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I finally finished watching Asia's Next Top Model Season 5 (yes, only yesterday), and the final shoot is simply amazing! Behind every pretty picture there is a team of professional and talented crew taking care of the set, and most importantly, the hair and makeup. Makeup can easily change up a person’s look – from a lip gloss to dark red lips, from mascara-only to dramatic cat eyes, one can transform from a professional office lady to a glam queen in no time. But hey, let’s face it. As much as I’d love to have the skills of Michelle Phan, I tend to err on the “safe side” and repeat the same look, cause I know I won’t screw it up. So it was graduation last December and I had to take obligatory family photos. The previous set had haunted me over the past ten years. They are simply too embarrassing to look at, yet they are hung in the most obvious corner of my living room (yea, not the best times and really not looking forward to taking another). Just as I was planning to go for another “daily” makeup with some damaged bleached hair, I got in touch with Sponge, an on-demand beauty services team. The timing couldn’t be more perfect so I went over to check out their services online – I always loved wavy hair so I immediately scheduled a slot right before the family photo shoot. The founder, Diane, who is very hands-on with her business, confirmed the appointment with me right away. The stylist was on time, friendly, and took care of my preference perfectly. With the comfort of getting my hair done at home, we actually chatted the time away and had a fun time - and before I knew it, my hair was done.  I think the outcome looked amazing so I was extremely excited when they hit me up with another collaboration opportunity – this time with Reiss Fashion as a partner. After the first experience, I was completely confident to let them pick whatever make-up and hairstyle that goes with the outfits I picked. The first look was all about the highlights on a natural makeup. It went really well with a pair of flowy pants and a top with ruffles so that the overall styling won’t be over the top. The second look was fun, athletic, and lively. It was a braided ponytail that I have always been afraid to carry because of the bumps, flyaways and frizz. It was out of my comfort zone but was certainly a pleasant surprise. The third look was (I believe) what every girl’s wardrobe need – a floral dress. My makeup this time was a fierce one, with a big curls and smoky eyes adding a statement of prowess, style and personality. It’s every girl’s dream to be pampered by a team of beauty experts before events and occasions, and of course, there are days when you just don’t want to do your own make up. Do let them surprise you! I’m sure their efficiency and professionalism (while having tones of fun) won’t let you down – leaving you beautiful, confident, and feeling like the best version of yourself. The plus is, all these can be scheduled just in a few clicks. (Btw, use Code "First50" to enjoy $50 HKD off your first appointment!) Outside the shoot, I was very impressed by the team’s “girl power”. It was my very first experience and I appreciated it because I feel comfortable to be part of this “sorority”. It was not only about girls dressing up and having fun, but to be empowered and confident. Not only did it show women can and do take charge well, and more importantly we are all committed in whatever we do best. The growing business is managed by a devoted founder who wasn’t afraid to give up a legal career to chase after her dreams; the beauty team members who are skilled and passionate about their work; Karin, the photographer who’s talented and free spirited (as her social media handle @waves_are_free tells us); and Kamilla, the fun lifestyle and fashion enthusiast who meticulously took care of my wardrobe.
It’s sometimes difficult to take the courage to leap or to change your life in a totally different direction, but Diane has proven that if you have the passion for it, work hard for it, you’ll ultimately meet like-minded and supportive people along the way. Seeing an all-women team in real life was a special and inspirational moment. I have to say it’s a joy to work with them and see them grow x
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