How to Prep for your Wedding Hair and Makeup Trial

We've all been there - experiencing makeup disasters and hair failures. However, when it comes to the most special day in your life, things like these should never happen. That is why more and more brides choose professional Baltimore bridal makeup services for their wedding and make the most of their bridal looks. The truth is, only a professional Baltimore wedding makeup artist can give you the look you want without any possibility for a disaster while the clock is ticking. As a bride, it is up to you to relax and unwind - until the clock ticks and the time of your wedding comes.

Still, choosing professional wedding makeup in Baltimore is not an easy mission. In other words, it is important for every bride to...

1. Plan Things Ahead

Coming to your hair and makeup trial prepared will help you ace the look from the start. The more inspiration you pick up from the online Pinterest boards, magazines, and TV shows, the better your trial will be. The best way to be prepared is to have a rough idea of the dress, your hairstyle, and makeup - and communicate it clearly with us.

2. Your Wedding Dress Comes First On The Shopping List

There is a big reason why you should purchase your wedding dress first. According to wedding makeup and hair experts, the entire look should revolve around your dress. Your hair and makeup should balance its style, length and level of details and always comply with it. That is why it is important to buy your dress first and bring a photo of it to the trial!

3. Wear A White T-Shirt On Your Trial

A crisp white T-shirt (or a color that resembles the color of your wedding dress) is a great way to get a better idea of how your hair and makeup will work with your dress. You can also cut the neckline to match your wedding gown and see if everything fits perfectly as you imagined.

Not only this will give you a better idea of your wedding look, it will also help you choose the perfect bridal makeup and hair choice and whether they match the white color on your body.

4. Schedule A Long Enough Appointment

Your Baltimore bridal makeup appointment should be long enough, especially because of the different styles you may want to test out. After all, it is your wedding hair and makeup that we are talking about - and such things definitely deserve special attention.

5. Go Clean Before The Trial

For the makeup trial, it is always better to come clean and avoid putting on any products before the trial. A clean face holds makeup better and will let us make the look perfectly match the color of your natural skin without makeup.

6. Take Notes

As soon as you book your wedding makeup and arrive at your appointment, you should start taking notes on how to touch up your look during the day- so you know how to fix any smudges in case they happen during the ceremony or afterward. At Elite Secrets we give every bride a touchup kit with all the items needed to keep your glowing look throughout the Big Day

7. Go Camera Crazy

Once your bridal makeup and hair are done, it's time to start snapping photos and taking them from different angles. Make sure to also switch the backgrounds and test photos in both daylight and nighttime. That way, you will have a better idea of your look in every minute during your wedding.

Ready to book with us? Now accepting trial appointments. Book your hair and makeup trial with Elite Secrets today.

Expert advice for teens: 6 timely beauty tips every girl should know

Your teenage years can feel like both the best and most stressful time of your life. Balancing school, clubs, and friends can seem overwhelming, yet exhilarating at the same time. It’s also the time when dabbling in makeup comes in full swing. There’s a lot to learn when it comes to makeup and beauty, so don’t worry if you feel overwhelmed. If you’re on the quest for fool-proof skin and makeup tips, we’ve rounded up six beauty tricks every girl should know!

Your routine should always start out with a good skin care regime

Your skin goes through a lot each day. Just think about how often we touch our face, all the sweat that clogs your pores, and all the makeup you wear (plus the nights you fall asleep without taking it off — a definite "no no"!). Although there is no accord on how often a person with healthy skin should cleanse their face, studies show that folks with acne benefit from twice daily face cleansing. Combine daily cleansing with a toner and moisturizer, and you’re good to go.

Adopt a simple routine for you everyday school makeup

If you’re a beginner and want a look that is light and not overdone, start off with a combination of foundation, concealer, and blush. Stick to a simple eye makeup routine, finished off with a little mascara. This method will keep you looking fresh and awake, and it’s quick and easy to do right before school.

Don’t Forget to Prime

Priming your skin is one of the most important things you can do before applying any cosmetics. It establishes a smooth foundation for your makeup and evens out your skin tone for a flawless canvas. It also hydrates your skin, while at the same time reducing oil and shine. Fresh Face Primer is ideal for sensitive, acne-prone skin and will work wonders for any skin type.

img_3434

Sign up now for our teen hair and makeup workshop. Get tickets here: https://bit.ly/eliteteenworkshop

Moisturizing is a must

Moisturizing your skin before applying any makeup is essential for healthy, glowing skin. This important step should be your number one priority as it keeps your skin from becoming dull and dehydrated. It can also protect your skin as an excellent moisturizer creates a protective barrier.

A proper moisturizer is crucial. If you have acne-prone skin (as most teenagers do) try an oil-free product such Calm Balm for soft, smooth skin.

Eye tricks every girl should know

The proper makeup can make a huge difference when it comes to your eyes. Having beautiful, bright eyes is the goal for most girls. A professional makeup artist can share insider techniques for highlighting with concealer and extending your eyeliner line to make your eyes pop.

Find and use a great eye cream

Never underestimate the potential of a good eye cream. Your under-eye area is the only place on your face that doesn’t create moisture, so it’s essential to keep it hydrated. Without eye cream, any concealer is more likely to peel under your eyes.

Eye cream will make your eyes look more awake and less dull. Pep-Start Eye Creamis one of our favorites!

These makeup tips for teens are essential for a fresh, radiant and gorgeous look. Follow the tips to step up your makeup game and feel more confident in your own skin!

Sign up now for our teen hair and makeup workshop. Get tickets here: https://bit.ly/eliteteenworkshop

Bridal Trial Questionnaire

WIne-2.jpg

Questions Every Bride Should Be Asking During Bridal Trials! At Elite Secrets, we know that the months leading up to your special day can be stressful. You’re basically running around, trying to accomplish everything at once, bridesmaid fabrics and slices of cake are being tossed at you in every direction, and venue shopping can be tricky.

So we want to make sure that choosing the makeup and hair team for your wedding is stress-free, straightforward, and fun! We’ve compiled a list of tips and tricks to share with you and provide the best experience from your Bridal Trial, know what to look for, what to ask, and what to generally expect out of your bridal trial.

We cover everything from long-lasting foundation tips to general pricing and how to avoid hidden fees and tips on which questions to ask your beauty team ahead of time! Be sure to click here http://bit.ly/2kyUiTX to schedule your trial and get all the amazing tips. Brides, grab your notebooks. Because we are going to be giving you some must-have tips to surviving your trials!

And speaking of Bridal Trials, we are offering HALF OFF your bridal hair and makeup bridal trials until March 1, 2017. You may contact us to schedule for future dates up until this date. Meet our fantastic team, get a sneak peak at your wedding day look, and have some fun! Who said bridal trials have to be stressful?

1E7A8468.jpg

Not us!

Take advantage of our HALF OFF bridal trials! Special ends March 1, 2017. So be sure to click here for scheduling: https://bit.ly/2kyUiTX or give us a call at 443.219.7049 for more details. Reserve a spot, seats are filling up quick! We are looking forward to seeing you there!

1E7A5580.jpg

BRIDAL TRIAL QUESTIONNAIRE

• Ask to see a full gallery of a recent wedding that the beauty have done. Along with the recent reviews.

• Ask if there are any additional fees outside of the charges for hair and makeup. Hidden charges can come as a shock and add the extra financial stress.

• Ask if the team offers airbrush makeup. Airbrush makeup is great for outside ceremonies and can help cut down on after ceremony touch-ups. It's long wearing and has a fantastic pay off with photos.

• Ask about the day off timeline. This is crucial information and will be helpful for your wedding planner and other vendors.

• Ask how many artist and stylists will be assigned to your wedding day.

• Ask which brand of products the team will be using.

• Always request a bridal trial 1 year to 6 months in advance. This will allow time if you have to have more than one trial. It will also allow you the time to ensure you hire the best team for your day and secure the date you want for your wedding.

• Ask for advice on the perfect look to compliment your wedding theme or bridal gown, veil, and accessories.

• Ask when would be best time to schedule a facial prior to the wedding. This will avoid any sudden breakouts or allergic reactions to certain products.

• Be sure to mention any known allergies to any cosmetic or hair products. Give a list of any skin treatments you are using as well.

We hope you find this information helpful!

ELITE SECRETS

Studio Location: 525 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD

Website: https://www.elitesecrets4you.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elitesecrets/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/pub/latonya-… Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elitescrets Twitter: https://twitter.com/ELITESECRETS4U

Business: 443.219.7049 Email: elitescrets@hotmail.com Reviews: https://www.weddingwire.com/reviews/el…

Level 23 Tenease Flowers

443-257-5200

We're Thrilled to Announce Elite Secrets Beauty Week

We are so excited to announce our Elite Secrets Beauty Week this week February 13-18th!  What’s Elite Secrets Beauty Week? Well, for seven glorious days beauty lovers you can enjoy discounts and events at Elite Secrets. Here’s the lineup of what’s in store for the remainder of the week. WEDNESDAY Today our makeup expert and owner of Elite Secrets, LaTonya Turnage, will host #AskaPro, a Q&A session on Facebook Live. At noon, today this tenured makeup artist will answer all your beauty and skincare questions. What is baking? How long should I hold on to product? Which brushes should I use? How do I match foundation to my skin? Get all your beauty questions answered LIVE! Tune in at noon and again at 5 PM EST to Facebook.com/EliteScrets.

THURSDAY Enjoy our Half Off Special! Yes, Valentine’s Day was Tuesday, but it’s always the perfect day to feel and look good. Come in tomorrow and choose any our services for half off the regular price.

FRIDAY Surprise! On Friday, we are having our wedding trend show on Facebook Live. Tune in at noon to see our makeup expert discuss wedding beauty trends and the hottest looks for the 2017 bride. Be sure to log on to Facebook.com/EliteScrets. You don’t want to miss this!

SATURDAY Calling all wedding vendors! Join us for an evening of fun, luxury, and fabulous favors and treats! We can't wait to see you at the Elite Secrets Wedding Vendor Social on Saturday, February 18 from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Mingle and connect with industry friends, while indulging in delectable desserts, and yummy cocktails.

The celebration does not have to end after this week. Our All About the Bride event extends through the entire month. Brides, book your bridal trial before March 1st and receive half off the cost of the session. Hurry slots are filling quickly! Book your trial here.

Sweet or Sexy? What is your Valentine's Day Makeup Look?

Valentine’s Day is almost upon us. And, whether you think it’s a holiday simply made up by the greeting card industry, or the day to proclaim your love for one another, either way, you&… Source: Sweet or Sexy? What is your Valentine's Day Makeup Look?

Sweet or Sexy? What is your Valentine's Day Makeup Look?

Valentine's Day is almost upon us.

And, whether you think it's a holiday simply made up by the greeting card industry, or the day to proclaim your love for one another, either way, you're going to want to look your best. Makeup will only highlight the beauty you already possess. These are two guaranteed looks to make your partner ogle or strangers take a double look.

Look One: Sweet and Flirty.

Perhaps it's the first date, or maybe you just can't see yourself wearing red lipstick, but you can't go wrong with Sweet and Flirty. To complete this look, you're going to keep your palette bright and your highlight the feature.

Eyes: Keep your eyeshadow to a simple shimmer, nude, or none at all. You're going to want to focus on your eyeliner and lashes.

Face: Stick to a pinky blush and a strobing effect.

Lips: You'll want a pink gloss or lipstick.

The point of this look is to keep it as simple as possible and to keep you looking fresh and girly.

Look Two: Sultry and Sexy.

This look is designed to make him drool. You're bold and confident, and you've been itching to prove it. You have your outfit. That bodycon dress with the low neck. Now you have to have the makeup to match it.

Eyes: Go bold or go home. On you lid, go for a gold glitter. On your crease, use a dark shadow and blend it in. Line your eyes and use that vintage thick false lash you've been dying to use.

Face: Now it's time to break out the foundation and contour kit. Define those cheekbones. Lay up on the highlight, though. You're not the sweetheart tonight; you're the vixen.

Lips: The darker the red, the better. Try to avoid that candy apple wannabe. Look for wine or burgundies. And take it a step forward by using a liner to line just outside your lips. The outline will give the illusion of poutier lips!

The point of this look is to make your date look at your face. Hope you're ready to have them kiss it off!

♥ ♥ ♥

What is your go-to Valentine's Day makeup look? Show us in any of these locations.

Instagram  Facebook  Twitter

Do you need expert advice or application? We can be your Valentine and help you out. Book here now (or call 443-219-7049) and we'll send you home with a sweet surprise!

Thanks for reading! -Dani Gudino

♥ ♥ ♥

TAKING HAIR CARE TO ANOTHER LEVEL | with Level23

level23

Hey Brides and Brides-To-Be! Level23 is so excited to be featured as bonus content on the blog this week!

We are a Baltimore-Based hair salon that ensures that our bride's hair is looking the best on their big day. But luscious locks start with a fantastic hair care routine, knowing your products, and making the most of your time! It's not difficult, we promise, you just have to know where to begin.

With that being said, we wanted to give you all a sneak peak into some amazing tips and tricks that help me,  Tenease,  give the best possible looks.

Are you ready, brides?  We are unlocking some amazing hair-care secrets that you won't want to miss out on! 

• TIP NO. 1: Biomineral Technology is your new Best Friend. Biomineral technology uses natural mineral sources + botanical (plant based) protein catalyst to deliver what's most important to our clients which is healthy manageable hair that is smooth, soft, strong, shine and holds its color.All of level23's shampoo and conditioners are natural, sulfate, sodium chloride, paraben, and gluten free!

Pro Hint:Sulfate free means safe to use on any hair type!

• TIP NO. 2: Watch out for Sodium Lauryl Sulfates!Many products harbor a detergent known as sodium lauryl sulfate a type of chemical mainly used to remove oils from the hair.

These are common on most store shelves. They strip hair of its essential, natural oils and strips pigmentation from hair dye. Sulfate is an expensive ingredient used as an effective foaming agent when used in products.

It significantly weakens the hair follicles and hair strands when used for a prolonged period of time, making the hair brittle and prone to breakage.

Pro Hint: Some clients with eczema do find their skin worsens when they use gluten -containing products. 

• TIP NO. 3: A MIRACLE PRODUCT THAT'S WAITING FOR YOU.

Level23'S  amethyst oil helps get rid of dull and frizzy hair! This product is the One-Stop shop for getting shiny and smooth hair. Plus, with the great ingredients, it helps improve your hair's health and strength.

Why waste your money on a million and one products that aren't going to work, when you can cut your hair routine time in half with this one product!

"Our amethyst oil contains hempseed proteins that helps aid in getting rid of frizz and speed drying time . It also adds luminosity and heat protection. Adding some drops in your scalp also reduces itchiness."

• TIP NO. 4: WINTER HAIRCARE ROUTINE TIPS!Here's some quick and easy tips Tenease is giving away for you to practice!

• Shampoo and conditioner at least 2-3 times a month.

• Drink plenty of water for hydration. This will help get you healthy and shiny hair!

• Use Level23 moisture conditioner and leave in the hair for 10-20 min under heated dryer to restore moisture.

• Apply Level23 amethyst oil to scalp and massage for 2-3 minutes to stimulate blood circulation.

• And last, but not least, eat a healthy diet... healthy hair starts within you!

What are some products or hair-care regimes you do to get amazing hair? We would love to know in the comment section below!

Level23:

Tenease

Wesbite:https://level23salon.com/

Business: 443.257.5200

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/level23salon/

Elite Secrets:

Get to know us! Click here: https://youtu.be/DOsxLkbtbZk

Website:https://www.elitesecrets4you.com/

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/elitesecrets/

Twitter:https://twitter.com/ELITESECRETS4U

Business:410.782.5293

taking-hair-care-to

LIMELIGHT BY ALCONE: a brand review

Hello Brides & Brides-To-Be! Today I wanted to talk to you all about a brand that is a must-have to literally everyone - especially on your wedding day. No matter what the occasion is, what look you're going for, or what skin type you have, this brand is amazing. Seriously.

Limelight by Alcone is a cosmetic & skincare brand that ranges from luxurious cleansers to the softest eye shadow consistency you'll ever see. We're in love.

Here at Elite Secrets, we only use the best of the best on brides and models, and that's why we're going to give you the inside scoop on some of their best products to date. Get ready to take some notes, ladies. Because we are about to blow your mind.

01. Eyeshadows

You don't ever have to worry about losing pigment, creasing, muddy colors, or your eyeshadow applying patchy. All of the colors blend seamlessly, no matter what look you're going for. We love our brides to have options, and with Limelight By Alcone, the sky is the limit. These are definitely one of the best eyeshadow consistencies you'll ever try. Due to their convenient quads, they are perfect for the ladies on the go. 

02. Bronzer & Blush Duos

Due to their lightweight consistency, these powders glide on like a dream, and leave the skin effortlessly flushed and carved out, all the while remaining natural. What more could you ask for? No matter you're skin type or tone, these bronzers and blushes are going to work for you. The duos are seriously a miracle. And a must-try for everyone!

03. Aloe & Sunflower Cleanser

Perfect for mature or dry skin, this will cleanser will have your face feeling so fresh and moisturized after use. Apply with a damp face for the best results. Use in the morning and at night, or even before makeup application to clean any impurities from the day. The best part is after use, it doesn't leave your skin feeling tight or dehydrated, which other cleansers tend to do by stripping skin of natural oils. The aloe helps soothe dry and irritated skin, while also hydrating. We're definitely a big fan.

04. Foundations

Let's just start off by saying: these foundations are amazing. They're buildable, giving everyone their individual & ideal coverage. Whether you want a natural base to show off your stunning complexion or freckles, or you're more of a full-coverage kind of gal, the foundation works so well and stays on for hours. It blends seamlessly with both sponges and brushes.

Pro Tip: This doubles as a long-wearing concealer to cover any blemishes or dark circles!

05. Lip Products

Their range of lip products are fantastic for everyone, but brides specifically. Tonya, the CEO of Elite Secrets, uses them daily on her brides because they are rich with amazing color pay off, have a creamy consistency, and leave the lips feeling soft and moisturized. They're perfect for that first "I Do" kiss! 

Limelight By Alcone is an amazing company that Elite Secrets wholeheartedly stand behind. Not only are their products wonderful, but their message is just as amazing. On their website they state,

"At LimeLight, we empower people to achieve their goals and dreams and to inspire others to do the same. Our family-owned company was founded in 1952 to provide professional makeup to the stage and film industry. Now we are expanding our reach to help women everywhere look their best every day with our all natural skincare line and personalized makeup palettes."

And we love that no matter what, there's a product in their line for any and every bride. We know you will enjoy their products!

If you're interested in trying out their products, feel free to contact Tonya of Elite Secrets at:

Elite Secrets 

442.219.7049

or email at:  elitesecretsbridal@gmail.com

Please feel free to click here for more information!

Have you tried Limelight by Alcone? What are your thoughts about it? We would love to hear more of your thoughts in the comment section!

And as always, thanks for reading! -Kimberly Starr 

Bridal Boudoir

 

Hey brides and brides-to-be! There's a huge controversy about boudoir photos going around the internet. But let us say: we think they're beautiful & a new exciting twist for everyone & anyone's wedding day.

Okay, here us out. 

It's a great way for a bride to take classic and memorable photos, celebrate the workouts you've been doing to get ready for your day, and they can be tasteful & elegant. Plus they're a great little gift to give your groom on the Day Of...

We love the idea of celebrating strong females & making them feel the best in their own skin. And boudoir photos is just another medium to showcase your elegant, sophisticated, and jar dropping beauty.

Who doesn't love feeling confident & beautiful? 

So, naturally, it was the perfect choice to collaborate with Megapixels Media Photography. 

Tonya Turnage, the makeup artist & CEO of Elite Secrets picked the perfect look to pair on with the model Jaime.

If you're a bride taking boudoir photos, we suggest a timeless and elegant look for your photo shoot.

Interested in learning how Tonya got this look? Keep on reading!

A strong brow, sultry smokey eye to gives a level of sexy and flirty to any look. Try matte nude tones like pink & purple. This will give the look a slightly more inviting & sophisticated look. Complete with a nude lip and a natural-finish foundation that gives radiant skin to keep the look grounded and effortless.

This is look is easy and versatile, making it the perfect look for any and all brides!

Here's a little sneak peak of the products used:

What are your thoughts on bridal boudoir photos? Are they a hit or miss for you? We would love to know in the comment section!

And as always, thanks for reading! - Kimberly 

ELITE SECRETS

Click here for our website 

Call to book at: 443.219.7049

Or email us at: elitesecretsbridal@gmail.com

Instagram: @elitesecrets @elitesecretsbridal

MEGA PIXELS MEDIA PHOTOGRAPHY

Click here to view their site. (Hint Hint: You will find contact info there as well!)

Instagram: @megapixelsmedia

Custom Designer

KHEMISTRY 

Click here to go to the shop 

Instagram: @k_khemistry88

EASY TIPS & TRICKS FOR HEALTHY & RADIANT SKIN ON YOUR BIG DAY

Hello brides & brides-to-be! Elite Secrets is so excited for your upcoming wedding days, and we know how important picking the perfect look to match your wedding dress and theme is. And as the winter goes on, we are seeing more and more lovely couples getting engaged, picking wedding dates, and finalizing the last big To-Do’s for the wedding day.

So to kick off an amazing year filled with lots of decisions for your wedding day, we wanted to take one less stress off your list: skincare & how to keep your skin amazing for the best day.

We hope you are as excited as we are, ladies, because these tips are going to save you a lot of time & effort when it gets closer to your day. 

That's right, we're keeping it real with you all today, because no one has time for beauty disasters when there's a wedding day to celebrate. 

01. Don't put off your skincare routine until last minute.

We see it time and time again. And we get it, being a bride can be hectic at times. But the earlier you start to really take care of your skin, the better you will look on your wedding day! Try out products and find a morning & night routine that really works for you, and then stick to it! Our recommendations goes to http://www.limelightbyalcone.com/elitesecrets!

02. Don't forget to drink plenty of water. This will help your skin to stay hydrated at all times! 

03. Pay attention to how your body reacts to certain food groups.

For instance: dairy products my break you out. If so, consider cutting that specific group of products out of your diet, or maybe begin to have smaller portions less often. It'll help in the long run! Also, too much sugar can also be bad for your skin! We know, we know..we all need that chocolate fix from time to time.

04. Moisturize! 

It is a common misconception that if you're oily, you do not have to use a moisturizer. And that could be far from true. But not using a lightweight moisturizer in the AM/PM, you are causing your skin to then over-produce oil, which leads to clogged pores & breakouts. So whether you're oily, dry, or combination, find a specific moisturizer for your designated skin type and remember to use twice a day!

05. Don't forget the rest of your body

When we think about "skincare" we generally think of our faces. However, some of us suffer from rosacea, body acne, dry skin, etc. So be sure to visit a dermatologist at least 6 months before your wedding day to help you pick the right treatments for you, if need be.

06. If you're getting a spray tan, test out the color before the week of your wedding. 

This will allow you to pick the perfect color for your wedding day, and avoids any mishaps & disasters that may come along with being sprayed too dark and too orange a day before your wedding. This is a common mistake!

07. Use pimple treatments to help eliminate problem spots before your wedding

Mario Badescu has two spot-fighting products that work wonders, even after only one night. Try, "Drying Lotion" & "Buffering Lotion" together to get the best results. Also: try not to use anything too harsh on your skin the night before the wedding, as you may be left with a dry/flakey patch that will be difficult to apply makeup over.

08. Use SPF everyday

Even if it's cloudy in the middle of winter, everyone should use SPF skin & lip products on a daily basis!

09. Face masks are your friend. 

And don't worry oily girls, they're for everyone! You don't have to be dry to try face masks & overnight masks.

10. Clean your brushes regularly! 

We can't stress this enough, ladies. This is so essential!

11. Try a facial 

But don't try it too close to the big day! We suggest to not book a facial a week or two before your wedding day - and especially don't book facial extractions any time near, either. Completely off limits. We promise you'll thank us later.

12. If you're oily, there's still hope. Don't give up.

Make sure to use a gentle cleanser, exfoliate at least twice a week, a lightweight moisturizer, and don't wash your face too excessively, and you'll be good to go!

13. Don't skip over serums & face oils! These are inportant and as these are  what help your skin to stay radiant and youthful! You'd be surprised what a small drop of oil and serum can do to change your skin! 

14. Be consistent with your routine.

The more consistent you are with your routine, facials, masks, etc. the more benefits you will receive out of it all. Routine is key! Even if you have to set a daily reminder to get your skin care done, go ahead do it without shame. Because this will help you be that much more radiant & glowing on your big day.

15. When in doubt, always ask a professional.

It's better safe than sorry, especially when it comes to your skin. Find a professional or dermatologist in your area that specializes in what you're specifically looking for, and set up an appointment to learn all about your skin and how to take care of it properly.

Ladies, we know that if you follow these guidelines you are going to look nothing short of fabulous on your wedding day! Trust me, Elite Secrets cares about bride's looking their best. These tricks are tried & true, and are the most simple/inexpensive ways to get the most radiant complexion! We are so excited for you to try these out! You won't regret it, we promise. 

And as always, thanks for reading! 

Kimberly Starr 

BEAUTY & MAKEUP RESOLUTIONS EVERYONE SHOULD HAVE IN 2017

It's finally January 2017! And you know what that means: the festivities are somehow not over yet, everyone is promising to get healthier this year, and you are working long days to get towards your resolutions!

And while you're goal-setting and planning your next big move, we would like to give you some helpful tips we believe everyone should be following throughout the new year.

01. Take your makeup off before you get into bed.

It's a horrible habit to get into, and while the bed might seem super cozy after a long work day, it's going to be worth it in the long run to take your makeup off before going to sleep. By doing so, you are eliminating any more bacteria from getting on your face, all the while helping control break outs. If you don't take off your makeup in the evening, and have noticed that your skin is breaking out and looks dull, try using a makeup remover & cleanser to clean your face!

02. Drink more water!

There's a reason why this is a cliche.....

Hint hint: It's because water is actually not only amazing for our body, but also for our skin.

Drinking more water helps clear your skin of acne, keep it hydrated (which is important for those dry ladies out there!), and helps prolong elasticity.

03. Clean your brushes often & properly!

This one is huge, people. As makeup artists, we are expected to keep a sanitary & clean kit at all times. And while that is true, everyone should be keeping their brushes & makeup tools clean.

Think about it: Your taking products and smearing, smudging, & rubbing them on your face. Repeatedly. Your mixing bacteria and face oils in with your products, and letting it sit on your brushes and build up.

This could also be a reason why you may have acne-prone skin, if you don't clean your tools accordingly.

Elite Secrets recommends that the every day lady (who's not a makeup artist, of course) wash their brushes once a week. Of course, feel free to clean more often if you find it suitable. It's encouraged! But a good time frame to wait if you're just starting out would be every week or 2.

Pro Tip: While we are on the topic of cleaning, make sure you wash your hands before applying makeup. This will also help control bacteria and acne!

04. Know when to throw out products.

Did you know that makeup has expiration dates? Yup. Your products go bad after a certain time-frame. It's almost cringe-worthy to think about if you're one to splurge on products. So try to pay attention to the lifespan of products you may have!

05. Develop a personalized skincare routine!

It's 2017, people, and everyone should have their own skincare products they use daily and nightly! Especially if you want your makeup to look flawless!

Determine whether or not your skin type is oily, dry, or combination and develop a routine of products based upon your type. A cleanser, toner, and moisturizer are all necessities for your daily & nightly routines. We also suggest finding a serum & moisturizer to incorporate weekly.

What are some of your beauty resolutions for the new year? We would love to hear in the comment section!

And as always, thanks for reading! -Kimberly Starr 

ELITE SECRETS THANKS YOU FOR A VERY SPECIAL 2016!

On December 28th Elite Secrets had their last bride of 2016, which is a completely surreal feeling! On this date, we shared lots of laughs as Our team dolled up the bride and her stunning mother for the special day.

It was truly a memorable moment, and no one could  have asked for a better way to end a great year than doing what we all love: celebrating all things beautiful. 

2016 was a huge year, and 2017 is going to be even more extraordinary; we just know it!

Big plans are up ahead for Elite Secrets so make sure to book your appointments with us, as we are now accepting 2017 (and even 2018 brides) to reserve a spot for your trial.

Elite Secrets would like to take a moment to thank all of our 2016 brides, our blog readers, followers, and every bit of the wonderful people who have supported the small Baltimore business throughout the year. We are grateful for all the love & joy you each and every one of you bring!

We are looking to all that 2017 will bring, and we hope you are too! For new & exciting announcements, bridal photos, events, specials, & more please feel free to follow us on our social media to be the first to know what's going on in the new year.

Elite Secrets 

Latonya Turnage

525 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD

410.782.5293

Instagram

YouTube 

And as always, thanks for reading!

- Kimberly Starr 

ELITE SECRETS - BEAUTY SECRETS | the honeymoon edit

 

Honeymoons are a blissful time filled with love, relaxation, and memories... Not picking and choosing what products to use! With that being said, we wanted to give you the Ultimate Honeymoon Beauty Guide filled with quick, easy, and amazing products to not only help save you time in the mornings, but also ensure you will look your best.

1. Clinique's Dramatically Different Moisturizer - lightweight moisturizer that leaves your skin feeling hydrated, replenished, and radiant
2. It Cosmetic's CC Cream - We always suggest bb creams or tinted moisturizers to bride's on their  honeymoon. This CC Cream is  perfect for a light weight, beautiful coverage while also giving you an SPF of 50. You can sit back and enjoy your amazing adventures with one less thing to worry about: sun burn!
3. Limelight By Alcone Bronzer - This will give you the most glowing sun kissed finish to any look. You'll be looking like a goddess in no time.
4. Loreal Waterproof Mascara - From taking dips in the hot tub, to the occasional laugh-cry (we've all been there), a waterproof mascara ensures that your voluminous lashes are going to stay put all day hassle-free.
5. Smashbox Waterpoof Kohl Eyeliner - A smooth, long wearing consistency is the perfect pair with your mascara. Whether you opt for a soft brown or a dramatic black, your eyes will look fantastic tight-lined in Smashbox eyeliners.
6. Limelight By Alcone Lipgloss - A smooth, lightweight constancy is perfect for an easy look. Try a nude or a rosey tone to give you the perfect flush of color without the maintenance of a  lipstick.
7. Smashbox Primer Water - This product is absolutely perfect at setting your look and keeping it in place, no matter the climate or itinerary. A definite must have for every bride's honeymoon!
8. Fresh Sugar Lip Balm - With additional SPF, you can't go wrong with fresh's tinted lip balms. With an array of colors, they are sure to have the perfect shade for you.
9. Neutrogena Face Wash - At the end of the day, you can take your makeup off in no time with these wipes. They're holy grail.
10. Limelight by Alcone Cleanser - We absolutely adore all of their skin products, but while traveling, a cleanser is a must-have item for your morning/night routine.

We hope this helps all our brides/brides to-be as you embark on a new journey! We would love to hear if you have any staple products you'll be bringing on your honeymoon. And don't forget to follow us on social media for more products suggestions and bridal tips & tricks! 

Latonya Turnage 

Elite Secrets 

525 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD, United States

410.782.5293

elitescrets@hotmail.com

And as always, thanks for reading! 

-Kimberly Starr 

Elite Secret's BRIDAL TRIAL QUESTIONNAIRE WORKSHEET

coffee-001

We are so excited to release our new interactive worksheet for all those beautiful new brides out there! At Elite Secrets, we are all about assisting our clients and making your day all about you. So we wanted to create something interactive, useful, & easily accessible to help your Bridal Trial day run smoothly!

And if you haven't checked our new video all about Bridal Trials and questions you should be asking, feel free to check it out on our YouTube channel & don't forget to subscribe for more useful tips for your special day!

We are so excited to see how you use our worksheets, so feel free to post your own Bridal Trials Notes by Elite Secrets and tag us on instagram!

shop-3-001

shop-3-002

Stay glam, ladies! -Kimberly Starr

ELITE SECRETS

Studio Location: 525 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD

Website: https://www.elitesecrets4you.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elitesecrets/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/pub/latonya-... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elitescrets Twitter: https://twitter.com/ELITESECRETS4U

Business: 410.782.5293 Email: elitescrets@hotmail.com Reviews: https://www.weddingwire.com/reviews/el...

ELITE SECRETS: Event Announcement + Questions Every Bride Should Be Asking During Bridal Trials!

At Elite Secrets, we know that those months following up to your special day can be stressful. You’re basically running around, trying to accomplish everything at once, bridesmaid fabrics and slices of cake are being tossed at you in every direction, and venue shopping can be tricky. So we want to make sure that choosing the makeup artist for your wedding is stress free, straightforward, and fun! We’ve compiled a list of tips and tricks to help you get the best experience from your Bridal Trial, know what to look for, what to ask, and what to generally expect out of your bridal trial.

We cover everything from long-lasting foundation tips, to general pricrd and how to avoid hidden fees, and tips on which questions to ask your makeup artist ahead of time! Be sure to click here to watch our new Bridal Trial video on our YouTube Channel so you can get all the amazing tips. Brides, grab your notebooks. Because we are going to be giving you some must-have tips to surviving your trials!

And speaking of Bridal Trials, we are hosting our own Bridal Trial Mania January 14-16th and we’re cutting our rates in half because we are all about saving you money. You can stop by, get your hair and makeup done by the wonderful Latonya Turnage & Level 23, meet other amazing brides, and have some fun! Who said makeup trials have to be stressful?

Not us!

So be sure to email or call and inquire about our Bridal Trial Mania event so you can reserve a spot, seats are filling up quick! We are looking forward to seeing you there!

ELITE SECRETS

Studio Location: 525 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD

Website: https://www.elitesecrets4you.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elitesecrets/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/pub/latonya-... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elitescrets Twitter: https://twitter.com/ELITESECRETS4U

Business: 410.782.5293 Email: elitescrets@hotmail.com Reviews: https://www.weddingwire.com/reviews/el...

Level 23 

Tenease Flowers

443-257-5200

Going pro hair and makeup...

Regular makeup you apply yourself is hard to see on camera. Having a professional use top-of-the-line pigmented makeup allows the camera to capture your beautiful self. The pro will know how to apply and how much to apply for a flawless more natural finish. Also, the pro will have the ability to enhance the natural facial features while covering problem areas on the the skin. Lastly, a pro will best apply the makeup, not to cause discoloration or makeup lines

Hiring a professional hair stylist is also crucial for your special event. Professional hair and makeup go hand and hand, like peanut butter and jelly. With a professional hair stylist, you don't have to worry about having a bad hair day! No matter the weather, a pro can make your hair perfect! Even, better a pro can tailor your look perfect for your event, facial shape, and desired look.

Having a pro create and execute the perfect makeup and hair look is what Elite Secrets Beauty Studio offers. From the formal event, wedding party, to a casual date night, you will walk away feeling pampered and dolled up in every way! Elite Secrets provides the glam for ALL OCCASIONS! Call today for an appointment 410.782.5293 or email at elitesecretsbridal@gmail.com. Special packages available on 12/17, 1/14, 1/15. and 1/16.

Vintage classic look! Call the studio today to schedule your beauty session, 410.782.5293.

Happy 4th of July weekend! From Team Elite Secrets! Get your custom Khemistry coverup and flawless face today contact 410.782.5293!