Toledo Makeup Artist Is Voted The Knot Best of Weddings Winner!

(Toledo, Ohio. January 1, 2017)—  We are pleased to announce that Makeup by Amy Lewis & Company has been selected as a 2017 ­­winner in The Knot Best of Weddings, an award representing the highest-rated wedding professionals as reviewed by real couples, their families and wedding guests on The Knot, the leading wedding brand and marketplace. 

In 2017, only 2% of the 300,000 local wedding professionals listed on TheKnot.com have received this distinguished accolade. These winners represent the best of the best for wedding professionals that a bride or groom would want to consider in planning their wedding. 

“We are thrilled to have been selected as The Knot Best of Weddings for 2017! It's been an incredible year and we are so honored to receive this stamp of approval that only the top 2% of Knot vendors receive. We feel so blessed to have such a great team and we’d like to thank each and every one of our makeup artists, as well as all of our wonderful brides. We truly couldn’t have done this without you! We promise to continue striving each and every day to provide our brides with the best luxury bridal makeup in Toledo!”- Amy Lewis, owner of Makeup by Amy Lewis & Company. 

Cheers to our best year yet!!

We Won An Award for Bridal Makeup in Toledo! Hooray!

Makeup by Amy Lewis & Company Wins

WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Award for 2017!

Photo: Adore Wedding Photography

(http://adoreweddingphotography.com/)

                        Toledo, Ohio – January 11, 2017–  WeddingWire, the leading global online marketplace for the wedding and event industry, announced Makeup by Amy Lewis & Company as a winner of the esteemed 2017 WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards® for Makeup in Toledo!    

                        The Couples’ Choice Awards recognize the top five percent of wedding professionals on WeddingWire who demonstrate excellence in quality, service, responsiveness, and professionalism. The prestigious awards are given to the top local wedding professionals across more than 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, based on their professional achievements from the previous year. 

                        The WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards winners are determined solely based on reviews from real newlyweds and their experiences working with Makeup by Amy Lewis & Company. Award-winning vendors are distinguished for the quality, quantity, consistency and timeliness of the reviews they have received from their past clients.

                        “The Couples’ Choice Awards’ ninth year features one of the most impressive groups of dedicated and acclaimed wedding professionals yet,” said Timothy Chi, CEO, WeddingWire. “It is our honor to work with high-caliber merchants, such as Makeup by Amy Lewis & Company, who not only make a couple's big day possible, but also contribute to the more than 2.5 million U.S. reviews represented on WeddingWire.  We congratulate all of this year's winners on their achievements.”                        

                        Makeup by Amy Lewis & Company is thrilled to be one of the top Makeup Artists in Toledo on WeddingWire. We would like to thank our past clients for taking the time to review our business on WeddingWire. We truly value all of our clients and appreciate the positive feedback that helped us earn a 2017 WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Award. Thank you to each and every one of you who made last year amazing. We’re thrilled to be your top choice for Bridal Makeup in Toledo! 

To learn more about the WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards®, please visit www.weddingwire.com/couples-choice-awards.

Product Review: YSL Vinyl Cream Lip Stain

As a professional makeup artist, you can probably guess how picky I am about my lip products. I have tested a lot of them and yet there are still new ones launching every day. In fact, for my own wedding I must have tried at least 40 lipsticks, glosses, and liners! For the big day, everything has to be PERFECT. Brides want a great lip color that won’t disappear after a few smooches. The old favorite I settled on 3 years ago was one of YSL’s glossy lip stains in a peachy shade. The texture was absolutely divine, and I was obsessed. So when I found out that YSL was sending me their new Vinyl Cream lip stain to test out, my heart did a happy dance! 

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The lip stain comes in a gold box and when I pulled the lip stain out, I noticed that the packaging is a bit different from their other lip stains. The others typically have a gold top and black bottom with a clear strip showing the color inside and of course the iconic YSL logo on one side. This particular stain is entirely black with a clear strip and the YSL logo which I think is very sleek and sexy. 

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Application: 

When I first applied the lip stain, I noticed how creamy it is. As with YSL’s other formulas, it is a very wet application so I had to be careful not to accidentally overdraw my lip line. I loved how saturated the lip color was though! The stain is buildable, but you really don’t need more than 1 coat because it is so pigmented. 

Experience On Lips: 

The thing I love most about this lip stain is the way it makes my lips feel! The texture is decadent. Hydrated and bouncy. Tacky, not sticky. Since its called Vinyl, I expected more of a high-shine finish but this is just a regular glossy finish not unlike the YSL Glossy Stains. Since I love those, I’m not complaining. 

Wear: 

I was pleasantly surprised by the durability of this stuff! While it is not advertised as kiss-proof, it certainly is. I tested it out on my husband and while he did get just a little bit of clear “gloss” on him, absolutely no color transferred to him whatsoever. I wore this for 6 hours and it didn’t budge. When I went to remove it with a makeup wipe before bed, it left a little bit of color stained on my lips which I actually enjoyed. Long wear that doesn’t dry out lips? Vinyl Cream Lip Stain rocks!

(excuse my sad, fuzzy cell phone photos- they don't do this color justice)

Overall I give this product TWO THUMBS UP! The price point is kinda high at $36 a pop, but considering how decadent YSL’s lip products are and how long they last, it’s worth it to me. I will probably go buy a couple more of them for my kit. Plus the packaging itself just makes you feel fancy putting it on :)

I received this product complimentary for testing purposes. I assure you that my opinion is honest and was not influenced by the free gift. 

Until next time beauties!

XOXO,

-A.L.

Romantic Makeup for A Styled Shoot at the Toledo Museum of Art

We had so much fun at this romantic styled bridal shoot with some of our favorite wedding vendor friends! Photographers: Adore Wedding Photography, Bridal Gown & Accessories Boutique: Belle Amour Bridal, Florals: Ann Strickland for Bartz Viviano, Model Raynisha Nicole, and hairstylist Candy Summerskill all rounded out a rockstar creative team. All photos are from Adore Wedding Photography unless otherwise noted. 

So what happens at a styled shoot you ask? 

First, the team met in downtown Toledo, Ohio at Belle Amour Bridal. The owner, Michelle McCaulla expertly chose a stunning Allure Romance gown for our model Raynisha Nicole. Then, the makeup process began (because it does take some time to look effortlessly beautiful of course). 

Photo: Amy Lewis. A pretty mess. Toledo Bridal Makeup courtesy of Makeup by Amy Lewis & Company (Amy, assisted by Emily). 

Amy started with a rose water toner, and lots of moisturizer to hydrate Raynisha's skin. Then she applied some shimmery cream shadows in various mocha and gold tones, followed by smudging some deeper brown shadows in the crease and blending the edges to create a seamless effect. She ran a black liquid liner along the waterline to define the eyes, and added a full wispy false lash to really bring out Raynisha's eyes. Amy then moved on to some color correction, and custom blended the perfect concealer and foundation for her skin tone. A vibrant pink blush and just a touch of the ultra indulgent Pat McGrath Skin Fetish highlighter stick in gold on the cheek bones helped achieve a pretty, dewy finish. Amy selectively powdered as needed and touched up Raynisha's brows with a brow powder and pencil. She pressed a pink lipstick into the lips, added a swipe of mascara and sprayed the entire face with a setting spray. Emily helped keep everything organized and clean throughout the beauty process. 

Raynisha was ready to get her hair done by hairstylist Candy Summerskill. Candy carefully weaved in a gorgeous hairpiece from Belle Amour Bridal, and braided the rest of the hair into a lovely fishtail braid. We loved how great Candy's Oribe hair products smelled as they filled the room! 

Not to mention the intoxicating aroma from the bouquet Ann Strickland of Bartz Viviano designed for us! Those flowers smelled SO good, and they looked even more amazing. The anemones stole our hearts. 

Our blushing "bride" was ready for her close up with the expertly talented duo of Adore Wedding Photography (Loren & Mary Beth). We started shooting after a rainstorm had passed through the area, so everything around the museum was very wet and lush looking as the sun started to set. The light was absolutely dreamy! 

There you have it! We hope you enjoyed these photos as much as we did. Another big thanks to everyone who contributed to this shoot! If you like what you see here, please go show them some love. Until next time!

- XOXO Amy

Fall 2016 Makeup Trends You Can Actually Wear

Our clients always want to know what’s currently “on trend.” We all know about the contouring and strobing crazes that plagued 2015 and early 2016. That’s ALL over now! (...makeup artists everywhere breathe a sigh of relief). So what’s next?? Well, the New York Fashion Week runways featured many art-forward trends for fall. We picked the most wearable looks for everyday women and we want to share them with you! You can try one or all of them- who knows, you might just find your new favorite beauty routine. 

#1. Black Eyeliner all the way around the eye.

The more worn-in looking the eyeliner is, the better! But it MUST be black. Preferably in the waterline, all around the eye on top and bottom (you can skip your inner corners if you’d like). We love L’Oreal Infallible’s 16 Hour Eyeliner in Carbon Black because it stays put, has a smudger tool on the opposite end, and is SUPER black. You can also use a cotton swab to smudge out your liner or clean up any mistakes. 

Credit: http://stylecaster.com/beauty/givenchy-khol-couture-waterproof-eye-liner-review/

#2. Almost-Black Berry Lipstick paired with a Bare Eye Look for a Modern- Gothic Vibe

This trend isn’t for the makeup shy gals out there! It’s a bold look with a lot of attitude. But if you think you can pull it off we say own it! Just make sure you look for very dark colors close to black with a hint of purple or red in them. If you close your mouth and smile as big as you can, you’ll get the cleanest, sharpest lip line possible. This lip look is so fierce, we recommend leaving the rest of your face as natural as possible (foundation, powder, mascara, and brows should do it). 

peaceloveshea.com

#3. Glitter. Eyeshadow, liner, lips, wherever you want to sparkle!

Glitter isn’t just for fabulous five year olds. And if you apply it correctly, your face won’t look like a disco ball at the end of the night either. Here’s how to work this trend like a pro…

1- It’s very important you don’t use just ANY glitter - if its going on your eye region it MUST be a cosmetic-grade glitter, such as the kind from our friends at Lit Cosmetics (they’re like the Swarovski crystals of the glitter makeup department). Using craft store glitter or other cheap glitters can result in damage and irritation to your eye, so don’t slack- look for the good stuff! 

2- You gotta glue it. Start with a glitter glue as your primer. Lit Cosmetics has a great one, or Glitter Glue from TooFaced is fantastic as well. Apply with your finger. Fill a brush with glitter, and carefully pat it on top of the primer. It will stick and stay put! For added insurance, spray a setting spray over your face like Urban Decay All Nighter. 

Credit: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/519743613218398043/

#4. Peach colors in the Fall!

Normally peach is considered a spring color, but this year we are mixing it up! Peach tones create a fresh, unexpected monochromatic tone for autumn. Pairing a peachy shadow with a peach lip and cheek makes for an effortlessly pretty look that goes with just about anything. And it shouldn’t take you longer than five minutes. Bonus points if you can find a multitasking product (lipsticks can double as cream blushes)!

Credit: http://www.prettydesigns.com/peach-makeup-ideas-spring/

#5. Stained, stamped on red lips.

Don't use a brush, put it on with your ring finger and it will look much cooler. It shouldn't look too perfect either. Deep, rich colors look best. While you can achieve this look best with an actual lipstick, you can get a similar effect with Revlon's ColorStay Kissable Balm Stains (a staple in our personal makeup bags for years!). 

There you have it - the hottest makeup trends for Fall 2016. Which one is your favorite? Drop us a comment below and tell us what you think! We bet you want to go shop for new makeup now. (P.S. We heart makeup shopping. Want to bring us with you on your next trip to Sephora or another beauty counter? Contact us for our personal consulting rates!)

Until next time. 

XOXO,

Amy

The Mystery Behind Airbrush Makeup

Airbrushing in action! Photo courtesy of Viridian Ivy Images ( http://www.viridianivy.com/ )

What is airbrush makeup and why does almost everyone say it's the best makeup for an important event? Simply put: it feels nearly weightless and it's built to LAST! 

Airbrush makeup refers to a very thin liquid foundation that goes into the chamber of an airbrush gun. Once the air compressor is turned on and air is flowing through the gun, the trigger gets pulled to release the foundation in a fine mist. Airbrushing creates a flawless finish by spraying out the tiniest droplets of makeup in an even layer to give great natural coverage. It is ideal for most skin types. Some artists even airbrush eyeshadows, brows, blush and lips in addition to airbrushing the foundation. Our team loves airbrush, but we only airbrush foundation-  we feel hand-applying the rest of the makeup gives a more desirable effect. 

Not all airbrush foundation formulas are created equal. There are many different types of coverages and finishes on the market. Our favorite kind is silicone-based airbrush foundation because it mimics skin's natural texture with a slightly dewy, radiant finish. Often times our clients are intimidated by airbrush if they've never experienced it before. It's actually very relaxing! It feels just like a soft mist sweeping over your face and once even medium-full coverage is achieved, it is virtually weightless. This is a major perk especially to women who don't like the feeling of heavy makeup! Not to mention it looks incredibly natural. 

Makeup by Amy Lewis & Company uses Temptu's silicone-based foundation which is known for its soft-focus effect that blurs fine lines and lasts up to 24 hours. The formula is sweat-proof, tear-resistant, and a favorite of professional makeup artists for over 15 years which speaks volumes. 

If you want to feel ultra-glam and pampered, and you also want your makeup to be essentially bullet-proof, then airbrush makeup may right for your next event! If you have any questions about airbrush makeup feel free to drop us a comment below or email us directly: makeupbyamylewis@gmail.com 

Bridal Makeup: Hire a Pro vs. Do-It-Yourself

When it comes to bridal beauty, you have two options: do your own makeup, or hire a professional makeup artist. Being a makeup artist myself, I must admit I am a little biased, but its worth mentioning that I did hire another makeup artist for my own wedding day to avoid the stress of doing my own makeup! Let’s take a moment to explore the pros and cons of each option.

The main reason brides choose to forgo a makeup artist and do their own makeup is to SAVE MONEY. However, anyone who has done their own makeup for their wedding will tell you they spent the same amount of money or more by going the DIY route. Not to mention all the extra time and stress spent choosing the right shades, researching how to use the products, and practicing the perfect application. Even the women skilled at applying makeup still face the wedding day jitters, which are no match for even the steadiest hands (myself included!).

The advantages of hiring a professional makeup artist: you will save time, money, and stress. It’s best to have a trial session done beforehand so your makeup artist can create a look you love and make sure the two of you are a great fit. Your makeup artist will know exactly how to accentuate your best features so that you will photograph beautifully… and all you’ll have to do is sit back and be pampered. It's very relaxing and really fun to get your makeup done with your bridesmaids and family members! 

Makeup artists that travel onsite will save you time and stress by coming to you on the wedding day. And they typically carry pro-quality products with longer wear and better performance than the standard consumer products (such as airbrush makeup). You won't need to lift a finger!

DIY or Pro Makeup Artist…the choice is yours! Just don’t wait until the last moment to make your decision- word travels fast in the wedding world, especially when it comes to finding amazing vendors. Most reputable makeup artists’ calendars book up to a year or more in advance. If you choose to go with a pro, book them as soon as possible before someone else does!

Photo Credit: Tetyana McGowan