Dear Mom? What to write to the woman you love most

It’s that time of year again. Time to tell your Mom, or wife or grandmother, etc.- how much you love and value her.

Uh-oh. What to say?

KISS! Keep it simple, sweetheart!

Many moms would prefer a few, heartfelt, sweet words than all of the diamonds in the world!

Here are some tips and tricks to get those heartfelt diamond words just rolling off the tongue!

1) Make her a card. Freshen up on that penmanship Mom always loved! Emails & texts are nice…for every day. Not for a holiday and certainly not for the special lady in your life on her special day! Write a card, use personal stationery, draw a picture. But just make sure it comes directly from your heart to the pen to the paper to her heart. It will mean much more to her than a text or email ever could. And, by the way, who doesn’t love getting mail?

 

2) Recall a favorite memory with Mom. Write it up, as you remember it, and include it in a sweet card or – better yet – make a card yourself by choosing a personal family photo to accompany it. Maybe a pic of you and Mom coming home from the hospital? Graduation? Wedding? You and Santa?

Use an 8 1/2 x 11 inch sheet/cardstock and double-stick tape or glue the photo at the top. Underneath, include the moving memory. Whether it be sweet, funny or sad, it will take Mom on that long-needed walk down Memory Lane.

4) Find a poem online that tells her how you feel. Pinterest is great for this. Also , google “mom quotes” or “mom poems” or look at my quotes on BeautyFrosting. If you’re coming up dry, please email me and I’ll help you out!

Also, check out Thursday’s Mother’s Day Gift-Giving Guide, Part 2: Long on Love, Short on Time & Money for thoughtful gifting tips for the Mom in your life!

xoxo,

BF

 

BF Asks: What’s your favorite quote about moms?

Mother’s Day Gift-Giving Guide, Part 2: Long on Love, Short on Time & Money

So you still don’t have the perfect, pretty gift for the pretty lady in your life? Well, with Mother’s Day right around the corner, you still have a few last minute, lovely options that are sure to tickle Mom pink!

Our moms were there for us when we cried our first tear, said our first word, took our first step. So even if you’re short on time and/or money, you’ve gotta find a way to show the most important woman in your life how important she is to you on Mother’s Day!

Here are my top tips on how to honor and celebrate Mom this Mother’s Day without breaking the bank or running out of time.

1) Give Mom a present every month. Beauty boxes are a new, thoughtful, little service that Mom will love! A few times a year or once a month (depending on the service you select), she’ll get pampered with an assortment of beauty products to try. There are so many choices that it can be overwhelming so let me break it down for you.

Is Mom a glamourous woman? Does she love any and all things beauty? Is she always looking for the best new makeup or skincare?
New Beauty Test Tube is the way to go! For only $29.95 every 3 months, Mom gets a beauty box filled with goodies like this:

New Beauty Test Tube: The GoodsNew Beauty Test Tube: The Goods

For more info about New Beauty Test Tube, read our BF post here: http://www.beautyfrosting.com/mailbox-monday-new-beauty-test-tube

Is Mom eco-conscious? You’re own earth mother incarnate? A goddess of green?

 Eco-Emi is the way for you to go!

For more Eco-Emi details, read our post here: http://www.beautyfrosting.com/mailbox-monday-eco-emi-glamour-you-can-feel-good-about

There are lots more beauty box services where those came from but those are my BF-Best picks for this Mother’s Day! And while Mom won’t receive the actual box on Mother’s Day, when you tell her what you’ve done and that she’ll be receiving gifts all year long, she’ll be utterly delighted at your forethought!

2) Favorites are fun! Does Mom have a wine she adores? Buy her a case of her favorite wine at BevMo. Too expensive? Buy her a bottle and a fancy wine opener like CorkPops! The cork pops right off thanks to CO2 cartridge. I don’t wanna say she won’t need you anymore but…you get the idea!

Mom more of a tea-totaler in that she loooooves her tea! Buy her an antique teapot, a teacup and a box of her favorite tea (most people don’t mind an Earl Grey, English Breakfast or Darjeeling).Wanna be extra thoughtful? Buy her a box of sugar cubes. Every true TEAista loves ‘em!

3) Spa Day at a steal. Subscribe to  YipIt.com (even if only for 2 days) and get the best deals on all discounted spa services and favorites (everything on Lifebooker, Groupon, Daily Candy, Living Social and all the others in one place!!!) for your favorite lady!

You will get DEEPLY DISCOUNTED spa, restaurant and more deals that will make you look like the prince you are while paying like a pauper. Nice. How cheap am I talking? I’m talking $5 manicures, $29 massages, $25 blowouts, $30 hair coloring and more. Yes, it can be more than that but that’s as low as they go!

4) Pack a picnic. Gather your Mom’s favorite foods and beverages and hit a park, museum, beach, lake or backyard. Every girl, no matter the age, loves a picnic. It’s really that simple. Be sure to pack glassware, utensils, plates, napkins and a candle too!

5) Movie Matinee. Take Mom to a movie. Just don’t forget to sneak in her favorite champagne or candy! It’s that little extra step that makes it special!

6) In-Home Spa. Can’t get away? Need a last minute solution? Pamper your pretty lady at home. Many women I’ve talked to said that it really couldn’t get better than just getting a few moments alone. Draw her a bath, light some candles, pour her a glass of her favorite wine (or steep a cup of her favorite tea), grab her favorite book/trashy magazine and set her up in her own personal in-home spa night! Perfect for those moms with little ones running around. Let her relax and unwind in the bath while you pop in a dvd for the little darlings! And pop the bubbly for her. Just remember that she’s in a spa treatment. That means NOOOOO disruptions!

7) A Little Something Special? Maybe you love all of the ideas above but still want to give her a little something special. Check out my In-My-Tub-Tuesday: Mother’s Day Edition post to get a few bathtub-ready treats. Anything by Kai or Darphin will tickle her toes!

8) Super Last Minute Fix. Buy 2 bouquets of flowers at Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods or your favorite neighborhood florist. This can be done for under $20. Keep it simple. Don’t buy a mixture of 15 colors. Women don’t want it.

Buy 1 or 2 colors (I’m partial to pink, violet, yellow or white and roses, hydrangeas, peonies, tuberose, tulips or gerber daisies) and divide them into 5 different smaller-medium sized vases.

Put one each in the bedroom, bathroom, living room, kitchen and anywhere else where when she sees them, she’ll smile. It’s that extra thought of scattering them through the house that means the most! Just be sure to clean up your mess, throw away the trash – and oh!- be sure to put water in the vases with a touch of Sprite (may sound crazy but they’ll last longer)!

***
If you do one of the above, I can guarantee you a smile (and probably a hug too) from the Mom in your life. And, if she likes it, drop me a note or send me a pic!

 

xoxo,
BF 

BF Asks: What’s the best Mother’s Day gift you’ve ever given or received?

 

Mother’s Day Gift Guide #1: Pretty Picks for Mom

I experience so many unbeatable beauty and lifestyle products all year long that when it comes to picking the perfect gift for my Mom, I can get a little overwhelmed. Lucky for me – and you, too – I have gathered a host of heavenly products that are sure to make Mom feel even more beautiful than she already is. These 5 picks are my favorites for when you have a few days prep time to head to a store, order on Amazon or just basically need a gracious gift fast with just a bit of forethought.

Mother's Day Gift Guide 2013 #1: Pretty Picks for Mom...with just a little forethought

1) Lorac Mother’s Day Collection ($32) will help you gift a little gorgeousness to Mom! Among the pretty products included are Lorac Starry-Eyed Baked Eye Shadow Trio in Star Studded, Special Effects Conditioning, Defining & Lengthening Mascara, Hot & Spicy Blush/Bronzer Duo and Couture Shine Liquid Lipstick in Trendsetter – all in a sleek, black croc makeup bag. Valued at $112, this glamorous collection for Mom won’t cost you a pretty penny! It’s only $32 for a limited time!

 

Lorac Mother's Day Collection ($32)

 

2) Aerin Lauder’s line, Aerin, has a slew of pretty products sure to delight Mom! I’m especially partial to Aerin’s Spring Color Palette in Effortless Spring Radiance ($70). Even though Summer might be right around the corner, this pretty palette will put a little spring in Mom’s step!

Aerin Spring Color Palette in Garden In Bloom ($70)

 

3) If Mom is a domestic goddess and loves her palace to polish and shine, she’ll be thrilled to get a basket of Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Kitchen Basics Set ($9.99). The Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Kitchen Basics Set is an easy way to introduce Mom to a new way of cleaning with her favorite scent! The set contains their eco-friendly cleaning products and includes Liquid Dish Soap, Liquid Hand Soap and Countertop Spray. My favorite scents? Rosemary, Basil and Honeysuckle. And at $9.99, it’s a steal!

 

Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day Kitchen Basics Set ($9.99)

 

4) If Mom loves to smell as sweet as she is on the inside, your best beauty bet is the Trish McEvoy Mother’s Day No. 9 Blackberry & Vanilla Musk Fragrance Collection ($145). One of my favorite all-time scents, Mom will be left smelling like Trish’s iconic blend of sweet blackberries and rich vanilla. And with an assortment of Trish’s bestselling products – including fragrance, body cream and sugar scrub – Mom will feel pretty pampered and pampered pretty!

 

Trish McEvoy Mother’s Day No. 9 Blackberry & Vanilla Musk Fragrance Collection

 

5) If your mom’s been saying that she wants to take care of her skin but she just hasn’t gotten around to it, why don’t you help her take that healthy step? Murad Environmental Shield Introductory Kit ($39.95) is the perfect introductory set that will get Mom on the healthy skincare track she’s been intending to jump on. This satiating set (with a value of $125) includes smaller sizes of the Essential-C cleanser, Active Radiance Serum, Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 as well as a few bonus gifts! By getting this gift, you’ll be enrolling Mom in a monthly skincare program that she will receive monthly for only $39.95/month. I can’t imagine a gift as good as this investment!

Murad Environmental Shield Introductory Kit - an anti-aging superhero! (only $39.95)

And if you get a little something extra for Mom – or for yourself – in addition to Mom’s gift, you’ll get a fun gift for Mom or for you, as well! (FREE with any $120 purchase)

A Murad BONUS this Mother's Day!!!

 

 

Happy Mother’s Day shopping and, more importantly, Happy Mother’s Day!

xoxo,
BF

High-Low: A WEEK OF WONDERFUL WOMEN IN MY WORLD!

Wow, wow, wow!!! What an amazing week filled with oodles of fun with friends and wonderful women in my world!

The week started off with…The Oscars! I had a strange feeling that this might be my last opportunity to sit at home and watch (party invites, etc.) so I decided to take advantage of it. I had brunch and bottomless mimosas with my best friend, Suzanne Karotkin, who was visiting from Dallas and then came home, slipped on my favorite Jessie Steele cupcake pajamas and settled in for the evening with some Village Pizza and vino.

Super indulgent - Oscars Sunday in pjs with pizza!

 

On Monday, my amazing Mom celebrated her birthday so I did what I could from afar. I prettily packaged her favorite coconut cupcakes from Joan’s on 3rd, shipped them to her in Dallas and then posted a few collages on Facebook so she knew I was thinking of her on her special day! I have the most beautiful mother in the world and I’m lucky that I get to consider her my very best friend and talk to her usually twice a day.

More important than loving me, she taught me HOW to love.
No small task for a parent in the world we live in.
But, thanks to my Mom, my world was a sunshine-warmed home filled with love, laughter, openness, communication and fun with no shortage of hugs & kisses and secrets shared.
If I am never lucky again in my life, I was the luckiest for being born into this world having her as my mother.
We should all be so lucky and blessed.

My beautiful Mom!

 

Mom - the center of our universe.

I was thrilled to welcome my new intern, Maddi – a student at UCLA, to my BeautyFrosting team! I was so excited that I organized one of my favorite Martha Stewart notebooks for her replete with a nametag. Yep, I’m kind of a nerd! I am so excited for the energy, organization, talents, ideas and creativity she is already bringing to the BF team!

Welcome Maddi!!

I was super excited to get to be one of the first to try the all new Dermalogica UltraSmoothing Eye Serum at their flagship store in Santa Monica. It was a lovely evening of pampering, cocktails & eats and treats! Stay tuned for more details on this awesome new eye treatment!

Experiencing the Dermalogica difference in Santa Monica

And this past weekend was a weekend filled with wonderful women that I adore!! Between dinner at Frida in Beverly Hills, wine & tapas at Covell in Silverlake and brunch at Duplex on 3rd, my weekend was packed with fabulous friends!

A wonderful weekend with some of my favorite women!

Then last night, I had the pleasure of trying out the fabulous Flemings SteakHouse in Beverly Hills. As a Texan-turned-Angeleno, I had been craving a steak like nobody’s business, so when the offer to try out this sensational steakhouse presented itself, I felt like the steak gods were in my corner! More on this deliciousness later!

With fun friends At Fleming's Steakhouse in Beverly Hills

After all this, I need a vacation from my weekend!!!! While there was much delicious food this weekend and even more delicious cups of laughter and dishing than glasses of wine, I am in need of a break from all of the social activity.

However, that won’t be happening this week! Too much going on to even mention!

 

LOWS

My sweet Mom’s birthday was a little tainted by someone being selfish. That made me a little angry, shall we say, as her #1 biggest fan!

And unfortunately, there was a second low. And ohhhhhh-was it low! My beloved, sweet pup Miss Ellie has developed a barking problem since we moved into the place we live now. It has come to a head because she’s barking for hours on end when I leave. I am meeting with a dog trainer who told me that I need to crate-train and stop letting her sleep with me. That hurt. She’s 8 1/2, y’all. I actually cried when she told me that so the trainer probably thinks I need a therapist myself! But I started doing what she told me to do and I’m hoping to see gradual results soon.

I’m really feeling for all of you parents out there. I mean, if this is hard for me, I can only imagine how difficult saying no as a parent will be for me one day! Wish me luck with this little challenge!

 

Miss Ellie's new "house" -

 

xoxo,

BF
BF Asks: What was your High-Low this week?

Recipe Box: Southern Shrimp Ball – a holiday family favorite!

Every year, during the holidays, my mom or Aunt Mina would always make this Southern Shrimp Ball.

Now, wait a minute, I know it sounds funny and I may have lost you at “Shrimp” and/or “Ball”. But, seriously, it is deeeeelish!

I served it just last weekend at my Toddlers & Tiaras/southern-themed birthday party.
And know what? Besides Jenn Tiller’s Gluten-free sausage balls, it was the first thing to go!

It is salty, tangy and simply delicious.
So put aside your prejudices – particularly about canned shrimp, wipe that scowl off your face and prepare your tastebuds for a taste explosion!!!

Southern Shrimp Ball (thanks Mom!)

SOUTHERN SHRIMP BALL  (Courtesy of my lovely mother, Clarice McCoy)

1 package Philadelphia Cream Cheese
1 small can tiny shrimp
1 tsp. Worcestershire
1 tbsp. Fresh Lemon Juice
1 tsp. Garlic Salt
1 tsp. Tabasco Sauce (less if you want mild)
1 jar Heinz Cocktail sauce

Mix ingredients with fork and/or spatula.

When thoroughly combined, wash & dry hands, and use hands to work
mixture into a ball.
It will become more firm as it chills.

Chill for at least 1 hour.

When ready to serve, pour cocktail sauce over top of shrimp ball just
enough so it pours a bit down the sides. Do NOT saturate.

Serve with 1 box Wheat Thins fanned around the ball.

Garnish with a lemon slice, wedge or a wheat thin.

 

xoxo,
BF

 

BF Asks: What’s one of your family’s funny – but delicious – holiday recipes? 

 

Primping with…Kiersten Warren

Happy Wednesday, beauties! I loved interviewing my friend, Kiersten Warren, for my latest FabFitFun column, “Primping with…”. It was an utterly delicious delight! And it was filled with soooo many details & tidbits that I couldn’t include it all on FFF. So here it is in its entirety for your reading pleasure.

I was so impressed with her full, colorful and love-filled life. And I am thrilled that she is writing about all of her daily (and past) adventures. Here’s to the next sweet & exciting chapter, Kiersten!

*********

(excerpts originally featured on FabFitFun 12/4/12)
Today, I’m primping with the always-funny, eternally youthful, ethereal sprite that is my friend, Kiersten Warren. You may recognize this talented actress, writer, wife and mother from Desperate Housewives, Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood, Bunheads, Independence Day, Life Goes On or Saved by The Bell: The College Years.

We chose to meet at Chateau Marmont for a light lunch – shrimp cocktail, Caesar salad and a glass of sauvignon blanc for those who like to know such details – and primping. Having just left having tea with Tarte Cosmetics, I gifted Kiersten with Tarte’s Maracuja concealer. We had some fun with makeup in the middle of the Chateau Marmont and giggled a lot.

I had met Kiersten this past summer at a party where we became instant friends and decided we should definitely “make plans on purpose” (as Kiersten says) soon. 3 months later into our busy schedules, we had our first chance! Between her candor, wickedly clever humor, sweet nature wine and lovely presence, I couldn’t wait to share our chat with   you!

BF: Tell us about your beauty routine. Makeup?

KW: I wear Cle de Peau foundations for the light silky coverage. I never feel like it’s heavy and it reflects light really well. With that I’ll use the YSL Touche éclat combined with the Chanel concealer. I also love the Tarte Maracuja concealer you introduced me to. I’m always up for “concealing.” I have allergies and sometimes my under-eye region gets really puffy, and until the meds kick in I just have to deal. Then I like Shiseido powder in a compact to take along.

I use Dior Show mascara and usually MAC eyeshadows for their vibrant colors. As far as lipsticks go, I’m really liking my MAC reds. I think it’s “VAMP” that I use all the time. I don’t know for sure because Scarlett (my 7 year old) left her ice cream to melt in the car’s drink holder where I hide my lipstick and, resultantly, the label long ago died and had to be peeled off. I think it’s VAMP but I have Dior lip glosses in candy color shades in every purse so I could easily be wearing any of those.

BF: I feel very Steel Magnolias asking this. In fact, I shall do it with a southern accent. What is your signature fragrance?

KW: For years I’ve worn La Chasse Aux Papillons Eau de Toilette by L’Artisan Parfumeur. But lately I’ve been feeling unfaithful and reckless and have switched it up with those naughty Marc Jacobs triplets, Lola, Daisy and Dot.

BF: Naughty, indeed. And as for your lovely locks?

 

KW: I have dreadlock, curly, cotton candy hair. Hair like a 19th century Irish street orphan. Nicole Kidman’s is the classy version of my natural hair. So it needs to be dealt with by way of keratin treatments and then letting it come out to play a bit. Good thing with hair like mine is that there’s always volume. Bad thing is that it does what it wants if you let it, and that’s decidedly NOT PRETTY. 

 BF: I think we have very similar hair thanks to Mother nature. Mine is post-brazilian blowout right now. Getting my volume back! Everyone wants it when they don’t have it. But honey, it takes a village, doesn’t it?

KW: Gabor, my hair guy on Desperate Housewives, would take a deep sigh, close his eyes, do one cleansing yoga breath and say over my head as a daily mantra, “The hair will not win!”

BF: That. Is. Hilarious.

KW: Always made me laugh. Which is key. I prefer to work with a high level of joy. “Chuckle-headed-ness” even. Sutton Foster on Bunheads is fun like that as well. 

BF: So what’s your go-to ‘do?

KW: Since I have curly hair I don’t wash it very much. Like every 3 or 4 days. So day one it’s down and wavy and bouncy and kind of perfect.  Day two is curlier. Three is a ponytail with a pretty headband. Day four is a hat.

BF: Shower or Bath?

KW: I prefer a bath. Showers to me are like an aquatic assault. Something you do when that’s all that is offered in your hotel room in Moscow. 

BF: Oh my gosh. I could not love the way you put that any more. I always consider a shower basically a workout. Hmm…that might explain a few things.

BF: Do you have a nightly beauty ritual? You know something that helps you wind it down? (ex. for me – I never miss my bath and book every night)

KW: Every night I’ll make chamomile tea with honey and then have chilled slices of an Asian pear. Or a pomegranate. 

 BF (in my head): Well, color me impressed. Sophisticated. Very grown up.

KW: And it’s during that ritual that I pick out what I’ll wear to bed. Then I flip through a magazine while my husband, Kirk (writer’s note – Kirk Acevedo of Oz, Band of Brothers, Prime Suspect, Fringe,) finds our movie. Usually something horrifically scary that then he falls asleep to and I’m petrified into therapy because I can’t change the channel. I once left our tv on for 3 months because Kirk was away on location. Let it be known here officially that our Universal remote hates me. And the feeling is mutual. 

 BF: I love that the family drama only exists between you and, basically, an appliance.

 BF: Back to business! Brows – wax or tweeze? Who’s your go-to?

KW: I go to Anastasia and let Katie Crecion work her magic on my brows. 

 BF: And what about those gorgeous, lush lashes? Amazing!!!

KW: Latisse. I use it, Yes. If it turns my eyes brown…whatever. I prayed for brown eyes as a child after reading Anne Frank. I wanted to look like her. To date they are still blue. But will keep you posted.

 BF: You are lean and lithe. I cannot lie. I also love alliteration. How do you stay fit?

BF: I take a ballet-body sculpting class that is brutally efficient. I always wonder when I’m staggering around the next two days in agony, “why is it that I do this?” It can’t be to look sexier. Not when I look like an injured chimp staggering around wearing an adult diaper. Because that is how I walk after one of those workouts. 

 I’m very hard on myself physically. And it’s a shame really. As a competitive gymnast once upon a time, the capacity to even enjoy pecan pie has pretty much been beaten out of me. And so the end result is what? That I’m thin. It’s something to be pitied more than anything. If I said I’d been hungry for just about half my life, it wouldn’t be a lie.  

 BF: That reminds me of that line from Julia Roberts in Notting Hill: I’ve been on a diet every day since I was nineteen, which basically means I’ve been hungry for a decade.”

 

 KW: Kirk has a hugging gauge and tells me when it’s pasta night. LOL

 BF: I need a man like that!!

KW: I do make a mean corn chowder with shrimp and poblano chiles. And my vices are candy coffee drinks at Starbucks. My candy choices are red hots and black licorice. Then hot tamales. 

BF: What is the best advice you received from your grandmother?

KW: My Grandma Inez gave me the best advice, which was delivered to me while I was ironing my dress, whilst wearing it. Like you do. Grandma looked at me and giggled and goes, “lazy people work the hardest.”  And over the years it’s resonated with me. Because they do, don’t they?

BF: What’s one of your earliest beauty memories?

KW: My first significant beauty memory was feeling the power of transformation in the chair of a champion hairstylist as she dragged my hair straight with her blow dryer for the first time in my life. Up until then I’d thought I was destined to roam the earth looking very muppet-like for all of my days. Her name was Bronwyn and it was at the JCPenney’s salon.  She changed my life. Thanks for that, Bronwyn. 

BF: Shameless plug of Penneys, Kiersten. What beauty faux pas did you commit that you look at now & cringe?

KW: I remember when I was 7, my Mom curled my hair in curlers and I slept in them all night for picture day, I thought I looked so very pretty and while I was being driven to our Christian school I remember making eye contact with all the passing cars. I thought that I might very well be discovered by a huge talent agent looking as pretty as I felt. Terribly funny considering I wasn’t even allowed to see movies in a theater as a child. And yes we were Independent Fundamentalist Baptists…if that explains things a bit. 

BF: What would the 13-year-old version of you think about you now?

KW: My 13-year-old self would be sorely impressed with how we turned out. She would think me both wicked and divine. Then we’d try on my expensive shoes and she’d remind me how when we were 14, we snuck out to see a movie and it was The Muppet Movie. And then we’d laugh at our ridiculous rebel selves. 

BF: Speaking of girls, what advice would you give to your daughter, Scarlett?

KW: I would advise Scarlett to never compare herself to anyone ever. For it’s in that instant where we siphon off all our power in comparing and contrasting. And it’s at that fetid well that girls first drink of inadequacy and self loathing. Then jealousy steals their joy. Keep your joy from the get-go and compare yourself never, ever, in the history of ever, to anybody else. “You are miraculous.” is what I tell Scarlett.

BF: And I’m crying. That is some wonderful mother stuff, right there! Napkin please. Okay. Nearing the end so finish off that glass. One word that describes you right now:

KW: #merrimentmerchant. It’s kind of one word.

BF: If I could describe you in one word, it would be “effervescent”. Oooh-and I like “enchanting”, as well!

BF: Fill-in-the-blank time:

“My favorite color is…”

KW: My favorite color is YES! Because I love them all. Depending on my mood. But I guess I’m partial to deep greens. 

BF: My favorite quote is:

KW: Laugh if you can cry if you must. It’s a favorite quote. Firstly because it’s so applicable, secondly it annoys my husband, so I say it a lot just to be provocative. Now he just laughs whenever he hears it. I actually heard him use it once so I’m certainly the winner in that regard.

BF: My personal philosophy (beauty, life or otherwise) is:

KW: My personal philosophy or way of living life is to “Be a light, shine a light, help hold a light or just go back to your hole.” 

BF: Love that! What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of?

KW: Very proud of my writing. I’m currently shopping my book “Pocket Stories of a Ramblin’ Christian Gypsy.” 

BF: Aaaaaand I’m in! Tell me more.

KW: It’s a deconstructed memoir written in little single consumption reads. Literature for those with an attention span of a caffeinated ferret.  I store my pieces here … http://www.tumblr.com/blog/kierstenwarren   it’s been so nice to unburden myself in the retelling of these stories. Stones I’ve pulled out of my pockets if you will. And am now free to float down the river of life unburdened, free from fetters and fools. I’m proud that as a pregnant fifteen year old I was able to forge ahead and have a successful career in show business. I’m proud of my children and my marriage. 

BF: You are a shining example of a mother doing her best for her kids and following her dreams!

BF: What role has been the most fun to play fashion and beauty-wise?

KW: The most fashion fun I’ve had playing a role was probably to play, “Necie” in the Callie Khourie directed and written feature film, Divine Secrets of the YaYa Sisterhood.

BF: That is one of my all-time favorite books and films. Brilliant. Details please.

KW: It was vintage and going to sleep with loads of pin curls was more fun than the law should allow.  Pretty dresses just make me happy.

BF: What would you like people to say about you behind your back?

KW: That they wish they were me. I’m kidding. Kinda.

xoxo,
BF

 

BF Asks: Kiersten’s proudest accomplishments made my heart burst! What accomplishment are YOU most proud of thus far? 


Fragrance Friday: Annual Birthday Trish Treasures

Today is my birthday.

And every year, I wish for the same two things on my birthday:

A pony…

and a prince.

I’m kidding.
Kind of.

No, the 2 treasures that are always at the top of my list are Trish McEvoy Wild Blueberry Vanilla scented candle and Trish McEvoy No.9 Blackberry & Vanilla musk fragrance.

This year, I got both!

And I am one happy, happy, sweet-scented, smiling girl because of it.

Trish McEvoy Wild Blueberry Vanilla Scented Candle ($55)

The blueberry vanilla candle warms my heart and home with its freshly baked blueberry muffin scent. It literally smells like warm, freshly baked, homemade blueberry muffins. Don’t believe me? Try it. People will swear you’ve been baking.

Trish McEvoy No.9 Blackberry & Vanilla Musk fragrance($85)

When I dab on the No.9 Blackberry & Vanilla Musk fragrance, it hints at my personal sweetness with a dash of sass and sexiness. Can I say that about myself? Well, it’s my birthday. I just did. You can think the sassy, seductive blackberry for that.

Every year when I receive these precious gifts, I expect two things to happen:  it prepares me for the holiday season and I know I will receive compliments with people asking how I smell so sweet. Literally, people think I smell like a cupcake most of the time. Maybe they should catch me after pilates but I don’t mind having that sweet-smelling “reputation”.

Well, the truth of my sweetness (at least by scent) is Trish McEvoy.
I fell in love with makeup because of this woman and her vision and her collections never cease to introduce me to new treasures.

My first job, at 20, was working for her and I am so grateful that I had the privilege to work for, and learn from, such a classic, intelligent, business-savvy, insightful woman. I consider myself very lucky to have fallen into the beauty department at Neiman Marcus Northpark at the age of 13. While most of my friends were playing soccer, I was playing with makeup at the ultimate beauty mecca.
Thanks Trish! And thanks mom for letting me play all those years ago and for my annual birthday gifts!

 

xoxo,

BF

 

BF Asks: What’s always on your birthday wish list?

In-My-Tub-Tuesday: Guest post by NamiMScott.com – Taking Care of your skin

Happy Tuesday, BeautyFrosting beauties!
For In-My-Tub-Tuesday today, I’m thrilled today to share my favorite new blog with you:
NamiMScott.com

You may recognize Nami as my most-featured Whatcha’ Wearin’ Wednesday girl. While being one of the most stylish people I know (she’s a big style icon for me), she is also a ridiculously gifted writer, a talented illustrator & art designer, an amazing photographer, a beauty & hair expert and a good friend to boot. She’s also an amazing shoe shopping fairy godmother who helped me pick out some new shoes yesterday!

You might also recognize her from the interview she did with me for her blog, LAdiesHer sage advice has led me to referring to her as “Naminy Cricket”.

And now you can receive some of her sage advice too. Well, actually, this particular advice is courtesy of her mom, Mama Matsuo.

Enjoy! And then head on over to NamiMScott.com to see other musings this muse has going on! I love her to bits.

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Mama Matsuo Musing #2: The Skin You’re In

It’s time for another installment of “Mama Matsuo’s Musings” where I get to tell you about my chic Japanese mother’s sage advice. So, here we go…

I know what you’re thinking. “Duh.”It’s something we’re told to do all the time. Fashion magazines, health magazines, beauty blogs. Everyone is talking about skin. It’s our biggest organ and the one people see right away. What kind of idiot wouldn’t take a minute to give it a little TLC? No one’s an idiot. Life is crazy enough as is, so it’s understandable that doing all this extra self-care is the last thing on your list of priorities. (It’s probably somewhere between getting your tweezers sharpened & going through that stack of mail you’ve been meaning to organize – guilty as charged.)
But, seriously, skincare can take up precious hours of your day and you have to be diligent. None of that “I’m too tired to take my make-up off. I need to just sleep.” or the famous express washing of the face that’s basically you scrubbing at your face like it’s a washboard for 30 seconds and rinsing it off with the foolish assumption that you’ve rid your pores of all those youth-killing offenders.
I learned very early on, by watching my mother, that taking care of your skin is a process and one that, when you get into it, you can really enjoy and luxuriate in. And I’m not just talking about your face, folks. You need to take care of all the skin on your body. I mean, having a youthful face and a leathery beef-jerky-esque body would be a little disturbing, no? Yes. Yes, it would be disturbing. Don’t be that person who disturbs other people.
So, let’s start with the steps:
For your body 

Dead Skin Demolition:

I didn’t pick this up from my mother, but she would approve. Dry brushing is basically a way to slough off dead skin pre-shower while your skin is still…dry. (Yes, it’s not a misnomer.) Using a brush, you gently brush the skin (see? really not a misnomer) in small strokes from toes to chest and fingers to chest. You want the brushing to always go towards the heart. Don’t know if this is an old wives tale, but I’m willing to keep with tradition. Think of it this way, scabs come off easier when they’re dry. Dead skin is the same. 

Here’s the Scrub:

I use a good ol’ exfoliating towel in the shower. The same kind of towel I’ve been using since I was about 5. They have them at Japanese markets. Just textured enough to catch any remaining dead skin, but not so textured that you come out of your shower looking like a burn victim. You want to get the dead skin off…NOT the live skin. That can stay. 

Hot & Steamy…and Moisturized:

Wait! Do not open the bathroom door just yet! Dry yourself off and let the steam hang out for a little while so you can properly moisturize your body. The minute you open that door, that loving steamy air is gone and in its place, mean, drying, cold, relentlessly harsh air that will steal your body’s moisture and NEVER GIVE IT BACK. Protect yourself from that situation by slathering on the moisturizer and locking that water into your skin before opening the door. Also, invest in a good body moisturizer. “Good” doesn’t mean expensive. “Good” means “works for my skin type.” I use LIERAC Hydrofilian Anti-Dessechement.

Something’s Afoot:

Oh, puns! How I love puns. I just want to say, don’t forget about your feet. We’re so busy standing on them that we forget to take care of them. Get a pumice rock and give your footsies a good exfoliating at least once a week. They’ll thank you. Trust me.

For your face: 
Remove the Excess:
Before you start getting into washing your face, remove all the extra gunk GENTLY. No using semi-decent make-up remover and then staring at your eyelashes a centimenter away from the mirror to neurotically pick off bits of waterproof mascara. I’m actually a big fan of straight-up jojoba oil (you can get it at your local natural foods shop). A tiny little puddle in your palm and a dip of your finger tip will melt through any type of make-up. So, use it to remove all the excess stuff first.  
No Express Lanes:
Remember that thing I was telling you about earlier? About scrubbing your face for 30 seconds and then calling it a wash? (MORE PUNS!) Don’t do it. First, get yourself a facewash that you love. (And not because it smells good, but because it works well for your skin.) If you have dry skin, consider a cleansing milk or cleansing oil. For oilier skin, consider a lathering kind. I use Shiseido’s White Lucent Brightening Cleansing Foam. I lather it up really well in my palm and then gently apply it to my face, keeping away from my eyes and massaging in small circles. I concentrate on my nose area because, girl, I’ve got some serious blackhead issues there. Do that for about a minute. Trust me. You want a real cleaning. Then I take a gentle swipe at my eye area (no heavy rubbing here, please) and rinse with lukewarm water. Soda Scrub (a Dub Dub):
So, I’m a wimp and chemical peels scare me. I don’t like melting things off my face and microdermabrasion always leave me looking like I stood in a windy desert for two hours (complete with particles lodged in my teeth & eyebrows.) So, I go the old fashion way with a little secret. I use baking soda as a facial scrub. Once a week, I gently rub it on my face before I wash it. Just put some in your palm, add a tiny bit of water to make it pasty (I know, it sounds lovely) and then start rubbing…just not too hard. The skin on your face is already a little thin, so don’t go having a massage party. It’s still abrasive. Then rinse and wash as usual. Trust me, your face will be porcelain smooth.It’s All or Nothin’:When it’s time to moisturize your face, don’t skimp. The worst is being all, “oh, this moisturizer is so expensive, I should just use half the amount I need. It’ll last longer that way.” Yeah, great. Your moisturizer will last twice as long, but will be half as effective. I, personally, need to slather it on at night. Partly because my face gets dry naturally and because I live in Los Angeles where there’s no such thing as humidity. I become, in essence, slightly shriveled.. Constant fans & air conditioning don’t help the cause, but further my downward spiral into dehydration, rendering me a more wrinkled, slim-jimmy version of myself. Not good. If you’re going to use moisturizer…use it. F’real. I’m a fan of Shiseido’s White Lucent Brightening Moisturizing Emulsion for night & Lierac Intiatic Fluid for day. (No giving me flack on not using SPF. That’ll come later down the list!)Eye Creams:If you’re prone to a crow’s foot or ten, consider an eye cream. I actually like crows feet. I feel like it’s a dignified and honest sign that someone has smiled a great deal in their lifetime. I probably need to use eye cream, but haven’t invested in one yet. If someone has a recommendation, I’m all ears. My mother is probably shaking her head right now. Yes, yes. I know. I need to get eye cream. Geez. OK!

For Your Skin Overall
You’ve Heard It All Before:
Ready for the obvious stuff now? Hey, eat healthy & keep hydrated! (Duh. Yes, I know, but it’s part of Mama Matsuo’s list, so I’m putting it in here.) Your skin is your body’s health billboard. Eat well, take your vitamins, and drink tons of water and you’ll become the Vegas of health in no time. Ok, you knew this already, so I can move on.
Enough of the Puff:
Don’t smoke. (Insert a long sigh here.) I’m guilty of this. I know, I know. Horrible. Dastardly. How could I? I actually quit for a year, but one trip to Paris did me in and I was sprinting to the Gare de Lyon by the evening of my first night, so badly did I was to have a cigarette with my cafe creme. I can beat myself up over it all day long, but the bottom line is that I know I need to quit and if you haven’t picked up the habit, then awesome. If you are smoking, make like me and promise yourself you’ll quit soon for the sake of yourself & everyone around you. Mama Matsuo is very displeased about this one.
(Don’t) Burn, Baby, Burn:
Sunscreen. Yes, you know that already too. I’m a big believer in BB cream. Coverage, extra moisture, and SPF (plus some other antioxidants & fun stuff depending on which one you try – I love Dr. Jart+’s Premium Beauty Balm SPF 45 PA+++) in one product. Perfect. Slap that on and you’ve evened your skintone, blocked out the sun’s rays, and given yourself a little extra protection from dryness. And I’m a fan of Aveeno’s Continuous Protection, SPF 70 sunblock for the rest of me (as much as I want that beef jerky body – that was a joke.)
Hot, Hot, Horrible:
Hey, I love a hot shower as much as the next person, but it turns out that that’s a baaaad move for anyone who wants to have hydrated skin. Hot water just strips away all the essential oils and leaves you parched. So, do yourself a favor and shower with lukewarm water. It’s just as good at rinsing away the soap, but it won’t rinse away your youth! (Yes, I know that was a bit dramatic, but I’m trying to make a point here.)
Aaaaaand I think that covers it. With enough practice, you’ll be able to do all of these things in your sleep. Or, at least, I hope you learn to because I still think that showering is such a waste of time. Why can’t I just have an auto-clean button and do other stuff in the meantime? (Are you getting a better idea of how neurotic I am yet?)
Anyway, why do I feel like this is such important advice? Because my mother, despite being in her mid-60′s, still looks like she has the skin of a 30 year old. I have to concentrate really hard on pointing out any wrinkles…even when she smiles! (Ok, ok, her Asian genetics help, but still…and, NO, she hasn’t had any work done.) So, for all of you out there who haven’t taken the time to take care of your skin, it’s ok. I’m not going to chide you, but I highly suggest you start as soon as you can.
I can’t promise that every time you take care of your skin you’ll feel like you’re in some sort of beauty advertisement (cue the background music & British female voice-over talking about the newest skin technology) and I definitely won’t promise that you’ll love every minute of it. (Between an extra few minutes of sleep & properly washing my face, I still would love to choose the former.)
In the end, however, you’ll be thankful you took the time when you’re 90 & people are cooing about how you don’t look a day over 70. Now, go forth & pamper yourself like you mean it!
***
Thanks Nami!!
xoxo,
BF
BF Asks: What sage beauty advice did your mom pass on to you that you have never forgotten? 

High-Low 7

If it seems like I’ve been a little off this week, you’ll have to forgive me!

My family has been in town (from Texas) for the past week, I had a show at Hotel Cafe to prepare for and it has just been a crazy few weeks.

Any of you lovely things feel like that too?

I will say I was thrilled to get 3 emails from readers saying that they now are playing their own versions of my Daily High-Low game with their families each night.

Love that! That’s a high for me, itself! Such a fun way to get the communication going – whether you’re 3 or 103. Try it for yourself with your loved ones!

Here is this week’s High-Low.

 HIGHS

1) I was on Cloud 9 with my mom, from Dallas, in town. She drove out with her friend, Ron, and Miss Ellie’s brother Reagan, along with 30 boxes from her garage! Can anyone say Yard Sale next weekend?

The smiles that make my world go 'round: My brother & mom in LA

And with my brother living out here for the summer, it has been a family-filled, lovely summer. I’m gonna hate to see it end.

Brother & me

2) Strawberry Cupcakes with my signature Buttercream Filling for my Hotel Cafe show

BeautyFrosting's Texas Strawberry Cupcakes

I’ll be including the recipe for these cuties on Friday!

3) Being blown away by Blow Angels.

The angels of Blow Angels: Ziggy and Libni

I’ll have the full write-up for this L.A. primping palace on Thursday. Seriously, I was sooooo impressed and left there singing “I Feel Pretty” to myself – which was just what I needed to feel in time for my show on Saturday night.

They gave me Charlie’s Angels winged hair, lashes and the most glamorous makeup application I’ve had in years. And it fits within my budget! My new favorite place!

4) My show at Hotel Cafe! All of my friends and family were there and it was a night to remember. Gosh, I love my band! And I got to invite my friends, Jeremy Little and Tournament of Hearts to play with me. A friend-filled night!

Yours truly at Hotel Cafe

5) Impromptu dance party

I looooove impromptu dance parties and after a stressful week, a post-show midnight dance party, with friends, at The Room was just what the doctor of fun ordered!

Impromptu midnight dance party at The Room
 6) Piggy cupcakes for Hope’s Baby-Q Shower! It was a pig theme and they turned out perfect! More on that fun day later.

Piggy Cupcakes for a pig-themed Baby-Q shower

*I’ll feature the recipe next Friday 8/3.

LOW

There’s only one low. But it’s not just mine to bear. That’s why it feels so trivial to even mention “the highs” this week. It doesn’t get lower than this.

It’s a low I, unfortunately, share with our grieving nation. Like most of you, I cannot stop grieving for the victims of the horrific massacre that happened in Aurora, Colorado on Friday during The Dark Night Rises midnight showing.

It breaks my heart. Not only did people needlessly die but the innocent enjoyment that movie theaters have always provided us has been tarnished forever. This hateful, terrifying incident will forever live in the darkest corner of our subconscious when we see a film in a dark theater with our backs to the door.

I refuse to utter the killer’s name because I don’t want to give him the pleasure of feeling “famous”. He’ll get enough of that thanks to the press.

But I think there’s a special place in hell for a person who murders and maims people and shatters a nation’s innocence forever.

My heart and prayers go out to all of the victims (living and those who passed) and their families and friends as they try to see past the pain and through their tears.

Contrary to what the press says, there is no making sense of this. None at all.

 

 

 

 

BeautyFrosting’s Signature Cherry Vanilla Cupcakes

Hi beauties!

This is the perfect pink cupcake, with a cherry on top, for you or your little princesses.

My lifelong obsession with cherries and pink started at a young age. I always used to beg my Mom to make me a pink cake for my birthday. She always made her signature strawberry cake and it was the most delicious!

But I always wondered what a pink cherry cake would be like.

Now, because of my Mom and Nanny, I love baking. This, we know.

Know what I love even more?
Coming up with fast, easy and adaptable recipes that can help you be efficient while baking delish treats for the ones you love.

In this case, I was spinning around trying to prepare for my BeautyFrosting debut party last Sunday. I knew I wanted to make my signature Princess Cherry Vanilla cupcakes but it was already 1 am! Yikes! I was running out of time. This is when I love that I keep oodles of cake mixes on hand as a staple ingredient.

So, I gave myself a little breathing room by relying on a cake mix. Sugar, there’s noooo shame in that.

How did they turn out?
Well, you tell me:

BeautyFrosting Signature Cupcakes: Perfect Pistachio (on left) and Cherry Vanilla (on right)

BeautyFrosting's Signature Cherry Vanilla Cupcakes

BeautyFrosting's Signature Cherry Vanilla Cupcakes

BeautyFrosting’s Signature Cherry Vanilla Cupcakes

Makes 24 cupcakes

Cupcakes:

Preheat oven to 350.

1 1/4 c. Warm Water

1/3 c. Vegetable Oil

4 Egg Whites

1 box White cake mix of choice

1 jar Maraschino Cherries (10 oz.)

Drain cherries saving juice for frosting.

Take drained cherries and chop into little juicy bits using a chopper or food processor.

Mix: water, oil and egg whites (one at a time).

Add in cake mix and mix until smooth.

Add in chopped cherry bits and mix until well-distributed.

Bake at 350 for 17-22 minutes.

Let cool before frosting.

 

Frosting:

1 c. Unsalted Butter

1 c Butter-Flavored Crisco

8 c. Powdered Confectioners Sugar

5 tbsp. Heavy Whipping Cream

1 Tbsp. Clear Vanilla

Maraschino Cherry Juice to taste (varies but about 3 tbsp.)

1 drop Pink Food Coloring

Mix butter and Crisco until smooth.
Add confectioners sugar, a few cups at a time.

Add in vanilla and cream.

Mix with hand mixer until smooth and creamy-dreamy!

Lastly, add the cherry juice sparingly. If frosting is not pink enough for your party guests, add in pink food coloring.

Frost cupcakes and top with a cherry!