The Lipstick Classified

One of our authors, Karen Cecilia, has written and published her first book! I sat down with Karen to find out why there is so much buzz about her "The Lipstick Classified."

1) How is your book different from other books about makeup and beauty?
When I had the idea for this book, I looked at almost every makeup book out there and they were all how-tos. I thought, I would have wanted to know exactly what to do to get started as a makeup artist instead of making the mistakes I made because I had no one to ask.

2) Who did you write this book for: students, up-and-comers, everyday women?
I wrote this book with all those people in mind. Also for the people who just generally have a curiosity about what it's really like to be a makeup artist. I have never wanted to be a chef or a Nannie or a Geisha, but I love to know about their experiences as one.

3) What is your favorite work story?
I have a few and they are in the book. Holding Gary Cooper's Oscar on a job, eating lunch with Ellen Burstyn at her house, and having a bride tell me she never felt so beautiful.

4) What are the three biggest mistakes that new artists make?
Not pushing themselves to learn all areas of makeup even if they are not working in that specific area. For example, if you are doing fashion, learn special effects. It will make you a well-rounded makeup artist and all your makeup skills will improve. Not taking your job serious enough. It's a fun job, but it's still a job. You must show up on time, look professional, and have all your supplies.  The worst is having a bad attitude. You are in very close contact with people, you are literally in an intimate space with them. You must have an attitude that you are there for them. They trust you with their appearance so don't take that lightly. Even a difficult client can be won over with a positive attitude.

5) If you could put up one billboard that would be seen by millions of
everyday women, what would it say/communicate?
Love yourself a little more and the person beside you also.

6) Do redheads have more fun than the rest of us?

Absolutely! We are sassy and rare and give blonds a run for their money!

7) What is the one message you hope that readers take away from the book?

I hope they laugh, enjoy themselves, and find out something they didn't know about makeup or beauty.

Buy "The Lipstick Classified" now at Lulu.com or email Karen directly