong. Hair torture is my business.. my livelihood if you will. I don't think things have changed much since our parents were our age either. Although they used clothing irons and harsher chemicals- we have our own forms of hair torture such as- irons (that can get hotter than the irons from "back in the day" ) -okay maybe not as hot as when they use to cook iron rods over fire and then curl their hair, but you get the picture. We also use these "friendlier" chemicals on our hair, and we use them so often that I'm willing to bet it cancels out the friendliness.So what do we do about it? Well the best thing possible is to get a deep conditioning treatment once a month and never put heated or chemical products to our hair ever again. And since that would be no bueno for me- We have to take drastic steps to protect our hair.
First, like I said, a monthly deep conditioning/protein treatment will definitely help. Beware of stylist or salons that try to tell you to do it more often than that (Some cases..rare ones may require a bi-monthly treatment but only until your hair is back on track). Too much protein in your hair will cause it to be brittle and break even more easily. You can however, use a cleansing shampoo once a week or if that dries you out too much try twice a month. But if you don't use any hair products such as gel, hairspray, or even shining serum you can either skip this step or cleans once a month.
Schedule a regular maintenance trim every 6 weeks. This will keep hair looking healthy and keep dead ends at a minimum.
If you wash your hair every day try to cut back to every other day. If you have extremely oily hair and NEED to wash your hair on a daily basis, stick to shampooing the scalp and just running your fingers through the ends just a bit. Shampooing daily, even with a moisturizing shampoo can dry out your scalp and wash out the much needed oils to keep your hair strong and healthy. There are a variety of great products out there for people with oily hair and that need a quick fix. Bumble and Bumble has a great dry shampoo.
If you use a curling iron, flat iron, or blow dryer, I'm not going to tell you to stop using them, because quite frankly, they're awesome! But if you use them every day try to cut back to every other day. There are products out that claim to help protect your hair if you do use these tools. And although I am not a scientist, I have no idea if they truly work or not. But give 'em a try. If you see that the physical condition of your hair is worsening..stop using it. And for the last but most important thing you can do to keep your hair health.. drum roll please...... Live healthy. Drinking plenty of water, take your vitamins, eat nutritiously, and don't smoke! All of these things are truly the BEST thing you can do for your hair. Oh and your figure!
So even though our hair is here today, it could possibly be gone tomorrow. So lets do our best to keep it healthy and thriving!

Baby Hairs: How we got started

2007-03-29T15:39:00.000-07:00

LucieMarie started with two girls lovin' beauty school and blazin' through updo class! Teanna and I both started by offering our services for free in beauty school a few years ago. Then we started by doing hair and makeup for small weddings and proms. Then after graduating I decided to branch out and start doing larger weddings and events and actually start a professional business. So I called up Teanna and asked if she would be interested and she thankfully was. Although I often do weddings by myself, I could never do the larger weddings by myself and be as successful as LucieMarie has been without Teanna.