Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists

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Kensington Artist Product Picks of the Month

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 23:37:00 +0000

Every month Kensington Artists get together to teach and share with each other about the latest trends in products and the bridal/beauty industry. We wanted to share our show and tell products for April with you, so that you too can stay on top with best products you can buy. Enjoy!
~Holli (I have decided to do an extra long review of my own pick ... stay tuned).

Amy's Hair Pick:
Lanza Beach Spray
Purchase at Mesha Salon or MAKA Hair Supply

"Fantastic product to make hair effortlessly chic. If you are having a bad hair day, just spritz some of this product in in your hair, and "scrunch" for beachy curls. Note- don't brush product in or use a brush after applying the product, as this will jeopardize the finish!'

Sam's Makeup Pick:
HighDefinition Mattifier by CARGO
ULTA/ cargo.com

"Oil free liquid/loose powder that can be worn under or over makeup.
I use it as a mistake eraser, to remove mascara, liner, and eyeshadow oopses."

Erin Jordan's Hair Pick:
Shiny Happy People
S-Factor
Purchase at salons or Beauty Brands

"This product is amazing! A great way to get fantastic shine and make your hair color pop out. It is very light weight and smells amazing. The blend of ingredients that gives a brilliant and long-lasting shine."

Jessica's Makeup Pick:
X-Light Concealer
by Cover FX
Sephora

"It has great coverage and blend-ability! Use a synthetic blending brush to apply. Dab, blend, and powder with a loose translucent. Also great for tattoo coverage."

Lauren's Hair Pick:
Bed Head Masterpiece Hair Spray
by TiGi
Beauty Brands

"This is a massive shine hair spray. It gives a great hold while making the hair nice and soft, with a shine finish. Great for up-dos and fun styles! Use this product by holding it away from the head and use to style the hair or use it as a finishing spray."

Sasha's Makeup Pick:

Eyewear Set by LORAC

$24@ULTA

-8pc. shadow set

-mascara

-eyeliner

"The shadow colors are a great variety to choose from and highly pigmented. The mascara is dark, rich and contains fibers that give a fullness to lashes. The eyeliner goes on dark and smooth."

Mesha's Hair Pick:
Moroccan Shimmer Spray
Mesha Salon

"Ok who doesn't love Moroccan Hair Oil? The stuff smells fantastic! But I wanted to share a bit about it's sister product the shimmer spray. It is just that... spray that shimmers. It adds that health sheen to your hair and in the sun light actually reflects light with it's shimmer particles. Use by spraying the ends of your hair either before or after blow drying, and have the shiniest hair on the block!"

Interview with Holli Christensen

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 00:36:00 +0000

~ Kensington President and Makeup/Hair Artist
Courtesy of Professional Make-up Artists Interview Series

Q: Tell a little about yourself personally and if you attended school or you are a self taught makeup artist?

A: I own a makeup and hair artistry contracting company called Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists, that specializes in on-site services for bridal and special occasions. We have 3 major regions of operations; Arizona, So. California, and our latest addition Chicago.

I have my masters degree in Neuroscience from King's College London, and worked in the pharmaceutical research industry. After being laid-off, I decided to follow my true passion ... makeup. While I was really great at doing my own makeup, my ability to apply on others was not a strong suit of mine. I decided to attend the Make-up Designory (MUD) in Burbank for formal education in both beauty makeup application and studio hair styling. My makeup teacher Jackie Mgido had suggest to the class to start a bridal business. I knew nothing about business so I started to study. I had larger visions of the seed that Jackie had implanted in me, and In two years I have build a reputable company in the bridal industry with a staff of 50+ and growing.

Q: Do you think going to school for make-up artistry is important to excel in the business later on?

A: I think you can definitely make it on your own, but I personally feel more confident in those who have attended school because their work is closely critiqued and directed, something you can not get from attending seminars and watching youtube videos.

Q: Did you always wanted to be an artist, or did you stumble upon your talent by chance? Who or what inspired you to become a makeup artist?

A: No ...My cousin actually made the suggestion and I just made the decision on a whim, when I was laid off.

Q: What is your favorite or most exciting aspect about your job?

A: My fav thing is to make someone feel spectacular on their wedding day, and then to get follow up emails and notes on how wonderful they looked when they receive their wedding pictures. I also love providing other artists job opportunities and watching them grow in their craft.

Q: What surprises you most about working as a makeup artist?

A: Others lack of professionalism ... my company gets a lot of last minute bridal bookings because the MUA they had originally hired flaked on them for a better job. That is my biggest pet peeve about artists in the industry... The lack of commitment. This is something I make really clear to my staff. I wont tolerate it.

Q: Describe your "Classic Approach to Beauty." how do you define beauty?

A: Flawless skin. I work with a lot of artist who love to focus on the eyes... but I feel creating the perfect canvas is much more difficult and is the most important component to great makeup.

Q: What individual products and brands you're "addicted" to at the moment and you use on a daily basis?

A: Cinema secrets foundations all the way! Affordable, fantastic product for great coverage and longevity.

www.intriguebeauty.com ... I am one of Arthur's best customers!

*** Type in MUA 15% discount when you check out!

Q: What are some of the most basic but effective skin care tips in general that you have, that are really important?

A: wash your face! ... and moisturize

Q: Have you had an extreme, crazy or bad experience with a skin care product or during a makeup session? If so, what happened?

A: Yes ... i went out and purchased a bunch of airbrush fluids from a brand I know and trust ... biggest mistake. The product was difficult to work with and I had lost a few clients because of it. I stick with what I was taught with in school ... my all time fav- Temptu.

Q: What do you find to be the most common mistakes women make with makeup?

A: base matching ... and the girl at the makeup counter is probably not giving correct advice either.

Q: What do you think are best/worst trends in the makeup / skin care industry right now?

A: Best: HD makeup ... the technology is amazing! I can not wait to see what comes out next. There is a true science/technology to it all!

Q: Do teenage girls needs to splurge on high-priced makeup products, or are drugstore items are just as satisfactory?

A: There are a lot of great drugstore brand products out there ... but for everyday use beware of putting crap on your face especially when they are going through puberty break-outs. I love some of the prestige brands that really cater to the heath and healing of the skin, like Cargo's lightweight foundation and concealers.

Q: What feature(s) do you love to accentuate and why?

A: I love contouring the cheeks and adding lots of blusher. Blusher brings back the youthfulness of the skin and give a great healthy glow.

Q: What are your steps for the perfect, flawless, natural look?

A: Primer, foundation, concealer, powder, blush. ... I may use a dual finish to highlight and contour with colors that are two shades lighter and darker respectively.

Q: What is a really quick way to change a day look to a special occasion or nighttime face?

A: using a dark charcoal grey shadow to deepen the daytime eyeshadow. Add more blush.

Q: What are the differences between applying makeup on models and on real women?

A: Typically the age and condition of the skin. I would have to say the biggest difference is in the application -Photoshoot vs. Everyday wear.

Q: In terms of eyeliner, if you had to choose between a pencil, liquid, or creme/gel based, which one would you choose? Why?

A: I hardly ever use pencil ... I like to use my brushes. I prefer cream/gel because it tends to be a bit more forgiving than liquid, however I use liquid on top to "seal" false lashes and sharpen my final lines.

Q: Lip gloss or Lipstick. Which product is best? Why?

A: Can I say both? I think lip stick, even if it is a neutral lip, is a great way to even out the color and shape of the lip. A little bit of gloss on top will soften the creases of the lips and add dewey shine. I stay away from super shinny glosses and glosses with large flecks of glitter, as these tend to not photograph as well.

Q: What brand/type of concealer is your favorite for covering up the after effects of a late night out i.e. under-eye circles, blemishes?

A: Again ... I have to say Cinema Secrets

Q: How about airbrush spray makeup trend? Are these products better or easier to use than standard sponge or finger application? If yes when would you recommend using them?

A: It really depends on the look you want to achieve and the client/talent you are working on. I am a fan of airbrush. If I have a client who has good skin and is looking for a lightweight application, airbrush is great. A little bit of concealer then airbrush. This a great application for working on men as well. If I have a client with really bad skin, I would use a combination of traditional coverage and go over it with the airbrush to finish the look. I have recently started using airbrush for photo shoots and have found that my re-touching time has been greatly reduced because of the longevity of the silicone based (S/B) product.

Q: What do your clients think of you? What are some individual testimonials?

A: Holli, the President of Kensington, did my makeup for my wedding, and I have never felt more beautiful in my life. I looked flawless all day, and the only thing I had to reapply was my lipgloss. Even through tears and the heat, I looked picture perfect the entire time. Even better, I looked like me, just a more glamorous bridal version of me. She is incredible, and I would recommend her to anyone. I also recommend the trial so you can try out colors and ideas with her ahead of time, so that you can relax on the big day.

Erin R

The day of the wedding was a whirlwind. Holli and her team showed up promptly and went right to work. They were able to get through ten individuals, and we were all ready on schedule for pictures. I was very nervous that I wouldn't feel as pretty as I thought I should on my wedding day. That I would just look the same as every other day with a little more make-up. Honestly I have never felt more beautiful, gorgeous, and confident than on my wedding day. . . which is exactly the way it should be. Throughout the entire wedding process I kept telling myself that the pictures were the most important part, because after the cake has been cut and the guests have left they are the only thing that a couple has left. But the pictures would be worthless if a bride felt she did not look like a beautiful bride. A smile spreads across my face every time I look at any of my wedding pictures, because it reminds me of how good I felt on that day. I hope every bride can feel as good as I did on my wedding day . . . and if she choose Holli and Kensington Make-Up. . . she will!

-Courtney Carrara

Q: Would you share some of your future goals, your life motto, any words of wisdom that get you by in life and professional career?

A: My future goal is to create a national company that puts customer service and convenience into the the bridal beauty industry. I am currently writing a book on bridal makeup, hair, and beauty.

My Motto is: "Through my understanding of both science and makeup, I am able to unleash the expression of inner beauty to give my clients the confidence to be face-forward in life."

Business Wisdom: Makeup artistry is a business and you need to treat it like one. Study business and marketing. Protect yourself legally: 1) purchase liability insurance -it is about $200/year... and may cover your kit, 2) create a legal entity (DBA, LLC, S-corp), 3) write contracts, 4) make sure you get a photo usage release so you can use your TFP/CD photos for marketing yourself.

Q: What tips and advice do you have for aspiring makeup artists just starting out?

A: Fake it till you make it! I was terrified when working on my first photo shoot ... and many that followed. But I really took notes on what worked and what did not. And the more I put myself out there, the more confident I became. I would also analyze my photos by learning basic photoshop, blowing up my pictures and fixing my mistakes on the computer. This gave me a really good idea as to how to adjust my work and avoid making the same mistakes.

Lit Lips

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 04:30:00 +0000

So my new favorite lip gloss is lit lips- you can go to litlips.com for more info, photos and videos!

Have you ever been in the dark and need to refresh your lip gloss but it is too dark to see your mirror? I find myself in this situation quite often, however my days of being frusterated with my lip gloss is over with! I was recently given the most amazing lip gloss called lit lips! When you twist off the cap a lite turns on in the inner part of the cap. On the side of the lip gloss there is a mirror as well!

There is limited colors that the gloss comes in but the pigment of the color is amazing! It is a perfect gloss for yourself and a great gift to give your girlfriends!

xoxo ~ Dana

My night out with Lady Danger

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 23:23:00 +0000

After shopping around for the perfect Red for my friend... we came across the Lady Danger, a MAC Cosmetics lipstick of vibrant matte red.

A bold red lip is timeless and is the easiest way to make statement for a night out on the town. If you are not secure in your lipstick wearing ... proceed with caution! If you are in the market for a new red ... this is my pick. And I can confidently say that this puckering shade looks good on everyone. Bring your new friend Lady Danger to girls night out, and see what happens!

Lady Danger ... pucker up and leave your mark!
-Holli

San Diego Boudoir Shoot

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 23:34:00 +0000

San Diego Artists Keely and Travisean teamed up for a sexy boudoir shoot yesterday with the talented Aquario Studio. Shot in a private studio in Point Loma, Aquario Photography had all the tools for a perfect boudoir photoshoot.
In San Diego and looking for that perfect gift for your man?
Visit Here to find out more!

Kensington looks forward to working with Aquario Studio Photography
again soon! ~Keely

www.AquarioStudio.com

Artist Interview

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 21:48:00 +0000

This week Kensington Artist, Samantha M, dishes about every woman's must have makeup product and her favorite makeup look as an artist.

KM: Did you always know you wanted to become a makeup artist? If not then at what point in your life did you have an interest in the industry?

S: I actually had no interest in makeup growing up! I needed a job while I was in college studying architecture, so I took a retail cosmetics position and it was there that I realized my love for makeup artistry.

KM: There's not a girl/woman I know that doesn't like to have fun with makeup. What do you like best about being an artist?

S: That's exactly what I love most...being an artist! I think there is more "art" in beauty than most people realize. As cheesy as it sounds, I see each client as a new canvas per se.

KM: In your opinion, what is a must have makeup product that woman should always have and where can they buy it?

S: Aside from mascara, I have to say a good tinted moisturizer. It is the simplest way to even your skin tone, giving your complexion a fresh, healthy glow. My favorite is by Stila: the Oil Free Sheer Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 30 which can be found in Sephora stores or Sehpora.com

KM: What is one thing women should NOT do when applying their own makeup?

S: Use their fingers! It is always best to apply products with appropriate brushes, using less product than you would if you used your fingers... and also keeping the bacteria and oils from your hands off of your face.

KM: Lastly, what is your favorite makeup "look" to do?

S: I am a natural girl at heart therefore my favorite "look" is too, natural. I think women are surprised at how great they can look with very little time and very few products!

Red Carpet Hair Styles for your Wedding Day

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 20:36:00 +0000

The stars were out showing off their red carpet hair at the 2010 Academy Awards. There were tons of amazing hairstyles to pull from when dreaming up your wedding day hairstyle. The hairstyles range from Bold and Big to Smooth and Chic. I selected a few of my fav red carpet hair looks to inspire.

A lot of the red carpet dresses are very structured this season and so is the hair. For the modern bride, pair these voluminous hairstyles with a birdcage veil or bright budding flowers. Don't have the hair? Consider clip-in hair extensions for added volume and length.

Messy or neat. The high bun is the latest Spring hair trend perfect for the simple and chic bride. Incorporating a small headband or a simple hair pin will finish off the look to make you effortlessly glamourous on the big day.

Reminiscent of Veronica Lake's signature hair style, these celebs' brushed out and smoothed curls radiated on the red carpet. Finalize this a-symetrical style by twisting back one side your hair held by a glitzy comb or vibrant flowers. Depending on the placement, this may provide a great anchor for your veil to rest.

Unlike the slick back traditional up-do, these modern hair styles sweep away and gently frame the face. While this look seems relatively simple in the front ... turn around to the back for a pop of intricate details. Loosely placed curls and braids are perfect for a timeless yet modern bridal look. Add a vintage hair pin for the perfect accent to your veil.

-Holli Christensen

Artists Favorite Products

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 03:36:00 +0000

MAC is on top of the list in this weeks artists favorite products.

MAC Strobe Cream

Apply before foundation or mix a little bit with foundation to give your skin a glow.

- Lauren C.

MAC Lightful Charged Essence Serum

Available at MAC stores

Use as a primer by spreading evenly over face after using an SPF moisturizer then wait for it to dry.

- Jessica A.

Strawberry Fizz lip gloss by Victoria Secret

Leaves lips shinny, glossy and moist. Can wear with lipstick or without and still gives lips a nice natural look.

-Tanya D.

Rockaholic Dirty Secret Dry Shampoo by TIGI

Washing your hair everyday can damage your hair overtime. So keeping your hair down and straight for an extra day helps the oils on your scalp replenish your strands. Shake well and spray on roots then work through strands with your fingers. It gives hair the little refresher it needs and it's great for those who wake up late.

About $12 at Toni & Guy salons, Sally's and Cosmo Prof.

-Lauren D.

Major Lash Mascara by Stila

Available at Stila.com, Sephora or Ulta

This is my personal mascara and I also use it in my kit. It's a great one coat buildable mascara. Not clumpy!

-Sam M.

Lanza Powered-Up Texturizer

Available at Mesha Salon in Scottsdale, Maka Beauty Supply and anywhere Lanza is sold.

Gives volume and texture. Sprinkle lightly

-Amy

Lanza Neem Serum

Available at Mesha Salon

Light weight anti aging drops. Only a few drops needed then blow dry hair in sections.

- Mesha

Kenra Volume Hairspray

Available at Ulta or any salon that sells Kenra products.

All day hold, humidity resistant, helps give volume, and it smells great.

MAC Lightful Charged Essence Serum

Available at MAC stores

Primer that's good for any skin tone. Apply on fingertips and massage over skin.

- Dana H.

San Diego Bridal Shoot

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 01:00:00 +0000

San Diego platinum artists Keely and Travisean teamed up with Mat and Holly Sutor of Sutography for a bridal shoot.

The shoot took place at the Hilton Torrey Pines last Sunday, February 28th 2010.

... Oh and the photographer made the bouquet! Multitalented!

See below for photos of the shoot:

Artist Interview

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:51:00 +0000

In this weeks interview kensi artist, Paloma, shares with us her passion for makeup.

KM: You have such a creative and trendy style when it comes to makeup, how did that steer you towards this industry?

Paloma: The way that I steered myself into the industry is in a way sort of funny, I started doing event makeup in high school and from then on I said to myself "this is it.... I want to be a makeup artist!" Ive always found it fascinating the way that you can express beauty through the world of color and shapes on a face and in a way it defines me as a person.

KM: What style of makeup do you like doing the most?

Paloma: My favorite kind of style of makeup would have to be avante-garde or theater, it is absolutely AMAZING and WILD you can be so creative with it and bring out a little part of you in details. This is your time to show your personality that screams creativity!!!

KM: Do you have a fun or interesting story to tell from your experiences working in the field?

Paloma: I do, I remember the first time I ever did a fashion show it was crazy!!! It was my first huge event and all I remember is that I had to do like four models in like 20min and then change their style of makeup in 2min. It was absolutely nerve wrecking, but I love the rush its awesome!

KM: What is your biggest makeup pet peeve?

Paloma: My biggest pet peeve would be crusty eye lashes. It is horrible, once you realize that your mascara is old, please throw it away! You want your eyelashes to look marvelous.. this is the finishing touch of the eye! It makes it pop!

KM: If you had to choose a pro-artist you admire, who would it be and why?

Paloma: I think that the pro-artist that I admire the most would be Leslie Delvin she is absolutely phenomenal!!! She is the key makeup artist for the new film "Alice In Wonderland" she has also done all of the "Pirates of the Caribbean" films and is Mr. Johny Depps personal :). Delvin has a very creative side to her... it yells artistic, she combines colors and fantasy and makes it come to life and look incredible!!! She has worked so hard in every film that she has put out as well as won Oscars for them.

Artist Favorite Products

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 02:48:00 +0000

New year new favorite products from Kensington's makeup and hair artists!

Rosebud Lip Balm

Sephora-$6.00

This is the "red carpet" version of Vaseline. It's the best lip balm and the normal version has over 100 uses - Sam

Revlon Color Stay Overtime Lip Color

Available at drug stores

Stays on for 16 hours and I love it because it doesn't come off. It comes as a two headed lip stick with the color on one side and gloss on the other. Use on clean lips and apply the gloss to keep lips moist - Jana

TIGI S-Factor (Spun Satin)

TIGI store, Toni & Guy Salons and Cosmo Prof- $18.80

To use for a soft curl look. I like this product because it's light on hair, easy to work with, shows texture, and smells amazing - Erin

TIGI S-Factor Vivacious Hairspray

Toni & Guy store, Cosmo Prof, Sally's, and sometimes at Target or other grocery stores- $23.00

I like it because it gives a firm hold while helping pump up the hair to give soft, weightless, shiny volume! - Lauren D.

Hair Tinsel

Order online in every color 20 pack-$5.00

Lasts for 5-7 weeks and you're able to wash, curl and straighten hair.

Very easy to use - Natasha

Urban Decay's Alice In Wonderland Eyeshadow Palette

Ulta, Sephora, Urbandecay.com- $52.00

Great selection of eyeshadows, some vivid and some neutral. Good for day or evening wear. Can mix and match colors or wear alone. The colors are gorgeous but, most are knock offs of other palettes - Rachel

Kenra Setting Spray

Ulta, select Salons, or Maly's- $25.00

I love it because it's the first product I've used that holds curls all day. To use, spray hair in sections before you curl - Jamie

Cargo Waterproof Bronzer in Medium

Sephora

Has great coverage - Paloma

Twizzle Stick

Available at drug stores- pack of 3 for $3.00

Shapes brows by taking away unwanted hair and peach fuzz -Brittany

Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch-$32.00

Apply a small amount to clean skin before makeup. Blend in with finger and it'll minimize the appearance of pores and fine lines - Lauren C.

Cinema Secrets Foundation

Cinema Secrets and Intriguebeauty.com

A little goes a long way and it makes the skin look like butter in photos.

It's also a concealer - Vanessa

Welcome Matte Skin Enhancer

Sephora- $20.00

- Laura

G.M. Collins Creme

www.gmcollin.com

There are two types of labels- The blue label for oily to normal skin and the green label for dry skin. Gets rid of puffy eyes, fine lines and dark circles - Tanya

January's FreeStyle Shoot

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 18:40:00 +0000

Kensington's latest freestyle shoot was a great success! Thanks to our amazing makeup and hair artists, Ventola Photography, stylist Jill DeAndrea, Twirl Boutique for wardrobe, S.I.M Agency and all of our fabulous models!!

Celebrity Before and Afters

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 00:44:00 +0000

Thank you Dana (Kensington Artists) for sharing this video.

Good makeup can enhance anyone's true beauty.

Be Red Carpet Ready for your next event!

xx Holli xx

Artist Interview

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 20:30:00 +0000

In this weeks interview Kensington artist, Lauren D, talks about her love for creating up-do's, wedding day hair for brides and which celebrity hair style has caught her eye lately.

K: How long have you been styling hair?

L: I feel like I've done it forever! I would do my friends hair in high school, but I started doing hair professionally at the Toni & Guy Academy last year.

K: Among the different and creative ways to style hair, what' s your personal favorite?

L: I love to create up-do's. I love making someones hair into a piece of art. Giving big bouncy curls to someone with straight hair is also a lot of fun. You get to witness and be part of this huge transformation.

K: In your opinion what should a client, particularly a bride, think about when choosing her perfect style for her wedding day?

L: Thinking about your own hair type and knowing your hair and what your hair is capable of is a big deal. I also think it's good for women to know her face and know what styles may or may not be suitable. It's not about some extravagant up-do, it's about the bride being the most beautiful version of herself , accentuating her own beauty on HER special day. She'll want to look for something that fits her.

K: We all look towards celebrities for the latest hair styles. What celebrity style has caught your eye lately?

L: I like to keep tabs on Rachel McAdams. She's always playing with her hair color and styles. Curls, swept bangs, short hair, mid-length waves, no matter what , she's looking gorgeous and she shows how versatile hair can be.

K: Lastly, What product do you use that you can't live without?

L: I love Control Freak by TIGI. It's from TIGI's Bed Head line and the reason why I can't live without this product is because I have crazy curly, and frizzy hair. Control Freak tames the hair by smoothing and leaving you with non-frizzy and manageable hair. It's good for straight or curly hair types , and it basically tames the hair so styling is simple and faster. It feels like a gel in your hands , but once you apply it to damp hair, the strands are left silky and moveable after the hair is styled.

Vendor Interview

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 23:25:00 +0000

Along with our artist interviews each week, Kensington will also spotlight one of our fellow wedding vendors. This weeks interview is with the hard working gals at Thee Wedding Warehouse. http://theeweddingwarehouse.com/

K: With over 20 years in the wedding industry what made you interested in this particular industry?

TWW: I have always had a creative eye and ability. Flowers gave me an outlet that not only let me use these attributes, but gave me the "instant gratification" that we left brains need! Flowers lead weddings to everything by proxy. When brides start with flowers it can lead to many other questions and ways to help her. Some come here just for flowers... others because they didn't know where to start...Thee Wedding Warehouse!

K: What was your inspiration behind opening Thee Wedding Warehouse?

TWW: After Kathy's job of many years closed and my less than wonderful experience planning my own wedding here in Arizona, we decided to open the store. To be able to help other girls enjoy planning their wedding is a huge inspiration.

K: Do you plan on opening any other locations in Arizona?

TWW: We would love to open several other TWW's, but Whew! It takes a lot to run this one!

K: What do you love most about helping brides and their bridal parties plan their weddings?

TWW: I think for Kathy and I it's really the total gratification of knowing you made someones biggest day of their life easy, effortless and enjoyable.

K: What all does Thee Wedding Warehouse have to offer?

TWW: We offer everything you need to plan your wedding or event! From tiaras to toasting glasses we have it. We offer complimentary planning consultations and have a full service florist on site. We have recently added a Wedding Fairy to better serve our clients with all inclusive wedding packages and a Honeymoon Fairy to help our couples with their travel plans!

Artist Interview of The Week

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 19:17:00 +0000

Kensington Artist Jessica A. talks about her love for working in the makeup industry and more!

K: What do you like most about using your talents to make someone look and feel beautiful?

J: I love that it lets me be creative and every face brings a new challenge. There's an endless amount of combinations to create with colors and products and it's inspiring! Makeup Artistry brings instant gratification, there's no "feedback waiting period" that you often encounter with other jobs.

K: Is their a professional artist that you admire?

J: The makeup artist(s) that Christina Aguilera has used over the years. They consistently bring impact and high drama. I love that she lets her artists refine classic looks and how she's not afraid to explore new avenues. She always looks sexy!

Jessica recreated Christina's look from the Lady Marmalade video in the picture to the right.

K: What makeup brand do you love to use?

J: Having been trained using MAC products, I am a loyalist! MAC has a great cross-section of quality products and tools that never let me down.

K: What is one product you can't live without?

J: Eyelid primer, it's an absolute must- have to keep a beautiful eyeshadow look from creasing (ie: MAC Paint Pot in Painterly). But my absolute must have is my MAC #109 blending brush. Brushes are the key to flawless makeup!

K: tell us some of the fun things you have in your personal makeup bag.

J: Amongst other things, my personal bag has "options:"

Eyeshadow quads- Their great for travel.

Bronzer- For a year-round glow.

Five concealers- I'm always on the lookout for these

Mascaras- Three types of wands and a primer.

Spotlight on 20 Lounge Nail Bar and Boutique

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 03:58:00 +0000

Located at 7001 Scottsdale Rd. in the Scottsdale Seville Shopping Plaza, 20 Lounge Nail Bar and Boutique is hip and unique twist on your ordinary nail salon. I was there for the first time the other day and fell in love with the hip decor and various services they offer. Not only are they a beauty bar, but a boutique as well. They have a gorgeous selection of Matiko sandals and ZENsei apparel that's found at destination resorts, high end boutiques, recovery centers, golf and yacht clubs across the country. 20 Lounge is also involved with the community by donating to charities and organizations such as "NotMYkid" who has helped young adults that have overcome life-controlling addictions and behaviors. It's definitely a great place to get pampered!

www.20lounge.com/

- Jessica G, Kensington PR

Make Up For Ever Hottest Looks!

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:23:00 +0000

My two favorite looks are Holiday 2009 and a new twist on Bridal.
Click Here

Photo Shoot Road Trip

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 20:16:00 +0000

Kensington Makeup Artist, Samantha M, Photographer Rhake of Precision Light + Chaos Photography, and SIM Models Lauren, Morgan and Celena all piled in to a car yesterday on a photo shoot road trip through Chandler and Gilbert. Here are some of the fabulous photos created along side of the road and even in a dead apple orchard.

Samantha said "Lauren, Morgan and Celena were so beautiful, super sweet, and naturals in front of the camera"... and that "Rhake was a lot of fun, great sense of humor, and super easy to work with ... And best of all ... he was fast at processing the photos"... he had them available that evening!

Great work every one! Loving the photos :-)

xoxo Holli

Artists Favorite Products

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 02:02:00 +0000

Since it's the holiday season, Kensington Makeup Artists would like to wish all of our followers a Happy Holiday and share with you some of our favorite products. Great for stocking suffers!

Forever 21's Love and Beauty glitter eyeliner- $3.80

Available at:

Forever 21 and Forever21.com
The Body Shop- $15

Sephora and Sephora.com- $12

It's fun and easy to wear.

Everybody compliments it!

- Natasha H, Artist assistant

MAC Prolong Wear Luster Lip Color in Jazzy Razz

Available at:
MAC store -$18

Lasts up to 6-12 hrs.

Great coverage.

Only need to apply once, but reapply gloss as needed.

This is a big bonus.. It won't come off on the groom!

- Jessica A, Makeup

Make Up For Ever Cake Liner in black

Available at:

Sephora, Sephora.com

MUFE.com

It's very dense.

Lasts FOREVER!

Used with MAC fix, it lasts and doesn't flake or dry out.

- Joanna R, Makeup

TIGI Control Freak Serum

Available at:

Toni & Guy

Walgreen's

It works for unruly curls and keeps hair soft.

Use it on wet hair, but not too much at the root.

It really tames frizz and helps smooth the cuticle.

Style as usual, no frizz!

- Lauren D., Hair

Make Up For Ever Camouflage Cream Palette

Available at:
Sephora and Sephora.com

MUFE.com

Covers all problem areas and has color correctors when applied with a concealer brush

- Sam M, Makeup

Meet Mark Make It Big Mascara

Available at:

Meetmark.com

It has a big brush and doesn't clump.

It's also economically comparable to Dior Show Mascara.

- Sasha W, Makeup

Spritz & Shine by Catwalk

Available at:

Cosmoprof Beauty Supply

It straightens, shines and holds.

Use on 90% dry hair.

Spritz in sections as you blow dry or flat iron.

Is completely heat protective.

Can also be used as a finishing hairspray.

- Clarice, Hair

Make Up For Ever Stardust

Available at:

Sephora and Sephora.com

MUFE.com

Lasts a long time.

The color's warm.

Can be used for multiple spots on the face.

Adds a warming effect to cheeks, highlights brow bone and changes colors of lip gloss.

Also adds a little shimmer to an eye shadow.

- Lakesha B, Makeup

Super Shield Lip Savor

Available at:

Sephora and Sephora.com

Moisturizes lips.

Contains almond oil, olive oil and Shea butter.

- Paloma A, Makeup

Aveda Pure Abundance Hair Potion

Available at:

Aveda stores and Aveda.com

Bridget Bardot Hair $30

Only a small amount is needed for this product because it's a powder that turns into liquid form by the heat of your hand.

Gives hair amazing volume and lasts all day long.

- Michelle K, Hair

TIGI Catwalk Your Highness Weightless Shine Spray

Available at:

ULTA $20

Doesn't leave residue on hair.

Use while applying heat from dryer or styling tools.

- Kali F, Hair

MAC Shade Stick in Beijing

Available at:

MAC

It makes eye shadows go on flawlessly and brings out their pigments.

Does not crease for hours and hours.

- Jessica P, Makeup

Napoleon Perdis Lipstick in Athens

Available at:

Napoleon Perdis distributor

Target and target.com

It's a great color!

Can be used not only on your lips, but also on cheeks as well.

- Melissa Z, Artist assistant

URBAN DECAY Ammo Plus Primer Set

Available at:

Sephora and Sephora.com

Urbandecay.com-$39

Urban Decay's 10 best selling shades in one case.

The shadows are arranged as five sets of coordinating duos from subtle to sexy.

Prep lids with the primer before applying the shadow to avoid creasing.

- Jessica G, Marketing/PR

Cargo BluRay High Definition Powder

Available at:

Sephora and Sephora.com

This fabulous product contains optical burring pigments that diffuse the light around the face by evening out skin imperfections.

It's made specifically for high def television/film.

I love using it for my brides because wedding photography and videography are now being shot in high def!

Use this product like any other pressed translucent powder.

Use daily and look flawless in all unsuspecting snap shots!

- Holli, President

Ask An Artist

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 23:47:00 +0000

Many women have questions and concerns about makeup and hair. Whether it be application, color, product, styling or use. Kensington is now the site to ask all of your beauty questions and to get answers back.

"I'm a bodybuilder-figure competitor and after having my son, was blessed with a beautiful baby boy and the scar of stretch marks on my abdomen. After trying every cream and laser procedure I could find, I feel stuck. Do you have any advice on makeup products that I can use to mask my stretch marks while being on stage?

Your help is appreciated
Thanks,
Kyla"

Hey Kyla!

Thanks so much for your question. Here's what some of the artists suggested:

-A personal airbrush system will even out your skin tone, and will look great for when you are on stage... Temptu now has a personal airbrush system available at Sephora.

-Use Smashbox primer on the area then Sally Hansen Airbrush Spray to fill in the scar.

-MAC Full Coverage Foundation. It's water-resistent and long-wearing. It can cover most scars, blemishes and birthmarks.

For prevention options and to make the area less visible use Bio Oil (Available at Walgreen's) or mix vitamin E and cocoa butter and apply to the problem area.

Hope our suggestions help!

Artist Interviews

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 23:51:00 +0000

Every month Kensington will be conducting artist interviews to give our followers an insight into the world of the Kensi girls! Our first interview is with Michelle, who is one of our gold level hair stylist.

K: How long have you been a hair stylist?

M: I have been a hair stylist for 11 years in Oregon, England and Arizona.

K: What made you become interested in this creative industry?

M: I first became interested in the industry because it's artistic, but soon found many more reasons to love it. Not only is it creative, but very technical in hair color formulation, hair cutting and updos. I don't think you can be a good hair stylist unless you love it.

K: How has your experience been so far working with the Kensington team?

M: I haven't had much experience with Kensington yet, but the company is rapidly making a name for itself in the wedding industry as well as fashion shows. I'm excited to be a part of it.

K: What fun work experiences have you had in the field?

M: I have been privileged enough to become educated in hair styling in London, Milan and New York. I have worked on the Miss Great Britain Pageant, fashion shows, photo shoots as well as television.

K: Last but not least, we'd love for you to share with us your favorite hair product and its brand?

M: My favorite hair product is Aveda Hair Potion. It gives the hair an insane amount of volume. Perfect for updos.

Check back every month for more artist interviews!

FreeStyle Shoot

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 02:39:00 +0000

Last month we had our very first FreeStyle shoot. It was a fabulous collaboration between our Kensington makeup and hair artists and local Vendors: Kym Ventola Photography, Gowns provided by JennyVi Dizon Couture, and wardrobe styling by Jill DeAndrea from Impeccable Eye.

The FreeStyle shoot was such a success, that we plan on having one at the beginning of every month!

If you are a Wedding Vendor looking to have your products/services photographed, or a Professional looking for head shots, join us at our next shoot!

$25 gets you two looks, with complementary hair and makeup styling by our very own Kensington stylists, and digital images!

Take a look below to see everyone's divine work....

(Click to View Larger Images)

www.Impeccableeye.com

www.JennyVi.com

Celebrity Photoshop

noreply@blogger.com (Kensington Makeup and Hair Artists) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:56:00 +0000

This is a YouTube video everyone needs to see...

We are constantly bombarded my the media to tell us what beauty really is... We aspire to be just like the celebrities and models in the magazines... testing the fad diets, plastic surgery, and sometimes resorting to other methods of calorie reduction.

Our perception of body image is so distorted because what we see day to day on the news stands are in fact distorted images of reality.

Photoshop is an amazing tool ... but it is overly abused.

Please enjoy this video ...