3 Rules to Help Choose Your Make-up Artist Wisely

As a professional make-up artist, I try to be very careful not to judge the work of other make-up artists. But it is my duty as a card carrying member of the 'I Am a Diva Club' (it should be a club), to issue a warning to the trusting, unsuspecting men and women who fall prey to those who bare the name: Professional Make-Up Artist, but they are really just a hot mess!! Normally I would not dare write about a subject like this, but after seeing so many people with bad make-up that was "professionally" done, I can stay silent no longer. Here are three rules to help avoid a bad makeover:

Rule #1 Check out the artist

First impressions are everything, and you never get a second chance to make a first impression. This rule should definitely apply to your make-up artist. When you meet them for the first time there are certain things you should look for. Of course the obvious thing would be to see how their make-up looks. Now it is true that everyone has different styles, and their style may not necessarily reflect your style; however, you are looking beyond they style to see if it is done tastefully and applied correctly. Check out their total appearance. Its okay to make sure this person has good hygiene because they will soon have their hands all over your face!

Rule #2 Body of Evidence

So what do you do if you are not meeting the artist in person or when you do meet them they aren't wearing any make-up at all? A professional make-up artist will have a portfolio. Some who are just starting out may not have a huge portfolio, but they will have some pictures of their work for you to view. Even if the photos consist of a few pics on their camera phone. The point is they will have some proof of their work. There should be a few examples of different styles of make-up so you can get an idea of their capabilities.

Rule #3 Go for a Test Drive

Every make-up artist should offer you a trial session or a consultation. This is extremely important if you are receiving special occasion make-up for a wedding or prom, etc. This allows you to make an educated decision before your big day. There is no worse nightmare than planning for your special day and everything turns out perfect, but you look a mess because you chose the wrong make-up artist. It's also very important that the artist choose the right type of make-up depending on the purpose. For example, make-up for a photo shoot is going to be much different than the make-over given to someone who is going out on the town for their 10th anniversary.

Most importantly, trust your "beauty sense". If something doesn’t feel right about your make-over and it's just taking way to long. More than likely you're right and you should get out of there as quickly as you can without making a scene!

Need help finding a true professional? Click here

Product Review: Ardyss Body Magic


"Drop up to 3 sizes in 10 minutes!". If you heard this advertisement, your initial reaction would most likely be to brush it off as some sort of gimmick not to be taken seriously. But this is what the Mexican based company Ardyss International stakes their entire reputation upon.

When I was introduced to the flagship product "Body Magic", I thought it was just another girdle. Until I put it on. Let's just say the 3 sizes in 10 minutes tagline is more than just a clever marketing phrase. It actually took 5 inches off my waist, lifted my butt, breast and self-confidence. My body was completely reshaped. My waist was so small I could hardly believe it. My stomach is my problem area and Body Magic solved the problem. The garment totally changes the way you look and fit into your clothes. The jeans I had on the night I tried Body Magic for the first time were really, really tight. After I put them on while wearing the garment, they were too big! I felt amazing and I looked great!!

How does it work?

The main purpose of every garment is to lift, shape, and support. The technology behind the Body Magic garment is based on the original corset design, but with a little something extra. The garment is made of light weight Thermogenic fibers. All of Ardyss' garments are light weight and sturdy. Ardyss' line of products range from corsets and panty reshapers to postpartum girdles and abdomen reshapers for men. They don't stretch out or loose their form. They don't roll or bunch like traditional girdles. Not only do the garments instantly reshape your body, but they also aid in weight loss as well. This is done by redistribution of adipose tissue. The garments are made to form your body, giving you proper posture and allowing you to lose weight. All the garments support the back and/or stomach in some way.

Recommendation for Body Magic

I highly recommend Body Magic to anyone who wants to reshape their body and their attitude. An appointment with Ardyss will truly change your life for the better. Visit www.bodymagic3in10.com for more information.

Tips to Create a Stress Free Home

In today's economic climate most of us are under some type of stress. Any amount of stress can take a toll on our mental and physical health. It's been proven that stress can cause a variety of health issues as well as lead to premature aging. Bad economy, bad nerves and bad skin - that's just too much to handle! So here are a few tips to help you relax, relate, and release!

Re-Program Your Mind
Relaxation is a state of mind. It's hard to relax when you come home and the first thing you do when you walk through the door is kick the dog and yell at the kids. Now I know bad habits are hard to break, but instead of reacting right away to that pile of dishes in the sink - just take a deep breath and walk away from the situation. You can always punish the guilty party later. Make a decision to be at peace in your surroundings no matter what is happening around you. Applying this attitude to your everyday life can reduce your stress level significantly.

Mood Lighting
The lighting in a space also has an effect on our thoughts and attitude. Areas that are to poorly or to harshly lit can cause negative emotions. Use soft layered lighting throughout your home and avoid overhead lighting. To achieve a restful effect, use low brightness patterns, no visible light sources, subdued color, dark upper ceiling, low wall brightness. For imparting a sense of warmth, use colors at the red end of the spectrum—pink, orange, amber, yellow. And for coolness, use colors at the cool end such as violet, blue, and green. Customize the lighting in your home to benefit your emotional wellness.

Enhance Your Senses
Essential oils can seal the deal on setting a stress free atmosphere. The aromatic fragrance of oils such as clary sage, lemon, lavender, ylang ylang, jasmine and patchouli oils aid in relaxation, stress relief, and emotional happiness. Here are a few blends that will give your home an emotional lift:
* 3 drops Clary Sage
* 1 drop Lemon
* 1 drop Lavender

* 3 drops Grapefruit
* 1 drop Jasmine
* 1 drop Ylang Ylang

* 3 drops Bergamot
* 1 drop Geranium
* 1 drop Frankincense

To use your blended oils in a diffuser, multiply your blend by 4 to obtain a total of 20 drops of your chosen blend. Add your oils to a dark colored glass bottle and mix well by rolling the bottle in between your hands. Add the appropriate number of drops from your created blend to your diffuser by following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Employ these tips in your home and feel the difference a stress free home environment can make on your overall health.

The Rebirth of Lashes

False eyelashes were created in 1916 by a silent film director. By 1920, silver screen divas like Greta Garbo, Marlene Dietrich, and Bette Davis made long, thick eyelashes a fashion trend. Now lashes are back and women everywhere are doing whatever they can to obtain the sexy look of full, black lashes. There are so many ways to improve the look of your lashes. Some expensive, some not so expensive. Now there are many ways to make your lashes more appealing.

Strip Lashes
These are the most used form of lash enhancements. Strip lashes are just what their name sounds like-synthetic lashes on a strip. These lashes come in all styles, lengths, and colors. They can be worn continuously or removed and reapplied daily. Strip lashes are the easiest to use for self application.

Individual Lashes
This type of lash is applied one at a time to your natural lash line. The application is a little more challenging than with strip lashes; however, individual lashes to provide a more authentic look. They can be worn for longer periods than strips. This is good if you're paying to get them done (feels like your getting your money's worth).
Both strips and individuals can be applied with adhesive. My preferred brand is Duo, a surgical adhesive that is sold online and at the M.A.C counter in Macy's. The artist there even apply lashes as part of their make-up services. Many salons, spas, and even mall kiosk provide lash application services. A professional make-up artist would be my recommendation simply because we'll complete your look by giving you a cleaner, more polished appearance with your new lashes. Overall lashes give you a sexy new look without a lot of hassle and won't break the bank to do it.

Pretty Nails for Spring


Spring is almost here and I couldn't be happier. Not to mention Sephora has a new spring line of colors by OPI. Yippee!! These colors will look great on a fresh mani or pedi. I'm so excited! But wait, are your feet ready to be seen in public? Outside the confines of those winter boots? Let's find out....

Was your last mani and pedi over a month ago?
Does your partner complain of being stabbed in their sleep by someone's toenails?
Have your cuticles grown to a ridiculous length and you can't tell what's cuticle and what is actually your finger nail?
When you walk across the carpet, do sparks fly?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, please for the sake of the rest of us follow these tips and take care of your tootsies!


Soak Away


Soaking you nails and feet is the first step to recovery. You can make your own soak by adding a little Epsom salt and essential oils to warm water. If you like your water bubbly, add in a few drops of body wash (but don't overdo it). Soak your nails for about 10 minutes. Give your feet more time based on their condition, usually about 20-25 minutes. Herban Renewal has a great soak if you don't want to make your own.

Buff Away

Once you're done soaking, lightly pat your feet dry and take out your foot file. Buff your heals and bottom of your feet until they are nice and smooth. For your nails, use a cuticle pusher and nail brush. Finish off the buffing process with a nice scrub. You can make your own sugar/salt scrub or if you don't have the time for that, Whole Foods in John's Creek has a super variety of scrubs to choose from.

Hydrate Those Hands & Heels


Finish off this easy process by moisturizing those hands and feet with a hydrating lotion. An affordable, but quality, product is Shea Butter in Brazilian Nut lotion by Tree Hut sold at your local Wal-Mart. Liberally apply to your hands and feet.


Top this treatment off with one of those pretty new nails colors from Sephora and you are officially ready for Spring!

Beauty Tip#1 Even Oily Skin Needs Moisturizer

Clients often tell me they don't use moisturizer because they have oily skin. This is a big mistake! Every skin type needs some form of hydration, whether it be creams, oils, or water based emollients. When skin is deprived of moisture, it compensates by over producing its own oil. If you have oily skin there are alternatives to help you avoid this oily pitfall.

A light moisturizer such as Arbonne's FC5 Oil-Absorbing Daily Lotion with SPF20. It's an oil-free moisturizer that helps absorb oil while hydrating skin, giving a fresh, cool sensation. Contains antioxidants and filters UV rays to help prevent sunburn and maintain skin’s youthful appearance. It contains natural ingredients such as Fresh kiwi cells; Matte Fresh Complex of mallow, melissa, watercress, ivy; grapeseed oil, pomegranate extract, vitamins A and E. FC5 retails for $39.50. Click here to get yours.

Another great product that not only hydrates, but fights the effects of aging is NutriMinC RE Daily Creme SPF 8. This creme protects, moisturizes and visibly firms. Daily Creme reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Makes young, beautiful skin a daily REality by delivering key RE9 elements that strengthen and firm while protecting against oxidative stress and exposure to the sun. The Daily Creme retails for $49.50. This is a versatile product, it's for all skin types. Click here to purchase.

The best form of hydration is provided by nature. Water. Your skin can never have enough water. You can always tell when a person drinks plenty of water just by looking at their skin. Water gives you clear, fresh looking skin. My 52 year old father has beautiful, youthful skin and all he drinks is water. Drinking at least 64 oz. a day is ideal for well hydrated skin. Hydrated skin also reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. This is the first and easiest step to better looking skin. Start today. Set a goal to drink at least 3 glasses of water today and increase your intake at your own pace. If you don't like the taste of plain water, add lemon, lime or mint to your water. Even drinking tea counts as water intake and you'll be getting your antioxidants.

What Is a Spa Party?


Spa, meaning a place of relaxation. Party, meaning a social gathering for pleasure or amusement.

Spa parties are meant for fun and relaxation. A time for a group of friends to come together to fellowship and get pampered at the same time. However you want to party is up to you - at your house, your girlfriends apartment, a Mommy and Me class, or even at the office. Food, drinks and manicures, you can't beat that kind of fun! Sit back with your feet in a nice warm tub and sip on a glass of wine while your girlfriends tell jokes and make you laugh. There’s nothing like good friends, good food, good drinks and a good pedicure!

During a spa party you can have the pleasures of a manicure, pedicure, facial, or massage. For a really good time go for all four treatments! Here are a few parties that easily be transformed to Spa Parties!

A Birthday Party

Going out to eat at the same boring restaurants can give anybody the birthday blahs! And no one wants to be depressed on their birthday. So stay home, invite a few friends over (let them bring the food and drinks - it's your birthday), and have have a pamper party! No matter what age you are, everybody loves manicures and massages!

Baby Showers

Ok, we all know those fun baby shower games: guess how many q-tips, jelly beans or whatever in the jar, Guess Mom's Tummy Size, and Never Say "Baby". Now imagine how fun all those games would be if you were getting pedicure in the process. Yes, it can be done! Make your shower the talk of the town by turning it into a Spa Baby Shower with certified therapist at you beck and call. The mommy-to-be would love to be pampered before the big day (because the next time she hears the word pamper, she may not get too excited).

Girl's Night In

Martinis and Manicures. Enough said. Picture it - it's Friday night, you've just left work, drove in rush hour traffic, picked up the kids, cooked dinner, and fed the angry mob. You think to yourself "what about me?". But wait, all is not lost. You remember it's Girl Night In and there's a Spa Party going on. Oh the relaxation! Now you can kick back and relax with the girls while a nice massage melts away all that stress the week so kindly brought you. Finally, it's all about you. Aaahh, so this is a spa party...

Unique Romantic Valentine's Idea


Flowers and candy. If we don't make our request known, this is what most of us usually get for Valentine's Day. Do something different this year. I know lots of ladies love getting a gift certificate to the spa. So how about taking it a step further? Tell your significant other that your want a spa day from us. Indulge in a full body massage, facial, manicure or pedicure without ever leaving the comfort of your own home. Imagine your family room transformed from the place the kids drive you crazy into a spa oasis. Picture this - the lights are down low, the glow of candles light the room, the soothing aromatic scent of aromatherapy oils fills the air and there you are lying on crisp, white linens with a line of warm stones relaxing on your back. Oh sweet bliss!! The candy and flowers aren't so bad, so we'll throw those in too along with a bottle of wine, champagne, or cider (your choice). Don't let this Valentine's Day go by without getting the gift you deserve. So go ahead and make your request known. Tell them you want a spa gift certificate from The Mobile Day Spa Company.

National Wear Red Day

Everyone can support the fight against heart disease in women by wearing red. It's a simple, powerful way to raise awareness of heart disease and stroke. Join in and wear you red today!.

5 Herbal Solutions To Cure Acne

Natural products for men and women's health, along with other alternative health products, have been used around the world for generations. Chinese traditional medicine, Native American medicine, Ayurvedic remedies, and Armenian herbal traditions each encompass many thousands of years of development. You can take this knowledge and use it to achieve the blemish free skin you've always desired.

Dandelion root


Dandelion root contains a bitter, milky juice that is thought to be capable of energizing the body. It also has properties that can detoxify the body and purify the blood. The juice in the stem and root of dandelion can be used as an astringent to dry up acne.

Licorice

The most common and well known use for licorice is to relieve upset stomachs however licorice root extract has been found to possess anti inflammatory properties and be able to clear up skin issues such as acne. Licorice root extract possesses natural anti-inflammatory agents that can soothe skin affected by blemishes. It also assists in limiting the production of irritants in the body that contribute to the formation of acne.

Peppermint


Peppermint is used topically for the cooling and relaxing effect it has on the skin. Menthol, the essential oil in peppermint, is credited with the herb's analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, decongestant, and cooling effects. Menthol also helps subdue many disease-producing bacteria and fungi. When used on the skin, peppermints natural qualities can help promote the healing of acne and blemishes.

Mulberry

Mulberry is a natural anti-inflammatory agent. It helps to reduce the appearance of cystic acne.

Alfalfa


Alfalfa is a skin astringent and protectant. Alfalfa has been used as an herbal medicine for over 1,500 years. Alfalfa is high in protein, calcium, plus other minerals, vitamin A, vitamins in the B group, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, and vitamin K. All which promote the generation of healthy skin cells.

Now you can have all these acne ridding herbal cures in one, easy to use natural product.

Arbonne's Clear Advantage Acne System



A proven acne fighting system that will clear your skin. Click here to get your Clear Advantage today.

Pimples! Pimples! Pimples! UGGHHHHH!!!!




If you have acne, then you know how it feels to long for clear, blemish free skin. You wake up every morning and go to the mirror praying that some miracle happened overnight and now all those horrid, pus filled bumps are gone. But unfortunately your nightmare continues. THEY'RE STILL THERE!!

Why me???
What causes it?

There can be many initial causes to acne. Acne is most common during the teen age years. But adult acne is also very common. The most notorious suspects of adult acne are diet, stress, and hormones. Okay, now we know the causes. How do we get rid of this acne?
There is hope! Natural ingredients can cure acne!

The Clear Advantage

Arbonne has a fantastic acne fighting line of products with all natural ingredients that works wonders on blemished skin. The key ingredients are 1% salicylic acid, alfalfa, dandelion, licorice and peppermint extracts, Witch hazel, hops, vitamins A, C, E, mulberry extract and it also comes with a multi-vitamin that contains L-Lysine, zinc, vitamins A, B6 to promote clear skin.

Here is a testimony from an actual client:

I have battled acne for about 10 years. I started using Arbonne Clear Advantage about nine months ago and my complexion has improved 110%! I'm pleased that after nine months of use, I've outdone nine years of trial and error with other products. Thank you!

- Ann Powell from Lexington, KY

This system works. It's safe for sensitive skin and it will give you the results you're looking for. This will be the last acne product you buy! Are you ready to FINALLY have clear, beautiful skin? Then click here.

Microdermabrasion

"Get the scoop on one of the most common skin treatments"

Another quick and painless treatment that can moderately improve fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, or mild acne scars is microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion lightly sands the skin with aluminum hydroxide crystals or other similar crystals applied under high pressure. The physician then lightly suctions off the crystals and skin debris.

A similar, newer device known as Vibraderm uses a lightly vibrating paddle to sand the skin. In either case, you may have some redness or swelling around the eyes, but it usually subsides the same day.

Each treatment takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Typically, you'll schedule a series of six treatments, one every two weeks, and then periodic follow-up treatments to maintain the effect.

Waxing vs Shaving

In this corner we have the pink razor blade ready to cut and dice. In the other corner we have the wax pot ready to quickly and safely remove unwanted hair.

You be the judge! The razor has been around for a very long time. We all at some time or another been nicked or cut just to have the hair grow back in a couple of days. So we go thru the cycle of shaving every few days to get rid of that unwanted stubble.

Now the wax pot has become very popular with the ladies. No cutting or nicking and it last a whole lot longer! Apply and peel, very simple and no stubble for days!

So which do you prefer:

Clean, quick and long lasting -vs- Stubble, nicking and frequent shaving!

The choice is yours!!!

Love the Skin You're In!

During the winter months we have to especially take care of our skin! That means more moisturizing of our skin! The winter air seems to dry out the outer layers of skin creating dry and cracked skin! The best way to take care of your skin is to exfoliate then moisturize.

You don't want to use a water based lotion or cream, but more of an oil based shea butter or cream. Make a practice of exfoliating & moisturizing your skin and you will Love the Skin you're In!

Love on your Tootsies!

The most popular exercise right now is walking! Everyone is walking. Taking the stairs and parking further away at the store. Well our feet get tired just like we do, so we need to take care of them as well.

Your feet will take you very far as long as you pamper them. Soaking them in a hot tub while the aroma of lavender or peppermint takes you to a place of relaxation. While having someone massage your tired callused feet.

Try one of our hot stone pedicures, I promise your feet will love you!

New Start!

The beginning of the year means a fresh start. We wipe the slate clean and begin again! Well this year we truly have a New Beginning, let's start by taking better care of ourselves. Taking time out for yourself! It's okay to be a little selfish every now and then! Those few extra pounds you have been trying to get off, well now is the time! Don't make excuses, like Nike says, "Just Do It!".

Take some time to pamper yourself with a relaxing massage or back treatment! The summer is coming and that means showing your feet and more skin! One of our warm full body scrubs would be just the thing to show off just how beautiful your skin is in that tank top or sundress!

The time is now to start on you! Let us help you on your journey to a more beautiful you!

Kris

Just for your Sweetheart!

It's that time of year where Love is in the Air! Why not treat your Sweetie to the night of their life in the privacy of your home or that special place! Give Him or Her a night of relaxation and pampering with a back treatment, facial, manicure & pedicure! Once you are relaxed then enjoy Chocolate covered strawberries and a nice bottle of either sparkling cider or champagne.

You can mix and match to meet your budget! Call now and get a very sweet discount!