Top Supplier: Wedding Makeup Artist: Jackie Majica Flores

As a lady and more, as a freelance model I am really into flawless look during my pictorials.  It would be good to find a makeup artist that will not just conceal and contour your face then put colors on it like a canvas painting, but someone who’s committed to enhance your natural beauty without making you look like a zombie. Just 2 years ago, I discovered a makeup artist that does a certain kind of “magic” to her every client.  I am completely amazed on how she creates stunning looks with subtle hue of makeups suited in every occasion.

“I love natural beauty, and I think it’s your best look, but I think makeup as an artist is so transformative.” -Marina and the Diamonds

By the professional service name “MAJICA- Makeover by Jackie in Creative Application” (‘ma-hi-ka’ which literally means ‘magic’ in Filipino), Jackie can give magical makeovers from everyday look to high fashion, to avante garde, and of course, to her specialty, bridal makeovers!!! Whenever I see her Facebook posts about the brides she were able to take care during their special day, I can’t help but to imagine my own wedding, with her as my makeup artist.

everyday look

high fashion

avante garde

One of my favorite before and after photo from her creations. The bride’s eye are in its perfection!

I really love the natural looking makeup she always give to her clients. The look that is very radiant and mesmerizing. The before and after photos of her clients makes me feel astonished on how she were able to bring out the best in everyone of them.  Also, she has her own way on how to conceal those “insecurities” ladies might have. Pimples, dark spots, freckles, scars… name it! She has a solution to it.

The dewy look of some of her brides on their wedding day.

perfect hairstyles made by MAJICA…

Her “recipe” on how to create that dazzling look on her every client might be explained by the trick she posted on her page:  “Ask how she wants to look like on her wedding day and let your future bride speak her mind. That way, not only that you know what you will do but you and your bride will meet half way as you both agree upon each other’s thought. It will definitely give an amazing result!”

I must say that listening to the clients’ wants is her key in creating satisfying results from the makeovers she did for them. Being treated as a queen is what every lady wants on her wedding day and that what her magical touch gives them.

Apart from all the affirmative opinions on her creations, she also has some achievements that will assure you on the quality of service that she can provide. Just this year she was able to made it to the Mary Kay Top 10 Makeup Artist for Dream Beautiful Contest. Also, recently, she and her team was awarded by being the Top Booker on Wedding Congress Philippines in Over-all and Make up Category, that happened last Nov 8-9, 2014 at PICC Forum Tent. I must say that they will not give and trust her with those titles for nothing, right?

Aside from the fact that Jackie is a great makeup artist which the photos and her credentials can readily testify, I myself can say that she is also a good person. I was able to meet her years ago when I won in one of the online contests she hosted. (You can read my post about that here: MAC Pink Nouveau Satin) While giving me a makeover, she made me feel comfortable by telling stories, asking my opinions, and treating me as someone that seems to be not so new to her. I really appreciate that. I think her charm is one of her assets to easily set rapport to her clients that will eventually create a good team up for a special event- where everyone can freely express their ideas and opinions to achieve the optimum quality of the craft.

The dedication she has in every craft she makes is something that no amount of money can buy. Definitely, she just not give magnificent makeovers during those wedding events but service at its finest to every bride that actually deserves it!

Want to be her QUEEN? Check this out!

*To witness how the “magic” lives on from MAJICA, you can visit her Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/pages/MAJICA-Makeover-by-Jackie-in-Creative-Application/305407772830763?pnref=lhc

*You can also check out her website: https://makeoverbymajica.wordpress.com

*Photo credits to the owners. All photos are grabbed from MAJICA’s facebook page.

-BER Month Giveaway!

Hello there sweeties! If you’re still reading this, I would like to express my deepest gratitude for staying with me and my blog. I know I should explain a lot since I was not able to update my blog for months because of things that are really preoccupying me as an MA student, model and a professional.

Anyways, no more wordy explanation about it but to at least compensate with my absence and start of the “-BER” months which I am super excited about I’ll just give you a big giveaway this time, as I collaborated with several pretty bloggers and sponsors. By the way, this giveaway is hosted by Deann of Deann Sarmiento Beautyblog.

Here are the prizes you can get if you will be one of our lucky winners:

The lucky FIRST PRIZE winner will be able to take Royale Elite PH Products, Nyx Black Label Lipstick, Shawill Eyeliner, Revlon Nail Color, small wallet, mask, and a little cute dress!

 

While the SECOND PRIZE winner will take home BeauSpeaks Skin Care Essentials products from BeauSpeaks Ortigas, Pink Nipple Cream , Godiva Sachets, Wet n Wild Mascara , Accessories, Gluta C Facial  Cream, Lipstick and Lip gloss, and a elegant cream dress.

 

THIRD PRIZE is comprised of iWhite Korea Sachet Pack, Ponds Whitening Cream, Collagen Mask, L.A Colors Palette, Hard Candy Lip gloss, Godiva Sachets, Organic Love Body Cream, accessories, Lewis and Pearl Scent, Eyeliner, and a refreshing orange top.

 

On the other hand, our FOURTH PRIZE winner will receive a manicure set, iWhite Korea Facial Cream, Godiva Sachets, Headbands, Eye line up roller, Elf concealer, Lipstick/ Lipgloss, Body Crea, Zen Zest Scent Spray, and Krave Facial Mask.

 

Last but not the least, our FIFTH PRIZE winner will get not just one, but two tops that can expand your wardrobe in the next level!

To win any of these fabulous prizes, you just need to follow the link below and enter the detail needed or asked from the Rafflecopter widget.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b3fe0f3922/

Wooh! That was a great come back! Hope everyone will join this giveaway. Please stay updated on my blog for the list of winners soon. Goodluck sweeties!

OOTD: White and Silver in Summer Sweet Treats

It’s May already! Time flies so fast, next thing we know we are closing the year. But before closing the year, may I ask, “Have you spent time with your treasured friends?”

As for me,( you been reading it) since it’s my vacation, I maximize the time I have to do the things I want and be with the people I love, my family, friends and myself.

In this post, I will tell you about someone who has been with me since my grade school years, someone who never left my side despite of my tantrums and someone to whom I share my greatest problems, triumphs, apprehensions, dreams, disappointments and happiness- my bestfriend. We’re actually equally opposite but I know that I can tell her anything without any reservation. Time tested our relationship already. We cried together for lost love, dream despite of limitations and pursuing life knowing we are still together side by side. We need not to be with each other nor talk everyday. We’re just secured with the fact that we are true and honest with each other despite of different circle of friends that we have.

Anyway, her name is Eunice and just before April ends we finally had our bonding! Super thanks to Starbucks Philippines! LOL!  Because of their buy 1 take 1 treat for Caramel Ribbon Crunch, me and le bestfriend rushed to Resorts World Manila (RW) and had that ever-desired time of our lives (especially MY LIFE, since she treated me... see how opportunistic I am? LOL)

We’re lucky enough to reach the line since we went out past 4pm already and the promo is until 5pm only. Good thing RW is just two streets away from my home and 3 streets away from hers. We just took a tricycle so we can less the chances that we will be late. 🙂 When we reached the counter the Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frap was already sold out, but good thing they have an alternative deal… and that is to buy any frappucinno beverage and take 1 free! Yey!

To cut it short, we had our drinks! Yipee!

To make our bonding a little longer we decided to dine in at Mcdonald’ s and again it was her treat. I insist to pay my bills but she refused! She was a ever kind and lovely bestfriend. Isn’t she? LOL! But kidding aside, that’s absolutely true!

This is my bestfriend Eunice.

and this is… ME!
Sorry! We don’t have our monopad yet 🙂

The theme of RW’s activity hall that time is all about sweet treats. And I just can’t go home without my photos taken in that adorable spot! There were stalls of cupcakes, French macaroons, ice creams, cake and a lot more. Nevertheless, with my white and silver outfit, my bestfriend just knows exactly what I want- to have my photos taken on that colorful and delicious-looking themed stage. Yey!

 

So here was my photos:

In this look:

white meshed to- EZRA (bought from Zalora PH)

silver shiny shorts- Rvmped ByNikkimanas

zebra print loafers- Sole Mate

Just to be fair, I also took a photo of her and as I mentioned, as contrast with me, she doesn’t really want to have as many photos as I would want to have and that means one is enough.

So that was our bonding. We actually talk much of anything, whether it is in past, future or present. And you know why I made a post talking about my dearest bestfriend? It is because today (when this post will be published- May 5) is her birthday! Yey! Happy Birthday Eunice! Wish you everything that your heart desires! I’m always here for you for this one more year and beyond. I love you so much! God Bless!

Our Magnum Store Experience + Side (Food) Trips at SM Aura

It is great to be with your friends. Much, it is better to be with them in exploring something new. Last week I am so happy to be reunited with my college friends. This is not the first time I made a post about them. We actually have that annual simple get together to catch up with each other during summer. And this time we headed to something new in the country, the Magnum Store at SM Aura. I read a lot of blog posts about it since it opened last April 8. And I am more than excited to try it out so I suggested the place to my beloved friends and luckily, they agreed! That’s why last April 25, we finally visit the place plus had our tour at SM Aura. We are four who went to SM Aura. Remember April (my friend)? The one who get married last December (I made a blog post for her wedding here)… Unexpectedly, she’s expecting already and she still went with us all the way from Bulacan (talking about how dedicated she is to our friendship). She actually said that she needs to ease boredom from staying at home during our longest vacation in our profession- SUMMER! And I also think she needs her walking exercise, so instead of taking a cab, we agreed to take train from the nearest MRT station at our meeting place and that’s EDSA Taft Avenue. We went to Ayala then got into a jeepney going to SM Aura. I am more than glad to see her so ‘game’ as before even if she is now bearing a child. She never complained throughout our trip despite of the heat. Oh well, I must say, I’m just so proud of her! Yay! Anyways, we met our friends at SM Aura. Henry and Maricar were there already waiting for us. After taking some snacks, we proceed to our agenda- the ultimate dessert in town- MAGNUM!

The very first thing that captured my attention at Magnum Store. This is made of popsicle sticks!

Let’s see the interior of the store…

These lights looks like chocolate drippings. Isn’t it?

While this one take us to the view of their resto. It was full when we come in.

I am actually surprised with the long line. I never thought for a while that eating an ice cream will set a trend, then I remember that this is not just an ordinary ice cream. This is something you can create as you please, something personalized, something that will hit the ‘soft spot’ in your taste buds.

Because of the long line, we opted to take a seat first

Since the Magnum Store was so full and we are practically in a budget, we didn’t get the ones that take as a ‘course dessert’. I also think those are quite overrated with the 10% service fee/tax (or whatever that percentage is for)- just a comment from someone who is not a sweet tooth.  Due to that financial reasons (lol!) we try to spend less and just take the thrill of customizing our own Magnum which only costs us 100php! Wherein, you can choose three toppings to put in your own choice of vanilla or chocolate bars coated with gold, dark chocolate or milk chocolate by your own choice as well!

Just to give you an idea on how everything goes about with your customized Magnum, here is a photo I grabbed from Google. *credits to the photo owner*

These were the choices for the coating…

… while these are the choices for your toppings…

Then the attendant will put all 3 toppings you choose and shake it in a shaker (I think for the consistency on how the toppings will be diffused! lol! I’m not so sure!)

Then they will top it on your Magnum and you are about to enjoy the Magnum made just for you!

Just be reminded that this 100php worth of Magnum is just available for take-out so you should take your master piece as you stroll at the mall. Don’t worry with the drippings of your melted sweet treats as they will provide you with a decent carton plate to ensure that you can finish it as tidy as possible. Yey! Here are our master pieces! Yay!

This was Henry’s…

while Maricar got this.

while our first-time eater of Magnum, April made it this way…

and mine was like this.
I put pistachio bits, chopped dried mangoes and honey comb on it plus a drizzle of dark chocolate= LOVE!

Oh! just a reminder! If you’re not a sweet tooth like me, I personally advised variations of the taste range of the toppings- subtle sweet, salty, sour… or anything you wish than combining all sweet products so that you can enjoy it more. As with me and my friends we head on to Starbucks to finish our customized Magnums and have our chit chats while taking some drinks that will at least minimize that ‘rock on’ sweetness we got from our magnificent dessert.

Henry and Maricar got this…

And since my preggy friend can’t take coffee, she just had a slice of blue berry cheese cake.

and these are mine… 🙂

I got myself a Tazo in giant peach and a mug of water on the rocks (lol!) which just complimented that sweet sensation from my dessert.

Catching up with your trusted friends can be as simple as gathering in a table and talking about random things.. 😉 AMAZING!

team stripes… me and Henry

team aztec and hippie 🙂
April and Maricar

Since, some of us still can’t get enough of that sweet sensation, and Henry just celebrated his birthday, we took the opportunity to have a ‘celebration’ with him (as we usually do during our college days). We are more than pleased to be treated to a lavish Chinese cuisine from Four Seasons food chain that can be found along the food court of SM Aura that they call Food on Four. The prices were really affordable! Moreover, the taste of the foods were awesome! The soup was amazing since the veggies are not overcooked and the side dishes or ‘short orders’ like dimsums and chicken feet were all tasty!

our meal

wanton noodle soup… their wanton was so meaty and full!

Henry personally love chicken feet that’s why he ordered two sets of this. It is mouth-watering!

while my personal request is my ever favorite and undying… hakao or fresh shrimp dumpling! Irresistible!!!

while April loves the taste of this bean curd roll. This is somewhat a stuffed tofu with sauce.

and these are quail eggs dimsum. It was my first time to see something like this but unfortunately, I am so occupied with the wanton soup and hakao and was so full to take this. Maybe next time 🙂

more than happy!

Burp! I was so full after that and I believe my friends as well. I am more than happy having them once in a while- four of us- me, April, Maricar and Henry… but of course it would be better to be with more classmates/friends from college in every gathering like this one. Sadly, some of them are always busy with their careers or just can’t be there due to their personal reasons that we cannot interfere in any way.  But they are still welcome and loved (quite sentimental here! ) As with us four, as much as possible, when the time permits we try to see each other and catch up with one another. It was good to see each of us grow from time to time, me with my career, April with her family life, Maricar with her career shift and Henry with his studies. Every time, we have new stories to tell, maybe sweet, sour, salty, spicy or sometimes bitter, just like the sumptuous food we took that day. But at the end of each gathering we had, for me, what really matters is not what particular food we ate that day but the company, the warmth and the friendship that will never be as sweet as any dessert in town nor as tasty as any Chinese food available because the relationship we have was slowly cooked by time well spent knowing and meeting at the middle of our differences, seasoned by right amount of love, passion and respect ,and finally,  preserved by trust that nothing can take away  the memories we build during our college years and until (hopefully) our last breath. So that’s it! Hope you enjoy my long post this time. How about you sweeties, how do you spend quality time with your friends? Let me know as you comment below.

*Credits to my lovable friends for the photos in this post- Henry, Maricar and April ❤ I grabbed those from their Facebook accounts lol! 

Karutora: The Perfect Elegance

I super love accessories but as I aged, I realized that having much of those will actually make the entire look funny and cheap. On the other hand, having enough of it can make a simple look fabulous and pleasing to the eye.

Last December, I discovered an accessories line that produce elegant and quality pieces that suits for everyday use. What I am talking about is Karutora. It is a well-known brand of Philippine pearls and accessories. An officemate of mine gave me a pair of simple earrings from their collection as a gift and I am stunned by its packaging. It is in a foldable gold carton with a gold ribbon. I thought it was really expensive but she spilled to me that she got it in a very affordable price.

The gift

simple yet elegant

Next thing I know is that I am at its place at Robinson’s Department Store having an extremely hard time in choosing what to get for the women close to my heart. I bought 3 pairs of it.

Aren’t those lovely?

I’m proud that I fix the carton all by myself!

And December seems to be my lucky month, because I also received another Karutora gift from my student. This time, it is a silver bracelet with an equally cute and elegant packaging.

Great!

when worn

The lock is so secure!

I still have those pieces with me and I am so delighted to inform everyone that it doesn’t tarnish and retains its exact splendid appearance. I personally love its quality at a very reasonable price which made it as one of my must buy accessories up to this date.

How about you sweeties? What’s your favourite line of accessories? Come and share it below, who knows I might feature your favourite brand soon!

 

Review: Nivea Body Cream Extra Whitening Cell Repair and Protect

Loving my skin is my ultimate goal this year. It includes taking care of my skin inside and out. I engage myself into eating the right kind of food, drinking water and having proper amount of sleep.  I also continue moisturizing my skin with lotions or body creams.

The last tub I actually emptied was Nivea Body Cream Extra Whitening Cell Reapair and Protect which I actually got from Sample Room. I am more familiar of Nivea’s moisturizing cream that is in a blue metal flat tub that my older sister uses. And having a different kind of it actually excites me.

Its label says that it has a fast absorbing formula with Camu Camu and Acerola Cherry which offers 50x higher Vitamin C (compared to lemon extract) that helps repair accumulated dull and sun-damaged skin. It also has UVA/ UVB which filters protect your skin from harmful UV rays which induce pigmentation and cause dark, uneven skin.

As per my experience with the product here’s my take:

Absorption:  It easily absorb skin and it is non greasy. After a minute or to the body cream is spread and absorbed already by the skin.

Moisturizing:  Its effect is pretty amazing! A pea size of it can go a long way. My skin is highly moisturized when I am using it.

Whitening: No noticeable effect in this aspect.

Smell: It has a terrifying elegant smell that last long. I just love it!

Will I buy it? Maybe not. Since I am after the whitening properties of the lotion or body cream that I use I would prefer getting another product that will give me a maximum effect. The product made the skin really moisturized yet it did not whiten my skin even if I finished a tub of it.

I would highly recommend this for the ones who really want a moisturized and elegant smelling skin this summer.

How about you sweeties? What’s your favourite lotion or body cream this summer?

 

 

What to do When you Lack that Beauty Sleep?

It’s summer! And it is my lucky part of the year when I can sleep all I want since it is considered to be my month long vacation. I definitely have those 8 hours of sleep or even more of it and I can see drastic change on my skin. It looks healthier and my pimples were tamed. “It will not be called a ‘beauty sleep’ for nothing.” as my vlogger inspiration Melanie Murphy once said.

Sleep actually gives way for our skin to heal and repair itself. And not getting enough of it will eventually make some drastic and not so good change in your skin. (Trust me! I’ve been through that!) Since I am into trying to give my skin a better care, I tried to look for ways to help me out in that dilemma. As the month of May comes closer, I am really afraid that I might be lacking that very essential skin care step but I was able to read some hacks from Carly Wood’s post in HSN that we can use to atleast fake or make use of that not so long hours of sleep in its maximum.

1. Use serums– Usually these serums address specific skin problems dry skin, wrinkles, brightness or aging. You just have to use it just right after you wash your face. Put a few pumps and massage it into your face.

2. Use primers– Primers will help your skin hydrated specially in cold months. It adds a layer of oil that can make your skin beautiful and plump. Try it after using serums.

3. Mmmooouuussstttuuurrriiizzzeee! – It is a sin to forget this one. Recently, I discovered the benefits of it to my skin. It holds serums and primers in place and it also hydrates the skin. You just have to choose the right moisturizer for you. If you have oily skin like mine, try the water based moisturizers and when it’s dry, try the oil based one.

4. Use eye creams- Eye bags due to lack of sleep? Eye creams will be a big help to avoid wrinkles, sagginess, and darkness of your under eye area. Just make sure to use a minimal amount of it to avoid possible puffiness and break outs.

5. How about some facial creams?– This will give extra credit for your skin. Facials creams are usually concentrated and immediately absorbed by the skin like serum and moisturisers that gives a magic effect when you wake up the next day.

My own step…

6. Eat healthy food– Nothing beats taking care of what’s inside. Make it a habit to eat fruits and veggies that will eventually be reflected to your skin.

7. Drink milk– Skip the dairy ones and try almond or soy milk which are rich in proteins, a good nutrient for your skin.

8. Have a nap– If you can steal short relaxation time during breaks, why not? It is still better to have that short sleep than not having anything at all. 5-10 minutes is already good for your body to recharge and your skin to breath.

9. Never forget water– Hydration from moisturizers are not enough. Fuel yourself with water and avoid caffeinated dinks and you will see the improvement.

10. Facial Scrub and Facial Masks– Twice a week, I indulge myself into facial scrubs and masks. It is a miracle for my skin since scrubs wash away sebum while facial masks, supplements my skin. I personally love collagen masks that easily absorbed by skin and can be left overnight. It makes the skin softer and pinkish- for a healthy glow.

I am happy that finally, I was able to read some ‘cheats’ in making my skin looking good even if I lack of sleep. I feel so equipped for the coming school year. Fingers crossed, my skin will be better!

How about you sweeties? What are your personal skin care routine o what do you religiously do when you lack sleep? Comment below and let’s have a productive discussion!

My First Makeup Workshop by Anne Bismonte

“I love the confidence that makeup gives me.” –Tyra Banks
That same quote applies to me. I must admit that I don’t really have a good skin. I have lots of pimple scars and still suffering from hyper pigmentation because of the treatment I am going through due to acne. But as of now, I am really trying so hard to find out my own skin care routine and improve my skin.

Even with this, I am still pretty sure that I can’t do away with makeup (maybe not now or soon). Since I am dealing with different people every day, I would like to always look presentable at work and school.

I been trying out different techniques in using makeup and also learn so many of those from Youtube and reading beauty blogs yet it seems that I want to have that first- hand knowledge that I can really  use for myself. One of my projects this year is to attend workshops that will help me gain the knowledge I actually missed out during my younger years. I really want to explore and know more especially about basic in makeup application.

I have my own share of makeup dilemmas. I been put to shame and ridiculed about how my foundation or eye shadow or blush on went beyond what others expect or just because it didn’t suit me well. Maybe I just grew tired of those and want to atleast cut off those embarrassing moments. That’s why I finally decided to join a basic make up workshop.

I read about an afternoon workshop from the page Makeup by Anne Bismonte. The slots immediately run out and I am lucky to catch the last slot. Finally! I was registered to Ms. Anne Bismonte’s workshop. Her credentials and portfolio in makeup artistry is enough for me to trust her knowledge on that particular aspect that I want to unfold. Nevertheless, I attended it.

The official poster of the workshop.

I arrived early at the venue. I don’t actually intend to be early but I guess I was not able to contain my excitement about the workshop, plus the fact the venue happened to be nearer than I expected. It was a Saturday afternoon and there was no traffic (when I actually need it.lol!)

Nevertheless, the workshop went well. The atmosphere was comfortable. The speaker, Ms. Bismonte made some jokes in the middle of the discussion which makes everything light and easier. Everything that was written on the poster was covered. From the basic, the skin care routine to make up application. She also had a demo on how to apply a day and night make up just by changing the hue of the eye shadow.

The FREE Make up buffet

Our pretty and young model

Ms. Anne Bismonte as she conduct a makeup demo

At the end of the workshop, we (the participants) had the application of all that we learn during that afternoon. And here was my before and after shot.

Before

After

I know I need more practice especially with my eye makeup. But I have faith that with practice and perseverance I can achieve a good make up for myself.

My co-participants as they do their make up like a PRO!

What I personally love about the workshop was the first part which tackled about the skin care routine and familiarization of different kinds of makeup brushes. Since, I personally went there because I believe that I need to use make up to cover up my imperfections and to be more confident, I still consider the fact that I must go to Level  0… and that is how to take care of what’s beneath those layers of makeup. Also, knowing the purpose of each make up brush enlightens me on how I can actually maximize the use of it. Just like what I learned in journalism, “You cannot break the rules, unless you know them.”

Ms. Anne Bismonte as she talks about the use of different makeup brushes

And because I was early, I saw Ms. Anne Bismonte in other perspective. She was so hands on with the workshop. She was the one together with her husband prepared everything needed by the participants. She was really accommodating and very considerate with other participants who came a little bit late. We actually spend few minutes waiting for them, as she went around and trying to be familiar with the other participants. And that made me admire her more.

It was a very productive day for all of us! Another big check on my bucket list! Yey!

What I learn during the workshop will help me personally to be more confident about myself. It also give way for me, as a model to have a new skill that I can use during my photoshoots.

Our loot bags 🙂

The very soft brush set from Beautycosmetics Brushes are easy and convenient to use. I heard that you can get it in a super affordable price! Yay! What a steal!

The earrings makes me go gaga over the loot bag. Yay! Wait for an OOTD with it!

I am glad that now, I am atleast equipped with Makeup 101. Having that makes me feel more certain about my exploration when it regards to colors and blending, contouring, highlighting, shaping and experimenting with my very own canvass.

Woooh! A certificate! I feel so proud! ❤

How about you sweeties? What is that something that you really want to know more? Hope to read from you soon.

*Some pictures grabbed from the MUA’s FB page Makeup by Anne Bismonte. For make up gigs, collaborations and events you may contact her at the same page.

Photoshoot: Japanese Girl featuring Thumbmark Photography

I always dream of wearing a kimono. Kimono, as we all know is the national costume of Japan. I like how colourful it is and how it actually define the feminine figure through its obi.  But I never had a chance to wear it during my childhood days, that’s why when Thumbmark Photography had an open photoshoot with kimono as one of its costumes, I didn’t think twice of joining.

Nevertheless, I had my photoshoot with them.  Here are some of my sample edited photos from them:

The photoshoot went well. Despite the fact that, I feel a little awkward with the young models who participated in the photoshoot which actually make me feel older. LOL! I still manage to take pleasure in what I wear. I was not able to do some new poses in this photoshoot because I had a hard time thinking on how  to maximize my costume yet I am in high spirits that I was able to climb a large trunk of a dead tree at wildlife. Yey! (Talking about how I am trying to retrieve my childhood days here. LOL!)  All the same time, I enjoy the whole event with the friendly staffs of Thumbmark Photography.

What I like about ‘working’ with this particular company is the “friend-like atmosphere”. My first photoshoot with them was also my first time to meet the members of their team but I didn’t had a hard time adjusting and communicating with them. Thumbmark Photography has a personnel assigned in every component of the photoshoot from marketing, to HMUA and up to the photographer, they had designated the task quite well that’s why as a model I was able to have a hint of a good service.

The HMUA was Ms.Thammy Gel Peña Bernardo while my photographer was Mr. Mark Keyvette Bernardo.  So now, you might already have an idea why the company was named Thumbmark Photography. Anyway, these two are real life partners who are exploring their own hobbies and also trying to establish a company in which they can earn something from their craft. Pretty exciting right? While, I made my inquiries and transaction prior to the event with Ms. Hanna Agustin, their ever accommodating and respectful marketing personnel.

I also got my raw photos from them. I actually try to edit some of it using some Ipad applications. So here is what I’ve got.

a close up beauty shot

a vintage (-y) look

something bright and colorful

and showing off my cute head dress… love it! Yay!

I must also say that their dog, Ashley is an “X-factor”.  They have this dog at the venue of our photoshoot. She has that exquisite charm that makes me at ease while waiting for my turn during the pictorial. One random fact about me is that I am NOT fond of dogs, but this one captivated me and that is a big “WOW!” as my boyfriend said.

This is their shitzu dog, Ashley.

With this here’s another big check to my bucket list! Yey! And with their good service, I would love to have my “own-concept” photoshoot through them as well. For now, I am just thinking of the concept to try out soon. Any ideas my dear sweeties?

*To contact Thumbmark Photography you make click the link to their FB page.

OOTD: Royal Plains and Florals + A Road Trip to Tagaytay

Hi sweeties! Happy Easter! How was your long weekend?  For Catholics like me, hope you were able to reflect on the passion of Christ with your family. For others, I hope you enjoy and were able to rest well.

With me, I was able to take that long vacation as an opportunity to enjoy with my family and also go to church to celebrate our faith. Part of this is our visit to some places in Tagaytay.

Anyway, in this post I will share to you my OOTD last Maundy Thursday as well as a mini travel post about our trip at the city of Retirement Haven, Tagaytay.

My mom’s cousins decided to have a simple get together during this year’s Holy week and we end up having a road trip along the South. With some kiddos, we visit places that they will surely enjoy.

The future generation 🙂

Just to be comfortable in our whole day activity, I pick out an attire that will make me last through walking, and unpredictable temperature of the city. I brought with me a cardigan and a nice piece of shawl to accentuate my look and to be my company in the cold temperature we are actually expecting during the road trip.

In this look:

White Cardigan- Lhot’s Fashion House

Blue Bohemian Top- 2K, Glorietta

Floral Printed leggings- Rvmped ByNikkimanas

Black Bow Sandals- c/o my sisters officemate 🙂

shawl- a gift many years ago 🙂

gold watch- Casio

Just a closer look…

black shoulder bag- Lacoste

Royal Plains and Florals

Our first stop was Palace in the Sky. The breath-taking scenery on top of the big stones on the mountainous area which is overlooking the places nearby is awesome. We also climb up a tower where I was able to see a huge size statue of Jesus which I think was the best of the views I’ve seen at Tagaytay. Touching the statue was a unique experience. It seems to be moving because of the gentle breeze and cold air. As I look up into it, the blue sky made the view more solemn that will surely lead you to reflect and pray about that magnificent experience.

A stop over as we climb to the palace

Our family did it! Yours truly, with my mom and siblings…

The 2 generations. Me with my brother,  uncle, grandmother and mom… Its hard to find the resemblance of my facial features to them because I got my looks from my father. 🙂

I named this as the best photo I captured during our road trip. I am happy I was able to took a photo of this spectacular scenery. 🙂

Pineapples in Tagaytay are really sweet! I just don’t know with this one. lol!

Next stop was Picnic Groove. I remember being in that place when I was in high school and having our field trip along the green grass with our lunch boxes. Lol! But the place seems to change and became commercialized. More activities are available to people to enjoy just like horseback riding, zip line, photo opts, foot spas and of course, picnic courses.

Elisha is afraid of heights but she was able to conquer the hanging bridge at Picnic Groove! Brave kid!

An over-looking view of Taal Volcano from the deck.

Our family, decided to have horseback riding and walking along the place. The kids enjoyed the horseback riding and the 350php fee for an hour was really used up to its last minute. Their eyes were sparkling after that experience. Some of them even try it out for three times which I think, an authentic proof that they really enjoy the activity.

Horseback riding with my youngest sister.

Lastly, we went to Sky Ranch, a mini-amusement park at Tagaytay. The place was so nice and colorful! A perfect get-away for those who love carousels, ferris wheels, vikings and more amusement rides! Food concessionaires also offer reasonable prices at this place. That’s why, if you don’t really like to take the rides, you can just enjoy their sumptuous food with less guilt for your pockets.

The blue skies are magnificent! Isn’t it? A great weather to enjoy the place!

But since this was our last stop, we seemed to be “low-bat” already and just decide to sit down at a side and watch the mascots at the place doing their dance moves. (Sorry, I don’t really know what to call them.) And we just end up there until it’s time to go.

We’re just okay watching everyone shouting around. We’re too tired of the long walks but we still manage to smile. It was a happy day!

Though the places are not as grant as its name suggested I feel happy to reach those. I just hope that the government will take the necessary actions that will lead to its restoration. Those tourist spots are nice to go to. If only the city government will be able to do something to improve those, I am sure that more tourists will come and see its goodness.

Should I say more?

The activity we had with our family was amazing! We seldom gather for this kind of event. Seeing everyone smiling and having a good time despite of the raging heat of the sun and long walks was really rewarding. Truly, a bonding time is a must for a family. But of course, during this season, let us also remember the true essence of the long vacation; it is not just to have a bonding, trip or a party but to strengthen our faith to our savior, Jesus Crist.

How about you sweeties, how did you spend your Holy Week? Hope to read from you. You just have to hit the comment box below. Have a great week ahead!