All Dolled Up

Artistry skin care tips from the trainer, Rebecca Tipton

Katie Blough — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 13:30:00 GMT

In a girl’s world, passing up a free beauty lesson is like saying "no thanks" to a chocolate chip cookie. As one of our many unwritten laws, it just shouldn't happen! That’s why I jumped at the chance to meet Rebecca Tipton, Artistry Trainer, when I found out she'd be available for some Artistry Q&A.

So, while Rebecca beautified my face, I took notes to make sure I could duplicate what she did on my own. Below are my favorite product tips along with my notes from home. Ladies, whether you’re a novice or have been a regular at the beauty counter for years, these skin care tips are definitely worth a look.

You wouldn’t shampoo your hair without following up with a conditioner, right? Use a toner (like the ARTISTRY® essentials balancing or hydrating) as a final step of your face-cleaning cycle to remove impurities the water may have left behind and to naturally exfoliate your skin.
*Katie's at-home notes: Shake the bottle to ensure the product is thoroughly mixed. Dab the product on a cotton ball and delicately swipe the cotton ball over your face. Easy!
Exfoliate (this seems to be a re-occurring theme)! Try the ARTISTRY® MicroExfoliation Cloth to gently polish away dead skin cells on the surface of your face, but never use it more than twice a week! Don’t like the feel of an exfoliator? Try the ARTISTRY® TIME DEFIANCE® Skin Refinishing Lotion. It’s gentler than an exfoliant, but takes a bit longer to see the results.
*Katie's at-home notes: I'm in love with the MicroExfoliation Cloth! Personally, I think my foundation looks smoother on my face, and I only use the cloth once a week!

Bags under your eyes? Fear no more! Use an eye lifting cream (ARTISTRY® TIME DEFIANCE ® Lifting Eye Creme is great!) to give your eyes a virtual lift. Don’t be afraid if you feel a sensation under your eyes – it’s natural! After five days, that sensation should diminish, and you’ll be on your way to younger-looking eyes.
*Katie's at-home notes: I felt the sensation, but it was more of a refreshing sensation than a bad one!

Check back soon for Part 2 of this blog to find out what Rebecca had to say about Artistry's colour cosmetics!

Miss Virgina, our new Miss America

Katie Blough — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 02:07:00 GMT

If you thought watching the Miss America Pageant on TV was intense, try watching it from Section 208, row R, seat 9 inside the Theater for the Performing Arts at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. While you were watching commercials, I was watching camera crews rush around the auditorium to set up for Mario's next live shot. Even while the cameras were rolling, stage crews were running around the set. The contestants continuously tried to exit the stage in the wrong direction! Luckily, stage crews stopped them in time before they got into camera viewing.

But then, it all came down to this moment.

Click here if you cannot view the video in your browser.

Dressed in a floor-length yellow gown and chandelier earrings, Caressa Cameron, a 22-year-old broadcast journalism student at Virginia Commonwealth University, won the title of Miss America 2010. Relieving Katie Stam of her reign, Caressa will carry the 89-year-old pageant's crown for the next 365 days.

And the best part is...she's now part of the Artistry team. You're going to see a lot more of Caressa in the year to come. We're extremely excited to work with her and look forward to building our relationship with the Miss America Organization!

Caressa Cameron, Miss America 2010, with pageant host, Mario Lopez

Exclusive interview with Miss America judge, Vivica A. Fox

Katie Blough — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 01:14:00 GMT

"Hi, I'm Vivica," the actress and Miss America judge announced as she walked through the door of the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino suite where we were set up to have our interview. I paused, stepped away from the bar stool I was using as a crutch to embrace my shaking body, extended my sweaty palm, and shook her hand (don't deny it - your palms would have been sweaty, too, if you were about to meet a movie star). She was radiant, beaming with beauty, and held her head high with confidence. And why wouldn't she? Vivica is gorgeous - but she's the first to admit that beauty isn't all about appearance, it also comes from within.

Click here if you cannot see the video in your browser.

Q: Do you prefer to get "all dolled up" or dress casual?
A: Both … I love getting dressed up for Red Carpet events, and I also love my comfortable velour warm-up suits for casual wear while traveling!

Q: Do you have any beauty tips for achieving the perfect look?
A: Always have a theme in mind for events. I love to grab a page out of a magazine or a great book!

Q: How do you handle the pressure of being in the spotlight?
A: I make sure to workout, get facials, and take care of my body and spirit so that I feel good all over to avoid feeling stressed or tired!

Q: What excites you the most about being a judge for the Miss America Pageant?
A: That I will help a young lady’s life and destiny change and making her dream come true by crowning her Miss America 2010!

Q: How do you balance family, friends, and work?
A: By spending quality time with them away from the glare of being a celebrity … doing trips to the spa, movies, and fun dinner parties!

Q: What’s your secret to beautiful skin?
A: Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Drink plenty of water and steam your face! Get facials! I love having a hydrating microdermabrasion facial once a month!

Q: What’s a beauty trend from 2009 that you’ll leave behind?
A: Two-tone hair dos such as blonde with black tips … Not my favorite look and it needs to stay in 2009!

Be beautiful in 2010!
Much Love - Vivica A. Fox

About Vivica A. Fox – Fox is an accomplished actress and producer that has appeared on both the small and big screens in every type of genre. She is currently the host of the new reality series, "The Cougar,” and returned for the 2009 season of Larry David's HBO hit comedy, Curb Your Enthusiasm as the feisty "Loretta Black.” She is the recipient of numerous awards including the NAACP Spirit Award, the NAACP Image Award and Prism Award, the Trumpet Award for Outstanding Career Achievements in Film, the Lady of Soul Lena Horne Career Achievement Award and an MTV Movie Award. She was also named as one of People Magazine’s fifty most beautiful people.

A day in Miss America Pageant life

Katie Blough — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 02:28:00 GMT

What does a back stage interview with Miss America hopefuls, pageant dress rehearsals, a press conference with an Olympic gymnast and American Idol alum, and a preliminary competition all have in common? They’re just a few of the highlights leading up to the Miss America Pageant – and they all happened in just one day.

To kick off the morning, Artistry was invited to go behind-the-scenes while the pageant contestants were doing their makeup and getting ready for dress rehearsals. Watch this video to find out what these ladies love most about Artistry.

Click here if the video doesn't appear in your browser.

Once the dress is on, hair is perfected, and the makeup is complete, contestants made their way on stage to practice their talents. I saw tap dancing, ballerinas tip-toeing, and baton twirling. Some women sang Opera and others tickled the ivories. If you were competing for Miss America, what hidden talent would you showcase?

Next stop: press conference. In a crowded room alongside professional reporters, camera crews, and bloggers, I sat only feet away from the judges of this year’s Miss America Pageant. Not to mention, Robin Leach, who is blogging about the pageant, had a seat two rows in front of me and former Miss America’s were spread throughout the room. I can’t wait to sit in on the next press conference featuring the host of this year’s pageant, Mario Lopez!

Click here if the video doesn't appear in your browser.

Concluding the day’s highlights was the second of three preliminary rounds. Judges score each contestant’s talent, swimwear, evening gown, and the answer they provide to a question pertaining to her platform. Based on those scores, pageant contestants are narrowed down to the select few that we get to watch compete on TV.

How's that for an inside look at a day in the life of the Miss America Pageant?

Miss America minus the crown

Katie Blough — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 23:43:00 GMT

She's everywhere! From the moment my plane touched down in Vegas, I couldn't turn around without seeing Miss America's image. Katie Stam is on billboards, magazine covers, flyers, video screens - she's even on my hotel room key! Oh, and get this: she was even on the Artistry Mobile Brand Experience.

Right now, the "spa on wheels" is parked outside of the Planet Hollywood Hotel and Casino where all of the pageant action is taking place. Since Artistry is the Official Skin Care and Cosmetics provider of the Miss America Pageant, we invited Miss America to step aboard the bus to experience the brand for herself and even enjoy some of the spa services. So, while she was getting pampered with a paraffin wax treatment, I had the opportunity to get to know the beauty queen and ask her a few questions about who she is...minus the crown.

If the video does not appear in your browser, click here.

There she is…Miss America!

Katie Blough — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 02:40:00 GMT

Sing it with me, “There she is…Miss America!” It was Wayne Bernie who originally sang the Miss America Pageant theme song, but if you’re lucky enough to catch me in my finest hour, I’m the one who’s belting out the lyrics now.

No, it’s not your typical jam to listen to on the morning commute to work. But it’s definitely one that came to mind when I learned that Artistry would be the Official Skin Care and Cosmetics Provider of the Miss America Pageant for the next two years! That means contestants will learn all about the brand and how they can use it to feel beautiful, confident, and shine like a superstar on their big night.

But that’s not all. Did you know that Miss America is one of the world’s largest providers of scholarship assistance for young women? That’s why Artistry, backed by Amway Global, has also decided to sponsor a scholarship for the pageant.

Only T minus 4 days stand between now and the 2010 Miss America Pageant, so today, I hopped a flight to Las Vegas to prepare for the event. Want to be in on the action? We will blog, Facebook, and Tweet live from the scene, so stay tuned. And in the meantime…feel free to learn the Miss America theme song for yourself!

It’s as easy as wiggle, point, click!

Katie Blough — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 19:00:00 GMT

When I was young(er), “Sabrina the Teenage Witch” was one of my favorite TV shows. If you’re not familiar with the sitcom, Sabrina is a girl who discovers she’s a witch on her sixteenth birthday. Suddenly, she has the power to cast spells and do all sorts of nifty tricks – it’s kind of like a new-school version of “Bewitched.”

One of the perks of her new-found witchery was that Sabrina never had to “get ready.” All she had to do was wiggle her finger, point into the mirror, and snap. Instantly, Sabrina had a brand new, polished look and could leave the house in seconds flat.

If only getting ready was really that easy.

Chances are, unless your name is Sabrina and you’re a teenage witch, you’re still clocking some serious time trying to figure out what hairstyle, make up, and outfit will look best for the occasion. And let’s face it – there are times when that outfit looks perfect in your head, but it’s a disaster in the mirror.

Now, I’m no witch, but I do have a couple of tricks up my sleeve that save me time and eliminate stress when getting ready. Introducing: dailymakeover.com. Read about the latest celebrity trends, fashion do’s and don’ts, and learn about the hottest cosmetics on the market. You can even give yourself a virtual makeover!

While I can’t wiggle, point, and snap my way to a new look, I can wiggle, point, and click my computer mouse – and you can, too. So, give it a glance, and happy makeover!

Colour tips and tricks for a picture perfect New Years Eve

Jessica Ellis — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 19:46:00 GMT

Katie Blough, public relations specialist for Amway Global, is guest blogging again. She's getting ready for a big night out!

New Years Eve is an extravagant evening – one that I definitely put my all into when getting ready. From picking out the perfect party dress to scouring my jewelry box for some bling to bedazzle my outfit, hours of careful, strategic planning go into this night of getting all dolled up.

While clothes play a vital role in my evening look, it’s the colour scheme on my face that will pull everything together. You see, I like to make a statement on a big night out, and that means something different, trendy, and eye-catching. That’s why I decided to ask none other than Luba, our Artistry Beauty Expert, to give me some tips and tricks for a glitzy, glamorous look as I say goodbye to 2009 and ring in the New Year.

Eyes
For a smoky eye, use ARTISTRY® Eye Colours in Sapphire and Starry Night. Apply Sapphire on your eye lids (staying below the brow bones) followed by Starry Night on the inner corners and directly under the brow. Next, line the upper eye rim with ARTISTRY® Eye Define in Noir. On the lower eye rim, use the ARTISTRY® Essentials eyeliner brush to line with Sapphire. Finish with a coat of ARTISTRY® essentials mascara or ARTISTRY® Total Mascara in Black on your upper and lower lashes.

Cheeks
To create a healthy flush, apply ARTISTRY® Classic Cheek Colour in Whipped Berry with a professional brush like the ARTISTRY® essentials face brush. Tip: to find the ‘apples’ of your cheeks, look in the mirror and smile.

Lips
Pucker up! Complete Luba’s look by slathering a layer of ARTISTRY® Lip Shine in Candid to enhance your luscious lips.

Time to get ready!
If you’re dying to know, I’ll be sporting a solid black silk tank tucked into a high-waist zebra striped skirt (animal print is in this season, ladies!). Paired with sheer black nylons, these fabulous booties, and a pink chunky belt for some color, this is going to be one picture perfect night!

Introducing: new, fabulous foundations

Jessica Ellis — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 13:58:00 GMT

Katie Blough, public relations specialist for Amway Global, sent us the following post live from Achievers and the New Platinum Conference 2009 in Orlando!

Tis the season for putting your best face forward. I can’t tell you how many parties, girls’ nights, or who knows, maybe even dates I’ll have this holiday season, but there is one thing I can tell you: when I arrive on-scene, I want my face to light up the room.

That’s why I was completely stoked when I was invited to join our IBOs this week at Achievers and the New Platinum Conference for a sneak peek at the new ARTISTRY® Balancing and Hydrating Foundations. But, before I go any further, you have to understand my love for beauty products. Walking into a candy store would bring a smile to any child’s face. For me, that candy store is a cosmetics counter full of lip and eye colors, blushes, bronzers … and fabulous foundations. So, when it was time for Expo, guess who was in the front row for the foundations presentation? Yup, you got it – yours truly.

Beauty scoop
These foundations are liquid perfections for every skin tone. ARTISTRY Balancing Foundation, with Balancing Matrix, is ideal for combination-to-oily skin (that’s my pick!) EFA-rich ARTISTRY Hydrating Foundation nurtures normal-to-dry skin. Both share Desert Hydration Complex for optimum hydration, Aura of Protection for free radical defense and SPF 20 PA+++ for protection. Available in 17 shades, the Ideal Shade Technology intuitively adjusts to match your skin tone so you can find your way to flawless.

Now, that’s what I’m talking about!
On a scale of like it, love it, or gotta have it, these foundations tip the scale at *drum roll please* gotta have it! With temps in the high 70s (sorry to rub that in to all of my friends back in Michigan), I need a foundation that won’t melt off my face in the warm weather. And with my combination-to-oily skin, the last thing I want is an extra greasy face (yuck!) Well, the verdict is in, and my new foundation passed my tests – hands down.

But, don’t just take my word for it– try it yourself! The new foundations will be available February 1, 2010.

Final look
In addition to my flawless, healthy-looking complexion, a killer outfit is a must have. Sweater dress with leggings – check! Dark, trendy fingernail polish – check, check! Paired with smoky eyes and a bold lip, I’m confident that I’ll be rocking out each entrance I make this holiday season.

Ta-ta for now!

Jessica Ellis — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 17:29:00 GMT

The temperature has dropped here in Michigan which means that over the weekend, I had no choice but to turn on the heat, put away my summer sandals, and pull out my sweaters to keep from freezing from head to toe! I love fall - the fashion, the colors, the flavors...its all so warm and cozy! And every year, as I make the switch from my summer styles to my fall wardrobe, I'm reminded how energizing 'change' can be. Even something as simple as trading my worn out flip flops for a new pair of suede boots can leave me feeling brand new and ready to take on the day!

This fall, I am making another change in my life. I'm taking a new job with the Amway Special Events department in the Global Sales Division. I have learned so much working with the Mobile Brand Experiences, the LA Sol and Earthquakes soccer teams, and all of the other amazing sponsorships Amway Global has taken on the last 2 years. Now it's time to try something new so that I can continue to grow and change with the Amway family.

Even though I'm packing up, All Dolled Up is staying right here! My friend (and beauty maven) Katie Blough will be taking over this blog sharing her makeup, skin care, and fashion tips to keep the beauty talk flowing. Watch for Katie to join the conversation soon - till then - stay fabulous dolls & gents, I'll miss you!

Jess

Fox17 goes behind the scenes with Artistry!

Jessica Ellis — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 15:08:00 GMT

Fox17 Morning News went where most have never gone before...behind the scenes at the world of my favorite brand, Artistry Skin Care and Cosmetics!

Emily from the network's morning show was featured in 4 exclusive segments ranging from a "close up" at the Research and Development Labs, to experiencing the "finishing touch" with a fabulous makeover! She even tried out the fabulous Artistry lab coat, booties, and hair net! Good job, Em!

Check out the video clips below! Or you can watch live tonight at 10 p.m. ET at home or online at fox17online.com.

Segment 1 -- Research & Development Labs
Segment 2 -- Mixing Room
Segment 3 -- Assembly Line
Segment 4 -- Makeover Time!

All-star athlete, international beauty, role model

Jessica Ellis — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 16:20:00 GMT

What I love most about beauty and fashion is that you can find it just about anywhere - from the runways in NYC to the streets of your own hometown! And one of my new favorite faces belongs to Marta de Silva who proves that beauty is more than skin deep and can even be found on a soccer field in southern California!

For those of you who don't know her, Marta is a forward for the Los Angeles Sol Women's Professional Soccer Team. Representing the beauty of hard work as well as strength on and off the field, Marta is an incredible role model for young girls.

As presenting sponsor of the team, Amway Global had the opportunity to spend some time with her off the field for an exciting photo shoot where Marta beautifully wore some of her favorite Artistry products!

Ashley B. applying the finishing touches to Marta's flawless look!

Gorgeous!

Marta is a three-time FIFA Women's Player of the Year and she is up to win the ESPY for Best Female International Athlete. You can help her achieve this by voting online at http://www.espys.tv/.

50 and still fabulous

Jessica Ellis — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 16:12:00 GMT

Ok, I know I'm a little late on this one, but happy belated birthday, Amway! I guess when you turn 50 it's okay to celebrate all year long, right? Even though I'm a few days behind, the company spared no expense with an extravagant anniversary celebration complete with a visit from the Artistry spa on wheels!

The Artistry Mobile Brand Experience rolled into town for a 3-day open house, offering exclusive tours, spa treatments, and special giveaways to Amway employees, Independent Buisness Owners, and even the Grand Rapids community!

Our friend, and Artistry expert, Luba was on board and made a special appearance on WZZM's Take Five morning show! Check out the clip here, and learn more about the spa on wheels and Luba's top three skin care tips!

Weekend winners!

Jessica Ellis — Fri, 29 May 2009 15:01:00 GMT

Congrats to Jenny & Bridgett -- two lucky winners of the new Artistry Time Defiance Lifting Eye Creme! Thanks for sharing your budget-breaking-beauty experiences, I enjoyed reading your comments and I admit feeling a little sting as I remembered being in similar situations. Oops!

Let me know what you think of the new eye creme. It's definitely one of my can't-live-without-it products!

Calling all divas!

Jessica Ellis — Wed, 06 May 2009 14:16:00 GMT

Hey dolls & divas!

Check out this fascinating web-interactive from Newsweek - The Beauty Breakdown - (Thanks, Melissa for sharing!) on the crazy amount of moolah we ladies put into looking fabulous. Some of the numbers are absolutely shocking - especially when you see how quickly a few highlights and facials can add up over a lifetime!

Feeling a little financially-frozen? Remember, you can always create your own beauty treatments right at home. Check out the Artistry Time Defiance skin care line for at-home alternatives to dermatological procedures to keep your face, and your wallet, pain-free! My latest fave? The NEW Time Defiance Lifting Eye Cream. And it's your lucky day because I have two of them right here on my desk just waiting for a good home! Want a chance to experience the eye-catching results for yourself? It's confession time...

What is the most amount of money (gulp!) you've ever spent on a dermatological procedure, fancy hair-do, or other beauty treatment? Comment here and I'll enter you in a random drawing to win the new Lifting Eye Cream!