Larissa Lake Makeup Artist

Welcome Skin Care!

2011-09-27T21:09:00.000-07:00

What is more important than the makeup we use? The skin we put it on!!! So we thought - why not offer skin care services to all of our clients. We just recently welcomed Eleni Pertesis, a licensed Medical Esthetician, to our staff. She is by far the most talented and passionate skin care specialist I have ever encountered. Her knowledge is above and beyond impressive. Eleni, a graduate of Catherine Hinds Institute of Esthetics, will be offering lash tinting, brow tinting, hair removal, a variety of customized facials and chemical peels.

We look forward to booking treatments for all of our clients! If you are interested in scheduling an appointment with Eleni - please call 860.916.3231, email at larissalakemakeupartist@yahoo.com or post a message on our FB fan page: Larissa Lake Makeup Artist. All booking clients will receive a complimentary lip wax for the month of October!

Our Beauty Boutique

2011-08-29T18:44:00.000-07:00

Little by little our studio is coming together! I was so excited today because I was finally able to take a few pictures of what I like to call our "Beauty Boutique." With original tin ceilings, crystals chandeliers, vintage furniture and 8 foot mirrors - this space is simply beautiful. As a previous boutique owner I was thrilled to be able to continue my style and put my past collection of timeless pieces to good use. Although small, our studio is perfect for accommodating our menu of hair, makeup and spa services/treatments. Due to high demand, we will be growing our retail segment of couture hair accessories and stunning jewelry findings this Fall as well.

Thank you for your continued support!

281 Main Street

Wethersfield, CT

The Skinny on Lash Extensions: Part 2

2011-04-24T21:43:00.001-07:00

As promised, I wanted to deliver the final part to our discussion on lash extensions before any more time passed by. We have been having so much fun in the studio performing the service and are thrilled with how popular it has become amongst our clients! There has not been very much time for blogging lately so my apologies in advance!

Just recently, one of our own received her very own lash extensions - and of course - I took pictures every step of the way! During the 2 hour duration, I wanted to capture the process to ease any uncertainty as well as broaden the awareness for our followers. Since most people are visual I figured this would be best! Enjoy and feel free to comment for any clarification :)

Laura - Before

Our lash room - nearly finished!

Laura - After

So as you can see - there is a noticeable difference after the extensions are put on correctly. (Keep in mind this is with a clean face - no makeup applied). After the service was completed I had asked Laura her thoughts on how it was overall. Here are some valuable points she made:

1. Due to the fact that you are lying on a facial bed for 2 hours it is almost imperative that you bring ear phones and/or fall asleep to pass time. It is important that the lash extensionist focus on your eyes rather than conversation.

2. Keeping her eye's closed for 2 hours was challenging so make sure you are ok/aware of that ahead of time.

3. Comfort - we have you lie down on a white leather facial bed that has extra padding. We also supply a covering/blanket as well as pillows to prop feet & legs. If you are one of those people that cannot lay down flat for a long period of time - coming in for shorter intervals (2 half sets) may be a better option.

4. An discomfort? None whatsoever. She was aware of her responsibilities of maintaining closed eyes throughout the entire process.

5. Result - very happy! She was amazed with the length and curl she achieved as well as a thicker appearance overall. She understood that there were areas (inner lashes) that were too fine to attach to an extension - nothing a little bit of mascara wouldn't fix!

6. 3 weeks later - STILL LOVING HER LASHES!

For more information, pricing, & to make an appointment - please contact Larissa at larissalakemakeupartist@yahoo.com - thank you!!!

INTRODUCTORY OFFER!

Mention this blog and receive a full set for $200 (originally $225)

or a half set for $125 (originally $140).

Seasonal Depression Anyone?!?!?

2011-02-21T20:51:00.000-08:00

This post was prompted from a conversation I had with my sister (who is expecting) about her case of the Winter Blues. According to The US National Library of Medicine, "some people experience a serious mood change when the seasons change. They may sleep too much, have little energy, and may also feel depressed" - specifically with their self image. If this describes what you may be feeling - I may have a temporary solution!

Obviously we all know that exposing oneself to UV rays is not healthy - although so many of us still do it. Say good bye to your Winter Blues and hello to Banana Boat's Sunless Tanner! This is by far my favorite treatment for transforming pale "Winter Skin" into a natural "Sun-kissed Skin." It can be used year round and for a little over $6 (at WalMart) - you can't go wrong!

Before using, exfoliate your body very well and moisturize. I always suggest applying 1-2 coats at night before bed. Make sure you blend well in the area of skin you are trying to brighten and wash your hands in between applications. Depending on your skin tone - Deep Dark Color is my ultimate favorite!

Hope this helps! Let me know if you have any favorites you would like to share!

Recycled Couture - The Coveted Collection

2011-01-12T17:52:00.000-08:00

(without birdcage veiling)

It has been almost one year since I launched Recycled Couture - a line of vintage inspired hair accessories for the eco-chic fashionista. Since then I have had the privilege of creating multiple pieces for clients all over United States. My desire for designing these pieces stemmed from a demand for hair couture that was individualized and offered a bit of interest.

As a makeup and hair artist - creating beauty is my forte. Unleashing my creativity with this collection was just another way of showing the world my passion for art. Recycled Couture - The Coveted Collection is comprised of everything from wearable clothing and accessories to intricately handmade hairpieces and veiling - all made from recycled remnants of the past paired with findings from today.

(with birdcage veiling)

Please view my website for more images - thank you!

To place an order or for more information: larissalakemakeupartist@yahoo.com

The Skinny on Lash Extensions: Part 1

2011-01-12T10:33:00.000-08:00

I first heard about lash extensions while attending IBS back in 2004. I remember how intrigued I was at the concept of it all and wondering if I would ever be able to offer the service to my clients.

What was once a pipe dream years ago has finally become a reality! Larissa Lake Makeup Artist & Company are pleased to announce that we are finally NovaLash Certified! Stephanie, one of our head makeup artists, and I, attended an intensive workshop given by NovaLash's CT, RI, and Puerto Rico Trainer this past Monday. With hours of lecture and hands-on training - we were taught the science behind the beauty as well as the technique itself.

The Professional Kit! Just arrived today!!!

NovaLash is unlike any other lash extension company - in that it's award winning adhesive is the ONLY bonding agent that is water resistant AND oil resistant. Not to mention it is certified and physican-formulated to offer the utmost safety. Their adhesive is manufactured in a FDA registered facility in the US - something that is very uncommon with other companies. Their pharmaceutical-grade bonding agent is by far the best I have tested - and I have tested a handful! Xtreme and Evalash- just to mention a few are good in some aspects but overall I was most impressed with the NovaLash way! While Xtreme is similar to NovaLash it is not oil resistant -something that is very important when discussing maintaining the lashes. Evalash offers a unique interlocking V technique that is much quicker in applying but their adhesive is sketchy and imported - not something I would recommend when applying it so close to the eye region. Most reputable lash extension companies require a professional license as well as a certification that you successfully completed a workshop - EvaLash sold me their adhesive right on spot last year at IBS...hmmm.....stay tuned for more comparisons in Part 2.

Each lash extension is comprised of a synthetic polymer that is individually adhered to each lash- giving the most natural but glamorous appearance. They come in multiple lengths, thicknesses, and styles - a 10mm .2 being my favorite!

Again - we are thrilled to be Certified NovaLash Extensionists and cannot wait to start offering the service in our very own "Lash Room" - almost complete! Please visit www.larissalakemakeupartist.com or message us on our Facebook fan page: Larissa Lake Makeup Artist for more information.

Stay tuned for Part 2 of this blog - more comparisons, before and after pictures, and some images of our "Lash Room" located at Studio 281 in Historic Old Wethersfield, CT.

A Manhattan Wedding Story - Meet Rebekah

2011-01-02T18:50:00.000-08:00

December 30, 2010

I remember receiving Rebekah's inquiry for bridal hair and makeup services and being so excited to read that she was planning to wed in Manhattan on the Brooklyn Bridge - I mean how creative! First of all, I never thought anyone could get married on the bridge or in the middle of winter for that matter.

Rebekah and Matt, both lawyers from Alberta, Canada, went thru great lengths to even get into New York after the 20+ inches of snow we received. When plan A (their flight) got cancelled - they were left with no other choice but plan B...30 HOURS OF TRAVELING! Determination and a whole lot of patience finally got them to the great city safe and sound.

Due to the distance between us, a trial was out of the question so I consulted Rebekah via email with inspirational photographs and very descriptive wording. What a success! Everything from her custom built lashes to her romantic updo -Rebekah looked perfect.

Before getting dressed...her husband-to-be admiring her beauty...awwwww!

Her beautifully romantic updo.

After I finished one set of custom built lashes - what a difference!

Her fabulous accessories!

Married!

A big thank you goes out to Rebekah and Matt for giving me the opportunity to be a part of their wedding story. Images taken at The Affinia Dumont Hotel - East 34th Street and Lexington.

Website Update

2010-12-18T22:34:00.000-08:00

Here is just a sneaky peek of what is to come! The new website of Larissa Lake Makeup Artist will not only change in appearance - it will also have many new features to help answer the most popular questions/concerns of every individual who is searching for an MUA/ hair artist.

We are truly getting up close and personal with everyone who takes the time to view our work. Without giving too much away...our site will finally have a retail component in which all of our past and future clients will be able to purchase anything from cosmetics and brushes to hair accessories and extensions.

Studio 281 - where all the beauty is created - will be photographed and featured on our site as well! Located in the heart of Historic Old Wethersfield, Studio 281 is sure to put a smile on any future brides face. From its authentic tin ceilings to crystal chandeliers - the space is a bridal oasis!

We look forward to sharing these great improvements and advancements with all of you! Thank you for your continued support!

Larissa Lake Makeup Artist

the art of makeup and beyond...

The Face of 2011

2010-12-18T22:13:00.000-08:00

The time has come to choose a new Face for 2011! Last year's face belonged to Selena Zimmitti - a past bride of mine. I cannot thank her enough for allowing me to promote our artist abilities with her beauty.

If you are interested in entering, please submit at least 5 professional photographs (no photo retouching please) to my email address larissalakemakeupartist@yahoo.com. In your email, mention your photographer's name so I am able to credit his or her work.

The Face will be featured on my splash page/ website/ blog/ facebook fan page/ etc. Permission to do so is necessary if you do not own the rights to your photographs.

I look forward to sharing The Face of Larissa Lake Makeup Artist 2011 with all of you when my new website/blog is revealed!

Thank you!

Larissa Lake Makeup Artist

the art of makeup and beyond...

A Wedding Story - My "Rustic" Bride

2010-10-07T12:07:00.000-07:00

Before I begin blogging this absolutely amazing wedding experience...I must apologize for lacking in the consistency of my posts. For those of you who do not know, I recently had another precious son which has kept me from my computer - until now! I am back and ready to blog!

Okay, okay...October 2nd was not just the perfect "fall" day but the union of two remarkable people. I have been fortunate to know the former Chloe Cadley for many years. She was not only a favorite customer of my late boutique "The Peacock" - but also a great friend. Chloe was always purchasing the best of accessories and clothing - quite the "fashionista." I was honored when she asked me to custom make her a Recycled Couture hairpiece not to mention service her and her bridal party. The venue was held at the adorably quaint Heritage Trails Winery located in Lisbon, CT. From gourmet goat cheese to handmade bouquets - Chef Harry made quite an impression on me! For those of you who are looking for a more rustic take on your wedding experience - check out their site!

Enjoy these images from our day with Chloe and her gals! Hair and Makeup by Shauntelle Lake and Yours Truly :)

My Swedish Bride - A Wedding Story in NYC

2010-06-08T13:50:00.000-07:00

A few months ago I received an online inquiry from a lovely woman named Pia. She had requested my services for her June 2nd Wedding in Manhattan and mentioned I was referred to her by Elizabeth Phaire, NYC's celebrant officiant. At first, I was a little apprehensive because I had never done a wedding in NYC on a weekday - nor had I ever booked a bride from another country thru email. After contacting Elizabeth, I was set at ease - Pia really was from Sweden and really was getting married in NYC on June 2nd - I was thrilled!

Despite being 9 months pregnant, I was determined to make the trip to NYC and eager to work my magic on Pia and her three lovely daughters, Hanna, Gabi, and Carla. Their rented Manhattan apartment terrace set the stage for their intimate affair. It was dressed in rose petals and peonies in miniature vases along the terrace's border. Pia wore a stunning raw silk "Jackie O" inspired taupe dress while her daughters wore cocktail dresses from a popular store in Sweden. The excitement and intimacy of the day's festivities made the occasion so unforgettable.

Please enjoy images taken by my assistant, Amanda, as well as those sent to me from the girls themselves.

Getting ready...

The hair after...

I do!

A Wedding Story - My "Pink" Bride

2010-04-27T20:15:00.000-07:00

I first met the former Krystin McClure back in 2009 when she hired me to do her makeup and hair for her engagement shoot with the amazing Candace Jeffery. I remember it was then that she told me she was wearing pink for her wedding - I thought to myself "How cool is that!?!? I sooooo wanna be her makeup artist that day!!!" - A few months later my wish came true and I was booked to do hair and makeup services for her entire bridal party - 9 lovely women!

My fabulous team and I started in the early a.m. on April 9th at The Waters Edge - curling irons, makeup and bobby pins galore! Each assistant artist claimed a bridal attendant and off we went! There was nothing but laughing, smiling, tears of joy, and I must not forget to mention SHOW TUNES for 6 hours straight! Krystin desired a romantic look with glamorous lashes to compliment her stunning pink dress - I created this look just for her...

Krystin was so passionate about the "little" details- from her color theme of shades of pink and black throughout everyone's attire as well as the cake, to a matching raw silk baby dress for Piper (custom made by Rhonda - Krystin's mom) - she was able to achieve a beautifully feminine and sophisticated theme.

A big thank you to Rhonda McClure and the new Krystin Baribault for giving us the privilege of being a part of her wedding story. Please enjoy the beautiful images provided by Candace and see why this wedding was definitely one of my favorites!

There are plenty more breathtaking images - please check out my site often - as I will be displaying more of our work in the next few days! www.LarissaLakeMakeupArtist.com

Makeup Order!

2010-04-13T12:13:00.001-07:00

To all my clients as well as brides to be:

Due to the increase in demand for touch-ups after your ceremony/pictures/cake cutting - I have decided to give my clients the opportunity to purchase their very own lip gloss and/or blush - two necessities to keep your look fresh throughout the day! I am placing an order for the collagen peptide lip gloss and mineral blush that I use for every consultation. My blushes come in 26 shades and the lip gloss comes in 18 pigments. I strongly recommend the H2O for those clients who just want a colorless treatment. As for the rest, I have your colors written down from our consults - I just need the yay or nay!

I must place the order by the end of this week in order for shipment to be on-time for all your weddings!!!

Above are images of these two products - compliments of Camping Photography!

An "Embrace Your Bump" Story

2010-04-06T21:16:00.000-07:00

As a hair and makeup artist, I am fortunate to participate in some of the most unforgettable days - last Saturday being one of them. The day began with Elisabeth and Anthony meeting me at my in-home studio for a makeover before their big shoot! I absolutely love airbrushing because it truly gives a flawless complexion - Elisabeth was so open for ideas - an attribute I truly love in my clients. We played up her eyes - definitely one of her best features - and gave her a beachy hair style to accompany the setting for her shoot. If it wasn't for Candace Jeffery Photography, these breathtakingly honest moments would never have been captured.

I truly love unleashing my styling creativity with photo shoots such as these and I was so thrilled Elisabeth was so willing. Prior to the shoot, I had asked her to go to the fabric store and pick up 4 yards of a satin fabric to drape around her pregnant little body. I love how these images embraced the organic feel I was trying to display.

Although I was sad we were not able to use all of our unique ideas - it leaves us with plenty for the next one who chooses to schedule an "embrace your bump" shoot with Candace and I!!!

Thank you to Elisabeth and Anthony for giving me the honor of being a part of such a beautiful day!

Introducing Recycled Couture: A sneak peek into my collection

2010-04-01T18:05:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Recycled Couture, a collection created for the eco chic fashionista - all of my pieces are designed with recycled remnants of the past - from Victorian era plumes to aurora borealis crystals from the 1940s and 50s - each creation is unique. I like to incorporate newly found treasures with odds and ends I have collected over the years to revive its flair and be reclaimed by you!

As many of you know, I am a sucker for designing! This obsession started as a little girl and has followed me throughout my life thus far. From art to clothing to jewelry and now to headpieces - I just can't seem to get enough of the drawing board. With most of my clients as "soon-to-be" brides, I have focused primarily on bridal headpieces however I have made so many "everyday" pieces as well. After a showing, I was pleasantly surprised with the reactions I had gotten and the custom orders I had received. Without letting too much info out to ruin the surprise - I will just say, there is a lot more where these headpieces are coming from - stay tuned to the entire Recycled Couture Collection by Larissa Lake.

If anyone is interested in custom ordering a headpiece for their wedding as a bridal piece, bridesmaid gifts, or for a flower girl - please contact me thru my website or facebook page. Thank you! Images provided by Candace Jeffery Photography.

2010-03-31T17:03:00.000-07:00

After much thought, I have finally decided to start a facebook page for Larissa Lake Makeup Artist. With 9 weddings booked last year to 26 this year and already 6 for next year - I have realized the unbelievable power of internet networking. I sincerely appreciate all my fans thus far and have high hopes of someday reaching 1,000! Dream big or don't dream at all -right!?!? I will continue to post blogs of my experiences with all these weddings not to mention photo shoots I will be participating in. Feel free to tag yourself in any of the images posted. Thanks again and I look forward to sharing with all of you my first Spring wedding next Friday at The Water's Edge in Westbrook, CT! Not a fan yet, click on the link above and become one!

Introducing: Refind Green Designs

2010-03-18T17:38:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, I once owned a consignment boutique filled to the brim with antiques, designer clothing, loads of jewelry, handmade accessories and lots more "junk!" After five years in business, I retired my passion for treasure hunting and closed up shoppe. Missing the store and everything involving has just recently led to my "creating, designing, and collecting" obsession once again. This time, I found the perfect place to embrace all that I do...

Welcome to the world of Refind Green Designs - a fabulous place I'd like to call "home." Located directly off the Berlin Turnpike - in Newington, CT - this store is like a magical walk through time. Not knowing what to focus your eyes on first, this "green" store is full of recycled, reclaimed, and refurbished furniture, clothing, jewelry, home accessories - the list goes on...Owners, Cheryl and Ken, have opened their arms to my love for "stuff" and welcomed my thoughts on marketing their fabulous store.

Nowadays with the economy being as fragile as it is, we cannot afford to buy "brand new" and who wants to anyway - with mostly everything coming overseas, it is important to keep our country happy and healthy - so buy used! Refind Green Designs offers affordable prices and free local delivery. Not to mention, they provide people with consignment and rental options. For all you photographers and/or clients out there that need something eclectic for a shoot - stop by Refind Green Designs. Cheryl and Ken offer a 20% (of the purchasing price) rental fee for just about anything in the store (funky chairs, vintage hats and clothing, ornate mirrors, etc.).

Thanks to Cheryl and Ken at Refind Green Designs, I am going to be selling some of my handmade creations (headpieces, jewelry, clothing) as well as designer pieces I have collected over the years. For more information, please join me in following their blog!

Embracing the "Bump"

2010-03-18T09:55:00.000-07:00

This morning when I woke up - I looked down and smiled at the beautiful miracle growing inside of me. This itty bitty moment of happiness led me to blog my thoughts on embracing pregnancy. As we all know, our bodies do some funny things when we are pregnant - Yes, the widening of the hips, the swollen tootsies, the engorged boobies, not to mention the "bump" we carry around for 9 months. Instead of trying to count the days to when it is all over - wrap your arms around the blessing God has bestowed upon you and savor all the beauty that accompanies it.

A little less than two years ago, Candace Jeffery and I took a little trip to the shoreline to get my hands on my first maternity shoot. With my bags packed of misc. fabrics and accessories - not to mention - the old beat up chair in the back of Candy's SUV - we were ready to make some unforgettable memories. Please take a moment to see just how Heather - 8 months pregnant - embraced her bump...

I look forward to once again providing hair, makeup, and styling for an other "mama-to-be" at the end of this month. Stay tuned for some inspiring images provided by Candace Jeffery Photography. If you, or someone you know is interested in scheduling an "embrace your bump" photoshoot - feel free to contact me. Thank you!

IBS New York - Let's Talk Products!

2010-03-15T18:00:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh...where shall I begin!?! I am so excited to finally have a moment's peace and blog about my day at the show. I absorbed just about 8 hours of demonstrations and product testing - many of which I am thrilled to share with all of you!

The morning started off with a jaw-dropping main stage demonstration by the one and only Robert Cromeans - and what a show it was! I swear, every year this show gets crazier and crazier! I felt as if I was at a rave! From the nearly nude gothic-inspired models, to the full color spectrum hair extensions, this was quite the experience. Even though a majority of hair cuts he demonstrated we would not even give our dog - I still appreciated his artistic expression of his trade.

We then headed our way to the gigantic NYX cosmetics booth. Definitely a highlight of the day! I was able to pick up some fabulous lip glosses - one being "vintage" - a phenomenal nude pigment - and for $6 - you can't go wrong! When comparing the loose eye pigments of MAC and NYX - NYX definitely takes the cake! Its quality, color variety, and affordability is by far unmatched. A personal favorite is "Seclude" - a great shade of cocoa and bronze that makes a fabulous summer smokey eye. Remember - cheaper is sometimes better! Give it a try!

Now you can't go to IBS without buying brushes!!! I was lucky to find some fabulous brushes (synthetic and italian badger) for some unheard of prices. A typical high-quality brush you may purchase at a beauty counter may go anywhere from $20 and up! At the show, I was able to purchase a majority of the same brushes for nearly half the price!

I then met with my distributors at TEMPTU PRO for a quick stock up on my absolute favorite airbrush makeup as well as introduced myself to a fairly new mineral makeup company - MICABELLA. After a private demonstration of their products, I was overwhelmed with excitement - not to mention broke! I insisted on purchasing a line of pigments used for lips, cheeks, nails, and eyes. My first hands-on with MICABELLA was just the other day during a bridal consultation - I couldn't be happier with the results! I am currently working on a wholesale program that allows me to offer these products amongst others on my website. Stay tuned!

Let's talk hair now! Accompanied by my stylist and friend, Kela, I was fortunate to be exposed to one of her favorite lines - ALFAPARF Milano. After smelling and feeling the quality of their products not to mention Kela's endorsement, I was ready to buy!!! A personal favorite is their Illuminating Hairspray as well as Thermal Protectant Spray from the Semi Di Lino Diamante line. With a majority of brides as my clients, I love to use a spray that reflects the natural shine of the hair. These products offer a new dimension in luminosity with the help of Linseed Extract.

Now I know everyone loves a good straightener! Welcome to the world of ROYALE and ENZO MILANO - true ceramic irons, not like the Chi or some of those other ceramic-coated flat irons. Although a bit pricy, I am super impressed with the outcome - not to mention the fabulous curl you can achieve with a flick of your wrist!

Although my pregnant feet were swollen at the end of the day, I wouldn't have traded the great connections I made and techniques I learned for anything! In an ever-changing industry, it is imperative for artists to stay on top of their trade. I am thankful to once again have a great IBS experience and look forward to attending The Makeup Show in May!

A Testimonial: My Bridal Prep

2010-03-03T10:45:00.000-08:00

As most of you all know, my husband and I married in September 2009. It was one of the most magical days of my life. I thought what better of a testimonial of my work than that of my own! With the help of my team and dear friend Keyla, my amazing hair colorist and stylist from Green Tangerine and Spa in Evergreen Walk - South Windsor, CT) we were able to transform ourselves for the big day! This video is now available for viewing on www.larissalakemakeupartist.com!

Many thanks to the talented Inspiration in Motion (CT Videographers) for honoring me with this beautiful rendition of my bridal prep! For more details and other wedding highlights, please visit www.inspirationinmotion.com. Enjoy!

A Wedding Story - My Waterfront Bride

2010-03-02T20:02:00.000-08:00

With the warm weather just around the corner, I'd thought it was appropriate to share this blast from the past. Before I begin my version of the day, I would like to thank Shayla and Eric from Scandinavian Photography for allowing me the privilege of sharing these breathtaking images.

August 31, 2008, marked one of my most memorable wedding experiences - not only because of its unforgettably serene venue but also because of the wonderful friendship gained in its process. Shayla, a Rhode Islander, was referred to me by her esthetician out of a spa in Guilford. I will never forget our first consultation - literally set up in the back room of The Peacock - an Old Saybrook boutique I previously owned. Amongst the clothing racks, bobby pins, and half-dressed mannequins, Shayla and I had some great conversations that built the foundation for our friendship today.

I remember pulling up to her house that summer day, (the location for her wedding), and exhaling with an "Ahhhhhh." With a private beach as her backyard and a dressed-up tent in the near distance, I knew it was going to be the most picture perfect venue. Shayla had chosen muted apple green knee-length silk dresses for her bridesmaids and adorned them with bright blue hydrangea, rose, and orchid arrangements of Adams Garden of Eden. She wore an elegant Tara Keely gown and accessorized it with a floral headpiece (compliments of me). Together my team and I successfully performed hair and makeup services for the Mother of the Bride, Mother of the Groom, Grandmother of the Bride, Aunt of the Bride, (3) Bridesmaids, (2)Flower Girls, and of course the Bride! Although Shayla desired a natural look, I still gave her as well as her mother individually lash extensions to enhance their already beautiful eyes.

From the decadent cake of Dagmar's Desserts and symbolic starfish accents to the urns of ornamental grasses and contemporary yet classic table arrangements- there wasn't a detail left out. Thanks to Josh Chalmers, a wedding coordinator and owner of Hey Cinderella -this wedding was truly a dream come true. Thank you to Shayla and Scott for giving me the opportunity to be a part of their wedding story.

Let's talk eyebrows!

2010-02-27T21:57:00.000-08:00

For some reason, many women get defensive about this topic. Why? I don't know. It is one of my favorite aspects of the face and cannot stress enough the importance of styling, shaping, and maintaining "the brow." Over my years of "painting faces", I am utterly astounded to the number of women who are unaware of the fabulous potential their brows actually have!

Did you know that brow styles and eye makeup can be traced all the way back to the Egyptians? They were notorious for their elaborate outlook on facial beauty - with a strong focus on the eye region. Although we have seen many different versions of "the brow" over the years- the most pleasing is one of medium thickness and medium arch. Sorry to all you ladies out there who love the skinny, straight brow or the bushy, unkept brow- those styles have come and gone!

Here are the rules I like to follow:

1. Start your brow at the inner corner of your eye - NOT NECESSARILY YOUR NOSE - unless you have the perfect nose!

2. Your arch should be directly above your iris when you are looking straight forward.

3. The end of your brow should run to the outer edge of your eye.

*Obviously these rules may have minor mods to balance facial features and facial shapes.

If you are one of those, like myself (no I most certainly do not have perfect brows), who over-plucked as a teen, there are some solutions! Growing-in, filling-in, and/or stenciling-in are all great remedies for the over-plucked brow. I strongly urge you to go to the nearest pharmacy and buy yourself a powder (brow or matte shadow) in the shade a little (and I mean little) lighter than your brow color. Using an angle chisel brush and some powder will make a world of difference. Powder ensures a no-shiny reflection in sunlight and appears WAY MORE natural than using a liner. I also like brow gel(use sparingly) or (a tinsy tiny amount of hairspray) to secure those unruly pieces, if you should have any.

For those of you who are pluckers and not waxers, invest in a good pair of tweezers. I use Tweezerman tweezers and love them! They are reasonably priced and long-lasting. Another great trick is to pluck right out of the shower while your pores are open and one week after your monthly begins - this is your least sensitive time for hair removal. Apply aloe vera for redness.

For more information, please visit eyebrowz.com or consider reading Beautiful Brows by Nancy Parker (these are my fav references for how to style, shape, and maintain your brows).

Remember your face is the picture and your brows frame that picture so do not neglect them!

IBS New York - Here I come!

2010-02-25T18:58:00.000-08:00

Seeing as though I designed this blog with the intention to amuse my readers on the latest and greatest experiences I have as a makeup artist - I just had to write about this! IBS, otherwise known as the International Beauty Show, is a 3-day convention for the professionals of the beauty industry. It is comprised of the "who's who" of beauty gurus and nearly every cosmetic, hair, and nail company out there. With hands-on workshops, loads of product, and multiple exhibits, this experience is a must for any professional wanting to stay current with today and tomorrow's trends. As my third year attending (once in Las Vegas, once in New York), I am overwhelmed with curiosity as to what this year will bring.

I look forward to blogging and posting images from my experience next Sunday. Stay tuned for some entertaining information!

A Big Thank You!

2010-02-24T08:37:00.000-08:00

This year marks my 5th year of being a professional makeup and hair artist! Although I have been providing my services for over 10 years, Larissa Lake Makeup Artist was born in 2005. It could not have been possible without the continuing support of all my clients. I cannot thank you enough for your constant referrals and positive feedback. Being a makeup and hair artist is rewarding in itself, however, being given the opportunity to work with all of you is the true prize. You all are the reason for my success and for that, I am forever grateful.

Larissa Lake Makeup Artist is now Wedding Wire Rated! For those of you who have given a testimonial, thank you! To read my reviews, please click on the link above.

A Wedding Story - My Winter Wonderland Bride

2010-02-15T15:33:00.000-08:00

For many of you, January 30th, 2010, was just another freezing day - but for Magda, it was the day she'd marry the love of her life. The afternoon started at the quaint Inn at Middletown where Magda prepared for the evening's festivities. Thanks to the referrals given by Meyling (a 2008 client) and Anna-Maria (a 2009 client), I was booked to perform "my magic" on the bride-to-be. Despite the frigid temperatures, the warmth of Magda's family and friends made the evening unforgettable. With the snowy covered walkways and ice blue and beige colors, this intimate affair was definitely the perfect "winter wonderland" wedding. I was so delighted to stay for touchups during pictures and after the ceremony not only because I could once again visit the beautiful St. Clements Castle, but I was able to watch Magda walk down the aisle.

Thank you to the notorious Candace Jeffery Photography for the beautiful images and to the new Mrs. Shankweiler for allowing me to be a part of her wedding story.

A Boudoir Story - My Fearless Client

2010-02-01T18:00:00.000-08:00

Allow me to shed some light on the topic while my fearless client, Kelly, sheds some clothes! Boudoir - what was once thought of as a lady's private dressing room - has just recently evolved into an artistic expression of sensuality and femininity. No longer looked upon in a negative manner, boudoir photography has finally gained enough momentum to celebrate with women of all shapes and sizes around the world. I was privileged to work with one of the industry's finest photographers, Candace Jeffery Photography, in portraying just this.

While I provided the sultry curls, "bed room" makeup, and glamorous styling - the talented Candace captured the sensual imagery of each client. Derived from the French word boudor, meaning "to pout" - our clients did that and so much more! From striking a pose in fish net stockings, to cozying up in their hubby's favorite sports jersey, each client was able to personalize their experience.

The next time you are all out of gift ideas for your significant other - think back to this post and schedule your very own boudoir experience! This shoot can be scheduled individually or as a group - feel free to contact me for any questions or comments!

Thanks to Kelly for opening the doors to her "boudoir," I am able to share with all of you the beauty and tasteful images produced by such a photo shoot. Enjoy!

A Wedding Story - My Manhattan Bride

2010-01-26T20:36:00.000-08:00

Back a few months ago, Jennifer, a lovely Manhattan bride-to-be, hired me to travel to her neck of the woods and perform what I like to call "my magic." With her vintage inspired theme and her breathtaking venue at the one and only Central Park - I was smitten almost instantaneously! The morning started bright and early in a swanky hotel called THOR - The Hotel on Rivington http://hotelonrivington.com located a few blocks from Little Italy. After eating some delicious room service, compliments of the bride, we were ready to begin! She desired an elegant down-do with a natural makeup application. Her dress - a Melissa Sweet - was the perfect accessory to her romantic curls (which by the way were natural hair extensions that I put in the day of). Her mother, another client of mine, requested a side down-do (which by the way was done with a synthetic hair piece provided by the client). It was a memorable experience in an unforgettable hotel suite with a handful of beautiful woman. Thank you to the new Mrs. Jennifer Ryan for giving me the honor of being a part of your wedding story! I just recently gained access to some images by her fabulous New York City photographer Dave Robbins www.daverobbinsphotography.com. Enjoy!

A Year to Remember...

2009-12-28T20:59:00.000-08:00

Seeing as though this is my first post, I felt it was only proper to thank God for blessing me with such an amazing year on a personal level. From the birth of my first child to celebrating the wedding of my dreams, 2009 will go down in history as being a year to remember...