Last last week, Tarte and Sephora both released collections that left people of color asking “Where is my shade?” Tarte’s Shape Tape Foundation was highly anticipated within the beauty community. Then they went and released 15 shade. FIFTEEN! 12 shades of beige with 3 “deep” shades thrown at the end. The colors are so fair that some people can’t even mix colors to find a match. Really Tarte? Shortly after, Sephora released a photo on their Instagram of their new Bright Future Skin Tint. AND once again….where is my shade sis?!

In a world where Rihanna released FORTY shades on her first launch I don’t understand how a brand can release 15 and consider themselves “inclusive.” Fenty Beauty’s foundation sold out within the first week! So clearly when brands include us in the beginning we show up and show out! Not to mention, POC are the trendsetters in the beauty and fashion industry. We’re human. We don’t want to be and shouldn’t be an afterthought! And to make matters worse, in a statement after the release, Tarte stated that they focused on lighter tones as warmer colors tend to be “seasonal” and 10 more shades were coming soon. Really? Being a woman of color is NOT seasonal. I’m black in the winter, spring, summer, and fall. Even MakeupShayla, a very popular beauty influencer who worked with Tarte plenty of times, couldn’t find a match that was a fit.

Related: Small Black Owned Businesses

And beauty isn’t the only industry that is leaving us out. Denisse of thugnanny & Jessica of thecatchmeifyoucan both exposed brands for excluding people of color in the travel industry. In her blog post, Denisse talks about how popular clothing brand Revolve didn’t include any influencers of color in their most recent press trip. Jessica takes it a step further and shares an email she received from The Four Seasons location in Nevis which states her “demographic is not in line with [their] brand.” I guess people of coloring traveling is just as seasonal as our skin tones huh?

Picture from PopSugar Beauty

If you don’t understand what influencer marketing is, it may seem like not such a big deal to you but it is. But let’s not get it twisted. These influencers aren’t “complaining” about free product or “begging” for free trips. They simply want to be held at the same standard of their fair skinned counterparts. In a society where less people are listening to radio and more people are listening to podcasts, influencer marketing is very important! You can make 6 figures on YouTube when it takes most people a lifetime to achieve that. But just like anything else, influencers of color get the short end of the stick. And it’s time to say enough is enough in all aspects.

We have to start deciding which brands we want to shop with and support brands that support (and value) us! When you look at Revolve’s Instagram account you see the same thin, blonde hair, blue eyed models. It’s as if they have just ctrl+C ctrl+P repeatedly! The same thing happens when you look at Tarte’s Instagram. You have to scroll a few times before you see someone with darker skin. This should be a sign! We don’t quite fall “in line” with their brands so we definitely shouldn’t spend our money with them. It does not hurt to be inclusive but I also don’t think we need to beg these companies to put some RESPECK on our complexion.

It’s time to start holding these brands accountable. Whether it’s in beauty and fashion or travel. Two of my favorite YouTubers teamed up to talk about their Tarte PR packages. At the end of her video, Alissa Ashley gave suggestions for more inclusive brands and this is the example we should be following! I’m making it my mission to start seeking out more inclusive brands and you should to!

Have an inclusive brand you think I should check out? Leave it in the comments below!

The post Where is My Shade? appeared first on Running Erins.

I am a huge fan of Mielle products and I love all things beauty. So it was an easy decision for me to purchase their new products. Sometimes having sensitive skin makes it difficult to try new products. But because I can trust the brand with my hair, I figured why not trust them with my skin. This is not a sponsored post. I bought the entire collection, except for one item, with my own money. And y’all know I caught it on sale because that’s my favorite way to shop!

The Deets

The skincare collection, along with their latest hair collection, contains Pomegranate & Honey. It consists of 5 pieces:

• 2N1 Face Cleanser & Scrub (Reg $15.99)

• Hydrating Face Mask (Reg $19.99)

•  Revitalizing Face Serum (Reg $19.99)

• Illuminating Face Lotion with SPF 15 (Reg $15.99)

• Stretch mark Cream (Reg $14.99)

According to mielleorganics.com, “honey has antiseptic and antibacterial properties that prevents some scalp infections and alleviate symptoms associated with dandruff, psoriasis and eczema.” I’ve suffered from eczema most of my life and I have used raw honey as a facial mask before so this was a plus for me.

First Impressions

This was my first time ordering directly from Mielle Organics and I have to say I was blown away. I am a SUCKER for branding! I love when a package comes nicely wrapped and pretty instead of in a boring box. When I ordered  the Pomegranate and Honey hair collection it came in a plain box from Sally’s Beauty. The Mielle box is hot pink, with the brand name on the outside, and the CEO’s face on the inside with pink shredding. Over the holidays I tend to do most of my shopping online so I get tons of packages. When I saw that pink box on my doorstep, I immediately knew what it was.

The containers were smaller than I expected for the price. I wouldn’t quite consider it a luxury skincare line. But its price range definitely ranks it among brands you would find in Ulta or Sephora versus your local drugstore.

The Real Deal

I’ve been looking for an exfoliator so the 2N1 facial scrub was right up my alley. It left my skin very soft and smooth. I can say that I won’t be using it on a daily basis though. Scrubs can be a little harsh on my skin when used regularly, especially in the winter time. If this came in more of a foaming wash or cleanser I could definitely see it being an everyday staple! The face mask is also something I plan to rotate into my routine. I currently have a few that I like so I try to switch them up. And of course you need a moisturizer with a good SPF so the face lotion is a great deal.

What I don’t see myself using much is the face serum. I’m not sure why but I don’t gravitate towards serums. The only other serum I own is the Sunflower Sweets Serum from Bahi Cosmetics. It could partially be because I have an acne prescription from my dermatologist. I’m not sure. It’s not that I didn’t like it, I just don’t see much use for it.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the market for new skincare (or have an obsession with products like me) I highly recommend it! I’ve had these products for over a month now and I haven’t had any adverse reactions to them. As of today, the whole collection is on sale again on the Mielle Organics website so get it while you can!

Have a product you think I should review? Leave it in the comments!

The post Beauty By Mielle Review appeared first on Running Erins.

Being that I am so into makeup now, I am not afraid to try a lot of products. Sometimes I buy off impulse and other times I’ve heard great things about a product. One of the things that I can’t seem to stop buying is foundation.

I have extremely oily skin. I tend to blot a lot through the day and I HAVE to wear a powder or else I will shine. So today I’m going to share some of my favorite foundations! Below you will find a mix of high end and low end foundations that I love. I will stick my disclaimer here and say everything isn’t for everybody. Just because something works for me does not mean it will work for you. You have to be willing to try different products to find the right fit. Pro Tip!: Sephora offers samples of products for free so be sure to check them out if you want to save coins.

These are my top 5 foundations for oily/acne prone skin (in order):

1. Anastasia Beverly Hills Stick Foundation ($25)
   Since this came out it has been my go to foundation. It goes on smooth, it’s fairly inexpensive compared to other high-end foundations, and there is a shade that matches me perfectly! The only downside is that my shade is very popular. It’s always sold out in stores and online shipping is always delayed *cues dramatics*.
   My shade: Cool Golden
   
   
2. Maybelliene Fit Me Matte & Poreless ($6-$8)
   If you’re like me and prefer buildable or full coverage, drugstore foundations can be a hit or miss. The Fit Me collection is awesome because it has a good range of colors for a low price. It’s also easy to find because you can get it anywhere including Ulta, Target, Walmart and Walgreens. So if you run out of foundation you can quickly grab a bottle.
   My shade: Classic Tan 335 (fall/winter) Spicy Brown 338 (Summer)
   
   
3. Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Foundation ($34)
   I know you’re probably thinking I’m going to hype Fenty Beauty up and you are absolutely……correct sis! Rihanna blew me away with her makeup line. The foundation is lightweight and has a wide range so it’s possible for more than 1 color to work for you. It also has nice coverage but it oxidizes so you have to be careful when choosing your shade. The deeper shades have been sold out since launch, however, I did notice that some of them are available on Sephora’s website.
   My shade: 380
   
   
4. MAC Studio Fix Foundation ($29)
   Holy grail! When I first started wearing makeup MAC was all I knew. I was scared to try other brands because MAC is such a universal name in the makeup world so how could you go wrong with it? The Studio Fix is still one of my favorite foundations to use, in liquid and in powder form.
   My shade: NC47
   
   
5. Milani Cream to Powder ($7-$9)
   It’s so funny how I came across this one on a whim and it ended up being a fave. As the name suggests, its a cream to powder foundation which I had never heard of. It goes on quite smooth and gives off a matte finish. The downside is that the only place I have been able to find my shade is Walgreen’s but it is also available online.
   My shade: Spiced Almond
   
   

Let’s chat! Have you tried any of these foundations? Let me know your favorite in the comments below.

The post My Favorite Foundations for Oily Skin appeared first on Running Erins.

If you’re anything like me, you’ve already started your gift shopping. And if you still have no clue what to get for some of the people in your life then you’re also like me! Shopping for others can be extremely difficult around the holidays, especially when you’re on a budget. Which is why Holiday Gift Guides can make your life go a little bit easier. And be honest, some of the random gift guides you see online are not always Black Girl friendly. So in the spirit of giving, I’m going to share with you some things that can be great gifts for every magical black girl in ya life. #ThankMeLater.

Disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links where I may receive credit for your purchase. Read my disclosure policy for more information.

For the Naturalista

• Mielle Organics
  If you haven’t heard of this brand….where have you been?! Mielle has taken the internet by storm and I see why! The new Pomegranate & Honey collection smells amazing and leaves your hair soft and moisturized. It’s no wonder this product is always sold out! It is only available in Sally’s Beauty stores or online.
  Bonus tip: For the month of November, the entire adult line is BOGO 50% off at Sally’s! Mielle is also having their own deals! Be sure to get it before the deal ends.
  
• Curls
  I’ve been using Curls for a while now. I love the Blueberry Bliss collection (another set of products with an amazing smell). The edge control paste works so well on my edges, especially when my hair is wet. The hair growth oil and curling cream also leave your hair very shiny and soft. What more could a naturalista ask for?
  
• Eco Styler 
  Including Eco Styler is taking a risk but hear me out! Have you tried their new leave in conditioner?! Another product that is hard to get your hands on but such a great product indeed. My curls are always poppin’ after using this. Paired with the black castor oil and flaxseed gel and you have the perfect set for a wash and go!
  

For the Makeup Lover

• Juvia’s Place
  I love love love Juvia’s Place! Their eyeshadow palettes are extremely pigmented with a great color payoff. And they are very AFFORDABLE. This black owned brand caters to giving WOC a name in the makeup world and I say kudos for that!
  Bonus Tip: Their Black Friday Sale has already started! You can also search on Twitter or Instagram to find someone with a discount code to use with the sale.
  
• Crayon Case
  Internet comedian Supa Cent struck gold with her new makeup line! My favorite product has to be the Anglowla highlight. I always get so many compliments when I have it on. Perfect for medium-deep skin tones. I also have the eyeshadow palette which is great for someone who is into colors.
  
• Mix Melt Repeat
  MMR I hadn’t heard of until I went to an event recently. They offer customized lipsticks! Interesting right? You choose your color. Decide if you want a cream, matte or sheer finish. Pick your favorite tube. And bam! A special lipstick for a special person.
  

For the Book Worm

• We’re Going to Need More Wine by Gabrielle Union
  Gabrielle Union has opened up a lot this year. Sharing stories about her trouble conceiving as well as being sexually abused. She has also been taking the time to make sure her voice is heard in the heat of the current political climate. Sprinkling a little #blackgirlmagic (and fountain of youth because she doesn’t age) just in time for the holidays in the form of her new book. She also has a new clothing line with NY&Company that would make a great combo with the book!
  
• You are a Badass by Jen Sincero
  Entrepreneurship among black women is on the rise and I’m always here for some #BlackGirlMagic! You are a Badass and You are a Badass at Making Money are 2 books that are valuable to help entrepreneurs keep pushing.
  

For the Unapologetically Woke

• Legendary Rootz
  This company is all over Twitter, spreading positivity among people of color. With sayings like “Black Girls are the Purest form of Art” and “Brown Sugar Babe” there is something that every black girl will feel special in!
  
• Blackberry Vine
  Blackberry Vine is a newer company that I happened to find on Instagram. Their celebration of the black community and black empowerment is what caught my attention. My favorite design is a toss up between the woman with hair shaped like Africa and the drawing of Colin Kapernick. If you’re on my Christmas list you may or may not be getting an item from this company.
  Bonus tip: They will have items in their shop discounted for Black Friday!
  

For the Fashionista

• Tracee Ellis Ross for JCP
  Tracee Ellis Ross has been my one of favorite auntie since Girlfriends. Her style is very quirky and fashion forward which her line with JCPenney’s incorporates. My favorite pieces from her collection are the bodycon dresses and thebutton down top that says “Life Needs Sparkle” on the back because duh!
• Fur Coat
  When it comes to balling on a budget you definitely have to look the part. My favorite statement piece for Fall/Winter is a fur coat. They come in handy because they can dress up a casual outfit and make a dressy outfit look even more over the top. I stumbled upon this year’s fur coat at TJ Maxx and have been in love ever since.
  

For the Techie

• Lumee Case
  For all my selfie lovers out there a Lumee Case is a must have! It is surrounded by a light so that your pictures and videos do not come out as dark and gloomy. It’s essentially a ring light on the go. I’ve had 2 different cases from this company (because I upgraded my phone) and they had my selfies lit (pun intended).
  
• Ring Light
  If you’re getting a gift for someone who is into photography, YouTube, makeup, fashion or hair a ring light is a great investment! Similar to the Lumee Case, a ring light provides lighting that is good for pics and videos however it is not as portable. A ring light can definitely take your pics to the next level. Amazon has plenty different types but the kind I have is linked.
  

Have any other ideas that you would like to share? Comment below! Happy shopping!

The post Gifts for the Magical Black Girl in Your Life appeared first on Running Erins.

Everybody knows that when it comes to saving money, coupons are the way to go. Everyone has their tips and tricks for couponing but it has never really worked for me. I would much rather know where to shop than to search for coupons. When I first started wearing makeup, I only knew MAC products. That’s what everyone talked about so that’s where I went. I slowly but surely started shopping at Sephora. Both of which can be a great place to find products but they can both get a little pricey. It wasn’t until I got more into makeup that I started branching out to other brands and other stores. I’m going to share with you my favorite places to buy makeup on a budget.

Place #1: Ulta

Ulta is like the best of both worlds when it comes to beauty products. I say that because you can find both luxury and drugstore brands. This is always my go to spot when I need to find a specific product for the low. Make sure to check out the ‘Sale & Coupon’ section of their website to see what deals are current. They also frequently send catalogs with a coupon so sign up for their mailing list. The key here is to not be afraid to try inexpensive brands! You may find a product that you like.

Place #2: TJ Maxx or Ross

Some people are going to be mad at me for giving this one up but OH WELL SIS! I am here to help us slay and save some coins okay? I am an avid TJ Maxx/Ross shopper but usually for clothes and home-goods. It wasn’t until someone posted about finding the ABH Cream Contour Kits and Shea Moisture products that I started checking the beauty section. Shea Moisture was much easier to find in both stores. I had to go to 2 different TJ Maxx locations to find the ABH Contour Kits. And for the price it was definitely worth it. I’ve also been able to find BareMinerals, Real Techniques, and Chi products for great prices.

Place # 3: Nordstrom Rack 

I never really shopped at Nordstrom Rack, mostly because there wasn’t one near me. They recently opened a location by my job and I have not been able to stay out of it. While I was browsing, I came across the makeup section and it was just what I needed. Urban Decay. NYX. Too Faced. MAC. Big names for great prices. I purchased the Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray, regularly $32, for $19.

Place #4: The Cosmetics Company

If there is an outlet mall near you check to see if The Cosmetics Company is there. For my local readers there is one at the National Harbor and Queenstown (Ocean City) outlets. This store usually carries items that are over-made or out of season. For example, I found MAC’s Ariana Grande Lipglass here once it had left stores. Just because MAC is no longer selling it doesn’t mean it isn’t still in style!

Bonus Tip 1: I also like to use Ebates when I’m shopping online. They work with stores like MAC, Ulta, and Sephora to get you coupons and cash back on your purchases. You can get $10 when signing up by using my link here.

Bonus Tip 2: If you are a Professional Makeup Artist (meaning you have a portfolio of work to show + you do makeup on others) you can apply for discounts. Do some internet research to see what brands and pro discounts and which ones you are eligible for.

Are there places that you find good makeup for a great price? Let me know in the comments below!

The post Buying Makeup on a Budget appeared first on Running Erins.

In 2015, I took a job working for an event company. The company was responsible for helping Susan G. Komen put on their annual Race for the Cure. It was a temporary position but I knew that I would love it so I didn’t care. I knew the position would definitely be an emotional one for me. I didn’t know if I was going to cry everyday or what but I knew that it was for me. Working from home, putting on events, and traveling the local area is right up my alley. What I did not know was that the position would have life-long effects on me.

One of my favorite parts about the job was the people. And when I say people, I don’t mean my coworkers (I was working from home remember? So I only saw them on race day). I’m talking about the women who are survivors. The women who were passionate about the race. The women (and men) who were participating in an effort to support someone. Those stories are the ones that had an impact on me.

You see, they were all very different. But we all had something in common. Whether it was for a mom, sister, auntie, cousin, or coworker. Or if they were walking in support, memory, or just to spread knowledge. Looking back now, I know it was meant for me to take that job. It helped me through the healing process of losing my aunt. It shed light on my feelings and let me know that my family wasn’t the only ones going through this. Whenever someone asks me about my favorite job, I always tell them it was this one.

What I learned about Breast Cancer

1. If something feels different, check it out! There was a lady who was diagnosed with breast cancer. She felt like something was off with her body and could not figure it out. Doctors checked her for just about everything and every time they came back with nothing. Her mammogram even came back normal. It wasn’t until she went back in for a scan of her chest that they found the cancer. It was in the tissues in between her breasts. Being persistent about her health is how she is able to tell her story today.
2. Genetic testing is available but can be tricky. I met another lady who told me about getting tested for the breast cancer genes (BRCA1 & BRCA2). Everyone carries these genes but they become a problem when they mutate or have abnormalities. However having an abnormal gene doesn’t mean you will get the disease.
3. It is possible to have cystic breast tissue. Many women find smaller lumps in their breast and automatically assume it is cancer. Sometimes having cystic breast tissue is the cause. Like cancer, there is no cure for the cysts but they don’t need to be removed unless they are large or cause pain.
4. Breast cancer mortality rates are higher in black women. Although black women are less likely than white women to be diagnosed with breast cancer, it is more likely to be fatal in black women. Black women also tend to be diagnosed at a younger age than white women.

It is recommended that you do a breast self-exam once a month. If you are unsure about anything you feel, check with your primary care doctor. Remember, awareness and acting early is key!

Breast self-exam image pulled from http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-self-exam

The post What I Learned About Breast Cancer appeared first on Running Erins.

When my friend sent the information to our group chat everyone’s immediate response was, “How did you find this?” It was very random to say the least but we were down to go. After all, it’s not everyday that someone sends you a link for something called “The Sweet Spot.”

Howard Theatre is usually standing room only so we purchased reserved seats since we didn’t know how things would play out. The tickets were fairly inexpensive on Groupon ($24 reserved, $12 general admission) so it wasn’t a big deal to upgrade.

The first thing I saw walking in was a woman with her boobs bedazzled. Then I look down to see condoms on the seats. “What are we getting in to?” immediately crossed my mind. I should have known better when I read that the theme for the night was fetishes but I didn’t think much of it. We then see a woman on stage with a leash and collar on. And the drink menu? With names like “The Sweet Spot,” “Leg Spreader” and “Deep Throat,” the drinks definitely fit the theme. And if you ordered all three guess what you ask for? That’s right, a “threesome.” Imagine having that conversation with someone later!

The show wasn’t quite what I had in mind. Remember I’m thinking about the movie with Christina Aguilera. So I’m thinking singing, dancing, the whole event! Nope. There was mostly dancing in little to no clothing, some poetry reading, and a lady who sang “And I’m telling you”; which clearly did not fit the theme. And I’ll be honest, the music wasn’t the best in my opinion. Everything had lots of slow tempos which made the show seem like it was dragging. My friends and I ended up leaving early because we were hungry and couldn’t last the rest of the show. (There was a company selling food but the line was always long.)

Overall, I would say we had a good time. It was a very interesting event for it being our first Burlesque show. I can see us attending another show in the future….just not one we found on Groupon.

Have you purchased tickets to anything interesting on Groupon? Let me know in the comments!

The post I Purchased Tickets to a Burlesque Show on Groupon appeared first on Running Erins.

When I decided to rebrand I knew I needed something that would encompass a variety of my favorite things. I spent weeks trying to think of a new name because I wanted something with value. I also knew that I couldn’t just use my name as it is extremely common. The light bulb went off when I was talking to someone about all the things I needed to do and said “Erin needs to run errands.” It was so perfect to me because I’m always on the go and I’m always up for adventure.

I started poking around with the idea and asking people about their errands without telling them exactly why I was asking. I wanted to see what they usually included to make sure my idea wasn’t too far fetched. And sure enough I received tons of answer. The funniest one had to come from a friend who met Vice President Joe Biden on an airplane. She is an author and CEO of her own brand so she is always on the run. When she was telling the story, she mentioned how her wig wasn’t on and she wasn’t prepared but she made it her business to get her book in his hand no matter what. And she succeeded! As she was telling this story, I said to myself “This is it. This is what I want to portray.”

Women are set to be the caretakers. We are the minority yet we hold the buying power. And if you look more closely at women of color, we are the trendsetters. Yet we are so left behind. Brands would rather look to steal ideas from us than to actually ask us our opinions. We’re leading the movement for entrepreneurship but it’s all built off of what we create for ourselves. We have to create the brands, create the products, and create the lanes. Doing all the work and running all the errands with little recognition. Not anymore.

As I use this blog to make my dreams a reality, I hope it also inspires someone else to take a leap of faith towards theirs. A mustard seed of faith is all you need. And along the way I hope more and more women turn their passions into sources of income. And running errands into their lifestyle of making things happen for themselves.

Sincerely,

Erin

The post Why Running Erins? appeared first on Running Erins.

I was sitting down with my blogger sister, Bri, a few months ago when she asked me who is my current style inspo. Without hesitation I answered, “Cardi B.” She had the most confused look on her face which was hilarious because if you know me, you know my style is definitely more of a comfy/cute. But I also love fashion (Rihanna is also an all time fave). I love seeing the way celebrities, or even other bloggers, put together an outfit. She continued by asking me “Well how would you describe your style?” And of course I said “Comfy/cute” at first but I followed it by saying “I also like to be a little Sophisti-Ratchet which is why I like Cardi B.”

Whether she is wearing Fashion Nova or Alexander Wang, you have to admit that Cardi B has been KILLING the fashion scene all 2017! From award shows to New York Fashion Week to her performance outfits. She displays her style in a way that is completely unique to her. She knows what works for her figure and she is not embarrassed by wearing inexpensive clothing. She can dress up in a ball gown or dress all the way down to something with little material. And I think it’s so dope!

Check out a few of my favorite looks from Cardi B in the gallery above!

*all pictures have been pulled from Cardi B’s Instagram*

The post Style Inspo featuring Cardi B appeared first on Running Erins.

Over the years I have developed a passion for makeup. And by passion I mean if you look at my bank statement you would think Ulta and Sephora are bill collectors. I watch tons of YouTube videos (AaliyahJay, MakeUpShayla & Naturally Sunny are my faves) but I wanted to learn more about this hobby. I had learned lots from YouTube (AaliyahJay’s eyelash tutorial saved my life) but I wanted to make sure that I was comfortable enough to work on other people. Maybe even turn it into a way to earn extra income.

In most states, Maryland included, there is no such thing as a licensed makeup artist (MUA). You can be a licensed esthetician which means you’re skilled in skincare, facials, waxing, etc. But not strictly a makeup artist, which is why most MUAs proclaim that they are self-taught. You can also earn a certificate in makeup artistry and that is what I did to help develop my self-taught skills.

When I told people I was taking a makeup class, their first question was always “Where?” And they always seemed shocked at the answer. Which led me to writing this post because more people should know about the resources in their backyard.

I earned my certificate from Prince George’s Community College. I usually call it the 13th grade when it comes to education but it can be a great source for continuing education courses. You would be amazed at what you can learn at your local community college. Most offer courses in a variety of topics that can help you expand your expertise or find a great side hustle. It also helps that they often cater to the working adult by offering classes on nights and weekends. From hair braiding, photography/videography, or event planning there’s tons of things you can learn.

To earn the makeup artistry certificate, I had to take 2 courses both 4 weeks long. The classes were once a week, 3 hours long, and I went after work which made it convenient. The teacher was contracted meaning that she wasn’t just someone who created the class. She is a working MUA who also teaches for a company outside of the community college. She was able to share her portfolio along with information on what works for her. For example, her bridal contract and how she prepares for her clients.

All the makeup looks we created on ourselves so we didn’t have to worry about someone else making us look like a clown. It was a great experience to be in a room full of girls who were also interested in makeup. (Girls who love makeup can sit and talk for days together!) We were able to share information on products we’ve tried, our favorite indie brands, or even our creative processes. We were also able to share tips and tricks to help each other out. At the beginning of each session, the teacher would ask what we were interested in learning as a group that way she could focus on the areas that were difficult for us. There was also time at the end of class to ask questions if you struggled with something. For example, I HATED smokey eyes going into the class (my eyes are already dark like raccoon eyes) but they instructor showed me how to do it in a way that was a little less intimidating for me.

Overall, the class was pretty fun. I’ve been able to practice and take what I learned to apply it to other people, other skin types, and even give recommendation to my friends who aren’t as skilled in makeup. I would recommend continuing education classes to anyone who wants to strengthen their skills or even if you are interested in a new hobby. You should never stop learning and taking a class with an expert may help strengthen your confidence in your skill.

The post Continuing Education Classes appeared first on Running Erins.