tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80153411026389703002024-03-13T09:52:24.152-04:00A La MusedBeauty. Fashion. Travels. Makeup. Love. And everything in between.Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comBlogger59125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-55098896808670847752013-04-02T18:50:00.001-04:002013-04-02T18:50:55.438-04:00Not Goodbye, But See Ya Later...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>That's a wrap for A La Mused, my friends.</b> I've spent the last few weeks working on an entire overhaul and redesign of my actual website (<a href="http://www.morgangates.com/">www.morgangates.com</a>). And after weighing the pros/cons, <b>I have decided to integrate my blog directly into my website.</b> It will now be hosted there, updated there, and live and breathe over there. A La Mused will stay up for some time, but eventually will cease to exist.<br />
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<b>As artists we constantly grow and evolve, which might just be a nice way of saying we are perfectionists who are never satisfied. </b>Or maybe that's just me. I have never quite loved this, nor have I totally loved my website. So as I started redesigning my site, I started getting the itch to change up how I blog too. And quite frankly I think the beauty blogging world is so over saturated, I don't want to try to be anything I'm not. But what I am is a professional makeup artist who likes to share things every once in a while. And a blog within my website seems like just the right place to do that.<br />
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So go check out <a href="http://www.morgangates.com/" target="_blank">my new website</a>! And check out the <a href="http://www.morgangates.com/blog" target="_blank">blog section there</a>. I've brought over the archives from here so I don't lose the old goodies, and I plan to just pick up where I've left off. It's streamlined into the site design, and I think, at least for now, exactly what I want/need.<br />
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Add me to your blog readers, and if you haven't got one, I highly suggest using <a href="http://www.feedly.com/" target="_blank">Feedly</a>. I've made the switch since word broke that Google Reader will be killed off soon. Feedly makes it really easy to manage the content you like to read & be inspired by. I'm still working on creating an easy way to "follow" directly from my site, but for now good ol' "copy-paste" works well!<br />
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Hope you will all join me over there!<br />
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See ya on the flip side!<br />
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XO<br />
MorganMorganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-28440789873001443252013-03-13T15:01:00.000-04:002013-03-24T18:27:33.783-04:00Red Carpet Makeup For Monique ColemanWhile working on an independent feature film last fall, I had the pleasure of getting to know some really amazing actresses. The characters they were portraying weren't exactly the type to spend time in front of the mirror, so the time spent in the makeup chair every day was more about seamless, "no makeup" makeup. But when you spend about a month on set with someone ensuring they don't look like they are wearing makeup, all you really want to do is doll them up!<br />
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So of course I love when they call me for a red carpet event! Most recently I had the pleasure of working with Monique Coleman for two events. First for the "<a href="https://www.facebook.com/HalftheGame" target="_blank">Half the Sky Movement: The Game</a>" launch, and later that week for the NYC primiere of "<a href="http://girlrising.com/see-the-film/" target="_blank">Girl Rising</a>." <br />
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For the first look we wanted to have a fun pop of color on the lips, and the second look we chose to play up her eyes with smokey shadow. Monique loves to experiment with makeup and is just the sweetest. I cannot wait to work together again!<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Read more about <a href="http://www.halftheskymovement.org/" target="_blank">Half the Sky</a> & <a href="http://girlrising.com/" target="_blank">Girl Rising</a>. </span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photos via Getty Images</span></i>Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-19658820584455939322013-02-25T19:14:00.000-05:002013-03-24T18:27:33.778-04:00Oscars 2013: Best Everything Goes to...Jessica Chastain!<br />
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I mean, really. Everyone else should have just gone home. She is always such perfection. Hair, makeup, wardrobe, styling. And so genuinely gracious. What a talented, bona fide babe! Definitely my favorite of the night.Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-9736134305216629732013-02-20T09:00:00.000-05:002013-03-24T18:27:33.873-04:00NYC Wedding: Ashley & ColinAll this cold winter weather has me missing summer big time! Ashley and Colin were married in a lovely East Village garden on a warm day last August. With wedding season just around the corner, and my weekends starting to fill up on my calendar, I look forward to working with more beautiful couples like this one. Ashley did her trial on the same day as their engagement photos, which is a great way to discuss makeup plans for the big day while looking your best for those photos too. A great tip for you future brides!<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;"><i>Photos Courtesy of <a href="http://www.trentbailey.com/" target="_blank">Trent Bailey Photography</a></i></span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><i>Makeup by <a href="http://www.morgangates.com/" target="_blank">Morgan Gates</a></i></span><br />
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<br />Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-6442837838694306142013-02-14T11:00:00.000-05:002013-03-24T18:27:33.826-04:00Happy Valentine's!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Put on some (long wear) lipstick and get to smoochin' today! Even if it's just a little peck for your pup or kitty! I've had a crazy week with New York Fashion Week bookings & shows, and will be spending today working with the lovely photographer Therese Aldgard who shot the above image during a recent shoot of ours. My man has to work tonight also. So I'll be making us a Valentine's breakfast tomorrow to celebrate instead. How are you spending the holiday? </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Photo: <a href="http://www.thres.com/" target="_blank">Therese Aldgard</a></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Makeup & Hair: <a href="http://www.morgangates.com/" target="_blank">Morgan Gates</a></i></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Prop Stylist: <a href="http://com.us4.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=39a17e071fc68b14197f64292&id=c81005e950&e=ac7a129454" style="word-wrap: break-word !important;" target="_blank">Nicole Heffron</a></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Model: </i></span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><a href="http://com.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=39a17e071fc68b14197f64292&id=8d2a844925&e=ac7a129454" style="word-wrap: break-word !important;" target="_blank">Dallas</a> of Major Models. </i></span><i> </i></span></div>
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Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-48229495580599871412013-01-25T18:31:00.000-05:002013-03-24T18:27:33.808-04:00Project Wedding Feature...Times Two! An Artsy-Chic Brooklyn EngagementLast fall I had the absolute pleasure of working with a talented team to celebrate the engagement of Masha & Colin here in Brooklyn. These two are so ridiculously good-looking, it made my job incredibly easy. You can check out the <a href="http://www.projectwedding.com/blog/2013/01/22/artsy-chic-brooklyn-engagement-by-amber-gress-photography-part-1/" target="_blank">full two-part feature</a> over on Project Wedding.<br />
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Masha and I had so much fun with her makeup. The girl is not afraid of color and going the non-traditional route. She actually created the watercolor Save-the-Dates that inspired the entire shoot. So we of course wanted to tie in some color with her makeup. For look one we opted for a natural, soft color palette with just a subtle pop of lime green on the lid, and a smokey sage blurred into the lash lines.<br />
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For the second look, I was dying to see a rich jewel tone on Masha's lips. We also added some metallics and smokey plums on her eyes to dress it up to match the cool and effortless glamour these two just naturally ooze. </div>
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Check out the two part feature on Project Wedding <a href="http://www.projectwedding.com/blog/2013/01/22/artsy-chic-brooklyn-engagement-by-amber-gress-photography-part-1/" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://www.projectwedding.com/blog/2013/01/22/a-brooklyn-engagement-by-amber-gress-photography-part-2/" target="_blank">here</a>. Thanks to the lovely couple for letting us share in their joy, and thanks to the fabulous team for making some serious magic!<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;">Photos by </span><a href="http://ambergress.com/" style="border: none; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;" target="_blank">Amber Gress Photography</a><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"> </span></i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;">Hair Accessories by Thea Block-Neal of </span><a href="http://www.hushedcommotion.com/" style="border: none; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;" target="_blank">Hushed Commotion</a></i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;">Styling by </span><a href="http://cargocollective.com/jennacantagallo" style="border: none; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;" target="_blank">Jenna Cantagallo</a><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"> </span></i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;">Flowers by Kelly Cobb of </span><a href="http://2hflowers.com/" style="border: none; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;" target="_blank">2h Flowers</a><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"> </span></i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;">Makeup by</span><a href="http://www.morgangates.com/" style="border: none; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;" target="_blank"> Morgan Gates</a><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"> </span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"><i>Cookies by Sarah Dorkin </i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;">Save the Date and Menu by </span><a href="http://masha.com/" style="border: none; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;" target="_blank">Masha D’yans</a></i></span>Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-74353317892340001832012-10-31T09:00:00.000-04:002013-03-24T18:27:33.841-04:00Girlrillaz: My Life For the Month of October!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Working with actress Lola Kirke on set of <i>Girlrillaz</i></td></tr>
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For the last month I've been working all over New York City and Brooklyn on a new independent feature film called <i><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2298394/" target="_blank">Girlrillaz</a></i>. It's been a wild ride with lots of unexpected hurdles to overcome, but most of all tons of fun. Seriously <i>the</i> best cast and crew.<br />
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Due to the unfortunate hurricane/tropical storm that has ravaged the east coast, we have been set back a few days in what was supposed to be our last week of filming. But we are a resilient (and luckily safe and unharmed) bunch, and will be back at it later this week.<br />
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For now I've had time to reorganize my kit, sort out the mess on my digital desktop that has built up over the last few weeks, and most importantly spend some quality time with my other half in our new apartment! Seeing his sleepy, blanket-shrouded face in the dark at 4:30am when I left to catch the train every day just wasn't cutting it!<br />
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Be sure to read more about <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Girlrillaz" target="_blank"><i>Girlrillaz</i> on Facebook</a> and keep up with us on Instagram (@mgmua <a href="http://pinsta.me/tag/girlrillaz" target="_blank">#girlrillaz</a>).Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comBrooklyn, NY, USA40.65 -73.9540.553624 -74.1079285 40.746376 -73.7920715tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-4662437846431185112012-09-19T13:59:00.001-04:002013-03-24T18:27:33.798-04:00NYC Wedding: Melissa & Justin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So remember that time I got to work with this beautiful and funny bride at a castle in Long Island? No? Well then check out the rest of the photos from <a href="http://nycweddingphotographyblog.com/?p=15123" target="_blank">Shira Weinberger Photography</a> over on her blog. <i>Gorgeous</i>.<br />
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XO<br />
MorganMorganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-40361494458628168322012-08-22T10:38:00.000-04:002013-03-24T18:29:30.440-04:00California Wedding: Christina & Paul<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Meet Christina and Paul. Their wedding a few months ago in California was such a great time. You can just feel the love, can't you? For a wedding with so many incredibly tattooed folks in attendance, you may be surprised to know just how many tears (of joy) were shed. These two just make everything seem right in the world.<br />
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The fabulous Rock N' Roll Bride featured Christina and Paul's big day recently. <a href="http://www.rocknrollbride.com/2012/06/pin-wheels-paper-flags-tattoos-love-christina-paul/" target="_blank">Head over there</a> or to photographer Matt Miller of <a href="http://ourblogoflove.com/matt/Index.cfm?postID=187" target="_blank">Our Labor of Love's blog</a> to see more.</div>
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Morgan</div>
Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-63818526859491238182012-07-31T16:43:00.000-04:002013-03-24T18:29:38.345-04:00NYC Wedding: Judith & PaulHere's a sneak peak at Judith & Paul's wedding from back in June. They had a fabulous celebration in Southampton with their family and friends. Fun fact: The Hamptons are smack dab in the middle between the bride's hometown in England and the groom's in Texas. What a great location for the families to meet! I can't wait to share the rest of the beautiful photos by the talented <a href="http://jenhuangphotography.com/" target="_blank">Jen Huang</a> in the coming months. For now here's a peek from right before Judith put her dress on.<br />
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XO<br />
MorganMorganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-57013919820780192562012-07-30T17:35:00.002-04:002013-03-24T18:27:33.812-04:00Behind the ScenesI recently worked on a short horror film called <i>Tibieblas </i>that my friend Niki directed. Here's a little behind the scenes photo of filming at 3:00am out in the woods & a "just got beat up and shot" touch up on the fly. Sometimes the best tools are your fingers and a palette of color.<br />
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XO<br />
MorganMorganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-84573683376734063332012-07-24T11:00:00.000-04:002013-03-24T18:29:45.893-04:00NYC Wedding: Racheal & DavidI feel so blessed to be in the midst of my busiest wedding season ever while I am still so new in this big city. I owe so much to all the amazing artists I have met out here, who have all been so wonderfully supportive. Who also recently reminded me that I haven't posted here in a while. Shame on me! So I figured what better way to get back in the swing of things than to share a beautiful New York City wedding with you!<br />
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Last month Racheal and David got married. From the moment I met Racheal I knew I loved her! She had a Pandora station going with the coolest songs (she works in music, so that was a given!), and I'm a sucker for a lady with killer bangs! We created a really timeless, yet young and fresh look for her that fit perfectly with her amazing tea length wedding dress. She brought her ideas to me as far as what she liked and wanted, then I put my spin on it. On the big day we ended up with a soft palette of pale pinks and taupey grey for her eyes, winged liner, glossy pink lips, and glowing skin. I can't wait to see more photos of their big day! For now, check out these wonderful shots that photographer <a href="http://eddyvallante.com/" target="_blank">Eddy Vallante</a> shared on his <a href="http://eddyvallante.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">blog</a>. And congrats to the happy couple!<br />
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Morgan</div>
<br />Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-62463099174183652482012-04-06T10:30:00.000-04:002013-03-24T18:29:53.072-04:00Brush Up<b>When I meet clients who are having trouble with a certain technique, or say that they can't figure out why (fill in the blank) is happening when they apply makeup, my first question is always, "What does your brush look like?" </b>Often times they are using a brush that is old and worn out, poor quality, hasn't been washed this decade (shame!), or is just plain not right for the job they are trying to do. You wouldn't stir pancake batter with a straw would you? Hopefully not. The same idea goes for makeup brushes. The wrong tool can make a mess of what you are trying to accomplish. And the right tool can make it so much easier.<br />
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The problem that often arises then, is that there are so many options to chose from. I personally use a variety of brushes on myself, and also carry a number of different brands in my kit. I had the luxury of getting brushes at a steep discount when I used to work for a cosmetic line, and while those are still in my kit and serving me well after all these years, I don't know that they're in my price range these days. That sucks for the everyday consumer. Because it's confusing. <b>How are you supposed to choose between one really expensive brush, or a whole bunch that cost less?</b> There are many options on the market, and I hope I can help give some insight. And honestly, price means nothing. <b>All that matters is the quality, and the way it performs.</b> I have brushes I picked up for a couple dollars that I love just as much as brushes that retail for over $60. It's silly.<br />
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I'm making a mental note to break down the world of brushes here in future posts. But for now I wanted to share a little about some brushes that were sent to me for an honest review. I recently received three brushes from <a href="http://stilazzi.com/" target="_blank">Stilazzi</a> to play with and talk about. I had the chance to use them on set for a music video with an older male actor, as well as over this past weekend during two different bridal consultations. I am pleasantly surprised.<br />
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I say surprised only because of what I mentioned earlier. There are <i>so</i> many brushes on the market. And a lot of them are pretty terrible. So I never know what to expect. <b>These brushes are really great.</b><br />
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<b>1. <a href="http://stilazzi.com/buff-brush.aspx" target="_blank">Buff Brush</a></b><b> </b>(Retails $30 and worth every penny) - <b>Favorite!</b> Big, dense, fluffy head. Rocking a flat top that is incredible for buffing face makeup. You could use this to apply powder all over. I used it after applying bronzer and blush to my bride, to literally buff everything so it appeared completely seamless. I've needed a brush like this for a while. It's something I would buy for myself, and also my kit.<br />
<b>2. <a href="http://stilazzi.com/medium-shadow-brush.aspx" target="_blank">Medium Shadow Brush</a></b> (Retails $21) - A smaller, thicker head, about index finger nail size. Great for soft shadow application on the lid.<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b>3. <a href="http://stilazzi.com/flat-shadow-brush.aspx" target="_blank">Flat Shadow Brush</a></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"> (Retails $22) - A larger, flat head, a little bigger than thumbnail size. Works great for quick all over shadow color. I also used it to pat concealer under the eyes.</span></b><br />
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<b>Pros:</b><br />
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<li>Quality natural fibers, meaning they are great for powder or creams</li>
<li>Firm, but soft to the touch</li>
<li>Good handle length, not too long or short</li>
<li>Super lightweight</li>
<li>Little to no shedding</li>
<li>Mid-range price</li>
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<b>Cons:</b><br />
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<li>There was a little "dust" that fluffed out of them at first, though that's normal (tip: always wash your new brushes before using to clean/sanitize them from production and shipping)</li>
<li>The ferrule (part that holds handle & fibers together) on the face Buff brush felt a little loose, though it doesn't hinder use at all</li>
<li>Mid-range price (like I said before, I have some <i>very</i> inexpensive brushes that I adore)</li>
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Overall I really loved these brushes, and they will definitely be a staple in my kit. I will probably pick up another of the Buff brush for myself since it really impressed me. And the <a href="http://www.themakeupshow.com/makeupshow/NY/index.html" target="_blank">Makeup Show</a> is coming up in NYC, so I will be checking out the rest of the brushes in person to add some more to my stash. <a href="http://www.frendsbeautysupplyonline.com/" target="_blank">Frends Beauty Supply</a> carries them in store in Hollywood, and <a href="http://www.frendsbeautysupplyonline.com/search.aspx?manufacturer=476&log=false&category=787" target="_blank">also online</a>.<br />
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<b>What questions do you guys have about brushes? I'd love to address some in a future post.</b>Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-76562439144382617812012-04-04T19:40:00.001-04:002013-03-24T18:30:09.710-04:00What's In My Kit? Take a Peek with Pinterest...A few weeks ago, I sat back and jotted down some ideas for blog posts. I was feeling uninspired and unmotivated. Hence my silence for a while there. So I looked to good old-fashioned brainstorming on paper. I looked at my list, and while some are definitely ideas that will show up here in the coming months, some were so vague I didn't know where to even start.<br />
I'm sure many of you turn to the internet to look for inspiration just like I do. I am constantly reading blogs and pinning things to my boards on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> to keep track of everything. Fashion, hair style ideas, home decor, etc. I've been using <a href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> for a long time now, and am so happy to see it growing in popularity. It's so community based, and I love seeing what inspires my friends and fellow artists on there.<br />
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It finally donned on me that it would be a great place share what products are in my kit and why I love them! And I am finally getting around to setting this particular board up.<br />
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So check out my <a href="http://pinterest.com/mgmua/what-s-in-my-kit/" target="_blank">"What's In My Kit?" board</a>, and take a peek inside my makeup kit to see what I am using on my clients, and why I love these products. And if you are not already using Pinterest, <a href="http://pinterest.com/landing/" target="_blank">what are you waiting for?!</a>Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-69332459628470274202012-04-02T16:40:00.000-04:002013-03-24T18:30:22.040-04:00I Love My Brides & My Brides Love Me!Thanks to the great reviews from past clients, I got this little gem! Word of mouth is so important in this industry, and if it weren't for the kind words my beautiful brides have left for me on sites like Wedding Wire and Yelp, I wouldn't be able to keep doing what I am doing. I've been busy getting my ducks in a row here in NYC. It's overwhelming to say the least. But this city has so much to offer. I'm trying to break into more film and TV here. It's a long process. But I love my brides, and will always be honored to share these special days with them, no matter what direction my career heads in. More blog posts soon, I promise. And I can't wait to share some New York weddings with you this season! I have a feeling it's going to be great!<br />
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<tr><td style="margin: 0 !important; padding: 0 !important;" valign="top" width="130"><a href="http://www.weddingwire.com/brides-choice-awards?utm_source=BCA%2BBadge&utm_medium=Badge&utm_campaign=BCA%2BBadge" style="margin: 0 !important; padding: 0 !important;" title="2012 Bride's Choice Awards | Best Wedding Photographers, Wedding Dresses, Wedding Cakes, Wedding Florists, Wedding Planners"><img alt="2012 Bride's Choice Awards | Best Wedding Photographers, Wedding Dresses, Wedding Cakes, Wedding Florists, Wedding Planners" border="0" src="http://static.weddingwire.com/static/images/badges/BCA-2012/BCA_2012-badge-bottom.png" style="border: none !important; display: block !important; margin: 0 !important; padding: 0 !important;" /></a></td></tr>
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<i>"New York, New York – April 2, 2012 – WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding Marketplace, is excited to announce Morgan Gates Makeup Artist has been selected to receive the prestigious WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2012 for Beauty and Health! </i><br />
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<i>The esteemed annual awards program recognizes the top local wedding vendors from the WeddingWire Network who demonstrate excellence in quality, service, responsiveness and professionalism within the wedding industry. While many industry awards are selected by the organization, Morgan Gates Makeup Artist was selected based on stellar reviews from past newlywed clients. </i><br />
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<i><b>Morgan Gates Makeup Artist is recognized as part of the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire local vendor community, comprised of over 200,000 wedding professionals throughout the United States and Canada.</b> The Bride’s Choice Award recognizes the best local wedding vendors across 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, based on their overall professional achievements throughout the past year. </i><br />
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<i>“WeddingWire is thrilled to honor the success of the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire Community,” said Timothy Chi, CEO, WeddingWire. “Since the launch of the Bride’s Choice Awards™ program four years ago, thousands of outstanding wedding professionals have been recognized by the bridal community for their supreme service and dedication to the wedding industry. <b>It is with great pleasure that we congratulate Morgan Gates Makeup Artist for continued professionalism and commitment to enriching the wedding planning experience for engaged couples.”</b></i><br />
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<i>We are happy to announce that Morgan Gates Makeup Artist is one of the very best within the WeddingWire Network, which includes leading wedding planning sites WeddingWire, Project Wedding, Brides.com, Martha Stewart Weddings, and Weddingbee. We would like to thank past clients for taking the time to review her business on WeddingWire. Thanks to their positive feedback she was able to receive the WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ for 2012. </i><br />
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<i>For more information, please visit her WeddingWire Storefront today at </i><a href="http://www.weddingwire.com/biz/morgan-gates-makeup-artist-brooklyn/ff6eb08b2eda95f6.html" target="_blank">http://www.weddingwire.com/biz/morgan-gates-makeup-artist-brooklyn/ff6eb08b2eda95f6.html</a><i>. </i><br />
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<i>To learn more about the Bride's Choice Awards™, please visit www.WeddingWire.com. </i><br />
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<i>About WeddingWire, Inc.</i><br />
<i>WeddingWire™, the nation's leading marketplace serving the $70 billion wedding industry, is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding professionals. For engaged couples, WeddingWire offers the ability to search, compare and book over 200,000 reviewed wedding vendors, from wedding venues to wedding photographers. WeddingWire also offers a comprehensive suite of online planning tools for weddings, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge. For wedding professionals, WeddingWire is the only all-in-one marketing platform for businesses online and on-the-go. WeddingWire offers one simple solution to build a professional network, improve search visibility, manage social media and reach mobile consumers. Businesses that advertise with WeddingWire appear on WeddingWire.com, ProjectWedding.com and other leading sites, including MarthaStewartWeddings.com (NYSE: MSO), Brides.com and Weddingbee.com. "</i>Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-71553603723353190132012-01-23T19:30:00.000-05:002013-03-24T18:30:59.201-04:00Modelove<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fwYw0bCo90U/Tx36VYP0vPI/AAAAAAAAAWc/RRt2LXrf7XI/s1600/karlieklosshedislimane3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fwYw0bCo90U/Tx36VYP0vPI/AAAAAAAAAWc/RRt2LXrf7XI/s400/karlieklosshedislimane3.jpg" width="288" /></a></div>
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One of the most in-demand models of the moment, Karlie Kloss, started a Tumblr. Add <a href="http://klossgloss.tumblr.com/"><b>Kloss Gloss</b></a> to your feed immediately. I certainly did. I look forward to seeing her editorials, behind-the-scenes photos, and more. A peek at <a href="http://alamused.tumblr.com/"><b>my own Tumblr page</b></a> clearly gives you a peek at the sort of stuff floating around in my head at any given moment.<br />
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I am loving this video of her Dec/Jan <i>Numero</i> cover shoot. Undeniably gorgeous and makes me want to start testing with killer models and other creatives out here in NYC.</div>
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<a href="http://klossgloss.tumblr.com/">1</a>, <a href="http://theparadime.com/?p=9327">2</a></div>
Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-47190210225231874002011-12-30T12:26:00.000-05:002013-03-24T18:31:09.932-04:00A Present For You, Times Two!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Life has been pretty crazy since picking up and moving across the country</b>. I was blessed to work on a really fun indie film all of November that I still need to tell you about! I will fill you in on that, and the rest of what I've been up to soon. I booked another film for January too. I love writing, and I love having this place to really share and connect with you all. But sometimes I am just without motivation and I can't put a paragraph together to save my life! So why force it!<br />
<b>I do want to say thank you for your constant support, love, and interest in my world.</b> And I hope you all are having the very best holiday season and are setting concrete goals for the new year. Follow your heart, and your dreams. The happiness that will follow is priceless.<br />
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I feel lucky for the opportunities I've had this year, and the generosities that have been bestowed upon me. And I'm passing a little of that onto you.<b> I have two gifts to give away to two of you guys!</b> I <a href="http://alamused.blogspot.com/2011/11/stilazzi-review.html">recently reviewed</a> a few accessories that<a href="http://stilazzi.com/"> Stilazzi</a> sent to me. Now I have two of those goodies, brand new, to give to you!<br />
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<b>First is the <a href="http://stilazzi.com/stilazzi-clear-actor-bag-stz-025p-1-3-5.aspx">Clear Travel Bag</a>.</b> Perfect for holding your toiletries during that trip around the world you are taking in 2012, or even to organize part of your makeup kit for all my fellow artists out there.<br />
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<b>And second is the <a href="http://stilazzi.com/portable-kleenex-holder.aspx">Portable Kleenex Holder</a>.</b> This is probably more useful to makeup artists. I fill mine with a pack of makeup wipes and hang it off the back of the makeup chair. But this would also be great to just keep in your car. A constant cure for winter sniffles!<br />
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XOMorganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-82767837623058088222011-12-05T15:09:00.000-05:002013-03-24T18:31:22.486-04:00Paige & Kyle's WeddingI often find that when I get home from a day of doing makeup for one of my wonderful brides and her wedding party, it's like "where did the day go?" It's a whirlwind to say the least. Here's how it tends to happen:<br />
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<li>Wake up.</li>
<li>Double check kit, make sure I have everything I need.</li>
<li>Plug my destination into my phone for accurate, current directions.</li>
<li>Pull up reference photos and breakdown of my bride's look on the iPad.</li>
<li>Triple check kit (and still forget something as silly as tissue, <i>always</i>).</li>
<li>Hit the road, usually grabbing a coffee along the way.</li>
<li>Sing in the car, thinking how lucky I am to do this for a living.</li>
<li>Arrive, figure out where to park.</li>
<li>Walk in to the lobby, guesthouse, grandma's living room, or wherever the bride and her gals are getting ready.</li>
<li>Set up my station while chatting with everyone.</li>
<li>Marvel at the sheer joy and excitement that fills the room, every. single. time.</li>
<li>Look at my timeline to see who is first, and start the first makeup.</li>
<li>Everything after this is a complete blur! No kidding! All of a sudden, the bride's dressed and everyone is rushing out the door. And I'm back in my car driving home.</li>
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Sometimes I get to see photos of the big day and my beautiful clients. Sometimes I don't. And sometimes, just sometimes, I am lucky enough to witness the magic of my clients wedding day, as seen through the eyes of other creative & talented vendors.<br />
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I could write about Paige & Kyle. Or I could just show you. I've actually had this post in draft form for over a month now, but I've been gone. So on the heels of this event being featured on <a href="http://greenweddingshoes.com/wedding-at-condors-nest-ranch-paige-kyle/">Green Wedding Shoes</a>, I figured it was time to finally share. <a href="http://studiocastillero.com/blog/">Studio Castillero</a> of San Diego, CA captured this day at Condor's Nest Ranch in Pala, CA. There's a saying that every picture tells a story... so as if their still images weren't enough to tell this story, <a href="http://www.crafthouseproductions.com/">Crafthouse Productions</a> of New York City created a beautiful film to capture their day in all its glory. I have no qualms about telling you that these made my eyes a little misty. And it reminded me that even though working through a whirlwind of a wedding day can seem like a blur, it's really important to stop and take it all in. I am so lucky to be a part of such a beautiful day in my clients lives.<br />
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Please visit Studio Castillero's <a href="http://studiocastillero.com/blog/">blog</a> and the Green Wedding Shoes <a href="http://greenweddingshoes.com/wedding-at-condors-nest-ranch-paige-kyle/">feature</a> to see even more photos of this magical day, and more information about Crafthouse Productions can be found <a href="http://www.crafthouseproductions.com/">here</a>.Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-76092163709390200112011-11-26T23:13:00.000-05:002013-03-24T18:31:32.246-04:00Stilazzi Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Greetings from Warwick, New York! Since the beginning of November, I've been away working on an indie feature film! I'll be sure to fill you in on all that soon. My first day off I headed home and discovered a package from<b> <a href="http://stilazzi.com/">Stilazzi</a> </b>waiting for me. I was recently invited to be part of their beauty blogger program, and was so happy to have some goodies to take back to set with me! I've had some time to play with them while working during the last couple weeks. The products are great, and their customer service is stellar! But best of all, they are having a sale this <i>entire</i> weekend. 50% off everything, no promo codes needed. Just shop! So good.<br />
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While working on set, it is so important to not only have an appropriately stocked kit, but also great tools and accessories to help get the job done! Needless to say, I was more than happy to play with these goodies in the best scenario possible, on location for a film.<br />
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First up is the <b><a href="http://stilazzi.com/tool-belt-no-loops.aspx">Makeup Tool Belt</a>.</b> It has a great waist belt, and multiple pockets of all sizes, some open, and some with velcro closures.<br />
I'll be totally honest with you. I really like this. But, I'm not a huge fan of makeup/tool belts in general. I have two others, and I never use them. I actually have a set bag I bought at IMATS that I adore, and that has been the best thing to happen to me on set. But I will say I love how simplistic this is. I could see this working really well on a photo shoot with one or two models. Or even great for a hairstylist, to hold pins, combs, brushes, spray, etc. But for me, I have had multiple actors each day, and I don't find the pockets in this versatile enough for my needs on a film. I will utilize this in the future however, when I don't need to carry as many different things with me to set.<br />
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Next is the <a href="http://stilazzi.com/portable-kleenex-holder.aspx"><b>Portable Kleenex Holder</b></a>. What you see is what you get! It has velcro on the back so I'm assuming this can attach to some other Stilazzi bags. The size however only fits the skinny tissue boxes. I only had the jumbo boxes with me. So I slipped a pack of makeup wipes in there instead! This came in really handy while on set. I used the waist belt to slip over the back of the makeup chairs most of the time. Rather than always wondering where they have been tossed after I or an actor used one, they were always right where I needed them. I also slung them over my shoulder for easy clean up during some scenes with bloody special effects makeup. <br />
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Last up is the<b> <a href="http://stilazzi.com/stilazzi-clear-actor-bag-stz-025p-1-3-5.aspx">Clear Actor/Travel Makeup Bag</a></b>. Initially I was excited to organize the skincare, and face products in my kit into this. Then realized I really needed something to organize MY stuff while away on location. So it quickly became my spot for shower goods, personal makeup, etc. It is so versatile because you can really do whatever you want with it. I packed this puppy full! Pictured is only the start of it though. It has one big zippered pocket and two removable inner zippered pockets. And since it is completely clear, you can quickly and easily know what's inside without taking apart and opening it all up. Out of the three things I got, this is a stand out for me! A total must have.<br />
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Make sure you head to the <a href="http://stilazzi.com/"><b>Stilazzi website</b></a> and check out their inventory. They have some great products for makeup artists and hairstylists, as well as the beauty savvy consumer. And with a <a href="http://stilazzi.com/"><b>50% off sale</b></a> going on til Monday, now is the time to snag some goodies for yourself or someone on your holiday shopping list!Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-19630009963566527762011-11-01T18:59:00.000-04:002013-03-24T18:31:42.544-04:00Happy Halloween & Happy November: Thankful ThoughtsHappy first day of November! And a happy Halloween! Time is flying by! Our spooky holiday will be a little drawn out during the rest of this week as we had some unseasonably snowy weather over the weekend. You may have seen some news footage about the snowgrinch who stole Halloween. Snowloween. Snowtober. Oct-snow-ber (credit to Jay for that one). Snowpocalypse. It was record breaking weather for this time of year, and many folks who are used to this kind of thing have never seen anything like this. Welcome to the east coast right? I hear it was in the 80s back home in San Diego!<br />
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The powdery stuff began falling around 10am Saturday and just. kept. coming. Jay and I thought it would be the perfect time to get him done up in zombie makeup, and take some photos out in the cold. We weren't sure what we were going to do on Halloween, so we wanted to get something scary in no matter what! And fake blood on crisp white snow? Yes please! I rolled up my sleeves and got down to it, and filled up a squirt bottle with a blood mixture to spray around for effect.<br />
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So we cleaned up the mess outside and headed in for a dinner not consisting of brains. We were nearing the end of our meal, and gearing up to carve pumpkins and watch <b><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0862856/">Trick 'R Treat</a>.</b> And poof. The lights went out. We bundled up as temperatures dropped through the night, and were crazy enough to go out at one point and assess the damage. It was eerily quiet as we tried to walk around all the fallen trees and mess, up past our calves in snow. We stopped to build a snowman and then headed home. The night progressed and we loaded up the blankets, hoping the power might be back in the morning. Instead, we woke up to the news that it was "likely" to not be back on until Friday. Friday! Over a foot of snow will do that to ya! Or rather, to trees still full of foliage, weighed down and breaking on thousands of power lines. So we grabbed a few essentials, and headed a bit south to stay with family (who got just a couple inches of snow) and stay warm.<br />
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Well, what a way to start November. A month when we start feeling the holidays creeping up on us, and stuff our faces and remember to be thankful for the things we have. I can tell you we were very thankful to find out power was back on at home! I know thousands are still without but we were among the lucky few to get back on the grid early in the week. So very thankful! So we are home now, and Halloween was technically yesterday, but we are going to keep it going this week since we missed out. Tonight will include the scary movies we wanted to watch, and tomorrow will be the pumpkin carving. Too bad a squirrel already carved mine!<br />
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I bet he was very thankful to find such easy access to food in the snow though! Happy November everyone!Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-89023376615296803782011-10-28T14:56:00.000-04:002013-03-24T18:31:49.988-04:00It's Raining, It's Pouring, the Old Man is ... Drinking Fair Trade Coffee?Hi loves. Ok so I'm no poet. But it is raining, and actually pouring. I hear talk of snow being a possibility this weekend? My west coast wardrobe is failing me miserably. There is no old man snoring, or drinking fair trade coffee for that matter. But I am! Not the snoring part!<br />
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<b>So I usually like to focus my posts here about the makeup industry</b>, my travels and adventures, and when I write a review of something it's about makeup or beauty products. But it's my blog and I'll do what I want! <b>I love coffee</b>. Even if it doesn't totally wake me up, there is something satisfying about an iced coffee while out running errands, or a warm mug on a cold day. And <b>I almost always grab one on my way to a makeup job</b>. I always get offered champagne when I show up to do makeup for a bridal party, and for the most part I don't think it's professional while working. So it's easier to politely decline when I already have a beverage to sip on.<br />
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<b>But a girl can go broke with a bad coffee habit. So I am more motivated than ever trying to save money to live in New York City to just start trying to make it at home!</b><br />
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<b>I was recently sent some <a href="http://www.greenmountaincoffee.com/">Green Mountain Fair Trade Certified Coffee</a> to try out. </b>I'll be honest, sometimes I'm a lazy consumer. There I said it. But who isn't? I like to consider myself pretty with it and environmentally aware. I do my part. But this is an important issue, and <b>October is Fair Trade Month</b>! So go make yourself a cup of joe and check out some information about Fair Trade and my take on this tasty stuff.<br />
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<b>What I thought of Green Mountain Fair Trade Coffee:</b></div>
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The last time I bought a cup of coffee was at a Starbucks during our cross-country drive. And I had a gift card. I know they offer fair trade options there, which is great! But let me tell you, I have enjoyed coffee from a variety of places since being on the east coast. And most of all, I have been making it at home. My package containing Green Mountain Fair Trade coffee for my review arrived literally days after we got here. So I have had a few weeks now to enjoy it. We are staying with my boyfriend Jay's grandparents for the time being, and they have a french press that I've been using.</div>
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<b>This coffee is good. I mean, really good</b>. The taste isn't too strong, and it works well even chilled over ice. <b>The Organic House Blend </b>smells rich enough to wake up a full household on a Sunday morning. And it tastes just as good, with a bold taste still light enough to drink black. <b>The Seasonal Pumpkin Spice</b> is great. Clearly, as the bag is nearly empty! It doesn't taste sweet like a dessert, which I can really appreciate as most flavored coffees do. But it still has enough of a dessert feel that I love sipping a cup of it while reading a book after dinner. I've been enjoying it with a little bit of almond milk mixed in, and Jay (who is not even a coffee drinker) has liked it over ice with a little splash of pumpkin spice creamer. </div>
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<b>What's the deal with Fair Trade?</b></div>
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There are so many sources of information out there that can explain it better than I can. To learn more go to <a href="http://fairtradeusa.org/about-fair-trade-usa/mission"><b>Fair Trade USA</b></a> to read about the organization's mission as a whole, and visit <a href="http://www.greenmountaincoffee.com/Our-Story/csr/index.shtml"><b>Green Mountain's site</b></a> to see how they are working to "brew a better world." But in general, <b>Fair Trade farms have strict labor laws, business practices, and environmental standards that not only ensure a better quality and better tasting product, but fair treatment of workers too.</b> And work is being done to build up the Fair Trade communities to enrich the lives of the people in them, including new schools, scholarships, and businesses to grow their economies. Do some research elsewhere too! We are lucky enough to have information literally at our fingertips, and it's really interesting to see the how it all comes full circle. </div>
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<b>If you'd like a chance to win a gift bag filled with Fair Trade certified goodies</b>, <b><a href="http://bonzaiaphrodite.com/2011/10/gift-bag-giveaway-for-fair-trade-month/">check out this post</a> from one of my favorite bloggers, <a href="http://bonzaiaphrodite.com/">Bonzai Aphrodite</a>. </b>She has also shared a quick video that explains it briefly and perfectly in only two minutes. I urge you to go watch it, and enter to win the gift bag she's giving away!</div>
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And if you're thinking of making some Green Mountain Fair Trade Certified coffee at home, use the code BETTER-4ALL at <b><a href="http://www.greenmountaincoffee.com//shop/k-cups-category?facets=Brand%3ACaf%C3%A9%20Escapes%C2%AE&TitleTag=K-Cup%20Varieties#back">checkout on their website</a> </b>for $2 off certain items. And like them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GreenMountainCoffee"><b>Facebook</b></a> where they share the most current deals and coupons.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I received these samples as a <a href="http://www.bzzagent.com/">BzzAgent</a>, and was received no compensation for this review. Just sharing my thoughts! </i></span></div>
Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-30714475001550152852011-10-17T22:04:00.000-04:002013-03-24T18:31:57.449-04:00Makeup Monday - Lip Service: Conquering Red, Part 2Last Monday <a href="http://alamused.blogspot.com/2011/10/makeup-monday-lip-service-conquering.html">I talked to you about how to find the right red lipstick</a>. <b>Today I'm going to show you how to put it on like a pro</b>. I always said to myself that I would never do video tutorials. There's even something about the word "tutorial" that really bugs me. But I'll let you in on a little secret, I first tried to make a bold lip step-by-step for you months ago. But the photos all looked super dorky, posed, and honestly would have taken way too many to show you what I wanted anyway. So I deleted them all, and promised to revisit the topic again some time. Which I did, in a different way, last week.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>via Pinterest</i></td></tr>
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Late last week, I set out to taking photos of how to apply a bold lip again. And once more, I was displeased with the results. Am I really this much of a dweeb? Yes. But then I remembered how much I love showing people bits of what I know as a professional, so that they can feel empowered with makeup in their daily lives.<br />
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<b>Saturday was my almost-sixteen-year-old sister's homecoming dance</b>. And for the first time, we don't live in the same city, let alone on the same coast. <b>I wasn't there to do her makeup.</b> It crushed me. She's great with her makeup, but I always spoil her for special occasions and try to make her feel like a movie star. I talked to my mom via FaceTime, and she said my sister was looking on YouTube for ideas for her makeup. Crushed again. I cried. How could I let her down like this? <b>So I thought, if my sister called me and wanted to know how to apply a bold lip, what would I show her?</b> Certainly not dorky, hard-to-explain photos.<br />
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<b>So I made a video</b>. A dorky, step-by-step video. Gather your supplies. Everything I do here will ensure a long lasting bold lip. The first step I show you creates a blank canvas of sorts, and also helps build a barrier to keep lips from bleeding. I skip it when I'm feeling lazy, and just start in with lining. But adapt things as you wish! Alright, just start watching. Enjoy!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/wZfiB5-MEYI" width="560"></iframe>Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-65885670424944190502011-10-10T09:34:00.000-04:002013-03-24T18:32:09.204-04:00Makeup Monday - Lip Service: Conquering Red<b>Hi my lovely readers! Happy October!</b> Time just seems to be flying by. And my brief hiatus can be explained only by letting you know I now live on the east coast! Yes, we did it! We moved! I had so many posts planned for you so I wouldn't be absent during the last few weeks, but time is a tricky little bugger and I never seemed to find enough of it in the weeks leading up to us loading up that truck. But I am back! And Fall is too, and that means a shift in your wardrobes, both clothing and makeup.<br />
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<b>Let's talk about lipstick. </b>As the leaves begin to change, so do my go-to lipstick colors. I have been addicted to reds lately, just as I love my pinks and corals in summer. But I know not everyone is as comfortable swiping on a bold shade. I posted a question to my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/morgangatesmakeupartist">Facebook page</a> asking your thoughts on wearing a bold lip.<b> Hopefully the following tips will help guide you to a great lip color for the season.</b><br />
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<b>How do I find the right shade?</b><br />
Red can be bright and bold, dark and moody, glossy or matte, sheer or opaque. There are endless options so it can definitely feel overwhelming finding a shade. I always liken searching for lipstick shades to the process of finding the right jeans. You have to try a few on before you find the perfect fit. Don't get discouraged!<br />
<i>For skin with pink undertones</i>, blue based reds tend to be more flattering.<br />
<i>For olive/golden undertones</i>, reds with orange/brown undertones will be more flattering.<br />
<i>For darker skin tones</i>, I have found that you really have your pick! But deep burgundy and berry shades are extra flattering!<br />
Really, wear whatever you want! But if you're just starting out, that should get you in the direction of a color that will no doubt look good with your skin tone.<br />
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<b>Do I need lip liner?</b><br />
Yes. And no. This really depends on the finish of your lipstick. Yes it will help keep your color on, and keep it from bleeding and feathering. Do you need one? Maybe. On one extreme, matte and opaque shades will stay put either way, but to get a clean sharp edge, a liner is absolutely necessary. On the other hand, glossy and sheer shades can be more forgiving in the application, but are more likely to feather as the formula doesn't dry down completely.<i> I find as a general rule when wearing bold shades that liner can really only help you in the long run. Invest in a good red pencil. It can't hurt.</i><br />
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<b>Should I pick a matte shade or glossy? Should I go sheer or opaque?</b><br />
This is ultimately up to you. <i>Do you feel pretty in it? Do you like the way it feels on your lips?</i> Do you want staying power or just something light you can throw on as you head out the door? I talked a bit about formula while discussing lip liner. The more matte (and often opaque) the shade, the more staying power it will have. If you're not sure, start with a red gloss and as you get more comfortable with wearing a bold color, layer a lip liner underneath the gloss to bump it up a notch. Then transition fully to a lipstick instead.<br />
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<b>Ok, so how do I keep it off my teeth? And the rest of my face for that matter?</b><br />
There are a few techniques to help with this. As far as keeping it on your lips, and not the rest of your face, lip liner is the best tool. It creates a barrier around the edge so your lipstick doesn't travel away from your perfect pout.<br />
Also, blot and powder. This is as old school as it gets. Apply lip color, then blot with a tissue and dust a translucent powder over top. And if you wish, apply a second layer of color after.<br />
<i>And the tip that always makes my bridal clients laugh and say, "you want me to what?" </i>when I show them...after applying your lip product, take your clean index finger and put it in your mouth. Straight in like a popsicle, and wrap your lips around tight. When you pull your finger out, there should be lipstick on it. Wipe clean. That was all the stuff that would have ended up on your teeth! A fellow artist friend showed me that years ago, and it works wonders! You can use a rolled up tissue too, I suppose, but any time I have done that, I just end up with tissue stuck everywhere. Your call!<br />
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<b>I love the look of red, but I feel like I can never get the rest of my makeup balanced. How do I make it work?</b></div>
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<i>A bold lip is really an accessory in itself. </i>So as a good rule of thumb, don't pile on a bunch of other (makeup) accessories too. <i>Clean, perfected skin, and well groomed, defined brows are the most important pieces to making red lipstick work.</i> Take the time to conceal and brighten under eye circles, and to disguise redness or discoloration in your skin. A sweep of natural cheek color to define bone structure is good. Tweeze straw brow hairs, and lightly fill in the arch to define a nice shape. Brows are so important I might have to dedicate a future post just to them. But for now, just make sure to pay attention to them in some manner. A lush, dark mascara on your lashes is a good idea too. </div>
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From here it is up to you. It's the difference between wearing jeans, a t-shirt, and converse, and wearing jeans, a flirty blouse, and your most catwalk worthy heels. Winged liner? Sure. Smokey eyes? If you're feeling edgy. Soft smudgy brown liner? Subtly sexy. False lashes? Sex kitten status. <i>Just remember, start with the basics of perfected skin and face-framing brows, then let your personality and mood determine the rest.</i> You can always add more, but it's hard to take away. Start with less, and build. </div>
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<b>I'm ready for red! Do you have any suggestions?</b><br />
A good place to start is <a href="http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/shaded/168/966/Viva-Glam-Lipstick/index.tmpl">MAC's Viva Glam I</a>. It's a true brick red, and will suit everyone nicely. Plus the proceeds go to help people who are living with and/or are affected by HIV & AIDS. I am also a huge fan of MAC's Ruby Woo (a bright, velvety matte), and Diva (a deep, matte burgundy red that's gorgeous on darker skin tones). Want something more sheer, with a little bit of shine? Try Lady Bug (for pink undertones) or Spice It Up! (for olive undertones or darker skin).<br />
Make Up Forever's Aqua pencils are to-die-for! I have told you this before! So pick up their <a href="http://www.makeupforever.com/products/lips/aqua-lip.html">08C Red pencil</a>. You won't be sorry. Their <a href="http://www.makeupforever.com/products/lips/lip-line-perfector.html">Lip Line Perfector</a> is another good choice.<br />
That is a good start for true reds. <i>Head to makeup counters or Sephora and try things on! Let the person working there help you, and if you aren't ready to buy yet, tell them. There is nothing wrong with wanting to test drive your sassy new mouth before you sign on the dotted line!</i><br />
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<b><i>Next Monday, I will show you step by step, how to apply a bold lipstick. A La Mused's first tutorial! Are you as excited as I am? Good! So go find a red you love, and then follow along with me next week as I show you how to put it on.</i></b><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>All photos via <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/">Pinterest.</a></i></span>Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-16698093013383931572011-09-13T14:24:00.000-04:002013-03-24T18:32:16.675-04:00Keeping Up With New York Fashion WeekI had little to no internet while in Seattle. It was actually refreshing! Did you miss me? With no internet, and no TV, we got out and you know, did stuff! Amazing thrifting, tourist stuff, and exploring all the neighborhoods. Plus we went to our friends amazing wedding and had a blast. I'll be sure to share some photos from our trip soon, but today officially marks the start of "getting down to the wire." As of yesterday, we have two weeks until we hop in the moving truck and hit the road. Crazy!<br />
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So I have been trying to keep up with New York Fashion Week and all the shows via Twitter and Tumblr when I can. Hopefully I'll be working the shows in Spring next year! I've been crazy busy since we got back from the northwest, but I thought I'd share a couple photos from the shows so far. I <i>love</i> backstage shots the most.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Richard Chai LOVE Spring 2012 RTW</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Muted palette at Diane Von Furstenberg </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;">Minimal perfection at Derek Lam</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rag & Bone</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alexander Wang</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In love with the look at Thakoon</td></tr>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Photos: <a href="http://www.style.com/">Style</a>, <a href="http://nymag.com/fashion/?f=fashion">NY Magazine</a></span></i></div>
Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119262739670671847noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8015341102638970300.post-16482054346035211402011-08-31T12:00:00.000-04:002013-03-24T18:32:23.059-04:00Sayonara San Diego. Hello Seattle.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seattle, Summer 2010</td></tr>
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<b>Today we leave for a week in Seattle.</b> A lovely couple we know are getting married this weekend. I just love weddings! Jayson is a groomsman so there will be lots of festivities leading up to the big event, and we plan to do some sight seeing during the second half of the trip. <b>We went last summer and had a blast, but will have to be extra creative finding free or budget-friendly fun this time</b>. A week sounded great when we first booked our flights a while ago, but now so close to moving we are smacking our foreheads. Doh!<br />
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<b>Have you been to Seattle? What are your favorite things to do and see? Museums? Hikes/outdoor fun close to downtown? People watching? Veggie friendly food? Tell me what we can't miss while we are there!</b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seattle, Summer 2010</td></tr>
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