Laval Bike and Tattoo 2012

Once again we'll be at the Laval Bike and Tattoo Expo with a booth packed full of pinup gear, corsets, high heels and hot Pinups! This year the event organizers asked us to do live pinup shooting with bikes and expo enthusiasts, we'll have a second booth set up beside our regular one for people that want to take photos with the models or just watch the process of a photo shoot - should be interesting and fun! Our models range in age and size - which I think is very important because as a society we tend to group things into "one or the other". Curvy girls think only curvy is hot, thin girls think only thin is hot, young vs. old - WAKE UP! You're ALL HOT! I think it's about time we stop discriminating and start celebrating.... Plus these biker dudes seem to be a big fan of any size/age as long as ladies are dressed as a pinup or burlesque performers - which I find infinitely amusing and AWESOME.

Stop by and see us April 20th to the 22nd at the sport expo centre in Laval and take some photos with us!

Speakeasy Burlesque Cirque Edition!

Once again we'll be organizing a burlesque night in the small rococo speakeasy lounge at Abreuvoir Bar & Terrace! The theme this time around is Cirque hosted by Ring Master Velma Candyass! There will be prizes for those that arrive in costume or in 1920's chic. The night's sure to be unforgettable as so many stars come together in such an intimate setting. We're happy to announce performances by: Mlle Oui Oui Encore, Cherie Black Diamond, Bon Bon Bombay, Lavender May, Sucre à la Crème, Exotic Bloom, Velma Candyass and more!

Last time around we managed to pack the venue and had to turn people away at the door for lack of space so please come early if you want a booth or a table!

Here's our Blurb:

OYÉ OYÉ,
soyez parmi les privilégiés qui assisteront à la prochaine soirée Speakeasy Burlesque Édition CIRQUE, présentée par Glamour Montréal et Vintage Love, en association avec L’Abreuvoir Bar & Terrasse et le Carnaval Burlesque à Québec. Pour la première fois, seront réunis sous le même chapiteau: Velma Candyass, Cherie-Black-Diamond, Bonbon Bombay, Mlle OuiOui Encore, Exotic Bloom, Lavender May et plus encore! Une chance unique de voir ces artistes de renommée à un tarif aussi bas! Performances extravagantes d'inspiration cirque-rétro dans l'ambiance speakeasy des années 30. Venez vivre l'expérience cirque entouré de showgirls, dresseuses de lion, clowns, freaks, gymnastes etc. Pour ceux qui seront costumés, surprises assurées, aussi concours et prix de présence à gagner!

Le 5 mars 2012, ouverture des portes à 20h et spectacle à 21h.

Avec votre hôtesse Lavender May et votre Animatrice Velma Candyass, dans le cabaret rococo privé au sous-sol de l’Abreuvoir!

Entrée 12$ à la porte.

TV and Radio Blurbs!

This week was pretty interesting for us; we were mentioned on CJAD and featured on the french TV reality show, Opération Séduction.

First, the lovely and talented Yael Perez was featured on CJAD's afternoon current events talk show. They were discussing being a plus-size model and the media's need to photoshop the crap out of everyone - even Adele on the cover of Vogue. She graciously mentioned us while discussing people she wants to work with in the new year! Hear the clip HERE on Yael's site.

Second, we were featured on the dating reality show Opération Séduction. Usually I'm not into the whole drama of reality TV but Anaïs was a past client of mine that I really adored and love to collaborate with. The filming was short and my whole studio had to be cleared out but the staff was really nice and down to earth. I didn't get to see much of their dynamic together but, good for Anaïs for being so straight forward with him - no time for bullshit even on a TV dating show!! After the filming the guy chose his "Favourite date" (which was not Anaïs) but something that made us all laugh at the studio was when the dude came back to pick up his clothes off camera - he asked us if she wasn't too disappointed that he didn't choose her because she seemed really into him.... Marie-Sophie just laughed (while I stood there traumatized) and said: "non, vraiment pas!!" Better luck next time guy ;)

Check out the clip on Opération Séduction

They're kind of cute together, no?

For your entertainment, here's a still with me making a stink face :)

Exotic birds in my studio, cool clients and more!

As one of my clients said to me today; any girl can get excited over diamonds - but show me feathers and watch out! I have to say, I feel exactly the same. I love feathers, I go to Ultratex on St-Hubert street and compulsively buy/hoard feathers. A giant birdcage just seemed logical...

8 hours of building, painting and assembling later - we had something pretty awesome - Above you're seeing evidence of me zoning out- I find it kind of looks like I'm about to drill Rick in the head! In the end we have a square stage, a golden border with carved roses, golden cage bars draped in elegant gold damask and red fabric - as well as a fully functioning swing.

Something that was very important to me was that the swing be able to support over 250 pounds - I have many plus size clients and I don't want them to miss out on this awesome set. The last thing I want is for someone to feel too heavy to be elegant - because that's so far from the truth!

Below you'll see some light tests with Lavender May, She's the full time makeup artist and costume designer here at the studio. Her costume was entirely made by hand (by her!) - I think the mint looks f-ing fantastic with the gold, silver and black... and that lavender hair!

Our Promo Blurb:

Birds of Paradise Set - Become an international showgirl for a day like Dita VonTeese, Roxy Velvet or even 1930's Zou Zou (Josephine Baker).

The fully functional swing and open cage made completely from scratch in our studio can hold any exotic bird up to 275lbs. Many costumes and light tests to come soon!

Available at the studio from February 13th to March 31st 2012

150$ Includes: Hair, Makeup, Set, Costuming and Accessories, 1 High-Res Retouched Image as well as all your additional images on USB. For booking please contact: marisa@glamourparties.ca

On a side note- I'd like to say a fond goodbye to Eve, the French photographer that's been at the studio over the past few months. Today she's heading back to france to open a studio inspired by our "Pinup Parties". It has been so wonderful getting to know this talented and warm woman - I know her business will be successful, she has a way of making people feel comfortable and sexy! Go check out her fan page on Facebook: Eve Photographie.

Finally; I've had a slew of really great clients lately - I don't know what's up but I've been getting people coming in and telling me that they read my blog, take my advice, try my product reviews and think I'm cool. I have to apologize to these people because I kind of stare at them like they're crazy or I get really bashful. I'm just really touched that People I've never met have taken the time to be interested in what I do and say/think/write. Many women tell me that coming to see me is like a therapy session - they find renewed self-confidence in their inner diva/goddess ... without having to exploit themselves in any way. I have to say, having clients like YOU make me feel good about what I do. I've always known I was on the right track, but it's definitely nice to have that pat on the back every now and then! Thank you.

The Year 2011

I love numbers and details, I literally keep track of everything – I thought I’d share some funny and interesting facts about our studio in 2011

Best Laugh: Kitty Kin-Evil – her laugh is so contagious it’s crazy! Followed very closely by Kim Brazeau! You girls can come laugh with us any time!

Traveled the farthest: Acid Doll

Number of foreign countries clients have traveled from: 7

Number of times we've been featured (to our knowledge) in Magazines, blogs and reviews: 19

TV Shows filmed at the studio: 1 (Opération Séduction)

Best Party: Opening party – it was a little wild!

Item we couldn’t keep in stock: Steel Boned Cherry Corset @ 50$

Number of set changes: 8

Most successful set: “Hilary Jane” Black on Black based on the artwork by Montreal tattoo artist Hilary Jane

Most Creative Adaptation of the set: The always fantastic Velma Candyass

Funniest client feed-back: “You could direct a mule on how to wear high heels”

Most rewarding client feed-back: “You made me feel sexy… and I’m not even showing any skin! Chatting with your staff and you being so easy-going just made me confident and feel HOT! THANK YOU!”

Client repeats: 52

Clients that became employees: 2

Client with the most intense makeup: Betty Rocket for our sugar skull (all that lace was hand painted by Marie-Sophie!)

Model with the most tattoo coverage: Athena

Thing that clients love the most about us: We’re easy-going and helpful… giving you gorgeous photos, hair and makeup.

Thing that aggravates clients the most: Hard to get a hold of due to high volume of calls, bookings and shoots. We’re so sorry! If you don’t hear from us within 24H of a phone call please email us at: Marisa@glamourparties.ca

Client with the hottest nails: Sunny DeVille (also has the sweetest personality and some rockin' lips!)

Burlesque Performer we’ve shot the most: Mlle Oui Oui Encore from Bluelight Burlesque – Always a pleasure and looking forward to shooting you for years to come.

Wildest Pinup Party: School teachers (you know who you are!) We love you guys!

Most adorable French Maid: Emery

Favourite Drag-Queen Transformation: Rick Escaravage (into Marie-Antoinette)

Biggest Hair: Meg

Best Hair: Kitty Kin-Evil (Stunning royal blue, mauve and black) Runner-up: Maude with gorgeous pink, black and turquoise hair.

Craziest set prop: Taxidermy bats and stag horn head-band for the Jane set

Prop that all women use but will never tell you about: Whip

Number of clients that don’t believe me about the nude nylon thing: 22

Number of clients that weren’t convinced after their light test with the nylons: 0

Number of clients that flat out refused to wear nylons because it made them think of a grand-ma: 2

Stupidest pose: Duck-Face self-portraits – STOP IT! You look like a fool!

Best Vintage Love Costume: Candyland corset with glitter top, garters and cupcake hat…. Followed by pretty much everything else she’s ever made, the woman has talent!

Number of times clients wanted at least one shot with Diesel (the studio boxer dog): 112

Fur Babies at the Studio: Diesel and Jazz (Marisa’s Boxers), Chocolat (Marie-Sophie’s Pink Nosed Pit Bull), Billy (Eve’s Jack Russell Terrier) – If you’re afraid or allergic to dogs please let us know and well make sure the studio is dog free for your shoot.

Photo that all clients LOVE/want to re-create: Vintage Love on the carpet with the cream phone or Morxia Marla with the ballet slippers and carousel horse

Chameleon Model: Marie-Sophie Rondeau, as always!

Model with zero experience that rocked it out: Niko

Set we’ll miss the most: Candyland, mostly because it was pink and fun to eat

Number of times Jason (boyfriend, handyman, carrier of heavy objects) cursed my name because of set building/shopping: Unsure, but we’re going to say at least 100

Best Convention: Bike and Tattoo Laval – all the ladies were wearing our corsets by the end of Saturday night!

Best Festival: Burlesque Festival mostly for getting tipsy with Marie-Sophie, Stef Porter, and Mali Siri . Really looking forward to the 2012 festival in Quebec City put on by Cherie Black Diamond, this time we’ll add Cléo to the mix and it will be perfect!

Biggest Stink-Fest: Being discouraged to attend a music festival because another photographer at the event might (and I quote) "freak out"… I guess it means you’re doing well when photographers who don’t even do the same style fear of your presence – In the end, we went to the festival anyway, listened to good music, danced, said hello, were really sociable and had a good time.

Number of flowers purchased at IKEA for sets/costumes: 110

Favorite start-to finish transformation: Claudine

Funniest photo shoot: Marc’s “Man-Up” Christmas set… Funny mostly because he got so into character with Marie-Sophie’s help and that costume was way too tight! Merci Marc, t’est le meilleur! Runner up: Lora's Mrs. Edna

Most humbling experience: Photographing a woman with terminal cancer who had never taken any photos of herself because she always figured she’s do it “later” when she lost 10 pounds… Never knowing that time might be running out. Finally she decided to do it NOW before she lost all her hair and strength. She was the perfect example of female perseverance and power – together we were able to capture both that and her beauty, frozen in time. We were very touched by her story and we send her love every day.

Thank you everyone, especially those not mentioned for a very memorable 2011. Looking forward to seeing you in the year 2012! We have a ton of great sets in store for you! Best wishes and tons of love

xx

Cirque Rétro - New set available until February 11th 2012

Acid Doll

Cirque Rétro - A glamour set sure to inspire!

Tuesday the lovely Acid Doll, a professional model from Belgium, stopped by our studio to do our light test in the new Cirque set. We were also joined by Montreal Burlesque dynamo Mlle Oui Oui Encore, credited with reviving the Burlesque scene in Montreal since 1994. Even Miss Lavender May was coerced with much lash batting and a glass of wine to pose as our Bearded Lady. After some frantic last-minute set changes and star painting (spiced with girl-gossip and lots of laughs) we got some pretty amazing shots! I'm very proud to present our Retro Circus, which we'll be offering to you at the studio until the 11th of February. The idea behind Cirque Rétro is to transform you into a Ring Master, a Show Girl, a Bearded woman or any other character your heart desires- all with volumes of sex-appeal, of course! The set features a fun diamond patterned backdrop that flows in the wind, flanked by thick red stage curtains and retro flags. Our stage is worn with age, strewn with peanuts - just like how it used to be! We also have the classic carousel horse and performer platform as well as countless other costumes and props for your shoot.
Shoot Price: 150$
Includes: Hair, Makeup, Set, Costuming and Accessories, 1 High-Res Retouched Image as well as all your additional images on USB. For booking please contact: marisa@glamourparties.ca

Mlle Oui Oui Encore Of BlueLight Burlesque

Lavender May of Vintage Love

Book Soon! Spaces are limited!

Acid Doll is in Montreal with her celebrated tattoo artist husband Mister-P until Sunday. He'll be at Oly Anger Tattoo shop - Stop by and check him out: 4521 rue clark, Montreal

Photo Shoot Preparation Revised!

It happens a lot at the studio that women walk in totally unprepared for shoots - even after consultations. It can be stressful, especially if it's you're first time being shot. The thing is, there's nothing to worry about! We're pretty relaxed at the studio, accepting of all body types, styles and orientations - you can be yourself here and we'll help you look your best. I've made a list before of things you need to do in preparation for your photo shoot but I'm going to go over some points again with a few added/ revised details.

-Arrive with clean & dry hair, preferably washed the night before. This makes styling easier and your pin-curls will hold a million times better. Don't forget to do your roots otherwise we'll style your hair to hide them.
-Do your nails, even just a clear coat makes a big difference! Don't know what colour to do? Red or black are always safe bets.
-BRING NUDE NYLONS! No one believes me, but nude nylons make your legs look like they've been photoshopped to perfection, they lift your bum and hide cellulite. It's a no-brainer.
- Shave, moisturize, pluck - SO important. All these little details show in high-resolution!
-When looking for inspiration look at models YOUR SIZE. Some people find me harsh for this, but it's a little silly to be ignorant of your figure. I'm a plus size woman myself (That's me in the photo below). Sexy is in the attitude, not necessarily in the wardrobe (or lack thereof). Just ask us for help, we'll sort you out!
-Always bring backup underwear, bras, shoes and outfits and even makeup - better safe than sorry, I can't stress that enough!
-LET YOURSELF LAUGH! Feel like a big goof? Just laugh it out, often photos taken in these moments are more sincere and beautiful. I see girls try to hold their emotions in and we go through a couple photos with a pinched smile. Dude, just laugh! It's ok, I'll even laugh with you - I'm a big goof too. Plus, you'll feel way more relaxed and we can get back to the boudoir eyes with significantly less coaching. The trick is: don't over-think anything, I'm there to re-position you and remind you to point your toes and suck it in. I'll do ALL the worrying for you; Just enjoy being pampered, enjoy the music, enjoy how hot you look - just BE. I'll do all the rest.


See those hot-mamma cellulite-free legs up there? That's nude nylons, not photoshop ;)

Nivole, A Wine After my Own Heart

A refreshing alternative to bubbly: Nivole Michele Chiarlo Moscato d'Asti 2010



This is a fantastic wine that my hubby brought home from the SAQ - it's heaven for 12$.
This white wine has the refreshing bubbly feel of champagne but with the floral and fruity taste of a young white wine. It goes down so smooth that before you know it you're on your third bottle. Though it's listed as a dessert wine, I find it fantastic with salty crackers, 3+ year old gouda and best of all: Foie Gras. It's worth a try, especially since you'll easily pay 30$ for a bottle half as tasty!

Michael O'Rourke Rocks my World

Big price for big results



Presenting Michael O'Rourke's Rock Your Hair
Where to find it: Salons, Online
Use: Hair care and styling
Ease of use: So easy!
Smell: Subtle citrusy smell and all around goodness!
Packaging: Hot pink, gothic lettering and a rhinestone heart - let's face it, I would have bought it for the packaging alone!
Price: Around 20$ per item

My good friend Claudine offered me this set for Christmas knowing my absolute love of pink/glitter/rhinestones/big hair. I have to say I'm pretty f-ing impressed with this product. Anyone that knows me, knows my love for jumbo hair (like any good Italian woman does). My only problem is that my hair is so thick and long that it doesn't take much for it to go flat (I REFUSE to cut layers in my hair, don't you dare suggest it!). To keep a big style I have to tease all over and re-tease halfway though the day. I've used volume sprays, powders, shampoos - anything and everything and nothing holds all day without maintenance. THEN Rock Your Hair came into my life. I am in love and though it's expensive it's worth the investment. This morning I used the shampoo/conditioner combo - they're Sulfate and Paraben free and colour safe too - followed by the Size Matters Big Volume Root Lift, which you spray in your wet hair and then blow dry with a round brush, lifting the roots as you dry. Already at this point I had big hair, as if I sprayed it with a whole can of hairspray upside-down like a Madonna wanna-be from the 80's - but without the rock hard texture! Next I sprinkled the bombshell powder and massaged it into my roots - this gives instant volume and texture, makes your roots shine AND it smells good! For good measure I did some minimal teasing and then sprayed my roots with the Spray It Hard Hairspray. I did all this at about 11 am, the whole process took about 20 minutes.... 12 hours later - I STILL HAVE BIG HAIR! No extra teasing, no extra damage, my hair looks like a rock star. I LOVE it! This is a fantastic product that delivers. It does what it promises it will do all in a hot pink kitsch packaging.

Final word: Buy it now, spend the extra dollars for a hot result!

November/December Monthly Special - Hilary Jane

For those of you who don't know her, Hilary Jane is a lowbrow horror tattoo artist here in Montreal. She's made designs for companies like Too Fast Apparel, Lowbrow Art Company and more... In fact her work is so good that a lot of ballsy douchebags try to rip off her art on a regular basis. She currently works at MTL Tattoo, where she inks amazing life-like portraits as well as her neo-traditional victorian ladies, always with elements of religion, vanity, decay and sorrow. We love her work so much, we figured it was about time to make her art come to life.

Wednesday afternoon Hilary came in for our light test in the set inspired by her. She's a trooper! Jane sat through 3 hours of hair and makeup (see photos below). Marie-Sophie (our talented stylist and clothing designer) replicated makeup and hair styles that Hilary uses in her illustrations, including real stag horns, flowers, pearls, haute-coiffure and feathers.






Want to participate in our Hilary Jane Promo? Don't hesitate, spots are going fast!

"Become a dark, elegant and surreal alter-ego"

Available at the studio from November 10th to December 24th 2011.
Complete Package: 150$
Includes: Custom hair, makeup, special set, accessories, several costumes, shoes, jewellery, 100-150 photos which you can leave with the same day!
For info call: 514-473-3218 or email: marisa@glamourparties.ca

Custom Costumes designed by Marie-sophie Rondeau of Vintage Love, Set designed by Marisa Parisella based on artwork by Hilary Jane Petersen - Check out her work here: www.hilaryjane.ca

Preview some Light Test shots:

Retiring the Candy set. Meanwhile, Hilary Jane Inspires us...

Monday night we did our last shoot in our much loved (and eaten) Candyland with our very own Lavender-Mai. Marie-Sophie outdid herself in makeup and costuming, going all out in pinks and sparkles. Marie-Sophie (Vintage Love) created a corset full of rhinestones, glitter and candy. It could not have been more of a kitsch girl-fest! For the shoot, we basically went in and threw around the candy for 30 minutes! The photo below is by far one of my favourites and I'm happy to have it as our last candy shoot.



We're already putting together our next set, inspired by a Montreal tattoo artist, Hilary Jane. Everyone at the studio drools over her tattoo art on a regular basis and we figured it was about time we pay homage to her work. After doing so many Ultra-Vibrant shoots lately, it was fun to switch to something so dark yet very feminine and powerful. I've put together a black on black set featuring an oversized leather chesterfield chaise, shag carpets, fur pillows, ornate frames & chandelier, taxidermy bats flying out of their cage as well as Hilary's signature roses. Marie-Sophie (Vintage Love) is hard at work creating an ornate costume that is mix & matchable to any size corset, featuring cameos, neck corsets, lace and bustles. Clients will be able to choose the degree of makeup and hairstyling they require going from the extreme; featuring stag horns and pale skin with mascara running down their cheeks to a more general Marie-Antoinette inspiration. Hilary will be in next week for our light test so stay tuned for the final shots! Below I've thrown in a photo of our set elements so far- take a closer look for flower head pieces and taxidermy bats ;)

Various elements for the new set, including: taxidermy bats, stag horns for your coiffure, various flower and pearl head pieces as well as intricate costuming and jewellery options and

crucifixes (of course!)

From Hilary's website:
"I am a lowbrow horror artist and tattoo artist from Montreal.
I am mostly known for creating works that condone the sin of vanity; by juxtapozing beautiful pinups and high society dames with dark subject matters such as disentegration, death and resurection.
Inspired by the enchanting visuals of costume history, religious Renaissance art, baroque art and the living dead, I take great joy in drawing beautiful women in dramatic outfits, decorated with bizarre millinery and taxidermy [...]"

To see more of her work for inspiration, check out: http://hilaryjane.ca/section/201631_DRAWINGS.html

Meanwhile, we're already working on our NEXT set, after Hilary Jane. In January we're going to be spoiling you with a Retro Circus! Complete with Lion Tamers, Trapeze Artists, Freak-shows, Dancing Girls and a Carousel Horse. Stay tuned!

Sweet on Erase Paste

Paste for the Pasty



Presenting Benefit's Erase Paste
Where to find it: Pharmaprix, High-end pharmacies
Use: Cover-up
Ease of use: Easy - to mess up!
Smell: Subtle makeup smell
Packaging: Hot Purple and pink with retro lettering
Price: Around 30$ - 40$

I initially tried this out based on a recommendation by a client, I was wishing out loud for an even colour-corrector that was easy and fast to use. She pulled out "Erase Paste" and I fell in love. I won't lie to you - the application can be tricky and though it is very thick and feels like you're applying sludge to the bags under your eyes - it's freaking fantastic! The best approach is to pat on very small amounts directly with your finger to all those troublesome red spots and under-eye darkness. If the colour match isn't exact - don't fret - you'll cover it up with your powder foundation creating a porcelain effect that is actually quite comfortable and beautiful. I have ridiculously sensitive skin and right away I was dreading the effect this product would have on my face, yet I was pleasantly surprised by absolutely zero irritation. Benefit is notorious for creating fun and useful beauty products (they had me at their retro packaging) - and I am thrilled to share this one with you. I combine Erase Paste with their powder foundation "Hello Flawless" for a fast and complete porcelain base for my makeup. A word of warning though - go easy on the paste, make sure not to cake it on, only apply it where needed in gentle patting motions... otherwise you'll have a caked mess to deal with! By my calculations, using the paste for my eyes, nose, chin and occasional red spots every day I'll have enough in the little jar for about 6-8 months. I'd say it's a good buy!

Final word: Buy it now!

How to prepare for your photo shoot!

Acid Doll by glamourparties.ca

1. Do your roots!

You want to be able to leave your shoot with as many as possible great shots that don't need to be photoshopped! Something a lot of women neglect to do is touch up their roots, which later on needs to be touched up in photoshop so that their hair doesn't look cheap/tacky. I always suggest that girls who don't have the time/money for a touch-up opt for a hairstyle that hides the roots, like pin-curls, rolls that roll up and lots of flowers and feathers!

2. Nail Polish, shaving and moisturizer are a must!

These are often things easily forgotten, but can sometimes ruin a shot. Make sure your nails look fantastic and shiny, shave and pluck those extra hairs and ALWAYS moisturize your skin!

3. Practice in the mirror!

It's like a private test run! to get a nice smile and pout practice words and sounds like "hey" and "oooo" - they really only work if you say them without an ounce of seriousness. Vowels also work well (A,E,I,O,U). DON'T BE AFRAID TO LAUGH AT YOURSELF! It's part of the fun and sometimes give really great photos and it definitely helps you relax. Seeing what different sounds and expression look like ahead of time gives you confidence for the real thing on camera. You'll already know what looks good and what doesn't!

4. Hide those "trouble" spots!

If you have cellulite or leg bulge wear nude stockings! It smooths, lifts and hides. If you choose a tone that matches your skin tone that isn't too shiny you'll be the only that knows your wearing tights in your photos. You can easily wear thigh-highs over them and a garter belt. Feel silly wearing all those layers? Don't, it's the same trick burlesque dancers and showgirls use.

If you have tummy issues you can always wear a corset or suggest poses laying on your stomach. For flabby arms try lightly flexing or not raising your arms too high. For breast pudge (unfortunate result of tight corsetry and large breasts) wear a boa or ask for a shrug that might fit with your outfit.

5. Bring Backup!

Always bring backup underwear, bras, shoes and outfits and even makeup - better safe than sorry!

6. Do some research!

Find out what style you're really passionate about, which models/photographers make you drool. The more inspiration you have the clearer you'll be with your photographer about what you're looking for.

7. Eat light and bring a snack!

You don't want to be uncomfortable or bloated so don't fill your tummy. Eat light, think fruit, toast, coffee/tea and bring something a little sugary to snack on when your nerves kick in or if you get hunger pangs during your shoot.

8. ALWAYS voice your opinion!

Ask to see the photos so far, or at least ask to see the light test. Photographers do their best to make you look great, but if you have an insecurity about your facial expression/pose you want to make sure your photographer keeps you on the right track when giving you direction.

9. More is better!

When doing your own hair and makeup never forget BIGGER IS BETTER! Wear colour corrective foundations, do cat eyes and wear fake lashes! For your hair, tease the crap out of those roots, wear hot rollers & smooth out and seal your final look with pomade. Big flowers are always a plus!

Lost? Consult the many vintage/pinup enthusiasts on YouTube

1o. Have fun & pamper yourself!

That one's pretty straight forward I think! Never be shy to ask for help or direction, it will only improve your shoot and make you more confident!

Photography Special! Indulgence & Candy - Friandises et Gourmandises!

We have a limited time special photoshoot package available! "Indulgence & Candy" 150$ package includes hairstyle, makeup, costumes, shoes, accessories AND you get to keep all your images from the shoot! Let out your candy princess or sweet treat temptress - with your final retouched image framed in cotton candy you're sure to have people drooling with desire! for bookings contact: marisa@glamourparties.ca

 Forfait Friandises et Gourmandises disponible au studio! 150$ inclus: coiffure & maquillage, costumes, souliers, accessoires ET vous gardez TOUT vos photos! Pour réservation: marisa@glamourparties.ca Thanks to the fabulous Mlle Oui Oui Encore for being our spokes model! Don't forget to check out her BRAND NEW CABARET at café campus, entitled: "Gourmandises et Friandises"; 14 acts of candy & indulgence sure to entertain! Purchase your tickets at Café Campus (Prince Arthur), at our boutique: 1695 St-Denis, or at www.BluelightBurlesque.com

Bluelight Burlesque New Season Starts Soon!

For anyone looking for something to do in Montreal on the 17th of September check out the Bluelight Burlesque at Café Campus! Mlle Oui Oui Encore presents a whole new season with fun themes and new acts, starting with "Friandises et Gourmandises" - a sure pleasure for you senses. Not to mention we'll be launching our monthly special, which will coincide with Bluelight's monthly shows!
We're building a fantastic candy land for you, reminiscent of Katy Perry's cotton candy clouds! Stay tuned for our lighting tests with Oui Oui Encore ;)
We'll be offering complete hair, makeup, costume and pose "coaching" - you'll also get to keep all your images as well as one completely retouched image of your choice for 150$ - contact us at marisa@glamourparties.ca for more info!

Check out the new Bluelight Flyers designed by yours truly!
For tickets and more show times visit www.bluelightburlesque.com

Lash Blast lives up to it's name...

Presenting Cover Girl's Lash Blast Fusion
Where to find it: Any Pharmacy
Use: Mascara
Ease of use: Easy Peasy!
Smell: Subtle makeup smell
Packaging: Hot Purple (love it!)
Price: Around 9$

I'm always looking for new makeup products, even if I tend to stick to M.A.C. products. Every now and then a cheaper brand will surprise me - like Cover Girl's Lash Blast Fusion. Not only is it my favourite colour (packaging really impresses me for some reason) but the product really performs! Boasting a volume, lengthening AND waterproof formula (which usually means clumpy-ness or one feature out-performing the other). This mascara though has a really fat brush that allows just the right amount of mascara to be rolled on and spread to the tips of your lashes. At first I found it a bit awkward with such a large brush but it really gave me the volume and length I was looking for. After a few test rounds I can say that the waterproof formula really outdoes itself - holding on even after hurricane rain storms and a shower! I'm super satisfied with my purchase and I'm going to bring this product into the studio to replace our current M.A.C. mascara (yeah, it's that good!)

Final word: Buy it now!

Burlesque Bucks!

For those of you who didn't receive your burlesque buck at our grand opening, please feel free to print this out and use it next time you visit us!!!

Opening Party

Thanks for such an amazing turnout Saturday night! We had a full house all night long with music, food and shopping! The night started off at 6pm we greeted clients with white wine, cupcakes and a diverting atmosphere! Guys and dolls piled in and enjoyed the festivities all night long including Jive dancing and music by Luc Osmani on the second floor! We presented our new collection of corsets, shoes, clothing, vintage fashion as well as Vintage Love dresses and apparel. Clients were pleased to hear about all our services, including Pinup Photography, custom show-costumes on-site fitting and one of a kind fashion creations. The night was a big success, thank you to everyone that came out & helped out, including: Stef Porter, Claudine Normand, Velma Candyass, Natasha Clayton, Red Rocket, Van Demon, Oui Oui Encore and so many more! We love you! xox

We hosted a bootleg art show in our photography studio, featuring work by Alice dans la Lune, Hilary Jane, Oui Oui Encore, Chen-Je Chen, Natasha Clayton, Pin-striping by Renny Jesic and Guillame Ozoux.

The art made for interesting conversation and a really beautiful backdrop to such a fantastic night!

Baked goods prepared especially for the night! Baked by Stef Porter, myself and Candy Topps Cupcakes. We had piles of candy laying around for everyone's indulgence, as well as bowls of candied feet, berries and gummy bears!

Many Burlesque performers attended the event to our delight! With street performances by Morxia Marla (left), Nadia (Hawaiian dance, centre) and Vintage Love (right). Street-goers were encouraged to break balloons for prizes and participate in their antics for gift certificates! They definitely cause quite a stir up and down St-Denis!

Vintage Love doning her infamous balloon costume!

We were also thrilled to have the Fabulous Velma Candyass give a private performance, Velma gave us a strip-tease like no other to a studio full of cheering fans. Needless to say there was so much glitter and flower petals everywhere I think we'll be finding it for days! It was amazing!

Thanks again to everyone that came out for our opening and we're hoping to see all of you again real soon! come check us out at 1695 St-Denis, Montreal Qc.

Opening Hours:

Tuesday & Wednesday - 12pm to 5pm

Thursday & Friday - 12pm to 8pm

Saturday - 12pm to 5pm

Sunday & Monday - Closed

Here's what one client shared with us this morning: