Marissa Elman | Fashion & Photography

Marissa Elman is a lifelong lover of fashion and photography.

Microblading: Things to Know Before Making the Appointment

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marissa elman

 

The practice of microblading has become the latest brow craze in the efforts to achieve thicker, fuller and more beautiful brows. Brow tinting seems like a thing of the past, as many are now opting for the semi-permanent, effortless brows applied by licensed cosmetic tattoo artists. For those thinking brow microblading could be the solution for thin, sparse brows, here are some important things to consider before making the appointment.

 

Microblading is essentially a form of cosmetic tattooing:

 

Unlike a typical tattoo, microblading is done with a handheld tool instead of a machine. As it is still applied with a needle, depending on the pain threshold of the client, a very minimal amount of discomfort should be expected. The treatment can also take up to two hours to complete.

 

The pigment is bladed in tiny, hair-like strokes to resemble natural brow hairs. This form of tattooing is not implanted as deep within the skin as a regular tattoo would be, so the pigment will naturally fade over 18-24 months.

 

Take proper care and precautions before appointment:

  • Stop all use and consumption of blood-thinners, chemical peels and retinol a full week before the scheduled treatment
  • Do not wax, tan or overexpose skin to sun for at least three days prior to appointment
  • Skip the coffee and other caffeinated drinks on the day of the appointment 

After-treatment care is just as important:

  • Protect brows from water and moisture prior to treatment—avoid sweating and washing face with water
  • Take care to avoid any situation that might infect the freshly bladed skin with dirt, bacteria or other debris
  • Vaseline or aftercare ointment may be applied to calm itchiness and redness, but do not scratch, touch or irritate treated area as it heals
  • Similar to a regular tattoo, bladed brows may fade in prolonged exposure to the sun—after brows have healed, be sure to apply sunscreen when outdoors

 

Remember, microblading requires maintenance:

A follow-up appointment is recommended 4-6 weeks after the first blading, where the technician will touch up any hairs and adjust coloring. To keep brows looking flawless, touch-ups are required about every six months.

 

With first-time treatment costs that can cost up to $900, it is important to understand that the microblading process is a long-term investment that will require consistent upkeep.

 

Sources:

http://info.gotbeauty.com/blog/all-the-microblading-information-youll-ever-need

http://www.elle.com/beauty/a37438/semi-permanent-eyebrow-microblading/

 

Want Free Makeup? Sign Up For These Rewards Programs

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Want Free Makeup- Sign Up For These Rewards Programs

Beauty products are very well known for coming in small packages with large price tags. With that in mind, like most people you probably would love any rewards program that can alleviate some of that financial burden. These programs offer many perks which include free products after a period of time. Take a look of some of the beauty store rewards programs you might want to sign up for.

 
Sephora: Sephora’s Beauty Insider

Sephora is one of the most popular beauty stores, and they have a wonderful multi-leveled rewards program that benefits its’ customers’ spending. At Level one requires a small amount of purchasing to reach and it rewards you with a free birthday gift and beauty classes that teach things about makeup and other beauty topics. As you continue up the levels such as VIB and VIB Rogue you will be able to enjoy perks such as free and exclusive gifts, seasonal discounts, promo codes, and one free custom makeover. Along with that, you can also expect to receive free two-day shipping, a private hotline to answer all your beauty questions, and invitations to private parties and product launches.

 

M.A.C: M.A.C Select (Back to M.A.C)

M.A.C is another popular store with a great program that has numerous benefits that are beyond the basic free shipping, free samples, and anniversary gift. They also have the Back to M.A.C program where you receive a free lipstick, or eyeshadow, or gloss if you join the M.A.C Select program by returning original packaging for six M.A.C products to your local store. Other rewards include a free 30-minute makeup application, first glimpse at new collections, and free two-day shipping on orders of $50 and more when you spend $150 within the year. Now if you decide to go all in and spend $500 in a year, you will receive two 60-minute makeup applications, early access to new collections, and an even better anniversary gift.

 

Ulta: Ulta’s Ultimate Rewards

Ulta’s Ultimate Rewards program has a great points system that allows you to be rewarded for each dollar your spend. For every dollar spent, whether in-store or online, you receive a point. These points can be saved and redeemed for virtually any product in the store. You will also receive email offers where you can earn the double, triple, and even quadruple the amounts of points you would normally earn. During your birthday month, you can earn double the points when you make a purchase as well as a free birthday gift. Also when you spend $450 in a year, you can go up to the Platinum level where you will earn 1.25 expiration proof points, along with a ten dollar coupon to go with your free birthday present.

 

Sally Beauty: Sally Beauty Club

This one might seem a bit unpopular as unlike most other beauty rewards programs which are free, Sally Beauty’s Sally Beauty Club has a five dollar fee. However, the upside to that is that as soon as you sign up, they spot you with five dollars, so it’s almost like signing up for free. They also offer many great perks such as a fifteen percent discount when you spend $25 in a month.

 

Fashion Trends for Fall of 2017

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Fall Fashion Trends 2017 - Marissa Elman

 

It’s almost time to put away the flip flops and get ready for Pumpkin Spice Lattes and the cool fashion trends that follow with the autumn season. As we head into fall, it’s time to check your wardrobe and make sure you’re ready to start it off on the right foot with these trends that are sure to be hot this year. Fashion week was held back in February, but the styles seen then help to set the stage for the fall’s trends to follow.

 

Denim

A timeless classic for anyone’s wardrobe is denim, and for the past few years, skinny jean denim has been the go-to style for many women. This fall, designers and trendsetters have decided to take a more structured take on this classic by creating more structured separate pieces like tailored jackets and skirts with clean lines. For jeans, we’re looking at high waisted and looser on the leg pants, rather than tight skinny jean styles we’ve seen over the years.

 

We’re also seeing more denim on denim looks for this season, allowing you to pair your favorite pair of jeans with an always-comfortable jean jacket.

 

Subdued floral prints

Florals for spring are typically a given, but florals rarely make waves in the fall. Rather than bright, colorful floral prints, we’re seeing flowers in subdued or even neutral shades. For this trend, aim for dark colored floral prints that are the opposite of pastel.

 

Trumpet sleeves

Shirts with sleeves that flared out made waves in the 70s and it seems like they are right on trend again. This look can be achieved with neutral colored shirts and dresses as it adds some fun to a simple garment. Or, go bold with a strong pattern or rich colored dress for some drama. This nod to the era of disco will add some flair to your fall wardrobe.

 

Glittery shoes

Last year, nude heels were all the rage as they were a way to elongate your legs and went with absolutely every outfit. This fall season, consider going on the opposite end of the spectrum by adding some sparkle to your shoe collection by investing in a pair of glittery shoes. While they still are likely to pair with multiple outfits, sparkly shoes will add some panache to your wardrobe.

 

Most Instagrammable Spots in Manhattan

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marissa elman

 

Are you planning to travel to the “Big Apple” in the near future? New York City is filled with incredible spots that are sure to make anyone’s Instagram account shine.  Make sure you have Instagram uploaded onto your phone, grab your camera, and plan out your trip to include these locations so can snap some awesome pictures of this iconic city.

 

Manhattanhenge

The phrase was originally coined by astrophysicist, Neil deGrasse Tyson, and it is the event when the sun sets between the buildings that run east to west. This will require a little bit of planning beforehand to make sure you’re there whenever this happens, but the photos are worth the extra bit of planning you have to do. This phenomenon takes place because New York City is set up as a grid, allowing the sun to perfectly rise or set between the buildings during the winter or summer solstices.

 

Flatiron Building

The Flatiron Building, located at 175 5th Avenue, is definitely one of the most iconic buildings of Manhattan. This triangular-shaped skyscraper stands out on the street and is easy to photograph from practically any angle be it ground-level or aerial. The building gets its name from it’s shape, as an iron is of a similar shape.

 

Central Park

This large park in the center of Manhattan gives its visitors beautiful glimpses of the city from a lovely landscape. The park itself has so many lovely features like sprawling fields, lakes, and sculptures. An afternoon in Central Park, regardless of what time of year you visit, is sure to bring about some Instaworthy shots.

 

Helicopter Rides

Viewing New York from a helicopter is a fantastic way to get a new perspective of its majestic features, while also giving you the opportunity to snap some one-of-a-kind shots. A short ride will certainly make you fill up the memory in your camera and will definitely be an unforgettable experience. It can be costly, but if you’re able to save up, it’s worth it to take the ride at least once.

 

Highline

Originally a part of the New York City Railroad, this elevated park is located on the west end of the city. Walking along the old railroad bridge will allow you to spot various New York City structures and take pictures of the iconic skyline.

’90s Fashion Trends That are Making a Comeback

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Marissa Elman - 90s fashion

Fashion trends from the 1990’s are anything but boring. From bright colors to muted plaid, the ‘90s showed us a variety of trends that have largely remained dormant until just recently. The following trends are now back on the fashion scene for those of us who are willing to relive that decade.

 

Doc Martens

These chunky boots have definitely made a comeback. This staple shoe was found in most teenager’s closets in the 1990s. Today, this versatile footwear can be dressed up with a cute frock or dressed down with jeans.

 

Plaid

During the 1990s, grunge was in the music scene and oversized plaid was all the rage. It started making an appearance on skirts, blazers, hats, etc once Clueless hit theaters. In today’s fashion, plaid has made a serious comeback and can be seen in some of the most high-end retailers.

 

Jelly Sandals

Children of the ‘80s and ‘90s will remember the plastic sandals called “jellies.” These sandals often came in a wide assortment of colors and are a throwback to the carefree days of childhood. Now, jelly sandals are seen on the runway and in fashion magazines, once again, in every color under the sun.

 

High-waisted jeans

A decade ago, ultra low rise jeans were popular, but we’re now starting to see high-rise make its way back into fashion. Once declared “mom jeans” are now seen on runway models during fashion week. To wear this look, find good-fitting jeans that hug your curves and pair them with a fitted shirt or crop top.

 

Neon

In the 1990s, neon was typically paired with more neon, and the wearer sometimes looked like a rainbow color explosion. Nowadays, the neon trend is back in fashion but the bright colors are typically paired with a neutral color. If you want to try this look, make the neon a statement piece and wear neutral colors as well, especially black.

 

Choker Necklaces

The majority of girls of the ‘90s wore choker necklaces almost every day, especially the tattoo style choker. Now, these necklaces that sit tighter on the neck are even hotter than ever this year.

Easing Your Clients’ Nerves During a Photo Shoot

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Making Your Clients At Ease - Marissa Elman

 

When clients go to a professional photo shoot, especially for the first time, there is usually a sense of anxiety associated with that for most people. Being the center of focus and putting yourself on display can be difficult for some clients, so as a photographer, it’s important to be ready for their clients to be uncomfortable and to take active steps to ensure their ease. Not only will this help them to appear more natural in the photos, it will also make the entire experience more positive and enjoyable. To make your client’s a feel at ease, follow these tips that professional photographers have been using for years.

 

Be open from the start

 

Before the photo shoot even starts, it’s a good idea to take some time to talk to your client about himself or herself. People are normally receptive to questions about their likes and dislikes, and this should help them feel more at ease. This will also give you a better understanding of what their personality is and what they might like to see as an end result from the photo shoot.

 

Another way to be open with them is to let them know that you’ll be giving them tips and instructions throughout the process. This will make them feel more at ease during the photo shoot when you’re giving them instructions so they don’t feel criticized.

 

Give Direction

 

If the client is new to getting their photo taken professionally, chances are they won’t know exactly what to do. Give your clients easy to follow directions that won’t confuse or frustrate them. Let them know some general poses before the shoot starts so they know how to position their body during the shoot.

 

Give positive feedback

 

While you’re taking photos if one looks great then tell them about it. This positive feedback will let your client know that they’re doing a good job and will reinforce some of their confidence. Along those same lines, try to downplay any negative emotions that you have with the photos. Instead, actively find ways to improve the photo shoot and continue to give direction.

 

Be Prepared

Being prepared for a client to be nervous before the shoot is very important but so is having a clear vision for the photo shoot. Have a plan in mind and a direction for the shoot, make sure you’re on time and have everything setup prior to your client arriving. Not only will you look more like a professional, but there will be a lack of general confusion on what the plan is for the shoot.