beauty – Page 2 – MUAHbyAlex

Hello Lashes!

Hello beauties ! Sorry I’ve been slacking with blog posts, after my recent trip to Miami I’ve been so sick with a head and chest cold that I’ve been fighting to shake off! Well I’m starting to feel a little better and have something fabulous to share about how you can amp up your look this winter…. but first, does anyone else feel like they blinked their eyes and Christmas is pretty much here?! The holiday is approaching us … quick! For many people the Christmas period is not only a time to relax and spend precious time with our loved ones but also to look your finest. What better feeling than to look and feel your best while entering the new year? I certainly don’t feel that I’m the only one to think eye lashes are eye catching, so why not amp up your eyes this month? I couldn’t help but be swept away by the overwhelming trend of lashes this season. It seems as though so many celebrities and models have gigantic, lush eyelashes. Eyelash extensions always scared me. I’ve seen them done and go wrong and actually rip out real, natural lashes before… Yikes! So when it came to lash extensions, I always thought to run… FAST! That was until I met with Phyliss! Miss eyelash extension herself! My friend Nicole recommended her to me. She explained to me that lash extensions are not only popular and luxurious but save you so much time. Of course I had to try them. Since I’d be staying with Kim Kardashian’s personal makeup artist in Miami, it inspired and motivated me to go with long luxurious lashes like Kim! So two nights before Miami, I booked my appointment with Phyliss. Not only is she trained and certified, but she has worked on celebrities such as Scarlet Johansen, Cindy Crawford & Megan Fox (my ultimate girl crush) I was definitely nervous, and she laughed and reassured me to calm down! Haha! She made it very comfortable for me. She showed me before and after photos of her work so I could see samples. The whole process took a little over an hour. I lied down as she sat behind me and placed a white sticky pad underneath my eye on the lower lash line to keep the bottom lashes separate from the top. We talked the entire time which made the process go by so much quicker. Once she was done applying, I was so anxious to get up and stare in the mirror. To my surprise, there was absolutely NO IRRITATION (and I have extremely sensitive eyes) It was completely painless, and looked fabulous !

In my opinion, lash extensions are the answer! The answer for the woman who spend so much time curling her lashes, the answer for the ladies who spends time putting on several coats of mascara, and the answer for me, a makeup artist who is busy and just wants to wake up and go in the morning! These are a good option and look amazing especially if you like instant beautiful, long dark lashes, without mascara, curling or fusing over a daily lash growth product. Lash extensions are semi-permanent and last up to 4-6 weeks. They fall out gradually with the cycle of your eyelash growth. You are continuously growing new lashes as the old ones fall out. They don’t ruin your natural eyelash! Your lashes will continue to grow. Phyliss was very precise with her application which is very important! You do however, want to avoid oil around your eyes. The oil breaks down the adhesive making the eyelash extensions fall out faster. Don’t pull or pick your lashes. When you get wet your face just don’t rub your eyes (which you shouldn’t do anyway) Every 3-4 weeks you will need fills. I’ll probably schedule for fills next week. It’s been 2 weeks since I’ve had them and they still look and feel fabulous! They feel so lightweight and look so natural. It costs about $200 for an application although Phyliss is running a special until Christmas for only $99!!!! JUMP ON THAT! She’s located in lower Westchester, NY. If your not in the NY area and you are interested in lash extensions, make sure they are certified and trained in lash extensions! Make sure to see samples of their work, and read reviews. You absolutely do not want to take any risks what so ever with your eyes! If you see eyelash extensions for $30, they are not the same kind of lashes and appointment you should experience.

Again, I don’t wear much makeup (surprising since applying makeup is my job) so this makes “getting up and going” much more pleasant! The photo below I’m wearing very minimal makeup. For my eyes I just applied a super thin shadow above my lash line.

Enjoy ladies 😉

XOXO

MIAMI 2012

December is a hard partying month. Especially this December… Isn’t the world “supposedly ending” in 2 weeks? Who makes these ridiculous accusations up? But, “Bob” forbid it is, what better way to kick this December off than a four day weekend in the sun? Not to mention, who doesn’t love a little bit of warmth and sunshine during the winter holidays?! I have completed well over 60 weddings this season, and a ton of makeup jobs in between so I NEEDED this weekend get-a-way. And Miami is the perfect place for a mini vacation. I do not claim to be the best packer, but I must say that I have made strides in overcoming the need to pack my entire closet room, into my luggage for a weekend trip. When it comes to figuring out what makeup and skin care products to pack, I STRESS! Yeah, packing clothes, bikinis and shoes are easy. But packing makeup and beauty supplies is definitely more daunting. I had to pack light. So what are my travel beauty essentials?

– Harney & Sons Green Tea & a tiny jar of honey

-BLISS oil free makeup remover

-Secret deodorant

-Betsey Johnson shades

-MAC blacktrack gel liner

-Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer with 20 spf

-Benefit Erase paste

-Benefit Bad Gal lash

-Benefit Highbeam

-NARS blush in Orgasm

-Smashbox Photo OP

-Model in a Bottle setting spray

-Somme Institute travel pack 5 step cleansing routine

-Visine

-Lily B eye cream and travel sized moisturizer

-Hand Sanitizer

-Simply Bee~utiful lip palm

-Aura Cacia lavender oil

-Sample sized Hylunia Beyond C

-NARS mini primer

-Caudalie spray

-Kiss my face sunscreen

-Redken Powder refresh

We booked our trip during the busiest weekend of the year in Miami, thanks to the Art Basel. The Art Basel features thousands of artists with hoards of collections and exhibits. You can only imagine how many people flew in from all over the world to attend this event. In the week leading up to the Art Basel, I had to mentally and physically prepare. An oxygen facial at La Tua bella beauty bar was a necessity the night before my Miami arrival, along with lash extensions from Phyliss and a full body massage to prep myself for the plane ride. Yes its only a 2 1/2 hour flight but come on! Being a makeup artist I’m hunching over enough as it is, sitting in place for too long kills my back and butt ! So I needed the knots OUT! Going to Miami, also meant going to an insanely nice hotel that overlooks the water. We chose Fountaine Bleau on Collins Rd. Rates for Miami this past weekend were not favorable since the Art Basel was taking place, so we figured we might as well book a luxurious room way up high in the Miami Skyline making the night more than worth while and convenient, considering we were attending LIV (nightclub) also in our hotel. This was a gorgeous hotel and I’d absolutely recommend and would love to stay here again. Oh Miami, how I’ve missed you so! Sunny skies and an incredibly breathtaking view of the ocean from my friend’s balcony where we stayed the remainder of our visit.

Thank you Zack and Rob for welcoming me and my girlfriend Alyse in their dreamy penthouse. Zack is a “Zack-of-all-trades” haha. But really. He is. He is too much fun, whether it was going out and partying or just lounging around, I’m so happy I got to bond with him and his friend/co-worker Cesar. I can’t wait to visit and spend more time with them. Rob Scheppy, the other roomie was nothing less than fabulous. First impression, he had amazing shoes. Loved him from the start. He had us peeing ourselves laughing later the next night while sitting on the balcony as he shared his hilarious stories. These guys have incredible energy that I just loved to be around. Taking you back through a bit of my Miami holiday vacation, my time was split between laying on the beach, hanging out the crew from my favorite show on E! I’ll let you do the guessing 😉 , eating at my buddy Flavio’s AMAZING restaurant La Lupa di Roma (please eat there if you haven’t), a performance by Jay Z, jungle dancing to house music at some of the hottest clubs, shopping was a must, hanging out with my friend Skeery Jones and his co-workers from Z-100, meeting new friends and lounging around enjoying the weather. I’d call it a total success. With cute boutiques and shops spread out all over, shopping is a fabulous way to discover some of Miami. Miami is literally a party every day. It’s also a city that always gets my creative juices flowing. So much beauty, fashion, and flamboyance gets my mind thinking of new inspirations and ideas! I created two short videos from our trip. All content was recorded with my iPhone. I wish I recorded so much more! But check them out!!! ENJOY!

Do you instagram? If you do follow us! Check out our talents 😉

MY instagram: @Alexgill

ALYS instagram: @alysecamara

ZACKS instagram: @Zackelcott

ROBS instagram: @robscheppy

Victoria Secret Fashion show TONIGHT!

Well ladies, its been a year. A year since you saw last years show. A year since you promised yourself you’d go to the gym religiously, a year since you vowed to stop eating Chilis & ordering Dominos pizza every week, a year since you’d promised you would replace all the shoes in your closet with the hottest running shoes…. (sighs) Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is upon us, and is nothing less of a holiday. A holiday where no big meals can be consumed. Tonight is THE night that all you girls and yes, even guys gather around the big screen to admire the glitz, glamour, the over the top lingerie, all the LEGS and of course of the angel’s and their iconic wings.

As you may know the fashion show was filmed a few weeks ago in NYC. I wasn’t lucky enough to be there, (I think I would kill to be there doing makeup, maybe next year) but lucky enough to know a handful of people that were there. I talked to a makeup artist that participated. She told me that they were instructed to do very natural makeup this year. Only my favorite look. Hello brides! This look is for you! The bronzed look is gone. BYE! See you later. There was NO bronzer applied to the face. The look they created this year was “A healthy, sophisticated glow.” Trying to embrace my paleness this winter just got a hell of a lot easier for me. The big dramatic smokey eyes from last year got replaced with a light, neutral smokey eye. Individual lashes were used to create more fullness. Individuals are so much more natural than strip lashes but still makes a big difference in making your eyes pop. You will notice that the Angel’s skin, cheeks and lips are glowing and radiating with a healthy warm pink color. This year black mascara was used for the top lashes, and brown mascara for the bottom lashes. (Note: this is especially great for girls with lighter colored eyes, which will make them pop)

As for the hair, extensions were applied to every girl after getting a fresh blowout. Watching youtube videos, I noticed the blow driers are the T3 driers which I have and love!

The hair stylus created soft waves, which is so easy to do on yourself I’ll have to do a future post on this, since it is a question I receive often. They curled the extensions before putting them in the hair, which makes the job so much easier. Ladies please, if you wear clip in extensions, which I know more than half of you do, curl them before you put them on your head! That way you can style them before placing them on yourself, and all you need to do is clip them, this way your not clipping them in, then pulling with the curling iron which is pulling on your real hair. They used the extensions not for length, but for volume. Using the VS so sexy mousse all over, spritzing a little VS Volumizing Spray on the top, in the roots, giving it that perfect lift. The hair styles matched the makeup looks, looking soft, healthy and oh, so gorgeous.

And the model’s diets? You mean they aren’t born with super flat stomachs, amazing legs, and perfectly in shape everything else? Eating healthy and very clean is a must! Healthy food, organic protein and vegetables. Working out an 1-2 hours a day. Yoga, kickboxing and running seem to be the most popular.

Make sure to keep an eye out for their shoes! Designer Nicolas Kirkwood designed EXCLUSIVE shoes for each individual model to go with the different stories that will be featured on tonights show.

The designs are divine if you ask me. The three looks tonight are Circus, Silver screen, and Angel bloom.

Of course I will be attending the fashion show tonight at 10pm in my living room sporting my Victoria Secret undies, comfy PINK yoga pants and a PINK sweatshirt, maybe my new VS slippers also that were free with my pajama purchase last week, that is if I don’t go to the screening of the show in NYC tonight with my friend. 😉 I was an angel once for Halloween one year, so maybe I’ll pull those wings out from my Halloween decorations in the attic and run around wearing that too. For you’s that don’t know, I dedicated my closet to Victoria’s Secret. Haha obsessed much?

So ladies, have no shame, feel free to indulge in whatever you want today…. because tomorrow starts the diets and back to the gym. Bring on all the Facebook statuses tonight, the “I want to be that skinny,” “She’s not even that pretty,” “Those girls are too thin,” “I would kill someone to look like that,” “Well, I’m embracing my curves,” haha I’m ready for them all. I’m also looking forward to the performances, especially Justin Beiber’s since Selena Gomez broke up with him, after seeing a photo on twitter of him with a VS model in his hotel room after the show. But no worries, Justin & Selena are back together. Oh, young love, nothing wrong with getting a little action from a Victoria Secret model! haha cheers ladies! Last year I was pleasantly surprised to see a model on stage dancing along side Candice Swanepoel that I once did makeup for, hopefully I’ll see someone I know again!

Below I’m posting the latest music video I did makeup and grooming for featuring singer Michelle Sangalli and model/actor Christopher Lykins directed by Edwin Escobar. Enjoy 🙂

XO,

RELAXATION AT YOUR DOOR

Hello beauties! Happy Sunday! & Happy December! There are not many people that would argue that massages & facials are the best way to instant relaxation. With the constant busy schedules and stressful economy that we all have, massage treatments are the best way to escape the everyday stresses of life. Taking care of your mind, body and spirit are three very important factors for me. We all love a good spa treatment. I emphasize to all my clients It’s so important to make some time for yourself on a regular basis and de-stress! It’s so important to have a little peace and quiet, and do something for yourself! Whether it’s a massage, facial, makeup application, yoga session, whatever!

When I booked my vacation to Cabo last summer, I knew that I would love to incorporate a massage into my trip. Vacation and relaxation are two words that definitely go hand in hand. I get a massage often back at home, but this was more of an ‘experience’. The atmosphere is so incredible and spending 90 minutes on the beach, next to ocean, receiving a massage was probably the most relaxing sensation ever. It wasn’t too hot because I received it in the morning when the sun wasn’t so strong, and the breeze from the ocean made it feel like there was a cool fan blowing on me the entire massage.

My girlfriend Jessica, treated us to a 60 minute massage at Marlene Weber Day Spa in Poughkeepsie for my last birthday. We definitely enjoyed it. The wait was longer than I anticipated, we sat in our robes for 30 minutes before the session began but we did enjoy a nice cup of tea and some fruit while waiting. We got a couples massage (lol) cute idea for best friends! We received sweedish massages which are my favorite, because its not too rough so I’m relaxed the whole time, but firm enough to get the knots out! The staff was very friendly and the spa was also relaxing.

But lets face it ladies & gents, spa treatments and in general massages are a great way to relax but it all depends on as to how comfortable you are. When it comes to pampering, there is NO place like home. I prefer getting treatments done right in the luxury of my house. Sometimes I do want a traditional spa day, but luckily for me, my cousin is a massage therapist and my friend Jessica is an esthetician. When I book appointments with them to come over, they bring the high-end spa works. Massage tables, sheets, Egyptian cotton towels, sumptuous oils, candles, spa music and personalized services. An in home massage enables you to really prolong your relaxation. My cousin practices Swedish, Deep tissue, Reflexology and Reiki on me. At home massages are fantastic and I feel so comfortable and relaxed throughout the whole session. The lights are dimmed, soothing music plays, and soft candles are lit. I can’t imagine anything more perfect, being in the comfort of your own home, can you? I do enjoy the spa, but who wants to drive home after a 90 minute massage or facial? At home, you have nowhere to go after. No traffic. No driving. Just get yourself ready for a massage and benefit from the treatment session. At home, my stress level is down and I feel much more relaxed. After a massage and/or facial at home, I take a warm bath after to further my relaxation. Relaxing requires focusing your attention within and withdrawing it from your senses and the external world. After that and a cup of tea, I’m ready for bed! I couldn’t ask for a better experience. Massage in general at home or at the spa is good for stress relief, managing anxiety and/or depression, pain, blood pressure, injuries, cancer treatment, and boosting immunity.

If your goal in getting a facial is just to be pampered, chances are good that you’ll find what you’re looking for. So relaxing! For others, a facial is primarily a way to improve the look of their skin. Skin is very important to me, especially being a makeup artist! It’s the canvas to my art! Facials are believed by many to fix these common skin problems. Exfoliation, with astringents, masks or peels, can reach deep into the skin’s upper layer to strip away dead skin cells and reveal newer cells underneath. When I make appointments with my friend Jessica, she comes over and turns my living room into the ultimate spa. She came over tonight for my monthly at home facial. She carries over her table, steamer, lights, music, etc. She starts off with a consultation every time, targeting your skin’s problem areas. Based off that, she’ll decide which products to use. She normally does a glycolic peel to my face (it burns A LOT, but that means it’s eating the dead skin cells away, I like to think of it as a Pac Man affect) and we end it off applying a cooling mask. We usually rotate masks. My favorite she uses is the seaweed mask. Tonight she used Hylunia’s Papaya Enzyme mask. While the mask is on she massages you, which puts me right to sleep. There is nothing better than getting this done in the comfort of your own home! Especially during the holidays, the Christmas decor adds a nice touch.

If this just isn’t for you, there is a lot of home treatments you can make an apply to yourself! I’ll add some that I use, so you can try if interested.

You can create a spa experience at home, using salts and adding essential oils to your bath tub. I buy a lot of aromatherapy candles to make the air aromatic and stress free. It’s so relaxing about taking a nice hot bath in the dark with the flickering candles!

Creating a hydrating cooling mask by blending a little cold cream, yogurt, aloe vera gel, honey and avocado. Apply with a clean fan brush, and letting sit for 20 minutes.

Oil up your skin using your favorite oils. Read my last post about this!

Combine cold cream, two drops of tea tree oil, five drops of lavender oil, a spoonful of olive oil into a blender. Once it’s all nice and smooth, lather all over your hands and feet! Put on rubber gloves and white socks for the softest hands and feet ever!

Deep condition your hair using coconut oil ! Also mentioned in my last post

Warm up your favorite lotion while your in the shower, nothing better than rubbing in heated, soothing lotion

Although I love my at home pamper days, sometimes it is nice to just get out of the house and enjoy the perks of getting pampered at a spa too. My favorite spas in my area are La Tua Bella beauty bar, Marlene Weber & Haven Spa.

Jessica is currently booking at home facial parties, so perfect for this season! I can not emphasize enough how lovely this is! Hour and ten minutes of pure BLISS. I’m absolutely going to host a facial party at my house for all my girl friends, once my schedule calms down a bit. Michelle also does onsite massages and will book parties. For information on at home massages and facials please feel free to contact me so I can forward your their information so you can book your party or at home treatment ! If your not local or from the area then try contacting your local spa. They sometimes have someone that free lances for them or that will do on site work. Also, Please subscribe to my blog if you haven’t yet! I just got an AMAZING brazilian blowout this past week and will be doing a post about that too since so many people ask me about it! Here’s some photos below from my friend Kyra’s beautiful winter wonderland wedding last night! Oh & Heather’s spiked Louboutins.. lol she has every pair I want! Have a great week 🙂

XO,

Favorite must-have oils !

I want to quickly share with you my absolute favorite oils, that I use all the time, which are completely natural and organic. I took a bath last night and added some avocado oil to the water. Woke up this morning and my skin is still silky smooth. Slept with grape seed oil on my face, which I do once a week and ugh the results are refreshing. Woah, woah… Rubbing oil .. on your body? Eh, okay… but, on your face?! Sounds like a set up for disaster, right? Think again pretties. These natural, oil-based products help the skin stay balanced and have unbelievable results, once you try you’ll never go back.

Raw Coconut oil, not only good for you, but it’s one of my FAVORITE beauty treatments!

Great makeup remover including eye makeup
amazing hair conditioner… add some coconut oil to your hair after shampooing (avoiding your roots) wrap it in a small bun overnight, rise with cool water in the morning… say hi to your new beautiful, shiny, soft hair
Moisturizing mask for your face.. Perfect for winter time! Leave on for about 20 minutes and rise off … Instant hydration
Aftershave. Immediately calms and soothes skin.
Improves skin tone and reduced wrinkles
reduces appearance of stretch marks and reduces cellulite

Grapeseed oil, found in health food stores. One of my favorite skin moisturizers. It absorbs quickly, and used a lot during professional massages/facials.

-High in antioxidants which helps fight free radicals from the environment that causes damage to the skin
-Another great eye-makeup remover. This oil breaks down mascara and moisturizes the eye at the same time.
-Makes eyelashes grow longer and stronger over time
-Protects collagen which is essential for beautiful, healthy skin.
-Anti-aging properties helping you fight off the aging process
-Helps repair scars

Acocado Oil is such a pure, beneficial way to treat and nourish your skin effectively.

-Add to baths for soft skin
-Penetrates skin deeply making it an excellent moisturizer
-Protects against and reduces wrinkles
-Also helps heals scars
-Minimizes pores
-Contains a natural SPF
-Perfect use for mature skin
-Reduces blemishes

Sesame seed oil is rich in antioxidants and pulls toxins from your skin.

-Prevents against blackheads
-Fades dark spots
-Great to leave on face overnight
-Antioxidant
-antibacterial
-Lather this oil onto your feet and wear clean white socks to help soften your feet
-natural barrier that protects skin and hair from smoke

Here is one of my favorite beauty cocktails 🙂

1/2 cup sesame seed oil
1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup water

This will make your skin GLOW!

Dr. Alkaitis Oil a calming, holistic facial oil sent to me to try & review. In LOVE with this oil, I use it every other night on my face.

-Cleans up blemishes
-Plumps up skin
-Leaves skin glowing
-All ingredients used are edible and 100% natural and organic.
-Refreshes skin
-Helps skin maintain a healthy balance

Couldn’t do without my tea tree oil! I like to lather my face in tea tree oil and then steam my face. It opens up my pores and cleans everything out.

-Kills bacteria
-Antibacterial product that gets rid of acne
-Treats sunburn
-Reduces inflammation
-Organic and natural causing no side effects
-Helps dry skin, one of my main products in my shampoo!

I officially replaced shaving cream with this extra virgin olive oil. Olive oils work as an intense moisturizer. I wouldn’t use this on your face because it can clog pores (it’s thick), but it is amazing for your body. Shave your legs with olive oil and you’ll see exactly what I’m talking about. This can relieve and heal dry skin, eczema and psoriasis. It soothes the skin and makes your legs feel silky smooth without feeling oily after shaving 🙂

Happy Friday! Off to do makeup this weekend.. Everyone have a great weekend!

XO!

GIVE BIG! SHOP SMALL, SHOP LOCAL!

Hello beauties! I don’t usually do posts on Tuesdays, but waking up this morning to a light snow fall, with my house fully decked out in Christmas decor, definitely put me in the Holiday spirit and inspired me to do a post. This holiday season, I’m feeling some changes. In my business of blogging, being an artist in the makeup industry, organizing events, etc. it can become a bit tiring focusing on things all the time. Things you may ask? By things, I mean the perfect gift guides, the what do i wear to holiday parties, and the latest little must-haves whether it be the hottest new makeup pallets, tools for my kit, or gifts for friends and family. It can become over exhausting financially and physically. So I decided to change things up a bit, and do things a little differently this year. When holiday shopping, I’m choosing to make an important investment in our community! From interesting, brilliant crafted products to original, personal services, my experiences at my favorite small businesses leave me pleased constantly. I’ve met some incredible and inspiring self employed, business owners who are inspiring me to do this post.

GIVE BIG! SHOP SMALL, SHOP LOCAL!

Now obviously big businesses are essential to our economy too, since they of course employ locally and give back to the communities, so I’m definitely not trying to bash the big guys here. But this season, I’m going to make the effort to discover some of these unique, admirable additions for gifts to my loved ones. Instead of making your gift guides based on what we normally would, lets try to purchase from our favorite small shops. My favorite small businesses definitely include

Salon 52,

La Tua Bella beauty bar (which you can read about in my previous postings),

Maizies Tea Room,

Cupcake Confessions by Miss V,

and Simply Bee~utiful.

The Pottery Shack! My friend Marissa’s aunt owns a local pottery shop, we went there and painted our own pottery. It was so much fun, relaxing and I love my tea pot I created myself!

I asked some of my readers what their favorite small businesses were and here were some listed:

Gypsy Warrior Boutique, Pink Jewels, PoshBoutique Montville, MSV, Nutz, Joe’s dairy bar, Brassiere 292, Tiramisu restaurant, Steven Amendola, Marlene Weber, Alto music, Tuminaro’s Pharmacy, Rock and Snow, Dedrick’s, Rossi’s deli, Tay, Catbirdnyc.com which features jewelry made by local NYC makers, Beacon bath & bubble featuring all home made bath products from soaps, salts, scrubs, lotions and tons of delicious scents, made with all organic ingredients that are good for your skin, nellys, dana bands, Doughty plumbing & heating, Shadows, Beacon delights for candles, Osmia Organics for natural skincare products, Cocktail perfume, Cesare & Lilly, Babylonian Soap Company, Farmie Market& the list goes ON!

Not familiar with Osmia Organics? Love her soaps! Watch this video and get familiar!

Here is a head piece I wore today, I bought locally and it was hand made, but forgive me I threw out the tag and CAN NOT remember for anything who made it.

But I LOVE it! Perfect for this wintery day!

I hope some of you reading this, are willing to support and hop on the small business train for some of your Christmas shopping this year !

Now, for those of us who have limited time or limited budgets, can find great items & more affordable, yet comparable substitutions at our local drugs stores. My favorite foundation is Makeup Forever Hd foundation retailed at $42 at Sephora. I am VERY particular and fussy when it comes to foundations. I need something smooth, non clogging, lightweight yet getting great coverage without feeling like your wearing a mask. The ONLY drugstore foundation I found very comparable to makeup forever’s foundation is Maybelline New York Fit Me! Foundation retailing at only $8 !!! I have every shade of this foundation and absolutely love it.

I also love It’s a 10 Miracle conditioner retailing at $16 for 5 oz. At Walmart I grabbed L’Oreal EverCreme intense nourishing conditioner retailing at $6 for 8.5 oz. I LOVE IT! It’s sulfate-free and is filled with natural omegas infusing moisture into the hair. Make sure to always get Sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner.

Rather than spending a fortune in Teavana which I’m 100% guilty of, purchase local tea at Harney & Sons. Based out of Millerton, NY, they also opened up a shop in SoHo, NY you can read all about Harney & Son’s story here: http://www.harney.com/blog/our-tradition-of-tea/

My collection of Karuna facial masks. Retails online for $28 a box of 4, BUT found at Marshalls for $12 😉

Happy holiday shopping! Time for facial masks and tea time. Here are a few photos that I recently received in my email from jobs the past couple weeks. Enjoy beauties!

screen shot from music video last week I did makeup, hair & grooming for

In action shot of the bride’s mother in law last week, taken from Gary of Christine Studios.. one of my favorite wedding photographers!

Beautiful shot from one of my past bride’s Dina… Unsure of the photographers name but as soon as I find out I will credit them! Makeup by me, Hair by Annaliese Tatulli

Love this bride! Gorgeous vintage look. Makeup by me hair by Nicole Naccarato

So much more to come! Xo

Keep Calm & Give Thanks!

Hey beauties! This week has been crazy with Thanksgiving, my 23rd birthday, and tons of work! Thanksgiving is always the time that it really begins to feel like the holidays. I hope everyone had a fabulous Thanksgiving with your loved ones and favorite people. I spent my Thanksgiving (which happened to land on my birthday this year) in Westchester at my family’s house, stuffing my face with fatty foods, opening gifts and appreciating my loved ones. This time of year I tend to reflect on my life and what I’m thankful for.

My family, who love me and support me unconditionally no matter what

My amazing friends who I adore dearly

Andrew, who always seems to guide me in the right path

My furry friends whom I’ve adopted and love so much and for all the cute things they do, that melts my heart every single day

The little things in life that make me happy like my daily morning cup of tea

Opportunities and experiences that have come my way

The support of all my readers & followers that constantly motivate me to work hard and be successful!

I am also thankful that I celebrated Thanksgiving not once but twice this year. The day after Thanksgiving I did makeup for an amazing fashion show/benefit, that Rose Kneer put together for Adopt-A-Solider Platoon.

On my way, I couldn’t help but admire the sunset!

For me this event was like celebrating Thanksgiving twice, because it made me realize, and appreciate life and everything in it. The show was hosted by actor and comedian Carlos Gonzalez and co-hosted by Mrs. NJ America 2012, Robin Vitale. Here’s a photo of my Logo on screen of the show…

The show helped raise awareness and funds for deployed soldiers in need. The mission of Adopt A Soldier Platoon is to improve the morale of service men and women, as well as their families. There were amazing performances, and some great designers that blew my mind! Recording Artist Apryl Evans performed and her voice was unbelievable. David J. Bixler who was an injured Colonel during his third tour in Afghanistan, made an amazing speech that was really moving. He shared his reasons for joining the military, and his dedication to fight for the freedoms that have been afforded to him. He described how he felt guilty taking advantage of the freedom we are all given without doing something to earn it. He didn’t complain once, he was very thankful for the Adopt a Solider Platoon contributions. It’s the smallest things that makes the biggest differences, for these soldiers.

I attended this event to do makeup for models, and after David’s speech, I realized I was there for SO MUCH MORE.

It made me thankful for everything I have in life, and motivated me to help. During the fashion show part there was a designer that immediately caught my attention. I liked how she came backstage and introduced herself to me, and described to me what looks she wanted me to create on her models. Her designs were lovely. The makeup she chose was bold. Bold blue eyeliner. But… I couldn’t help but notice her age. She appeared to be very young, and made it almost unbelievable that she was the designer! Well, my assumptions were right. Her name? Jazmin Brown. Her age? 14 YEARS OLD! Such great talent at such a young age! Check out this commercial her work is featured in!

Alexandria Gilleo: Your such an inspiration, I can’t believe how young you are! What age did you start designing?

Jazmin Brown: Thank you. I started designing about two years ago, at the age of 12. I started off modeling first, then became a designer. I was also on the Tyra Banks show when I was 11 years old.

AG: Ah, something we have in common. I was also once a guest host on the Tyra Banks show ! What is your biggest accomplishment?

JB: My biggest accomplishment was definitely getting booked with Kraft foods!

AG: What was it like filming and being chosen for the Honey Grahams commercial?

JB: Amazing! I was sent to San Francisco to film the commercial. My designs were featured in NJ Fashion week. It was a great experience.

AG: What projects do you have in the works, and where do you see yourself in 5 years?

JB: Right now I’m working on my pieces going into boutiques. That’s what I’m working out now. In the future I see myself having my own boutique. I make all the kids pieces myself. For adult wear, I’m still learning. Right now I have someone sit along with me.

Other designers included Dana Bands, Nikkay Fashions, HR Fashion, E & J Bridal Boutique, Stache Haus, Jerzy bling, and a few more. I was truly honored to work this event! This week, I also was booked to do makeup for a music video. Fun! Love these types of jobs. Incredible singer, Michelle Sangalli called me to come on set of her video and do makeup and hair. I got to work with director Edwin Escobar, for the second time. His work is great and I love working with him. He means business! I also got to meet Christopher Lykins, the male actor in the video. He is a model and upcoming actor. Look out for him in tv series Revolution, and movie Safe Haven. Here’s a photo of some of the crew.

I am so thankful for my career. I truly love meeting so many different people, and working with young talent CONSTANTLY!

Again, I hope you readers all had a great Thanksgiving. Christmas is next! Christmas is no doubt the most exciting time of the year! I adore everything about this season, except the cold weather 😉 I decorated the whole house, and very excited that I put up my PINK Christmas tree in my closet room. Along with Victoria Secret gifts under the tree (Yes, I’m stocking up on those secret reward cards!) Here’s some photos of my week and Christmas decor! Enjoy!

Celebrating my 23rd Birthday!

Christmas Decor! A stocking for Andrew, LaLaa, Buddah, Sonny, Banks, Tom & myself 😉

Thanks again for reading! Next post will be on Wednesday ! Xo!

Wings Castle

Once upon a time, I was browsing through the internet (what else is new) looking for new places to explore in Millbrook, NY. I found a location that immediately caught my attention, “Wings Castle.” The photos looked like my dream home that was built to life (considering that I am a princess in my own head )! As I was looking at all the photos, I had a flash back to this actual castle. I’ve BEEN here before! The photo I found of the moat at Wings Castle brought me back, I remember going to watch a Shakespeare play with a friend here when I was younger. I believe her dad assisted with lighting but I may be wrong. Being a makeup artist that works with tons of designers & photographers, I thought this location would be a golden opportunity to have a shoot. The next day, I was working at the salon when I overheard my boss’s cousin talking to her about her job giving tours at a castle. No way?! Please tell me you are discussing Wings Castle. Yep! She was. I told her to text me the dates she would be working that week. That Sunday, she told me to come on by so me, my boyfriend, his sister and nephew went to take the tour.

This unique “tourist attraction” is not just a castle for Shakespeare plays but the RESIDENCE of the owners and builders Peter & Toni Ann Wing. Peter Wing built ( & is still building) this castle aka his home. Genius. Every nook and cranny of this place had a unique touch of art, down to the tiniest detail. Peter Wing hand placed every stone on the property. The entire castle is made from recycled material. Peter fashioned this incredible medieval castle from modern junk, rubble and garbage that most people would throw out. As you walk up to the castle, no doubt that you will start to believe that you have been transported back in time into a fairy tale in your most unimaginable dreams. After our tour, I asked to meet Mrs. Wing so I could discuss with her my idea of a photo shoot at the castle. She was lovely, showing us more of her home which isn’t open to the public on the tours. To my surprise she said yes for the photo shoot, but instead of any form of payment she asked if I could do her a favor, and “house sit” the castle the following Friday day & night because she & Mr. Wing had an engagement to attend. I know your probably thinking uhh this sounds like a beginning of a scary film, but OBVIOUSLY I was going to take this opportunity… as long as my boyfriend could come as well to protect me incase the scary knight in shining armor in the hallway decided to come alive. 🙂

Back to my dream home! Before Mr. & Mrs. Wing left, Mrs. Wing left me directions with how to welcome guests. They were waiting on guests to arrive to the towers. I didn’t mention previously that this place is also a bed & breakfast. You can stay over night in either “The tower room” or “The dungeon”. Both rooms are so legit! I will definitely make a point to stay here next autumn, when the leaves are changing colors. My boyfriend said he would prefer to stay in the Dungeon Room. It’s very cozy with a double bed. There’s a tiny fridge & coffee maker.. I should add that in this room there is no television or phone (not sure how I feel about that) but it definitely adds character to ” a castle “. After they left, we IMMEDIATELY started our exploration! First off, I want to begin to say HOW INCREDIBLE the view is! Truly breathtaking. You can see about 45 miles out east & west from the highest point of the property. You can see Mt. Beacon which I have hiked numerous times & also see the Catskill mountains. We explored all around outside, there was tons of art. It amazes me how this man masterfully created this “home” with a unique blend of past with present! There is tons of sculpture, stained glass placed into the stone walls, outdoor staircases that are tiny and winding, towers overlooking the castle, moat and view, passage ways through it all. Literally something out of a fairy tale. We wandered all over outside, taking photos and admiring everything. Andrew thought it would be funny to hide and jump out and scare me at certain points… Not funny! We ran back inside to change into our bathing suits and go swimming in the moat. Water was cold but refreshing. I’m usually not much of a swimmer but I was like a little fish in water. There was even a huge frog in the pool, usually I’d scream and get out but again, it just added character to the moat. I was convinced the frog was my prince charming waiting to be kissed. Hah just kidding. There’s a part of the pool .. ehem .. I mean the moat, that goes under the house, like a tiny tunnel which was also neat to swim in. I wish we took more photos swimming but I didn’t want to risk getting my phone wet.

Going back inside, the kitchen is filled with old antiques including their pet parrot, Trudy. I say old antique because Trudy is now 100 years old. Trudy wasn’t too friendly , she was barking at my boyfriend. LOL ! The living room is American Pickers DREAM! So many carvings, collections, art, history, there is not an empty spot from the floor to the ceiling. You could tour this house over and over and still discover something new to admire. There is a stone walkway inside leading to the bathroom which is beautiful! The sink is actually an old bird bath refurbished into a sink. There is beautiful stained glass, a spiral stone staircase, and the bathtub is a huge copper round tub, the water comes out of the mouth of a figure sculpted on the wall. It’s gorgeous arched brickwork is simple amazing.. I still can’t get over how they built such a magical place with their very own hands..

Then the guests arrived. Please don’t be serial killers! LOL The guests were young, very nice, decked out in Burberry outfits. We gave them a quick run around of the castle and lead them to their rooms. We asked them what the occasion was & they were attendees of one of the Johnson & Johnson daughter’s wedding the following day at a local farm. You fancy huh! After exploring & observing the castle it was time to relax. Andrew relaxed watching television on the couch which was a piece brought over from London, as I meditated on the stone wall outside which overlooked the incredible view of mountains, watching the sun set. I don’t know if I’ve ever felt so relaxed or content than I did in that moment. Everything was so peaceful, the nice breeze as the sun went down, the birds chasing each other chirping, the sound of crickets and frogs, a cute cat lounging around… It was perfect.

The whole place is a creative wonder. Now, when I castle sat it was back in the summer, but TODAY was the photoshoot. It was absolutely incredible !! I obviously did all the makeup for the shoot, and my good friend Alyse Camara did all the hair. The shoot was for a calendar that is inspired by the movie Sucker Punch. I haven’t actually seen the movie myself, but I’ll probably rent it tonight because I’m curious.

I worked with a fabulous photographer GianCarlo Fernandez, and an amazing group of girls who I instantly clicked with. As soon as they entered to get hair & makeup I could feel their positive energy. They were so fun, nice, upbeat and pretty. The whole day was filled with laughs and joking. I know I’m not a model (I’m not a size 000 and 6 feet tall) but I filled in as one of the Sucker Punch girls. Each Sucker Punch character has their own different style and attitude. The photos looked awesome, I can’t wait to see all the finished work. For now I’ll post the photos I took on my iPhone.

Rocket was played by Dana. Dana had such great energy. I’m pretty sure she was laughing the whole time since she walked thru the door. She works on the set of NBC’s show Smash with Katharine McPhee.

Sweet Pea was played by Anna. She should be a victoria secret model. lol She’s a polish model/actress that grew up in Germany and is still new to NYC. She’s already worked with actors including Alec Baldwin and Tina Fey.

Johanny played Amber. Johanny, also a beauty, was so incredibly sweet! She is also an actress/model in NYC area. You can check her out at http://johannymota.com

Kristen played Baby doll. I’ve been friends with Kristen & her sisters for over a year now. The whole family is talented. Kristen is living in Manhattan writing films. Her films were featured in festivals in LA.

Dr. Vera Gorski was played by my close friend Chelsea Harris, owner of Salon 52 in Poughkeepsie

& I played Blondie!

Looking at all the photos, you’d think we looked warm but it was 27 degrees outside. We were frozen and I still don’t think I can feel my toes. Regardless of the weather I had so much fun doing makeup and participating in this shoot. I met a group of awesome people and look forward to working with them again! I will post the professional photos as soon as I get them. The makeup was fun! I’ll also have to do another post on all the products I used to create all our characters.

Wings castle is truly a work of art and so magical. I would love to attend another play here. We really fell in love with the castle & even though we did the Wings a favor, I felt honored to have them let us stay at their home, free to wander and explore. Peter Wing is creative, fascinating man. I 100% recommend this tour during the warmer months. I believe it’s a small fee of $12 for adults and $8 for children. You won’t regret it! Tell them Alex sent you, maybe they’ll show you more thats not part of the tour!

Hylunia

Hi beauties! 2 years ago I was introduced to an amazing, natural, organic skin care line called Hylunia. If you know me personally, then you definitely have heard me RAVE about this line or have seen my posts about Hylunia on my facebook page. When I was introduced to Hylunia, I was working at a salon nearby and they had just hired a esthetician named Lillian. Lillian & myself bonded quickly. She reminds me of my grandmothers, very loving, welcoming and sweet. She’s been in the industry for years and had used Hylunia for over a decade. I was always skeptical of facials and messing with my skin because my skin tends to be sensitive & I can break out easily. After researching and looking over reviews on this product line I was finally convinced I needed a facial from her & it probably was the best decision I’ve made for my skin. The products are so light weight and smooth. My skin feels so fresh and radiant after using Hylunia. My facials from Lillian went from non existent to getting a facial once every two weeks. OFFICIALLY ADDICTED! Unfortunately as time went on, Lillian moved and I started working at a different salon. I miss her amazing facials but will be forever hooked on Hylunia thanks to her!

I use Beyond Complex C on my face every morning & night after cleansing. After 2 weeks using this product, I can tell you that you WILL notice a difference in your skin. This light-weight orange lotion packed with Vitamin C is a rejuvenating bio-active serum that evens out your skin tone and minimizes fine lines & wrinkles. The texture of your skin WILL improve! You only need a tiny amount. A little bit of this product goes a long way. Beyond Complex C is organic, vegan and cruelty-free. No matter what skin care line I’m using I mix the Beyond C in it as well. I’m truly addicted.

Hylunia’s anti-oxidant vitamin mask is also one of my favorites. Sometimes I wear it to bed and wake up with such soft, smooth skin. I use the The Colloidal Silver spray containing Lavendar Floral Water every day after exercising, yoga, if I’m hot, during work, after work, (lol) also addicted.. It eats away bacteria and is so refreshing and cooling! The Colloidal Silver has healing properties and is PERFECT for all skin types (yes, even sensitive!) It helps keep skin soft, clean and refreshed. I love the day lotion, keep your face feeling very moisturized and contains SPF which is a must! The Night Serum is the best night treatment I’ve ever tried on my skin.

I’m proud to say I got most of my friends equally addicted to Hylunia! & hopefully after reading this post some of you will try it out ! It can be pricey for the whole line but I promise it’s worth it.. And remember a little bit of product can go a long way. After reaching out, Hylunia was even kind enough to donate samples to me for my blog launch party! Thank you Hylunia for being the BEST!!!

Here’s a photo after I had a hylunia facial, no redness or irritation !

Do you plan on trying hylunia products? Have you ever tried it? What are your opinions & thoughts? So many exciting things in the works, my next post will be on Sunday ! Xo

Product review

This past weekend consisted of my usual routine; Makeup clients, shopping, at home facials, more makeup, dinner dates with friends followed by a trip to NYC. As I strolled around this week, I can’t help but notice that everything is Christmas! I thought Santa visits the mall AFTER Thanksgiving? Guess not this year.. Oh, well I’m not complaining. After all, it’s the most wonderful time of the year 🙂 While shopping, I found myself in Victoria Secret per usual. As much as I’m in there shopping, I seem to forget they have a makeup line. I figured I’d purchase some products and test them out to see how I like them. I purchased the VS tinted moisturizer with spf 15, VS pro radiant FX face illuminator, and VS face powder Next to Nude.

Lets start with the VS tinted moisturizer. I adore the packaging. It’s in a small squeeze tube, preventing it from squeezing too much product out. Putting it on my face this morning, it felt very lightweight. I applied it with my fingertips and lightly blended with a MAC brush. I love that is contains SPF 15 ! If your skin needs some coverage, then this product probably isn’t the best product to go with, only because it is so light weight and has only minimal coverage. It does however give your skin the overall appearance of a more even skin tone. I felt that my skin was smooth all day. This was only $15 ! Officially a fan 🙂

The Victoria’s Secret Pro Radiant Fix Face Illuminator reminded me a lot of NARS Orgasm Illuminator, which is great considering I bought the VS product for less than half the price of what I pay for Nars. It was a great highlighter that I patted on to the bridge of my nose, under my browbone and along my cheekbones. It gave me a nice glow and stayed set all day. To give your face a dewy angelic finish try mixing your liquid illuminator with your regular foundation and apply.

The VS illuminating face powder I also loved. I used it for an eyeshadow and with a small brush used it to go over my already highlighted areas on my face. I really am obsessed with highlighting the face. I want to do it to every client. Looks so good, and natural!!

500 point perk at Sephora! Nars !

I really enjoyed this new makeup, mainly because it was LIGHT! You have to really be careful and choose carefully which makeup is good for your skin. The wrong makeup can make your skin or acne worse. Being a makeup artist I tell ALL of my clients this! People with less than perfect skin (including myself!) Can NOT use heavy foundation and oily concealers! Your skin will never clear up if your not using the right products for your face. The only time I’ve used heavy foundation and powders was for commercials or films I was working on. Every major makeup company now makes oil-free foundations! My favorite foundation to use on myself and for all my brides is Makeup Forever foundation. The MF HD Foundation is housed in a typical plastic bottle which comes with a pump that dispenses just the right amount of product. I find this foundation makes the skin soft with a dewy finish. The coverage is pretty good for a liquid foundation – it covers most imperfections such as fainted acne marks, freckles etc. It lasts about 5-6 hours on me looking fresh. Best of all it photographs very well. I will absolutely wear this is I’m going out, but on an every day basis I always use tinted moisturizer. My favorite concealer is Erase Paste by benefit. The tub of product is incredibly tiny for $26 (just .15 oz), but thankfully you only need a VERY tiny bit to get the job done, so this product lasts me a very long time! This concealer comes in three different shades: Fair, Medium and Dark .. I use No. 2 Medium shade. It’s great for color correcting if you have dark under eye circles or a red pimple! It’s also a dream to blend. You can find both of these products at Sephora. For people with oily skin, use mineral foundations, it helps your skin become matte for longer.

Me & friends at brunch earlier , with some Knicks players in NYC. Here’s a photo of us and Ray Felton …

I also want to share quick, that I purchased more Karuna masks. I’m really LOVING these!!! I highly recommend them, for an affordable, great at home mask. Hope everyone had a fabulous weekend ! Xo