Spring-Clean Your Makeup Stash In 3 Steps

Are you frustrated how messy your makeup stash is sometimes? Do you want to throw it away and replace it with another one? The good thing is that you don't have to throw those things away. All you need to do instead is to take a deep breath and take a fresh look at your beauty bag. What is inside may look frustrating at first - but thanks to the steps we are outlining below - will definitely be easy to clean and re-organize.

'So, how to begin?' - you ask?

Step 1: Get Rid of All The Things You Don't Actually Need

Remember those worn-out lipsticks that have been in your purse for a long time? Or that brush that you rarely use and just got stiffer?

We know that sometimes getting rid of stuff is hard. However, replacing makeup every season is what every modern lady should do in order to always look good. And if you have products that you haven't used once over the past six months - you may need to watch out on your spending.

And if you cannot bear to throw things away, there is always that friend in need (that is a friend indeed).

Step 2: Clean Your Makeup Brushes

If your makeup brushes look good but need a thorough cleaning, it's time for you to give it to them. In most of the cases, makeup brushes are notorious for harboring bacteria and other things that make you puke.

The truth is, if you don't clean your brushes - they won't clean your face as much as you expect. The best way to do that is by using baby shampoo. Who knew, right?

Step 3: Start Organizing Your Makeup Stash

Now that you got rid of the things you don't need and cleaned your makeup brushes, it's time to get a bit more responsible about your makeup. After all, organizing your cosmetics in a drawer (or that fancy organizer you have been eyeing) is great because next season, you won't have to go through this process again.

In the end, spring cleaning your makeup stash should be just like cleaning your room. You ditch the things you don't need, clean it up - and get organized for the next season!

{EVENT RECAP} Stellar Weekend for Elite Secrets Bridal

This trunk show and the media attention around it was unlike any other. We kicked things off on Friday with a press preview. Some of Baltimore’s most recognized journalists met at the Studio to preview autumn and winter collections from Justin Alexander’s Sweetheart and Sincerity Bridal. A few even tried on some of the couture wedding dresses. Early on Saturday morning, beauty expert and CEO of Elite Secrets, LaTonya Turnage, headed to WBAL-TV to do makeup for the morning segment on Preakness Fashion with Baltimore Sun's John-John Williams. It was a treat to see the big hats and glam outfits paired with the famous Elite Secrets beat.

After some fun on set, the team headed back to Elite Secrets to welcome brides to the trunk show. Brides and local wedding vendors gathered at the Mount Vernon bridal boutique to shop and mingle over champagne.

When the show ended, the team packed up the dresses and made their way to Port Discovery for the Philanthropik’s Shade event, a benefit for Baltimore’s Mayor Hugh’s summer jobs program. Models revealed the collections as they mixed and mingled with Baltimore elite crowd of professionals and celebrities.

Last but not least, our friends from WBFF-TV interviewed our favorite girl boss and entrepreneur, LaTonya during the trunk show on Sunday. Needless to say, the weekend was a huge success!

In fact, because the show was such a success we’ve extended the Justin Alexander Trunk Show special through this week! Book your bridal appointment today and enjoy 10% off Justin Alexander wedding dresses and 50% off wedding accessories.

From breathtaking ball gowns to romantic A-lines to sleek modern dresses, the new Sweetheart and Sincerity Collections by Justin Alexander is what fairy-tale dreams are made. Equal parts classic and romantic there is something for everyone. Think soft traditional fabrics, intricate details, and graceful hues all coming together to create some of the most elegant and show stopping gowns you will ever see.

Beyond extraordinary gowns and accessories, shopping with Elite Secrets Bridal supports a worthy cause! A portion of the proceeds from retail sales will go to For 3 Sisters, a Maryland-based nonprofit organization with a mission to raise awareness and improve the quality of life for men and women affected by breast cancer.

About Elite Secrets Bridal

Located in Baltimore's esteemed Mount Vernon fashion boutique district, Elite Secrets Bridal opened its doors, bringing to Baltimore’s bridal scene an experience that cannot be found in any other Baltimore bridal boutique. The pedigree of founder LaTonya Turnage, bridal beauty and fashion expert has been fundamental to our philosophy to combine expertise and excellent service with style and grace. Leaving pretense to the side, we focus on bringing the best designer and emerging bridal gowns from all over the world to Baltimore Brides!

7 Bridal-Worthy Red Lipsticks You Will Love

Whether you are saying 'yes' to the love of your life soon - or just want to get a professional opinion on the best lipsticks on the market, you have come to the right place. This week bridal beauty expert, LaTonya Turnage, gives her picks for the best bold and beautiful reds for any skin tone.

1. NYX Full Throttle Lipstick in Up the Bass

Highly pigmented and just brilliant - the red NYX lipstick is so stunning and so affordable that it deserves a place in every bride's trousseau. The best thing about it is that it is fit for any special events even after your wedding!

2. MAC Cosmetics Lipstick in Ruby Woo

Not too warm or too cool, this popular shade of red will flatter every skin tone, and the matte texture will give a long-lasting finish. This can be your go-to red lipstick that you can even wear at your wedding! It is a perfect everyday option but has that tone of red that also makes it classy for special events.

3. Marc Jacobs Beauty Le Marc Lip Creme Lipstick

Featuring a seductive red color that can be interpreted as amazingly sexy and self-contained, this bestseller by Marc Jacobs makes the perfect red lipstick that matches all of your bridal dress combinations.

4. Kat Von D Studded Kiss Lipstick in Adora

The design of this lipstick’s rose tone is so nice that you will immediately want to put it on your list of wedding day makeup must-haves. It comes in studded packaging and even features tiny specks of gold throughout its pigment that acts as a great alternative to traditional reds.

5. YSL Rouge Pur Couture in Le Rouge

This French classic is the nicely designed and the goldish bridal lipstick that will dress your lips in couture color. With buying it for your big day, you will ensure that your lips are properly hydrated and enriched with antioxidants with a bold and creamy red coverage.

6. Urban Decay Revolution Lipstick in F-Bomb

This deep, sumptuous red color will capture your guests’ attention without drawing too much attention away from your dress. It’s a statement lip tone that’s perfect for the bride craving a little drama. You can’t go wrong with this gem...it’s our CEO’s favorite!

7. LimeLight by Alcone Onyx Perfect Lipsticks in Black Cherry

More deep than bright, but still undeniably red, this is the perfect shade for a girl who’s classic with a twist. The matte finish looks edgy, chic, and totally put-together. This lipstick adds intensity to any look and offers opaque coverage that is surprisingly hydrating. *Note: this is a limited-edition item, but you can purchase through Elite Secrets here.

So, have you made your choice yet? Can't decide? Let us help! Book your bridal hair and makeup trial with us today. 

5 Important Things EVERY BRIDE Must do to Look Your Best on the Big Day

5 Important Things EVERY BRIDE Must Do to Look Your Best on the Big Day 'How to look great on my wedding day?' is a thought that runs in the mind of many brides. The truth is, it is not rocket science - and it all boils down to a couple of important wedding day makeup, hair and dress tips you need to follow.

Speaking of which, we are outlining the best ones for making your look absolutely flawless - below.

1. Strike a Pose In Front Of Your Mirror

It may sound silly, but knowing where your hands are at all times during your wedding, and what your pose is, can be actually helpful. The best way to practice it is in front of the mirror, by trying each celebrity pose.

Oh, and did you know that some poses can make you 10 pounds lighter in front of the camera? Grab a friend and have them help you out!

2. Have a Professional Apply Your Makeup

Just because you have a bridesmaid who knows how to apply makeup, that doesn't mean that she will do a great job on your wedding day makeup.  Most likely she will have a lot going on and things to do that day to get herself ready. You won't be her center of attention, and your makeup may suffer because of it.  A professional makeup artist makes it his or her job to make sure that the bride is the most important face of the day!

3. Learn How to Work your Face for the Camera

Double chins are the enemy of every bride. In case you don't know what it is, it's the pose when you are looking down, and your chin is doubling and colliding with your neck. They can make even the slimmest of women look bad in pictures.

The best way to prevent a double chin from happening on your wedding photos and videos is to always move your head forward. Just make sure you are not looking at the ceiling or making awkward poses, right?

4. Embrace The Beauty Of Laughter

Sometimes, the best wedding photos are the ones where you and your friends laugh. Fake smiles are not flattering for sure - however, the same cannot be said for fake laughs. So, next time when you want to relax - let out a forced 'Ha! Ha!' - and do it again, again and again.

The results? Natural photos that everyone loves!

5. Buy The Dress, The Shoes And The Accessories

Be sure to purchase your attire in the right order. First buy the dress, next select the shoes, and lastly the accessories. That way is the easiest to follow and the most hassle-free choice to go for. And remember - always choose your wardrobe wisely. Try not to get caught up in the trend of the moment, but instead focus on your personal style and what flatters you most.

Looking for the perfect dress? We’ve got you covered. Join us at Elite Secrets Bridal on April 21 and 22 for the Justin Alexander trunk show. Click the box below to make your appointment today! You don't want to miss this! 

What Your Wedding Lipstick Shade Says About You

Not every bride treats her lips equally when it comes to the big day. Some prefer gentle and more relaxed lipsticks - and other are brave enough to go with the bold red. There are plenty of choices when it comes to lipstick shades, and you should know their meanings.

Mauve - Luxury With A Hint Of Mystery

Mauve is the softer shade of purple and a color that symbolizes a luxurious woman with a shade of mystery in her. It is great to show off your sophisticated style and portrays strength and confidence. Also, it is modern, trendy and stylish choice that many brides go for recently.

Hot Pink As The Color That Stands Out

Hot pink lipsticks are not for everyone. They are ideal for the brave and energetic brides who know how to light up a room and are never afraid to stand out. They replicate the center of attention and give a bubbly, excited and friendly flair to your wedding.

Coral - The Adventurer

Coral is a new trend and perfectly suits tanned brides with love for adventure and the outdoors. It replicates proud, bravery and ability to stand out for yourself. Brides who wear coral are lovers of the environment and want to spend weekends in the outdoors rather than sit at home.

Taupe As The Earth Shade

Down-to-earth is one way to describe taupe as a bridal lipstick shade. It makes your look wholesome and comfortable and in the same time genuine and dependable. It is natural and gives a hint of expression but at the same time laid back and not too flashy.

Bright Red For The Boldest Brides

Red is probably the boldest color of them all. It is sexy, passionate and confident. Brides who wear red lipsticks know what they want and what they deserve - and are passionate with their moods at all times.

Nude As The Confident And Classy Bride

Last but not the least - nude lipsticks replicate shyness and quiet. They are a great fit for brides who actually don't want to be the center of attention but still want to look classy and elegant and show their kindness and genuine personality.

So, have you found yourself in these bridal lipstick colors - and know what you are getting for the big day? Let us know in the comments!

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Brides, the 2017 Collections from Justin Alexander has just arrived at Elite Secrets Bridal! Find your dream dress at the trunk show of all trunk shows, April 21 and April 22.

Contact us TODAY to book your appointment (443-219-7049) OR click the button below. We're giving 10% off dresses purchased at the show. You don't want to miss this!

7 Things You Need to do Now to Get Flawless Skin Before the Big Day

Do you want your skin to naturally glow on your wedding day? The truth is, healthy and glowing skin can be the best jewelry you can ever wear - not only on your big day. And whether your big day is as far as a few months from now - or as soon as a week from tomorrow - it's time to learn the best tricks in making your skin flawless and aisle-ready.

So, how do you get a beautiful skin on your wedding day without the need for tons of makeup?

1. Know Your Skin Type and Tailor to it

The first thing you need if you want flawlessly glowing skin is to know your skin type. Determine if your skin is normal, oily, dry or a combination. If you don't know this by now, you should definitely take this quiz and see what type of skin you have. And, why is this important?

Well, it will help you in the selection of products and remedies before your special day.

2. Know That Great Skin Comes from Your Plate

Try to eliminate as many processed foods as possible at least two weeks before your big day. The truth is, your skin is the mirror of your eating habits. A lot of nutritionists agree that eating three servings of fruit and five servings of vegetables daily improves the health and look of the skin - just like cutting down foods filled with caffeine, sugar, red meats and greasy foods.

3. ...And the Amount of Water You Drink

A clear and beautiful skin is a hydrated one. That is why aside from washing your face with a good cleanser every day and every night before bed as a routine - you should also drink plenty of water and constantly be hydrated.

The truth is, drinking an adequate amount of water will ensure that your organisms properly digest, absorb, and even excretes the foods you eat - but also that your blood circulates everywhere throughout your body.

After all, our skin is 64% water - and will definitely thank you and glow in its natural light.

4. Invest in A Cleanser, Toner, and Moisturizer that Suits Your Skin Type

Once you learn your skin type, make sure to invest in the appropriate products for your skin. Our beauty expert, LaTonya suggests Limelight by Alcone's Dream Clean Cleanser for normal to oily or acne prone skin types and Calm Balm Moisturizer.For normal to dry skin types, she recommends Limelight by Alcone's Quench Cleanse Cleanser and Skin Therapist for moisture.

"I recommend LimeLight by Alcone because the products are phthalate free paraben free, chemical free, and cruelty-free," says LaTonya. "The products are proven to leave the skin healthy, refreshed, and ready for a flawless makeup application."

5. Buy an SPF 15+ Sunscreen for Daily Use

A sunscreen with no fragrance or oil is the best way to fight the overly tanned (or red) skin on your wedding day, especially if it is set out in a tropical location. All you need to do is get a sunscreen from a reputable brand that once again tailors to your skin type, blocks the UV rays and prevents skin damage and cancer.

6. Use an Eye Cream with a Light Diffuser

Eye circles are one of the worst enemies of brides all around the globe. The worst thing about them is the fact that they are hereditary - which means that the only way to reduce their appearance before your wedding is with makeup. Make sure to start with an eye cream that has light diffusers and would reflect light to make the eye look brighter. Then, use concealer only on the dark spots and always use one that matches your skin tone and type.

7. Get to Know What Kind of Makeup Helps Your Skin Type

Make sure to get a good idea of the best makeup styles for your big day - and see which one of them is best for accenting the natural side of your skin. After all, weddings include a lot of dancing and a lot of hours spent in a single location - so make sure to choose a makeup style that is able to handle this routine.

So, are you ready to start your bridal skin routine? We would love to schedule a consultation with you. Book your bridal trial with Elite Secrets today. Our team of experts is waiting to service you.

How to Prep for your Wedding Hair and Makeup Trial

We've all been there - experiencing makeup disasters and hair failures. However, when it comes to the most special day in your life, things like these should never happen. That is why more and more brides choose professional Baltimore bridal makeup services for their wedding and make the most of their bridal looks. The truth is, only a professional Baltimore wedding makeup artist can give you the look you want without any possibility for a disaster while the clock is ticking. As a bride, it is up to you to relax and unwind - until the clock ticks and the time of your wedding comes.

Still, choosing professional wedding makeup in Baltimore is not an easy mission. In other words, it is important for every bride to...

1. Plan Things Ahead

Coming to your hair and makeup trial prepared will help you ace the look from the start. The more inspiration you pick up from the online Pinterest boards, magazines, and TV shows, the better your trial will be. The best way to be prepared is to have a rough idea of the dress, your hairstyle, and makeup - and communicate it clearly with us.

2. Your Wedding Dress Comes First On The Shopping List

There is a big reason why you should purchase your wedding dress first. According to wedding makeup and hair experts, the entire look should revolve around your dress. Your hair and makeup should balance its style, length and level of details and always comply with it. That is why it is important to buy your dress first and bring a photo of it to the trial!

3. Wear A White T-Shirt On Your Trial

A crisp white T-shirt (or a color that resembles the color of your wedding dress) is a great way to get a better idea of how your hair and makeup will work with your dress. You can also cut the neckline to match your wedding gown and see if everything fits perfectly as you imagined.

Not only this will give you a better idea of your wedding look, it will also help you choose the perfect bridal makeup and hair choice and whether they match the white color on your body.

4. Schedule A Long Enough Appointment

Your Baltimore bridal makeup appointment should be long enough, especially because of the different styles you may want to test out. After all, it is your wedding hair and makeup that we are talking about - and such things definitely deserve special attention.

5. Go Clean Before The Trial

For the makeup trial, it is always better to come clean and avoid putting on any products before the trial. A clean face holds makeup better and will let us make the look perfectly match the color of your natural skin without makeup.

6. Take Notes

As soon as you book your wedding makeup and arrive at your appointment, you should start taking notes on how to touch up your look during the day- so you know how to fix any smudges in case they happen during the ceremony or afterward. At Elite Secrets we give every bride a touchup kit with all the items needed to keep your glowing look throughout the Big Day

7. Go Camera Crazy

Once your bridal makeup and hair are done, it's time to start snapping photos and taking them from different angles. Make sure to also switch the backgrounds and test photos in both daylight and nighttime. That way, you will have a better idea of your look in every minute during your wedding.

Ready to book with us? Now accepting trial appointments. Book your hair and makeup trial with Elite Secrets today.

Expert advice for teens: 6 timely beauty tips every girl should know

Your teenage years can feel like both the best and most stressful time of your life. Balancing school, clubs, and friends can seem overwhelming, yet exhilarating at the same time. It’s also the time when dabbling in makeup comes in full swing. There’s a lot to learn when it comes to makeup and beauty, so don’t worry if you feel overwhelmed. If you’re on the quest for fool-proof skin and makeup tips, we’ve rounded up six beauty tricks every girl should know!

Your routine should always start out with a good skin care regime

Your skin goes through a lot each day. Just think about how often we touch our face, all the sweat that clogs your pores, and all the makeup you wear (plus the nights you fall asleep without taking it off — a definite "no no"!). Although there is no accord on how often a person with healthy skin should cleanse their face, studies show that folks with acne benefit from twice daily face cleansing. Combine daily cleansing with a toner and moisturizer, and you’re good to go.

Adopt a simple routine for you everyday school makeup

If you’re a beginner and want a look that is light and not overdone, start off with a combination of foundation, concealer, and blush. Stick to a simple eye makeup routine, finished off with a little mascara. This method will keep you looking fresh and awake, and it’s quick and easy to do right before school.

Don’t Forget to Prime

Priming your skin is one of the most important things you can do before applying any cosmetics. It establishes a smooth foundation for your makeup and evens out your skin tone for a flawless canvas. It also hydrates your skin, while at the same time reducing oil and shine. Fresh Face Primer is ideal for sensitive, acne-prone skin and will work wonders for any skin type.

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Sign up now for our teen hair and makeup workshop. Get tickets here: https://bit.ly/eliteteenworkshop

Moisturizing is a must

Moisturizing your skin before applying any makeup is essential for healthy, glowing skin. This important step should be your number one priority as it keeps your skin from becoming dull and dehydrated. It can also protect your skin as an excellent moisturizer creates a protective barrier.

A proper moisturizer is crucial. If you have acne-prone skin (as most teenagers do) try an oil-free product such Calm Balm for soft, smooth skin.

Eye tricks every girl should know

The proper makeup can make a huge difference when it comes to your eyes. Having beautiful, bright eyes is the goal for most girls. A professional makeup artist can share insider techniques for highlighting with concealer and extending your eyeliner line to make your eyes pop.

Find and use a great eye cream

Never underestimate the potential of a good eye cream. Your under-eye area is the only place on your face that doesn’t create moisture, so it’s essential to keep it hydrated. Without eye cream, any concealer is more likely to peel under your eyes.

Eye cream will make your eyes look more awake and less dull. Pep-Start Eye Creamis one of our favorites!

These makeup tips for teens are essential for a fresh, radiant and gorgeous look. Follow the tips to step up your makeup game and feel more confident in your own skin!

Sign up now for our teen hair and makeup workshop. Get tickets here: https://bit.ly/eliteteenworkshop

We're Thrilled to Announce Elite Secrets Beauty Week

We are so excited to announce our Elite Secrets Beauty Week this week February 13-18th!  What’s Elite Secrets Beauty Week? Well, for seven glorious days beauty lovers you can enjoy discounts and events at Elite Secrets. Here’s the lineup of what’s in store for the remainder of the week. WEDNESDAY Today our makeup expert and owner of Elite Secrets, LaTonya Turnage, will host #AskaPro, a Q&A session on Facebook Live. At noon, today this tenured makeup artist will answer all your beauty and skincare questions. What is baking? How long should I hold on to product? Which brushes should I use? How do I match foundation to my skin? Get all your beauty questions answered LIVE! Tune in at noon and again at 5 PM EST to Facebook.com/EliteScrets.

THURSDAY Enjoy our Half Off Special! Yes, Valentine’s Day was Tuesday, but it’s always the perfect day to feel and look good. Come in tomorrow and choose any our services for half off the regular price.

FRIDAY Surprise! On Friday, we are having our wedding trend show on Facebook Live. Tune in at noon to see our makeup expert discuss wedding beauty trends and the hottest looks for the 2017 bride. Be sure to log on to Facebook.com/EliteScrets. You don’t want to miss this!

SATURDAY Calling all wedding vendors! Join us for an evening of fun, luxury, and fabulous favors and treats! We can't wait to see you at the Elite Secrets Wedding Vendor Social on Saturday, February 18 from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Mingle and connect with industry friends, while indulging in delectable desserts, and yummy cocktails.

The celebration does not have to end after this week. Our All About the Bride event extends through the entire month. Brides, book your bridal trial before March 1st and receive half off the cost of the session. Hurry slots are filling quickly! Book your trial here.

Sweet or Sexy? What is your Valentine's Day Makeup Look?

Valentine’s Day is almost upon us. And, whether you think it’s a holiday simply made up by the greeting card industry, or the day to proclaim your love for one another, either way, you&… Source: Sweet or Sexy? What is your Valentine's Day Makeup Look?

Sweet or Sexy? What is your Valentine's Day Makeup Look?

Valentine's Day is almost upon us.

And, whether you think it's a holiday simply made up by the greeting card industry, or the day to proclaim your love for one another, either way, you're going to want to look your best. Makeup will only highlight the beauty you already possess. These are two guaranteed looks to make your partner ogle or strangers take a double look.

Look One: Sweet and Flirty.

Perhaps it's the first date, or maybe you just can't see yourself wearing red lipstick, but you can't go wrong with Sweet and Flirty. To complete this look, you're going to keep your palette bright and your highlight the feature.

Eyes: Keep your eyeshadow to a simple shimmer, nude, or none at all. You're going to want to focus on your eyeliner and lashes.

Face: Stick to a pinky blush and a strobing effect.

Lips: You'll want a pink gloss or lipstick.

The point of this look is to keep it as simple as possible and to keep you looking fresh and girly.

Look Two: Sultry and Sexy.

This look is designed to make him drool. You're bold and confident, and you've been itching to prove it. You have your outfit. That bodycon dress with the low neck. Now you have to have the makeup to match it.

Eyes: Go bold or go home. On you lid, go for a gold glitter. On your crease, use a dark shadow and blend it in. Line your eyes and use that vintage thick false lash you've been dying to use.

Face: Now it's time to break out the foundation and contour kit. Define those cheekbones. Lay up on the highlight, though. You're not the sweetheart tonight; you're the vixen.

Lips: The darker the red, the better. Try to avoid that candy apple wannabe. Look for wine or burgundies. And take it a step forward by using a liner to line just outside your lips. The outline will give the illusion of poutier lips!

The point of this look is to make your date look at your face. Hope you're ready to have them kiss it off!

♥ ♥ ♥

What is your go-to Valentine's Day makeup look? Show us in any of these locations.

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Do you need expert advice or application? We can be your Valentine and help you out. Book here now (or call 443-219-7049) and we'll send you home with a sweet surprise!

Thanks for reading! -Dani Gudino

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