July 26, 2014

The Villages Salon Professional Academy: Where It All Began

With this blog I will be going in a different direction. This is not a product review but a school review! My beauty school, The Salon Professional Academy in The Villages, FL, to be exact the place where this all started. I was asked to be a guest judge at The Decades of Fashion Scholarship Fashion Show on Thursday July 24. The minute I stepped back into my school I felt like I was home. 4 years ago I spent my days in there learning and yearning for more. It was there I became passionate about all things beauty and here it is 4 years later I am taking my passion to the next level, at It’s A Glam Thing, with my blogging, YouTube reviews and T.V. appearances. Even though I didn’t believe my educators at the time, licensed hairstylists can really do more than just have a license and stand behind the chair.

Students and their models

Students and their models

While at the show I got to judge the students on their presentation of the decades they were given. Starting in the 1940s to the present day, each student was graded on hair, makeup, clothes, and even the stage prop their models held while showcasing the decade. Even though they were all good, many really blew me away. Many times I had to remind myself they were students because many of the looks looked like they had been done by someone with 20 years in the industry. The three winners were Antoinette Bradley who won 1st place with her “USO Girl” of the 1940s, Dessiree Figueroa in 2nd place with her 1980s “Cyndi Lauper”, and Sabrina Langston in 3rd place with her “Disco Diva” of the 1970s. These three girls were awarded with scholarships towards their tuition. My two other fellow judges were stylist and Salon Jaylee Southern Trace owner Lindsey Glen who also is the proTENAJ Artistic Director, TECH Artist for Kerastase, stylist, host on FOX Good Day Orlando and TSPA alumni Erin Mills.

1st Place-1940s Student-Antoinette Bradley

1st Place-1940s
Student-Antoinette Bradley

2nd Place- 1980s Student-Dessiree Figueroa

2nd Place- 1980s
Student-Dessiree Figueroa

3rd Place- 1970s Student- Sabrina Langston

3rd Place- 1970s
Student- Sabrina Langston

After the show Erin and I were asked to speak to the students about our journey through the industry such as our ups and downs and to just be a positive reinforcement for the students. I really enjoyed getting to tell the students how my first year in the industry was definitely an eye opener. I told my story of the day I met Lisa Cocuzza and that changed my life all from standing behind the chair. When I said that my career in blogging and T.V. started just from being behind the chair I could tell that inspired many of them. It also showed them that you don’t just have to stand behind the chair everyday in this industry. There are so many avenues you can take. I also realized that being a positive reinforcement for many of them is another thing I am very passionate about.
I know this may sound crazy but being back inside the walls of TSPA I found the Annie that for a while there, faded away. She’s back and is not leaving again. So are you ready for a career in this awesome industry? Do you want to become someone who people love and adore every single day? Then you need The Villages Salon Professional Academy. They will help you become a top 20 and once you do that you will always be grateful. Be sure to visit them at www.thevillagestspa.com and start your career now!

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July 26, 2014

Alternate Your Style With The American Crew Alternator

American Crew’s main target is men but sometimes us women may want to use them as well. Made with polymer based technology, The Alternator gives you a strong/ but flexible hold all day long! Below I have posted my point of view on their product: The Alternator.

Watch the review here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bfjVnG0y__A

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July 24, 2014

Jenny Balding’s Takes on the Classic Ponytail Style

Everyone loves a ponytail as it’s a timeless style for women of all ages. We see them everywhere – from work to play, runways to red carpets, ponytails are here to stay! Cutler/Redken Stylist Jenny Balding provides ponytail how-to’s on a few of her favorites so you can update your ponytail style:

“Ponytails are a staple whether your hair is shorter or really long, there is a look for everyone one.”

Short, Low Ponytail

With so many people chopping their long locks into textured shoulder length or above, bobs this year, the short low ponytail is a fashion staple.
•Start with ‘lived-in’ hair as this will give you better control of your hair. You can add some texture powder or dry shampoo to create volume and texture to your hair so it doesn’t look so flat to your head.
•Create a low side or center part and gather tight into the nape. The key here is to keep it really low to be effective.
•Let some stray pieces fall gently around your face or keep it smooth and sleek.

Bubbles in the tail

Bubble Ponytail

Bubble Ponytail

For different take on your usual ponytail, why not create small bubbles in the tail? You can go with a really high ponytail like Blake Lively at the Met Gala or really low at the nape seen at Valentino this season in Paris.
•High ponytail
◦Smooth into a really high ponytail just under the crown or wherever most suite your profile. Make sure you secure tightly to keep it anchored and not loosen over time.
◦Brush your ponytail so it creates a smooth surface on top but then back brush the underneath of the tail to create a puffy texture! Then slightly smooth again to finish.
◦Using a small band to tie, create small bubbles all the way down to create your look as desired.
•For low ponytail
◦Start with either a low side or center part and smooth into really low ponytail at the nape. Again, secure tightly as this is your anchor.
◦Same as above to create tail.

Textured ponytail

Sam Villa crimping Iron

Sam Villa crimping Iron

As seen at Chanel FW14, low ponytails were as ever popular but with a twist. Crimping the tail and adding accessories to make a statement.
•Start with day two hair as you want to have a little texture to the hair. Again, add dry shampoo or texture powder for extra grip.
•Smooth into very low ponytail at the nape. Attach securely.
•Section the tail into sections and mist each section with a light hairspray to give it some hold. Then use the crimping iron from the base and work your way down.
•Repeat all the way through.
•Brush lightly to achieve desired effect.
•Mini crimpers give a really different, modern feel! Sam Villa texture irons are amazing.

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July 21, 2014

Enjoy National Hammock Day In Style

Take the time to relax in this beautiful blue and white check pattern hammock from Hästens. Made of 100% premium cotton, Hästens luxury hammock you will enjoy this quirky holiday in incredible comfort, while swinging under a brilliant blue summer sky! So sit back and relax in these beautiful summer evenings with Hästens Luxury Hammock!
http://hastens.com/en-us/

Hästens Hammock

Hästens Hammock

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July 21, 2014

No More Sticky Messes With The Wet Nap

We have all been to a good finger lickin’ BBQ am I right? Whether it is in your back yard or at a restaurant every BBQ is not complete without a good Wet Nap! I know we all know from experience that when it comes to a good BBQ sauce that getting our hands clean with a simple paper napkin does not seem to be the answer. Through out my life I have gone to restaurants where they give you Wet Naps and have managed to take a few home with me. Not only have I found Wet Naps to be useful for your hands but they also help aid in everyday messes and even at the gym. Also, Wet Naps are much better for the skin than hand sanitizer.

First invented in 1957, the Original Wet Napes where used not only in place of soap and water but for overall hygiene. I have actually used Wet Napes at the gym to clean and sanitize the equipment before and after I use them. Wet Napes has now become more than just a little packet you get at the restaurant. They now come in canisters such as your disinfecting wipes, and for the Hand, Face and Body. Each product says what they are used and safe for right on the package. And with the bright colors and cute polka dot packaging, you won’t miss one single word. Now you can get cleaned and sanitized no matter where you may be.

I am sure that Arthur Julius, inventor of the Wet Nap had no idea just how long and how convenient his products would be 57 years later. I have also found that if kept in the refrigerator and even in the packaging they are still good months from when you get them. So make sure you seal your packages tight and only use the one in the packet’s when needed. So next time you are in a sticky mess get your Wet Naps ready, get set and GO!!! For more info on all the products from the Original Wet Nap visit www.wetnap.com

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July 17, 2014

Jessica Alba and Chrissy Teigen at the 2014 ESPYs – Makeup by Lauren Andersen for Avon

For last night’s red carpet, Avon Global Celebrity Makeup Artist Lauren Andersen gave Jessica Alba a bronze goddess look inspired by her gold one shoulder dress, and gave Chrissy Teigen an edgy look to compliment her new hair color.

Jessica Alba at EPSY

Jessica Alba at EPSY’s

Here’s how to get Jessica’s look:
1.Lauren applied Koh Gen Do Foundation as a base before applying Tom Ford Beauty Shade and Illuminate.

2.Lauren then groomed Jessica’s brows with Votre Vu Brow Wax.

3.Next, Lauren used Avon Eye Dimensions Eye Shadow in Khaki Chic, using the medium shade on the lid and the darker shade on the corners of the eye.

4.To finish Jessica’s eyes, Lauren lined her eyes with Avon Kohl Eye Liner in True Black on the upper and lower lash lines and then added definition with a trace of Hourglass Calligraphy Liquid Liner. As the final dramatic touch, Lauren applied a coat of Avon Mega Effects Mascara in Black to her lashes.

5.To complete the look, Lauren applied Kevin Aucoin Beauty The Lip Gloss in Vesuvian.

Chrissy Teigen

Chrissy Teigen at EPSY’s

Here’s how to get Chrissy’s look:
1.Lauren groomed Chrissy’s brows with Votre Vu Brow Wax.

2.Next, Lauren lined the eyes with Avon Glimmersticks Eye Liner in Blackest Black and smudged it out with Avon Eye Dimensions Eye Shadow in Sultry Smoke.

3.For a natural, sunkissed glow, Lauren applied Koh Gen Do Aqua Foundation and added Lorac Baked Bronzer to her cheeks.

4.To complete the look, Lauren gave Chrissy a nude lip with Avon Ultra Color Absolute Lipstick in Caramel Comfort.

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July 14, 2014

Seaweed Oil Will Leave Your Skin In Satin Heaven

No spa experience is complete without nice, aromatic oils to help lock in the moisture and add all the hydration back to the skin. Many oils seem to make your skin feel greasy and at times, look “aged”. With another great product from Repechage, you can guarantee that your skin will drink in the beauty from the sea.

Repechage Seaweed Nutri Oil

Repechage Seaweed Nutri Oil

I have never been big on oils because of the fact my skin is already oily and tends to break out. When I first used Repechage Vita Cura Triple Action Nutri Oil, right after my Vita Cura Seaweed Bubble Bath, I just put it in a small spot to see how my skin would react. After leaving it on for a few hours my skin was still smooth, and the scent was still intact. And another bonus my skin did not break out but I aslo only used a few drops. With this product you dont have to use a lot. Less is more! Even though my biggest concern was how my skin would react still my first reaction was the scent. It is a nice soft aroma that doesnt make you feel like you doused yourself in a fragrance. Also, the smoothness of the oil on the skin is like putting a veil over it. Smooth, adds shine and gives off a satin feel.

The Repechage Vita Cura Triple Action Nutri Oil is full of vitamins and essential oils all contributing their own factor in aid to the skin. It has Carrot Oil to that helps rebuild the skin barrier, Mafura Oil to help restore the skin’s elasticity and Linoleic & Linolenic acids to help to diminish the look of fine lines and wrinkles, just to name a few. This oil will never give off a greasy feel and will make you feel brand new. Now I do know that many people like to lather up in baby oil, or other kinds of oil when going to the beach. I want to say please DO NOT use Repechage Nutri Oil, or any oil, as a sun protectant. There are NO SPF’s in oils and sun damage can cause skin cancer and will give the affects of premature aging.

This Nutri Oil from Repepchage will make you feel renewed and refreshed, without feeling slippery. This a definite must do after any shower or bubble bath. For more info on the product and other Repechage products be sure to visit www.repechage.com

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July 13, 2014

AMBI Skincare Announces the Winner Of It’s First-Ever Model Search!

AMBI® Skincare, a trusted name in cleansers and moisturizers for skin of color, has named Charnee Long as the Grand Prize Winner of its first-ever nationwide AMBI® Model Search. Twenty-one year old Charnee of Mineral, VA, was one of 10 finalists selected from a pool of more than 6,099 entrants.

“We are delighted with the selection of Charnee as the winner,” stated Tricia Green, Senior Brand Manager at Valeant Pharmaceuticals. “She was selected by a combination of viewers who voted in the online contest, and a panel of judges in the beauty and skincare fields. All applicants were evaluated based on appearance and how well they represent the look of the AMBI brand.”

AMBI model

As the Grand Prize Winner, Charnee will be featured in a national print campaign, receiving a three day/two night trip to New York City for a professional photo shoot. In addition, she will receive a $2,000 prize. “Charnee stood out as a bold, spirited woman. She is proud of her culture and history,” continues Green, “and we trust that she will serve as an inspiration to others.”

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July 13, 2014

Relax In Seaweed From Repechage

Growing up I always loved bubble baths but I could never take one because the ingredients caused me to have an allergic reaction. So unfortunately I had to endure a life without them. Nowadays products are made less intense, with more natural and organic ingredients. Ever since I started using Repechage New Vita Cura Triple Action Foaming Seaweed Bubble Bath, I can now enjoy the bubble baths I missed as a kid.

After my day at Premiere Orlando I headed over to St. Petersburg for Studio 10 the next day. After walking around Premiere all day my legs, back and arms were crying out for help. I got to see Repechage again and they told me about their new line of skincare called Vita Cura Body made with such ingredients as seaweed (directly from the depths of the Brittany Cost of France), 12 vitamins (including B12) , 18 amino acids and trace elements. At my hotel in St. Petersburg I wasted no time trying out my new bubble bath. My sensitive skin was in heaven, mainly because this amaing bubble bath did not make it break out and make me itch. The aroma, feel and just the overall experience was like having a spa get away right in the privacy of my own room. And less expensive. After my bath not only did I feel extremely relaxed and refreshed but my skin felt soft and healthy. And just a few days ago when I was a little stressed I took advantage of the bubble bath again and, just like the first time, I felt renewed and restored.

Repechage Foaming Seaweed Bubble Bath

Repechage Foaming Seaweed Bubble Bath

The first impression I got from the Vita Cura Body line was the use of color and designs on the packaging. I have always said that the first thing the consumer notices is the packaging. If something is packaged in bright vibrant colors it will instantly attract attention. Repechage, being known for their use of seaweed, packaging always seems like you are looking right into the bottom of the ocean.

So when you are in dire need of a stress free, spa getaway in the privacy of your own home, try Repechage’s Vita Cura Triple Action Foaming Seaweed Bubble Bath and experience the beauty from the sea.
For more info see www.repechage.com

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July 8, 2014

Your Hair Will Love The “VERB”

Your hair is your crowning glory and the more you take care of it the better it looks. Is it dry? Or does the color tend to fade too quickly? The answer to your problems is VERB Hair Products.

The number one problem to your hair care problems is improper hair products. When purchasing a product you MUST find a product that is for your hair type. But sometimes that can be hard. VERB products are made for all hair types and will not fade out hair color, It will help to hydrate even the driest hair and will not weigh down fine hair. When you get out of the shower your hair should feel clean and soft, and not greasy. Usually if your hair feels greasy right after you shampoo it then you are not using a product that is made for your hair type.

VERB Hair Products

VERB Hair Products

Unlike products such as Big Sexy Hair and CHI that have competition from retailers such as TJ Maxx and Kohls, you will not find VERB anywhere but in your local salon. VERB products come in an eye catching package that not only shows just what each product is, but will also tell you just what they do. Also, you don’t have to spend time trying to look for a specific shampoo or conditioner for your specific hair type. VERB is just one line and can be used on all type. If you hair is fine, coarse or even curly, VERB will work for you. VERB Product line comes with shampoo, conditioner, leave-in mist, volumnizing spray, sea spray to give off nice beach waves, dry wax, finishing polish, ghost oil serum and dry shampoo.

Each product is specifically designed to help enhance the texture, look and all over health of your hair. They are all gluten and sulfate free and being that they can only be found in your local salon, you know you are getting the utmost treatment for your hair. Like I said you hair is your crowning glory. It is a lot like your skin if you take care of it it will take care of you. For more info on VERB and where you can find them visit www.verbproducts.com

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