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Dangerous Foods Hiding in Your Pantry

Monday, May 24th, 2010

Do you CRAVE a healthier lifestyle? We asked one of our favorite wellness gurus, Jamie Dougherty, for some simple ways to improve your diet by cleaning out the “dangerous” foods hiding in your pantry. Here is what Jamie had to say about those last few items in your kitchen standing between you and your healthiest self.

When people begin to eat better, the food in their refrigerator changes. More fruits, fresh vegetables, organic, pasture raised diary and meat. However there is one place that is always the last vestige of unhealthy food…the pantry! Pantries are the final frontier of “hazardous for your health” foods. Pantry food must be shelf stable, meaning food items are pumped full of chemicals and preservatives to make them last longer. Processed foods are also loaded with sugar, low quality oils and genetically modified fillers that can damage our bodies.

Luckily there are a number of tasty alternatives to replace the unhealthier models. Here are a few easy pantry raiding swap-outs to get started.

Top 5 pantry foods to replace

Bread crumbs

OUT - The packaged stuff. Full of hydrogenated oils, sugar, and anti-caking agents.
IN - Make your own crumbs. Take unused stale bread, put in a food processor with sea salt, and then toast in a slow oven. Keep them in the freezer or in the pantry in a sealed container.

Broth

OUT - Bouillon cubes, powder or canned stock. Full of sugar, low quality salt, MSG, and genetically modified ingredients.
IN – Homemade or organic boxed stock (Pacific Naturals Vegetable Stock is very good).

Cooking Oils, Fats & Sprays

OUT –Aerosol oils (PAM) and vegetable shortenings. Dump the corn, peanut, vegetable, soybean, safflower oils, margarine, and Crisco.
IN - High quality extra virgin olive oil, extra virgin coconut oil, sesame oil, flaxseed & hemp oils, ghee/clarified butter, organic butter.

Salad Dressing and Sauces

OUT - Bottled dressings, marinades, sugary BBQ sauce, ketchup, soy sauce.
IN – fruit sweetened ketchup and BBQ sauce (check out Organicville), tamari/shoyu, and homemade dressings. Use good oils, balsamic/red wine vinegar, ginger/sesame oil/tamari, tahini with lemon.

Vanilla

OUT
- Imitation vanilla: loaded with corn syrup and added sugars.
IN – Real vanilla extract and vanilla beans. They’re expensive, but totally worth it!

To receive your fill of healthy living tips become a JAMIE|LIVING Facebook Fan or follow her on Twitter! You can also find delicious recipes at www.jamieliving.blogspot.com.

Jamie G. Dougherty is the owner and founder of JAMIE|LIVING, Health and Lifestyle Counseling. She is an AADP certified Holistic Nutrition Counselor with a private and corporate practice that offers assistance nationwide. She is passionate about deliciously healthy food and specializes in helping her clients transform their lives through the power of nutrition and self-care.

Q&A with Jennifer Trecartin of My Edible Advice

Monday, May 24th, 2010

Jennifer Trecartin knows the science behind what we put in our bodies – and has started her business making sure others can understand it too for their own health benefits. Our CRAVE Vancouver Collaborator, Arpen Thandi, had a chance to experience Jennifer’s food sensitivity tasting first-handed, one of many service provided through My Edible Advice. Arpen raves, “Jennifer was personable, funny, and was so knowledgeable in all facets of health and nutrition. I wanted to know more and more about what types of foods I should be eating based on a personalized assessment”. This fabulous business offers no ‘secrets’ or ‘gimmicks’ to healthful eating but real solutions. Still, we can’t help but be in awe at the way Jennifer’s magic wand seems to sprinkle magic dust on everything she touches!

What is your business all about? My Edible Advice is a nutritional consulting business empowering people to feel better one bite at a time. We all know we could take our health to the next level and I am here to help you do just that. The foundation of my practice is Food Sensitivity Testing, which is an incredible tool to find out which foods do and don’t fuel your body properly. In today’s world, more stress on our systems is the last thing we need! Therefore, knowing what your personal food intolerances are is key to your overall well-being.

What do you love most about working for yourself?
Everything!!! Seriously, I couldn’t be happier working for myself. You get to wear so many masks though out the course of the day from office manager to creative director. There is never a dull moment and I CRAVE that!

What is your favourite quote?
I have two. For work I love author Michael Pollen’s saying: “Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants”. As for life, Miss Coco Chanel had it right when she said, ” A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous”.

We would love to know your top five feel good tips for eating right:
1. Chew your food. I know this may sound like I am stating the obvious but, see if you can count at least 20-30 chews before swallowing. Digesting begins in the mouth, and this step is key for proper absorption!

2. Shop the peripheral of the grocery store to fill up the majority of your cart. These are where the whole foods are typically stored and will supply our cells with the proper nutrients we need. If you can hit up the organic section, even better!

3. Challenge yourself to trying one vegetable or fruit that is new to you every shopping trip to add variety to your diet. I still remember how enthused I was to try collard greens for the very first time and now they are one of my staples!

4. Drink 2-3 liters of clean water per day. Everyday you loose water through your breath, perspiration, urine, and bowel movements. Four your body to function optimally, you must replenish its water supply. How much do you really need? 0.5 ounces x Body Weight in pounds = Daily Fluid Requirement in ounces.

5. Last, but certainly not least, enjoy your meals with friends and family- they will almost always taste better!

Insight From Makeup Artist, Sheila Patel

Friday, May 21st, 2010

Whether it’s just a hint of blush on our cheeks, a swab of lipgloss to our puckers, or a brush of mascara to our batting eyelashes, we all want to look and feel our best! However, with the plethora of make-up options out there, finding the right products can be quite overwhelming…what color foundation to use, what eyeshadows look best on a brown-eyed beauty, liquid eyeliner or pencil??? This is where renowned make-up artist, Sheila Patel comes into the picture. With a trained eye, a steady and skilled hand, she applies the right mixture of shadows and powders…Voila! You have your own customized look. Here is her expert advice and a video featuring the “Artist at Work”, enjoy!

What was the inspiration or motivation behind starting your business?

My sister in law, Xuan Thu Pham encouraged me to get back to doing something that I have excelled in in the past and all the credit goes to her for my getting back in.

What mistake have you made in your business that you will not repeat?

Overscheduling. Earlier on in my career when I just started out, there was a time when I was working continuously from one makeup client to another in a single day. Because I worked with more clients than I could manage in one day, I felt that I did not put in the effort and time that each client deserved. I wanted to give the focus and attention to each person, but with time against me, I was not able to do that. From that experience on, I never did that again. Each customer is special to me and I’ll only work on a client at a time – that is my philosophy.

What is your favorite make-up brand?

I like different makeup brands for different reasons. I use MAC, Shu Uemura, Glauca Rossi, NARS, Makeup Forever, Ben Nye, and Kryolan. In fact, I have so many different brands in my professional makeup toolbox that I can’t name all the brands I enjoy using. Each brand is uniquely used for different purposes and events such as TV or weddings. As an everyday favorite makeup brand, I like Bobbi Brown.

What defines the Bollywood style? Do you think it would cross-over to the U.S.?

I’m glad you asked me this question because so many people have different notions of what the “Bollywood style” is and what it really means. Coming from Mumbai and having worked with Bollywood and MTV – I see the different perceptions of how people view Bollywood. What defines the Bollywood style has more to do with what you see on a film set: the movie scenes, dance scenes, and the ensemble of women who dress up in extravagant attire along with the extravagant makeup to go with it. Bollywood is about glamour, visual performance artistry, and telling a story.

This is why a Bollywood style is not suitable for everyday looks. If you’ve ever seen a wedding scene from a Bollywood film, you’ll notice the rich colors, embroideries, and magnificent jewelry that the women are wearing. Also notice their makeup – it’s created and done up to be very dramatic. When you wear such beautiful clothes, your face is competing with it and pales in comparison to what you’re wearing. That’s why it has to look very dramatic.

I think it the Bollywood look can absolutely cross over to the U.S. if it’s in the wedding space. However, with everyday looks, it might be too much, especially without the costumes. But if you’re up for that look for yourself, why not?

What is your favorite make-up look for spring/summer?

I have this secret passion for the orange and yellow color theme. If it’s done well, it can really work for you. Case in point: you can use a yellow eyeshadow

and apply it over your eyelids. Then use an orange eyeshadow to contour the lids as well as the edges. Next, you can define your eyes with black eyeliner and mascara – and voila. Most people think they can’t use these colors, but you can!

What is the most common make-up mistakes you see people make?

Mismatched foundation has to be the topper on the list. This is the most common mistake I’d like to see people stop making. Coming from an Asian country, there is an obsession to have fair skin. People try to correct that by using light foundation. The end result? Your skin will end up looking grey. Also, some people tend to incorrectly use bronzers or foundation that’s too dark for them, which are really too orange for one’s face. This looks hideous.

A good indicator of using the proper foundation for yourself is to reference it in natural sunlight. Typically, when you buy it in the mall under fluorescent lighting, it’s easy to make the mistake of buying the wrong color for your skintone. What you can do is apply a small amount from the tester on your skin – step outside and see if it matches your skin. Just be true to your skin tone and be proud of your natural beauty.

Visit Sheila Patel at:

Website: sheilapatelsf.com

Blog: bit.ly/MakingFaces

Twitter: bit.ly/cZvamc

Facebook: bit.ly/cKLfS7

YouTube: bit.ly/91hB9F

How to Plan Your Perfect Summer Party with LA Glam

Thursday, May 20th, 2010

Planning a party can be loads of fun but let’s be totally honest…planning and attending the same party can be tough. That’s why CRAVE asked Christina Murphy, who runs LA Glam Events with her partner Erin Preuss to give us a few pointers. The good news is that with a little planning and creative magic you can host a party everyone (including you) will love!

With the summer party season about to get into full swing starting on Memorial Day Weekend it’s a perfect time to treat your friends to a love-everything-about-summer party that will set the standard for everyone else. (And no, it doesn’t require boatloads of cash or a swank Hampton’s seaside soirees.)

4 easy ways to make your Memorial Day BBQ better than everyone else’s

1) Invites: Evites are ok, Paperless Post is so cool (but pricey) and so why stick to the norm. A trip to the 99 Cents store will yield a plethora of fun and funky ideas. It’s much less expensive than you would think to send unusual invites and it’s a great way to make your party stand out from the rest. Mix and match and let your imagination run wild. It’s half the fun.

2) Food: it’s sort of crucial to a good party. Nothing is more delicious and easy than good old fashion burgers on the grill and burgers don’t have to boring. Add an array of interesting self-serve toppings like sautéed mushrooms, arugula, bacon, avocado, etc to create a gourmet burger bar. You can even ask people to write down their custom burger, name it and take pictures for your own Burger Hall of Fame.

3) Cocktails: a trip to your local farmers market will start your inner mixologist juices flowing. Take all the favs (fresh squeezed OJ, grapefruit, lemon and lime) throw in some new twists (muddle berries, pineapple or watermelon) and some smoothie-like purees (cantaloupe, honeydew, banana and mango).Use some basic alcohols and set it all out for people to create their own signature cocktail. People love experimenting and the bonus is for the people who are going adult-beverage free they can make a killer virgin version of the same thing.

4) Décor: for some seriously-talented-crafty types décor is a hallmark of their parties. For me, with limited time, décor needs to be simple and accessible. My favorite budget friendly décor item is cotton quilt fabrics. These fabrics are your new, super crafty best friend. You can make awesome mix and match table overlays (most standard fabrics aren’t wide enough for a full table linen) but they make cute overlays either over whatever linens already have or over plain white sheets hemmed to fit your table. Mix patterns and colors to create a really festive look.

The good news is all these projects are relatively easy and don’t require a bunch of time or money. Just give yourself a week to work on your décor projects in the evening and prep your food and juices the morning of your event and you will be able to party-hardy with all your pals!

Vancouver’s Marketing Maven: Q&A with Liz Verhoeve

Friday, May 14th, 2010

Liz Verhoeve has made it her literal business to empower fellow entreprenesses. With a power-packed approach that combines fearlessness with strong market savvy, she has provided strategic implementation for a diverse clientele for 16 years. Liz offers a wide range of services, from marketing coaching to project management, sharing her unique expert perspective with women who already have their hands full with daily business demands. With this bold business model, it’s no wonder Shameless Marketing (shamelessmarketing.ca) was named a Vancouver company we CRAVE.

Tell us more about Shameless Marketing – and how you got started.
I collaborate with women entrepreneurs to create marketing strategies that resonate with their values, keep their business pointed in the right direction and coach them through how to get it done.

Shameless Marketing came about because I always wanted my own business but didn’t have a product in mind so I started networking and the common questions entrepreneurs had were about marketing. I’ve been in Marketing all my life so it was something so close to me that I didn’t even see it as a skill. Once I realized I had a lot of knowledge that can solve problems for other entrepreneurs my business was born. The name Shameless comes from hearing women apologize for promoting themselves when they should be very proud of their accomplishments.

Do you have any recommendations for business reads for women in business?
There are lots of great business books, E myth would be a must-have. Find the leader in your industry and subscribe to their blog feed to keep current on trends. I have Seth Godin and Danielle La Porte’s blogs in my reader and they provide insight and inspiration.

What do you CRAVE?
Peace, Joy and Love or chocolate. After investing the last two years in my business I really crave a couple of weeks on a beach.

What do you love about owning your own business?
Freedom. To decide who I want to work with; inspiring, dynamic women. To create my own environment; after many stuffy offices I can now listen to music, open the window and work in comfort.

Any advice for future entreprenesses?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Too often we feel like we should know everything or that it shows weakness if we ask for help. Think about olympic athletes, they are the best in the world at what they do and even they don’t do it alone. Athletes have coaches and support network. If you want to be the best ask for help.

Q&A with Leighann Boquist of Oliver & Lilly

Friday, May 7th, 2010

Oliver & Lilly‘s (1520 W 13th Ave) is every whimsical shopper’s dream boutique, with brightly colored dresses and tops that pop in front of crisp white walls. Leighann Boquist, along with hubby Darren Bold, set up shop in the Granville District in 2008 and have been a beacon for the city’s style mavens ever since. With a cool mix of casual and classic pieces from both local and big-name designers, the shop is a breath of fresh springtime air for our retail CRAVE-ings. Here, Leighann shares her insights on becoming an entrepreness and the wisdom she gained via Bill Cosby.

What inspired you to open your own business?

My layoff did. Late in 2007 I was fortunate enough to be a part of many lay offs that my previous employer was issuing, which gave me some time to figure out what my next career step was… which turned out to be creating my own biz. And now it’s 2010 (two years into the business) and I did it. I still can’t believe I actually did. I have moments where I look around and think ‘holy frig’ this really is happening, how awesome… and then I secretly high five myself!

Even with the tremendous highs and lows of starting a new business, I’m glad I leaped. I’ve never looked back… it’s been pretty cool creating my own environment and adventure.

What novels are must-reads for women in business?

I just read Kelly Cutrones book; ‘If you have to cry go outside’, and I HIGHLY recommend it. But, there needs to be a disclaimer: Don’t read before bed!!!

It’s so good that it’ll get you all fired up and ready to take on the world, and you can’t at 2am, you need your sleep. So read it before work, it’s such a great motivator. It’ll get your business blood going.

What do you do to “unwind” or “de-stress”?

I suppose it’s like a pre-unwinding. Because every morning I wake up super early, grab my coffee, put on the Jazz Radio, sink into the couch and read through all the blogs I adore. It’s just a peaceful way for me to set a calm tone for the day. So even if the day turns chaotic, I at least know I’ve already had some peace in the day.

What is your favorite quote and why?

“I don’t know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody”. Bill Cosby said that.
Because you will drive yourself mad if you try and please everyone. Remember that everyone has different taste buds. Respect that, and create the business palate that you want to please and go with it.

Q&A with Emma Lynds of Element Academy of Martial Arts

Friday, April 30th, 2010

Emma Lynds is the type of woman you would want by your side when you find yourself walking a dark, secluded street. But rather than depending on others for protection, this CRAVE girl wants women to learn how they can protect and defend themselves. Emma is the proprietor of the Element Academy of Martial Arts, a school offering a range of martial arts styles as well as personal training for adults and kids. The academy also holds women-only sessions and will be holding a special seminar on Saturday, May 8 to instruct women on the practice of self-defense. The afternoon has been designed to meet the real needs of women: women on their way to work; women out enjoying Vancouver’s open spaces; women waiting for a taxi or a  bus home. In other words: all women. To further prove her commitment to empowering women, Emma will be personally matching 10% of the class’s proceeds to the Big Sisters of Canada. Here, Emma talks about her courageous move into entrepreneurship, and her recommendations to beginners in the martial arts.

What inspired you to open your own business?

I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit and I felt that reward and success would only come with a career I was fully invested in.  The trick was in finding a viable business that would have potential for success and growth, and at the same time, fulfill the drive and passion in me to pursue something I loved. I had been studying and training in the martial arts since I was a teenager, and it was one thing that I was truly invested in with my whole being.  Martial arts changed my life and was my constant source of strength, growth, and development.  It seemed like the most natural thing in the world to use my own learning to teach others.

What advice do you have for women who have never done martial arts before?

My best suggestion is to really do your research on what kind of club or facility will be the best fit for you.  You should ask yourself why you want to take martial arts, what you hope to learn most, what type of instruction you respond best to. From there, you can create a short list of clubs/facilities close to your home or work. I believe that it’s really important for women to take martial arts and I think most women would be surprised and delighted at how fun, positive, inspiring, and empowering they will find it.  Plus, you’ll learn something new, be in great shape, and have a really good idea of how to defend yourself.

Are there any pre-requisites?

A good attitude, willingness to try new things, work hard, and be open minded to a whole new set of possibilities for yourself.  Martial Arts is for everybody – keep that in mind!  I’ve seen students from age 4 to 80, so anything is possible!

Save the Date!
What:
Women’s Self-Defense Seminar, Website: Element Academy of Martial Arts
Where: 4465 Dunbar Street, Vancouver
When: Saturday, May 8th; 3-5 PM
To register: Email info@elementsacademy.com

Spring Eating for your Healthy Body

Monday, April 26th, 2010

We are all familiar with the old adage of Spring cleaning, but did you know that it doesn’t just apply to your closet? Spring cleaning is also important for our bodies and very helpful in flushing toxins, losing weight and creating increased energy. The best place to start your spring cleaning is with spring eating! Jamie G. Dougherty, owner and founder of JAMIE|LIVING, Health and Lifestyle Counseling, offers us a fresh approach. Spring foods are light, water-logged, and perfect for cleaning out our systems of excess junk. Some of the most popular spring foods include:

Asparagus: High in potassium and folate which aids the cardiovascular system- Roast with olive, sea salt, and pepper with a splash of balsamic vinegar.

Artichokes: A good source of iron and calcium- Steam and enjoy with your favorite vinaigrette.

Dandelion Greens: Aid in liver cleansing- Blanch, then sauté with garlic, olive oil, and top with currants and pine nuts.

Green garlic: Delicious young garlic plant that has anti-bacterial properties- A perfect addition to eggs or a frittata.

Radishes: Very high a vitamin C. Eat them raw or dip in hummus or your favorite dressing.

The best place to find spring foods it at your local farmer’s market where vendors will have the freshest produce available. Here is a perfect dish to get your started. Who ever thought spring cleaning could taste so good? Enjoy!

Asparagus and Brown Rice Salad with Dijon Vinaigrette and Toasted Pumpkin Seeds
Serves 4

For the Dijon vinaigrette:

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon brown rice vinegar or red wine vinegar
Sea salt to taste
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 small garlic clove or shallot, finely minced or pureed
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

For the salad:

1/2 pound asparagus, ends trimmed, cut in 1-inch pieces and blanched for 3 minutes
Sea salt to taste
2 cups brown rice, freshly made or leftover
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, tarragon, marjoram
1/3 cup toasted pumpkin seeds

1. Whisk together the lemon juice, vinegar, salt, mustard and garlic. Whisk in the oil, taste and adjust seasonings.

2. Cut asparagus into 1 inch pieces and place in boiling water for 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

3. Add asparagus to the rice and toss together with the Dijon dressing.

4. Add the fresh herb and pumpkin seeds and toss all together. Taste, adjust seasonings and serve. 

To reheat leftover rice: Place cold rice in a small pot with ¼-1/2 cup of water (depending on amount of rice). Bring to medium heat and let steam for 4-5 minutes, or until water has evaporated. Remove rice from the heat and mix with your dressing.

To receive your fill of healthy living tips become a JAMIE|LIVING Facebook Fan or follow her on Twitter! You can also find delicious recipes at: www.jamieliving.blogspot.com

Jamie is an AADP certified Holistic Nutrition Counselor with a private and corporate practice that offers assistance nationwide. She is passionate about deliciously healthy food and specializes in helping her clients transform their lives through the power of nutrition and self-care.

Go on Girl, Light Your Fire: The Fire Starter Sessions

Friday, April 23rd, 2010

Danielle LaPorte is all about keepin’ it real. She believes in telling it like it is, and is an avid believer in feminine power. Her latest project, “The Fire Starter Sessions” is an e-book for entreprenesses that comes with video and worksheets to help you get the most out of each sizzling session. The root of Danielle’s theory- which every woman can appreciate– is that our actions are driven by desired feelings. What other remarkable wisdom does she have to offer? We asked her a few questions to gain some insight on what really drives her and why her new book is so rockin’.

Once you let Danielle get you jazzed about your own inspiration, you lucky CRAVE ladies can pre-order a copy of the “Fire Starter Sessions” right now! Just click here.

You give people inspiring advice about following their passions in life, what sparked your own “ah-ha” moment?

It was more of a series of soul-sucking moments and gigs than an “a-ha” moment. But it all added up to creative sovereignty. My voice, my time, my way of being of service.

What makes the “Fire Starter Sessions” distinct from other programs for entrepreneurs?

It’s about rocking your revenue streams and doing meaningful things in the world. It’s as much about self-realization as it is about hard core strategy.
Each chapter is it’s own “Fire Starter Session” that includes: e-book components, video inspiration or interviews, and worksheets. Some of the sessions are: True Strengths & The Metrics of Ease; Branding: Clarifying the Diamond of You; Products & Services: Making Stuff That Feels Good to Make; Money: More is More, Enough is Plenty; Web Design & SEO: Your Virtual Real-Estate…Whether you’re in the early idea phase or a rut, it’s about lighting a fire under your…aspirations.

Summarize your teachings into a motto for how you/to live your life.

Your truth is worth it.

Would you give the same advice to a female business owner as you would give to a male?

Yes. But a woman is more likely to take it.

How would you describe your number one strength?

Deep listening. I also build a mean campfire and write bad poetry – which I consider an endearing strength.

Why do you believe it is that so many people do not choose their career path based on their true passions?

Profoundly wanting to belong. That will never change. On top of that deep driving psychology, we pile on social “norms” like dress codes and executive titles, salary structures, everything the goddamn Jonses are doing, and the popularity contest that is social media itself, and well, it’s the makings of an identity crisis.
If can you tune out the noise of “how-to” and “10 steps” and “proven tactics” you will be able to hear your own spidey senses: genuine, sincere, with great reflexes, and it will tell you that you are the expert on you — and you know what lights your fire.

What has been your most rewarding experience with a client?

One of my favorite results of working with any client is helping them decide what they’re going to STOP doing. It makes me giddy. It often goes like this: I’m going to STOP…being the administrator. Worrying so much. Under-selling myself. Checking Twitter obsessively. Feeling the pressure to be so successful. I’m going to stop using my cousin as my web-designer.

It’s freeing for everyone. And freedom is the best part of being an entrepreneur.

Still want more? Order your very own copy of the complete “Fire Starter Sessions” by clicking here. You can also learn more about all of Danielle’s endeavors on her website, whitehottruth.com.

Interview with Shauna from Beauty Ink Gallery

Saturday, April 17th, 2010

Shauna Magrath of Beauty Ink Gallery is most proud of the ‘service’ component to her makeup and permanent cosmetic services. Whether she is training women in naturally beautiful makeup application, providing the perfect brow shape, or using her artful hands to enhance a bride’s wedding-day glow, Shauna falls somewhere between the fairy godmother of beauty, and the cool,  older sister you always wanted. Her boutique makes the perfect, post-winter destination in order to refreshen and brighten your look. Consider it the more affordable version of that Caribbean cruise!

Describe your company & What inspired you to create your own business?
We are a make up service boutique, specializing in permanent cosmetics and custom make up creations for Ladies and Gentlemen. We work with all demographics from cancer and accident survivors to men wanting to dress in drag or to giving a women a new look for the season. Our services range from custom lessons, make up applications, lash extensions, brow shaping and of course what we are best known for, our custom natural permanent cosmetics.

I was personally inspired to create this business after holding my grandfather as he passed to the other side. That moment has changed my life forever and made me look at what my contribution was to the world. I have a gift and working in film was not allowing me to share it in a positive way. Now I am able to help people who suffer every day and make their lived better. If I died tomorrow I know I have made a difference in many peoples lives.

What do you CRAVE?
Peace, love, simplicity, comfort and making more of a difference in the world, not to mention my 20 year old body again!

What is the best part of owning your own business?
The joy I receive every day when clients tell me how much of a difference I have made to their lives and how much they love our work.

What is your favorite quote?
Follow your heart and you will never go wrong, It’s not until you jump from the cliff will you grow wings and fly.

Tell us about your most popular service at Beauty Ink.
Our most popular services are permanent eyebrows and eyeliner plus lash extensions.