We've Moved!!! www.luxe-image.com

Bridal Gallery

2010-02-25T12:08:00.000-08:00

Please visit our new website at www.luxe-image.com

Review by Dreambox Photography

2010-02-24T10:29:00.001-08:00

See more reviews of Luxe Image on Project Wedding.

More Reviews at:

2010-02-24T10:28:00.001-08:00

Review by Jessica

2010-02-24T10:27:00.001-08:00

See more reviews of Luxe Image on Project Wedding.

Review by Geneefe

2010-02-24T10:25:00.001-08:00

See more reviews of Luxe Image on Project Wedding.

Review by Rachel

2010-02-24T10:24:00.001-08:00

See more reviews of Luxe Image on Project Wedding.

Review by Ashley

2010-02-24T10:23:00.001-08:00

See more reviews of Luxe Image on Project Wedding.

Review by Jiae

2010-02-24T10:21:00.000-08:00

See more reviews of Luxe Image on Project Wedding.

Review by Grethel

2010-02-24T10:19:00.001-08:00

See more reviews of Luxe Image on Project Wedding.

Review by Melanie

2010-02-24T10:18:00.000-08:00

See more reviews of Luxe Image on Project Wedding.

Review by April

2010-02-24T10:16:00.001-08:00

See more reviews of Luxe Image on Project Wedding.

Review by Kristin

2010-02-24T10:13:00.001-08:00

See more reviews of Luxe Image on Project Wedding.

Review by Kristin

2010-02-24T10:12:00.001-08:00

See more reviews of Luxe Image on Project Wedding.

Review by Heidi

2010-02-24T10:09:00.000-08:00

See more reviews of Luxe Image on Project Wedding.

The Birth of Luxe Image

2010-02-24T09:43:00.000-08:00

Please visit our new website at www.luxe-image.com

Welcome to Luxe Image Hair and Makeup Artistry page. In a continuously and always changing trend line of work, Luxe Image always caters to its clientele. You will find tips, advice as well as faqs regarding our services. Should you have the need to address anything in the articles and pretty much anything in our page please don't hesitate to notify us so that we may answer them accordingly. Now, in order to feed the curious minds, here are the Who's, What's, Where's, When's, Why's and How's of Luxe Image.....but before I begin here's one thing to remember:

Beauty is about perception, not about make-up. I think the beginning of all beauty is by knowing and liking oneself. You can't put on make-up, or dress yourself, or do your hair with any sort of fun or joy if you're doing it from a point of correction.

-Kevyn Aucoin

Luxe Image was born in early 2009 and was created by Rona, a self-taught and certified hair and makeup artist. Early on Rona had a sense of admiration for all beauty, dance, music and art. She spent many hours in her room after school practicing different styles of hair and makeup by using different variations of colors and products. She then turned and used those newly found styles on friends and family. As she realized the natural glow a person would have after being made-up she knew right away that beauty is key to happiness.

After being married 11 years, two kids later and several attempts in the corporate world she found herself lost and unaware of what was to become the future of Luxe Image. Rona always had interest in taking cosmetology and one day after finally signing up for the class and browsing through the net, she found a makeup artistry class in San Francisco. This new found wonder created a a whole new appetite of interest. After deciding that she did not want to deal with the hustle and bustle of the city she found another school in Roseville, CA. by the name of Image Provocateur aka VIP-CAT Academy. Rona quickly signed up and dropped her cosmetology class. This was the beginning of what is now Luxe Image Hair and Makeup.

Luxe Image exemplifies the combination of natural beauty and makeup. But, in order to create this harmony one's true beauty built inside must be released. To summarize Kevyn Aucoin's quote, you can't rely on makeup to make you feel beautiful, it truly must come from within. As redundant as it may seem....it can't be said enough.

Rona, a freelance hair and makeup artist will travel on location if need be. Whether you're local, but getting married on the other side of the country or within minutes from east bay, Rona and her team will service your needs when requested. Our duty is to make your event as least stressful as possible and it all starts during the consultation. During the consulation, which is highly recommended and required before services can be retained, you can expect to achieve the final look for your wedding. This appointment is also a great time to address any issues before the big day. Sample photos of hair and makeup styles your prefer should be brought during this appointment so that we have a full understanding of how you envision yourself on the day of your event. Rona supports using highly preffered products that are picture friendly and yet hypo-allergenic. Creating beauty is one thing, but creating pictures that will last a lifetime is timeless.

Contact Luxe Image for your next event and allow them to "Put Your Best Face Forward".

The Art of Hair and Makeup by Maria Chang

2010-02-10T11:03:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday I was fortunate enough to have been in the presence of someone who is highly respected in the industry for not only her work of art, but her true professionalism. I have been an avid reader of Maria Chang's blog for over a year and was absolutely thrilled to find out that she opened a new opportunity for other makeup artist by allowing them into her world through her workshops.

Although I have already established myself in the industry, I knew there was still so much more to learn and I figured "why not start with one of the best?" I wanted to provide higher standards of practice to my clients by bringing in the influences of Maria's work into mine and that is exactly what I left with. I sat in her studio for 8 hours and as cliche as it may sound, I was literally like a kid in a candy store. I soaked up every brush strokes, vision and words to the best of my ability and every minute was of value.

My clients are important to me and I am willing to invest in them to ensure that we part ways feeling satisfied. A phrase that I will always remember from that day is that it is a "process of collaboration."

We do not remember days; we remember moments. -Cesare Pavese

2010-01-19T15:19:00.001-08:00

The adage "A picture is worth a thousand words," cannot be said enough. Events in one's life can leave impressions that last from seconds to even years but even the fondest of memories can fade with the passage of time and this is where pictures play an important role.

Choosing a photographer for your special day is one of the most important decisions to make. The photographer will evaluate a couple's personality, thoughts and interests in order to incorporate some of their personal style into the images. A discerning client would prefer a photographer who has the eye to see what others don't; the ability to create art from random moments that most would otherwise overlook.

Nowadays, anyone can pick up an expensive DSLR camera and take a picture of a child looking into his parents' eyes and elicit a common response such as "Aww, that's cute." A person with an eclectic perspective can pick up that same camera and capture a seemingly simple image of a man walking down the street that allows viewers to create their own interpretation of the photo.

One photographer who unfortunately does not do weddings (I'm still crossing my fingers and hoping he would someday though) does just that. Every opportunity I have to see what new photos he's uploaded brings a whole new level of excitement. This man is talented and it would bring me great pleasure to have the opportunity to work with him. Darrell Stein brings a unique style to his photography which is something I think every couple should be looking for when searching for a photographer. If you have the time to view some of his work check him out at http://www.flickr.com/photos/7d7/ and I am assured that you will not be disappointed.

In summary, during my time in this line of work I have seen good photographers that do it because it's their "job" and I have seen wonderful photographers that do it because they "love it." Sounds cliche, but nonetheless is in every way true. One who enjoys their work hasn't worked a day in his life.

All About the EYES....

2009-09-28T08:51:00.000-07:00

Big, Bright, Bold and Vibrant colors as eye shadows for a wedding?

My associate and I wrapped up an Indian bridal party last Saturday and I can't stop thinking how wild they prefer their eye shadow colors to be. Yet they pull it off so beautifully. As the traditional colors of golds, pinks, reds and turquoise dance around on their sari's with beads and sequins I also can't help but to think of how fun their wedding ceremonies/reception might be as well.

Typically, wedding makeup tends to be on the softer side with subtle shades of pinks for blush. But as times change makeup trends are doing the same. Many brides are choosing to do smoky and bolder eye makeup to add more focus on their eyes which I think is great! This is not to say that neutral makeup is a no no, because neutral will always remain timeless. Makeup styles and preference is a sort of statement without saying a single word. One of the things I like to ask my future bride to be's is "What do you want your groom to say when he sees you walking down the aisle?" The answer to this provides me with a good sense of how the bride envisions herself on the day of the wedding. What a bride wants....she must get and should never be compromised. Read my other blog about hiring a hair and makeup to find out about how to use color variations that would complement the color of the eyes.

A lot of retailers provide various shades and colors, but who to choose is another. First of all, definitely choose one that has great color payoff. MAC has a variety to choose from and are very highly pigmented, which means that you don't need much to achieve the color you want. Although they are a bit pricier than some other drugstore products, in the end you really get what you pay for. In your makeup kit you should have a good primer as this would prevent any creasing or clumping of the eye shadows. I prefer Urban Decay's primer potion or MAC's paint pot which doubles as primer and color enhancer. Neutral shades of browns and a good highlighter such as Vanilla, Mylar or Blanc type are all good. Last but not least, have handy the proper colors that complement and enhances the color of your eyes.

The eyes continue to be the focus of attention, therefore, give them the attention they deserve.

Slap it on thick like "cake!"

2009-09-18T15:49:00.000-07:00

Many people ask how to properly choose that perfect matching foundation with the right amount of coverage and yet without the look of being "fake" aka "cakey". First thing's first DO NOT MATCH the color of your face or neck!

A good match is to find the color that turns pretty invisible when applied onto your decollete (chest area). Our faces and neck are a whole different color from the rest of our body and the last thing you need is to be walking around with a white face. The reason for this is due to the amount of exposure your face and neck recieves from the sun. Therefore, starting off by making sure the color of your face flows smoothly down your body is key to a simple and flawless yet important makeup basics.

The other important factor to keep in mind is the foundation's wear ability and coverage. For those who were born from a family with luminous skin, no need to run to the nearest beauty shop to get the latest foundation on the market. All you need is a good tinted moisturizer to give your face some warmth and evenness and a good setting powder or blotting paper to avoid looking shiny throughout the day. This is also a good tip for young teens. Now, for those who suffered from acne during their younger days and are now having to deal with finding good foundation to cover their scars; I would suggest a highly pigmented and hypo-allergenic foundation that can put out the best coverage. And again, always use with a setting powder or blotting paper.

With an extensive number of foundation available in the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Two of my favorites are from two extreme's: Revlon Colorstay and Makeup Forever HD. Both are great in all areas and yet there's a huge price difference. Revlon colorstay comes in a wide array of shades which allows you to customize the color and get your perfect match at a bargain. You can find this at many local drugstores and sometimes they have buy 1 get one at 50% off or buy 1 get 1 free! Now, at the other end of the realm there is the well-known Makeup Forever HD which is highly pigmented and also means great coverage and is perfect for picture ready faces. The quality you receive from a small amount is tremendous and although it's a little pricier, your money definitely goes a long way and you can feel confident knowing that you'll great the entire day and/or night.

I prefer applying my foundation on "myself" by using the best tool. Your fingers. Yes I said it...fingers (thanks Kandi Johnson)! The warmth from your fingers and your face together allows the foundation to emulsify and produce an even and smooth finish look. With that said, I can't stress enough how important it is to make sure your hands are CLEAN before touching your face. Our hands are litterally the most abused body part because it touches virtually everything. Just the thought of touching the overly exposed elevator button then scratching your nose is disgusting.
Anyway....enough said.
You have many options of applying your foundation. From sponges to various types of brushes either way, the stippling method I feel is the best for a clean and almost airbrushed look. After applying your foundation, use a nice kabuki brush to first pat on your setting powder then buff your skin in smooth circular motions.

I hope this sums up some of the questions about the infamous foundation. Also, don't be afraid of a little foundation because a little goes a long way.....

"Put Your Best Face Forward" with Luxe Image

Contact Information

2009-09-18T15:40:00.000-07:00

Please visit our new website at www.luxe-image.com

To schedule a trial run you may contact Rona of Luxe Image @

email: luxeimage@yahoo.com
phone #: 408.398.6320

Please have the following information prior to your consultation:

~Date of event
~Time needed to be done
~Location of where you will be getting ready
~Services needed i.e. hair or makeup or both
~# of individuals in bridal party needing services
~Preferred trial run location
~Allergies
~Hair and/or Makeup style preference

I look forward to being a part of what will be one of the most special events in your life. So, I can't leave without saying....allow Luxe Image to "Put Your Best Face Forward".

Wedding

2009-09-18T15:37:00.000-07:00

Bridal/Entourage Service Investment

Bridal Services (all-inclusive):

On location Bridal Hair and Makeup Trial: $160 (individual services are $100)

    On location Day of Hair and Makeup: $400 (individual services are $250)
*Airbrush makeup application is complimentary
   for the bride
*Customized Personal Assisting Services
   available upon request

Entourage Services:

Bridal Party Hair: $85

Bridal Party Makeup: $85

Bridal Party Makeup & Hair: $140

Flower Girl Hair (12 & under): $50

………………………………………………………………………………………………

*Prices subject to change, please contact Rona for a quote.
*Certain location may be subject to additional parking fees.

*$20 for additional airbrush service.
*$40 to add hair extensions (extensions must be purchased by client as it is not included in pricing).
*A 20% deposit with a signed contract reserves the date (non-refundable/transferable)

*Bridal party rates include mother of the bride/groom.

Trial sessions are booked based on time and availability.

You may reply to this email luxeimage@yahoo.com OR contact Rona via cell phone at 408.398.6320 if you have any questions or concerns about the rates and/or services.

Looking forward to servicing you on your special day,

Rona Basa- Luxe Image HMUA… “Put Your Best Face Forward”

To Hire or Not to Hire a Makeup Artist

2009-07-21T16:43:00.000-07:00

Wedding venue chosen...done. Florist hired...done. Dress picked...done. Photographer found...done. 10 years later, you decide to take a trip down memory lane and revisit your wedding memories found in your wedding album. Looking at the frizzy hair, untamed brows, bright...almost too bright of a lipstick and matching blush as the soundtrack of Mike Myers "Halloween" theme song plays in your head. "Eeeek" you say? Well, there's only one way to avoid the thought of never wanting to crack open and share that once special event in your life. After all, it is your wedding. Hire a professional Hair and Makeup Artist.

This sometimes is one of the last "must-do's" in a future bride's list, but definitely a "must-have." Remember, this is your day and ALL eyes will not just be on the bright white roses and tulips, they will be on you. If you can hire a florist to make your ceremony and reception beautiful, then you should definitely invest in someone who can accentuate your features through proper contouring and highlighting. It should also be someone who is color knowledgeable and understands that the pictures on an album should captivate the true essence of a bride to make it truly timeless in its own.

A properly trained Makeup Artist understands the right color combination and how to apply makeup in a way that will bring out the best in every bride. Makeup is not just about covering up a flaw or blemish and putting on whatever colors match the color scheme. Certain color variations either complements or distracts from the overall goal and if the incorrect color usage is applied, the power makeup can deliver will not have as high of an impact as expected. For those who are more a DIY type, be sure to always start on a clean and well exfoliated face without sunblock. Sunblocks contain certain formulas that are not photo friendly. Try using unscented moisturizers such as cetaphil or dermalogica which works well for all skin types. Color match your foundation to your decollete and not your face or neck this will keep you from looking like your head is floating above the rest of your body. Be sure to contour and highlight in places to achieve the perfect oval face. Choosing the right eyeshadow should bring out the color of your eyes: browns-plums and cool browns, blues-earth tone colors are best along with some slight purples and rose pinks, green-hazels-different variations of purples are great and even those with a slight orange hint will make them pop. Your cheek blushes should be around the same color as the one's you achieve after a good long workout to make it look more youthful and natural. The desired lip color can vary from pale neutral to pinup reds and it all depends on the look you want to achieve. Just make sure to not alienate them during your exfoliating sessions.

~Rona Basa - Luxe Image Hair and Makeup Artist/Owner