Inside the Life of a Glam Makeup Artist

I Survived Working Black Friday So I'm Turning Up At Home

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 28 Nov 2015 01:00:00 +0000

Toasting to anybody that had to work BLACK FRIDAY!

Football Player Brett Favre Jersey Retired On Thanksgiving Night

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 27 Nov 2015 04:30:00 +0000

One of my favorite football players Brett Favre football jersey was retired on Thanksgiving night. I remember when I did makeup for Brett he was with the Green Bay Packers. The photo shoot was done at his Dallas style home in Mississippi. We had a great time on set, definitely a fun guy. Luv his humor!

Decor: Channeling Mardi Gras On Thanksgiving Day

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 26 Nov 2015 21:00:00 +0000

The family was missing home which is New Orleans so I decided to have fun with this year table setting. I had a box in the shed that had some back home goodies in it. So instead of doing a turkey, a ham or mini hens I choose crawfish. Some of my menu came from Louisiana Crawfish, Thank God to them. I luv ordering my crawfish from Louisiana Crawfish during the summer. To see the smiles on my family face was priceless because everything was what they asked for. I'm just thankful that I was able to give them a great day because last year during this time I was in the hospital due to complications with my lupus. I just remember cooking that morning and I started to feel weird, So I'm blessed to be here with my family, friends, and coworkers.

The Night Before Thanksgiving

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 26 Nov 2015 04:00:00 +0000

Kitchen is cleaned now it's time to have a drink!

Color Correcting And Contouring On Brown Skin Women

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 24 Nov 2015 16:00:00 +0000

I always get asked when I'm at Sephora from deeper skin clients what do I use to achieve a flawless makeup look. Color correcting is a big thing for me when I'm applying makeup on clients and on myself. On deeper skin women I do a lot of color correcting under the eyes and around the lips. It's ok to use two shades of foundation especially around the hairline or a medium foundation and a darker powder. Finally makeup brands are hearing brown skin women cry who needs a little color correcting and or contouring kit. At the moment my favorite four items I use daily to achieve an even skin are listed below.

MAKE UP FOR EVER Skin Equalizer Radiant Primer in Caramel

L'OREAL Paris Pro Matte Foundation in Classic Tan #109

ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS Contour Cream Kit in Medium to Tan

SMASHBOX Step by Step Contour Kit in Medium/Dark

Going To The Pulmonologists For Another Treatment On My Lungs

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 24 Nov 2015 02:38:00 +0000

This morning I went in to do treatments on my lungs. I've been actually feeling better so once I can get my lungs healthy I'll be almost back to normal. I guess getting that flu shot didn't hurt because I've been exposed to sick people the last few days and nothing happen but a sore throat. Unfortunately that sore throat for one day set me back. My lungs are weaker than it was on my last visit so I really have to make sure I stay away from anyone that is sick. So hard to do when I work around people everyday. My Pulmonologists still has me on prednisone, seem like I'll be on it next month as well. I hope I don't get to 200lbs because I'm almost there. Never thought I would weigh that much but if it helps me to get through the day then I'll take this nasty pill with a smile.

I Love Using Sexy Hair Soy Touchable Hairspray

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 22 Nov 2015 02:07:00 +0000

Hairspray is one of my favorite items to use when getting ready. But after having challenges with my lungs I have to be careful with items I use. I'm so obsessed with soft flirty hair it's a must that I use hairspray to maintain it. I like using Sexy Hair, Healthy Sexy Hair Soy Touchable Weightless hairspray with argan oil. I'm a southern girl so I live for big hair and if the hairspray can help to control frizz it's a plus. Great on extensions, weaves and wigs. It will keep the hair shining and won't dry it out. Pick up your can if your into sexy hair.

How I Achieve A Great Blowout On My Hair Like The DryBar

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 14:57:00 +0000

Not everyday I get to pamper my hair with a great blowout but when I do I like to treat my hair to The Drybar in New York. There's nothing like having your hair done by a talented hairstylist who will use products and tools that luv your hair & extensions. So when I'm not able to get soft flirty hair every week at The Drybar, I do have a few goodies from them to help me to achieve almost the look that they would give me.

The Drybar Sake Bomb Nourshing Shampoo
*cleanse and hydrate
*smooth frizz and add shine
*great on extensions

The Drybar Sake Bomb Nourshing Conditioner
*deeply nourish, hydrate and detangle
*smooth hair and prevent frizz
*replenish lackluster hair

The Drybar Mai Tai Spritzer
*add body and soft texture
*creates tousled , beachy waves
*nourish hair with vitamin A,B, and D

The Drybar Sparkling Soda Shine Mist
*creates a long lasting shine that won't weigh down your hair
*tames frizz
*adds hydration

The Drybar High Tops Rollers Soft Self Grip

The Drybar Lemon Drop Flatbrush

On Set With Pepsi For Upcoming Ad Campaign

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 16 Nov 2015 20:20:00 +0000

When I usually have to do a photo shoot it's normally in New York but today I got a treat the Pepsi photo shoot is taking place in Norwalk, CT at Sono Studios. Unfortunately, I can only show limited pics...sorry.

Always in my kit, Make Up For Ever HD Professional Powder

When I have to do hair I always bring my Absolute NY ABSOLUTE HOT Tourmaline Pro 4000 Turbo

Nothing like working with a bestie, luv her Mel Paldino...she holds me down even when we are not working together.

I'll be Backstage At Glamour Magazine Women Of The Year Award

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 04 Nov 2015 03:52:00 +0000

Just found out today that I'll be returning back to do makeup at Glamour Magazine Women Of The Year Awards with L'OREAL Paris....screaming!!!!

Sephora Senior Artist Training

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 04 Nov 2015 00:56:00 +0000

Today was the first day of the Senior Artist training. I'm excited about this new chapter in my life. I'm not only going to be elevating myself but others who are passionate like myself in the world of artistry. I have been bless to touch so many with makeup artistry. I've work with celebrities, TV shows, fashion shows, photo shoots and so much more. I'll continue to work big assignments but I would like to now teach and share my 18 plus years with upcoming makeup artists. I hope Sephora will have me!

You Don't Look Sick...Auto Immune Disease

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 01 Nov 2015 17:43:00 +0000

Do I need to be 6ft under in order for me to be consider a sick person. Nowadays when people are sick, non cancerous they look like me. They are fighting everyday living with some type of illness that they have been diagnosed with. If you know someone who have any type of an auto immune disease try to be there for them. Just like you show emotions for a celebrity who is sick and in the hospital the world hashtag and go hard, show that same support for your friend. Instead of suggesting they go out with you in the girls after work offer to maybe have something delivered to them. Maybe get together with friends in skip Starbucks for a week in treat your bestie to a one day maid service or if she has young kids treat her kids to healthy food/snacks or some type of educational entertainment that they can do at home while mommy is not feeling her best. Don't wait for the person who don't look sick to be under the grave to finally wanna step up. Real friends show up before the tombstone does.

Happy Halloween

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 31 Oct 2015 14:26:00 +0000

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!

Sometimes A Girl Need A Treat After Bad News...Lupus Sucks

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 21 Oct 2015 14:36:00 +0000

Today was such a draining day for me didn't help that my test results gave me more bad news. I was praying that I'll catch a break on these new tests but I didn't. I know I'm suppose to cut back on my favorite thing to do, eat sweets and drink wine but today I need something that would make me happy. Now that my kidneys are doing better I now have to fight with Multiple Nodules In My Lungs. Of course I will get through it but it pisses me off because now I have to deal with treatments. LUPUS SUCKS!!!!

Health: Today Is My Schedule CT Scan

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 19 Oct 2015 15:04:00 +0000

I promised you that I would share with you everything that's going on in my life, good or bad. This morning I had to go in to do another CT Scan, I get them often so I'm actually use to it. Today my Pulmonologist is checking on my lungs because I've been having breathing problems, strong chest pains, and shortness of breath especially when walking and going upstairs. Wish me luck that my results come back with no problems.

What's Your Madison Reed Hair-O-Scope

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 21:25:00 +0000

Many of you know that I'm a energy person who believes heavily on astrology. Recently I had a little fun with Madison Reed "What's Your Hair-O-Scope". I also took their hair dye advisor test to see what hair color they suggest for me. My hair color in Madison Reed is Perugia Black-2NAA it's a sapphire black with a hint of blue just like I love it. Looks like Madison Reed is on track about Libra's when it comes to our hair because I love wearing my hair in jet black with soft flirty waves. Below is what Madison Reed had to say about us elegantly fashionable yet adorably vain Libra girls.

Madison Reed Horoscope on Libra's: Ah, the ever diplomatic and noble Libra. You are always fair-minded, and friends come to you for judicious rulings in all matters. We could write a poem about your charm, which we’re sure you’d read and adore… if you hear us over the chorus of your admirers! For a landmark change, try a rich, vibrant color just one shade deeper to convey the gravity of your personal style. Style hair with products that's frizz free while delivering hair care benefits that add softness and shine. You’ll be immeasurably happy with your look.

Madison Reed Swatch

PERUGIA BLACK - 2NAA

Madison Reed PERUGIA BLACK - 2NAA

My Allergy Testing Round 2

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 22:54:00 +0000

I'm back for round 2 of my allergy testing. Everyone asked me if it hurt last time but it didn't. It just feel like someone is taking a writing pen in sticking me in my back. The only thing that bothered me was that the room was freezing, So after 2 visits guess what, I'm not allergic to anything. My lupus be playing jokes on my bodies making it mock like I had allergies so I was miserable for a few months, When it happens again I don't have to take allergy meds because it won't stop it. I'm just upset that I waste so much money...No comments on my cheesy tattoo, lol!!!

First Round Of Allergy Testing

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 02 Oct 2015 15:30:00 +0000

The day is finally here! I'm only excited about it because I've been miserable for months and my doctor has tried everything, prescribed everything so he suggested I go see a specialist. I'm here, so I hope he can put me out of my misery.

While At Sephora I Met A Great Muse To Showcase My Makeup Artistry

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 01 Sep 2015 22:59:00 +0000

I love doing makeup on this beautiful model Caitlin Monahan. You might recognize her face, she does a lot of photo shoots with Make Up For Ever. She always make my makeup artistry look flawless. Caitlin knew today I would be at Sephora so being a VIB Rouge she was able to stop by to get a custom makeover. With so many amazing makeup brands to choose from I was in a artistry playground.

On Caitlin I used the following makeup items.

Face: Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Invisible Cover Foundation in 127=Y335, Make Up For Ever Multi Use Pro Finish Powder in 118 Neutral Beige

Brows: Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz in Medium Brown

Eyes: Stila Eye shadow Palette Eyes Are The Window Palette in Soul, Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner in Intense Black, Laura Mercier Kajal D'Orient Eye Liner, Sephora Collection Mascara Full Action Extreme Effect Mascara, Urban Decay 24/7 Concealer Pencil in FBI

Contour: Tarte Amazonian Clay Matte Waterproof Bronzer in Park Avenue Princess

Highlight: Perricone MD No Highlighter Highlighter, Bobbi Brown Highlighting Powder in Bronze Glow

Lips: Buxom True Nude Lip Foundation in Buff, Nars Lip Gloss in Greek Holiday

Lashes: Sephora Collectiom Luxe False Lash in Plush

Summer Time Living In Connecticut On Candlewood Lake

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 00:00:00 +0000

After a long day of makeup artistry I always enjoy coming home in just clearing my mind sitting by the lake (Candlewood Lake). I just love being around water, digging my feet in the sand while drinking a nice cold beer. This is why I luv summer time.

My Favorite Must Have's Fab Finds At Sephora

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 01:46:00 +0000

I went to Sephora today to see if I could find some new goodies. I found two great FAB FINDS that I wanted to share with you ladies.

Finally a makeup company took an interest with making a contour palette for us boogie down brown people. Smashbox Step By Step Contour Kit in Deep is an exclusive palette only at Sephora. It's three blendable, buildable shades contour, bronze, and highlight the face for foolproof contouring, and the specially designed angled brush assists with even application. $45.00

I also found these Sephora Collection Contour Matte Gel Eyeliner Waterproof. The creamy texture, the intensely pigmented bright colors, and the long wearing smudge proof liner is everything I was looking for. I luv the way it glides on soft then dries in a matte finish, comes in 10 shades. $14.00

Connecticut Celebrity Makeup Artist Brandy Gomez-Duplessis Featured On Cocotique

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 06 Aug 2015 18:37:00 +0000

It's always an honor when someone features you in a magazine or on their blog. Being recognized for your talent is always delightful. In the beauty industry where there is so many amazing and talented artists, to be highlighted by a brand means a lot. I met Dana Hill the Founder & CEO of Cocotique while doing makeup at the IBS Show for Absolute NY, a makeup brand who's makeup I luv using. While at the show Dana and I hit it off right away like two girlfriends. So when Kim Jackson, the Director of Cocotique reached out to me about doing an interview, I was honored. If your a beauty junkie like myself, you must get a subscription of Cocotique monthly beauty box. The ladies always select the best items for you to enjoy. Here's the article for you to read about me being a COCOBelle!

Brandy Gomez-Duplessis doing makeup on Ebony Magazine Style Directoe Marielle Bobo

Love: How We Celebrated Our Wedding Anniversary

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 06 Aug 2015 03:30:00 +0000

In the media and on reality shows we never hear about marriages lasting longer than a full season. But in real life, marriages are still going strong...well at least our love is. I had the best day ever hanging out with my best friend. We laughed the entire day and he didn't mind being my co-host on all my silly videos. So join us on a few of our stops before my phone died and I ran out of space on my phone. I definitely look forward to returning to Abbott's Lobster a casual waterfront restaurant on the Mystic River in Noank and Chamard Vineyards a beautiful farm, winery and bistro in Clinton.

Makeup Monday: How I Keep My Hair Beach Ready

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 03 Aug 2015 14:00:00 +0000

When I want to have an effortless beach look while home on Makeup Monday I like to take with me to the lake Bumble and Bumble Surf Infusion and Surf Spray. To keep me cool, my face refreshed and hydrated I bring with me Caudalie Organic Grape Water.

Bumble and Bumble Surf Infusion is an oil- and salt-infused spray to create soft, sea-tossed waves with sheen. This innovative blend of tropical oils and sea botanicals softens hair and adds shine while a sea mineral complex builds tousled texture. It’s perfect for those who need extra conditioning—in or out of the sun—for a softer, touchable finish. It contains UV filters to guard against the drying effects of the sun and offers beachy, windswept texture with volume and a matte finish. Keep Surf Infusion out of direct sunlight to preserve its sea-breezy blue color and prevent fading. If color does fade, don’t fret—performance is not affected..

How To Use

-Shake well.

-Mist Surf Infusion on damp or dry hair, focusing on the lengths.
-Style and let dry or diffuse.
-If desired, squeeze or twist hair to encourage more wave.

Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray a saltwater-based styling spray. This styling spray adds volume and texture to the hair to create a sexy, wind-blown feel. Its salt-infused formula adds fullness, hold, and a cool, matte finish. Salt water is no secret to editorial stylists for adding volume and texture, and anyone who has been in the ocean knows of that salty, sexy, sun-dried, wind-styled feel (that seems such a shame to wash out). So while Bumble and bumble hasn't exactly bottled the real thing, they've replicated and improved it, including seaweed and kelp extracts to enhance moisture. Excellent for wavy types and landlocked surfers with winter blues, this spray adds body to fine hair and adds a nice texture for silver hair.

How To Use

-Spray evenly on damp hair

-Style and let dry (stand in the wind)or use a diffuser

-Layer Surf Spray on top of Grooming Creme for a soft, flexible, beachy, texture

Caudalie a 100 percent grape water toner enriched with moisturizing polysaccharides and mineral salts. This 100 percent plant based water extracted directly from grapes during the harvests. It soothes, refreshes and hydrate the skin.

SEPHORA VIB Rouge Before Brunch Event

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 03 Aug 2015 03:30:00 +0000

It's Sunday morning and it's all about Sephora VIB Rouge Before Brunch event nationwide. Doors are opening at 9am, the event is for 2hr where VIB Rouge customers will have private shopping time at the store.

Makeup and skincare brands will be there to participate offering makeup looks as well as doing mini facials. Shoppers will get 4x the points on all purchases, a limited edition cosmetic bag filled with samples. I'm elated hope to see you there!

Trish the Store Director checking in the VIB ROUGE

Gina from COVER FX was doing foundation matches

Zack from CLARINS was offering skincare cocktails

TARTE was giving sultry eyes

SEPHORA staff looking good in their red lips

Phil helping out in fragrance

Zack has all the baskets

Luv shopping with my favorite makeup blogger...Georgie O'Connell (@gmogirl2)

Checking out Stila cosmetics Inked Liner

Never pass up an opportunity to do Georgie makeup

Alex from TARTE was also there to support