Miss Inge [Beauty Guru]

15 May

As promised from this month we will be doing a feature on beauty tips and tricks over the next few weeks.  And I would like you to meet Inge from Inge Brenzel Make-up Artistry who is going to be our beauty Guru.  You might have read about her on a previous blog post.  But here’s a little background on her, so that you know you can trust her opinion and that she knows what she is talking about :)

IN HER OWN WORDS:

Studying in the Health and Skincare industry has been an interesting and exciting path to say the least. We have our ups and downs and no-one can ever prepare you for the world you are about to enter. While people think all I do is sit and paint pretty nails all day, I really wish that the world could open their eyes to see exactly what we are capable of. I am currently completing my 3rd year at Isa Carstens Academy, where I have become one of the privledged few to be able to say that I form part of the uniformed “penguins” of Stellenbosch. It is an intense course where the commitment itself is something to be mastered. Going to class is like having a normal working day, but to think of all the knowledge we need to learn within 3 years- one can easily understand why. I, as well as my colleagues, have become addicted to skin care and having the best and most healthy complexion possible. Thus I am prepared to spend to ensure it stays this way…while there are such things as a quick fix, it can be measured to taking drugs…you pay for it, it gives you your high and desired outcome, and then you crash and burn asking: “what have I done to myself?”…Good skin takes time and patience and the long-term effects must ALWAYS outweigh the short-term.

 

We asked her a few questions and here are her answers:

If you weren’t doing what you were doing now, what would you be doing?

If I wasn’t studying Somatology and starting up in make-up, I would be studying Financial management and investment… My father is a portfolio manager and I would probably have followed in his footsteps… What are your hobbies?I have a really long day with lots of physical work so getting home and chilling with some good music or watching a good movie would have to be right up there… I like to stay active so a good gym session and jog helps me stay fit!! I like reading a well-written autobiography or detective type books…

What’s the most song played on your IPOD right now?

I listen to a lot of music all the time, but right now I’m loving Chris Rene- Young Homie…he took part in a competition and went from being a drug addict garbage removal guy to a now sober and very talented singer..he’s awesome and such an inspiration!!

What are 3 words that describe your make-up style or look?

To describe my look I’d say “always changing”…I don’t necessarily go with fashion but I wear what looks good on me..I don’t stick to one look and so I can’t really sum up what my look could be called!!my make-up suits the occasion,natural for day and dramatic eyes for the night…

Tips and advice you would give to ladies or gents that has to choose a make-up artisit?

Do abit of research and compare artists photos of their previous work… Not everyone who has been in the business for longer or whose prices are higher are necessarily better- look at what you like in their makeup and go with that… A lot of times u can just look at a persons work and say wow, and just get a gut feeling making you comfortable with that person!! Listen to your gut, ladies… Make sure you know what you want, and if the artist can’t give you what you’re looking for, then look for someone who understands you… Even if they don’t have pictures of pervious work of the look you want,find a picture and show them and make sure they are 100% sure they can make you happy!! A good make-up artist will never be scared to admit if they are out of their league and to refer you to someone else.. These artists are doing you a favour,so don’t forget to go back to them next time you need someone!!

There you have it.

Miss Inge the beauty guru…

D.I.Y Tuesdays! – Mothers Day Ideas.]

8 May

Mother love is the fuel that enables a normal human being to do the impossible. - Marion C. Garretty

What do we do without our mom’s. They are the one person we can turn to and always know that they will help you, no matter what the situation is. Sometimes things go wrong, and life gives you ups and downs they are always there for you.

As we all know mothers day is coming up on Sunday 13th May (Just incase any of my readers forgot) and we all have a mother figure that we would like to spoil. How I normally spend Mothers day, is with my best friends and their mothers. It’s great fun as we normally go for high tea. We do what women do best, chat, eat and drink.
It’s always turns out to be the best time, and driving home you feel so good, and happy to have had those moments.

I think giving something from the heart is the best gift any mother can receive.
But something made is even more special! Thats why when I was looking for some ideas I came across a few simple ideas that one can do for Mothers Day.

I found this really awesome recipe to make a scrub for your mom (or yourself).

Lemon Sugar Scrub:

Makes 1 (1 cup) jar

Zest of 2 Lemons 
1 cup of granulated sugar
2 tablespoons of organic virgin coconut oil
1 tablespoon organic extra virgin olive oil

In a medium mixing bowl, simple stir all ingredient together until well blended.  My coconut oil solidified a little at room temperature and that’s totally fine. Do not heat it up to melt it, as the heat might melt the sugar.  Simple mix all ingredient with a wooden spoon and it’ll come together.

I think its really nice, you can package this in a really cute bottle, that you can either buy or re-use a jam jar.

Then you could use a printable to make a tag for the jar of scrub.

If you looking for some other ideas for gifts for your Mother, then check out this really awesome post from tidymom.net.

There are alot of ideas and things that can inspire you.

I am totally into amazing typography, and Roeline showed me this really amazing poster that could be used for a gift for Mothers day. Its available in 3 different print colours, its another great idea.

Lots of love xxx

Competition Time!! {you could win a photo shoot}

1 May

So you wanna chance to win a free couple / friendship [2 friends] stylized shoot?  And the winning duo gets their make-up done for the shoot from Inge Brenzel Make-up Artistry :D  Winning duo also gets 20% discount voucher from Bella Chiara Accessories…

How do you enter you ask?

Super simple!

Email me at lovedotlace@gmail.com or click on the contact tab.

What you need to e-mail me:

  1. The most current photo of  the couple / friends doesn’t have to be professional… just must have you both in it. Family photo is fine to if that is all ya have.
  2. Now this is the most important part.   You must tell me what your idea is for the stylized shoot AND MOST IMPORTANTLY how YOU are going to get the look…
  3. What theme it is you want to do.
  4. Props that you would like to use, and then a location in and around Cape Town.

PLEASE NOTE: Love dot Lace will be taking the photo’s, but YOU will have to get the props and create the setting, look and feel off the shoot.
Need an example?  Check out the images below from Pinterest…

You don’t HAVE to use a lot off props, you can just choose a cool location with loads of character and detail.  Throw in a few cupcakes, clothing, cool drinks and VOILA.  Let your mind go wild – but please note, if you cannot produce the idea and make it a reality, the shoot will be given to someone else.

You have from today – Tuesday 1st of May 2012  to get you emails in.    Entries close on Tuesday the 8th of May 2012.  The photo’s, with the shoot idea will be posted on our fb page where JUDGES will be deciding who the winner is going to be…

I will announce the winner on the 5th of June 2012 at 19:00.
The shoot will be shot no later than July / August  2012.

This is only for Cape Town Residents and will be shot in the Cape Town Area.

Dare to be different and get those ideas in people!!!

D.I.Y Tuesdays! – [Inspiring Moments..]

1 May

Its truly been a fantastic few days, Winter is starting. Family time is growing. All these things inspire me to be creative, and look at things in different ways. I love it when I am on a roll with ideas. I just can’t stop!

I think it’s really important for everyone to take time and write down a list of things they would like to do, or what inspires you. It could almost be a wish list, not a material wish list, but an inspiring wish list.
On my list I have places and ideas that are there to inspire me, they form part of my wish list.

I know D.I.Y Tuesday is meant to be about the creating and making things. But its also part of my wish list. I have lots and lots of  ideas that need to come to life.
Like for instance I want to learn to do origami, learn to make really awesome paper flower, birds and hearts.
I think that origami is the most inspiring form of paper artwork, it brings paper to life!

I have been looking all over the internet on step by step tutorial, but its not the same as sitting and learning it in a class, or with a few of my friends that share the inspiration.

I am really keen to learn how to create really intricate types of designs.  I think one of the most standard creation in origami is the bird, it’s so beautiful, and is something that I have always wanted to learn to make, so on my quest to find a really great tutorial I came across this really lovely site called. www.origami-fun.com.

There are so many lovely ideas. I even managed to get really good clear instructions on how to create the origami birds.  You are welcome to download it here and try it out.

There are many other designs and things that you can create in origami.
Take a look at the collage from Pinterest and for some awesome inspiring creations.

Till next time!

Lots of Love

D.I.Y Tuesdays! – [Mommies Day]

17 Apr

Mommies, wow… what can I say about them.
They are sometimes your best friend, a person who you can chat to even listen to your worries and whom will always will be there for you no matter what!

They truly are ANGELS! I think of my mom.
She is someone I can call up at anytime night or day and tell her a story, or ask for advise. She supports my super crazy ideas… AND believe you me I have some pretty strange ideas.
She is someone who I love watching a movie with even though she falls asleep. She is really one person that has taught me everything and made me the woman I am today.

I am ever so greatful and blessed to have a SUPER MOM like her.
Spoiling your mom is not a maybe its a MUST, you need to do it. Sometimes by just making her a cuppa tea when she is working can make a whole difference to her live.

As we all know Mothers day is coming really soon and an idea is needed.
So when I was browsing I came across this really cool idea, its inexpensive, and really easy to make.

Heart of STRING

What you will need:

  • Wooden surface (depending on the size of the that you would like your shape on.)
  • Paint for the wooden surface, depending on the colour you would like
  • String (thick wool, or twine would do the trick as well)
  • Wood nails ( you have to be able to knock them in with a hammer)
  • Hammer
  • Plan the shape that you would like by cutting it out from paper and tracing it onto the wooden surface

When I saw this It got my mind wondering in all different shapes and designs.  You can even make a smaller one with the letter SUPER MOM, or just mom, anything you can think off, or that has special meaning to you…
Roeline and I chatted about it, and we thought that if you made three little art pieces it would be lovely, something made with lots of love.

To make it, is a really simple process. Here are the steps to complete your master piece:

  1. Take your wooden surface and paint it the colour you would like your base to be.
  2. Set the wooden surface to the side and work on the design you would like. In this instance the blogger has used a heart shape.
  3. Draw your shape on a piece of paper cut it out and place it on the dry wooden surface.
  4. Take your nails and hammer them along the line you have traced of your shape, keep about a one to two finger space between the nails. (It all is up to you as the closer you make it the more nails you will need.
  5. Tie a knot around one of the nails so that you can begin your weaving technique.
  6. Keep wrapping the string around the nails until the image you wanted is clear and full.

I hope you enjoy making your own art piece!

Have Fun!
Till Next Tuesday

Lots of Love

Silk Orchid [Fashion Shoot] Sneak Peak

16 Apr

We had the amazing opportunity to work with Anneen Henze, Founder, Owner and Designer from Silk Orchid Design.  She approached us to do her Winter Collection shoot for 2012, and from the first few emails we exchanged we knew that this shoot was going to be different.

We booked Tokai forest for an afternoon, YES booked the forest, with the high trees and sun rays filtering through the leaves this was a perfect location for the shoot.  The lovely Inge was the make-up artist for the day,  she was so relaxed, professional and a stunning help.  During the course off the shoot the “look” changed, and Inge did such an amazing job, she is definitely the lady to contact for your make-up.  And let me not forget about our two models on the day, Carol and Rene.  What can I say?? THEY ARE SIMPLY gorgeous, inside and out.  They were an absolute breeze to work with.

Being a lady I can tell you that what I love about Silk Orchid Design clothing is the fact that it is so elegant and stylish, yet practical and easy to wear.  With every outfit – I was like I GOT TO HAVE THIS, and then the next outfit came and I was like – oooh I NEED that one too… My amazing husband was just laughing and worrying about our budget,lol.
Thank you ladies for an unforgettable experience, and a shout out to Frikkie, the baboon, who chased us…

Here are a few sneak peak pics :)  Let me know what you think <3

D.I.Y Tuesdays! – [Bedroom Design]

10 Apr

Hope all you lovely people had a super LONG weekend.. filled with lots of chocolate, family time, laziness…
I loved the fact that on Sunday when Carte Blanche music played I knew that Monday was another fantastic day to do absolutely nothing!

I spent most of my time with my family and friends enjoying every part of the weekend. But on the other side, the weather made me want to stay indoors and in my comfy bed. It’s the best place to be on a cold day. I get to watch the rain from my window, whilst reading and researching lots of ideas for future D.I.Y projects.
I came across this really lovely idea on how to create or spice up your bedroom with a new headboard.

I suppose it would be so much easier to just go to a furniture store and buy one, but this way you really get to appreciate a piece of art, that you have actually made. So get your D.I.Y gloves on and lets start creating!

Below are some ideas on how to expand creativity by creating your very own designed headboard:

1.Metal headboard – Corrigated Iron

This unique material, looks really nice in a modern room.
Mixing two types of different texture, wood and metal, creates a great feeling in your room.

Cutting the design that you require might be tricky but the guys at Builders Warehouse will be able to help you with directing you in the right way either cutting it yourself, or getting a professional to cut for you.

 

2. Old Door Headboard

My favourite place that keeps coming up on my posts, is Woodstock.
If this design is something that you would like, then why not take a drive along Woodstock Main Road.

You will find all types of used doors that could be used for this great looking headboard.
The style is really rustic and looks great against a light painted walls.

3. Fabric Covered Head Board

This is a really great idea, if you have an awesome piece of material that you can use to cover a board.

Its not very difficult to cover it yourself. If this is something you would like to try, I would suggest that you use a sponge and a staple gun.
This is a project on to two people as it can become very tricky to make sure that you pull it tight enough around the edges.

4.Chalkboard Headboard

This is one of my favourite ideas, especially for kiddies or teenagers.
for the teenagers it could be used for them to keep track of their homework or even for their friends to makes little kind notes.The kiddies would love this something they can draw on, it have alot of fun making pictures.

But for me, I just love the idea of having it to write down my ideas, I always get tons of ideas at night, but by the time the morning comes I totally forget them. Thats why it will be a great idea to use this for myself :)

 

If you are looking for more ideas go and check them out here.

I hope I have inspired you to want to redesign your bedroom and headboard.
Have a super Tuesday, be creative, be inspired!

Lots of Love

D.I.Y Tuesdays! – [Family Time...]

3 Apr

With Easter being right here, we have loads of time to spend with our family.
I have a massive extended family, it’s not only my actual family, like my Mom, Dad, Brother, Granparents etc. I also have my family friends, which are like my family and I know I can always count on them when ever I need to.

There is Ed, who is like my dad’s other wife.. (hahaha) he is always part of everything I do. I even said that one day, when I get married, I want him to walk with my dad and myself down the isle.

They are truly very special to me, and make up who I am. They inspire me in many ways. I know that they are my fans no matter what.

So when I think of Easter, or any Holiday, I think of my MASSIVE family.

I love being able to cook and bake and set the table to represent what every colour theme, or style I am feeling like for that evening.
Easter time, there are always wonderful bright colours, or soft pastel colours, that fills the shop windows. There’s the yummy Lindt bunnies, those amazing white eggs, and lets not forget the millions of marshmallow eggs coated in chocolate.

I think it would be really appropriate to invite all the extended family over for a a tea party.

PS: **Get the kids to help you bake the cookies… It’s really a nice way to get them all together, and to take out your camera and take photo’s.  When photographing children it is always a great idea to set the stage – let them do something fun and interesting, and whilst they are enjoying themselves you can take photo’s helping you to not get that fake “cheeeeeese” smile :) **

Yum Yum – Chocolate Chip Cookies

200g butter, just melted
¾ cup of brown sugar
¼ cup of Castor Sugar
1 large egg and one large egg yolk
2 tsp of vanilla essence
½ tsp of salt
1 Tbsp of fresh lemon juice
2 cups and ¼ cup of cake flour
½ tsp of bicarbonate of soda
1 cup of dark chocolate chips

Method

Preheat the oven to 160C°. Place one rack at the top and the other in the middle of the oven. Have two large baking sheets ready. Combine the melted butter and sugar in a mixing bowl with an electric whisk. Add the eggs, vanilla, salt and lemon juice. Add one cup of the flour, then the bicarb and the remaining flour. Combine on slowest speed. Lastly stir in the chocolate chips.

Grease the baking sheets with butter or Spray ‘n Cook. Roll the dough into golf-size balls and place on the baking sheet, allowing about 6cm between each ball for spreading. Place the baking sheets into the oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes until golden brown. Half way through baking, turn the sheets 180? and switch racks, so the cookies can bake evenly.

Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets. Remove from the baking sheets with a flat spatula and serve warm if possible. They will be just fine served cool as well and should be stored in an airtight container.

And now to decide how to set the table.


There are many different ideas on how you can set your table, I think a playful theme would work really well with the Easter Holiday.
We could ad this really awesome idea on how to fold your napkins differently to make it a little more interesting.

 

Hope your Easter is filled with lots of love, and family time!

 

Lots of Love

 

D.I.Y Tuesdays! – [Recipe Book]

27 Mar

Weeks are flying by and I can’t believe it’s almost April.  Wow, the first Quarter of the YEAR is then over.
Tuesdays are coming and going and there are just so many ideas I want to share with you all.
When working on this blog post for this week, I realised that there is a crucial part of me that most of my friends know, but maybe my readers don’t.  I LOVE CUPCAKES.

They are my most favourite thing in the entire world.  My love for these most beautiful creations started when I was much younger, my mom would make cupcakes for our parties, and I would want to decorate them and do the icing.
And as I got older my love got bigger and bigger. I got to the stage where everything I saw and wanted would be surrounding cupcakes, it became my signature.

My birthday would always have to have cupcakes, and they could not be plain or boring. They needed to be a master-piece. This to me was my escape of reality when I got to ice cupcakes and decorate them. I would not just go into this blindly. I would research different recipes and  icing techniques. Fortunately my mom was always around to help with my crazy ideas. She is really talented in icing creations as well, the more professional type though.

Over the years I have collected many different recipes  and they all are just lying around folded up in a box, or sometimes even lost. That is when I decided I need a place to keep these recipes in a box, book or flip-file. It all needs to be really organised. It can’t take up too much time, I want my recipes on hand.

So take a look at the collage, there are many free recipe card printables.

Owl Barn Recipe Card Printables
Bunting Flag Recipe Card Printables
Bird Recipe Card Printables

Lots of Love

 

[Family time] Machnus 2 years

27 Mar

Today is my brother in law’s birthday [HAPPY BIRTHDAY bro], so I thought I will share a few special pictures of his little boy, Machnus.

Machnus is such a cutie pie – with those curly hair and smile of his, he can steal any girls heart.

Here are a few pics of him, just enjoying himself.  We love shooting families, children and couples in a more Photo Journalistic style – capturing emotion, personalities and bonds.

Thanks to my amazing husband for these photographs xxx

Hope you enjoy :) Comments are MORE than welcome…

Whazzzzup yall!!! lol

Just being a kid….

 

xoxox

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