Katlyn, the newest member of the Tiramisu For Breakfast team and I got to check out the fall Max Mara collection at Saks as part of a benefit event put on by Style Weekly for SPARC Richmond and the VCU ICA. Here’s what Katlyn had to say about the event:
I was so honored to be invited to the When Art Meets Fashion 2016 event hosted by Style Weekly! On October 6th, I stepped into the Saks Fifth Avenue in Stony Point and was instantly mesmerized by the clothes, food and people.
I had the opportunity to sit in on a fine arts auction. All proceeds from the auction went to two amazing art organizations, the Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU and SPARC. The Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU is currently undergoing construction and will be a venue for a broad variety art forms. SPARC is a performing arts school here in Richmond that offers classes for children and young adults.
Works from Matt Lively, Tom Condon and more were featured in the silent auction.
I was EXTREMELY tempted to bid on this beautiful flower arrangement.
The auction was followed by a MaxMara fashion show. (The Olivia Pope-approved brand!) I’m SO ready for sweater weather!
After, we were able to shop the runway. I had to remind myself that I shouldn’t buy all the sweaters from the collection.
Saks gave a percentage of the proceeds from purchases to ICA at VCU.
I also checked out some of the items from the line on the website. I’m highly obsessed with this Piera Silk Jersey Back Blouse.
Also, can we talk about how stunning this coat is? (Christmas is coming soon!)
I can’t wait to see the end results of the ICA at VCU when it finally opens their doors in fall 2017!
Thank you so much to Melanie, Dana and Lori for such a wonderful night! 🙂
I looovvveee fancy skincare products. I’m always trying new things for this blog or for my clients and brands I’m working with, which sometimes throws my skin out of whack. I have acne-prone skin, so I need to be very careful about what I use. There’s always a struggle finding a balance between products that will treat/prevent blemishes but not dry out skin. Plus, I’m always trying new things for this blog or for my clients and brands I’m working with, which sometimes throws my skin out of whack. I’ve found that sticking to these 9 products on a regular basis has been keeping my skin clear. 
1 & 2. SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense, SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0 and ProActiv Pore Targeting Treatment: These are the products I use to get rid of blemishes. The way it was explained to me by Angela, my amazing facialist at Glow Med Spa, is that Salicylic Acid exfoliates/removes dead skin cells and Benzoyl Peroxide actually kills the blemish-causing bacteria. Alternating these three products has been working out really well. I’ve found that I come across products with Salicylic Acid all the time, but Benzoyl Peroxide is harder to find.
3. Proactiv Pore Targeting Treatment. I bought this after Ingrid Nelson talked about it in here. They actually have a Proactiv machine in our local mall, so I picked it up in there. You can get a better deal if you buy online. This has the Benzoyl Peroxide I mentioned earlier.
4. SkinMedia Ha5 Rejuvenating Hydrator: I was so excited to hear Dr. Suzanne Peck mention this as one of her favorite products when I interviewed her here. It has Hyaluronic Acid, that magic moisturizing ingredient we keep hearing about, and does give a really nice, soft finish. I use this In the places my face gets really dry – in between me eyebrows and at the tip of my nose.
Obagi SPF 50: This is one of the nicest sun blocks I’ve ever used. It’s not greasy and has zero smell. Plus, it mattifies. If I need to reapply through out the day I use the COOLA Makeup Setting Spray SPF30 and I use COOLA plumeria for everywhere but my face.
5. Erborian Cleansing Balm: I forgot a makeup remover when I went to Austin back in July, and was recommended this by someone at the Sephora down there. I had been using Bioderma, but I think this does an even better job of getting all the makeup off. Plus, it’s so easy. I get a little bit on my fingertips right out of the jar and “massage” if all over my dry skin to get my makeup off before I get in the shower.
6. Obagi Sun Shield Matte Broad Spectrum SPF 50: I put this on everyday before my makeup. It’s not greasy and it doesn’t have a smell.
7 & 8: Skinceuticals LHA Cleansing Gel and Toner: These are so great. I use the cleanser every morning and night, and I usually use the toner once a day. If I feel like my skin is dried out, I sub in a gentle cleanser from Obagi and skip the toner.
9: First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Intensive Peel: I LOVE this mask. I’d say it’s not for sensitive skin, because it stings, even if I only have it on for a few minutes. I apply it about once a week and it makes your skin super soft more even-toned. I always apply a moisturizing mask like this one or this one after.
What are your skincare staples?
Read MoreHere are some things I’ve had my eye on for fall:
I came across this dress on Instagram and I think it looks so chic. This would be so cute with black tights and boots.
Tessa Piped Dress | Cooper & Ella |$235
I have seen so many interesting sleeves lately.
Warehouse Bell Sleeve Mohair Sweater | ASOS | $89
Camel coat, Gal Meets Glam
Distressed black jeans inspiration
Everly Bell Sleeve Blouse | Belk | $50
Bell Sleeve Chunky Sweater | Zaful | $19.99
Read MoreI saw this J. Crew pom sweater on the Facebook page of a local consignment store, Clementine. I liked it as soon as I saw it, but wasn’t sure how I’d wear it. So, i tried out one of my favorite Pinterest tricks, and searched it to see how other people we wearing it.
Here’s what came up: I searched “pom sweater” and then narrowed to “J Crew pom sweater” and found Katie Holmes, Zoe Deschanel and Emily from the Cupcakes and Cashmere blog wearing it three different ways. I was sold.
And now it’s mine 🙂 I plan on wearing it with my J. Crew Pixie Pants and these boots.
Pinterest is obviously great for dreaming up the perfect wardrobe/home/life, but it can actually be pretty practical too. Next time you’re stuck on how to wear something, try typing a description of what you’re working with in Pinterest and see what comes up!
Read More
Meet Pryor, she’s a PR lady here in Richmond. We met when I worked at The Martin Agency and she was my client at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. She complimented my Kate Spade bag and I knew we’d be friends. One day when we were out for manicures, I noticed Pryor brought her own polish. She mentioned she has to use certain formulas because of her sensitive eczema. She went on to talk about all the research she does and different oils and lotions she uses to treat her sensitive skin. I asked her to share a few of her favorites with us.
Look what a cutie! 
So what’s in Pryor’s Makeup bag?
Cocovit Coconut Oil: There’s a reason people swear by coconut oil – the uses are endless. I’m not fond of the smell, so I mix it with other things to make my own makeup remover. It’s gentle on my eyes, doesn’t burn and takes off the toughest mascara or eye liner in one swipe.
theBalm Down Boy Blush: theBalm’s powder blushes are paraben and talc-free. I have three different colors.
100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Healthy Skin Foundation: 100% Pure is my latest find and I’ve just started using this tinted moisturizer. It’s really light and includes SPF, which is a must. The pigments are from fruits and vegetables, rather than synthetic dyes.
L’Oreal Voluminous Mascara: Tried and true favorite since high school. Mascara is the one area where I can cheat a bit and veer away from organic.
100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Lip and Cheek Tint: My favorite thing about this cheek tint may be the smell! It’s moisturizing and the color lasts all day.
RMS Beauty Living Luminizer: The living luminizer is touted as one of RMS’ best products. It’s not sticky or glittery. I use it in place of eye shadow and as a highlighter.
Josie Maran Argan Infused Brightening Balm: Josie Maran’s products are paraben and SLS-free. If I have extra time in the morning, I’ll mix this with my tinted moisturizer for an extra glow.
Tarte Amazonian Clay Eyeliner: I use this eyeliner when I’m going to weddings or events because it’s waterproof and lasts all day, but it also requires extra time, a brush and a steady hand!
Acure Lip Lush: I recently discovered Acure as I was researching sulfate and paraben-free shampoo. The lip gloss is not sticky and adds just the right amount of color.
Tarte Skinny SmoulderEyes Amazonian Clay Eyeliner: It’s hard to find a paraben and SLS-free eyeliner that doesn’t smudge. I love the Tarte brand because none of their products irritate my skin. I have this eyeliner in a handful of colors.
And her skincare routine…
Jojoba Oil: When I’m having an eczema (or even worse, rosacea) flare-up, jojoba oil is the only thing that doesn’t further irritate my skin. I use it as a face moisturizer and a body lotion, too. It absorbs quickly, isn’t greasy and doesn’t clog pores.
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream: I love First Aid Beauty and have used this face cream for years. It’s incredibly gentle and absorbs quickly.
TriDerma Facial Redness Repair: I stumbled upon this when I was desperate during a rosacea flare-up. I use it when I’m starting to get red and then layer it with jojoba oil.
Bioderma (I love this too!): The EU has stricter standards regarding chemicals in skincare and makeup products than the states, so a lot of international brands have banned parabens and impossible-to–pronounce additives for years. One example is Bioderma. This stuff looks and feels like water, so it’s incredibly gentle on my skin. It also removes makeup in two seconds.
Acure All Better Balm: I have toted this around lately in my purse because it’s small and also moisturizes my hands without being greasy.
For more, check out our video chat here.
Do any of you have eczema? What products work well for you?
Read MoreI loved the dress in this photo on the Cupcakes and Cashmere Instagram, and looked into the company tagged – Black Halo. I hadn’t heard of them before, and their dresses are fabulous. Here are a few of my favorites:
I love the roses on this one, the Lace Ally Sheath.
Flared/bell/trumpet sleeves are my favorite right now, which is why I love the Adrienne Sheath and the Mooreland Mini (below)
Social media networks are often criticized for fostering weak associations and inauthentic relationships, for keeping people from being “in the moment.” But what if social media tools can actually enhance and amplify your networking and relationship building efforts in real life? That’s what we discussed at AIGA’s Coffee Talk.
To watch a recording of the talk, click here.
Read MoreThanks to my lovely friend Lauren Campbell at Brave Young Thing for these fun shots that capture me and Kitty in our element :).
A few weeks ago I stopped by our local CBS Affiliate, WTVR, to film a segment about summer beauty with Jessica Noll for Virginia This Morning. We talked about the best self tanner, a makeup setting spray with SPF and an exfoliating bootie for your feet. It’s going to air tomorrow morning (Memorial Day) at 9am, so tune in if you can! (Update: Watch the segment below.)
Here’s the story of what it was like to be on the show and a little more about my favorite products for summer.
I met with Jessica and we brainstormed a few ideas for the segment. She helped me narrow it down to featuring BabyFoot, NKD SKN and COOLA. She filled me in on all the details for the taping and answered all my questions about how to talk and act on TV. She recommended a few well-versed guests to research and learn from.
Once the taping date was set, I reached out to Hank Greenberg of Roan for fashion advice. I stopped into the shop and tried out several options.
They have so many gorgeous clothes in the store.
We eventually landed on this outfit for the segment and Hank added a neckpiece from Mignon Gavigan.
When I arrived at the station, everyone was SO friendly. I’ve been interviewed a few times as a social media specialist by reporter Melissa Hipolit (Here’s a photo from when she stopped by my house one time and met Kitty), but this was my first time visiting the station and for anything blog-related on TV. I had SO much fun at the station; I got to meet everyone and they even gave me a backstage tour. Jessica was super nice and talked me through my nerves.
Can you believe how many screens? It reminded me of the command center we sometimes worked out of when I was at Capital One.
I had a blast doing the segment and hopefully there will be more fun things to come! Here are the summer products I talked about (and more) with details and links!
I got this striped shirt from J. Crew at last week’s event, and these tortoise flip flops are the capri sandals from Old NAVY (sadly no longer available in tortoise). The bag is from Kate Spade Saturday, which also no longer exists. Details on the beauty goodies pictured and a few more below:
1: SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense | $90 | Bliss.com: Does anyone else’s skin freak out whenever the seasons change? Ever since the weather warmed up, my skin’s been breaking out. I’ve been using a few different things, and just remembered I had this. I started using it again and it’s been helping out a lot. It stings when you put it on, but it goes away quickly. It hus a very thin texture, and I just use a droplet or two on my finger and then dab onto blemishes. Here’s what’s in it: 2% Dioic Acid: Naturally derived from vegetables, this ingredient helps reduce excess sebum, 0.3% LHA (caproloyl salicylic acid): A lipo-hydroxy acid, LHA, evenly exfoliates skin, decongests pores, and refines the skin’s surface, 1.5% Salicylic Acid: A beta-hydroxy acid refines pores and helps reduce the formation of acne and 3.5% Glycolic Acid and 0.5% Citric Acid: These alpha-hydroxy acids work synergistically to smooth skin and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
2: WHEN “The Last Choice” Hydrating Sheet Mask | $7 | Sephora: I love the moisturizing masks from Fresh, Peter Thomas Roth and GlamGlow, but I think sheet masks are the best for when your skin is REALLY dry. I like the way brand fits my face. I tried their “Snow Magic” mask too. I have a couple on deck that I plan to use after long days in the sun or for when I use too much retinol.
3. Charlotte Tilbury ‘Filmstar Killer Cheekbones’ Set: I saw the Powder & Sculpt Brush that comes with this kit in this Lisa Eldrige YouTube video. She said she prefers small brushes for bronzer verses the big fluffy ones, because you can get it exactly where you want it. We don’t have anywhere in Richmond that carries this brand, so I stopped into the Nordstrom at Tyson’s corner while I was in Northern Virginia for work to try it out. I’m glad I did, because the lovely Jasmine (check out her Instagram) showed me the Bronze & Glow palette. I’d been using the Too Faced Chocolate Soleil bronzer and I’d been thinking about trying something different. The bronzer has a “satin” finish, which I really like (the Too Faced one is 100% matte). The highlighter is nice too – very subtle. I like that they come together so I can carry it with me for touchups.
4. NKD SKN Self Tan Mousse in Dark | $19.50 | ElementsBeautyShop.com: I talk about this more in depth in this post. It’s my favorite self tanner. (make sure you use the mitt to apply and for mistakes, use the Bronze Buffer!)
5. COOLA Make Up Setting Spray SPF 30 | $36 | ElementsBeautyShop.com: This stuff is just the best. I’ve talked about it before here and here. Basically, it enables you to add sun protection throughout the day without messing up your makeup. I like this for when I’m out in the sun more than I planned and I spray it on every hour or so if I’m laying at the pool.
6. Deborah Lippmann Nail Lacquer in Naked | $18 | ElementsBeautyShop.com: This is a true nude shade, which I think looks really chic. It’s pretty much the exact same color as my skin. Deborah Lippmann is also a jazz singer; she named all of her polishes after song titles. I love to pair this with “Lady Is A Tramp” on my toes. They’re also all free of animal testing, parabens, sulfates, toluene, formaldehyde resin, camphor, DBP and vegan.
7. BabyFoot | $25 | ElementsBeautyShop.com: This stuff is wild. If you look up YouTube reviews, you’ll see some pretty crazy stuff. The product comes with two plastic booties covered in fruit acids. You wear them for one hour, then rinse, and your feet will peel for up to two weeks and be super soft.
I would LOVE to hear about your favorite summer beauty products. Post them in the comments!
Get any of the products from Elements mentioned in this blog for 10% off when you mention my blog at their Carytown location or use the code TIRAMISU online.
PS: You can enter to win the products featured on the Elements Facebook page!
Read MoreTFB Agency is real! Thank you so much to everyone who made this possible! Especially Matthew Rosenberg for the site, Molly Covert of Rabbit Foot Fern Design for the logo and Justin Laughter and Chris Gatewood of Threshold Council for making sure everything is legal.
Thanks to my very first freelance client, Ashley Hart Hudson of Richmond Barre. Thanks to my second, Janice Ozguc of Layrs (and Meghan Riley for introducing us)
Thank you to Jeanie Rule and Sherry Burgess of Elements of Carytown & Elementsbeautyshop.com for being amazing clients and friends. Thanks to the Elements Beauty Bloggers (Jordan, Kristel, Caroline, Stephanie, Susannah, Whitney W. Jones – WorthyStyle, Alyssa and Sydney)
Thank you to Hugh Joyce, Tammy Teefey-Conti and Katlin Dearmon of James River Air Conditioning Company, to Ian Slinkman of Patient Firstand Emily H Greenwood and Aaron Dotson of Elevation.
Thanks to my first boss in the agency world, Dionne Baxter Kumpe.
Thank you to all of the the people at the Martin Agency who taught me so much. Eric Williamson and Jackie Davenport, Travis Jones, Hillary Ross Einwick, Amy Brown, Malcolm Venable, Monisha Tripathi, Lindsay Newport Jackson, Emily Arbour, Molly Christian, Tracy Ring Berry, Jeane Hanowell Bibona, Gina Patanella-Whelehan, Ashlee King, Jamie Borel.
Thank you to Capital One, and the amazing people I worked with there. Jamie Dorrough, Aaron Wilson, Kenny McCroskery, Lisa Rogerson(thanks for being such a great boss, Lisa!)
And to all my friends at Big River.
Greg Hofbauer for running the amazing program that is THRIVE and letting me be a part of it.
Larkin Garbee for being an awesome support and always someone to look up to.
Nathalia Daguano Artus for being an encourager and connecting me to so many great causes (Wine, Women & Shoes – Richmond!)
Sara Greene, Ben Remo, Janet Starke and everyone else at Richmond CenterStage and the Richmond CenterStage Associates Board
Pat Foster for her advice and guidance within the Minority Economic Development Center. Lindsay Grant and Judi Crenshaw for all of your advice and encouragement with the PRSA awards.
Jevata Herman for being an amazing friend and for always pushing me.
Thank you to Britt Smith for being so smart and organized and for helping me through through projects and estimates.
Thanks to
Erin L. Sarro, Matthew and Natasha Lam O’Rourke, Rob Reid, Ken Wayland, Rexanna McCubbin, Bill Hennesey, Helayne Spivak, Tony Scida, Annie Heckenberger, Rachel Gregory, Anne Stuart, Patrick Disney, Neal Iwan, Becca Hardy, Tricia Keppel, Ana Costa Lenhart, Brad Perry, Jon Sealy, Lindsay Abbott and everyone else I’ve met through their support of Richmond Ad Club.
Thank you to Elizabeth Thomson for everything, including encouraging me to start the Tiramisu For Breakfast blog.
Thanks to Jason St. Peter, Katherine Wintsch, Beth Royal, Josh Dare, Jon Newman, Brittany Mullins, Tiffany Jana, David and Keya Wingfield, Marissa Hermanson Moomaw, Ryn Bruce, Amy Schmittauer, Abbie Toner, Beth Royal and all of the other entrepreneurs I look up to for advice and inspiration.
Thanks to my VCU family, to all of the students who’ve taught me so much, to the professors (Joel Mier, Betsy Wardell Guzik) at The Robertson School of Media & Culture and my colleagues and friends (Scott Sherman, Bridget Camden, Hong Cheng, Lauren Stewart, Rowena Briones, Kerith Rae, Karen McIntyre, Erin Hurley-Brown)
Thanks to Mary Howell, Caitlin Kilcoin, Lisa Dance and everyone else who allowed me to come speak to their organization!
Thank you to Kelsey Leavey for always being willing to chat about Facebook ads.
Thank you to Melissa Hipolit and Jessica Noll – WTVR CBS 6 for allowing Tiramisu For Breakfast to be a part of Virginia This Morning on CBS 6!
And thanks to amazing friends who’ve offered so much support and love – Jeff Wilson, Suzanne Hall, Pryor Green, Wren Lanier, Carroll Schuller, Dana and Scott Elmquist, Sarah Mullens, Colleen and Doug Lubking, Lauren Campbell, Sarah January, Carrie Pearson, Michelle Lippin Alicia Lane, Emily Bayer, Jess Shorland, Jessica Pick, Liz Funke, Aíne Norris, Paula Hill Jasinski, Paul Schmidt, Charleen Pine McManus, Angi Pannell, Rob Pannell, Lauren Campbell, Karri Peifer, Bernadette and Brian Cruse, Kelli S. Lemon, Matt Pochily, Janet Gerpstein, Shannon Siriano Greenwood, Jakia, Ashley Bahrt, Rachel Bremer, Michelle Lippin, Neil Cox, Holly Sigler, Holly Gordon, Emily Jasper, Shannon Leahy, Jason Roop and Brandi, Melissa Calabro, Molly Szkotak Hugel, Lisa Preville, Christine Erickson, Megan Irvin, Brittney Trimmer, Sarah January.
Last but not least, Jay and my family! Read the BizSense Article here.
