Face First Boutique Blog

Furnace Brook Middle School in Marshfield began its first After School Enrichment Program in the spring of 2009 with great success.  I was fortunate enough to participate by offering a Skin Care and Makeup 101 class.  The Enrichment Program picked up again in September and my class grew to over 3 times the number of girls! 

Skin Care and Makeup 101 began with an introduction to what the girls could expect throughout the 6 week course.  Each student received a packet with a Face First Boutique handbook, and other items they would need for each class. 

Those following weeks were filled with girls having fun. Once school was over, it was time for them to let loose.  What better way to do that than with homemade remedies and makeup?  The girls made and applied their own all-natural facial masks, facial scrubs, and essential oil hydrating mists. 

With the help of a Woods Lamp, which shows the condition of the skin beneath the surface, the girls were able to see what happens after too much sun exposure.  Needless to say, they were horrified, and hopefully will always remember to wear sunscreen. 

I think it’s important to show the girls, and boys for that matter, real examples of what sunburn can really do to the body.  Since I am a product of the days of baby oil and aluminum foil, I had plenty to share!

The girls learned proper cleansing and moisturizing techniques as well as age-appropriate makeup applications.  Those six weeks gave the girls an opportunity to be comfortable enough to ask whatever they felt was important to them.

My goal is to create an atmosphere where teens can feel free to come with questions and or concerns about their skin.  It’s hard enough growing up these days.  I think it’s important for teens to be comfortable with themselves no matter what their skin condition may be.

One of the things I love to do best is work with teens and pre-teens.  Educational Spa Parties are a favorite with these girls, and I was happy to oblige Discovery Girls Magazine® when they requested a Spa Party for one of their upcoming issues.

The day went off without a hitch and the girls loved it!  Among other things, we made homemade facial masks and exfoliants with items right out of any pantry.  We also made lavender and peppermint hydrating mist for the girls to take home. 

Of course, they know how to wash; we just take the process one step further. We cover all the basics of proper skin care from cleansing, treating, and balancing, to protecting the skin.  Gone are the days of lying in the sun with an album cover wrapped in aluminum foil!  Our goal is to make sure these girls are spared the dreaded sun spots and wrinkled skin caused by too much sun exposure. 

If you’re looking for an educational spa day for your teen or pre-teen, drop us a note or give us a call and we’ll be happy to set it up.

baystate parent magazine

A friend of mine was in a bind.  She had a modeling gig and the makeup artist dropped out at the last minute.  Meghan is a sweetheart so, of course, I said I would be happy to help.  The job was through John Robert Powers Acting and Modeling School in Boston, and the client was BayState Parent Magazine.

The shoot consisted of six models and a Vintage Haberdash. What’s a Haberdash you ask?  It’s a 1954 Bellwood Aloha trailer refinished with hardwood floors and display racks, and is the home of a very funky traveling boutique, aptly named Vintage Haberdash. 

The models, two of whom reside in Marshfield, looked fantastic and had fun going through the timeless collection of shoes, dresses, and jewelry.  It was a gorgeous day in beautiful Millbury, MA, and for a few hours I was back in the 50’s helping out a friend in need and having a blast. 

Check out the artcle for more information.

www.baystateparent.com/news/2009/0901/articles/003.html

Okay, I haven’t been very productive at blogging lately and I apologize.  Between working on the Destination Matters television pilot, running Tween Spa Parties, and setting up at Salon Trés Chic, it’s been pretty crazy—good crazy though.

It’s summer - well almost.  So let’s slough off that winter, dry skin and let the new, refreshed layers emerge.  The most obvious way to accomplish this is to exfoliate.  Just remember that it’s really important to use sunscreen.  Whatever you take away in the manner of exfoliating, you have to replace in the form of protection. 

I know most of you want that summer glow, but there’s no reason to hurt yourself in the process.  My Touch of Sun bronzer will give you that glow without those harmful rays.  Here’s my five minute or less makeup application for the summer:

1. Full coverage foundation used with the Capra Purse Size Flat brush to even out skin tone.
2. Touch of Sun bronzer applied to forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin using the Retractable Luscious Kabuki brush
3. A dab of shadow just on lids (if desired). Rose Quartz, Celestial, and Golden Girls are just a few nice choices for summer.
4. Blinc® mascara
5. Lip Gloss

Seriously, the more you do this routine, the easier and faster it gets.  It’s not only quick but it’s actually good for you.  Don’t forget the minerals and vitamins that are in this makeup, not to mention the sun protection component.  Your face will love you for it!

Better yet, make an appointment with me at Salon Trés Chic, 340 Washington Street, Norwell, for a facial and makeup application. 

Mention this blog and get 10% off.

You have to check out www.DestinationMatters.net.  This is a teen SciFi television pilot that has been filming in Boston for the past few weeks.  I was fortunate enough to be asked to work as Makeup Supervisor on the pilot.  This is a new avenue for me and I love the challenge.  It’s not every day that I get to whip out my airbrush and make someone look like they’ve been rolling in the mud.  The crew and the cast are a blast to work with and I’ll be sorry when it’s over. 

This is what I mean about loving my job.  I received a call from someone turning 21 in a few weeks.  She wants to treat herself to a makeover.  The great thing about it is, she wants to try mineral makeup and is looking for guidance.   This is the best kind of request because I get to help someone feel great and be a part of her special day at the same time.  Thanks for thinking of me Ashley!

I have to tell you, I can’t think of a more satisfying job than being an esthetician and makeup artist.  I definitely get the best of both worlds.

As an esthetician, I’m able to work with young teens and mature adults  to help them feel their best.  There is no better feeling than helping to eliminate embarrassing acne or diminishing those annoying “expression” lines.

Then the really fun part starts with makeup!  Mom’s love it when I teach their girls how to apply makeup without looking 10 years older.  Don’t get me wrong, I love working on fashion shows, brides, and beauty pageants, but it’s the everyday look that’s so gratifying.  People just want to know what colors look best on them and how to actually apply it.

If you’re ever in the mood to just have fun with colors, give me a call.  Who says adults can’t have “play dates” too!

Have you turned up the heat in your home yet? Does your skin feel a little itchy? It’s the season for dry skin so load up on the moisturizers. Cover your skin from head to toe to keep hydrated. There are plenty to choose from out there and it can get a bit overwhelming. Curel Ultra Healing® lotion is one of my favorite body lotions–great for the body, but don’t use it on your face.

The heat in our homes and the cold weather do a number on our skin. So, just as we add layers to keep us warm, we need to add layers to protect our skin. Lightweight moisturizers are perfect for summertime, but for the winter months your moisturizer should have a richer consistency.

Just a bit of information when looking at labels…

Vitamin Benefit to skin Also known as

Vitamin E Reducing fine lines and wrinkles Tocopheryl

Preventing and treating sunburn

Antioxidant

Vitamin A Can improve acne or psoriasis Retinyl

Reducing fine lines and wrinkles Trenitoin (active ingredient

Helps fade age spots in Retin A

Azulene Anti-inflammatory and detoxifies L-ascorbate

Derived from Chamomile

Extremely calming and soothing to the skin

Blue in color

Vitamin C Boosts collagen production Ascorbic Acid, Magnesium

Reduces fine lines and wrinkles Ascorbyl Phosphate

Antioxidant

Our moisturizers contain the essential vitamins and minerals necessary for proper skin care.

Azure Cream is a moisturizer for all skin types. It has a rich consistency without feeling heavy.

Moisturizing Fruit Balm contains Alpha Hydroxy Acid to gently exfoliate dead skin cells and helps to control bacteria. Beneficial to oily skin.

Multi-Vitamin Revitalizing Cream is a wonderful anti-aging cream containing the all important Vitamins A, C, & E among other essential ingredients.

Learn more about these products in our Skin Care Products section.

Don’t forget the lips! While lip gloss certainly has its place, nothing works better than balm to chase away dry, chapped lips. Try Prescriptives Lip Specialist®. Another option is Neutrogena Lip Nutrition Lip Balm® which comes in a variety of flavors. Or simply apply Vaseline® before going to bed.

Be honest, who among us put on our mom’s party dress  and high heels and paraded around the house pretending to be the next Miss America?  I know I’m not the only one!

When it comes to beauty pageants don’t let stereotypes fool you.  I had the privilege of working with contestants for the Miss Connecticut USA and Miss Teen Connecticut USA Pageant at the Stamford Hilton last weekend and met some of the most poised, intelligent, and gracious young ladies. 

I expected at least one “Pageantzilla” to come marching into the dressing room.  You know the one that horrifies even the worst “Bridezilla” who thinks she has every reason to be rude.  But, I am happy to say, I did not come across one impolite delegate in the group! It was pretty refreshing, actually, to see how respectful they were, not only to me and staff members, but also to each other. 

The evening gowns were beautiful and the cocktail dresses tasteful.  But when it came time for the “swim suit stroll,” I felt for them.  No one likes to walk among family and strangers in a bikini and heels.  These girls, however, managed it with grace. 

I know you’re waiting for some juicy gossip or a “cat fight” story, but sorry, none to tell.  The lucky winners were Monica Pietrzak, a 25-year old personal trainer from Manchester, as the new Miss Connecticut USA, and 17-year old Tiffany Teixeira of Bridgeport as the newly crowned Miss Teen Connecticut USA.  Congratulations girls!

Generally speaking, this was a positive life experience for all who participated.

Okay ladies, autumn is here.  I know it’s hard to let go of summer, but put away the pastels and floral prints and buy yourself a nice crisp white shirt.  You can even spice it up a bit with a little ruffle, which is totally in now. 

While you’re at it don’t forget to change your makeup color palette.  It is just as important to let go of the Just Coral and Sunkissed lipsticks and pick up a warm Spiceful or make your lips pop with a Cherry Bomb. 

You should be excited about this time of year.  Your kids are back to school and you can treat yourself to some new fall colors.  Check out our Makeup Wallets and Eye Quads where you’ll find all kinds of great choices. They’re portable for that Columbus Day getaway to Nantucket, or if you’re like most of us, the weekend at the ball field.

Speaking of nice crisp white shirts, I attended a fashion show fundraiser in Cohasset and was introduced to some very chic clothing boutiques.  All you local gals should check out Pink Tulip in Cohasset, Crossing Main in Hingham, and Ports & Company in Cohasset.  You’ll find all the latest trends and unbelievable accessories. You won’t be disappointed, I promise!

By the way, don’t forget to stop by my table at the Octoberfest this Saturday, October 4, at the

Marshfield Fairgrounds and enjoy a

free

5-Minute Makeover!