And I'll Still Love You New York

Cue Ryan Adams singing in the background. 

I came to the harsh realization a week into 2011 that even though I had my heart set on moving to NYC in August that I just wasn't going to be able to afford it. I think I fell in love with the idea of living in New York and being the dreamer I am, I wasn't thinking realistically about the financial aspects of living there. Sure, if I had three roommates and lived in a tiny apartment I would be able to afford it but that idea didn't appeal to me. I wouldn't want to move to a big city and not enjoy it because of constant lack of funds. I'm not giving up on moving back, but I no longer think this is the best time. I was telling friends that I'm now in the process of re-loving Charlotte because for a while I had become so frustrated that I wasn't taking advantage of what Charlotte has to offer. I'm changing my way of thinking and focusing on the positive, optimism is key for 2011! After all, I'm going to be 25 this year. 

With that said, at the moment I'm currently looking for my own apartment- my own one bedroom/one bathroom. My parents have been gracious and have never made me pay any type of rent since I moved back home in August 2009. Living at home hasn't been bad at all I'm ready to have my own place again, it's time for change and change is good.

"I'll always love you New York"- Ryan Adams

Yasmine's Graduation Party at Petra's

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of shooting my Aunt's co-workers daughter Graduation Party at Petra's in Charlotte, NC. Yasmine graduated from Fayetteville State University with a degree in Elementary Education. The gathering consisted of mainly family and friends, a slideshow from childhood through college, catering with a Chef who works at Justin's in Atlanta, Georgia, and emotional family speeches.  It was lovely and I'm glad that I was able to capture this important day for Yasmine and her family. 

New Years Look

I had a client come in today (I feel terrible for forgetting her name because she was so sweet) who wanted a dramatic eye incorporating pink, gold, and black for New Years.  These are some of my favorite colors to use together and I was really able to have fun.

I used mostly MAKE UP FOR EVER products: Star Powders 951 & 922 and Diamond Shadow 307  as well as Urban Decay's Woodstock as the base. She left very happy with the look at that made my day.

Have a safe and happy New Year!

Ruby

I've know Ruby since High School and she's always had an amazing voice. She's an upcoming R&B/ Jazz artist from Charlotte, North Carolina so we did an urban pin-up inspired photoshoot that she could use in her promotions next year.

 

 

Makeup courtesy of moi :)

Fun With a QueenofBlending Tutorial

I'm subscribed to quite a few makeup artists channels on YouTube and one of my favorite artists is QueenofBlending. Just as her name states, she does an amazing job of blending eyeshadow and making everything look seamless, mainly using a Sonia Kashuk Small Eyeshadow Brush. 

This is my take on it and keep in mind, I have a much smaller eyelid :)

   Watch her version here: Turquoise, Brown, and Yellow Cut Crease Tutorial

*The colors were much more pigmented in person*

William and Gregory

A few weeks ago I did some photos of my adorable Store Directors little boys in Matthews, NC. They were so sweet and even though they became a little worn out towards the end they we're still good sports. Here are a few of my favorite photos: