Category: Birmingham

Beauty /

Celebrity Make-Up Artist April M. Chaney – Natural Beauty Master Class

Alabama native and celebrity make-up artist, April M. Chaney, returns home to Birmingham for A Natural Beauty Master Class on Sunday, November 27 at Birmingham Virtual Suites at 2160 Highland Ave. The exclusive evening will offer Hollywood insider beauty tips and techniques to that will inspire looks to Be Yourself, Show Yourself, Love Yourself and Test Your Natural Beauty.

This hands-on course is ideal for aspiring make-up artists and those interested in learning how to transform their face naturally, and flawlessly, with Hollywood-centric techniques and skills. The in-depth analysis of achieving a perfectly natural make-up face will include up-close-and-personal demonstrations and applications with Chaney, and some of her favorite products.  Limited attendance is open to the public and is available on a first come, first serve basis by visiting www.eventbrite.com

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About Celebrity Make-Up, Artist April M. Chaney:

A licensed esthetician, Chaney is a southern belle with a passion for glamour and has been creating beautiful faces with timeless and classic looks for nearly two decades.  With experience working on hit shows such as Dancing With The Stars, The Real, Project Runway, America’s Next Top Model, The Doctors, Any Given Wednesday, Dr. Phil, and The Real Housewives of Orange County, Chaney is a frequent collaborator with cosmetic giant L’Oreal at major Hollywood industry events including the Academy Awards, Primetime Emmy Awards and Golden Globe Awards.  With humble beginnings behind a make-up counter in Alabama, Chaney’s work has been featured internationally in television, film and the fashion runway. In addition to working with major magazines such as People, Us Weekly, O The Oprah Magazine, her make-up skills have appeared in national editorial campaigns for retailers including Kohls, GAP, Nordstrom and Sears. Chaney is licensed Esthetician in the state of California & a proud member of the Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild, IATSE Local 706.

Find Chaney on Twitter and Instagram (@LirpaMakeup) where she frequently shares make-up tips and tricks, plus more information and portfolio work at www.aprilchaney.com

 

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Accessories /

Cloud Nine Engagment Ring from Anjolee

Anjolee introduced their new engagement ring sets and stud earrings to the bridal jewelry line. There’s so much excitement when receiving an engagement ring but customers want to ensure its quality and clarity.

I received the Anjolee Cloud Nine Engagement Ring for review and the band is simply gorgeous!

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The biggest concern when purchasing an engagement ring is the price. Anjolee has designed pieces that will meet everyone’s budget.  Customers can select payment options through Bill Me Later, Credit Card or Paypal.

Most importantly, the company also educates its customers on setting types and care services.

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My birthday’s coming soon and I can’t wait to accessorize with the Anjolee Cloud Nine Engagement Ring.

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About Anjolee –

The mission of Anjolee is to provide our customers with the highest quality of hand-crafted, customized jewelry, using only the finest precious metals, natural diamonds and gemstones. Anjolee’s foremost priority as a leading diamond manufacturer and customized design retailer is two-fold: to provide outstanding customer service and sell only the highest quality diamond jewelry. Each of our diamond jewelry pieces may be customized using the latest technology, with a wide array of options easily accessible on our website. Every single Anjolee jewelry piece is made-to-order, personalized to the customer’s exact preferences under the expert guidance of our specialists.

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I was invited to review Anjolee.com in exchange for compensation. All opinions and statements are my own.
Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

Talk of Alabama Lifestyle Segment – Fall Beauty Must-Have Products

The weather’s cooler and that means it’s time to change our beauty arsenal.  I had the opportunity to visit Talk of Alabama and share Fall Beauty Must-Have Products.

This was an important lifestyle segment because we should alter products with the change of each season.  Thankfully, cosmetics companies are here to help us maintain our look (in-between professional appointments) with moisture enriched products and items that save time.

Faux Wrap Dress from New York & Co. All Eva Mendes on sale starting at $39.

The products I shared on ABC 33/40 included L’O’real Lip Palette, Oxygenetix Breathable Foundation, Flower Lip Creme, Circa Lip & Cheek Stain, Circa Lip Polish, Circa Lipstick, Flower Hydrasilk Lip Butter, Evian Facial Spray Midst, and Hawaiian Tropics Weightless Sunscreen.

All of the beauty products listed can be purchased at Walmart, Target or a local drugstore.

Personally, my favorite product is the L’O’real Nude Lip Palette. This is a must-have item and I will explain more during the lifestyle segment.

Here’s the breakdown:

FACE

Oxygenetix Breathable Foundation

BODY

Evian Facial Spray Midst

Hawaiian Tropics Weightless Sunscreen

LIPS

L’O’real Lip Palette

Flower Lip Creme

Circa Lip & Cheek Stain

Circa Lip Polish

Circa Lipstick

Flower Hydrasilk Lip Butter

Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

Tailgating and Visiting The Westin Hotel

Last weekend I took a road trip to my collegiate Homecoming celebration, Alabama A&M University.  I’m a traditional girl and returning as Alumni was a big accomplishment.

Aside from viewing the football game, I enjoyed Tailgating because it’s one big party filled with music, food, and a lot of fun!

My attire for the Tailgate was a crop top, high-waisted jeans, and sorority clutch. I selected a pair of heels for height but any true fashion girl has a set of flats nearby.  We also stayed at The Westin Huntsville and I was delighted with the view and room service.

Homecoming was an awesome event and I had a blast catching up with old friends!  Don’t forget to visit my IG account @kwest1908 to view more photos.

Accessories /

32nd Annual Southern Women’s Show Recap – Girls Day Out

Attending the 32nd Annual Southern Women’s Show is a local tradition in the Birmingham metro area. Participants have the opportunity to view exhibits and purchase a variety of products from aromatherapy to fashion accessories, and home decor.

It’s considered to be the official Girls’ Day Out with live entertainment and delicious treats.  This was my first year taking part in the event and I thoroughly enjoyed my visit.

Vendors at The Southern Women’s Show were pleasant and very knowledgeable in terms of selling their products. For example, I received a presentation from the doTerra Representative describing the use of essential oils.  doTerra’s different from most essential oil companies because they provide the highest quality oils. Yes, I am a lover of fashion but also an advocate of health and wellness. doTerra’s wellness presentation (essential oils 101) was a treat!

In addition, the exhibit provided cooking demonstrations from Alabama Gulf Seafood and ProFashion offered professional hair styling tips.  Belk encouraged participants to stop by their booth for a makeover with the use of cosmetics from Bobbi Brown and Clinique.  I had a really good time testing the new fragrance gift sets.

The Spotlight Stage (on Thursday) included Step by Step Painting Old Furniture, Beige and Black with LANCOME, and the Unclaimed Baggage Experience.  In my opinion, I give The Southern Women’s Show a thumbs up and encourage anyone in the area to purchase a ticket next year.  You might see me there!

Exhibitor List:

Bohemian Bliss

Gigi Cupcakes

Scentsy Wickless Candles

Wacoal

Michael’s Steaks and Seafood and much more…

https://youtu.be/UwcyG6xeWqM

Beauty /

Covergirl Insiders Community and Custom Lip Cocktail

I’m excited to announce that I have joined the Covergirl Exclusive Insiders Community!  The program provides beauty products, makeup tips, and online discussions. I love affordable cosmetics and couldn’t wait to share Covergirl updates.

Yes, there are some benefits to purchasing high-end products but I am here for the everyday girl. She’s the mom waiting in a carpool line or busy professional that has to travel.  Both of the women listed have one thing in common, they want to look great!

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That’s why I’m a huge fan of the Covergirl brand.  Their company provides on-trend makeup and can be purchased at your local drugstore or supermarket. What does that mean?  Customers can pick-up the latest lipstick shade while grabbing a carton of milk.  I love it!

 

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Recently, Zendaya shared a beauty tutorial on achieving a Custom Lip Cocktail. Anyone can create this face with Oh Sugar! In Caramel, Jumbo Gloss Balm in Caramel Cream, and Queen Collection Lip Gloss in Premier Pink.  Click on the video below:

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GupcZN4jBac

Accessories /

Ann Taylor and St. Jude Elephant Charm Jewelry Collection

Take a look at Ann Taylor’s new limited-edition St. Jude Elephant Jewelry Collection. From November 18, 2016 through January 28, 2017, Ann Taylor will donate 50% of the purchase price per of each item sold from the collection to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The collection is symbolic of the medical research performed at St. Jude: elephants have a high retentive memory and are believed to bring good luck. Elephants also live in families, and if something happens to one family member, another family will take care of the affected family for life, which reflects St. Jude’s mission to take care of families whose children are affected by deadly diseases. And elephants happen to live for a very, very long time.

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The collection features a bracelet, necklace, pendant and ring and all pieces are under $50.  It will be available at AnnTaylor.com and in stores.

St. Jude Elephant Bracelet, $49.50

  • St. Jude Elephant Necklace, $49.50
  • St. Jude Elephant Pendant, $39.50
  • St. Jude Elephant Ring, $39.50

About St. Jude’s

The mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is to advance cures, and means of prevention, for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. Consistent with the vision of our founder Danny Thomas, no child is denied treatment based on race, religion or a family’s ability to pay.  St. Jude is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases.

Accessories /

What To Wear – Fall 2016 Coat Trends

Yesterday marks the first day of Fall and I have selected a few stylish (affordable) coats to assist with cold weather layering.  From a practical sense, we shop during this time of the year to stay warm but there’s also a fashionable purpose.

Retailers provide stylish outerwear because this is the first wardrobe piece that’s visually seen during the brisk season.  Friends, family, and co-workers will notice your coat before any additional clothing item. Personally, I like to purchase outerwear for various social occasions such as Business Meetings, Football Games, Shopping Events, and Formal Affairs.

Fashion designers also suggest that coats should be paired with trendy accessories including a wide belt, knee boots, plaid scarf, or bohemian hat.

The options are endless when shopping for outerwear and don’t forget to purchase in various colors, designs, and textures.

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Jessica Simpson

Asymmetrical Button-Front Wrap Coat

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Wildflower

Faux-Fur Coat, Only at Macy’s

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Tommy Hilfiger

TOMMYXGIGI Wool-Blend Military Cape

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Accessories /

Ann Taylor Supports Breast Cancer Research Foundation

Ann Taylor is proud to think pink and continue to support the fight against breast cancer. Since 2005, ANN INC. has helped donate more than $27 million to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF)*. Currently, 91 cents of every dollar spent by BCRF is directed towards breast cancer research and awareness programs.

 

This year, every Thursday in October, Ann Taylor will donate 10% of entire in-store purchases from 5 pm to close (and all day online) to BCRF.  Shop the newest collection and find your local store at AnnTaylor.com.

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