Under Construction....

My blog and I are under construction, please check back for updates....


 In the Meantime, if you are in the Midwest this weekend, please join me on this Saturday, May 12th for a Mother's Day luncheon at Rhema Word Ministries in the Southdale Plaza in Anderson, Indiana.   The luncheon is from 11am-1pm and there's a shopping event immediately following. The theme of the luncheon is Beauty Inside and Out so I'll be sharing makeup and beauty tips and there'll also be a session on women's health.
For more information please call: 765-622-9240.  Hurry seating is limited!  I hope to see you there :)

Thank You So Much!

It has been too long since I posted  anything and I apologize for that.  My life has been busier than it ever has this year, and I haven't had too much time for fun stuff (like making and uploading videos to youtube and blog writing :( )    However, I had to take this time to thank you for the support of my blog, especially to those of you who've subscribed.  I really appreciate you.  It has been so hard for me not to jump back in and start all over again but I really needed a break.  I hope you understand and will continue to show your support as I gradually ease back into the blog and you tube world.  For now, thanks so much for your patience and let me know if you have any  topics that you'd like to see addressed.  You can email me @ jamiethemakeupartist@ymail.com or leave your comment below.

God's Twitter!

This was a very good message by my pastor.  It sort of justifies my love for twitter :D  For more inspiring messages like this one, go to:  www.madisonparkchurch.org  Enjoy, be blessed, and have a happy Sunday!

10/25/09 God's Twitter: Part 1 from Madison Park Church on Vimeo.

Inspiration

  This morning I had a very difficult time trying to get inspired.  I am not sure if it was because of sleep deprivation, or the constant struggle to maintain balance.  I prayed for inspiration and tried to manufacture it.  It seemed like nothing was working, until I ran across a message that brought me to tears.  I am not sure if it's because I grew up listening to Zig Ziglar and I've kind of studied his character from a distance, or if it was because I felt I was in strong need of a push at that moment.  Whatever the reason, this message was right on time and I hope it inspires you to keep on pursuing your dreams and life's purpose with full tenacity.  Enjoy!

http://ziglarmovies.com/embracethestruggle/

"It's not what happens to you that matters, it's how you respond to what happens to you that makes the difference!" ~Zig Ziglar

Makeup Brush Maintenance & DIY Makeup Brush Cleaner

  

 

  After I posted the article about alternative makeup brushes, I received a couple of questions about brush maintenance and cleaning.  One of the questions dealt with the frequency of cleaning and the other was about recommended makeup brush cleaners.

  How often you clean your brushes depends on how often you use your brushes.  Some recommend cleaning them once a week or more and deep cleaning them once a month.  I like to clean my brushes daily and deep clean them once a week.

  I got the following recipe from a makeup artist friend of mine, who got it from someone else.  I've used this recipe several times and found it to be very effective.

You will need:

Distilled Water

91% Alcohol (to sanitize)

Dishwashing Liquid Soap (any kind will do, but I prefer Dawn or Palmolive)

Baby Shampoo

Spray-on Leave-in Conditioner (make sure you use liquid, not cream or gel-I use Aussie Hair Insurance Leave-in because it's cheap @ WalMart)

An Empty Bottle (to put the final product in)

A Funnel

A Non-Metal Stirrer (I use a wooden bamboo skewer)

A Large Glass Pyrex Measuring Cup, like the one pictured below (the top is not necessary):

•  
  
• Mix 1 cup of water, 1/4 cup of alcohol, 1/2 tbs. dishwashing liquid soap, 1/2 tbs. baby shampoo, 1 tbsp. leave-in conditioner
• Very gently stir all of the ingredients and use the funnel to pour the mixture into the empty container

   I like to pour half of my solution into an empty bottle and the other half in a small spray bottle for quick cleanings.

  I've also had really good results with M.A.C's brush cleanser.  It is formulated to clean, sanitize, and condition your brush bristles which will increase the longevity of your brushes.  Their brush cleanser retails at eleven dollars and is concentrated so it lasts for a while.

Questions? Comments?  Requests? email me @ jamiethemakeupartist@ymail.com

Brushes on the Cheap

  One of the keys to good makeup application is to use the right tools.  Over the years I have collected some of the most expensive and least expensive brushes to ensure an even and flawless application.  My favorite and most recommended brushes are by M.A.C because of their excellent quality and endurance.  I also like Lancome's and Estee Lauder's.  There are many other good brush companies out there but, if you do not want to invest a lot of money in brushes or decide to purchase them one or two at a time, there are plenty of options.

  One good and very economical option is to use paint brushes, which can be found at your local craft store.  My favorite brand to use is Loew-Cornell and they range from about $2.25 and up at Hobby Lobby and most craft stores.  I like to purchase my brushes at Hobby Lobby because they often have the brushes marked down 50%.  The quality of the brushes is good, the bristles are soft and if you take good care of them they will last and last.

  I can't promise you that they are as soft or effective as professional makeup art brushes by M.A.C and others but they do provide a good, cheap alternative.

Tips for the Fabulous Forty Plus

I've had the privilege of doing makeup for many beautiful women, all different ages.  I have enjoyed watching the transformations of countless women and have over time learned many tips and tricks that are simple, quick and easy to implement into anyone's daily routine.  

  I have often gotten questions from women who are over forty and are in need of a little boost or change in their everyday regimen. So, here are my top ten favorite tips:

1. Drink lots of water
2. Get plenty of rest (The earlier the better, preferably before midnight--9pm is ideal :)
3. Exercise--You don't have to overexert yourself!  Just a simple half hour walk will help keep your blood circulating which will help the collagen turnover rate of your skin and help give a natural glow.  It is also good for your heart, your muscles, kidney, and etc.
4. Moisturize your skin--This will keep your skin soft and supple.  Water also help internally with the moisturizing of your skin.  Keeping your skin moisturized can help prevent premature lines and wrinkles.
5. Use a non-soap cleanser for your face--Soap can be too harsh and drying.
6. Use nude lip pencils instead of darker lip pencils--This will give you a softer, more youthful look
7. Use a soft brown eyeliner instead of black--Soft brown will give you a softer, more youthful look
8. Use eyeshadow or brow powder instead of pencil to fill in your brows--The eyeshadow or brow powder will give a softer, more natural look
9. Wear sunglasses--This will not only give you an instant glamorous look but it will also help keep you from squinting--which can cause fine lines and wrinkles
10. And my favorite of all:  Gain a little weight!  If your face is a little sunken, pack on about five or ten pounds.  This will help fill your face out.

Thanks for visiting my page!

Questions?  You can post a comment below or email me at: jamiethemakeupartist@ymail.com

My First Video Post!

  After many months of procrastinating and three months of being fed up with my editing software, I finally posted my first video :-)   I am so excited about this because now, I will be able to demonstrate some of the tips and techniques that I've posted about.  
  I was soooo nervous while taping my first videos, but I'm sure I'll loosen up over time.  I had to cut the video featured below abruptly, due to excessive rambling ;-)  All of my first videos were taped in about two weeks, everyday between two and six in the morning (that's my little disclaimer, I was very lethargic, so please be easy :-D)  I have about three or four videos waiting to be edited, that I taped in July 09'--major procrastination!   
  Please visit my new page @ 
www.youtube.com/user/MakeupByJamie and subscribe, it's free!  Here's my introduction video:













As Always, Thanks so much for visiting my page!  Muah (Smooches)>>>>

When God When

by Joyce Meyer

We all want good things to happen in our lives, but too often we want it now...not later. When it doesn't happen that way, we are tempted to ask, "When, God, when?" Most of us need to grow in the area of trusting God instead of focusing on the “when” question. If you're missing joy and peace, you're not trusting God. If your mind feels worn out all the time, you're not trusting God. The tendency to want to know about everything that's going on can be detrimental to your Christian walk. Sometimes knowing everything can be uncomfortable and can even hurt you. I spent a large part of my life being impatient, frustrated and disappointed because there were things I didn't know. God had to teach me to leave things alone and quit feeling that I needed to know everything. I finally learned to trust the One who knows all things and accept that some questions may never be answered. We prove that we trust God when we refuse to worry....

This article is continued at: www.joycemeyer.org/OurMinistries/EverydayAnswers/Articles/art3.htm?&utm%20_campaign=Encouragement&utm_keyword=WhenGodWhen

 (You can just copy and paste the link above--I know the link is long but it should work, if not just email me @jamiethemakeupartist@ymail.com and I will walk you through it :)  

Have a Super Sunday!

M.A.C Mischief Makers Holiday 2009 Sneak Peek!

Sexy-Shenanigans/Soft
Elle White pink with pearlized pigments (Lipglass) (Limited Edition) (Repromote)

Ensign Peachy pink with white and gold pearlized pigments (Lustreglass) (Limited Edition) (Repromote)

Morning Glory Pale pearlized pink (Lustreglass) (Permanent)

Cruise Control Pastel pink with white pearlized pigments (Lipglass) (Limited Edition)
Poetic License Coral rose (Lipglass) (Limited Edition) (Repromote)

Frisky-Business/Bright

Wonderstruck Lustred-up clean pink coral (Lustreglass) (Permanent)

Pinkarat Soft-toned pink with gold pearl (Lustreglass) (Permanent)

Silly Girl Pastel peach with multi-coloured pearlized pigments (Lipglass) (Limited Edition) (Repromote)
Beaute Bright coral with pearlized pigments (Lipglass) (Limited Edition)
Totally It Sheer bright pink with pink pearlized pigments (Lipglass) (Limited Edition) (Repromote)

Models-Misbehaving/Deep

Instant Gold Lustre-shined light neutral gold (Lustreglass) (Permanent)

Pinkular Bronzed copper (Lipglass) (Limited Edition) (Repromote)
Gitane Burnt red orange with pearlized pigments (Lipglass) (Limited Edition)
Magnetique Frosted violet fuchsia (Lipglass) (Limited Edition) (Repromote)
AngelWing Deep plum with golden pearlized pigments (Lustreglass) (Limited Edition) (Repromote)

Cool Capers/Cool

Reflects Transparent Teal Micro-fine teal glitter (Glitter) (PRO) (Permanent)
Kitschmas Light airy shimmering pink/mauve pearl (Pigment) (Permanent)
Fuchsia Bright fuchsia with pink pearll (Pigment) (Permanent) (Repromote)
Grape Deep purple (Pigment) (Limited Edition) (Repromote)
Deep Blue Green Rich, deep bluish green (Pigment) (PRO) (Permanent)

Haute High Jinks/Warm
Jardin Aires Tan with gold pearlized pigments (Pigment) (Limited Edition) (Repromote)
Rushmetal Rich copper sparkle (Pigment) (Limited Edition) (Repromote)

Museum Bronze Rich taupe with gold pearlized pigments (Pigment) (Limited Edition) (Repromote)
Copperized Olive green with gold pearl (Pigment) (Limited Edition) (Repromote)
Reflects Gold Gold glitter (Glitter) (Permanent) 

Sexpot/Smokey
Reflects Antique Gold Antique gold glitter (Glitter) (PRO) (Permanent) (In the middle)
Naked Fleshy beige with golden copper pearl (Pigment) (Permanent) (On the left)

Sunnydaze Soft apricot-taupe with silver pearlized pigments (Pigment) (Limited Edition) (Repromote)

Chocolate Brown Shimmering chocolate copper/bronze (Pigment) (PRO) (Permanent)

Dark Soul Black with gold flecks (Pigment) (Permanent) (On the right)

Don't you love this packaging-so chic!  These sets make the perfect gifts for someone else or yourself :D

This collection will release in the U.S. on November 5th so get ready!

The lip sets are $29.50US/$35.50CAN.  The mini pigment sets are $32.50US/$38.50CAN

Which sets have you added to your list? 




As always, thank you so much for taking time to read my posts.  Have a great day!

A Little Rambling...

Disclaimer:  No, I am not editing this post...I am rambling because of sleep deprivation and I am not concerned with grammatical errors so please excuse me and hopefully this will be a one time thing :D Yes, it has come to this :D  I am so sleepy right now because it was a beautiful day today.  I decided to spend most of the day in the park and I can barely keep my eyes open now.  I am rarely speechless but, right now I am at a lost for words at least when it comes to beauty tips and tricks.  I want every post to be meaningful, inspiring, uplifting, and encouraging.  I feel as if I am still in the getting to know you phase of this blog and I intend to share little by little, more and more about myself until a connection is made.  

  I love all things beauty related but, I believe beauty starts from within.  My recent blogcation (blog vacation) was really about taking some time to reflect, meditate, and regroup.  I needed to process some things that had been going on in our world.  I know this is a beauty blog but I was moved by different tragedies that have taken place recently.  After reading what happened to Chicago youth, Derrion Albert, I couldn't hold it in anymore.  I felt kind of silly posting about beauty and makeup when so many people in this world are hurting, starving, and dying.  It all seemed so pointless and meaningless. I had to take a moment of silence, it was my little way of paying respect to Derrion Albert's family and the families of others who have lost family members  to senseless violence.  I have a special heart for girls, teens, and women and I long for each one of us to be uplifted and confident (and etc.).  I wanted to be sure that I am aligned with the purpose that God placed me here for and that I am not just existing.  I felt challenged to be more aware of others around me, to pray more for people outside my "comfortable setting", and do my part to effect change.   

  To those of you who visit this page faithfully and send kind words of encouragement and especially subcribers,  thank you so much.  Your support means so much to me.  Please be encouraged today, don't allow anyone to steal your joy.  Guard your heart for out of it flows the issues of life.  If you are in relationships or situations that are stealing your joy and peace,  please pay attention, evaluate them because they may not be worth your time.  Is it time for a personal inventory?

  Yesterday, I had the most enlightening, refreshing conversation with my younger cousin (I want to call her my baby cousin so bad, but she's grown :D )  Everytime I talk with her I learn so much.  I am amazed at her wisdom and talking with her reminded me of some very valuable lessons that have stuck with me.  We have to love ourselves before we can love others.  People that have a problem loving and respecting others most likely have a hard time loving and respecting themselves.  Don't take  people's rudeness, disrespect or ill behavior towards you personal, some people are just ignorant!  Seriously, some people have not been taught to consider other people's feelings and some people have delusions of grandeur--whatever the reason, it's sad.  I feel sorry for people like that, they are really missing out.  You have to learn to shake nonsense off and keep on moving forward in life because some people are so miserable with their lives and they will try to infect you with their misery.  Just say no to negativity and drama because it can drain you of life and energy, it's just not worth it.  If people don't accept you or reject you, be thankful because it most likely is God's way of protecting you from some unseen drama or might be trying to protect you from destiny pirates.   Love and embrace yourself, flaws and all, don't allow people to change you because you will never keep up with all of the changes and eventually you will lose your identity.  I am convinced that I am not supposed to be in every circle and clique and my constant prayer is to be in the right place, at the right time, with the right people, that line up with my God given destiny and purpose.  Life is too precious to get entangled in distractions!  Know that you are valuable and you have a purpose.   Smile more.  Laugh more.  Love more.  Live more. :D! I have plenty more to say but honestly, I am going to get some rest before this post turns into a book :D  Maybe I'll do a part two.  I love you, God bless you, and thanks so much for reading this post--flaws and all.

If you need prayer or would like to respond to this post or any of my other posts, you can subscribe and leave a comment below or email me @ jamiethemakeupartist@ymail.com

All About Eyeliner...

   I wore the featured eyeliner from last Monday's post again today for over eight hours and it stayed in place all day, I am quite impressed with it.  Like I've mentioned before, I am taking it slow with the drugstore makeup but, I am definitely open to new ideas.  Finding a good eyeliner for only $3.12 is nice but, I still love my faithful staples and I wanted to share them with you in case you would like to try them.

   The very first eye kohl pencils that I've ever used are by M.A.C in Teddy (a deep metallic brown or bronze), Blooz (shimmery blue), and Smolder (Intense Black).  The eye kohls are $14.50 and are very easy to apply, easy to smudge and longwearing.  I like to use Teddy to line my waterline in place of a black eyeliner for a softer, less dramatic look.  When I want more intensity and for smokey looks, I use smolder because the pigmentation is great, true black. 

  My go to eyeliner for brides is the Powerpoint eye pencil by M.A.C because it is waterproof and longwearing.  My favorites are Stubborn Brown (deep brown) and Engraved (Jet Black).  These eye pencils are $14.50 and come in shimmer and matte finishes.

 Another great longwearing and waterproof eye pencil is the 24/7 Glide-On eye pencil by Urban Decay.  This is the creamiest waterproof eyeliner I have ever used.  It only takes thirty seconds for this eyeliner to set and once it's dry, it doesn't budge.  The 24/7 eye pencil is $17.00.

  The best duplicate for the eyeliner kajals used by indian women, (to recreate intense lines like the beautiful bride's pictured above) that I've found so far, is an eyeliner kajal by Stila.  This pencil is so creamy that I often use a small angle brush to apply it.  I love the pigmentation, it's so rich and it's very easy to apply and smudge.  Stila's eyeliner kajal is $18.00.

 This is definitely not a comprehensive list, there are others that I use, like the Artist's Pencils by Estee Lauder.  There are many others that I would like to try like the DoubleWear Stay-In-Place eye pencil by Estee Lauder, and when I do, I'll share a review with you (hey that rhymes ;D ).

  What are your favorites?