Sunday Feature: You Go Girl! Featuring Makeup artist and Guru Sandy Gold!

Every Sunday I feature a blogger, artist, photographer, makeup artist, actress, socialite or all around awesome person on my blog in a feature I like to call "You Go Girl!" or in some cases "You Go Boy!".

This week Ill be featuring Canadian Makeup artist and guru Sandy Gold!

Sandy's passion for makeup has lead her to work with some top cosmetic lines such as Bobbi Brown, Yves Saint Laurent, Giorgio Armani, Nars and Laura Mercier. She has also created flawless faces for many well known Celebrities and Athletes like: Chris Bosh, Mats Sundin, Vernon Wells, Elle MacPherson, Viggo Mortensen, Kevin Bacon, Robin Tunney and Jeff Daniels to name a few.

With her success as a makeup artist, youtube guru and blogger shes taken the makeup world by storm at such a young age. I recently got the chance to meet Sandy at an event and after having seen her on CityTv's Breakfast Television I have to say I was a little bit in awe. She was as bubbly and friendly in person as she had seemed on tv, not to mention gorgeous with seriously the most perfect skin Ive ever seen! I was so happy to have had the chance to chat with her again and find out her beauty secrets.

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So who are you and why are you so fabulous?
I’m a half Italian, half Austrian Makeup Artist from Toronto. And, I love my job – I get to meet all kinds of incredible women everyday and help them look and feel their absolute best! How cool is that!

I am totally obsessed with: Makeup, Shoes & Boots (especially rain boots!), Chocolate (M&M’s and chocolate covered almonds…mmmm), Cupcakes and Jewelry.

And, I am fabulous because I am a woman! :)

Where can we find you on the world wide web?

You can find me at:

Beauty Blog: www.happiface.com

YouTube: www.youtube.com/sandygold25 (to watch my how-to beauty videos)

Twitter: www.twitter.com/sandygold25 (I just started “tweeting” so come follow me on Twitter – I would love to hear from you!)

What one beauty product would you recommend to my readers and why?
Mascara. My Mom always says that if you don’t wear Mascara you will look like a plucked chicken – and nobody wants that!

My two favourite Mascara’s of all time are: L’oreal Voluminous Mascara and Yves Saint Laurent Faux Cils! (talk about false lashes in a tube!!)

Have you ever lost or broken a beauty item you wish you still had today?
Yes – REVLON Skinlights Glosslights Lip Gloss. I lost it awhile back and then it got discontinued!! Grrrrr ;)

You're in a huge rush, what one beauty product do you grab?
My Blistex – I can’t leave home without it!

What are your thoughts on fake eyelashes?

I absolutely love false lashes! Have you ever tried the new Revlon Self Adhesive Lashes? They are super easy to use – just peel and apply – no glue required! I love them – so much fun!!

Who would you say are some favorite celeb/high profile clients?
I once did Elle MacPherson’s Makeup – only hours after working out to her “Your Personal Best” aerobics video! LOL ;)

Are there any makeup or beauty faux pas you really really cant stand?
Dark lipliner with a light lipstick. I used to do this when I was in high school and it has scarred me for life!!!! ;)

Do you have a favorite beauty guru/mentor?

Joanne Gair - www.joannegair.com - her work is incredible!

What can people expect from Sandy Gold and happiface in the future?
Lots of really great things are happening this Fall – but you’re just going to have to stay tuned to happiface to find out! ;)

Any last words or advice?

Never give up on your dreams! And, always treat people the way you want to be treated. Plus, have fun while doing your makeup – and don’t forget to Wake.up & Make.up!

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A huge thank you goes out to Sandy.
If you aren't familiar with Sandy Gold or her work I hope you enjoyed a little insight into her world. Be sure to check out her site Happiface.com for contests, tutorials & tips!

A Cure For Dry Lips Before Your Big Date and An Easy homemade Lip Blam Recipe

Heading out for a night out or a romantic dinner with that special someone?? Dry lips are never sexy so here's a sweet way to help fix the problem.

We all know Burt's Bees has been using honey as the key ingredient in their lip balms, but here's an at home version you can try before your big date.

To soften your lips rub a tiny drop of honey onto your lips 30 minutes before heading out. The sweetener will draw moisture from the air into your skin which will help those dry lips look plump and moisturized.

Bonus, you will also taste irresistible all night ;)

If you have a bit more time you can try making your own honey lip balm here's how.

What you will need:

• 1 Tbs Vaseline or petroleum jelly

• 1/3 Tsp honey

• Small container

Instructions:

• Mix the Vaseline and honey in a small microwavable container together & microwave until melted. Try 30 second intervals, mixing in between. (keep your eye on it).
• Mix well
• Pour hot mixture into small container or tin and allow to cool. (insure all containers are sterile! you can do this by boiling them or spraying it down with 99% alcohol to prevent contamination of any germs)
• Enjoy ;)
  

Have you tried this trick before??
Do you have any other uses for honey?

I hope this little trick and recipe come in handy for you. Ill be sporting my plump honey lips all weekend!

Annabelle Minerals & Lip Plumping Gloss The Way 2 Go for Summer!

I'm generally not a fan of mineral makeup ill be honest although recently I've been pleasantly surprised with the quality of mineral makeup. Annabelle Cosmetics Minerals line is no exception.

The foundation covered and evened out my skin which I didn't think it would. I still used my regular concealer under my eyes but only the minerals on the rest of my face and it worked really well.

The blush and bronzer are pigmented yet soft so its easy to use and nothing to be afraid of lol.
The Lip Plumping glosses have a great texture to them however the pale pink one is super sheer and doesn't show too much on me. They were a little hard to squeeze out of the tube but I'm told there is new packaging on its way to make this easier.

The Pigment dust was swept on with a fluffy brush for a light application since I didn't want to be SO matchy with my green outfit but the beauty about these pigments is that with a denser brush the shade could be quite vibrant which adds versatility.

I decided to do a FOTD using my Annabelle & Marcelle key items.
Here's what I used (with the exception of the dark pink gloss)



Face:
Annabelle Barely Beige Minerals Foundation($12.50)
Annabelle Minerals Powder Bronzer inTerra($10.50)
Annabelle Minerals Powder Blush in Au Natural($10.50)

Eyes:
Annabelle Minerals Pigment Dust in Eco Chic ($8.50)
Mac Shroom Eyeshadow on brow bone
Annabelle Smudgeliner in Rich Chocolate (Reviewed here)
Marcelle Volume Precision Mascara (Reviewed here)

Lips:
Annabelle Volume Lip Pluming Gloss in Sweet Tweet ($8.50) (Cherryoke also shown in pic)

Annabelle continues to impress me with each new launch of products. Some have turned into daily wears for me which is cuz I'm a pretty simple girl in terms of daily makeup. These products were light and did the job. A great choice for summer when wearing heavy liquid foundation isn't an option.


* These products were sent by Marcelle Group for consideration however all reviews are based on my honest opinions.

Sunday Feature: You Go Girl! Featuring Canadian Recording Artist Farahri

Every Sunday I feature a blogger, artist, photographer, makeup artist, actress, socialite or all around awesome person on my blog in a feature I like to call "You Go Girl!" or in some cases "You Go Boy!".

This week Ill be featuring Canadian recording artist Farah "Farahri" Mitha.

Farahri is one of Canada's newest artist to hit the scene! With a style that's everything from Pop, R&B, Rock, Hindi Pop, Reggae, Soul, and Dancehall she does it all! Shes not only a singer but a talented song writer who got her start at the tender age of 5 with her religious choir and hasn't looked back since.

I got the chance to ask Farahri some questions on her career and beauty, here's what she had to say.
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Farah (great name btw ;)) tell us a little about who are you & why are you so fabulous?
Well I'm a singer-songwriter-performer and physiotherapist at the moment. I grew up in ottawa, went to Queens for university and am currently living in toronto. I think I'm fabulous because I have a good heart and try to use my talents and abilities for the betterment of humanity. I work really hard and am passionate about what I do and because I'm me!

Where can we find you on the world wide web?
The best place to find me is on MySpace or my facebook page (Farah Farahri Mitha).

Where did the name Farahri come from?
It was a nickname from a good friend in university and it stuck because it was the best nickname anyone could think of for me! I like it cuz its cute and fierce at the same time which can describe my personality.

What one beauty product would you recommend and why?
Well I've been experimenting a lot lately and whats really excited me are these eyeshadow palettes from Vasanti. They are so funky and shiny and long lasting.

Your favorite beauty treatment is?
Hmmm...the face/head massage part of a facial! That just puts me to sleep.

Who would you say have been some of your favorite celebs/people and why?
I like Mariah Carey because she's so incredibly talented vocally. I like Beyonce because of her all-rounded talent. I love Dr. Oz because he's all about helping people with natural remedies and preventative medicine. I like Slash because his guitar melodies sing to my heart. I like lots of people for different reasons but can't remember them all right now lol!

You're in a huge rush, what one beauty product do you grab?
Have to have my lip balm I hate chappy lips it feels weird...but if that doesn't count then I think I'd grab my Vichy Dermablend setting powder, it works to give your skin a smooth finish even if you're not wearing foundation by blending with the oils in your skin.

Tattooed makeup, yay or nay?
Well I usually don't knock something unless I've tried it but I think it would be very unfortunate if you wanted to change up your look!

What's been your biggest challenge breaking into the biz?
Finding people you can trust to get done what they promise to do. Also I've found that a lot of the time people are more interested in money than talent.

Do you have a favorite makeup artist?
Not quite yet, still looking for a favourite but I've seen a lot of very talented people.

Favorite career highlight & why?
First time I had a show and people were singing along with me to my own song! Also first time watching my video on TV.

What can people expect from Farahri in the future?
Many, many things hopefully! Musically I want to try almost everything from different languages to jazz to opera and somehow keep everything pop. I already blend pop, r&b, hip hop, dancehall, reggae and hindi pop
Which is so much fun already but I'd definitely like to test my potential. Also fashion wise I'd like to continue to test the boundaries, be different, unique and blend many different styles and cultural influences. Eventually I'd love to get into acting as well. The biggest thing behind all the artistic stuff is my brand/ thought provoking movement called 'New India' which is a platform I've created for myself to express what's behind the music, my beliefs, philosophies etc. Its obviously not just. For Indians but I think its something most people can relate to. Right now it exists as a facebook page so I encourage everyone to look it up and participate in the discussions. Look up 'New India by Farahri'.

Also don't forget to join my facebook fanpage!!

Thanks so much Farah this was great. I really appreciate the opportunity!

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It was a pleasure chatting with Farahri and I would like to thank her for her time and for sharing her thoughts on beauty with me :)

50% off a 1 Hour Massage just in time for Mothers Day!

Toronto Area Deal of the Day!
Do you have a birthday coming up?, a girls weekend? or lets not forget Mothers Day!

This is the perfect gift!

You pay only $35 for a One Hour Massage at Samsara Day Spa (Reg. $70)

Offer Details

One Hour Aromatherapy Massage

May use as $70 credit towards upgraded massages

Excludes RMT treatments

Limit 1 per customer; may buy 2 more units as gifts

Expires November 30,2010

Includes tax. No cash or credit back. Voucher has no cash value

Highlights

Certified, skilled therapists

Luxurious, serene setting

Forest Hill Location

Limited Quantity Available

About Samsara Day Spa

Human hands are capable of folding napkins into swans, tossing hot potatoes, and most importantly, providing muscle-melting stress relief. Today’s deal brings us to beautiful Forest Hill village for one hour of heaven that will have your body thanking you for weeks.

Samsara features a unique and upscale spa facility. This special little haven also offers a wide range of other services such as facials, manicures, pedicures, waxing, and other body treatments. It is their mission to deliver spa experiences that are both unique and memorable, and beyond your expectations. Samsara is also proud to be the first spa in Canada to offer a warm bamboo massage.

Samsara Day Spa
216 Heath Street West
Toronto, ON
m5p1n7

Click HERE (deal is on the right side of screen) to see all the details and to purchase this awesome deal in time for Mothers Day without breaking the bank!

Mac Cosmetics Prêt-à-Papier Collection is my weakness!

You may find this hard to believe but I generally don't know which Mac collections are out or really care too much.... strange for a makeup artist & beauty junkie I know but I just hate giving in to hype. I like what I like even if its been there since Mac opened its doors, but there was something about Mac's latest collection Prêt-à-Papier that I really loved.

Its no secret that I'm a huge fan of anything peachy or coral so naturally I was drawn to this collection. Well I ended up stopping myself at 2 purchases but may go back for more before its gone.

I decided on the Coral Crepe Paint Pot and the Instant Chic Powder Blush.


(original picture on www.temptalia.com)

Both are awesomely coral which I obviously adore. The paint pot would make an awesome base for shadows or even just alone as its pretty pigmented and a beautiful shade. The blush is probably my fav of the 2 as its matte, the perfect color for summer and I happen to think it would look stunning on my brides.

I may have to go back for the Dressmaker, Dressmaker and Made To Order lipsticks but I'm holding off for now.

(original picture on www.lushiousbeauty.nl)

So have you picked up anything from this collection?
Whats your favorite piece?

A Custom Handmade Ring In Time for Spring from Etsy Shop Floreal

Ruchi is an Etsy jewelry designer who creates wonderful handmade pieces in her shop Floreal.
I stumbled upon her work one day and searched her entire shop trying to decide what I would like most. I was kind of on a jewelry buying ban as I have way to much just lying around but wanted to let Ruchi know just how much I adored her work. I found her on twitter and after chatting with her she so graciously offered to design me my very own custom designed one of a kind ring. How could I refuse I was already so in love with her work.

She was sweet right from the start and involved me in the design process by asking me what colors I liked and what style of jewelry I wanted. I chose a ring because I love big rings and a girl can never have too many right? I also wanted something bright and fun for spring so after expressing this to her she came up with an intricate beautiful design that surpassed my expectations.

She sent me a finished picture via email however it was even more beautiful in person. Here is my custom handmade ring from Floreal isn't it so pretty? I love the attention to detail and the fact that she added a little gold glitter to the base makes it that much more me!



She designs necklaces, rings, earrings you name it shes got it! Check out her amazing designs at her Floreal shop. Also be sure to check out her Facesbook Fan page and to follow her on Twitter.

Ruchi is obviously super talented and I want to wish her the best of luck moving forward.



* This ring was sent by Floreal for consideration however all reviews are based on my honest opinions.

Beauty From The Inside Out With Confidence!

When it comes to beauty confidence is highly important. The more confidence you exude the more the beauty will shine from the inside out.

There's a saying that you're only as old as you feel but the same can be said for beauty, you're only as beautiful as you feel. No ones perfect (yes even super models have flaws) so instead of looking in the mirror and picking out each and every thing that's wrong with you, why not focus on the good?! Its far less draining emotionally and physically and will help others see you for who you really are.

Remember that beauty is not only about looks its also about personality so start by learning to accept and be happy with yourself and everything will fall into place.



Here are some tips that I believe in that just may help you on the road to releasing your inner beauty.

1) Treat body with respect. This means cutting back on smoking, and drinking alcohol.
2)Eat well, make it a point to get in the essential food groups. We learned this in elementary school for a reason!
3) Exercise within your comfort level. Any amount is better than none right?
4) Drink water! 2L a day if you can. This will help flush out the toxins, keep you from over eating & help your skin glow!
5) Get dolled up sometimes (whether its taking time to style your hair, add extra gloss or wearing your favorite outfit). It will help you feel beautiful and raise your spirits.
6) Say something positive to yourself every morning. This will help you stay on track all day.
7) Smile more... sounds simple but smiling more often can help change your mood from blah to happy within seconds.
8) Remember to take some time out for yourself. Treat yourself to a manicure or cook your favorite dish, do something that you enjoy and that excites you.
9) Focus on the parts of you physically and mentally you love most.
10) Love & believe in yourself, if you don't see your own beauty and worth how will others?

Taking baby steps to a more confident you will ensure that any negative thoughts will be replaced with certainty, self-affirmation, and the realization that you are truly beautiful inside and out.

Sunday Feature: You Go Girl! Featuring MUA Carley Simandl

Every Sunday I feature a blogger, artist, photographer, makeup artist, actress, socialite or all around awesome person on my blog in a feature I like to call "You Go Girl!" or in some cases "You Go Boy!".

This week Ill be featuring Makeup Artist extraordinaire Carley Simandl. I met Carley when I attended The School of Makeup Art. She was a teacher at the school and made it a point to chat with every student there. Her words motivated me and pushed me to succeed and for that I will be ever thankful.

I asked Carley to give me her thoughts on beauty and here's what she had to say.
_________________________________________

So who are you and why are you so fabulous?

Carley Simandl.

For the record, I think everyone is fabulous, they just need to realize it!

I apply my talent in my everyday life because I am one of the lucky few who genuinely enjoy what they do. My ability with people is not just social, I create art on a living breathing canvas. Not to mention the spectrum of different personalities I encounter, I would like to mention the array of cultures I see and get to learn from. Much like finger prints, every feature on every person is very unique so I customize the look according to my client.

What one beauty product would you recommend to my readers and why?

Good question. I am going to have to say that it will vary from individual to individual, it is all about understanding your own skin. For the people with dry skin, it is not any beauty product, it is actually water that you must drink. Otherwise, I believe investing in a good routine of cleanse, tone and moisturize is most important. Without a healthy base, no amount of make-up will ever adhere to the skins surface.

Have you ever lost or broken a beauty item you wish you still had today?
I just remember at one point having one of those personal vanities that you plugged in. It had a double sided mirror, one side magnetized with warm and cool lighting effects. I don't know what happened to that thing but maybe it inspired me along the way...

Youre in a huge rush, what one beauty product do you grab?

3 answers:

First, an eyelash curler. It is that one accessory that can take you from sleep to wake. Unless you have naturally erect lashes, it is an essential tool to refresh and revive any morning face.

Second, bronzer. It can quickly even-out a face and add a sun kissed glow.

Third, lip gloss. The lips are a sex symbol feature, why not add an appeal? Tinted or clear, it can make any women feel sexy.

Tattooed makeup, yay or nay?
NAY! As the skin on the face drops, so do the tattoos. Your tattoo starts to look like melted make-up on a beach. It is inevitably one of those cases of getting it removed and redone scenarios...

What are your thoughts on fake eyelashes?
Love them. I believe they are necessary for certain looks/occasions. Do you know in the 60's everyone wore them on a regular basis? High school girls, working women, stay @ home mom's, grandma's, etc... I believe in lashes and extra mascara if need be.

Who would you say are some favorite celeb or high profile clients?
I have been lucky to work with with high profile people. Sometimes the more behind the scenes masterminds are more impressive than the actual talent themselves. There will always be Diva's and Divine's. My favorite are people who are real and I connect with.

Are there any makeup or beauty faux pas you really really cant stand?
Over tweezing of the brows... It is uncomplimentary to any face shape. Words of wisdom, only trust a your eyebrows in the hands of a very few. Trimming is also necessary for some. Call me...

Are you guilty of any yourself?
Yes, but if I told you, I'd have to kill you.

Do you have a favorite beauty guru/mentor?
I think mentors are highly important. If you want to get to the top, then you should know the names of the people, at the top so you know who to network with. six degrees of separation...

Was there a product you bought due to blog/youtube/word of mouth hype that you just weren't please with once you tried?
Yes. It is always a try and buy, until you get to the point where companies send you product to trial. Be weary, ask good questions until then. You will more likely discover 9 times out of ten, you know more than the sales person. If it is the one time out of ten, then at least you walked away with gained knowledge.

Favorite career moment?

Fashion week 2008/9, MMVA's 2009, Teaching, NYC, India, etc... I think I will have many more to come!

Any last words or advice?

Beauty is from the inside out and I say Eat for Beauty. You can choose a diet complete in minerals and vitamins that vitalize the skin. Vitamin A, C & E, Omega oils, Selenium (in Brazil nuts) and the most IMPORTANT aspect is WATER. WATER. WATER. WATER, You get the picture.

From the outside-in, consider an all natural & effective body moisturizer; coconut oil (a saturated fat, therefore at room temperature it is a solid, like butter) It is best cold-pressed and extra virgin. Try to get it in an opaque container, it is unstable to light.

One of the best face treatments is to do a night oil on a damp face. You can use organic rose hip oil, which is the natural oil for anti aging. The key is a damp face, the water carries the oil into the cellular level, so it is a necessary component.

I believe that smiling reverses aging, that's possibly the most important point.

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I want to thank Carley for chatting with me and for everything shes done for me, whether it was motivating talks or taking me to gigs, she went out of her way for her students and friends and I really admire that.

Smink (Mineral Makeup) you very much! FOTD

Mineral makeup is taking the cosmetic world by storm. Even though its thought of to be a new form of makeup its actually been around for 30 years. Unlike traditional products, mineral makeup, which is based on a hypoallergenic loose powder that naturally nourishes the skin, contains no perfumes, talc, alcohol, dyes, mineral oil or preservatives.

Other great benefits of mineral makeup are that its fabulous for people with sensitive skin and those tat suffer from acne, allergies, dryness and clogged pores because mineral makeup is generally healthier for the skin as it doesn't contain harsh chemicals.

So for my FOTD I have used some mineral shadows, blush & gloss from Tval skincare's mineral makeup line called Smink.



On the eyes I used Winterton shadow ($6 Cdn) which is a beautiful shimmer white all the way up to the brow bone and then layered Puffin which is a deep purple shade on the lid. When mixed together the outcome was so pretty.


On the cheeks I used Blushing Bakeapple Blush ($12 Cdn) which has got to be one of my favs. I love the peach tone and the pigmentation is really nice.


On the lips I chose Sooky which is a peach shade that has flecks of gold in it. Perfect for summer. The smell of the glosses is yummy this one a bit like candy and Brazen Hussy smells like mint.



Their glosses ($12 Cnd) come in 2 forms, in tubes and in pots and not only smell wonderful but are non sticky and highly pigmented.

So far I've been really impressed with the Smink mineral makeup line. I don't generally like loose powders as they go everywhere so Ive just cut off half the sticker that covers the sifter holes so I don't let too much out at one time and that solved the problem.

The line carries a wide range of shadow colors and although small a little goes a long way so I can see these lasting a long long time.


Check out Tval Skincare's website for more information on the line and where to purchase.

* These products were sent by Tval Skincare for consideration however all reviews are based on my honest opinions.

With The Warm Weather Comes Bad Foot Odors

When the warm weather hits we ditch the socks & opt for flip flops, sandals & pedicures but with nothing between your foot & the shoe, odors can be more evident.

Ladies its not enough to get your pedi's once a month, if you notice an odor there are ways to help. Cute polish will only get you so far!

Believe it or not, your feet can produce a whopping half liter (over 2 cups!) of sweat in one day!

Here are some tips that may help you with what could be an embarrassing issue.

There is the obvious tip which is to be sure to wash your feet including between the toes in the shower at least once a day.

Besides this there are several different kinds of soaks you can try.

Baking Soda - Once a week create a foot bath by adding ½ cup of baking soda to about 7 litres of water in your tub. Soak your feet for about 10-15 minutes. Baking soda is a gentle alkaline powder that will neutralize odor-causing acids by restoring your skin's pH level. Finish by rinsing feet, pat them dry and then ensure you use a lotion or foot cream to keep feet well moisturized.

Tea - 30 minutes a day for a week. The acid in the tea will dry out your skin.

Salt water - Half a cup of kosher salt for every quart of water. After soaking, don't rinse, just dry thoroughly.

Vodka - Myth Busters tested the use of Vodka in a foot bath to remove foot odors. They confirmed that Vodka does indeed work to remove foot odors... not sure why you would wanna waste Vodka on your feet though...

Alternatively you can also try using antiperspirant on the bottoms of your feet. A spray or roll on will work but make sure its antiperspirant and not deodorant as deodorant will only mask the smell not help prevent it.


Smelly feet are never cute feet so if you have a problem be sure to take care of it now so that when the heat of the summer months hit you are prepared.

If you have any other smelly feet cures feel free to share them.

Sunday Feature: 'You Go Girl' Starring Hollywood Socialite Courtenay Semel!

Every Sunday I feature a blogger, artist, photographer, makeup artist, actress, socialite or all around awesome person on my blog in a feature I like to call "You Go Girl!" or in some cases "You Go Boy!".

This week Ill be featuring Hollywood socialite & Heiress Courtenay Semel!

Courtenay is also the daughter of the former CEO of Yahoo Inc Terry Semel and also stared in the reality show "Filthy Rich: Cattle Drive".

I got the chance to ask Courtenay some Q's and here's what this heiress had to say about her life, career and of course beauty ;)

________________________________________________

So Courtenay tell us a little about who are you & why are you so fabulous?

I’m a Hollywood Socialite who plans to save the world one teen at a time. I’ve grown to learn if you feel fabulous everyone else will think you’re fabulous too! High self-esteem is the key to fabulousness.

Where can we find you on the world wide web?

You can find me on the social networking sites. I’m a Twitter and Facebook addict! My website courtenaysemel.com is getting a makeover, but it will up and running soon.

What one beauty product would you recommend and why?

Smashbox Photo finish foundation primer! You can wear that and nothing else. It makes your skin look flawless in pics.

Your favorite beauty treatment is?

A Korean Spa Scrub! You walk out feeling like a new person and your skin truly feels like butter!

Who would you say have been some of your favorite celebs/people and why?

Oprah and Tyra have got it going on! They’re all about promoting high self-esteem and using their celebrity for a good cause.

You're in a huge rush, what one beauty product do you grab?

Mascara. I don’t leave home without it.

Tattooed makeup, yay or nay?

Whatever makes you tingle. Personally I think au natural is always best.

Do you have a favorite guru/mentor?

My father. Mini mogul here I come…

Do you have a favorite makeup artist?

Paul Starr is and forever will be the greatest make-up artist of all time!

Are there any makeup or beauty faux pas you really cant stand?

Cream eye shadow never makes it through the end of the night. Can’t stand it!

Are you guilty of any yourself?

I guess, dry shampoo on dark hair. Make sure to distribute evenly or you’ll be sorry! Looking like you have dandruff, isn’t a cute look!

Favorite makeup foundation?

Love anything MAC! I use Fresh foundation and powder. It’s very au natural and doesn’t cover up my freckles!

Favorite career highlight & why?

Doing the cover of Curve Magazine. I was able to take a stand for the Bi and Lesbian community. I had low self-esteem growing up so it was a huge confidence booster for my first photo shoot EVER to be for a cover of a magazine.

What can people expect from Courtenay Semel in the future?

There’s A LOT to come… I’m producing two television shows and working on two books at the moment. Besides that, I’m hoping to fill Oprah’s shoes one day!

________________________________________________

I would like to thank Miss Semel for being so sweet and for commenting on how cute my blog was ;) I had a great time connecting with her and wish her nothing but the best in the future.

Motives Cosmetics By Loren Ridinger FOTD

I have to be honest, although I had heard of Motives Cosmetics By Loren Ridinger I didn't quite know what they were all about or how good the quality of their product was. I did some research and found a lot of positive reviews online which made me even more excited to try out the line.

So today's FOTD is brought to you by Motives Cosmetics By Loren Ridinger.



Products used

Eyeshadows: ($12.00 cdn)
Vanilla
Teak
Constellation

Eyeliner: ($14.00 cdn)
Luxe Precision Eyeline in Noir

Blush: ($13.50 cdn)
So Peachy

Lipstick: ($14.00cdn)
Peach Puff

I had read an article a few weeks ago that said color on the lower lash line mixed with a neutral lid were where it was at so I decided to try it for myself.

I started by applying Vanilla all over my lid right up to the brow bone, next I applied Teak in the crease and used the Noir Luxe Precision Eyeline on my upper lash line to create a slightly angled line. I added Constellation shadow with an angled liner brush under my lower lash line, applied So Peachy blush, Peach Puff lipstick and my own mascara and Voila!


I have to say I was really impressed with the amount of pigment in these shadows. A little goes a long way and the blue shade (Constellation) is now one of my favs!

Here are the swatches of the products used for this look Motives Cosmetics By Loren Ridinger.


I have been using the Luxe precision eyeline non stop because it makes it so easy to create that cat eye liner. It has a felt tip and when placed at a slight angle it takes me 1 try to create a perfect line. Could it be any easier??

The So Peachy blush I tried today for the first time and fell in love. I think this will be a blush I reach for this summer a lot. In keeping with the peach theme I applied the Peach Puff lipstick which to me has a bit of gold in it. It looks amazing with a tan I have to say.

This is only part one of my review on this line but so far everything I have tried has impressed me to no end. You can find the entire Motives Collection online.

Stay tuned for part 2 of my Motives fun!


* These products were sent by Motives cosmetics for consideration however all reviews are based on my honest opinions.

Cargo Cosmetics I dont only love them because they are Canadian!

Yes its true I heart that Cargo Cosmetics is a Canadian brand because they make great quality makeup in sleek cool packaging and at the same time help take care of our planet with their eco-friendly line of lipsticks.

In the past I have reviewed their Multi-Mix Bronzer, Blu_Ray High Definition Mattifier, Tonga & Mendochino blushes and their LashActivator™ Mascara. All got two thumbs up from me and the fact that I still use them to this day is a huge indicator for me that Cargo is in my makeup train to stay!

A few months ago I added another wonderful Cargo Cosmetics piece to my collection. This time it was the Bermuda Color Palette. It retails for $28 online and includes shades in shimmering pale khaki, matte chocolate brown, bronze sheen & shimmering copper.

It comes not in Cargos cool silver packaging they are known for but in this whimsical designed palette that reminds me of paradise. Each palette has a different image that's fun and colorful and in line with the brands sleek, chic and cool image.




Although Ive used this palette many times for some very pretty neutral looks it hardly looks used simply because a little goes a long way. These shadows are highly pigmented and with a mix of mattes and shimmers this palette scores high with me, not to mention the huge mirror it comes with which can be any girls best friend on the go.

To check out this product and many other wonderful ones head over to Cargo Cosmetics site to browse all of their innovative and wonderful items.