Makeup by Donna Marie

I'M BACK! Well...sort of!

2014-05-07T14:44:00.002-04:00

Hey Everyone!

I know it's been a long long time and prior to this post you would have known that I had transferred my blog to Wordpress. Well things have changed and I am back with 2 brand new sites. A Bridal Site with a mini blog and a new portfolio site. So won't you come and visit me there? Hope to see you all soon! :)

xoxo
Donna Marie

www.bridalbydonnamarie.com

www.beautybydonnamarie.com

Farewell Blogger...it's time to move on.

2012-09-27T02:29:00.000-04:00

Headshot for Blush Pretty

Photo: JFransisco Photography

Makeup: Naomi Mundy for Blush Pretty

Hair: Monica Le for Blush Pretty

Hey Everyone!

I just wanted to apologize for my lack of posts on my blog lately. I have been extremely busy this summer with wedding season and I've had trouble finding time to actually sit down and blog about anything. It's also hard being a mom of 3 little ones and when I do get the chance to relax all I really want to do is sleep!

But now that wedding season is coming to a close I thought I'd get back into the groove of things. I hate to be the bearer of bad news but I will no longer be blogging...on this blog site anyway. I have decided to move on to newer and better things and have transferred this blog over to Wordpress. I even have a new domain name! It's bittersweet but I am excited.

So if you follow me here on blogger please go visit my new blog! There are other ways of following me. Just click the email icon on the top of my new blog and follow me that way.

Without further a do I want to bid a farewell to Blogger and say hello to Wordpress!

I will see you all there!

Here's the link to my new blog:

www.makeupbydonnamarie.ca

Feature Friday: DJ SARA SIMMS

2012-05-25T00:36:00.000-04:00

I've decided to introduce to you guys a different concept to my blog where I will be featuring someone who I think is inspiring and who is just so darn cool! Every Friday make sure you check back to see who I'll be featuring!

This Friday I've decided to feature someone who has been in the music biz for over 10 years! If you don't already know her, I'd like to introduce you to DJ SARA SIMMS. I had the pleasure of doing Sara's makeup for her photo shoot last month. Not only is Sara talented but she is so cool and super nice! Read on to get to know her more!

1. How did you get into DJing and what type of music do you play?
I started DJing when I was a teenager. I grew up going to all-night raves, watching DJ battle tapes and shopping for vinyl in record stores.

In my sets, I play dubstep, electro, techno, house, and future garage or '2step'. I'm a turntablist, and like to add layers of skratching on top of my sets to make them unique.

2. What would you say is the best part of your job?
I really love music, so being able to mix and play tracks is a real blessing for me. I love seeing happy people dancing and laughing together on the floor!

3. What are some memorable places that you've played?
Recently I played at AIR in Tokyo, Japan was amazing! Last year I opened for the Friendly Fires in on the beach in Cannes, France and toured through the US with Melleefresh. Melleefresh and I played a really memorable event together in Seattle. I also participated in a DJ battle in Miami that was fun!

4. What was the first album that you ever bought with your own money?
My first LP? It was an Electronica compilation on Pussyfoot Records. The first CD was probably a Canadian indie rock band, or Jewel's first album.

5. When you're not dj-ing what do you like to do in your spare time?
Workout! I love to exercise, I like to do yoga, dance, run, lift weights, do kickboxing and Pilates. I like to eat tasty vegetarian dishes, and hang out with my little sister. I'm also learning how to program synthesizers, so tweaking knobs and creating new sounds takes up a lot of my time.

6. How would you describe your fashion style?
A mix of east and west. I'm influenced by Japan's Harajuku styles, but like to add my own flavor by incorporating original jewelry pieces and belts. I love high heels, feathers, and anything that sparkles.

7. What are some of your favorite beauty products and why?
A few of my fav beauty products are Benefit's 'Hello Flawless', I love how this powder makes my complexion look! I really like their lip glosses too, they seem to have just the right amount of shimmer. I love Lancôme eyeshadows, their color pigment is good, and they last on my eyes for a long time I just started using the Bare Escentuals line, and am enjoying using their 'buxom' waterproof smoky eye stick. I like it because the waterproof formula lasts on my eyes for a long time!

8. What is your definition of beauty?
Looking and feeling glamorous!

9. What can we expect to see from DJ Sara Simms in the future?
You'll have to watch and listen my website and social media to find out...

10. Do you have a motto or words of wisdom that you live by?
Do what you love and be courageous. Don't be afraid to try new things in life; know that the universe will fundamentally support anything you would like to do! Keep learning, be kind, and always give love.

Check out Sara's new DJ mix, featuring tracks by Toronto’s own Melleefresh!

The first 100 people get to download it for FREE

Click on the cover to listen and download

http://soundcloud.com/sarasimms/the-melleefresh-mix

Photography by Robin Gartner

Makeup by Donna Marie

Jewellery by Persuasion Designs

Hairpiece by Melle Onyshuk

www.sarasimms.com

www.facebook.com/djsarasimms

www.twitter.com/sarasimms

www.artists.topmusic.jp/sarasimms

Gleam Body and Lip Radiance by Melanie Mills Review

2012-04-24T11:46:00.000-04:00

I'm a little bummed because of the weather we've been having as of late. I wish summer would get here soon! If you're a little down because there's no sun here's a little something to pick you up! I was sent some products from the Gleam Radiance collection by Makeup Artist Melanie Mills and they're definitely something worth checking out.

If you've watched Dancing with the Stars you may have noticed how radiant and glowing the dancer's are. That's because they're all wearing Melanie's Gleam Body Radiance! The product was created specifically for the show by Melanie and to this day they all still wear it! The product comes in a 30 mL/1 fl.oz tube. The consistency feels very much like a lotion. All you have to do is squeeze a little product out and slather on the parts of your body where you'd like to have nice healthy glow. I like to use this especially on my legs if I wear a skirt. I'm not a huge fan of my legs but with this on I don't mind so much showing them off a little.

A little squirt out of the tube

This is the color "Rose Gold" suitable for light/medium skin tones like myself

Slightly blended

Fully blended

I'm a sucker for anything nude! Nude lip color that is! So I chose the color "Naked" from the Lip Radiance collection. Naked is a peachy nude which I think is great for my light to medium toned skin. First off I love the smell of the gloss as it has a sweet vanilla like scent to it. The feel of the lipgloss was surprisingly not sticky because when you first see it on the gloss wand it looks pretty thick. The gloss applies nice and smoothly and doesn't settle deeply into the fine lines of my lips making them appear smooth and plump. I would highly recommend this gloss especially if you like a nude lip! And did I mention that Lip Radiance is made with organic and botanical ingredients? That's a bonus in my book! So slather it on 'cause this stuff is actually good for your lips! I think I may have to get a few more colors for my kit as well!

All in all I really like these products. So if you girls are like me and can't wait for the summer. Why not get a head start with GLEAM!

I should also mention that Melanie was recently featured in May's InStyle Magazine and just filmed a segment for Dr. OZ about how spray tans can make one look thinner for summer. The segment will air on April 25!! So stay tuned and check your local listings!

For more information on GLEAM and the Makeup Artist behind the brand please visit www.gleambymelaniemills.com

Spring Beauty Review 2012: Pretty Pastels With mark. Cosmetics!

2012-03-16T13:35:00.000-04:00

Check out my full review of mark. Cosmetics customized palettes on Makeup Junkie!

Beauty Review: TIGI Cosmetics

2012-03-15T15:10:00.000-04:00

Wanna know my thoughts on these products? Head on over to MAKEUP JUNKIE for my full review and swatches!

The Beauty Board is Back!!!

2012-02-29T11:57:00.001-05:00

It's that time of year again where you ladies get to test out the latest and greatest products before you buy them! The Beauty Board presented by Blush Pretty is back! If you don't know what I'm talking about read last year's post on it HERE! For more reviews click HERE! I'm so excited to attend the event this year because I'll be able to test out new brands that weren't there last year.

Stephanie Daga owner of Blush Pretty

Check out this awsome list of brands and vendors that will be there:

Consonant Body

Cheeky Monkey Cosmetics

COVERGIRL

Pantene

Pure+Simple

Revolution Organics

Flirt Custom Lash Studio

Apothekerri Beauty

Avon/Mark

EcoTools

Batiste

Splat

Crawford Street Skincare

Ella Botanicals

A Paper Story

Silpada

Featherband

JessieBoyBlue

Cheeky Monkey Cosmetics

Fiona Man writing up her reviews

Revolution Organics

Did I mention that there will be some yummy food and drinks there too!

"Callum" Slider named after Stephanie's son

By SomeGuys Culinary Co.

Excited yet? Bet you are! Be sure to check out Blush Pretty HERE for more info .

To purchase your tickets click HERE. Hurry there's only 1 early bird ticket left!!!

www.blushpretty.com

MY GRAND BIRTHDAY GIVEAWAY WINNER ANNOUNCED!

2012-02-16T08:44:00.000-05:00

DRUMROLL PLEASE......

AND THE WINNER OF MY GRAND BIRTHDAY GIVEAWAY IS

YVETTE FAYE

YOU ARE THE PROUD NEW OWNER OF THE URBAN DECAY NAKED PALETTE!

CONGRATS!

YOU HAVE 48 HOURS TO CONTACT ME OR YOUR PRIZE WILL GO TO SOMEONE ELSE.

SHOOT ME AN EMAIL AT MAKEUPBYDONNAMARIE[AT]GMAIL[DOT]COM

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO ENTERED MY GIVEAWAY AND WISHED ME A HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

LOOKING FORWARD TO MORE FUN GIVEAWAYS LIKE THIS SO STAY TUNED!

Dior Bridal Makeup Workshop with Fredis V Hosted by Makeup Junkie!

2012-02-14T23:59:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I attended the Dior Bridal Makeup Workshop hosted by none other than Makeup Junkie. Our instructor was the incredibly talented Senior Makeup Artist for Dior Canada Fredis V. I didn't get to take a whole lot of pictures because I was so focused on learning and really getting into the hands on part of the workshop. For a full review of the workshop please check out Elaine's post on Toronto Beauty Reviews !

My kit ready to go!

Photo Credit: Joy from Makeup Junkie

My Brushes!

Photo Credit: Elaine from Toronto Beauty Reviews

Photo Credit: Joy from Makeup Junkie

Doing my thang on my model Mel

Photo Credit: Joy from Makeup Junkie

Posing with our instructor and makeup artist extraordinaire, Fredis V

The final look.

Can you tell her eyes were done by two different people?

One is Fredis work and the other mine!

Big thanks to Joy from Makeup Junkie for hosting an awesome workshop. I had fun but mostly learned a lot! Thanks for Fredis V for being an awesome teacher and for teaching me a whole bunch of tricks and tips I'm sure I will be using on all my future brides! Looking forward to more workshops!

www.makeupjunkie.ca

www.fredisvelasquez.com

For a full review go to Toronto Beauty Reviews

Batiste Dry Shampoo Review

2012-02-14T02:29:00.002-05:00

I was sent two samples of Batiste Dry Shampoo by Farley and Co. a while back in Tropical and Original and I thought I'd share with you my thoughts on them.

First off let's talk about packaging. Nothing special. It comes in an aerosol canister with bright colors. If I were to see this on the shelves at the drug store I'd be hesitant to pick it up as it just looks cheap to me. Almost like something I'd see in a dollar store. I prefer simple packaging in terms of lettering and color.

As for the spray itself holy cow is it ever strong! Be careful when pressing it down as it is a very powerful spray. I felt as though I was wasting the product very quickly! After spraying it on my hair it did leave a little grayish almost greenish color on my hair which I did not like at all. But when rubbed into the hair the color does go away. So be sure to rub it in and not just spray it on there! I think if you have black or dark hair like myself you will notice the weird color.

In terms of smell I preferred the tropical scent over the original scent. Tropical seems to have a coconut like smell which is really nice. I don't like the smell of Original as it reminds me of a household cleaner. I felt like I was spraying disinfectant spray into my hair everytime I used original. So if you're going to choose a scent stick with the Tropical!

All in all the product does work well. It soaked up most of the oils in my hair and it did give me some volume as well. In terms of cleanliness my hair did feel really clean at first but by the end of the day I was oily all over again. I probably would buy this again unless I come across another dry shampoo that is better. I've only tried 1 other brand of dry shampoo and wasn't a fan of it. So I think I'll stick to this one for now! If you know of any other brands feel free to drop me a comment!

Have you tried the Batiste dry shampoo? If so, how do you like it?

Available at:
www.farleyco.ca
Shoppers Drug Mart

DONNA MARIE'S BIRTHDAY GIVEAWAY!!!

2012-02-10T13:35:00.015-05:00

Happy Birthday to Me...Happy Birthday to Me...Happy Birthday to Meeee...Happy Birthday to Me!

Guess what? It's my birthday! And in celebration of my special day I'm doing a special giveaway just for my awesome readers and supporters.

Here's what you get if you win...

The Original Urban Decay Naked Palette

What's not to love about this palette right? It's the perfect blend of neutral shades!

Entering is easy peasy! Just follow the step below!

GOOD LUCK!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Introducing The Marcelle® BB Cream: Finally Canada's Very Own BB Cream!

2012-01-14T01:38:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited to announce that Canada is getting it's very own BB Cream! I had the opportunity to work with this product when I did the makeup for Isabelle (PR Director of Marcelle) and her colleague a few months back for the Marcelle/Annabelle Beauty Premiere and I was quite impressed! Read on to see the press release and a special offer just for you awesome readers!

PRESS RELEASE

January 2012

Marcelle® proudly introduces the first Canadian-made BB Cream formulated specially for Canadian women in pharmacies as well as mass retail stores! The Marcelle® BB Cream will be in stores on February 6, 2012.

BREAKTHROUGH INNOVATION

Inspired by a trend that perfected skin and enhanced complexions all over Asia, Marcelle® formulated its own BB Cream to cater the needs of Canadian consumers. This multi-purpose skin care cream is morethan a tinted moisturizer or simple make-up base. It perfects the skin to reveal a more even epidermis and well-hydrated, flawless complexion, all in one. Ideal for any age and any skin type, the Marcelle® BB Cream comes in two shades and is suitable for a wide variety of carnations thanks to its self-adjusting pigments that transform and adapt to skin tone.

What’s a BB?

Moisturizing skin care, tinted corrector and make-up base all in one, Marcelle® “BB” stands for Beauty Balm, as it truly enhances your natural beauty. We have also seen the expressions Blemish Base, Blemish Balm and Beauty Base.

How to use the Marcelle® BB Cream, in 3 different ways:

1) The Marcelle® BB Cream is a day cream which should be applied after the skin has been properly cleansed as a corrective tinted moisturizer. For a more intense moisture surge, the BB Cream may be applied on previously moisturized skin.

2) Use it alone or over your moisturizer to unify your complexion.

3) Use it as a make-up base under foundation for total coverage and improved stay-on power.

THE MULTI-TASKING SKIN ENHANCER!

BB Cream embellishes the skin of the girl who requires a basic moisturizer, it unifies the carnation of the woman who is looking to hide a few blemishes and it provides the ultimate coverage to the make-up user who follows it with her usual foundation! BB Cream takes on the role you want it to play!

THE FIRST CANADIAN-MADE BB CREAM

Moisturizer, corrector and make-up base all in one:

THE ULTIMATE SKIN ENHANCER!

8 IN 1 MULTI-BENEFITS

This Beauty Balm with self-adjusting pigments, powerful antioxidants, aloe and chamomile does it all for your skin:

-Minimizes the appearance of imperfections and pores

-Evens out skin tone

-Provides an excellent make-up base and replaces primers

-Matifies skin and controls shine

-Offers immediate and long-term hydrating benefits

-Soothes and calms skins

-Protects from premature aging and environmental stresses

-Promotes skin regeneration

It perfects the skin to reveal a more even epidermis and well-hydrated flawless complexion, all in one.

FEATURES

-Ultra-lightweight formula leaves skin with “nothing on” feel

-Oil free

-Non comedogenic

-Paraben free

-Dermatologist tested

-Hypo-allergenic

-Perfume free

-Ultra-hygienic airless tube-pump

KEY INGREDIENTS

Hyaluronic Acid

Aquaxyl

Glycerine

Vitamin E

Aloe Vera

Green Tea & Camomile

Soft Focus Powders

BENEFITS

Improves skin elasticity, helps minimize wrinkles

Moisturizes and helps correct imperfections

Antioxidant to protect skin

Soothes & hydrates

Stimulates, reinvigorates & soothes

Light-reflecting, enhance complexion

Marcelle® BB Cream will be available at pharmacies and mass retail stores across Canada as of February 6, 2012. Suggested retail price: $22.95, 45 mL

Offered in limited quantities while stocks lasts, beauty trend-setters like you will be able to order BB Cream as early as January 16, 2012. Sold at its regular price of $22.95, shipping is FREE with any purchase over $25.00 before taxes at shop.Marcelle.com. Offer starts January 16, 2012.

Stay tuned for a more in depth review from yours truly!

www.marcelle.com

New Winter 2012 Workshop Schedule for Blush Pretty!!!

2012-01-13T13:36:00.001-05:00

Me doing a demo at The High Brow Workshop

Photo Credit: et tu and you

Hey Ladies!

It's that time again for the Blush Pretty Workshops! If you've missed any of them in the past now's the time to book your spot! Check out some of these reviews just in case you're wondering what they're like:

et tu and you (The High Brow)

et tu and you (Hair Workshop)

et tu and you (Sculpt)

Funny Face Beauty (Day to Night)

Toronto Beauty Reviews (Eye on the Prize)

Toronto Beauty Reviews (Hair Workshop)

Here's the 2012 Winter Schedule...book now to save your spot!

Our new schedule has been finalized for January 2012! We're bringing back our select session of workshops with our FABULOUS instructors for January 2012. Each workshop offers an intimate class setting (only 6 seats per class), some food and drink (because beauty can't be beautiful without some delish finger food and chocolate) and a whole lot of beauty talk.

Costs for courses begin at $23.00 and are subject to HST. Enroll for 3 courses at once, and pay just $60 plus HST. For more information, please email stephanie@blushpretty.com or call 416.727.1754

All workshops are held at our Toronto location: 313 Queen St. West, Suite 204, Toronto (on the corner of Queen and John)

Prep, Prime and Conceal
Date: Thursday, January 19th, 2012
Time: 6:00 to 7:30 pm
Instructor: TBA

Face Primer, Lip Primer, Eye Primer, OIl-free Primer, Green Concealer, Blue Concealer, Violet Concealer and Peach Concealer. Confused? Yep. Thought so. This 90-minute workshop is a quick reference guide as to what is for what and helps you break the colour code. We will show you how to use which product, when, and why!

The perfect workshop for: The aspiring makeup artist; beauty junkies with something to hide :)
All you need: your favourite concealers, or new ones you want to try, and a concealer brush (or two)
Cost: $23 plus HST, includes food and drink
Please email beautymail@blushpretty.com to register

*NEW* Pick Your Palette
Date: Thursday, January 19, 2012
Time: 7:45 to 9:15 pm
Instructor: TBA

"You have a pink undertone ... no, yellow ... wait ... maybe it's a bit pink and a bit yellow. Blue liner would look great on you, but an icy blue, not a warm blue. Actually try green instead!" Do you have no idea on how to build your makeup kit with colors and products that work for you? You're not alone. This workshop will focus on helping you determine your skintone and the color palettes that will flatter more than frustrate!

The perfect workshop for: the everyday beauty junkie
Cost: $23 plus HST, includes food and drink
Please email beautymail@blushpretty.com to register

Eye on the Prize
Date: Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Time: 6:00 to 7:30pm
Instructor: TBA

I've never met a girl who doesn't love a dramatic eye. This 90-minute workshop focuses on creating two popular eye themes: winged liner and the smokey eye. If you haven't yet mastered how to make your winged liner fly or your smokey eye hot ... then you should take THIS course!

The perfect workshop for: The beauty junkie who has plenty of eyeshadow ... but can't figure out how to make the best of 'em.
All you need: a selection of your favourite eye makeup, an eyeshadow brush, and an eyeliner brush
Cost: $23 plus HST, includes food and drink
Please email beautymail@blushpretty.com to register

First Base
Date: Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Time: 7:45 to 9:15pm
Instructor: TBA

With so many foundation formulations and colours out there, it's hard to choose what's right for you and your skin. Add to that skintone, undertone and overtone, you're bound to walk away with *gasp* MASKFACE. Let's avoid that, okay?! Take this down 'n' dirty 90-minute workshop to decipher cream from liquid from powder and learn the tricks to getting your face to match your neck ... because no one wants to have to wear a turtleneck all the time ...

The perfect workshop for: the extremely novice beauty junkie ... (yes, you can still be novice and still be a junkie)
All you need: your current foundation colour(s) and product(s) of choice
Cost: $23 plus HST, includes food and drink
Please email beautymail@blushpretty.com to register

*NEW* Pick Your Palette
Date: Thursday, February 2nd, 2012
Time: 6:00 to 7:30 pm
Instructor: TBA

The perfect workshop for: the everyday beauty junkie
Cost: $23 plus HST, includes food and drink
Please email beautymail@blushpretty.com to register

The High Brow
Date: Thursday, February 2, 2012
Time: 7:45 to 9:15 pm
Instructor: TBA

Master all the tricks to creating the perfectly sculpted brow. From creating an arch to making barely there brows a little more noticeable, this 90-minute workshop will teach you all the little things it takes to make a big impact with your brows.

The perfect workshop for: The everyday beauty junkie who wants to add a little oomph to her eye makeup; the aspiring makeup artist
All you need: your current brow tools of choice, if any ... and a pair of eyebrows
Cost: $23 plus HST, includes food and drink
Please email beautymail@blushpretty.com to register

First Base
Date: Thursday, February 16, 2012
Time: 6:00 to 7:30pm
Instructor: TBA

Eye on the Prize
Date: Thursday February 16, 2012
Time: 7:45 to 9:15pm
Instructor: TBA

www.blushpretty.com

A Year in Beauty: The Best of 2011

2012-01-03T17:52:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year to all my readers! I can't believe how fast 2011 went by and now we're off to a fresh start! I can't wait to see what this year will bring.

Well the year has finally come to an end and it's it's a year of new beginnings I thought I'd do a post on my favourite products of 2011. Check it out!

Best Foundation

Hands down my favourite foundation ever is Face Atelier Ultra Foundation. It is my HG of foundations! I love that it give me a flawless finish everytime! It's lightweight and also photograph's really well. This is a must have for anyone!

Best Face Primer

I've used the Korres orignal primer and I do love it. I like this one as well as it has anti-aging properties. It's moisturizing and helps keep my makeup on all day!

Best Eyeliners

I have a toss up between two liners. The Annabelle Smoothie Liners are awesome for bases and shadows as well as liners. I also really like the Makeup Forever Aqua Eyes which are a staple in my kit!

Best Lipstick

I absolutely love these Cover Girl Lip Perfection lipsticks! I haven't done a review yet but these were my go-to favourites of last year. They're so pigmented and last a long time!

Best Eye Primer

Lime Crime Eye Shadow Helper is my #1 primer of choice. Excellent for oily lids like mine!

Best Eyeshadow Palette

Of course the Urban Decay Naked Palette had to make my list! What's not to love?

Best Highlighter

LORAC Perfectly Lit Luminizing Powder in Radian is the perfect highlighter in my opinion. It's not too heavy and adds the perfect glow to the skin.

Best Lip Balm

eos lip balms are awesome! They're moisturizing and soothing which is exactly what I need for my dry lips!

Best Moisturizer

Consonant Body Ultra Moisturizing Organic Face Cream is so amazing that my cheeks have been baby butt smooth! It's so soothing and everytime I put it on I feel like I'm at the spa!

Best Face Wash

I love Consonant Body Organic Foaming Face Wash. I love that it can take off waterproof makeup so easily! And it feels refreshing too!

Best Bottom Mascara

I love that Clinique's Bottom Lash Mascara has the cutest little brush that it gets every single tiny hair. The formula is great too as it does not smudge or flake at all!

Best Blush

All year the blush that I have been grabbing for the most would have to be Benefit Coralista. I find that it gives me a pretty flush. Just a little the apples of my cheeks gives me a natural look.

Best Bronzer

Vasanti Cosmetics Brazilian Bronzer makes my skin look bright and radiant. I love this bronzer! Doesn't give you that muddy look!

Best Concealer

Benefit's Erase Paste is the best concealer to cover those darn dark undereye circles. You'll be amazed at how well it covers! It also brightens up that area too!

Best Face Powder

Love MAC's Mineralize Skinfinish Natural! Wear it alone or on top of foundation and it gives you the perfect finish everytime!

So what were your favourites of 2011?

Follow Me on BlogLovin!

2011-12-21T01:50:00.000-05:00

Hey all...BlogLovin seems to be all the rage with following blogs...so if you're on there be sure to follow me!

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

PARI BEAUTY EXCLUSIVE OFFER FOR MY READERS!!!

2011-12-14T15:38:00.001-05:00

A while back I wrote about an event I attended introducing you all to Pari Beauty (click here to read all about them). Well I'm back with an new and exciting offer for all my fabulous readers just in time for the holidays!

Until December 30th all of you will be able to purchase the following palettes at

15% off!

Limited Edition "Black Tie" Full Face Kit

Retail value: $150.00

Reg Price: $38.25

15% off Price: $31.50

Includes:

- Mirrored tri-fold travel compact

- 10 Blendable Eyeshadows

- 1 Full Sized Lip Gloss

- 1 Contour/Bronzing Powder

- 1 Highlighting Face Shimmer

- Applicators

Limited Edition "Tricks of the Trade" Kit

Retail value: $200.00

Reg Price: $69.00

15% off Price: $58.65

Includes:

- 8 Richly Pigmented Eyeshadows

- 1 Full Sized Customer Favorite Precious Glow Illuminating Shadow Primer

- 2 Luscious Lip Gloss Shades

- 1 "Perfect Flush" Blusher

- 1 Highlighter

- 1 Mineral Highlighter/Bronzer

- Duo Illuminating Powder

- 1 Double Ended Applicator

This offer is exclusive only for my readers and through my site and is NOT available in stores or at any Pari Beauty locations.

If you'd like to purchase any of the palettes please email me at makeupbydonnmarie[at]gmail[dot]com with:

- Your Name

- Quantity of which palette(s) you'd like

- Shipping Address

- Phone number

- Email address

Remember this offer is only valid until Friday December 30th!

Happy Shopping and Happy Holidays!

www.paribeauty.com

Marcelle Waterproof Eyeliner Review

2011-12-13T01:47:00.000-05:00

I'm always on the lookout for new eyeliners to add to my makeup collection and makeup artist kit. So when Marcelle was handing these out at The Beauty Premiere I was ecstatic! I like that there's a pretty wide range of colours to choose from. I especially love that they are waterproof and resist heat and humidy. I've yet to try them in extreme weather but so far in this cold weather we're having I must say that they do hold up to my watery eyes. Ever get that cold wind in your eyes that it makes you tear? Not to worry cause your liner won't smear!

The formula is smooth and creamy so it glides on seemlessly. I like to use these as either a base or liner. My favourite colour is Blue Lagoon which is a good dupe for Urban Decay's 24/7 liner in Flipside. Check out the pic below for a comparison.

L: Urban Decay 24/7 Flipside R: Marcelle Blue Lagoon

(UD is slightly lighter in colour)

Wondering how it compares to UD 24/7 liners? I'd have to say they're pretty close in my experience. Both are smooth and creamy but I'd say Urban Decay is a tad more creamier and pigmented than Marcelle's. With that said the Marcelle liners seemed to dry a lot faster than UD's. I guess that's because they UD is creamier. As for lasting power I'd have to say they are pretty close. Both last a really long time. I have oily lids and after about 7 hours both begin to to crease and smear on my greasy lids. So if your lids are anything like mine it's best to wear a primer under these. If you don't want to dish out 20 something bucks on the Urban Decay liners then Marcelle is a good alternative for about half the price (suggested retail price $10.50).

L - R: Blue Lagoon, Green Metal, Bronze, Fairytale Pink, Mulberry, Imaginary Mauve

www.marcelle.com
Suggested Retail Price $10.50

Le Cosmetique Corrective Concealer Wheel Review

2011-12-10T02:11:00.000-05:00

Check out my review of the Corrective Concealer Wheel on Le Cosmetique's Beauty Blog!

Annabelle Smoothie Eyeshadow Pencil Review

2011-12-09T22:56:00.000-05:00

If you read my post on The Beauty Premiere then you know that Annabelle was handing out their Smoothie Eyeshadow Pencil's on a silver platter. I've managed to grab 6 of them been using these for a few weeks now and all I can say is that they are amazing!

I love that these pencils are so versatile. You can use them as eyeshadows, eyeliners, or an eye base. One thing I should mention is that if you plan on using this as an eyeshadow you have to work pretty fast. I found that they dried pretty quickly making blending somewhat difficult. But blending with a warm finger usually solved this problem for me.

As for application and colour payoff these Smoothies applied so smoothly and are packed with pigment. They are extremely creamy but not messy. Unlike Stila Kajal liners these liners stay put and don't crease! An eyelid primer isn't necessary, trust me I'm an oily lid sufferer! I am so impressed with the colour payoff one swipe and immediately you can see how rich it is . If you're a makeup artist like myself I'd keep a few of these in your professional makeup kit!

L-R: Absinthe-Minded, Mokamirage, Cocoaloco, Acaidasian, Blubomb, Licoriche

All in all Annabelle's Smoothie pencils are worth getting. Lichoriche a rich black is my go to pencil as I love using it for a smokey eye and lining my waterline. And can you believe this did not budge on my waterline either? Ah-mazing right?! I promise you these won't disappoint!

www.annabellecosmetics.ca

Suggested retail price: $8.95 CDN

This Is My Grownup Christmas Wish...List!

2011-12-05T16:09:00.000-05:00

Every year I put out a Christmas Wish List to family and friends. Here's what I want this year that is beauty and related. Check it out!

Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette

I loved the original palette so much that I just have to have the 2nd one too!

Laura Mercier Face Illuminator

What's not to love about this? It's just gorgeous! I'd love this for highlighting.

NARS Danmari All About Cheeks Palette

I really like that this has different shades of blush and a highlighter and bronzer. No need to take out several different compacts to create a look for your cheeks when it's all here!

Consonant Body Ultra Firming Organic Eye Cream

I'm on a hunt for a new eye cream cause the one I'm using now isn't working for me. I'm hoping this one does!

Consonant Body Healthy Skin Detox for Body Kit

I need a new skin regimen for my body especially since my skin has been going through some wacky changes due to post pregnancy and the weather. Hoping this kit works out for me. Plus it's all organic which is a bonus!

What's on your grownup wish list?!

Benefit It's Potent Eye Cream

2011-12-03T17:53:00.000-05:00

If you've ever seen me without makeup on one thing you might notice is the dark circles under my eyes. What can I say? I don't get much sleep mainly because I have an 8 month old who still likes to wake me up a couple of times a night. I decided that it was time for a change and it was time to get rid of these dark circles! I came across Benefit It's Potent Eye Cream at Sephora and because I love Benefit products I knew this would work for me...or so I thought.

Benefit claims that It's Potent "fades dark circles & helps smooth fine lines for brighter, younger-looking eyes. Contains a peptide complex known to help restore elasticity & firmness, a blend of hydrating botanical extracts

including apple extract, known to help boost collagen, & loquat extract, known to help protect the skin from free radical damage."

Now, did it fade my dark circles? Nope. I've been using this for a few months now and it has done nothing for my dark circles.

Do my eyes look younger? I guess but I never really had any fine lines or wrinkles around my eyes so I can't really tell.

Did it restore elasticity & firmness? Again I can't tell as I don't really have puffiness under my eyes. But I did feel that it was hydrating. So any dryness I had around my eyes went away.

All in all I feel like I wasted 30 something dollars on this and am on the hunt for a new eye cream. If you know of a really good eye cream that gets rid of dark circles feel free to let me know! If you've reviewed one leave a link and I'll check it out!

And the winners of my Holiday Giveaway are...

2011-12-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to announce the winners of my Holiday Giveaway. First off I want to explain how I chose the winners.

First I had to check if each of you followed the rules of the giveaway.
I then plugged your names onto a spread sheet on excel. If you entered 5 separate times I entered your name 5 times (i.e. you were entered in cell's 1 through 5).
I used the True Random Number Generator on www.random.org and entered the minimum number and maximum number of cells I had.
I then hit generate and chose the 1st winner and then repeated the process until I had 4 winners as there are 4 prizes to be won!

Without further a do here are the winners randomly chosen in this order...

dreamer

Since you were the 1st winner you picked MAC EYES as your prize and so you shall have it!

Elaine A (TO Beauty Reviews)

You picked MAC LIPSTICKS and now they are yours!

Danielle Thompson

Your first choice was MAC EYES but I already have a winner for that. But since MARCELLE was your 2nd pick you can have that!

And lastly...

cyndiycs

I know you picked MAC EYES but the prize has been chosen by another. But don't worry you get the ANNABELLE prize! Two of those lipglosses were CUSTOM MADE by Yours Truly! I hope you like them!

Congratulations to all the winners!

Please check your e-mails. You will have 48 hrs to claim your prize!

Thanks to everyone who participated. If you didn't win don't fret! I have another giveaway coming up in the new year in February...hint that's my BIRTHDAY month! ;)

Help! I'm addicted to Makeup Brushes!

2011-12-01T23:18:00.001-05:00

If there's one thing I'm totally obsessed about or that I cannot get enough of it's makeup brushes! My collection ranges from different brands that I've come across either in stores or online. I don't know what it is about brushes that makes me wanting more. In my collection are 128 brushes that I've collected over the years. My collection does not stop there. Everytime I hear about a new brand of brushes I just HAVE to try them! Next on my list...BDELLIUM!

My face brushes

Skunks

Eye brushes

My personal collection as well as brushes I use in my kit

What are you makeup obsessions? Are you as addicted to brushes as I am?

'Tis the Season of GIVING: A Holiday Give Away!

2011-11-25T00:36:00.001-05:00

'Tis the season of giving and I'm giving away some goodies just in time for Christmas! This is my very first give away so I hope you all have fun! This give away is open Internationally.

Prize #1 MAC EYES

Eye Shadow: Lustre Leaf

Mineralize Eye Shadow: Sea & Sky

Pearlglide Eye Liner: Fly-by-Blu

Prize #2 MAC LIPS

Lipsticks in Hipster & Bubbles

Prize #3 ANNABELLE

Smoothie Pencil: Blubomb

Glitterama Liquid Eyeliner: Solar Flare

Two Big Show Custom Made Lipgosses by Me

Prize #4 MARCELLE

Lux Eye Dust: Vegas & Illusion

Lipstick: 702 Attitude

Waterproof Eyeliner: Blue Lagoon

This give away is simple all you have to do is the following:

1. Follow my blog by clicking "Join this Site" on Google Friend Connect (Right side column)

2. Tell me which prize you'd most like to win (If you want them all you must comment separately or it won't count!)

3. Leave your e-mail address below so I can contact you if you win

BONUS ENTRIES:

1. "Like" me on Facebook (leave a comment when you have done so)

2. Follow me on Twitter (leave a comment when you have done so)

3. Subscribe to my blog by email (leave a comment when you have done so)

4. Tweet, Blog or update your Facebook status about my give away and leave the link in the comments section

Winner will be chosen on Thursday December 1st, 2011 and announced on Friday December 2th, 2011 at 8:00 AM. Winner will have 48 hrs to claim their prize. If prize is not claimed a new winner will be chosen.

Good luck!

The Beauty Premiere: A Marcelle and Annabelle Party!

2011-11-18T08:00:00.007-05:00

The Toronto Beauty Bloggers have been waiting for this event for weeks and it had finally come! Tonights event wasn't your typical sit down and listen to the speaker event but a chic and hip party located at the Toronto Thompson Hotel's Rooftop Lounge. We were able to get a sneak of the Spring 2012 Collections which I am so excited for! Check out my pics below of the night for a sneak peak into the collections and all the fun we TOBB's had!

I had been in contact with Isabelle (Social Media & PR Director of Groupe Marcelle Inc) because she needed a makeup artist to do her makeup and hair for the night. I was lucky enough to glam her up! Isn't she stunning! (Thank you so much Isabelle for allowing me to do your makeup and hair. You were wonderful to work for. I had a fab time at the party!)

Back of Isbelle's hair

Side shot

I also had the opportunity to Isabelle's colleague makeup as well. Gorgeous girl!

Our view from the top!

Annabelle and Marcelle hors d'oeuvres served on a platter! How cute is that?!

Glitter Liners

Big Show Lipgloss

Swatches of some of the glosses which are non sticky by the way!

Smudge Paints...LOVE these! I have it in black and it lasts all day long!

These are a must have. I will do a separate post reviewing these!

BB Creams are all the rage in Asia. And Marcelle will be introducing it to Canada and launching it this February! I can't wait! I used this on Isabelle's face and it is wonderful!

Marcelle ladies posing with the BB Creams

New Mascara I can't wait to test out!

Rubber brush head which is popular these days

Anti-aging skin care

Check this out. We got to custom make our own lipgloss! How cool is that?

These are the colours we got to mix and match

My finished product! I'll call it "Donna Marie"

Custom made gloss by Lisa Marie (Beauty Crazed) She calls it "Slutty Beauty Crazed Coral"! Haha!

Tess and Kelly from Glitter Diaries says "Don't mind if I do!"

Anjali (Rock That Look), Fiona (fionaman) and Jill (Batting A Lash) catching up

Me and Isabelle our hostess of the night

Elaine (TO Beauty Reviews) and Tess (Makeup By Tess)

Me and Fiona

Fiona having fun swatching the Smudge Paints

Arianne (Glitter Geek) and Tess

Me and Makeup Artist Lelo

Fiona & Makeup Artist Mariana

Last minute goodies to take home!

End of the night with gift bags!

And there you have it. Be sure to check out your local drugstores to pick up the new 2012 Collections launching this February!

A special thanks again to Marcelle and Annabelle Cosmetics for such an amazing event! Looking forward to the Spring 2012 Collection!