Etsy, Etsy, Etsy!!!

I am sure many of you have heard of Etsy by now. However, I was surprise that there are a lot of friends I talked to whom still have no clue what it is. Etsy is kind of like Ebay and Amazon except most if not all of the goods are handmade by Artisans. I didn't start shopping on from Etsy until last year when I started planning my wedding and now I am hook. I love it as you can really find some unique pieces and all the sellers I came across have been wonderful. I also like spending my money and support the small business folks :)

I ordered my wedding invitation from Appleberryink, Teresa was such a wonderful lady to work it, I highly recommend giving her shop a try if you are getting marry.  I also bought this gorgeous hair piece for my wedding on Etsy.

My latest handmade jewelry purchase from etsy is this very cute and dainty earrings from Julie's Adorable Bowls.

Also some sample eye shadows from Willow Tree Minerals.

That is all for now folks. Until next time...

TOTD: How to avoid white cast in photo?

I do love Casper, he's just adorable...but, I don't necessarily want to look like him.

It’s summer and there will be many outdoor events, including outdoor wedding. So, how do you stay protected while still looking your best in photo? I have heard the recommendation to forgo sunblock so many times because it will give a white cast on photo. Well, I just want to confirm that this only true if you wear physical sunscreen that contains zinc oxide and titanium oxide. However, if you wear chemical sunscreen, you are safe from the white cast. So, stay protected and still look beautiful!

Tips for Engagement Session

I love engagement session; I had a lot of fun doing mine. It is informal, fun, and a time when you get to use your creativity. Having been there, done that, the best advice I can give is to know what you want, pick a theme. Do you want it to be a laid back time at the beach, cool hip urban, or outdoor adventure, etc.? How you want your pictures to look will determine what you wear and how you do your makeup and hair. It seems simple but sometime you just forget and don’t think about it. Another thing is, bring an extra spare outfit and touch up makeup. Also, have a back up plan for inclement weather.

I meant to share some of my pictures to show how a great photographer can capture insane lighting but I never get around to it. Now that I tried to upload them, I think the file is too large for blogger or something, I keep getting error messages. So this is the only picture that came through =( I tried. This was taken in the beautiful city of San Francisco.

I was bless to book with Sam Hassas as my wedding photographer. I think he's one of the best from West Coast. Beside his amazing talent and vision, he is also a total sweetheart to work with. If you are camera shy, don't worry, he'll make you feel comfortable. So, if you are in the Bay Area, you are in luck. He also does destination, like with mine. No, I am not getting pay to say this, he doesn't even know I have a blog. This rave is just pure love for Sam :)

Review Skindinavia Bridal Makeup Finish

Skindinavia Bridal Makeup Finish is a makeup finishing spray that promises to extends makeup wear and controls shine. Its technology keeps surface temperature cool to avoid melting and sliding. Sounds pretty high tech, right?

Price: $19 for 2oz and $29 for 4oz.

Pros: It is very lightweight and non sticky; it does not feel like you are wearing anything. It is also great at getting rid of the powdery finish and leave skin with a soft dewy finish (not oily). I can really see mineral powder user loving this! Even though skin is dewy, I don’t need to blot my Tzone throughout the day, whereas, I would normally blot once a day if I did not use this makeup spray.

Since I have dry skin, sometime foundation can become flaky after a few hours and this makeup spray either eliminate or prolong that from happening. It also helps makeup stay in place, prevent from settling into fine lines (laugh lines for me) and looking fresh all day.

Cons: The packaging could be better because I wish it let out a fine mist. Sometime it squirts so I have to be careful or else I’ll have too much product in one area. I just take a tissue and quickly, gently blot the excess.

Overall: I have to admit I am not a slave when it comes to primer. I have tried a handful and I can’t clearly tell if it makes a different in my makeup application. However, with this, I can see the benefits. Those with large pores will still need to still a primer to fill in pores but don’t hold that against it because it does not claim to do that. Also, I love the dewy finish, but it may not be it for everyone. Rest assures, there is also a “no shine” version.

Disclosure: The product(s) being review was purchased by me for personal use or review purpose.

D.I.Y. Bridal Makeup Tutorial

Photo Credit: Brides.com

I have been writing a series of posts about wedding day skincare and it would not be complete without a post about makeup. I save the best for last  Are there any soon to be bride planning on doing your own makeup? It could be because the economy is tough right now or just because you want to do it yourself. It’s funny how we said men don’t notice these things but my fiancé actually requested that I do my own makeup. I am flatter that he thinks I have skill. Still, I am nervous but I think I can pull it off. So, I am no professional but this is from my experience and how I would go about it. Hope you will find it helpful.

Hopefully you have been diligent with your skincare routine and everything is in top shape. If not, it is okay, that is what good concealer is for.

1. Always start your makeup with a fresh, clean face. You can spray a moisturizing and soothing toner after you cleansed your face.

2. Use a moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin type. For flash photography, avoid using product with sunscreen as it can give your face a white cast.
(In my experience, I only get a white cast from physical sunscreen so you may be safe with a low spf level of chemical sunscreen. However, don’t just take my words for it as we all use different products. Always do one or two trial run, take some pictures and see if you like the result)

3. Apply a primer of choice. There are many different types, such as, for moisturizer, oil control, pore minimizer, skin tone corrector. Make Up Forever has color primer intend to correct skin tone. Pink and mauve are for brightening and green is for neutralizing redness.

4. Wait a few minutes for primer to absorb then apply your favorite foundation. Personally, for special occasion, I prefer liquid and cream foundation over powder as it provides better coverage.

5. Spot conceal where necessary. For concealing under eye areas, I have done reviews on Bobbi Brown Corrector and Benefit Erase Paste.

6. Set your foundation with a setting powder.

7. This step is optional – apply your bronzer. Do not go too dark or it will look unnatural. Just apply it anywhere the sun would hit your face, like your cheeks, temple, bridge of nose, and don’t forget your neck. Blend, blend, and blend.

8. Even if you wear a bronzer, you should still wear some blush on the apple of your cheeks because it will look more natural and flattering. The trick to make your blush long lasting is by layering. First apply a layer of cream blush and I like doing this using a skunk brush. Then apply another layer of matching color powder blush on top to set.

9. As always, don’t forget your brows. You can read my tutorial on how to draw your eyebrows.

10. Follow with your eye makeup. I will hold off on this as eye makeup should be another tutorial on it own. Beside, there are so many different looks and variations.

11. In between step 2 and 3, you should apply a moisturizing lip treatment. By the time you are done with your makeup, you would have enough time for it to absorb. Blot any excess off with a tissue. If you like to neutralize your lips, you can pat on some concealer. By doing this, it also help your lipstick last longer.

12. Line your lips and apply a matching lipstick using a lip brush. I find that when apply with a brush, my lipstick last longer as well. Blot your lips on a tissue and add another layer with a lip brush. Apply a little bit of gloss only on the middle of your bottom lip for a pouty look.

13. For extra protection, you can set your makeup with a finishing spray. You can use MAC Fix+ or Skindinavian (they have a variety of spray depending on skin type and purpose)

Voila you’re done!

This concludes my bridal series. It was a lot of writing so I hope you guys enjoy it and find it helpful. If you yourself have any tips, please share with us!

Related Posts:
How to Prep Your Skin For the Big Day
Do and Don't for Healthy Skin
Recommended Read: Makeup Makeovers for Wedding

Recommended Read: Makeup Makeovers: Weddings by Robert Jones

This is one of my favorite books on makeup. It is one of those books that don’t just sit there on your shelf and collects dust after you are done reading it the first time. From time to time, I still enjoy just flipping through the pages as this book is filled with inspirational makeovers. The great thing is that all the looks in this book is suitable for other occasion as well.

I am not sure how those who are very beginner with makeup will like this. Even though there are tips and how to section, this is not a book that is focus on “how-to” for beginner and there is also no product recommendation. Though since new products come out everyday and old one get discontinued, product recommendation is not necessary for me because I feel that it will soon be outdated in a few years anyway.

I couldn’t find this in my local library or bookstore. Though, it is available online at Amazon.com. Check it out!

How to Prep Your Skin Before the Big Day

Hi everyone. Hope you guys are having a great long weekend. Today post is a continuation of my series of special posts written specifically for brides. It is no brainer that we all want to look our best on our wedding day. As the days are fast approaching for me, I thought I share with you a mini series on bridal skincare and makeup. But really, this applies to anyone who is seeking healthy skin and flawless makeup. Beautiful skin makes a beautiful canvas for makeup. Depending on the condition of your skin, it may take work to get that gorgeous glow.

6 months before or longer: If you don’t have one already, you should develop a daily skincare routine, consist of at the minimum: cleanse, moisturizer with spf 30 or higher in the morning, and a night moisturizer. However, this is very basic and may not be enough to give you that glow unless you are blessed with good genes. You can add toner, serum, and a weekly exfoliation and mask that is appropriate for you skin type. Many argue that toner is unnecessary but I find that it adds a layer of moisture and it also preps your skin for other treatment. You can read on more tips and the sequence to use these products in this article.

I know that many of you will also be tempt to get a nice tan. Do so without actually sunbathing outside or in a tanning bed. Not only does the harmful UV ray cause wrinkles, you also don’t want to develop any hyper pigmentation problem. Read here for more do and don’t for maintaining healthy skin.

Two Weeks Before: Two weeks leading up to the day, do NOT use any new skincare or makeup product. The last thing you want is panicking over an allergic reaction that can take days to heal. Allergic reaction flares up are normally a lot worse than the occasional zits here and there; they can be rashes all over the face. So make sure you test whatever product(s) you want to use way in advance. If you do get irritation, try rubbing your skin with Aloe Vera as it sooth inflammation. You can also try Pangea Japanese Matcha Green Tea with Acai and Goji Berry mask, which works wonder for my delicate sensitive skin.

The Night Before/Day of: Get plenty of sleep. If you eyes are puffy, cut two cucumber slices and put them over your eyes for 5 minutes. If you have time that morning, if not the night before, apply your favorite moisturizing mask (make sure it is one you tried before and have no allergic reaction to). The boost in hydration will help your makeup go on more smoothly and blend easier.

Most importantly of all, don’t sweat the little things. There is no do over so just enjoy your special day and dance till your feet hurt.

Image credit: Marie Claire

Washington DC Wedding Reception Venues Part II

Yikes, it took me so long to write a Part II of this review, sorry. You can check out Part I here. Okay, let’s get down to business.

Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington DC

When I first saw this hotel from the outside, I was not that impress, I did not see anything unique or spectacular. My first impression began to change as I stepped inside the lobby and began our tour. This hotel has a lot of history to it. It used to holds many presidential inauguration balls. Also celebrities like the Beatles also stayed and performed here. Recently this year, one of the Raven’s player had a wedding here (don’t know his name as I don’t really follow football).

However, what really stole my heart is the Omni’s beautiful garden and patio. It has an old world charm feel which I love and is very spacious especially considering it is located in the city. The hotel is also located in this older yet very charming neighborhood. The hotel event coordinator, William Grace, is also a joy to work with. I don’t have any negative remark about this place thus far. (Finger crossed)

Meadow Lark in downtown Vienna
For some reason, when you talk about a picture perfect wedding, I always envision a garden wedding. And like real estate, this beautiful garden also offers location, location, location (for folks in northern VA at least)! The garden is beautifully filled with many different types of flowers all spring and summer long. It also has ponds, gazebo, path ways…very romantic. There is no need to worry about inclement weather because this garden has a beautiful atrium with flowers and small streams or ponds inside as part of the décor. The only down side that I can think of is that there can be a lot of geese droppings along the walking path. Wouldn’t want to stain that beautiful white dress :)

National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington DC

There is just something very chic and glamorous about being married in a museum. Kind of like Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City the Movie, except her was in a library but close enough. The marble floor, stairs, and architecture of what would be your reception area is just gorgeous and glam. Of course the price tag is going to be more expensive and you will need to bring in outside catering services, including valet parking service.

Natural Remedy for Hair Loss Treatment

My hair has always shed more than I like it to especially, the last few years. I am not sure what the cause is since I do not color my hair or excessively use hot styling tools. I have been taking vitamins which does make a noticeably difference but I still like to see better result. As we all know, currently there is no sure way in preventing hair loss.

A dear friend of mine have been applying fresh Aloe Vera gel to her scalp and hair the past couple months, with positive result. I saw her last week and her hair was definitely fuller and softer. Lucky for me, I have a big old tree at home. Here is my baby, he is huge.



I did some research and indeed, the Native Americans have used this method for centuries. Aloe Vera has enzyme and anti-inflammation properties that help heal and balance the pH level of the scalp while cleansing the pores. The easiest way to reap the benefit is to cut a fresh leave and apply the gel to your scalp and hair, leave it for 30 minutes and shampoo as usual. If you don’t have your own plant handy, you can also purchase Aloe Vera gel from the store, just make sure it is 100% pure or as close to it as possible. I know Jason Natural brand make Aloe Vera gel that you can purchase from Wholefoods.

You can also look for shampoo with Aloe Vera gel in it. A common preparation of Aloe Vera gel with a small amount of wheat germ oil and coconut milk is used as a shampoo and has traditionally shown great benefit. Another alternative is to mix your regular shampoo with Aloe Vera gel, a 1:1 ratio. You will not need to use conditioner afterward unless your hair is very dry or long and tangle.

I tried the treatment last night and while I don’t expect to see hair regrowth until a few months with continuous use, I did get softer and shinier hair. It is obvious that this is good not only for people who are losing hair, but even for those that just wants to have healthy and shiny hair.

2010 Hair How To with Celebrity Stylist Tippi Shorter

I had the pleasure of doing a Q&A session with celebrity stylist Tippi Shorter, whose clients include Beyonce and Alicia Keys. The focus of this interview is on 2010 hair trends and professional how to tips.



1. What are 2010 hair trends and can you give us tips on how the average person can style this hairstyle in 15 mins?

Controlled volume and sleek ponytails are two of my favorite 2010 hair trends. They can easily be achieved in around 15 minutes or less, depending on your hair length and texture. If you have a limited amount of time, a ponytail is a classic that looks fabulous on almost everyone.

Here is the scoop on how to:

Big, sexy volume
- Begin this look by running volumizing mousse through hair from root to tip.
- Create soft curls by setting hair with curlers (like Advance Techniques Pillow Curlers). Spray a light mist of hair spray to ensure hair will hold curl.
- Remove the curlers from your hair. Flip hair over front of head and spray with additional hair spray to create extra volume and hold. Run fingers through hair to loosen curls for a soft finish.

Sleek ponies/bun
- To create the perfect canvas for a defined part, start with clean, smooth hair.
- Apply serum to the ends of your hair and a straight smoothing balm from root to tip. Using a brush (she recommends Advance Techniques Cushion Brush), blow dry hair straight.
- Use a comb to create a defined part on the side of the head. Pull all hair into a tight, sleek bun at the back of the neck to make the part really stand out. Spray a light mist of shine spray to create a high-sheen finish.


2. Can you give us tips on how to grow and maintain long hair?

Always make sure to nourish hair with masks and treatments that have hydrating and soothing ingredients. Each person’s hair is unique and needs special attention. Advance Techniques Moisture Sleek Collection is a universal collection from Avon that works to smooth several different hair types. Also, to maintain long, healthy hair, get trims regularly.


3. What is the trend for 2010 bridal hairstyles? Is there any new trend for bridal hair accessories?

Weddings are a time to celebrate and experiment with hair styles and accessories. Trends for 2010 include flowing, luscious waves, sleek ponytails and ballerina buns used to achieve a formal yet chic and sexy look. I love accessories; they can change the look and feel of a hairstyle! Brides have so many choices from jeweled headbands to clips to wearing fresh flowers in the hair. The accessories greatly depend on the fabric, style and build of the dress.


4. Can you give us some recommendation for both higher end and budget friendly hair care products?

Look for multi-tasking hair care products. I love Avon's Advanced Techniques Dry Ends Serum, which works to repair damaged hair and add shine (and it's only $5.00). I also love Ojon if you're looking for a splurge. The most important thing is finding products that work best for your hair type.


You might also like:
How To Achieve Beautiful Eyebrows
Asian 5 Steps Skincare Routine

2009 - Top 10 Favorites!

The year is coming to an end and I figure it would be appropriate to compile a list of my all time favorites this year. It is difficult decisions because there are so many good products out there. I tried to pick an item from different categories. Please note that they are in no particular order and that these products do not necessarily launch in 2009.

Bare Escentual Buxom Lipgloss ($18): I am hook on BE Buxom diamond edition. The gold shimmer is just oh so pretty and the tingly sensation is kinda fun. Favorite shades are Starr (raspberry) and Claire (mauve with some brown undertone).

Avon Anew Alternative Intensive Age Treatment Spf 25 ($32): This is a personal favorite of mine. I have yet found a sunscreen that feels more luxurious and though a bit shiny alone, it gives that nice healthy glow under makeup. Loving the higher spf too. Click here for my
full review.

Bobbi Brown Corrector ($22): This is my go to everyday must have item. It hides dark circles better than any concealer I have tried. Tips: make sure you hydrate your under eye areas well.
Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder ($22): Very finely mill, set concealer without caking and also brighten the under eye area. Also a jar will last you a very long time.

Maybelline Full and Soft Mascara: As the name imply, full and soft, non-flakey and sold at a reasonable price.

MAC Star by Night Eyeshadow: Part of a LE, very nice and vibrant deep medium blue that is shimmery but not frosty. A beautiful color for smokey eyes if you want something more vibrant than gray eyeshadow.

DHC Acerola 100 Serum ($22): Every time I stray from this, it shows. Skin is not as even tone and bright. During summer, it really helps keep my freckles at bay.

Shiseido Extra Gentle Cleansing Foam ($29): It cleanses well, very gentle and non-drying, and the lather just feels so luxurious. Click here for my full review.

Masaki ($60-$80): This perfume was created by a Japanese designer. It smells light, soft, and elegant, a scent that goes with every seasons. Available at Sephora.

ELF Eyeshadow Brush (White Handle): OMGosh, for $1, I did not expect much. It is dense, super soft, picks up color, and sturdy. Definitely worth buying back up.

Phew! That is a lot of information. Now, what is your favorite?

Review on Wedding Reception Venues in the Washington DC Area. (Part I)

I knew that planning a wedding would be labor intensive but as I engross in the process, I am a little surprise at how time consuming it is. Not that I am complaining because it have been fun so far. There are lots of websites out there to help you find vendors. However, I have not really find one that pertain details information or review. I must have been to at least 20 places, seeking for a reception venue. There are places I don’t really care for and then there are places that are worth a trip to check out. Therefore, even though this site is mainly about beauty and skincare, I thought it would also be fun and helpful to other brides to blog about my wedding planning experience. Below are some of the places in Virginia and Washington DC that are worth checking out.

2941 Restaurant in Falls Church, VA

This is one of the first places that really struck a cord with me. The scenery is just gorgeous. It is the perfect place if you are looking for an outdoor ceremony. They have a little patio within a garden that also has a pond and a man built waterfall. The restaurant is built with floor to ceiling windows, capturing a lot of natural sun light. Because of the abundant in natural lighting and big glass windows, you still feel a sense of being outdoor even though you are inside. What also makes this a great venue is their impeccable menu. I have my share of fine dining experiences and their food and service is one of the best. The only draw back is that their private dinning room only holds up to 80 guests. For a larger party, you will have to buy out the entire restaurant, which is expensive!

Garden outside of 2941

Charlie Palmer

If you are looking to have your reception in a restaurant, Charlie Palmer is another place worth checking out. It is in the heart of downtown DC, near the capital. The ceremony and reception will be held on their rooftop, that can accommodate a large party, I believe up to 300 or more people.

Being in the heart of DC and on top of a roof, you and your guests will get gorgeous view of the capital, the city, and a small pond. Other than spectacular view and good food, there is just something “cool” about having a party on a rooftop. Only problem is your bill will be more on the high side.

Come back again for Part II of the review.

Related Post:
Bridal Makeup Tip

My Experience with a Professional Makeup Artist

Few weeks ago was my engagement ceremony. I thought I’d pamper myself and hire a professional makeup artist. I figure if I like her, I will hire her again for my wedding. I was excited and looked forward to it, as believe it or not, this is my first time having my makeup done by a pro.

I was prepared. I had pictures of the look I wanted to show her. So, how did my makeup turn out? I think my foundation was very matte. Personally, I am dewy kinda girl so I asked her to put some golden shimmer on my cheek to add radiance. The effect is not the same. My fiancé said the makeup make my skin look too yellow. Hmm maybe. It was not the best matching shade. Also, I think some people make the mistake of thinking Asian skin is always best with yellow undertone but that is not always true.

But I think my true disappointment lies when I had a friend told me that my makeup is not even. I checked and yes, it was blotchy. There was a big chunk of crust on the side of my nose. My biggest pet peeve when it comes to makeup! I tried to blend it out but it was hard because the foundation already dried. Fortunately, the camera was pretty forgiving, could not really tell. There were a few hours of break between the luncheon and our photo session. I washed my face and redo my makeup myself. =\

On a flip side, I have to give her credit for doing a decent job with the eyes makeup (hard to see from the picture).

Having said all that, brides to be, it is worth the extra money for those trials.

TOTD: Bridal Makeup

Unless you are up for taking a risk on your wedding day, it is best that you have a trial makeup session. This will help ensure that the artist understand your expectation and a chance for you to decide if you like his/her work.

Another tip is to bring a picture. Your idea of natural or smokey eyes may be different from someone else.

Btw, if anyone knows an outstanding makeup and hair pro from the VA/DC area, let me know. Thanks =)