Under normal circumstances, a comment like that wouldn’t necessarily be welcomed!  Now that I have figured out how to get that sultry, voluminous, highly sought after “come hither” hair bump, a comment like that would be considered, well… a compliment!

The perfect hair bump is all about having the right tools, and ladies; I’m not taking about faking it with the infamous “bumpit!” I’m talking about Ed Hardy’s new line of vintage teasing brushes, that not only work wonders, their super stylish designs showcase Ed Hardy’s gorgeous vintage artwork (bonus!). Who said that you can’t have both functionality and beauty in a styling tool?

I’ve used the “Rose Teasing Brush” and the “True To My Love Teasing Comb” to achieve that sexy Bridget Bardot inspired look. These products work with all hair types, are heat resistant and are so easy to use. Plus, they’re just so pretty to look at!

$10

$7

Happy teasing!

Ed Hardy’s Vintage Brushes can be purchased in Ulta Stores nationwide and online at www.ulta.com

Blog Post by Aimee Carroll, resident Girl Tested, Bride Approved Columnist.

Photos courtesy of Ed Hardy.

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Plan your dream wedding with no limitations? Then fly away on your private jet to some exotic honeymoon destination?

For me, I would be pretty reasonable: I would buy a house, take care of my family and build a savings. However, there is one excessive luxury I would indulge in… I would hire a hair stylist to blow out my hair every morning.

I absolutely love getting my blown out and styled. For the life of me, I have never been able to do it like my stylist does… ugh! I’ve tried on several occasions to at least just blow out my hair, but my arms get tired, my makeup starts to melt off from the heat, and I get cranky. Even if I do make it through the sore limbs and sweat, it looks like, well… poop (I would have put another word here, but this is mostly a G-rated blog, but you know what I mean)!

I have just never been good at hair. Every morning, I simply throw it in a messy pony and call it a day. I recently came across an amazing product that’s starting to change that for me. Blow Out Spray is actually making me good at hair!

The talented experts at Blow, a blow dry bar in New York City, created Blow Out Spray. They have created a hair spray designed specifically for blown-out hair. It’s made with a soy and silk protein blend, which keeps your hair in place without being crunchy or sticky.

I tested out this product with damp hair. I flipped my head over and sprayed Blow in sections through my hair. Then I dried it! That was it! I was amazed with the results.

My hair dried silky smooth, soft and weightless. That was something I was never able to pull off with conventional hair spray, my hair always felt heavy and hard.

Using Blow Spray makes achieving that bouncy “runway-ready” look so incredibly easy… even for me (someone who sucks at hair).

Ok, so I don’t need to win the lottery for perfect, blown-out hair. But, if I did, I would buy a bottle for all of our Real Weddings Magazine brides out there!

Blow spray is available at your local Ulta and other fine salons across the country for $19.75.

Check out www.BlowNY.com for more details.

Blog Post by Aimee Carroll, resident Girl Tested, Bride Approved Columnist.

Photos courtesy of www.blowny.com

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I have always been a huge believer in taking baths to relieve stress. And, let’s face it, planning a wedding can be really stressful!

When I was a bride-to-be, I had to make bath time a little extra special to alleviate the additional anxieties that come along with the wedding planning process.

Thymes makes a fantastic foaming bath and lotion called, “Ambersweet Orange” that gave just a little needed pampering as I prepared to become a Mrs. The delightfully yummy aroma is a blend of orange blossom, almond milk, vanilla and nutmeg.

The bottle states that the scent promotes an overall well-being, which I totally believe as I felt my inner bridezilla soak away and a more calm, cool, collected bride took her place.

With its key ingredients including hydrating honey and healing yogurt, adding Thymes Ambersweet Orange to your bath water creates a creamy, milky consistency and makes your skin feel amazingly nourished and soft. Plus, applying the Ambersweet Orange lotion after your soak, but while you’re still a tiny bit damp keeps you feeling velvety smooth all day.

Dim the lights, burn a candle, relax and let your mind take you to a happy place. A place that reminds you to enjoy the wedding planning process and to take in every sweet little moment with your husband-to-be!

Check out Thymes’s complete product line at www.thymes.com. Or you find their products locally at the gift shops at Red Hawk Casino and Thunder Valley Casino, or use the handy dandy store locator on Thymes’s Web site.

Blog Post by Aimee Carroll, resident Girl Tested, Bride Approved Columnist.

Photo courtesy of Thymes.

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Celebrity Make-up artist Laura Geller recently returned to QVC for her signature Laura Geller Makeup Studio launching two new products for the channel, including the Soft Touch Bronzer with Brush and Lash Spackle. We recently caught up with her to get a few make-up tips and ideas for the summer season:

DE:  How can we get a natural-looking, sun-kissed glow without spending hours in the damaging sun?

LG:  Body and face bronzers that are available are my preference over self tanners. Laura Geller Studio has a few great options including Baked Body Frosting Moisturizing Powder. This could be applied dry for a slight bronzed hue, or applied wet, it transforms into a much more golden color to the body and creates a satiny look. I wanted it to be portable so it can provide instant results wherever you are, so it’s not a liquid, it’s easy to apply, it won’t appear orange and it doesn’t streak. Also, brand new and currently exclusive to QVC is my Soft Touch Air Whipped Bronzer. This is the quickest way to transform milky white skin naturally, as it warms with the heat of your body. It also has no shimmer or sparkle, so it provides more of a matte finish to the bronzed look.

DE:  What are some of the make-up trends we’ll see this summer for both daytime and evening looks?

LG: You’re going to see a lot of peach and coral colors and bronzing is back stronger than ever. There was a time when milky white skin was in, but this year, bronze is really strong so you’re going to see colors that exemplify the summer look – peach, coral, bronze. LASHES are being played up as well, but in a very soft and natural way. The look is not the heavily made-up look, it’s the easy, natural summer beauty look.

Want more? Tune in to QVC to get more great tips and see great products!

Blog Post by Always a Bridesmaid Columnist Darren Elms.

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This sensitivity has also make it difficult to find a moisturizer that doesn’t cause a flare up. Then I found this little bottle of magic from Dr. Denese of New York called HydroShield Ultra Moisturizing Face Serum.

Dr. Adrienne Denese is a medial doctor who specializes in anti-aging science, one of the few female scientists working in this field. She and her products have been featured on Good Morning America and just about every beauty or fashion magazine on the newsstand. Why? Because her stuff really works. Let me be the first to say I’ve finally found a product that really works on my skin type. I can’t wait to sample some of her other anti-aging remedies.

Let’s talk about the serum:

What is it?
A supercharged hydrating serum that locks in moisture to drastically reduce the look of dry lines and wrinkles. It intensely moisturizes skin for a soft, supple, luminous, more youthful look.

Who is it for?
Suitable for any skin types from dry to normal. If your skin is oily, place it only around the eyes and neck and on dry patches–not on the oily T-zone. Hydroshield is remarkably effective for skins with dry lines and wrinkles, as it locks in hydration to recreate the youthful look you once had.

Why is it different?
Hydroshield is based on Dr. Denese’s unique and proprietary HydroShield technology, founded on years of medical research. Loaded with ceramides, soy, vitamin E, retinol, linoleic acids, EFA, and glycolipids, it supports the skin lipid barrier, often undermined by cold weather, air conditioning, dry heat, dry climates, and other environmental stressors. Moisture is locked in, helping to remarkably improve the appearance of dry lines and wrinkles.

Dr. Denese’s HydroShield Ultra Moisturizing Face Serum and complete line can be purchased on QVC, or her Web site.

Blog Post by Always a Bridesmaid Columnist Darren Elms.

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There is nothing like having your own personal hair and make-up team (just ask our cover model finalists!), and for your wedding day, we think it’s one of the essentials so that you can picture perfect.

We recently asked hair and make-up pro Raquel Siders from Image Provocateur and VIP-Cat Make-up Academy (she was on the hair and make-up team for this issue’s Real Weddings Magazine cover model winner Kimmi — pictures featured here),to offer up some advice on finding the right make-up artist for your big day! Here’s her advice:

“If you are planning on hiring a professional make-up artist on your wedding day, find an artist you are comfortable with, one who listens to your needs and one who offers constructive advice. Look at portfolios if available and do a trial run so you can see how you will look on your wedding day.

At the time of the trial run try and have your hair done in the way you’ll be wearing it on your wedding day as different hairstyles influence the way your make-up should be done.

When you decide on the lipstick, lip pencil and perhaps gloss and powder you will be wearing the day of your wedding, ask the make-up artist if it is possible to purchase those particular products for the day of your wedding as touch ups in those particular areas will be required.

If you have a particular color you want to wear on your lips, bring it to the trial run and see if it works with the overall look.

Some make-up artists will ask the bride and the bridal party to bring their own mascara. This is for sanitary reasons only! It is always a good idea to take this precaution.

Make sure when doing your trial run to view make-up in different lights if that is possible because on your wedding day, you’ll be having photos taken in multiple areas. It is ideal to apply make-up in a room with natural light.

And finally, if you feel comfortable with your make-up at the end of your trial run, you should try to book the artist immediately because if you are marrying during a busy season your make-up artist probably won’t be able to hold the date without a commitment.”

Thanks Raquel!

Stay tuned to Real Weddings Magazine for more guest bloggers with expert tips!

For more information on Raquel and her team at Image Provocateur and VIP-Cat Make-up Academy, visit their Blog, Web site or call them at 916-474-5578.

Real Weddings Magazine Winter/Spring 2010 Cover Model Finalist photo shoot photography by Jodi Yorston Photography. For additional credits on dresses and flowers, please see page 60.

Blog Post by Always a Bridesmaid Columnist Darren Elms.

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Spring and summer brides often look to bronzers and tinted moisturizers to get that sun-kissed appearance for warmer weather weddings. But, what about grooms who want a healthy glow in that aisle spotlight?

Kiehl’s, the venerable New York-based purveyor of fine quality skin and hair care preparations, just introduced a new addition to their Facial Fuel Men’s line with a dose of color.

Facial Fuel Healthy Bronze is a non-oily, caffeine-packed daily moisturizer that offers the same tried-and-true hydrating benefits of customer favorite Facial Fuel Energizing Moisturizer, but in a gel texture, with the added benefit of a gradual, natural looking tan, that complements natural skin tone.

Answering the customer demand for a streak-free formulation with an appealing fragrance, Kiehl’s chemists developed a paraben-free moisturizer that awakens and uplifts dull and fatigued skin while providing a naturally subtle, healthy-looking tan effect yet with a light, refreshing scent.

This “facial recovery accelerator” is formulated with reduced levels of self-tanner so that it may be used daily for an invigorated and natural appearance.

Featuring ginkgo biloba to help give skin a fresh appearance and activate circulation, caffeine to stimulate “tired-looking” skin, menthol known to act as a natural cooling agent, and the natural moisturizer vitamin E, known for its antioxidant and moisturizing properties, these potent ingredients work together to impart a healthy, even skin tone and texture.

Have your groom give it a try! It’s available at Nordstrom at 1651 Arden Way in Sacramento. 916-646-2400 or kiehls.com.

Blog Post by Always a Bridesmaid Columnist Darren Elms.

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How many beauty lines can you name off the top of your head that have been in business for a century or more? Chances are that list is pretty slim.

Created by a woman, Frownies, a leader in all-natural skin care, has been marketed by the Wright family all these years. The packaging may have changed, but the fantastic formula hasn’t.

Margaret Kroesen’s simply recipe for unsightly wrinkles has expanded to include anti-aging products for other parts of the face. Over time the repetitive motions of smiling and frowning create damage to the skin, which slows down the production of elastin and collagen.

In order to fight the effects of time, Frownies between the eye and forehead patches hold the muscles in the face while they relax and heal overnight. Users notice immediate benefits and tout lasting results with continual use.

The Under Eye Gels are an all-natural treatment, something different and more beneficial for skin than the chemical and preservative laden products on the market. These work to brighten the surface of skin by penetrating deep and building collagen.

Immune Perfect is an example of when nature meets science. It is a biologically active treatment that works on dry or oily skin to balance the ph level as well as the hydration and lipid layer. It leaves skin healthier both on the cellular and topical levels.

From the young Rashida Jones to the elegant Renee Russo, celebrities have tried and loved Frownies products. For a long time they were a best-kept secret of Hollywood and Broadway, but are now on their way to becoming a household name. They were ranked the easiest wrinkle reducer by Good Housekeeping Magazine and have been featured in O Magazine and Ladies Home Journal.

Kathy Wright is the fourth generation Wright woman and newest CEO of the company. She has been busy adding to its fine reputation through the release of her first book Your Health in Your Hands coming out February 1. Her belief is “wellness brings beauty from the inside out and topical products are just an adjunct to caring for the body.”

Frownies products are available to brides at the following local retailers:

Spa for the Soul: 10940 Fair Oaks Blvd., Suite 600 in Fair Oaks. 916-536-1917

Planet Beauty: 1151 Galleria Blvd., Unit 241 in Roseville

Electrology & Esthetics: 2500 Marconi Ave., Suite 207 in Sacramento. 916-483-3193.

Grace Esthetics:  1127 24th Street in Sacramento. 916-446-8939

Or, visit them online.

Blog Post by Always a Bridesmaid Columnist Darren Elms.

Photos courtesy of Frownies.

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Recently wed Christina Hendricks from TV’s Mad Men lit up the stage at Sunday’s Golden Globe Ceremony.  If you were inspired by her luminous look, here’s the beauty secret to her success straight from her make-up artist.

Inspiration:

“Effortless and chic: sheer satin eyes, pink milkmaid cheeks and a siren mouth. Christina’s dress has a sexy, yet soft look. We mirrored this with her make up. I love the contrast of the angelic, innocent face with the sexy edge of a strong mouth.”

How To:

PREPARE:  I used shu uemura’s new Depsea Hydrability Moisture Cream.  This cream seriously hydrates, yet disappears into the skin leaving the skin feeling fresh and smooth.

UNDEREYE:  Lancôme’s Effacernes in Porcelain.

FOUNDATION:  Applied minimal foundation, because Christina has nearly flawless skin.  I used shu uemura’s Nobara Cream Cover Stick foundation.

BLUSH:  I used shu uemura’s brand new Satin Radiant Stick Blush on the apples of the cheeks. 

HIGHLIGHTER/EYESHADOW:  I used Satin Radiant Stick in Highlight all over the eye (from lash line to brow) then swept it down to highlight the very peak of the cheekbones.

EYE LINER:  To define and elongate the lashline, I used shu uemura’s Drawing Pencil in Black.  Also, to open up the eye, I lined the inside rim of the eye with shu uemura’s Eye Light White.

LASHES:  For luxurious lashes we added shu uemura’s Flare eyelashes in Black and finished with a coat of Ultimate Expression Mascara.

LIPS: I used shu uemura’s Rouge Unlimited #134

shu uemura Products Used:

Depsea Hydrabilty Moisturizing Cream (NEW!)

Where To Buy: http://www.shuuemura-usa.com/_us/_en/skincare/moisturizer/depsea-hydrability-moisturizing-gel-cream.htm

Satin Radiant Highlight Stick –from Égérie, our Spring 2010 color collection that just went up online! (NEW!)

Where To Buy: http://www.shuuemura-usa.com/_us/_en/makeup/blush/satin-radiant-stick.htm

Nobara Cover Cream Stick Foundation

Where to Buy: http://www.shuuemura-usa.com/_us/_en/makeup/foundation/nobara-cream-cover-stick-foundation.htm                                      

Drawing Pencil in Black

Where to Buy: http://www.shuuemura-usa.com/_us/_en/makeup/eye-liner/drawing-pencil.htm   

Eye Light Pencil White

Where to Buy: http://www.shuuemura-usa.com/_us/_en/makeup/eye-liner/eye-light-pencil-white.htm

Flare False Eye Lashes

Where to Buy: http://www.shuuemura-usa.com/_us/_en/accessories/false-eyelashes/accent/flare-eyelashes-black.htm

Ultimate Expression Mascara

Where to Buy:  http://www.shuuemura-usa.com/_us/_en/makeup/mascara/ultimate-expression-mascara.htm

Rouge Unlimited Lipstick in #134

Where to Buy: http://www.shuuemura-usa.com/_us/_en/makeup/lipstick/rouge-unlimited.htm

Blog Post by Always a Bridesmaid Columnist Darren Elms.

Photo by JustJared.com.

Looking for local Sacramento wedding vendors?

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The always cute and creative bath and beauty line has four gift ideas that are sure to put a smile on your bride’s face this holiday season:

The Bride – Falling in Love Shower Set – $40
This sweet shower gel and spray will have you falling head over heels.

The Bride – Skincare Set – $48 (pictured at the top of this blog)
The beautiful box holds five pieces in three of philosophy’s best selling products – grace, hope and purity.

Tying The Knot – $100 (not pictured)
This nine piece set includes everything a bride would need for her big day, including hope in a jar, purity made simple and amazing grace eau de toilette.

The Wedding Party – $30
A delightful trio of shower gels in appropriately named wedding cake, bridal bouquet and bubbly.
Find philosophy products at Sephora at Arden Fair Mall, 1689 Arden Way in Sacramento; or Sephora at Westfield Galleria at Roseville, 1151 Galleria Boulevard in Roseville.

Or, check out philosophy’s Web site: http://www.philosophy.com/.

Blog Post by Always a Bridesmaid Columnist Darren Elms.

Photos courtesy of philosophy.

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Looking for local Sacramento wedding vendors?

Build your dream team at Real Weddings Magazine’s Resource Guide. Click here to get started!