B L O O M INS A T U R A T I O N

Sundance So Far.

2012-01-26T21:42:00.000-08:00

Product Play Time

2012-01-24T06:27:00.000-08:00

Today, I want you all to meet my Volume Friends!

1. Small Talk from Bed Head - This products is a 3 in 1! 1-adds shine and controls frizz, 2- Acts as a thermal protectant and energizes hair and 3- creates a lot of body with a light to medium manageable hold. Plus, it smells great!

2. Phomollient from Aveda - I love this product. I pump to pumps into the palm of my hand and massage throughout my hair. Gives amazing weightless volume! Has about a medium hold.

3. Volumizing Tonic from Aveda - Somedays I use this over the phomollient and Small Talk because it has one other dynamic... along with organic aloe and wheat amino acids that helps build amazing body and shine, it also has essential oils to uplift your sense. Yes please.

4. Keven Murphy's Powder Puff - INSTANT BEDROOM HAIR. Who doesn't like that look?? Right after I had my color melt and extensions created last September (sadly I don't have them anymore) I snagged up some of this after seeing my hair goddess apply it at the roots of my hair and massaging it in. My hair had an amazing volume without the damage or, lets be real, tackiness of back combing. I am addicted to this product.

In the next hair post I create, I will share with you my favorite "Silky" items that help combat frizz and leave your hair feeling shiny as well as a certain dry shampoo that I just can't keep my hands off of! Until then, I wanted to share photo's with you of my favorite salon in SLC Utah where I get my locks taken care of, Ulysses.

Sigh... I miss my long awesome party hair so much.

A Small Glimpse of Packing.

2012-01-23T13:27:00.000-08:00

{I am shoving everything I possibly can into this Zara bag. Laptop and all.}

Wardrobe

White Blouse found at the DI in SLC, UT

Shiny Leggings found at American Apparel

Black Tank found at Nordstrom

Black Flats found at Urban Outfitters

Stud Earrings Urban Outfitters

Bangles from Forever 21, JMR and Forever 21

Watch and Chain bracelet gifted from MAC

Makeup

Face

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer

Mineralize Skinfinish Powder MAC

Faux Tan bronzer Bare Escentuals

Oh So Fair beauty powder from MAC and Rose Petal blush from Laura Mercier

Short Shorts MAC eyeshadow from the Surf Baby collection MAC (as highlight)

Eyes

Oh So Fair beauty powder from MAC and Rose Petal blush from Laura Mercier

Bruised Sky from Daphne Guinness for MAC eye palette

False Lashes MAC mascara

Lips

Chili from MAC

{applied with a lip brush from MAC to the center of the lips where they meet and blended together by pressing lips together. Then slowly working more product out to the lip lines with brush. Tutorial to come.}

Music Mondays! Sky Box.

2012-01-23T10:15:00.000-08:00

I'm thinking Monday's are a good day to share my current jam's with you.

Everyone stretch your earbuds with some SkyBox- In a Dream.

Sunday Breakfast

2012-01-22T09:29:00.000-08:00

Some of my most favorite things.

Friday Fave!

2012-01-20T06:10:00.000-08:00

This new MAC nail polish is making dreams come true.

Orielle Orange

{Available at your nearest MAC standing store and part of the Iris Apfel collection}

After my model canceled just a few hours before our shoot yesterday, I found myself deflated. Took a nice long hot shower then busted out this amazing new nail polish I picked up today. I also snagged some MAC Pink Plaid lipstick! One of my favorites that over the years I have never come around to purchasing. Trying new makeup looks on myself has been a MUST recently. You know that fun stage where you're trying to grow your hair out, your brows out AND trying to get back into a work out routine? It throws off your groove. On a much more awesome note, only 4 more days until Ryan and I fly home for some Sundance goodness and quality time with family and friends. We are both having a hard time sitting around here in AZ while the film festival is officially in full swing. Missing the first part of the festival is the pits!
Anyway, I'm having a hard time containing my excitement. Have a great weekend!

Makeup

Face

Studio Fix Fluid MAC Foundation

Studio Careblend MAC Powder

Rose Petal Laura Mercier blush topped off with Margin MAC blush

Faux Tan Bare Escentuals bronzer

Eyes

Both blushes dusted carelessly along eye lid

Saddle MAC eye shadow in the crease (mostly inner)

Bruised Sky MAC shadow in crease (mostly outer)

Seedy Pearl MAC eyeshadows on inner corner of high and brow bone

Coffee MAC eye pencil in top and bottom water line

Dipdown Fluidline and Sketch eyeshadow from MAC = top liner

False Lashes Mascara MAC

Lips

Pink Plaid MAC Lipstick

Current Jam.

2012-01-19T07:19:00.000-08:00

With LOTS of errands to run, chores around the apartment, squeezing in a work out and preparing for a photo shoot tonight, this girl is busy and needs her most recent jam to keep her going!

Enjoy lovelies.

Video: Product Play Time

2012-01-18T07:23:00.000-08:00

In this video I show you how to wear all 3 lipsticks from yesterday's product post, together. I added a few other products and one tool to show you a fairly basic yet fun lip. Below I will include links to other blog posts where I have worn these lipsticks. Hope you enjoy!

Red Dwarf

1- Just My Style

Restrict

1- Tender Sympathies

Magenta Liner

1- Black Hats in the City

Product Play Time

2012-01-17T07:49:00.000-08:00

Some of my most favorite things. Lipstick, Perfume, Lotion and Skincare.

There really is nothing better than having a few things here and there to help you feel feminine and confident and these are a few of my personal favorites.

1- D&G 18 La Lune: This fragrance was part of D&G's unisex line of fragrances and this one in particular, while made for women, has a fresh yet softly masculine air. I just love it.

2- This Thymes Lotion in Eucalyptus smells absolutely amazing. I lather myself up with this everyday after getting out of the shower. My boyfriends mother found it at The Store (literally the name) in Salt Lake City Utah and exposed me to it while we were home visiting last October. I've been hooked ever since!

3- Kiehl's French Rosewater is infused with roses and French Essence and blended with a unique natural water that helps your skin feel fresh. You can use this anytime and anywhere on your body. I love using it on my face, neck and chest.

Now, every girl loves lipstick. Some rock lots of different shades, some prefer the soft touch of color, some prefer the soft moisturizing effects of a lip balm and others are terrified of all the above. I say this is the year to try ALL and love all of them. With pastels being very much in trend this year, which I love, I give you my first favorite shade of the year...

1- Play Time by MAC cosmetics. It launched with a collection a while back and may be subject to availability. Check Maccosmetics.com or Ebay.com. If you can't find it there, Up the Amp from MAC is a very similar shade.

I love the texture of this lipstick because it is soft yet the color is so bold and daring. Get it!

2- For the girl you needs to spice up her nudes with out adding color. Try hunting down Ristrict from Gareth Pugh for MAC lipsick. It has a sort of metallic feel and look without being glittery or over the top. I LOVE mine. Again, try your local MAC location and if they are already sold out try Maccosmetics.com or Ebay.com.

3- This shade from the Daphne Guinness collection completely stole my heart. This shade is for all you neutral/long-wearing lovers who need a change of pace. Why not a soft touch of 'Rose Meets Lavender'? Thats how I describe this lip shade. Plus, it seriously stays on all day long. What more could a girl ask for?

Keep your eyes peeled for these lip colors in my upcoming tutorials! xo

Foodie Friday!

2012-01-13T07:37:00.000-08:00

I love pancakes just a little too much. So naturally it makes sense I am constantly searching for healthier recipes of my favorite food. Lady's and Gent's I give you, Pumpkin Buckwheat Pancakes! They truly taste like pumpkin. Not super sweet. Instead of syrup I topped mine off with a light amount of Apricot Jam and oh my.

I'm ready for a long day of slingin makeup!

What You Need

1 cup of Buckwheat Pancake Mix

1 cup of cold water

1/3 cup of canned pumpkin

1/3 tsp cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground ginger

Set heat to medium and in a medium or large pan spray a non-stick cooking spray. Mix ingredients until blended but still lumpy. Scoop 1/4 cup of mix onto the pan. Cook pancakes on each side for two minutes and top off with whatever tickles your fancy.

Oh, and how could you forget your delicious Cartel coffee in your mustache mug?? Two of my most favorite things.
Coffee and my laptop. Its true.

For Those Who Enjoy Reading: My 4th Place Prize.

2012-01-12T07:59:00.000-08:00

Hi all.

Its been a rather long time since I've simply written just for the sake of writing. For the sake of saying hello and how happy I am you are here reading my blog and enjoying all the fun fashion, makeup and random life events I enjoy. In my career I see a lot of faces every single day and a big question I've been getting a lot lately is "why do you like to blog?". The Million Dollar Question I suppose.

Growing up I was a ~~huge~~ little bit of an introvert. I LOVED reading and writing. Often times I could be found sitting up against the brick wall at school nose buried in a book while all the other kids played Four Square, Basketball, Wall Ball or Pongs. Yes, Pongs. I was a shy girl who was often intimidated by those around her and for absolutely no reason at all. I remember being scared of the kids in my grade so I hung out with all the sixth graders after an older girl who lived next to me started walking to and from school with me. Now looking back, I know I was the "girl who hangs with the 6th graders". Little did I know, I was already too mature for my age.

Despite the makeup looks you all see me create now, I was nowhere near as talented when it came to drawing or painting when I was younger. I entered a contest in the 4th grade where we had to draw and create a book cover for our favorite novel. I spent FOREVER on this book cover. Taking my time and making sure not to rush because I knew I didn't have the skill to bust it out over night. I spent about 3 or 4 days working on it and found myself falling in love with this project of mine. It had become my baby and boy was I protective of it. For reading day my entire 4th grade class gathered in the library for the librarians to announce the winners of the book cover contest. 3rd place... Someone else. Second place... someone else. First place? yep someone else again. I felt my little 8 year old heart crush. How could my cover not make it? I worked so hard on it and I thought it turned out wonderfully. The Librarian hushed all the kids to calm down because they had one more award to present. "We had so many amazing entries for this contest and although we said there would only be 3 winners there was one more we felt really deserved an award." I remember time slowing down, my heart in my throat and who knows.. I was probably sweating. 4th place... ME. I was in so much shock I almost forgot how to stand up. I sat Indian style on the ground for a good 30 seconds before the librarian started looking at me funny. I finally got my legs to function and went up front to claim my prize. I will never forget how amazing that day felt. I still have my 4th place ribbon and my book cover safely tucked away at my moms house.

That was the year I knew I wanted to be involved with books and writing. It was a completely different art and one that I could get lost in for days. As I got older, I drifted from my tom-boy ways and at 15 started wearing mascara and lip gloss. Oh and I finally got my brows waxed for the first time. I thought I was getting all glamoured out! In junior high I was in choir where I had the amazing opportunity to perform two solo pieces and was also on the dance team. Both of those things were the girliest things I've ever done. My friends and I would do each others hair and makeup for performances and also for our dances. I still had no idea I loved makeup as an art yet. I was still quite the shy, introvert book worm. Which is probably why everyone I knew at the time was shocked to see me singing a solo let alone dance on stage. Who is this girl?? Honestly, I got mediocre grades. Nothing lower than a 2.7 and nothing higher than a 3.3. That 3.3 felt pretty damn good though. When it came to school work, if you needed me to bust out an essay for you, done. If you throw numbers my way, sorry my brain shuts off. And all that wood shop stuff? Please.

But, writing. Writing I could do.

My dream was to become a writer. I can't even begin to tell you how many books I've created and when I fell in love with film, how many scripts and plays. During my English 2010 class back in early 2007, I started this blog. Now, let me jump back for a second. High school wasn't for me. I disliked most of the people I went to school with because they all thought they were better than each other and it was a huge popularity contest. I had bigger fish to fry. I showed up, went to class, turned in my homework and left. I was working full time outside of school to pay for my car, phone and saving for college. As soon as I was able to graduate early, I did. I was onto bigger and better things. I was ready for the college world and couldn't wait to get started! In early 2005 I was in a bad car accident that totaled my second car. I had zero help or guidance on how to go about getting another car or even a loan to do so. I was hurt no one was willing to show me the ropes of car buying so being the strong willed and stubborn girl that I am I said, "I don't need your help." And I never asked for anything from anyone in my family. I went two years without a car (ages 18-20), had two jobs and 4-5 classes each semester. I lived about 35-45 minutes away (driving distance) from both of my jobs and one of my campuses. I caught a bus every morning at 630am, got off that bus at a Trax station where I would catch the 7am rail and by 725/30am I would get dropped off at the nearest stop to my first job which I still had a 15 minute walk to. I would work from 8am to about 12:50pm and then I would book it a block away to my campus for a few classes and by 4pm I would make the 20 minute walk from campus to the Trax stop where I would ride the rail all the way downtown to my night job as a hostess at a sushi restaurant. By the time I finished up that shift, I would catch the 10:45pm Trax and by 11:20pm I would finally make it down to the area I lived in only to have a 30-40 minute bus ride home followed by a 10 minute walk to my house. The next day I would wake up and do it all over again. It was the hardest yet most fun two years I've ever experienced.

I relied heavily on the Trax and UTA system back then and while taking my English 2010 class UTA made an announcement they were cutting about 10 Trax stops and around 100 bus stops. This was going to be brutal! My professor asked us to create a unique and intriguing final project based on a topic we are passionate about. I got the idea to write a blog along with writing a letter to the most important people handling this UTA move. I originally created this blog for a homework assignment. After the class was over, I abandoned the blog even though I had so much fun creating it. I never closed the account or removed the blog and years later I thought to myself "why am I not writing on my blog?". I went through my blog and saved a copy of my writing but erased the entries so I could start fresh and write about absolutely anything I wanted. I had no idea it would become what it has today and as some of you fellow blogger's may understand, this little blog is my baby now. Its my 4th place prize if you will.

I have always been ambitious and a hard worker and I truly see that when I go back and look at my first posts. This little blog has come a long way for me and I am so thankful to everyone who reads it and enjoys it. I still get ideas in my head for movies and scripts and now my overall dream is to one day write for a beauty or health magazine. Perhaps I should start looking into internships!

From the bottom of my heart readers, thank you.

Afternoon Cruise.

2012-01-11T16:01:00.000-08:00

{Just what I needed}

Getting my bike out of the apartment is always entertaining.

I'm sure I look pretty awesome riding it through our lobby too.

Lazy Days.

2012-01-11T14:16:00.000-08:00

Wardrobe

Dress: Forever 21

Bowler Bag: Zara

Boots: Steve Madden

Cosmetics

Face

Studio Finish Concealer MAC

Mineral Skinfinish powder MAC

Studio Careblend Bronzer MAC

Laura Mercier Blush in Rose Petal

MAC Beauty powder in Oh So Fair

Eyes

MAC Modelette Eyeshadow

MAC Bruised Sky Eyeshadow from Daphne Guinness eye palette

MAC Coffee Eye Pencil

MAC Satin Taupe Shadow

MAC Dip Down Fluidline Liner

MAC False Lashes Mascara

Lips

MAC gloss in Good Times

Today has been the kind of day where 1- the dishes and laundry can no longer be ignored, 2- you may as well clean the rest of the apartment while you're at it and 3- no matter what you try to do with your hair, nothing works. I opted for being lazy. And thank goodness I have a brow appointment tomorrow! These babies are getting out of control. Now, I need Ryan to come home so we can have a delicious dinner followed by video games, Breaking Bad and The League. XO

Tender Sympathies.

2012-01-10T11:16:00.000-08:00

Wardrobe

Faux Leather Jacket: H&M

Long gown style dress: Found at JMR in SLC, UT.

Leather Lace Up Biker Boots: Steve Madden

Jewelry

Stud Earrings: Urban Outfitters

Dangling Gem Earrings: Forever 21

Cuff: Pitaya

Bangles: Farmers Market and Forever 21

Large Ring: Forever 21

Chain bracelet and Black watch: Gifted from MAC Cosmetics

Cosmetics

Face

Studio Finish Concealer from MAC

Studio Careblend Powder from MAC

Studio Careblend Bronzer from MAC

Laura Mercier Blush in Rose Petal

Highlighter in Soft and Gentle MAC

Eyes

Highlighter in Soft and Gentle MAC

Dark Purple from the Daphne Guinness Palette from MAC (Inner Crease)

MAC eye pencil in Coffee

False Lashes Mascara from MAC

Lips

Gareth Pugh for MAC lipstick in Restrict (obsessed!)

Nails

Mint from Love&Beauty

I've really been enjoying all these 'no makeup' makeup looks. Still enough to feel a little glamorous and little enough to feel comfy. I have yet to showcase this dress of mine and I've had it for a while now. I found it while casually walking around the mall on a lunch break a lot of months back. I LOVE the taupe shade and the way the casual fabric falls. The lines are amazing and the neckline is to die for. Plus, I'm coming up with all sorts of new and exciting outfits for my new jacket and biker boots that i'm so obsessed with momentarily.

Friends in the Desert.

2012-01-09T06:45:00.000-08:00

{Holy cow we are both ridiculously fair. A+. Health food junkies. Dark Hair. Separated at birth??}

After 5 months of living in the desert, I am breaking down my protective wall and making great friendships.

Everyone, Olivia. Olivia, everyone!

{Hopefully one day soon I'll own Photoshop for small fixes such as the red eyeballs!}

Painted Black

2012-01-07T18:05:00.001-08:00

Cosmetics

FACE

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer

MAC Mineral Skinfinish

Studio Careblend Bronzer (From Surf Baby collection)

Laura Mercier blush in Rose Petal

MAC Soft and Gentle highlight powder

EYES

No primer

MAC Modelette eyeshadow

MAC Saddle eyeshadow

Laura Mericer Blush in Rose Petal

MAC Soft and Gentle highlight powder

MAC Fluidline Eyeliner in Dipdown

MAC Eyeliner in Coffee and Fascinating

MAC False Lashes mascara

LIPS

MAC Painterly Paint Pot

Shu Uemura BG 209 Lipstick

MAC gloss in The Wee Coquette

Outfit

Black Leather Jacket: H&M

Salmon T-Shirt: Urban Outfiitters

Black Opaque Leggings: Got Beauty in SLC

Lace Up Leather Biker Boots: Steve Madden

Jewelry

Gem Earrings: Forever 21

Black and Gold cuff: Pitaya

Large Gold Ring: Forever 21

January is a much needed mellow month. On the 24th we will fly home and enjoy 6 glorious days of crisp SLC air, snow capped mountains, friends, family and the much awaited Sundance Film Festival in Park City. I can't even wait. As soon as I get back my super busy February starts and I can't wait for that either! Also, its crazy to think that in a little over a month I will turn 25. Growin on up this girl is.

It's been Interesting.

2012-01-06T07:36:00.000-08:00

Gold and Black Cuff: Pitaya

Green Cord Pants: Pitaya

Bowler Bag: Zara

Black Suede Flats: Urban Outfitters

White Blouse: DI in SLC

Watch and Chain Bracelet: Gifts from MAC

Earrings: Urban Outfitters

Its been an interesting month for me. And an even more interesting couple of days. I often feel like I'm my five year old self again. Uncertain, timid, shy and for lack of a less dramatic term, forgotten. I moved 800 miles away... I didn't die. As of January 18th I will have lived in Arizona for 5 months. That reality isn't sinking in. What is sinking in? 1- Me reaching out to my friends back home only to hear little to nothing back from them (not all of them, but the majority). 2- Wishing I had someone to call to just meet up for coffee or a glass of wine.
3- Spontaneous shopping days by myself aren't entertaining anymore. 4- going to the gym by yourself is just plain boring. This IS real and IS sinking in.
I guess you could say I'm lonely.

Thats been a hard pill to swallow this week. Along with me feeling like I need to make a career driven decision before I talk my way out of it again. If you don't live, love and breathe what you do, you need to move on right? I've had a few conversations with people that I have tremendous respect and adoration for, especially when it comes to being successful and healthy, and they made me feel like what I want to do is the best step I could possibly take. Last night, had somewhat of a conversation about how I am feeling with someone else and by the end of it all I could think was "oh well Steph, you're an adult and you need to suck it up. Sorry you hate where you're currently at. Welcome to life."

No. No, I don't think I will accept that. I'm driven and I love what I do far too much to feel tied down to anything that doesn't make me 100% happy and fulfilled. I will work my butt off as a freelance makeup artist even if it means adapting a top ramen diet and taking a huge fashion purchasing diet!

Do what you LOVE in 2012. This is your year to take whats yours. xoxo

Inspirational Video.

2012-01-05T12:52:00.000-08:00

Bold Liners are HUGE this spring along with pastel tones and fresh skin. Watch this short and sweet video! Super inspiring for me today.

Sha La La La.

2012-01-04T12:12:00.000-08:00

{Finally, the first outfit post of 2012}

MAC Diva Lipstick

Bare Escentuals regular mineral foundation

Laura Mercier blush in Rose Petal

MAC False Lashes Mascara

MAC shadow in Modelette

Bobbi Brown gel liner in Black Ink

White Coat: Cotton Blossom Boutique in Holladay UT
Blue Suede Heels: Jessica Simpson purchased at Nordstom
Black leggings: have had them for so long I have no idea where I got them
Handbag: Zara online

The temps in Arizona are wonderful. I'm still not use to the idea or feeling of no snow during this time of year but from what it looks like, all my friends and family back in UT aren't getting much snow either. Thats just downright sad if you ask me. Ryan and I snagged our movie tickets to the Sundance Film Festival last night and I am getting more and more excited every day to visit the SLC and enjoy the excitement of the festival up in Park City. Don't worry, I'll snag lots of great photo's for you.

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T19:40:00.001-08:00

{Love myself and my handsome Ryan}

Hope you all had a safe and wonderful New Years Eve. Bring on 2012!

2011 in a Nutshell.

2011-12-31T18:17:00.000-08:00

{Time flies when you're having fun.}

Lets start with makeup shall we? I really dropped the ball on creating new and exciting looks for you guys this year BUT remember that Fall Forward Collection I put together the months of August and September? Boy I sure was on a roll with that. Here is a small collage of some of my favorite looks from those two months.

Plus, there was a tad bit of Food and Fashion along the way.

Happy New Year! Here's to a killer 2012!

Action Shots.

2011-12-29T19:43:00.000-08:00

Helping my students execute their looks on their models for the December 17th Photo Shoot. Check out the photo's HERE! Photography done by Ryan Walsh: Facebook, Website. School- Avalon School of Cosmetology: Facebook, Website.

Four More Days.

2011-12-28T08:03:00.000-08:00

Only 4 more days of busy retail work and I will ring in the new year with the man I love so much.

{AND, this handbag better get here quick! I have had my eye on it for a while and finally ordered it!}

Missing Friends.

2011-12-27T07:17:00.001-08:00

{More than ever...}

Holiday Dinners

2011-12-26T17:53:00.000-08:00

After tearing through presents, being lazy and enjoying some time in the sun, it was time to prepare dinner for my family. I went with a delicious Vegetable Polenta Pesto Lasagna. Ryan was a little worried about whether or not my family would enjoy the food but I knew it was going to be amazing.

{You Need....}

- A glass dish to bake the lasagna in 7x11x2

- A tube of Polenta

- A jar of marinara sauce

- Mozzarella cheese (preferably shredded cheese)

- Pesto

-Pine Nuts

- And you can add any vegetables you'd like. We kept it simple and stuck to mushrooms.

*Preheat oven to 375 degrees and bake for 25 minutes. Then top lasagna off with another layer of mozzarella and pine nuts then broil for 5 minutes.

{Myself and my cousin Nikelle}

Oh the Holidays.

2011-12-25T13:22:00.000-08:00

Just My Style.

2011-12-24T17:04:00.001-08:00

A holiday lip color for those of you brave enough to go there. A bold look that is still elegant and not your classic red. What other colors are you loving this holiday season?

{Lip Liner: MAC Just My Style- Doesn't hit MAC locations until the day after Christmas. Its an amazing dark chocolate brown lip liner. Lipstick: MAC Prolong wear lipstick in Red Dwarf from the Daphne Guinness collection that also hits MAC locations the day after Christmas.}

Merry Christmas!

Holiday Red

2011-12-21T20:48:00.001-08:00

{There's nothing more cheery or festive than a red lip around christmas time.}

{REDD MAC lipliner and MAC Prolongwear Lipstick in Eden Rouge}

That Christmas Feeling.

2011-12-20T19:51:00.000-08:00

Christmas is only 4 days away. 4! I can't even wait to sit around our tree in comfy pj's with a warm beverage in hand while watching Ryan tear through some presents. Perhaps we'll lay around in the wrapping after and fall asleep like Randy in A Christmas Story.

Black Hats in the City.

2011-12-19T18:26:00.000-08:00

I promise I'm not flippin the bird. You just can't see my other fingers. HA.

Some of the things I love most: Ryan, tasty beverages, bruschetta, roaming the city, pink lipstick, my new black hat, blouses and jewelry.

The Sound of Sand.

2011-12-18T16:58:00.000-08:00

I can't even tell you how happy I am to be back to regular blogging! The last two weeks I was teaching my December Advanced Makeup Course by day and working retail during the holidays by night. Lets just say, my muscles are SORE. Here are a few snapshots from my class and my amazing sunday off with my handsome man.

{Theatrical day. I let Arthur, my assistant instructor, create a look on me. As creative as it was, I felt like a bird. Hehe ha.}

{That big tower in the background= HOME. We love it.}

{A new restaurant discovery= Cornish Pasty.}

{Our new shower curtain from Crate and Barrel. LOVE.}

Rock On.

2011-12-14T07:35:00.000-08:00

Grunge. Raw. Unveiled. Androgyny. My inspirations as of late.

Its grey and rainy here in the desert. Time for a coffee and some quinoa pancakes.

Shop Local! FRESH Wish List.

2011-12-12T07:38:00.000-08:00

I miss my favorite local Salt Lake City spots SO much. On my days off, I would grab my camera and head to the 9th and 9th area. This area is filled with local businesses such as coffee shops, restaurants and boutiques. FRESH is one of those few local boutiques in Utah that I absolutely love. Owned and run by brother and sister Helen and Ian, they offer the most up to date and trend forward fashions for both men and woman. What I love the most is that they have lots of girly fashionable options as well as comfortable laid back clothing. I would even rock lots of their men's options! I put together a little FRESH Wish List for you guys. These are some of my favorite items and all of them can be found via their Facebook page HERE.

'Like' FRESH on Facebook and support your local businesses! Christmas is right around the corner and you can make a fun one stop shop at FRESH. Grab your girl a new pair of TOM's, a holiday outfit and some accessories to match. Or ladies, grab your man a warm beanie, some new good looking shoes and a new watch. Either way, you'll all be looking pretty fabulous. And supporting local at the same time. Now that is the season of giving!

I love rings and I can't stop thinking about this claw ring! The Feather ring is real silver and cute to boot.

You can find all of these accessories HERE.

How would you like a laid back yet confidant and fun holiday outfit? Maybe number 1? Or a vintage style blouse to add to your collection? Or better yet, comfy sweaters that can still be worn with heels whenever the occasion arrises. I LOVE these women's items.

You can find all the Women's clothing HERE.

I love men's anything more than I like women. Right now, I am currently rocking mens sweaters with my matte leather leggings and a men's fragrance. Oh and messy hair. So when I saw these items on FRESH's website I thought 1- Ryan would look amazing in all of these! and 2- I would look even better in them ;). I can't help it, I'm currently obsessed with androgyny. The coat and pants aren't for me but all the shirt and the sweater, yes please.

You can find all of the Men's clothing HERE.

Snapshots.

2011-12-09T21:37:00.001-08:00

Tonight we grabbed more lights for our Christmas tree, some ornaments and luckily we found better stockings that we are both crazy about. Can you tell how excited Ryan is for his little Santa ornament? I thought it was pretty classic. Stopped by the World Market and picked up some deliciousness: wine, feta stuffed olives, olive chips and a mango lime salsa. While the man is out on the town, this little lady took a long shower, searched for some new fashions to purchase after the holidays and is now heading to bed for a very, very long day of makeup tomorrow. Goodnight Bloomers.

Holiday Shakedown.

2011-12-07T15:43:00.001-08:00

This isn't the December I'm used to. Who wants to come visit me??

During the holidays you should ALWAYS...

Rock a red lip. And...

Enjoy lazy nights snuggling and drinking tea.

Some of my Favorite Things...
Beer Flights for the Man.

Wine flights for Moi.

I would have more photo's of our tree BUT we need more lights, so its not quite done yet. Hopefully by the end of this week!

Christmas in the city.

White lights and bright ornaments.

Presents! YES.

A few years ago I got the idea to use polaroid photo's on stockings instead of 'names'. The tradition is going to stick as long as someone keeps producing Polaroid film!

Enjoying a nice glass of white wine while we decorate and watch A Christmas Story. Life, really couldn't get much better.

Boy do I love the holidays. Just yesterday I started teaching my next two week intensive Advanced Makeup Course and I am LOVING it. Between working both jobs 9am-10pm for the next four days I don't know how I'm going to keep up with my blog at the same time. I won't let you guys down! I almost have all my Christmas shopping done. Its been a little tricky this year and sending gifts to my family and friends back home is a whole new experience. Once we get our tree all decorated, you'll get an eye full.

Beauty Product Gift Guide!

2011-12-06T19:18:00.001-08:00

These can be great gifts or fun random stocking stuffers! Either way, anyone will love them! I am so pumped for gifting all my friends and loved ones this year!

1. Khiel's Rosa Arctica- One of my FAVORITE skincare items. Anti-aging agents and resurrection root that helps rejuvenate skin and gives skin a strong and fresh glow.
2. Nordstrom Exclusive Brush set- $100 value for only $30. Thats a steal!
3. Bobbi Brown Holiday Lip Palette- 10 original lip colors you can wear as they are or mix together for your own creations!
4. Balenciaga Paris 'L'Essence' Candle- If you haven't been into your nearest Nordstrom yet to smell this, get on it!!
5. Philosophy The Care Package- Their best selling skincare for radiant skin!
6. Essies School of Hard Rocks- New shade in "a Midnight Malachite".

1. AHAVA 'Time to Energize' Soothing After Shave Moisturizer- Absorbs quickly into the skin and keeps the skin hydrated and feeling soft all day!
2.The Art of Shaving Pre-Shave Oil with Lemon Essential Oil- An oil that gets the skin ready and softens the beard for a close and comfortable shave. Smells delicious too!
3.Khiel's 'Ultimate Man' Holiday Set- At only $50?? For everything?? Yeah, I'll take a few.
4.Clarisonic 'Graphite Grey Mia' Cleansing System- Only $119! This product isn't just for women. I LOVE the Clarisonic and so will your man.
5.Burberry for Men Alcohol Free Deodorant Stick- One smell and you'll know why I put this on the gift guide!
6.Khiel's Ultimate Man Body Scrub Soap- Even if you already buy the set for him, he'll LOVE having a back up ready of his soon to be favorite soap.
7.Khiel's Facial Fuel Lip Balm for Men- Shine free and keeps lips moisturized as well as repairs dry/chapped lips! Keep them soft gentlemen.
8.Acqua Di Parma Shaving Razor with Stand- The priciest stocking stuffer ever! But beautiful right? plus, something he'll have and love forever.

Holiday Gift Guide for the Fitness Lady.

2011-12-06T05:58:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you guys, but I love working out. I'm much more productive and happier when I get a good sweat session in. I LOVE being outdoors and enjoying my time away from the hustle and bustle of the world we live in today. Don't get me wrong, I love my city life and my technology but somedays there really is nothing better than putting on your tough gear and going out into the world and feeling strong. Ladies, lets do this.

Hope this helps all you gents get some holiday shopping done for that active lady in your life!
1. Zella 'Live In' Capri Pants. To help her feel fit and sexy while she's actually sweating to get fit and sexy ;).
2.Zella 'Cozy Pinwale' Half Zip Hoodie. Perfect for any outdoor exercise. Super comfortable and cute.
3. Puma Faas 300 Women's Running Shoe. I LOVE my Puma running shoes. They are thin and light weight but keep my in top form and don't strain my ankles.
4. Women's Health Magazine Subscription. So she can stay motivated and inspired with her work outs.
5.iPod Shuffle. Perfect size for working out! I LOVE mine.
6.A Hydration Pack. I enjoy most of my workouts outdoors and these hydration packs are SO helpful. They are a MUST have.
7. Soleus 10k Regular Pink Waterproof Women's Watch. Girly yet tough and waterproof. For whatever adventure your Fitness Guru encounters.

Men's Holiday Gift Guide.

2011-12-05T09:26:00.000-08:00

Shopping for your man, dad, brother or best dude friend can be stressful. Here are some fun gifts (expensive AND cheap) you can surprise him with this Christmas! He's sure to love them all ;).

1.A classic shaving kit $73. The shaving foam brush is easily the sexiest thing ever. Besides a nicely trimmed beard that is.
2.Esquire Magazine Subscription. Every man should have a subscription to this magazine.
3.Le Bateleur D&G Fragrance. A fragrance for men who hate fragrance. Its very timid but smells amazing.
4. Bar Glasses and Decanter. If your man has a bar, treat him to some bar essentials!
5. Ray-Ban Aviators. In all black. What man wouldn't look good in these?
6.Nixon Watch. Men and watches go together like spaghetti and meatballs.
7. Happy Socks Gift Set ALL men like these socks. Don't let them fool you.
8.iPod Touch. Every man loves his technology.
9.Cobra Mens S3 Iron. Men and their Golf...

Working Weekends.

2011-12-05T06:43:00.000-08:00

My work schedule this weekend didn't really allow me to have a 'weekend'. There were lots of great times around my slinging makeup shifts and ALWAYS pancakes.

Flights of delicious beer over at Taste of Tops. Walking distance from our rad apartment.

What would a working weekend be without trips to Cartel?

I adore every inch of my man.

Ladies, these pancakes are ridiculous. Ok, gentlemen too.

As I'm sure you have all noticed, I can only cook a few things so far on this new cooking adventure of mine. It ~~sometimes~~ ALWAYS involves sugary breakfast foods. Pancakes, banana breads, pumpkin chai breads, oatmeal, etc... Well, todays post is no different.
Egg Nog Banana Buckwheat Pancakes (can I get a hell yeah?)

What You Need...
Its simple, simple, simple.
- 2/3 cups Organic Buckwheat pancake Mix
- 1 cup Silk Egg Nog
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 organic egg
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 large banana
- You can add anything else you want like cinnamon, Nutmeg, chocolate chips, etc... They are already pretty decadent so I skipped those things.
Mix them all together and cook in a large pan on medium heat.

I was going to make a banana puree but we are slacking in the dishes department. Good thing I have today off so I can get some house chores done! Ryan enjoyed them with syrup, I opted for banana's on top and eating them plain. Still, SO good.
Ah, today is my weekend.

Chandelier Hippie.

2011-12-02T23:06:00.000-08:00

Easily my favorite look to date.

{Outfit Details}:
-Sweater: Urban Outfitters $54
-Pleated see-thru skirt: JMR Salt Lake City UT $54
-Flats (shoes): Urban Oufitters $25
-Chandelier earrings: Icing $10
-Large bangel: JMR $10
-Gold bracelets: Forever 21 $5
-MAC chain bracelet: Gifted, Can not be purchased
-Gem ring: The Dancing Crane Salt Lake City UT $5 Made in Peru.

For the record, I LOVE my hair like this. In a bohemian style or even in jeans and a t-shirt with Ray-Ban Aviators. Also, I'm wearing hardly any makeup.

{Makeup Used}:
-Very small amount of MAC Studio Sculpt foundation all over.
-Took whatever color was left on my blush brush and contoured/brightened my cheekbones and cheeks.
-Applied one very soft layer of MAC False Lashes mascara to top lashes only.
-Topped it off by applying Shu Uemura Lipstick in BG 209 and MAC Goodtimes Lipglass on top.
VOILA.

Give a girl some love! Hype!

Fashion: What Your Body Needs.

2011-12-02T07:35:00.001-08:00

Net-A-Porter posted THIS link this morning. Ever since, I've been in Fashion La La Land.

1.Stretch-Leather Skinny pants
2.Arty Gold-Plated Glass Ring
3.Staten Tapered Silk-Georgette Pants
4.Asymmetric Silk Crepe de Chine Pants
5.Cat Eye-Frame Velvet-Covered Acetate Optical Glasses
6.Varsity Wool Sweatr
7.Marano Glitter-Finish Box Clutch
8.Oversized Knitted Cotton Sweater
9.Jet Set Small Metallic Leather Shoulder Bag
10.Stella McCartney Caroline Wriggling Mesh and Lace Bustier Bra
11.Quinn Metallic Patent-Leather and Suede Pumps
12.Leather Trimmed Wool Blended Crepe Blazer

This is a pretty expensive list for this young lady. Thats why its a wish list. Dream away all you Fashion addicts like myself.

The 14th Floor.

2011-12-01T11:06:00.000-08:00

Living the city life couldn't get much better. Amazing views. Walking distance to anywhere I need to go. Where everything is happening, including the Tempe Arts Festival this weekend. Driving in/out of our apartments is going to be a real treat. I'll gladly take it to have the TAF right in my "front yard".

{OUTFIT DETAILS}:
-Stripped Tank: Nordstrom Price unknown
-Blazer: Nordstrom $48
-Leather legwear: American Apparel $45
-Steve Madden Suede Wedges: Nordstrom $89
-Brixton Beanie: FRESH Boutique in SLC $20
-Chunky Silver bracelet: Target $8
-Gold Bracelets: Forever 21 $5
-MAC chain bracelet: Gifted, can not be purchased
-Gem ring: Made in Peru, found at The Dancing Crane in Salt Lake City UT $5

Give a girl some love! Hype!

Most Recent Discovery: Paper Crown.

2011-12-01T07:37:00.001-08:00

This morning while browsing online as usual, I came across this amazing company Paper Crown.
You can find them here: Facebook, Papercrown.com, and Twitter.

Here are 3 of their looks from their Fall Lookbook that I can't stop thinking about. ~~NEED~~ these items STAT. Tis the season of giving, and until everyone I love is highlighted on the Christmas list, nothing for me :).

Happy shopping!

Lady Underground.

2011-11-30T16:05:00.001-08:00

{Outfit Details: Shoes- Local boutique in SLC. Pants- H&M. Jacket- Local boutique in SLC. Blouse- DI in SLC.}

{Jewelry Details:Gold bracelets- Forever 21. Black & Silver bracelets- Farmers Market in SLC. Chunky silver bracelet- Target. Necklace chain- The Dancing Crane in SLC. Gem on necklace- Gem Expo in SLC.

Its a beautiful Thursday morning here in PHX. Ryan and I got up early this morning for our 6am hike and I'm feeling pretty energetic. Looking forward to stopping by my favorite coffee place, Cartel, followed by running errands. Errands that will include the Tempe Farmers Market, finding polaroid film and getting new fresh flowers for our apartment. Its going to be a busy one! Tonight, I want to put together a nice dinner as well as a new cocktail. Hopefully something works out and I can share it with you. Its almost the weekend!

On the Hunt.

2011-11-30T07:53:00.001-08:00

MY STYLE.

I need to find these things, stat.(possibly wishlist #2?)

1-3 are all photo's found via Google Images. None of them are mine and they were not found at any specific clothing site.
4.Rick Owens Textured-leather Biker Jacket
5.Photo from LookBook Fashion November 2010
6. Love this magazine tear out. Found via google images.
7. Roberto Cavalli. Metallic eye makeup trend.
8. Exclusive Narcisco Shoe in Black Suede and Gold Glitter.

Rock & Red.

2011-11-29T10:34:00.001-08:00

Ever since purchasing this Nirvana hoodie at the Brandy Melville store on Promenade in Santa Monica, I have been completely obsessed with it. I wear it more than most other items in my closet. While browsing at Urban Outfitters the day after all the Black Friday craziness I happened to stumble upon these amazing red cord pants. They were already discounted plus an additional 33% off. Who says no to that? I'll confess, they are two sizes smaller than what I normally wear but I HAD to have them. And I'm making it work. Oddly enough they aren't too tight around the hips, thank goodness.

I can't even begin to express in words how happy I am right now. Ryan and I are LOVING our apartment, the fact that we can walk to our favorite coffee shop, Tempe Farmers Market and even walk to grab Thai take-out. There is a lot of fun stuff happening in our area too. The streets are covered in Christmas lights and the city put up a HUGE Christmas tree next outside next to our building. I will share photo's of our fun city neighborhood super soon. Today I plan on writing out Christmas cards, walking to shops nearby to start my Christmas shopping (Ryan is getting spoiled this here, he deserves it) and hopefully enjoying a relaxing evening making dinner, drinking wine and watching holiday movies when Ryan gets home.

A small view of our messy kitchen. We love it.

Egg Nog Oatmeal, Like Whoa.

2011-11-29T07:48:00.001-08:00

While at work yesterday, it was slow. We were dusting. A LOT. And of course chit chat arrises when you put creative minds to work... dusting. Anyway, I started telling my coworkers how excited I have been for the holiday season and how badly I wish I could come up with my own recipe instead of searching for them in magazines or online. I'm sure there have been many types of egg nog oatmeals made before BUT I am still super excited about the fact that I came up with this idea, recipe, ingredients, etc... all on my own.

What You Need...
- 1 cup steel cut oats
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups Silk Egg Nog
- 3 Tbsp of Brown sugar
- 1/2 cup of Almond Butter (unsalted)
- 2 Golden Apples cut into cubes.
Combine all ingredients together and simmer on medium heat for 40-45 minutes or until oatmeal is soft. Then, you stuff.

Its a little hot right at first.

And it still hot. But scary delicious!
This can be a fun Christmas morning breakfast that even the kiddies would love. (to shorten your cooking time, soak the steel cut oats in the water and egg nog over night. The cooking time will be shortened to 12-15 minutes!)

An Ultra Fashion Wish List.

2011-11-27T12:26:00.001-08:00

Just a few things I would love to add to my closet, sunglass, purse and watch collection.
1.Yves Saint Laurent Tribute Lace-up Leather Ankle Boots
2.Chloe Leather Wedge Sandals
3.Gucci Crystal embellished Silk-Satin Peep Toe Pumps
4.Haute Hippie Tow-Toned Silk Chiffon Top
5.Zoe Karssen No Love Lost jersey T-shirt
6.Boy. by Band of Outsiders Stripped Cotton Blend Top
7.Theyskens' Theory Blogo Silk Blouse
8.Patent Leather Boot from Zara
9.Combined Bowling Bag from Zara
10.Marc by Marc Jacobs 'Amy' Watch
11.Marc by Marc Jacobs 'Blade' Crystal Index Watch
12.Ray-Ban Polarized Sunglasses

Classic Holiday Makeup Look 1.

2011-11-24T16:45:00.001-08:00

Soft Skin. Small yet defined dark liner. Bright eyelid color and a bold highlight on face. Soft contour and blush. Matte earth tone in the crease. Bold lashes meets softly defined brows. PALE PINK LIPS.

Not all holiday makeup needs to include glitter.

Keep it classic, simple and flattering. Try to emphasize your own natural features instead of experimenting.

WEARING...
1. Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer
2. Studio Careblend Powder MAC
3. Faux Tan Bare Escentuals Bronzer
4. Ladyblush MAC blush
5. Coffee Eye Pencil MAC
6. Flawless Definition Lash Bare Escentuals Mascara
7. Modellette, Sketch and Wedge MAC Eyeshadow
8. Shu Uemura BG 209 Lipstick
9. Boy Bait Cremesheen Gloss MAC

I've been getting my work outs in lately and after the stair master for 40 minutes yesterday, I needed to curb my Thai craving. Plus, I've never done Thai take-out before and it was great.

Happy Monday!

Our Vegan ThanksLiving.

2011-11-24T14:16:00.001-08:00

A vegan restaurant called Green celebrates an animal free Thanksgiving every year where lots of delicious vegan food is consumed, speakers talk about their passion for living a vegan lifestyle and local vendors sell their art and other little trinkets. The amount of people who were there created an amazing and unique atmosphere. It was a great Thanksgiving experience without our friends and family close. Without our friends and family close it was exactly what we needed!

SO much food. DELICIOUS.

Yummy blueberry cobbler for dessert.

Hope everyone had an amazing holiday!

ThanksLiving.

2011-11-24T10:04:00.001-08:00

We have lots to be thankful for each and everyday, but I'm really glad we have one day in particular to go over board on our thanks. Spending quality time with those we love, taking the time to treat ourselves to some much needed relaxation and creating memories to last forever.

Being far away from our friends and family is hard and we'll be thinking of them today but we are also looking forward to our new Thanksgiving experience here in Arizona. We are lounging around the apartment right now browsing all the Black Friday stores we plan on hitting in the morning (neither one of us have ever participated in Black Friday!) and looking forward to our ThanksLiving feast at Green in Scottsdale tonight. Ryan is a vegetarian and Green is a local vegan restaurant that celebrates Thanksgiving a little differently. The menu is unreal and I can't wait to share our experience with you!

Mr. Skeleton. He is one of our favorite features in our apartment. He is waving to all of the neighbors.

Enjoying our view.

Lounging.

Our Christmas Tree candle to help our apartment smell like the holidays until we get a tree next week.

Last but not least, I want to give a very special I LOVE YOU to my MAC family back in Utah. A year a go tonight a beautiful soul was taken from us far too early in life. Dani Vacca, WE ALL miss you, we ALL think about you and today especially we will be wishing you were here with us. Yes, not just your family or your best friends but even your acquaintances and those who wish they would have had the time to get to know you more, like myself. Thank you for the ride to my car that one late night and thank you for taking an interest in me while stocking the counter in the mornings and encouraging me to take the steps I need to take in order to go back to school. Even though we weren't close, you made an impact on my life and for that, I feel blessed. Thank you.

MAC Murray, despite the ups and downs I adore you all! Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

Cider-Cinnamon Brussel Sprouts.

2011-11-21T20:14:00.001-08:00

A PERFECT addition to your Thanksgiving menu.I'm a baby to this whole cooking thing so until I come up with my own recipes I have been practicing with delicious finds from Woman's Heath and Self Magazine. This particular dish is from Self. This recipe serves 4 and has 145 calories per serving. A lighter addition to an average Thanksgiving side dish. I couldn't have been happier with the turn out of these. Holy delicious! And super quick. The prep time takes about 10 minutes and the cooking process can take anywhere from 20-30 minutes. Totally worth it! Minimal ingredients with HUGE flavor. My kinda dish.
-First you will need 1 tbsp of oil. In a large pan on medium heat, heat the oil.
-2 cups brussel sprouts cut in half.
-Once pan is heated up, lay brussel sprouts through out pan sliced side down and cook for 10-12 minutes flipping once until sliced side is a pretty golden brown color.

-While brussel sprouts are cooking, cut 1 large apple and 1 large pear into cubes.
-Flip brussel sprouts over onto other side and cook for about 2 minutes then add the apples and pear. Cook until soft (about 5 minutes).

-Measure 1 cup of apple cider and 1/4 tsp of cinnamon into a bowl to add to mix once the apples and pears are soft.

-Simmer and stir until liquid is cooked away. Then serve!

Like I said, HOLY DELICIOUS. I hope you guys add this to your Thanksgiving feast and enjoy!

City Space's. Stripped, Loose and a Touch of Shine.

2011-11-18T16:20:00.000-08:00

The weather in PHX right now is amazing. Walking around Tempe enjoying the city lights, people watching, snapping photo's, and don't forget waltzing around the apartment. Another "bum" look from yours truly. You've seen this tank before, its true. It hangs low on the sides and I like to have fun with that by wearing lacy bandeaux's or simple then tank underneath. I often pair with a great pair of leggings, knee highs and boots then grab as many chunky bracelets as I can handle. Kept it simple in the jewelry department as as you can see, I paced the apartment barefoot today.
Ryan's bar arrived last wednesday and we couldn't wait to set it up. "Assembly Required" was right! Assembling anything that involves a million tiny little screws and hooks does not bring out the best in us. We were so excited when we finally got it together! Watching Ryan organize his boozahol and glasses was easily worth the stressful assembly part. So now, we have a fun new bar area for ourselves and better yet for social gatherings AND I have extra counter space in the kitchen. YES.

I was hoping to have had time to create a fun new cocktail to share with you guys today but alas, work is work and this girl needed some rest. In the next few days I would love to create a holiday beverage to share with you before the holidays hit. Happy Monday!

City Lights Meets Softly Orange.

2011-11-18T07:07:00.001-08:00

I have changed my makeup routine a ton lately. I switched from a fuller coverage foundation (which I didn't need in the first place) to a much lighter tinted moisturizer. I am loving it. I haven't been wearing bold shadow looks either. Instead i've been choosing looks that deepen and define my eyes with less actual product and still results in the sultry look I adore so much. I love lining my top and bottom water line with a deep chocolate brown and surrounding that with really burnt orangey brown shadows. Mmmm gimme.
Now that we are all moved into our new place I have zeroooo things in storage and I can't even believe how much makeup I own. Its gross. In the best, girliest way. I have been dying to wear a new shade on the lips for you guys and I came across the first MAC lipstick I ever fell in love with. I would go so far as to say its been a year since i've even worn it. Its a classic and one I use to rock all the time. Vegas Volt.

On the Eyes...
- Nubile Paint Pot from Posh Paradise. Limited product and may still be available at certain MAC locations. $16.50
- Saddle Eyeshadow from MAC $15
- Shroom Eyeshadow from MAC $15
- Coffee Eyeliner from MAC $15
- Avenue Fluidline from MAC. Limited/Discontinued.
- False Lashes Mascara from MAC $19

Btw, after sporting this silver headband for an hour I ditched it at work and rocked the 2 day old hippie hair instead. For the record, it looked much better that way.

Sitting on our patio on the 14th floor every night rules. Especially on Friday nights when the city is alive.

Last but not least, our sad Christmas lights. We are buying two more strings of lights to make this look less like Charlie Browns Christmas Tree. Perhaps, I like it that way?

Have a wonderful weekend!

Organic Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal. The Real Deal.

2011-11-17T09:35:00.001-08:00

Ok, remember how I mentioned this oatmeal recipe but with lack of groceries I made the Organic Chocolate Chip Oatmeal instead? A trip to the store= A happy girl with some delicious apple oatmeal!
I found this recipe in a Women's Health Magazine and oh man, my mornings just got a lot tastier.
What You Need...
-1/4 cup steel cut oats
-1/4 Cup Organic Low-Fat Milk
- One Egg White
- a pinch of salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
-3 tbsp unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 tsp of cinnamon (divided, sprinkle half on top after done baking)

Mix all these ingredients together first in a ramekin that you spray with a non-fat non-sticking spray. Pre heat your oven to 350 degrees and cook for 6-7 minutes.

While your oatmeal is baking, you will need to prepare...
- 3/4 cups chopped apple
- 2 tsp chopped pecans
- 1 tsp honey
When your oatmeal is done baking top off with these last few items, stir and munch.

Give it a go! I promise you won't be disappointed.

The Final Box.

2011-11-16T11:43:00.001-08:00

Thank. Thee. Lord. I am SO sick of looking at boxes! I finally unpacked the last one today. Granted, there is still A LOT to be done. Slowly but surely, this place will feel like home.

Here are a few snapshots of my favorites little corners in our place.

My side of the bed. A place to throw my bag, catch up on my magazines, jot in some notebooks and relax of course.

Our comfy bed. My girly quilt and adorable skull pillow.

This is a table my boyfriend already owned in his condo back in UT. We can't decide wether to keep it or buy some amazing new patio furniture we came across at Denmart. What to do, what to do... in the mean time. I love this simple set up. Ate dinner here last night and it was so unbelievably relaxing.

A temporary home for my gold skull. She will be going on my computer desk as soon as I find one I love.

Our year round Halloween pillows and soap.

At first we hated the idea of dark wood floors combined with black counter tops and dark wood cabinets. Now, we are completely embracing it and can't wait to add pops of color through out the space. This is a small yet awesome contribution from me to the kitchen. Some colorful bowls and wash clothes from Hip & Humble in the 9th and 9th area in Sugarhouse Utah.

We have lots to finish up when it comes to the long entry way. It consists of a lengthy/wide hallway that opens up into a loft style kitchen and front room. Down the hallway is the washer and dryer room as well as our half bathroom. I own two older vintage style night stands that we thought would look great there to hold all our books as well as mail/keys and such. I placed my bright green coat hanger there as well where I love to messily display all my favorite scarfs as well as my umbrella and hats. We are in the process of hanging some mirrors and art on the wall and shopping for a runner. So fun!

Any design suggestions would be GREATLY appreciated! Today, this is my jam.

Being a Bum. Boxes. Decorating Away.

2011-11-15T15:26:00.001-08:00

1-I feel bad calling this the "Bum" look, so if you have a better suggestion please let me know. Its my lazy/still got ready look. Its my current obsession.

While waiting for the cable/internet guy to get here today I started cleaning the apartment, undoing more boxes and helping this place feel a little bit more like home. Oh, and I have a few funny faces for you too.

If I never see another box again it will be too soon. I am angry at cardboard right now.

Silly face numero uno.

I started off by decorating the bathroom. Organizing my most used products. Hanging my jewelry and paintings. Laying favorite magazines and makeup books. Placing flowers in a bright/happy place.

My most used products! Don't mind our ugly towels in the background. Getting new ones soon!

Next, a few of my favorite touches in the kitchen. Can't wait until everything is unpacked because besides the bathroom, I have a feeling this will be my favorite place in the apartment.

A pop of color surrounded by dark counter tops and dark cabinets.

More color and some wonderful cook books. I need to use these more often.

Boozahol and Banana's. What more do you need? Ryan's new bar should be arriving tonight and I can't wait to 1-see it in our new place, 2- See Ryan's excited face while he's putting it together, 3- having ALL that counter space to play with and 4- enjoying a beverage from the new bar. My man knows how to make some killer cocktails.
Silly face numero dos. And thats it from the funny face department.

My Outfit.

1- Brixton Beanie purchased from FRESH in Salt Lake City UT in the 9th and 9th area. My most favorite area. I paid only $20 and it was more than worth it.
2- Nirvana off the shoulder sweater was an amazing purchase I made at the Brandy Melville store on Promenade in Santa Monica while Ryan and I were on vacation in early October. I paid $54 which to me, is a steal. I NEED to shop there again.

My Makeup.
1- Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer $42
2- Studio Careblend Powder MAC $23
3- Studio Careblend Bronzer from the MAC Surf Baby Collection (limited/discontinued)
4- Mighty Aphrodite Blush/highlighter from the MAC Wonder Woman Collection (limited/discontinued)
5- MAC Nubile Paint Pot one eyes from MAC Posh Paradise collection. $16.50 and still available in some locations.
6- MAC Wedge Eyeshadow under the bottom lash line and in the crease. $14.50
7- Coffee Eyeliner in water line. $15
8- Falsh Lashes Mascara. $19
9- Ultimate Brow Marker. (for a much more natural look) $16.50
10- Shu Uemura lipstick in BG 209 and the cremesheen gloss Boy Bait from MAC. $28/$18.50

As far as moving goes, we got even more done tonight after dinner. Coming soon!

Organic Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Oatmeal

2011-11-15T09:53:00.001-08:00

A perfect morning snack after unloading a ton more boxes from our move.
We still have SO much work to do.

Ingredients:

1/4 cup Steel Cut Oats
1/4 cup Organic Soy Milk
1 tsp organic baking powder
one cage free/organic egg white.
1 tsp organic cinnamon
pinch of salt
1 tbsp organic dark chocolate chips
Honey

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Mix first seven ingredients in a ramekin (spray with a non-stick low fat spray first) and bake for 6-7 minutes. When done, stir and drizzle with honey.

A super yummy snack if you are craving something warm and sweet!

Moving Day

2011-11-14T18:55:00.001-08:00

Moving today was quite the event. With the movers from 7am-12:30pm. Elevators manually operated for far too many people. Really dirty/dusty apartment. Lots of boxes to unpack. And guess what, I loved every second of it.

Margarita's were a must.

Our new home.

The night time view from our new place.

Moving. Again.

2011-11-13T13:49:00.001-08:00

This will be the 3rd, yes... 3rd time both my boyfriend and I have moved this year. Its nice to know that after this move we will at least be somewhere for another year. Photo's of our new apartment in Tempe coming soon!

I N D I G O

2011-11-10T11:50:00.001-08:00

Its been a while since I've played with color. Why not now? Why not create something fun with cool tones going into the winter season? Not my typical everyday wear. Which made it that much more amazing.

Almost 1pm and I'm still nursing my soy latte from 8am. Also, in this photo... no lips.

In this photo, lipstick and lipliner without gloss.

This photo, lipstick, lipliner and gloss.

Which do you prefer? Its the smallest change that makes a huge difference!

{Products Used: Magenta Lipliner MAC, Chatterbox Lipstick MAC, Indigo Pink Lipgloss MAC.}

Lip Brushes are a MUST.

2011-11-09T18:34:00.000-08:00

This lip brush from MAC is my all time favorite.
You get the perfect shape every time.
Every, time.

Stealth Mode

2011-11-08T19:49:00.000-08:00

I may be shooting myself in the foot here but... I feel like I need a serious break from the world wide web. I haven't quite felt like myself lately and if you follow my blog regularly, I'm sure you've noticed the serious lack of makeup posts over the last month. And its gradually getting less and less. I still love makeup and blogging more than anything, really. Let me catch you up to speed on my life...

The end of August I made the wonderful move to Phoenix AZ to be with my boyfriend. I am loving every second of our life together, the good, the bad and the ugly. Ok, things with us never really get ugly but you know what I mean. Previous to my move I was a full time employee for MAC/Nordstrom as a member of the management team and an honored member of MAC's Utah Impact Team. For a long time I was unhappy and unsure of where my future was going with makeup. I wasn't getting as much freelance work as I would have liked and working retail full time for a long time was starting to take its toll. This move showed lots of amazing opportunity for me. Not only could I be with the man I love, I could take the opportunity to teach a makeup class at a cosmetology school and be as creative as I needed to be. No selling, no uniform (kind of), total control and freedom and having the chance to have fun with makeup and teach my students everything I know. How fun! I would do my makeup everyday in fun new creative looks for my class and for YOU, my readers. I was having so much fun. Most of you will remember my "Fall Forward" collection. A series of inspirational looks to help you get geared up for the Fall season. I, humbly, was on a roll. And lets be honest, I couldn't have been happier.

I'm not quite sure when it all started to unfold but tonight, sitting here on my couch starring at my computer screen with the sound of a tv show I couldn't care less about in the background, I certainly know where my lack of self confidence/love is coming from. I'm not quite sure how I am going to approach this phase in my life and I'm not certain where it will take me but what I CAN tell you, I will forever stay true to who I am and what I love. After this brief escape to recenter my thoughts, you better believe I will be hitting you hard with my passions. Makeup, fashion and whatever else I want!

With my whole heart readers, thank you.

Black and White Sunday

2011-11-07T06:02:00.000-08:00

Steel Cut Oatmeal made with apple juice and topped off with apples, banana's and strawberries. Walks around Scottsdale and Tempe. Boutiques and Painting Bars. My favorite blouse found at the DI in Utah. My new amazing beanie purchased at FRESH in Salt Lake City in the 9th and 9th area. Riesling and delicious bruschetta from Postino Arcadia. Delicious Curiosity Cola and butterscotch cookies. What a wonderful Sunday.

What do you love most about Fall?

Beer Festivals and My Current Go-To Makeup Products

2011-11-06T08:54:00.000-08:00

One of our friends from SLC is in town this weekend and yesterday we hit a fun Beer Festival right below our future home. So much fun! I was only able to stay and hang out for about an hour but it was the first beer festival I've ever been to and it was a good time.
My weekend will hopefully consist of confirming models for my students photo shoot next friday, pancakes, fall fashion and hand holding with my man. Btw, ONE WEEK and we'll be in our new apartment. GAH! Can't even wait. I will share photo's of our move/new place with all of you. Until then, here are my daily makeup products...

1- MAC Matte Lipstick in Such Flare! $15
2-Shu Uemura Lipstick in BG 907
3-Warm brown matte eyeshadows. MAC eyeshadow quad with Brule, Soft Brown, Charcoal Brown and Mystery. Case $7 Shadows $11 each.
4-D&G 18 La Lune Parfume $69
5-MAC False Lashes Mascara $18
6-Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer $42
I have been using these products daily. Love them! Off to enjoy my Sunday.

I Love My Job

2011-11-03T20:58:00.000-07:00

Most of you know, I am an instructor for an Advanced Makeup Course at a Cosmetology school. I absolutely love my job. I get to be creative 24/7, play with makeup, share my makeup with YOU and teach my students every thing I know.

You better believe I grab a coffee every morning and wear amazing lipstick colors.

Just another day in my awesome life. So much fun.

Look what happened to my makeup today when I had a crazy allergy attack on the way to work. NO fun. Good thing I work in the makeup industry and had all the proper supplies and tools to fix it when I got to work :).

Is it seriously November 3rd already? Time flies when you're having fun. Only 11 more days until Ryan and I are moved into our new apartment!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

2011-10-31T08:53:00.001-07:00

Halloweeeeeeen

2011-10-31T00:20:00.000-07:00

Salt Lake City. Leaves EVERYWHERE. Brisk fall weather. Pumpkins. Decorating Ryan's moms front yard for Halloween. Nerd Costumes. Java Jo's Coffee. Fall Fashion. Favorite Local Spots. Trip to the SLC was amazing. Muffins. I am missing everyone now that I am back in PHX.
Happy Halloween everyone!

New Hair

2011-10-29T19:21:00.001-07:00

Remeber that dye job I got a week ago? Here is the before and after shot of my new hair when my lovely friend Ashlyn Buchi, from Ulysses Salon in Salt Lake City, fixed it yesterday. I'm so in love. I've been needing this hair change badly.

Snapshots of SLC

2011-10-28T08:07:00.001-07:00

The last few days have been MUCH needed. Ryan and I are home in Salt Lake City enjoying the Halloween season, visiting all our favorite local spots, spending time with friends and family and loving the brisk fall air, mountains and the bright falling leaves. I'm mostly loving wearing all my Fall clothing I can't wear back in AZ! Here are a few snapshots of our trip.

Next Adventure? Knee Highs.

2011-10-25T04:46:00.000-07:00

I've been loving this knee high trend but being self conscious about my legs for as long as I can remember strongly deterred me from trying the look. I follow lots of different fashion blogs and these woman are truly inspiring. No matter what tiny little flaws they have they don't run away from them, they don't photoshop it out, they don't cover it up and they certainly don't let it keep them from enjoying life and wearing amazing clothes. These woman have given me so much strength in knowing I am worth feeling absolutely fabulous ALWAYS because my imperfections make me, me. And I wouldn't want it any other way.

Now that i'm stepping out of my comfort zone and really going for the things I want out of life from the big things such as my career, traveling, school, etc... all the way down to the shoes I wear, I feel so uplifted and carefree. Life is too short to have regrets. Even little ones like "Gee, I really wish I would have tried out that knee high trend." Here are a few photo's of me rocking my favorite new sweater and my new knee highs.

{Sweater: Urban Outfitters $54, Shorts: Target $15, Knee Highs: Urban Outfitters $15, Steve Madden Wedges: Nordstrom $90, Tote: London Fog $54, Bracelets: Forever 21 $5, Earrings: Nordstrom $8}

Lookbook.nu

2011-10-24T11:58:00.000-07:00

I think its time I start using my Lookbook.nu account. Aaaand, go.

Sunday Stripes and Pancakes

2011-10-24T07:29:00.000-07:00

Its not often I have a Sunday off of work to spend with my man so when I do, I make sure we make the BEST pancakes ever followed by a good work out and lounging around together the rest of the day. These pancakes were seriously so good I just have to share them with you.

What You Need...
- 3/4 cup Organic Buckwheat Pancakes Mix
- 1 cup Organic Almond Milk
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 tbsp of Raw Honey
- 1 tbsp of Cinnamon
- 2 tsp of Vanilla
- 1 Organic Egg
- 1 Organic Banana
- 1/3 cup Chocolate Chips
Set the pan to a medium heat and slowly cook the pancake on the first side. When the pancakes turns a soft warm brown color on top and doesn't look gooey anymore, its time to flip. You will only need to cook it on the next side for a few minutes.

Top it off with....
- 1/3 cup of Greek Yogurt
- Your desired amount of blueberries
They are SO good!

After our delicious breakfast we took it easy. Ryan watching football and me falling into a pancake comatose while he tickles my arm. Once the food baby finally passed we put on our work out clothes and did awesome work outs during commercial times. Sounds like it wouldn't be much of a work out but you should try it sometime. This girl will be sore. We decided we needed to go do some shopping.. well ok, I decided we needed to go do some shopping. I hopped in the shower, threw on a super classy yet comfortable outfit, threw my hair (sigh... not getting it fixed until friday) into an amazing bun and kept my makeup simple.

Here I am wearing....
-Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer in Nude. I have been wearing this for my foundation all week and I LOVE it. No more full coverage for this girl.
-A Studio Careblend Powder from MAC. Not a ton of it, just very small amounts on the brim of my nose, top of cheeks, forehead and chin because I am a shiny one.
-A pink Bare Escentuals blush called Escape.
-A much lighter color on the brows using Coquette shadow from MAC.
-A nice dark black mascara. False Lashes from MAC. With a Bobbi Brown Black Ink gel liner in the top water line and on the top lid. I then took Teddy eyeliner from MAC and smudged it along the top of the black on the eyelid to create a smoky, sultry effect.
-Last but not least, the lips. I am wearing Magenta lipliner from MAC over the entire lip and a mixture of Naturally Eccentric (a medium bodied nude) and Marquoise D' (a sheer lustre pink) from MAC.

After shopping around the Scottsdale area for a bit we hit my favorite restaurant in Phoenix called Postina Arcadia for their happy hour. We each ordered two glasses of wine and their delicious bruschetta meal. We then went home, snuggled up on the couch to watch Inception and eat a few Twizzlers.

Best Sunday EVER.

Photo Favorites.

2011-10-21T10:13:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to change my hair for a really long time now. I've wanted a really beautiful classic melt with a chocolate tone on top that fades into a warmer caramel color. Possibly with some brassy tones too. I am flying home next week for Halloween and I will be seeing the amazing Ashlyn Buchi at Ulysses Salon in Salt Lake City where she will create hair magic. I'm feeling pretty crappy right now because I had someone here in AZ start the color process for me before I see her because my hair is SO black and I want my hair to be 100% done when I see her. I thought, "one application to get started can't hurt right?" Wrong. So very wrong. He is a good friend of mine so I feel bad but my hair looks awful. I haven't had the heart to tell him how I feel yet. This morning I came across some of my favorite style photo's and couldn't help but be bummed again because I miss my dark long hair. Ashlyn will make hair dreams come true and I can't wait to show all of you my fall do. Sorry for the absence this week. I truly owe you guys and I miss interacting with all of you!

{Glasses: Nordstrom BP, Flannel Shirt: Fresh Boutique SLC UT, Necklace: J Crew, Lipstick: Ruby Woo from MAC}

Gosh I miss my hair so much. {Glasses: Nordstrom BP, Top: Forever 21, Necklace: J Crew, Hair: curled and pulled into a classis side pony}

Changing the hair up and experimenting with fringe. LOVE! {Dress: Forever 21, Purse: Got Beauty boutique SLC UT}

Rocking buns in the summer weather. {Blouse: Koo De Ker Boutique Sugarhouse UT, Glasses: Got Beauty Boutique UT, Rings: Gem Faire and Dancing Crane in SLC UT, Bracelets: Forever 21}

{Green earings: JMR}
New hair soon. Everyone ready for their Halloween parties?? I STILL have no idea what I am being yet.

Hearts for Viva Glam.

2011-10-17T14:23:00.000-07:00

Every time you purchase a MAC Viva Glam lipstick or lipgloss you help someone affected by HIV. Give back and spread the love.
MAC VIVA GLAM

Halloween Time = The Best Time

2011-10-17T06:32:00.000-07:00

Decorating the apartment

Oh, and life rules.

Gareth Pugh Inspiration

2011-10-15T06:59:00.000-07:00

I can't wait for the Gareth Pugh and MAC collaboration collection coming out this fall. There is a little gothic girl inside of me, I swear. Here are some inspiring photo's from Gareth Pugh and some photo's of myself in a much less dramatic look yet dramatic enough for your day to day wear.

My version of a look all of us can pull off. Dramatic liner that wings straight out and extremely dramatic lashes.

{Hee hee. I can't take my "serious face" seriously here. I don't look anywhere as fierce as the models above.}

{This was actually an unintended action shot while I was trying to uncross my legs and reach for my blazer behind me at the same time. It wasn't blurry so I thought "what the heck!" Muahaha}

I will put together a video tutorial on recreating the intense liner and lashes in this look! Have a great weekend friends.

An Exercise in Restraint

2011-10-14T08:20:00.000-07:00

I want nothing more (makeup/lifestyle wise) than to be one of those carefree, stunning, beach bum goddesses who rolls out of bed, runs her fingers through her hair followed by simply applying a mascara and lipgloss before hopping on her bike and heading to the pier. I may have Santa Monica on the brain still. While I was there I was completely inspired to tone my cosmetic look down and make it more natural. You all know I love makeup from the most natural to the most obscure and the artist in me, is definitely a MAC girl. I love color, I like drama, I like pushing the limit, I like making a statement, I want to always learn something new and I will never settle for anything ordinary in life. Even my cosmetics. BUT, and a huge BUT... I do understand the joy in life when you simply, simplify, simplify. And lately, I need just that.

Here are some images of a look I wore a few days ago. I wore very little makeup on the face, a soft contour with only a small touch of color on the cheeks, a thinner liner with lashes, a soft coral on the lips and believe it or not, I filled my brows in MUCH lighter than normal.

I only have a light concealer in places I really need it like the nose, cheeks, chin, forehead and under eyes with a lighter powder on top to blend. No foundation!

The brows are lighter yet still defined. I like having a strong shape and until they grow in some more I will probably keep filling them in. Also, LOVING emerald toned nails right now!

The eyes are simple. I brushed my bronzer and blush along the eye lid then applied mascara, a thin line of eyeliner with a Bobbi Brown gel liner and applied MAC's #43 lashes. These lashes are dramatic and for everyday, I would wear a smaller lash. I'm wearing Ever Hip lipstick from MAC which is a more sheer coral color. It allows the natural lip color to shine through while adding a pop.

While its still nowhere near the carefree beach bum look, its A LOT less than I normally wear. And I'm proud of myself for stepping outside of my comfort zone! What are you going to try this week that is out of your comfort zone??

Red Lip Products

2011-10-12T09:07:00.000-07:00

The day I did the red lip demo for you I used my Canon Digital Rebel to take photo's of the products I used only to remember my card reader and USB cord were in a box in storage somewhere. That problem is solved! I wanted to share the products with you even though any products you use will work the same.
{Remember: The End Result}

1- REDD Lip Liner from MAC
2- Mattene Lipstick in Eden Rouge from MAC
3- Lip Gloss to top off on the lip. Any kind will do!
4- #36 MAC lashes applied with Duo glue
5- False Lashes Mascara from MAC
6- Prolongwear MAC concealer to nude out lip first
7- Impeccable Brow marker from MAC

You can use any other products you own to achieve the same look. Please refer back to this blog post Creating a Red Lip for video of application and photo's!

So Proud of my Students.

2011-10-11T14:33:00.000-07:00

{Makeup Artistry October Makeup Class}
Photo's by Ryan Walsh.
After an intense two week advanced makeup course using MAC products, my students collaborate with a model and have a photo shoot for their final project. These images are from the class I taught Sept 26th- Oct 7th. Couldn't be more excited or proud at the moment. I love my job more and more everyday.

Santa Monica Adventures.

2011-10-11T11:02:00.000-07:00

My boyfriend and I were in need of a vacation. We looked into staying in Sedona for a fun, outdoorsy, relaxing weekend but when we saw the prices for rooms and took gas, food and activities into account, we decided we might as well go big and do something we both already wanted to do which was go to Universal Studio's for their Halloween Horror Nights. My boyfriend loves (its an obsession really :)) Halloween and since I didn't get to experience this fun adventure last year it was the perfect trip to take. The Halloween Horror Nights is unreal. All the visuals, effects and work put into this blows my mind. I would LOVE to work at Universal Studio's during the month of October. Possibly do some horror makeup by day and scare some scardy cat girls like me as a zombie by night!
We stayed in a hotel that was a few blocks away from Santa Monica Pier. How perfect could this trip get? We were in walking distance to some amazing shopping, restaurants, coffee places and best of all, the coast. We walked along Santa Monica Pier people watching and wishing we had packed some flip flops so we could go walk around in the sand without ruining our shoes after. We loved this place so much we talked about one day making a move to Santa Monica after our year lease in Tempe AZ is up. Something to think about and look forward to. Here are some snap shots of our trip.

First stop Jobot Coffee in AZ before we hit the road!

{ Tote: London Fog }

Iced coffee's and a black bean crepe to share. So yummy. Their patio is huge, open, colorful and dirty. But we love it.

LA, here we come!

Creepy tunnels.

This EZ Mart was the scariest place Ryan and I could have possibly grabbed gas. Super expensive then we walk inside so I can use the little girls room where I follow the bathroom signs only to be led into the back of a dark, extremely dirty room where there are two huge medal doors chained shut and someone or something snoring loudly from behind them. Holy creepy! Get me outta here. I held it and waited for the next stop.

Along the pier.

Sadly, I left my phone and camera back in the room the night we went to Halloween Horror Nights. Ryan has all the photo's and video of me screaming like a little girl. That night, we took the scenic route back to our hotel and drove through Hollywood. At one point during our trip we also went to Rodeo Drive because I had never been. This trip was so amazing! I saw places i've never seen and got a chance to relax and get some quality boyfriend time in too. On Sunday morning we met my boyfriends aunt Gina who lives in Sherman Oaks in Westwood for Brunch at Novel Cafe. Great company but disappointing pancakes and service.Brunch at Novel Cafe in Westwood CA.

{ Shirt: H&M, Glasses: Ray Ban }
As you can probably tell, I love food. And I love cute, quaint local places. Here are images from our last breakfast before heading home. We walked past Cora's Coffee one night while bar hopping in Santa Monica (SO FUN) and decided it would be the perfect place to stop before we go. We were right.

We ordered two soy lattes, the orange pancakes with blueberry's and maple syrup and the artichoke omelette which came with fresh tomato's and a grilled cheese. Yes please. The entire meal was killer and the atmosphere was just what I needed.

Now, only two more weeks exactly until we take our trip back home to The City of Salt. Be ready Salt Lake!

Avant Garde Makeup

2011-10-07T07:42:00.000-07:00

Last night I had so much fun with my students! They are the best. Today is my last day with them and they are doing their final project which is their photo shoot with a professional model and photographer where they will receive great photo's for their portfolio to jump start their makeup career. I am so excited for them!
To take a little break and to have some fun, we had a "theatrical" makeup class where we focused on fun Avant Garde looks. I only had 50 minutes to do my demo for them before they were free to create their looks on each other and after this long two week stretch of working both jobs, inspiration was hard to come by. I would get a really good idea but dislike a certain aspect of it, or I felt like I wasn't instantly drawn to the look or idea. As soon as I started the makeup, I just kept going and this is what I created. For time reasons I was only able to finish 80% of the look but I still love it. And I hope you guys do too!

I started off by priming Jessicka's skin with a Laura Mercier face primer (heaven!) and followed it up by a small application of a lighter MAC Prolongwear Foundation just to get an even coverage. Next, I took a white Ben Nye cream color and blotted it onto the skin starting at the forehead. If you blot the Ben Nye product on with a brush as opposed to using a sponge or working in circular motions, you will get a much cleaner blend and solid coverage. I wanted an ombre effect where the white slowly fades away. Almost maskesque.

Before starting the makeup I had cut little pieces of black lace into even smaller pieces and started gluing them onto Jessicka's brow. I wanted a really dramatic look and a lace brow sounded wonderful. The lash glue was awful but it was the only glue I really had. Next time I do something like this, I will try using spirit gum or Ben Nye's glitter glue. Those items are clear and work much faster without ruining whatever item you are gluing.

After I glued on part of the brow, I decided to let the first half dry while I apply the first face color. I chose Frankly Scarlet blush from MAC and packed it all over the eye lid, carved out the inner crease of the eye and followed it down the nose. I placed a good amount of color along the bottom lash line and started blending it down for another ombre effect. After this, I took a lighter yet bright lilac shadow and contoured the sides of the face with it.
Next I applied lashes to the bottom lash line, took a dark black/emerald pigment and patted it on the eye lid messily and applied eyeliner and mascara. I then took glitter underneath the eye and made it look like it was falling down the front of the face.

I started applying her lip and I made the bow of her lips very extreme. I went over her natural lip line and when coming down the sides of the top lip I dramatically drew inside the lip line to give an extra pouty effect. I did all most the exact opposite on her bottom lip. Drew inside the line in the center of the bottom lip line and drew out of her natural lip line on the bottom and extended the corners of the mouth to exaggerate her lip shape. I used a deep dark purple lip liner from MAC called Nightmoth and filled in the lip with a nude lipstick from MAC called Myth. Once that was all blended I added another contour to the lips by using my angled liner brush and the Frankly Scarlet blush to add some shape and another pop of color. Lastly, I popped some glitter on the center of the bottom lip.

And with only 80% of the look completed, here ya go!

Jessicka is so sweet. She bought me a coffee card to Starbucks and said "This is for dealing with us". What a cute and silly girl. I am seriously going to miss these gals.

Smoky Eye Tutorial

2011-10-06T16:06:00.000-07:00

-First you will want to prime your eye with an eye primer.
-Next I grab a solid, flat, and round tipped eyelid brush to really pack the dark color all over my eye lid. I used an emerald toned pigment here.

-At this point, don't worry about blending. That comes later! Just get a good amount of color on and don't take it up to high. It shouldn't be IN the crease but UP TO the crease.

Before blending.
-Next I grab a sharpened black/brown eye pencil and line the top and bottom waterline as well as smudging color along the lashes on the eyelid.

-Next I apply the same dark shadow on the lid underneath the lashes on the bottom outer corner with an angled eye liner brush.

-Next I take a blending brush like MAC's 217 shadow brush and a matte (not necessarily darker) shadow and softly blend out the dark shadow with the matte shadow. I used a light matte color with a purplish undertone.

Notice the eye on your right is blended? The other is not. Note the difference.

-You can blend the eye even more when applying your highlighter to the inner corner of the eye and brow bone. I used a matte skin tone color.
-Next I apply my brow color and mascara. To get an even more dramatic look, you can apply false lashes.

Notice the difference?
Lastly, I apply a lipstick. Sticking with a nude! Great contrast with the dark eyes.

End result...

And this is because I'm feeling silly. Happy Wednesday!

Playing with Color: Two Lips

2011-10-05T14:17:00.000-07:00

First lip color: Something New MAC lipstick

Second lip color: Morange MAC lipstick with Geo Orange MAC gloss.

One look and how you can easily transform it with your lip color!

Recreating an Iconic Look: Twiggy

2011-10-04T15:04:00.000-07:00

While Twiggy's modeling career may have only lasted four years, her look will forever be an INSPIRATION.
I went with a bold dramatic twist on the Twiggy look. Whattya think Bloomers?

I used a natural skinfinish foundation to mimic Twiggy's effortless yet perfected skin and followed by softly contouring the face and adding a small touch of color to the cheeks. On the eyes I used a white eye pencil partially on the lid and in the bottom waterline, a bold purple in a dramatic shape in the crease, a bright blue liquid eyeliner on the top lash line, bold black mascara on the top and bottom lashes and lastly placed bold lashes on the bottom lash line. To really complete this look, I should apply the same pair of lashes on the top lid but my allergies are already making this look difficult to wear.

*I apologize for the quality of the photo's. I will be living out of boxes until Nov 14th and the connection cord to my Digital Rebel is living in one of the said boxes. When we move into our new place expect great photo's and a fun video tour of our cute apartment!

Creating a Red Lip

2011-10-03T15:36:00.000-07:00

You've all been asking for a red lip tutorial. I have included a video for you, where I received my inspiration and some photo's of my end results at the bottom.
This look is from New York Fall Fashion week and I've included a photo of a MAC makeup face chart from the Ruffian fashion show by artist James Kaliardos.
"The look is inspired by Carolyn Bessette, it’s young and confident.” James kaliardos

Eyes: Light sweep sculpting powder – blended down from the Crease over the eyelids. Dazzleblack mascara delicately swept onto the top lashes.
Face: Studio Sculpt SPF15 Foundation – applied to the face as a base.Light sweep and accentuate sculpting powder – countouring the Cheek bones and temples in an angular shape. Emphasize sculpting powder - blended into cheek bones for highlight. Loose prep+prime powder – brushed on to set the face.
Lip: Cherry lip pencil – applied first to fill in the lips. Ruffian Red Lipstick – created by MAC in celebration of Ruffian’s fall/winter 09 collection. This lipstick was painted onto The lips with a soft diffused edge.
Here is my red lip demo/tutorial based off of this amazing look.

Current Inspirations: Not Your Everyday Wear.

2011-10-03T09:24:00.000-07:00

Everywhere I go, I find something that inspires me. I am missing the orange, yellow and red leaves falling on the ground back home and I've found I've been extremely drawn to cosmetics with a golden brown tone paired with a retro red lip or a vibrant orange. These images are just a small dose of the things currently inspiring me.

Makeup done by MAC artist Rick Owens.

Makeup done by MAC artist Manish Arora.

This is an image of a MAC makeup artist doing makeup backstage for the Vivienne Westwood Golden Label runway show. I would LOVE to be a part of something like this one day.
*All photo's can be found here MAC Cosmetics Tumblr and are copyright MAC cosmetic photo's.

Lip Demo and Little Cups

2011-09-28T08:41:00.000-07:00

This video is purposely lost in saturation. Towards the end of the video, you can see the second lipstick I use is a coral but other than that, this video is strategically black and white. This is not about the colors I am using or the products. It is ALL about the: a. tools, b. techniques, c. lines and shapes and d. shading. This is how you get your lip to stand out whether you are rockin a fabulous red or a simple classic nude. This lip i'm applying is a nude with a touch of coral in the center of my lips.

1- Apply a concealer or eye primer to the lip to nude out your natural color and to help hold the lip liner an lipsticks in place.
2- Take your lip liner and start shaping the bow of the lip. Then proceed to shade under neath the line to create depth.
3- Drag lip pencil very very lightly down the lip line towards the corner of the mouth. This shouldn't look like a defined line at all, just a small touch of shade.
4- Move to the bottom lip and start in the center of the bottom lip line and very softly drag the lip pencil up the lip line towards the corners of the mouth. Again, only a soft shade.
5- Softly shade the outer corners of the lip and start shading the space in between where your lips meet. Go all the way from one corner of the mouth to the other.
6- Next I blend the liner with my finger for a very blended look. I want my lips to look full, not lined.
7- I take my nude lipstick and apply it with a longer flat eyeshadow brush because the round edge fits perfectly into the shape of the lip. I use the brush to lightly blend the lip color on.
8- Lastly, I take the same brush and grab my bright coral lipstick and apply the coral color with the brush to the center of my bottom and top lip for a pop.

Taking these steps will give you a natural looking shape and volume to the lips. Not all liner needs to be dramatic. It can be used to emphasize your natural lip shape which in my opinion.. looks better. Enjoy!

Copyright Music: Mirah & Thoa Little Cups from the album Thoa & Mirah. You can buy their album HERE.

Tutorial: Winged Liner and Lash Application

2011-09-26T12:14:00.000-07:00

Lets get some awkwardness out of the way. What you are about to see includes a few of my annoying nervous habits.
1. I sniff a lot. And we're talking a lot.
2. I like to play with my hair.
3. I stutter and stumble over my words and say things that probably don't make any sense.
4. I say "uhm" at the beginning of this video. Too much.
5. I have stage fright. Filming this alone was hard just knowing others will be watching it.
For my first video, its not too shabby but I promise they will improve.

Lash Application and Winged Liner Demo from Stephanie Neiheisel on Vimeo.

Here are some photo's so you can hopefully get a better view of the finished project. I snagged a shot from all angles for ya.

Look with a red lip...

Look with a nude lip...

Hope this was helpful! Please comment with any questions below. Happy Monday! Lets start this week off strong. I am staying motivated by finally posting this video for you.

She's a Nerdy Little Chatterbox.

2011-09-21T08:54:00.000-07:00

With how much I've been working over the last two weeks, yesterday was my last day before a day off and I had NO desire to put makeup on or even get ready for that matter. I decided to sleep in a little bit longer, enjoy my current read The Poisonwood Bible make a good breakfast and skip on all the in depth "get ready" work. I still applied a winged liner knowing I had every intention of rocking my favorite nerd glasses where no one would really be able to see the eye makeup I had on. With this type of a look, I ALWAYS have to wear a brighter lip. I decided to search into one of the 3 huge lipstick bags I own and pulled out a lipstick that is an all time favorite and one I haven't worn for quite sometime.
On my eyes I buffed my bronzer and blush along the eyelid followed by a matte eyeshadow called All Races from MAC and my Bobbi Brown Gel liner in Black Ink. The lips are my best accessory (besides my glasses) in colors Trimmed in Pink lip pencil from MAC (this color may be unavailable) and Chatterbox lipstick from MAC.

Color Combinations

2011-09-20T09:41:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you but even when a pink pine cone appears in a not too distant tree, I am inspired. These are some of my photo's that I paired with a cosmetic or look that I love.

An orange toned lipstick never hurt anyone. It looks amazing on everyone! Especially those with hazel and green eyes. Try Crosswires from MAC.

Yellow. A bright color that only the bold and brave dare pull off. I snapped this photo while on a hike with a friend back in UT. Aren't these lips gorgeous too?

Blue. This blue nail polish, I Know What Boys Like, from NARS is amazing. A bold statement with a timeless energy.

Purple has always been one of my favorite colors. I love a purple with a bright twist and this NARS lipstick hits the spot. Funny Face.

A soft pink blush is my signature cosmetic item. You can't go wrong with a beautiful soft pink. My favorite? Peony from Bobbi Brown.