Cute Makeup Tips

What: Makeup for HD and Makeup for Music Videos With MTV Canada's Lucky Bromhead

When: February 12, 2012 

Time: Makeup for HD: 9:30 am - 12:30 pm

Makeup for Music Videos: 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Where: 550 Queensquay W., Toronto, ON

Main Floor Party Room (See concierge)

Advance Tickets (until January 25): $125/per workshop (Only 20 spots available per workshop!)

After January 25 Ticket Price: $150/per workshop

Advance Tickets (until January 25 - Combined Workshops): $200 (Only 20 spots available per workshop!)

After January 25 Ticket Price (Combined Workshops): $300

(If you wish to pay via Money Email Transfer please contact me at joy[at]makeupjunkie[dot]ca.)
Tickets are NON-REFUNDABLE unless canceled by host. If you are unable to attend all of a sudden, you may sell your ticket to someone else. 

Bring: Your kit, notepad/pen, and a model. Photo taking is welcomed but video recording is prohibitied. 

Makeup Junkie is proud to host two workshops for one of my favourite makeup artists, MTV Canada's Lucky Bromhead! She is one of the top makeup artists in the industry and has first hand knowledge of what it takes to be a successful makeup artist. Whether you are a makeup artist in the making or just want to brush up on your skills, you definitely don't want to miss out on these workshops!

If you're looking for a career in television or will be working in print, learning makeup for HD is must if you want to make it in this industry. Learn about creating a flawless canvas, what products to use, how lighting effects the outcome of your makeup and many more amazing tips from Lucky! 

Music videos always look so fun and glamorous, but a lot of work goes into the final product! Lucky has worked with top musicians in the industry. Learn about the creative process behind creating your talent's look, on-set do's and don'ts, and much more!

Lucky (yes, that’s her real name!) Bromhead has been painting faces for about 20 years. After many years as a trainer for MAC Cosmetics, and key makeup for the Canadian episodes of Elvis Costello's Spectacle! Elvis Costello With... she’s currently the head makeup artist for MTV Canada and continues to do makeup for Bravo! At The Concert Hall, The Space Channel and The Comedy Network. 

Lucky’s makeup has graced the faces of Zooey Deschanel, Jared Leto, Jeff Goldblum, Sarah McLachlan, Coeur de Pirate, Cyndi Lauper, Elvis Costello, Bono & The Edge, Timothy Olyphant, Lauren Conrad (The Hills), Kanye West, Jully Black, Fefe Dobson, Tre Armstong (SYTYCD), Nikki Sixx, Jeanne Beker, Michelle Trachenberg, Emily Haines, Keisha Chante, and Erica Ehm. She's also done makeup for the music videos of Bedouin Soundclash, Nicole Holness, Matthew Good, Jay Malinowski and Armistice. Lucky was also honoured to be chosen to do makeup for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, doing makeup for CTV's Olympic Morning. To see more of Lucky’s work, visit http://makeupbylucky.blogspot.com/

'Like' Lucky on Facebook and follow her on Twitter!

One Family Fund will host its first annual Mix It Up event on January 31, 2012 at Brassaii Restaurant and Lounge in downtown Toronto. The evening will include passed hors d'oeuvres, signature cocktails, live jazz and a Silent Auction Shopping Centre.   The Shopping Centre will be one of a kind and feature items from a variety of categories including fashion, beauty, hospitality, restaurants, fitness, and home decor. Some of the great beauty brands involved include Benefit Cosmetics, Gee Beauty, and Elizabeth Grant Skincare.

One hundred percent of monies raised through the silent auction will benefit victims of terror in Israel.

One Family Fund provides direct financial, legal and emotional support to the thousands of victims of terror in Israel on a daily basis. It is at the forefront in providing long-term support for physical and emotional health, education, housing, income maintenance and other needs.

To purchase tickets: http://onefamilyfund.ca/events-mixitup

What: Bridal Makeup Workshop With Dior Canada's Senior Artist Fredis V.

When: February 5, 2012 

Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Where: 550 Queensquay W., Toronto, ON

Main Floor Party Room (See concierge)

Advance Tickets (until January 25): $100

After January 25 Ticket Price: $120 

(If you wish to pay via Money Email Transfer please contact me at joy[at]makeupjunkie[dot]ca.)
*Tickets are NON-REFUNDABLE unless canceled by host. If you are unable to attend all of a sudden, you may sell your ticket to someone else. 

Bring: Your kit, notepad/pen, and a model. Cameras and video recording are welcomed. 

To Purchase Tickets: http://fredisvbridalworkshop.eventbrite.ca/

Working for one of the world's top beauty brands, Fredis knows the hottest trends in bridal makeup. You'll learn how to execute a flawless canvas, how to create the picture-perfect look for your bride, and what techniques are the most efficient and effective. You'll also learn the top bridal makeup trends for 2012! 

About Fredis V.: 

Based in Toronto, Fredis Velasquez is widely known around Canada, as the go-to professional makeup artist among the industry's best. He is one of the most sought after make-up artists in Toronto, who aims to achieve a flawless face, lush lashes, and the perfect brow for his clientele. His exceptional artistry skills allow him to create a luminous glow that is seen on the red-carpets of Hollywood’s elite. Fredis specializes in Editorial, Red Carpet Events, Commercials, Music Videos, and High Profile Weddings. He has more than 14 years of experience as a professional makeup artist and has worked with the most innovative, standard setting, skincare and cosmetics enterprises in the industry.

Fredis' distinct style allows his work to stand out from other makeup artist; making stops at various work venues along the way such as MAKE UP FOR EVER, FRESH, NARS, AVEDA, MAC, Bobbi Brown, Laura Mercier, GIORGIO ARMANI, YSL, Shu Uemura and DIOR Canada including many more! Fredis is currently the Lead Consulting Artist for Dior in Canada. He is dedicated in fulfilling his client’s vision as he pays close attention to detail and enhances natural beauty. His down to earth demeanour makes everyone feel comfortable in his hands, illustrating a contemporary and pure expression that produces an astounding outcome.

'Like' Fredis on Facebook and follow him on Twitter!

I added the prices to the special promos and HD Blushes were added! The MUFE booth is always crowded with people. I haven't been able to buy anything from the booth because of the crowds but that is about to change this year! Favourites: HD Blush, Aqua Creams, Aqua Liners, HD Primer.

Floriane David, Director of Education at the MAKE UP FOR EVER Academy in NYC will be doing body painting demos on Saturday Nov 12th between 12-3pm. She will also be hosting a seminar on Sunday Nov 13th at 11:30am.

Special Promos: 

1. $130 ($230 value) with the purchase of any 5 HD Foundations

2. $90 ($160 value) with the purchase of any 5 HD Concealers
3. $49 ($87 value) with the purchase of any 3 HD Blushes
4. $61 ($108 value) with the purchase of any 3 Full Cover
5. $74 ($131 value) with the purchase of any 3 Perfect Primers
6. $125 ($213 value) with the purchase of 10 eyeshadows Palette
7. $81 ($144 value) 15 Lipstick Palettes
8. $165 ($293 value) Brush Kit - 9 Brushes


The name "Eve Pearl" is a name that is well-known in the makeup industry. Emmy award winning makeup artist, Eve Pearl, and her team will be at IMATS Toronto and they have some amazing deals for us fans!!

Can you feel the excitement in the air?? IMATS is descending on Toronto November 12-13!! In 11 days, I will be shopping my favourite brands, listening and learning from the best of the best in the industry, and most importantly connecting with all my fellow makeup artists and beauty bloggers! It really is like a reunion. If you haven't experienced IMATS yet, you must! It's not only open to makeup pros but to all you makeup lovers! 

When: November 12-13

Where: Toronto Congress Centre, North Hall H
650 Dixon Road
Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Hours:  Saturday, (General admission) 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Sunday, (General admission) 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Buy Tickets: Click here.

List of Exhibitors: Click here.

List of Speakers: Click here.

IMATS is a place to learn about new products and new makeup techniques. It's also a great place to score on amazing discounts. IMATS is my favourite place to stock up on quality brushes at insanely affordable prices! Here are some special promos from some of my favourite brands. To view more, check out my friend Arianne from Glitter Geek's page here!

The MUFE booth is always crowded with people. I haven't been able to buy anything from the booth because of the crowds but that is about to change this year! Favourites: HD Blush, Aqua Creams, Aqua Liners, HD Primer.

Floriane David, Director of Education at the MAKE UP FOR EVER Academy in NYC will be doing body painting demos on Saturday Nov 12th between 12-3pm. She will also be hosting a seminar on Sunday Nov 13th at 11:30am.

Special Promos: 

1. 50% discount with the purchase of any 5 HD Foundations

2. 50% discount with the purchase of any 5 HD Concealers
3. 50% discount with the purchase of any 5 Uplights
4. 50% discount with the purchase of any 5 Aqua Liners
5. 50% discount with the purchase of a Brush Kit

In addition, everything is 40% off!

Face Atelier is my go-to foundation! I love stocking up on their foundations. But this year I really want to try Facade, their lip/cheek stain which they will be debuting in Toronto! They will also be introducing their Ultra Matte too. 40% off for professional makeup artists.

What do I not love from CoverFX! If you're looking for some serious coverage be sure to visit CoverFX! I also love their primers. 

General show special: $70.00(value $165) - 1 Cover FX Trio, 1 Conceal
FX, 1 SkinPrep FX, #160 brush

Special for the Pro's- for the artists that want it all. The last day
special for $195.00 (value over $300): 16 pro pots (8 light to medium
and 8 medium to dark), Setting FX light 6.5gr, Matte FX Medium, SkinPrep FX,
#160 brush
Pro Pot Shades:

C - 10, 30, 50, 60

E - 0, 20, 40, 60

M - 20, 30, 50, 80 

B - 0,15, 25, 45

Other brands to check out: Crown Brush (amazing brushes), Alcone (for sponges, wands), yaby, temptu (for airbrushing),  Eve Pearl, Kett Cosmetics, Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics, and Zuca (the only makeup kit to have!). 

To read past posts of IMATS Toronto click here. I will be attending the Saturday show and hope to catch Eve Pearl's Flawless Bride seminar at 2:30 pm! I look forward to seeing some familiar faces and saying "hi" to some new ones!

(Warning: Most pictures appear blurry and have bad lighting. You can blame that on my Blackberry!)

I've always wanted to sit in the audience of CityLine, particularly during one of the Fashion Friday episodes. But when I was invited to join the audience for a special Blogger episode I jumped on the chance - couldn't be more perfect!

The show was aimed at bloggers and how social media has changed all different industries from design, food, being a working mommy, and of course beauty! I had no idea who would be attending so when I arrived, I was immediately greeted with the familiar smiling faces of my fellow beauty bloggers. Everyone looked gorgeous and colourful. The energy in the green room was super hype especially when CityLine's stunning host, Tracy Moore, came in the room to say hi!

The show had some great guests including Erica Ehm from Yummy Mummy Club and one of my favourite makeup artists CityLine's awesome Tracy Peart! This was the only show where audience members could tweet and be on their phones. It was hilarious to see everyone's heads down furiously tweeting away! 

Each guest gave many wonderful tips on Do's and Don'ts of social media. Tracy P. had a good one that I also see often - if you're leaving a comment on another blogger's site don't include a your own website's url. I get it - you want to give your site more exposure but it may come across as spamming someone's site and the comments don't seem genuine. Other bloggers will eventually follow your blog if you visit and comment on their site regularly.

My favourite part of the show was of course the beauty segment with Tracy P.! She shared her favourite beauty products to use: cult classic L'Oreal Voluminous Mascara (used to be a staple of mine - forgot how much I loved it! Will have to pick up the water-proof version.), Vasanti Liquid Cover Up, Hard Candy Visibly Wet Lip Pencil, and a new favourite of mine M.A.C.'s Greasepaint Stick in French Quarter. I have been using this a lot and I love it! Best part - we got to take Tracy's favourites home along with some other awesome giveaways! Tracy is always giving tips on her beauty blog and does beauty how-to videos on CityLine.ca - be sure to check her out for some pro tips!

I asked Tracy a few questions about beauty and social media - here's what she had to say!

MJ: Favourite Spring makeup trend?

Tracy: My favorite makeup trend for Spring 2011 is bright, brilliant, neon colors for the eyes. Whether it be an eyeshadow all over the eye or an eyeliner just to accent the eye. I'm excited about BOLD colors being IN again!

MJ: Favourite product for Spring trends?

TP: My favorite product that will work with the Spring Trend, is an oldie but a goodie "Electric Eel" Eyeshadow by MAC. It's an outgoing color that can be worn subtly or loudly!

MJ: Best thing about starting your blog and being on Twitter?

TP: Best thing about blogging and being on Twitter is all the new people I've come into contact with. Whether it's makeup companies, or the everyday woman who looks to my blog for advice, or fellow Bloggers like you! Before being involved with social media, I didn't know them and they didn't know me. For instance, you and I met at a Blogger Party and remain in contact via Twitter! It's GREAT!

And it's true - love Twitter for connecting with other like-minded peeps! Thanks Tracy!

Unfortunately, I didn't get to stick around after the show to get more pictures and to attend the Tweetup at the ritzy Ritz Carlton. It was a fun experience and it's always good to see my beauty blogger sistas! The show airs March 29 at 9 am so don't miss it! Thank you to CityLine and Tracy P. for the invite! Here are some more photos from the show!

Some of the great beauty bloggers at the show: 

Jill: Batting A Lash
Farah : Faces By Farah
Jenn: Spiced Beauty
Anita: Primped and Proper
Anjali: Rock That Look
Nancy: Nancy Power Makeup Artist
Michelle: Lipstick Rules

This is one makeup event I look forward to all year! It's hard to believe that one year has gone by already. In case you aren't hanging with the cool kids, makeup's biggest event is almost here! The International Makeup Show (IMATS) will be coming to Toronto on November 6 and 7. It's a must-attend event for industry professionals but definitely welcomes anyone who LOVES makeup!

Besides the copious amounts of makeup and makeup accessories that will be available, I love going and meeting up with my fellow beauty lovers. Be on the lookout for a group of us Toronto Beauty Bloggers (TBB) perusing the booths and shopping (check the TBB blog to see when meet-up times and locations are)! You will also have access to many top industry experts that you can meet and chat with as well as seminars and workshops. 

I had a Twitter convo with makeup artist, Naomi from StylEyes, about how I decide what products to stock in my kit. I usually buy products only when I'm low or if it's something I don't have and absolutely need/want. I definitely depend on makeup artist reviews before making a purchase. With an event like IMATS, there is a temptation to go a little crazy so my advice is to make a list and stick with it. And if you're shopping with a group of friends like I will be, try not to get swayed into buying products you don't need. Here is what I'll be stocking up on:

Face atelier Ultra Foundation Pro ($32 CAD): This is the one foundation line I use on my clients 98% of the time. I always have brides coming back and asking me what foundation I used on their wedding day. What my clients love? Flawless, luminous coverage without the heavy feel. Click here to see my reviews of Face atelier Cosmetics.  

Embroylisse 24 Hour Miracle Cream ($25 USD): You'll see this dream cream in most makeup artist's kits. Love this stuff and so do my clients! I need an extra one to use on myself! I've been using this lately now that the weather is getting drier. Click here to see my reviews of Embroylisse.

CoverFX Conceal FX ($27 CAD): I only have one shade but want to collect the rest for my kit! Gives full coverage, HD ready, and covers all your imperfections. Plus, it's water-resistant and fits easily into any kit or makeup bag. Click here to see my review of CoverFX Conceal FX.

Kett Sett Powder ($22 USD): What setting powder to use was also a topic that came up on Twitter. Kett Sett Powder has been on my wish list for so long and yet it has never landed in my kit. I've been using my trusted M.A.C. Blot Powders over the years but one of my shades was swiped over the summer during a wedding gig. Accident of course! Good excuse to pick this one up.

Also on the list are disposable mascara wands and maybe one or two brushes (my brush collection is pretty stocked though). Have you tried any of these products? What will you be picking up at IMATS? 

I look forward to seeing familiar faces and meeting new ones! Stay tuned for my highlights of this year's IMATS! To read past highlights of Toronto IMATS click here.

For more information on location, dates, tickets and keynote speakers visit www.imatsshow.com/toronto/toronto_index.php.

I am so in love with this look. I love me a bright bold lip with flawless skin and minimal makeup. M.A.C. Senior Artist, Melissa Gibson, is the genius behind the Spring look for Ashley Rowe. The show was last night and sadly I missed it. Doesn't the look make you excited for Spring?

To compliment the tie-dyed clothing of Ashley Rowe, Melissa drew focus to the lips layering three products:  M·A·C Chromagraphic Pencil in Processed Magenta, M·A·C Lipmix in Fuchsia, and M·A·C Pro Neon Pigment in Red Electric. The face was kept matte in order to emphasize the lips. The lashes were coated with M·A·C Zoomlash Mascara and the cheeks were slightly contoured with Mineralize Skinfinish/Natural (love this powder!).

What do you think of the look? Did you see the show? 

Are your brows going through a hairy situation? Benefit would like to cordially invite you to their first annual Beautiful Brow Event happening exclusively at Holt Renfrew locations across Canada on October 15 - 17! 

The first 100 to book an appointment will receive a free lip gloss. To top it off, spend $50 worth of Benefit products and you will receive a Benefit Beauty Gift (may include a brow service)! View poster below for more details. 

I'm thrilled to be apart of the next The Beauty Board created and hosted by the fabulous Stephanie Daga, makeup artist and founder of BlushPretty.com. If you are a beauty lover and a savvy shopper then The Beauty Board is a must-attend event! Just in time for the holidays, attendees will have the chance to see, smell and smear some of the hottest beauty products on the market. The event will be held on November 14 from 2-6 pm with yours truly doing guest demos! September 30th is the last day to buy the early bird tickets of $25. After that, it is $30 so get on it! Click here for event details and to purchase tickets!

Monica from The Beauty Parler has raved about the event and ever since I've been curious to go. Want to know more about the brains behind The Beauty Board? Check out my Q&A with Stephanie Daga!

Stephanie: One day, I thought to myself how great it is to be a blogger and how I get to test out a bunch of product daily. I wanted to share this experience with my readers; after all, I would get emails daily from readers, family, friends, and clients about what I would recommend or what I think about a product.  At that moment, I organized my first The Beauty Board.  I had twelve guests, held it in my small condo, and had four brands present. I let my guests test and try out the products and provide their “editorial reviews”. I posted the reviews on BlushPretty.com and the next thing I know I was getting requests to be a part of the next one.  The second event was held in October 2009 and it grew to over 35 guests and about 8 brands.  The last one in April 2010, had over 50 guests and over 10 brands present.  It grew so fast ...

SD: Its so hard to narrow it down to just one! Everyone loved Cheeky Monkey Cosmetics for the 3-Free Nail Polish; COVERGIRL LashBlast Length for Mascara; Consonant Body for their Body Soap (which comes with a Loofah!!); DaLish Cosmetics lip glosses; MaryKay’s Cheek Colour in Pomegranate; and a past but on-going favourite is Cake Beauty’s Milk Made Velveteen Hand Cream!

Thanks Stephanie for organizing such a fantastic event for us beauty lovers! I can't wait!

(Picture heavy!) :)

Start the first day back to school with a treasure hunt! The lovely team at CoverFX has organized this amazing treasure hunt taking place in select cities in Canada, US, and the UK. I love contests that really get the fans involved. CoverFX's last event was a successful flash mob that took place all over but I have to say the treasure hunt tops it all! Click on the poster to enlarge for contest details and visit their Facebook page!

I spoke with Co-creator, Jenny Frankel, who informed me that it's better not to layer the EyePrep FX over your traditional eye cream as it may affect the 'stay put' primer quality. However, if you just can't live without your favourite eye cream, Jenny suggests applying EyePrep FX during the day and your night cream at night. But to reap the full benefits of EyePrep, it's best to use both day and night. It's also made without silicone so for all you oily lids your shadow won't slip and slide throughout the day. 

I had a blast at the event (despite the heat and sweat!) seeing all my fellow blogger buddies and meeting new ones. And of course, it's always a pleasure being able to chat with CoverFX creators, Lee and Jenny! Thank you to the fabulous Marketing Co-Ordinator, Melissa Shum, for throwing a great event and wearing those fantastic purple heels!