The GayWeddingGear.com Blog

July 29, 2009

wedding nails and manicures – are rhinestones ok???

Filed under: bride,clothing and Lingerie,Jewelry,make up — Tags: , , , — rollerbladerdc @ 1:54 am

Something that has always bugged me about wedding nails and some manicurists are when they convince a poor bride that putting on big ass rhinestones for their wedding nails is ok.  Now, give or take a few styles that are ok, which I’ll cover, most of them are just nasty and ghetto and should not be there to ruin your perfect nails on your perfect day.

Now, with my original reaction that this is bad, trashy and ghetto, I do like some designs and styles of nails (Mainly because I made them up, even though people have probably been doing them before I thought of them) for wedding nails with rhinestones, but please promise me you will not go over board.  I heard a rumor in the 90′s that Victoria Beckham, (Posh Spice), has a diamond implanted in her nail on her ring finger.   Now that is actually pretty fabulous, mainly because it is classy, a real diamond and actually not visible to take away from her perfect manicure and distract you from what is most important,,,you as the person.

So with Victoria Beckham, this is fabulous and I love it, but with you, a rhinestone is probably not going to cut it, so lets go over what not to do first, then what to do for wedding nails with rhinestones.

Do not do:

  • Use huge rhinestones
  • Put rhinestones on each finger nail
  • Wear huge fake nails
  • Have the rhinestones in random places
  • Choose rhinestones that stand out and flash – this is bad because you want your rings to be the center of attention, not your nails
  • choose horrible bright nail polish colors – unless you are in south beach or somewhere where it is supposed to be loud and obnoxious colors….again because the focus on your hand is the ring, not your nails
  • Use colored stones to match your wedding colors – do I actually need to go there?

All of those things are things to avoid when picking the design for your wedding nails and manicure.  They take away from the ring, look white trash or ghetto and seriously devalue your dress and accessories,,,,not to mention the ring.  Soo, with all these do not dos, why not give you some of the things that do work with rhinestones for your wedding day manicure….ok =0).

Here is what looks fabulous and classy with rhinestones on your wedding manicure and nails.

Choose natural colors for a french manicure (especially if you are wearing a belled gown or one that has tool in the bottom to make it full and out) – then instead of having a million stones, a few large ones, or even stones on every finger, have very small (like seriously almost unseen diamond chips) glued along the white tip of your nails following the bottom of the white line so it creates almost a wedding ring type of look just above the pink and just below the white tip.  I love this idea of creating a fine line of crystals or rhinestones to make a fake ring or line going across your nail on your ring finger and only your ring finger on your wedding day.  Now, here are my favorite two colors for this…but remember to match your colors to your skin and contrast your dress color.

I got these images from a store that I love called (I stopped shopping at this store and refuse to recommend them, they are scum!) and they have a ton of fabulous nail polishes from OPI as well as a ton of amazing hair products at serious discounts….

These are great for the base colors and use one of the white nail polishes for the top stripe and only use clear or white rhinestones for the line tracing the bottom of the white nail polish and above the pink, or whatever base color you choose.

Actually, I think that is about it for what I like with rhinestones for wedding nails and wedding manicures, however, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t hold off from being creative and finding other ways to use crystals.  For winter weddings, crystals are perfect for snowflakes and other designs for your ring finger when done causally as it helps to accent and bring attention to your ring, however just make sure you use caution and don’t over do it to look ghetto.  Choose a nice design and classy looking crystals or rhinestones for your nails and make sure you don’t go overboard.

Anyways, I hope this helped you find a good way to work with your nails for your wedding day and don’t forget to shop at (Scum shop that you cannot trust) for your wedding hair and nail supplies…I also removed the images from their store as I found out they stole them from other sites….sorry for ever recommending that shop everyone.  The reason they are no longer able to be recommended is that they did not live up to their promises and I am owed money and got screwed over.  If you shopped there in the past, you should be fine, I didn’t have any issues with shopping,,,however it was consulting work I agreed to do after meeting them and I completely regret it!

July 5, 2009

Mario Badescu Skin Care – How to use it and Where to Buy It!

Filed under: bride,make up,mario badescu,Mens — Tags: , — rollerbladerdc @ 7:40 pm

use the promo code ASHIP on orders over $50.

Soo with summer time here and everyone needing extra care for their skin, not only to protect it from the sun, but to repair damage done by the sun, chlorine or dirty ocean and lake water, and not to mention to take precaution for your wedding, a date or anything else that may call for perfect healthy and glowing skin, I wanted to share with you something that not many people can get (mainly because it is seriously expensive) an overview of proper skin care from Mario Badescu using Mario Badescu skin care products.

I had the very lucky and fortunate experience of getting to meet with Mario Badescu’s owner and CEO (believe it or not, he is straight and of course has amazing skin!) and after we got to talk for a while, he gave me probably one of the best gifts anyone could ever get.  A free line of his cosmetics and a consultant to help me find what would work best for me, as well as a ton of their other fabulous products that work great for almost everyone across the board.  Normally this is reserved for their celebrity clientel but since I was lucky enough to get this consultancy abut a year ago, I have decided to now share with everyone what I was taught and the different products that I am using.  Let me tell you, these products work amazing and even though I am normally alergic to almost everything (especially with a scent), for some reason, none of the Mario Badescu skin care products actually cause me to break out, turn red or get itchy.  They have also helped me to maintain flawless skin and make me look and feel younger.

I love the Mario Badescu products, my favorite being the cucmber clay mask, and although the consultancy is very expensive, like going in for a facial in their Manhattan office, their product line is affordable and can easily be bought by clicking on any of the links and images found in this post.

I have tried using a ton of other skin care products and lines and the only one I have ever stuck with and will use regularly is Mario Badescu.  Once you try it, you will never go back!

Now, before I start, this is just what I use regularly, there are a ton of other products that I love that they make like their botanical body wash that I love and adore, but since we are only talking about daily face and skin care, I am only mentioning face care and shaving needs from Mario Badescu.

enzyme cleansing gel Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel (16 oz.) – $ 20.00
This is Mario Badescu’s Best Selling Daily Cleanser. The Ezyme Cleansing Gel is a non-foaming, gel cleanser that helps to thoroughly remove the day’s make-up (if you wear it), as well as dirt and oil without drying your skin out. Made with Papaya Extracts are exfoliating Alpha Hydroxy Acids that helps prevent dulling build-up that can cause blackheads and pimples.  The Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel is a must have.  I love how clean my skin feels after everytime I use it.  I’m not just saying that either….you’ll see a couple products down I actually don’t like a couple of their skin care products.  ;-) .

How I was told to use the Enzyme Cleansing Gel:

Use twice daily to gently cleanse skin.

(On a side note) I like the way this feels.  This is a pretty cool product that does leave you feeling clean and refreshed.  When you aren’t using your twice weekly or three times a week cleaner, I highly recommend using the Enzyme Cleansing Gel at night before bed on your face and before you go out or just after you get up in the morning.
Mario Badescu Special Cucumber Lotion Special Cucumber Lotion (8 oz.) – $ 15.00
The Mario Badescu Special Cucumber Lotion is a refreshing and disinfecting deep cleaning astringent that is not only effective in drying up existing acne blemishes, i had some serious issues with this before I began using this product, while preventing new eruptions. Sulfur and soothing Cucumber based, acne fighting formula that is non-drying and non-irritating.

How I was told to use this:

use astringent twice daily after cleansing to prevent breakouts.

(On a side note)  This product does what it says.  I am not crazy about it but I do love it and I do enjoy using it.  If you have problem skin, you may want to include this in your arsenol of products that you use to fight blemishes….this mixed with the Buffering Lotion is a great way to help treat pimples and blemishes as well as prevent futures blemishes and pimples from forming.
Mario Badescu Ceramide Eye Gel Ceramide Eye Gel (0.5 oz.) – $ 18.00
The Mario Badescu Ceramide Eye Gel is used to improve the delicate eye skin’s hydration levels with our fabulous greaseless, lightweight ceramide eye gel formulated with softening Ceramides and nourishing Herbal Extracts. The Mario Badescu Ceramide Eye Gel diminishes puffiness and tired eyes. Store in the fridge for a soothing morning eye treatment.

How I was told to use this:

keep refrigerated – apply under eye area to hydrate and calm puffiness.
(On a side note) I always bring this with me when I travel,,,and call ahead to the hotel to make sure I have a fridge in my room so I can keep it cool.  This product is amazing and kind of funny.  I remember opening it for the first time and thinking it was like the slime stuff we used to play with when we were kids.  However, this slime helps to keep my eyes looking fabulous for meetings with Clients and dates with people or going out at conferences…this is another must have.  I don’t know if it is the gel that works or just the cool slime, but somehow my eyes never get puffy or baggy if I have this with me.
Mario Badescu Oil Free Moisturizer (SPF-17) Oil Free Moisturizer (SPF-17) (2 oz.) – $ 22.00
Like the Oil-Free Moisturizer, this lotion has the same benefits for oily and problem skin with added daily sun protection to keep scarring and discoloration to a minimum.

How I was told to use this:

use daily to moisturize face.

(On a side note) This is one that I can do without…really any moisturizer will do.  I actually prefer their olive based skin lotion to this, however this product is one I do actually continue to use in the summer if I am going to be out in the sun, but if not, then I usually pass on it.  I know I shouldn’t but hey, it is fairly pricey.  This product also combines with an after shave hydrating balm which I mention later on in this post.
Mario Badescu Cucumber Tonic Mask Cucumber Tonic Mask (2 oz.) – $ 18.00
The Mario Badecu Cucumber Tonic Mask is made to purify and tighten pores with this cooling, refreshing, mask. Made with soothing Cucumber Extract and oil absorbing clays. For maintenance on normal, combination and oily skin, this mask keeps skin looking smooth and healthy.

How I was told to use it:

use two to three times weekly for 15 minutes to deep clean skin – follow the Mario Badescu Cucumber Tonic Mask with a toner.
(On a side note) This is my very favorite product from all of Mario Badescu.  I cannot live without it.  It cleans out all my blackheads, makes my skin feel tighter, it’s refreshing and it is one of the most relaxing products I have ever used in my life.   The Mario Badesce Cucumber Tonic Mask is a must have and must try and must use.   This is one product I recommend to everyone everywhere.
Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser Glycolic Foaming Cleanser (6 oz.) – $ 15.00
The Glycolic Foaming Cleanser from Mario Badescu is for dull, congested skin.  I hate the way they describe that….it makes you feel like that isn’t me, but seriously give this stuff a shot and don’t assume your skin is perfect, we all have skin issues to work on and this is one of the good products.  This lathering, deep cleanser has the exfoliating powers of Glycolic Acid to break down build-up from skins surface, reduce minor discoloration and leave skin radiant and smooth. Formulated with Herbal Extracts for soothing benefits. Best when used 2-3 times weekly or as recommended by your skin specialist based on your skins needs.
How I was told to use this:

use two to three times a week (always use when I get in on Sunday morning for me if I go out and have been sweating and drinking the Saturday night before I get into bed) at night to deep clean and exfoliate the skin.

(On a side note) I actually do like this.  If I have been sweating or around smoke, this makes my skin feel good, clean and fresh before bed and I love laying down with my skin and face feeling fresh.  I actually do recommend buying this product if you like a clean feeling face if you sweat a lot or have an active social life on the weekends, or even if you just need a product like the Glycolic Foaming Cleanser.
Mario Badescu Buffering Lotion Buffering Lotion (1 oz.) – $ 17.00
This is probably the best known product in the Mario Bedscu line, it is the Mario Badesc Buffering Lotion which is specifically designed to treat deep, cystic blemishes. Mario Badescu Buffering lotion is a sulfur based solution that allows the lotion to be quickly absorbed into the skin in order to treat the source of deeply rooted pimples. Buffering Lotion is an excellent acne treatment containing Allantoin to calm and soothe inflammation and promote healing. Buffering Lotion is best when used before and after Drying Mask.

How I was told to use this:

Shake well then apply one to two drops on deep blemishes using my fingertips to heal blemishes.

(On a side note) I know a ton of people that call this the miracle acne cure.  Some think it works instantly, however I disagree.  It definitely clears up pimples and in my opinion, much faster than Oxy Pads or Pro Active, however it usually takes two or three applications to get rid of my tough zits.  I do also use this on ingrown hairs.  It isn’t designed for that, but it seems to help dry them out so that I can pop them or get the hair out so it doesn’t swell up any more or hurt.

Here are the famous Mario Badescu Shaving products for men.

Mario Badescu Pre-shave Conditioner for Men Pre-shave Conditioner (4 oz.) – $ 14.00
Prone to Razor Bumps and Ingrown Hairs? This soothing gel formulated especially for men with tough beards, softens course beard hair, allowing for an easier, more comfortable non-irritating closer shave. Helps to prevent minor skin irritations and razor burns. Made with calming Azulene and anti-inflammatory properties of Lavender Extract to reduce redness while it soothes the skin.

How I was told to use this:
Apply a thin layer under the shaving cream to prevent razor burn.

(On a side note) I personally don’t like pre shave conditioners and do not usually have time for the extra prep work to use them.  I know it is only a minute, but I never actually use this unless it is a special occasion and I plan on giving myself enough time to actually go ahead and apply this with a few other things.  This is a good product, but I don’t normally use it very often.
Mario Badescu Shaving Cream Shaving Cream (4 oz.) – $ 12.00
Soften and Prepare the Beard For a Perfect Shave. A thick and concentrated shaving cream that protects and moisturizes the skin. Non-foaming formulation provides maximum moisture from the harsh effects of daily shaving. Lavender has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

How I was told to use this:

apply a thick layer on top of the pre shave conditioner before shaving.
(On a side note) This is just like any other shaving cream, sure I love it and it isn’t a horribly oily or greasy mess, but then again, I don’t like spending a ton of money on shaving cream, if you like labels and want a nice shaving cream and don’t mind spending a few extra bucks, then go for it.  The Mario Badescu Shaving is pretty nice but I could do without.
Mario Badescu Vitamin A & E Hydrating Balm Vitamin A & E Hydrating Balm (1 oz.) – $ 25.00
An Aftershave Balm and Moisturizer in One. Lightweight hydrating balm softens the skin and reduces irritation. Formulated with Peanut Oil which is an emollient high in Vitamin A along with Cucumber Extract to help soothe sensitive skin. For use after shaving, at night before bed, or under a moisturizer for maximum benefits.

How I was told to use this:

apply a few drops underneath the Oil Free Moisturizer SPF 17 (listed above) to help nourish your skin after shaving.

(On a side note)  I do actually kind of like this, I don’t always use the Moisturizer as I said above, but I do like this product and like the way it feels.  This is one I do recommend if you want to try something new.

March 21, 2009

Maria and Jeffreys Salon in Chicago Illinois – Broadway Street

Filed under: wedding vendors — Tags: , , , — rollerbladerdc @ 11:07 pm

So I just went and got my hair cut at this little Salon I had been to a couple times before.  It is called Maria and Jeffrey’s Salon and is just outside of Boystown on Broadway.  All I can say is that Jeffrey is seriously talented.  Both times that he has cut my hair I have walked out feeling like a supermodel.  I have also seen his work on both men and women and he is amazing.  I have never seen a person walking out dissatisfied and although I have only seen 10 other hair cuts in person from him, each one was flawless.

When walking down broadway, you can find Maria and Jeffrey’s salon in Chicago by walking up a small black metal staircase above the hot dog shop.  There is a discoball in the window and hunny, when you walk out you are seriously disco club ready to roll.

I have also had the pleasure of seeing Maria’s work and although she has not cut my hair yet, she is just as good as Jeffrey.

Now, why am I reviewing a hair salon in Chicago for a wedding site?  Because, on your wedding day you seriously need to have good hair.  I know a ton of couples that have not only flown home to get their hair done or at least styled to find what looks best so they can show their stylists in the city where they currently live, but now adays people are flying in hairstylists for their weddings almost all the time.  I mean seriously, your wedding day will have photos shot that last your lifetime and you cannot risk not having perfect hair on your big day.  This goes for men and women alike.  On my big day, I am seriously going to trust my look to Jeffrey and if you can afford a couple hundred dollars, or you live in Chicago, I would definitely recommend bringing in Jeffrey to make your hair perfect for your perfect wedding.

I honestly believe that he can ensure you will have the perfect hair and style wether it is an updo, long and straight, hair for a man where you need bounce if it is longer, or short hair that is clean and perfect.  So anyways, if you need a haircut for any occasion, a touch up or fix up and are in Chicago or can fly someone in, Jeffrey is your guy.  Also, don’t forget to mention you found him on Gayweddinggear.com.  I told him I would gladly put a review on my blog today as I am loving the hair cut he gave me.

Maria and Jeffrey’s Salon -
3023 N Broadway St
Chicago, IL 60657

773 – 281 – 8340

Please feel free to leave a comment if you too have enjoyed Jeffrey and Maria’s Salon in Chicago Illinois.  The perfect hair salon and hair cut.

February 3, 2009

Mario Badescu Drying Lotion, Does it work?

Filed under: mario badescu,wedding supplies — Tags: , , — rollerbladerdc @ 3:12 am

So it’s been a really rough couple of weeks at work.  I’ve been stressed and working crazy hours and because of this my skin has been having some issues.  I looked into my medicine cabinet which is loaded with Mario Badescu products and pulled out the pink bottle of drying lotion.

use the promo code ASHIP on orders over $50.

This product is one of the staples of the Mario Badescu line and I believe one of their best sellers.  Although I am seriously skeptical of anything new or something that works every time, this one actually seems too work for my skin.  I can’t promise it will work for yours, but the Mario Badescu Drying Lotion cleared me up with completely visible results after just a night of using it.

I dab the drying lotion onto a cotton swab and then I put it onto my skin.  After washing it of course.  I then rub the drying lotion over the pimple and I do use a generous amount.  When it looks like the pimple is completely covered, I then leave and let it dry and go on to finish my day or go to bed.  The Mario Badescu Drying Lotion does not take long at all.  It may be just me, but it seemed that even just after the first application, the acne started to dissapear.  Now I don’t have bad skin and the breakouts were very slim, but at the same time, the acne treatment worked like a charm.  The pimples cleared up and my skin was feeling fabulous.  For just $17 plus shipping and handling, the Mario Badescu Drying Lotion is a definite must.  I consider only second to the cucmber and tonic mask they make…god I love that product too.  Anyways, I highly recommend using the Drying Lotion as it worked wonders for me.  I don’t know if you’ll have the same experience I did, but hey at just $17 plus shipping and handling, you seriously cannot go wrong.

October 25, 2008

Fall Wedding Favor Soap Sets – Oak Leaf Soaps

Filed under: wedding favor,wedding supplies — Tags: , , , — rollerbladerdc @ 1:40 pm

Since we are already into fall and your autumn wedding is under way, I wanted to share with you all a fantastic wedding favor idea.  I found these oak leaf shaped decorative soaps at Beau Coup.  If you had planned a fall wedding and had trouble deciding what to get as a favor that would play into the fall theme,,,orange, brown, dark red, straw, jackets, yellows, etc… well this is a fantastic gift for your guests.

The floral scented Oak Leaf shaped soaps come in pairs and will delight your guests when they open the brown, decorative box that has a label on it saying “Fall in Love” .  Inside the box they will find two oatmeal colored (BTW I love oatmeal coloring for Fall weddings…it is the color most people avoid or forget abut for some reason.  Don’t let that happen to you.  Oatmeal blends in and compliments every other fall color, it is an off white so your other whites will really stand out and shine and it has a nice warm feeling to it which also makes it calming and soothing to your eyes.) oak leaf shaped soaps on a bed of straw with a delightful floral aroma.

Now, some people say that because it is a fall wedding and the soaps are for fall, they should smell like pumpkin or cinnamon apple, or gravy hehehe (I actually did get that question and can get enthusiastic about it, makes a perfect complimentary scent to your Thanksgiving cooking at least) well, although I agree, I would also say that because it is a wedding, the floral scent is also appropriate due to the flowers and lanterns so commonly found in your fall centerpiece.

Anyways, I encourage you all to at least buy one or two sets of these fabulous fall shaped wedding soap gift favors to see if you may want to order more for your Fall Wedding.

September 18, 2008

Mario Badescu Cucumber Tonic Mask – I LOVE YOU

Filed under: mario badescu,Wedding Gift,wedding supplies — Tags: , , , — rollerbladerdc @ 6:23 pm

I am soo in love with Mario Badescu and his Cucumber, Clay and Tonic Face Mask. right now. I recently finished one of the most painful things in my life ever, a 60 mile 3 day walk for breast cancer (The Susan G Komen Foundation 3 day). Although the walk was extremely challenging, it was well worth it. Now, the way that this relates back to Mario Badescu is that while you are walking 20 miles each day in the sun, you not only get burned, but you sweat, get oily and your skin can really loose the color and look you work so hard at achieving on a daily basis.

The only skin care I bought and brought was Mario Badescu. I am always open to trying new skin care products and lines, however I am now becoming extremely loyal and almost exclusive to Mario Badescu. As you can see from the banner above, so are many of our favorite celebrities. Anyways, back to the Mario Badescu Cucumber, Clay and Tonic Mask (Click this link to see and buy it). Each night when I got back to my hotel room my skin looked like hell. I had blackheads and sunburn and oil all over. Luckily, one of the items I packed, which is above and beyond one of my top two favorite Mario Badescu products is the Cucumber and Tonic Mask. I would simple apply the mask after rinsing off and drying my face, then as the mask starts to dry, you get this womderful cooling sensation that made all of the sunburn pain just instantly leave.

Besides the cooling relief from Sunburn, this mask is probably the tightest mask I have ever had in my life. You can actually feel it lifting your skin and tightening your pores. It is absolutely amazing. When you have had it on for roughly 20 minutes (I usually keep it for up to 30) you’ll notice something miraculous, all of your blackheads will be gone. I do not know how this mask clears them, but when I wash it off my skin is amazingly clear and if I am not doing a 60 mile walk, my skin stays blackhead free for a day or two after.

This clarity is amazing in that before I began using the mask, I would remove all blackheads every morning, and by the time I was ready for bed, they would all be back again. I figured it was an endless and worthless battle, until I discovered the Mario Badescu Cucumber and Tonic Mask with a clay base.

I don’t want to keep rambling, but this is a product I swear by because it actually does everything it is supposed to and then some. For me, it soothes sunburn, tightens my skin and pores as well as cleans blackheads and makes my skin look and feel refreshed. I strongly encourage you all to click this link and buy the Mario Badescu Cucumber Tonic Mask and experience it for yourself. It also makes an excellent pre-present or gift to hand the bride before her big day.

August 24, 2008

Ceramide Eye Gel from Mario Badescu – The Perfect Gift!

Filed under: mario badescu,Wedding Gift — Tags: , , , , — rollerbladerdc @ 12:19 pm

Now this is a product I swear by, and I am not the only one. Mario Badescu has probably the most star studded Client list out there.  His clients include everyone from Sarah Jessica Parker to Deborah Messing, Lindsay Lohan, Heidi Klum, Star Jones, Martha Stewart, Felicity Huffman, Kimberly Stewart, Natalie Portman, Charlize Theron and the list goes on and on.  Two things that all of these people have in common with each other is great skin and the other is Mario Badescu.  The product I would like to recommend today is the Mario Badescu Ceramide Eye Gel.

use the promo code ASHIP on orders over $50.

A question you might have is why does this make the perfect gift?  It makes a perfect gift because of all of the stress and lack of sleep from the Wedding Planning and Wedding Night Jitters.  When the Bride and/or the Groom wake up in the morning, they most certainly do not want to have bags or color or swelling under their eyes.  By placing Mario Badescu’s Ceramide Eye Gel in their fridge the night before, they will be able to wake up in the morning and rub a dab of it under each eye and like magic, the swelling not only goes away, but the color and stress disappears too.  This is a product I have in my fridge right now and I swear by it.  I use it for every client meeting I have to go on and for every time I have to have a picture taken.  It really does make a difference.

Thank you Mario Badescu for your Ceramide Eye Gel.  It is a life a saver!

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