Celebrating The Wedding Row`s 2nd Anniversary: Garden Muse

The Wedding Row is a blog dedicated to bringing its readers the most up-to-date, detailed info on weddings here in Charleston, SC.  I have had the honor and privilege to be a preferred vendor on this site since its inception.  Della MacNicholas, the founder, has been the networking genius behind making this such a success.

To celebrate its second year, TWR and Allison Long of Bella Bridesmaid Charleston teamed up with a veritable Who`s Who of vendors to orchestrate this theme: Garden Muse.  The backdrop was the pristine Governor Thomas Bennett House.  Luke Wilson Special Events made sure every detail was in place.  The highlight of the evening featured designs from Carol Hannah of Project Runway renown (represented by Maddison Row) and Katherine MacDonald of LulaKate. Please check out The Wedding Row`s blog about this magical evening to see a complete listing of all the amazing contributors.

A personal note of thanks to Jennifer Hudson Smith of Carolina Photosmith for capturing this evening so beautifully.  And to my buddy, Tanesha, for her inspired, passionate pursuit of beautiful hair; tis always a joy, Gurl;)

Without the continually jaw-dropping beauty of the Tout models, well, I wouldn't be posting these lovely faces.  Thank each of you Gurlz for your patience, humor, and inward beauty.  Those lashes were something, weren't they?  

peace and love.
Pamela

Giorgio Armani: Eyes To Kill Mascara

Quite simply, this may be the best mascara I have ever used.  And I want to publicly acknowledge my sis-in-law, Amy Lesch, for her vigilant look-out of new products for me to try.  She was right on the money on this one.   So Amy, thank you!

Blog-o-sphere, if you were ever going to splurge on a mascara (and at $30, it is a treat), this is The One.  The first sign of its lovability is the fact that holding the tube is like holding a piece of wrought iron: it is heavy.  Only something substantial could be that heavy, right?  Then when you pull out the brush from the tube that first time, you realize the bristles on the brush are going to treat you right.  Tapered at the tip-end so you can reach those delicate inner-corner lashes, and fat and full on the handle-end, really help to fan out those corner lashes.

I simply cannot go on about this one mascara enough.  It is my new fave, and it is worth every cent.  It comes in a waterproof formula, as well, but I like the convenience of the regular version.  I have had no problems with it budging at all.  As a matter of fact, it takes a small splash of water at the end of the day, plus a little eye makeup remover to gently coax it off.  It stays put until you are ready to remove it.

I purchased mine at Nordstroms, but you can find it at Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdales, or through the Giorgio Armani Beauty website.

If Loreal says you're worth it, Giorgio Armani says you're worth it all.  Happy Mascara-ing!

Will Work for (Really Great) Jeans: Beija-Flor!

I had one of the most amazing all-female-crew experiences one overcast afternoon last December on Seabrook Island.  When I hung up the phone after speaking with Emilie Moca Whitaker, principal of Beija-Flor Jeans, I knew I wanted a piece of this action.  I am a bit of a denim-snob to begin with (the designer jeans simply fit me better, is what I tell myself), and I was harboring the thought that maybe I would work for jeans.  After hearing the history of this phenomenal family-run company (a mother-and-daughters team) based out of Greenville, SC, I was sold on their integrity, spirit, pride in their heritage (Brazil!), and work ethic.  Then I met them.  Then I worked with them.  Then I wore their jeans.  I am now proud to call myself a Beija-Believer.  (Please be sure to click on the link above and read about their journey, the story behind the Beija-Flor fit, and browse all the amazing jeans!)

The literal translation of the Portuguese phrase beija-flor means kiss-the-flower.  Which is what a hummingbird appears to be doing while feeding. . . hence, their designer logo which is embroidered on the hip of their jeans.  (Isn't it grand when symbolism and wording come together like that to represent so many things?  I love the cleverness of it!)

Emilie and her mom, Kathy, along with Amanda-the-Super-Intern, had a look book assembled and knew the shots they wanted.  Nicole, the model, was on board and had worked with these ladies for other studio shoots.  As a matter of fact, its this Nicole for whom the B-F Nicole jean is named after.  This is a mainstay of their jeans line that is somehow flattering on every body type.  Check out the photos for the strategically-placed darts and seams that miraculously make every be-hind look booty-licious.  I am now the proud owner of a pair of Nicole jeans, and they have trumped my True Religions, Joes, and Rock & Republics.  The B-Fs fit me divinely.

By the way, model Nicole is more than a beautiful face.  She's a Doctoral candidate at Clemson who can talk shop or product functionality with the best of them.  She is the face of Beija-Flor: classic, boho-chic, timeless, and can cross the line to rock-glam if need be.  It was a pleasure to work with her, as well.

And then there was the photographer.  Jennings King.  Jennings is making the transition to full-time lifestyle-editorial-wedding photographer, and has just the flair, style, and technique necessary to embark on this switch.  She has an eye for beautiful scenery, amazing props, and a way of communicating clear direction.  I am so pleased and honored to work with her during her ascension.  She hasn't even made the leap yet from her day-job to full-time photog, and she has already booked her first wedding abroad!  Congrats, Jennings. . . I know big things are in store for you.

It was Girl Power for sure that weekend.  I am ready for another dose!  Many thanks to Kathy Moca, Emilie Moca Whitaker, and Intern Amanda (wise beyond her young years, and task-master extraordinaire!)  Also to Antiques of South Windemere, for the use of the lovely brass and velvet chair.  Here are a few shots from the day:

Liquid Eyeliner Looks

When I saw this photo, it was a reaffirmation of one of my makeup artistry goals: use more liquid liner!  I love the look that a great liquid eyeliner can give.  It's bold and quite the statement-maker.  This is a printable, great guideline for different shapes to draw on the liner. What I've found about liquid eyeliner is that you simply have to make yourself do it. . .practice truly makes perfection!

These liner looks run the gamut from demure to Gaga-ish.  Personally, I like a small, hug-the-lashline line, with a "baby-wingout".  Choose the look you're going for, and get creative and do some kind of a variation on one of these.  Send me a pic if you do one. . . I'd love to see what you're doing!

p.s.  Currently, I'm loving MAC's Superslick Eyeliner (On the Hunt is a shiny black).

The Secret to Successful Concealing

Meet MAC's Pro Longwear Concealer.  It's my new best friend (and my tired, stressed-out, sleep-deprived clientele's, too).  I could do an whole blog on this entire line of MAC Pro Longwear. . . I happen to love this stuff!

I'm going through more of this concealer than any I've used on any clients before now.  Its consistency is perfect for that oh-so-delicate skin that's just under eyes.  Its pigment is opaque enough to hide dark circles and red areas.  Yet it's non-drying like some other pasty concealers.  I love it as a prelude to a light misting of MAC's airbrush formula foundation.

I'm also using it personally. . .it's in my makeup drawer in my own dressing room.  Which seems to be a test of makeup that I just can't do without in my kit.  A tiny dab will do. . . blend in small circles with a fluffy eyeshadow brush that you dedicate to your concealer.

Looking to switch things up a bit with your concealer?  I'd highly suggest this!  Remember, concealing rules have evolved: Gone are the days of "reverse raccoon eyes" (you know, where your under-eye makeup is way too light).  The secret to successful concealing is matching your own skin tone, nearly exactly.

When Real Brides Look Like Models

She's real.  She's beautiful.  She understands her makeup.  

Meet Alexis.  She's one of those decisive women who knows just how she likes things.  She's a makeup maven who knows her product and how she prefers to use it.  (Concealer and eyeliner are her faves:)

Now, go check out her photographer, Andrew Stephen Cebulka.  This was my first time working with Andrew, and I was super-impressed.  Not only with his amazing shutterbug skills, but with how he works a room full of women in the throes of pre-wedding flutter.  He's calming, assuring, and in control.  I'd be willing to bet he's one of those people his friends call "a great guy."

Thanks to you both for making this such a fun experience. . .with phenomenal results!

PL

Dior Vernis Nude Chic. . . and a Newsprint Twist

 Beautifully nude nails go with anything.   

And here's an easy-to-do twist:

1. Put on nail polish and let dry. 

2. Dip fingernail in alcohol. 

3. Press a strip of newspaper big enough to cover the whole nail on to your alcohol soaked nail. 

4. Pull off slowly and be really impressed with yourself. 

5. Apply clear top coat to keep newsprint in tact.

The Good Wife

TGW and I met when I did her makeup last October, as she was doing bridesmaid duty in her friend's lovely wedding.  We hit it off with lots of "small world" connections, and she gave me a call to recreate a "natural, smoldering" look for her boudoir session. I think we hit it out of the park!

Of course, it takes a great photographer to put a person at ease in this kind of session.  And that's what Hattie Coryell of Gracie Layne Photography did.  GREAT job, Hattie!

This should make for one Happy Hubby ;)

The Quintessential Nude Lip

This is it; look no further.  If you are a fan of the "nude lip", get thee to a MAC counter!  Viva Glam Gaga 2 will keep your lips in the most understated, perfectly au naturel lip shade.  And 100% of the $14.50 cost goes to the MAC AIDS Foundation.  Just for kicks (and total perfection), I like this lipstick and lip gloss with either MAC's Subculture or Dervish lip liner.

An Open Letter to Diana Deaver and the SC Style Workshop Experts

I was a privileged "front row" ticketholder to the inaugural SC Style Workshop, and I wanted to take a moment to tell each of you how much I appreciated your generosity in sharing your knowledge and expertise in your respective fields.

Diana Deaver.  Photographer.  Visionaire.  Difference-maker.  Your photography is finding its way throughout this lovely city of ours like the roots of some lovely flower.   Every time you click your camera, you manage to find beauty; more likely, you are simply reflecting the beauty you already see inside your subject.  The fact that you put together an event that celebrates beauty from the inside out, is a testament to your dedication to where true art lies: in the eye of the beholder.  You are a visionary, out to make a difference, and I'm so happy to know a heart like yours has found its way to Charleston.




Ayoka Lucas.  Style Editor of Charleston Magazine; founder of Charleston Fashion Week.  We've met only a couple of times, but you appear to me to be that "brutally honest" friend whom you referred to last night (a must on your "team" of style-helpers).  I've already labeled my five boxes (Keep, Donate, Dump, Fix, and Archive), and plan on cleaning out the closet today.  Thank you for your qualified definition of STYLE as that of an outward reflection of my inner attitude.  Thank you for referring me to Tim Gunn's 10 Essential Pieces.  And thank you for encouraging me to make my look book and style board.  I feel I'm well on my way.

Andrew Petersen.  International Makeup Artist; cosmetics guru; inquisitor into why I "can't" wear pink ;)  Thank you for your sage advice about not breaking the bank on my cosmetics purchases.  You told me to invest wisely in my foundation for the loveliest skin possible; and to low-brow it in the shimmer/shine products.  I will prime my eyelids for optimum shadow longevity; I will work on my day time look and use only one or two products to bump it up for a night time look.  I will now be on the lookout for what you say every woman needs: a pink-y bronzer.  And I will be sure to come see you at Cos Bar on King Street and a myriad of the world's finest cosmetic offerings right here in Charleston!

Kristen Bostic.  Financial Advisor.  Thank you for reminding me that my net-worth is not my self-worth.  I heard you loud and clear when you told me to Know My Numbers; figure out my comfort number (3 to 6 months of income, set aside for emergencies).  You told me to take control of my debt. . . that indeed I control it and not vice versa.  Most importantly, you reminded me to continually educate myself about money; to be an active participant in making it, an accountable spender of it, and a responsible saver.

Marcus Amaker.  Poet, musician.  Editor of Charleston Scene magazine.  Your honey-dipped words are still hanging, lingering, and lolling around in my ears.  I saw your lines as you spoke them. . . I hope your poetry is published.  I want more.

Jessica Anderson.  Creator of Mindful Yoga.  Empoweress.  Thanks to you, I have already begun my path of paying more attention to and being aware of my thoughts.  Especially the ones you called "diminishing."  Hmm. . . lots of power there.  You told me to slow down (which I need to hear on a daily basis).  You asked me not to be judgmental of my thoughts.  And you encouraged me to write. . . journal. . . record thoughts to see where I've been, where I am, and perhaps to be able to figure out where I'm going.  You reminded me that my center and my calm/stillness is within me always, and that to tap into it, I need only to slow down and summon it.

Angela McKee.  Skin care expert.  You are a radiant example for what you extoll: from good health comes beautiful skin.  Do you know how much you glowed?  You obviously love what you do.  Thanks to you, I'm looking more thoughtfully into the environmental factors that affect my skin on a daily basis.  I really want a water filter for my shower head now;)  You reminded me that proper diet and rest are vitally important in my quest for beautiful skin.  Thank you for wearing it all on your sleeve.

Elli Boland.  Nutrition and fitness expert.  I laughed out loud at your opening line. . . "What's up bitches???   I mean Beautiful Goddesses!!!"  If ever there were a walking, talking personification of someone who practices what she preaches, it's you.   Thinking about what my body needs is key in helping me obtain my nutritional best.  However, it was one of your final points, Elli, that struck home with me most: to reprogram ("train my brain") through positive affirmations such as I am Healthy, and I am Beautiful just the way I am, and Thank you, Body, for giving me life.  And forgiving myself for an occasional slip of a cookie or other treat.

Shauna Mackenzie Heathman.  Image consultant.  Did I ever consider "image consulting" before I heard you speak?  Honestly, no.  But wow, this is a very viable and appropriate field to study today, the Information Age.  Shauna you made so many amazing points, but once you teased us with "The Secret to a Great First Impression," I was hooked.  But the first great point was that despite the old adage "there's no second chance at making a great first impression," one should consider that someone who did not make that great of a first impression should be given the opportunity to redeem him/herself.  We'll never know the many possibilities that led to that encounter.  I'm a firm believer in second chances, so this struck home with me.  So without further adieu, the secret to a great first impression: Be aware of how I make another person feel.

In addition to these encyclopedic minds, the SCSW was sprinkled with the cutting edge fashion designs of Alena Fede, Chelsie Ravenell, Sherri Miller, Beth Pilger and Anna Lassiter.  So a big congrats to ALL involved and I'm looking forward to the next SC Style Workshop!

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

What's Working for Me Now: TRETINOIN

During my last visit to the dermatologist I was asked, "have you considered using a retinoid product?"  My reaction was something like Scooby-Do. . . "Ruh-roh?"  It hit home with me immediately.  I knew from all my research that I was a prime candidate for using Retin-A or some kind of product that contained this powerful ingredient.  Not from an acneic sense, but from an anti-aging ("anti-wrinkle") perspective.  Retinoids are products that contain concentrated versions of vitamin A which help promote skin rejuvenation and cellular turnover.   I jumped on it, and I must say that in only 2 weeks of using it, I'm seeing results already.  

Let me be clear. . . my fine lines are still there, but I am witnessing a rejuvenation around my cheeks and jawline, and I'm waiting with baited breath to see some difference around my eyes.  I'm having a significant amount of peeling, which is very common and one of the first side effects of using this product.  By the way, Tretinoin is the generic version of "Retin-A".  I'm using the highest concentration at 0.1%, which is pretty heavy duty.   

I'm using this topical cream every third day.  Here's my routine:

Each morning, I wash my face with a vitamin C cleanser.  I lightly exfoliate and moisturize with an SPF 20 cream; then I apply makeup.  The SPF is vital because the vitamin A makes you very susceptible to sun damage as you are using it therapeutically.  If it were spring or summer, I'd use a 30+ SPF.

Each evening, I remove makeup with creamy makeup remover, then wash my face again with the vitamin C (foamy) cleanser.  Using a washcloth helps remove all traces of the makeup, and acts as an exfoliator without having to use an abrasive product again that day.  Every third evening, I squeeze about a half-inch of the cream from the tube, tap it between my fingers, and apply all over my face.  I pay special attention to areas where there are sun spots (my cheeks and top of nose), as well as those fine lines around my eyes (careful not to go too close).  The doctor said to be sure to use continual round rubbing motions, even when the product is absorbed; the longer you massage, the deeper it penetrates.  

On the nights I use the Tretinoin, I do not use any moisturizer.  My wonderful esthetician told me that using moisturizer on those nights could break down the concentration of the medication, which just makes sense to me.  However, as a person with dry skin, I'm heavily moisturizing on the nights I don't use it.

I'll keep you posted; my peeliness is making me believe that changes are a'happnin :)  

Rainy Day Engagement Shoot. . . Lawyers in Love

It began as a beautiful SEC-football filled Saturday.  I should have guessed it would turn rainy when the Gamecocks of SC beat my beloved UGA Bulldogs.

However, that didn't dampen the spirits of the prep and party that was happening at a sweet urban loft on Charleston's King Street.  Heather and Tim were in from Pittsburgh, and enjoying a lovely visit to Charleston to wrap up some pre-wedding planning.  Including their engagement photo session with the divine Kim Graham.

One of Kim's many virtues is how she gets to know her clients.  She knew Heather and Tim's epicurean love of food and wine.  And that's what led to these series of photos.  As soon as I saw them, I was awed.  I left Heather that Saturday afternoon, and thought of her when the rain started pitter-pattering down.  I never imagined that Kim would harness the rain to her advantage.  But, as you can see, what she got was a very grown-up, sensory, and in my mind, sexy day.

Tonight, when I have my glass of red,  I'll toast these lovely people. . . Heather & Tim and their wonderful taste in photographers.

Wedding prep courtesy of the equally epicurean Luke Wilson Special Events. (Thanks, sweet Megan!)