Marta Walsh a North Scottsdale REALTOR and also the founder of US’ top fashion & beauty blog www.talkingmakeup.com

Beauty Interviews: Why did you decide to become a fashion and beauty blogger?

Marta Walsh: It was a pure example of do what you love in life and the rest will follow. Ever since I remember myself I loved fashion and beauty and writing about it never felt so good.

Allen Edwards

For more than three decades the internationally recognized beauty industry icon, Allen Edwards has been styling the tresses of some of the most glamorous women in the world including Farrah Fawcett, Donna Mills, Anne Bancroft, Diane Keaton and Raquel Welch. It was Edwards who fashioned Assistant District Attorney Marcia Clark’s new look during the O.J. Simpson murder trial. Modern Salon Magazine recently named Allen Edwards among 50 most influencial hairdressers in history with industry leaders Vidal Sasson, Jose Eber and Sally Hershberger. Also a must read Allen’s 200-page memoir: “Shear Force: An Image-Maker’s Memoir”, released in 2008. The book details the glitzy Beverly Hills beauty industry over the past 30 years and Allen Edwards tumultuous parallel ride through it all.

In this interview Allen Edwards talks to Marta Walsh about his beginnings as a young hairdresser in Beverly Hills. How one day he met Farrah Fawcett and what led him creating The Farrah one of the most famous haircuts of our time . Talks about the changes in hairstyles and celebrities over the years. The celebrity who he would love to style today. His favorite Shear Force products. Gives advice to aspiring celebrity hairstylists. And talks future plans.

Marta Walsh: When did your interest in hair design begin?
Allen Edwards: I was always into the arts side of the world. I was a musician and a dancer from 8 years old till I was 19. I thought that’s what I’m going to do. After meeting other musicians I’ve realized they really didn’t make much money. When I got out of high school I quit playing trumpet. Around that time I met some people who went to beauty school. That interested me. Since I quite music and career was always important to me, I decided to go to beauty school. It came really easy to me.

MW: What was your biggest break as a professional hair stylist? How did it all happen?
AE: I was working in a fun little salon in Beverly Hills and doing well when I got out of beauty school. My father used to manage a building and through him I met a young fellow called Jon Peters. Jon was a hot young and up and coming hairdresser at that time and was opening a new salon. We got along, Jon was kind of a wild Rock and Roll guy and I liked that. We met in a nightclub he pulled up with his Corvette with greasy black hair. I wanted to learn from him. It was important for me to connect with a guy like that. I left my clientele in Beverly Hills and I began working in the valley for Jon. The big break came when I began doing Farah Fawcett’s hair.

What also kicked my career was being the first hairdresser to go on The Morning Show with Regis Philbin. I was the first hairstylist to appear on TV as an expert guest. I used to show new hair looks on the show. 300 people would call in, it was unbelievable. They didn’t used to do makeovers back then, it was all high fashion hair looks. I then began working with hair companies doing big hair shows for 1000 to 5000 people. My background in music and dance helped in coordinating all the shows and cresting a high energy rock hair show. I was one the first hairdressers to do both public TV work and also working with hair companies.

MW: How did you meet Farrah Fawcett?
AE: I used to do Jane Brolin’s hair who was Jim Brolin’s wife at the time. James Brolin is now Barbara Streisand’s husband. Jane brought Farrah Fawcett to me. One day Farrah just walked in and it all started from there. The year was 1974. When she came in her hair was in one length so we started to layer Farrah’s hair. She went to Jose Eber after that. Jose apparently tries to take credit for creating the famous Farrah haircut. He really didn’t create the Farrah. Jose was always friends with her I think, and somehow he lost her during the famous Charlie’s Angels time. I got mad at her for going with Jose and I sort of threw her out the shop.

MW: What inspired you to create one of the most sought after haircuts in hair history?
AE: There wasn’t a particular inspiration for creating the Farrah hairdo. Bigger and fuller hair was starting to come in. I was very aggressive with cutting and the long layered hair just evolved from that. I invented blowing hair while dry or the blow curl which no one did at that time. The way you do it is by blow drying hair mostly with a brush and just curling the ends with a smaller brush. Then you clip it and by the time you finish the hair is dry, you take the clips out, turn your head upside down and boom there you have the Farrah. People went crazy over it. The Farrah opened the doors to women with long hair to have a hot look. It was fresh and new because short hair was in for a long time in the 50’s and 60’s, think Mia Farrow and Jane Fonda. The Farrah was the first famous long haircut. It looked good on every woman.

Allen Edwards with Deal or No Deal Lucky #13 Leyla Milani

MW: Which celebrities did you do hair for besides Farrah Fawcett?
AE: I did hair for Raquel Welch, Donna Mills, Rene Russo for the cover of Vogue, Diane Keaton for the cover of TIME, and Marcia Clark during the O.J. Simpson trial.

MW: Which celebrity would you love to style today?
AE: I was always a fan of Cameron Diaz and Gwyneth Paltrow and I would love to cut Katie Holmes hair.

MW: What are some of the changes you have seen in celebrity hairstyles during your long hairdressing career?
AE: As a hairdresser today it’s very difficult to create new looks and hairstyles because it was all done before. I came from an era where we used to create new things. Katie Holmes bob has been back 20 times already. Also, Hollywood stars in the past used to keep their hairstyle the same at all times and were afraid to change. Today celebrity hairdos change more often thanks to hair extensions. Hair trends today are driven by A list celebrities. The Jennifer Aniston haircut was the Farrah of the 90s.

MW: What sets your hair care line Shear Force apart from the rest? Which Shear Force products just can’t live without?
AE: I wanted to do a hair care line that is natural. Unfortunately you can’t do natural in hair styling products but you can do natural with shampoo and conditioner. My chemist found an oil out of Africa called Marula oil which is high in anti oxidants and is extremely nourishing to the hair. It helps rebuilding hair internally and makes it healthy and shiny. The Shear Force hair care products all have a purpose. The Shear Force Thickening Spray increases the hair diameter makes it thicker and fatter. This helps women with thin hair. Also my favorites are the Shear Force Polishing Serum and the Texture Defining String pomade. I like to mix the polishing serum and mix it in the pomade can, it makes hair shiny yet gives it a funky texture.

MW: What are some of your favorite hair trends?
AE: I see fuller hair, bigger hair, more body to hair, more glamorous waves, and staying away from the flat iron. Think, Lauren Bacall.

MW: What advice can you give anyone who is interested in a career as a celebrity hairstylist?
AE: Not to be afraid to take chances, be like an open book and learn new things. I find most hairdressers to not be open and to have a big ego. They tend to stick to one cutting or styling technique they feel they know best. Don’t say: “I don’t do that.” Probably if you say it it’s because you don’t know how to do it. Always take care of your client. Learn to communicate well. Be creative. No matter how long the client was going to you create something new for them. If you’re interested in becoming a famous hairdresser or a celebrity hair stylist take photos of the different hairstyles you’ve created and send them to hair or style magazines or beauty blogs. Get people see what you do. Set yourself goals and work on achieving them. You will have to start at the bottom. You just have to do it and expect to do hard work.

MW: What is your philosophy about hair and beauty?
AE: Every woman deserves the right to be beautiful and it’s up to us hairdressers to bring that out.

MW: What is your favorite: city, restaurant, movie, and car?
AE: My favorite city is Los Angeles, I like a good steak restaurant, and I love to ride motorcycles. I ride everyday almost.

MW: What’s next for Allen Edwards?
AE: I would like continue to do Shop NBC with my hair care line Shear Force. I’m working on my own reality show. I would also like to create a chain of Shear Force salons. And then I like to take a vacation somewhere.

You can find “Shear Force” with Lorin Shields-Michel book at Allen Edwards Salon + Spas, amazon.com, Barnes & Noble and gift stores nation wide.
To learn more about Allen, Shear Force, and for the Allen Edwards Salon + Spas locations visit: www.allenedwards.com

Deal Or No Deal Lucky #13 Gets Lucky With Allen Edwards

Schilling made her debut on the big screen in the role of Jackie in the First Independent Pictures film “Dark Matter, ” which co-starred Meryl Streep. The film, inspired by actual events, follows the journey of an ambitious Chinese scientist working towards his Ph.D. in America, only to be marginalized to the extent that he ultimately loses his way.

“Mercy” premieres Wednesday September 23RD 8/7c.

Taylor Schilling

In this interview Taylor Schilling talks to Marta Walsh about her beginnings in the acting world. What attracted her to Veronica’s character on the new NBC show “Mercy”. Taylor even shares with us some of her beauty secrets and her future plans.

“Mercy” stars from left: Michelle Trachtenberg, Taylor Schilling, and Jaime Lee Kirchner

Marta Walsh: How did you decide on a career in acting, and what were some of your first breaks as an actress?
Taylor Schilling: I have wanted to be an actor for as long as I can remember…I studied acting in undergraduate and graduate school in NYC. Was only a year ago but seems like forever!

MW: What attracted you to Veronica’s character on the new NBC show “Mercy”?
TS: I suspect on some level, everyone has experienced a life changing event that has left them feeling like a fish out of water back home. Veronica is trying to navigate through that feeling in her relationships, at work, with her family and friends…everywhere. She makes mistakes. She’s flawed and she’s raw. I appreciate her vulnerability and ferocity, her compassion and desire to do the right thing.

Watch “Mercy” trailer here:

MW: How was it working on “Mercy” set with your director and your co-stars?
TS: We have a great time! Lots of laughing and stupid jokes.

MW: Which other film genres do you enjoy most playing, and what would be your dream acting role?
TS: I like have no idea what my dream role would be…but this one is pretty fantastic!

MW: What is next for Taylor Schilling?
TS: Hopefully ‘Mercy’ for a while….

Taylor Schilling’s Beauty Secrets:

I keep my hair beautiful thanks to…
I use a lot of framesi products on my hair. My colorist introduced me. I don’t know how they do it, but they keep my fine hair pretty healthy

My favorite skincare products are…
I love Neutrogena and Yonka stuff for my skin. But I use a lot of different stuff…

I get my eyelashes looking long, full, and sexy using…
An eyelash curler!

Taylor Schilling third from right with “Mercy” co-stars: Michelle Trachtenberg, James Tupper, Guillermo Diaz, James LeGros, Jaime Lee Kirchner.

The best lip-gloss I ever owned…
Whatever lipgloss happens to be in my purse is my favorite! Right now it’s Stila.

What’s in your makeup bag…
Concealer, mascara, eyeliner, lipgloss and some blush…

My number one beauty secret is…
Sleep! I feel most beautiful when I’m rested. And after a yoga class.

The celebrity I find most beautiful is…
Julianne Moore, Meryl Streep, Kate Winslet— women who seem comfortable and confident in their own skin.

The city I love the most…
I’d have to say New york! I’ve been here for a while, but this city never ceases to surprise me. I still feel like I just got here…

One or two things some people may not know about Taylor Schilling…
I’m always getting into something new… then most likely dropping it, but the intention is there. I just went through a period of really wanting to learn sign language. I still do. Hopefully some are in the near future…

It was a pleasure interviewing Taylor Schilling. Make sure to watch “Mercy” Wednesday September 23RD 8/7c. For more information visit: “Mercy” NBC Site www.nbc.com/mercy

In this interview Amy Bailey tells Marta Walsh about how it all began for her in Hollywood. Her role in the film “Nine” and what was it like working with its director Rob Marshall. How one day she took Penelope Cruz and her sister to see the Royal Ballet perform. Her latest acting role in “Alice in Wonderland”, also staring in this film Johnny Depp. Future plans, and of course, style and beauty secrets!

Marta Walsh: Where did you grow up and where is home for you?
Amy Baliey: I grew up in a coastal town called Corpus Christi, in South Texas. I loved going to the beach right after school. Now I divide my time between London and L.A.

MW: How did you decide on a career in showbiz, and what were some of your first breaks?
AB: I was a professional ballerina by 17yrs old, so I guess being onstage always felt pretty natural. My parents couldn’t believe that as a teenager I would skip out parties because I had ballet class the next morning. It kept me out of trouble, for the most part

Three years ago I decided to transition to musical theatre and was fortunate to land my very first audition. It was understudying “Ulla” in “The Producers” – a big West End show in London. The casting team took a chance on me that I could do the lead as a singer and I was thrilled to rise to the challenge. Right after that show I got the lead role in “Oklahoma“, so I feel grateful that people believed I could make the transition.

MW: How did you land the role of Guido’s Showgirl in film “Nine”? What was it like working with director Rob Marshall and the rest of the cast?
AB: “Nine” auditioned thousands of girls from London, LA, NYC, and Rome. We had over 400 people in my audition and it was a grueling 2 days of elimination rounds. It was nerve-racking – everyone wanted to be in this movie and we all knew there were only a handful of spots available.

When I got the call from my agent I was in a library but I still squawked outloud. We filmed for 5 months in London. Rob Marshall is incredible. Very zen but totally in control of his vision. I think Catherine Zeta-Jones was quoted as saying she would read the phonebook for Rob and I am inclined to agree!

We had loads of rehearsals and I got to work very closely with our stars. Funnily enough, they were more nervous than we were as they all had to sing and dance. Daniel told me he was “terrified” of the dancing! You never imagine someone like Daniel Day-Lewis being scared of anything, but they were all working so hard to master things that I’ve been doing since I was 5. It’s all about perspective, I guess.

I loved seeing the “real” Nicole, Penelope, Kate, Daniel etc. These actors are so famous that they can’t do the things all of us take for granted. I took Penelope and her sister to see the Royal Ballet perform, and in public she was gracious, but she had to be much more guarded because everyone was gawking at her. It was interesting seeing both sides of fame.

MW: What have you learned from your acting role in “Alice in Wonderland”? Did you get to meet Johnny Depp (you know, it’s a dream of mine)?
AB: Acting in “Alice” was a new experience for sure! We were basically acting to nothing as the sets are all CGI. It’s a very good experience though – you really have to use your imagination, but then be consistant for the many takes. At times it was chaos. We would role and then Tim would have to yell “Cut!” for the 10th time because someone had run through the imaginary unicorn. Johnny had already filmed most of his scenes so he wasn’t around much, but I saw some of his takes and he is brilliant! Perfectly cast.

MW: What would be your next dream acting role?
AB: Gosh, it is hard to choose. I adore the fantasy genre, like “Alice” or “Avatar“. It would be a dream to work with Peter Jackson or Darren Aronofsky. But I also love comedy and indie films. Charlie Kaufman writes very cool scripts.

MW: Which actor/actress inspires you the most?
AB: Actors that morph into their characters inspire me the most. I can never predict Cate Blanchett. Her performance as Bob Dylan in “I’m Not There” is sublime. Marion Cotillard, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Daniel (of course!), Sam Rockwell, and Catherine Keener consistantly give true performances.

MW: What is next for Amy Bailey?
AB: Right now I am in love with The Goundlings! I’m doing long-form comedy improv there which is something every actor should try. It basically kills your ego, but that’s a good thing And it makes every audition you have a breeze ’cause you’ve pretty much already died a thousand deaths when doing improv. You learn to be comfortable in the so-called “grey area”, where you have no idea what is going to come out of your mouth next. Quite liberating. I adore Christopher Guest and his team who put together “Best in Show” and “Waiting for Guffman“. How fun to improv an entire film.

Amy Bailey on Style & Beauty Secrets:

I keep my hair beautiful thanks to…
Krill oil capsules and eating sardines. You may say yuck, but you can’t beat Omega-3 in your diet for great hair.

My favorite skincare products are…
I do a mix of things. Right now I am loving Ziva toner followed by SK-II Vitamin C serum, then moisturizing with Weleda Wild Rose day cream.

I get my eyelashes looking long, full, and sexy using…
A heated eyelash curler and Lancome mascara.

The best lip-gloss I ever owned…
Was a homemade organic lip balm. Given to me as a gift. I’m almost out and very scrimpy about using the last little bit of it.

My signature fragrance is…
The Body Shop’s Pure Rosehip Oil. I like fragrances that smell like real flowers. I can’t stand strong stinky perfume.

The one beauty product you will always find in my purse is…
Lip balm. I have a habit of chewing my lips so keeping lip balm on them helps me stop.

Beauty is all about…
It’s all about love baby! And it’s not corny to say so…we all know those people who are so beautiful because they are brimming with love and joy. Physical beauty is all relative anyway, but most of us can agree on what makes a beautiful personality.

I describe my personal style as…and my favorite fashion designers are…
Well I would call my personal style “vintage” or “eclectic”, but I have to admit many of my friends say I dress like a Grandma. I don’t know what it is – polyesther prints just move me. Seriously though, I love good tailoring and vintage cuts from the 40’s and 50’s are so flattering. Alexander McQueen and Zac Posen are 2 of my favorites.

The sound, restaurant, and movie I love the most…
I love the sound Gospel choirs, and of a big, booming, live symphony orchestra. One of my favorite restaurants is “Rules” in London. It is the city’s oldest restaurant and it is very posh darling. I love the movie “Goonies”. I never get tired of seeing it.

One or two things some people may not know about Amy Bailey…
I have a bright red birthmark on the palm of my hand, and I haven’t met anyone else who has one there. I can also play “Oh Susanna” on the harmonica with my nose. No really, my dad does it too.

Talking Makeup would like to thank fabulous Amy Bailey for a brilliant interview. To learn more about Amy visit the Amy Bailey official website!

In this interview Erin Kaplan talks to Marta Walsh about her beginnings working at ELLE Magazine. How working with Joe Zee ELLE Magazine’s Creative Director has changed the way she’s thinking. Puts the on camera drama with co-star Olivia Palermo in perspective. She even dishes out some style and beauty secrets and reveals another secret about her hair.

Erin Kaplan
Photo courtesy of MTV

Marta Walsh: When did your fascination with fashion and style begin?
Erin Kaplan: Honestly, it wasn’t until I started working at ELLE that I really became interested in fashion. I grew up with three brothers so there definitely wasn’t a lot of fashion-talk around the house. However, I have always been interested (obsessed really) with magazines and publishing…

MW: Working for a top fashion magazine such as ELLE is every girl’s dream. How did it all happen for you?
EK: I started at ELLE as a Marketing assistant and gradually made the transition over to Public Relations.

MW: What does it take to succeed with a career in fashion?
EK: To be successful in any industry I think you just have to be ambitious and passionate about the work you’re doing.

MW: What attracted you to star in MTV’s The City and what do you like and dislike about being famous?
EK: I’m definitely not famous! I never, in a million years, thought that I would be on a television show. I’m much more comfortable staying behind-the-scenes, but I think being on camera has given me unique perspective and insight into the entertainment industry that I never would have acquired otherwise.

MW: We all want to know, what is it about Olivia Palermo’s character in The City that gets to you every time? Are we all just seeing the director’s cut or you both actually hang out in the real world?
EK: There is tons of footage that never makes it on-air. We film for months and months and only minutes make it onto the show.

MW: What are some of the most memorable words of wisdom you’ve learned from working with ELLE’s Creative Director Joe Zee?
EK: I’m not sure there are specific words of wisdom, but Joe is such a “big idea” person so working with him has really made me think about things on a much larger, grander scale. It’s definitely fun to try and make some of the bigger ideas come to fruition.

MW: On the The City you always look beautiful and impeccably put together. What tips can you give us on staying looking fresh during a long day at the office all the way through that last minute night out on the town with your girlfriends?
EK: Accessorize!

MW: What is next for Erin Kaplan?
EK: Well, I’m obviously still working at ELLE and we’re filming Season 2 now—so there is a lot going on!

Erin Kaplan
Photo courtesy of MTV

Erin Kaplan on Style & Beauty Secrets:

I keep my hair beautiful thanks to…
Anthony at Julien Farel.

My favorite skincare products are…
I’m incredibly basic in my skincare routine. I’ve always just used Dove soap and Olay moisturizer.

I get my eyelashes looking long, full, and sexy using…
Dior Show

The best lip-gloss I ever owned…
Rosebud Salve

My signature fragrance is…
Escape by Calvin Klein (which I’ve worn since High School…)

The one beauty product you will always find in my makeup bag is…
Mally Beauty Evercolor Poreless Face Defender. It takes all shine away when filming

My number one style secret is…
Accessorize. I’m not very adventurous in my wardrobe choices and tend to stick with the basics. I’ve learned (with Joe’s help) that adding a few simple accessories can add so much to an outfit.

The celebrity I find most beautiful is…
I think Kate Bosworth is gorgeous and has a great sense of style.

The first movie I watched on a date was…
Pleasantville… on my first date ever.

One or two things some people may not know about Erin Kaplan…
My hair is naturally ridiculously curly….ringlets.

Thank you Erin for brilliant interview!

Visit Elle Magazine at www.elle.com
Learn about MTV’s The City at mtv.com

A little bit about Persia White (via wikipedia.org): she was born in Miami, Florida and raised in Nassau, Bahamas, and Miami. At the age of three, she earned a scholarship to the Nassau Civic Ballet Company. At age eight, she joined the Miami Coconut Grove Children’s Theater. As a teen, White studied dance, acting, singing, and painting. Her films roles include: various independent films, including Red Letters (opposite Peter Coyote) and the cult horror Blood Dolls.

Persia White’s TV movies roles includes: Operation Sandman (opposite Ron Perlman), and Suddenly, opposite Kirstie Alley. Her television work includes guest starring roles on Angel, NYPD Blue, The Steve Harvey Show, Brooklyn South, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, as well as a series regular role on Breaker High with co-star Ryan Gosling. In 2008, White appeared in The Fall of Night, as the character Dawn. She can also be seen in Chrisette Michele’s video, “Be OK”. White recently completed the drama Spoken Word, set for release in 2010. Persia is a vegan and an animal welfare and environmental activist.

I spoke to Persia White on the phone this past summer. I had the most amazing conversation with her about her beginnings as an actress. Her role on the long-running sitcom “Girlfriends”. The award-winning documentary Earthlings which she co-produced and was narrated by Joaquin Phoenix. What does fame really mean to her. What’s in her makeup bag. And future plans. Persia to me came across as absolutely beautiful inside out. I want to thank Persia for taking the time to chat with me!!

Marta Walsh: How did you decide on a career in acting, and what were some of your first breaks as an actress?
Persia White: I loved acting since I was 8 years old. I started to do theatre in Miami on the Coconut Grove Children’s Playhouse. That was my big introduction to acting. Then a talent scout founded me suggested I should find an agent. I was also a dancer and kept dancing but eventually I got into acting, which is a bit easier. Dancing is such a hard career. I still love dancing. I used to be one of these artistic kids and always loved make people laugh. I would do stand-up comedy skits when I was young. I moved to LA when I was a teenager and booked my first TV Series: “Breaker High” with co-star Ryan Gosling. I did several TV guest star appearances like in NYPD Blue and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. I then booked a soap opera in New York which so happened to get cancelled. I moved back to LA, which was good because I booked the role of Lynn Ann Searcy in the sitcom “Girlfriends”.

MW: What did you enjoy most about your role in “Girlfriends”?
PW: I loved being funny and laugh, especially when you have a role for a long time. I was allowed to look fabulous but at the same time to be funny and a little silly. Overall my 9 years on “Girlfriends” was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. We became a family. And we learned a lot about the industry. Fans are my favorite part. It was very exciting to connect with the people who watch the show. When you are on TV in people’s living rooms and bedrooms they develop a more personal relationship with your character as oppose to a character in a film. And when My Space emerged I could actually see my fans and talk back. I asked my character to be bi-racial, because I’m bi-racial, it wasn’t written in the original script. So it’s nice to see other bi-racial girls relate to me.

Girlfriends Cast from left: Golden Brooks, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Persia White

MW: Would you say Persia is funny in real life?
PW: Yes I can be pretty goofy. Someone once asked: “What is like dating Persia?” and the answer was: “she is like a sexy clown”. I love to see women that are smart, funny, strong and outgoing and not just sex symbols.

MW: Which other film genres are you interested in playing in the future? What would be your dream role, at least for now?
PW: My favorite role would be a dark dry comedy that is between funny and serious.

MW: What is next for Persia White?
PW: This past summer I’ve been working on a dark comedy called “Fernando” about art, sex, love and death. It was written by Steven Haworth and directed by Charles Otte. It meant 2 hours on stage no cut playing a very intense role. The show ran on a limited time and ended on August 15th, 2009. I just finished two independent films: Spoken Word with Ruben Blades and Stand Off with Darrin Henson. I also began working on an independent film called Disciple. I’ve been working on my two albums: MECCA and “Problem Child.” I’m a painter so I’ll be doing a gallery showing in LA combined with my record release.

MW: What do you love most about acting?
PW: I love the study of human behavior. I love becoming the different people that I see or observe, and it’s therapeutic in its nature.

MW: What advice can you give to anyone who is trying to break into the acting world?
PW: My goal was never to be famous but to be a great actress. If you want to be a good actress or actor just become it. Study and learn your craft and be persistent. If you want to be famous I don’t even want to talk to you. I don’t even understand it. It’s a horrible goal in life. Being successful is all about becoming good at what it is that you love.

MW: You co-produced the award-winning documentary Earthlings which was narrated by Joaquin Phoenix. How did it all begin?
PW: I met Shaun Monson the director and he was trying to put together Earthlings as project of passion. I was already involved in animal welfare. Getting involved in Earthlings was pretty intense because there were still a lot of things I didn’t know. To raise compassion and awareness is so necessary. The documentary is not just about animals it’s about how we treat each other as well. How we have empathy for the weak and we don’t abuse it. It exposes the truth. It is a very difficult film to get into mainstream because there are so many corporations that will hurt if their secrets revealed.

MW: How was it like recruiting Joaquin Phoenix to narrate Earthlings?
PW: It was very difficult. Joaquin Phoenix is a wonderful actor, and like myself, a vegan. However, Joaquin is booked and away so much. He’s schedule was intense. But we did it. The music was donated by Moby.

MW: How do you keep your hair so beautiful?
PW: I use Giovanni hair care.

MW: What ‘s in your makeup bag?
PW: I use mascara by Chantecaille and Chantecaille foundation stick. An Aveda eye liner and Aveda lip balm.

MW: What is your top beauty secret?
PW: Good diet. Eating fresh fruit and vegetables can help skin to glow and not breakout. Also, wearing sunscreen is important.

MW: What is your favorite city in the world? Hollywood?
PW: Paris. I was just there back in November, and it was just beautiful. I love the European lifestyle. And, Vancouver, Canada. Hollywood for me is a place for work.

MW: What one or two things some people may not know about Persia White?
PW: Some people might know that I’m a painter. I’ve been painting huge paintings and bunch of small ones and I’m thinking to do a gallery show with music in different rooms. And my play “Fernando” gave me a chance to play a painter on stage. So it’s great to combine all arts in one. Painting is one of my favorite forms of art.

Tanith Belbin is a Canadian-American ice dancer. Though she holds dual citizenship, she competes for the United States and has competed for the U.S. since she began skating with Benjamin Agosto in 1998. With Agosto, Belbin is the 2006 Olympic silver medalist, four time World medalist, three time Four Continents champion (2004–2006), and five-time U. S. champion (2004–2008).

Photo credit: NBC Sports / USOC

Tanith Belbin was born in Kingston, Ontario and raised in Kirkland, Quebec. She lived and trained in Canton, Michigan for many years, before moving to Aston, Pennsylvania to train at Ice Works. Belbin’s mother, Michelle (McKinlay) Belbin, is a costume designer and she makes some of Belbin’s costumes. She trained as a figure skater in St. John’s, Newfoundland.

In this interview Tanith Belbin talks to Marta Walsh about when and how she has discovered the love for ice dancing. How does she find the right balance between a busy career and normal life. Gives advice on what does it really take to become a successful ice dancer. Reveals what’s in her makeup bag, favorite city, and future plans.

Marta Walsh: How did you discover your love for ice dancing and what were some of your greatest achievements in your career?
Tanith Belbin: I began skating with the intention of becoming a singles skater but because of my body proportion (thin, long legs), I was placed with a dance partner when I was 8 years old and fell in love with the element of interacting with another person on the ice. I am a performer and dance offered the greatest outlet for my creativity and desire to portray different characters in a program. Since finding my perfect partner in Ben, I would say the most satisfying moment in our career for me personally was when we won our first National title. To be able to say that you are the best in the country at something you’ve dedicated your life to is incredible. Now, on to the world!

MW: How do you find the right balance between your busy career and normal life?
TB: We, as competitive skaters, lead very A-typical lives and it can be difficult to keep things in perspective sometimes in terms of “the bigger picture”. This bubble we live in can be judgemental and superficial, and very tiring on a young person’s confidence. I’ve found the most important thing for me to do is keep my family and best friends as close to me as possible and remember the kind of person I am and want to put out into the world. It’s too easy to get caught up on think that our placement at an event determines our worth and what we’ll be able to achieve in the future. Spending an adequate amount of time away from the rink and not talking about skating is key to maintaining a good mental balance.

MW: What are some of the lessons and disciplines ice dancing has thought you as a person?
TB: I was never the most talented figure skater. I lagged behind my peers in group classes when I was a child, and struggled in dance class to be graceful, but the reason I’ve been able to succeed is because I am driven and I have high expectations for myself. Ice dancing is a challenge that brought all my ambition and competitiveness to the surface, and the discipline required to reach the level I have is something I will take with me and apply to all future endeavors. You can’t reach the top without passion, confidence and determination. I believe those qualities will help drive me to a successful career in any field.

MW: What does it take to succeed as an ice dancer? What advice can you give to anyone interested in this career?
TB: To reach the top in any sport you need to have a clear goal identified, and the willingness to make sacrifices for it. Some days it can definitely feel that you’ve completely lost your drive and direction, but remembering that goal and what you set out to accomplish is all you need to accept that you had a bad day, and prepare to make the next one better.

MW: What is next for Tanith Belbin?
TB: The scariest…and most exciting question I can ask myself at this stage in my life is; what’s next? Truthfully, I have no idea! If I try to plan it, I get stressed and feel out of control because so much of the next year will have to do with our outcome at the Olympics and our feelings once we’ve completed the season. My partner and I both feel that the time has come for us to make a change and transition into another phase of our lives. We are so anxious to see what other adventures the world has in store for us beyond skating, but at the same time we don’t want to feel pressured or rush our departure from the competitive world if we still have more we feel that we want to accomplish. Whenever that day comes however, I hope to pursue a career in broadcasting and journalism. Whether that begins with opportunities that come up after the Games or with enrolling in university, only time can tell. Either way, it’s a very exciting time to be me!

MW: What is your signature fragrance?
TB: My signature fragrance is Bvlgari Rose. I’ve been wearing it for so many years I don’t even smell it on myself anymore but my friends always know when “Tanith’s been here”. It’s definitely my signature scent.

MW: What’s in your makeup bag?
TB: In my makeup bag I always have my Cover Girl: lash blast length mascara and outlast lip stain. When you’re training and sweating all day, less is definitely more in terms of makeup! All I need to feel fresh is a little pop of color on the lips that wont stick to my hair while I skate and a nice lengthening mascara to open up my eyes.

MW: What’s in your shower?
TB: Right now I’m obsessed with the Olay body wash with body butter ribbons! Not only does it hydrate my skin, which I definitely need after all the hours I spend in the freezing rink temperatures, but it smells amazing!

MW: What is your philosophy about beauty?
TB: I think the most beautiful thing a woman can put on her face is a genuine smile.

MW: What are your favorite beauty treatment destinations?
TB: I love going to the salon and getting my hair done. I used to be scared of it because I dye my hair blonde and it always got so damaged with the color treatment, but since I’ve started using better shampoos&conditioners like Pantene’s restorative line and my hair is so much healthier. Now I can just relax and enjoy being pampered!

MW: Who are the Celebrities that inspire you with their talent and beauty?
TB: I’m a big fan of fashion and people who use their image as a way to express their personal style while still looking really comfortable in their own skin. I love actresses like Sienna Miller, Natalie Portman, and Diane Kreuger who are bold with their fashion statements yet always looks so effortlessly beautiful.

MW: Which city do you love the most?
TB: My favorite city is probably Paris. I speak french from growing up in Montreal so I feel comfortable with the language and the richness in culture is so stimulating. I feel like become more relaxed and more creative when I spend time there.

MW: What one or two things some people may not know about Tanith Belbin?
TB: I’m a huge romantic and I believe the ultimate satisfaction in life is finding someone to connect, and share all your experiences, with….. also, I hate tomatoes, am deathly afraid of clowns or anything in a mask, and know how to spell my name in morse code (kind of sounds like la cucaracha).

For more information about Tanith and the rest of the US team, go to nbcolympics.com

Kali’s film role came in the Lion’s Gate thriller ‘Holla‘, which cast Kali alongside Michael Bergin as the sweet, unsuspecting camper Caprice. She would follow that project with a supporting role in the Spike Lee comedy ‘Lovers & Haters’, playing a scathing Hollywood diva opposite singer/superstar Mariah Carey. On television, she has also appeared on the hit CW sitcom ‘The Game’, executive produced by Kelsey Grammer. Kali’s recent film roles include: Trudy in ‘Couple’s Retreat’ next to Vince Vaughn, Malin Akerman, and Kristen Bell. And her role as Chantal in Judd Apatow’s film ‘Get Him To The Greek’ next to Russell Brand, Jonah Hill, and Sean ‘P. Diddy’ Combs.

Kali Hawk

In this interview Kali Hawk talk to Marta Walsh about when she has found her love for movies and acting. What was it like on the set with Mariah Carey in Spike Lee’s film: Lovers and Haters. Her dream acting role. What’s in her makeup bag and future plans.

Chatting with Kali was such a pleasure. She was sweet, funny and witty. I would like to thank you Kali for taking the time to talk to me!

Marta Walsh: Where is your hometown?
Kali Halk: I’m based in LA these days but I’m from New York originally. My family has been in New York for at least 150 years. My mom and I were born in Manhattan; my dad was born in the Bronx. My grandmother went to Hunter College when it was still an all girl’s school. I didn’t like LA at first naturally. But now that my professional and social network has been expanded I’m starting to love it more.

MW: How did you decide on a career in acting, and what were some of your first breaks as an actress?
KH: My mother used to take me to movies regardless of the rating, even if they were rated R or scary movies. She would just cover my eyes during the sex scenes part. In between the movies we used to talk about what we’ve watched. If I really liked the movie she would let me stay and watch the movie second time. These were my early beginnings for me falling in love with movies. Then in first grade we had to do a Christmas play. While all the other kids were nervous and getting a stage fright I would just grab their costumes and play their parts. Even at that moment I knew that the show must go on. After that all the parents told my mom: “Your child is an actor, we hope you know that!”

MW: What attracted you to your character in the Spike Lee comedy ‘Lovers & Haters’ opposite Mariah Carey?
KH: I was attracted to my role because it was different than my natural personality. I was very excited to get the part working with such big director as Spike Lee. Coming from New York, I was always fascinated with Woody Allen, Martin Scorsese, and Spike Lee.

MW: What was it like working with Spike Lee and Mariah Carey in Lovers and Haters?
KH: Spike Lee has a very organic way of working; he doesn’t like to push things. He wants to see what you bring to the scene. I therefore got to improvise a lot. Working with Mariah Carey was pretty amazing as well. I’ve been her fan for a very long time. I remember one funny moment during shooting where I was asked to sit near the camera so Mariah can feed of my energy during the scene. Then Mariah said something like: “Hi I see you over there.” and she waved. And I silently replied with ‘Hi’ and the ‘B’ word, because my character was supposed to be like that. I then apologize to her and she didn’t seem to mind. It is then also when I realize I should work in comedies. Which led me to audition for my role as Trudy in Couples Retreat with Vince Vaughn and Malin Akerman.I also got to improvise a lot in Couples Retreat.

Photo Credit: Bauer-Griffin
Kali Hawk is Trudy in Couples Retreat.

MW: What would be your dream acting role?
KH: I always wanted to be in one of Judd Apatow’s movies. I’m a big fan of his films such as The 40 –Year Old Virgin and Knocked Up. So getting a role in the film Get Him to the Greek, which is a spin-off from Forgetting Sarah Marshall, was a dream come true. In this film I get to work with P.Diddy aka Sean Combs and Russel Brand. My other dream acting role would be in an action movie. I really love Will Smith who brought a lot of his personality into his movies. He doesn’t seem to take himself too seriously and he always has a smile on his face, even in his action films. One day I would love to do an action film with Will Smith! Also talking to Malin Akerman who plays Ronnie in Couples Retreat was very inspiring to me because she just finished filming the Watchman and she was also in The Proposal. Malin said some wonderful things about the process of making action films, such as: learning the martial arts and choreographing the fight scenes.

MW: What is next for Kali Hawk?
KH: I just finishing up all the promotions for Couples Retreat, and I just came back from Bora Bora where we did our press junket. The general census is that Couples Retreat is destined to be a successful movie. So, I’m just excited about that and also about Get Him To the Greek. It’s a lot more movies than I’ve expected to do in one year!

MW: What is your signature fragrance?
KH: Dior Miss Dior Cherie.

MW: What’s in your makeup bag?
KH: Nude or pink lip pencil and I’m not specific on the brand. I actually have one now by Mary Kay and Ashley Olsen. I love all kinds of lip gloss. And, Clinique True Bronze Pressed Powder Bronzer. N.Y.C eye brow pencil.

MW: What is your philosophy about beauty?
KH: Stay true to who you are and authentic as possible to your choices, that’s what shines through and makes you attractive.

MW: Who are the Celebrities that inspire you with their talent and beauty?
KH: Kristen Bell and Rihanna.

MW: Which city do you love the most?
KH: I know it will sound a bit random but Holyhead Wales UK, long story.

MW: What one or two things some people may not know about Kali Hawk?
KH: I don’t cook at all. I speak Welsh. I never had a drink my entire life. I’m obsessed with lucky numbers. I believe in Numerology. And I once flew to Australia to stop a friend from getting a nose job. She ended up getting it anyways!

Couples Retreat Star Malin Akerman Interviews With Marta Walsh

In this interview Josie Maran talks to Marta Walsh about what led her to create Josie Maran Cosmetics. Her ultimate beauty secret. Her passion to protect the environment and for all things green. The people that inspire her the most, and future plans.

Marta Walsh: You are known for your career as a model and actress, what inspired you to create your own cosmetics line?
Josie Maran: When pregnant with my daughter a few years ago, I decided to look for natural makeup formulas to use and discovered that none lived up to the levels of sophistication and luxury as I wanted. It was then I realized that after spending so many hundreds of hours in the makeup chair, I was uniquely qualified to create my own line of cosmetics, the type of makeup that I was searching for: chic, luxurious and, most importantly, healthy. Not long after the birth of my daughter, Josie Maran Cosmetics was born.

MW: What is the Josie Maran Cosmetics philosophy?
JM: I believe in beauty without the baggage. Less is more. When starting my makeup line, I knew I wanted to avoid using toxic ingredients such as parabens and petrochemicals. Therefore, I aligned Josie Maran Cosmetics with The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, a national coalition of women’s, consumer rights and environmental health organizations. I want to contribute to making positive change, and I also want to create something fun, beautiful, and luxurious. My dream is to build a brand with so much influence and popularity that my customers and I can work together to make the world a better place.

MW: Which products from your cosmetics line are you most in love with?
JM: Argan Oil is my ultimate beauty secret and favorite ingredient—I use it in over 90% of my line! As a moisturizer for skin, hair and nails, this 100% organic oil is housed in a recyclable glass bottle and purchased from women’s cooperatives in Morocco. A new favorite is my Argan Moisturizing Stick—now available exclusively at Sephora—which infuses the powerful hydrating ingredient of Argan Oil with rich Avocado Butter and Tea Tree Oil for concentrated moisture wherever you need it! This stick is the perfect size for my purse and I use it throughout the day on my lips, cuticles, elbows!!

MW: What was the most enjoyable part of creating Josie Maran Cosmetics?
JM: The most enjoyable part is knowing women will be getting healthy beauty products. I am very strict when it comes to ingredients and I am creating a line people can trust and feel good about on the inside ant out.

MW: Where does your desire to protect our environment come from?
JM: I was born into a family that cares about environmental and social issues – so you could say my awareness of environmental issues was just a natural part of my upbringing. My father is a green builder, my mother an artist, my grandmother a human rights activist/professor at UC Berkeley. We were always into a socially conscious way of living. But, I do feel that now having a daughter of my own has led me to a whole new “eco-awakening” – inspiring me to be even more conscious of our impact on the environment.

MW: What is your number one beauty secret?
JM: When I’m tired, I like to use my Argan Oil under my eyes… and I smile a lot.

MW: How would you describe your own style?
JM: I’m a free spirit who loves to be barefoot or in organic high heels.

MW: In your opinion, what makes a woman beautiful?
JM: It’s not what makes a woman beautiful, it’s what a woman makes beautiful. I think beauty comes from within and it’s up to women to take care of herself inside-mentally, physically, emotionally, spiritually. And then her beauty will shine through….

MW: Which people inspire you the most?
JM: My mom has always influenced my style and sense of beauty, and of course my daughter, Rumi Joon is my biggest inspiration.

MW: What is your favorite city in the world?
JM: San Francisco

MW: What are one or two things some people may not know about you?
JM: That I’m an inventor and the pronunciation of my last name rhymes with “Karen”

MW: What’s next for Josie Maran?
JM: I’m evaluating all my ingredients and formulas to make sure they are healthy and reformulating where need be. We are launching a brown mascara and some amazing new Argan Oil products this fall.

In this interview Rachel Flatt talks to Marta Walsh about her beginnings as a figure skater. The biggest moments of her figure skating career so far. Reveals some of her beauty secrets and future plans.

Photo Credit: USOC / NBC Sports

Marta Walsh: What attracted you to figure skating and what are some of your biggest moments in your career so far?
Rachael Flatt: I started figure skating when I was about 3 1/2- 4 yrs old. I was at the local mall in San Diego with my parents when I was 2 1/2 yrs old and the local skating club was hosting their annual summer ice show. I told my parents that I wanted to try it…I liked the idea that the skaters seemed to float effortlessly across the ice, loved the idea of spinning and jumping and they seemed to be having a lot of fun. About 4 months later, I started “Learn to Skate” lessons and have not turned back. Love it just as much over 10 yrs later as the day I started! Truly a life long passion!

Photo Credit: Getty Images and www.dailymakeover.com

Biggest moments so far in my career: Well, I would have to say that there have been several and for very different reasons. My first National Championship title: I won the Novice Ladies event when I was 12 yrs old at the 2005 US National Championships in Portland, Oregon. I loved the competition because the fans were so supportive, I had the chance to skate in a large arena for the very first time, and got to perform in the Champions Exhibition on Sunday with all the other champions from each level and discipline and it was very inspiring. Winning the World Junior Championship in 2008 in Sophia, Bulgaria: A World champion! Pretty cool! My first US Figure Skating Championship as a Senior Lady: I was 14 yrs old and had two pretty good performances and finished 5th overall! The move up from Novice to Junior to Senior doesn’t sound like much, but competing with so many of the skaters you have watched and admired for several years, the presence of the media is an adjustment, but again, it was an absolute blast! And, most recently, the 2009 World Championships that were held in Los Angeles in March. It was a sort of homecoming for me because I grew up 100 miles south of LA in Del Mar, CA. So, my first coach, alot of my friends from Del Mar as well as my first rink in San Diego came to watch the competition. It truly was a homecoming as the crowd was incredibly supportive and to receive a standing ovation from a southern California home town crowd at the end of my long program is something I will never forget. And, I am sure there are more to come!

MW: How do you manage to balance your figure skating career with school and being a teenager?
RF: Time management skills are key. I think alot of skaters have similar skill sets because you learn early on in your training, that you only have so much time on the ice each day and you have certain goals or tasks that you need to complete each day and perhaps on each training session. You know that your ice time is limited, so you need to be effective with your time to achieve those daily goals. And, a day planner and my AT&T Blackberry! Can’t live without them!

MW: What are some of the lessons and disciplines figure skating has thought you as a person? What does it take to succeed as a figure skater? What advice can you give to anyone interested in this career?
RF: As I mentioned above, time management skills go hand in hand with this particular sport. And… Patience. If you want to have longevity in a sport like this, you have to be patient. Work at your skills daily, don’t procrastinate. Eventually, you will learn the new skill, rotate a clean jump, spin faster, express your choreography better, skate clean programs. It’s all about breaking down a big project to manageable goals…daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly. And, having the patience to know that some days are going be better than others. To quote Aristotle: “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” I truly believe that!

MW: What is next for Rachael Flatt?
RF: It’s a busy season for me right now. I am training hard in preparation for my Senior Grand Prix assignments: Cup of China (Beijing) at the end of October, and then Skate America in Lake Placid, NY in mid-November. I’m very excited for both events and my goal is to medal at both events, improving my programs at each event and qualifying for the Senior Grand Prix Final in December in Japan. The US National Championships are in January in Spokane, Washington and the results of US Nationals will be heavily considered in determining TEAM USA at the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games. I am a senior in high school, and diligently working on college applications and essays and graduation is at the end of May! So, lots of excitement this year!!

Rachel Flatt On Beauty Secrets:

MW: What is your signature fragrance?
RF: BVLGARI: Eau Parfumee Au The Blanc

MW: Which beauty products we’ll always find in my makeup bag?
RF: MAC eyeshadows, lipglosses and Cherry Chapstick (a necessity for being in Colorado where the air is so dry and in an ice rink 3-4 hrs each day!)

MW: Which products are in your shower?
RF: Pantene Pro-V shampoo

MW: What is your philosophy about beauty?
RF: A look that radiates confidence!

MW: What are your favorite beauty treatment destinations?
RF: Locally here in Colorado Springs: Aveda Salon for skin care and J Gregory Hair Salon. But, I have to say, I did very much enjoy my day with Dorothy Hamill and Ludmilla Suvorova at Oscar Blandi Salon in NYC!

MW: Who are the Celebrities that inspire you with their talent and beauty?
RF: Reese Witherspoon: simply elegant! She always looks fabulous! Kate Hudson’s confidence!

MW: Which city do you love the most?
RF: Florence, Italy!

MW: What one or two things some people may not know about Rachael Flatt?
RF: I LOVE roller coasters…the higher and faster the better, and one of my favorite sayings is “Work Hard, Play Harder!”

I would like to thank Rachel Flatt for her time and for brilliant interview!!