Sep
02
2014

How To Tip A Beauty Professional

When, Why, and How Much to Tip

One of the most confusing aspects of visiting a spa or salon, or getting your makeup done in a department store is calculating the tip for the many different beauty professionals you encounter.

There are many opinions about the when, why, and how much to tip, and this is my guide based on 21 years as an industry professional, spa operator/owner, salon manager, and creative director of a cosmetics company.

Salon

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Aug
13
2014

Rich Colour, Shimmering Light: Autumn 2014 Makeup Trends

Will you try any of these new beauty/style trends?

Autumn is only two weeks away!

Well, at least in the world of fashion it is two weeks away.  

With all the new clothing looks now in stores, the new makeup trends are right around the corner. Expect to see major releases from all the major brands starting August 22.

The Fashion Low Down:

 

Over flowing capes (pictured here is from the Chloe)

Lux furs (pictured here is from Marc Jacobs) 

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Jul
23
2014

Hot Makeup Trend: Gel Eye Liner

The Must-Have Product For The Season

They are everywhere right nowgel eye liners. This incredibly popular type of eye makeup has been used for years by professional makeup artists, and now has hit with mainstream consumers.

Personally, I love gel eye liners.

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Jun
13
2014
Sharron Matthews

One of my favourite things about my job is working with super talented women. Sharron Matthews is one of the most fun people I have ever collaborated with. It's a little odd to me that I actually know her, because, while she never actually knew it, she was an inspirational part of my love of theatre, which in turn led me to makeup, which in turn led me to becoming DTB/Beauty: BUSTED!

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Jun
10
2014

How To Get Lush Lashes With Brown Mascara

use brown mascara to create a 'no make up, make up' look in just two quick steps.

lush lashes

One of the most under-appreciated cosmetics is brown mascara. I am a huge fan of brown mascara, and I happen to think every woman should own both black and brown mascara. While most women opt for black, brown is a subtle change that allows the wearer to create soft definition for that "no makeup makeup" look. And all in just two quick steps:

Step 1. Using a soft brown eyeliner draw a line tight to the root of the eyelash. Don't worry about being precise, because this line will be blended and smudged down to create soft colour.

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Jan
22
2014

Dione Taylor: Redefining Beauty

What Beauty Means To This Juno Nominated Jazz Singer

dione taylor

In 2003, I decided to retire from service. I gave up my make up artistry and aesthetics practices, resigned from my position as Director of the largest spa group in Western Canada, and headed to Toronto to start a new chapter in my career. I wanted to become a true artist, using my skill to create looks for women that were not just for commercial purposes. I wanted my artistry to transcend just the business of cosmetics. When I arrived in Toronto, I almost immediately found myself surrounded by amazing performers who inspired me to find my inner artist.

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Feb
18
2013

Spring 2013 Makeup Trends

The Must-Have Items For This Season

Spring is here!

Well, at least in the world of fashion and beauty. Of course, that means new looks and new trends to add to your wardrobe and makeup collection.

Here is what is hot this season:

1. Shimmer Eye Shadow

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Nov
20
2012

Makeup Application Myths

There Are No Rules To Makeup

The party season is in full swing. Makeup becomes something of a necessary accessory this time of year! Of course, the usual e-mails I receive always ask me about the "rules" for application. My opinion is simple: there are no rules! Makeup should be fun and easy, not laborious and annoying.

Quite simply, I say throw out all the rulesdo what you want.

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