Hair and Make-up by Steph

Pureology Giveaway

2012-03-01T16:21:00.000-08:00

It's time for my first giveaway of the year! Unlike past giveaways, this giveaway is nationwide so everyone can enter!

Enter below to win my FAVORITE hair mask-

Pureology Hydrate - Hydrawhip Hair Masque

($50.00 value)

Here are a few benefits of this mask. You can read more about it here.

Moisturize and deeply replenish parched strands without weighing hair down

Detangle, condition and add intense shine

Provide slip and suppleness

For concentrated natural conditioning

Luxurious fragrance for a multi-sensorial, spa-like experience

Dramatically improves moisture content

Improves movement and manageability

Gives hair a shiny finish and soft, touchable feel

You will love this product! It is one of my favorites.

How to enter:

1- "Like" Hair and Makeup by Steph on Facebook

2- Follow this blog by:

clicking "join this site" or "follow by email" in the side bar

or by clicking "follow" on the top left of this page

3- Leave a comment on this post with your first and last name.

Contest ends on Friday March 9th.

Good luck!

Styling Tips for Fine Hair

2012-03-01T08:20:00.001-08:00

Recently I posted styling tips for thick hair, and today my post is just the opposite - styling tips for fine hair. There are a lot of people out there who would love to have long, bouncy, voluminous hair, but no matter how much they let it grow and grow, it's just wispy and thin. But there are a few things you can do to get the most out of your fine hair. If styled right, fine hair can be really cute and stylish!

Tips:

1-Never put conditioner on your roots. Putting conditioner on your roots will weigh your hair down and make it look oily faster. Same goes for leave in conditioners, serums or any other smoothing lotion. Avoid the roots!

2-Try to use a light weight conditioner like Biolage. Fine hair can be weighed down by heavy or thick conditioners.

3-Using the right product is KEY. A lot of my fine hair clients leave my chair saying "how do you make my hair look so full and bouncy?!" It's the product! Look for any type of volumizing product. Root pump, mousse and thickening spray are all good choices. My favorite products for fine hair are Boosta Spray by Unite, Texture Line Hot Style Hot Volume Foam by Artec, and Alterna LIFE Volume Mousse.

4-On fine hair, shorter styles will look thicker and fuller than longer styles. If you've been trying to grow your hair for years and it's only grown 1/2 inch, you are probably very attached to your length. Taking off an inch or two will make your hair look so much thicker and healthier.

5-When putting your hair up, keep everything loose and soft. Fine hair tends to be very fragile, so pulling it up tightly will increase the chance of breakage.

6-Learn how to round brush. It's not an easy thing to do on yourself, but it helps a ton with body. To make it easier, wait until your hair is around 70% dry to start round brushing. You can also just round brush the crown area and sides, where you need extra body the most.

7-Wear it wavy. Wavy hair looks fuller than straight hair.

Down styles for fine hair:

Up styles for fine hair-

Bridal Hairstyling Workshop

2012-02-29T04:40:00.000-08:00

Last week I taught a bridal hairstyling workshop for other hairstylists who are wanting to increase their business in the bridal industry. It was a lot of fun, and all of the students were so impressive! Here are some shots from the workshop as well as pictures of the two models I styled for the class.

Thanks to Julie Parker for the pictures.

Belle

2012-02-28T06:39:00.003-08:00

This is one of my favorite princesses so far! Not to mention, Beauty and the Beast definitely has the best soundtrack of all the Disney classics. Being a part of this project has been a lot of fun. If you haven't seen the other three princesses, go check them out here .

Enjoy!

Lindsey Shaun Photography

Lindsey Orton Photography

Princess Shoot {Inspiration 3} from Kale Fitch on Vimeo.

Photography: Lindsey Shaun Photography, Lindsey Orton Photography

Videography: Kale Fitch Films

Dress: Modest Couture by Elizabeth

Hair and Make-up: Hair and Make-up by Steph

Invitations: Polka Dots and Daisies

Flowers: Urban Chateau Floral

Cake: Cake-A-Licious

2012 Oscars Hair and Makeup

2012-02-27T06:35:00.002-08:00

Celebrities always wear current and upcoming trends, so I love looking to the Red Carpet for hair and makeup inspiration. At the Oscars this year, we saw a lot of chignons, ponytails and down dos.

Controlling Your Cowlicks

2012-02-25T12:39:00.001-08:00

If there is one complaint I hear the most from my clients, it's about their cowlicks! I've had a lifetime of fighting with a cowlick in my bangs. Nothing is worse than your bangs poking up or splitting down the middle. Luckily there are a few things we can do to make controlling our cowlicks easier.

Cowlicks are definitely harder to deal with if you have bangs.

If you have bangs:

-Go for a thicker bang or a longer bang to help control your cowlick and weigh it down.

-Once you wash your hair, blow dry your bangs immediately, or re-wet them before you blow dry. The more sopping wet they are the better they are going to lay down.

-When you blow dry, pull against your cowlick one way and blow dry for a few seconds, then pull and blow dry the opposite way for a few seconds. Switching it back and forth as you blow dry will help relax the hair, giving you more control when styling.

-Try putting a styling gel just on your cowlick before you dry your hair.

-After your hair is dry, pin your bangs flat while you do your makeup. This will help them set in place.
-Try switching your bangs to the other side. A stubborn cowlick can be a sign you're styling it opposite of the way it wants to go. Sometimes all it needs is to be parted on the other side.

-A little trick I have for my cowlick is clear brow gel. Once your hair is styled just use the little mascara wand to flatten down your cowlick at your root. Works like a charm!

If you don't have bangs, let your cowlick be free! I've posted about cowlicks before. The extra body a cowlick provides around your face is very flattering, but it's important to know how to style it so your hair doesn't just lay limp around your face.

If you don't have bangs:

-Round brushing and root pump are KEY. You don't have to round brush all of your hair, just at least round brush around your face.
-Apply root pump around your hair line. Root pump will add more grit and hold, giving you body that will last all day.

-Round brush either up and forward or up and backwards. Different directions work better on different people. (I personally round brush up and backwards. When I round brush them forward my hair falls in my face all day.)

-Once it's dry, blow dry it on cool while it's still in the round brush to set the volume in place.

-If you have bangs, cowlicks are a disaster if you let them air dry. But without any bangs, cowlicks look great air dried. Try letting your hair dry overnight to see what your cowlick does. Chances are it will have a lot of lift!

-Check out this post for pictures of awesome looking cowlicks to give you more styling ideas.

The Importance of Professional Bridal Hair and Makeup

2012-02-24T07:45:00.002-08:00

Before I started doing makeup, I thought "We all do our own makeup every day, what difference does it really make to have a professional do it?" Same goes with hair. What difference does it make if I already know how to do my own hair? After doing hair and makeup for brides and photographers for 4 1/2 years, I can tell you it makes a HUGE difference to hire a professional. Every photographer I know will attest to that. Here are a few of the many reasons why you should hire a professional hair stylist and makeup artist for your wedding:

-A hairstylist will make your hairstyle look good from EVERY angle the camera captures. It's easy to do your own hair and make it look good from the front or the back, but there is no telling what angles the photographer will capture. A professional will know how to make your hairstyle look balanced, full and flattering from the front, back, sides, top, whatever angle the camera captures.

-A makeup artist knows how to bring out your best features. Highlighting and contouring in the wrong places can accentuate the wrong thigss, while highlighting and contouring in the right places will make you look your best.

-A hairstylist knows how to make the most of your hair type. A lot of brides come to me saying "I don't know what you can do with this fine, thin hair" or "I don't know what you can do with this massive mane I have". You would be amazed what a hairstylist can do with your hair! Having experience with so many hair types, they will make your fine hair look full and your thick hair look proportionate. It's not uncommon to have a bride leave saying "I didn't know my hair could do that!"

- A makeup artist knows how to style for photographs. Every day makeup looks great in person, but there are a lot of different techniques when it comes to photos.

-A hairstylist and makeup artist uses the right products and techniques to make your hair and makeup last ALL day. It's one thing to look great when you leave your house that morning, it's another thing to still look great when you make your grand exit that night. Professional makeup, hair tools and experience will all help you to look picture perfect all day long.

Styling Ideas for Thick Hair

2012-02-23T09:41:00.002-08:00

Thick hair can be both a blessing and a curse. It's a lot better to have too much hair than not enough, but sometimes thick hair can be overbearing and time consuming when you have to style it day after day. If you have thick hair, here are a few tips to help make your life easier:

1. If you can get away with it, only wash your hair every 2-3 days. Invest in a dry shampoo for the in between washing days. When you do wash your hair, avoiding putting conditioner on the roots. Too much conditioner on your scalp will make your roots look oily quicker.

2. After you wash your hair, wait a half hour or so before you start blow drying to cut down on drying time. If you have naturally curly hair, invest in a boar bristle brush. Boar bristle brushes have a lot of tension. Using one while you blow dry will take out a lot of the wave, leaving you with less work when it's time to flat iron.

3. Next time you have your hair cut, ask to have it thinned or texturized. Taking out some extra hair will help your hair style lay better and will make styling your hair less work.

4. Invest in these bobby pins. They are larger then normal bobby pins, and have a tight hold. These will make throwing your hair up so much easier.

5. If you want more body, apply a volumizing mousse or root pump, blow dry your hair upside down, and then put your hair in a ponytail on top of your head while you do your makeup. Letting your hair cool off while it's in the high ponytail will set the body in place.

6. Here are some different ideas for ways to style and pin up thick hair:

-One advantage of having thick hair is that braids will always look good on thick hair. Some people would die for a nice, thick braid! If you take the time to learn how to braid on yourself it will open up a world of cute hairstyles.

-Top knots always look great on thick hair. Since your hair is so thick, you don't have to worry about making your bun big enough or messy enough, it will do that by itself!

-A ponytail can be really heavy on someone with thick hair, so rather then trying to make a high ponytail have enough volume, try a low ponytail or low side ponytail instead.

-Here are a few more ideas for thick hair updos-

Bow to the Brow: Brow Grooming

2012-02-22T13:12:00.003-08:00

If you know anyone in your life who does makeup, one thing they will always attest to is the importance of good brows. I can't say enough about how much brows can completely make or break your face, and no one wants a broken face!

I, myself, have problem brows. I used to fight and fight with my brows, trying to make them have more of an arch, until one day I realized my brows look terrible with a fake, forced arch. It seems pretty obvious, but a lot of women tend to think that the more arched and the higher their brows are, the better they will look. (we've all seen those brows that look surprised all the time. Higher does not always equal better.) The truth is, your brows will look their absolute best when they follow their natural shape. The key isn't forcing your brows into a new and unnatural shape, it's maintaining and grooming the shape you have, even if that shape has no arch.

Take a look at all of these brows. Some are short, some are long, some are straight, some are arched, but they all look perfect with they eyes that they go with.

To help you on your journey to great brows, I've put together this step by step for maintaining and grooming them. Remember that everyone's natural brow shape is different, so yours might look a little different then mine.

Here is what you will need:

1. Eyeshadow - I prefer to use eyeshadow rather then an eyebrow pencil when I fill in my brows, but you can use either one. When picking a brow color, a good rule of thumb is to stay within 2 shades of your natural color, and around 2 shades darker than your hair color. *If your wanting your brows lighter than they are, talk to your stylist about lightening them a few shades (good for platinum blondes with black brows)

2. Eyebrow brush - I use this to brush my brows in shape so I can see where I need to tweeze and to avoid tweezing where I shouldn't.

3. Tweezers - When it comes to tweezers, you get what you pay for. If you fork out the extra $10.00 on a nice pair of tweezers, you'll save yourself a lot of time trying to tweeze those tiny hairs.

4. Short angle brush - You can get these brushes anywhere really. Just look for something similar to the one above.

5. Eyebrow gel - Most makeup brands make an eyebrow gel. They come in different colors or in clear. My favorite is the MAC Brow Set, but if you want something cheaper there are a few different brands available at Target.

6. Razor - this small straight razor is a great tool to have in your makeup kit. They sell them at Sally's for less than $5.00.

7. Scissors - preferably eyebrow scissors so you don't end up cutting off half your eyebrow.

This is what my brows look like before I do anything to them:

See? Problem brows.

1. Use your brow brush to gently brush your brows slightly upwards and out, following the natural shape of your brow. Don't force them too much, just guide them and let them lay where they naturally do.

2. Once your brows are brushed, tweeze any hair that isn't in the natural brow shape. Avoid pulling and stretching your brows while you tweeze so you don't end up over tweezing. Another good rule of thumb is to avoid getting too close to the mirror. The closer you are, the more imperfections you'll see, and before you know it you've over tweezed! *If your brows are already sparse from over tweezing and they don't ever seem to grow back in, you may want to consider using this. TIP: Tweeze your brows right after you get out of the shower. The steam will soften the hair follicle, making tweezing a lot less painful.

3. Use the razor to remove peach fuzz above your brows (I also use the razor in between my brows since waxing makes me break out). A lot of people neglect the hair above their brows. Removing extra peach fuzz can add a lot more definition to your brows, just be careful not to cut down into your actual brow.

4. Use your brow brush to gently brush your brows directly upwards. Carefully trim anything that sticks up too high. You don't need to comb them too tightly. If you comb them up and nothing sticks out, they probably don't need to be trimmed.

5. Using a short angle brush (or your brow pencil) fill in your brow, applying in short, light strokes. The key to making it look natural is to apply the color in the direction the hair grows, almost like you are just drawing in new hair.

6. Use your brow gel to set your brows in place. Brush your brows slightly upwards and out like you did with the brow brush.

Ta-da!

Britney - Wedding

2012-02-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

When Britney came to get her hair and makeup done bright and early on her wedding day, she wanted it exactly the same as she wore it in her bridal pictures, but a little more curly. This is what we came up with! Congrats Britney and Sam!

Photography by Elizabeth Taylor Frandsen.

Ashley Woodruff

2012-02-09T07:53:00.000-08:00

Ashley's wedding was last summer and I just realized I never blogged her pictures! Oh my silly brain. Ashley went with a vintage classic look for her wedding, and she pulled it off perfectly with her full red lips and long blonde hair. LOVE this look. So timeless! Thanks to Jessica Janae for the pictures.

Video Tutorial - Victoria's Secret Curls

2012-02-08T11:27:00.000-08:00

Last week I had you guys vote on which type of curl you wanted to learn in this Valentines Day Hair tutorial, and Victoria's Secret curls won by FAR. Here are my tips and tricks on how to get extra full and bouncy Victoria's Secret hair for Valentines Day!

Be Mine

2012-02-06T09:43:00.000-08:00

OK, let me just start by saying Ciara Richardson is SO amazingly talented. I cannot get over what an amazing photographer she is! Her and I did the Southern Belle shoot together last summer, and it's one of my favorites. This shoot - Be Mine - is definitely one of my new favorites too.

Ciara wanted to do a photo shoot for Valentines Day - complete with a beautiful gown, gorgeous couple, and a proposal. The idea of the story was starts out with a couple spending time together when the boyfriend tells his cute girlfriend that he has a surprise for her. He then takes her to a beautiful place in the woods where he proposes to her. SO cute. Ciara tells the story perfectly in these pictures.

A big thank you to Mallory and Christopher for modeling for us. I wish you guys could have seen them together! Cutest couple ever. I hope a real proposal is in their future ;).

How to Get Timeless Beauty

2012-01-30T10:41:00.000-08:00

This past week I was over at my parents house and I came across their wedding album. It was hilarious to see all of the corny pictures, and my dads mustache, but especially all of the RIDICULOUS hairstyles. My parents got married in 1980, so you can imagine the type of hair that was going on. In the midst of all the completely out of date and unflattering looks, there was this lady -

That's my mom on the right, and although I think she looks lovely, you have to admit her bridesmaid looks amazing! This picture was taken in 1980 and this girl could be from 2012 and still look amazing. So, amazing lady from 1980, whoever you are, you inspired my blog post for today: Timeless Beauty Looks. Here are 5 beauty looks that have withstood and will continue to withstand the test of time.

1. Side Part - The side part is soft and flattering on any face shape.

2. Soft waves - Wearing soft waves is the perfect way to get the "I'm pretty without trying" look.

3. Natural looking hair color - You don't have to actually wear your natural hair color, but when you color your hair try to stay within two levels of your natural color. Chunks and stripes will come and go, but natural hair will always look good.

4. Cat eyeliner - No matter what decade you look to for style inspiration, cat eyeliner is there and always looks good.

1. Voluminous lashes - A good way to bring out your eyes is with long and voluminous lashes. Big lashes look great on everyone.

I need your vote!

2012-01-26T15:56:00.000-08:00

I'm getting ready to start my next video tutorial for Valentine's Day Hair, and I want YOU guys to decide which hairstyle I teach! Out of the pictures below, which type of curl would you love to wear the most this Valentine's Day?

#1 - Beach Waves

#2- Flat Iron Waves

#3 - Vintage Glam Waves

#4- Victoria's Secret Waves

Everyone vote below!

Which type of curl do you want to learn for Valentine's day?

Britney

2012-01-26T07:21:00.000-08:00

All I can think to say is . . . most perfect looking couple ever!

Hair and make-up by Steph, amazing photography by Elizabeth Taylor Frandsen.

Short Wedding Hair Inspiration

2012-01-24T21:09:00.000-08:00

It seems like every bride wants to grow their hair out for their wedding, but I think short hair can be just as romantic and beautiful. Take a look at the pictures below for some short wedding hair inspiration -

Jasmine

2012-01-23T13:12:00.000-08:00

Our third princess has arrived! Jasmine is breathtaking. Take a look at this behind the scenes video by Kale Fitch, then enjoy the pictures below.

Princess Shoot {Inspiration 2} from Kale Fitch on Vimeo.

Lindsey Shaun Photography

Lindsey Orton Photography

Photography: Lindsey Shaun Photography, Lindsey Orton Photography

Videography: Kale Fitch Films

Dress: Modest Couture by Elizabeth

Hair and Make-up: Hair and Make-up by Steph

Invitations: Polka Dots and Daisies

Flowers: Urban Chateau Floral

Video Tutorial - Fancy Fishtail Braid

2012-01-20T19:06:00.000-08:00

For this video tutorial I decided to do something a little simpler than the holiday party hair, something that you can wear everyday. This hairstyle is great on wavy and second day hair (or third day hair if you're anything like me).

My hair is wavy in the video, but it works great on straight hair too.

Check back next month for a tutorial on creating Valentine's day hair!

2012 Golden Globes Hair and Makeup

2012-01-16T08:32:00.000-08:00

Where better to look for hair and makeup inspiration than the Red Carpet? Here are my favorite hair and make-up looks from the 2012 Golden Globes.

Trends I Love: Side Swept Hair

2012-01-05T21:26:00.000-08:00

I love side swept hair. Not a side updo, not a side pony, just a dramatic side sweep. Put away those pins and elastics, stop fighting with your cowlicks and let your hair be free!

Best of 2011

2011-12-28T18:59:00.000-08:00

2011, you've been good to me. THANK YOU to all of the awesome brides and clients I had the privilege of working with this year. You guys made this year a great one!

Here are some of my favorite looks of the year -

Looking forward to 2012!

Nicole

2011-12-22T14:14:00.000-08:00

Hair and make-up by Steph, photos by Sami Jo Photography.

Video Tutorial - Holiday Party Hair

2011-12-20T15:25:00.000-08:00

Today I am excited to reveal my very first video tutorial!!

For my first tutorial I wanted to do something really fun, something you can wear to your upcoming Christmas and New Years parties. So I decided to go with a simple updo with a little vintage flare. Perfect for Christmas time!

Merry Christmas!

Contest Winner - Lauren

2011-12-19T08:20:00.000-08:00

Ciara Richardson and I had a contest a few months ago, and Lauren was the lucky winner! She decided to use her free hair/make-up and photo session for some bridal pictures. They turned out beautiful!

1960's Housewife

2011-12-12T12:25:00.000-08:00

One of my best friends from high school, Landon Drean, happens to be a phenomenal photographer. A few weeks ago he asked me if I would do hair and make-up for his fashion photography final, and of course I said yes! Working with Landon is so fun, not to mention his awesome photography skills!

Since we had a lot of people on board - Landon, me, 2 models, a wardrobe stylist and an assistant, we decided to tackle it all in one day rather then trying to find multiple days when we were all available.

Miraculously we pulled it off! It only took 12 hours, 2 pizzas and a lot of good music.

Be sure to check out Landon Drean Photography and the wardrobe stylist's blog Wearing It On My Sleeves.

Thanks to Sarah McCammon for the behind the scenes shots.

Final Images-

Bridal Hairstyling Workshop

2011-12-12T09:02:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to announce my Spring 2012 bridal hairstyling workshop! All of you hair stylists out there who want to boost your business in the bridal world, learn more about styling for photographs or just want to feel more comfortable with updos, come join the party!

If there are two things that have helped me the absolute most in my hairstyling career, they are

1- Being comfortable with and willing to do bridal work
and
2- Having images of my work online

With this workshop you will get both!

If you aren't familiar with my work, here are some of my favorites-

Hope to see you there!

Visit my website for more class info or to sign up.

View Julie Parker's website.

Snow White

2011-12-08T10:51:00.001-08:00

Today I am excited to reveal the second princess in the Princess Project series -

Snow White

For Snow White we went with a high fashion look, almost a little edgy. Really bold and dramatic hair and make-up, a stark contrast in colors, with a hint of softness at the same time.

Enjoy!

Lindsey Shaun Photography

Lindsey Orton Photography

Disney Princess Shoot {Snow White} from Kale Fitch on Vimeo.

VENDORS

Photography: Lindsey Orton Photography and Lindsey Shaun Photography

Dress: Alta Moda Bridal (Badgley Mischka)

Hair and Make-up: Hair and Make-up by Steph

Flowers: Urban Chateau Floral

Videography: Kale Fitch Productions

Invitations and place cards: Polka Dots and Daisies

Brooke

2011-11-21T07:28:00.001-08:00

I worked with Brooke for her bridals and wedding day several months ago, and I just realized today that I never blogged her pictures!

For her bridals, I did her hair and she had her make-up done at the MAC counter. For her wedding day, I did both her hair and make-up. Thanks to Motif Motion and Stills for the pictures.

Rachel

2011-11-11T13:14:00.001-08:00

Recently I did hair and make-up for Rachel for her family pictures. She is a stylist as well and decided she wanted to be the pampered one for once! Here are a few pictures from the photo shoot.

Thanks to The Shoot Shoppe for the pictures.

Cute, cute!

Pocahontas

2011-11-11T08:41:00.001-08:00

Today on 11-11-11 I am thrilled to be unveiling

The Princess Project

Lindsey Shaun Photography and Lindsey Orton Photography have joined forces along with myself, Alta Moda Bridal, Urban Chateau Floral, and Polka Dots and Daisies for this FUN collection of Disney Princess bridal photo shoots. First up -

Pocahontas

Each month for the next 8 months we will be unveiling one Disney princess inspired bridal shoot,
so stay tuned each month
for each unveiling of our modern interpretation of the Disney Princesses.
Enjoy!

Lindsey Shaun Photography

Lindsey Orton Photography

VENDORS

Photography: Lindsey Orton Photography and Lindsey Shaun Photography (See more pictures on the photographers blogs)

Dress: Alta Moda Bridal (Badgley Mischka)

Hair and Make-up: Hair and Make-up by Steph

Flowers: Urban Chateau Floral

Invitations and place cards: Polka Dots and Daisies

Trends I Love: Afro Curls

2011-11-07T07:19:00.000-08:00

Don't you ever wish you had an afro? Ok, maybe that's just me. They are stylish, unique, and somehow increase a persons coolness factor. I realize that not all of us are blessed with afro capable hair. . .all the more reason to envy and admire these glorious fros.

Morgan - Wedding

2011-11-01T12:58:00.000-07:00

A few months ago I traveled to Park City to do hair and make-up for Morgan and some of her bridesmaids. They were all so nice and great to work with!

How to Do Pretty Mascara

2011-10-27T20:55:00.000-07:00

Let's be honest, at some point we've all been frightened by a random passer-by's pointy, spidery eyelashes. Or maybe we've scared ourselves after catching a glimpse of our own lashes at the end of a long day.

Let's put those bad lash days behind us!

Here are a few tips to help freshen up your mascara routine.

1. Always start at the base of your lashes and work up. This will create the most volume at the base, making your lashes look fuller and creating less clumps.

2. When you do your eyeshadow, some of it will most likely fall onto your lashes, making them look powdery on top. Once you've applied your mascara, close your eyes and do a few swipes on the top of your lashes to darken them.

3. Rather then pumping your mascara wand in and out of the tube (which will make it dry out faster), put the wand in the tube and twist it around instead. You'll get more use out of one tube.

4. DON'T apply more mascara after it's already dry, this will only make them clumpy. When applying, if you are going to do more than one coat, do each coat while your lashes are still wet. If you like to freshen up your mascara throughout the day, wet your fingers and use them to wet your lashes a little bit before you apply another coat. This will make them pliable and help avoid clumping and flaking.

5. To help separate your lashes, wiggle the mascara wand back and forth as you apply.

6. Rather then buying a mascara the lengthens AND creates volume, buy two separate mascaras - one that lengthens, and one that creates volume - and use them both each time you apply. Mascaras designed to do one specific thing (lengthen OR create volume) usually work a lot better than mascaras that claim to do both.

7. If you have a problem with your mascara smudging, try only putting mascara on your tops lashes, or putting a setting powder under your eyes to keep things dry. If all else fails, try a waterproof mascara.

8. Most importantly, don't feel bad if your lashes don't look like this -

Don't let Kim fool you. They are definitely fake!

Hope this helps!

Lisa - Bridals

2011-10-26T07:27:00.000-07:00

Here are the bridals for my Colorado bride Lisa. She is stunning, and so is her dress! Those are real leaves in her dress, how awesome is that? I will post pics from her wedding soon!

Photos by Julie Parker.

McCall

2011-10-25T08:07:00.000-07:00

Congrats McCall! You are gorgeous!

Hair and make-up by Steph, photos by Blush Photography.

How to Do the The Gibson Tuck

2011-10-18T17:45:00.000-07:00

Oh so cute, and oh so easy!

This hairstyle works best if you don't have really long or really thick hair.

See a step by step here -

http://www.beautylish.com/a/vpyia/gibson-tuck-hair

A Thought About My Job

2011-10-11T13:21:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, I work full time as a hair stylist and make-up artist.

The truth is, I love my job. I love it a lot, abnormally a lot.

I've thought about it many times, why do I love my job so much? What is it about doing hair and make-up that makes me SO happy?! It just seems weird that some one could love doing hair so much, it's not like I'm saving lives or anything here!

A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to do hair and make-up for a photographer/friend Camilla Binks for her family pictures. Camilla offers a photography package called a Play Session, and basically it's a session all about playing dress up for no reason at all, just because you want to. Hair, make-up, styling, and pictures solely for the purpose of making you look FABULOUS.

While doing Camilla's hair, I asked her about how she came up with this idea of a Play Session, and her answer described exactly why I love my job so much.

She said -

"When I was growing up, I'd always look at the models and celebrities in magazines and think why don't I look like them? Why do we have to look at pictures of beautiful people every day and feel bad that we don't look like them? If we have to look at celebrities in magazines our whole lives who have been styled, airbrushed, photoshopped, pinned, tucked and turned so they look unbelievably good,

then we deserve to feel and look like that for once too.

I created the Play Session to help people feel beautiful, because they are!"

Now, Camilla is GORGEOUS, so you would never think that she would compare herself to celebrities like everyone else does. But it's true, we all want to feel beautiful and we all deserve to.

That's the answer to why I love my job so much, because everyone deserves to feel beautiful, and I get to be a part of that process every day. Who doesn't want to feel like a total babe? I love that I can help some one else feel that way, and feel better about themselves. That's what makes my job so rewarding.
:)

Cute Hair on the Go

2011-10-11T08:16:00.000-07:00

Everyone has mornings when they wake up late and have to rush out the door.

I'm constantly looking for quick but stylish ways to do my hair, cause even if I'm running late, no one wants their hair stylist to have ugly hair :)

You know it's true. . .

Here are a few things that I like to do with my hair when I'm in a hurry -

1. Pin your bangs back

Most people's hair will get oily in the bangs first, so if the rest of your hair still feels and looks clean, just find a cute way to pin back your bangs. Here are some different ways-

Braid

Pompadour

Twist

2. A messy knot

A messy knot is quick and easy, but also stylish. Paired with a cute outfit, a messy knot can look a lot more time consuming and put together than it really is. That's what's great about it!

4. Wear a scarf

If you're anything like me, sometimes just throwing on a hat can make me feel grungy, like I just rolled out of bed. A scarf, on the other hand, is just as quick, but makes me feel a lot more put together.

3. Braid it
What makes a braid so easy and fast is that it doesn't matter if your hair is straight or wavy when you wake up, either way it will look cute in a braid. Braid it down one side, french braid it, braid it and tuck it up in a knot, braid it down the back. . .there are so many options!

5. Stylish Pony Tail
If your hair is long enough, pulling your bangs straight back into a cute high pony is really easy and cute. If you have shorter layers or bangs, pull the rest of your hair in a pony tail but leave out some pieces around your hairline. Dress it up wrapping a strand of your hair around the elastic to disguise it.

Now hopefully you can feel stylish no matter how late you get up in the morning :)

Southern Belle

2011-10-10T13:14:00.000-07:00

A few months ago my husband and I had a couple's session photographed by Ciara Richardson, and when we met her I immediately knew that she and I had to become friends . . . so we did!

BTW we looove how our pictures turned out.

This was a photo shoot conjured up by Ciara - a Southern beauty on a ranch. I loved the idea, it was so unique and fun and unlike anything I'd seen before.

So we grabbed our lovely friend Nicole, I did hair and make-up and Ciara did everything else.

You can see more photos on Ciara's blog.

Fall Inspiration Shoot

2011-10-03T10:01:00.000-07:00

Recently I had the opportunity to work with the team at Utah Bride Blog, along with some other great vendors, for a rustic fall inspiration shoot.
The style I chose was a chignon to the side, with the opposite side loosely twisted across the back of the head into the chignon. I love the gold and berry combination with her make-up, jewelry and the champagne dress.
Thanks to Gideon Photography and Julie Parker Photography for the photos.

Concept: Utah Bride Blog

Photography: Gideon Photography

Event Design & Production: Mood Events

Venue & Catering: Millcreek Inn

Dress: Gateway Bridal

Jewelry: Katie Waltman Jewelry

Flowers: Branches Floral

Invitations & Paper Goods: Polka Dots and Daisies

Cake: Cake-A-Licious

Tablecloth: Wildflower Linens

Plates and Flatware Rental: RSVP Rentals

Water Goblets: Diamond Rental

Circus Chic Photo Shoot

2011-09-30T10:57:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I posted photos of the Ring Leader from the Circus Chic photo shoot I participated in and I promised the rest of the photos would be up soon.

Well here they are!

This photo shoot was put together by Amanda with Branches Event Floral and Mollie with Polka Dots and Daisies. Amanda and Mollie wanted to create a environment where a select group of photographers could come and have a photographers play date. The backdrops, props, styled models, everything was set up and provided for the photographers, all they had to do was show up and HAVE FUN!
The concept for the shoot was a bride and groom having a circus wedding, with all of their guests being crazy, eclectic circus people. I did hair and make-up for the ring leader and the bride, while 2 other stylists did hair and make-up for the rest of the models. The look I created for the ring leader was fierce, bold and dramatic, just like a ring leader would be. We wanted there to be a stark contrast between the circus people and the bride, so while everyone else looked crazy and over the top, the look I did on the bride was classic, simple, elegant and timeless.
It was a lot fun to work with the other stylists, and with Amanda, Mollie and the different photographers. It's awesome to see how it all came together!

Thanks Amanda and Mollie for including me in this!

Aria Photography

Julie Parker Photography

Lindsey Shaun Photography

Camilla Binks Photography

OpieFoto

CREDITS:

Photoshoot Concept and Designs by– Amanda Schelin of Branches Floral Design and Mollie Openshaw of Polka Dots and Daisies (http://www.branchesfloraldesign.com/) (http://www.polkadotsanddaisies.com/designs.html)

Flowers– Amanda Schelin of Branches Floral Design (http://www.branchesfloraldesign.com/)

Invitations, paper products, favors & soda bottles– Mollie Openshaw of Polka Dots & Daisies (http://www.polkadotsanddaisies.com/designs.html)

Wedding Gowns and Veil- Gateway Bridal & Prom (http://gatewaybridal.com)

Ice Cream & Cookies– Scoopology (http://scoopology.com/catering.html)

Wedding Cake– Cake Dame (http://www.cakedame.com/)

Rental Contributor- Alpine Event Rentals- Large Wood Table, Benches and Lanterns (http://alpineeventrentals.com/)

Hair & Make-Up for Bride and Ringmaster– Hair & Make-Up by Steph (http://www.hairandmakeupbysteph.com/)

Hair & Make-Up for Blue Clown, Tight Roper Walker & Trapeze Artist, Hair for Red Clown — Versa Artistry (http://www.versaartistry.com/)

Hair & Make-Up for Yellow Clown and Mime, Make-Up for Red Clown — Signature Brides (http://www.signaturebrides.net/)

Stephanie Mabey

2011-09-21T17:51:00.000-07:00

Last week I had the opportunity to do hair and make-up for Stephanie Mabey's next album cover. Stephanie was so fun to work with and such a cool person! I mean, she plays the Omnichord. How cool is that? Plus she is in love with Jonsi like I am. Now that's a good human being! You can listen to her music here.

Thanks to Julie Parker and Wren Gracyn Photography for the beautiful pictures!

The Braid Breakdown

2011-09-19T08:19:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows it, braids are in style.

If you have ever done a braid and thought "Why doesn't my braid look like her braid? How do I get it to look like that?" Then this braid breakdown is for you :)

1. The basic french braid

This is the braid most people know how to do. Three pieces, outside pieces alternate going OVER the inside piece, adding new pieces as you go.

2. The inside out french braid

This is exactly like the basic braid, except the outside pieces alternate going UNDER the inside piece, adding new pieces as you go. The simple change creates a totally different look.

3. The fishtail braid

This braid is created by dividing the hair in 2 sections, then alternating one piece of hair from each side to the other. This little how-to might be helpful -

http://thebeautydepartment.com/2011/09/the-fishtail-braid

4. The twist braid

The twist is created with 2 sections as well. To start, take two pieces and twist one over the other. Add a piece of hair to the bottom section, and twist again. Here is another helpful how-to, this time by a fancy Russian lady!

http://pinterest.com/pin/200334683/

5. The waterfall braid
This braid might look complicated, but it's actually pretty simple! As you french braid, add new hair only to the top section, then drop the hair of the bottom section out, picking up new hair in it's place. You can also do this with a twist instead of a braid.
This video will explain it a lot better than I can -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y90s6neUKEY&feature=youtu.be

6. The one sided braid
The one sided braid is just like the french braid, but gathers new hair only from one side.

There are several other varieties of braids, but those are the basics.
Happy braiding!

Woodland Inspiration Shoot

2011-09-13T08:10:00.000-07:00

Here is a yummy photo shoot to get you excited for fall! Amanda with Branches Event Floral and Mollie with Polka Dots and Daisies put this shoot together. They have so much vision, I love it when they collaborate! I will post pics of the hair and make-up here, but here are a few links where you can check out all of their decorations. You MUST see them!

http://azurebphotography.blogspot.com/2011/09/woodland-wonderfulness.html
http://camillabinks.com/blog/?p=774

So great, right?

And here are the pics of hair and make-up -

Photo shoot Concept & Design: Polka Dots & Daisies and Branches Event Floral

Venue & Food: The Bungalow
Floral: Branches Event Floral
Stationery, tags, favors: Polka Dots & Daisies
Dress: Gateway Bridal

Cake: Cake-A-Licious
Photographers -

Camilla Photography
Azure B Photography

Five Ways to Update Your Look

2011-09-07T07:55:00.000-07:00

If you're anything like me, every now and then you get stuck in a style rut. I'll do the same thing with my hair and make-up day after day for months, and eventually I start thinking to myself

"Oh dear, am I going to be like those people who are stuck in the 1980's, only I'll be stuck in the 2000's?"

If that ever happens to me, please tell me.

Luckily for us, you can update your style with a few simple adjustments.
Here are five ideas to help you on your way!

1. Switch up your liner
There are endless possibilities when it comes to eye liner. Changing how you do your liner can change your whole look.

Line only the bottom, shadow on top.

Line only the top.

Line with a dark shadow instead for a smokey eye look.

Try a cat eye.

Line only the water line, shadow on top and bottom.

No liner at all.

2. Tone down your two-toned hair
Hair color right now is all about looking natural. Highlights and lowlights are always a good choice, but having black hair with really blonde highlights is outdated. Think of just enhancing your natural color instead of totally changing it.

3. Show off your natural texture.
Once again, natural is the way to go. Whether your hair is straight, wavy, curly, thick or thin, instead of fighting it try just putting some product in it and letting it air dry.

4. Try a lip color
I myself am guilty of never putting anything on my lips except chapstick. If you're not ready for fire engine red or hot pink, wear a softer shade. Finishing off your make-up application with a lip color will really complete your look.

Berry

Peach

Mauve

Hot pink

Soft pink

Nude

Red

Beige

5. Switch your part
And don't just switch it once, switch it all the time. Whenever I get start to get bored with my hair, I change my part. It's an easy way to get a new look.

Middle part

With some body

No part

Swooped

Off to one side

Good luck, and have fun with your new look!

Mercedes Engagements and Bridals

2011-09-03T16:17:00.000-07:00

Hair and make-up by Steph, photos by Julie Parker.

Engagements

Bridals

Trends I Love: The 1970's

2011-08-29T09:48:00.000-07:00

Is anyone else noticing the 1970's thing going on right now in the fashion world? Boho, hippie, parting in the middle, headbands, feathers, the pixie cut, no bangs, really heavy bangs, braids, natural texture.

Needless to say, I love it.

Chelsea

2011-08-22T09:02:00.000-07:00

Hair and make-up by Steph, photos by Brandon Burk Photography.

Erin

2011-08-22T08:58:00.000-07:00

This was definitely one of my favorite updos. Incorporating the fishtail braids made it so unique! Photos by Jacque Lynn Photography.

Ashley

2011-08-22T08:44:00.000-07:00

Hair and make-up by Steph, photos by Annie Randall Photography.

Photo Shoot Giveaway

2011-08-16T06:18:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true. This will be my last giveaway of the year, so enter while you can!

This time around I have teamed up with the amazingly talented photographer Ciara Richardson.

Together we are giving you the chance to win free hair and make-up along with free pictures of YOUR choice.

Free engagements, bridals, family photos, maternity pictures, a fashion photo shoot, anniversary pictures, senior pictures . . . anything you want.

You have nothing to lose and a super awesome giveaway to gain!

The winner will get their hair and make-up done by me, and then Ciara will take some ultra fab photos of them looking their very best. :)

ALL FOR FREE!

It will be a blast and in the end you will have some gorgeous photos you will want to hang all over your house.

Random winner will be announced Friday, August 26th.

We are so excited!

How To Enter:
1. Like Ciara Richardson Photography and Hair and Make-up by Steph's facebook page.

2. Write on your wall expressing your uber excitement for entering this giveaway. Be sure to tag us in your post!

ex. "so stoked, I just entered the photo session giveaway by #Ciara Richardson Photography and #Hair & Make-up by Steph, hope I win!"

3. Comment on this blog why you want to win and what type of pictures you'd want taken

Good luck!!!

Liz

2011-08-03T07:34:00.000-07:00

Hair and make-up by Steph, photos by Lindsey Shaun.

RaShae

2011-08-02T06:40:00.000-07:00

Hair and make-up by Steph, photos by Lindsey Shaun Photography.

Celebrity Look-a-like Photoshoot

2011-08-01T08:09:00.000-07:00

Whitney won the celebrity look-a-like contest that Julie Parker and I held last month. Julie sent me this inspiration board of what she had in mind for the shoot -

It was fun to work together and be creative to try to get similar shots. Whitney was a lot of fun to work with, and she really does look like Blake Lively!

Trends I Love: Cowlicks are in

2011-07-11T08:25:00.000-07:00

I remember when I was younger trying to fight the cowlick in my bangs every day and thinking "if cowlicks ever come back in style, I will be so happy". The time of the cowlick has come!
Rather than fighting it and trying to smash it flat all the time, let it do what it wants to. You can even round brush it for extra body.
This style works best on hair with long to no bangs.