How To Keep Your Makeup From Running When You're Sweaty
Any woman who’s performed in front of a crowd knows how stressful it can be. The human body is a marvelous, powerful thing, but it tends to react in the extreme when we’re faced with any stress of our own. This leads to one of makeup’s biggest enemies: sweat.
How to keep makeup from running
Any woman who’s performed in front of a crowd knows how stressful it can be. The human body is a marvelous, powerful thing, but it tends to react in the extreme when we’re faced with any stress of our own. This leads to one of makeup’s biggest enemies: sweat.
When makeup is up against so many odds from bright, hot lights to sweaty skin, how do you keep your makeup looking it’s best? How do celebrities preserve their perfect looks on the red carpets and when it’s heating up on sets? What about the performers and dancers of the world who break a sweat during their time on stage? Here are tips from the experts for keeping your makeup from running when you’re sweaty.
Start with a primer
If your makeup doesn’t have the right base, it’ll be more likely to slide right off your face. Just like when you paint a wall in your house, you have to start with a fresh coat of primer. While your face isn’t exactly a wall, the same principle applies. If you’re prone to oily skin or excessive sweat, you especially should consider using a primer.
When selecting a face primer, opt for one built for your skin type. If you’re prone to oil, choose a mattifying or smoothing primer which will keep your face from getting that shiny look. If you have a lot of redness, opt for a color correcting primer with green undertones.
Choose your foundation wisely
You don’t want to overdo it with your foundation when you’re likely to be sweating. For example, if it’s the height of summer on your wedding day, don’t go for the heaviest coverage you can find. These will only bleed down your face throughout the day. Instead, opt for powder or airbrush makeup. Powder makeup is lighter and stays put much more effectively than liquid foundation.
Additionally, airbrush makeup provides consistent, moderate coverage without appearing heavy. Because it’s applied in a very fine mist, it has a stronger staying power. Airbrushed makeup lasts longer and feels lighter. Because it allows your pores to breath, you’re less likely to feel overheated throughout the day.
Don’t listen to makeup that claims to be sweat-proof. Natural, high-quality makeup is naturally sweat-proof. Because it contains talc as a binding agent, it has natural abilities to stick to your skin without sliding throughout the day. This is yet another reason to be meticulous when selecting the right foundation for your needs.
Set your makeup
Finally, your makeup needs to be set after application to guarantee it stays where you want it. Using a setting powder will help absorb any excess oil and sweat, so it’s a great first layer. Aside from setting powder, a setting spray will add another barrier between your makeup and the outside world.
Look for a setting spray that doesn’t have any alcohol on the ingredients list. Using a setting spray with alcohol is drying to the face which can cause cracks in your foundation. You wouldn’t risk driving without insurance, would you? Why would you waste your makeup without setting it with powder and spray?
Be prepared to blot
No matter what you do, some sweat might still sneak through. This is okay if you’re prepared with the right tools for touching up your look. It might be tempting to jump right to re-applying your makeup when you see signs of it slipping, but don’t start there. It’s smarter to blot with oil blotting paper or a paper towel to get rid of excessive oil before you touch up your look. If you skip this step, there won’t be much for your makeup to stick to.
Look to the pros
Finally, take a hint from the professionals. Dancers, for example, rock their full-faces of makeup despite harsh lights and high stress. They use professional-level makeup to make sure they have perfect performances every time. Alexandra has the perfect dance shoes just as professional dancers use high-quality makeup and professional application.
If you’re planning for your big day, whether it’s a performance or even your wedding day, you might consider professional help. A qualified makeup artist can help you establish a sweat-proof beauty routine. In the meantime, use the tips above to keep your face looking fresh all day long.
More Women Are Bringing Hair & Makeup To The Delivery Room
More and more women are hiring beauty services on-site in one place you might have thought of - the delivery room. It's no secret that women feel better when they look better and that is our goal with delivering hair and makeup services to new mothers.
Birthing Center Beauty Services
More and more women are hiring beauty services on-site, in one place you might not have thought of - the delivery room.
You might not think of yourself as a celebrity, or rather one who needs to be camera-ready 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, but whether you realize it or not we have all celebritized ourselves in some small way by living out our lives on social media. So when celebrity stars are booking beauty professionals to come into the birthing center to have their hair and makeup done, it might seem to be "too much" or not for you. The truth is, the trend took off quite some time ago and WarPaint International has been beautifying new moms for their after-delivery photo sessions for a couple of years now. And though we've worked with the wives of professional athletes from the Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Wild, there are certainly women without A-list status booking WarPaint Artisans in the delivery room too.
WPI Founder, Jessica Mae, started her mission with this beauty agency with the idea that Life is a stage - "Prepare For Battle". This growing trend of delivery room beauty services couldn't be more grounded in our tagline.
When to book
Today we will always see new mothers sharing photos of their newborn baby in the delivery room, whether it be on social media, their photo albums on their phone or in their home. What image would you like your friends and family to see? There's simply no reason to LOOK like you just went through labor when you don't have to.
“Hair is not the only focus - many moms are now also reporting calling in on-site makeup artists to finish the look in the delivery room. ”
Many women look back at their memories from the hospital and wish they would have looked a bit more put together, as they'll be sharing and reminiscing about those memories for the rest of their life. Maybe you'd like to hang it on your bedroom wall or in the baby's room.
Media outlets across the United States have reported on the growing trend of stylists arriving at hospitals with their kits of curling irons, hair sprays, etc to style a new mom's hair after labor, but before photos. Hair is not the only focus though - many moms are now also reporting calling in on-site makeup artists to finish the look. Presumably you don't want to do it yourself...
Photo Credit: makeupbyalaha via US Magazine
So when is the time to call on these beauty professionals? Some women have their beauty team glam them up during labor because their focus is that moment directly after birth with their newborn baby. Some have hired a professional photographer to come into the delivery room sometime after birth to get newborn photos after they've decompressed from this major life event. The later seems like a less stressful plan, but it's entirely up to you and your baby.
Look like yourself
If you follow the stars, you probably haven't forgotten Kate Middleton stepping out in high heels and with perfectly bouncy hair after delivering newborn Charlotte? Other stars such as Beyonce emerged form childbirth with a head of voluminous, shiny curls while holding baby Blue Ivy years back.
PHOTO VIA ED BURKE FOR BEYONCE.COM
So let's be clear - you don't need to keep up with the Jones's. Celebrity personalities are followed by the media everywhere they go. Whether they look good or shabby, it's never quite right and always news-worthy. So they opt to be fabulous and drive the standard - whether they like it or not. It's just part of the job.
You're not a celebrity. So we've identified you're not a celebrity, therefore, it's not about waving at the cameras as you leave the birthing center. You want to look like you, but with a fresh face and nice hair. That's really the focus of what we're talking about here and as a professional beauty agency catering to these growing needs, this is where we come in. So what are our tips and advice for bringing on-site beauty services into the delivery room?
No lashes and bold colors
If your focus is to capture the memory than keep it all about you. You will already have a natural glow and smile that surfaces only once or twice in a lifetime. We would never prescribe a red carpet look or something you might do for a night on the town. That's not you - that's a version of you that isn't having a baby. Most of the clients that we work with in birthing centers keep it simple with a fresh, natural face and nicely manicured hairstyle.
Embrace the comfort
It's true, some clients report that there is comfort in having beauty services done either during their delivery or directly after. Women that can't comprehend having this done often have the comment that they wouldn't want people in their face and it's too excessive, but for some the opposite is true. Some moms report feeling reduced nerves and actually being able to focus on the pampering vs the labor. For those that hire beauty-on-demand services to come in after childbirth with their photographer, there seems to be a whole new level of luxury and relaxation in the beautifying process. It's really all about making mom comfortable.
Trust in your team
Should you opt for delivery room beauty services, you have to put trust in your team. You've sourced a professional or two.. you've hired them for the job. Now, just relax and let them take care of you - trust me when I tell you that they are having a memorable life experience alongside you that can not be replicated the same way again with anyone else. Memories and relationships are all that you have.
Keep it about feeling your best
Ultimately, labor is a grueling experience, even with painkillers. It's no secret that women feel better when they look better and that is our goal with delivering hair and makeup services to new mothers. Because although looking and feeling better is a key element for your photo memories, feeling really good about yourself and how you reflect on your memories is what it's all about.
Why Should You Hire a Beauty Agency
Well, not all beauty agencies are built the same. In fact, many are not agencies - they are freelance artists who contract a few other people. Whether you are a new mom, a bride-to-be or hiring on-site services in your home or office, there are many factors to consider outside the skillset or reputation of a particular artist.
How about your safety? How about the safety of your family and loved ones? At WarPaint International, our team goes through an onboarding process that we believe to be unique. At first, we interview our Artisans, we then technically test them for skillsets, customer service and hygiene practices with products, brushes, etc. From there, our Hair Stylists and Makeup Artists go through national criminal background checks. We look for everything and we do turn people down because we hold a very high standard when it comes to trust and safety in our client's homes, hotel rooms, delivery rooms and offices.
Are you looking for trusted beauty professionals? You can learn more about us and the benefit of an agency at Why WarPaint International.
Photo: Amore Lux Studios. The Leadership Team at WarPaint International.
Download WPI's media kit to view our beauty services. From delivery rooms, to weddings, to a simple night out and all of life's events - WarPaint International Artisans are focused on making your memories as vibrant as possible.
This 5th Grade Girl Makes Custom Lipstick At Elixery Cosmetic House
The single most memorable thing a young student may do in their elementary career is to send a letter to a business owner that they are inspired by in hopes of a response. When Luna wrote to me, I gave her an afternoon that little girls dream of Elixery Cosmetic House.
Luna's visit to Elixery Cosmetics in Minneapolis.
The single most memorable thing a young student may do in their elementary career is to send a letter to a person or business owner that they are inspired by in hopes of a response. Many schools give this assignment to their young students to help train the idea of communication, patience, and thanks. Not to mention, it's a fun project to see if they'll get a response.
Somewhere in the middle of January 2018 one such letter came to me from Luna, a fifth-grade girl from Seven Hills Preparatory Academy. Her mother is Wendy, a talented Artisan on our team. I was flattered by the fact that Luna, not only knows who I am but that she looks to me as a role model. Here is her letter that I received in the mail in January.
A reply to Luna
Luna's letter was so sweet and all she was asking for was a reply, which qualified her for extra credit and some high fives. I replied to her, answered her questions about how lipstick is made and sent her a box of goodies, including a WarPaint International Artisan T-shirt, business cards and some makeup samples. She had also requested my autograph which I happily supplied.
The big surprise...
As a bonus, I reached out to my dear friends at Elixery Cosmetic House in Minneapolis and scheduled an appointment for Luna to meet me for a personal tour of their apothecary and the processes behind making lipstick. You can see in my response to her above that the appointment was set and did our visit together on Friday, March 2nd at 4pm.
Learning how to make lipstick
Luna was really interested in the process of how makeup is made, but more importantly how to make lipstick. Elixery Cosmetics rolled out the red carpet for her and gave her an immersive learning experience. We started with some education in which Luna took copious notes.
Next step - hands-on
After Luna learned a little bit about how makeup and lipstick are made, she was given the opportunity to get hands-on and make her own custom lipstick!
Once the lipstick has cooled, then Karoline scraps the top layer of the lipstick off the mold to eliminate excess product. Then, it goes back on the cooling block for 15 minutes or so. The whole process - from pouring to removing the individual lipsticks from takes about 30 minutes.
Removing the individual lipsticks
Once the mold has cooled long enough and its ready to remove, the process of seeing individual lipstick get put together comes to life. Luna got to open the mold and see the makeup molded into real lipsticks that have been custom made just for her. Once they've been placed into a lipstick tube, Michael (the Lead Flamer), flames each tube by hand for the purpose of making the lipstick look shiny and pretty.
* Yes, every single lipstick tube that Elixery Cosmetic House produces gets torched by hand by Michael. Michael and Karoline are a husband and wife team who founded and operate Elixery together.
Luna's big reveal
At the end of the day, Luna had made herself a custom lipstick in Elixery Cosmetic House's apothecary. What a thrill for a 5th-grade girl looking forward to her many years a fashionista! I am excited to share her adventure with you and it was a true pleasure getting to work with Luna for the day and introduce her to the amazing people at Elixery Cosmetics.
Making lipstick is a tough job, but at the end of the day someone has to be in the makeup business. I think Luna just found her life's passion.
If you'd like to connect with Jessica Mae, please visit her profile by clicking here. You can learn about Elixery Cosmetics at their website: www.elixery.com.
Top 10 Reasons to Hire Makeup Artists and Hair Stylists on your Wedding Day.
Have you considered the top reasons to hire a professional makeup artist or hair stylist for your wedding day? How about a Beauty Agency? Would your freelance artist pass a criminal background check? Here are our Top 10 reasons to hire a pro and some reasons to book your wedding with WarPaint International.
Top Reasons to Hire Beauty Professionals on your Wedding Day
A Beauty Professional's Point of view.
So, you're doing your own hair and makeup...
Have you considered the reasons to hire a makeup artist or hair stylist for your wedding day? While there are many reasons to hire a makeup artist AND hair stylists for your wedding, they are all rooted in looking your best on your special day. Your wedding will be forever remembered through wedding photographs and the hiring of professional artists will help ensure that you are flawless and beautiful the day of and in the lasting memories of the event.
Furthermore, the benefits of a Beauty Agency vs. freelance artists are numerous. Considering the financial commitment and high expectations, the "beauty" of not worrying about the last minute proverbial bus - sickness, criminal backgrounds, poor character, or other hurdles - is a benefit that only reputable agencies can provide. Read our top 10 reasons why you need a professionally vetted makeup school graduate and hair stylist on your wedding day.
1. Be stress-free on your wedding day
Of all the reasons to hire a professional makeup artist and hair stylist for your wedding day, this may be the single most important benefit. Take it from experienced brides... your wedding day is guaranteed to be busy and will likely include a few unexpected challenges, so don’t let your appearance be one of them. You shouldn’t have to spend time worrying if your eyeliner is straight while ensuring that your vendors deliver on time. Any reputable artist that is a professional will meet with you prior to your wedding day to do a trial run of the makeup look or hairstyle you want. On the day-of, your beauty team rolls in, on location, and knows your skin type, your desired outcome, your theme, and any complications in the trial.
P.S. Your photographer will love you for it
See how your booking process looks with WarPaint International Beauty Agency.
The Bride Experience. Your booking process with WarPaint International Beauty Agency.
2. You want to look "natural"
Professional makeup artists study the art of their craft. They live it and breathe it like a musician, and the proper selection of colors is part of their DNA. From your foundation to your lips to the perfect eyeliner, makeup artists know how to choose the colors that match your unique character and features. Your wedding day will keep you photographed, possibly more than any day in your life. High definition optics can do some interesting things to your complexion and pores.
Even if you tend to live in the "natural" state and your photographer does to, find a makeup artist that specializes in "natural" looks so that your memories and face-to-face interactions are striking and memorable. The natural look is far more involved than most brides think. In fact, what most people categorize as difficult is the avant-garde, high-fashion looks you see all over the internet. If this were the case, more Instagram makeup artists would be showcasing breathtaking, natural looking brides than stamping out glorified brows and winged eyeliner.
3. Professional grade products that last
Like it or not, there is a big difference behind mainstream, less expensive makeup and hair products vs. professional grade products that have been engineered for specific applications. Since makeup artists apply cosmetics for a living and hair stylists test the quality of hair products every single day, most have a kit stocked with high quality (and possibly very expensive) products that are designed for wearability and flexibility that you may not own or be able to afford. Not to mention, most artists endure years of professional training to keep up with the trends, techniques, and industry concerns. You simply can't put a price on their experience or the luxury and intimacy of having them apply it and perfect it. It is after all, what they live for - your beauty.
4. Just enjoy the day
Don't fool yourself. You likely don't have the experience mentioned in point number 3, and even if you do why in the world would you want to exercise it on your own wedding day? Experienced makeup artists practice the art of makeup every single day. Experienced hair stylists nearly double that rate. Professional makeup artists and hair stylists have painted hundreds, if not thousands, of faces and designed hair in dozens of eras, themes, and personal taste categories. If you’re not a makeup artist or hair stylist and you haven’t studied the proper methods of executing flawless looks that withstand heat, wind, tears and very long days, then pass on the notion that you'll save a few dollars. The key to being a perfect bride is to be yourself; that usually still requires professionals to extract that state and keep it there for your wedding day.
On a more important note, most brides envision their day beginning in an artist's chair with champagne in hand and the loving banter of their bridal party - not a stress-filled morning of racing the clock and no human interaction.
5. Application techniques
It's not that you don't already wake up looking breathtaking... We actually wouldn't change a thing about you. Industry professionals study tricks to emphasize a person’s best facial features while disguising other, less flattering ones just by applying makeup. Hair stylists have an in-depth knowledge of hair types and tendencies, scalp problems, and product benefits. If you want to really highlight your eyes for your big day, your makeup artist can use special makeup techniques to make that happen without caking on the product.
Want to pull off a bold lip color, but are afraid of transferring it onto your groom when its time to “kiss the bride”? A professional makeup artist can help prevent that, too. Scared of your hair flying away or falling due to heat? Yeah.. they've got that covered.
6. Ensuring perfection
This is one of the most important pieces since the bulk of your day will be spent saying "CHEESE". Experienced makeup artists and hair stylists will sculpt your look using contouring techniques to add the illusion of depth in 2-dimensional photographs and in real life. You instantly turn into a 2-dimensional image instead of a 3-dimensional being when your photo is taken. If you choose to not use a makeup artist or hair stylist, you're likely to be a flat image in your captured memories. If you use a makeup artist that is not experienced, or your makeup and hair are applied and styled improperly, you'll also appear flat and in some bad cases that we've seen - orange! Lastly, you don't want to appear shiny, gray, over, or underdone. Perfection is the key. You are perfect, right?
7. Product, product, product
Like we mentioned above, beauty professionals use high-quality products that are blended with rigorous expertise. When you a hire a makeup artist or hair stylists for your wedding, you won’t have to worry about your makeup wearing off during your wedding festivities or your hair falling from its form. There are special primers, setting sprays and powders that your artists will know exactly how to apply to ensure complete bliss. Your groom may also be appreciative at the end of the day :-)
8. A cohesive look
It is amazing how many women will visually match their friends for Halloween, themed parties, even "pajama parties" but when it comes to their wedding day - the one day everyone should look the same - they turn the other cheek. Think about the last wedding you attended (or even stood for) that had no beauty or dress direction, no orchestration, and no attention to detail. Though that may be the personality of the wedded couple, it certainly spells frustration for their guests and mixed feelings about their captured memories. If cost is a factor, skip the bachelorette party and treat your ladies to luxurious beauty. Nothing is more memorable than sitting back together in a bridal suite, sipping champagne, laughing and letting the professionals unfold your beauty desires. Stress-free is the key and your entrance and impact to your guests will be memorable.
9. Trial pains...
We said it above, but its a pain point for many. We've met brides that have paid in full for 3 or more trials and come to realize they were dealing with an amateur, or their sister's friend or aunt (who can do it for them) and walked away only spending more money on the right fit.
Demand a trial. No makeup artist or hair stylist can walk into your wedding day and smash it out of the park. This relationship is an intimate one and takes discovery questions and a few dry runs in some cases. Always, always have a makeup and hair trial. You'd hate to be orange from the chin up on your wedding day, or worse yet... your artist leaves for Vegas instead.
10. Wedding day beauty schedules
Hire a Beauty Agency. Yes there are talented, dedicated freelance individuals all of whom deliver endlessly, but they do get sick, have car accidents, run late, endure family deaths, etc, etc. When hiring a beauty agency, your selection of top professionals is much broader, but the security of not having a mishap with an artist on your wedding day is alleviated. Even if your artist gets hit by the proverbial bus, their trial notes and opinions are available to the agency and an artist that matches their skill-sets and schedule will simply step in to ensure a flawless wedding day for you as if nothing ever happened. At WarPaint International, we screen our artists, do technical interviews to test their skill level and work with a wide array of schedules.
Criminal background checks. We are also a national partner to Trusted Employees, so we criminally background check our Artisans across state and federal databases for background information. We have passed on applicants that work for our competitors or on their own. You wouldn't want a convicted felon in your home, hotel room or personal space scoping out their options. Be smart when hiring on-site professionals.
Learn more about Safety in hiring freelance Artists at our article “Has Your Onsite Beauty Service Provider Had a Criminal Background Check?”
~ Added advice and experience
You may also find benefit in pre-wedding day skin care tips to ensure smooth delivery and a "day of" itinerary for your wedding party to follow and depend on. No one should have to ask "when is Jenny's hair getting done" or "when does this person arrive". We've got that covered. Project management comes at no extra cost and ensures that you look beautiful and we provide superior expertise and service on the most memorable day of your life.
SO... Will you be hiring a professional to do your makeup and/or hair on your wedding day? You won't regret it and though we recommend shopping around to find the perfect match for you and your bridal party, if you're looking for excellence in hair and makeup artistry with the added benefit of a wedding planner for your beauty needs, seek a beauty agency. WarPaint International.
See how your wedding day will look with WarPaint International Beauty Agency.
The Bride Experience. Your wedding day with WarPaint International Beauty Agency.
Want to chat with us about your wedding day beauty services? Check out our weddings page and contact us to set up a time speak with a WPI bridal consultant about the details of your big day!
5 easy steps for your 2017 Makeup Bag overhaul!
2017 is off and running - so it’s time to take a look at your makeup bag. Let’s toss the old, keep the new and upgrade our look this year; shall we? Here are 5 simple steps...
What's in Your Makeup Bag?
2017 is off and running - so it’s time to take a look at your makeup bag. Let’s toss the old, keep the new and upgrade our look this year; shall we? Here are 5 simple steps to help you declutter your makeup bag and discover a new and more fabulous you!
Step One: Take inventory of your makeup. When’s the last time you replaced your mascara? Have you been using the same blush for 3 years? Probably time to toss it and get a new one. Even for “solid” products bacteria builds up over time, so make sure you are adhering to the shelf life guidelines of the product.
Pro Tip: You can extend the life of solid products by sanitizing them from time to time. Make sure you use a 70% alcohol as opposed to 99%.
Image: www.hypehair.com
Step Two: Implement a brush washing routine. You really should wash your makeup brushes once a week. (Note: if you use a beauty blender or makeup sponge, those should be washed after each use!) DO NOT use rubbing alcohol or other soaps on your brushes. The bristles will become dry and brittle ruining your brush.
Make sure to use a gentle shampoo designed for makeup brushes. I really like the makeup brush shampoo from Sigma Beauty, as well as their brush cleaning mats & gloves.
Image: Sigma Beauty
Step Three: Schedule a makeup lesson with a pro artist. Many artists, like those who work for my company, will come to your home for a personalized lesson. In addition to teaching you all that you want to know about applying makeup to yourself, they will take a look at your makeup bag and give you advice on additional products you should purchase. They will ask questions about your lifestyle and daily routine, to make sure they teach techniques that will be appropriate to the amount of time that you want to spend putting your paint on each day.
Photo Credit: Brio Art
Skin Care is a must!
Step Four: We can’t have great makeup without great skin care. Go see an esthetician for a facial and chat with her or him about the current products you’re using. A solid skin care routine will make or break your makeup application. Trust me! Ps: We love Jill at Skin Savvy, tell her WarPaint sent you!
Step Five: Hit your local Sephora or cosmetics department. Try something new, I dare you! I’ve talked with many women who say they’ve always wanted to rock a red lip, or wear false lashes. DO IT! We only get one go around at this life - step out of the box a bit; you may find you like it.
Photo Credit: Conner Bilt
Following these easy steps will help you declutter your makeup bag. They will save you time and keep you looking and FEELING your very best! For an ultimate makeover, book a WarPaint International artisan for a makeup lesson - you won't regret it!
Xo,
Jessica Mae
Founder & Creative Director
PRIDE Hair & Makeup Looks for 2015
#TCPride 2015. This year, WarPaint International Beauty Agency worked with Minneapolis's premier GLBT Journal, Lavender Magazine, to create a few Pride hair and makeup looks with three local Minneapolis celebrity figures. Nothing compliments a Pride festival like Hair, Makeup & Glamour. Check out how these three Minneapolis celebs "Prepare For Battle™" with WarPaint International's "Pride Paint" for 2015.
"Pride Paint" #TCPride.
Celebrity Hair & Makeup looks for TC Pride 2015.
“So how do three of our local celebs show their Pride? Doug Melroe, Grant Whittaker, and Jamie Yuccas give you an Event Look, an Everyday Look, and a Special Occasion Look.”
#TCPride 2015. This year, WarPaint International Beauty Agency worked with Minneapolis's premier GLBT Journal, Lavender Magazine, to create a few Pride hair and makeup looks with three local Minneapolis celebrity figures. Nothing compliments a Pride festival like Hair, Makeup & Glamour. Check out how these three Minneapolis celebs "Prepare For Battle™" with WarPaint International's "Pride Paint" for 2015.
Doug Melroe
LOOK: PRIDE EVENT
"You may recognize Doug Melroe as the face of The Firm, where he has been teaching since 1986. He has also led the warm up for the MN AIDS Walk every year for 28 years. Or you might recognize him as the guy at the end of the Pride parade wearing his pride and not much else." ~ Lavender Magazine.
On Doug: Makeup: Carla Anderson, Artistic Director; WarPaint International.
Photography by Kyle Lieberman
Grant Whittaker
LOOK: EVERYDAY
"A Twin Cities style catalyst and fashion and events producer, Grant sets the table with European flair and new and original ideas." ~ Lavender Magazine.
On Grant: Hair & Makeup: Benjamin Rodich Artistic Director; WarPaint International.
Photography by Kyle Lieberman
Jamie Yuccas
LOOK: SPECIAL OCCASION
CBS local news anchor by morning. Fervent philanthropic cheerleader by night. Friend and supporter of the GLBT community — always and forever.
On Jamie: Hair & Makeup: Anna Giuliano, Artisan, and Jessica Mae, Creative Director; WarPaint International.
Photography by Kyle Lieberman
Photography by Kyle Lieberman
PRIDE PAINT
By Brandon McCray June 11, 2015
Categories: Featured - Home Page, Our Scene, Style & Entertaining
Orignial article: Lavender Magazine Pride Edition.
Book your Pride Hair & Makeup online,
with WarPaint International Beauty agency.
Top 5 Wedding Day Skin Care Tips for Brides.
Your wedding day is here but your skin is FREAKING OUT!
One of the biggest concerns that a Bride-to-be has on her wedding day is what her skin is going to look like. Brides and wedding parties will often spend quite a bit of time and money investing into Wedding Day Beauty services such has hair and makeup, but will then be disappointed by the appearance of their skin. There is a way to help...
Your wedding day is here but your skin is FREAKING OUT!
One of the biggest concerns that a Bride-to-be has on her wedding day is what her skin is going to look like. Brides and wedding parties will often spend quite a bit of time and money investing into Wedding Day Beauty services such has hair and makeup, but will then be disappointed by the appearance of their skin. There is a way to help...
Wedding day advice from our preferred Skin Care Specialist. Call today to talk to Jill.
Jill Schierholz | Owner of Skin Savvy
Aesthetician & skin care specialist.
Stress, weather, and other external forces will often dictate what our skin looks like but there are many things can be done leading up to your big day in terms of a skincare ritual that can help alleviate this from happening. I'll address the most common questions about wedding day skin care tips below.
1. How long before a bride's wedding should she start a skin care regimen to improve tone and texture of her skin?
A consistent treatment and product regimen should be between 2-4 months prior to the wedding. For more mature skin, where there can be more concerns with uneven color, laxity, lines and wrinkles; 4 months is crucial. Acne problems can be stubborn and controlling, so it can take more time to get it under control- start earlier for better results. For someone with little concern, but looking to get a fabulous glow and texture improvement to the skin; 2 months can be enough. All the while for all people, using an AM and PM skincare routine to maximize and maintain is important to ensure the BEST results for the big day!
2. What is the difference between a facial and a peel? What type of results can you expect to see from each?
A facial is deep cleansing, mildly exfoliating, and hydrating. A chemical peel is regenerating, smoothing, pore minimizing, tone evening and can be antibacterial depending on which used. The two compliment each other so much, the best results can really be seen when done together.
3. For brides that are looking to reduce the appearance of acne scars, what treatment would you recommend?
It can really depend on the skin color and skin type for this one. More olive skin types can get brown discoloration on spots of acne, which would then be treated best with IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and/or a medium-depth chemical peel. For lighter skin types with red/pink scars, Derma-pen treatments would be the best. For "ice pick" or any scar that causes an indentation in the skin, Derma-pen would also be ideal.
4. For us "oily-skinned" gals, what products and treatments do you recommend to help reduce oiliness?
Being an "oily gal" myself, I've always tried to find the best combination to conquer the shine! For treatments - definitely peels. These help to shed the built up layers of dead skin and thickness that can lead to excess oil. The best are medium depth peels. (The Vitalize Peel or The Perfect Peel)
The best products to help exfoliate to maintain the results of the peels and flush out and shrink pores are professional strength Retinol, Alpha Hydroxy acids and the amazing Clarisonic Cleansing Brush with deep pore or acne brush head.
5. For the night before wedding prep; what can a bride do to ensure a radiant flawless glow?
The night before, exercise if possible to stimulate circulation, a hot bath with a mask suited for their specific skin type, drinking TONS of water to flush toxins and hydrate the skin from the inside out and of course plenty of sleep. Using a satin or silk pillowcase will prevent "sleep lines". All this along with topically applying a professional Retinol cream or Alpha Hydroxy cream along with an individually suited luxurious eye and lip cream will have the skin canvas perfect for a WarPaint International Makeup Artist to work their magic for impeccable skin!
Below are some examples of skin care procedure before and afters. Click them to expand and have a closer look at the results.
I offer the "Perfect Derma Peel", which is a bride and mother-of-the-bride favorite.
What ingredients are in Perfect Derma Peel?
Glutathione - an anti-aging ingredient and skin lightener.
Kojic Acid - skin lightener. (The combination of both these ingredients are unique to this peel)
Trichloroacetic Acid
Salicylic Acid
Phenol
Retin-A
Vitamin C
- The percentages are not noted as this is a proprietary blend, however this is proven to help with Melasma, Rosacea, Hyper-pigmentation, acne and some other skin problems.
Is it safe for all Fitzpatrick's (Skin type scale - 1-6, 1 = super pale white to 6 = dark black)?
Yes, the "Perfect Derma Peel" is safe for all skin types.
How long do you leave it on?
Six hours. Overnight if there is no discomfort for you.
How long does the Perfect Derma Peel last?
Results with maintenance can last a long time. It can be done 3 - 4 times per year (4 - 6 weeks apart) and with the Perfect A it will elongate the effects. How long this procedure lasts depends on how well you care for your skin (i.e. staying out of the sun, tanning, etc).
What does a kit cost and what does it include?
Its $300 for a kit. It includes six customer take home kits with six peels in a kit and A moisturizer and Retin-A pads.
You can see them in action on WCCO | CBS Local
Should I Hire a Makeup Artist or Hair Stylist for my Wedding?
So you're getting married. Details and planning galore for the day you've been waiting for and somebody asks you... are you having your hair and makeup done?
Are you having your hair and makeup done?
So you're getting married. Details and planning galore for the day you've been waiting for and somebody asks you... are you having your hair and makeup done?
Bridal Hair & Makeup. WarPaint International.
Wedding Day Makeup. Jessica Mae of WarPaint International.
This question comes up every day. Do you ask the advice of your friends? Do your friends do it for you? Do you hit the internet? Do you need these services? The answer largely depends on you and you alone, but I do have a story to tell. This story is for both brides-to-be and beauty service providers. There are many pitfalls to arranging the day of your wedding. My story and advice on how to master the beauty aspect of it is in these following paragraphs.
I am a makeup artist. I also operate a beauty agency called WarPaint International, so my team is full of professional hair and makeup artisans. We help our clients "Prepare For Battle", in that life is a stage and everyday is a showcase to the world. We focus on special evenings (nights on the town), life events (such as weddings), print / editorial and corporate jobs. These are all special occasions that require 100% attention and talent from myself and my team. But in all my years of working in the beauty industry I have been taught the best (and hardest) lessons from my bridal clients.
I have been a bride and I know what my own expectations of that day were. But it wasn't my expectations alone that weighed heavy on the decision process; it's the mother of the bride, the best friend, the mother-in-law's best friend, the groom. Everyone will have their opinions and directives on how your day is supposed to go. So let's answer a few questions from the point of view of an artist, a bride, and a perfectionist.
1. Do I need to have my hair and makeup professionally done? I mentioned above that it's entirely up to you, but you have expectations of your day. Chances are you've hired a photographer to capture these moments and quite honestly they have expectations of you. I work with many photographers and though many of their styles are different, they all hope and ask for one simple thing. Makeup.
The beauty of being a bride is the ability to focus on the essence of your natural beauty. Often times, we work with brides that are seeking a flawless, natural look to simply enhance their own features. Even the slightest bit of high quality foundation, applied by a professional that is analyzing your jaw line and looking for your natural curves, can create a photographer's heaven. The time they {the photographers} will spend cleaning your photos up will be significantly reduced, possibly saving you money and certainly short cuts on your photos. Time is money in all service industries and every photographer will only deliver the photos to you that they feel exemplify their skills. High definition pores, redness and shiny spots are their least favorite thing in the world. If you're talking to a makeup artist that is selling you on the fact that you need a lot of makeup to be in front of a camera on your wedding, you should keep looking. If you're seeking advice from a family member or friend telling you that you're beautiful the way you are... keep looking. Not that you aren't beautiful just as you are, but I think you get my point. Minimally hire a pro to help enhance your natural features, you'll still look like you we promise. A little mascara and foundation {applied correctly} makes all the difference ladies!
That "ah ha" moment when a bride first looks in the mirror... It's what drives me to keep going.
2. Where do I find quality makeup and hair artists? This is a tough one. As I've grown in this industry, I've come to realize there are so many "artists" out there that are simply selling something that they are not. I started at ground zero too, but my credentials and skill sets (along with my team) have built along the way. Many times we have brides that come to us after having hired other company's or independent artists whom have willingly lost their down payments (if not more) to walk away because they came out of the trial completely orange, unfinished, or looking like they were going to the club. When your livelihood depends on listening skills and mastering your craft, you simply can't deliver poor service. Do your research, ask your friends, read online reviews, ask other vendors you've hired (tip: your photographer and wedding planner should have a few great recs for you!).
Your makeup & hair artists should make you feel cared for, confident and beautiful. They should offer suggestions of what will look great on you, but also respect your input and redirect the vision if you're not feeling it. A true professional will ask you lots of questions to find out what your personal style is so they can mesh it together with their artistic vision.
So where do you find great talent? I think it requires diligence on your part. WarPaint International advertises on the Theknot.com, amongst other avenues. There is a lot of great talent there, but there are also some that lack the necessary qualifications. Here are my recommendations for selecting a great Artisan to knock your day out of the park.
A. Communication. It starts with you. Provide your phone number when filling out an inquiry; don't passive aggressively price shop through email. It hurts you and it hurts the service provider. There is no harm in having a good conversation to feel out the other person, listen to their mannerisms, and ask detailed questions. Get on the phone or meet in person.
B. Product. Do they use quality products that stand up to heat, time, different skin types, etc, etc. Ask your artists what products they use! Professionals use a variety of products so if you're not familiar with a line that someone is using, give yourself time to check into it. Are they cutting corners? Also knowing what products you will need to have on hand for touch ups later in your day is good information to have too. Ask your artist.
C. Trials. You must have one. I do not waiver on this topic. The trial is the perfect time to test out your vision for your wedding day hair and makeup, not only to see how it will look on you and if your artist can execute it to your liking, but also to see how your look stands the test of time. Knowing if your beachy waves and nude lip will last 12+ hours is a necessity. Some people's hair just doesn't hold a curl well, so perhaps trying a different hair product or opting for a half up half down style will better suit your needs. These are all things {and more} that you will go over and try out. Never skip a trial, specifically if you're a makeup artist. Skin allergies, acne, sensitivities and other unknowns can destroy a wedding day and cause a lot of un-necessary friction. Don't do it. For out of town brides; find some time even if it's only 30mins for a "mini" trial. You will be thankful in the end, because who wants to try to pick out what eye shadow shades they want on the morning of your wedding? You will most likely have no clue what you want and it will cause undue stress on you. Have a trial done so you know exactly what to expect from your hair & makeup on the day of the wedding.
D. Presentation. In my opinion branding is everything. Does your artist show up on time? Do they have a makeup trunk or organizer? Are they organized & clean inside? Are their tools clean? Do they conduct themselves professionally, balancing chit chat with completing their mission? Do your personalities mesh well? Do you have fun with your artist? Getting ready for your wedding should be and is the pre-party and these are the details that can make or break your day.
E. Skin & Hair recommendations. Talk to your artist. A good beauty professional understands skin and hair and the products that help it. When WarPaint is hired by a bride we ask specific questions about her skin, hair and other details of her day. This ensures that myself and my team are prepared with necessary products prior to the trial taking place. We also have tons of pre-wedding day and day of skin care tips. It helps our brides get through stress related breakouts and makes our job that much easier by arriving to a clean palette. Also, finding out how close to the big day you should have your color & cut done or if any other hair treatments are needed to get your hair in shape are essential steps for a successful style. Ask your beauty professional what preparation they want you to do before your day arrives.
F. Contracts. If you're a bride or a service provider, a contract will save you in the end. Think of this as a legal relationship. Everything that you agree upon should be in writing; the cost of the service, how many people are having services done, is there travel? If so, how far and what does that cost? Are there extra add-ons? Are there special needs? When discussing these items and and signing off on them, you are freeing yourself from ambiguity, poor customer service, and disappointment or unrealistic expectations. Furthermore contracts protect you as the client. Over the years we have had brides call us in tears because the artist they hired months ago bailed on them and even worse - they DIDN'T SHOW UP on the day of the wedding! Contracts, they are an absolute must and a professional will require it.
G. Deposits. A true professional should require one to secure your date during a busy wedding season. Brides should be happy to pay a deposit to their beauty professional. There is a lot of room for error on both ends and tying the date to a financial amount up front makes things more seamless for both parties. I worked with a couple of brides this year that "hired" a makeup artist and just days before their wedding they cancelled on the bride to travel or engage in some personal endeavor. These are not professionals working in the industry; rather a side gig artist that does not take your special day for the urgency that you require them to.
F. Price. This is one area where price often equals quality. As many artists grow in their career, they develop skills and experiences that can only be gained through hard work and time. A bride or any other client should expect to pay for this. If you are seeking a rockstar to deliver incredible results that were exactly what you had hoped for, you will most likely pay rockstar prices. Price points in the $150 - $350+ range for a bridal makeup package (including the trial) are not uncommon, hair packages (including the trial) can range from $190-$400+ and can be dependent upon the city/location. Remember you're not just paying your beauty pro(s) for the 45-60 minutes of service time for your trial and day of wedding service. You are paying for their expertise, time, their undivided attention for your wedding day, the days leading up to it and everything in-between. On average WarPaint International will spend 12-18+ hours on one wedding from the time the bride first inquires to when we send her a thank you note. There are a lot of things that happen behind the scenes that most brides don't realize. So before you go thinking that you're going to pay $50 for your wedding makeup and have service like a queen, think again.
G. Day of appointment schedule. This is another key element for a successful wedding day beauty experience. We provide all of our brides with a day of appointment schedule. This ensures you, the bride, that you and your wedding party will finish on time. It also keeps the beauty team focused and on point. A good rule of thumb is to allow an additional 30 minutes on the back end in case someone needs a touch up, runs late or for any other reason- a wedding day is a day to expect the unexpected so be prepared. And to be quite frank; brides if the beauty pro that you are looking into doesn't offer to do this for you as part of their package...keep looking.
H. Reviews. Does the artist/company you're looking into have any online reviews or testimonials? How many do they have? Do the reviews give you a clear idea of what to expect with this artist? This can help you narrow down your search.
I. Website. Important! Does the artist/company have a professional presence online? This is another piece that can give you a clear picture of what to expect if you hire this artist/company. A website, in my opinion, is a first impression. It should be treated as though you're on a first date. Obviously we can't always judge a book by it's cover, but part of being a professional is setting a professional image.
J. Portfolio. This is an important tool to see the artist's experience and style. However, I don't believe this should be the end all be all. Professional artists are able to create any desired look a client requests {within reason of course}. It's important to remember that the images you see are looks that were requested by the client. **Disclaimer: Pinterest & Instagram...while these are great places to source inspiration please keep in mind that these images have been "doctored" up. Keeping a realistic vision of your look is really important. We all want to look like Kim K, but if you've got blonde hair and blue eyes the chances you'll be her twin are slim to none. ;-)
3. How far in advance should I hire my beauty team? Don't wait until the last minute! We recommend booking your beauty team 8-12 months in advance. Not only will this give you piece of mind and the ability to check this off your list - but many high end, professional teams/companies book out that far in advance. If you want the best, you need to plan for it girl!
Above all else, remember - this is your wedding day! Your beauty choices are critical, not only so you look great for one day, but so that you can look back on the memories of getting ready that morning and feel happy about who you spent the morning with. Furthermore your makeup & hair will live on forever in your images. Pamper yourself. Do it right. Set aside the money to relax and "Prepare For Battle".
Here are some guidelines for professionals in the beauty industry to help maintain your brand, integrity & reputation.
1. Always require a trial for bridal hair & makeup. Even for out of state brides. The trial (also known as consultation or preview) is meant to not only "test" out the brides look, but to get to know her and work out any kinks. In the event your bride is out of town insist that you get some face time with her even if it's only 30 mins the night before the wedding. If you don't do a trial you are only setting yourself up for a mess the day of. That's not good for you or the client.
2. Having a client contract signed along with a deposit should be required to book/secure a wedding date. Just do it. Trust me. For many reasons this is important, one is that your client will take you more seriously. Two, it protects you as the artist. Your time is valuable, weddings are a lot of work and the last thing you want is your bride canceling on you at the last minute because her cousin is now going to do her hair and makeup for free. A contract and a deposit makes the client less apt to cancel at the last minute.
3. Ask your clients several questions. For example "What is your skin health like?', "Do you have any tattoos that need to be covered?", "What is your daily makeup routine like?". That way you will come prepared to the trial and also the wedding. If you need to purchase additional tools to cover a tattoo you will have ample time to do so and also try it out.
4. Be prompt in responding to your client. Remember- this is one of the most important days of her life. If she emails you asking a question it's because she needs an answer. I discourage text message communication unless it's the morning of the wedding and you are shooting the bride (or member of the wedding party) a message to find out what room number they are in etc.
5. Communication. The second time I've listed this because it's so important. Be clear in your expectations of your client(s). Provide them with all and any information they need to know about pricing and billing. No one likes sudden changes in what is expected, so be clear with her/him.