2021 Favorite Makeup Looks

We hope everybody had a fantastic holiday! With 2021 coming to a close, we wanted to look back at some of our favorite makeup looks of the year. It’s been such an amazing year and we’ve loved working with each and every one of our stunning brides. Enjoy these timeless makeup looks from this past year below!

We would also like to shout out the incredible photographers that made these stunning shots happen. Check out their portfolios below:

https://www.lerinawinter.com

https://jenniferemerling.com

https://annadelores.com

http://www.leopatronephotography.com

https://www.theedgeswed.com

https://jodeedebes.com

https://www.dannydong.com

https://www.ChristieQPhotography.com

https://www.vivianchen.com

We hope everybody has a great New Year! See you in 2022!

Fall Wedding Ideas

There’s no wrong season to plan a wedding, but something about fall makes everyone feel a little bit closer. The colors and decorations you can incorporate are completely unique to the season, and we’ve put together a few ideas so your wedding can be the perfect fall fairy tale you’ve always dreamt of!

Venue:

Photo Credit: The Knot

Fall makes for the perfect outdoor wedding, since the temperature is normally the perfect balance between hot and cold. While beaches are beautiful for summer, a venue surrounded by vast trees or mountains creates breathtaking pictures you will never forget.

Colors:

Photo Credit: Harpers Bazaar

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Orange, red, and yellow/gold are the typical fall colors, and they correlate to the changing leaves and greenery. These colors can stand alone for a more simple wedding look, or work perfectly together! Matching your flowers to the outdoors, whether it’s the fall colored leaves or misty green atmosphere, brings the entire look together.

Decorations:

Photo Credit: Elegant Wedding Invites

Photo Credit: Country Living

It’s all in the details! Add pumpkins, simple fall linens or anything that is unique to the fall season to spice up your reception decor. Tie in your colors by providing an overall rustic look with wood chairs and tables, and your fall look is complete.

Happy wedding planning!

How to Wear Dark Lipstick This Fall

Dark lipstick is essential when it comes to fall looks. The warm, seasonal colors make your lips stand out and appear fuller than with lighter shades. Colors of burgundy, red, rust, and brown are popular during this time of year, and can be paired perfectly with the right outfit. We’ve gathered some tips so you can look your best this fall! 

Photo Credit: Too Faced

Use Lip Liner

Since dark lipstick stands out so much, it’s important to ensure minimal smudging. The best way to do this is to apply the correct lip liner before the lipstick.

The Importance of Eyeshadow

With most dark lipsticks, it’s better to use lighter colors on your eyes to create a balance. However a dark eyeshadow, such as black or grey, paired with a bold red or plum lip can make a huge statement!

Blush Saves the Face

A dark lip color can easily wash out your face, but the perfect rosy blush will pull everything together. You can coordinate your blush color with your lipstick to complete your fall look!

Coordinate Your Outfit 

Last, but certainly not least, is picking the right outfit! Make sure to plan the color of your lipstick with the outfit of your choice, and you’ll be all set for fall this year.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Fall Inspired Manicures

A change in season calls for a change in manicures! There are so many different exciting designs and colors happening for fall 2021, and we can’t wait to see your beautiful nails. Colors such as chocolate brown, forest green, red/maroon, and cloudy blue are perfect for fall, and can be incorporated with the designs below. You’ll want to run to the nail salon after seeing these!

Photo Credit: Pinterest

French With Color

French nails are a classic go-to, but adding a pop of color creates a classy, vibrant look. It’s simple, yet stylish, and trending fast this fall!

Photo Credit: Blog

Abstract Prints

Wavy, abstract prints have been a huge trend this past summer, and it will carry over to Fall 2021. Use multiple colors or outline silver/gold for a more unique look.

Photo Credit: Grazia

Outline

It’s all in the details. A colored outline provides a simple look while keeping a trendy design. Outline the whole nail, tip or both!

Photo Credit: Lulus

Multicolor

Is it ever hard for you to just pick one color? With so many great fall colors, you can wear them all! Pick multiple shades of one color or get creative and choose five of your favorites.

How Makeup Affects Your Mental Health

To some people, makeup is just a daily routine meant to improve one’s physical appearance. To others, it is used as a therapeutic action for mental health. Has your mood ever instantly boosted after applying even just a little bit of makeup? Believe it or not, applying makeup may be the temporary cure you need to get through your mental battles.

Photo via The Blush Boutique

Relieves Stress

When you’re overthinking or worried about a situation, it is always best to do a thoughtless activity to give your mind a break. Makeup is more than just the end result - each step allows your focus to switch from whatever’s causing you stress.

Acts as a Personal Treatment

Taking care of yourself should always be your first priority, and applying makeup is a great way to show yourself some love. Whether wearing makeup is a daily routine or a special occasion for you, if it makes you feel beautiful, treat yourself to it!

Establishes a Sense of Identity

One of the best parts about makeup is there are so many different ways to wear it. You can easily express your personality through the colors and looks you choose to use. Expressing yourself through your own makeup boosts self-confidence and helps you feel more secure in your own skin!

Boosts Your Mood

As mentioned earlier, applying makeup can instantly boost your mood. Putting on your favorite music and spending some time taking care of yourself is a great way to feel mental relief. If you struggle with depression, sometimes it’s hard to do daily routines; putting on makeup regularly gives you a sense of accomplishment, and applying bright colors sheds some light on a gloomy situation.

Image via Deposit Photos

Next time you’re struggling with your mental health, try spending time applying your own makeup. Discover new designs and colors that make you feel like your best self. Your face is a work of art, so treat it like one!

5 Tips to Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle While on Summer Vacation

It’s always nice to have a little getaway, but it can be so hard to maintain a healthy lifestyle while doing so. However, there are many ways you can stay healthy and leave your vacation with no regrets. We’ve gathered some tips to help you stay on track while enjoying your time away!

Photo Credit: Pinterest

1. Stay Active

Whether it’s a morning jog or walking around all day, there are many ways you can stay active while having fun. It’s important to take time during the day to get exercise. By walking almost everywhere, you can easily get steps in without even realizing it.

2. Resist the Urge to Splurge

Splurging on vacation is so tempting – going out for almost every meal, getting drinks with friends, and making excuses for each decision you make. However, you can still have fun and try new foods without throwing away everything you’ve worked for. Attempt to still eat healthy choices, and don’t forget to treat yourself to a delicious dessert or cocktail every once in a while!

3. Avoid Drinking Too Much

Depending on where you are and who you’re with, the temptation to rack up drinks at the bar can be so strong. Sadly, alcohol calories add up, and the hangover may not be so rewarding. Try drinking water between each drink to keep your body hydrated and reduce the strength of a hangover the next day.

4. Eat Meals Similar to Ones at Home

You don’t need to meal prep or bring a lunch box everywhere you go, but when you are at a new restaurant, try to choose choices similar to what you would be eating at home. Local restaurants are usually a better option, because they are more likely to use fresh ingredients. The best thing to do is stay mindful of the food you put in your body!

5. Stay Hydrated

The most important thing to do is drink water! Water fuels our bodies and can be the make-or-break point for how you feel by the end of vacation. By constantly drinking water throughout the day, your body will thank you.

Vacation is supposed to be fun! Don’t restrict yourself to every opportunity, but don’t give in to everything either. By following these tips, you can easily maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying your time away. Have fun, and don’t forget to treat yourself!

Wedding Dress Styles and Trends

When it comes to picking out your wedding dress, it’s important to consider all your options. With so many different styles and accessories, you can find the perfect fit for your perfect day! We’ve provided a list below of the different styles to choose from and a few design tips so you can stay in the latest trends.

A-Line

Photo Credit: Bri’Zan Couture

A-line wedding dresses are very simple and elegant. Going in at the waist and flaring out through the hips, these dresses flatter all shapes and sizes. Make the dress more uniquely yours by adding little details such as a floral pattern and/or nude underlining!

Ball Gown

Photo Credit: David’s Bridal

Did you always dream of being a princess when you grew up? Ball gown dresses make those dreams feel like a reality. Similar to a-lines, ball gowns come in at the waist and extend out through the hips, creating that fairy-tale look! Many brides today are wearing an off-the-shoulder neckline to enhance that princess feeling.

Mermaid

Photo Credit: David’s Bridal

If you desire to show off your figure, this dress is for you. Mermaid dresses hug a bride’s curves like no other and extend at the knees for an elegant style. Ruffles are trending now, adding extra volume and a hint of personality.

Sheath

Photo Credit: Kleinfeld

Another dress that reveals your stunning silhouette is sheath, although its material is much lighter. This dress is meant for smaller frames, and can be easily detailed with rhinestones, lace, feathers, and more. Add a high slit to show off your favorite shoes or slender legs!

Short

Photo Credit: Bridal Musings

While short dresses are most commonly used as an outfit change for the reception, they are still a fun, unique option for any wedding! These dresses can range from tea length, to hitting right at the knee, to above the knee, and can be presented in many different styles.

Separates

Photo Credit: Hitched

These two-piece sets are perfect for expressing your own personality! Choose between any style top and any type of skirt or pant. Mix and match your favorite designs for the perfect wedding set on your special day.

Jumpsuits

Photo Credit: David’s Bridal

Although they may not be the most traditional option, jumpsuits have made a huge comeback in the fashion industry, and they are almost guaranteed to make you feel stunning and confident on your wedding day. Like short dresses, jumpsuits make a unique look for the ceremony or a great option for the reception.

We hope no matter which style or design you choose, you fall in love with your desired look. You deserve the best dress to match the best day of your life!

Summer Makeup Trends of 2021

Trends change as the seasons change, and this summer is coming in hot! Summer 2021 is calling for all things glowing, shining, and glossy. We know that keeping up with the constant change of trends can be difficult, so we went ahead and put together a guide to keep you in the game this summer!

Photo Credit: Home Depot

Glowing Skin 

We’ve watched as the glowy, dewy skin look has slowly but surely made its way to the top in the makeup world. This summer, without a doubt, glowing skin is going to be trendier than ever. All you need to do is find your favorite highlighter and cutest pink shimmer blush and you’ll be set. Don’t forget to layer products wisely to achieve the best look! We are totally loving the Watermelon Glow Dew Drops by Glow Recipe!

Photo Credit: Dear Dol

Eye Pop

Summer 2021 makeup will be full of color with many different things to try out. Colored eyeliner is a big one, and it guarantees that all eyes will be on YOUR eyes! The world of color is endless, but we are absolutely loving the blues and purples for this trend. Another trendy way to spice up your eye look is with colorful metallic eyeshadow. Whether you wanna pair the metallics with a fun turquoise liner, or rather just go with a sleek metallic shadow and your everyday liner, metallics are sure to be big this summer. This Mac Chromagraphic Eye Pencil comes in a variety of colors, you can’t go wrong!

Photo Credit: Cover Girl

Gloss it up 

Who doesn’t love a playful lip? Summer 2021 is totally calling for some fun, sassy, lip looks. Pinks, peaches, and reds are the way to go when it comes to lipstick. On top of that, you are definitely going to want to gloss it up! Pair the lipstick with your glossiest gloss and don’t be shy. The Roller Baby Lip Glosses by Incredible Cosmetics is a must try!

Photo Credit: Colour Pop

Brushed up Brows

We’ve all had times where we have zero clue of what to do with our brows. Some things work for others, and some don’t. However, this summer is going to be different because it’s calling for a look that can work for all! All you need is your favorite brow gel, a brow brush, and you are all set. Brush 'em up! The Original Soap Brows bestseller is our favorite product for this trend. Soap Brows has been hailed as the best brow styling product with its stellar styling power, gentle moisturizing ingredients and portable packaging.

Photo Credit: Soap Brows

How to Protect Hair in Hot Weather

While most of us are accustomed to slathering sunscreen from head to toe before a day at the beach, we often forget one key spot - our hair. With summer fast approaching, it’s important to switch up your hair routine to account for things like sun, water, and wind. Summer can be particularly damaging to your hair, but we’ve got you covered with the best ways to prevent damage below!

Photo Credit: Jess Ann Kirby

Wear a Hat!

All of the hat people out there will be happy to know that wearing a baseball cap or a stylish sun hat will help protect your hair tremendously in the summer. UV rays damage keratin, a natural protein that makes up approximately 90% of the hair. Wearing a hat can prevent hair breakage by protecting keratin and keeping in moisture.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Lose the Hot Styling Tools

Heat styling can lead to some pretty serious damage year-round, including dryness, breakage, and split ends. The extra heat from styling tools on top of the hot air outside only further damage & dehydrate your hair. Instead, opt for some all-natural beach waves.

Apply Protective Hair Product

It’s key to coat your hair with a protective product before stepping outside into the summer heat. We recommend looking for hair products that offer UV protection in spray or even cream formulas. One of our favorites is SunBum’s Scalp & Hair Mist SPF 30. This lightweight, fast-drying scalp mist won’t weigh your hair down or make it feel greasy.

Photo Credit: SunBum

Wet Hair Before Swimming

Remember those pre-swim showers you had to take as a kid before jumping into the pool? They were for a good reason! This will help prevent your hair from absorbing chlorine, while a post-swim rinse will help remove chlorine buildup.

Try a Hydrating Hair Mask

We love a good hydrating hair mask no matter the time of year, but especially in the summer. You can’t go wrong with Morrocan Oil’s Intense Hydrating Mask. If you want to improve your hair's manageability, elasticity, and overall texture, this Argan oil-infused mask makes hair feel brand new.

Photo Credit: Moroccan Oil

Our Favorite Wedding Day Makeup Products

The last thing you want to be worried about on your special day is a smudged or faded makeup look. Lucky for you, we have tried and tested almost all of them. Whether you plan to do your makeup yourself or book a makeup artist, check out these makeup products that will keep your face glowing all night long!

Foundation: Glossier’s Perfecting Skin Tint

Photo via Glossier

This foundation is breathable, and it’s ultra thin formula evens out the skin's appearance for a smooth & dewy finish. Give this product a try for a bright, soft-focus effect that minimizes the appearance of pores.

Concealer: Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer

This product is the perfect wedding day retouch. This Soft Matte Complete Concealer instantly blurs and smooths uneven texture while also concealing dark spots, under eye circles, redness, and breakouts. This concealer’s soft-focus matte effect is perfect for that natural wedding-day look.

Eyes: Makeup Forever Artist Color Eye Shadow

Photo via Temptalia

Makeup Forever’s Eye Shadow is our very favorite for your wedding day, but also for everyday use. This creamy product stays on for hours and is easy to blend and mix. You won’t have any trouble finding your color with options including glitter finishes, matte finishes, metallic finishes, satin finishes, & shimmer finishes.

Lips: Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution

Photo via Charlotte Tilbury

Two major things you want in a lip product on your wedding day are precise application and long-lasting color. This product guarantees both! The square and angled tip mimics the shape of a lip brush for perfect application, and the color lasts up to 10 hours. We couldn’t recommend it enough.

5 Spa Night Must-Haves

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner and Covid cases still prevalent throughout the country, you may be starting to look into ways to enjoy the holiday from the comfort of your own home. What are we doing? You guessed it, spa night. Here are 5 Spa Night Must-Haves for Valentine’s Day (to use with or without that special someone).

Image via Hello Fashion.

1. Your Favorite Face Mask. 

The first and most important spa-night essential is a face mask that makes your skin feel like new. If you’re still on the hunt, try Glossier’s greens + moon masks duo. The Mega Greens Galaxy Pack detoxifies, while the Moisturizing Moon Mask hydrates — we recommend using them in that order for the full effect.

Image via Glossier.

2. A Facial Steamer

Facial steaming not only feels luxurious, but promotes circulation, releases bad bacteria, and helps your skin better absorb facial products. Need we say more? Here’s an affordable option from Bed Bath and Beyond. 

3. A Rose Quartz Roller

We love a good rose quartz roller. They recently became the newest must-have product  – and we understand why. They reduce puffiness, dark circles, and all around soothe the skin. For prime results, leave it in the fridge overnight. You can thank us later! 

This one from Sephora is just $20.

4. A Luxurious Bubble Bath

It’s not a true spa night without a bubble bath. Treat yourself to a luxurious new bubble bath product this Valentine’s Day, you deserve it. We love this Lollia Bubble Bath from Anthropologie.

Image via Anthropologie.

5. Candles. And more candles. 

Last but certainly not least, be sure to have plenty of candles on deck. Whether you're spending the night alone or with your significant other, candles are the final step to setting a relaxing and romantic mood for the evening. 

We hope these must-haves help make this Valentine’s Day just a little bit more luxurious. Happy Valentine’s Day, stay safe, and enjoy whatever it is you have planned!

5 Skincare Tips for Winter Skin

Fun fact: December through February are the coldest months of the year in most of the United States. While this weather comes with many exciting winter activities, (think ice-skating, hot coco, and bonfires), most of us are probably familiar with one recurring struggle during this time of year - dry and itchy skin brought on by the cold air. 

If this sounds all too familiar, you’re in luck! Here are five realistic and proactive steps you can take to retain your skin’s natural moisture. 

Image via True Botanicals.

1. Drink lots of water.  

Pay close attention to hydration during these months, both inside and out. Drinking 8-10 glasses of water per day can help get rid of toxins and have positive effects on your skin and overall health.

2. Avoid hot showers and baths.  

I know how tempting it can be to turn up the heat when it’s time to jump in the shower, but this can actually further dry out your skin. Don’t just take it from me- 

“The high water temperature and the evaporation of water off the skin, once out of the shower, causes the skin to become drier.” -Dr. Rajani Katta, professor of dermatology at Baylor.

Instead, give shorter, lukewarm showers a try. 

3. Invest in a humidifier. 

Humidifiers can be game changers when it comes to dry skin. They help tremendously to increase levels of moisture in the air, and ultimately your skin. Check out an affordable option here. 

4. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize! 

Try switching to a super-hydrating face cream rather than the light lotions and moisturizers you use during the Spring and Summer months. I’m currently loving this hydrating day & night cream by Tula. 

Image via Tula Skincare.

If you haven’t yet, try using facial oils as a moisturizer! Facial oils provide an extra level of protection for your skin, and can be used solo or before/after your daily moisturizer. This True Botanicals Facial Oil has been leaving my skin feeling hydrated and healthy.

Image via True Botanicals.

5. Use Sunscreen and an Antioxidant Serum.

Cold temperatures and dry skin leave you with little defense against UV rays. Skin damage can occur in any weather, which means you should be wearing SPF all year long. 

Supergoop’s color-correcting CC Cream gives you all the protection you need (SPF 50!), with buildable coverage. 

Give some of these tips a try and be prepared to love your new winter-glow! 

Halloween 2020

With halloween upon us and no where to go to celebrate, I thought it would be timely to offer up a couple of last minute ideas if you are doing something fun and some movie suggestions if this year you’re celebrating on the couch. Since you’ll most likely be gathering virtually, here are just two options that you can totally pull off.

Dia De Los Muertos themed Sugar Skull

This one has become pretty popular over the last few years because you can go minimal or you can get really into it with crystals and tons of color. It will take some time but most good things do. Here are some of my favorite examples.

Wednesday Addamms

First. Watch The Addamms Family and Addamms Family Values. Then, decide to be Wednesday Addamms - vacant stare and all - and get to braiding. This is an easy one to build on, you can do as much or as little makeup as you’d like. A touch of silver highlighter, or all over luminescent? Glossier’s Moonestone Haloscope is a great option, not to sticky and extra buildable. Lots of black eyeliner or just a little wing? There is a reason this Stila Stay All Day Liquid Eyeliner is always winning awards for best liquid eyeliner. Natural - a la the original Wednesday - lips? Or, goth-chic black lipstick? Here are two of my favorite black lipsticks, yes I have favorites because black lipstick should never be dry and cakey. MAC’s Liptensity in Stallion is the most moisturizing I have found and Urban Decay’s Vice Lipstick in VooDoo definitely has the most/best pigment. Choose your own adventure…but definitely watch Addamms Family Values.

At-Home Halloween Movie Suggestions

There are so many great movies to stream this season that this could be a very long list but I will just give you 3. Beetlejuice, if you are so sad that Moira Rose and Schitt’s Creek is over just wait until you see her parent a depressed Winona Ryder. Practical Magic, a forever favorite. One day I will dress up like one of the aunts because they are my absolute favorite. Death Becomes Her, Meryl Streep and Goldie Hawn - need I say more? Classic, ridiculous and so fun. Happy Halloween, stay safe and enjoy whatever it is you have planned!

Yesteryear

Things are heavy - how about a nostalgic trip to a simpler time. Let’s take a visit to yesteryear and remember some of the greatest (or at least the most iconic) lippy’s to ever exist. 

1. Vanilla Lip Smackers

   Slightly controversial, since not everyone is a vanilla fan but these little babies were a big part of a generation’s adolescence. Lip Smacker now offers a Tin Lip Balm Vault that comes housing 8 original flavors, just in case you’re in need of trip (or a taste) down memory lane. 

2. Juicy Tubes

   Lancome’s Juicy Tubes are celebrating their 20th anniversary - can you believe it? The mega-watt shine, the super-sticky flavors that undoubtedly will stick to your perfectly face-framing whispies. So many memories.

3. MAC Clear Lip Glass

   Another sticky icon. They say that this creates a “glass-like finish or a subtle sheen” but I don’t think there is anything subtle about this classic. Layered over a liner or on its own, this one reminds of my most awkward pre-teen years.

4. MAC Viva Glam Lipstick

   This color launched in 1994 at the height of the HIV epidemic with 100% of proceeds going to MAC’s Viva Glam Aids Fund. The “intense brownish blue-red” was all the rage, I can still remember the Viva Glam ads at the mall. The mall, remember that place?

5. Glossier

   A modern addition but cult-classic none the less, Glossier’s Generation G sheer matte lipstick gives the look and finish of just-blotted lipstick, without the blot. Gen G will be found tucked in backpacks and purses for the foreseeable future. It’s got it all; easy, “dialed-down” buildable pigments and the perfect texture. 

Ahhhh youth. It’s truly wasted on the young.

Doing the Most.

I think we can all consider ourselves multi-takers in 2020, we’re all being asked to do various things at once and frankly I am expecting my products to do the same. Enter this round-up of some of our favorite multi-tasking, clean beauty products. 

I will start with a tried and true favorite. I usually have multiples of this strewn around at any given time, EVAN HEALY'S WHIPPED SHEA BUTTER STICK. It is the BEST lip balm and doubles as an eye cream with a quick swipe around the delicate eye area. Its creamy, smells great and it’s organic!

SUPERGOOP! GLOW STICK SPF 50 This one is my latest and greatest find for this very anti-climactic summer that we are currently in. It’s a highlighter/SPF 50, super travel-friendly and it leaves behind a dewy finish without an oily residue. Its also reef-safe!

Next, and also previously mentioned is RMS LIP2CHEEK. Their unique formula combines buriti oil, shea and cocoa butters for lush lips and naturally blush cheeks. Each shade is concentrated, so a little goes a long way to create youthful sheers or more intensely colored stains. It’s so good you’ll want to start a collection of all of the colors!

Another RMS, perhaps shinier option, is their LUMINIZER X QUAD. In a pinch this quad can do it all, a little color on the lids, a sheen on the lips and a super-natural highlight. 

Lastly, ILIA BEAUTY MULTI-STICK. This one is similar to the LIP2CHEEK but instead of being packaged in a classic pot its in a stick, so you can re-apply pretty much anywhere. It also comes in a ton of colors and was winner of Byrdie’s Eco Beauty Award for Best Multi-Use. It’s my favorite product to get that perfect monochromatic eye/cheek/lip situation in a hurry. 

Here’s to all of you multi-taskers out there that are doing the most.

Fresh Start

Crystal Art by Award Winning Crystal Artist © @sarashakeel

It’s time for a fresh start, don’t you think? While stuck at home I am sure you’ve found yourself completing (starting?) some projects around the house. Whether it’s cleaning, organizing, building, gardening, cooking - this time inside is offering up a chance for a fresh start in so many ways. 

May I steer your direction to your bathroom cabinet/vanity/caboodle? Have you assessed the situation of your make-up assortment lately? No? Great, let’s assess. 

First, let’s go through the whole lot and chuck the expired products. Use this handy guide to determine whether our not your products are fresh and safe to use. 

Mascara - Average life span: four to six months
Do not take any chances when it come to your eyes. Germs and bacteria can cause infections and sties. 
Pro-tip: Close it tightly after each use, avoid pumping the wand in and out (note to self), and though sharing is caring - do not share your mascara or any makeup for that matter. 

Eyeliner - Average life span: six months to one year
Liquid liners are good for no more than six months, trash them sooner if they start to thicken up.
Pro-tip: For pencils, I recommend sharpening with every use or at least every couple of days to shave off any fresh bacteria that could be piling up.

Foundation - Average life span: one year
Pick your poison; liquids, creams, and compacts can last up to a year if kept properly. If the liquid starts to separate, cream thickens up, or you smell a funky aroma (goes without saying), it’s time to chuck it. 

Concealer - Average life span: one year
Hands off. Keep your paws out of the pot (use a swab or tiny spatula to scoop) and keep the lids tight to avoid premature spoiling. You'll know your stick concealer is bad if it starts to dry out and crack or turns tough.

Blush/Eyeshadow - Average life span: one to two years
The creamy ones will last up to one year and powders about two. Crumbly powder? Toss. Again, use a swab and keep the lids tight. 

Lipstick - Average life span: eight months
We’ve all seen/smelled an old lippy right? Smells like old rubber, looks dry, and the worst - no longer applies nice and smooth like. I feel like this, again, goes without saying BUT if your lipstick comes in contact with a cold sore (remember we do not share makeup) toss it. 

Brushes baby - Average life span: a year or longer
Natural-hair brushes, used for powdered products can last a lifetime with proper care. Synthetic brushes used for creams only last a year. If any of your brushes start to shed, become stiff, or stop applying color evenly, it’s time to say goodbye.

Now that we’ve purged and organized, its time to sanitize!

Before we start, here is a quick run-down of some of our favorite brush soaps.

• Tigers Eye Brush Soap from Sonia Roselli
  Not only BEAUTIFUL, this one uses natural disinfectants like honey and tea tree oil. 

• Brush Shampoo from Clean Apothecary
  This one is enriched with argan oil and uses the cleansing power of coconut oil. It also comes in super clean scents like Grapefruit, Rose, Nag Champa and more. 

• If you’re in or near Santa Cruz email Moon Dust Beauty Brush Soap.
  Formulated by one of our very own artists, you can bet that this one is super clean. 

We here at Dreamcatcher are sticklers for sanitizing. Read our step-by.-step guide to properly clean your brushes. 

1. WASH - Wash each brush for 30 seconds, then rinse well and don’t forget the handles!

2. DRY - Blot with a clean towel and then dry, laying flat on a clean towel with bristles hanging past the surface.

3. STORE PROPERLY - Once COMPLETELY dry, keep them in a closed container to keep airborne germs from landing on them.

Pro-tip: I know its cute (and tempting) to keep your brushes displayed in a pretty glass or ceramic cup but never leave your brushes out in the open day after day. They WILL attract dust, germs and possibly curious pets.

All other tools such as pallets and spatulas should be cleaned with 70% alcohol. And while you’ve got the alcohol out, give all of your pots, pallets and brush handles a good swipe. 

Now that everything is all squeaky clean should we all just do a full face for the next Zoom meeting?

See you soon, stay safe and clean. 

How to Combat Chapped Skin When Sanitizer & Hand washing is All The Rage

What we thought we knew about hand washing has evolved for most people over a very short amount of time. Many people have been forced to reeducate themselves on proper handwashing techniques and probably learned a little bit about disinfecting best practices in the process. 

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), The way germs can travel from your hands into the human body is through the following three scenarios. 

• Touching your eyes, nose, or mouth

• Preparing food or drinking with unwashed hands

• Transferring germs by touching a contaminated surface, blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing, then touching another person or surface

Different surfaces retain germs in different ways. Stainless steel, wood, paper, hands, mobile devices, and beyond can dictate the lifespan of germs. The temperature of these surfaces also plays a role in bacteria and virus survival rates. 

Don’t Get Caught up in Myths and Legends

As the focus has recently turned to hand hygiene, handwashing practices that do little to nothing in removing germs have floated to the surface. A few popular myths include:

1. The amount of time that you wash your hands doesn’t matter. The CDC suggests that you scrub your hands for at least 20-seconds. They also recommend that you wet and lather before you start your 20-second countdown by singing happy birthday twice. 

2. Hand sanitizers work better than soap and water. Washing your hands with soap and water is the best way to remove germs. The quality of your hand sanitizer also matters. Hand sanitizers should contain at least 60% alcohol. 

3. You should only use hot water to wash your hands. There is currently no scientific evidence that supports this. Hot water also tends to dry out skin faster. Cooling the temperature of your water when washing your hands will help to lock in natural moisture. 

4. You shouldn’t dry your hands after you wash them. Germs are more easily transferred from wet hands. It’s important to dry hands gently but thoroughly. 

Hand Hygiene 101

Hand hygiene is the practice of washing and sanitizing your hands in an effective way that removes enough microorganisms from them to avoid transmission. Shifting your focus from mere hand washing to an act of disinfecting and killing active bacteria that can live on surfaces, can help to visualize a more comprehensive hand washing ritual. 

The CDCs list of specific instances that people are prone to transmitting germs through contact on a daily basis has precise guidelines for hand washing procedures.

You should wash your hands: 

• Before, during, and after preparing meals

• Before eating food

• Before and after caring for someone who is sick

• Before and after treating a cut or wound

• After using the bathroom

• After changing diapers or helping a child who has used the bathroom

• After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing

• After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste

• After handling pet food or pet treats

• After touching garbage

Behaviors That Will Keep Your Hands Silky Soft 

Skin flora or skin microbiota are microorganisms that live on our skin, which is divided into two layers, called the transient and resident layers. The transient flora is the top superficial layer of the skin known as the epidermis and is easily removed from hands when we wash. Protecting this delicate layer of skin is key in maintaining good hand health. The following steps will help you to protect your hands and maintain cleanliness at the same time. 

1. It’s important to wash your hands with soaps that have moisture in them. Natural oils and shea butter soaps will help you to lock in your body’s natural moisture. Other ingredients that will benefit dry hands are glycerin, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid. 

2. Remember that you can remove bacteria without overly brutalizing your hands. When washing your hands, be gentle and carefully pat your hands dry with a soft towel. 

3. Avoid soaps with high pH levels of 7 or more. You can use a pH test strip if the pH level is not clearly marked on the packaging. For reference, the skin’s natural pH level is around 5.5. Chemically based surfactants and fragrances can also potentially cause irritation as well. 

4. Invest in a high-grade cream that is made specifically for hands. If you have severe dryness, consider putting on a thick layer of cream, ointment, or even petroleum jelly and wear cotton gloves for a few hours to seal in moisture.

Our hands are the pathways to everything that we do in life, and you’ll never regret keeping them clean, moisturized, pain-free, and healthy.  

Megan Glenn

I’m a freelance writer with extensive expertise in a plethora of subjects, including: home decor, business, lifestyle, and more. I’ve been writing professionally for over a decade, and have had the pleasure of working with incredible publishers over the years, including American Beauty School.

Sustainable Beauty

Facial Rounds

LastSwab

Bio-Degradable Loofahs

Cloth Wipes

@trashisfortossers

As people are hoarding paper products all around the country I feel it’s important to highlight all of the ways we can minimize our consumption of disposable single use products. I don’t condone fear-based/panic shopping but these one-time purchases could help you minimize your waste now and in the long run. Before I get to the goods, if you aren’t already following Lauren Singer @trashisfortossers I recommend you give her a follow. She is a huge part of the #zerowaste movement, one of Forbes 30 under 30 and CEO of Package Free Shop, a San Francisco and online shop that stocks all of the products I am about to introduce you to.

I will start with cotton rounds/balls. Used to remove makeup, apply toners, clean a boo boo, etc. these single-use drug store staples are an easy swap for a reusable option. Made of 100% organic cotton flannel I use this 20-Pack of Facial Rounds from Marleys Monsters by keeping a clean stack in my medicine cabinet and a cute basket beside my sink. After each use I toss in the basket and wash them all once a week. The same can be done with their Cloth Wipes if you need a little more surface area and are looking to replace your single use face wipes as well. Super easy and they offer cute prints if plain white isn’t your jam.

I can see how this next one might seem a little questionable but hear me out, Reusable Swabs. If the thought of re-using a swab grosses you out - read this stat and reconsider, “nearly 25.5 billion single use swabs are produced and discarded every year in the U.S.” LastSwab by LastObject is a great solution because it lasts for up to 1,000 uses and is easily cleaned with soap and water. It comes in a corn-based carrying case is easy to clean and comes in two versions, one for cleaning and one for makeup. Cool right?! 

Last but certainly not least, a Bio-Degradable Loofah. If you’re still using brightly colored, plastic loofahs in your shower now is the time to switch. Made of 100% plant fiber, these are a great replacement for not only bath loofahs but also for dish brushes and sponges in your kitchen. They are 100% compostable and biodegradable and will decompose within 30 days which is hundreds of years faster then their plastic predecessors not to mention they work better than any plastic alternative I’ve tried. Make the switch!

Keep doing your best, take care of yourself, each other and our planet.

Saving Daylight

Sunrise Sand Dunes by bon femmes

Daylight Savings Time - it always catches me by surprise but this year I refuse to be ill prepared. Here are a few simple hacks that I hope make this transition more tolerable for everyone.

1. Sleep! Prep accordingly and get to bed an hour early to help ease the rush of the morning. If you aren’t currently using a sleep app - try one! I like the SleepCycle app but the last iPhone update included a more comprehensive sleep tracker that works just as well.

2. Simplify your morning regime. If its not obvious by now, I am a “less is more” kind of woman so my day and night routines are pretty minimal but here’s a simple change that can help simplify your morning. Skip the morning cleanse. Blasphemy? Maybe, but honestly, how dirty can your face get overnight? In lieu of the morning scrub I have been using a quick swipe of the classic medicine cabinet staple, Thayers Rose Petal Facial Toner. Super quick, wakes up the skin and preps for moisturizer/sunscreen/what have you. 

3. Multi-tasking products. I consider myself a collector of this next product, the colors are vibrant and buildable and even better they are perfect to toss in your bag for a mid day touch up. The RMS LIP2CHEEK works as a blush, lip, cheek stain and hydrator. It’s created with nourishing organic ingredients and each shade can go from a sheer to saturated stain depending on your morning mood.

The Look

“2020” it just rolls off the tongue. The year 2020 numerically feels like a big wedding year, so if you’re getting married this year, next or the one after that this ones for you. Deciding on the “look” for the big day is different for everyone. Whether you have spent (or will spend) hours on Pinterest or are just leaving it up to your Dreamcatcher artist, here are a few tips to get the ball rolling.

1. Be honest with your artist! While for some it’s not hard to voice opinion, sometimes speaking up can be difficult. When working with the artist responsible for your FACE on the big day it is important to be able to say what you want. In the end he or she wants you to be happy with the end result, so speak up!

2. No drastic changes in the few weeks leading up to the big day. This one can be surprisingly hard to stick to with all of the things available out there. Micro-blading, fillers, botox, extensions, etc. The options are out there, and I am by no means saying that you can’t do them, BUT let’s consider what COULD happen. A botched brow, an emotionless face, a matted mop - could all ruin your most photographed day. So, let’s not leave anything to chance, give yourself a couple of months before hand to do anything major. This way you’ll have time to let the change settle and/or pivot if need be.

3. Start with a natural look and go from there. During your trial try starting with a fresh, natural look and build from there. Going backwards is more difficult and you might surprise yourself with which feature you want to emphasize as your look comes together. 

Last but not least, be you and enjoy every moment. From the pinning, to the trial to the morning of - be present and have so much fun celebrating your love!

Valerie @nathonyphotography

Jillian by @stanflan

Katie by @jensosaweddings

Photography by @keithmunyanweddings

Natalie by @gretchengause

Sharon by @comeplum