Hi-Fi Cosmetics: UNPLUGGED

Moving update!

2011-01-18T14:07:00.000-06:00

Due to some unexpected travel I have to do for our move, I will be closing down the shop at the end of the month instead of on the 9th as previously noted. (I'll update my last post to reflect this change.) I'll be accepting orders thru January 31st and shutting down at 12:00 AM on February 1st.

ALL ORDERS WILL BE FILLED AND SHIPPED BEFORE I PACK UP MY OFFICE. (This is part of the reason I'm shutting down a few weeks from my actual move. I want to have time to get all the orders out the door before I have to pack everything up.) So, if you want to place an order, please do not hesitate. It will ship before February 25th. GUARANTEED.

I'm still hoping to re-open sometime in mid-March, so keep your eyes peeled for the official date!

Again, I want to thank you all for sticking with me through my crazy military life. Luckily, this should be our last move for a very long while, so I'm thoroughly excited.

IMPORTANT!!!

2011-01-10T17:49:00.001-06:00

***Items in red have been edited/updated from the original post.

Yeah, I know I'm terrible about keeping this thing updated... But I came back to post this today, because it's important.

I'M MOVING AGAIN!!!

Yeah, not what you wanted to hear, I'm sure...BUT...it will be my last move for a VERY long time!

As most of you know, I'm an "Army Wife"...and it just so happens that after we just moved to a bigger place (in September '10), my husband's military job transfers him to another office. 300 miles away.

This move is...well...interesting.

It just so happens that my ex-husband (who lives in the exact area we will be moving to) recently took a job in Austin, TX. He starts this job in early March, and offered to let me buy "our" house back for the mortgage payoff. (Odd arrangement, I know...but a SWEET deal.) My husband (the current one...LOL) started his new job today and will be staying at the armory or with friends until we are able to physically relocate into the house at the end of February when my ex moves out.

This is going to be a stressful time for me, as my husband is gone, and I have to handle the housework, children, packing, and preparing for this move...alone... All while trying to run my business. Granted, this will be my third time having to do this (in the past two years), so you would think I'd be a professional mover by now. LOL.

I feel even more bad for my husband, who is basically bumming it right now...living out of his office and/or with friends (as opposed to staying in a hotel) to help us save up some money for this sudden and unexpected move.

Anyway...with all that said, this is how business will be running... (I've made a bulleted list so you won't miss any of the details.)

I'm doing some major multi-tasking these days, so turn around time will be slightly longer than usual. I will post regular updates on my Facebook page.
I will be taking orders through Monday, January 31st. The shop will close down (only temporarily, of course) at 12:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 1st. The Etsy shop will still be there, as this is only a temporary hiatus, but it'll be in vacation mode so no new orders can be placed.
I will continue filling orders and will not pack up my office until ALL ORDERS have shipped. (So, never fear...your packages will ship out before the actual move takes place.) This is part of the reason I'm closing down several weeks before I actually relocate...to give me time to tie up all the loose ends (without worrying about a constant flow of new orders pouring in) before packing up my supplies.
I will be traveling a lot over the next couple of months, so the number of post office trips I make per week will decrease. (I currently make 3-4 trips per week.) The days I am home will be spent filling orders like a mad woman (LOL), and my travel days will likely be the days I use to ship out packages (since I'll already be on the road and all).
During this time, it is strongly suggested that you correspond with me via e-mail instead of through Etsy. Etsy is just a pain in the butt to log in to all the time (especially if it's just to check messages). E-mail is easy...desktop, laptop, iPhone...it's always easily accessible no matter where I am, which means quicker responses.
It is ESTIMATED that I will re-open somewhere around mid-March or so, however, this may vary, depending on how the move goes. (We have some painting and small repairs to make on the house before I can re-open.) Again...keep up with me on Facebook for the latest update on re-opening.

Anyway... If you have any questions, feel free to comment or send me an email (hificosmetics@gmail.com). I'm so blessed to have such wonderful customers, and I thank you all for your continued patience with my family's military life! It really means so much!!!

Loose Eyeshadow Q & A

2010-12-20T10:06:00.000-06:00

Hey guys!!!

I know most of you that follow my blog, Twitter, Facebook, etc. are not new to the world of indie makeup and loose mineral shadows... However, I've noticed that I've been getting lots of questions from some of my Hi-Fi/makeup newbies. So I thought I'd post a few tips and tricks here on the blog for those who have questions regarding application, etc. (If you're a mineral makeup veteran, you probably already know all or most of this.)

Q: I just received my jar of eyeshadow, but how do I get to the eyeshadow under that plastic thing?

A: Believe it or not, I get this question SO often. When you receive your Hi Fi or Rockstar eyeshadow, you will see that there is a plastic piece inserted into the top. This is called a "sifter". It is primarily used to limit eyeshadow "overflow" and helps eliminate over-saturating your brush. Sifters are also very helpful if you're clumsy (like me), as a jar that is dropped our knocked of the counter without its lid only loses a bit of the product, as opposed to dumping it all out in the floor. Many people do not notice the holes in the sifter, or the sifter "seal", as it is just a clear sticker over the holes, meant to keep it safe and mess-free in transit. Simply find the edges of this clear sticker and peel it off to gain access to the eyeshadow underneath. Ta da! Your eyeshadow is ready to use. Simply turn the jar upside down and tap it a few times on the counter to get some eyeshadow on top of the sifter. If you are traveling or your shadow gets jostled about and ends up with too much in the top, simply replace the lid and tap the jar (rightside up) on the counter to send some of the shadow back down into the bottom of the jar.

Q: My sponge tip applicator doesn't seem to work at all with the eyeshadow. What am I doing wrong?

A: You will find that brushes work a million times better than sponge tip applicators for applying loose shadows. I strongly recommend getting a good set of brushes before proceeding with loose eyeshadow application. The difference in your results will be astounding. MAC brushes are very good, but if you're on a budget, e.l.f. and Sonia Kashuk (both of these can be found at your local Target) make some great inexpensive ones.

Q: Whenever I apply my eyeshadow, I end up in a cloud of sparklies, with hardly any eyeshadow left on my eye. Why?

A: Mineral or loose eyeshadows apply best when patted, not swept, on. Instead of using the typical "sweeping" motion you are probably accustomed to with pressed shadows, try "patting" the eyeshadow on with a flat shader brush. For crease application, where a sweeping motion is almost always necessary to blend, make sure to use a stiffer contouring brush and blend gently. Over blending can make mineral eyeshadows "disappear"...especially if you're not using primer.

Q: ...and I end up with tons of glitter/fallout all over my face by the time all is said and done.

A: With any loose eyeshadow, primer is a must...especially if your eyeshadow contains lots of shimmer or glitter. Some good primers to try are Urban Decay Primer Potion, Too Faced Shadow Insurance, Fyrinnae Pixie Epoxy (specifically designed for shimmery shadows and great for that "foiled" look, without the mess), or Hi-Fi's very own High Impact Shadow Fix (not really a primer, but more of a glittery eyeshadow adhesive...perfect for making eyeshadows more vibrant and making glitter or shimmer adhere to the eye). I've heard our High Impact Shadow Fix is very similar to Fyrinnae's Pixie Epoxy (I've personally never compared them), with the exception of the High Impact being more water resistant...which in turn makes eyeshadow last for as long as 18 hours (yes, I've tested it)...BUT eye makeup remover is necessary for gentle, easy removal. Pixie Epoxy has been reported to be easier to wash off. So I guess it depends on your needs/preferences. :)
Also, even with a good primer, you will probably still get some fallout. I've used many different methods for this, so here are a few:
1. Tap a generous amount of loose powder under the eyes before applying shadow. Any fallout left afterwards can be easily brushed away (along with the powder).
2. Do your foundation AFTER your eye makeup. This way, you can use makeup remover to fix the fallout without ruining the rest of your makeup.
3. If you haven't applied foundation yet, you can put some moisturizer under your eyes to catch the fallout, and then just wipe it away afterwards.
4. Use Shadow Shields (little adhesive "shields" to protect your under-eye and cheek area from fallout). Really convenient if the rest of your face is already done.

Q: My eyeshadow constantly creases every time I use the High Impact Shadow Fix. Am I using it wrong?

A: If the High Impact Shadow Fix is applied too heavily, it WILL crease. My best advice is to use the tiniest amount possible and blend, blend, blend it into the skin. The skin should feel slightly tacky, but not wet or greasy. If you can see a "shine" from the Shadow Fix, you've probably applied too much.

I hope these little pointers help!! If anyone else has any pointers they'd like to share, comment below or send me an email, and I'll add them here (giving you the credit, of course!).

Sale Ends at Midnight TONIGHT!!!!

2010-11-29T08:37:00.000-06:00

Just a reminder for those of you who don't follow me on Facebook...

The 40% off coupon expires at midnight tonight (CST)! If you want to purchase some awesome makeup at ridiculously low prices, then make sure you stop by Hi-Fi Cosmetics within the next 15.5 hours!!!

*hugs*

2010 BLACK FRIDAY SALE!!!

2010-11-23T07:39:00.004-06:00

*drumroll please*

A WHOPPING 40% off EVERYTHING!!! That's right...and it's FOUR DAYS LONG!

Anyway...of course, there will be a few exceptions. (I know...blah.) Due to the excellency of this discount, there are just certain items listed in my shop that will be ineligible for a discount. Sample sizes, already discounted items, etc. The sale will run from 12:00 AM on Friday, November 26 until 11:59 PM on Monday, November 29 (CST).

On to the "exceptions"...

As most of you know, my samples are pretty generously sized and very inexpensive for the amount of product you get. Frankly, I can't really afford to sell them any cheaper than I already am (losing money, etc.)...so...sample sets will be removed from the shop during this sale. (Etsy coupon codes are awesome, however, they apply the discount to EVERYTHING, meaning if there's anything I don't want discounted, I actually have to remove it from the shop.)

Also, the "Any 5" and "Any 10" listings will be removed. These are already greatly discounted, so they'll be removed during the sale as well.

If you'd like to purchase samples during the sale time frame, just send me an email (hificosmetics@gmail.com), and I'll invoice you directly through Paypal. Otherwise, order them before Friday! (Or wait until Tuesday.) Same goes for the "Any 5" and "Any 10" listings...however, I think using the coupon code and buying them individually would actually be cheaper.

Oh yeah... And PLEASE for the duration of this sale... Try to E-MAIL me instead of using Etsy convos. I will be in and out of the office (it's a holiday weekend for me too, you know), but I'll have my iPhone and can answer your emails that way. Etsy is just a pain in the butt to access via cell phone, so I usually just don't. And don't worry, the holiday isn't going to keep me from maintaining the shop. If you notice anything sold out, send me an email, and I'll whip out my trusty netbook and get it relisted for you! <3 (Thank goodness for wi-fi!)

So yeah...everything else...lip glosses, loose glitter, blushes, eyeshadows, gel products, etc... Everything. Is on sale.

Anyhow... I hope to see all of you at some point over this Black Friday/Cyber Monday weekend!!!

Remember...the coupon will be active from 12:00 AM Friday until 11:59 PM on Monday...CENTRAL STANDARD TIME. (I have to manually activate and deactivate these codes.) So, keep that in mind when you're ordering. Especially on Monday, when the sale ends. If you're on the Pacific coast, the sale will be ending around 10 PM Monday night for you guys... Ending around 1 AM Tuesday morning for my East Coast buddies. Internationals...well, you'll just have to do the math. Either way, everyone gets the same amount of time (96 hours) to shop!!!

So make sure to take into account what time zone you're in in relation to mine when preparing for the sale!!!

*hugs*

Lip Swatches!

2010-11-20T10:55:00.000-06:00

Finally got around to it!!! Here's the link to the Facebook album they're in.

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=41435&id=114000765290988

My lips are getting pretty worn out from all the swatching, removing, swatching, removing...etc... So I'm just doing a few at a time. I'll be adding to this album as I go. I'm also adding these swatches to their listings in Etsy. (Hopefully, I'll get them all done soon!) *hugs*

HIGH IMPACT SHADOW FIX: What's in it? Is it safe?

2010-11-08T08:47:00.001-06:00

There have been some questions arising lately due to the "big brand" sound of the ingredients list on this products and some speculation regarding the safety of these ingredients. Please rest assured that all of my ingredients are researched in depth before they enter any product in my line-up, and all of them are cosmetic safe.

Here's what's in Hi Fi Cosmetics's High Impact Shadow Fix:

VERSAGEL (easily obtained from TKB Trading): Used to improve emolliency in moisturizers and as a "thickening" agent. Also makes products more water resistant. The ingredients in Versagel are as follows:

hydrogenated polyisobutene
ethylene/propylene/styrene copolymer
butylene/ethylene/styrene copolymer

Other ingredients in High Impact Shadow Fix are as follows:

ALOE VERA GEL: A well-known moisturizer that has been evidenced to stimulate collagen production.

TRIETHANOLAMINE: Triethanolamine is used in a variety of cosmetic and personal care products, including eyeliners, mascara, eye shadows, blushers, make-up bases and foundations, as well as in fragrances, hair care products, hair dyes, wave sets, shaving products, sunscreens, and skin care and skin cleansing products. Triethanolamine is FDA approved as an indirect food additive (aka it can be used in packaging) and CIR approved with concentration limits. The CIR determined that Triethanolamine was “safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products designed for discontinuous, brief use followed by thorough rinsing from the surface of the skin. In products intended for prolonged contact with the skin, the concentration of Triethanolamine should not exceed 5%.” The concentration of triethanolamine in High Impact Shadow Fix is well below 5%.

TOCOPHERYL ACETATE: Also known as vitamin E acetate, is used in a variety of cosmetic and personal care products, including lipstick, eye shadow, blushers, face powders and foundations, moisturizers, skin care products, bath soaps and detergents, hair conditioners, and many other products. Tocopheryl Acetate is FDA approved and has received its GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) rating.

CARBOMER: Carbomers are thickening agents that help control the viscosity and flow of cosmetic products. They also help distribute and suspend insoluble solids into liquid, and prevent the oil and liquid parts of a solution from separating. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has assessed this ingredient as safe to use in cosmetic products. In reviewing acute oral and dermal studies, they determined that carbomers have a low potential for phototoxicity, photo-contact allergenicity, skin irritation and sensitization at concentrations up to 100%.

TETRASODIUM EDTA: Softens water, but preserves a formula as well by improving its stability when it is exposed to air and prevent microbial growth. Tetrasodium EDTA is not a dermal irritant or a sensitizer, and is not absorbed by skin easily.

DMDM HYDANTOIN: An antimicrobial cosmetic preservative primarily found in shampoo, conditioner, make up bases and foundations. There is a small chance it can cause irritation or an allergic reaction on sensitive skin (like many foundations and other cosmetic products do), but it is approved safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel.

DIAZOLIDINYL UREA: An antimicrobial that’s predominantly used as a preservative in cosmetic products, protecting them from the bacteria, yeast, and molds known to cause spoilage. It can be found in virtually every type of personal care products including as facial moisturizer/lotion, sunscreen, anti-aging treatment, cleanser, styling gel, foundation, shampoo/conditioner, eye cream, deodorant and mouthwash.

GLYCERIN: A naturally occurring ingredient (also synthetically made) that balances the water levels in skin to facilitate moisture. Glycerin is used as a lubricant and humectant in a variety of personal care products, and as a cosmetic bonding agent for makeup. Simply stated, glycerin attracts water to skin and helps skin to feel smoother and softer. However, studies have found that it not only attracts water to the skin, but also helps skin cells mature properly.

SILICA: Used as a versatile ingredient in the cosmetics and skin care industry because of its ability to serve as a an abrasive, anticaking agent, bulking agent, opacifying agent and suspending agent. However, it is most often seen as an absorbant, because of its ability to absorb moisture and sweat. Silica is seen in many make up formulas because its spherical particles not only absorb sweat and oil, but prevent light reflection, and improve spreadability.

I hope this "clears the air", so to speak.

Keep in mind... In this day and age, you have a lot of people out there saying "this is bad", "this causes cancer", "you'll get a rash if you use this", and blah blah blah. EVERYTHING kills you these days, apparently. It is your job as an educated consumer to do thorough research and make your own sound decisions on what products you use.

I love you guys!!! Thank you all for being so wonderful! PLEASE don't hesitate to contact me if you need any information or details on any of the products I offer.

Change is good... Glam Rock Eye Glitz

2010-10-20T14:36:00.001-05:00

Hey everyone!

Just wanted to post a quick note and let you all know that the packaging for the Glam Rock Eye Glitz is changing!!!

THIS IS A GOOD THING.

I have heard the feedback, and I love that you guys are liking the glitter gels so much... However, I noticed that there was a consistent drying-out issue, common with gel products packaged in jars.

Well, in an effort to remedy this issue, the glitter gels are now packaged in 10 ml squeeze tubes. *YAY!!!* Granted, this calls for a substantial increase in the amount of product received (at least double the original jar amount), so the price has increased accordingly.

I managed to get shipments of tubes in from two different companies, and while the tube size remains consistent between them, there are a couple differences. One shipment has a longer, silicone tip with a longer cap to accommodate it. The other shipment is a blunt, plastic tip with a short, domed cap. I just wanted to make you aware of this inconsistency in case you receive multiple items that don't appear identical. The quantity and quality of product remains the same.

Here's a photo of the silicone-tipped tubes with product in them:

This is what the finished product looks like without the label.

I hope this new packaging fixes the issues you all have been having!!!

*hugs*

SURPRISE!!!

2010-10-13T13:06:00.000-05:00

Yep... It's sale time!!! Here's the info from my main shop announcement:

SURPRISE SALE!!!!
--- Buy any 2 eyeshadows or lip glosses and get 1 item (of equal or lesser value) FREE!
Just mention coupon code SURPRISE and your color choices in the message section at checkout. Please double-check your cart and message section before submitting your order. Sale ends Saturday, October 16th, unless otherwise noted.

Check it out at http://hificosmetics.etsy.com!!!

NEW! NEW!! NEW!!!

2010-09-25T20:10:00.000-05:00

Yep... FINALLY the new collection I've been teasing you all with. I was finally able to get my computer back up and running after our move so I could edit some photos and post the listings. :)

I just KNEW I couldn't NOT do a Halloween collection... After all, I am a Halloween baby! (Yep...born on October 31st.)

I was going to post photos, but Blogger hates me today. So, here's a link to my shop. Just do a search on "Nightmare 2010" to bring them all up. *hugs*

http://hificosmetics.etsy.com

-V

Totally unrelated to Hi-Fi, but you should read anyway. :)

2010-09-24T17:56:00.000-05:00

Okay, so I submitted my husband in Urban Decay's Manhunt! :)

It would just tickle me pink if you all would cast some votes for him!

*hugs*

...a day at a time.

2010-08-20T07:05:00.000-05:00

Hey, everyone!

I just wanted to give you all a quick update and let you know that I'm still alive and kicking. I had surgery on Wednesday, so I'm still on pain and nausea meds...but all in all, I'm feeling much better. Physically and emotionally.

I really appreciate all the thoughts and prayers during my family's time of sorrow. I have the most wonderful customers ever and am truly blessed.

I'm still feeling a little "bleh"...partially due to surgery, and partially due to crazy pregnancy-hormones that are still working their way out of my system...but I'm going to make an attempt to start filling orders again today. To those of you who've been waiting a while... I am SO sorry. On top of already being behind, I totally didn't foresee a surgery in my future...especially the type I ended up having. Hope you all can forgive me! I'm gonna work my ass off all weekend to get the rest of these orders out. (I need them done, too... I have to pack!!!) :)

Thanks again for all your patience, understanding, and compassion. You guys rock.

Sad.

2010-08-14T16:33:00.000-05:00

In light of current and recent events, this post will be brief...

We lost our baby.

I'm still closing down temporarily after tomorrow, since we're still moving, and I'll be reopening as scheduled. Please forgive me if I don't respond to messages, emails, comments, etc. in a timely manner. We're still busy packing, and I'll be going in for some more tests and possible surgery next week.

I'm probably not going to make the big "official" Facebook/Twitter announcement until after I'm done with all the doctor stuff next week, as there's still a slight glimmer of hope that maybe my ultrasound was wrong. They're going to repeat it on Tuesday to be sure before I go in for a D&C on Wednesday.

I'm extremely emotional right now, and I'm doing everything I can to keep up with the demands of my business. Please forgive me if I appear inattentive for the next week or so. I'll still be filling orders and packing up my office, but my online presence may be lacking.

Please keep me and my family in your thoughts and prayers while we go through this. We wanted this baby so badly...but hopefully, after my test results come back, we'll find out that we can still try to have more. (Or maybe they'll miraculously find a heart beat when they do my ultrasound on Tuesday.)

I feel absolutely shattered inside, but every time I look at my two beautiful girls, I realize how blessed I already am. My heart may be broken, but my spirits still stand strong and full of hope. I just need some time to grieve and rearrange some things before I return to the normal, bubbly Veronica again.

Do you want the good news or the bad news first?

2010-07-28T07:15:00.002-05:00

Hey guys... I just thought I'd make a quick post here to announce some stuff.

GOOD NEWS IS...

I'm having another baby!!! Yay! I'm tentatively due in March, but of course that can change after my first sonogram. We're very excited!!! Here's my other two lovelies, Julia (age 6) and Raven (age 2)... They'll be 7 and 3 by the time their new brother or sister is born.

Me and my hubby...

(I was 7 months pregnant with Raven in this photo.)

POSSIBLY BAD NEWS IS...

Due to me being "with child", we now MUST move to a larger home. As most of you know, I currently run my business from a teensy weensy little room in my microscopic apartment, but as of now, that has to change. It doesn't help matters that I am considered to be a high-risk pregnancy, as both of my other children had complicated pregnancies and/or births. Basing this off my history, I'll probably end up on bed rest somewhere around 25 weeks or so (which shouldn't affect my ability to sit on my butt and make eyeshadow, by the way...LOL).

With all that said, our move to a larger home will be fairly quick, as we want to have enough time for me to help out with packing and moving before my doctor puts me on all those medical restrictions... We already have a place, and we're moving around the first of September (to give the current occupant time to move out). I will be TEMPORARILY closing down my shop for about a month so we can pack, move, and unpack. I'll obviously have to be allowed time to ship out existing orders, pack up my office, relocate it, and unpack and reorganize before I can resume normal business. I know, sad face, right?

I know it sucks, and trust me, my lack of income for that month is going to suck harder... BUT I'd much rather sacrifice my income than sacrifice my customer service. You guys are awesome. So with all that said...

HI-FI COSMETICS WILL BE CLOSING TEMPORARILY from AUGUST 16th TO SEPTEMBER 13th so I can move and get settled into my new office space.

If you guys need or want anything, I suggest you make plans to purchase before August 16th, otherwise, it will be mid-September before you can order anything.

SO sorry this is so sudden, but I promise, I'm coming back!!! I expect Hi-Fi Cosmetics to be around for a very long time!!! I'll continue to update Facebook (my personal page and fan page) to keep you guys posted on my progress. :)

Thanks so much for all your love and support!

ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY SALE!!!!!

2010-07-01T18:51:00.002-05:00

Thank you all SO much for making this past year an absolutely amazing chapter of my life!!! I love all my customers, and I truly appreciate all of you for helping me realize my dream. I know I still have a long way to go, but I couldn't ask for more at this point in my business-life! To express my gratitude, I'm having a ginormous sale... Check it out!

In lieu of my insane schedule...I'm just going to post the deets straight from my Etsy shop announcement!!!

ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY SALE!!!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

As a great big thank you to my awesome customers for making this past year AMAZING, I'm offering the following awesome deals:

Buy 5 eyeshadows (Hi Fi or Rockstar) and get 5 eyeshadows FREE!!! (Of equal or lesser value)
Also, buy 2 Lip Glazes or Shadow Fix and get 2 FREE!!!
All other items are Buy One, Get One FREE!!! (Mix and match shades on like items)
Double your haulage!!! Take advantage of this sale NOW!!! The madness ends on the 10th!

As always, please DO NOT add your free items to your cart. Simply note them in the Etsy message section at checkout!!!
++++++++++++++++++++++++

JOIN US ON FACEBOOK!!!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hi-Fi-Cosmetics/114000765290988

ATTENTION: Due to an increase in sales volume, PLEASE allow around 8 BUSINESS DAYS (not counting weekends!) for the orders to ship. Whenever I hold sales, I usually generate about 4x the amount of orders of a regular business day (not to mention larger order sizes than normal), so please allow 10-12 BUSINESS days for items to ship during those times. Most of my products are made to order, and as you know, I am a one-woman show...so I hope you all understand the need for this slightly longer processing time. Thanks so much for your patience and understanding! :)

**********************************************************

Sale! Sale!! SALE!!!

2010-06-11T18:26:00.000-05:00

Yep! I'm gonna be simple and to the point...

If you spend $40 or more, you get 25% off!!! Woo! That's a minimum of $10 off! I know many of you have been checking out the new Labyrinth collection, so this would be the perfect time to buy!

Just remember to put the coupon code 25OFF40 in the message section at checkout, and DO NOT PAY WITH PAYPAL UNTIL YOU RECEIVE THE REVISED INVOICE from me. :)

Hope all of you are keeping cool in this crazy heat! Sending you all hugs...with my mind...because it's too darn hot to be hugging for real. :)

JUST RELEASED: The Labyrinth Collection!!!!!

2010-06-11T17:57:00.001-05:00

This collection of shades was inspired by Jim Henson's "Labyrinth", which happens to be my favorite movie of all time! Not to mention the MUSIC!!!!!! David Bowie is awesome.

Here are the eyeshadows:

And the Lip Glazes:

I have these posted to where you can buy them individually, as an eyeshadow sample set, or the complete full-size set (all 10 eyeshadows and all 3 lip glosses).

What do you think?

Facebook WINNERS!!!

2010-06-02T07:58:00.001-05:00

Here goes!!!

The "grand-prize" winner of FIVE eyeshadows and TWO Lip Glazes of their choice is...*drumroll please*

ASLI ÖZENҪ!!!

(I'll be contacting all the winners via Facebook as well.)

The next four people will receive any THREE eyeshadows of their choice and ONE Lip Glaze!

1. Emily Kittie
2. Casey Green
3. Kelley Hurtgen
4. Saila

The final five each get one eyeshadow or Spotlight Lip Glaze of their choice!!! :)

1. Carol Ann Whitt
2. Marissa Black
3. Wendi Girven
4. Leira Yann
5. Rebecca Storevik

Congratulations to all the winners!!!

Victory Party

2010-05-19T19:18:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone!

I haven't been very motivated to do anything lately (other than work, of course), especially since my husband is gone. I normally put in crazy hours while he's away, but this time around I've actually managed to get in some late spring cleaning. Otherwise, my life is pretty dull, and I'm a total hermit.

Well, last night a friend of mine had a "victory party". He was running for local office (justice of the peace) and invited everyone out to the bar to watch the polls, have some snacks, sing a little karaoke, etc. I almost didn't go, but I decided that I really needed some time away from the kids, and I had donated a considerable amount of funding to his campaign, so it would probably be decent of me to at least show my face.

He didn't win, but it was close!

I live in a tiny town in the middle of B.F.E. Arkansas, so most of the people there were dressed...hmm..."normally"??? (What is "normal" anyway?) In this area of the state (which is MUCH different from the northwestern corner where I used to live), the women are a lot more conservative and "classic", I suppose. You know, they aren't really "in style", but they aren't really "out of style" either... Basic jeans and t-shirt most of the time.

I obviously don't fit in here.

Anyway...I always stick out like a sore thumb. I grew up in B.F.E. Alabama, so I'm totally NOT hating on rural folk (I am one!)... I've just come to realize that everyone here thinks I'm from New York City or something. (Which I find hilarious, by the way...since I've never been any farther north than North Carolina! LOL!) Whatever. The community I grew up in (yeah, it wasn't even big enough to be considered a town) was WAY smaller than here... But I don't think I've EVER fit in anywhere. No matter where I am on this side of the Bible Belt, I always seem to have the brightest makeup, craziest hair (which is, oddly, a "normal" color right now), most visible skin/tattoos, and sparkliest clothes/shoes. I always feel over-dressed, and I'm often stared at like I'm an alien or something...but whateva.

It works for me, though. As Mena Suvari said in the movie American Beauty... "There's nothing worse than being ordinary."

Here's the look I did...

EYES:

I used the following:

Hi Fi Shadow in Polka Dot Bikini (VERY light application in inner corner)

Hi Fi Shadow in Epidemic (inner half of main lid area)

Hi Fi Shadow in Crazy Little Thing (outer half of main lid area)

Rockstar Loose Eyeshadow in Backstage (outer corner and crease)

Hi Fi Shadow in Lullaby (as highlight and lightly applied over Polka Dot Bikini)

Other products used:

Hard Candy Take Me Out liner in Ahi

Mary Kay Ultimate Mascara in Black

Kiss Me liquid liner in Black

Lashes from eBay

Finally, a *real* smile for you!

I also used Hard Candy Painted Lady lipstick in Perfect 10 and NYX blush in Red...oh yeah...and a cream highlighter than I randomly decided to mix one day. I might have some of these up in my shop soon if there's an interest.

AND...for once...I wore a tinted moisturizer (e.l.f.) and *gasp!* powder (something I custom mixed for myself)!!! Most of you know that I rarely ever wear anything other than blush or concealer on my face, so this is a date to remember! LOL! And I apologize for the craptastic hair... I had to make the kids dinner before I left, so I ran out of time.

Anyhow... Did anyone else do anything fun last night?

One Weekend a Month, Two Weeks a Year...

2010-05-17T21:05:00.003-05:00

Hey everyone!!!

As a lot of you know, my husband is gone for his annual training for a couple of weeks. And well... I miss him. He's only been gone since Friday, but I seriously feel incomplete without him here. (Go ahead, you can gag now. LOL.)

By the way, that whole National Guard thing... "One weekend a month, two weeks a year"... Yeah, that's total crap...if you're active duty. My husband is full-time Guard, so he's gone A LOT more than that.

BUT ANYWAY... We do this little thing when he's gone where we send each other photos of what we're doing. I'll send pictures of the kids, cell phone "self-portraits", and maybe a few that are on the slightly "racy" side (hehe)... And in return, I'll get some of the same "self-portraits" and pictures of him and "the guys" chilling on the humvees, etc. Well, today he was missing me (aww!), and he wanted me to send a picture of myself.

I always feel so guilty, because I'm usually bare-faced with raggamuffin hair and sloppy clothes when he comes home from work. The minute he steps through the door, he can see the day's work all over me...covered in glitter, toddler smears (of who knows what), and a very stressed out look on my face. He's usually greeted with, "Thank goodness you're home! Watch the kids for me so I can finally shower!!!" or, with car keys in hand, "Hi, honey. I have to run to the post office. See you when I get back." Needless to say, unless we're going somewhere special, I don't usually get dolled up for him... As a matter of fact, he sees me "au naturale" (not in the good way) a lot more than I'd like.

A few years ago, things could not have been more different. I used to wear makeup constantly. I would get up early in the morning and put on "my face" so he wouldn't have to be subjected to a sallow, zombie-fied me. I used to do my hair during the day and put on a fresh face of makeup before he got home just so I could be presentable for my hard working, loving husband. Well, all of that was before baby #2 and self-employment came along.

So I guess I'm just feeling a lot of guilt lately. I know my husband loves me no matter what I look like, but I feel like it's sort of "my duty" as a wife to not "let myself go". A woman should always want to be desirable and attractive to her husband. SO... (after all that long, boring crap) I wanted to be pretty when I sent him my picture today.

All products (unless otherwise noted) are Hi-Fi Cosmetics.

This is the look I did...

My camera's flash sort of washed me out in the full face photos. The one I actually ended up sending him was on my cell phone with no flash, so it was a little less washed out.

EYES:

On my eyes, I used:

High Impact Shadow Fix (all over lid, from lashline to brow)

Hi Fi Shadow in Hail Caesar (inner corner)

Rockstar Loose Eyeshadow in Sound Check (middle of lid)

Rockstar Loose Eyeshadow in Sex, Drugs, & Rock 'n' Roll (outer "V")

Hi Fi Shadow in Beautiful Nightmare (crease)

Hi Fi Shadow in Lullaby (highlight)

I also used Hail Caesar, Sound Check, and Sex, Drugs, & Rock 'n' Roll on the lower lashline.

Used Kiss Me liquid liner in Black. On brows, I used a generic dark brown pencil and e.l.f.'s brow kit in Dark Brown. Lashes are from eBay.

LIPS:

I used Spotlight Lip Glaze in No Day But Today over Isomers Maxi Lip 2. (I think that's what it's called.)

Here's a close-up of the Lip Glaze:

Here's a couple more pics of my face:

I'm a little washed out in this pic, but I was also wearing Get It On gel blush, as always, on an otherwise bare face. (I always feel weird saying that. I always feel like I've missed a step or two! LOL.)

I apologize for the wonky-looking lashes. As you can tell, one of my brows was surgically "lifted" when I had to get a large gash sutured as a child. Now I have one hooded eye (my natural eyes) and one not-hooded eye (due to my doctor's handiwork). So it always makes makeup application difficult...not to mention penciling in the brows (because they are shaped differently now). My lashes always look craptastic and unbalanced because of it. How crappy is that? (Maybe I'll get the other eye fixed to match one day...LOL.)

Jumbo photo!!!

My camera refused to show the spectacular sparkle of these shadows.

Also, here's a question you guys might be able to help me with... My natural lashes are pin-straight (very similar to Asian lashes) and impossible to curl or blend with falsies because they grow downward. Any suggestions?

Anyway...I was pretty happy with this look, and my husband raved and raved about it once he received his photo. :) Now I'm just ready for him to get home. If I'm lucky, I might be able to go see him next weekend. (They might be giving him a 24-hour pass.)

What are your thoughts on this look? Do any of you have men in the military or that travel for their jobs? If you do, how do you keep yourself occupied (and sane) while they're away?

Facebook Giveaway!!

2010-05-14T20:14:00.001-05:00

Okay, the title kind of gives this one away...

ONE PERSON will receive FIVE of their favorite Hi Fi or Rockstar shadows and TWO Lip Glazes of their choice!

FOUR others will receive THREE of their favorite shadows and ONE Lip Glaze!

FIVE more people will win ONE shadow or Lip Glaze of their choice!!!

That's a total of 10 WINNERS!!! (I told you it was a big one!)

Here's how you get entries:

1. "Like" Hi-Fi Cosmetics on Facebook (click here to see my fan page). (One entry)
2. Go to the photo albums and comment on the pictures of up to three of your favorites. (Up to three entries, one for each comment left after 8:00 PM CST, Friday, May 14)
3. Share the link to your blog or video review/tutorial/etc. (Two entries for each link or video posted. For tutorials and/or FOTDs, you must focus on Hi-Fi or use Hi-Fi products for the majority of the look.)
4. Share your Hi-Fi photos on the Hi-Fi Cosmetics Facebook wall (or Fan Photos section). (One entry for each photo.)

At the deadline, I will organize and number all entries. I will then do ten random drawings using random.org, drawing the "grand prize" winner first, the group of four next, then finishing up with the final five. This will ensure a completely unbiased, random drawing for the winners. :)

So, anyway...there are lots of ways to get entries! :) I'll be running this little giveaway from 8:00 PM CST, Friday, May 14th until 8:00 PM CST, Friday, May 28th. That gives you two weeks. :)

I hope to see lots of entries!!! Good luck to you all!!! :)

Introductory Sale!!!

2010-05-12T09:49:00.000-05:00

Wow... Long time no post!!! I've been super busy lately with tornadoes (!!!), unexpected guests, and my husband's crazy military schedule, so I greatly apologize for not posting more FOTDs, updates, etc.

Anyway... If you guys are on my Facebook fan page, then you know about all the new stuff that's been coming out. Check out these photos for a peek at the new Rockstar Loose Eyeshadows, which are basically the same awesome quality of the Hi Fi Shadows, but packing more of a glitter-tastic punch. This new line runs at $5.99 apiece, which is a little more than the $4.99 for Hi Fi Shadows...but since these are so packed with amazing sparkle-goodness, they cost me a little bit more to produce. Either way, it's still an awesome deal!!! :)

Also, if you're looking for something to make those sparklies stick, try out my new High Impact Shadow Fix, which is especially formulated for loose shadows (esp. those with lots of glitter, sparkle, etc.), but it can be used with any shimmery shadow...even pressed ones. However, it's not so awesome for mattes, as it can cause an uneven or patchy application. Just an FYI... This product rocks my face off!!! (To see this product in action, check out these photos.)

Now... On to the sale!!!

I'm doing a special "introductory offer" on the Rockstar Loose Eyeshadows from May 9th until May 23rd!! That gives you two weeks to load up on these spectacular shadows!

Here's the deal: Buy 1 Rockstar shadow, Get 1 Free **OR** Buy 2 Rockstar shadows, and get a tube of High Impact Shadow Fix or a Spotlight Lip Glaze for FREE!!!

You decide, and there's NO LIMIT!! As always, DO NOT put your free items in your cart. Simply mention in the message section which shades you'd like for free. :) Simple. No waiting on revised invoices! *yay!*

Hope you guys enjoy the sale, and remember it ends in 11 days!!! Start stocking up now! :)

Taxes!!! Ugh.

2010-04-19T15:32:00.000-05:00

Hey... The hubby and I just got done with our taxes, which turned out to be an ordeal that took me away from filling orders for a few days. I'll be making a big trip to the post office tomorrow, so if you think you should have received your order by now and haven't, there's a good chance it will be shipping then. SO sorry for the delay.

Product Information - Hi Fi Shadows NOT APPROVED FOR LIP USE

2010-03-27T14:07:00.001-05:00

While all of my Hi Fi Shadows are considered multi-purpose, the following eyeshadows contain ingredients that are not approved to be used on the lips, such as chromium oxide or ultramarines.

Beautiful Tragedy
Brandy
Can’t See the Forest
Cheap Tricks
Chicago
Crash Around Me
Decibel
Deck the Halls
Distortion
Don’t Forget the Violence
Jenny
Lithium
Morbid Faith
My Pride
Pixies
Plush
Prophecies & Curses
Queen of Disaster
Revanche
Rising Tide
Slave to Money
Struggle for Control
Terror From the Depths
The End
The Hydra
Wild Thing
You’re a Criminal

As always, feel free to email me at hificosmetics@gmail.com with any questions!!!

Product Information - Hi Fi Shadows Containing CARMINE

2010-03-27T13:40:00.001-05:00

Here is a list of all Hi Fi Shadows that contain the ingredient CARMINE, meaning these shadows are NOT VEGAN.

Aphrodisiac

Beautiful Nightmare

Bittersweet

Butterfly Wings

Dismembered Constellation

Drunken Kiss

Eat Me, Drink Me

Five O’Clock

Happily Ever After

In Bloom

Last Dance

Love Hurts

Midnight Hour

Miracle Mile

My Valentine

Night Fever

Pins & Needles

Rich Girl

Screaming for More

Taste Like Valentines

Hope this helps all my vegan and carmine-conscious friends!!! :) *hugs*

Product Information - Hi Fi Shadows Containing BISMUTH OXYCHLORIDE

2010-03-27T13:35:00.001-05:00

I'm posting a series of product information posts, as I receive tons of questions about which eyeshadows contain what. Up until now, I hadn't compiled any lists...so I was having to retype it over and over again in response to each email I received. Well, no more massive list-typing for me!!! :) I'm posting it here for all to see. I'll also be putting links to these on the side bar for easy access.

Anyway...here is the very short list of the shadows containing BISMUTH. None of my other products contain this ingredient.

Sweet Dreams
Universe of Fear

Yep...That's it. :)

Posts showing which ingredients contain carmine and dyes are soon to follow. Also, I will be posting a list of which colors are not approved for use on the lips. :) Please let me know if you have any questions!!! Feel free to email me at hificosmetics@gmail.com!

I'll be updating these lists as I create new shades so they'll remain current.

SPRING SALE!!!

2010-03-21T16:46:00.002-05:00

That's right...more FREE STUFF!!!

Why do I always do these types of sales instead of "25% OFF" or whatever? The answer is easy. TIME. When I do sales for a certain percentage off or something, Etsy requires me to do one of two things... I must go in and revise the prices of EVERY SINGLE ITEM in my shop...which takes FOREVER... OR, I have to ask each and every customer to wait for a revised invoice on every order that comes in. This takes away from the time I have to fill orders and get them out the door in a timely manner. So, as a favor to you (and myself), I just let you guys get free stuff instead. :)

Anyway...as for the sale... Buy any TWO Hi Fi Shadows (my most popular item by FAR) and GET ONE FREE!!! Also, you can buy any TWO Spotlight Lip Glazes (newness!) and GET ONE FREE!!! What a deal, right? Just mention coupon code SPRINGSALE along with your free items in the message section at checkout.

I'm running this sale until...*drumroll please*...the END OF APRIL! That's right...a whopping SIX WEEKS!!!

Just remember, my order volume gets a little crazy when I do these sales, so keep in mind that it may take longer to get your order out the door. As always, if you have any question on the status of your order, do not hesitate to contact me. :)

Speaking of contacting me... If you email me at hificosmetics@gmail.com, you are more likely to get a prompt response, because I can easily reply to emails using my phone when I am away from my office. Etsy convos usually have to wait until I'm home and focused strictly on that.

***NOTE: PLEASE do not put your free items in your cart, as I will have to send you a separate revised invoice, which takes away from time I could be filling orders. Just type in the names of the free items in the message section along with the coupon code. Thanks!***

Anyway...let me know what you think!!! Anything in particular you plan on purchasing during this sale? :)

Hands Off My Shamrocks!

2010-03-18T13:04:00.003-05:00

Okay...I saw this shirt in Hot Topic, and I wanted it SO badly... It would have been quite hilarious, as I usually do everything I can to try and conceal and/or minimize my 38F breasts. Something inside me was BEGGING me to buy it, however, I couldn't really justify spending $22 on a t-shirt that I only get to wear once a year, that I hopefully won't fit into next year. (I'm trying to lose some poundage, and hopefully, some boobage along with it.) SO...my will power triumphed for once!!! I just figured I would enjoy the IDEA of owning it. :)

My husband keeps hoping that my losing weight won't shrink "the twins", but I'm desperately hoping they'll go down at least two to three cup sizes. I'm currently 5'9" and a size 12/14, so it's not like I'm an enormous person... I just have giant boobs. Go figure.

Anyway...enough Shamrock-Boob talk... :) Here's my FOTD for St. Patty's Day, which is probably the whole reason you're here in the first place, right? *xoxo*

My lipstick and gloss had pretty much worn off at this point... But just in case you were wondering, I wore a random nude lipliner and Maybelline Color Sensational lipstick in Caramel Kiss with Victoria's Secret Beauty Rush lipgloss in Creme Femme in the center of my bottom lip. (By the way, if any of you know where I can get more of the VS Creme Femme gloss, PLEASE let me know. It's my absolute favorite. I'm working on creating a dupe for it, but I haven't succeeded yet.)

I was SO impressed with how well these shadows wore together. As you can see, there are a couple that aren't in the shop yet (because I've been so swamped, I haven't been able to take swatch photos of them yet), but I promise they are coming soon! :) I believe "Prophecies & Curses" is the only one that doesn't have photos taken yet. "Revanche" and "Raw Shock" are ready, I just haven't gotten around to listing them (along with a ton of other awesome new colors). :)

I applied my eye makeup as follows:

1. Applied LA Splash Splash Proof Sealer to entire lid area up to crease. (I've never used Fyrinnae's Pixie Epoxy, but I'm thinking that this does the exact same thing, as I always use it to amp up my shimmery/glittery shadows...and trust me, they DO NOT budge. I've even pulled a few all-nighters using this stuff and still had perfect eye makeup when the sun came up! By the way, I do have some Pixie Epoxy on the way!)

2. Using a medium, semi-stiff brush, I pressed "Raw Shock" on the center of my lid, leaving the inner and outer 1/4 bare.

3. Using a small, stiff brush, I lightly applied "Adeste Fideles" to the inner corner and around the tear duct.

4. I then applied "Prophecies & Curses" to the outer corner, using a firm rounded brush.

5. "Revanche" was then applied lightly to the outer "V", and into the crease about 3/4 of the way in using a small crease brush.

6. I then used a flat, fluffy brush to apply "Champagne Toast" as a highlight.

7. After applying my highlight, I took a liner brush and applied "Prophecies & Curses" to my lower lashlines.

8. I applied L'Oreal Extra Intense liquid pencil in black to my waterline, and Blinc Kiss Me liquid liner to the top lashline, creating a "wing" or "cat-eye" effect.

9. I then applied Ardell Demi Wispies and Smashbox Bionic mascara, and... Ta-done!

As most of you know by now, my face makeup is typically very minimal. I don't wear foundation, except on special occasions, so usually I just go bare with a little concealer and of course, blush. :)

Anyway...hope you guys enjoyed this look!!! I'll be getting all the eyeshadows that I used listed VERY soon!

Smoochie boochies!

Hi Fi Shadow Swatchfest!!! Purples & Pinks!

2010-03-05T13:00:00.001-06:00

I FINALLY found my lost SD card so I can post some more of these. I was seriously freaking out. TONS of hours of photos are on it. But anyway...glad to have it back, and here are the purple/pink swatchies! :) Enjoy!!!

APHRODISIAC

BEAUTIFUL NIGHTMARE

BENEATH THE ROSE

BRANDY

BRASS PETALS

DECIBEL

DRUNKEN KISS

EAT ME, DRINK ME

FALLEN ANGELS

HAPPILY EVER AFTER

HELL FROZEN

HOPE

IN BLOOM

LIVE BY PASSION

LIVE LARGE

LOVE HURTS

MIDNIGHT HOUR

MIRACLE MILE

MY VALENTINE

PINS & NEEDLES

PIXIES

PLUSH

PRINCE CHARMING

RAINDROPS ON ROSES

RICH GIRL

SCREAMING FOR MORE

SPIKE THE PUNCH

SWEET CHILD

SWEET EMOTIONS

TAINTED LOVE

TERROR IN THE DEPTHS

THINGS THAT CANNOT SPEAK

TOURNIQUET

VISIONS OF SUGARPLUMS

VANITY RUINS

Yay for swatches!

Hi Fi Shadow Swatchfest!!! Blues & Greens!

2010-02-25T17:14:00.001-06:00

More swatchies!!! :)

ALONE

ANGEL'S SCREAM

BAD SEED

BEAUTIFUL TRAGEDY

BIG SHOT

CHEAP TRICKS

CRASH AROUND ME

CRAZY LITTLE THING

CRIPPLED PLAYTHING

DECK THE HALLS

DELUSION

DISTORTION

DON'T FORGET THE VIOLENCE

FRONT PAGE

GRINCH

LITHIUM

OTHER SIDE

OVERDOSE

QUEEN OF DISASTER

REVANCHE

RISING TIDE

SANTA, BABY

THE CYANIDE YOU DRANK

THE END

UNIVERSE OF FEAR

WILD THING

WORK IT

YOUR DISEASE

Hope you like!

Hi Fi Shadow Swatchfest!!! Yellows, Oranges, Reds!

2010-02-25T16:50:00.001-06:00

Here's another swatch post... This time, it's the fiery family of yellows, oranges, and reds!! Oh my!

ALLEGRO

ARSONIST

BUTTERFLY WINGS

HOT ROD

LIVING FIRE

MIND MANIPULATOR

POINTLESS INTERVENTION

RAID THE KING

TALK DIRTY

THINGS THAT LOVERS DO

I really wish I had swatch photos of everything...or at least if I could just find my missing SD card!!! Grr!

Hi Fi Shadow Swatchfest!!! Neutrals, Browns, Golds!

2010-02-25T15:09:00.001-06:00

Okay... I know it's hard to sort through the shop to find shades in a specific color family, so I just thought I'd post some swatches over the next several days to help you guys out some! :) I'll be going through all the color groups...pinks, reds, blues, purples, blacks, etc. This post is for browns, beiges, golds...or any other "neutralish" color. Unfortunately, I don't have swatch photos of every single color in my line (I know, I'm bad), and some of the newer ones I do have swatches of are on an SD card that I can't seem to find right now. (Eeek!) But most of the colors do have swatches, so I'll post what I have.

Enjoy!!!

ADAGIO

ADESTE FIDELES

BACK SEAT SPECIAL

CHAMPAGNE TOAST

DECADENCE

DIRTY

DON'T WANNA BE FRIENDS

FEAR THE NOBODIES

HAIL CAESAR

HOT COCOA

KISS IN THE SAND

OBSCENITY

OLD-FASHIONED FASCISM

STATE OF MIND

LET IT SNOW

SUGAR

TELL ME LIES

THE MIDAS TOUCH

US OR THE HATCHET

WAR CHILD

So, tell me... Does having these swatches all in one place help at all?

COMING SOON!

2010-02-23T08:12:00.001-06:00

Okay, I have been formulating like a mad woman! I have lots of new shadows and a few new glosses (pics of the glosses will come later) that I'll be adding to my shop this week and/or next. Just thought I would give you all some pics to drool over until I get them up. :)

Several of these were actually intended for a Valentine's release, but my schedule, orders, etc. sort of put me behind to where I didn't get a chance to actually post them. So...here they are...in addition to some random new ones. :) I'll post some swatches if you guys would like.

Hope you enjoy them!!! I'll update once they are all added to my shop!

I'm not dead!

2010-02-11T06:03:00.000-06:00

Hey there, everyone!

Over the course of the past couple weeks I've gotten a lot of emails from readers/customers who noticed my internet absence and wanted to check on me. You guys are so sweet! :)

My health is much better now. I went through a bad spell, but as of today, I feel great! So...let me give you some updates...

On top of me being sick, we also had a couple winter storms come through the area that blocked a lot of roadways and delayed the postal service. If you haven't received your order yet, NEVER FEAR. I am completely caught up on filling orders, so if you don't have yours in hand yet, it is likely due to the condition of the roadways, preventing me from getting to the post office (I have about 20 that are done, but just need to be dropped off), or the fact that your package has been delayed due to weather...especially if you live in the east...which I have unofficially deemed Blizzardville.

Now...on to the coolness...

You guys were wanting some swatches of the lipglosses, so here they are. I didn't do them on my skin because I am dark complected, and some of these colors are so light or sheer that they wouldn't have shown up well. I have a series of more opaque ones coming soon, so for those of you who are wanting a bigger punch of color...just be patient!!! :)

Personally, "Standing Ovation" and "Gin & Sin" are my favorites. :)

Anyway, I just wanted to let you guys know that I am alive and kicking, and that everything is well here in the Romero world. :) Thank you all for being so concerned and most of all, patient, during this hectic time.

MORE Newness!

2010-01-27T07:56:00.001-06:00

As promised, I have several new eyeshadow shades available in my shop now!!! Check them out...

Do any of these catch your eye? :)

FINALLY...Lip Products!

2010-01-26T18:31:00.001-06:00

So, I have some new lip glosses in the shop!!! (Photos below.) Also, I have several new eyeshadows arriving as well!!! (You'll see them in a very quickly upcoming post!!!) :) Enjoy!

What do you guys think?

Another heads up...

2010-01-21T10:11:00.002-06:00

Hey, everyone! I just wanted to give you all a heads up on what's going on right now.

YES...I have orders that are behind. Why? I had a supplier that was backordered on a ton of stuff, so it put certain orders behind, but not all of them.

Also, I have been sick. I'm a severe asthmatic, and I've had several "close calls" over the past week or two. I finally decided to go to the doctor yesterday, and it's confirmed. I have a horrible case of bronchitis that could be turning into pneumonia. I'm not sure how many of you are familiar with chronic asthma, but to keep it short, sweet, and to the point, if my condition gets much worse it could be considered life-threatening, and they will admit me to the hospital. I'm trying to manage my current condition with antibiotics, heavy duty cough suppressants, and my rescue inhaler. I will likely start receiving breathing treatments as well.

As much as I hate to do this, I will be taking a break from filling orders for a couple of days. I KNOW it sucks...but I really want to provide a sanitary environment, and I don't feel that me packaging orders while I'm so ill is in your best interest. My husband will be picking up some of the slack while I'm on my "sick leave", so orders WILL be getting filled...just maybe not as expediently as I (or you) would like.

I'm VERY sorry for the delay, but I need to get healthy before I can resume business as usual. I hope you all understand.
'
Thanks so much!

Karaoke, anyone?

2010-01-17T10:00:00.001-06:00

My husband and I went out Thursday night, and had an amazing time (as usual) at our local karaoke bar. I love to sing, and I like to think I'm pretty good at it, so we do this as often as we can...normally a couple times a month, if we can find a babysitter. :)

Anyway... Keep in mind that we live in a small town, smack-dab in the middle of the Bible Belt herself, and most of the people here are, well...I'll just say not very "alternative" or "trendy". There are about a million country music radio stations here, one or two top 40 stations, and zero...yes, ZERO...alternative or rock stations. As a matter of fact, drive 10 miles in any direction, and you will come across some sort of pasture with livestock or cotton fields. LOL. Thank goodness Memphis is only about an hour or so away, or I might die. Seriously.

This area actually reminds me a lot of the extremely tiny town I grew up in. There are no awesome night clubs here, and if people go to the bar, they're usually wearing minimal makeup, natural haircolor, jeans, and a t-shirt. I prefer my uber-bright, mega-sparkly makeup and lots of bats, skulls, black, and leather! LOL. And my hair is...well...it depends on what day of the week it is. :)

Needless to say, I don't really fit in here. We just moved to this area a little over three months ago, and EVERY TIME my husband and I go to the bar, we get asked, "You're not from around here, are you?" LOL. I find it amusing...but I also find it a great opportunity to enlighten some people on the thrills of a little open-mindedness. I tend to be a little bit of a trendsetter, so let's see if any of my flamboyant sense of style catches on here. My guess...NOT LIKELY. Haha!

Anyway...here's the look I wore to the bar this past Thursday. You can imagine how much I was stared at that night, but I received tons of compliments...so it's nice to know that "different" isn't feared here. I just have a feeling I'm a lot braver than most of the women who live here were taught to be when it comes to fashion and/or personal style. :)

So, here's my look. I saw this necklace on

Phyrra's blog and had to have it!

From http://www.etsy.com/shop/cutesycuppycake

On eyes, I used: Hi-Fi Cosmetics Hi Fi Shadows in

Buttercup (inner corner), Mind Manipulator (mid lid),

Live Large (outer corner and crease), and Tell Me Lies

(highlight). This is on top of Hi-Fi Cosmetics eyeshadow

base (coming soon!). I also used Hard Candy Walk the

Line Liquid Liner in Asphalt (upper lashline), Urban Decay

24/7 Pencil in Zero, and Hard Candy Take Me Out Liner

in Ahi (lower lashline).

Here's another shot of both eyes.

On lips, I used: LA Girl lipstick in Last Night with

Soap & Glory's Sexy Motherpucker gloss in Baby Doll

layered on top.

Here's a photo of me in less-than-fabulous

lighting conditions.

And here's the whole thing again! :)

So...what do you think? Do any of you live in an area where you don't really "fit in"? Do you choose to be yourself and carry your own personal style regardless? Let me know your thoughts!

Out with the old... In with the new.

2010-01-11T11:01:00.001-06:00

Good news! There are lots of new colors and products coming soon! However, in order to make room, I'm having to discontinue quite a few items. Here are the items most recently added to the Clearance Section in my shop. All clearance items are marked down to 1/2 off! :)

If you want any of these items, you'd better act fast!!! Because once they're gone, they are GONE! I'll post the new items that are replacing these as I add them to my shop. :)

Happy 2010!!!

2010-01-01T19:50:00.001-06:00

Many of you have been wondering what I used for New Year's, and here it is!!! I was originally going to do a silver and black combo, but in browsing through YouTube and the such for inspiration, I felt that look was being worn out. So, I decided to modify my original idea by using a shimmery pink instead of silver. Let me know what you think! :)

On my eyes:

1. A Hi-Fi Cosmetics not-yet-released pink/green color shifting shade on the inner corners and very lightly as highlight.

2. "Miracle Mile" from the 2010 Collection all over the lid from lashline to crease.

3. "Dirty Word Witchcraft" from the 2010 Collection on outer corner and in crease.

4. Paparazzi Flash Powder in "Sexy Cupid" on top of "Miracle Mile" eyeshadow.

5. A not-yet-released black-based Paparazzi Flash Powder on top of "Dirty Word Witchcraft". Blended with "Sexy Cupid" by lightly patting with finger.

6. Paparazzi Flash Powder in "Forget My Name" mixed with mixing medium and applied to lower lashline.

7. Hard Candy Walk the Line liquid liner in "Asphalt" on upper lashline.

8. Ardell demi wispies lashes.

Aron and I right after we arrived... Too bad you can't really see my eye makeup well in this pic...but I was also wearing NYX blush in "Terracotta" along with Stila Illuminating Finishing Powder in "Rose Gold". On my lips was Soap & Glory's Sexy Motherpucker lipgloss in...well, it was the plum shade (can't remember the exact name...it was a long night). LOL. I layered one of the super shimmery Tarte holiday glosses on top. (Is anyone else annoyed by the fact that they don't have names? The last Tarte lipgloss set I bought didn't have names on any of them, either.)

A great number of alcoholic beverages later....... I look like a total goofball. LOL.

Here's me in my ORIGINAL application of makeup (with the exception of lipgloss) back at home 6 HOURS LATER!!! I was actually surprised at how well it all stayed on...especially after the amount of alcohol I drank and the numerous drunken NYE makeout sessions between the hubby and I... LOL!!! TMI, I know. :) But yeah...this stuff has SUPER staying power when applied over LASplash Splashproof Sealer!!! I swear by that stuff when I use glitter...it's a really sticky waterproof base that will hold eyeshadow, sparklies, the works!!! I got it at Ulta, but I honestly can't remember how much I paid for it.

Both eyes...blurred to see the effect of the holo glitter. By the way, this pic was also taken AFTER the party, around 1:00 AM.

Anyway...let me know what you think!!! :) Did any of you use Hi-Fi Cosmetics for your NYE look? If you did a holiday look (even if it wasn't with Hi-Fi) and have photos of it, post the link in the comments section so we all can see what you did!

Ring in the New Year with new makeup!!!

2009-12-31T09:20:00.001-06:00

Okay, now that everyone is ever-so-slightly starting to financially recoup from the Christmas wallet-draining monster, I figured it would be a great time to have another BOGO!!!

The BOGO will officially start January 1st, 2010. I won't be editing any of the listings since there is no price change, so don't be alarmed when you see that my shop hasn't changed. I'll be putting these same details for the BOGO in the shop announcement on the main page. :)

The BOGO is for the Hi Fi Shadows again...but this time, the Paparazzi Flash Powders and Glam Rock Eye Glitzes are included!! AND you can mix and match!

Want that totally awesome eyeshadow and the Eye Glitz to go with it? DO IT. Buy the eyeshadow, and get the glitz free! Same goes with Paparazzi Flash Powders.

I had some issues with the checkout process last time, so to make sure we're clear...

Only put the items you are PAYING FOR in the cart. You will simply notate which free items you want in the message field at checkout. Easy. PLEASE don't make me have to send a ton of revised invoices out. I am a one-woman business, and any time I spend correcting invoices is time taken away from packaging and shipping.

Also, I got a lot more orders than expected with my Black Friday Sale, and had a death in the family and a husband to send off on military duty to boot, so this time, I am going to go ahead and expand my shipping window a bit. Give me 7-8 business days to get it in the mail. I know it sucks, and I will probably ship before then, but I don't want to give you empty promises. And, as I've stated before, I AM only one person...mixing, printing, packaging, packing, shipping, blogging, managing the shop, etc.

Anyway...I hope you all use this awesome opportunity to purchase those items you've been eyeballing since Christmas! LOL. Love you all!

Heads Up

2009-12-18T07:48:00.001-06:00

Hey everyone! I'm about to head out of town to pick up my husband from the airport. (If you've been following my blog, you know he's been gone for two weeks!) We'll be making a weekend of it, so I won't be back home and filling orders until Monday evening.

Remember, if you get your order to me by the 22nd, I can guarantee you receive it by New Year's (get on those new Glimmer Gels, ladies!)... But after that, my husband and I will be gone again (don't you just love the holidays?) until the 28th.

Now that we have that out of the way... I have a GREAT announcement! I am FINALLY caught up on shipping! If you placed an order through Wednesday of this week, your order is in the mail! :) I will resume shipping on Tuesday of next week.

Now...to the cooler stuff... I'm changing my label! I know this isn't great news for you, because nothing else is changing product-wise...same size, same container, same formulation. However, I wanted to let you know just in case you noticed that your order has a mixture of labels. As you know, the "Collections" such as Holiday 2009 and New Year's will have a different label entirely (to help you identify what collection they are from), but the permanent colors all have a standard Hi-Fi Cosmetics label. The standard label is the one that is changing, however, I still have a bunch of inventory left with the old label, so I'm going to use them up before switching over 100% to the new one. I'm a little obsessive about matching...and I wanted it to match my new business cards that are coming in. LOL.

Just for reference, here is the Holiday Collection 2009 label:

...and here is the standard label that you are familiar with:

THIS, my friends, is the new label:

Again, the products themselves are not changing. You will still be receiving the same formulation in the same amount, in the exact same jar, for the same price. The only thing that is changing is the sticker that I put on the lid. :)

You'll likely be seeing a banner change in the near future as well.

I'm doing all of this because I want everything to match (my new business cards and promo materials are SWEET!)...and well, my last label was pretty much just something I threw together so I would have a label.

Anyway...thanks for reading! Let me know what you think!

New Releases!!! STAR GLIMMER GELS!

2009-12-16T21:26:00.001-06:00

I decided that since the Hi Voltage Glimmer Gel in "Superstar" has been selling so well, it was time to create some more...in different colors. Here they are!!!

"Pop Star" = Violet iridescence

"Rising Star" = Sparks of copper

"Shooting Star" = Aqua glitz

"Stardom" = Golden glamour

"Starlet" = Eye-catching silver

Hope you enjoy these as much as I do!!!

The sad news is... Due to the entry of these 5 new glimmer gels, the current "Rockstar" (silver) and "All-Star" (gold) will be phased out. They are currently in the Sale/Clearance section of my shop. Once they are gone, they are gone forever. :( These are very lovely, but their shimmer is derived from mica instead of calcium aluminum borosilicate (like the Hi Voltage Glimmer Gel and the five above). They're equally wonderful, but as they say...out with the old, in with the new. :)

The only difference between the glimmer gels listed above and the Hi Voltage Glimmer Gel is the particle size. "Superstar" (the only Hi Voltage Glimmer Gel we currently sell) has slightly larger articles of calcium aluminum borosilicate (in pink) to create an more blatant glitterfest!

Anyway... These would be perfect for all the upcoming NYE celebrations! If you order it on or before December 22nd (and you live in the 48 contiguous states), I can ensure you receive it in time for New Year's!!! I will be making a mass shipment on the 23rd of ALL orders received up to and including the 22nd. After that, (due to the holidays) I will be unable to make another trip to the post office until the 28th, in which case, I cannot guarantee delivery by the 31st without charging extra for 2nd Day or Overnight shipping. :)

Love you all, and I hope you have a fabulous holiday!

Wednesday FOTD

2009-12-16T12:51:00.002-06:00

It's rare that I actually remember to take pictures after I do my makeup, so I'm pretty thrilled that I've managed to do it two days in a row! I would like to think that I can manage a daily one, but I know I can't, so I won't even make that promise.

Anyway, here's today's look:

I feel that maybe I should have worn more

blush or a darker lip color...but alas, it's too

late now. :(

On eyes, I wore shadows from the New Year's Collection.

Inner corner and highlight - Old-Fashioned Fascism

All over lid - Fear the Nobodies

Outer corner and crease - Pointless Intervention

Closed eye shot with flash. I also applied Paparazzi

Flash Powder in Conspiracy in the middle of the lid

using LA Splash Splashproof Sealer to make it stick.

Wow. I look enthused.

Again, no foundation...but I am wearing

Gel Blush Concentrate in Get It On, and

NYC Light Beam lipgloss in NY Lights.

The gloss is about $3 at Walmart...has an LED

in the applicator and a mirror on the tube

so you can apply it in the dark. I LOVE this

concept, however, while the color is pretty,

the texture is odd and almost too sticky...

and it's like they tried to make it taste

good, but failed.

Oh yeah...for those of you who have sent me messages and stuff asking how my skin APPEARS so flawless, despite not wearing foundation... Here's the answer...and no, I'm not going to tell you to just wash your face...

Truth is, I have good skin. I hate to do these types of explanations, because it makes me look like a braggart or something...BUT since you asked...

NOW...keep in mind...my skin is NOT "perfect". I have freckles, old scars, etc., and I DO use concealer when I need it. Being of Latin and Native American descent, I do scar easily. While I don't break out often (maybe once a year), I do tend to get dark or discolored scars when or if I get a really bad blemish. I don't use much concealer, only on my spots/scars and maybe under my eyes to brighten my face a bit...and then I set it with a very small amount of powder. But that's it. Occasionally, if I'm going out, I might put on a light dusting of loose mineral foundation to hinder shine. I have dry skin, so I can't use powder too much or it just makes my face look dusty...but liquid foundations feel heavy, and frankly, I just don't like them. I've heard that many of them contain pore-clogging ingredients that can wreck a complexion (which may explain why I don't really have skin problems, considering I don't use liquid at all). I only use liquid or cream foundation for photo shoots, runway shows, etc...but since I don't model much anymore, it's down to a minimum.

I do use highlighters and blush on occasion, but not every day. I do need to get in the habit of wearing blush more, though. The winter makes me look dead (see above photos), and it seems that the right amount of blush can revive my complexion like nothing else! :) Lavender concealer is also a staple in my makeup bag to brighten up and even out a dull complexion!

Anyway, hope you guys like this look! Also, I'd like to know... What do you do to keep your skin looking flawless and fresh all day long? :)

Already? She's growing up too fast!!!

2009-12-16T10:38:00.001-06:00

So, my daughter Julia brought home a form from school the other day. She wants to be in a beauty pageant.

She's 6 years old and in the first grade. This is her first year in school, as she skipped kindergarten, which means she's a little younger than the other kids in her grade. So, I'm really protective of her in various social/school-related aspects of her life. (I know, I'm turning out just like my mom! Gah!)

This pageant thing had me kind of leery, but after speaking with my mom and husband, I'm confident that she would have a good time doing it.

I, personally, did pageants all through elementary school and high school, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Yes, I placed in some and even won some, BUT I also completely lost in a few, too. While I don't necessarily agree with all the parameters you are "judged" on, I do think it taught me how to have a thick skin, and maybe even helped me develop the lack of stage fright that I have today. I have great public speaking skills, and I don't get nervous performing or speaking in front of large groups of people. So yes, pageants have their pros and cons.

My daughter is in modeling anyway...so it's really not THAT different, right?

With all that said, I need help. Her pageant is at the end of January, and I need to get her a dress. Here's a picture of my sweetie:

Her hair's a little frazzled here, but it's the

most recent pic I have. :)

I posted her pic so you all could help me pick the right dress in the right color. Now...are you ready for the dress options?

#1    #2

#3#4

#5#6

#7   #8

#9 #10

#11#12

#13#14

I'm currently "watching" all of these on Ebay, but I wanted to get your opinion before I purchase one. They are allowing a variety of dress types for this pageant, ranging from Sunday dress to formal. I'd like for Julia to fall in the middle...or even lean towards the formal side. It's not often she gets to get this dressed up!

For those of you who want to, please comment below telling me your TOP 3 choices! I'd like to narrow down my choices to show my husband when he gets back on Saturday. :) (Showing him too many at once might fry his macho army-man brain! LMAO!)

Thanks a ton!!!

Feliz Navidad...Prospero Año y Felicidad

2009-12-15T09:40:00.001-06:00

Okay, so I decided to do my makeup this morning. I wanted to focus on more of a holiday look, so I used eyeshadows from Hi-Fi Cosmetics 2009 Holiday Collection. Hope you like!

Here is the look... Excuse my hair...I've done

nothing with it today. (And what am I doing with

my mouth? Who knows...)

On eyes, I used the following:

Adeste Fideles - inner corner

Hot Cocoa - lid

Feliz Navidad - outer "V" and crease

Champagne Toast - highlight

Closed eye shot w/o flash

Close-up of eye w/ flash... By the way, I also used a cheap gold

glitter liner from Claire's, as I just realized today that I haven't

made a golden Flash Powder yet. (I need to get on that!)

I'm also wearing Gel Blush Concentrate in Get It On

and Prestige Wonder-Full lipgloss in Plush.

No foundation... I rarely ever wear it. Probably

because I'm too lazy to put it on...and (with my dad's

southern Alabama twang) "Why fix it if it ain't broke?"

Anyway...hope you like! Do any of you own any of these colors? If you do, how are you wearing them?

Please comment and let me know what you think!!!

All the drugs in this world won't save her from herself...

2009-12-14T18:38:00.004-06:00

I was just going over the comments on my last post, and as I got into the details of the MM references in my most recent collection, it made me think of my hair.

Yes...my hair.

I just had it done this past weekend by the most awesome hairdresser ever, my big brother Derick. He has a salon in Cordova, TN (just outside Memphis). When I went to him on Saturday to get it done, I had one thing in mind...the music video to "Coma White" by Marilyn Manson.

It wasn't his haircut I wanted, though...it was the color. I didn't go as dramatic as MM does, as mine is more subtle because it's underneath the layers instead of on top. But I LOVE how it turned out.

Here's Marilyn Manson with uber-sexy hair. His outfit

in this video also rocked my face off. Not a very good

picture (I got this off Google Images), but if you want to

see the video, you can find it here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NxnTu18-ygg

My new hair!!!

What do you think? Who knows...maybe next time I'll go for the color AND cut and just do the whole shabang. :)

2010 New Year's Collection!

2009-12-14T14:03:00.003-06:00

Hey everyone! I just wanted to announce to all of you that there will be 10 new colors entering the shop to help ring in the new year!!! The names of the colors below obviously have nothing to do with New Year's or anything like that. I just wanted to take the opportunity to introduce some newness to all of you who have been asking about new colors, etc. So, without further adieu, here they are...

By the way, you can click on the images to see a larger view.

Now, here's the coolest part... The first person to comment below telling me the musical artist/entertainer the color names are inspired by will receive a FREE sample set with each of the colors listed!!! Do you know who it is? :)

Bright Blue

2009-12-08T10:36:00.003-06:00

Okay, so I thought I'd do a look with some colors that I don't normally wear. Turns out the blue part is really the only shade I don't wear often, as I wear golds and greens a lot.

I didn't really do much else with my face other

than the eyes. No foundation or blush, and only

a dab of gloss on my severely chapped lips.

Yeah, I went "all out". LOL.

I used the following Hi Fi Shadows:

Inner corner - War Child

Mid lid & lower lashline - Grinch

Outer corner & crease - Queen of Disaster

The other products I'm wearing are Detrivore primer, Hard Candy Walk the Line liquid liner in Asphalt, L'Oreal Infallible eyeliner in Carbon Black, Wet 'n' Wild brow pencil in Mink Brown, and Liplicious Jewels gloss in Crystal Candy.

Well, there you have it! Sorry I don't have more to say... I'm busy packaging orders for a massive trip to the post office today! If you've placed an order with me and haven't received shipping confirmation yet, watch your email/Etsy tonight and tomorrow for a message that I've shipped! I do plan on going to the post office later this week as well for those of you whose orders I can't get done today. SO sorry that I'm behind! I really appreciate you guys being such good sports about it. *xoxo*

Finally Back Home!

2009-12-06T21:49:00.001-06:00

As most of you already know, my aunt passed away last weekend... So, the funeral and all was this week.

I also had to take my husband to the airport on Friday so he can do some military schooling in Nebraska. THEN...I took my oldest daughter to see her dad and managed a small 2-day vacation with my best bud Brandy while Julia was at his house.

And...we just got home. I KNOW I'm really behind on shipping, comments, and emails, but I promise to bust my butt this week to get everything out. PLEASE forgive me. For those of you who have ordered from me before, you know my shipping and replies are normally relatively swift.

Anyway...business aside, here are some photos. :) (I almost wrote "here is some photos" and nearly vomited when I realized my ludicrous grammatical error. I'm a snob when it comes to grammar and spelling. My husband hates it.)

My oldest, Julia, getting situated in the back seat of my two-door car...

Getting ready for a long drive. (The transmission is going out in

my SUV. Lovely timing.)

I looked "a hot mess", but this was the best makeup

I could do with one shadow pencil, liquid liner, brow

pencil, and lip gloss...WHILE going down the super-curvy

highway at about 65 mph. My hubby was doing the driving

though, so no worries. :)

Aron and I hanging out in our hotel room the evening before

I took him to the airport. (And yes...I AM wearing a shirt in this

photo! It was a spaghetti strap tank top that decided to hide

outside the frame...LOL.) By the way, I'm wearing "Distortion"

Hi Fi Shadow here...but it's after about 6 hours of wear with

no primer. I was short on time getting ready, hence the single

shadow look.

Our little one, Raven, decided to take photos of iCarly playing

on the TV. LOL.

Anyway...hope the rest of you had a better week than I did! Hubby will be flying back on the 19th. I think I can make it until then. I just KNOW you all will keep me super busy and help keep my mind off things! :)

Love you all!

Today's Pick-Me-Up Makeup

2009-12-02T14:10:00.001-06:00

It's cold and rainy today. Ugh. I've been attempting to package orders all morning, but I have just been so "blah". So, I jumped in a nice, steamy shower and decided to do my makeup afterwards. I work from home, so I'm normally sitting in my office in my PJs all day with minimal, if any, makeup, unless I have to go somewhere.

Today is a PJ day, but I feel a little better about taking these pictures since I do at least have my face done. LOL. Excuse the towel on my head. I had just gotten out of the shower and didn't feel like blowdrying my hair for these quick pics. Let me know what you think!

Wow. I do not look happy in this photo.

...Probably because you can SO tell how uneven

my brows are here. Le sigh. (One's higher than the

other due to an accident that required stitches...

guess the doc decided I needed a brow lift on

that eye as well. LOL. Maybe I should go back

and make him even them out... LOL.)

On my eyes, I used the following:

LID: Beautiful Nightmare

CREASE: Back Seat Special

INNER CORNER: Silver Bells

HIGHLIGHT: Champagne Toast

Closed eye shot. Forgive my atrocious brows and their

werewolfy ability to grow down the side of my face.

Seriously, WTF...right?

And here I am, in all my pajama-clad,

fresh-from-the-shower glory!

By the way, I'm also wearing Hi-Fi

Cosmetics Loose Cheek Color in

"Daydream". Coming to the shop soon!

Oh yeah, and the lip gloss I'm wearing is

Maybelline Shine Seduction in Purple Hex.

Anyway...hope you like my look, minus the pajamas and towel on the head, of course! :)

Do you own any of these colors, and if you do, how do you wear them? Are there any other colors would you like to see me do a look with?

Operation Christmas Furlough...and some randomness.

2009-12-01T01:10:00.003-06:00

Hey, everyone!

A huge thanks to all of you who supported Hi-Fi Cosmetics this past weekend! I got a ton of orders, and I'm working really hard to get them all filled and shipped!

The listings in my shop will be scarce tonight...but expect everything to be restored within 24 hours.

I'm making another trip to the post office tomorrow. If you placed an order and it ships, I will be sending you an email. :)

Keep in mind that I will be out of commission a good part of the week due to my aunt's death. I appreciate all of the thoughts and prayers. Thanks so much for your patience during this hard time for my family.

My husband is also leaving on military duty on Friday. Don't worry...he's not getting deployed. He will be in Nebraska for some non-commissioned officer training for two weeks. I'll be available during this time he is away, however, I will be scarce this weekend...as well as the weekend of the 19th, when I drive to the other side of the state to pick him up from the airport. I do have email on my phone, and I travel with my laptop, so if you need to email me, please don't hesitate to do so. I WILL still be taking and filling orders during this time, so you are free to shop! I just may not be as quick to respond to emails, Etsy convos, etc.

Speaking of military duty, all week this week and next I will be donating a portion of ALL SALES to the 875th Eng. Battalion of Jonesboro, Arkansas for Operation Christmas Furlough. As many of you know, my husband is in the Army National Guard, having served in the Hurricane Katrina relief effort, the big ice storm that came through the Midsouth earlier this year, and a 15 month tour in Iraq. He is set to deploy again in 2011 or 2012. I'm sure you can understand why I want to do this.

The 875th recently left for Wisconsin in preparation for a deployment to Afghanistan. They are all trying to come home for Christmas before they head out, but the unit needs $20,000 to send them home for the holidays. This weekend, soldiers' wives, mothers, and children stood at the major intersections in Jonesboro, AR in an effort to gather donations to bring their servicemen home for Christmas. During this time, they had food thrown at them and many obscene and profane gestures aimed towards them. When one soldier's daughter spoke with a woman about donating, the woman simply replied, "If your dad's going to Afghanistan, he's already dead." There were many other negative and rude statements thrown at these desperate families while they were trying to collect donations to bring their brave servicemembers home for the holidays. My blood boils just thinking about it.

Despite all the negativity they received, the group was able to collect close to $18,000. Pretty amazing for collecting money on the side of the road, huh? BUT, they still need over $2,000 to make it happen. So, while my husband and I are making our own personal donation, I also want to donate a portion of my proceeds over the next week or two to helping these families have a wonderful Christmas.

I know many of you are not residents of the United States, so I totally understand if you choose to disregard this. However, I will be posting this on my shop announcement, as well as Facebook and Twitter over the next week or two.

Thank you all so much for your support...not only of me, but of our courageous men and women who give their all and sacrifice so much to protect our freedom and way of life.

My husband at a wreath laying ceremony last Christmas.

Photo taken at the Fayetteville National Cemetery

in Fayetteville, AR.

My husband Aron and I

My husband (on top, by the flag), and some of the soldiers he

deployed with on his last tour in Iraq.

Thanks so much!

What beauty products do I use?

2009-11-30T08:45:00.002-06:00

I saw this post on www.lipstickrules.com, and I thought it would be interesting to fill out.

Before I ever starting making makeup, I always wondered... What do Maybelline or MAC executives wear? (Or the executives from any other company...I think you get my drift.) Do they stick to their own brand, or do they branch out and try other things? Or maybe... Do they even, dare I say, LOVE other companies' products? Well, since I haven't got the answer to that one yet, I figured I'd let you all at least know what I use, seeing that I do own my own cosmetics line. Here goes:

Shampoo: Dove Intensive Therapy
Conditioner: Dove Intensive Therapy & Queen Helene Cholesterol
Styling Products: Moroccan Oil, Schwarzkopf got2b glued Freeze Spray, Garnier Fructis Smoothing Milk
Shower Gel: Bath & Body Works Irresistible Apple
Body Moisturizer: Victoria's Secret Garden Body Cream in Secret Charm
Deodorant: Secret
Fake Tan: N/A
Cleanser: Arbonne Intelligence
Toner: Arbonne Intelligence
Exfoliator: Mary Kay Microdermabrasion
Foundation Brush: I don't use liquid foundation, but I use a Japonesque Mineral Face Brush for my powder foundation.
Concealer: Maybelline Dream Mousse Concealer in Medium
Powder: MK Signature Loose Powder in Beige
Blush: Varies, but Hi-Fi Cosmetics Loose Cheek Color in Denial and Flirt! blush in Pink Tutu are my faves.
Bronzer: N/A. I will occasionally wear Hi-Fi Cosmetics Gel Bronzer for a golden kiss of shimmer, but not much more.
Highlighter: A Hi-Fi Cosmetics product that is currently in testing.
Eyeshadow Base: UDPP in Sin, LA Splash Splash-Proof Sealer, and a Hi-Fi Cosmetics product that is currently in testing.
Eyeshadows: Hi-Fi Cosmetics. However, some days I feel sad for my little forgotten MACs and the such, so I will break them out and use them so they don't get too lonely.
Eyeliner: Hard Candy Walk the Line liquid liner in Asphalt and L'Oreal Extra Intense Liquid Pencil in Black
Curler: e.l.f. (eyeslipsface)
Mascara: Too Faced Lash Injection
Lipstick: Varies. My recent favorites are Hard Candy Painted Lady in No Peeking, Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey, L'Oreal Color Riche in Cashmere, and Maybelline ColorSensational in Caramel Kiss.
Lipgloss: Varies. My recent favorites are Hard Candy Plexi Gloss in Genie, Soap & Glory Sexy Motherpucker in Plum Juice, VS Beauty Rush in Creme Femme, and Too Faced Girls Dig Pearls in Mermaid.
Nail Colour: China Glaze Watermelon Rind and Grape Juice

Some of the products mentioned above.

What beauty products do you use? Do you use any of the same ones I do? If you do, what do you think about them? Thanks for reading!

Sale Extended!!!

2009-11-29T19:57:00.000-06:00

Guess what?!

I know how busy everyone must be, especially following the Thanksgiving holiday... Relatives leaving town, cleaning up the post-Thanksgiving mess, putting up the Christmas tree, Black Friday retail shopping, etc. So, in order to give everyone a chance to sit down at their computer and do a little sale shopping, I've decided to extend my Black Friday Sale through Cyber Monday. That's right...the sale DOESN'T end tonight! You have one more day to stock up on your Christmas gifts...and for yourself. :)

Hope this helps everyone out! :)

On a sadder note, my aunt passed away this morning. She was only 44, but had many health problems. An unfortunate occurrence of the swine flu managed to develop into a much more severe health problem for her, and eventually took her life. Please keep my family in your thoughts and prayers.

I will be making a run to the post office to ship orders tomorrow, but I might be heading out of state on Tuesday or Wednesday for the funeral. I will make sure to email those whose orders ship tomorrow. I had hoped to get more of the orders out in the morning, but with the constant phone calls and grief surrounding my Aunt Nikki's death, I haven't quite been able to get as much done as I had hoped. I do state on my Etsy shop to allow 3-5 days for shipping, but I know many of you are accustomed to much faster shipping. I don't anticipate the delay being any longer than my shop states, but I just wanted to give you all a heads up just in case. I appreciate your patience during this stressful time.

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday, and you'll be hearing from me again soon!

Black Friday Sale DEETS!!!

2009-11-26T23:16:00.002-06:00

Here are the details for the sale...

Because in Etsy there is no way to update all the listings' prices at once, I am starting now, pulling items "off the shelf" to reprice them. Starting at 12:00 AM CST, all pulled items will return to the shop and be able to be purchased.

Please bear with me while I undergo this grueling process. :)

Now...here's the juicy stuff...

The sale will start around midnight tonight and run until midnight on Sunday.

All Hi Fi Shadows are BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE! Just use the message section at checkout to tell me what color(s) you want for free on the BOGO. (This excludes eyeshadows marked "Being Discontinued". You can get a discontinued color for free, but you will not receive a free eyeshadow for purchasing a discontinued color at an already discounted price. Get my drift?)

10% OFF the 10 or 20 piece sample sets!

All Mesmer-EYES 3-Piece Sets are 20% OFF!

30% OFF EVERYTHING ELSE! This includes:

Paparazzi Flash Powder
Loose Cheek Color
Shimmer Dust
Glimmer Gel
Gel Blush
Bronzer Gel
Glam Rock Eye Glitz

So... What do you want to buy? Would it be a gift, or a little something for yourself? :)

Thanksgiving Look & Sale Reminder

2009-11-26T21:28:00.003-06:00

Hey everyone!

I just thought I would post my look for today, and remind you all of the HUGE sale I'm having. Starts after midnight CST tonight, so hope you can stop by and do a little Christmas shopping!

Hi Fi Shadows - Inner lid: War Child,

Mid lid: Bad Seed, Outer lid &

crease: Wild Thing

On lips: Us or the Hatchet mixed with

some sparkly lip gloss.

This camera made my skintone look a lot

rosier than it really is. Grr. But anyway, I'm

also wearing Loose Cheek Color in Denial.

Holy flat hair! I didn't really feel like doing

anything with it, and it shows! Apparently,

I also went jewelry-less today. Hmm.

But anyway, here's me (post-gluttony)

with my little one, Raven. (The small glimpse
of nail polish you see is Grape Juice

by China Glaze w/ Fairy Dust as top coat.)

Anyway, hope you like my Thanksgiving look, and I hope to see you at my sale after midnight tonight!!

Holiday Collection 2009

2009-11-25T17:02:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone!

I wanted to make sure I got these colors released before the big sale. You know...I had to make sure you have plenty of time to drool over them before the Black Friday insanity starts! Hahaha!

I hope you enjoy this collection!

So... Which of these is your favorite?

Oops! I missed some!

2009-11-21T16:00:00.006-06:00

Four TEN more colors being added to the shop!! These have been lurking around since forever, and I just never got around to adding them... Today is their day! (I had to edit this post from the original FOUR that I posted, because I discovered SIX MORE colors I had created but never posted!!!)

Very pale, champagne-beige.

Pearly, opaque fuschia with dark pink glitter.

Pearly blue-gray-violet with pink sparkles.

Very unique color... Deep pearly green with lots of pink shimmers!

A blackish purple with hologram sparkles!

Super-bright pearly orange.

Very pale in the jar, this color goes on as a

shimmery metallic pink.

Very pale, pearly lavender.

Pale, pinkish purple color-shifter.

Very sparkly!

Rich purple with lots and lots of

silver sparkles!

Whatcha think?

My Office...and some photos.

2009-11-21T08:24:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone!

I just thought I would let you all know what my office is like and where I make my eyeshadows, etc.

I recently just moved across the state (my husband is military), so there are boxes everywhere! However, I was able to get a few photos without showing off the current chaos. LOL!

We moved from a 3-bedroom/3-bath two-level townhome to a 3-bedroom/1-bath flat with WAY less space. I'm still trying to manage. In my old home, I had a super-huge laundry room that I used as an office, and each of my daughters had their own bedroom. Well, in this tiny apartment, they are having to share a room (their ages are 6 years and 21 months) so I can utilize the extra bedroom as an office. How they considered this "extra bedroom" large enough for a bed, I do not know. I can barely fit my workbench and computer desk in here...much less the utility cabinets I use for storing my supplies. Somehow, I'm making it work. :)

I keep my 5g sifters, lids, and jars in a 3-drawer

organizer for quick packaging. While I do keep

some inventory on hand, I make most of my products

to order, so this helps me pack them quickly

and efficiently.

My 10g jars, sifters, and lids are organized

in a...*gasp!* flatware organizer. LOL.

This is one of my handy grinders. I prefer using

these (I have a few) instead of mortar and pestle,

because I have so many products with a ton of

sparklies. Using this allows me to thoroughly and

evenly blend my eyeshadows and blushes without

totally obliterating the shimmer in them.

For storing my finished product, I use whatever

cheap air-tight containers I can find. Typically, I

can find these at my local dollar store for next-to-

nothing.

This is actually a photo of "Wicked", one of the new

shadows coming into my store this coming week.

(I think my camera lens was foggy or something.)

Ah, handwritten label. Because I'm no millionaire yet.

Saving the inkjet printer ink for stuff that matters,

like jar labels!

Here's some containers that are almost empty.

Need to make another batch, apparently.

Anyway, I know these pictures aren't all that great. I took these for Phyrra the other day, and I haven't had a chance to take some better ones yet. But I will!

Thanks for looking!

New Releases!!!

2009-11-20T21:43:00.005-06:00

So, I know that the color black is really big this season. It seems it's in or on everything. I even saw some black Christmas trees at Walmart the other day! Black isn't just for the alternative and goth scene anymore. Anyone can wear it these days...and c'mon! It's a classic that will never die out!

But anyway, I didn't just make black eyeshadows... I wanted to come out with some richer colors than I currently have available. My shop is so full of brights and neutrals, but very few deep, smokey colors. So...hope you like!

Here's a peek at what I will be listing in my store over the next few days...

So...what do you think?

BLACK FRIDAY SALE at Hi-Fi Cosmetics!

2009-11-20T13:31:00.002-06:00

I have a HUGE sale planned for Black Friday (and the ENTIRE weekend following)! The in-depth details won't be released until next week, but I just thought I would let you all know so you'll be ready to hear the news. Trust me, if I didn't prepare you, you might faint from the shock of how insane I must be to be offering these sorts of deals! *evil laugh* Bwah-ha-ha-ha-haaaa...

I know, how can I do this without telling you the deets? That's SO cruel of me! Well, to ease a little of your angst, here's a hint...

EVERYTHING is on sale!!! If you are in love with the Hi Fi Shadows, or if you are curious about trying them, THIS is the time! Paparazzi Flash Powder, Shimmer Dust, Gel Blush...it's ALL on SALE!

Starts Friday the 27th and runs through Sunday the 29th. It's the perfect time to stock up on Christmas gifts and splurge on yourself at the same time!

Hope to be hearing from you soon!

My Very First Blog

2009-11-18T22:33:00.000-06:00

Hi, everyone!

Thanks so much for checking out my blog. My name is Veronica, and I am the owner of Hi-Fi Cosmetics. (You may have seen me on Etsy or Twitter.)

My main objective for starting this blog is so you can see me "let my hair down", so to speak. You know, get to know the woman behind the sparkle-madness.

I will be posting updates, sneak peeks, FOTDs, and all sorts of good stuff...so follow me if you'd like! Hope to see more of you guys very soon!