Intimacy

As the warm weather transitions to a cool breeze, wedding season starts to die down. This past summer was a whirlwind of love, happiness, and celebration for me in many ways. While I was able to build some amazing relationships with new clients, new photographers, and coordinators, I was also blessed with the opportunity to be there for a friend this wedding season. A friend who I have always considered a sister, but now it's more true than ever.

I am honored by any woman who chooses to have me at her side during her special day. She has so much to think about that morning, so many details are racing through her head. Did the flowers arrive? I haven't memorized my vows yet... Wow, today is the day my life changes. The last thing she needs to worry about is if her eyelashes are going to be uncomfortable, or if her makeup is going to smudge when she tears up... that's my issue and burden to bear for her. 

Photography by Taken by Light

Makeup application is normally the bride's last task before stepping into her dress, and that last hour is normally the most emotional for her. I'm not going to lie, it's a pretty emotional moment for me too. The intimacy between the bride and her makeup artist is very unique. Trust has been built, and she has faith in me to make her feel like the prettiest girl on earth that day. She feels comfortable enough to let a few tears slip out and tell me what she's thinking before we start her foundation... While my job is to apply her makeup, I've learned over the years that my first priority is to listen to her. Even when she is not speaking. Sometimes her body language is saying more than ever when she is quiet. Because we are so close at this moment, I need to pamper her so she feels calm and at peace with everything going on around her. 

This level of intimacy that I am describing can really strengthen any relationship whether it's new or old, and I thank God that I am able to be present in the bridal room with strangers and with friends to create such wonderful and close friendships.

xoxo

Priscilla Francine 

Almay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover

Almay Oil-Free Eye makeup remover pads are quite handy for a traveling makeup artist, as well as the girl on the go. I stumbled upon them at the grocery store, picking up some last minute supplies before a camping trip. This camping trip excluded showers and sinks...these pads were already moist and ready to use so they were exactly what I needed.

Here's why I like them:
-No oily residue left on your skin.
-Removes eye makeup...and face makeup.
-Removes waterproof mascara with ease (so no tugging on your delicate skin).
-No need to have cotton pads/balls/Q-Tips around.

Ingredients Include:
-Aloe
-Green Tea
-Cucumber

Cons:
-I wish there was a larger size to buy than the 80 count, because I liked them so much.

Remember to be gentle when cleansing your eye area ladies! It is such a delicate area on our face, and we can actually cause damage by tugging too hard. You can cause bruising (dark circles) when you are too rough with this skin...think of your skin around the eye area as if it were tissue paper. It's that fragile!

XOXO
Priscilla

First Day of School

Labor Day has passed, and it's back to school we go! While you're stocking up on your sweaters and boots, here are a few basics to add to your makeup bag for this upcoming season:

Nars- Light Reflecting Loose Setting Powder

I've added the Nars Light Reflecting Loose Setting powder to my professional kit because of the quality, and because it's technology is perfect for pictures! I like using product that works for every woman's skin tone and skin concern. First, this powder does not alter the complexion (foundation) at all-so it works for every skin tone! Yes, every skin tone, fair to deep! Second, it destroys the rumor "powder settles into my creases, making me look dry". It's silky, and perfects the texture on ones skin, absorbing excess oils without adding a dry finish. Last, the light reflecting powers diffuse light and adjust to new light... perfect for when a bride is inside and outside! Perfect for in person, and on camera! 

Dior- Diorshow Blackout Mascara

You saw the bold brow trend pop up...your currently watching the bold lip pop up....so let's add some balance to the face with bold lashes too!! Diorshow Blackout was created to be dramatic. The pigment is extremely rich, and offers you a true black lash!! I think it look nice paired with a clean eyelid and a defined lash line (a winged/cat eye using liquid liner).

BareMinerals- Buxom Full Bodied Lipstick in Scoundrel

Lip colors for Fall are always going to hold a deeper hue. While those who's styles are edgier jump right into the latest trend, it may be hard for the rest of the world to join in. Scoundrel holds that same intensity you will see this Fall on the Runway, however it has a brighter attitude. It's more on the raspberry-fuchsia side. It's adds some serious life to the complexion, without being harsh on your eyes when you look in the mirror.

OPI Nail Lacquer- So many clowns so little time

I found this gem at the Spring Cosmoprof show for 50 cents, little did I know this color was from the Spring 2011 Femme de Cirque Collection. You may be able to find it if you search for a bit... it's a clean and professional look. I like it because it has a peach undertone verses a pink undertone, the finished result is a sheer ivory. I prefer 3-4 coats to make it stand out a bit more and compliment my tan. I'm using this on my hands, and am loving a deep purple, almost black on my toes!


Hope school is going well for everyone!

xoxo
Priscilla Francine 

Lash of Love

Every 12 months a new Lash of Love is introduced by Faux Lash. It's been a while since the "Priscilla" Lash has been out, but I wanted to remind everyone about it before it's no longer around!! 

When you purchase the "Priscilla" Lash for $10 the proceeds are donated to The Women's Global Empowerment Fund.

Their mission is to reach undeserved women, create opportunities, and offer tools to alleviate poverty! I have a heart for missions, and God has put a strong desire in me to encourage women in all areas of life. While my main objective is encouraging women's confidence through beauty and cosmetics, I can't help but want to invest in helping women build livelihoods-The Women's Global Empowerment Fund strives to develop a program that helps women support their families in Uganda!!! 

Lipstick: Pretty Amazing Lip Color in Free Will by BareMinerals

Lipstick: Russian Red by MAC

Lipstick Media by MAC

The "Priscilla" Faux Lash is extremely versatile. It's just like a lady: delicately made, soft when it needs to be, and strong when the time is right!

It's weight is feminine and dainty so your eyes won't be bothered, and it's length is long and dramatic to really open up the eyes. I wanted to show you how this false lash can work for any occasion-no matter what you are wearing or feeling!

Thanks to photographer Em The Gem for capturing these images.

XOXO
Priscilla

Yep, They are Pretty Amazing!

The Pretty Amazing Lip Colors captured my attention right away. A creamy formula applied like a lip gloss? Sounds fabulous right? It really is!!!

You get what you pay for in most cases, but as far as the Pretty Amazing Lip Colors go, I feel you get more than you're expecting. I think BareMinerals could charge more for this product based off the quality.  But I'd prefer they keep it at $16 forever (unless I become a millionaire, then I'm ok with a price increase).

What sets the amazing lip colors apart from the rest of the lip options on the market???

• The pigment is super serious. Once the applicator touches the skin-you've got color! No need to apply multiple layers!
• The application process is quick and easy...it even helps chapped and dry lips look decent! 
• There is a hydrating, and glossy sheen which makes the lip shape appear more luscious.
• It's not a long lasting stain, however I find it's color lasts extremely well. 
• A lip liner is not necessary to keep this product from bleeding-there's not much movement with this formula. 

Pretty Amazing Lip Color: Strength

Strength is a classic hue! Its a true red, so it will work well with every gals skin tone! Red screams confidence, so I'd recommend a red lip color for many occasions... when you're tired its a nice distraction from puffy eyes and dark circles too!

Pretty Amazing Lip Color: Ambition

Hot Pink has been my favorite for clients with Blonde hair! I think its a fun option for a bold look without feeling too overdone. I used Ambition for Taylor's feature this past May in ELLE Magazine. 

Pretty Amazing Lip Color: Moxie Feeling girly?? Moxie is an innocently flirty color! If you have a daughter who is inquiring about wearing makeup... I think you'd find this to be a good start to her collection.

Pretty Amazing Lip Color: Fearless

This mauve hue is bridal perfection! I use Fearless allll the time because my brides will not look washed out on camera, grooms will still feel like their bride looks like "herself", and 20 years from now one will NOT regret this lipstick choice!

Pretty Amazing Lip Color: Free Will  Free Will is my personal fav... you can't go wrong with a nude lip, whether it's for everyday errands or the finishing touches paired with a dramatic smokey eye. It cuts my natural lip color just right for a perfectly kissable pout!

Pretty Amazing Lip Color: Savvy Savvy is a great neutral color for a sun-kissed bronzed look. It has a bit more brown mixed into it, so it's also a nice nude for any gal with a medium to deep skin tone.

This product is a staple in my personal makeup bag because of the amazing color options-it is also a staple in my professional makeup kit for my clients because of how well it lasts once applied. 

Want a video tutorial? Watch this to see how to apply the Pretty Amazing Lip Colors! 

XOXO

Priscilla Francine 

Tea Tree

Just like fashion and home decor, cosmetic products can become trendy. Social media and marketing strategies can get us excited so we go out and purchase the newest and latest "insert item here". While the packaging may be spectacular and the scent is super yummy...sometimes we don't even know what we are really buying or if it is the correct product to target our specific concerns?

I'm sure you have heard all the hype about Tea Tree-right? ...but what is it? Tea Tree is an Australasian Flowering shrub (or small tree) with leaves that can be used for tea. Some of these plants (species) offer an oil which has antiseptic properties. OK, now what is an Antiseptic? An antiseptic assists in preventing the growth of bacteria on the skin.

It is uncomfortable to ponder, but yes, we have bacteria all over us. Bacteria can also be called "germs" or "microbes", they can be disease-producing or non-disease producing. As I get older, I've noticed my germ phobia has gotten worse so I'm jumping on the all natural Tea Tree antiseptic train!

A few months ago I went to the CosmoProf Spring Style Show, and after the Paul Mitchell training I picked up a few shampoos and conditioners. The Tea Tree Special Shampoo promised to be an invigorating experience-It totally was!

Why I liked it:

-It left my scalp tingling-and it really did have a cleaner and fresher feel afterwards.
-I did notice my hair had more volume starting at my roots.
-My scalp and hair did not feel dry at all.
-My hair dresser noticed my hair grew faster (It may have been a coincidence though??)

The only time I did not LOVE this product.. was while I was visiting Paris. I loved Paris, but my hair for some reason did not and would not get clean.

Speaking of Paris... I did love how my skin looked while we were there!!! Since I was out of my normal climate, I brought my LUSH Cosmetics Tea Tree Water to prevent any breakouts. I spritzed it on in the morning (and sometimes throughout the day while touring the city) and than used a hydrating alternative in the evening. Normally I would break out in a "City" environment- but I really believe the antibacterial aspect was beneficial for this trip.

Now that I am a believer of Tea Tree Toner...I have added it to my kit for my oilier Brides and Clients too!!! It helps their makeup last longer since it soaks up all the excess oil on the skin!!

Why I liked it:

-Easy to use, spray before moisturizer or after makeup.
-No harsh smell.
-Grapefruit is also another ingredient...which is a great astringent
-It does not dry my skin out, like an acne treatment would.

Do you have any favorite Tea Tree products you swear by?

xoxo
Priscilla Francine

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