IN THE LAB: 7 MILLIONS WAYS TO BEAUTY

Astonishing Jewelry, Make up and Hair

2011-10-24T14:50:00.000-04:00

What a fun shoot!
The Jewelry is from Lisbeth Haroury jewelry collection and make-up provided by SMCHEZ Lipwear. We used blues, reds, pinks, golds and many other colors from the smchez lipwear line to enrich and compliment the final images from this photo shoot.

BACKSTAGE WITH PAUL COBO PHOTOGRAPHY

Model: Marissa
Photographer: Paul Cobo
Jewerly: Lisbeth Haroury
Make-up and Hair: Cassandra Celestin

A Sassy Make-up Company! SMCHEZ Lipwear with Smooches 2011 Models Simply Jess and Theany

2011-10-23T12:28:00.000-04:00

I lOVE LIPGLOSSSS!!! Especially when they are therapeutic and look amazzzziiiing!!! SMCHEZ is definitely by far my favorite. You ask why??? Well check out the ingredient list below. It has all these special moisturizers, emollients, protective antioxidants and botanicals to promote healing and healthy lips. Oh, and this Beauty Chemist did help formulate this amazing product. Check out the below video;

ABOUT-SMCHEZ
At Serai Belle Studios, Inc. we understand that taste is subjective. What is considered good skin care for one person is not necessarily the same for another. Quality however is universally understood. Serai Belle Studios, Inc. also believes that the ingredients that are placed in its personal care line are equally important as the way in which it complements the clients’ beauty. S.M.C.H.E.Z. Lipwear line has been formulated on these beliefs.
Infused with a 5 dimensional active technology and a perfect blend of smooth and luscious colors, S.M.C.H.E.Z Lipwear is enriched with a number of key ingredients that condition the lips. This compelling blend of deep moisturizers, emollients, protective antioxidants and healing botanicals include vitamin E, jojoba oil, avocado oil, aloe, shea butter, chamomile extract, coconut oil, and lemongrass extract. Together, these naturally derived actives help moisturize, soften and smooth weather-damaged skin.

Avocado Oil -
Outstanding regenerative properties and restructuring powers to keep skin moisturizes and soft protects skin from drying and makes it more elastic.
Vitamin E -
Antioxidant, skin damage protector
Jojoba oil -
Helps restore elasticity and smoothness back into extra-dry flaky skin.
Chamomile Extract -
Excellent on the skin, smoothes out broken capillaries, improves elasticity, particularly good for dry dehydrated skin.
Shea Butter -
Superb moisturizer, with exceptional healing properties for sunburn and frostbite
Aloe Vera -
An amazing healing agent for the skin. Therefore aids in curing chapped lips.
Coconut oil -
Extremely high in antioxidants that can penetrate deep into the underlying tissues of the skin this makes it an ideal treatment for dry, rough and wrinkled skin.
Lemongrass - Refreshing and calming properties for soothing and moisturizing skin treatment.

Models: Simply Jess and Theany
Photographer: Paul Cobo
Make-up and Hair: Cassandra Celestin
Assistant: Jhenelle

The Beauty Chemist: A Bridal Beauty Story with Jennifer

2011-10-10T14:53:00.000-04:00

The Beauty Chemist: A Bridal Beauty Story with Jennifer

On 10-10-10 Jennifer and Brandon got married. It was an amazing day and the weather was beautiful. Take a look at the following video and witness the beauty alchemy of Jenn and her bridal party. Today October 10, 2011 sets their one year anniversary.

Congrats and Happy Anniversary Jennifer and Brandon

How to Use Hot Rollers/ Hair Curlers; Cassandra Celestin, The Hair Chemist Presents for eHow

2011-09-29T14:01:00.000-04:00

How to Use Hot Rollers/ Hair Curlers; Cassandra Celestin, The Hair Chemist Presents for eHow

The Hair Chemist Shows eHow: Cassandr uses Hot Rollers and products like tHeHaircHemist Some Serious Spritz and Got2be hair styler.

Model: Karen
Hair and Make-up: Cassandra Celestin
Location: Beauty Alchemy Studio, Miami FL

Getting Made! Behind the scenes; Hair and Make-up

2011-09-29T07:58:00.000-04:00

I Think I Made It!!

Being Made is not just about a makeover, it’s about reinventing yourself, it’s about defining who you were, who you are and who you want to become. Regardless of the life obstacles you may face, the essence of a true make over comes from the change within. That change sparks a light or a inner glow that will eventually grow and shine through, allowing people to experience the change in you.
So check out my next video. I had the opportunity to be part of Kylee’s Made experience. Kylee is an adorable young lady with passion and great devotion to her family.

http://www.mtv.com/videos/made-season-11-ep-20-bodybuilder/1650891/playlist.jhtml

Good Shoot Gone Bad!!! A Miami Make Up & Hair Editorial

2011-09-29T07:56:00.000-04:00

Good Shoot Gone Bad!!!

Bad-AZZ that is!! LOL. Well, this was a fun photo shoot. It was spontaneous and creative, it reminds me why I got out from behind the Make-up counters and the Salons. The drama in the Salons can be a bit much and boring at the same time. You know what I’m saying… Don’t get me wrong, you will definitely find some drama on the set too, but for some reason it’s more exciting. LOL. Oh and it’s not always the same people so it forces you to deal and work with different personalities. Check it out…

Photographer : DR Weise
Model: Genii
Fashion Stylist : Nuria Nadia
Mua and Hair : Cassandra Celestin / www.smchez.com
Assistant: Jheanell Talee

OILY HAIR in the GULF COAST

2011-09-29T07:54:00.000-04:00

OILY HAIR

Cassandra Celestin inspired by being on set while doing Stella Vidal’s make-up and hair for the show: "Living La Vida Miami" by Stella Vidal and Stuart Dansby. Everyone can get involved one way or the other. Cassandra Celestin is a hair and skin care advocate and loves to work on solutions with in these areas to help improve peoples lives.

Pumping It Up Hair & Make-up for Pianegonda Jewelry, Miami Beach

2011-09-29T07:50:00.000-04:00

Pumping It Up With Pianegonda Jewelry

There is something about owning timeless and well crafted jewelry pieces. Some fine jewelry can be seductive and addictive. Does anyone out there feel what I’m saying? Well, I Lovvve accessories, I Love jewelry, I’m drawn to anything that sparkles, glisten and dazzels. So when I get called for a jewelry gig, ten times out of ten, you’ll see me on set, bright eyed and bushy haired. lol

Photographer: Ivan Nava

Designer: Pianegonda

Model: Ivan Korab, Fabrine Constantini

Make-up & Hair: Cassandra Celestin

Miami Make-up and Hair Glam for Geebin Flores Collection

2011-09-29T07:47:00.000-04:00

Miami Glam for Geebin Flores Collection

Geebin Flores, is the young , sassy and talented Miami fashion designer, there’s no doubt that her fashion designs are ravishing South Beach. Located next to DASH (Kardashian store), Geebin has established herself in prime Miami Beach. Geebin selected Anna to model her alluring clothes to update her collection. Check it out as Photographer Paul Cobo, flashes his camera and talks to the ladies behind the scenes.

Photographer: Paul Cobo

Designer: Geebin Flores

Model: Anna

Make-up & Hair:Cassandra Celestin

Photo shoot, Hair and Make-up for Miss Universe (future???)

2011-09-29T07:44:00.000-04:00

Photo shoot, Hair and Make-up for Miss Universe (future???)

So I am watching the Miss Universe competition and I really hope Yendi Phillip wins. She is doing fantastic!! I met Yendi Phillip in Jamaica about a year ago when worked on a photo shoot with her and several other Jamaican models. Yendi is one of the most positive, bright and uplifting person that I have met in the past year. She encouraged me to read a book called “Conversations with God,” reading this book began the much needed change in my life. I am grateful for our meeting and working together. Congrats Yendi and continued success!!! smchez.

Photographer: Dewayne Weise
Model: Yendi Phillips
MUA/Hair Casssandra Celestin
Location: Jamaica

RICKY ROZAY & DRAYA MICHELE; SOUTH BEACH MIAMI, MAKE-UP WITH INK

2011-09-29T07:43:00.000-04:00

Make- Up with INK!!!

Ricky Rozay, Draya Michele and London, what do they have in common??? Well whether it’s permanent or temporary, there’s something about painting on the face or body that is intriguing and addictive. Millions of women around the world can’t bear going ink-less or I should say make-up less during their normal morning routines, some even make a living by setting the standard and fashionable trends through out the world. Meanwhile the rest of the world, both men and women make their artistic statements with tattoos. Yes… Tat, Tat, Tat-ing It Up has found its way to main stream media. Tattoos date back as far as 3000 BC, and scientist have found ancient evidence of these skin markings in several cultures though out the world. Fast forward to 2010 (5000 years later) These decorative markings are seducing human canvas at record numbers with the help of this generations talented tattoo artist who innovate and renovate as modern Picassos, Rembrandt and the likes. Some may argue and say there is no comparison, but in 2010 who is more popular? The locked up Van Gogh or the walking “Celeb” with his/her cool tattoos?? Never the less, regardless the project, when I have my Make-up Artist hat on (not to be confused with my chemist hat) my job is to make my canvas(es) spectacular as the Mona Lisa de Leonardo Da Vinci.

SO check it out… Behind the scenes; Urban Ink Photo shoot with Rick Ross, Sexy Sassy Draya Michele and Miss Lovely London.

Location: South Beach Miami
Talent: Rick Ross, Draya Michele, London
Photographer: Tiffany, VXN Studio
Stylist: Marcuss Blassingame, Sharri Jones
MUA/ Hair: Cassandra Celestin, MUA Assit; Jheanell Alan
Music: Rick Ross BMF/ The Island Def Jam Music Group

The Hair Chemist… Burning Up Some Hair at Miami Glamour Studio

2011-09-29T07:38:00.000-04:00

The Hair Chemist... Burning Up Some Hair

Filed Under: MAKE-UP YOUR HAIR on August 16, 2010

Amanda Lewis needed some FABUlous Hair. So I did my thang, some tracks here, some tracks there, a lot of aerosol and watch as I set that mutha f#%$ing hair on fire.

Ummmhhhh, Not Literally!!! To be great in this field, you gots to “ BUrn da Hurr & Beat da FAce”

Casssandra Celestin Hair Styling for Amanda Lewis Photo Shoot
Location: Kendall Portrait Studio
Photographer: Alex Manfredini
Model: Amanda Lewis
MU: Sandra Manfredini

MIAMI BED ROCK; HAIR & MAKE-UP

2011-09-29T07:35:00.000-04:00

Bed Rock

Charles Albert Jewelry, Eden Rock and Deco Drive, a combo good enough to make your Bed Rock! Not to Mention the Gigantic Rocks you’d want to rock! I remember as a child I use to love playing with my rock collection (okay, yes I’m an only child) But, Oh no sweeties… this is not your average rock collection. Not your typical Bling-Bling more like Bling-Blow!!!. Well, check out the below scenes and see for yourself.

Cassandra Celestin Make-up & Hair for: Charles Albert Jewelry
Deco Drive/ Photoshoot , Location: Eden Rock
Photographer: Paul Cobo
Models: Brynna Nolte, Eunbok Kim & Vered Ganelle Benshlomo
Jewelry Designer: Venisha Hinton-Gonzalez

Secret Make-up, Hair and Skin Care Remedies

2010-06-30T16:26:00.002-04:00

Visiting New York for The Cosmetic Chemist Trade Show

2010-06-29T16:42:00.003-04:00

I was excited about going back home to NYC for the Cosmetic Chemistry Trade Show. I drove all the way from Long Island to NJ for this event. What a drive! So mad at my BFF for moving wayyy out LI. The good thing about NYC in the spring is that the hair products I used are full humidity proof!

I learned about new raw materials that I will incorporate into some of my amazing (secret) potions when I get back to Miami

Why Do We Love MIAMI!!!

2010-06-18T10:10:00.004-04:00

Check it out... My girl Stella Vidal and Photographer Mike Brochu. Check out Stella's show "Livin' La Vida Miami "

Carmen Opera turns up the heat in Miami

2010-06-17T14:29:00.017-04:00

Here in South Florida, we have a “Season” that season is generally from November ( when hurricane season is dying out) to the end of April ( when the summer’s humidity and scorching heat makes it impossible to wear make-up, much less clothing). The “Season” here in Miami keeps the service industry very very busy. All the snow birds fly down here to bask with the rich and fabulous. Miami is the “HOT” spot during the winter months!
So, in my earlier logs, “The Season keeps me Busy” really kept me busy! Towards the end of this season, I was called in by the Florida Grand Opera Wig and Make-up Directors to work on the opera Carmen. Since the 1880’s Carmen has been one of the world's most performed operas and most recognized operas amongst the young. I worked on the beautiful tresses of Clarita Filgueiras (Choreographer / Principal Dancer) and Flamenco Puro Dance Company dancers vintage yet classic finger wave looks to emphasize that time period, as they danced out passionate, intricate moves with the an old Spanish seductive rhythm.

HAIR AND MAKE-UP @ THE OPERA >>>>

The future chorus members. WE LOVE DA KIDS!!!!!
And one of my favorite and amusing Clients; Jouvanca Jean-Baptiste Llorca, Look out for her she is up and coming and about to BLow UP!

Mischel Ellern Model shot by Dewayne Weise - Behind the Scenes

2010-05-16T16:26:00.001-04:00

Since many of you are requesting videos… (funny thing though, none of ya’ll are even sign up to my blog. I wonder if people are really reading this???) Well, Here ya go!!! You will be getting mini series of The Hair Chemist (hair, make-up, lab and more) In The Lab…Thonn Thonn Thon Thonnnnnn (that was the piano playing base when something suspenseful is about to happen) Get it? Ok whatever… watch my debut. And yes that is all my hair. I only do the hair weave in the spring /summer (which is right about now!!!!) when the Miami Humidity wreaks havoc on my hair. Now you know, I got you! Working on that solution in the cosmetic lab too and hopefully I won’t look crazy while I test it on my own hair. Yeah right, haha, well I already look half crazy in this video. Won’t be rocking this “do” too long. I need to order some organic hair extensions for myself ASAP!

So the "Season" Keeps me Busy ... 2

2010-05-16T15:00:00.012-04:00

Here are a few photos of the hair chemist work Bridal party. This event was located in the lovely Keys of Florida. My Clients wanted a few glamorous red carpet hair do.

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Photograher Dewayne Weise aka DR. Weise

I must say, when Tracey Thomas from Next Models text me for a confirmation about a test date for Saturday, I was quit surprise. Very often Miami Models don’t call or text you before the test date. They usually call you the day of the test to confirm and may have some excuse that they don’t have a ride. Sometimes they might show up or even worst, just don’t show up. I don’t know if it’s just Miami models or just the Miami air. But Tracey, I must say was one of the most professional models I have worked with and she’s very bright, positive and not to mention beautiful. I mean, this girl has no visible pores. B-e-a-u-t-i-f-u-l skin!!! I wish all my Model canvas had her skin. Including myself! Ha! I could use a little permanent pore minimize. You?? Okay K K, I’m inspired!!! I will work on that one in my cosmetic lab… I sure most of us would love a long term fix to this issue. lol

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Working with Nadia, Art Director and Wardrobe Stylist is always a colorful experience. She has a unique way of putting editorial together that end up amazing. Check out some behind the scene shots of The Hair Chemist hair and make-up is action.

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My good friend Hector (he’s a photographer, chemist, director, producer, set designer, etc) put a play together and needed to get a few wigs made. So he thought of me. Thanks Hector!

With-in three days I had the first one ready

Then the other
Say Hi to Miss Hottie. Miss Hottie is my display mannequin. She makes everything look HOt! lol.

Okay so, he designed and built all of the costumes. I am soooo amazed!!!! This is incredible! Yes????

After this production Hector and I will have more time to study for the MCATS. Yes MCATS, He is going into the Medical field and I feel the need to get another degree in biomedical science.

Ooooh that should be fun fun fun

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Lisa Lisa, one of my favorite models and Fabu Miami person, invited me to her mansion to doll up her fabulous Russian and Canadian girl crew. But of course I needed some make-up support to diva up Lisa's It GirL crew. So when it comes to sexy diva out on the night look, I gotts to call Channntyy Boooo. (I see you Dominicana!!! lol) Chantal Sauvignon has worked with Photogragher Paul Cobo and I on several gigs. I like her style. She keeps it real! From NYC like me, and straight up no BS! Miami has not changed her and I really appreciate that. Xoxo Chantyboo.

The "Season" Keeps Me Busy!

2010-05-13T16:29:00.001-04:00

I captured some behind the scene of The Hair Chemist Make-up and Hair photo shoot with my girl Simply Jess (Miami top female promoter) along with photographer Garth Aiken.
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I’m sure most of you may know about the Bronner Bothers Hair show. You can catch a glimpse of what goes on there from the movie “Good Hair” with Chris Rock. BTW… I have plenty to say about that movie/documentary. I will be writing the producers (umh Chris) not feeling how “we” are portrayed in this movie. There is another side you know! The side that are licensed Cosmetologists who are serious about there business and into promoting hair care and hair growth. Black hair care and trichology is a serious issue! Anyways, best believe I will follow up on this, I mean; I am The Hair Chemist, right?

Okay so back to my log entry, I’m working at the BB hair show and on one side of the showroom I’m hearing about lastest flat iron techniques and all these new ceramic, ceramic coated, nano, and tano hot tools (Basically frying your hair without a chemical, which would be physical damage). Don’t get me wrong these tools can be a blessing or a straight set up (and when I say set up, I mean Hot mess)! Either way if you abuse it (your Hair) it all ends up the same way… your hair on the floor. On the other side of the showroom, you have these companies banking on the organic and trichology “solution” for the “epidemic of black women balding.” Another section of the show, you have the internationals companies (Asian and Indian and any other “ ians”) making a KILLinggg on hair extensions or what some of us call “Good Hur”

Now they have
the body weave. lol

Yep, the Internationals got it on lock. How did this happen??? Well that will be discussed on a different log entry as well. Oh then to top it off the BB hair show, you got the Queens and the Divas walking around or should I say twirling around the convention showroom. They definitely bring a spectrum of life to this atmosphere. Fabulousssssss! For this show I worked alongside Dr. Adams and his pre-launch of a new hair relaxer system.

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Here's some more behind scene hair chemist hair work.

Lovely models Danielle and Kira and Photographer Richard Cordero for Ellirose Swimsuits.

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So on my “For with God all thing are possible Board” for those of you that don’t get it, it’s my Vision board, duh. – Cause God gives the provision for the vision. Can get a Amen! Okay like I was saying. On this board is Essence Magazine and sure enough my boy Garth hooked it up with the Make-up and Hair referral.

So I call my girl Michelle, Michelle is like my twin in another dimension (lol) we have a lot in common, Geminis, Native New Yorkers, and proficient in both Hair and Make-up. So we teamed up and glammed a few essence models. We had a great time (shout out to the Essence team and models) lol. Up next is thecoverrrrr. You know what I’m sayyyin!

Sawadee Ka, The Hair Chemist In Thailand

2010-04-29T16:33:00.000-04:00

Wow, am I really on this Delta Boeing 747 on my way to Thailand. Is this a little crazy? How did DR Weise talk me into this? At this point I still don’t really understand that I will be on a plane traveling across the earth for about 23 hours. Did I really sign up for this? Ummmh yeah, okay so let’s get it over with and can we get there already. Had enough of the cheap wine and “pills” to knock me out.

Sawadee Ka, I arrived at 1am Thai time/ 1pm US time, and goodness, I was hunngrrry! So my friend DR Weise who had travel here a week earlier was suppose to pick me up from the airport, all I remember was him telling me “always go right” so once I got out, I went right, ooops my other right. Thank God he is like 6’5, and being the only black man in the airport helped me spot him. My first official Thai dish was pad thai. I love me some pad thai. That was the best pad thai I had ever had! Even during the remaining duration of the trip I never encounter a dish so delightful. Mmh mmh mmh good, just like I imagined my grandmamma would make it (I if was a native thailander). The next day we set out to go to Phuket, but ended up in Kong Chang.

Beautiful Island!

I must say the people in Thailand lack expression and personality; hmmm or maybe it’s just me…

Long story short I set out to have good food, good shoots and “Good hair”.

I definitely had good food. but.......
Some foods were too rich in protein for me to try. lol. Besides, I am allergic to bugs! I never go camping and don't invite me over if you have occassional little vistors.
But I try my best not to judge. lol

We didn’t have time to go up to the floating market but we did find some cool locations to shoot. Had a great time glamming up the make-up and hair with local model Camille and photographers Tom and DR Weise.

I ALWAYS make time for photo ops.

Y'all know, I love to smile. lol

Omgg, this place really reminds me of Miami heat, BRutaaaL! My hair won’t stop expanding!!! It’s a good thing I’m not trying to impress these people. Look they are so Blank blank blank.

GOOD Hur (hair)! Yeah okay, well apparently the choice of human hair donors in Thailand is Vietnamese Hair. Where is the Remy??? I mean the Thailand Remy?? I guess the Thai ain’t giving up their hur. Lol. I guess their temple gods are not requiring that type of sacrifice.

So Dr. Weise and I set out on an escapade trying to find the “good hur” It was a mission, kind of like a scene from the rat race. Well for me a fashionable race. lol.

Finally after several cab rides to different locations alibaba pointed me to, as well as rush hour issues (seems like all day is rush hour)

we finally got some info from the locals on where to find this hair. Wow Vietnamese hair in nice. The diameter of the hair is a little thicker then Indian and closer to the texture of relaxed African American hair. Okay so let me start pulling out my bahts. Whoa whoa whoa. Wait a minute. I know this hair does not have pityriasis capitis aka dandruff! Let’s take a closer look at this hair. Umh no! That’s not pityriasis capitis “that looks like pediculosis capitis eggs” I paid attention in Cosmetology school! "Excuse me Mrs. Thailand women selling human hair, but do you see this." She replies “what” as she puts on her eyeglasses, “Ummh look closer” she laughs as she says “ ha ha ha this is raw human hair ha ha ha.” Okay (Mrs. Thailand women selling human hair) I got your ha ha ha. I won’t be spending my bahts in your store! I decided not to buy hair from Thailand. I will stick to my Indonesia/Russian hair connect. So now what… well I had some extra baht to spend so we went to Platinum and I was in accessory HEaVennn.

OM OM OM (OH MY) I could live here. Forever!

The customer serviced sucked, but whatever I’m about to get blingged out!!!

So, a couple of days later I got SOoooo sick, I MEan really sick, those of you that know me, I am not exaggerating! I was ready to get back onto US soil.

God Bless America!

SORRY! I have been really really busy. Let's do a quick overview of the past few months...

2010-04-06T18:33:00.001-04:00

Jan 26, 2010

Florida Grand Opera - Lucia Di Lammeroor

There was a lot of hair styling on the chorus women on this one. Modern hairstyles/updos for a wedding.

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Jan 17, 2010

Test shoot with Model Chernise Yvette and photographer Hamid, http://www.hamidkootval.com/hkphoto/Galleries/Galleries.html

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Jan 16, 2010 Indian Wedding

The Talented Alexis Renny on make-up & Fab Cassandra Celestin on hair

Location: Eden rock

Love Love Love this dress!!!!!

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Jan. 15, 2010
I got a referal from a gig I did for a 1940’s “Atomic Betty” pin-up style event.

Atlantis, High Roller tournament

Danielle, an event coordinator booked me for a 1940’s pin-up bridal trial with potential Bridal client Michelle.

Wow, these professional pictures put my cool pics camera to shame! Michelle definitely worked out that time period. Can’t wait to see how gorgeous she looks for the wedding.

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On Dec 16, 2009 Alexis Renny and I had a Bridal Trial together. Alexis on Make-up/ Cassandra on Hair. The Client wanted her hair similar but slightly different to Jessica Alba’s hair from a red carpet event.

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HAIRTOPIA / November 01, 2009

For the past week I have been designing this hair piece for the Glenn Jackson Hairtopia Hair Diva competition. Model Nicole Bethel approached me to put together a hair and make-up look for the individual hair model competition. Don’t get me wrong I love hair styling and pretty make-up, but when it comes to designing something Avant-Garde and enormously beautiful…. I can throw down!!! BRING IT!!!.

OMG!!!!!The show was sooo long. Too long!!! Especially since we didn’t win. Yeah can you believe we didn’t win? I guess we didn’t bring it hard enough. Not!!!! Among some of the winners, was a little girl with a regular ponytail. Don’t know how she won or why, but whatever. I still love doing what I do! AND THAT IS WHERE THE TRUE WINNING LIES.

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I was soOOO excited!!! My Girly Girl and favorite model Lisa Mackay tied the Knot last week. I had a fantastic time pampering her face. Our theme was “Angelic Exquisiteness”. But I can’t take much credit, Lisa’s face is naturally so smooth and gorgeous it's almost like porcelain. To work on a canvas like this make my job effortless. She was glowing from head to toe. We started glamming up her family at 11am and then it was the mother of the groom and finally Lisa. It was a long morning for me. But her family and bridesmaids made it so enjoyable. This was a private event with less than 50 invitees, hosted at their lavishing mansion. The ceremony was astounding and the reception, beyond words, well you would have to have been there. But since you were not, I will let the pictures tell for themselves. Congrats to Lisa and Lenny Hochstein!!!!!

New York State of Mind. While in NYC...

2009-11-05T17:14:00.004-05:00

On October 15, I received a phone call from a good friend who wanted me to cover her on the red carpet for the Black Girls Rock Award show in Time Square NYC. As it would work out I flying out to NYC and I wasn't booked for gig that Saturday evening. The red carpet was amazing. Some of the heavy hitters as Black Women role models looked astounding on the carpet while they continued to set trend for young Black ladies. This star studded event was like a cluster of beautiful precious stones of honorable and talented Black women in the entertainment industry. Regina King, Tracee Ellis Ross hosted and among the honorees were; Mary J. Blige, Naomi Campbell, Queen Latifah, Raven-Symoné, Iyanla Vanzant and many more.

I was accompanied by celebrity photographer Ronnie Wright, as he spent most of his time capturing the quintessence of these Diva’s in the limelight. It was definitely a glamorous night out in Times Square NYC.

2009-08-05T15:59:00.001-04:00

To my surprise (not really… smile) I got a call last Thursday requesting Make-up and hair for Lil’ Kim. And if you don’t know who she is… Google it!
Thank God there happen to be a break in my busy schedule and I was able to make it to her hotel the next night. So a few hours before her appointment, I’m told that they only wanted me to style her hair. I was a little disappointed. I wanted to give her my special touch. The Hair Chemist “Angelic Glow” (lol) but later on I was thanking God that I didn’t have to do both. It would have been a set up! For real! No one told me that Lisa-Raye (I have always admired her work, she has been like my home girl, well in my head… lol) needed her hair styled as well. Oh, and if you don’t know who she is either… Google it!!!!
Now I understand why they needed both Make-up and hairstylist. There was no time for me to primp both of them Hair and Make-up. No hurt feelings.
OMG… Lisa-Raye and Lil’ Kim were such sweet hearts. You never know what to expect when styling celebrities, you might catch them on a bad day. And Lord knows as women we can exaggerate those bad days. I can imagine the stress and the pressure of being targets of the “limelight”. I think that’s why I like behind the scenes. I can walk outside with 3 ponytails and some long johns (a hot mess) and no one would care.
I had the opportunity to style their hair again the next couple of days. And they still prove to be the sweethearts “home girls in my head “I imagined them to be. Lisa-Raye and Lil Kim, I hope you like the product and the smchez.com.

2009-08-03T23:39:00.007-04:00

It’s been a busy summer so far!! Celebrated my Birthday.

I have been mostly stuck in The Lab, literally!!!

A lot of R&D going into a revolutionary hair care system. But in my spare time (yeah right!) a couple of weddings,

couple of fashion shows, dozens of shoots for Blackmen Magazine

http://400life.com/watchvideo.php?file=aHR0cDovLzQwMGxpZmUuY29tL3N0b2NrL3ZpZGVvcy8xMjQzOTM2NDUzLWZsdi5mbHY

andm ots more editorial shoot.

But stay posted to In the Lab, there more to come from this eventful summer.

Blackmen Magazine cover shoot

2009-06-13T10:00:00.004-04:00

Video production from Blackmen Magazine courtesy of 400Life TV and Blackmen Magazine. Check out the making of the 40s cover. I’m camera shy so don’t blink you might miss me. Marcus Combined a few hot young ladies to represent their beauty and Nation. In this picture; "Bubbles" Make-up provided by http://www.smchez.com/ .

Here's the link to the video:http://400life.com/watchvideo.php?file=aHR0cDovLzQwMGxpZmUuY29tL3N0b2NrL3ZpZGVvcy8xMjQzOTM2NDUzLWZsdi5mbHY=

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T09:33:00.000-04:00

Another busy week, I am truly Grateful! We moved the lab to a new location. My lab and office is very spacious compared to the old. Not quite the “Upper eastside”, but it’s a progress. It’s strange how your environment can change your attitude while working. I am very excited about completing the most effective and synergetic anti-Hair loss shampoo formula. I Believe it will be the Best out on the market! But on the other side of Science…

Beauty… I had the pleasure of working with the adorable, lovely young lady, Bubbles. And she comments after the photo shoot “Love, Love the Make-up thanks again! P.s. and the Hair” Bubbles, thank you and I look forward to seeing your pictures in the magazine.

At the end of the week I had the opportunity to work with Talented Brian Walsh http://brianwalshimages.com/ and the Amazing designer Eduardo De las Casas http://www.eduardodelascasas.com/ . It was aspiring working with the pieces designed by Eduardo. His craftsmanship is spectacular.

2009-04-05T00:40:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, I got a call requesting Hairstyling for Lucia Mendez. I had plan on going to the beach, but I decided to take the job. I had no idea who she was since I don’t follow Latin American soap operas, well I don’t even follow American soap operas. Her manager told me that she wanted highlights and extensions. NO problema… right up my alley. When I arrived at her house she wasn’t there yet. No problema… I will just set up. So a few minutes later, Lucia calls me. She says she’s running late because she needs to stop by the Church and she then asked me for my prayer request. OMG...She is soooo sweet!! So rarely does anyone ever ask me that, as a matter of fact, the last person that ask me that was my praying Grandmother and she passed away 5 years ago. Immediately I knew I would like this lady. When I met her she greeted me with a beso, warm hug and smile. I am always gratefully to meet warm, caring and sincere people in this industry, it reminds me of the true meaning of life and all of it unexpected wonders. Lucia’s family and friends at her house were all warm and wonderful people. Later on I had the pleasure of meeting Claudia Laforza. Claudia came on board to do Lucia’s make-up. Claudia your amazing!!! You did an awesome job! I truly enjoyed working with you. Thank you Lucia, Thank you Silvio… It was a pleasure meeting and working with you. God Bless.

-CC T.H.C.