LET ME PAINT YOUR CANVAS

Grateful Bride Part II

2011-12-07T14:33:00.006-05:00

I did promise you guys that I would post some professional pics of my beautiful bride Junon Fertil. I had so much fun dolling her up. Neutral colors were used to achieve her flawless look. Well check em' out...

Congratulations Junon & James. Enjoy the journey.

Until next time,
Happy Dollifying ya'll ☺

Grateful Bride

2011-11-09T11:20:00.004-05:00

I have worked with many brides, and I've seen many things... but this bride impressed me with what she did on the morning of her wedding. Her heart of gratitude that this day had finally arrived, encouraged her to start her morning by going to the House of the Lord to give him thanks. Yes, it was her wedding day, but nothing was going to stop Junon Alexandre-Fertil from going to church... and that she did.

She was the happiest bride I've seen in a long time (maybe more brides need to start their Wedding day off by going to church, LOL). It was such a pleasure painting her canvas (along with four of her bridesmaids). I knew this was going to be a great day.

I promise I will post the professional ones as soon as I get them, but in the meantime check these out.

CLASSY ALL THE WAY...

THE BRIDE & HER BEAUTIFUL DAUGHTER...

NESTLED IN THE ARMS OF HER GROOM...

Message to my bride: Junon, you impressed me from the first time we met. You are a true epitome of what a "lady" should be. You have a kind soul and your genuine heart is what draws people to you and will continue to draw people to you. Continue being the beautiful, passionate, humble, loving and grateful person that you are. I am so glad that we met. Congratulations on your wonderful union to a wonderful man. God carefully & skillfully designed and carved out James Fertil... just for you!
"Love would never be a promise of a rose garden unless it is showered with light of faith, water of sincerity and air of passion." ~Author Unknown

Until next time,
Happy Dollifying ya'll!

Songbird G.I.E.L (God Is Eternal Life)

2011-11-08T17:22:00.000-05:00

I had the pleasure of painting the beautiful canvas of Giel Joi Branker and I had a great time with this girl.Giel is a gospel recording artist who has been singing all her life. Culturally diverse and artistically blessed, this songstress has touched and is still touching the lives of many.The first time my hubby and I heard her sing we were both smitten. Not only was she wonderfully easy on the eyes (lol) but her presence was captivating and she rocked on the mic like nobody's business. From that day forth, hubby and I decided that we had to get that girl in our studio to do a photo-session with us. Sometime later the phone rang... JACKPOT!!! (lol).

The day of the shoot proved to be a phenomenal one! Accompanied by her beautiful mom, her friend J-Mill and every now and again her rather cool dad made an appearance. Her support system was definitely on lock. She was excitedly calm and gave me free reign to hone my skills on her hair & face. And the magic begun...

First look: GIRL NEXT DOOR... I kept the look natural and clean with straight hair.

Second Look: SASSY LADY... Same look but i added color to her lips and pinned up hair.

Third Look: ROCKER CHICK... I smoked out her eyes and muted her lips (nude). curled and tussled hair to create a messy, unplanned look.

Fourth Look: CLASSY CHIC... Same look with a classic high bun.

So there you have it... A beautiful shoot for a beautiful lady!

To learn more about Giel Joi Branker visit & like her fan page @ https://www.facebook.com/gielmusic, check out her website @ http://www.gielmusiconline.com or subscribe to her Youtube channel @ http://www.youtube.com/gielmusic and for bookings email gielmusic@gmail.com

Until next time,
Happy Dollyifying ya'll.

Photography by Tony Barreau for www.avdpics.com
For bookings contact 786-301-8669 or email tbarreau@avdpics.com

Natural Princess

2011-10-17T17:54:00.001-04:00

Stephanie Chery-Sicar is no doubt a striking beauty that doesn't need much for her beauty to radiate. I had the pleasure of painting her canvas for her wedding day (10.15.11) along with her gorgeous ladies-in-waiting. My brushes danced and glided on each canvas, leaving my "SuperSpice" stamp... they were all glowing the entire night!

Stephanie was indeed the bell of the ball that night. Her caramel skin was polished with MAC's NC50 Studio Fix Fluid SPF15 Foundation and lightly dusted with Mineralize SkinFinish Natural. Golds, lavenders and champagne shadows were mixed to create a sparkled yet natural look, then a soft smokey finish was created to add depth and sass to her eyes. Her naturally high cheekbones were softly enhanced by sweeping "Sun Power" bronzing powder by MAC on her cheeks and then added a Mineralize blush on top (can't remember the name. LOL). Her pucker was lined with nude lip-pencil and then topped off with "Love Nectar" Lustreglass by MAC. Stephanie rocked her natural sister-locks, which was perfectly twisted in an elegant up-do done by Hairstylist Stephanie Cesar. The look was sealed with with a sophisticated bird-cage veil. A look befitting a true Natural Princess!

Her beautiful ladies-in-waiting were adorned in vibrant colors of yellow and pink. So to ensure that the dresses didn't overpower their faces and vice-verse, I decided to work with warm colors on their eyes.

Well there you have it... My beautiful "Natural Princess... Mrs. Stephanie Chery-Sicar. Congratulations on your marriage. I wish you and your hubby all the best on your new journey in life.

Until next time,Happy Dollifying ya'll ☺

Summer Brides

2011-09-23T12:25:00.017-04:00

Summer is a time when everything is in full bloom... and that includes my lovely brides. Check out my "HOT SUMMER BRIDES"... the sweltering heat had nothing on these babies.

Bride Kharla Dyer-Keen was so "HOT" she and hubby decided to turn their reception in a pool party... literally! The gorgeous couple got married at the Lavish Endless Summer Villa Mansion in the beautiful Island of Jamaica. (Photography by Tony Barreau for www.avdpics.com)

Bride Erika James was so "HOT" that the rain decided to cool the earth down a bit so that the sassy bride was able to make her grand entrance to a cool outdoor ceremony. She and her "manly man" Peter said their forever "I do's" at the beautiful China Grill in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.(Photography by Tony Barreau for www.avdpics.com)

Bride Monique Auguste was so "HOT" she requested that her eyes popped with the colors of her Native flag Haiti. The patriotic couple celebrated their nuptials at Bethanie baptist Church with a Reception at Plantation Preserve, Florida.

Bride Nicole Henry was so "HOT" she kept cooling down herself with her fancy perfume. She and her songbird hubby tied the knot at the beautiful Plantation Preserve, Florida.

Bride Betty Alfred was so "HOT" she had white parasols for herself and her bridesmaids. She and her hubby sealed the deal at the exotic Jungle Islands in Miami, Florida. (Photography by Tony Barreau for www.avdpics.com).

Bride Joan Good was so "HOT" she was "BLINGING" from head to toe. The dazzling bride exchanged vows with her priest at the fancy Marriott Hotel in Boca Raton, Florida.

Bride Anissa Weir was so "HOT" she decided to rock a Swarovski embellished bird-cage veil to ward off any possibilities of those annoying summer bugs. She and her prince locked hearts & lips at the scenic Delray Beach Golf Club. (Photography by Tony Barreau for www.avdpics.com).

Well there you have... my "2011 HOT SUMMER BRIDES"! Didn't I tell you they were HOT?

Until next time,
Happy Dollifying ya'll ☺

Monochromatic Canvases

2011-08-01T15:25:00.008-04:00

I love a clean fresh look that spells "Quiet Roar".
Everything doesn't always have to be loud and vibrant. Sometimes less is more!
Don't get me wrong, I do love colors and the way they look on faces when properly applied & blended but there is something about a "Natural Look"... not excluding the use of make-up of course but more so sticking with the shades of the actual skin tone and playing it up with monochromatic colors (of, pertaining to, or having tones of one color in addition to the ground hue).
So check out a few looks that I would like to call my "MONOCHROMATIC CANVASES"... ☺

Until next time,
Happy Dollifying ya'll ☺

Bèl nègès (Beautiful Bride)

2011-07-20T15:21:00.006-04:00

Monique gaye ak bèlte yon ki sot nan twou san fon... sa te fè l' pi bèl jou maryaj li. Monique a yon Ayisyen larenn nan dwa l pou kont li, te vle l' gwo jou pou repwezante l' rich kilti Ayisyen an... dans la décoration de maryaj li, bridesmaids yo robes dwat pou desann chwa koulè pou maquillage je l. Wouj, ak twal ble ki te dominan koulè e li te ont ak diyite ak fyète.
Kite belle de boul la, Monique Dalien...

Translation: Monique radiates with a beauty that comes from deep within... which made her even more beautiful on her wedding day. A Haitian Queen in her own right, Monique wanted her big day to represent her rich Haitian Culture... from the decor of her wedding, the bridesmaids' dresses right down to the color choice for her eye makeup. Red & Blue was the dominant colors and it was paraded with dignity & pride.
Check out the belle of the ball, Monique Dalien...

Until next time,
Happy Dollifying ya'll ☺

Locks Beauty

2011-07-20T11:07:00.009-04:00

Artist Carmen Skyy was having a blast on the set of her photo-shoot. Surrounded by her Glam Squad Makeup Artist Keesha B, Wardrobe Stylist Denise Ramos aka LaDii G, & her assistant Samantha Nunez aka Sammy G, Hairstylist Starr & photographer Da Jo.
The vibe in SoundWave's studio located in the beautiful Miami was pumping and the energy was high... we were ready to set this thing off... and that we did. The shoot took place in studio as well as on location.
Check it out...

1st look:
I used Milani Face & Body Baked Bronzer over her entire face then applied MAC gold dust. The look was very exotic.

2nd Look:
Purple Smokey eyes...

Makeup Artist Keesha B & Carmen Skyy...

Hairstylist Starr primping Carmen's mane...

Wardrobe Stylist LaDii G & her assistant Sammy G adding the finishing touches...

3rd look:
Hair partially pinned up to emphasize her cheekbones and bright lips.

4th & final look... City Street.
I kept the same look but applied lip-gloss on Carmen's entire lids to give it that glossy/watery look ...

Well that's it for now.

Until next time,
Happy Dollifying ☺

Switch up your look...

2011-07-20T10:29:00.005-04:00

A natural look played up with NUDES, TAUPES & BROWNS is always a great look. Quick tip for the lips... brush foundation over lips and apply a soft pink gloss, provides for a hint of color.
check it out...

There is nothing like a flawless face with bright RED LIPS. Artist Amanda from Rhemasoul had the perfect canvas to pull of this look. She also had the perfect pucker to amplify the bright hue that served as a great statement piece for the look she was rocking ☺.
Check it out...

Since it's summer, why not kick it up a notch and add an unusual color... GREEN LIPS! I mixed green eyeshadow with fix plus from MAC and applied to the lips. You can try this with any color.
Check it out...

Until next time,
Happy Dollifying ☺

30's Bella

2011-06-23T14:50:00.012-04:00

Like who could have resisted painting such a beautiful canvas? Simba Diskin Castaño is a true 1930's woman embodied in our times. She wakes up and walks out her house looking like a 30's Beauty... and that was no exception on her wedding day. The bride was ready to be dolled up... rocking her feathered bird-cage veil that was carefully placed on her fabulous mane, which was created from small intricate knot-curls and then pinned in the shape of a beautiful chignon by the talented Hair Stylist Debbie Reynolds-Crooks.

Eyes were done with a mixture of beige, brown, matte white, bronze and a kiss of orange shadows. Black liner, lash extensions & mascara were added to create the dramatic finish.

Summer bronzer was added to her cheeks to create warmth and them topped off with coral blush for a dash of color.

There was only room for one focal point on the face... and that was her lips. I decided to use an orange lip-liner as base and then top it off with a red passion lipstick, creating red-tangerine lips... understated but loud enough to make a statement. I had created to perfect look for the perfect 30's Bride!

Team AVD had the pleasure of working with her and hubby Stephen for their big day... and the results were just what we had anticipated.

Congratulations Mr & Mrs Castaño. God bless you both on your new venture in life.

Until next time,
Happy Dollifying ☺
Photography by Tony Barreau for www.avdpics.com
Hair by Debbie Reynolds-Crooks for Touch of Inspiration Hair Studio

Bronzing & Deep Pore Cleansing

2011-06-22T16:25:00.000-04:00

Carlacia Grant "Behind The Scenes Photoshoot"

2011-06-13T00:24:00.000-04:00

Hey guys check out the behind the scenes photoshoot w/Model/Actress Carlacia Grant, AVD's Photographer Tony Barreau, Makeup Artist Keesha Barreau and Luner Eugene of LDS, See us in action doing what we ♥ to do.

Texas Beauty

2011-04-11T21:25:00.012-04:00

It's always great to paint a lovely canvas... but it's even better when the owner of the canvas is BEAUTIFUL inside & out. I had the pleasure of painting the beautiful canvas of former Miss Shanelle Fisher, now Mrs. Shanelle Harry this past Sunday (4/10/11). The bride and her girls were staying at the beautiful Mutiny Hotel in Coral Gables.
I arrived at the hotel and was pleasantly greeted by the bride herself who was as calm as a cucumber. She proceeded to introduce me to her ladies in waiting, Nicole her sister, Danielle her sister, her girl Trinetta and her photographer Carissa. Everyone was polite and friendly and the energy was perfect.

The scene was such... Nicole was putting the final touches on the bride's hair... Danielle's hair was being curled by Trinetta & Carissa was doing her thing with the camera. Everyone was in their element while happily bobbing to the pleasantries of the late King Himself, Michael Jackson... and then my brushes made their appearance ☺
Let the games begin...

First up was Danielle... check out the results for yourself.

Next up was Nicole...

And finally, the LADY OF HONOR... the bride herself...

And the Results...WALLA!!!

My dear Shanelle, it was a pleasure meeting you and your fabulous ladies-in-waiting. Thank you for allowing me the honor of making you and your ladies even more gorgeous. I wish you all the best in your new journey in life. Live, Love, Laugh & always Remember how it all began.

Until next time,
Happy Dollifying ☺

What's your SPRING LOOK?

2011-03-21T23:55:00.019-04:00

Can you hear it? The birds chirping... Can you see it? The flowers blooming... Well guess what my lovelies? SPRING has officially arrived! I love Spring and everything that it represents...
In the words of Terri Guillemets, "If you've never been thrilled to the very edges of your soul by a flower in spring bloom, maybe your soul has never been in bloom." That's exactly how I feel about Spring and that's the same feeling I try to transfer to my canvases...
But I think Robin Williams said it best though, "Spring is nature's way of saying, "Let's party!"
With that said, let's check out a few of my Spring Looks that I've created on these beautiful canvases.

Don't be afraid to get loud with the EYES. Think BRIGHT when going from Winter to SPRING...

CORALS, ORANGES & PINKS are a definite must when it comes to SPRING hues on the LIPS!

Well there you have it... a license to rock your SPRING colors on either your EYES, LIPS or CHEEKS.
Spring makes its own statement, so loud and clear... and so should you.

Until next time,
Happy Dollifying ☺

Baby-Mama Beauty on Board

2011-03-03T19:37:00.005-05:00

Take a looksie @ our Baby-Mama Beauty... Hellene Gareis.

Until next time,
Happy Dollifying ☺

Hair & Makeup by Keesha Barreau
Photography by Tony Barreau for www.avdpics.com

SUPERBOWL BEAUTY

2011-02-07T14:50:00.006-05:00

Everyone knows that the Superbowl is a big-to-do and a party was definitely going to be taking place somewhere or the other. Well, with preparations underway for the big Superbowl happenings, EMANIE RANDY had a few preparations of her own... she was preparing for her MAKEUP CLASS, Superbowl Sunday or not (lol).

So, in she walks all ready to get her one-on-one lessons going. She came fully prepared with her makeup kit and she had her learning face on. I like her!
We started the lessons and her enthusiasm was quite contagious. I politely advised her that everything that I did she would have to mimic on her face... which was followed by a great big OMG! Nevertheless, she was gamed.

Emanie mentioned that this was also her first time wearing foundation... and she was in love. The foundation was just as in love with her skin as she was in love with it.
When we were done she looked absolutely amazing. She was so impressed with her work that she decided to give her husband a surprise visit on the job! Hmmmm, I wonder how that went and if he took an early lunch? ☺

Emanie, has also decided to sign up for the "SEXY SMOKEY EYES with LASHES" class and you can too. To enjoy lessons in the artistry of Makeup, call 9548655474 or email keeshamakeup@gmail.com to schedule your one-on-one or class session.

Emanie, congrats on your first makeup lesson. You were an awesome student and I look forward to sharing more great tips and skills with you.

Until next time,
Happy Dollifying ☺

5 Spring Makeup Shades To Rock Now By: BETSEY MCLAIN (Refinery 29)

2011-01-26T12:45:00.001-05:00

Lips with a bright, citrus crush. Eyes that smolder with subtle hits of color. Cheeks aglow with sunny flashes of fuchsia. Pinks that are so bubblegum sweet, we almost get a sugar rush. Yep, spring 2011 makeup trends are heating up, and we're more than ready to take on some meltingly hot hues that really grab spring's punched up feeling (and leave winter's darker-tinged vibe behind). Here are five fresh spring 2011 makeup colors that are sure to turn up the heat pronto.

Lip Service—Coral kissers are the rock-solid shade of the season. Dive in with a super-saturated orange, or ease in with softer coral-meets-peach shades. Either end of the spectrum is a chic way to reinvent the statement lip.

from left: Marc by Marc Jacobs Spring 2011 backstage makeup; Estee Lauder Pure Color Long Lasting Lipstick in Melon, $24, available in March at Estee Lauder; Smashbox In Bloom Limitless Long Wear Lip Gloss SPF 15 in Endless Kiss, $21, available at Smashbox.

from left: Shiseido Shimmering Rouge Lipstick in Sizzle, $25, available in mid-February at Macy's; Chanel Rouge Coco in Peregrina, $32, available at Chanel; Ohne Titel Spring 2011 image courtesy of Bumble and bumble.

Get In Line—Eyeliner loosens up this spring with some rich shades of violet, adding a touch of softness to double-take-worthy eye makeup.

from left: Liu Wen image courtesy of Estee Lauder; Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Eye Pencil in Untamed Violet, $19, available at Estee Lauder; Dolce & Gabbana The Eyeliner in Lilac, $29, available at Saks Fifth Avenue.

from left: Lancome Le Crayon Khol in Ultra-Lavende, $24.50, available at Lancome; Liu Wen image courtesy of Estee Lauder.

Flushed with Fuchsia—Colorful cheeks are oh-so-back, and just in time for some fresh-faced summer lovin'.

from left: Michael Kors Spring 2011 image courtesy of Shiseido; YSL Creme de Blush in Fuchsia Tempataion, $38, available at YSL Beauty; Guerlain Limited Edition Serie Noire Blush G, $67, available at Neiman Marcus.

from left: Band of Outsiders Spring 2011 image courtesy of Bumble and bumble; Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush in Flush, $25, available at Sephora; Givency Blush Gelee in Candide Pink, $33, available in February at Sephora.

Super-Pigmented Pastel Pinks—What came first, Nicki Minaj or her pink lipstick? Regardless, this '60s-inspired cotton-candy reboot is a new spring obsession.

from left: Nicki Minaj image courtesy of M.A.C.; Dolce & Gabbana The Lipgloss in Bon Bon, $29, available soon at Saks Fifth Avenue.

from left: L'Oreal Paris Infallible Le Rouge Lipstick in Beyond Blushing, $8.99, available at Target; Essie Nail Polish in French Affair, $8, available in February at Essie; Victoria Beckam Spring 2011 image courtesy of Butter London.

Out of the Shadows—These dexterous spring eyeshadow palettes display a combo of dark and colorful shades, giving you an edge on whipping up a sultry-hued smoky eye.

from left: Chanel Spring 2011 image courtesy of Chanel; Dior 5-Colour Eyeshadow in Gris-Gris, $58, available at Sephora.

from left: Chanel Ombres Perlees de Chanel Eyeshadow Palette, $65, available at Chanel; Giorgio Armani Transluminence Eye Palette in La Femme Bleue, $58, available at Giorgio Armani Beauty.

Article from Refinery 29, Written by Betsey McLain

Let's do another 25 years shall we...

2010-12-29T17:15:00.006-05:00

I got the message late Christmas Eve night saying "HELP".
After reading the message I told myself that I would get back to the sender in the morning which would be in the next 6 hours since I had just retired to bed after prepping all the meat for our Christmas dinner.
They were in need of a makeup artist for a Christmas day anniversary/wedding. HUH??? You heard me! Well, after getting all the details and checking the time frame I realize that I was able to do the job and be back home in time to start frying my fish... and so my answer was YES!
I could literally hear the sigh on the other side of the text message ☺

I finally got to the hotel and I met the bride-to-be-again. YES again... she was celebrating 25 Years of Marriage and seemingly very ecstatic to recommit to the same man all over again. INSPIRATION AT ITS BEST!
Having done so many brides before, this one seemed to have such a sense of calm, confidence and assurance... well, after 25 years what else do you expect? My job was going to be easy. I'm sure she had all the attributes that has this man wanting for more, but looking at the outward appearance it was a given... she was simply beautiful!

I was impressed with her demeanor and she allowed to do whatever I wanted to her canvas. I placed my brushes on her canvas and they seemed to dance with grace as they knew they were being applied to no ordinary face... but one with a history of love & the core of what a marriage represents.

Via my fingers I telepathically whispered to my brushes, "Dance brushes, dance... capture the story with your bristles and make your imprint on her as she has made on me. Tell me her marriage ingredients which she so gracefully wears in the contours of her face, through the twinkle in her eyes & the smile formed on her lips... dance brushes, dance..."
And so they did!

Mrs. Nancy Clalixte, I thank you for sharing a brief moment of your beautiful life with me... Congratulation on 25 years of marriage. You are a great example of the fact that Marriage is a GREAT thing and IT CAN WORK!
May God bless you and your husband with another 25 years... Live, Love & Laugh!

Until next time,
Happy Dollifying ☺

All about LOVE!

2010-12-23T13:13:00.005-05:00

Babies are the most precious gifts in the world... but even more so are the carriers... THE MOTHERS!
I had the pleasure of painting Dee Werner's canvas for her maternity pictures. She and hubby Kerry are one of the most beautiful couples you'll ever meet... inside and out. There is no short changing on the love that they have for and express towards each other... it's like being on planet KERRYDEE!
When I think of Dee I automatically think of a love lyricist... she is all about love and is not afraid to express it... an attribute that everyone should aspire to attain.
For you to understand a little more about who Dee is, I have decided to add a poem that she wrote entitled... "WHAT IS LOVE BETWEEN TWO DIFFERENT PEOPLE?"

Its fire and a risk of being different.
Its unique, and stronger than love between some same-race couples.
Its intense and a trend worth starting.
Its a start at world peace, and an end to violence.
Its love in a new form.
Its music ranging from that hip hop to sexy Latin music that you sway your bodies to...together.
Its Caribbean music and reggae music blended in together on a hot summer's day.
Its not worth arguing with each other over when people start talking behind your backs.
Its worth a kiss every morning and a good night at the end of the day.
Its worth proving everyone wrong, who says that you can't last.
Its worth bragging about.
Its worth arguing for and its worth making up after for.
It is friendship, and as close to a child's feeling of his or her first trip to Disney World.
It is a feeling anyone gets when he or she is truly satisfied with life.
It is a full course meal for an empty stomach.
It is a diet that everyone should be on.
It is your favorite t.v. show going on every single day.
It is pure as an angel in human form.
It is God's unique gift to a selected few.
What is love between two different people?
It's the closest thing we have to magic.

With such passion expressed from the heart, it's no wonder this beautiful person merged with another beautiful person was able to create another beautiful person... it gives me great honor to present to you Milania Gabriella Werner who entered this world on Dec 17, 2010, measuring 20 inches long & 9 pounds and 2 oz. Can you say gorgeous?

Love is definitely a beautiful thing... especially when the product is LIFE!
Dee & Kerry, congrats on your new baby girl. I wish your family all the blessings & love in the world... ingredients that will certainly not be lacking in your beautiful household. Tony & I look forward to seeing you guys in 3 months... BABY PICS, yay! ☺

Until next time,
Happy Dollifying.
Photography of couple by Tony Barreau for Artistic Vision & Design 7863018669
www.avdpics.com

Trainer Extraordinaire

2010-12-21T14:35:00.011-05:00

Nicole Latty is a force that you will not wanna reckon with... in the gym. She has an amazing physique that would make any man go "va-va-voom" & the women go "i want to be toned like her."... and so she became my personal trainer.
She's a tough cookie when it's time to work out but as soft as a lamb once we're done... so it's safe to say that I hate her during work out sessions but love her to death when we are through (lol). While always cheering me on in her high pitched voice, "you can do it Keesha," as I politely smile but in my head I'm saying "shut the hell up" (lol).

Nicole has a way of making you feel so bubbly inside once you are around her... actually, in her presence, there's no room for a sad face or a frown. She draws you in her space with those big beautiful eyes and those to die for dimples, topped off with her killer smile... and if you happen to be going thru she always has an encouraging word that somehow manages to lift your spirit. Everyone should have a Nicole in their life... sorry, but this one is already taken! ☺

She is also an avid dancer who can do a pli·é on gravel and make it look like she's gliding on clouds... very fascinating to watch.

I had the pleasure of painting her canvas and my brushes were certainly mimicking her own dance moves... but this time it was being done on her face.
Can you hear the music?

Until next time,
Happy Dollifying.

Photography by Tony Barreau for Artistic Vision & Design
www.avdpics.com

Cirque du SAUREL...

2010-12-19T21:42:00.013-05:00

The party was finally here and the theme was from Cirque du Soleil.
The birthday girl was hidden behind the scenes where I was able to focus on her canvas and ease all the butterflies that had taken over her stomach. She finally relaxed and allowed me to work my skills.

The banquet hall was beautifully decorated with draped ceilings, satin covered tables & chairs in a variety of splashing colors, high cylinder vases filled with water & crowned with an arrangement of assorted flowers served as the centerpiece. The ambiance was set and perfect for a princess.

The Court included six beautiful young ladies dressed in royal blue satin strapless cocktail dresses, accented with silver heels and two cleverly clad young men escorted the girls in.

Serita & Louis (parents of the birthday girl) parted the curtains to reveal the gorgeous subject of the night... their daughter Saurel.
From the top of her gorgeous mane cascading down her back in loose romance curls, to the sole of her dainty silver heels which was placed on her feet by her parents (A symbolic gesture which represented Saurel's journey into womanhood).

Her dress was a perfectly made aqua strapless ball gown with corseted waist, embellished with the right number of sequins. She was the epitome of beauty in its finest form.

Saurel's first dance was with her dad. They turned it out to the tunes of "FOREVER YOUNG" by Rod Stewart. The love they had for each other was quite evident.

The second dance was with her cousin and they grooved to the harmonic & current sounds of Bruno Mars' "JUST THE WAY YOU ARE".

Friends & families belted out best wishes for the birthday girl followed by a toast from her parents & then Happy birthday was heartily sung by everyone as Saurel made her way over to her fabulous 3 tiered cake.

The birthday girl then made her way around the room to greet her guests. Cirque du SAUREL was now in full gear...

Until next time,
Happy Dollifying!
Photography by Tony of Artistic Vision & Design www.avdpics.com

60's inspired... Modern Twist

2010-12-14T22:32:00.011-05:00

By now many of you may know that I got married on November 20, 2010 to my photographer husband Tony (it's so cool to work with the man that I love). We had a breakfast wedding on a beautiful fall morning in the most beautiful garden ever.
Anywho... prior to the wedding we did 2 engagement photo-sessions and we had such a ball.
I was honored to do my own makeup for the sessions (lol)... AS IF! ☺

Anyway, our first shoot was done on the train tracks... the theme was grungy with a West Palm Beach touch... we had a blast.

The second look was at the News Lounge in Miami Beach... it was a modern 60's theme & definitely our fave of the shoots (hair & makeup inspired by Kim Kardashian). The look was successfully achieved with the likes of Debbie Reynolds Crooks on hair, Tiffany Gonzalez as the fashion stylist & myself as the makeup artist. Tony and I were ready to get this show on the road & that we did.
Check it out...

Until next time,
Happy Dollifying ☺

MOCHA BAMBI...

2010-12-05T10:08:00.009-05:00

Nicole Campbell is one of the most down-to-earth, mellow, laid back girls I've met in a very long time... with the most beautiful doe-shaped eyes ever, I decided to rename her "MOCHA BAMBI!"

Mocha Bambi is a BRIDE-TO-BE (yay) and her engagement pics is scheduled for today, so of course she needed to be dolled up for the occasion. She confesses that she doesn't wear makeup up at all (yea, i love virgins... lol) and that she wanted something bold and dramatic with red puckers. She had no holds bar and was ready to be uninhibited. "Ummmm, I'm the gal for ya" (i thought in my head) but professionally replied, "I can certainly do that for you." :-)
She wanted to wait until I was done before she viewed herself but I insisted that she looked during different applications... you should have heard the oohs and the aaahhhs (lol).
Throughout the process, Nicole kept talking about her sister Nika and how much she (Nika) would have enjoyed it. She so wished that she could have been there (Nika lives in NY).

We had a blast... My brushes were psyched and just effortlessly glided along the contours of her nicely proportioned face. As you can see, the results were phenomenal and her smile was worth me waking up so early on a Sunday morning to paint her canvas. And without leaving out her sister Nika, she was the first one to receive pics of her beautiful sister's painted canvas via phone (thank God for Technology). The response was "Absolutely beautiful!!!" (thanks Nika & I definitely concur).

I'm so looking forward to the professional pics that she will be taking later on at a beautiful location in the Keys (woot woot).
The theme of her and her fiance's photo-shoot is so befitting to their love story. I won't say just now, but when the pics are released you will know.
I'm super excited for Mocha Bambi, not just because she's getting married but because she's about to embark upon a journey filled with so many wonderful highlights, milestones and dreams... designed to be shared with another for a lifetime.
Nicole & Vincent, Congratulations on your engagement... I wish you God's richest blessings extended thru & thru your lives & every aspects of it.
Live, Love, Laugh & REMEMBER...

Until next time,
Happy Dollifying.

Sweet Sixteen

2010-12-04T14:31:00.005-05:00

Saurel Dauphin is turning 16.
So of course it's only natural for her parents to throw her a sweet 16 birthday party. Unlike most teenage girls, Saurel is very laid back and calm... not too much fuss about her party but knows that it will be done right because it's left in the very capable hands of her mom Serita and her Event Planner Aunt Dominique.
I had the pleasure of doing Saurel's makeup for her pre-birthday pics... we chose the most fun place ever to do the shoot... @ THE FAIR!!!
My hubby was the photographer (of course) and Saurel had her loving, fun & crazy entourage with her which was her immediate family... dad, mom & brother Seth. Talk about fun...

We did what we set out to do... and it was a success. Saurel drew her own crowd at the fair... with her beautiful long flowing mane, and model-esque physique clad in an ever current and trendy attire. Our very own BCTM (Broward County Top Model) :-)
her canvas was very easy to paint... high cheek bones, deep inset eyes and the perfect pair of lips ever. My brushes were in heaven.

The night was capped off with us feasting on the delicacies that every fair provides... italian sausages, lemonade, cotton candy, caramel apples, elephant ears, funnel cakes, polish sausages... and the list goes on.
Saurel, you are gonna be a fabulous "sweet sixteener"... looking forward to the big day when my brushes and I will be able to paint that beautiful canvas of yours again.

Until next time,
Happy Dollifying!

Smokey Eyes & Lashes Diva

2010-11-14T10:08:00.004-05:00

So I had a class on Smokey eyes & lashes.
Boy this was a class to remember. The students (Neicey & Marce) were on time and ready to throw out all their inhibitions, hickups & myths about the subjects... did i mention that Marce was a falsies (lash) virgin??? (lol), but i loved the fact that she was ready to pop her lash cherry (lol).
The art of smokey eyes is really tricky but if you understand the concept and do's and dont's then in no time you will become a pro of the smokey eyes... after one session with me i guarantee you can even do it in your sleep.
Neicey & Marce, i'm glad you came, enjoyed & learnt.
See you next class ;-)

From Students to Pro...

2010-11-14T09:43:00.005-05:00

Mariam, Soulef & Ines

I have lots of friends/associates & mere strangers who always come up to me and ask me... "keesha, can you show me how to do this or that?" :-)
And because i'm one that loves to share the knowledge i have it birthed the "letmepaintyourcanvas" makeup class.
These classes are filled with beautiful, vibrant, funny and sometimes mischievous (lol) ladies from all over the world.
Check out my group from Africa... Mariam, Ines & Soulef.
I love these ladies and we had such a great time.

From Bride-to-be to Bride

2010-11-14T09:19:00.003-05:00

Hey guYs, i know it's been a minute but i've been so busy planning my own wedding while working on beautiful canvases as well as doing other stuff.
Not complaining, just filling you in on the reason for my hiatus...
well, i kinda had some down time this morning... so before i head out to meet up with and pay our baker, i decided to jump on say HEY WORLD!
So in the theme of things (wedding), check out my last bride Florine. A super sexy and gorgeous girl with a head of mane to die for.
I had the opportunity to paint her canvas for her engagement shoot as well as her wedding.
She's absolutely beautiful girl... inside and out.
Florine, thank you for entrusting your beautiful canvas in my most capable hands (lol).
God bless your union and stay ROCKING!!!

BEAUTY... @ any age

2010-09-09T16:55:00.004-04:00

Kristine Alicia's Video Shoot (WORLD RECORD)... Part II

2010-08-16T10:05:00.010-04:00

To sum it up... from start to finish was a ball. My brushes tap-danced on 3 beautiful canvases... Kristine, Lavie & Caryl - 3 DIFFERENT shades of FABULOUS!
The mixing of colors were definitely at its peak... and the results were BEAUTIFUL!
Check em out...

Well my lovelies, that's a wrap... until next time, HAPPY DOLLYFYING ;-)

Kristine Alicia's Video Shoot (WORLD RECORD).

2010-08-14T20:27:00.008-04:00

I really love what I do... and today was no exception.
So being on the set of "Kristine Alicia's" video shoot for her new single "World Record" was a blast. It started on Friday where the first shoot was at Ansin Sports Complex. The day was hot as heck but Kristine's fans/supporters did not let that deter them from coming out and supporting the movement. I mean they were "HYPED IN THE HEAT"... while in my head i'm praying that nobody passed out on account of the dreaded heat that was causing the very pores in my body to excrete what every makeup artist dreads... SWEAT! (did i mention that i was in a/c) lol.
By the time I was done dollying up my artist, God had shown his ever loving and ever present mercy... once again... THE SUN WENT DOWN!.
Now, let the games begin... ROLL CAMERA & ACTION.
The track was hot with well toned and muscled bound guys who were assimilating the past Olympics... where Usain Bolt claimed the title of the "world's fastest man". Of course we had our own Usain Bolt look-a-like (lol).
Kristine was fully armored in her track and field outfit (styled by Kimlayn T. Batchelor) with a twist of sass to it of course... simple but effective. The colors in effect were teal, black & white, so of course i had to put my spin on things and "wild out" on her beautiful eyes (pics coming soon).
She did her thing on the field and I think her eyes played a huge factor in how ferocious she was (lol).
Today's session was indoors... (yay for us... no sweating)!
I decided to go glam on her eyes and contoured/highlight her as well. I also worked on Selena (beautiful model) where i sketched the title of the single on her cheeks (very impromptu)... I was happy with the results.
So tomorrow we wrap up the shoot. I'm opting to go with a more calm, natural but subtle look since the scene will require it.
Looking forward to the unveiling of this single because I know it's gonna be FIYAH!.
Not much pics to post this time, since i'm still waiting on some.
P.s. I need a camera assistant (since i can't work and take pics at the same time).
Until next time, HAPPY DOLLYFYING ;-)

2010-08-11T21:37:00.005-04:00

PROCREATION is one of the most beautiful thing that can occur in this life...
But it doesn't stop there... CREATION then makes it's grand entrance - and the carrier becomes even more beautiful.
Being the artist to highlight the beauty in both stages is quite an honor for me... and of course my brushes were just as thrilled (lol).
PREGNANCY is definitely the "NEW SEXY" and "FABULOUSNESS" continues after birth!
Check out the beautiful canvases that ensured my craft was depicted without flaws. Robbie & Rod, I know you both will make great parents to the new life that you are about to introduce to the world.
Eddia, congratulations to you and Kevin on creating such a beautiful baby girl, Eden.

Until next time, I leave you with this... The beauty of life is not only found and seen in humans but also through our gifts! "MAKEUP ROCKS BABY"... woohoo!!!
Happy Dollyfying! :-)

Global Keratin II

2010-07-31T07:33:00.000-04:00

Summer Bride

2010-07-31T06:54:00.003-04:00

It was yet another successful performance by my brushes. Nuff said :-)
Congratulations Gretchen (Farrah) and Berry on your beautiful union.
Gretchen, Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to bring out Farrah again (lol). She always seem to awaken when the lashes comes out (lol).
I pray that your union will be a lasting example to many. God bless you both.

DJ Khaled "All I Do Is Win" -- Official REMIX video (ft. T-Pain, Nicki Minaj, P-diddy, Busta, Fabulous...

2010-07-03T02:27:00.007-04:00

MAKEUP ON "VIDEO LADIES" BY YOURS TRULY, KEESHA MAITLAND (954.865.5474)...
I ENJOYED EVERY MINUTE OF IT... THANKS RORY, CLAUDIA, GILL & THE REST OF THE CREW :-)
BLESSINGS!!!

Doing what she loves...

2010-06-29T20:02:00.009-04:00

I've known Carlacia Grant (fondly known as Laci to many) since she was 11 years old. She's always loved fashion and everything that had to do with being in front of a camera. So of course she went in the direction of modeling... go figure. She did her first major fashion show and won the Miss Junior Teen Miami at age 13 and from there it was a wrap (and yes i did her makeup then and i'm still doing it now) :-)
Laci is definitely a force to be reckoned with... her moves in front of the camera is always effortless... watching her on set is like watching "THE TRANSFORMERS"... total "METAMORPHOSIS" (in a great way of course)... "OPTIMUS PRIME" HAS NOTHING ON HER (lol).
Laci has made some major moves in the fashion industry and she is taking this career path by storm. She's not only beautiful but she's smart and knows exactly what she wants... and as you will see there is nothing stopping her from attaining her goals.
I did her makeup for a recent photo-shoot and I was not only pleased with her performance but I was proud *tears*. I have watched her shoot for her stars... had a few disappointments but she never let that stop her from persevering. The girl is a like tornado... clearing everything in her path to get to her destination. She's already a jet setter for both pleasure and business and still she makes time to attend classes (lol).
Laci, continue to strive for excellence... keep your passion ignited with the testimonies of your forerunners... never let anyone or anything distract you... you are going places and the journey has just begun BUT your path has already been charted... IT'S A DONE DEAL KIDDO... EMBRACE IT!!!

BEAUTIFUL CANVASES...

2010-06-29T19:42:00.005-04:00

VIDEO VIOLAS...

2010-06-03T18:46:00.009-04:00

I had an amazing weekend... and not because i partied or went to the beach... but because i worked with an amazing group of people on set for the music video remix of "ALL I DO IS WIN". I'm talking about music maestros such as P Diddy, T-Pain, Nikki Minaj, Busta Rhymes, Fabulous, DJ Khaled, Music Director Gil, beautiful (inside and out) models and hairstylist Shervan, Planner Claudine, 305films production company and their assistants, production crew, food crew, lunch truck and the works. From the moment we arrived the vibes was in full effect. everyone was on their grind in their respective positions... MASTERMINDS WERE IN FULL EFFECT. I was blessed to be the makeup artist on the set and boy did i work. My creative juices were flowing like River Jordan... talk about being in my element! I was reigning in my calling... without apologies. The day went off without a hitch. By the time i left the set i knew the words to the entire song (lol).
My favorite model was Taneish "Lava" Simpson from the reality show "I love Ray J." She was a ball of fun. We jelled from the time we met until we departed... All the models were so beautifully diverse... I loved playing on their faces and they certainly didn't mind. My brushes were like little tap-dance shoes on their faces... Gregory Hinds had nothing on me (lol).
Well, here are some of the results. Hope you like...

Babes & Beauties

2010-05-21T19:09:00.006-04:00

Last week Thursday (my mama's birthday)I was invited to be one of the makeup artist at a fashion show by Jay Lee Enterprise at the Signature Grand with designer Lily Pulitzer. There were 4 makeup artist, 3 hairstylist, photographer extraordinaire Tony {my boo... :-)}, dresssers, 1 coordinator and mothers of the some of the models popping in and out.
The day started at 4pm... models prepping and doing their final walk thru on the runway, makeup artist setting up their stations, hairstylists plugging up flat irons, photographer pulling out the big lens and fashion coordinator Julie Lee running around like a chicken without her head.
Everything was carefully and thoughtfully planned to perfection... there was snacks galore and sandwiches in place... every inch of every room had food and beverage positioned for the "angry when hungry" models and the staff (us). We pigged out in between shadow selections and hair-spraying action. Not to worry... we had a system going... and it was very effective.
Needless to say, the night went off without a hitch. By the time we were done primping and dollifying our models the results... FABULOUS!
Well i know you're waiting so here are some of the results... ENJOY!

Meet FEMILIA... woohoo!

2010-05-20T21:01:00.002-04:00

LADIES, if some of you are like me and have a real problem tracking your cycle and preparing for its arrival... check out my NEW BEST FRIEND...
Ahhhhh, THERE IS A GOD!

http://www.femilia.com/

Vote for me to have my own shown!

2010-05-20T15:11:00.005-04:00

DON'T FORGET TO VOTE TODAY! CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW AND VOTE. YOU CAN DO THIS AS MANY TIMES OVER UNTIL VOTING IS CLOSED. THANKS IN ADVANCE!

http://myown.oprah.com/audition/index.html?request=video_details&response_id=1849&promo_id=1

KAYLA, KAYLA KAYLA!

2010-05-10T20:01:00.003-04:00

Special shout out goes to my beautiful, vivacious, spunky, smart, loving and caring God daughter KAYLA MILAN HOUSTON!
Kayla, God mommy loves you AROUND THE WORLD & BACK AGAIN! You bring such joy to my life... just the mere thought of you!
I can't wait to see you again, so we can do our usual... swimming, planting seeds, meeting new friends, going to the ice-cream shop and a whole lot more. You are going to make a BEAUTIFUL FLOWER GIRL and Uncle Tony and I are excited to have you in our wedding but most importantly... IN OUR LIVES!
MUAH, MUAH, MUAH!!!

Baby Beauty...

2010-05-10T19:25:00.007-04:00

Pregnancy comes in different shape, size and form... and BEAUTY! I had the privilege of meeting and painting a wonderful Mother-to-be (Bernida Desir). She was so beautiful to me... inside and out. She was having her baby-shower and she wanted to have her face dolled up for her shower and I was in agreement. Lets do this!!! I decided to go for a natural but flirty look. The products used were Bobbi Brown foundation, Twinks eyeshadow by MAC, NC45 concealer by MAC, Sweet as Cocoa blush by MAC mixed with coral peach by Coastal scents, and a combination of gold dust, electric fuchsia & viva glam all by MAC on her lips! Her husband walked in the room and went "OH WOW!" A nice compliment for both of us, don't ya think? :-)
I was happy, she was happy and her hubby was happy... in fact the baby contracted a few times while she was being dolled up so I know she (yes, it's a girl) was definitely pleased with the results of mommy's face!
Congratulations goes out to our BABY BEAUTY Bernida & her hubby Donald Desir... I pray God will give you a safe delivery and in a few weeks the world will be introduced to a HEALTHY & HAPPY baby girl!

Until next time, HAPPY DOLLIFYING YA'LL ;-)

ELECTRIFYING FASHIONISTAS...

2010-05-10T18:55:00.006-04:00

So I had one of the most tiring yet amazing day on Saturday. I was one of the makeup artist at the Divine Design Boutique Fashion Show 2010 held at the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Hotel. My call time was @ 9:00 am bright and early (oh wait, i forgot i have done earlier than that... I had 4:30 am call time for a Sunrise Wedding on the beach, yup... i arrived at the hotel @ 4:29 am).
Anyway, this show was filled with women from different culture and ethnicity... the flavor in the air was super exotic!!! I was advised that they wanted an electrifying and eclectic look on the models... ok, i can do that... DIFFERENT is ingrained in my DNA so this was going to be a piece of cake... i just hope these people are ready for what they ask for (I said to myself) lol!
Well, i'm gonna let the pictures speak for themselves...

GLOBAL KERATIN HAIR TAMING SYSTEM with JUVEXIN

2010-05-02T10:10:00.000-04:00

Taming the "DO"

2010-05-02T09:45:00.004-04:00

Hey ya'll I know it's been a minute since i've hopped on here... but i'm back and yes i missed ya'll.
So, here's the deal... Most of you may not know that I work for Global Keratin Inc. and most of you may have heard of the many keratin treatments that are out there. Well the difference between our products and everyone else's is "the GLOBAL KERATIN HAIR TAMING SYSTEM with JUVEXIN™ incorporates our unique and patented keratin formulation which is found exclusively in Global Keratin Products. JUVEXIN™ is the only keratin compound scientifically proven to protect and restore hair back to its youthful state. Unlike over-processed hydrolyzed keratins found in the market today, Global Keratin’s Hair Taming System with JUVEXIN™ is an active compound, delivered to the hair in its raw, natural state. Critical amino acids and proteins remain intact, conditioning the hair and protecting it from damaging environmental effects, aging and daily styling. It works on all hair types, leaving it more manageable, soft, shiny, smooth and frizz-free for up to 5 months." (Adapted from our website).

On Wednesday I had my hair done with the Global Keratin Hair Taming System with Juvexin... LIKE WOAH BABY!!! I was/am so pleased with the results that I created a video and took some pictures for your viewing pleasure.

To find out more info on this product as well as to locate a distributor in your area please visit our website at www.globalkeratin.com

Well, I've been JUVEXINed... so what are you waiting for?
Until next time... HAPPY DOLLIFYING!

My Makeup Commandments

2010-04-25T11:20:00.019-04:00

1. THOU SHALT NOT MATCH YOUR EYELINER WITH YOUR OUTFIT (especially during the day... leave the colored eyeliners for the editorial/runway look... unless you are being paid to look like a clown).

2. THOU SHALT HIRE A PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP ARTIST FOR YOUR WEDDING DAY (don't be cheap, it will pay off in the end when you acquire that flawless look that you envisioned for your special day).

3. THOU SHALT ENSURE THAT YOUR BRIDESMAIDS GET THEIR MAKEUP PROFESSIONALLY DONE TOO (remember, they are a part of the wedding photos and you looking "HOT" and they looking "NOT" will certainly give you a "JACKED UP" photo album... hmmmm, lasting memories you definitely want to avoid).

4. THOU SHALT INVEST IN BLOTTING PAPERS (can't be walking around all prim and poised with your face looking like you just had an encounter with Johnson's baby oil samplers... there are a variety of brands out there and they are very affordable and fits in any clutch or wallet).

5. THOU SHALT NOT USE A FOUNDATION THAT'S TWO TIMES LIGHTER THAN YOUR SKIN TONE (when in doubt, go to a makeup counter and get yourself professionally matched... it's free).

6. THOU SHALT NOT WEAR BLACK LIP LINERS NOR SILVER LIPSTICK (nuff said).

7. THOU SHALT NOT WALK AROUND LOOKING LIKE YOU JUST ROLLED OUT OF BED (lip-gloss, mascara and blush goes a long way. Loving yourself means taking pride in your appearance... and it doesn't require a whole makeup application to do so).

8. THOU SHALT GET YOUR EYEBROWS GROOMED (whether you are blessed with a natural arch or you have to assimilate one by getting it waxed, threaded or tweezed... grooming your eyebrows enhances your eyes and completes your overall look).

9. THOU SHALT EXFOLIATE & MOISTURIZE YOUR LIPS (just like every where else, it's important to remove the dead cells from your lip. This can be done with a mild sugar scrub, a soft toothbrush or a soft rag. Lip balm should become your best friend, especially when going to bed & prior to applying lipstick or gloss).

10. THOU SHALT TAKE A MAKEUP CLASS AT LEAST ONCE IN YOUR LIFETIME (knowledge is power and as women this power goes a long way).

11. THOU SHALT USE SPF (Sun Protection Factor)PRODUCTS (your skin is your covering... protect it).

12. THOU SHALT INVEST IN MAKEUP BRUSHES (can a painter paint without his brushes? can you acquire the right look without the correct tools? NO! So get the brushes! You can purchase them one at a time).

13. THOU SHALT NOT WALK AROUND WITH RACCOON EYES (if you are not sure how to do smokey eyes, do not and I repeat, do not attempt to do them on your own. You will have people contemplating whether or not they should call the cops because from the looks of that black eye, you are obviously being abused my someone. This is where Commandment 10 would come in handy).

14. THOU SHALT NOT WEAR DRAG QUEEN LASHES (if you are a lover of eyelashes, whether strips or individuals... go with the notion that less is always more! There is a way to acquire a natural, wispy, flirty or romantic look without looking like "Cousin It" is sitting on your lash. If you get your lashes done at a spa, salon or makeup counter and you walk out looking like the above... then maybe it's time to seek another place that provides this kind of service).

15. THOU SHALT NOT BE WITH A MAN THAT HATES WHEN YOU WEAR MAKEUP BUT COMPLIMENTS ANOTHER WOMEN IN HER MAKEUP (that's just wrong on so many levels. Time for an upgrade and I'm not referring to your makeup).

16. THOU SHALT ALWAYS TRAVEL WITH YOUR LIP-GLOSS & BLOTTING PAPER (the two items can kick up your face at any given time of the day and leave you feeling fresh and awake... even if you're not wearing any foundation).

17. THOU SHALT NOT USE YOUR CHILD(REN) AS AN EXCUSE FOR LOOKING LIKE CRAP (it can take less than 5 minutes to apply some lipgloss, blush and mascara... NO MORE EXCUSES).

Until next time... HAPPY DOLLIFYING!

Anywhere But Here Music Video - Jovel Johnson

2010-04-25T03:06:00.000-04:00

Hey ya'll, remember my bride Jovel Johnson-Garcia that got married on April 17th, 2010? Well, she's also a singer/songwriter. Check out her music video for her song "ANYWHERE BUT HERE"

Sunrise to Sunset

2010-04-24T22:05:00.011-04:00

Talk about an early rise... I went to bed at 1:30 am and was up at 6:00 am for a 6:30 am makeup call time... whew, talk about tired!
But once up I was ready to roll... got myself prepped (of course I had to... I'm a representation of my work... besides, I'm just that kind of girl).
I literally had 30 minutes to set up... but I have been trained by the best (RORY LEE), so I was good.
My first client (Crystan Michelle) hails all the way from Winterhaven Fl. She was getting her makeup and hair done (yes, I do hair as well). Crystan is an acoustic soul singer and goes by the name of CADANCE MUSIC. Her voice is as melodious as her spirit. As early as the morning was she was in high spirits and very excited to start her day of primping and shooting. Crystan, I can't wait to see the professional pics of your photo-shoot. I know you brought the fierceness and I'm super excited for you and I know your future is bright.

Moving right along... my next call time was at 8:00 am. Another hair and makeup venture. This was for an engagement photo-shoot.
The bride-to-be was Gretchen. Gretchen is a nurse and she is getting married on July 18, 2010. Again, I turned up the heat on my skills. Second client for the morning so you know by now I was already in my zone... palettes all around me, lashes here, glue there, a variety of glosses & lipsticks to choose from, curling iron heated, brushes everywhere... my space was alive and pumping with an energy fueled from artist to products and products to artist (hope I didn't lose you there... lol).
Anyway, I had 45 minutes to accomplish the task... a time frame that was allocated by the photographer (my beau). He does not play when it comes on to his time slots... so you know a sistah had to be on her game.
Not to worry, MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! He was kind enough to take a picture of me while doing Gretchen's hair... makeup was already applied and set and Gretchen was on her way to have a face to face introduction to her "INNER DIVA"... I think I'll call her "FARAH".

My final call time was at 2:30 pm... BRIDE!
By this time I still had not eaten anything... wait, does a yogurt count? (lol). Well, let me explain, after I was through with Gretchen we left for Miami Beach because the shoot was on location. So like I was saying... up since 6:00 am, had a yogurt at 9:00 am, the next time I ate was at uuuummmm 3:45 pm (on my way home from doing the bride's makeup). talk about starving.
Anyway, if have seen my previous blog about the different types of bride, I would say that Ruth (that's her name) was the "SHY/I JUST WANT A NATURAL LOOK" bride (yup I got a combo today). Sometimes I could hardly make out what she was saying... but I enjoyed dolling her up... and at the end of the saga, she was like "WOW"... in my head I'm like "yup, das wassup" (lol).
Ruth, I wish you all the happiness in the world and congratulations on your wedding. You were a GORGEOUS bride!
Well guys, that was my day, thanks for stopping by. Until next time HAPPY DOLLIFYING!

My best friends...

2010-04-21T21:32:00.008-04:00

I wanted you to meet some of my best friends... they have been there for me and I know they will always be. I met them all at different points in my life, but they each hold a special place in my heart... well, on my face (lol).
I'm very committed to the relationship that we have and i'm very loyal. I do have other friends but these are my BBF's for life... well, unless they start acting up and need to be replaced (lol)... which I highly doubt!
So without further adieu... let me introduce you to SWEET AS COCOA BLUSH BY M.A.C, LOVE NECTAR LIPGLOSS BY M.A.C, LOREAL EYE MAKEUP REMOVER, LOREAL TELESCOPIC MASCARA, DERMALOGICA MEDICATED CLEARING GEL, OCUFRESH EYE WASH & NEUTROGENA MAKEUP REMOVER.

Well, until next time... HAPPY DOLLIFYING :-)

I DO! (no, not me yet)

2010-04-19T09:18:00.010-04:00

Another one bites the dust... good bite this time! :-)
Nuptial season is upon us and that's a great thing for me. I love brides... and they come is so many shapes, sizes, forms and moods... yes moods. Follow me as I try to list the different brides out there.
"CRAZY" bride... that's the one that makes absolutely no sense in her decision planning.
"CONTROL FREAK" bride... she has to be in charge of everything... hello, they have wedding planners/coordinators for that.
"MISTY EYES" bride... she cries for everything *sigh* (note to self: always, always use waterproof mascara/eyeliner).
"BRIDEZILLA"... she is a much more than the CRAZY bride, she will have you catching a battery charge on a bride(lol).
"OK" bride... she agrees with everything everyone tells her... "I think you should wear a red dress with black lipstick on your wedding day."... bride, "OK"! (lol).
"WEAK KNEE" bride... she gets nervous about everything.
"BUT" bride... all her sentences begins and ends with BUT!
"LATE" bride... I get really nervous when I have to work with this kind because then I have to worry about missing my next appointment which may also be another bride (yikes)!
"ON TIME" bride... love them.
"DRAMA QUEEN" bride... everything is so exaggerated & exasperating... makes you tired from just being there... GEEEEZ!
"SHY" bride... so shy you can barely hear them above a whisper.
"ROWDY" bride... you just want to do their face and be outta there in a hurry... "it's ok, you can email me pictures for my portfolio." (lol).
"EASY LIKE SUNDAY MORNING" bride... love them. they make you want to go over and above for them... so calm they keep me calm.
"GLAMA DOLL" bride... she wants to look the same way she does when going to the clubs... uummmmmm!
"MIRROR GODDESS"... she has to have the mirror in front of her while I'm doing her face (talk about pressure... lol.
"I DON'T WEAR MAKEUP" bride... hmmmm, I seem to get a lot of those :-)
"I'M A NATURAL GIRL" bride... not sure what that means but I'm a natural girl too ma'am (lol).
"I JUST WANT A NATURAL LOOK"... word to wise... NATURAL DOES NOT MEAN BLAND NOR BORING! :-)
"WHY DID I TAKE THIS JOB" bride... enough said!
"FUNNY" bride... have you laughing from the time you walk in.
"POKER FACE" bride... not quite sure what she's thinking or feeling (lol).
"SAD" bride... makes you want to say "baby, you sure you want to do this? you can still walk away honey, don't do it if you don't want to" *sigh*
"HAPPY" bride... you can't help but share in her joy.

well, I'm sure there's more but you get the point... also, don't forget that you have the "COMBINATION" bride... this is the one that displays anywhere from 2 to as many as 4 of these attributes... sometimes at the same time (LOL).

My bride this weekend (4/17/10) was Jovel Garcia (formerly Johnson). She was the "EASY LIKE SUNDAY MORNING" bride. I got to the hotel and she and her mom were just chilling. No fuss no muss. We chatted for a minute and then I started setting up... you could sense the calm in the air. After each pivotal application I would show her the mirror and she would blink or nod with approval. I had a great time working with her and I would paint her canvas any day.
Jovel, I wish you all the best in your new journey with your new life partner Vic. You are a GEM of a woman... beautiful inside and out and I'm honored to have shared a part in ensuring that your day was a success.

On that note it's time for me to bid adieu... in the meantime, if you are about to jump the broom and you find that you are slowly falling in the category of the "NOT SO LIKED CROWD" then by all means feel free to take a page out of the "LIKED CROWD'S" BOOK... it's never too late to change.
Until next time... HAPPY DOLLIFYING :-)

The start of a beautiful weekend... doing what I ♥

2010-04-18T17:28:00.012-04:00

So Friday I had a client who was doing her shoot for an album cover. She wanted something different and edgy so she gave me liberty to do as I please... and that's exactly what I did! The shoot took place on location in the Everglades... yes I did not stutter... We started in the Everglades behind Markham park, followed by the second location in Markham Park and our final destination was some abandon house in Cooper City (yes, those do exist... sad but true).
My client had her cruiser and her red guitar on hand.Talk about a HAWT chic (lol).
You should have seen us... riding out... hair (mine) and locks (hers) blowing in the wind (lol). Side Note: I'm getting ready to take riding lessons (thanx Carmen... lol).
The first look was done at my house before we left... we opted for colors and fancy lashes... I put my spin on things and gave her some designs from the hairline to the forehead using the same color scheme that we did on the eyes. I will show you exactly how I did it on an upcoming video tutorial. The pictures that I took may not give it enough justice but as soon as the photographer sends me some I will definitely upload for your viewing pleasure.
The next look was definitely rocker-funk... and I smoked the heck outta those big beautiful eyes. I gave it a futuristic look by extending the smoke all the way to the hairline.
I was so in my element that at one point the t-shirt that she was wearing for the rocker look was just not looking rocker enough so I decided to rip the neck and create a v-neck... talk about sexy rocker chic (lol).
Well, the night ended on a great note... Shoot was long but fun, client was happy, photographer and his crew was happy and of course I was happy.
Side note: thanks to Sashanie, Angie & Ryan for helping to make the photo-shoot a success. YOU GUYS ROCK!!!

One thing led to another...

2010-04-18T10:31:00.006-04:00

Angie got her eyebrows done for the first time... ever! My girl Sashanie does such an amazing job at grooming eyebrows that Angie flew in to have hers done... well, that's not the only reason she flew in (lol)... but you get the point!
So here's a snippet of the grooming of the eyebrows
... Hope you like!
Side Note: If you are in the Fort Lauderdale area and wish to get your eyebrows groomed by Sashanie, feel free to contact her @ Sashanie_gray@yahoo.com
She is mobile and she will come to you :-)

More than Makeup...

2010-04-14T23:51:00.003-04:00

So, people ask me what do you love more than makeup? Easy... JESUS CHRIST!
There is a song that the group Avalon sings... and I'm gonna use it to thoroughly express my total dependence on and utter LOVE for CHRIST!

I could live life alone... And never fill the longings of my heart... The healing warmth of someone's arms... And I could live without dreams... And never know the thrill of what could be... With every star so far and out of reach... I could live without many things... And I could carry on, but... I COULDN'T FACE MY LIFE TOMORROW WITHOUT YOUR HOPE IN MY HEART I KNOW... I CAN'T LIVE A DAY WITHOUT YOU... LORD, THERE'S NO NIGHT AND THERE'S NO MORNING WITHOUT YOUR LOVING ARMS TO HOLD ME... YOU'RE THE HEARTBEAT OF ALL I DO... I CAN'T LIVE A DAY WITHOUT YOU!
I could travel the world... See all the wonders beautiful and new... They'd only make me think of You... And I could have all life offers... Riches that were far beyond compare... To grant my every wish without a care... Oh, I could do anything, oh yes
But if You weren't in it all... I COULDN'T FACE MY LIFE TOMORROW WITHOUT YOUR HOPE IN MY HEART I KNOW... I CAN'T LIVE A DAY WITHOUT YOU... LORD, THERE'S NO NIGHT AND THERE'S NO MORNING WITHOUT YOUR LOVING ARMS TO HOLD ME... YOU'RE THE HEARTBEAT OF ALL I DO... I CAN'T LIVE A DAY WITHOUT YOU!
OH, JESUS, I LIVE BECAUSE YOU LIVE... YOU'RE LIKE THE AIR I BREATHE... OH, JESUS, I HAVE BECAUSE YOU GIVE... YOU'RE EVERYTHING TO ME!

Now you know!

My drug of choice...

2010-04-13T18:26:00.005-04:00

HELP, I THINK I'M ADDICTED... to MAKEUP that is... BUT, I really don't want to be cured (lol). I love every stage of the process... from the conception to the delivery... it's like PROCREATION... I think (lol).
When a client calls to request my services... rates and dates are agreed upon and then it begins... the visual concept... in my head first. I don't always know what my client looks like until we meet in person or via social networking pictures... THE GREAT FACEBOOK!!! Either way, I still have a vision... for without a vision one perishes, right? :-)
And then the big day arrives... picture it...
The client sits with the most prized possession - A BLANK CANVAS - waiting for me to ink and varnish my creativity with my magic brushes which by the way are squirming with excitement inside their home known as the "brush roll." Then I cup that beautiful, naked canvas inside my magic palms... carefully examining every curve, every line, every mole, every freckle, every uneven discoloration, every bump, every scar, every hair, every spot... all the possible things that humans consider flaws & imperfections which in actuality makes that person PERFECT & UNIQUE in every way.
Then I unleash the products... and it's always the same sounds... HUH, WOW!
Yup, wow is right... now welcome to my world.
A world where the rainbow is personified in a case filled with so many different hues of eye shadows, blushes, lipsticks, glosses, foundations, pencils... all arrayed in their glory... waiting to make their grand entrance and dance, prance, swirl & twirl with grandeur on an amazing stage known as YOUR FACE!
Let the production begin! Drum roll please...
TO BE CONTINUED...

Gotta ♥ him...

2010-04-12T14:25:00.004-04:00

So my absolutely wonderful man got us tickets to see the MAXWELL & JILL SCOTT CONCERT on June 14th @ 7:30pm.
singing... "what a man, what a man, what a man, what a mighty good man... he's a mighty mighty GOOD MAN!!! (LOL).
I just had to throw that out there. anyway, I'm super excited about this concert because unfortunately the last time Maxi was in town, we both had a gig that night and had to miss the show (talk about bummed)... but we told ourselves that the next time Maxi showed his face in our hometown again... we were gonna be in there like swim-wear (lol)... and he made good on that promise (did I mention that he's a mighty good man).
well knowing your girl, I'm already mapping out the look i will be donning to this "splendiferous" affair... since i love to show my beautifully crafted and designed giraffe legs (THANK YOU JESUS... lol), I'm opting for shorts, with perhaps an off the shoulder drapey tunic paired with blue leather Harajuku Braided heels. I'm kinda going for that South Beach/LA look... simple, clean lines but HAWT!!!
well, we will see, by then I may just envision something else... considering the mind of an artist is constantly being stretched... VISUALLY!!!

Women to Women

2010-04-12T01:12:00.002-04:00

So yesterday I had a gig at the Renaissance Hotel in Plantation. It was for a foundation for Cancer Survivors for women. At first I was a little nervous about the gig because according to my mentor Rory Lee we were going to be doing a total of 13 faces that day, and not only that Rory would also be there with me. That's like Steven Speilberg calling Tyler Perry to work on a gig with him... of course Tyler would be a little nervous because he would be working with a veteran. So of course my nerves got the best of me the night before and thank God for a great mentor, she reassured me of my ability and the great work that I always produce.
So the nerves were taken care of.
The attire on the job was all black or black top with jeans. So lemme give you a visual of what your girl looked like... a had on a black maxi cotton dress with my black and red converse, hair curled, tousled & loosely pinned to the side with some silver hoop earrings. I did a dewy look with natural eyes and my love nectar lip-gloss by MAC (I was going for the grungy-sexy artsy look... mission accomplished) LOL!
Call time was at 3pm so I arrived at 230 pm all ready to paint some canvases. Since I was not sure of exactly what genre of skin (lol) I would be working with I decided to bring EVERYTHING!
I walked in and was greeted by a wonderful chorale of women who were so excited that their makeup artist had arrived. Yay for me! With the positive energy that already permeated the room, I knew this was going to be a great production. So I proceeded to set up my station and summoned my first patient (lol).
I might have failed to mentioned that this was for a ball so I immediately knew that I wanted to capture each woman's "DIVALOSCITY" by creating romantic smokey eyes... and of course adding my spin on the signature look by personalizing it according to the woman, the shape of her eyes and the garment she was wearing.
I was now in my zen... and so was Rory and Sophie (the other artists). We transformed these ladies into the Queens that they are. There was a feeling of beauty, fulfillment, accomplishment, satisfaction in the room and I was so ecstatic to be a part of such a wonderful movement.
I met some great women of worth. I will never forget Dianne, Natalie and Miss Dale. They impacted my life by their very presence. The essence of who these women are will never be forgotten in my mind. They kept thanking me for doing their faces but the truth is I was humbled and honored to even be in their company much less to be working on their face.
Ladies, you are doing a marvelous job. Kudos to you and your organization and keep up the great work. I would also like to thank Rory Lee for allowing me to be a part of her amazing team of artist.
Well, that's if for now... HAPPY DOLLIFYING!
p.s. Next time I'll have some pics to post... I was too busy working :-)

In the beginning

2010-04-11T14:41:00.003-04:00

Hey ya'll welcome to my blog page.... I'm so excited and I anticipate the many wonderful viewers/readers that will grace my page... I am already humbled by your prospective visitations & re-visitations :-)
I would like to think of this is as my personal space to the "VISUAL AUTOGNOSIS" of my life as a MAKEUP ARTIST". I love to write and talk so I figured why not turn this into a somewhat live feed while verbosely divulging tips, new finds, a day on the job, before and after, video tutorials, what's it like working with the man I ♥, who happens to be a photographer (more about him to come), client of the month, new looks etc... it's pretty much the naked truth of what I do and enjoy doing as an artist.
There are days (pre & post making up my clients) that I have these swirls of WORDS running around in my head that I'm dying to share. Mostly about myself and the moods and emotions that sometimes consumes me... when I have to work.
I'm somewhat of a perfectionist (when it comes on to my craft that is), so often times I stress myself out prior to a gig (ugh)!
And then when face to face with my client and while working on their canvas (face), I trip about the fact that I was tripping for no reason (lol).
I love what I do. I meet new and exciting people every day and I'm learning that they are all so different yet so alike in many ways... BUT having one thing in common "THEY ALL WANT TO FEEL & LOOK PRETTY."
Notice I did not use the word BEAUTIFUL... that's because I believe that being beautiful comes from within and permeates without... something that makeup cannot do!
Well my lovelies, welcome, welcome, welome...
I hope you enjoy and that you will keep revisiting my blog!
HAPPY DOLLIFYING :-)