HeartsApart.org

HeartsApart.org was created by our amazingly talented and generous photographic community. Founded in Wilmington, NC, its mission is to keep our military families at the forefront of our consciousness for all they sacrifice on a daily basis.  It's a way to keep deployed families within an arm's reach of each other, even while serving overseas.  At the crux is a set of bi-fold photos, taken by some of the most well-respected, highly sought-after photographers in our nation.  These bi-folds fit neatly in the deployed serviceperson's uniform pocket. The photos are of immediate family: children, and spouses.  The inside of the bi-fold is an intimate, "for their eyes only" shot of the other spouse.  The wallet-sized, plastic-coated set of folded photos means the world to the  person carrying it.  It means s/he has family at their fingertips when they are half-way across the globe.

I'll never forget the day that Charleston photographer, Diana Deaver, asked me to be involved with this project.  She was the local photographer who was asked to photograph a Charleston Air Force family before the husband/dad's deployment.  Although I did not know much about this organization at the time, I did know Diana.  She possesses one of the most giving, generous hearts of any one I've ever met.  There was no "let me check my calendar. . ." it was only, "tell me where and when, D. . ."  As you can see from the resulting photographs, she got what she was aiming for with this young military family.

The icing on the cake came in the form of a Brownie.  Harris, that is.  I was set up in the kitchen of our studio for the day, and I heard a voice I'll always have locked in.  That mellifluous, genteel voice of Brownie Harris.  I had no idea he'd be popping in during the day, nor that he was involved in this at all.  But as a matter of fact, Brownie is one of the visionaries of this organization.  He has helped grow HeartsApart.org into something so much more far-reaching than was ever imagined.  He spoke glowingly of Diana and said what a gifted photographer of women she was; that she had an especially sensitive way of helping women let their guard down, and then REALLY capturing them with her camera.  I found this to be the highest of compliments, but having seen Diana work previously, I already knew it to be true.  It was simply phenomenal to hear Brownie articulate it.

This is one of the most worthwhile projects I've ever been involved in.  Thank you, Universe, for allowing me to see this first hand.  And thanks to the following:

The Kihn-Hurt family. . . for letting your family's light shine on us all, and for the sacrifice you make every day.
HeartsApart.org, for such a magnificent undertaking.
Diana Deaver, photographer of souls.
Brownie Harris, for your insight, direction, and worldly experience.
Collette Mruk, for your supreme organizational skills and kind heart.
Mike K., for the use of your home and space.
And to anyone else whom I've unwittingly left out. . . thank you.

Michele. With one L.

Meet Michele.  From Seattle.  She's as all-that as the peacock feathers and blue/violet streaks in her hair.  She's as unique as her impeccable, font-like handwriting; she is Michele with one L.

Michele who begins her wedding day with a cocktail reception.  Then moves into the ceremony.  Then has the party.  Michele who comes to Charleston's magnificent Magnolia Plantation and knows she need not look any further.  (It was the absolute perfect backdrop for her wedding).

Venue: Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
Photos by Torrence Photography (of Charlotte, NC)
Hair by Tanesha Dupree (here we go, gurl!)
Makeup by mee.  With two e's ;)

PLM/Makeup Artist Charleston's 2010 Brides. . . a Video Thank You

An Essay on Boudoir Photography

Boudoir photography is something I'm seeing more of in this take-it-up-a-notch world of marital bliss.  It's a fantastic way to capture a bride or wife at a moment when she's feeling very good about herself.  The boudoir shoots I've been involved in have had a clandestine element about them mostly because the ladies being photographed want to keep an element of surprise in presenting these albums to their husbands.  I continually hear these ladies tell of the reactions of their spouses when they give them The Book.  Usually his jaw drops, and by the time they can collect themselves enough to speak, the first words out are "Who took these photos?"

So, meet Miss K and Miss L.  These two ladies are bff's from childhood.  They were both engaged during the same time and planning weddings in two different cities.  This photo shoot was part of a brainstorm of ideas to give as wedding gifts to their respective husbands.  This may have been one of the most luxurious shoots I've been involved in; these ladies did it up and planned it beautifully.  The backdrop is a beautiful old hotel in downtown Charleston with rich textures everywhere I looked.  From the moment I walked in, they were giddy with excitement over their costume changes.  Everything was planned out to the Nth degree. . . the venue, lingerie, sports momentos, SHOES like you wouldn't believe, and hair and makeup.

Now, a word about the hair: Tanesha Dupree.  For so many reasons, Tanesha is one of my favorite people, not to mention stylists.  She custom ordered and made these hair pieces.  Yes, they are extensions, and that was part of the fantasy of this photo shoot. . . stepping outside boundaries and trying to conjure a different look.  Then the makeup comes in and plays off that. . . lashes and eyeliner galore, great skin, shiny lips.  Put it all together and these ladies stepped into a world that was full of confidence, and sheer delight because they knew how much the hubsters were going to love this.

And then of course, it takes the utmost professional photographer to pull this all together.  Brooke Christl of Myrtle Beach has a sub-specialty in this type of photography.  She's a wedding and lifestyle photographer, who has a real knack for boudoir.  I knew as soon as I heard the interaction among Brooke and these ladies, that the resulting photos would be amazing.  She's a master of direction. . . and that's exactly what it takes when it comes to getting the best results with boudoir photos.  How to stand, where to put hands, feet, a tilt of the chin, placement of everything in general.  She was phenomenal in thinking up situational events that helped put her clients at ease.  That's what makes a great photographer. . . the knowing and anticipation of what their clients want.

I'll stop going on . . . but believe me, I could ramble.  This was a wonderful thing to be a part of and witness.  The great communication, the exuding confidence, and the FUN that comes from this.  Thank you, ladies, for allowing me to play a part.  And for those of you who have ever or never considered this:  please do so; it's a real treat, something you'll look back and be so proud of.  As a matter of fact, get in touch with me. . . I've got a great lead on an upcoming shoot you'll want to be part of!

Pamela Lesch Makeup featured in Southern Weddings Magazine!

True to form, June, 2010 was a blissfully busy month.  Not only did I have my slew of real-life brides who were getting married around various Charlestonian landmarks, but I got the call from Melissa Schollaert Photography, asking me to do makeup for a photo shoot she was putting together.  My gut told me I had to make this work, and I'm so happy it did.  The assignment: Laurenesque (as in Ralph), natural makeup.  I think we achieved it!

Melissa was entering a cover shoot contest for Southern Weddings Magazine, and the theme she put together was a gentile Charleston, marine-based wedding.  Melissa, an Atlanta photographer, did her research and came up with some of Charleston's finest vendors, couture, cuisine offerings, and venues.  This shoot was chosen as a Cover Finalist, and I believe that only whet Melissa's appetite for her next cover shoot.  Congrats to Melissa on her SWM feature; and many thanks to the following for their hand in this:

Also from the ATL, coordinator extraordinaire, Lindsay Pitt of Toast Events

From Charleston:
Belle Couture Bridal (Maribel by Christos dress)
Affair Hair by Tanesha Dupree
Out of Hand (bouquet, tables, and benches)
The Cotton Dock at Boone Hall Plantation
St. Barts Yachts (sailboat and marina)
Beautiful jetty courtesy of Folly Beach
Models Jamie Simpson Mitchell and Noel Poff

An Eye Liner to Brag About. . .MAC's Fluidline

Blacktrack: Solid, flat black. . . the color I use most

Dipdown: Deep, dark flat brown. . . my favorite everyday color

Macroviolet: Deep smoked violet with red pearl. . . fun color, especially beautiful on green & blue eyes

#208 Angled Brow Brush (the small one)

Q:  What's a makeup artist/blogger to do when writer's block sets in?
A:  Open up her kit, take inventory, and figure out the products she's using most.

In my consistently-evolving world of PRODUCT, I use just about everything.  Whether it's on myself, or those fabulous ones that I've used and have promoted to my kit.  These are the tried-and-true products that I deem worthy of putting onto the faces of my clients.  My product today is not a new one.  It's just one I've not written about: it's been around for a long while, and that longevity qualifies it for one of the Gold Standards of my makeup kit:

MAC's Fluidline eyeliner.  It's a cream/gel-based eyeliner that has to be applied with a brush (more on that in a minute:)  Here is the short-list of why it's "gold standard":

1.  It's waterproof.
2.  It's extremely long-wearing.
3.  MAC offers this formula in wonderfully bold colors.

Fluidline is perfect for brides, and all-day photo shoots, as well as for moms-on-the-go, and that working woman who doesn't have time to touch up her eyeliner.   There are certain eye "looks" that require a liner that doesn't budge. . . such as the classic "Hollywood Glamour" look. . . you know, the single, winged-out line along the upper lashes (think Christina Aguilera or Audrey Hepburn).

One of my favorite uses of this liner is to help camouflage the nylon band of false lashes.  Now, that brings me to tell you how important it is to use the proper tool to apply this product.  My fave is MAC's teeny-tiny #208 brush.  MAC calls it an "Angled Brow Brush" but this tool is one of my multi-taskers.  The bundle of bristles on this brush are densely packed, very short, and therefore can be used to draw a fine, fine line.  And that's how I begin.  The fine line can always be built up to a thicker line if you want a more dramatic look.  Like the name suggests, it's wonderful for filling in sparse brows with very small amounts of product (makes for a more natural look), but it's my favorite for applying Fluidline or blending out any pencil liner. . . or for lining lips with lipstick, or helping "mush" in false lashes along a lash.  I use this brush in many ways.

At $16, this product is a steal: one container will last a very long time.  Just be sure to keep the top securely fastened for even more product shelf-life.  Yes, it may take some practice getting your line just right, but here are my tips for perfect application.  First, use small amounts of product on the brush.  Second, pull out the corner of your eye to make your lashline taut and therefore, easier to apply the liner to.  Lastly, stay very close to your lash line (it's ok for the liner to actually get into your lashes. . . stay that close).

Give it a try. . . it's a wonderful, product. . . Happy Lining!

www.maccosmetics.com

Pretty Preservationist, Perry

The girl's got style, vision, panache, and moxie!  All this, plus she's a BLUSH girl. . . as in "I need more blush!"

Perry is one of those brides who has made a lasting impression, much like the old architecture, books, and mementos she studies and helps preserve.  This phenomenal bridal session, by the amazing Heather Forsythe Photography, is currently making the rounds on several online wedding publications (The Wedding Row, Southern Weddings, The Wedding Chicks, etc).

Thank you, Perry, for your adventurous spirit and love of all things vintage.  You can follow her planning process and journey at PerryAnnMcKenzie.blogspot.com.

Thank you, Heather Forsythe Photography, for capturing the essence of this North Carolina gal, and relaying it so beautifully.

Strong, Decisive Women

One of my favorite kinds of people in this world is a decisive woman. I had the distinct fortune to be around 3 such ladies a couple of weeks ago: The Bride (Allison), her FSIL (future sis-in-law, Elizabeth), and the Photographer (Liz).

Each of these ladies knows what she wants. . . how she wants it. . . and when & where. Such precision on a plethora of subjects from all aspects of planning a wedding, to makeup, to true artistic vision. It was a joy to work with these ladies.

Have you ever been with the right combination of people where you know that combo could conquer the world? That was this trio. I won't ramble on, but suffice it to say that because of this nucleus of women, one beautiful wedding was pulled off.

I could be fast friends with each of these ladies.

Photography by www.LizDuren.com

Belle Couture & King Street Photo Weddings: A Picture-Perfect Day

Recently, I had the privilege to work on a photo shoot with some creative, talented individuals. Michel Berda of King Street Photo Weddings had the idea to photograph models on location through large portrait frames. Michel is a man on a mission when he shoots; and always has a story to tell, which keeps rapport easy and flowing. His vision had stunning results.

Thanks to Sarah Black and Kelly Greene of Belle Couture Bridal for showcasing some of their amazing gowns. That store is full of dresses that are stunningly beautiful and not run-of-the-mill. These ladies are detail-oriented and cater to their clients lovingly.

Havens Frames of Mount Pleasant provided the large frames.

Boone Hall Plantation was the backdrop on a lovely day. Spectacular scenery that captures the essence of a Southern Wedding.

And the models. . . this was a tri-fecta of lovely ladies. None of us had met prior to that day, but each contributed to what was to be a true team effort by all. Thank you to Angela Finley of Charleston; Angela Turner of Greenville, and Emily Breeze Ross of Charlotte. Each of these striking ladies can be found on Facebook and Model Mayhem.

Thank you all for making this a wonderful day with great results!

www.KingStreetPhotoWeddings.com

www.BelleCoutureBridal.com

www.HavensFineFraming.com

www.BooneHallPlantation.com

All makeup by Pamela Lesch, Makeup Artist Charleston.

Tresses Salon / King Street Studios

One misty October morning, I drove up to the Noisette area of North Charleston. As I am prone to be, first arrival guaranteed my rock-star parking :) Was I in the right place? It was just too industrial to be certain. Thank goodness for a Blackberry and Facebook-to-go!

When some familiar faces showed up, I knew I was in the right place. Warehouse padlocks were unlocked, tall doors rolled back, and in we walked into this artistic oasis in the midst of a former naval shipyard. Stark, windows everywhere, wide wooden plank floors (the old kind), and the furniture. . .just enough, not too much. The coffee started pouring and the music was cranked; I felt we were in for something good.

By "we" I mean Team Tresses, as in Tresses Salon Studio of Mount Pleasant. The owner of Tresses, Mallory Shymanski, called and asked me to do makeup for their upcoming hair photo shoot. These photos would be used to update their website.

I was awestruck by the teamwork of these girls. They did double duty: fashion stylists (clothing courtesy of Teal @ Towne Centre Mt. Pleasant) as well as hair. They worked in a syncopation normally felt in a piece of music. Hands, products, styling tools, were all flying. Then the models would come to me for makeup: airbrush foundation, eyes (by hand), cheeks, lips, LASHES!!!! The theme for this shoot was "Pure, Progressive, Uncensored." Suffice it to say that by the time we hit "progressive" and "uncensored," everyone's guard was down and we were all working at full tilt. These girls think outside the box. . . if you're ever in the mood for trying something a little different, this is the place to go. But they do "traditional" just as well. I'm infatuated with what they do. Ask any of them. . .each time I leave, I have dreadlocks in my hair. . .and they look FAB! (Also see previous blog about the HAI Elite curling rod. . .this is the only salon in the southeastern coastal region that carries it.)

The studio/space that Todd Surber and Reese Allen have created is nothing short of spectacular. But it's the two of them who fill the atmosphere with energy, confidence, and a good dose of showmanship. I thought my parking space was "rock star". . . until I met these guys. That's the feel of the place. Please check out their website to see their amazing bridal/wedding/portraiture work. It'll leave you breathless.

I'm thankful for yet another "moment." You all rock!

www.TressesSalonStudio.com

www.KingStreetStudios.com