Interview with Makeup Artist Christen Hiller

Christen Hiller is a Professional Makeup Artist based in Los Angeles and Orange County. She has worked on faces for various projects like: feature films, music videos and photo-shoots. She has her work published in Makeup Enthusiasts Magazine as well as Like a Lion magazine in Australia. Most recently, she has worked on runway models for LA Fashion Week. Christen and I worked together on an outdoor photo-shoot with photographer Stacey Shipp. 

Q. Tell me how did you decide to become an makeup artist? 

My inspiration for makeup comes from being exposed to the artistry world as a young girl. My grandmother painted on Porcelyn China, and my mother catered weddings- doing weddings cakes.  Both of them were perfectionist in there craft . When I was 14 I got into skating lesson where I was exposed to being judged in beauty and artistry. I attended Empire makeup academy and that launched my career. 


Q. What are the top 5 essentials all women should carry with them at all times?

I would say the top 5 things that i think are must haves is eyeliner , pressed powder, lip gloss , mascara and a small bottle of purfume . I carry them with me everywhere i go . Your always gonna need to touch up before heading out weather its a date or meeting up with the girls

Q. One thing that stuck with me after working with you, was the importance of taking care of your skin. Can you tell me more about your tips and tricks?

Ever woman should own: eye makeup remover, cream cleanser  to cleanse your skin , toner, eye cream for day and night and also moisturizer for the day and night . You want remover because it will remove any residue that is left on the eye. You want to avoid an cleansers that have sodium laurel sulfates (detergent) it will strip moisture off your skin . Day moisturizer because you want something as to cover the surface of the skin from free radicals that float in our environment (dirt) that would clug your poors   Eye cream is an essential because we age the quickest in eye area. Your eye is 7 times thiner then the rest of your face.  And lastly an evening moisturizer cause thats when your skin really needs that drink. We do things to ours selves daily that can cause dehydration which is anything from having too much caffine intake to lota of  sodas  or even lack of sleep . 


Twitter and Instagram @Artisty4life 
Email: christenhiller@aol.com 
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Artistry-by-Christen-Hiller

By: Marcela Mia Danilowicz

Yogi Johnson's Yoga Class - Doritos Crash The Super Bowl 2014

Here is the commercial we shot! Such an amazing team to work with! You can vote for our commercial on Dorito's Youtube page!

Shooting for a Doritos Commercial

Today I was lucky enough to work with an amazing team of actors and MFB production team to create a Doritos Spec Commercial for Super Bowl Sunday! 

We filmed in downtown Los Angeles and the the story line was based on a yoga. 

I had so much fun working with an amazing team! It's a wrap! 

By: Mia Danilowicz 

Preparing for an audition

I was called in for an audition today for an upcoming film. Since I have the week off from work and am on a stay-cation I was acctually able to attend mid day. I did a few things to help ease any stress and look my best! I ended up having 6 auditions and 3 call backs this week alone- and realized if you put the time and energy into something- anything is possible! 

1. I slept in. Surprisingly I rarely have time to sleep in- maybe once a week, I'm running on 5-6 hours of sleep a night normally. So sleeping in for about 9 hours really gave me that extra boost. 

2. Detox Tea. I had a cup before bed the night before. 

3. Limited water and caffeine. Water does bloat you when your intake increases. I had only a medium black coffee right before. I like to have caffeine right before filming because it really does ease nerves and gives you high energy to be  a bigger personality on camera. I cut my normal coffee consumption to about half so it would not dehydrate my body too much! 

4. I also hit the gym first thing in the morning for a mile run and weighted ab work out. 

I also like to show up to any audition in full makeup with my hair done. I always do full makeup for my day job anyways- I believe that when you look good you will also feel good. 

(With my best friends at Cafe Gratitude after. We also saw Adrien Grenier having lunch!) 

I always like to wear a bright colored cocktail/ sundress to an audition. I think that something that compliments your skin tone is always best- I have worn reds, pinks and yellows in the past. Heels are also a must! 

By: Marcela  Mia Danilowicz 

My Birthday

I am officially 24! Had so much fun celebrating with all of my friends this weekend! Over 50 of my friends attended my private event I had in Hollywood. Thanks to everyone who came! 

My dress was a Sherri Hill purchased from Divine at the Beverly Center. 

My tiara was on loan from Tara Jewlery in Los Angeles. They are one of my jewlery sponsors and had lent me 3 gorgeous crows for a princess themed photoshoot.

 

I love all of their jewelry- and they are always gracious enough to loan me some of their nicest handmade Swarovski jewelry. Their website is: www.beverlyhillsstyle.com 

The photoshoot was held in Palos Verdes at a park. This is a behind the scenes photo- can't wait to share the pictures from all the looks! 

I also was surprised at work with this beautiful flower arrangement from my family. The flowers were from Mark's Garden, which is a very exclusive luxury florist in Beverly Hills. They have done arrangements for many of the most amazing events like Kim Kardashians wedding and the Oscar's. 

On Saturday I volunteered at the Malibu Winter Wonderland Festival. This was a charity event that partnered with Heal the Bay, Habitat for Humanity and many more non- profits. Here I am on stage being introduced by Doreen of Monarch's Real Estate (the company who sponsored the event). 

By: Marcela Mia Danilowicz 

Leadership

“ Abilities wither under faultfinding, blossom under encouragement. ”

— Donald A. Laird

I came across this quote today on Forbes, and it really spoke to me. I think that everyone has some form of leadership in their lives. I think that is it important to always remember to help foster growth in those around us by  sharing joy, happiness and passion versus any other type of negative emotion- like anger, passive aggression, guilt or greed. 

Hope everyone is having a great week!  

By: Marcela Mia Danilowicz 

Miss California USA 2014 Pageant Orientation

Today was the official Miss California USA 2014 pageant orientation! I had such a wonderful time meeting new people, listening to all of the inspirational speakers, and hearing about all of the myths! 

The gorgeous diamond set crowns. The one on the left is for Miss Teen California. The one on the right is for Miss California. There are lots of special touches on the crown symbolizing our beautiful state. And the center features a gorgeous sapphire. The winner will also receive a crown ring that is a replica of their crown! 

The orientation began at 7:30 Am sharp. I was up at 5 Am for hair and makeup. We also took headshots for the official program book. 

My sponsor Tara Jewlery in Los Angeles. Lent me these gorgeous earrings for the headshots. 

I had such a wonderful time! Tickets for the pageant will go on sale Monday November 11th from Ticketmaster. And the pageant is held on January 4th at the Long Beach convention center. 

By: Marcela Mia Danilowicz 

Airbursh Tanning 101 with Alex Tarin

I went in for a custom spray tan earlier today and wanted to show you where the particular highlights and contours are, which are important to look your best in a swimsuit or for a photo-shoot. For a beauty pageant Alex normally sprays me twice with a competition formula, and then with a contour. I met Alex 6 years ago at author Neil Strauss's house, we have been friends ever since! 

Q. Tell me about yourself and how you got into the tanning industry?

I always LOVED the beauty industry! My first job was at a little spa/boutique in Sherman oaks .There I became involved with the business and I realized how much I loved the beauty treatments. One of the main services was  SPRAY TANNING! with the guidance of my employer I learned how to do the service. It was love at fist tan!

After that job I got involved with a company that manufactured tanning equipment. I learned a lot over the years. I became the lead trainer of the company and was able to teach others the art of airbrushing all over the US. I also got to spray a few celebrities like Paris Hilton, Jessica Alba, Adrian Grenier, Kevin Costner, Brandi, Holly Madison and more.

 Now after 10+ years of doing what I love, I'm the general manager at the Sun Studio LA !The salon offers the most advanced custom airbrushing system available today, which garnered notoriety after being voted LA’s #1 Spray Tan by CitySearch in 2013.

(The first picture is how abs are contoured, two lines are drawn with a the small contouring gun, then blended again with a second coat of the airbrush solution.)

Q. How does airbrush tanning work? 

Spray tanning is the safest, easiest way to achieve a natural-looking tan that you can be proud of. Amino acids in your skin will respond naturally to the DHA and other complimentary ingredients in the tanning formula to produce the most beautiful sunless tan you’ve ever seen.
Spray tanning eliminates all of the mess and problems associated with tanning creams. No more streaky mess, orange palms, or dirty looking knees and elbows. The service is tailored to your individual skin tone and desired look—that’s why we have 5 unique formulas that can be mixed to precisely match what you want.

(The calf muscles and clavicle bones are also contoured with the small gun.)

(After the spray, you are left with a sort of sticky film, Alex likes to use a golden dusting powder, which helps to absorb any moist areas, and deepen the tan)

Q. Why is airbrushing better then the standard tanning beds?

Our technique is unique because our equipment has a mini spray gun for tanning the bulk of the body and an artistic airbrush for fine detail work. Detailing is important when applying solution to troublesome areas like the face, hands, and feet, etc. Other companies use a single vacuum cleaner powered spray gun that can only spray in wide patterns. These larger guns lack fine detail capability because they were originally designed for painting wooden fences, siding, and furniture – not people. Instead of an artistic tanning experience, they leave you feeling like you were hosed down, with a wet and sticky “I can’t wait to shower” feel.

(Alex also likes to contour the cheek bones to create an deeper arch. This isn't necessary if you are planning on wearing makeup). 

Q. What are some tips to maintain and prolong your airbrush tan?

Wait as long as possible to shower, I typically recommend 24 hours. Also, make sure that you aren't wearing any lotion, cremes or makeup when you are sprayed, so that your skin is porous to absorb the formula. Moisturize after, using a scent-free lotion. When you come in for an airbrush tan, bring a loose-fitting dark colored outfit to wear after- and don't wear a bra. 


http://sunstudiola.com/

By: Marcela Mia Danilowicz
November 9th 2013 

Nail Polish / Manicures

I wanted to share a little about what nail polish colors I use on the daily. While I love nail art and crazy colors, I also prefer to choose classic colors because of work and they are easier to match any outfit and occasion. 

My all time favorite which I am wearing right now is Essie FIJI. I use two coats and like to follow with a Seche Vite topcoat. The shade is perfect for when you have a tan or when you don't and is neutral enough to blend into any outfit. 

French Manicures are also my favorite. I think that they always look classic. I recently had french tip acrylics, which I like shaped more rounded. French is always timeless. I also prefer to get acrylics for very special occasions. The only pitfall is that my nails tend to get thin after about two fills, so I have to remove them. Some tips:

• Always clean your nails with alcohol each day
• Use makeup brushes or it will stain your nails
• Watch your manicurist apply them, and inspect the tip after they are done. I have had glue build up and even the nail tip not properly glued on (which will let water in leading to mold). 

Red is my go to for film or when I will be seen on stage. I think that it is nice to be to have a nail color that still shows off your hand, and can be seen from afar. I always choose a red that compliments my skin tone (deep blood reds). (This red was painted on a acrylic nail, which lasted for 2 weeks) 

Also, the longer your nail, the skinnier your hand looks (and more feminine)! My goal is to grow my natural nail as long as possible! I take various supplements to help with this. Right now I take Pre-natal from Whole Foods, which also helps with hair growth!

By: Marcela Mia Danilowicz 

Foolproof Happy Hour / Afterwork Outfit

Happy Hour outfit by miadanilowicz featuring CB2

I always pack my purse, gym bag and items that I will need for the next day the night before. All of this week I have been invited to company dinners, fashion events and happy hours with friends. As the girl on the go, I wanted to share one fool proof outfit that can be be modified to suit you. I think this can be dressed up or down and can transition your form the work day to the evening. 

1. Circle Skirt: I like to choose one that is at the most 5-6" above the knee. Anything shorter is asking for trouble. I like to wear my skirts at the smallest part of my waist. 

2. Classic knit top: I normally will wear a plain tank top- I like the $2.80 ones from Forever 21. But if I am at a work events I prefer to wear something with a higher neckline or with some sleeve. 

3. Simple Pump: Since it is fall I chose something for this with a close toe, but if you are in a warmer climate peep toe is still OK. Wearing a heel will always add a touch of elegance regardless of the type of event. 

4. Shoulder bag: It doesn't even have to be designer, but as long as your purse is smaller then a paperback novel and coordinates with your outfit then you are in the clear.  I typically tend to match the hardware color from my handbag to my jewelry. So if my purse have gold straps and hardware I will choose gold jewelry and vice versa. 

5. Stud earrings (small drop): While I prefer giant chandelier earrings and hoops on my days off, I tend to stick to a simple stud earring and drops for work, as well as my favorite diamond bow ring. 

6. Hair: depending on how much time I had that morning it may be blown out, or just back in a simple pony, I prefer to wear my hair to frame my face, so a simple side braid always looks chic. 

7. Makeup: I like neutral/pinkish lips- nothing to heavy because it will come off when you are eating and drinking anyways. As for the face I would accentuate the eye makeup a little darker and smokier for the evening. 

+Please note, since I live in LA- I do not wear stockings or tights, unless I am  New York. 

Small Business Saturday 2014

I'm so excited to announce that I will be a vendor on Small Business Saturday November 30th in Pasadena, CA (Sponsored by American Express)! From 11Am-5 Pm, my collection of bridal inspired headpieces, combs and veils will be for sale! 

Most of my pieces are created using vintage and repurposed materials, so that everything is one of a kind a unique. 

I am also in the process of creating a special bridal workshop that I will teach at The Sewing Studio in Pasadena. If anyone is interested please contact me for more information! 

www.4theloveofsewing.com 

By: Marcela Mia Danilowicz 

Interview with the Beckerman Sisters

 I met the Beckerman Sisters on New Years last year through Courtney Bentley of Star Systemz. They were just the sweetest girls ever and had the coolest style! I follow them on instagram and their blog, I love seeing their videos of their puppies and all of the amazing projects and collaborations they work on! I wanted to interview them because they are known for their own unique style and success in the fashion industry. 

Samantha and Caillianne Beckerman are twin sisters and fashion bloggers, stylists and designers. They are based in Toronto,Canada. They both attended FIT in New York and have worked for luxury companies like Bottega Venneta, Oscar de la Renta and Marc Jacobs. They have been featured in The New York Times, Vogue, WWD, and Style.com for their unique style. They have recently collaborated with H&M, Essie and Michael Kors. 

Q. First of all, you girls are the most famous bloggers I know personally. Tell me how did you stumble upon blogging? 

We love journaling and it's a continuation of us scrap-booking our life but through pics online ;) and we love doing it together as sisters.

Q.  Who is the coolest designer, model or person in the fashion industry person you have met?

 We love Stella Mccartney, Isabel Marant and model Aggy Deyn. 

Q. How do you both achieve such a flawless classic look? 

Haha! U r soo sweet!
We use : B. kamins vegetable cleanser
Skin cream: Nars skin luminous skin
Neck cream: erno laszlo moisture forming throat cream
Body cream: Chanel body excellence
Sun screen: Chanel SPF 50 uv essential

Q. What is some advice you would give to anyone trying to make it in the fashion industry? 

Follow your heart and dreams and do your own thing and have fun!


Q. What is you personal philosophy? What inspires you?

Live your life with passion and love.

Q.  I know that having such a large presence on the internet attracts  a lot of attention. Do you ever get negative feedback or comments? How do you handle it?

The good always out ways the bad! The negative comments don't mean anything. The positive comments are the awesome-ist!

Twitter & Instagram: @beckermanblog 
www.beckermanbiteplate.com 


Interview By: Mia Danilowicz
November 2nd, 2013

How to clean makeup brushes

There are many ways to properly clean your makeup brushes, some artists use wipes after each use; I like to wash mine properly once a week on the weekend. I prefer to use a face-wash as my detergent, currently I use Burt's Bee's Acne Solution gel cleanser and warm water. I know some people suggest using Johnson's Baby Shampoo, but i would rather use a something specially made for the face & that fights acne (to kill any germs). I wouldn't really spend the extra money for a special solution when all you basically need is your face wash (as long as it isn't creme based) and alcohol or toner. 

I bought the MAC Brush Cleanser- which is pretty much an alcohol base toner like solution. The employees at MAC showed me how to use it with a towel, but I feel like on it's own it isn't strong enough to get all of the pigments of color out. I like to use it as a rinse after I shampoo, so that it kills any extra germs that may linger. As you can see I don't really have a preference for makeup brush brands (except for the Beauty Blender)- I think there are many amazing ones. The Ecotools is inexpensive and I think I have had that brush for over 7 years! 

Always hold your brushes facing downwards when washing, so that water or soap doesn't get into the bristles and loosen the glue. I have had a few brushes that fell apart because of this. Makeup brushes can last a lifetime as long as you take care of them properly! 

By: Marcela Mia Danilowicz 
11/2/2013