Beauty/Fashion from a Pro

Huge GIVEAWAY!!

2013-04-09T04:05:00.001-06:00

How would you like a Free ZUCA PRO Makeup Kit? Yes, you heard me right! To some lucky winner I am giving this gem away for free. Help me reach 3,000 followers on Twitter

@laurieai1

When I reach that number I will draw a name and you will have a brand new, in the box Zucca Pro!!
Yes, my friends in the UK are eligible!

New Year's...Sundance Film Festival...Makeup Training Classes...WHOSH!

2012-12-29T14:13:00.001-07:00

Makeup by Laurie Aiello

(801) 823-1726
Laurieai1@gmail.com

Wow...already 2013 is turning out to be a great year!! Busy, busy, busy! It's really tooo much fun! The snow, excitement and adventure of seeing and meeting new people at various venues has always been a favorite for me.

If you need to book me, that's fine, but, try to give me a head's up as running from one hotel to the next can be time consuming, and I want to give you the best experience possible.

I do have a mobile makeup station, proper lighting and work in HD makeup so those photos turn out flawless! Have privacy and professionalism which should always go hand and hand.

The products in my kit are from around the world, examples are Face atelier, Chanel, Yves Saint Laurant, The Makeup Store, Hakuhodo, Talika and more!

Listed with IMDB!

You can expect your makeup to take about an hour.

It's my pleasure to serve you!

Familiar Faces....

A Moment of Silence...

2012-12-16T10:54:00.003-07:00

Dear Friends...

Today I'm taking a moment of silence on behalf of those who lost their lives, and the families that were/are horribly effected by this tragedy.

My thought's and prayers....:-(

Shopping for Makeup Training!

2012-12-12T11:03:00.000-07:00

Makeup TRAINING Begins! Yes...shopping Chanel for that "high-end" client that expects the best....so my students get the best!

HOWEVER,

I CAN'T WAIT FOR MY STUDENTS TO EXPERIENCE - FACE atelier!

www.faceatelier.com

If you don't know about their products, now is the time (they also offer pro discounts!) They are the best makeup for ANY situation...film/tv/brides/fashion and ME!! Go to their site and learn about this cruelty free cosmetic line used by ALL the PROS!

This one week intensive course includes products from PARIS, ITALY, CANADA, SWEDEN, AMERICA, JAPAN, SWITZERLAND and others! (Sorry MAC, you didn't make the grade!)

I conduct this class as a fund raiser for, "The Stephen Nason Artificial Heart Fund." I'm also working with the Volunteers of America to help homeless teens learn a trade!

It's all about the giving! Happy Holidays!

Remember to follow me on Facebook and Twitter, I will be posting videos and pics during the class!

BIG BUSINESS SWALLOWING SMALL!

2012-11-27T09:48:00.000-07:00

Yet another indie cosmetic company was swallowed up by Big Business!

Yesterday, in Paris, cosmetic giant, L'Oreal announced that they have signed an agreement with private equity firm Castanea Partners to acquire URBAN DECAY!

This is so distressing on so many levels. First, Urban Decay claims they do not test on animals, however, L'Oreal does! Also, indie cosmetics companies are taking the bait that is being fed to them, $$$$! The competition is so ruthless, that more often then not, passion turns to dollars.

As consumers, we need to be educated about what it is we are truly buying.

Tomorrow, I'm going to talk about smaller companies, i.e., "Face atelier." They have HIGH quality products, cruelty free, and EXCEPTIONAL customer service....and offer PRO discounts!! ( I make no monies from this endorsement) They are wonderful...and are developing products for airbrush!

If you are a professional MUA, or want to become one, than have professional products in your kit, for me, I WOULDN'T DARE put any L'Oreal product on a client's face!

These are just some of the materials covered in my Makeup Training Class! BUSINESS!

All proceeds go to "The Stephen Nason Artificial Heart Fund."

FREELANCERS - Protect Yourself!

2012-11-06T09:56:00.000-07:00

Yes, you're finally working as a "freelance makeup artist!" This means you are in business. With this, comes responsibility's. TAXES!

Don't be foolish, get yourself an accountant, and claim "every dime you make." But, more importantly, make sure you put yourself on a "payroll." This will insure that you get social security benefits. Even if it is only minimum wage.

This is not tax advice, this is "life" advice.

Also, you should carry some kind of liability insurance. Just carrying makeup and a brush doesn't mean you are a professional. Professional's own established businesses, and people who can help support their roles. Go to the Small Business Admin. to get more information.

Makeup is huge business, and if you're going to play with, "the big boys," you better have your ducks in a row. The competition is fierce. Many slide by, under the radar, but to be truly successful, you really need to be established.

Do makeup courses teach you this? Doubtful. This is one of the many areas covered in my one week intensive course. It really is more than just being creative.

Affordable "ONE OF A KIND" Pieces by Apparel Valley

2012-10-03T10:54:00.001-06:00

They did it again! Apparel Valley has beautiful designs that you should not miss out on!

I love this company! Not only for their beautiful, well made designs, but for the outstanding customer service they provide. Every year I add to my collection, and items I've bought years ago are still contemporary and people run up to me asking where I got these pieces.

These items sell out fast (that's why I'm buying mine now) so if you see something you like...grab it now!

www.ApparelValley.com

It's NOT Business as Usual!

2012-10-02T11:22:00.005-06:00

Dear Fellow MUA's and Industry Leaders:

While the economy is lagging, sales of cosmetics have been on the rise for the last 5 years. US sales have exceeded over 75 BILLION dollars and well over 100 BILLION world wide. Yet your sales/property isn't seeing this return. Why?

With Internet sales taking a HUGE bite out of your sales, with coupon codes, free gifts and wrapping, the impact to you and your property will suffer. That being said, you still have time to build a clientele that will seek your services out. The only way to succeed is if you have the unique skills that will satisfy that client or guest. Service is something they cannot get on the Internet.

Cosmetic counters are the "showcase" of "their" product, not you. The only way around this is with extraordinary practical skills. A paradigm shift has to be made in the way you approach your position as a sales person. Make your position "Your Business!" Literally. If you become engaged with the customers and gain the trust of that customer, they will continue to come back.

Holiday sales forces are being built for the coming customers. How will you stand out? What skills do you really have that sets you apart from the "status quo?" Will you be retained by the company that hired you temporarily? If you approach these positions as, "business as usual," you will not succeed.

When I go to a cosmetic counter and find that the sales person is just showing me colors, prices and is poorly trained, I'm gone, and you should be too. Cosmetic companies know that clients with their "smart phones" at the counter, can find better deals and frankly don't need you. If, however, you make that brand "your own," you will see a rise in your sales and long-term retention.

Strategies, training and a solid plan will give you the tools you need to not only succeed, but excel. The business of cosmetics is so competitive that if you don't have the skills to bring a unique experience to that client, well you know the rest!

IF IT HAPPENED TO ME, IT CAN HAPPEN TO YOU

2012-09-21T13:50:00.000-06:00

Yep, it happened, I got an infection on my lower lip - FROM MY DENTIST! While, thank heavens, it wasn't anything contagious, it still was unsightly and gross! If something like this can happen under sterile conditions, imagine what can happen at the cosmetic counter!

The holidays are approaching, and companies are hiring people to man the counters. Who are they, and what do they really know about sanitation? These people are there for one reason only...sales! As promotions continue, with a makeup application, turn over is high, both in the chair and with products. Are they taking the proper precautions so that you don't end up with something you didn't expect?

Cosmetics is a huge industry, and they should be doing a better job of protecting the public. It is their job to pile on as much product to your face, hoping you'll purchase at least one item. To protect yourself, stand back and watch that MUA that is applying makeup...if they use the back of their hand - RUN don't walk. When people sneeze they tend to use the back of their hands. A makeup mixing palette should be used. And if they go from the product to the face and back into the product, well, if your next, good luck!

Ask them to use a fresh brush set, if they tell you they've been cleaned, who cares, you are entitled to a healthy experience. Also, ask them to disinfect products, in front of you...and that makeup belt is a bacteria breeding, feeding ground. MUA's walk around with these belts tied around their waist hoping to give you the appearance of being a professional. Customers walking by that sneeze or cough are leaving potentially harmful germs.

You should notify (no, demand) store managers of unsanitary practices! It's your money, your health and they can afford these small steps to insure you don't get sick.

Contacting Me!

2012-09-13T10:57:00.003-06:00

As you can see, I haven't posted my email. This is intentional to avoid spammers. If you want to contact me, just click follow and I will send you my contact information.

Thanks for your support!

Retail...that's where the money is!

2012-09-11T09:34:00.000-06:00

Photographers - Beware!

2012-09-09T12:42:00.001-06:00

So, you got that booking that you've worked so hard for. You're a professional and understand the use of light, movement, and telling a story. You're probably using very expensive HD equipment to shoot with. Location, studio, wardrobe, etc., etc.

BUT, does your makeup artist use HD products in their application?! Doubtful. If your MUA isn't using HD products, then what you end up with is photographs that aren't the quality they should be.

Using HD is a science...believe me, I've seen the best of them, used on celebrities that have turned out hideous! So, not only did the MUA lose that job (and those in the future) but, so will you.

Many MUA's use Makeup Forever HD...which is a good place to start, but if not applied correctly, it shows up too shear, or uneven...then, they apply HD powder...THIS WILL FLASH WHITE! and not give you anything you can use.

Also, if they're using products with SPF, this will also flash white...KNOW your MUA! Where did they get their training, what products do they use...and for heavens sake, if they don't have a really strong book, then do a test with them.

Also, for brides...nothing more unattractive then a strapless dress, and moles not being covered! The MUA is either inexperienced, or Lazy!

Technology has changed, and frankly, the makeup industry, as a whole, is lagging.

Again, contact me if you want MUA's that know the pit falls of HD, and if you're wanting to be a MUA...contact me regarding training. You will definitely be ahead of the crowd.

Cream in a Jar...Uh Oh!

2012-09-08T12:27:00.001-06:00

Yes, we all have them. Our favorite face cream in a jar. Did you know, that once the "jar" is opened, the air starts to brake down those enzymes that make it work?

When buying a face creme, pumps and tubes are the way to go. It keeps the product safe from the air, and, well, you know how I feel about sanitation!

Avoid the cosmetic counter that offers you "free samples" from an open jar. They are already braking down, and you will be disappointed at best. Really, how many of us have gone back to the store to buy that face cream?

Ask them if they have samples in tubes, I know Clarins does a great job of this. (Disappointed in Chanel - they should know better.)

Deer Valley and Expanding!

2012-09-02T13:28:00.000-06:00

Welcome! I'm so excited to be expanding! And what better place than in Utah!

I've had a good deal of interest from people in Deer Valley so, I'm joining with companies and local businesses to raise money for, "The Stephen Nason Artificial Heart Fund."

What better way to give students, tourists and locals a great experience, learning and raising money for this cause.

I love the snow, mountains, and the people that want and expect only the best my industry has to offer.

Stay tuned for upcoming events...but, I will be offering this 1 Week Intensive course in Deer Valley!

If you haven't been there...now is this time!www.Deervalleymakeupartistinstruction.com

How would you like to Follow me?

2012-08-07T14:03:00.001-06:00

While this blog is about "beauty tips/fashion", I would like to know if demonstration videos would be helpful to you? If this is something you would like to see, you need to follow me, and leave a comment. Let me know what you're interested in seeing, and what you want to learn.

Video is time consuming and expensive, if you do it professionally, and those of you who know me, know that's the only way I would consider doing this.

Remember, you must follow and comment.

Thanks

Laurie

SANITATION!!!

2012-08-04T14:07:00.000-06:00

This tip is for everyone! Especially those working behind the counter or camera! Just spraying your brush with brush cleaner....DOES NOT disinfect! I repeat! DOES NOT disinfect! When a brush is used on a client, it should NEVER go from product to client...then BACK INTO the product! The product should be placed on a mixing palette and then you can go from product to face. When you are done, HOWEVER, what you have is what I call a "DEAD" brush! Never use a brush again on a DIFFERENT client. This is why, I keep so many brushes...and there are sanitation sprays, especially made for cosmetics! These are some of the tips you'll learn in Makeup Training!

Makeup Training Thank You!

2012-07-16T10:43:00.001-06:00

Just wanted to thank all those that attended yesterdays training at Salon Keiji! We raised money for the "Stephen Nason Artificial Heart Fund," and I can't say how much I appreciate their support!

I hope all that attended found this training informative, and gave you some skills that you will find useful in your desire to be a successful Makeup Artist!

Please leave your comments, as any feedback is important to better these training classes for you in the future.

Thank you to Steve Biggs of the Special Effects Supply Company who attended and lent his expertise to the class. Mr. Hollywood, we love you!

Also, Josh Counsel, special effects master of Musemakeupschool.com, who spoke about special effects work in this field and the soon to be open school in January.

Lastly, Cassie...who had a vision, and made this training/fund raiser happen. She is hard working and professional, which is why I agreed to have this class at Salon Keiji.

If you have questions, I am here to answer them all. Thank you again! And remember, "Love is being beautiful and knowing it!"

Laurie

Makeup Training on July 15!

2012-05-31T12:44:00.000-06:00

I've never done this before, but the time has come! One day, Sunday, July 15, I am holding a 4 hour class giving all those in the Makeup Field, or who want to be in this field, an opportunity to attend a training, that I normally charge thousands of dollars for!

I will discuss not only makeup tricks, but retail, film, and fashion...and how to get you started working! I want everyone to make money. If this is your passion, don't miss this class. Beauty school owners, photographers, and professionals in the field will be there.

I am asking $50.00 that goes to "The Stephen Nason Artificial Heart Fund."

TAKE NOTES...SPACE IS LIMITED to 30!!

E-mail me if you want your space reserved....laurieai1@gmail.com

My Best Kept Secret!

2012-05-21T09:36:00.002-06:00

Those nice plump lips, full beautiful, and shiny! While almost every lip gloss on the market claims to solve this problem for you...few deliver. Well, here is a product that does deliver and immediately!

City Lips!

While most lip gloss claiming that they plump up lips, most contain either cinnamon or menthol, sting and do little for a lasting look. City Lips works by activating the collagen in the layers of the lip and instantly helps the lip not only look plump, but leaves the lip moist for most of the day!

If you continue the use, they can stay plump and beautiful! KISS!

Makeup Training Classes

2012-05-15T08:28:00.000-06:00

Since I've received so many requests for these classes, I would like to address all your questions, personally! Please feel free to e-mail me, or leave a comment here, and I will get back to you within 24 hours!

These classes offer you an opportunity will give you the information and tools you need to work, at a 1/3 of the price of beauty schools and will not take 18-24 months to get there! This class runs 1 week and it is intensive. Focusing on technique, lighting, portfolio building and the tools you need to get the job done.

My e-mail address is laurieai1@gmail.com

I look forward to hearing from you!

Eyeliners!

2012-05-08T10:52:00.000-06:00

There are so many to choose from! Gel eyeliners, I find are messy and they tend to crack over time, especially in the summer. They're cumbersome and, frankly not easy to get to. Pencils, tend to be made of a cream base, and with the summer coming, can smudge.

For me, a liquid eyeliner, or cake, work best. The colors are richer and the staying power is so much better. With a sponge applicator, you can manipulate it so you can have that smoky eye! You can purchase liquid eyeliners with the applicator, all in one.

Don't spend a lot of money on this item. Their very similar in all brands. Let me know how you're doing!

Animal Testing and Cosmetics!

2012-05-06T12:44:00.000-06:00

Ok, this is the truth, and if anyone tells you differently, they are probably (without knowing) not telling you the entire truth.

While cosmetic lines, i.e., Chanel, and Yves St. Laurant, claim they don't test on animals, third party manufacturers (those ingredients they buy outside their facilities) do. Think about it. If you use anything on your face or hair that didn't come directly from your garden; animals, unfortunately, have been involved in some shape or form.

Liability almost demands that some form of testing take place. If you do not like this practice, perhaps you would be happy to volunteer your face or hair for testing. Sorry, but that's the alternative, not a good one, I might add.

Laws in the last 10-15 years, however, have demanded that testing practices are as humane as possible, and the companies be held accountable with inspections to see that requirements are met. Do your homework. I will help you.

Bottom line...if it has chemicals in it, well you know the rest. By the way "Bert's Bees Wax" was bought up by Clorox. Need I say more.

Know your Products!

2012-04-26T13:09:00.001-06:00

I have recently received some calls from professionals who mixed HD products with non HD products. HD is what it says it is: High Definition. If you use HD concealer, then you need to use HD foundation. If you use HD foundation, then you need to use HD powder. If you don't, the HD cameras will pick up what looks like spotty makeup.

Makeup Forever does a great job of keeping you in HD or regular products. These products are a little more expensive, but well worth it if you are working with a professional photographer...you don't, however, need to use HD products for your everyday makeup. The eye really can't see the difference. But, oh, that camera!

Just some of the tips you'll learn in Makeup Training by Laurie Aiello.

Makeup Training Classes

2012-04-23T11:27:00.000-06:00

If you are interested in the Makeup Training classes, please e-mail me and I will send you the details! Because I have had so many inquiries, the best way to address your interests is personally. I want to keep this blog open to discussions regarding beauty and tips! (Take notes!)

Thanks for your interest and I will certainly respond within 24 hours. There is no other intensive training on this scale to get you ready to work...within a week!

The Steve Nason Artificial Heart Fund

2012-04-22T14:19:00.000-06:00

I am creating "The Steve Nason Artificial Heart Fund." ALL proceeds go this cause. The correct name for the device that Steve received is "The Heartmate II LVAD" Herein "LVAD." This device is a bridge to "Transplant."

This fund will help those who have an LVAD or are seeking an LVAD. Education and resources to healthcare, quality of living and medications will be a part of this program. In addition, help Steve with out of pocket expenses that are tremendous!

Hoping that you will join me in this cause, as we all know, heart health is the number one issue of all Americans.

Thank you in Advance! Laurie