SKYPE Beauty Cyber Monday Offer!

Need Make-up Application help?

How about a 1 on 1 lesson  via SKYPE with 

JenniferJamesBeauty!

SKYPE Beauty is a full hour of hands-on applied make-up techniques, tips & tricks.  During session, you will also receive product recommendations & targeted instruction with a focus on time saving yet flawless results.  All of this cosmetics knowledge is customized to your specific beauty needs.

Only $45 USD.

Go to http://www.JenniferJamesBeauty.com

Proceed to CONTACT page. Click SKYPE Beauty logo to get started! We will need to complete an  email or phone consultation to customize your session & go  over product recommendations before session for optimum productivity. You may use contact form to begin the process.

*Special Make-Up Artist' Sessions (w/ model) also available!*

  CYBER MONDAY OFFER:

All SKYPE Beauty Sessions purchased by 

TUES NOV 30th 2010 @ 3am EST (12 Midnight Pacific)

will receive an additional *30 minutes* of session time!

Click SKYPE Beauty logo above! Looking forward to meeting you on the web!!!
Email: JenJamesBeauty@gmail.com for  more details, to schedule pre-session email consultation & to request phone consult.

Related blog posts:
Original SKYPEbeauty post  (April 2010)
http://jenniferjamesbeauty.blogspot.com/2010/04/1-on-1-beauty-sessions-with-jennifer.html
SKYPE Beauty Black Friday 2010 Offer

Jennifer James Beauty was very happy to have celebrated 1 year anniversary of SKYPE Beauty in October, 2010. Looking forward to many more years with this medium & connecting with many more SKYPE Beauties all over the world! (with the help of TransClick for Skype)

Global SKYPE Beauties so far: Greece, Nigeria, England, Brazil, South Africa, Jamaica, Mexico, Dubai & St. Lucia. Pin It Now!

SKYPE Beauty Black Friday Offer! Part Deux

Need make up application help? Know someone who does? How about the gift of a 1 on 1 lesson via SKYPE Beauty Session!

SKYPE Beauty is a full hour of hands-on applied make-up techniques, tips & tricks.  During session, you will also receive product recommendations & targeted instruction with a focus on time saving yet flawless results.  All of this cosmetics knowledge is customized to your specific beauty needs. 

Only $45 USD.

Go to http://www.JenniferJamesBeauty.com

Proceed to CONTACT page. Click SKYPE Beauty logo to get started! We will need to complete an email or phone consultation to customize your session & go over product recommendations before session for optimum productivity. You may use contact form to begin the process.

*Special Make-Up Artist' Sessions (w/ model) also available!*

BLACK FRIDAY OFFER:

All SKYPE Beauty Sessions purchased by midnight, Friday DEC 24th will receive additional *30 minutes* of session time!

Click SKYPE Beauty logo above! Looking forward to meeting you on the web!!!
Email: JenJamesBeauty@gmail.com for  more details, to schedule pre-session email consultation & to request phone consult.

Related blog posts:
Original SKYPEbeauty post  (April 2010)
http://jenniferjamesbeauty.blogspot.com/2010/04/1-on-1-beauty-sessions-with-jennifer.html

SKYPEbeauty Sessions - Mary Kay, AVON & Amway Reps Specific:
http://jenniferjamesbeauty.blogspot.com/2010/12/skypebeauty-sessions-mary-kay-avon.html

Jennifer James Beauty was very happy to have celebrated 1 year anniversary of SKYPE Beauty in October, 2010. Looking forward to many more years with this medium & connecting with many more SKYPE Beauties all over the world! (with the help of TransClick for Skype)

Global SKYPE Beauties so far: Greece, Nigeria, England, Brazil, South Africa, Jamaica, Mexico, Dubai & St. Lucia. Pin It Now!

★ NOV 2010 Classes in METRO-DETROIT

*2011 Workshops HERE*

 

★ ::: NOV 2010 Class Line-Up.

Make-Up Artists, get your models & be ready to go full-throttle in these hands-on, intensive sessions that are designed to enhance your product knowledge, experience & make-up artistry.

::: BROW BOOT CAMP 11/11  

::: "I WANT MY EYES LIKE THAT!" 11/13  

::: PROM, BRIDAL & RED CARPET BEAUTY 11/13  

::: FASHION MAKE-UP for RUNWAY & PRINT 11/14  

Click link below to see class details.  Enter site then click the CLASSES link.

http://www.JenniferJamesBeauty.com/

SPACES ARE LIMITED!!

Email questions to jenjamesbeauty@gmail.com

If you have more questions, please attend the Jennifer James Beauty NOV Sessions Conference Call Q&A! It will be this Sunday November 7th, 2010 at 10am EST. This brief call will be for answering ANY & ALL of your questions/concerns related to the classes & future sessions.  

Conference call participation from interested parties everywhere is welcome.

The dial-in number is (218) 862-1000 & access code is 428926#.

Thank you as always!

http://wwwFacebook.com/JenniferJamesBeauty

http://www.Facebook.com/JenniferJamesBeautyBiz

http://www.Twitter.com/JenJamesBeauty

 

*IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ANY OF THE ABOVE LISTED CLASSES, PLEASE SEND CORRESPONDENCE TO JENJAMESBEAUTY@GMAIL.COM. *PRIVATE 1 on 1 & MUA 2 MUA LESSONS ALWAYS AVAILABLE.

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★ IMAN Cosmetics in-store Event!!!

•Join me for an IMAN Cosmetics™ event this Saturday OCT 09 2010 featuring the 

NEW IMAN Cosmetics™ Luxury Radiance Liquid Makeup!

Come get expertly matched & your own custom color face charts! 

This exclusive event in Detroit, MI will be at Walgreens location #4797, 6331 E. Jefferson Ave. Detroit 48207 (313) 567-4202 from 11am to 5pm.

 SEE YOU THERE!

http://www.IMANcosmetics.com 

http://www.facebook.com/IMANcosmetics

http://www.twitter.com/IMANcosmetics

http://www.twitter.com/The_Real_IMAN 

 

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Make-Up & A Racial Divide...in 2010?!?!

I recently worked a very cool gig. Had a great time with the principals, they were satisfied with my work & we had a ball on set.

Later, I was informed by the hiring agent that along with my experience in the type of make-up required for the project - my sharing of African-American heritage with the client did weigh-in on my being sought for the job.

 A "comfort level" was mentioned in regards to perception of different races being able to execute make-up looks on complexions other than their own. Not at all was this the 1st time I had dealt with this subject matter. I have actually seen this same frame of thought be exhibited in several situations & from more than 1 side.

So I ask, Make-Up Artists - what is your opinion on this matter? What have you experienced with regard to this? How have you taken steps to assure potential clients that your knowledge & skill level are diverse enough to warrant their trust?

 

I would also like to hear from clients/consumers who have a point of view that they would like to share.

Civil discourse on any matter is always a step in the right direction. So let's get another conversation going where the goal is ultimately to extend clarity & understanding to all involved.

LET'S TALK ABOUT THIS!!!

Discussion of topic on my FB page HERE:

*Photos used are from past work & are totally unrelated to client/job cited above.*
http://www.jenniferjames-beauty.com Pin It Now!

"Why *eyes 1st* Stunts Growth of Your Artistry"

Aaaah....the debate goes on between aspiring/new/working/retail Make-Up Artists & veteran/Top Industry Pro Make-Up Artists...

The big question: Apply *eyes 1st* or *foundation 1st*? Why? Does it matter? Depends on the artist, right? Some techniques are better in some situations than others, right? Well...

I count myself amongst the veterans in the Make-Up Artist's groups I cited above. Working in this industry for the past 20+ years, I am thankful to have been able to see & experience many sides, aspects, scenarios and work conditions industry-wide. Many consistencies exist as a Make-Up Artist navigates their different jobs. Whether consumer applications in the retail environment, bridal, photography, video, fashion, film or television - you are expected to adopt industry standards and produce make-up in accordance with the industry aesthetic.

I'll begin by giving my opinion on the whole argument: Foundation 1st, no bones about it!
FOUNDATION: Definitions
1) Noun - The basis or groundwork of anything.
2) Noun - The act of founding, setting up or establishing.
3) Noun - A cosmetic, as cream or liquid, used as a base for facial make-up.
Synonyms: spine, fundament, infrastructure, anchor, cornerstone
Source, World English Dictionary found here.

With that said, foundation is indeed the groundwork for setting up a beautiful make-up application for these reasons.

• Skin prep and expert application of foundation is essential to your end result. All of your color products (eye shadow, blush, brow color, lip liner, bronzer etc) perform better, LOOK BEST & go on more smoothly when your base is in place
• When time is of the essence, EVERYONE (actor, model, newscaster, singer, consumer, all clients) look better and more together when foundation is CENTRAL to the application
• A well prepped, even & smooth complexion is the crux of the make-up industry standard & aesthetic...PERIOD
  
  
  Ok, now we get to the juicy part. As an avid user of TWITTER & FACEBOOK for the past 2+ years, I have been able to connect with more make-up artists in/on so many more levels of the industry than I ever imagined I would. Through these electronic medium - the conversations, advice, tips, photo exchange, sharing & everything make-up/beauty have taken on a new level colleague interaction. Fantastic! This whole *eyes 1st* vs *FOUNDATION 1st* debate has gone back & forth on a global stage.
  
  So I have to ask, WHERE DID THIS *EYES 1ST* MONSTROSITY COME FROM??? I had NEVER heard of it until I 1st free-lanced at a retail counter (to remain nameless for the purpose of fairness) where the manager told me that this is an advised practice that was put into place to avoid foundation being ruined by 'fall-out' from eye shadow. I've heard (with my own ears) that almost ALL of the MUAs who use the *eyes 1st* method say that they go this route for that same reason. I don't argue the fact that you do indeed avoid 'fall-out' if you do *eyes 1st* but...let's talk about 'fall-out'.
  
  'Fall-out' occurs when excess eye shadow falls (gravitational pull) from an eye brush or is otherwise expelled (velocity) from the brush during application of eye shadow. Back & forth whisking of an eye brush can indeed send excess eye shadow to parts of the face that we do not desire eye shadow to appear. So what is a make-up artist to do? Having posted this subject to my FACEBOOK profile, the discussion did indeed heat up over there! Arguments for yeah & nay on both sides. We even had the fabulous Michelle Villanueva of Shadow Shields (http://www.shadowshields.com/) chime in because they received a shout out on the *eyes 1st* side. One thing is certain, MUAs & consumers that use them love them! I haven't gotten around to it as of yet, but when I do try Shadow Shields, I will STILL APPLY *FOUNDATION 1st* because I agree with many top industry pros on the importance of that part of make-up application technique & based on my own experiences.
  
  "Why *eyes 1st* Stunts Growth of Your Artistry"
  
  Ok, this is where I explain just a few of many technical aspects of why/how *eyes 1st* can indeed stunt the growth of our first MUA group, aspiring/new/working/retail artists.
  
  A) I see it as a crutch that may hold you back:
  
  If you ONLY aspire to apply flawless make-up with the *eyes 1st*  application order, then ask yourself - When will?
  
  • You extend your technique in the direction of achieving better & more precision?
  • Your methods peak in the areas of brush selection for particular areas of the eye?
  • You push yourself to adjust how much product you pick up on the brush & do sufficient 'tap-off' to avoid 'fall-out' in the first place?
  • You commit to refining your personal brush techniques?  (which will make it way more likely that you rarely experience significant 'fall-out' if you have any at all)
  • You step into the reality of the TOP INDUSTRY PROFESSIONAL MAKE-UP ARTISTS who are where they are because THEY CHALLENGED THEMSELVES ALONG THE WAY. They honed their skills, and refined their techniques in ways that catapulted the term 'fall-out' from their vocabularies.
  As you step into different circles in the industry, I believe you may find that other industry pros expect your work to reflect a high industry standard. *Eyes 1st* may get in the way of execution of this. A few scenarios:
  
  • The photographer is shooting with an HD camera. You get the whole application finished so that you can start shooting. The camera picks up the fact that you have gone the *eyes 1st* route because it shows up in the bridge of nose/eye area.
  • The area above/in the top of your clients/model/bride's brow does not have properly applied foundation as a base - so it just does not look as "clean" as it could/should.
  • There is a definite line of demarcation between lastly laid foundation and this eye shadow that proceeded it.
  • So in essence, you really DO NOT save time with *eyes 1st* method (as proponents of this method say is 1 reason for their choice to use it) when you have to go back & make corrections to your 'house' because your 'basement' has not been laid properly. This also squashes the "clean" argument.
  The point of this blog post is to get MUAs to thinking about additional ways to improve their skill level. Many speak of aspirations to one day have stellar careers & cosmetics empires like Billy B., Kevin James Bennett, who is team eyes 1st along with Pat McGrath (& when you are as masterful as they are at BOTH eyes 1st & foundation 1st, let me know), Sam Fine, Lottie Stannard, Bobbi Brown, Tym Buacharern, Francois NARS, Val Hunt & others who would likely vote on the side of *foundation 1st* (please advise if they tell you differently). Many top pros use the trick where you apply a bit of loose powder to the area below the eyes/tops of cheeks to catch *fall-out*. To be noted, even the ones that use this trick have no notable *fall-out* anyhow because they have/employ skills & techniques that make it a non-issue.
  
  In conclusion, WHAT IF *EYES 1ST* IS NOT AN OPTION, how would YOU - AS A MAKE-UP ARTIST IMPROVE TECHNICAL ASPECTS OF YOUR APPLICATION METHOD (s) TO ENTIRELY AVOID THE DREADED 'FALL-OUT' SCENARIO? It would behoove any advocate of the *eyes 1st* method to think about ways of evolving. Worst possible outcome is that you will become a BETTER & MORE SOUGHT AFTER MAKE-UP ARTIST in the end. Your work will reflect that fact & you will then find yourself advancing upon more of your dreams & aspirations in the field. If you want to argue THAT, I'll assume you just like to argue. Your consideration of dropping/picking up this method or that method could be the difference between you staying local or going global. (in a manner of speaking)
  
  Sincerely,
  
  Jennifer James Beauty,
  Shop Steward of the *Foundation 1st* Global Union of Make-Up Professionals
  ;-) Find me on Twitter here & find my fellow union members w/ hashtag #TeamFoundationFirst!
  
  Related Blogs:
  MakeUp 411 brings you Kevin James Bennett's Essential Techniques (incl *Eyes 1st*)    http://makeup411.com/ea_info/id/374/ 
  Hello Beautiful Wake Up Your Eyes With Foundation http://bit.ly/9wBvIo
  
  http://www.jenniferjames-beauty.com
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

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Sanitation is garbage pick-up. SANITIZATION IS CRUCIAL!!! Some make-up basics.

Prepare your tools & work-station:

• Wipe down area with 91% or 99% alcohol, then lay fresh paper towel for a crisp clean work surface.
• Sanitize spatula, mixing palette, scissor, tweezer & other metal tools by thoroughly wiping down with alcohol soaked cotton ball. (after they have been thoroughly washed with warm soapy water and rinsed)
• Use an alcohol moistened cotton swab to completely clean pencil sharpener by swabbing BOTH sides of sharpener blade. Remove any/all debris.
• Of course begin with your freshly shampooed & adequately protected brush collection. (See blog link below, *Brush Cleaning)

Prep products for a sanitized work session:

• With plain facial tissue, lightly & gently wipe the surfaces of dry products like compact powders, eye shadows, blushes & bronzers removing the top layer of product. Then lightly spritz w/ 91% alcohol.
• Dip tips of traditional pencils into alcohol, sharpen then dip again. Take EXTRA CARE to wipe away excess alcohol with a facial tissue. Allow remaining alcohol to evaporate BEFORE using. Re-sanitize sharpener between pencils.
• Automatic/retractable pencils should be dipped into alcohol then wiped with a tissue. Be sure to remove the top layer of actual pencil product to effectively sanitize. Tip: always hold product end downward as to not flood mechanism with alcohol.
• Use previous method the effectively sanitize lipstick tubes.
• ALWAYS sample creamy products from jars/pots by skimming or scooping out with a sanitized spatula, then work directly from there or from mixing palette.

Reminders:

_ NEVER double-dip disposable applicators (lip, mascara wands) into ANY product. Fresh disposable applicator EVERY time. Otherwise = instant contamination!
_ Keep work-station neat by having a small trash receptacle nearby for quick, easy disposal of used applicators, cotton swabs, sponges, tissues, sharpener shavings...
_ Use hand sanitizer or optimally WASH HANDS BETWEEN CLIENTS.
_ Brushes are properly maintained by regular shampooing & conditioning which facilitates their sanitization.
_ Thorough, gentle wiping of clients skin, eyes & lips w/ a moist facial cleansing cloth will contribute to your maintenance of a clean kit consistently.
_ ALWAYS BEGIN WITH THOROUGHLY WASHED HANDS.

I know, I know...complicated (microbiology aspects) yet simple (follow some basic rules) things like sanitization are very important to practice in your everyday routine. Health & safety 1st!


Related blogs:

*"Brush Cleaning -  MAKE THEM LAST FOREVER!"
"I love working at ________!" OH DO YOU?! REALLY?! REALLY?!

google-site-verification=vNZF5-H7_uTNi3xbX_PeoNJXiMH1lb_CtWO_swFoOrw

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~ EYEBROWS!!! .Precision ✔ .Symmetry ✔ .Proportion? Uh - not so much!

Precision ✔
Symmetry ✔
Proportion? Uh - not so much!

I have recently seen a lot of advice being thrown around about brows. I am always in agreement about the brow's exceeding importance to the over-all look.  BRAVO! to those who are executing precision & symmetry. My focus right now is on PROPORTION!


When teaching other MUAs, or giving a lesson to a client - I consistently stress symmetry, obey facial anatomy & strive for precision. It is my goal to teach someone what the tools are (makeup, visual skill & knowledge of facial anatomy) & how to use them to execute a great brow.

What I have seen a lot of lately (even from some people doling out advice) is that scale & proportion are being ignored. So to define them both:

Scale - noun, .A point of reference for balance. synonyms> equalize, balance
Proportion - .Harmonious relation of parts to each other or to the whole. synonyms>balance, symmetry

The 1st diagram shows how NOT to apply proper proportions to brow shaping/grooming - BROWS ARE WAY TOO CLOSE TOGETHER and oversized! (see  NO)

The 2nd diagram shows correct brow proportions that obey facial anatomy with regard to the face as a whole; taking into consideration spacing between eyes, amount of space between outer nostril area, width of lips...seeing the WHOLE picture. (see YES)

In conclusion...the face already has any instructions a MUA needs for great brow shaping. Once there is an understanding of & an obedience to those instructions - everyone should be showing off great brows. That is what I hope becomes the rule vs the exception, as it stands now. UGH!

Sincerely & sternly,
[ARCH]-itect EyeBROWoPhile™ - Jennifer James Beauty


Link Love:
1 on 1 Beauty Sessions via SKYPE!
"The Perfect Brow"
WEBSITE

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"I love working at _____!" OH DO YOU? REALLY? REALLY?!

The makeup counter experience from the retail makeup artist's perspective is very interesting. Over the years, I have been fortunate enough to have seen this from behind the counters of several industry powerhouse makeup lines. I have a few observations to share;  many of which you may be able to identify with.

A little background...I happen to be the quintessential, epitomical, text book definition of loner/people person. Don't do cliques, yet very social. Treasure me time, but can work a room. Enjoys silence & is often THEE loudest person in the room. These two sides of me have been very conducive to my career choices & my philosophy concerning commitment to my craft. Glad to have been able to strike a little balance...ok enough about me.

Social media has become an experiment of sorts for me. Having connected with soooooo many people from so many places & at different stations in life - I can't help but notice that I have become a magnet for young makeup artists. Some of them hungry, some lazy (want the hook-up, don't want to test, don't realize their skills need major honing) & some are truly talented with lofty ambitions. I am seeing everything with my 'magnetism'. I believe they can detect that I am s sucker for answering makeup & makeup industry questions. AND I AM! Hopeless information sharer. It's all I know...ok moving along.

Then there are those newbie makeup artists who are responsible for inspiring this blog entry: "I LOVE MY JOB! I LOVE MAKEUP! I LOVE WORKING AT _____!"

...so I challenge them to truthfully testify, again profess undying adoration for the position they have been so blessed to be in - with my snarky, sarcastic (admittedly almost snide & condescending) --- OH DO YOU? REALLY? REALLY?!
Why do I ask this?  I ask because some people do makeup (doing the verb) & some people are Make Up Artists - they personify BE THE NOUN!!!

It's what I have seen. Many of my counter colleagues used those words without bringing the work ethic with them. Glad to report they have been in the minority for my personal experience. When I think about the culprits, UGH! I will never understand it. Seems some show up everyday JUST to collect a check; no real interest in advancing their artistry, excelling in customer service, getting their 'chops' so that they are ready for what's next in the industry for a makeup artist that wants to go somewhere beyond management in the retail environment.

MUAs who use words like passion, love, my life, what I want to do...we have heard it all!
So I say...if  it means that much to you, don't just do the verb - BE THE NOUN!!!

 ~ Exceed expectations. Command industry language & terminology. Push your product knowledge beyond the employee handbook. Greet each day as another opportunity to shine. Regard every customer as the next celebrity. Know the production details for every company campaign. Be able to quote industry history. Study makeup artistry & challenge yourself to execute industry aesthetics - without fail. BELIEVE & PROVE TO YOURSELF THAT THE ARTIST IN YOU CAN CREATE SOMETHING YOU HAVE NEVER SEEN! BE THE NOUN!!!

These are things I had pressed myself to do over the years as a retail artist & freelancer. I know that I am better, exceedingly prepared, & absolutely more qualified for my current full-time career as a Make Up Artist. So my charge is this: You say this is your passion, then pursue every aspect of it as such. MUAs, you can do this...BE THE NOUN!!!

--> Jennifer James currently works as a full-time MAKE-UP ARTIST & part-time Educator who splits the year between hometown Detroit, New York City and whereever else beauty takes her.


related blogs:
Cosmetology School. Yea or Nay? NAY!
OPEN NOTE TO MUAs & ASPIRING MAKEUP ARTISTS
RANT: Best Face Forward? by Nepenthe aka Beauty Thesis

http://www.jenniferjames-beauty.com Pin It Now!

ESSENCE Magazine, Our Voice?

The binding edge of ESSENCE Magazine says - WHERE BLACK WOMEN COME FIRST!

Where we are 1st. Where we look 1st. Where we are the 1st image considered for presentation. Where we see ourselves 1st. Where we 1st graced EVERY cover. Where our history is 1st for dialogue. Where our many cultures are 1st to be glorified. Where we celebrate our rich history in America, 1st. Where major advertisers were 1st forced to produce ads that reflected our looks, culture & our American experience. Where these advertisers then paid for ad-space they would have 1st  disregarded us in - were for the 1st time forced to reconsider their creative direction. Forced to see us 1st.

I am confident in Elianna Placas' abilities to be a very successful & proficient Fashion Director - in general. Her resume` speaks for itself. I do not wish to whisk her away in the spirit of "Affirmative Action". [sic] In fact, I look forward to her performance  being a 2-handed slam dunk -  in this capacity as a Fashion Director of a major U.S. lifestyle publication. YET...

The issue is this...

How likely is it that Elianna Placas ?:

_Identifies with years & years of not being able to find jeans that fit.
_Understands the feeling of not being able to wear foundation make-up that truly matched her skin.
_Knows the complete shame felt because her image is hardly, if ever seen in fashion, beauty, TV & film.
_Experienced the realization that celebrities of her heritage were/are not worthy of being considered a standard of beauty.
_Could not find swimwear that flattered her body type.
_Felt the frustration of near total exclusion within the industry (fashion) that she loves...
_Saw the ridiculousness in the 1st main-stream acceptance of our glorious rumps being heaped onto Jennifer Lopez.

It goes on & on. The fashion filter through our specific history & specific perspective is a unique one. Someone who may NOT HAVE BEEN IMMERSED IN THE CULTURE IS NOT QUITE AS LIKELY TO CONSIDER THESE THINGS as they convey the desires of the readership.  Someone who lives/lived the culture stands at the ready. Not to ignore our over-all progress in the least.  In its' extreme power, progress does not erase history.

Whatever has caused this to be, whether it be pressure from Time/Warner, whether she's good friends with ESSENCE'S Editor in Chief, whether ESSENCE actually seeks to, as Roland Martin hinted - be thee most progressive publication, whether the politics of corporate America have reared their ugly head again...
I wish there had been enough sensitivity on the part of Time/Warner & the ESSENCE EIC to honor & acknowledge the lack of inclusion of people of color in main-stream media/culture/arts/entertainment & the American experience as a whole.

It feels like we, AGAIN have been ignored, our buying power AGAIN disregarded, AGAIN we are not competent enough to be...in charge of the sound, tenor, tone, resonance, octaves of...

OUR OWN VOICE.

http://www.jenniferjames-beauty.com Pin It Now!

★ WIN Make-Up Artist Danessa Myricks' new DVD "FUNDAMENTAL BEAUTY"!

Hello everyone!


It is with great pleasure that I share with you that my illustrious colleague Danessa Myricks is debuting her new instructional makeup DVD entitled "FUNDAMENTAL BEAUTY"!

www.IMakeYouBeautiful.com

As many of you know, Danessa is legendary for her artistry, seminars, workshops & DVDs. Her exquisite make-up work & comprehensive approach to technique makes her one of thee most sought after make-up artist/educators in the make-up industry. Danessa Myricks is truly an inspiration! Some of her up-coming appearances are listed below & get the full Danessa Myricks story on her website, www.IMakeYouBeautiful.com
___
- Bronner Brothers Int'l Hair Show in Atlanta GA Aug 6-10, 2010
Sunday  is "A Day with Danessa"! This is a day of *free* look and learn education.
- Bennet Career Institute, Washington DC Aug 22, 2010
Contours and Finishes 8 hour hands on Boot Camp
- Eyes, Eyebrow, & Eyelashes - 8 Hour Hands on Boot camp Oct 10th, 2010 -  NYC


"FUNDAMENTAL BEAUTY" in Danessa's own words "focuses on the core essential concepts for achieving a natural beauty make-up application". This DVD, like the rest of hers is sure to be a huge hit amongst make-up artists & enthusiasts alike.


So on to the part you have been waiting for...how to win "FUNDAMENTAL BEAUTY" - Danessa Myricks' latest DVD...BEFORE it debuts to the public next month! To win, you must follow all 3 of these Twitter accounts


@IllusionsBeauty
@DanessaMyricks
@JenJamesBeauty


& you will need to leave a comment on this blog stating that you are following (all 3) & why YOU should win a "FUNDAMENTAL BEAUTY" DVD. Simple, follow - comment - win! ;-) Jennifer James Beauty will be giving away 1 "FUNDAMENTAL BEAUTY" DVD.  I will also be tweeting/posting/statusing about other opportunities to win so check my tweets at @JenJamesBeauty, & stop by my FB page Jennifer JamesBeauty and listen to BEAUTY TALK with Illusions Cosmetics on Blog Talk radio by clicking here: BEAUTY TALK. It airs every Thursday at 9pm EST! Contest closes on this blog Thur - August 5, 2010 @ 6pm.


Good luck!
As always, thank you for stopping by my little 'ole blog. Your precious time spent here is greatly appreciated.
TTYL! Jennifer

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Cosmetology School? Yea or Nay? NAY!

Recently, a lovely 20-something Makeup Artist on Facebook posted a status asking:

"Thinking of using my GI Bill to go cosmetology school, being licensed to do makeup will open a WHOLE lot more doors for me professionally, what do you guys think?"

It then sparked an interesting conversation between us because I have such strong feelings about this. Here is how it went:

JJB: I could not disagree more. What working Makeup Artists have you spoken to that have Cosmetology Licenses?

I think you would be wasting time & tuition money. You already have makeup knowledge & talent. The Makeup Industry is not regulated by licensing so you don't NEED it. Getting into unions & getting agency representation are goals to go after & they don't require that you have a Cosmetology License. Cosmetology really does not cover makeup to an extent that would benefit you & your level of experience.

Gain more skill & connections to good career moves by testing. Attend seminars & workshops with brilliant Makeup Artists so that your portfolio is world class. That is what will open doors to assisting TOP INDUSTRY pros on great gigs & that's how to make a name for yourself.

At this point, I wish I had been more aggressive (at your age) about becoming fluent in French, Italian, German, Mandarin, Arabic & Japanese...I'm saying use the GI Bill to advance your GLOBAL APPEAL & let your love of makeup take you around the world.

...while getting paid very well to do something you love so much.

Take good care, & feel free to seek info from me at any time! If you wish to be a hairstylist, go for it!

MUA: I think what I was trying to say by "opening more doors professionally" was by working at salons (for now) I was doing some job hunting this weekend and I noticed a lot of salons require licensing. Not only that, but I'm not so much focused on beauty courses, more along the lines of learning some theatrical, print, and costume makeup because there's only so much I can teach myself lol Let me know what you think!

JJB: FASHION MAKE-UP ARTISTRY PROGRAM:
Fundamentals of Beauty Make-Up
Studio Hairstyling for the Make-up Artist
...
FILM & TELEVISION MAKE-UP ARTISTRY PROGRAM:
Special Make-Up Effects 201: Character Make-Up Artistry
Special Make-Up Effects 301: Lab Techniques

These are just some of the offerings available at Make-Up Designory MUD in Burbank, CA (& NYC) http://www.Facebook.com/mudschools

I just cannot imagine you spending 1700 hours (state of California requirement) getting a Cosmetology License and MOST cosmetology programs spend so few hours on even beauty makeup - let alone theatrical, print & costume make-up as you mentioned you want to explore.

Ask industry veterans like Kevin James Bennett, Crystal Wright, Sam Fine, Tym Buacharern, & Valerie Patrice Hunt. (All on Facebook)

I'd be interested to hear if any of them would direct you to cosmetology school unless you want to be a hairstylist.

You'd get more experience & advance your skills working at a makeup counter.

MUA:  Seriously!! Jennifer thank you so much for researching that for me!! There's only so much I can do on my phone. I should be able to use fafsa and my gi bill, once again thanks!! The classes you just mentioned are exactly what I'm interested in too!!

JJB:  Give them a call to find out for sure, but it looks as if The Make-Up Designory in Burbank, CA accepts GI Bill. I will be attending the NYC Campus (Special Effects - Character Make-Up Artistry for TV/Film) using a FAFSA grant. ;-)
 Link to MUD School Facebook discussion of GI Bill.

MUA:  Well good thing I've already worked at a counter lol thanks Jen, MUD is a school on my list, one of the top actually. Heard a LOT of great things about it, I can't wait to check them out!

____I am such a butt-in-sky! Hopefully I gave her some options to consider. She a very talented Makeup Artist who is destined for success with whatever decision she comes to.

It's the "Auntie" in me ! ;-)

More advice for aspiring makeup artists here
DC area courses for MUAs by TOP industry pros here

Thanks for stopping by & PLEASE feel free to comment with suggestions for this ambitious makeup artist. I will be sure to forward info to her!

http://www.jenniferjames-beauty.com Pin It Now!

Brush Cleaning - Make Them Last Forever!

I use Japonesque (Parian Spirit), or Vincent Longo brush cleanser while on location to keep brushes clean/sanitized between faces/colors. I tend to shampoo my brushes a couple times a week, depending on how much work I have been doing.

For the deep clean:
>In a large stainless steel mixing bowl (2qt), I put 4oz warm (not hot) water, 1/4 cup 99% Alcohol and Aveda Sap Moss shampoo (about a tablespoon)
>In a stainless steel pinch bowl, I put a dollop of same shampoo
Helpers: 1 large empty stainless steel cup (lay on its side), 4-8 solid white sheets of paper towel, 1 clean cotton hand towel
1. I take the clean cotton towel and do a dry wash to remove much of the make-up residue that is there (wipe back and forth & in swirling motion)
2. Then I take each brush (one at a time) and swirl in the large bowl, gently pressing it against the side of the bowl to really get it saturated
3. Dip my finger in the pinch bowl to put a little shampoo in my palm to gently swirl the brush in (dip in large bowl and repeat until suds is white)
4. Brush gets one final swirl in the large bowl mixture, then a gentle squeeze to remove excess water. Clean brush is then inserted into the stainless steel cup (remember, lying on its side so the water doesn’t invade the ferrule)
5. Repeat steps 1-4 until every brush is done.
6. Empty large bowl and rinse well. Then refill half way with warm water, 1/4 cu alcohol and a tbl spoon of Pantene Relaxed & Natural Conditioner (or any moisturizing conditioner). Whisk with a fork to blend. (mixture will be slightly cloudy)
7. Take each brush and rinse under running water for about 10 seconds – a little longer for larger brushes. Squeeze out excess water
8. Swirl brush in water/conditioner mixture for a few seconds, then again squeeze out excess liquid

Lastly, use the paper towel to gently squeeze out excess water and lay brushes flat to dry overnight. I use solid white paper towel. As you squeeze out water, it is easy to see that you have cleaned the brush thoroughly if no make-up residue stains the paper towel
It takes me about an hour and 40 minutes to do my entire collection (300+ brushes)
Of course you can use whatever shampoo/conditioner you want. This method has worked for me over the years. I have many brushes that are in their late teens/early twenties and still in superb condition.

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Formspring Q: Im an inspiring Make-up Artist in its very early stage. I have read all of your tips on getting started but there is one thing that is stopping me from pursuing my dream; fear of rejection. Can you tell me the best way to overcome my fear of failure?

My answer:

I have only one answer for how to overcome fear...push beyond it. You have to experience how it feels to achieve a goal & the feeling of rejection as well. The experience itself will teach you how to manage them in the future - as well as sparking your drive to succeed!

Feeling afraid is fine, you just have to decide to deal with it and BE CONFIDENT that it is as much a part of life as everything else. So GET OUT THERE!!! Hope this helps!

Sincerely,
Jennifer

http://www.jenniferjames-beauty.com

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Jennifer James Beauty's OPEN NOTE TO MUAs & ASPIRING MAKEUP ARTISTS

...work hard & long | PAY YOUR DUES | seek experience | IMPROVE YOUR SKILL LEVEL | study the masters | LEARN THE HISTORY | get to know the industry & its standards | EQUIP YOURSELF | familiarize yourself with the terminology | BE REALISTIC | know your place in the chain | KNOW THE AREAS IN WHICH YOU LACK | ask advice of those whose work you admire | OUT-DO YOURSELF DAILY | be certain you are doing your best | ASK EDUCATED QUESTIONS | exude extreme professionalism | BE WISELY CONFIDENT | strive for the global aesthetic | BE CREATIVE | handle the business of your business | BRAND YOURSELF & YOUR INDIVIDUALITY ~ KNOW THAT YOU N*E*V*E*R STOP LEARNING!!!

http://www.JenniferJames-Beauty.com
http://www.Facebook.com/JenniferJamesBeautyBiz
http://www.Twitter.com/JenJamesBeauty
http://www.Instagram.com/JenJamesBeauty

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Update: MAKE UP COURSES FOR MAKE UP ARTISTS - Washington, DC sessions, MAY 22 & 23, 2010

Jennifer James Beauty 

presents 

★ DC/MARYLAND/VIRGINIA Make Up Artists, per your requests... ~ 2nd Fashion Make Up for Runway & Print Class just added. 

★ Sunday May 23, 2010 2-7pm @ The Hilton, Old Town Alexandria, VA 

★ Reserve your space today! Go to http://www.JenniferJamesBeauty.com

 

 

This 5-Hour course will explore the techniques, execution & product application
necessary to achieve industry trend, classic & standard make up looks
applicable to many fashion media. There will also be critical focus on drawing 

inspiration for creating edgy editorial make up effects.

These exercises will emphasize the importance of skin preparation, perfecting of
the complexion, knowledge of sculpting (contour/highlight), precision eye, cheek
& lip effects - which are all conducive to a beautiful fashion look.

We will also focus on the use of different textures in cosmetics color lines (matte,
satin, shimmer, creamy, sheer, etc) to achieve the desired result within the
direction of the designer's/creative director's/stylist'/photographer's vision.
Attendees are asked to bring their collections, kits, brushes & be prepared to act
as artist/model in this intensive environment where the artists will be able to
apply specifics like brush techniques, creative product uses & implementation of

fine art influences in practice.
_5 hours includes one 30 minute catered lunch break & two 10-minute breaks.

Class materials provided by Jennifer James Beauty & include:
F_MU Workbook, 1 Professional Brush Set/Make Up Kit, value $75

*Upon cancellation, cost of course is refundable minus a $28 processing fee.*

 

 

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Update: MAKE UP COURSES FOR MAKE UP ARTISTS - Washington, DC

 
ATTENTION DC/Maryland/Virginia MAKE UP ARTISTS, ENTHUSIASTS & BEAUTY JUNKIES...Make Up Classes with Jennifer James Beauty ~ http://www.JenniferJames-Beauty.com!!! Private Sessions booking now!

FASHION MAKE UP FOR RUNWAY & PRINT"I WANT MY EYES LIKE THAT!"
Prom, Bridal & Red Carpet Beauty
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MAKE UP KIT TUNE-UP MEET UP!

~ Make Up Artists, aspiring Make Up Artists & Beauty Junkies...join Jennifer James Beauty for the 'MAKE UP KIT TUNE-UP MEET UP!

Wednesday, April 14, 2010, we will be meeting @ ULTA Beauty (50523 Waterside Drive in Chesterfield Twp, MI 48051 - Gratiot & 23 Mile) beginning @ 4pm. At 6:30pm, the party moves across the street to Sephora @ JC Penney (50753 Waterside Drive
Chesterfield Township, MI 48051) Go to Google Maps for directions from your area.

... & for the true Make Up Maniacs, we will round out the evening scouring 2 Big Lots locations (TBA) for beauty bargains galore!


~ If you need help getting your make up kit in tip-top shape, this is the event for you! Several experienced Make Up Artists from the Metro-Detroit Area & myself will be there to assist you in tuning up that kit just in time for Prom/Bridal season & hooking up your personal Spring beauty routine!!

~ We are going to have BIG FUN while we get our "cosmetics fix"!

~ Let us know if you plan to attend. Post your interest on the Facebook wall of Jennifer James Beauty! In the meantime, get to going through those kits & begin making a list of things you may need to get new or re-stock!

~ Be sure to stop by the blog of blogs, Pump & Gloss for their Weekly Steals & Deals (the definitive list) so you can get the low-down on the current & best beauty buys anywhere!

Thanks for stopping by & I look forward to seeing you!

Jennifer James | Make Up Artist
313.316.0766
jenjamesbeauty@gmail.com
*Private personal shopping sessions by Jennifer James Beauty are available by appointment only*

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PROM, BRIDAL & RED CARPET BEAUTY CLASS was awesome!

TREMENDOUS THANKS to everyone that had a part in the success of PROM, BRIDAL & RED CARPET BEAUTY session yesterday! You all are so inspiring to me & I really appreciate you fueling my drive to GIVE MY VERY BEST!

NEXT UP? FASHION MAKE UP for RUNWAY & PRINT | "I WANT MY EYES LIKE THAT" (Detroit, MI)

Info @ http://www.JenniferJames-Beauty.com Pin It Now!

NEW in ~ Eye Look Book ~ @ http://www.Facebook.com/JenniferJamesBeautyBiz

CALLIGRAPHY

~ Eye Look Book ~
  
http://www.jenniferjames-beauty.com Pin It Now!

Update: MAKE UP COURSES FOR MAKE UP ARTISTS, NYC

*2014 Workshops HERE*

 

FASHION MAKE-UP for RUNWAY & PRINT Class by appointment in Greater NYC. Please go to http://www.JenniferJamesBeauty.com to view options for attending sessions. THX!

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~ Eye Look Book ~ Spring 2010 Beauty Trend Forecast.

New York Fashion Week 2010 was a dynamic mix of classics, new, very new & future fashion stories. Donna Karan showed clean & elegant lines that beautifully caressed the female form. Jason Wu narrated the modern woman as a wife, mother, executive, socialite & resort fixture. The Fall fashion forecast was full of every element: texture, opulence, femininity, skin, brashness...and color.

Now, let's rewind. Spring 2010 is strongly suggesting the necessity of color that always accompanies everyone's celebration of Winter's end. The cosmetics & beauty arenas will be full of many light & lovely players in this delicious game of hues. Our spirits will be lifted by a strong presence of orange, periwinkle, browns abundant & every yellow from lemon to ocher!

My Spring 2010 Trend forecast for the eyes includes 13 looks sure to cover many of the things that we like to have in a fresh new look for a fresh new season. More eye looks added weekly, so please come by again.

The 2 looks above are just a sneak peek, so be sure to view them all HERE!

Thanks for stopping by!

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~ e.l.f. STUDIO LINE ~ with swatches & my reviews.

e.l.f. STUDIO LINE




I ordered a small amount of STUDIO e.l.f. products by mail & wanted to share what I bought. These are new e.l.f. products for me as I had never ordered any of the STUDIO line. Order total including shipping was $39.85 US.

Order as they appear on *swatch*:

1) Mineral Infused Face Primer $6
2) Eye Brow Kit in Medium $3 *brow wax, brow powder*
3) Eyeliner & Shadow Stick in Black/Smoke $3 *Smoke E/S, Black eye liner*
4) Cream Eyeliner $3 *Black*
5) Creme Eyeliner $3 *Ivory*
6) Waterproof Eyeliner Pen $1 *Black* (not from STUDIO line)
7) 2 in 1 Conditioning Gloss *Supermodel*
8) Makeup Remover Cleansing Cloths $3 (see photo)
9) Small Angle Brush (see photo)

Reviews & ratings: 0 = Skip it! 5=Take it or leave it! 10=GET IT NOW!

1) Nice dupe for Smashbox Photo Finish. Goes on smooth, performed well under my Studio Fix powder. Rating > 10
2) Very nice powder & wax set. Wax holds brows in place nicely. Powder is smooth & nicely pigmented. Rating > 10
3) Color pay-off on both is VERY nice. Black liner is really intense, but tends to smear. Shadow side goes on smooth, beautiful charcoal grey (like M A C Knight Divine) but tends to crease though well primed. Rating > 5
4) Now these I LOVE! The Black is very intense & glides on smoothly. After it set, it would not budge even when I rubbed firmly. Had a time removing it (see Remover cloths review) This liner is amazing! Rating > 10
5) Same as liner above. The Ivory is very creamy and goes on nicely. Nice pay-off and dried to a very long-lasting eyeliner. Rating > 10
6) I usually don't like the pen-type liners but this one is a winner, especially for the price. Very intense black with a nice consistency & dries to a long-lasting eyeliner. Love this thing! Rating > 10
7) Very impressed by this gloss. Nice shimmer, (not glittery) wet-look high gloss shine- yet not sticky. Feels very nice on the lips. I will get more colors of these. Rating > 10
8) The softest makeup remover cloth I have EVER used. Pleasant, mild scent, nice & moist. Removed face, cheek & lip products very well. Removes most eye products very well, except for the STUDIO e.l.f. Cream Liner! Also, did not irritate but left my contact lenses cloudy for a bit.
9) Well, based on this one I WILL BE ORDERING ALL OF THE STUDIO e.l.f. BRUSHES! It is very well made, feels nice & sturdy. Very precisely formed & cut Taklon fibers lends to a clean, crisp eye line. LOVE! Rating > 10

To conclude, I am extremely happy with Eyes, Lips, Face's products. This STUDIO Line seems to be a real winner!!!

http://www.eyeslipsface.com/studio
http://www.jenniferjames-beauty.com

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Portfolio

http://www.jenniferjames-beauty.com

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PROFESSIONAL CREDITS

PROFESSIONAL CREDITS 2010

_Fashion

Betsey Johnson
Mynt 1792 by Kevin Christiana
Joe Faris for North Beach Leather
PS. by Peter Soronen
Made in Detroit by Kid Rock
Kevan Hall
Schott NYC
Carhartt
Dana Keaton
Femilia Couture
Marlaina Stone
b michael
Mark England
Barbara Bates
House of Cedi
Simply Greta
Franklin Rowe, NYC

_Television, Music & misc.

Saaphyri - Flavor of Love 3 VH1 Aug '07
Pink - I'm Not Dead (back-up singers) May '07
'Goldie' - I Love New York 2 VH1 Mar ’07
b michael, Spring 2004 Collection
Jackie Reid, Pantene Beauty Tour
Cicely Tyson, 'Rosa Parks Story' Premier
Angela Bofill, New Years Eve Show '04 GM HQ
Barbara Bates, Fall 2005 Collection
Jacci McGhee, Video - "Skeezer"
Amp Fiddler, Cover XLR8R Magazine
Vanessa Bell-Armstrong, Video - "Rain"
Dammita Haddon, Videos - "Praise Up", "Rain"
Deitrick Haddon, Video - "Praise Up"
Voices of Unity, Videos - "Praise Up", "Rain"
Zeola Gaye, 'My Brother Marvin' Premier
Paul Randolph
Mrs. Rosa Parks
Governor, Jennifer Granholm
Keith Sweat
Ricky Bell
Johnny Gill
Ronnie DeVoe
Michael Bivens
Melissa Morgan

_Film

'Wandering Moon', BetMarka Productions - March 2009 | Key Make-Up Artist

'Anonymous Surrender', Studio Lumumba - Nov 2009 | Key Make-Up Artist/Hair Stylist/Wardrobe

'Love is a Thieves' Game’, Sam Logan K Production - Oct/Nov 2009 | Key Make-Up Artist
Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9TxFlx8O_zc Pin It Now!