I had a blast doing Happi's wedding makeup, even if did have to be there at 7:00 AM! Who the heck wakes up that early anyway? With a little help from my java superhero friend, I made the hour long trek to the site and I did it with a smile on my face.

We had lots of fun getting her dolled up for her big day. I think my abs were sore from laughing so much. This bride was definitely not afraid of makeup. One pound of eye makeup, fabulous faux lashes, lots of sunkissed bronzer and she was set to go!

I ♥ brides who love makeup as much as I do!

Oh Audrey!

Last but not least, "Happy girls are the prettiest girls." ~Audrey Hepburn

Have a Li'l Fun!

Since I work with a lot of brides, I thought I'd offer my best advice for a happy marriage.

I have to admit, I didn't come up with the following advice on my own. I'm a big believer in learning from others' experiences. It saves a lot time and disappointment on my end.

The best counsel I ever received was from a childhood neighbor. Mr. Lunsford is the kindest white-haired man I know. Before I was married nearly 5 years ago, he sat me down and had a sweet heart-to-heart. He taught me that while love is important in a relationship, it evolves with time. Sometimes love is full of passion and excitement. Other times it feels like mundane work. What carries you through the changes of love is utmost respect and tolerance for one another.

After 5 years, I understand what he meant by that. Love creates the marriage but respect and tolerance are what’s needed to create longevity in a marriage. Respect for individuality and tolerance for each others’ flaws are what help you overcome the ups and downs as a team. Think about it.

I am very grateful to have received that advice early and soaked it in. Another thing I have learned on my own is to always have fun! It follows #3 on my list of importance: Respect, tolerance, and then FUN! Brian and I have a lot of fun in our marriage. We love to do things like dance crazy in the living room, leave love notes and take picnics together.

In the spirit of having fun, I’ve started adding “Marriage Fun Kits” to wedding gifts for friends and family. It seems a little silly but it’s okay to be silly! If you are getting married you can put one of these kits together and if not, pass the idea along to other couples who will find it useful.

You can choose just one of the items below or create a complete kit with 3 or more of the items:

Crayola Window Crayons

Use these to write sweet or sexy notes in the shower or on the bathroom mirror.

These are hard to find so I recommend buying in bulk when you find them.  I think I found my last batch at Tar-jay.  I ♥ Target.

Fridge magnets

Another way to leave love notes.

I see them at Walmart and Target all the time.

Waterguns

Because sometimes you will feel like shooting each other.

Do it safely with waterguns.

Hopefully it will lighten the mood and remind you to have just have fun.

Servant's Heart

This little pillow represents serving each other. 

You can create a fun game with the heart or any special object.

One person does something sweet like packing lunch for the other or washing and folding all the laundry that has been put off due to busy schedules.  Once you receive the heart, it is now your turn to return the favor.  Pass the heart back and forth often.  It will remind you of the importance of serving each other.

I hope you'll enjoy these fun things!  I'd love to know other ideas so leave your comments below.

A Wedding to Remember

Attending Chelsea and Ronnie's wedding at the historic Stoneleigh Hotel was like being at an intimate party in someone's stately home, enjoying cocktails surrounded by the comforting smell of leatherbound books and dancing fireside in the living room.  It was definitely a celebration to remember. 

Getting ready for the wedding party.Roof top terrace overlooking Dallas.

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Chelsea and bridemaids looking lovely

That's my hansome husband and myself sandwiching Chelsea.

This is my favorite of all the photos.  It's Chelsea and her father, Joe, sharing a special father-daughter dance. 

What you can't see is Joe is in a wheelchair.  He suffers from ALS, a disorder that destroys the nerve cells that control voluntary muscle movement.  It is also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. 

It's a cause I choose to support and I'm looking forward to helping with this year's "Party in my Backyard," hosted by Dale Hansen to raise awareness and money for ALS research.  Watch for more posts about how you can help and/or attend the fundraiser at Dale Hansen's home on Lake Waxahachie, July 10th.

All photos in this post are by Marie Q.  http://www.marieqphotography.com/

Vote for April's Facial of the Month

Do You Know When Your Cosmetics Expire?

Vault Gals: Amber, Myndee, Charlotte & Lorri

The snow in Texas is gone. Birds are chirping. Spring is in the air. Now is the perfect time to purchase fresh replacements for old, expired cosmetics. Do you know how to tell what needs to be tossed and what products are safe to keep?

In order to avoid infections and receive maximum benefits from makeup and skincare products, they need to be replaced periodically. Cosmetics aren't required by law to list an expiration date so we want to give you a few tips so that you'll know how tell when it's time to toss products.

Mascara
Experts consistently agree that mascara should be used for no longer than three months. Bacteria are pushed into the tube with each use and the dark, moist tube provides the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Prevent eye infections such as "pink eye" by replacing mascara frequently.

**Tip: Our favorite, inexpensive picks are L’Oreal Voluminous and Almay One Coat.

Lipstick and lip gloss
After a year, lip products can become rancid. If the texture, taste or smell changes discontinue use immediately. We recommend treating yourself with new lipstick yearly, if not sooner. You deserve it!

**Tip: Sanitize lipstick with alcohol occasionally to extend its life.

Powder products

The dry nature of powder foundations, eye shadow and like items allows for a considerably longer shelve life than liquid cosmetics. They generally last about 3 years.

Skincare

The best skincare products contain minimal to no preservatives to not alter the high concentrations of active ingredients. Therefore, serums and moisturizers should be used immediately upon purchase for optimal results. Most ingredients remain active for 6-12 months. After one year, products should definitely be replaced.

You can extend the life of your cosmetics with a little common sense. Always wash your hands before touching makeup or moisturizer creams. Never blow on them and remember to close lids tightly. Most importantly, use your discretion to tell when a product needs to be tossed. If the color changes or separation is visible, it is time to get rid of it.

Before & After

Chelsea is a doll and a dear friend of mine. I was so glad she chose me to do her makeup for her wedding. This particular session was for her engagement photos by Marie Q. She's a naturally beautiful girl but I just love the way a little makeup pops all her features.

These photos are untouched.