Tuesday, September 22, 2015

Styled Shoot at Breaux Vineyards

Hi all,

I organized my second collaborative styled shoot last week and I am at the edge of my seat in anticipation for the pictures, so I thought I'd share my experience in the meantime. On top of the organization and direction, I also did the makeup for the lovely models @thisisvictoriachang and @mrgeorgekhouri. I was completely inspired by Breaux Vineyards stunning grounds and was lucky enough that all the other vendors that joined were just as inspired too. They're contributions were essential for getting the variety of shots to complete the theme. I was just so excited/ecstatic that Claire La Faye wanted to provide a dress from her newest collection for the shoot!. When Claire sent me pictures let me choose the dress that would best fit the vision, um, it was a dream come true. Not only was the dress insanely beautiful, it was also quite fitting with the theme.

The incredible vendors made organizing and showcasing their talent extremely easy. We all had a great time watching Bonnie work her magic and while the sunset right over the Virginia mountain range. The weather was crisp and cool and it had just rained two days prior, so all the vines were especially green. We were all excited to pop open the wine and tear into the cakes from @tartandcraft, but in the end we managed to resist and snacked on rosemary crackers instead (Note to self, bring more food to styled shoots). Once you see these pictures, I have no doubt you'll be packing your bags for a picturesque trip to Breaux this fall. I can't tell you the theme just yet, but you'll know soon enough! Hint: It is very specific to Breaux. More pictures by Bonnie Sen coming soon...

In the meantime, I AM sharing the products I used to create the romantic and dreamy look on Victoria.



Bonnie Sen Photography
Beauty Breakdown

Eyes
24 hour Eye Primer - M.A.C
Bountiful Brown Eyeliner - M.A.C
"Snake" Eyeshadow - Makeup Forever
Woodwinked Eyeshadow - M.A.C

Lips
Pillow Talk Lip Cheat- Charlotte Tilbury 
Pretty Natural Lipstick - M.A.C

Face
Giorgio Armani Fluid Sheer 
Melba Blush - M.A.C
Giorgio Armani Master Primer
C4 Face & Body - M.A.C
Medium Dark Mineralize - M.A.C


The Vendor List

Breaux Vineyards, Kathleen Britsch, event coordinator
Photography: Bonnie Sen @bonnielikesphotos
Female Model: Victoria Chang @thisisvictoriachang
Male Model: George Khouri @mrgeorgekhouri
Floral Designer: Meg Dodini @succulentsandsaffron
Stage Designer: Carmela Sangalang @luckycarms5
Hair & Makeup: @styledbyannafazio and @realdollmakeup
Calligraphy: Michele Hatty Fritz @meanttobedc
Cake: Andi @tartandcraft
Bridal Dress: @clairelafaye 







Wednesday, September 2, 2015

Boost Your Pre-Event Pretty


Getting ready for a big event can be stressful because everyone wants to look their absolute best. Makeup can do wonders, but it can't do it all. Here are my pre-event tips that I highly recommend to boost your pretty.Start practicing these and you'll be glowing in no time. 

  1. Hydrate - And start a week before the event, you won't reap the benefits if you do it the day of. Lemon, cucumbers and mint are great flavorings when you get tired of drinking plain water. 
  2. Nourish - Your skin. Look for a "day of" mask to prep your face before the event. You don't want a mask that is purifying, but one that hydrates or preps before your makeup. 

  3. Eat well - Don't try any crazy diet plans, but stay clear from too much alcohol, caffeine, carbs or sugars. This will lead to less inflammation on your skin and less bags under your eyes. In other words, skip the soda, have a unsweetened green tea. (I've personally visited a popular soda factory once, the ingredients in their were enough to corrode the concrete floor when spilled. Imagine what it's doing to your delicate skin!)
  4. Before Bed - Make sure you remove all traces of makeup before you go to bed (use makeup wipes!) and be sure to apply a good eye cream every night. Continue your normal regimen. 
  5. Get Mild Exercise - Again, nothing crazy if you don't normally exercise. Just some light stretches and walks. Get that blood flowing!
  6. A word on Waxing - This is so tricky. Make sure to leave plenty of time for irritations to go down. FYI - Retinols will make your skin burn with wax, so be sure to stop use or tell your wax professional if you are using it. 
HOPE THESE TIPS HELP :) What is your favorite Pre-Event Prep Tip?