Kathy Huynh

Makeup Kit Essentials for Beginners – Checklist Included

kathyhuynh — Thu, 01 Feb 2018 06:07:34 +0000

When I first started my career as a freelance makeup artist, my biggest challenge was gathering items for my makeup kit. I didn’t know what the essential items were and was afraid that if I missed something, I would not be able to perform my job correctly and because of that never be hired again. I’m sure that many new makeup artists have had this same fear.

Putting together the perfect kit is an investment of time and money. No matter how you slice or dice it, getting all the essentials in your first kit will require some financial sacrifice. This is a financial investment in ourselves that we must make in order to follow our passion of starting a career in doing something we love. So, if you ask me, I’d say this is a small price to pay for joy, fulfillment, and success.

Unfortunately, most of us will inevitably end up buying crappy products that we hear about through beauty influencers on social media. We have a fear of missing out the next BIG product, especially when someone with millions of followers is telling us this hot new item is the next Holy Grail of makeup. I hate to admit this, but the first year and a half, I purchased most of the things I saw advertised on social media. And frankly, most of those items are now sitting in a box hidden somewhere in the back of my closet.

After years of working on hundreds of clients and experimenting with different products, I have finally put together what I currently consider the perfect, fully loaded kit. Over the years, I have modified and tweaked the items in my kit to cater to the majority of my clientele. Seriously, who has space in their kit to bring more stuff than is actually needed?!

When you first start out, you must dabble and experiment to see what works for you and your technique. Each makeup kit will differ based on the artist’s type of work and preference. However, the items listed are essential to a professional kit.

One piece of advice I would give to help you save money in the long run: purchase quality products. I know that may sound contradictory, but hear me out. Don’t try to save a few dollars NOW by buying some cheap, drugstore products. I have nothing against drugstore items, in fact some drug stores items work better than most highly advertised products on social media, like my favorite waterproof mascara from L’Oreal. However, you’ll end up spending twice as much in the LONG run when you put poor quality in your kit as opposed to quality products. By the same token, expensive does not always mean quality. Just because you bought a luxury brand item, does not mean that it will work they way you want it to. Quality products, from my experience, tend to be items that will help make your job as an artist easier and help you speed up your application time. These are products that will perform to your liking and doesn’t require much effort from you. Don’t get caught up in the new “Holy Grail” beauty product that social media influencers are hyping up for you to buy (I know, it is difficult when our newsfeed is inundated with paid advertisements).

I highly recommend doing research and checking out items professional artists (people that are doing makeup on others and not just themselves) are using. My favorite website to cosmetic lines dedicated to working artists is www.camerareadycosmetics.com. Although these companies don’t have the marketing power as other brands, you can be sure that their products are gold.

To help guide you to the items needed for you kit, I have created a complete makeup kit essential checklist with brands of products I use as a bridal makeup artist! And after many modifications over the years, these are items that I currently carry in my professional kit. Keep in mind, every makeup artist will have different brands and items in their kit depending on the type of work they do. I hope that this will be useful to get you started in your new journey!

How to turn your status from Hobbyist to Professional

kathyhuynh — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 10:23:37 +0000

Are you hobbyist that is looking to turn your creative passion into business so that you can start making money from your art? Are you frustrated at the stigma that creative work is nothing more than a hobby?

That was me 5 years ago when I started my side hustle as a freelance makeup artist. It was like pulling teeth trying to turn my passion for makeup into a profitable and respectable business. People did not take my job seriously because “I was just playing with makeup.” They didn’t feel this so called hobby warranted compensation—that was until I proved them wrong.

So, I’m here to show you a quick way to boost your status from a “hobbyist” to a “professional” in any creative industry that requires you to showcase your art and talent.

The first step in letting others know you mean business is making yourself look the part. One of the simplest and most inexpensive way to do this is by creating a website. Here are 5 advantages you will get with having a website, in addition to utilizing social media as part of your marketing strategy.

Gain Credibility – when you have a website, it gives you a platform to share your story, who you are, what you do and why potential customers should buy your products or pay for your services. It gives them a reason to know, like and trust you without having to speak with you first. Your personal website allows you to share your story and create virtual connections that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to have with just a social media profile.
Appears professional – Have you ever encountered any professional entity that does not have a website? I don’t think I have either. Even if you don’t have a bunch of stuff to share, it is still better than not having one at all. It shows your audience that you value your work and are serious about your business enough that you put in work to create and design your page. That in turn will help them take you and your business more serious.
Easy access to all your contents and information-Even before someone purchases your products or services, they usually will have to know, like and trust you. And what better way to do that than sharing information or knowledge that helps demonstrate your expertise and work? By having a website, it serves as a central platform so that your audience can easily access all your content in one spot.
Potential clients can locate you on search engines- When you have a website, it gives you leverage because your potential clients can simply find your site through search engines such as Google. You can also utilize Search Engine Optimization (SEO) to drive traffic to your page and gain more visibility.
Virtual Portfolio – If you are an artist like me, you know how important it is to have a portfolio. That’s the first thing that potential clients or employers want to see. The beauty of having your own site and not having to carry around a binder with your work. Your client can find good quality photos loaded right onto your website.

With millions of people on social media daily, it is a no brainer that your business needs to be on at least one of these platforms to gain more visibility. And having your own site will help you stand out from your competitors who are too lazy to brand themselves as professionals.

Now, if you are convinced that a website is needed for your business and you want to get one up and running but don’t know where to start because (like me) you are not tech savvy, don’t worry! I got you covered.

You can click on the PDF for a beginner’s guide that has all the information you need to get started

Top 10 Affirmations to Attract Wealth and Abundance

kathyhuynh — Fri, 14 Jul 2017 03:49:36 +0000

So you want to have more financial abundance, but you can’t seem to attract wealth and opportunities into your life. You feel stuck. You don’t think it’s possible to obtain wealth given your life’s current circumstances. You believe wealth and success are for those with better qualities, better luck, better looks, better, better…

Does this sound like your inner dialogue around money? If so, you are not alone. Negative stigma around money is very common and many have fallen victim to it.

What if I told you there is a way to easily change your negative thoughts and open doors to new opportunities and attract an abundance of wealth into your life? And no, it doesn’t require you to wait until your circumstances improve or even for the stars to align in your favor.

So let’s start with the question: What’s blocking you from having more money?

Your beliefs. What do beliefs have to do with wealth? A lot.

Let me explain.

Your beliefs create your thoughts. Your thoughts then become your reality. You see, thoughts are very powerful. And when you convince yourself of something, the mind has the ability to create and manifest that into reality. Essentially, the experiences in your life are brought upon by the thoughts you create.

So when you have beliefs such as: “I don’t deserve it” or “I’m not worthy” or “money is evil”, you are setting the foundation for self-limiting beliefs that keeps you hostage to your current financial situation.

Have you ever known someone that looks like they are walking under a dark cloud and is always negative about life? They think the universe in conspiring against them. And what kind of life experiences do they typically receive? Negative ones, of course. Well, it’s the same concept when it comes to financial abundance.

How can you get the universe to be on your side? Create a paradigm shift by changing your inner dialogue with the help of positive affirmations.

They are positive, short, powerful statements. When you say them or think them, they become your conscious thoughts and therefore, will become your reality. One thought at a time.

Now, I’m not suggesting all you need to do is repeat these affirmations and suddenly become wealthy. Having your beliefs and thoughts in the right direction is a great place to start, but you also need to take inspired actions for it to be powerful.

This all might sound a little farfetched to you, but if you search the internet, you’ll find tons of testimonials about the power of affirmations and life changing impact of the paradigm shift. The moment I decided to remove self-limiting beliefs, I have seen the tremendous growth in my personal life and in my bridal makeup business.

I hope by sharing this, you can attract abundance into your life and business too!

Leave me a comment and let me know what your favorite money and wealth affirmations are!

Xoxo,

Kathy H.

How To Decide If Leasing Or Buying a Vehicle Is Right For You

kathyhuynh — Sat, 24 Jun 2017 06:35:28 +0000

It’s that time of the year again! Everywhere you look there are car dealerships that are offering their spectacular summertime sales events. Perhaps your car is on its last legs and you are looking to get it replaced, or perhaps you are just looking for a new ride because you just want something newer. And while this is the perfect time to get your new hot ride, it would be wise to do a little more research before you head on down to your local dealership.

Buying a car is much different than buying a pair of shoes or a blouse — although sometimes I wish it was. Getting a new vehicle a commitment and a financial obligation that you’ll be responsible for paying for the next three to five years. Much like dating; before you officially become committed and settle down for the long haul, it’s smart to date around, meet different types of people, and explore your options, right?

Knowing your options when it comes to buying or leasing a car, and understanding the benefits and setbacks of each choice, can give your leverage, save you money in the long run, and help you avoid unnecessary financial stress.

Below are some advantages and disadvantages for leasing and buying a vehicle. I’ve also included some questions you can ask to determine which option is more beneficial for you. Don’t let the car salesman make the choice for you. They don’t know your financial goals, your current financial situation or what is in your best interest. And frankly, they may not even care. Don’t assume that having a lower monthly payment on a leased car is in your best interest. Get clear on what your plans are for your next vehicle before you make that decision.

What is leasing a vehicle?

Leasing a vehicle allows you to drive a new car without taking out a loan or paying a large sum of cash up front for it. You are not the legal owner of the vehicle. Simply put, you are renting that vehicle and are only making monthly payments for the term of the lease, which typically expires after 36 months. Leasing a car is similar to renting a home. Each lease can vary in their terms and conditions.

Leasing Pros and Cons:

Purchasing Pros and Cons:

Questions to consider:

1) How long do I plan on keeping this vehicle?

2)How many miles will I be putting on annually?

3)How much money do I have saved for a down payment?

4)Can I afford the monthly payment if an emergency arises?

5)Do I have money saved for maintenance fees and repairs?

6)How much do I value the ownership of a vehicle?

Let me know if you found this resource helpful in the comments below! And let’s stay connected on social media, where I mostly hang out with other amazing individuals like you!

Xoxo

Kathy H.

5 Ways to Keep Your Money Safe This Summer

kathyhuynh — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 13:37:18 +0000

Summer is upon us and this means more trips, more adventures, and more fun! And we don’t want anything to spoil that, right? The last thing we need is worrying about our bank account or dealing with the stress of fraudulent activity. Here are 5 ways to keep your money safe and be proactive so that you can be stress-free while enjoying your summer escape.

1) Use your credit card vs. debit card for hotel reservations and car rentals

How many times have you had to fight the car rental company or hotel because they overcharged you? If this has happened to you, you know it is not a fun process in getting your money

Using a credit card to book your hotel and car reservations is the best way to protect your money. When you put your card on file for a reservation, the merchant will most likely hold additional funds on your card. This is in the event you trash the hotel room or ding a rental car or anything that might force them to charge you more. In a way, this serves as insurance for the merchants. If you use your debit card, the hold will be placed on the funds in your checking account, which could prevent you from paying your bills or taking cash out. The hold sometimes can take up to 1 week to be removed, which can cause some serious inconveniences for you. Let’s not forget that you may even have to consider the possibility of a dispute and having to wait for a refund!

Putting a credit card on file is more practical seeing as it won’t interrupts your cash flow. Even if there is a disputed amount in your credit card, you won’t have to worry about it affecting access to your everyday funds.

2) Use cash or pay at register for gas

Gas stations are one of the easiest places for fraudsters to install a skimming device (a device used to steal your card information). It has become an easy target for fraudsters because each pump is isolated and no one is there to watch for suspicious activity. Once this device is installed, all of your card information is captured and they are able to duplicate your card for fraudulent use. There’s no telling which gas pump has been tampered, so

take a few extra minutes to actually go inside and pay with your card or just carry cash for gas at all time (and save some money per gallon while paying with cash while you’re at it).

3) Avoid putting in your card information for free samples

Have you seen one of those ads on your Facebook page, asking you to try a sample of this amazing cream that will change your life? The one that asked you to put in your card information and all you need to pay is small shipping

fee? This has been one of the biggest scams that I have seen recently. Avoid signing up and providing your card information to these non-reputable companies. When you put in your card information, you are inadvertently signing up for a monthly subscription and allowing them access to future debits from your account. You might be inclined to go to your bank and file a dispute, but these are the hardest disputes to win because there might have been a teeny tiny fine print that you agreed to, and that is all they need to take your money. And good luck trying to get a hold of someone on their customer service line. So to protect yourself and keep your money safe, the rule of thumb is do not provide your card to an unfamiliar company.

4) Notify your bank when you travel

Don’t forget to notify your bank before your travel or make large purchases (i.e plane tickets, shopping, trips and etc). With the ever increasing data breaches and debit/credit card fraud, most banks have taken great precautions in detecting and blocking any unusual or suspicious activities. Avoid any hiccups on your trip by being proactive. You don’t want to have your card declined when you need it most!

When you notify your bank, they can also keep an eye out on your account in the event there are transactions being made in your hometown. Helpful Hint: Save your bank

Helpful Hint: Save your bank’s customer service number on your phone in the event you lose your card and need to cancel it right away.

5) Set up text alerts with your bank

If you are on the go this summer, be sure to sign up for text message/ email alerts from your bank. While checking your account on a daily basis is recommended, you might be traveling to a place that doesn’t have an internet

connection or you just may not have the time to log into your app every day. Customizing your alerts will enable you to be notified anytime a transaction is out of your norm.

5 Things to do when purchasing a vehicle

kathyhuynh — Thu, 25 May 2017 13:22:59 +0000

Do Your Research

Before you even think about walking into a dealership or putting an offer on a vehicle, you MUST do some research. You must search on market pricing; value and history of vehicle so that you can get the best deal possible. The more information you have, the more leverage there will be in negotiating the sell or “out of the door” price.

Here are some websites that will provide free valuable information:

www.kbb.com – Kelly Blue Book provides a spectrum of pricing and value for your vehicle, ranging from Fair Market Price to MSRP (Manufacture’s Suggested Retail Price) See below for detailed definition.

www.truecar.com – True Car provides you with upfront pricing from your local certified dealers. It also gives information on what others have paid for your vehicle, helping you create a benchmark of what you can expect to pay.

www.carfax.com – Carfax provides you with a history report of your vehicle. This simple search can help you avoid purchasing a vehicle with costly hidden problems. Do not skip this step if you are purchasing from a private party or non-certified pre-owned vehicles.

Don’t Rush, Take Time to Shop Around

Buying a car is much different from buying a pair of shoes or a purse. You cannot “try” it out and expect to bring it back for a full refund if it doesn’t work out. Once you take the keys, you cannot return the car and get full price because value depreciation starts when you drive off the dealer’s lot. In most cases, there is no cooling off period (time frame permitted for you to return vehicle without any consequences). If you purchase from a private party seller, once the money is in their hands, there’s a good chance you may never see or hear from them again. Don’t make the mistake of rushing because buying a car is a BIG deal!

Negotiate or Bring Someone Who Can

To get the best deal, you have to ask! This is a great time to sharpen up on your negotiating and bargaining skills. As discussed in #1, the more information you know, the more leverage you will have. Whether you are buying from a dealer or a private seller, don’t assume that they are giving you the best offer. If don’t know how to haggle, bring someone who can. Don’t be afraid to walk away if the seller is not willing to negotiate.

Double Check Documents and Know What You Are Signing For

Don’t be afraid to ask plenty of questions if you are not clear on what you’re getting into. After all, you’ll be stuck paying for this purchase in the next few years! Be sure to look at every line on the purchase contract and understand all fees/charges. Don’t assume that the dealer is always 100% honest in disclosing fees and add-ons.

When buying from private seller, make sure the person who is selling the vehicle is the same person on the title. Ask for their identification. Only the person on the title can legally sell the vehicle. Contact DMV if you are unsure of your state laws. You don’t want to risk not being able to register the vehicle in your name because the title is not perfected.

Put Cash Down

If you can buy your car with all cash – terrific! If not, try putting 10-20% cash towards your purchase. By doing this, you are borrowing less from the bank and this will help keep the equity of your vehicle as it depreciates over time. When you have cash down, you can also avoid purchasing costly asset protection insurance.

Terms as defined by Kelly Blue Book (www.kbb.com)

Fair Market Range

The Fair Market Range for new cars is Kelley Blue Book’s estimate of what a consumer can reasonably expect to pay this week in their area for a vehicle configured with their selected options, excluding taxes, title, fees and any available rebates or incentives. Each dealer sets and controls its own pricing.

Kelley Blue Book® Fair Purchase Price

Updated weekly, the Kelley Blue Book® Fair Purchase Price for new cars is generally the midpoint of the Fair Market Range. It is Kelley Blue Book’s estimate of what a consumer can reasonably expect to pay this week in their area for a new vehicle configured with their selected options, excluding taxes, title, fees and any available rebates or incentives. It’s based on actual new-car transactions, plus data from other reliable third-party sources as well as market conditions.

Invoice

The Invoice price is the price the manufacturer charges its dealers for a new vehicle, but it does not necessarily reflect the total price actually paid by the dealer for the vehicle. The Invoice price includes destination charges, but doesn’t include dealer advertising costs or costs for selling, preparing, displaying or financing the vehicle. Also, Invoice price does not include factory-to-dealer incentives and other factors, which can reduce what the dealer pays for the vehicle.

MSRP

The MSRP, or Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price, is the price set by the manufacturer. MSRP includes destination charges and minimum required equipment, but excludes service and handling fees and state and local tax, title and license fees. MSRP is a reference point for negotiations, however dealers can choose to sell a vehicle above or below its listed MSRP.

Red Zone

The red zone falls above the Fair Market Range. Special circumstances such as exceptionally low supply with high demand, options installed by the dealership, and seasonality may all be contributing factors to sales that occur in this range.

White Zone

The white zone falls below the Fair Market Range. Special circumstances such as retiring model years, unpopular color, excess inventory and seasonality may all be contributing factors to sales that occur in this range.