It's 'All About the Brows' on SCS

Ladies, and some gentlemen (hmmmhmmm) It is essential to have groomed brows. There's no excuse for unruly brows with hundreds of brow products on the market. With that said, I have highlighted some brow products that I personally love, and you may as well. Check them out on 'All About the Brows' on SCS!

Sibu Beauty's Super Berry!

Due to my hectic lifestyle, I can say I'm not the most nutritious person, but I do try to watch what I eat, take my supplements, and stay on an active workout regimen. Sometimes supplements are easiest to take if I need a quick burst of energy, or just to feel over all good.

So, I was excited when I was introduced by my client to Sibu Beauty, a premium sea buckthorn berry-based beauty and wellness products. We had been discussing working out, and supplements and she mentioned Sibu's Sea buck thorn liquid supplement, and how great it made her feel, so I had to try.

Sibu Beauty is a global leader of premium sea bucktrhorn berry -based nutritional and personal care products. Sea buckthorn berry, is a bright orange berry that grows in cooler climates and can be found high in the Himalayan Mountains. The berry produces over 190 bio-active compounds and is full of Omegas 3,6 and 9. It's also rich in the most elusive essential fatty acids, Omega-7 that keeps free radicals at bay and proves vital to the production of collagen.

So what does this berry do for us? As natural fatty acids aid in, this berry has the ability to improve hair, nail and skin tone/texture, your digestive wellness and promote healthy aging.

Did it help my lack luster skin, and improve my hair, nails and skin tone? Well after taking it for a month, I can say that I did feel alot better. It definitely improved my energy, and I did notice my nails were alot stronger. My skin did look radiant, but I was also using the Sea Buckthorn Facial Cream and the Eye Cream, that I felt detoxed and plumped my skin.

In all, Sibu Beauty products are amazing. I have never heard of this little berry, but it packs a huge punch, and my body noticed.

Sidu Beauty can be purchased at SibuBeauty.com

Disclaimer: Product samples were received for review.

Kelley Woods, Beauty Editor

Affordable Beauty with AJ Crimson NY| Houston| ATL| LA

We all sometimes feel we get stuck in a rut, or just don't have time to put our best face forward. However, it is no excuse why you can't look your best in just a few minutes, and we don't have to break the bank. What's the solution? Mr. AJ Crimson. Join a fellow Artist AJ Crimson, at his Affordable Beauty class. Let him show you some makeup techniques, and rework your makeup bag. You owe it to yourself. Get Beautiful!

[Beauty Statements] by AJ Crimson
Presents
“AFFORDABLE BEAUTY”
“You don’t have to break the bank to look good and feel great!” - AJ Crimson

Beauty Expert and Celebrity Makeup Artist to Celebrities including:
ESTELLE, BRANDY, LETOYA LUCKETT, ADRIENNE BAILON, AMERIE, REGINA KING
Shares Makeup Application techniques and reworks your makeup bag
For questions call 703-395-3041 btw 1pm and 6pm M-F

NEW YORK JULY 28
*Catchi Spa115 East 39th StreetNew York, NY 10016(b/w Park & Lex)*
Class begins at 7pm PLEASE BE ON TIME

ATLANTA JULY 29
*Studio Space ATL.
3080 McCall Dr., Ste 2Atlanta, GA 30340404-630-0508*
Class begins at 7pm PLEASE BE ON TIME

HOUSTON AUG 3
*L Dance Studio( Galleria Mall )5175 Westheimer Road, Suite C2150Houston, TX 77056(across from Ello’s & Next to Sak’s)*
Class begins at 7pm PLEASE BE ON TIME

LOS ANGELES AUG 5
*International Dance Academy6755 Hollywood Blvd., 2nd FloorHollywood, CA 90028323-463-8865*
Class begins at 7pm PLEASE BE ON TIME
Admission: $25.00

TO REGISTER CLICK HERE
Make Up Demo
Q+A
Bring your make-up bag, out with the old and in with the new
Space is limited
All products and sevices are on a first come first served basis

GIVEAWAY:
I am also giving away 2 Tickets to 2 Lucky Winners to AJ' Crimson's 'Affordable Beauty' Class, in the following cities: HOUSTON, ATL and LA!
What do you have to do to win this awesome giveaway? Simply leave a comment with your email address to this post sharing "why you want or need to take this class" by Friday, July 23rd 11:59pm EST, We will then pick and announce the winner!

Bridal Beauty. Budge-Proof | DC Makeup Artist

It's the summer and as a makeup artist it is my busiest season. Why? Because my Brides keep me busy. Weddings are one of my favorite things to do, and I must always ensure that my brides are budge-proof and beautiful. There are alot of staples I don't leave home without when creating bridal beauty...so check out some products I use for a Budge-Proof Bride! (Kelley for Second City Style)

Second City Style Beauty Olympics!! | Makeup Artist

As Beauty Editor at Second City Style, for months our staff, and some select loyal readers, tested hundreds of products to find the best of the best in beauty! And I am pleased to announce that the RESULTS are in! Check out Second City Style for the best in Makeup, Skincare, Hair products and Gadgets!

Check out this years Second City Style Annual Beauty Olympics 2010 Medalist!

FACE Stockholm Get's US Ready for Spring: New Nail Shades

Every since I fell in love with Face Stockholm's eyeliner, I have been an avid fan. So, of course I keep an eye on anything that comes out from Face Stockholm. And it's that time of year where it's getting warmer and our bi-weekly mani/pedi becomes necessary. So, I was pleased to see these little delectable shades of polish in yummy colors.

Face Stockholm is introducing some fabulous New Non-Toxic Nail Shades that will flatter anyone. From hot pinks, metallic turquoise, yellows and bright greens and everything in between. It's spring ladies so let's get those fab mani's and pedi's!

WISH UPON A WEDDING | Make Dreams Come True | DC Makeup Artist

WHAT IS WISH UPON A WEDDING?

WISH UPON A WEDDING PRODUCES WEDDINGS AT DESTINATIONS ACROSS THE NATION FOR TERMINALLY ILL INDIVIDUALS. REGARDLESS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION. WITH TWETNY CHAPTERS ACROSS THE NATION. WE ARE READY TO BEGIN MAKING DREAMS COME TRUE!

*WANT TO HELP GRANT A WISH?

YOU CAN HELP MAKE WEDDING WISHES COME TRUE IN A VARIETY OF WAYS! WE ARE ALWAYS EXCEPTING DONATIONS, AS WELL AS ENDORSEMENTS AND CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS. ARE YOU AN INDUSTRY PROFESSIONAL. WE ARE IN NEED OF WISH GRANTERS NATIONALLY! FROM CATERERS TO PHOTOGRAPHERS TO DJ'S (AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN) WE NEED YOUR HELP. VISIT OUR SITE TO FILL OUT A QUICK APPLICATION FORMA ND HELP US GRANT WISHES!

*DO YOU WANT TO HAVE YOUR WEDDING WISH GRANTED?

WE ARE HERE TO HELP! PLEASE VISIT OUR WEB SITE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE

WISH GRANTING PROCESS AND WHO CAN APPLY. TO BE CONSIDERED AS A WISH RECIPIENT YOU CAN ALSO QUICKLY FILL OUT AN APPLICATION ONLINE.

For More Information, please visition www.wishuponaweddingorg.

BRIDAL SHOOT Product Peek! | DC Makeup Artist

It's not rare that I will share what products I used on a shoot..I'm always trying great products, and would like to share certain products that I use. Besides, its no fun to eat a great casserole, and not know what's in it ;). Brides and bridal shoots are my favorite, because its the time when you are trying to enhance their beauty the most. You definitely don't want to take away from any of their features, you just want to enhance... So here is some of the products used to achieve the look of the model above.

For Bridal shoots, I like to use an array of foundations, however I love working with Makeup Forever Foundations. Not only are the budge-proof, but they give a beautiful finish. Stay put makeup is definitely key for bridal:

On top, I like to use a blot powder like MAC's Loose Blot Powder

For eyes, waterproof and smudge proof is key, so I like to use Urban Decay's 24/7 Eye Liner, or MAC's Powerpoints. Any waterproof mascara will do but I do like to use Loreal Voluminous Waterproof Mascara.

For eye shadows, I like to layer with a great holding base, and use my favorite palette by YABY COSMETICS. Love love love this palette.

For cheeks, I like Nars blushes, like Love Joy, Taj Mahal, Orgasm, or MAC's Slave to Love and Raizen.

For lips anything goes, but you definitely want something that wears good, and doesn't have much transfer. I like to use a stay put lipstick first and then layer lightly with a shiny gloss just in the center like Nars Glosses, or Dior glosses. Favorite Nars glosses include, Dolce Vita, and Orgasm.
To to the look off in areas that need highlighting and bronzing, I use Givenchy's Bronzer where needed.

These are just some of the products I use, but use many many more depending on client. These were some of the products use for the look above, give or take a few products..

If you have any questions, regarding any products, or recommendations please let me know

New York Fashion Week Fall 2010 Backstage at Luca Luca | Makeup Artist

Go backstage with me at Luca Luca Fall 2010 Collection at New York Fashion Week for Second City Style.

Check out what MAC Key Makeup Artist James Kailardos inspiration was for the line.

It's all here at Second City Style.com

AMBI Flawless Beauty Contest | DC Makeup Artist

ENTER The AMBI FLAWLESS BEAUTY CONTEST

Join AMBI® in a celebration of flawless beauty - the inner and outer qualities exhibited by a woman in your life who is most inspiring and empowering. Nominate yourself or another phenomenal flawless beauty and you could win an amazing New York City trip including a chance to attend the 2010 BLACK GIRLS ROCK! Awards

• $1,000 spending spree
• Transportation and hotel
• Dinner at a trendy restaurant
• A year's supply of AMBI® products

ENTER HERE!

Beauty Rave: Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Hand Cream..

There's rarely a time that I don't need hand cream. It's freezing out, but even in the summer I'm running for a hand cream. My skin gets that dry. So, I'm always looking for the best hand cream, and was unexpectedly surprised to find a hand cream by one of my beloved counterpart favorite Elizabeth Arden's 8 Hour Cream. Yes, that's right not only is there the 8 Hour Cream, but there is an Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Hand Cream.

I love this hand cream. Not only is it rich and soothing, but it kept my hands moisturized for quite a while. Being obsessive as I am, of course I applied it again and again. This is definitely one moisturizer to keep in your bag. Just as the regular 8 hour cream, you can still apply this to your elbows, or dry places where needed. It's just that rich. I'm never leaving home without it!

You can find Elizabeth Arden's 8 Hour Hand Cream, and other 8 Hour Products at Elizabeth Arden.com

DiorShow Extase | DC Makeup Artist | DC EYELASH EXTENSIONS

If anyone knows me you know I am about Dior Mascara. I am a mascara junkie and nothing has pulled me away from my Dior Show BlackOut, and I have tried alot. I have the skimpiest lashes, and it's nothing like rich,lush lashes that have some major volume and curl.

So, yesterday I happened to walk myself on in to Sephora, to do a little browsing and pick up a few things, and I noticed a new mascara from Dior. The rep said it wasn't suppose to be out on the shelves yet, but she pulled one out for me. Of course I'm hesitant to try anything new, hoping not to get converted to something else, because my loyalty is so strong. But, without hesitation I gave this new mascara a try, and all I have to say is 'Oh my'!.. Dior's new mascara, DiorShow Extase Mascara, is trying to pull my leg..

What was so different about this mascara, Well, It did the same thing for my lashes as DiorShow Blackout, except this one gave me a little more length and curl. The mascara claims to plump lashes from the inside out, and can wear this alone or with other Dior mascaras.I found the formula was a tad lighter than DiorShow Blackout, and didn't clump as much. I loved the head on the brush, and overall I found it a wonderful mascara.

What it does: DiorShow Extase provides built-in treatment benefits and high-impact lashes in a single stroke! The spherical-shaped Black Pearl Pigments create a 3D volume effect and the exclusive Metamorphosis Powders expand in size by up to 50% after application. Also, SR38 Patented Ceramid brings additional care, reconstructing damaged lashes and promoting stronger and fuller lashes.

What else you need to know:The Extase mascara features a "Tiered Brush" that is inspired by the "tiered" couture dresses created by the House of Dior. The brush is designed for performance and contains an Exclusive Duo of Fibers: The Black Elastomer Fibers brush out and define the lashes for panoramic fringe and the Gold Nylon Fibers hold and deposit formula, generously coating each lash for outstanding volume

So was I converted? , I won't say I'm ditching my BlackOut, but I may use both of these on a daily basis. Let's just say I have added a new mascara to my collection.

We love!

EYELASH EXTENSIONS OFFERED by Kelley Woods... see www.facemode.com !!

New Photos! Makeup by Kelley Woods | DC Makeup Artist

It's been a while since I have done a photo shoot, with so much that has been going on this year. But, I was able to sqeeze one in with the fabulous Alexey, and model Kaylie... This time I did makeup/ and hair, and was able to have a little creative freedom. However, she was a natural beauty, so I kept it basic ;)

Here goes...

Sam Fine Graces DC... | DC Makeup Artist

Before I even got into makeup Mr. Sam Fine was a staple name in my vocabulary. He was everything I knew about makeup. I would just sit in my room and study his books, mesmerized in how did he get those brows? , how did he achieve such flawless skin? Not to mention, the many faces I have seen in Essence Magazine... Well, this past weekend I got to meet Mr. Sam at his DVD Launch in DC and, Sam Fine is fine.. Fine in personality, style, and of course that contagious smile.

The day was filled with of course, Q&A.. .and lots of laughs from Mr. Sam... how did I not know he was so funny... stitches!... and of course a demo on what he does best..Faces!..and One word... Fab!... Of course, we all held our breaths and he made us, because the last step was his signature brows... and oh boy... My mouth was just open... Nothing compares to the brows this man does!

Needless, here are a few pics from the day... and he was able to give me that 'fall in love' smile..! Gotta love him...

Makeup Artist | Bridal Beauty: Before and After

Its been a while since I posted some hot makeovers. Well this weekend, I worked with a Bride who has actually already been married, but was taking Bridal pics again. So, this was her time to get extra glammed for her new photos. I already thought she was beautiful and couldn't wait to see what we could create. Well..... here she goes!






Here's a little inside to what I used on her:
For Face I used Black Opal Stick Foundation, and MAC Blot Loose Powder (can't live without this!)
On her Eyes, I used Yaby's Neutral Palette, with MAC Brown Down in Crease.
I lined the eyes with FACE Stockholm Liner Pen (love love love!), and used a set of side lashes
For cheeks, NARS Love Joy Blush, and Givenchy Bronzer Powder used to highlight and contour.
For lips, DIOR's Linen Beige Gloss was used, over lipstick,

In the end, she loved it!

Kelley Epps-Woods

Cleansing On-The-Go

We have all dreaded that late night cleansing!.. There are several nights I reached for baby wipes in hopes of atleast getting part of the days grime off... Needless, I had to upgrade from baby wipes and get a little more sophisticated ;) lol... So, with that.. here are some of my favorite cleansing wipes and solutions, so you too will not reach for the baby wipes.. (Ha! I still secretly do sometimes... shhhhhh)

Check it out on Second City Style: Beauty Treatment. Two Minute Cleansers

Makeup Artist | Sam Fine giving us The Basic of Beauty; DVD

For as long as I can remember, Sam has been one of the leading makeup artist I have been following. Everything about Sam is fine...

His Work, His Attitude, His Ethic, and His Poise. Sam has got it all. With a copy of all of his books, I have spent many of nights buried in them. So I am so pleased to see the release of his DVD! From the preview clips it looks like Sam is putting it all for us to see in it. How great is that. Just starting in makeup?, Brushing up your craft?, Need to learn how to apply foundation correctly ?, get those eyebrows just right ?

You need to run.. No Click as soon as possible on Amazon, and get his DVD, SAM FINE MAKEUP DVD:THE BASIC OF BEAUTY!

Speaking of Mr. Fine..

Watch this beautiful Video with Iman, and Iman Cosmetics

Makeup Artist | It's About That Time! The Makeup Summit; Miami & Chicago

It's almost time for The Artist Summit Miami & Chicago ! For pro makeup artist, aspiring makeup artist, and even veterans, this Summit is for you! I attended my first Summit a few years ago in New York and it was the best time ever. Can I just say that Mr. Michael DeVellis greeted me at the door! ..Who does that?! Him of course, because he's just that great...Okay, anyways, if you ever wanted to know the inside to the industry this is the place to ee. Not only are there the industry's leading artist teaching you what they know, but you get to network with other artist, and what else........wait for it......... shop!.. umm hmm.. Yes, the industry's leading Brands will be there to serve you up your fix of makeup sensation.

Please, don't ask what I bought last time... No comment.

Needless to say, get there! The Makeup Summit Miami Oct 3-5, and Chicago Oct 10-12.

THE ARTIST SUMMIT

The Artist Summit is three day artist program for those in the professional makeup artist and beauty industries. The program consists of three days of artist events including seminars, hands-on workshops, panel forums, evening events and The Summit Shop - a unique pro-focused retail environment.

An opening event on the evening of the first day of the Summit will also be a part of the program. Over the three days of the event attendees will have access to over 75 makeup and beauty related educational and career building events.

WHEN & WHERE
The Artist Summit Miami will take place from October 3-5, 2009
Miami Beach Convention Center - education hall B
1901 convention center drive
Miami Beach FL enter Washington Avenue entrance
http://www.miamibeachconvention.com

The Artist Summit Chicago will take place from October 10-12, 2009
River East Art Center
435 E Illinois St
Chicago, IL
http://www.rivereastartcenter.com

WHAT TIME?
The Artist Summit education program runs from 9:00AM - 6:30PM Sunday and Monday
The Summit Shop is open Saturday 4:00PM-7:00PM and from 10:00AM - 6:00PM Sunday and Monday
Career and Industry Night at The Artist Summit will be held at The Summit Shop on Saturday from 4:00PM - 7:00PM

ATTENDEE PARTICIPATION
The Artist Summit is open to professionals in the makeup and beauty industries including all freelance artists, retail and salon artists, students of makeup or beauty related curriculum, cosmetics executives and retail managers, buyers and retail shop owners, and so on.

Students currently enrolled in a school receive 50% off any listed rate. Call our 866.876.9337 number to register.

CAREER NIGHT $65.00 *(Free for All Summit Passholders)
Meet agencies, industry business experts, brand owners and artists who can help push your career to the next level. Shop The Summit Shop. Provides access to Summit Opening Reception.

ONE-DAY SUMMIT PASS $65.00
Provides attendees the opportunity to attend all seminars, forums and keynotes. Provides access to participation in hands-on workshops, which are at an additional fee of $95 per workshop. Provides access to Career Night and Summit Opening Reception.

TWO-DAY SUMMIT PASS $125.00 *
Provides attendees the opportunity to attend all seminars, forums and keynotes. Provides access to participation in hands-on workshops, which are at an additional fee of $95 per workshop. Provides access to Career Night and Summit Opening Reception and Closing Night Party.

ALL ACCESS SUMMIT PASS $290.00 *
Provides attendees the opportunity access to all seminars forums and keynotes. Includes two hands-on workshops. Additional workshops would be at the rate of $95 per workshop. Provides access to Career Night, Opening Night Reception, Sunday Sponsor Reception and Closing Night Party.

Day One:
Makeup 101 - Full-day Intro to Makeup Artistry
Space is limited to 20 attendees
Space is limited to 20 attendees
Career Night & Opening of The Summit Shop
Art Center Open Studio and Summit Reception

Day Two:
Opening Keynote
The Summit Shop Open
Full-day of Education
Closing Keynote
Evening event

Day Three:
Opening Keynote
The Summit Shop Open
Full-day of Education
Closing Keynote Panel
Closing night event

*included workshops do not include makeup 101 or Styling 101 full-day workshops

Makeup Artist | New York Fashion Week Backstage: Baby Phat and Nanette Lapor

I'm long overdue and between traveling and clients realized I have not recaped New York Fashion Week. NYFW was exhausting and exhilarating all in one and I must must must give you the recap from the shows. This year, as Beauty Writer reported for Second City Style, for the Baby Phat Show and Nanette Lepore.

Check out Kelley Backstage at New York Fashion Week '10: Nanette Lapore

Can I say Kimora's Show was more than stellar. With a front row seat at The Renaissance Hotel Inglot Cosmetics Party with Felicia from ThisThatBeauty, and The Powder Group team, I couldn't ask for a better viewing, after the wrap up coverage from backstage.

Check out Kelley Backstage at New York Fashion Week '10: Baby Phat

Kelley Epps-Woods

DC Makeup Artist | New York Fashion Week and Other News...

I have been distant from my Blog, and feel so bad.. But, this month has been really hectic. I have some wonderful opportunities brewing, and New York Fashion Week being one. I will be reporting as Beauty Editor for Second City Style at #NYFW. I'll be in NY next week Monday -Wednesday, and can't wait to connect with my beauty blogger friends (ThisThatBeauty, hey!), and fellow makeup artist.

I also have a some exciting news for Monday with my client Dr. Ro, and can't wait to announce... So never the less, next week is jammed packed, and I'm gearing up...

I'lll be reporting to you via Second City Style, and right here on at The Makeup Loft.

Also, if in NY, and I know DC is also supporting, Check out Fashion Night Out with the local retailers.

(Source: FashionNightOut.com) In the United States, American Vogue has joined with NYC & Company, the City of New York, and the Council of Fashion Designers of America to enliven again the consumer spirit that churns the economy and boosts the local industry of America’s fashion capital, New York City. Next only to finance, fashion is the second-largest sector of industry in New York City—the headquarters of more than 800 fashion companies employing 175,000 people and generating $10 billion in total wages. At City Hall’s May 20 press conference to announce Fashion’s Night Out, Vera Wang said, "To put it bluntly, if people don’t shop, people lose their jobs."

The first evening of New York Fashion Week, Fashion's Night Out will encompass festivities galore— from inventive window displays to model and celebrity appearances. Champagne may flow; hors d'oeuvres may be passed. Rumors of musical performances, downtown barbecues, shoe capsules, limited-edition rings, and sweepstakes abound. Apparently there will be makeovers, brow bars, and haircut stations at sundry spots, too.

Okay, if you are reading this Blog, who's gonna be there?! If you are let's connect...!