Sun, Sand, and Mishaps

As a makeup artist, I try to be prepared to fix and beautify all models. I carry 8-10 shades of foundation, fingernail polish remover, various colors of eye shadow, and anything I can think of that a model may need.

Yet there are days like yesterday where makeup was not enough.

The photo shoot was set on a busy beach, the sun's heat was at it's strongest, and shade was a luxury. Rocks were our chairs and a place to rest.

Luckily for me, I had on my hat, shades, and coconut water in hand. I was ready. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case for one of my models. After I did her makeup, the hair stylist started putting flowers in her hair. One second she was saying that she didn't feel too well and the next second, she was down for the count. I was glad I had baby wipes to help cool her down...somewhat.

The hairstylist and I searched high and low for water. Fortunately, we were able to borrow one of the photographers' water bottle and put water on the back of the neck. Then the hair stylist disappears and I was left scratching my head. Turns out, the hairstylist went to a local store to purchase cold water. Meanwhile, my fabulous husband walks over to the life guard station for some ice packs.  Minutes later, my husband arrives with the life guard, in a car! Talk about service!

We were able to ice her down and get her through the shoot.

So, maybe for a beach shoot, I'll make sure to carry an umbrella, portable ice packs, and water. Wait! That's way too much for me to carry! I'll have the model make sure to bring Gatorade and a hat.

I'll keep a couple of ice packs on hand for the just in case.

July Diamond Dust

July 21, 2012 was a day of Pride for San Diego. All the colorful characters were out and about. It was fun to see and great to experience because everyone was having the time of their lives. The best part was the good vibes carried over into the fashion show.

Each time I'm at Kitty Diamond, the room configuration changes for the models, makeup artists, and hair stylists. I have to say that I loved July's configuration. We were in a big room, big enough for makeup artists, hair stylists, and models' clothes changes. Plus, when we were done and the models were ready for the catwalk, the room turned into a dance room. What was even better was the fact that, early birds like myself, could leave without bumping into dancing patrons or photographers.

There were a lot of makeup artists that brought their own lightening. Very smart! I tend to be a minimalist yet I may have to succumb to packing a light for future events. The one smart thing I did was to print out the photos of makeup ideas and hang them on the wall. It's easier and quicker for me to see than searching for the picture on my phone. Not many of the stylists knew what looks went to what designer. I was a star for a few seconds as they clamored around my wall to digest each look.

I set up shop next to a brand new makeup artist. It was nice to see her getting out into the public right away and getting experience. When I graduated from makeup school, I was very nervous about getting out into the world and working on real people.  She has a lot to learn (as we all do), but she's headed in the right direction.

My husband even kept busy with helping my take pictures of the models, so I can remember who I worked on, and chatting with photographers and models alike. He even helped with extension cords for the hair stylists. What a guy!

A group of models who were modeling for the designer, Teh Mac, chose me to do their makeup. Not only was I flattered that they wanted me but my ego was boosted by all their accolades. They loved their makeup! Very awesome! What was nice, was that they even brought their friends over for me to do their makeup. The group of models that I worked with were even fascinating to talk to. One male model was a pediatric neurosurgeon. Another one kissed the pavement hard from a bike accident the day before yet was a trooper and showed up with stitches.

I even had a chance to do makeup for Davorah Stetson, one of the fashion show promoters/model. Every fashion show I have watched her go to other makeup artists. Now, it was my turn! Loved it and was grateful that she gave me the chance.

The lovely Davorah Stetson

I did have a time matching skin tone to the foundation because the majority of the models had been out in the sun enjoying the parade for Pride. Not a problem, I was able to find a match the made each of them look flawless.

All in all, I felt that the fashion show went well and it was great to work with everyone. Everyone was in great spirits. The four hours I was there flew by and I hardly noticed when it was time to leave.

June Diamond Dust

It was that time again where I anxiously awaited the next fashion show. I always enjoy being challenged creatively with looks that the designers want. Yet, this fashion show had an odd vibe to it or it could have been just me having an off day. I couldn't quite put my finger on it.

I started out the day with rock star parking, thanks to my fabulous husband, only to wait for the owner to open up the bar. By 5:45 PM, the owner arrived and in between talking on her phone and giving orders to her crew, she instructed me where to set up. I was led to the second bar room upstairs (not downstairs this time) and saw that the room was fabulously set up with a mirror for every table. Awesome. Crystal, one of the models, sat down quickly as I was setting up. She was excited to have her makeup done first. Less stress for her!

There was a flurry of models, designers, and clothes everywhere! Chaos and commotion ran hand in hand. Three designers changed their minds on the looks and joined forces for a simple smokey eye. That was frustrating because I had already worked on about five models with a punk look. Just breathe. Waitresses waded through the craziness in hopes of taking orders and selling drinks. Water pitchers were brought by the handful and were just as quickly consumed by all the thirsty models.

My husband noted that I seemed to be working the fastest, with model after model sitting in my seat. Other makeup artists were taking their time. I wondered if my timing was off and maybe I needed to slow down. Nah, this was a fashion show where time was a commodity.

Then, I met my challenge. It came in the form of a model.

She sat down, hiked up her dress to her knees, and was full of frenetic energy. She talked about this and that. Gave me tips on how I should do her makeup. My game was completely thrown off and concentration disappeared. Have you ever met someone that by shear negative energy alone threw off your game? Tonight was my night.

I created cat eyes for her. She told me she was super picky and didn't like eyeliner under her eyes. So, I stuck to the top of the eyes. Once done, she quickly looked into the mirror and said, "No offense but I could do a better job." I calmly looked at her and said, "Do what you need to do." She then rushed to the bathroom to wash off all her makeup.

Now, I would have been happy to redo her makeup to her satisfaction. Yet, she chose to cowardly stand in line with the makeup artist next to me. The designer came over to me after seeing her model run off and asks if everything was "OK". I restated the events to the designer and then the designer asks if I'm OK with cat eyes. Yes, all is fine in cat eye land. I thought it was interesting that a model should dictate to a designer what look she should have. Le sigh...

Feeling low and my confidence shattered, I had to take a moment to reevaluate the moment. I had to not take it personally and realize that this was something she needed to do for herself. After that thought of clarity, I forgave her and moved on. What perked me up next was the models who knew me, requested to have me do their makeup. That's always a nice pat on the back. Every model after my "challenge", I asked them to tell me if they liked their makeup and I'll fix whatever they feel needs fixing.

Then I met a fabulous male model who had a kindred soul. He appreciated me asking for honesty and I enjoyed listening to his dreams and accomplishments. He was the type of person that you wanted to hug and I almost did.

By 10:30 PM, the models looked like they had all their makeup on and I began to wrap up for the night. Just as I started to clean up, the designers sat down for a quick makeover. How could I say, "no"?

11:00 PM rolled around and my age was starting to show. My feet hurt, I was thirsty, and my eyes were rolling into the back of my head. Yep, time for home.

See you at the next fashion show!

Rancho Bernardo Chorale

"In 1974, sixteen people who loved to sing gathered in my living room in Rancho Bernardo, California. From this tiny seedling group grew the RB Chorale of today. Now, at 150 tuneful members strong, we have awarded nearly $300,000 in scholarship monies to talented high school graduating seniors from North San Diego County, and we have received the Bronze Cup in Verona, Italy's 2005 International Choral Competition! Our RB Chorale musical productions are evenings chock full of entertainment for the whole family featuring music ranging from Broadway to Harry Potter. Our Tuesday rehearsals combine hard work in an atmosphere of fun, and camaraderie. Nothing soothes the mind and brings peace to the soul more than giving and receiving the gift of song. In fact, our Chorale's mission says it all: "We bring the gift of song to our community; entertain our audiences; and help aspiring young musicians seek their dreams." 
~ Pat Bean, Founder/Director of the RB Chorale.


I was given a wonderful opportunity to expand my makeup experiences by my friend, Andrea. She suggested that I come to her chorale and help out with makeup. I jumped at the chance! I wasn't sure what to expect, the only thing I know was that I would be there three days and tips may be involved.

Day 1: Wednesday and Dress Rehearsal

I show up at my appointed time of 5:00 PM. The chorale is just beginning to stroll in and prep with makeup and clothes. The women in my dressing room were put to the task of unwrapping the light wands that the audience was to use Friday and Saturday. A frenzy of activity took place: unwrapping the light wands, pinning on the feathery boas, women searching for their makeup, talking and singing occurring simultaneously. Until one matriarch of the group shushed everybody so she could her the finalists rehearse. Quite impressive!

Andrea went around introducing me, letting people know that I was there for makeup. The men weren't too happy to see me. They put up such a fuss about wearing makeup and grumbled to Andrea that if they must, they will were the makeup for the performances only.

I helped out some women, making sure their makeup was heavy enough for stage. Or as one women said, "I'm ready to look like a cheap hooker." In fact, she's right. Up close, the makeup was hard to swallow, yet on stage, the women looked like naturals. Many women were under the impression that I was there for beauty makeup. I had to point out that the stage lights would suck up all the color, so it was imperative that they have heavier makeup on.

One chorale member getting ready.

Then, I met Paul. Paul was a violinist that had been with the chorale since its inception. The director wanted me powder the top of his head to take away the shine. Paul was okay with that. He even joked that I could walk on stage during the performance  to powder his head. That made me laugh just envisioning the scene!

Day 2: Friday and Show #1

It was wonderful to see the chorale again. Everyone was in high spirits and people were more receptive to me being there. I was kept quite busy with the women. One women made sure that I put blush on the willing men's faces. Most were receptive to blush and powder, but nothing more. I joking asked if they were still in pain with all that makeup on. Then there was one I'll call "Grumpy Bear".  He didn't want me anywhere near him. I think he felt his manhood would be stripped if I were to out blush on him. Funny, being on stage and singing show tunes was manly? I guess everybody has their limitations. So, I left "Grumpy Bear" alone to his own devices.

Paul was brought to me "kicking and screaming" because the director wanted blush on his cheeks. As the photographed took pictures and I put on blush, Paul looked and sounded like I was harming him. I chuckled at his failed attempts to dodge my blush brush!

By 6:30 PM, the chorale was gathering backstage. I would grab the men I didn't see and throw blush on them with their blessings. Everyone was in high spirits, excitedly awaiting to perform in the Opening Show. I was planning on going home shortly, but then I was sabotaged by two sweet women who could have been my grandmothers. They looked at me with big puppy eyes and asked if I was staying to see the show. Originally, I said "no" because I was hungry and tired from a long day of teaching. They turned on their "puppy eyes" and I melted. "Okay" was all I could say.

I snuck into the theatre and sat down to watch the show. I only stayed for half of the show; long enough to see the finalists perform.

The chorale getting ready to perform.

Day 3: Saturday and Show #2

Andrea was sweet to put out tips jars in the dressing rooms and bathrooms. The director's right hand girl came in to ask if I would like to teach a makeup class in the summer for some extra cash. Yes, of course! I was honored that the chorale thought highly of me.

Most of the men were seeking me out for their blush and powder, which was a far cry from Wednesday! I looked for Paul yet he was no where to be found. An hour later, he surfaces and sought me out for his makeup. He jokingly said he was high jacked by hillbillies and they made him play his fiddle. What he really was doing, was having a jam session in an empty dressing room with other musicians. Paul's wife was saying that he was worried about being late and missing his makeup time with me. She said she almost fell out of her chair hearing that!

The people of the Rancho Bernardo Chorale are very dear and I was honored to be given the opportunity to work with them.

Diamond Dust

Last night was the grand opening of Kitty Diamond, a new bar in San Diego and a new venue for May Star's Fashion Show, "Diamond Dust".

Now, when May stated that it would be a soft opening becasue the bar was still under construction. Boy was she right! Plastic still covered the bars, yellow tape adorned the bar stools, and construction dust lingered on everything stationary. But the dust was a perfect fit since it went with the "Diamond Dust" theme. :) There were little snafus like no AC downstairs (it was really hot for some) and some outlets not working (that stressed out the hair stylists), yet we all found a way to make it work.

The models and maskeup artists were taken down stairs to get ready, while people upstairs began to shuffle in and enjoy the bar. A bouncer came in to check our IDs and gave a fabulous kiss stamp on our wrists! One model kept getting the stamp ink on her clothes and told me that hairspray will take ink out of clothes. Who knew? The next time I get ink on my clothes, I'll be trying the hairspray trick! :)

The great thing about last night was that everyone was in great spirits, the models showed up on time, and the lightening was fabulous! Many times, I have put makeup on in dim lights praying that I had put the right foundation shade on!

I had to laugh that I ended up with makeup all over my hands! My eyeliner pen exploded, more red lipstick found its way on me than on my models, and the black eyeshadow was everywhere! I think I'm becoming a messy artist! :)

I also was extremely busy and loving every minute of it! 4 hours and 14 girls later (plus touch ups), I was beat!

I am also amazed everytime how much the models' looks are transformed with hair, makeup, and the right clothes! After I put on makeup, I send the models to hair and wardrobe. It's always neat to see the complete look and the designer's image come to life.

Here are  pictures of the different makeup looks I did before hair and wardrobe got a hold of the models:

What I enjoy the most about these fashion shows, besides working with great people, is that there is always a new look for me to try out. Last night, I worked with designers that wanted looks from Brigitte Bardot, to retro rockabilly, to Harajuku. How fun is that?!

When I had finished putting makeup on the models, I had a chance to go upstairs and see the bar. One room was reserved for the fashion show with bright lights and photographers waiting anxiously. Another room had a disco ball, great music, and a sparkly gogo dancer. Fun, fun, fun place to dance and hang out! I also thought was it great to see people lining up outside to get in and check out the bar and fashion show.

I can't wait for next month's fashion show at Kitty Diamond! The bar should be in full swing and those tiny snafus last night will have been taken care of. Stay tuned!

Gypsy Magic

Gypsy Magic

Last night's Fashion Show had to have been the busiest and best for me! 7 models and 1 designer later, I worked up a sweat! Models and desigers were in the best of moods, excitement and anticipation for the show lingered in the air! I think there may have been a little Gypsy Magic sprinkled throughout the Ruby Room.

Here are some pictures of the makeup I did before they had their hair styled and clothes selected:

Cat Lewis, Designer

 All the models brought their own eyelashes for me to apply. In my opinion, false eyelashes are the moodiest little buggers I have ever worked with. Some are fabulous and love to be applied without any struggle. Then, there are those that need massive glue and some wrangling in order for them to adhere.

What's interetsting to me, is that once women of color find the right shade of foundation, they are skeptical for anyone to use anything else. I can't say that I blame them. Many times, I see students at school wearing the wrong shade of foundation. I totally want to pull them aside and fix their foundation! :) Last night, many of the models had their foundation ready and waiting to be used in case I didn't have their shade. Luckily, I did. :)

My husband even enjoyed the pre-show. Many characters and personalities gathered in the bar waiting for the fashion show to begin. One designer, thought was husband was "yummy but too tall"! That made me laugh! Models thought my husband was a bouncer and there for their protection. I think my husband was be a great bouncer. Good thing he's by my side for my protection! :)

Me glistening with sweat! :)

Fashion Show Fashionista

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Fashion Show Fasionista

     Ever wonder what happens behind the scenes of a Fashion Show? It's chaos and excitement all wrapped up in one. Makeup artists, hair dressers, and designers all vye or the models' attention. Sometimes, if in a hurry. the makeup artist and hair dresser are working on the model at the same time. Also, looking for outlets and decent lightening are always an added bonus.

The "I just woke up" High Fashion couture look

The "glamour" look

The "doll eye" look

    Yet, as a makeup artist, it's creatively fun to show what the designers envision. For example, for this upcoming fashion show there are three very distinct looks: The "I just woke up" look, the "glamour" look, and the "doll eye" look. Each look allows me to try new looks with colors I would never use during the work day.

     Admist the chaos, everything seems to work out. The models have a panted face, fabulous hair, and a new wardrobe for the night. All they have to do is strut down the walkway and make sure to catch the photographers' eyes.

    Stop by this Saturday, April 7th, and check out May Star's Fashion Whore Show. The pre-show will be filled with chaos and fashion magic during the show. Plus, you'll have a great time with great people!