Our monthly Makeup Monday pro meetings are always so great! But this year we are upping our game with more education and going virtual! We started January off right with Napa Valley hair and makeup artist Rachel Lusk.
Rachel is a licensed cosmetologist with a decade and a half of experience. She specializes in bridal hair and makeup but also is a wiz at commercial work and is signed with the Look Agency out of San Francisco. She is the absolutely the queen of kit organization!
Having a strategic minimized kit is more important than ever! Here’s a recap of some of the things she shared with the group…
Want more kit inspo and tips? Then you have to follow Rachel on Instagram! https://instagram.com/rachel.luskhmua?igshid=rrax0ybmf8wt
She shares weekly peeks into her pro kit, what products you need to organize, and other ideas you’d never think of to make creating both safe and stylish! Thank you Rachel for sharing with us!
If you’re a pro makeup or hair artist and want to attend next month’s Makeup Monday meeting then email jessica@polishandpout.com to get the info!
January 31, 2021
Helping people tell their stories is what we are all about. Melissa said “I Do” to the love of her life this summer and we were so honored to be there to help her prepare for that walk down the aisle! Follow along as P&P Artists Gina and Ashley work their bridal beauty magic…Amazing photos by Mapurunga Photography.
Finishing touches…
And that final detail to complete the look…
Cheers to True Love, Telling Your Story, and The Best Day Ever,
August 11, 2015
Last week I had the immense pleasure of attending a class with celebrity makeup artist Scott Barnes hosted by The Working Artist Company!
Scott is known for his expertise in complexion and the famous faces he works on…in fact he created that infamous glow that Jennifer Lopez is known for!
A lot of people call themselves makeup “artists” but Scott embodies the true essence of the word. His background in fine arts painting shows from the way he handles his tools to the way he sweeps and blends the product… It is mesmerizing to watch his human canvas transform.
His approach with makeup is much like how he painted. His attention to light and shadow resulted in the monochromatic look he’s famous for.
The glow…the contour…this approach essentially birthed a movement within makeup.
One thing that Scott said that really resonated with me was, “A good artist knows when to stop.” He demonstrated this by his minimal use of product and impeccable blending. Something we all should take a cue from with the recent contour craze that has swept beauty trend!
Reading something in a book, seeing pictures online, or even a quick video is helpful but nothing compares to being able to see things in person…and having the ability to ask questions!
Along with all of the amazing tips and techniques he demonstrated came a huge dose of inspiration!
Attending this class reminded me yet again of a very important truth: Education is not a destination, it is an ongoing journey. And a true professional never stays still.
So the question is, makeup artist or not, how are you moving forward in your education?
Cheers to Education, Art, and Always Moving Forward,
May 7, 2015
Life can be tough. Circumstances can be shaky. Here is what we are certain of though…
1. Lipstick can cure just about anything.
2. But how we look on the outside does not define us.
3. Everyday is a fresh chance to be a new you. Is the day half gone and its been terrible so far? You can start your day over anytime you choose! I had a teacher in junior high say that all the time and it stuck with me…I use this pearl of wisdom regularly!
4. Knowing how to do something properly is very powerful! And while an expertly executed smoky eye may or may not land you Ryan Gosling, it will boost your confidence and make the day seem brighter!
5. Everyone deserves to have their moment to shine. You may not be a celebrity, but you can feel like one once in a while! (That’s where we step in!)
6. Others actions can affect us, but ultimately your personal choices will be the rudder that steers the ship of your life!
7. You can always count on being able to tag along with us! Beauty Adventures are best shared with a friend…and sometimes a little pretty is the perfect escape!
Cheers to Circumstance, Certainty, and New Chances,
Beauty, Bridal, Celebrity, DIY, Fashion, Health, industry professional, Makeup, Musings, Personal, Photoshoot, Product review, Shopping, Trend, Tutorial
September 9, 2013
Anyone who has had the pleasure the meet Beck Morgan will agree with me on these two things: He is a master at what he does. And he is passionate about what he does. It’s impossible to not catch his enthusiasm when you’re around him!
Beck is specifically an expert on MAC product having been a MAC educator for over five years, training groups of up to 700 people on the latest trends and how to create a flawless look. He loves giving people the skills to get the exact look they want!
As a MAC Cosmetics artist for the past 10 years, he has worked with clients ranging from new brides to celebrities, “Some of my favorites have been Naima Mora and Caridee English of America’s Next Top Model, The Raiderettes, The B52’s and Cyndi Lauper!” Beck is sharing his top 7 must-have MAC products with us today, so grab a pen and add these to your weekend shopping list!
1. Viva Glam VI Lipglass: A beautiful lipgloss with a bronzy base and raspberry shimmer. It looks fab over any lipstick and has enough color when worn alone.
2. Engraved Powerpoint Eyeliner: This liner won’t budge. You can sweat, cry… A bridal must have!
3. Radiant Rose Highlighting Pen: The secret to the Karsashian glow underneath the eyes and to pop the cheekbones that works on everyone.
4. Warm Soul Mineralize Blush: This soft pink and gold blush has the perfect amount of shimmer. Try it, I promise you’ll love it!
5. Extended Play Mascara: This is like Lancome Definicils on steroids. At $16.00 you cant beat it for a department store mascara.
6. Natural Radiance Face Primer: It brightens your complection and makes your foundation glide on like silk. One pump massaged into your skin before foundation, and your skin looks fresh all day!
7. Give Me Sun Mineralize Skinfinish Bronzer: Universal non-shimmery Bronzer that’s gives a golden (not orange) glow any time of year.
“If there is one part of makeup I love most, it has to be beautiful foundation. I always say ‘Skin is who you are, makeup is who you want to be!'”
Well put, Beck!
Cheers to Makeup, MAC, and Beck Morgan,
Beauty, Beauty Spotlight, Bridal, Celebrity, industry professional, Makeup, Musings, Product review, Products, Shopping, Trend
February 21, 2013
Here are some of the things that have been in my shopping cart as of late…mostly July and August. Some of these things I’ve been buying for years, others I just discovered! The prices vary greatly…honestly I use what I like and what works, sometimes that means combining expensive and affordable! Whatever works
Ardell Individual Lashes: a long time fave of mine! I wear these everyday and use them on all my brides! They look so plush but are believable at the same time! I had someone ask me the other day if I had started using Latisse. I prefer to adhere these with Dark Tone Duo glue. You can find these for under $5 at Target. I mostly use the “short” length.
ELF Liquid Lipstick in Perfected Pink: only $1 at Target! Glossy finish, but not sticky! Love how smooth it is…and this shade works for everyone!!!!
Dior Airflash: $65 at Nordstrom. Pricey yes. But perfection has to cost something! This is literally photoshop for your face. Looks lovely by itself and is lighter than air. Or buff it on top of your liquid makeup for that extra perfect doll-like pore-less look! When I want my skin to look immaculate this airbrush like spray foundation is my go-to. Started using this 5 years ago and it was love at first sight!
Rimmel 8 hour wear Kate Moss Lipstick: around $4 at Target. I know, I know, I keep brining this formula up but I REALLY love it! Wears so long and feels great. Shade #8 is a pinky mauve. Good bridal shade.
Urban Decay Primer Potion: Usually $18 at Sephora. I tried this originally when I purchased my first Naked palette and I really like it. Helps shadow go on smooth and wear longer. I snagged mine on sale at Nordstrom Rack for $8!
Jordana Easyshine #10 Fresh Melon: $1.25 at drugstores (I snagged mine at my local Savemart grocery!). Feels great, smells yummy, and looks so lovely! What a deal!
Rimmel 8 hour wear Kate Moss Lipstick: around $4 at Target. Yep another shade I love in this collection. A true nude. Perfect to pair with a dramatic eye. Be light handed when applying though so as to not erase your mouth completely!
Total cost of my shopping cart? Around $90…granted the foundation is around two-thirds of that so all in all 7 items for that much is not too shabby! Have you tried any of these products? Tell me your thoughts!
Cheers to Pricey Foundations, Cheap Lippys, and Using What Works for You,
August 20, 2012
I absolutely LOVE false lashes…especially individuals! They really make eyes pop, but not in an over the top way…individuals can be believable, more so than a strip in my opinion. It’s more like ” hmm…her lashes are so great!” or “I wonder if she used Latisse.” Don’t get me wrong, strip lashes can be nice and fun, but individuals just have a certain something that I just love!
I often hear: “Aren’t individuals harder? They take so much time!” Perhaps it is a practice-makes-perfect situation but I actually find them easier. They take no thought. I don’t have to sweat lining them up perfectly likes strip and I don’t have to measure or trim. Plus, no fear of a corner lifting! And popping a few on the ends of my eyes when I’m pressed for time is a cinch and adds a lot! You convinced yet?
What you’ll need: individual lashes…I like Ardell’s, and I find that most (even those with “good” natural lashes) will use the “short” length (they come in short, medium, and long) if you want a plush lash that is believable. Lash glue…I like DUO (it is NOT latex free, for those of you with allergies FYI) and I get the one that dries black (vs. the one that dries clear). Tweezers are optional. I find that they get in my way and prefer to just use my fingers…but some people swear by tweezers. Your choice, do what works for you.
Quick tips:
I do one lash cluster at a time on each side, alternating back and forth so things are even steven.
Dip the lash in a little glue (you don’t need much!!) and let it dry for a sec so it’s tacky/sticky NOT wet. It will adhere better and stay put where you place it.
And finally, place the falsies into the root of your lash…not on your actual lash, not above your lash on your skin, but into the actual lash line.
Watch the video below for more tips and to see me apply them! Good luck and let me know how they turn out for you!
Cheers to Lashes, to Glue, and to Fluttery Eyes that Pop!
January 19, 2012
Having a longwearing…even waterproof look is often times desirable…sometimes necessary, and always a bonus!
It boils down to two things: the products you use, and the techniques you employ.
As far as products go…this may seem like a no brainer, buuuuut: choose products labeled “long-wearing” or “waterproof” this will give you a leg-up on achieving a long-wearing look and products marked as such REALLY do have ingredients in them that help them wear longer (such as oil absorbing ingredients, etc).
Some fav’s of mine for eyes: use MAC’s paint pot in painterly as a base for your shadow…it REALLY stays put and as you can see from these pics, it REALLY helps your shadow stay put!! Also their Fluidline in Blacktrack really goes the distance for lining your eyes!
One of my favorite long-wearing foundations (I mention it ALL the time!) is Dior’s Forever foundation…it really will last through a long day…dancing, moving, hugging, and (as demonstrated by our model) even a dunk in some water won’t make it run down your face! As far as lips go, the trick is to opt for more matte formulas, they tend to be drier but longer wearing. Also, completely color in your whole lip with a corresponding shade of liner to act as a base for the lipstick! Apply your matte shade on top, blot, then repeat!
When it comes to technique, layering is key. Layer upon layer of perfectly blended makeup, that is what is going to give you a flawless long-wearing look. It is important to layer translucent powder on top of foundation, to layer cream blush underneath powdered blush, and to layer liner underneath lipstick. Every layer adheres to the one under it, creating a long-lasting color-packed punch! One thing I really love doing is even layering a cream blush, then a powdered blush, THEN even a bright pop of a different blush right on the apples of your cheeks! I know it sounds like a lot, but remember we are talking about multiple LAYERS, not necessarily a ton of thick makeup! Blending is key!
Use fingers to warm up concealer and foundation, use fluffy brushes to blend away seams and set with powder, and of course use waterproof mascara! I love L’Oreal’s Voluminous mascara in black!
Watch below to see the specific techniques I employ for a long-wearing picture-perfect complexion!
So Cheers to Picture Perfect Faces, to Long-Wearing Lipsticks, and to Not Being Afraid to jump in the pool (or hot-tub!) every once in a while!…
December 17, 2011
Part of what makes a wedding special is putting in little personal touches or unexpected details…I especially love it when a bride decides to throw in an accessory that’s more on the fun side or even a little trendy!
A few things I see fitting in with bridal trend during the cold seasons…
What better accessory for a chilly weather wedding than a pretty coat?! Definitely a good idea for some cute pics outside before you walk down the aisle! DIY Tip: this coat is from the juniors section in Nordstrom…every year they sell peacoats in all colors for around $50 (sometimes cheaper if on sale!). They come with basic buttons that looked very casual so I went to the craft store and found these gorgeous antique inspired pearl buttons. A quick button swap and voila! A fancy-shmancy coat!
Are you a lipstick or vintage loving gal? Opt for vintage earrings, layers of pearls, or a punchy lip (or as in the case of our model all 3! Ha!)! A bright peach is a great way to rock the vintage look while still being current (bright lips are huge this fall in makeup trend!) and is a nice change from the usual red. Upswept hair with a little texture completes this look (styling compliments of Ashley B!)
Sparkly heels! Who wouldn’t feel like a million bucks in these glittery gold colored babies?! I’ve seen versions of these all over the place and they can be pretty pricey. Our lovely model Ashleigh snagged these at Target! I would have never guessed…they were stunning!
Another cold weather accessory: a scarf! Snag one in a shade like your wedding accent colors. Avoid bulky knits and opt for more of a pashmina or a chiffon or silk scarf. Looks cozy while still being classy! Love trends and fun bold statements? Go for an animal print! Again this can be for pics before or after the ceremony or better yet: before you enter your reception lose your veil and wrap a gorgeous scarf around your neck to change up your look!
A classic smokey contoured eye is always in style! To learn how to do this makeup look click HERE. Ashleigh looks absolutely lovely don’t you think? Thanks for the amazing pics Lydia Photography!
While classic is always nice, there’s nothing wrong with your wedding or your bridal style reflecting who you are at the time you get married! Don’t pass up on something you like because you’re afraid it’ll look “dated” later in pics…guess what, it still will no matter what! So don’t be a fashion victim but enjoy the time you live in and capture it!
So Cheers to Style, Class, and maybe even a little Leopard Print on your big day!
Acessories, Beauty, Bridal, DIY, Fashion, Makeup, Photoshoot, Trend
November 5, 2011
I promised to tell you how to get the second look and here it is…Our second model in the western bridal shoot was the lovely Brittany! Seriously Lydia, I cannot get enough of these pics! Ha!
I love the idea of wearing a cardigan or wrap in a more casual fabric over a wedding dress!
Don’t you just love these boots?!
For the eyes I dusted a shimmery soft pink shadow all over the lid, a touch of lavender in the crease, and a deeper plum to give her eyes that flirty look on the outer corners and under her lower lashes! Purples are a perfect compliment to a green eye by the way…Use a rich purple near your lashline to really make your green eyes pop! Individual false lashes of course (I LOVE the ones by Ardell…tried and true!). On her lips is the MAC Viva Glam Gaga 2 lipglass. And on her nails is one of my fav nail polish shades: Lacey Lilac by Sally Hansen
Can I just say that I can’t stop looking at all of the amazing accessories?! I am especially loving all this turquoise…There’s just something about contrasting classic with trendy or casual with elegant that just is SO stylish! Love!
To style your hair like this check out my hair tutorial (video included for extra info!).
I love this look…a subtle pop of color, a nude lip, and amazing accessories…what more could you want?
So Cheers to boots, pearls, and wearing purple eyeshadow (even on your wedding day!),
October 15, 2011
