MINX NAILS! The Hottest Trend in Nail Fashion!

Tashia B. “The MINX VIXEN”!!!

What's the hottest trend in nail fashion? MINX NAILS!!!

Made popular by celebs such as Beyonce, Katy Perry, Rihanna, and Lady Gaga, Minx Nails make a bold statement and stand out!


This new nail fetish is skyrocketing amongst the stars and trendsetters. In case you don't know, this new nail fetish is a flexible polymer applied to the nail with heat and pressure. Minx comes in more than 150 designs, including chrome metallic, solid colors, animal prints, etc., that can be applied to natural as well as enhanced (i.e., acrylics, gels) nails.

Now, since most people who do nails do not provide this service, I had to go to the best and bring her to you guys directly! So Yours Truly sat down with Miami, Florida's Tashia B. (who is currently skyrocketing with her Minx mobile business) to get the inside scoops on all things Minx! Catching up with this rising star was not easy as she's constantly on the go, but I had to get her on here. Why? Because she's the top and that's what you the readers deserve on the blog. So enjoy!

Here's our Q&A:

Q1: Tashia, I LOVE your work! How did you get started with Minx, and where did you come up with the name Minx vixen?

A1: I was one of the first on the block to offer mobile Minx service in Miami. I started Minx in October 2008, while doing nails at Infamous Kutz, Lauderhill, after seeing Minx at a summer wedding. I was given the nickname "MinxVixen" by a longtime client's husband who loved when his wife would get "grillz on her nails," referring to the chrome-y metallic Minx designs. The name stuck and I decided to use it as my Twitter handle.

Q2: Do you have any celebrity clients or celebrity people you have been working with? Magazines you've been featured in?

A2: I've worked with Miami rapper, Trina, marketing mogul Loren Ridinger, radio personalities, video vixens, athletes' wives and girlfriends, and many other fashion-forward stylists. My work has been featured in music videos such as Birdman's "Money to Blow" featuring Drake and Lil Wayne, and Trina's "That's My Attitude."

Q3: Can Minx be done on all nails or just a certain type?

A3: Minx can be applied to natural as well as enhanced (acrylics, gels) nails.

Q4: For those who may not yet be familiar, what exactly is Minx?

A4: Minx nails are currently the hottest trend in nail fashion. They have been made popular by celebs such as Beyonce, Katy Perry, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, and more. Minx is for the fashionista who loves to stand out from the crowd. Minx is a flexible polymer, applied to the nail with heat and pressure and available in more than 150 designs, including chrome metallics, solid colors, animal prints, stripes, flowers, etc., designed to bring out your inner Minx! MEOW!!!

Q5: What makes Minx so special?

A5: Minx is a "green" alternative to nail polish and is fume-free. Unlike polish, a Minx application requires no chemicals, no drying time, never smudges, and never chips. It provides a finish that cannot be achieved with polish.

Q6: So I have to ask! What is the oddest request you've received?

A6: My oddest Minx request to date was to Minx a client's poodle. They got matching Golden Lightning paws, BLINGtastic! My youngest client is a two year-old fashionista in the making (pictured).

There you have it! From me to you, the scoop you can't get anywhere else!

Tashia's shop is located in Miramar, Florida, but mobile service is provided and they are able to travel!They are available for Minx parties, photo/video shoots, soirees, networking events, fashion shows, yacht parties, etc.
Be sure to contact Tashia at 305-793-7484 or minxmenow@gmail.com for information and appointments, and check her out at www.minxvixen.com!

Don't forget to mention "Samelia" and receive a discount on Minx Mani or Pedi!

Products of the Week!

Hey Guys!

I've been away for a week CRAZY BUSY with work!!! But, after a week on set with Miranda Cosgrave, Fawni, etc., I have some GREAT info for you on some of the wonderful products I used. Here are my top five picks of the week of some amazing products I used on the stars. Check them out and try them!

SAMELIA'S TOP 5 PICKS OF THE WEEK

Lancôme - Genifique Cream Serum
This product is on the list because it hydrates like crazy and you do not need a moisturizer.
$84.00; www.Lancome-usa.com



M.A.C - Miracles Happen Viva Glam Kit
This product is a trio of neutral pink lip color shimmers.
$22.50; www.maccosmetics.com




Palmer’s - Cocoa Butter Bronze
This unique moisturizer sunless tanner and instant bronzer with sunscreen contain Palmer’s Cocoa Butter with Vitamin E. Provides immediate color and no need for sunscreen and dries quickly!
$8.75; www.palmers.com




CHANEL - Stylo Yeux Waterproof
This product is an amazing smudge and waterproof eyeliner with a silicone formula for smooth lining.
$28.00; www.CHANEL.com




Lancôme - Oscillation Powerfoundation
This is a micro-vibrating mineral foundation, has several shades, is talc- free and oil-free, and may be used on all types of skin including sensitive skin.
$48.00; www.Lancome-usa.com



OTHER NEWS ON SAMELIA!!!
I had the incredible opportunity to be featured on HGTV's "Outdoor Room with Jamie Durie" and the episode is now airing on the network!

ICARLY

Miranda Cosgrove

The other day I had the opportunity to spend time on the set of Miranda Cosgrove's new music video, "Kissing U." Cosgrove is the star of the hit Nickelodeon show, "ICarly" and I must say, she is one of the sweetest!

Director Alan Ferguson was at the helm and did a great job again! And once again, it was a great shoot with the behind the scenes dream team, including producer Adru Davie at Element Muse, Clyde Haygood on hair, Charley Altuna, Jany, Samy on wardrobe, and Coleen Campbell-Olwell along with yours truly on makeup.

Check out the entire behind the scenes from this great shoot.
























AND SPECIAL THANKS TO MY ASSISTANT

Colin Tilley

Hamilton Music Video

As you all know, I am one of those people who enjoys being around creative individuals and energy no matter what arena - fashion, beauty, art, commercial shoots, video

shoots, etc. The talent behind the camera is usually quite impressive and most recently, I had the opportunity to work with director Colin Tilley, producer Andrew Listermann, and the wonderful folks at Riveting Entertainment.

The project? The music video for the song “Sun”, with the artist Hamilton (I love the song). I must say it was a breath of fresh air to work with such an amazing crew of young creative people, hungry for the same goal of GREATNESS!

One of the reasons I enjoyed working on this video shoot was because the director and his incredible team believed in me as a makeup artist and gave me the freedom to ensure every visual effect from a makeup standpoint was exactly what it needed to be! That’s a freedom most people do not grant you

right away, especially in a new collaborating situation.

Needless to say, I made sure I did not disappoint! ;-)

I'll keep you posted on when the video comes out. In the meantime, checkout the awesome work with stylist Kenneth Lawrence and yours truly! Take a look at behind the scenes.

Great team work from the AD Jamaar Hawkins on model Emerald Morales

Tomorrow' s Shoot 6am. LET's GO!!!

"Thank you", to my lovely assistant for all your help! Job well done...

Rachel! Rachel! Rachel!

Sports Illustrated

Center:Rachel Hunter

Model Rachel Hunter!

Certain things come to mind when you think of Rachel Hunter. There's the Sports Illustrated swimsuit model, her marriage to Rod Stewart, and most recently, her role on "Gravity" on the STARZ! network.

Well, yours truly recently had the opportunity to work with Ms. Hunter and the cast of the "Gravity"and I have to tell you, this sexy blonde bombshell from New Zealand is not only breath taking, she is so sophisticated and so humble! She is simply terrific!

IT'S MY BIRTHDAY!

February has been a wonderful month. It is always great to end it with my "BIRTHDAY"!

SO...HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MI!!!

Fashion Week

2010 Fall Fashion Week!!

I had a wonderful time at fashion week... Last show for me today with designer Chris Benz and the wonderful Lancome Team! Backkk to Los Angeles in the am...

Valentine's Day 2010

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!

OK... so I know this has nothing to do with what I blog about regularly. In my opinion, people should take the time everyday to express or show the love they have for that special person,place, or thing... "Good LUCK"! On the other hand, felt this was interesting and wanted to share this with you all. May be very useful on this day!!!

Red
Red roses are the traditional symbol for love and romance, and a time-honored way to say "I love you." The red rose has long symbolized beauty and perfection. A bouquet of red roses is the perfect way to express your deep feelings for someone special.

Pink

As a symbol of grace and elegance, the pink rose is often given as an expression of admiration. Pink roses can also convey appreciation as well as joyfulness. Pink rose bouquets often impart a gentler meaning than their red counterparts.


Yellow

The bright, sunny color of yellow roses evokes a feeling of warmth and happiness. The warm feelings associated with the yellow rose are often akin to those shared with a true friend. As such, the yellow rose is an ideal symbol for joy and friendship.

White

White roses represent innocence and purity and are traditionally associated with marriages and new beginnings. The white rose is also a symbol of honor and reverence, and white rose arrangements are often used as an expression of remembrance.

Orange

With their blazing energy, orange roses are the embodiment of desire and enthusiasm. Orange roses often symbolize passion and excitement and are an expression of fervent romance. A bouquet of orange roses will send a meaningful message.


Lavender

The unique beauty of the lavender rose has captured many hearts and imaginations. With their fantastical appearance, lavender roses are a perfect symbol of enchantment. The lavender rose is also traditionally used to express feelings of love at first sight.

TODAY is #4 of 2010 Fall Fashion Week

Fall's 2010 New York Fashion Week

Fall 2010

New York Fashion Week

As you know yesterday was the first day of the Fall’s 2010 Fashion Week in New York City. Take a look at some of the designer’s best and makeup from the shows:

DAY 1:

L.A.M.B

Gwen Stefani really did an amazing job with the sexy, futuristic and military style clothing line. Makeup is very strong as well.

Erin Wasson x RVCA

Erin Wasson x RVCA in the models fourth season I really like the Metallic color on the eyes with the stressed eyebrow.

BCBG Max Azria

Was very chic with clean geometric silhouettes and the hair was slick with simple makeup.

Other designers: Chado Ralph Rucci, Cushnie et Ochs, Richard Chai Love, and more

Alexander Mcqueen

I got the news early this morning from a friend of mine, “Alexander McQueen has died”!
All I could think was... "Are you JOKING"!
Then hearing the devastation in her voice... crying and telling me she is late for work! I realized it is TRUE “Alexander McQueen is dead”!

We have truly lost one the world’s most extraordinary designers! Why he killed himself no one will ever know. Be he will be missed...


R.I.P

Shawne Merriman

LIGHTS OUT!!!

Ladies and Gentlemen, Meet Shawne Merriman

Makeup shows its face once again! And this time it’s on the face of NFL superstar linebacker, Shawne Merriman.

For those of you football fans out there, you probably know #56 as the San Diego Chargers’ Hitman as Mr. “Lights Out,” one of the most ruthless and feared outside linebackers in the NFL. Well let me tell you…it was “LIGHTS ON” with this very down to Earth Pro Bowler while we were on the set for SET magazine’s editorial photo shoot with photographer Zach Cordner.

Now you may have heard a lot about Merriman the player, but did you know about Shawne the “supermodel?

As makeup artists, we have the opportunity to work with people from many different professions, athletes included. While most players are a little scared to do things that are “out of the box” so to speak, I was quite impressed with how Shawne let those of us on the style team to do our jobs and be creative! That team was led by his barber Rahmel, wardrobe specialists Charley Altuna and Jany, and on men’s grooming? Yours Truly of course!

How can you as a man (or ladies, for your men out there) take better care of yourself from a grooming perspective? Well, here are a few simple things men should do to keep themselves up. For starters, a fresh haircut and shave are essential. A good cleansing of the skin followed by the right face moisturizer and body lotion, are next in line. Please don’t forget chapstick/lip balm. And to top it off, have (or develop) a great sense of style!

If you cover these basic things, you will see any man developing a ruthless sense of confidence! Although it may have taken us a couple of hours to get Shawne Merriman for a shoot, guys, it will only takes 10-15 minutes a day to look and feel your best!

Some Products used. That you may want to try!

Jean Paul Gaultier- Moisturizing lip balm Great for "MEN"!

Dior Homme Dermo System-helps skin become softer & firmer in time. Even the driest of complexions are healed and soothe's sensitivities skin.

SPARTACUS

“SPARTACUS: BLOOD AND SAND”

Ok…so how many of you have seen “Spartacus: Blood and Sand,” the new Friday night hit show on STARZ?

Well if you haven’t checked it out yet, here’s a hint – DO IT! NOW!

It is one of the most action-packed and one of my favorite shows of the new year!

I had the opportunity to work on a photo shoot with photographer Florian Schneider and Spartacus’ cast members: Andy Whitfield (Spartacus), his leading lady Erin Cummings (who I found out in conversation is such a sweet Southern girl – ahem, like me! J), along with Peter Mensah, Viva Bianca and others. The experience working with such wonderful people was not only eye-opening, it makes watching the show on Friday nights at 10pm THAT much better!

Screen Actors Guild Awards!!!

THE 2010 SAG AWARDS

“FACE” OFF!!!

Where you tell me what “FACE” had that best makeup on the Red Carpet?

Kate Hudson





















Adam Lambert

















Drew Barrymore

















SO LET ME KNOW YOUR FAVORITE FACE...

Makeup and The 2010 Census

You're probably wondering where we're going with makeup today, right? We see how it shows up on the red carpet, on television, in videos, in magazines, etc… Are you aware of how it shows up on the political landscape? So where did makeup show up this time?

“The 2010 Census”

Recently, I had the chance to work with the United States Secretary of Commerce, Gary Locke, and the 2010 Census. For those of you who don't know, Locke was the first Chinese American Governor. Marking him as the first and only Chinese American Governor in U.S. history.

It was a pleasure and an honor working with the Secretary. And for a few hours, "yours truly" had a front row seat at politics in America and it helped give me a clear understanding of why each of our voices really DO matter.

It's interesting how we as Americans tend to complain so much about what we do and what we don't have, we lose perspective on essentially how good we really do have it in this country. We don't think about supporting and helping others who are less fortunate in places such as Haiti (a country struggling on a daily basis let alone trying to manage through a devastating Earthquake), until major crisis hits.

Which brings me to my point. Fill out your Census when you receive it.

The 2010 Census form will be sent out in March to the United States and Puerto Rico. The Census is important for a number of reasons. The data collected by the Census also helps determine the number of seats your state has in the U.S. House of Representatives.

It also helps communities receive federal funds each year for hospitals, emergency services, bridges, tunnels, transportation, schools, and other public works projects. In a country like ours, natural disasters such as hurricanes, flooding, fire and earthquakes happen. So on a base level, fill it out and make sure you and your family are accounted for. It can help ensure your community has the best chance at protecting emergency services, etc.

This means a lot, especially to those of us here in California as we may lose a seat this year if most of the people do not fill it out. So fill out the Census when you get it. It takes five minutes or less, about the time it takes to read this blog.

And as far as what type of makeup I used on the Secretary…

NATURAL OF COURSE!!!

THE 2010 GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS

FASHION “FACE" OFF!!!

Each year, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) presents The Golden Globe Awards. Not only do The Golden Globes tend to serve as the "kick off to the red carpet season," they are truly a fan favorite!

While the Golden Globes celebrate outstanding achievement in television and motion pictures, yours truly is here to celebrate what we love SO much (hmmm...I can't imagine what that would be "wink wink!"), our favorite celebrities makeup!

So, it's time to introduce Samelia's Fashion "Face" Off!

You tell me what "FACE" had the best makeup on the
2010 Golden Globes red carpet?

Clockwise: Mariah Carey, Kate Hudson, Carrie Ann Inaba, Shaun Robinson, Christina Hendricks,
Kat & Karen Kreamer, Penelope Cruz, Zoe Saldana, Olivia Wilde

Clockwise: Adrian Grenier, Mike Tyson, Chase Crawford,
Taylor Lautner, Neil Patrick Harris & boyfriend David Butka