Introducing Ashley--She's kind of a big deal

Readers, I am thrilled to bring you an interview with my dear friend Ashley. She is an experienced freelance makeup artist who has worked with Prescriptives and Laura Mercier among others. Ashley is smart, funny, skilled and knows a helleva lot about makeup, not to mention that she is downright adorable! I could go on forever talking about Ashley’s talents, but let’s get to it, shall we?

PB: Should your makeup technique change with age? How?

Ashley: I don't know that your technique as far as application should change, but as a mature woman you don't want to walk around wearing 'dated' make-up, such as bright blue eyeliner and coral lipstick... although those are just generalizations.

PB: What are your top three makeup tips for middle aged women?

Ashley: Wear bronzer, choose an eyeshadow that can be worn as a wash everyday and a good plum lipstick for an everyday look. Also, a nice and emoliant moisturizer plumps the skin and makes you look healthy.

PB: What is the biggest makeup mistake women make?

Ashley: Trying to be too trendy. Editorial photo shoot makeup is not intended for everyday use. Find a look that compliments you, not 14 yr. old models in overpriced clothes.

PB: What are 3-5 products a woman should have in her makeup bag at all times?

Ashley: -A good mascara, I prefer Prescriptives Beyond Long in Black (always black!!) it is water and sweat resistant.

-Bronzer--Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess is a great one, that won't go orange on you

-A good under eye concealer

-Blush-- Laura Mercier Wild Bouquet looks great on both warm and cool skin tones


PB: How do you decide what colors or shades to use on a particular person?

Ashley: I tend to ask a lot of questions. I don't want the person to go too far out of their comfort zone. I like to take time and find looks that the person can use for everyday use and then add on a couple of items that will take them into an evening look. If a woman always wears browns and golds, I will try to incorporate some plum or green.

PB: What is your favorite “look” to do?

Ashley: My favorite thing to do with a client is to look thru her makeup bag. I need to know what I am working with, and go from there. Everyday looks are my favorite. I do enjoy doing evening makeup, but have to be honest that smokey eyes and over-bronzed looks are not my fav and scream sorority girl! I like a classy look.

Me too, Ashley! Thank you so much!!