Happy { Blog Loving } Weekend

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I'm a little behind in getting to this, but last week I received a couple of awards from some fabulous bloggers, and now it's my turn to spread the love.

Shawna of Poppies and Sunshine gave me the Over the Top Award, and she could not be more deserving of this herself! I fall in love with every one of her blog posts! They're so pretty and inspiring. Please give her a visit. You don't know what you're missing!

I'm passing this award along to these well deserving bloggers:

Valerie at Red Vines for Breakfast

Jenna at The Petite Blogger

Katie at Fashion's Maven

Jess at Cheap but Chic Clothes

Thank You Shawna!

The second award came from the very sweet Valerie of Red Vines for Breakfast. She gave me the Beautiful Blogger Award! You really should check out her blog to see her amazing style, and hear her adorable stories about her husband.

 

The rules with this award, are to list seven things about myself and then pass it on to other fantastic bloggers.

Here goes:

1. I despise cheese! I don't know how people get it past their nose and into their mouth?! I sometimes wish I liked it, because it's in so many things. The only time I can tolerate a little is on pizza, and I always order "lite cheese." I'm not sure why this is different, but it just is. Maybe it's the combo of ingredients???

2. I feel most like myself when I'm in NYC, but I'm dying to go to Paris!

3. I still miss Felicity. Yes, the tv show.

4. I carry my Starbucks insulated cup with me everywhere I go, only I'm not drinking coffee. It's always Diet Pepsi.

5. I secretly want to live in a Jane Austen novel, but only if I can bring my iphone.

6. I wasn't always a makeup artist. I coached competitive gymnastics for many years, training state and regional champions. I also worked for an Accounting firm preparing taxes.

7. I didn't go to school for makeup, but instead interned for two years, networked and took a couple of workshops. Although, I've essentially been doing makeup for as long as I can remember, and have been reading Vogue since I was 11. I also learned theater makeup in my high school acting class, which was a great foundation to build from.

So, there you have it.  I'm now passing the Beautiful Blogger award along to: 

Jamie at Glam Latte

Shawna at Poppies and Sunshine

Alicia at Cheetah is the New Black

Sara at Sara B. Bentley

Thank You Valerie!

And one last thing before I go...

A couple of weeks ago Jessica at Style Obsession was doing a giveaway  for some Thomas Paul tea towels.

 I decided to enter, and didn't think about it again until  Jessica emailed me to say that I'd won!

I was so excited, because I never win anything! Anyway, just wanted to share my good news and encourage you all to enter those giveaways. You never know when it's going to be your lucky day! :)

I hope you all have an amazing weekend! 

 

It's All In the Prep

Sorry for the late post today, but I literally sat down for 2 seconds last night and fell asleep! Needless to say, a blog post wasn't going to happen. Also, I apologize for being a little MIA lately...This past month has been a whirlwind! I don't think I can remember a time when I've had so many bookings! Definitely not complaining, just explaining. :) When you're barely getting 4 hrs of sleep per night (at best), there's not much time for anything else. My hair was in desperate need of some love,  so yesterday after my last job of the week, I went to see my sweet friend and colleague, Marissa,  for a fresh cut and color. (look for a separate post on this later) In exchange for hair services, I did Marissa's makeup for an event she was going to. We were having so much fun pampering each other, being girlie, and appreciating each others skills. We're always taking care of other people, so it was really nice for US to get glammed up for a change! While I was doing Marissa's makeup, she was asking me how I do glowy foundation, and my answer back was...

It's all in the prep!

Isn't that true about so many things? Preparation makes everything easier, and it's no different when it comes to creating a flawless face. By properly prepping your skin, you're allowing for the best possible, blank canvas for your foundation. I'm planning a series on Foundation, as it tends to be tricky for a lot of people, but until then, here are my work horses. These are the products that I use everyday, for every job, and make the skin look healthy and hydrated.

Step 1:

Mario Badescu - Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater $7

Just a few spritzes of this and you're ready for moisturizer.

Step 2:

Embroylisse Paris - Lait-Creme Concentre $25

This is great for normal to dry skin types, and preps the skin beautifully for foundation.

Laura Mercier - Primer $30

If I'm working with someone who has oily skin, I often times skip the Embroylisse, and move right on to this primer. Laura Mercier created her original formula in 1995, but now has several versions based on specific needs. I always have on hand, the original, oil free and hydrating.

Step 3:

Embroylisse Paris - Soin Contour Des Yeux $35

The most soothing eye cream, that does an excellent job of smoothing the delicate eye area.

Step 4:

Clear Eyes - Triple Action Relief $5.49

While not skin, I always do eye drops during the prep. Everyone looks better and younger when they're well rested, but sometimes we just don't get the sleep we need. (I know!) :) To get the redness out, I rely on Clear Eyes, as they don't sting as much as the others, and do a great job of faking 8 hrs of sleep.

Collyre Bleu Laiter - Clear Blue Eye Drops $20

Sometimes, Clear Eyes doesn't cut it. In particular, when working with someone over the age of 55, or with African Americans. Especially the later, as the whites of their eyes tend to be a little yellow. Not always, but sometimes. I save this for those rare occasions, and only if absolutely necessary. But when needed, it's a miracle worker!

Step 5:

Jouer - Lip Enhancer $14

I've already talked about it here, but honestly I cannot live with out this balm/enhancer, and my clients can't either! It's so gorgeous by itself, but makes anything you put on top of it even more beautiful!

Fresh Scent for Spring

I'm looking for a new fragrance for Spring, and while most of my current scents are quite light...I think I'm just bored with them. Most of the time I wear Falling in Love by Philosophy, which doesn't seem to overwhelm my clients while I'm doing their makeup. Very important considering my profession! I'm thinking of trying a bottle of this...

Fresh - Strawberry Flowers $24.50

Strawberry Flowers Eau de Parfum is a sparkling, fruity floral laced with rich, earthy scents. Addictive top notes of sophisticated citruses, like mandarin and yuzu, envelope middle notes of transparent white floral and fresh mountain strawberries. These dreamy notes are anchored with the dry base notes of delicate woods and musk, giving the fragrance an invigorating and velvety finish.

What fragrance are you wearing for Spring?

A Louboutin Daydream

I came across this fantastic short film when I was looking for something else, and just had to share it. The film is called "Dancer in a Daydream" in which master shoe designer Christian Louboutin wears a special pair of jazz shoes (with studs and red soles, no less) and dances in his daydream , as he sketches in his studio. Christian Louboutin is so adorable! As if we didn't already adore this man enough for his to-die-for shoe designs! In this film, he literally melts my heart! <3

 Here's a sneak peek:

Watch the full video here.

Happy Birthday Bro!

Me & Aaron

Today is my bro's birthday!

A very happy birthday to my amazingly talented and super cool brother, Aaron! Wishing you a fun-filled day, full of celebrations! Looking forward to the party tonight!

xoxo 

For all of you that don't know, my brother is an awesome piano player, and the lead singer of his band called RUMBLE KING. If you're ever in the LA area, check out one of his shows! It's always a great time with fantastic music! Here's a little sample...

Happy { Catch Up } Weekend

Hopefully this weekend I'll be able to catch up on some much needed sleep, but I'll have to fit it in between a baby shower, and another job that I just booked.

Also, I plan on catching up on all of your amazing blogs! I've been trying to keep up, but with work, and managing my own blog, there hasn't been much time left over. I'm missing my daily reads, and dying  to hear what you've all been up to and been blogging about!  Looking forward to reconnecting...

Have a Great Weekend!

xoxo,

Bren

Mane Attraction

I'm constantly on the lookout for the Holy Grail of hair products, and honestly which girl isn't? The problem is, we're inundated  with product lines coming at as at record speed, with empty promises. Most are overpriced, and just don't live up to their hype. Believe me I know...I have a bathroom full of them taking up much needed space! Lately I've noticed, a lot of the hairstylists that I work with have been using the new line by Oribe, which launched late last year.  When a product line starts showing up again and again, it's time to pay attention, and I'm glad I did! I'm actually loving my frizz-free hair, and that never happens! I am so in love with this line, I want everything! Here's what I've tried so far, with unbelievable results! And, did I mention the smell...pure heaven!

Royal Blowout $42

For the ultimate blowout. This ultra-lightweight mist smoothes even the worst-behaved mop while speeding dry time. It also repairs split ends, nourishes, softens and strengthens the hair, giving it healthy body and shine.

Volumista $34

Get hair higher with weightless mane-plumping mist. New age polymers swell each hair shaft for incredible lushness, natural body and brilliant luster.

Creme for Style $29

Superior style and substantial shine are a quarter-size dollop away. This stylists’ staple offers firm yet flexible all-day hold and tames frizz with rich moisturizers. Loves curly and straight hair equally.

Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray $38

This anti-humidity finishing spray shields hair from frizz on the sultriest of days (and nights), protecting sleek blowouts and perfect curls alike.

Precious Cargo

Yesterday,  I had a couple of hours inbetween clients, so I squeezed in a little shopping. I picked up this great Cargo jacket at Old Navy for $40! I've been looking for a neutral jacket with great shape, and this one nips in at the waist, making it SUPER flattering!

Old Navy Hooded Anorak Cargo Jacket $40

I liked it so much that I also bought it in green, which is completely sold-out online.

After Old Navy, I stopped in Anthropologie and tried on these bad boys! :)

J. Brand Houlihan Skinny Cargos $230

I'm obsessed! The fit is amazing, as is with all J. Brands, but I'm especially loving this fresh spin on cargos! Instead of being super casual, these skinnies are begging to be worn with heels! I'd love to own these in black as they'd be the perfect "going out" pants for Summer. I'm just not sure I want to spend another $230. There has to be some less expensive options out there. Anyone know where I can get the look for less?

Song of the Day: Oren Lavie - Her Morning Elegance

I'm feeling a little sleep deprived lately, and can barely hold my eyes open enough to write this post. I've been working a ton, which I'm grateful for, but looking forward some time off. I could really use a whole day spent in bed...napping, watching movies, napping and well, you get the idea. Thinking of "bed" made me remember this really cool video! It's so creative, and that dreamy voice... I could just listen to him all day!

Urth Day

On Saturday, I had an early morning makeup call and decided to treat myself to a little brunch as soon as I finished. I was craving Urth Caffe's multi-grain waffle, but knew that both West Hollywood and Beverly Hills locations would be packed on a Saturday morning, and parking...a nightmare! So instead, I headed East to the newest outpost downtown. While the location seems a little out of place and somewhat remote, parking was SUPER easy, as was finding a table, and there was no shortage of the usual mid-town hipsters.

 

And, the best part...my waffle was really yummy, and my mocha couldn't have been any better, or more adorable!

Friday Freebie

Tuesday I posted the new video "Tiny Light" by Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, and now you can get a FREE download of the song! All you have to do is click here, and follow the directions. Tiny Light is so good that it's been stuck in my head for days! And now it can be stuck in yours too. :)

Have a Great Weekend!

Frivolous or Frugal: Slouch Sandals

It's April 15th...are your taxes filed? Mine aren't. I'm still waiting for tax data from some of my clients, so it's extension city for me. Hopefully yours are complete, and you're getting a big, fat refund! I usually owe at the end of the year, but I was thinking...what would I buy if I was getting a refund?? I've got Summer sandals on the brain, so I didn't have to think too hard.  In this special "tax day" version of Frivolous or Frugal, I'm giving you my shoe lust, and shoe must.

Which are you loving? Frivolous or Frugal?

In-Flight Essentials

I've been doing a lot of traveling for work, and if you've been on a plane anytime recently, you know that flying just isn't what it use to be. In fact, it can be down right uncomfortable! It's taken a little trial and error, but I've finally figured out what I need with me, to ensure a pleasant flight. Here are my must-have travel essentials:

Big, Dark Sunglasses -Stella McCartney

Makes sleeping a little easier, and who doesn't look more glamorous with big sunglasses on?

Bottled Water 

purchased after security screening

Pashmina Scarf

These are the scarves you see it every airport for about $10. Super soft, and big enough to use as a blanket.

Iphone with Headphones

Preferably with a downloaded movie rental from itunes, all ready to go. The headphones are necessary just to drown out the sound of the screaming child, that without a doubt, I'm seated next to.

Bath & Body Works Hand Sanitizer

Not only does this keep my hands clean, it also gives me something nice to smell other than the guy sitting next to me, who doesn't believe in deodorant. :)

Love & Toast Hand Cream

This is with me at all times, flying or not.

Jouer Lip Enhancer

This picture isn't the greatest, but don't judge a book by it's cover. This lip enhancer is AMAZING! It's  what I keep in my makeup kit to prep the lips for color, and I haven't found anything that works better.  Moisturizes, slightly plumps, and leaves the palest pink wash of color.  Every client asks me the same thing...what it is, and where to get it! It's THAT good!

Emergen-C

These little packs really help boost my immune system, especially when flying with a bunch of people hacking and sneezing.

What are your In-Flight Essentials?

Song of the Day: Grace Potter and the Nocturnals - Tiny Light

Today's song happens to be by a client of mine. I've been working with Grace and the band since they were first signed to Hollywood Records, and I couldn't be happier that they have a new album coming out on June 8! I've been dying for some new GPN! Grace is the real deal, and so are her band mates. If you ever get the chance to see their live show, count yourself lucky, because they perform at full throttle! One of the BEST live shows I've ever seen! Period. I'll shut up now so you can listen to the first single from the new album. **Warning this song starts with a simmer and ends in a full boil! You might want to adjust the volume. Enjoy!

Blog Love

Last week feels like a blur...busy work week, Chicago, another photoshoot, and then Palm Springs! Phew! I'm really glad to be home, so  I can do some much needed blog maintenance, and catch up on what you all have been blogging about.  While I was gone, something REALLY exciting happened... I received my very first blog award! And then, before the week was through, I got two more!!! Woo-hoo!!! :-D

The first, came from Katie at Fashion's Maven. She gave me the Stiletto Award!

Then from Jamie at Glam Latte, I received the I Heart Your Blog Award, and the Sunshine Award!

I just want to say a HUGE thank you to Katie and Jamie! I get so excited to read your blogs and comments, and your support of my blog means SO much!!! I still can't believe that people are actually reading it! :)

So now it's time for me to pay it forward! I tried to spread the love as much as possible, and did my best to not duplicate any awards that have already been given.

Since I adore everything about  Jamie and her blog Glam Latte, she's getting the Stiletto Award. 

Jessica at Style Obsession is also getting the Stiletto Award for her fab blog.

To my one and only guy follower, Nevek at L'Uomo Moderno, he's getting the I Heart Your Blog Award. (thought I'd save the Stiletto for the ladies) ;)

To Stephanie of Maybe Someday We'll Be Smarter she's getting the Sunshine Award, because her blog always makes smile.

The lovely Katie of Fashion's Maven is getting the I Heart Your Blog and Sunshine Awards.

and to..

Alicia of Cheetah is the New Black

Poppies and Sunshine

Josie of With a Wink and a Smile

You ladies are getting all three!

Honestly, Jamie said it best here. I too, am amazed by the community we have among us! I truly wish I could give out an award to all of my readers and fellow bloggers. You're all incredibly inspiring people, and I can't thank you enough for your support these last 3 months!

xoxo,

Bren

Happy { Palm Springs } Weekend

Ahhhh...finally the weekend! I'm escaping LA,  for some much needed downtime in the desert. So, I thought I'd leave you with some images of the hotspots I'll be hitting.

The Parker

Viceroy

Cabazon Outlets

Las Casuelas Terraza

Hope you all have a amazing weekend!