If you haven’t seen AllThatGlitters21 work her glossy magic on YouTube check her out here and, of course, subscribe! Also, be sure to stop by and take a look at the Glitzy Glam Store owned by Elle and her sister, Blair.

Q: Let’s start with the basics!  What is your name and age?
My name is Elle and I am 20 years old (but 21 in May!)

Q: Do you have any nicknames?
Omg I don’t even know! Elle is a pretty short name so people don’t really NEED a nickname for me, but some of my closest YouTube friends call me Ellealie, which is a combination of Elle and Rosalie from Twilight (one of my obsessions). I secretly love the name Ellealie, I even named one of my lip glosses after that nickname, Ellealie’s Lullaby.

Discover the secret to grow your hair faster! With this product, boosting your hair growth is no longer a dream but a reality.

Q: Does anyone ever tell you that you look like someone famous? If so, who?
Yes I get all sorts of that on my videos. The main two are Blake Lively (Serena from Gossip Girl) and Kate Hudson. Both these women are beautiful so I am not complaining!

Q: We always see you sitting down on camera! How tall are you?
I am 5’8, which is a nice height, although sometimes I wish I were an inch or two shorter so I could wear heels and not TOWER over everyone. I wear them anyway though, rock on what you have ladies!

Q: How long have you been doing videos on YouTube? What got you started doing them?
I started in July 2008. I was googling a Nars foundation and came across a video by Lollipop26 and immediately fell into the obsession! I decided to just make my own and see what would happen – and look where it got me!

Q: You have so many fans!  How does it feel to have nearly 28,000 people care about you and your opinions?
It is crazy! I honestly don’t really know how that happened. I suppose every makeup guru on YouTube would say the same thing – that they never expected to get where they are today! My subscribers and viewers are what make it fun though, and I learn from them as much as they learn from me. I do this for fun, and I don’t take myself too seriously. I do not pretend to be a professional, or better than any one of my viewers.

Q: Do all of your family, friends, and housemates know about your videos? Have you ever asked your housemates to make guest appearances?
Yes everyone knows about it now. When I first started only my immediate family and my housemates knew about it, but now pretty much everyone does. Everyone is really supportive about it, and my housemates think It’s really cool. They like that they have a makeup artist in the house at their beck and call with a ton of products! They all watch my videos, and sometimes I will hear my voice coming out of one of their rooms, which is weird, because I LIVE with them!! They are with me all the time! Sam made a brief appearance in my bloopers video, but I am sure they would be in one if I wanted them to be.

Q: We know you love your subscribers! But is there anything that you get sick of being told or asked?
I don’t like it when people belittle me or tell me I am doing something wrong. The thing is, I understand some people are trying to help, but I know others are just being brats. If I was to sit here and preach that I am the best and I know everything, then I would expect that more – but I don’t do that at all! On the contrary, I sit there and say I am NOT a professional! I am just having fun!

Q: What do your friends and family think about your beauty product obsession?
They completely understand! Well, they might not understand it, but they tolerate it and know that my obsession can’t be helped. Honestly, YouTube is such an enabler! Products I didn’t even want before I want after seeing another Guru use it in a beautiful way. My housemates like it because they have pretty much free access to use the products, and sometimes they inherit freebies.

Q: We know you get a TON of questions about Blair being your sister.  So just one more. Why do you think people have such a hard time accepting that you two are actually sisters?
I have no idea!! It is insane how many people write me messages asking me if she is secretly just my best friend and we pretend to be sisters. Why would we do that lol?! I think we look alike, we have the same face shape, just different coloring. She has my moms coloring (dark brown hair, dark eyes), and I have my dads (blonde hair, blue-green eyes). And yes, I am a natural blonde! Even though I do highlight it to add depth. Maybe people can’t accept it because they find one of us, and then… omg there’s TWO?! How did that happen!?

Q: Blair has followed in your makeup loving footsteps. Do you think your littlest sister, Hannah, will as well?
You know, it seems like it now – but she’s just so little!!! She is so young I don’t even know how her personality is going to develop. I am already moved out of the house and Blair will in a few years, so for 10 years she is going to be an “only child” in the house. She is such a sweet little girl though… I’m sure she will be a beauty when she grows up!

Q: You always look so glam in your videos! Do you ever leave the house without doing your makeup?
Very rarely! Not because I feel uncomfortable, but because makeup makes me happy. I honestly I have SO MUCH of it. I need to use it up and play with it every day!

Featured on The Morning Program! See Video of the eBook’s Quick And Easy Diy Natural Anti-Aging Skin Care Recipes Formulated with The Powerful Rejuvenation Properties Of Common Organic Ingredients. Loaded With Skinsational Tips For Younger, Beautiful Skin

Q: What are a few of your “obsessions” right now (foods, designers, TV shows, songs, etc.)?
I have all sorts of obsessions! Food wise I am very much into Sushi, and I have been for years. It is probably my all time favorite food. I also love Diet Coke, even though I am trying to quit. I can’t stand not to watch Lost, Desperate Housewives, One Tree Hill, and The Tudors (on ShowTime).. Right now I am really into Circus by B. Spears, How do you sleep by Jesse McCartney and Chicken Fried by Zac Brown Band. Honestly I like all types of music, but lately I’ve been especially liking country. Honey I washed the kids soap by lush is also one of my favs right now.  I also have a weird obsession for white electronics, hence my white macbook and my white iphone. Oh – my iphone is my biggest obsession probably. I will never buy another phone – it is LOVE!

Q: Between school, YouTube, your blog, and your new Glitzy Glam store, do you have any free time?  What are your other hobbies?
I don’t have any time at all!! My university takes the majority of my time, so those three things are what I do in my free time. I am also in a sorority so I try to keep up with that, although it has been harder because I literally have no time at all! It’s nice though, I like to have projects going all the time so I feel busy as a bumble bee all the time!

Q: What are you studying in school?  What is your dream career?
I am a Communications major with a Law influence. I might end up going to law school, but lately I have been thinking I might want to do something with beauty journalism so we will see!

Q: Do you ever have buyer’s remorse for spending your hard earned money on products?
Not really! When I first got into making videos I went a little crazy, and honestly if I hadn’t stuck it out with the videos I probably would have regretted it a little bit, but now I consider it a full fledged hobby! Who can regret spending money on a hobby that makes you happy?

Q: What draws you to buy a certain product or brand of makeup?
I am a sucker for cute packaging. That is what gets me with some of the Mac collections – can we say Hello Kitty? But also I like to stick with a few key brands such as Mac and Nars just because I like when things look symmetrical.

Q: What are some of your absolute favorite beauty products?
Clinique Superfit Foundation is what I have used the longest in my life. I still use it to this day and I swear, I could sleep in it every night and still not break out (even though I don’t recommend that). I also love Feline Kohl Power by Mac, which is sadly limited edition. Also, Nars Laguna bronzer, Honey I washed the kids soap from Lush, and Mac Tendertones. Lately I am way into Bee Royal skin care products too – my skin feels nicer than ever.

Q: Out of your brush collection, which ones do you find yourself reaching for the most?
I use my 134 everyday for bronzer, and my 129 for blush. I hardly ever reach for my 187/188, even though they are good brushes. For eyes, probably my 224, 239, 227 and 219 – hardly ever my 217 (and I have 2 of those!)..

Q: Do you have any beauty secrets or tips that you think most other people don’t know about?
Ladies, wash your face EVERY SINGLE NIGHT no matter how tired you are! And use a good moisturizer. Oh, and never underestimate the power of a good eyebrow wax – these can do miracles. Also, if you are super stressed out or sad a pedicure can always perk me up ☺

Q: Is there anything that you collect, aside from makeup?
When I was little I had the biggest sticker collection of anyone that I know. I still have a strange love for stickers. I also collected beanie babies like a wild person – they are all in baggies in our bomb shelter now.

Q: Can you tell us some fun facts that we probably don’t know about you?
Well I am half Turkish. That fact is a bit surprising for some people but my mom is actually Turkish, which is where Blair and I get our cheekbones (or so I have been told). I absolutely love country music, but I didn’t use to. I have a stuffed moose named goose that has lived with me all 3 years of college. I think kittens are the happiest little creatures in the whole wide world, and I think having one in the house can help de-stress the entire “Feng Shui” of the house. I have 3 pieces of jewelry I never take off – a heart ring from Tiffany’s my dad gave me, a bead bracelet from Tiffany’s, also from my dad, and a square bracelet from Heartstrings that have my sorority initials in it that I got on initiation night. My parents live in a really old house that has a legit bomb shelter attached to it – complete with beds and hard helmets with lights attached.

Q: We want to play Pee Wee’s Playhouse.  Will you slip a “secret word” into your next video for our readers? The secret word is “Coolio”.
Sure will! Love secrets!

If you haven’t seen MakeupByTiffanyD work her glossy magic on YouTube check her out here and, of course, subscribe!  Also stop by Tiffany’s blog for even more great beauty tips, tricks, news, and reviews.

Q: Do you have any nicknames?
Tiff, T, Cakes…haha

If you haven’t seen lollipop26 work her glossy magic on YouTube check her out here, and, of course, subscribe!

Q: What’s your name and general location?
My name is Laura – middle name Jane don’t you know – and I am currently working and living in London.

Q: Do you have any nicknames?
I actually have a few that I seem to have collected over the years. One year I got very sunburnt and so “Lobster” was christened. These days its more Lauri, Lola, Lolly or Flora. I actually really like Flora.

Q: Does anyone ever tell you that you look like someone famous? If so, who?
In real life I don’t get any flattering or not so flattering comparisons. Online I have got Celine Dion, Kate Beckinsale and on a couple of occasions I got Liz Hurley. The latter made me extremely happy because I think Liz is absolutely gorgeous.

Discover the secret to grow your hair faster! With this product, boosting your hair growth is no longer a dream but a reality.

Q: Who are your inspirations, as far as fashion and beauty?
Its not really celebrities or models or other images from the media – its more people that you see on the street or in shops. I love people-watching and get inspiration from how someone is wearing a particular item of clothing that I may have seen in a shop or how they have worn their makeup. That’s more attainable to me so maybe that’s why I find it more inspiring.

Q: What do you find to be the biggest differences in trends in the UK compared to those in the US?
I think, in terms of beauty and attitudes to grooming, we are pretty much similar. It wasn’t always that way. When I first went to America (1996) I was just so amazed at all the nail bars that I saw in New York City and how everyone seemed so groomed. Now we have access to all of that in the UK and more. I have to say that I do notice that girls in the UK are more into backcombing though – messy hair is generally approved of here and that’s fine by me
In terms of fashion I really think it depends on what part of the USA and UK we are comparing. Traditionally I always thought America was much more casual in style, something reflected in the kind of stores in the mall – Hollister, American Eagle, A&F, Banana Republic etc. but then again you also have Forever 21 and Charlotte Russe and some other great designer stores that are more fashion led now. I think ultimately we move in similar tends and direction.

Q:  Are there any US beauty product brands that you have tried and loved, but cannot find in the UK?
I cannot think of anything specifically – all I know is that whenever I go to the US I get my boyfriend to drop me off at a CVS and go absolutely mad with the likes of HIP, Physicians Formula, Jane, Wet & Wild and Cover Girl. It’s just the fact that its not available in the UK that makes it interesting for me and I can literally spend hours perusing the aisles. I also love Sephora – why o why did they close their UK branches – and getting my Beauty Insiders card was a proud moment last year

Q: Are there any UK beauty products brands that you love and we are missing out on here in the US?
GOSH and Barry M. I never really appreciated how amazing the drugstores are in the UK until YouTube. Then you look around and start to really see how great the ranges are for the price. I am grateful for that now.

Q: You always look so glam in your videos.  Do you ever leave the house without doing your makeup?
I can honestly say no. On holiday I might have left the hotel room without slap on but that’s only in times where I have a really really good tan

Q: What are a few of your “obsessions” right now ?
I always have a few obsessions on the go and right now its KitKat chocolate bars, cheap jewelery from Topshop and Accessorize, leggings, (yes I am late on that one), Dove Summer Glow self tanner and Eve Lom.

Q: What is your current profession? Do you like your job?
I head up a research division in a small digital agency. I am the one researching how brand concepts appeal to the end users/customers in a focus group or interview setting, and then reporting back to the client on how we can make it work or sell better.
The hours can be extremely long and I think ultimately I would like to immerse myself in beauty and end up a beauty journalist – if you are going to work hard then it may as well be doing something you absolutely love.

Q: How does it feel to have nearly 19,000 people care about you and your opinions?
I honestly never thought it would turn out like this. I remember getting excited at getting 10 and then 20 and then 50 subscribers. That to me was amazing. My videos aren’t exactly the most skilled or talented so it really does mean something that so many people actively signed up to hear my opinions.

Q: How long have you been doing YouTube videos?
It’s been just over a year and counting

Q: What got you started doing videos on YouTube?
I had been a viewer for over a year. First person I found was the pioneer of videos – amy04 and I am sad that she doesn’t get the credit she deserves. Then I found pursebuzz, panacea81 and pinkiecharm. I loved it – I loved the hauls, tutorials and learning all these new things so I started shopping and playing with makeup. One day I happened to be a bit bored, made my “Whats in my purse” video and that was that.

Q: Have you ever had a stranger recognize you, in person, from your videos?
I have a few times and they have all been at MAC counters   Its not as scary as it sounds but I always worry that I must look a disappointment in person – all tired and without perfect makeup

Featured on The Morning Program! See Video of the eBook’s Quick And Easy Diy Natural Anti-Aging Skin Care Recipes Formulated with The Powerful Rejuvenation Properties Of Common Organic Ingredients. Loaded With Skinsational Tips For Younger, Beautiful Skin

Q: Do you have any future goals for your YouTube channel or a blog?
I just want to keep going. I have no plans other than to try and dedicate as much time to it as possible. It sounds trite to say that I have made friends through YouTube but I really have and this community would be hard to leave behind so I plan on sticking around.

Q: What is the strangest video request that you have received? Strangest comment?
I really can’t think of anything other than the weird requests all the YouTubers I know receive – and you would rather not know about them.

Q: What do your friends think about your beauty product obsession?
They accept it as part of me and now use me as a resource for advice/freebies.

Q: Do you ever have buyers remorse for spending your hard earned money on products?
All the time. It comes in cycles. I shop for a few months then guilt for a month. At the moment I am guilting and so started my Project 10 Pan to ensure that some of this stuff actually gets used up before it expires. I have lip glosses from the early 90′s that really need to go!

Q: What draws you to buy a certain product or brand of makeup?
I am a sucker for hype, gimmicks and packaging. An appealing promo image will also get me every time – this is how Maybelline gets me to buy their foundations.

Q: What are some of your absolute favorite beauty products?
There are some staples that I always come back to. These are the products I put on and instantly feel good: MAC Studio Fix Fluid, MAC Well Dressed blush, Milani Luminous blush, NARS Sabrina lip balm, MAC Sable eyeshadow, Bobbi Brown gel eyeliner, MAC Carbon shadow, L’oreal Voluminous, Burts Bees lip balm.
Normally I would of said NARS Laguna but we are having a difficult relationship at the moment and it keeps making me look muddy.

Q: Out of your brush collection, which ones do you find yourself reaching for the most?
They tend to be all MAC brushes – some of which I have had for about 5 years. I like the 224, the 228, 227, 168 and 134 the most. My nail art brush which I use for gel eyeliner is also an absolutely must.

Q: Do you have any beauty secrets or tips that you think most other people don’t know about?
I read about this one on livejournal a while ago and it works. If your eyes get teary in the summer due to allergies and you worry about the tears messing up your eyeliner at the corners, apply a MAC liquidlast liner along the inner corner of your eye – where your lashlines meet in a backward “C” shape. This will act as a barrier and ensure that your makeup stays perfect. It really works – partly because liquidlast liners are the hardest things in the world to remove.

Q: Are there and words or phrases that your US friends or YouTube gurus use that you find humorous or unusual?
The phrase “lets get started”. The only time I think I will ever hear or use that phrase is in relation to a tutorial. I try not to say it when I do videos but its really hard to resist.

Q: Is there anything that you collect, aside from makeup?
This is, thankfully, the main thing I collect. Thinking about it though I do also have a random selection of things that I seem to amass alot of – books, DVD sets of shows, jewelery with bows, pashminas, perfume and gadgets.

Q: Can you tell us some fun facts that we probably don’t know about you?
I used to be a demon tap dancer. Oh yes, I can still shuffle-ball-change with the best of them

Q: We want to play Pee Wee’s Playhouse. Will you slip a “secret word” into your next video for our readers? The secret word is “Spiffy”.
Okay I will and watch for my “self-conscious” face when I do so.

If you haven’t seen ameritrini work her glossy magic on YouTube check her out here and, of course, subscribe!

Q: Do you have any nicknames?
Nope! Most people just call me Karen.

Q: We usually see you sitting down on camera! How tall are you?
I am only 5’3″1/2. I like to refer to myself as “vertically petite” LOL!

Q: Does anyone ever tell you that you look like someone famous? If so, who?
I’ve gotten that I resemble Kimberley Locke from American Idol before. I usually get the whole “You look just like my granddaughter/niece/cousin/daughter” thing. Guess I just have one of those faces.

Q: When did you become interested in cosmetics and beauty products?
I became interested in cosmetics when I was about 16 and my godsister bought me my 1st MAC lipglass in Nico with Chesnut lipliner and clear lipglass. You couldn’t tell me I wasn’t cute!

Featured on The Morning Program! See Video of the eBook’s Quick And Easy Diy Natural Anti-Aging Skin Care Recipes Formulated with The Powerful Rejuvenation Properties Of Common Organic Ingredients. Loaded With Skinsational Tips For Younger, Beautiful Skin

Q: Who are your inspirations for fashion and beauty?
Definitely makeup artists like Sam Fine and Gordon Espinet. Jennifer Hudson’s makeup is always so flawless so she inspires me as well.

Q: What is your philosophy on makeup?
There are NO rules so have fun with it! Often times, women (particularly women of color) are afraid to try new things for fear of not liking it but I’m famous for telling someone, “It’s not a tattoo and I promise you it will come off.” Most of the time when they try something new, they actually end up liking it and even if they don’t, they’ve developed enough confidence to try other new things.

Q: What do you consider your signature “look”?
Although I appreciate various styles of makeup, I’m more of a beauty girl. I’m not afraid of edgy/avant garde makeup but, for myself, I tend to lean towards the classic makeup application. Lately, I’ve been known to do a bold lip which led to my Bold Lip series. As someone who was once all about a neutral lip, I realized that it was time for me to step out of my box and begin trying new lip combos that I wouldn’t ordinarily try. It’s been pretty good for me and popular amongst my subbies!

Q: What do you think is the biggest beauty mistake that people make?
Simply not trying new things. Remember, it isn’t a tattoo so it’s gonna come off!

Q: What are a few of your “obsessions” right now?
You mean besides YouTube? Definitely Law & Order SVU, Real Housewives of ATL and, as always, the Food Network!

Q: What got you started doing videos on YouTube?
I discovered the beauty side of YouTube about 8 months ago. One of the first people I began watching was Lisasz09. I recognized her at the mall one day and by the end of our conversation, she gave me the confidence to film my first video. LOVE her!

Q: Do your friends and family know about your videos?
Yeah most of my friends and some of my family. I still get a little embarrassed and shy about it though.

Q: How has YouTube affected your life?
Before YouTube, I had tunnel vision when it came to using certain products. I wouldn’t even look at anything in a drugstore and barely knew what Sephora was. Watching different gurus really opened my eyes to trying new products. I’ve also met sooo many wonderful people from there too!

Q: We know you love your subscribers! But is there anything that you get sick of being told or asked?
I can honestly say that my subbies are great to me! I will say that I wish people read the information in the sidebar before asking questions.

Q: Why do you think the YouTube beauty community attracts so much drama? Is there any way to avoid it?Although I haven’t experienced it, I’ve seen it and it’s unfortunate. As long as you keep other peoples’ names out of your mouth, you should be good to go!

Q: What advice would you give someone else wanting to start making YouTube beauty videos?
JUST DO IT! The hardest video is the first but after that, it’s pretty easy! It’s also best to choose things that are natural for you. Lisasz09, for example, is known for her reviews because she’s great at them. SephoraJunkie, on the other hand, is known more for her hauls because she’s such an avid collector. I love doing tutorials (most of the time, they are filmed when getting ready for work at my counter) and occasionally acting a fool on camera to give my subbies a good laugh because that’s what I’m good at. Be true to what you’re gonna do best!

Discover the secret to grow your hair faster! With this product, boosting your hair growth is no longer a dream but a reality.

Q: Do you ever have buyers remorse for spending your hard earned money on beauty products?
OMG! All the time! I do get a significant discount on most of the products I purchase though so that helps.

Q: What draws you to buy a certain product or brand of makeup?
Definitely great quality! Because I work for them and it was the first brand I was introduced to, most of my products are MAC though. Oh and Youtube!!! YouTube is such an enabler!

Q: Do you have any classic “go to” cosmetic items? What are a few of your favorites?
Yep! I can’t live without my Revlon Colorstay Foundation, Lancome Hypnose Mascara, MAC’s Prep & Prime Line Filler & Translucent powder. I use these every time I apply my makeup!

Q: Do you have any beauty secrets or tips that you think most other people don’t know about?
Well, my biggest would be from celebrity makeup artist Sam Fine and that’s to put a light coat of mascara on your lashes, wait a few seconds and then curl them. Once that dries, apply 1-2 more coats. This helps the lash hold a better curl than if done without mascara.

Q: We want to play Pee Wee’s Playhouse. Will you slip a “secret word” into your next video for our readers? The secret word is “Fliptastic”.
I always wondered what my secret word would be if I ever got the chance to do this. Lol! I got you!

If you haven’t seen myeyeshadowisodd work her glossy magic on YouTube check her out here and, of course, subscribe!

Q: Do you have any nicknames?
Most of my friends call me Nat for short. Guys seem to call me Tasha. My middle name is Dawn so occasionally the odd person will call me Tasha Dawn. I was also known as “greenie” when I was in high school because I had green hair.

Q: We usually see you sitting down on camera! How tall are you?
I am 5’2. I’m pretty much really short.

Q: Does anyone ever tell you that you look like someone famous? If so, who?
I often get Thora Birch or Enid for the movie Ghostworld. I can see that one. However, I do get Dita Von Teese sometimes and I completely don’t see that as she’s amazingly gorgeous.

Q: Do you have siblings? If so, do you like them?
I’m an only child and I really enjoy that. I do get jealous over my friends relationships with their siblings but I do enjoy my privacy.

Q: What is your biggest pet peeve?
Dirty fingernails.

Q: How did you become interested in all things carnival related?
My older cousin actually was a carnie when she was younger and got into all sorts of trouble and I thought she was pretty rebellious and awesome for it. As I got older, more outgoing and obnoxious I started hanging out with people that knew my cousin. Sure enough I started making friends with all the carnies and was enthralled by the lifestyle and all the lights and how rides were assembled and taken down. (I know how to take a ferris wheel down in 3 hours) Basically I lived for the midway. The love for my own town’s midway turned into a love for all things carnival related: circuses, sideshows, 1930’s carnivals etc. Being a photographer also helped my love because the photos I’d take on location we’re amazing.

Q: What can you most often be found doing these days?
I can be found in the darkroom of my university most of the time. It takes up a lot of my time and I love it. I’m also a full time student so I am in classrooms a lot, studying and learning new things. I am also online pretty much 20 hours a day when I’m not doing other things.

Q: What got you started in art and photography?
Not sure what got me started, I’ve been doing art since I could walk or so my mother says. My mom and my dad were pretty artistic so I guess that helped fuel the fire. As for photography, I just started grabbing disposable cameras and Polaroids when I was younger and in high school I was a teachers assistant in a darkroom photography class for 3 years which really made me fall in love with it and build up my technique.

Q: When did you become interested in cosmetics and beauty products?
My mom was a professional makeup artist for years before I was born and a few after so my house was always filled with her bright 80’s makeup and testers and things from her kit. I would always play with it and I started wearing makeup everyday when I was 11 or 12. I also put lipstick on my cat when I was 3.

Q: Who are your inspirations for fashion and beauty?
I am a photographer so I do end up looking at thousands of images a week just for inspiration in not only photos, but makeup and fashion. I follow a lot of fashion/photo blogs and gather ideas from there. I do turn to Youtube’s makeup community for inspiration as there are many talented artists on there.

Q: What is your philosophy on makeup?
I’m a strong believer that eyes should be played up with bright colors and dramatic looks, but I also think too many people wear too much product and that everyone needs to love their natural faces more.

Q: What are a few of your “obsessions” right now ?
I’m pretty obsessed with Lady Gaga, not crazy fan girl obsessed but more of an appreciation for someone who values fashion and the ability to actually sing. I am really loving this game on Facebook called Treasure Madness. I pretty much play that constantly.

Q: What got you started doing videos on YouTube?
I had uploaded videos and clips of my friends before knowing about the makeup community but then once I watched those videos for awhile and realized I had some talent at makeup I figured why not try. Also getting a good camera is what pushed me to make videos.

Q: Do your friends and family know about your videos?
Completely! I pretty much tell as many people as I can about it and they’re all supportive and excited. I did get some hate from a few of my peers at university when word got around about my channel but I’ve never kept it a secret from anyone.

Q: We know you love your subscribers! But is there anything that you get sick of being told or asked?
I get many questions about my hair and my hair color which can get repetitive to answer but I don’t mind. The one question that I get a lot is about my voice or my accent. I do have a weird accent due to a combination of things. I am Canadian, I have an Ottawa Valley accent which is unique in it’s own way, and my whole family does experience some level of hearing loss. It’s a hereditary thing and I have 30% hearing loss. I had never received any comments about my voice or accent prior to making videos which I’m guessing is because everyone here talks the same way as I do. I used to get offended by that comment because I don’t think I talk weird but I realize now it’s just because people are not used to my accent so to new people it would sound weird.

Q: Why do you think the YouTube beauty community attacts so much drama? Is there any way to avoid it?
I think that it’s not only just the beauty community but the internet in general. It’s very easy to hide yourself behind a computer screen and to be anonymous in making rude comments. The beauty community I think attracts it more perhaps because people are putting themselves out there more so then the average video. We get up close to the camera, and so much relies on our external image. I think this makes it easy to attack someone or start drama. You pretty much can’t avoid it, but you can chose to ignore it and not let it effect you.

Q: What advice would you give someone wanting to start making YouTube beauty videos?
I guess just be yourself. I know that sounds tacky to say, but people will end up liking you a lot more for who you are then who you try to be. Also in terms for video making, a decent camera does help as well as decent lighting.

Q: Do you ever have buyers remorse for spending your hard earned money on beauty products?
Occasionally yes, perhaps more so when I started getting into makeup. Now I really research a product before I buy it which generally means I avoid products I know I won’t like. Also some products just don’t work for you. It doesn’t mean it’s a bad product, it just might not complement you. For those types of products I try to pass them off to friends who would use them so it doesn’t feel like a waste.

Q: What draws you to buy a certain product or brand of makeup?
I try not to let packaging effect my choices but sometimes it does. Who doesn’t love a cute lipstick or compact? I just have to consider whether or not the product is something I would use all the time.

Q: Do you have any classic “go to” cosmetic items?  What are a few of your favorites?
I think every girl needs a classic red lipstick. I love MAC’s Russian Red for my skin tone. Also a good black eyeliner for a winged eyeliner.

Q: Do you have any beauty secrets or tips that you think most other people don’t know about?
Not so much a secret, but never sleep in makeup and I always sleep on a fresh pillowcase.

Q: We want to play Pee Wee’s Playhouse. Will you slip a “secret word” into your next video for our readers? The secret word is “Stupefied”.
LOL, I will try my best with that one.

If you haven’t seen blairxxbeauty work her glossy magic on YouTube check her out here and, of course, subscribe!

Q: Do you have any nicknames?
Well ever since I was a baby my dad has called me Dinky! Haha! But my biggest nickname is Blairzie.

Q: We usually see you sitting down on camera! How tall are you?
Oh goodness, everyone thinks I’m like 5’4″ but I’m actually 5’10″!

Q: Does anyone ever tell you that you look like someone famous? If so, who?
Lately I have been getting that I look like Audrina from The Hills, which I don’t see at all! But a lot of times I get told I look like Christy Brinkley..She was a model YEARS ago.

Q: When did you become interested in cosmetics and beauty products?
Ever since I was younger I have loved playing with makeup, but in November of 2008 I got my first “high end” makeup and that was bare minerals. I searched on YouTube and found videos about bare minerals and then found the beauty community. In December I made 1 video but deleted it shortly after. And then in about March-April I started doing videos regularly on my old channel Blairxx. But just recently I made a new channel Blairxxbeauty!

Q: Who are your inspirations for fashion and beauty?
I love the Victoria’s Secret models when they do the runway. They always have just beautiful makeup and I would die to do makeup for them one day.

Q: What is your philosophy on makeup?
I really think that makeup can enhance ones beauty. I really don’t think that makeup is for covering up flaws because our flaws make us who we are, so enhancing them makes us even more beautiful and original!

Q: What are a few of your “obsessions” right now?
Hmm, obsessions. Well although I do not have a real Louis Vuitton handbag, I have been obsessed with them lately! Shows, I love the show Ghost Whisperer, but my all time FAVORITE is One Tree Hill!

Q: What got you started doing videos on YouTube?
Like I said earlier I was just browsing for videos about bare minerals then came across the beauty community. I saw Macaholic18′s videos and got addicted! But sadly she quit making videos awhile back.

Q: Do your friends, family, and classmates know about your videos?
Yes! Although I don’t have classmates because I’m home schooled my family and friends know and they love it!

Q: How has YouTube affected your life?
I think it has made me learn more about myself and how to present myself. Also I think that its helped me grow and learn more about makeup and the purpose for it- not just to look pretty but to enhance certain things on my face and stuff like that! I’m going to be going into Cosmetology after I graduate and I really think that the beauty community is going to help me succeed with my career.

Q: You recently started a new channel, blairxxbeauty, and left behind blairxx. Where there any reasons for the new start?
Well, when I started videos I had no idea what I was doing and my Blairxx channel was just a YouTube channel I made so I could subscribe to people and favorite funny videos and upload silly videos of me and friends. So the reason for starting Blairxxbeauty was just kind of a fresh start.

Q: We know you love your subscribers! But is there anything that you get sick of being told or asked?
Oh my goodness yes! Haha. I really get sick of being compared to bigger gurus and getting accused of copying another guru and things like that. Also “why are you home schooled” question gets old after a while. But I guess that’s just a part of doing videos you know?

Q: Why do you think the YouTube beauty community attacts so much drama? Is there any way to avoid it?
I think it attracts so much drama because its mostly ALL girls, haha! Some girls love to start drama. Also I think the biggest part that starts the drama is the people who don’t make videos but leave rude comments and start awful blogs about people. But we all know that they wouldn’t say those things if they weren’t hiding behind a computer screen. Its awful that people like that use the computer screen as a shield.

Q: What are some of your favorite YouTube channels to watch?
I love MakeupbyTiffanyD. She is SO real and seems to really have a good head on her shoulders. Some others are tandcmitchell, saywhatcuteface18, xxalliecosmeticsxx, makinascene, simplyglamorousxx, and more. I am subscribed to so many people on my old channel I’m working on subbing to them all again on my new one! But those are just a few on the top of my head.

Q: What advice would you give someone wanting to start making YouTube beauty videos?
Be yourself is the main thing. Do not ask people to make shout out videos for you. If they are going to make a shout out video for someone its because they want to. Get some good lighting, and a good camera, and practice!

Q: Do you ever have buyers remorse for spending your hard earned money on beauty products?
Hmm. Sometimes. But most of the time I spend my money wisely and if I don’t feel like I really need the product I usually don’t get it.

Q: What draws you to buy a certain product or brand of makeup?
I hate to say it but the packaging! I am a sucker for glitter and pink. But since MAC is my favorite brand I would have to say they collections they put out and their never ending line of products.

Q: Do you have any classic “go to” cosmetic items?  What are a few of your favorites?
Oh of course! My absolute favorite primer is by Rimmel London Fix and Perfect. Another one of my favorites is my first MAC eyeshadow that I ever got in Sugarshot. I always go back to that color for a highlight. I think it goes with anything!

Q: Do you have any beauty secrets or tips that you think most other people don’t know about?
Hmm. I like putting my concealer on BEFORE foundation. I really feel like it sets a nice surface for smooth foundation. I also like to fill in my brows before I put my powder on. I don’t know I just feel like it goes on better that way. Haha!

Q: We want to play Pee Wee’s Playhouse. Will you slip a “secret word” into your next video for our readers? The secret word is “Snuffaluffagus”.
Oh my goodness I LOVED Pee Wee when I was little so of course I will sneak that word into my video!

If you haven’t seen amynicolaox work her glossy magic on YouTube check her out here and of course, subscribe!

Q: What is your name?  Do you have any nicknames?
Amy is my first name & Nicola is my middle – Since my name is really short the only nicknames I rarely get are Ames or Mushlet, which is my childhood nickname.

Q: We usually see you sitting down on camera! How tall are you?
I’m about 5’6”, I have really long legs and a shorter upper body! Growing up I was always one of the tallest in class, but now I’ve averaged out!

Q: Does anyone ever tell you that you look like someone famous? If so, who?
Not really, I wish I looked like someone famous! In the past I have gotten the singer Brandy, but I don’t see that at all.

Q: What is your current profession? Do you like your job?
I’m a full-time student in my second year at University studying a Joint Honours program in Sociology and Communications, but I work part-time at AE. I love it there, because of all the great friends I’ve made; it doesn’t feel like work at all!

Q: When did you become interested in cosmetics and beauty products?
I’ve always been interested in beauty products, when I was young I used to get my parents to buy me those cheap makeup sets. Things just kind of evolved from there when I was 11/12 I was a lip gloss, silver eye shadow & mascara girl, throughout highschool I’d wear 100% Clinique.  I only got really seriously into makeup and following collections last winter!

Q: Who are your inspirations as far as fashion and beauty?
I get inspiration from a lot of things, from images in a magazine or promotional ad, to people I see walking around the street/mall, and models on the runway etc! As far as celebrities go it’s no secret that I adore Kim Kardashian’s make-up, I think she is flawless at all times and I adore the work of one of her makeup artists, Mario Dedivanovic! Adrienne Bailon & Megan Fox’s make-up are both usually on point lately as well.  As for style I think Victoria Beckham, Nicole Richie and Lauren Conrad all have good style although they’re each different in their own rights.

Q: What is your philosophy on makeup?
I think that there are no boundaries or rules as far as make-up is concerned! I don’t believe there is a “right” or “wrong” way to do things or specific trends everyone should follow. Make-up is fun and about expressing creativity and everyone has different tastes, so as long as each individual is happy in the way they look, that’s great!

Q: What are a few of your “obsessions” right now?
I get really obsessed with things, it’s pretty bad! Right now I love antijitos, buttercream fudge, Italian sausage, potato & swiss chard soup. I LOVE True Blood I look forward to that show way too much & the Twilight Saga. I love Gossip Girl, Desperate Housewives & 90210 but  I’m mainly a reality TV junkie so I love The Hills, Keeping Up With The Kardashians, NYC Prep, The Real World, Real Housewives, The Rachel Zoe Project, etc. I love magazines too I have a set 5-6 that I get every month without fail!! Finally, I’m quite obsessed with Christian Louboutin shoes, I just die for them, but that’s an expensive obsession that doesn’t get instant satisfaction!

Q: Do you have any advice for someone who is wanting to start making YouTube beauty videos?’
If anyone is thinking about filming their first video, I’d say just go for it! Don’t be nervous, after all you’re only talking to the 4 walls around you! Try to relax and be comfortable in front of the camera, looking back on my old videos I can see how much my confidence level has risen! Also, don’t worry if you don’t get it the first time, sometimes I have to film videos over and over!!

Q: What are some of your favorite channels to watch on YouTube?
My favourite channels to watch are probably the same ones that everyone else loves to watch! I try to watch most of my subscriptions new videos and rate them! So if I’m subscribed to you, you’re probably my favourite.

Q: What got you started doing videos on YouTube?
It all started last year I was researching the Diorshow Blackout Mascara before I bought it and stumbled across lollipop26’s review video, from then I started watching her videos and through that and more research found other gurus who I loved to watch. At this time I started blogging, but one day one of my close friends came over and as she saw how much make-up I had and said, “You should really start making YT videos, since it’s obviously something you love & you could share it with like-minded people.” I thought about it, and she was 100% right, so I went out and bought a webcam, filmed my first haul and never looked back!

Q: Do your family and friends know about your channel? What do they think about your YouTube adventures?
My family has always known about my videos, because at the time when I started, I wasn’t working, so I asked my parents to fund my webcam. Because I want to be in PR my dad was 100% behind me, he thinks it’s great and kind of enhancing me that way. My Mum and older sister are really proud and use me as a resource and my younger sister wants to feature in a video! As far as my friends, my close friends know and some have found me without me telling them and they all think what I’m doing is amazing and are happy for me but other than that don’t really care too much! At this point I have some friends that do not know, not because I’m keeping it a secret, but because I’m just not really sure how to bring it up in conversation to them, I’d rather them just find out!

Q: How does it feel to have over 1,400 people care about you and your opinions?
I know I’m still a small baby in YT world but as cheesy as this sounds, I am ALWAYS amazed every time I see how many subscribers I have I never thought it’d grow to over 1,000 so quickly! I remember when I started almost 5 months ago I’d get so surprised and excited over everyone that hit that yellow button and when I grew from 10 to 20 to 100 I was always telling those that knew about my channel! I’m so grateful and thankful to each and every subscriber as well as to those who have helped me reach this point!

Q: What do you do to keep your channel a positive place despite all of the negativity constantly coming at YouTubers?
I honestly just try to let all the negativity roll off my back, I get that everyone’s entitled to their own opinions and there will always be people who don’t like what I do or something about me.  I know some people get personally offended by rude, negative or mean comments, but I just don’t respond or give them the time of day because I don’t know these people in real life, nor do they know me so their bad opinions of me really don’t matter. For that one person who has something bad to say, there will always be 10 people who counteract & make up for it, so it’s all worth it in the end!

Q: We know you love your subscribers! But is there anything that you get sick of being told or asked?
Not at this point no, I love answering questions and always have! I do find it a little funny though when people ask me what I’m wearing on my eyes/lips when I’ve mentioned it in the video or in the sidebar.

Q: Do you ever have buyers remorse for spending your hard earned money on beauty products?
Don’t get me wrong I do love everything I buy and don’t regret spending the money, but lately I’ve noticed I haven’t been using things I’ve bought recently so I need to take stock of what I have and rotate my products! That being said I’m not an impulse buyer, I plan out my make-up shopping trips and set a budget and wishlist and usually stick to it. Sometimes I used to think, if I saved money on make-up I could fuel my other addictions, but I just can’t help myself, so I guess the answer is yes and no!

Q: What draws you to buy a certain product or brand of makeup?
I am really a sucker for packaging and branding! I love cute product names too! The anticipation and the words “limited edition” get me all excited and drawn into all the endless MAC collections! However, once I’ve been lured in I always looked at the quality of a product; if it’s not up to par I won’t waste my money! I use a lot of MAC, NARS and Benefit because I definitely think they have all of the above.

Q: Do you have any classic “go to” cosmetic items?  What are a few of your favorites?
Definitely a few things that always work no matter how pressed for time I am are MAC MSF Natural, Studio Sculpt Concealer, Laura Geller Blush & Brightens, L’Oreal Voluminous Mascara or Clinique Lash Power Mascara, Stila Eye Kajals,  my go-to shadow look is MAC Tempting, Woodwinked and Carbon and for lips NARS Turkish Delight & Triple X & MAC’s Brave New Bronze or my YSL Rouge Volupte in #1 that you sent me <3

Q: Do you have any beauty secrets or tips that you think most other people don’t know about?
I know this is over-said but always wash off your make-up at night and drink lots of water to maintain good skin as that’s the basis of any make-up look! The Body Shop’s Tea Tree Oil range is fabulous for getting rid of any blemishes. Dark shadows as well as a thick line of liner on the top lash line makes eyelashes look shorter than they are, BUT a super thin line of liner smudged between top lashes can make them appear denser. Finally, to get rid of puffiness in the morning slice a cold cucumber and press it to the puffy areas to reduce swelling!

Q: Can you tell us anything that we probably didn’t know about you?
Hmm, I was a competitive artistic gymnast for 8+ years and broke a few bones doing it. I also was a figure skater for 3.5 years! Most people know this, but for those who don’t I am a British Citizen was born & raised there until I moved to Canada when I was 13! This September I will have been here for 6 years, time really flies!

Q: We want to play Pee Wee’s Playhouse. Will you slip a “secret word” into your next video for our readers? The secret word is “Magical”.
You know it, I’ll even try to keep a poker face!!

If you haven’t seen Maggie work her glossy magic on YouTube check her out here and of course, subscribe!

Q: What is your name?  Do you have any nicknames?
Maggie, and that’s what I go by! But occasionally, I get Mags or something like that, which is fine by me.

Q: We usually see you sitting down on camera! How tall are you?
5’2″ – shawty, shawty, shawty.

Q: Does anyone ever tell you that you look like someone famous? If so, who?
All the time and I don’t see ANY of them! The most common are Audrey Hepburn, Selena Gomez and Natalie Portman but I’ve gotten Anne Hathaway, Mila Kunis, Keira Knightley and Nicole Richie – I don’t understand it but they’re definitely all compliments.

Q: What topics and subjects interest you most in school?
I’m an English major and possibly a history minor as well. As long as it’s not math or science related, I probably like it. As many of our subscribers know, I’m really into history, hence my Tudor-inspired tutorial series!

Q: When did you become interested in cosmetics and beauty products?
My mom has more makeup than some gurus that I’ve seen on YouTube so I think I was destined for it. I didn’t really start getting into it until high school and not this seriously until winter 2008/early 2009.

Q: Who are your inspirations as far as fashion and beauty?
My first love will always be fashion so I look to the runway every season for fashion inspiration. There’s no way I could afford any of it so I try my best to take inspiration from designers and lines like 3.1 Phillip Lim, Proenza Schouler, Zac Posen and Marc Jacobs. For beauty, I love looking at editorial makeup, but YouTube gurus have seriously contributed to my makeup addiction – here’s looking at you, Petrilude.

Q: What is your philosophy on makeup?
A philosophy on makeup… To be honest, I’ve never thought of one. But I guess that it’s one of those rare things in life that can be expensive or inexpensive, that can be low key or dramatic, and can be for any reason you want – to cover something up, to enhance something or just to have fun. What I love most about it is that, unlike most other things, you can go all out on it for one night and then come home, take it off and wear something totally different the next day.

Q: What are a few of your “obsessions” right now?
Obsessions right now include McDonald’s Chicken McNuggets and Ben & Jerry’s Strawberry Cheesecake ice cream (hey, a girl’s gotta eat!), True Blood, “Down” by Jay Sean and Lil Wayne, Google chat, Digsby, my British Immigration professor’s Welsh accent, internet that actually works and being able to see my friends every single day. Oh, and cupcakes – I can never forget about the cupcakes.

Q: What are some of your favorite channels to watch on YouTube?
On my personal channel, I have SO many subscriptions but if I had to pick some favorites, I’d pick petrilude, juderivera, xsparkage, jazziebabycakes, glimmerglossglow (I’m not sucking up either), lollipop26, makeupbyrisa aaaand … Well, there are tons more, but I can’t have a list a mile long.

Q: What got you started doing videos on YouTube?
For some reason or another, I’d started watching YouTube gurus back in summer 2008 and always thought it was so cool. Then, I was really sick for a week in February 2009 and had to go back home so after I slept off my illness and was high on pain pills (joking! Sort of…) I needed something to do. So Emma, who has now left the channel, and I decided to start doing hauls, but to keep them private, so only we could see them. We decided to go public, asked some other internet friends to subscribe and it kind of exploded. We asked Kate to join the channel this summer and I can definitely say it was the best decision we made for the channel.

Q: How did you and Kate meet?  Have you ever met in person?
I was subscribed to Kate on her old channel, urbanettex2, and also followed her on Twitter. (I’m a creeper, so what?) We all started talking and the idea for her to join was born, so we asked her and thankfully, she accepted. Sadly, we have never met IRL because she lives on the West coast and I’m in the Midwest but we’ll get there eventually!

Q: Are there any challenges to having a collab beauty channel?
Definitely! I’d say that we aren’t like most other collabs because we don’t have scheduled days or topics. There’s always the belief that every collab will have drama (check) and will fall apart (not happening!) We post what we want, when we want. But it can be hard to figure out when we are posting what, especially if we both accidentally record something on the same day, then one of us has to wait a few days to put up a video. Thankfully, Kate and I are really good friends and talk constantly and are completely chill with each other, so I don’t see too many challenges arising.

Q: How does it feel to have over 2,500 people care about you and your opinions?
It. Is. Insane. Compared to so many gurus, we are little YouTube babies but I am so thankful for every single one of our subscribers. I figured we would get 10 subscribers or something and then the numbers just kept climbing – it’s crazy!

Q: Has YouTube affected your life?  If so, how?
It has, but not in a negative way at all. I have met so many incredible people through YouTube and have learned so many things. There are thousands of people out there who are really talented people and I’m grateful that YouTube has given me the opportunity to “meet” them. I don’t see YouTube as a negative thing for me because I look at it as a hobby – school, my job, family and most IRL friends come first. (I say “most” because I’d probably rather help Kate out than quite a few people I know here… Just being honest!)

Q: Do all of your friends and family know about your YouTube adventures? What are their thoughts?
No, not at all. I think my family suspects something about it, especially because my younger brother and older sister have been on BlogTV with me, but I never told them how I got viewers in there! My roommate and one of my best friends both know about it, but that’s it. They’re pretty cool with it but probably don’t understand it. I think they think I’m more “famous” than I really am!

Q: What do you do to keep your channel a positive place despite all of the negativity constantly coming at YouTubers?
Honestly, I just try to ignore, ignore, ignore. It’s very tempting to say something back to mean comments or to people who like to start drama, but I figure that if I show them that their opinion really doesn’t matter to me, they’ll go away. It mostly works!

Q: We know you love your subscribers! But is there anything that you get sick of being told or asked?
Not really, I don’t mind answering questions, especially because not all of our subscribers have been with us from the start. But I do have to say that people asking questions about “drama on the channel” gets a little frustrating – it’s between the people involved, not everybody needs to know!

Q: Do you ever have buyers remorse for spending your hard earned money on beauty products?
Yes and no. I don’t usually go out shopping for makeup unless I’ve thought about what I want. Very few items in my collection are impulse purchases and in fact, I think the only things I regret buying are products that I bought before I really knew what I was doing. I have a lot of makeup that goes unused, so it’s sad to think of the money I could’ve saved!

Q: What draws you to buy a certain product or brand of makeup?
Packaging! I love pretty packaging. And, of course, reviews that I’ve watched on YouTube; if I see a favorite guru use it or tweet about it, I’m in. I also like to find colors that I don’t already have in my collection. I don’t have a huge collection but I have at least one eyeshadow in every color. Now I’m focusing on “different shades” which is really just an excuse to buy more things I don’t need.

Q: Do you have any classic “go to” cosmetic items?  What are a few of your favorites?
Definitely. Even if I’m running late for class, I’ll still make sure to throw these on so I look alive: moisturizer with SPF 30, MAC Mineralize Skin Finish Natural, Lancome Oscillation mascara, Urban Decay 24/7 Liner in Zero and NARS blush in Orgasm. They’re my necessities!

Q: Do you have any beauty secrets or tips that you think most other people don’t know about?
“Wear sunscreen. If I could offer you only one tip for the future, sunscreen would be it.” That’s a quote from that fake commencement address speech song from 1999, but it’s true! I feel like so many people my age don’t understand the necessity of sunscreen. I know a girl who is 20 years old and could easily be 35, just because of how much she tans. It’s not a good look, ladies! You don’t need to look pasty, but I’ve been rocking the fair skin for a while now and I know that in 20 years, I’ll hopefully be looking my age, not 10 years older than that. Nobody wants to look like a leather jacket. Wear sunscreen daily. Oh and using a lower SPF doesn’t mean less sun exposure, it just refers to how much longer you can stay in the sun without reapplying – it’s much less of a pain to put on SPF 50 then to keep reapplying SPF 4 all day long. WEAR IT!

Q: Can you tell us anything that we probably didn’t know about you?
I have a (step)niece and a (step)nephew – I have “step” in parentheses because I don’t even pay attention to that. They are seriously my reasons for living and brighten up my day every time I see them.

Q: We want to play Pee Wee’s Playhouse. Will you slip a “secret word” into your next video for our readers? The secret word is “Water Buffalo”.
Keri, you WOULD give me “water buffalo” .. I’m going to have to get creative for this one!

Q: What name do you go by in the real, non-internet world?
I go by Marsadie everywhere!

Q: Do you have any nicknames?
I have no nicknames… Often people butcher the pronunciation of my name (it’s mar-SAY-dee), but I don’t bother correcting them. So you can call ‘Mercedes’ and such my nicknames. 

Q: Does anyone ever tell you that you look like someone famous? If so, who?
Kerry Washington the most… then Naomi, Aaliyah, etc. All too flattering!

Q: When did you become interested in fashion and beauty products?
I’ve had a passion for fashion/beauty since youth. The 1105 cult fave movie Clueless sparked my interest in both I’d say… The rest is history!

Q: Who are some of your inspirations for fashion and beauty?
Fashion-wise, it’s anyone that defines their own style. They take what they like from the trends but leave the rest. Beauty-wise, someone who knows how to accentuate their natural features – never against – but isn’t afraid to take risks. I haven’t been following any celebs lately so I can’t name anyone but you get the idea.

Q: How did you get started beauty blogging?  How long have you been doing it?
I created Frappelattes on a whim in June 2007. I’ve always loved giving beauty and fashion tips and forecasts. I had no idea then that it would have provided me so many opportunities or introduced me to so many other fabulous bloggers! Frappelattes was and is truly a blessing for me.

Q: How did you decide on the name Frappelattes for your blog?
Haha. I have no idea. Honestly. Knowing what I know now I probably would have chosen a more sensical name related to beauty!

Q: What is the best thing about being a beauty blogger?
…Definitely being invited to events where you are able to mingle with beauty brands and other awesome beauty bloggers.

Q: What is the worst thing about being a beauty blogger?
If you do it for a living (which I do, somewhat) people fail to take you seriously sometimes!

Q: How has Frappelattes affected your life?
It has helped me make new friends I would have never met otherwise, it’s brought me travel opportunities, etc… Plus now my apartment is filled with more cosmetics than I’ll ever need!

Q: What are some of your current obsessions?
My two fave shows right now are The Rachel Zoe Project (Bravo) and Weeds (Showtime).

Q: What beauty products can you not live without?
Lip gloss! Highlighters. Cheek stains since powder blush tends to make me look chalky. Also, Lancome skincare.

Q: Do you ever have buyers remorse for spending your hard earned money on products?
Never. Haha.

Q: Do your family and friends know about your beauty blog?
They do! They seem to be quite fascinated by the idea that I could write about beauty all day and make a living from it.

Q: What do your family and friends think about your product obsession?
They think it’s silly sometimes… But you should see the look on their faces when I unload products on them that I don’t need! Then, they become thankful to have my obsession at their disposal.

Q: Do you have any future goals for Frappelattes?
…Probably taking it to a more professional level. Definitely.

Q: What are some of your hobbies outside of the blog?
I dine out, a lot. Mostly for the experience. Shopping, of course. Also, web design, reading, and learning about the way things work.

Q: Does your current career involve fashion or beauty? Do you hope to have a career in the field?
Until I figure out what I want to go back to school for my bills are paid by ad revenue generated from the blog and also some freelance web development and marketing projects. I’m not yet sure if I want to be professionally involved with beauty or fashion in the long term.

Q: Do you have any beauty secrets or tips that you think most other people don’t know about?
There are some things you should never forsake – like maintaining well-shaped eyebrows. Eyebrows frame your face and can make or break your look, in my opinion.

Q: Can you tell us some fun facts we probably do not know about you?
I’m an open book. Follow me on Twitter! http:/ /twitter.com/frappelattes

If you haven’t seen LaBelleMel31 work her glossy magic on YouTube check her out here and of course, subscribe!

Q: What is your name? Do you have any nicknames?
My name is Melanie and I have lots of nicknames (haha), but I will just name a few. My close friend gave me a nickname playing off the sound of my name “Mi-gua”-ni which is Melon in mandarin and another friend called me Melbelle, which was how I came up with my YouTube account name by switching it around. =P

Q: We usually see you sitting down on camera! How tall are you?
I’m 5’1″ – I used to not like my height when I was in high school, but now I kinda like being petite. =D

Q: Does anyone ever tell you that you look like someone famous? If so, who?
Actually my close friend said that I reminded her of A-mei, a Taiwanese singer, who btw is one of my ultimate favorite singers under Asian music! Also I got a comment a few months back of how I look like an Asian Eva Longoria. Haha. I know I don’t, but that made my day

Q: How did you and your husband meet? What does he think about your YouTube adventures?
I met my husband in college and I knew him as a friend for two years before we started dating. When I first started YouTube, he told me I couldn’t post any videos of me up so I kinda did it secretly for a month or so. He found out later though, but didn’t really mind as much as long as I didn’t overspend on makeup. Haha.

Q: How did you become interested in photography? What types of photography inspires you the most?
It was actually last October that I received my first dslr camera and since then I was hooked. I had hired a professional photographer for the wedding, but even then I kinda guided him into more artsy-er photos that I wanted. We were going on a late honeymoon in Dec and I convinced hubby that I wanted to take some pro photos to document our time there. I practically took thousands of photos during our trip and continued on to this day. Currently, I’m taking more engagement photos for friends and referrals, but hoping to branch out a little bit into wedding. So far, it’s just been a joy to capture such love and happiness that shine through from couples and I hope to continue for as long as I can.

Q: When did you become interested in cosmetics and beauty products?
I was always into hair and started braiding my own hair at around 13 or so. Since then I’ve always done my own hair and others for prom and even now I cut and style my own hair.

As for makeup, I’ve worn it since middle school, but never anything technical until a year ago watching YouTube makeup tutorials. The very first person I ever watched was Ricebunny and Stephienese on their blogs and then later Makeup Geek’s Marlena. They’ve really intrigued me and inspired me to branch out into more colors and for that I thank them. =)

Q: Who are your inspirations as far as fashion and beauty?
A lot of times I’m inspired by what I watch on TV or what I see on magazines. My ultimate favorite fashion and beauty person has to be Audrey Hepburn. She embodies the very word of timeless beauty in my mind – always very graceful and elegant.

Q: What is your philosophy on makeup?
I see makeup as another form of expressing your individuality and style. It can’t hurt you nor change you as a person but if it can give you that little ounce of confidence to take on the world, then embrace it. You can take it as far as you like in terms of boldness, but always remember that it can be easily washed off with just a little makeup remover so why not have fun with it.

Q: What are a few of your “obsessions” right now?
Haha – funny you should say that but if anyone reads my twitter – my current obsession is Bon Chon chicken wings! Haha – my next obsession is karaoke! Sadly I don’t have many around me that love to go out for that, but I’m recruiting if anyone’s interested

OH, with TV shows or movies, I’m obsessed with DEXTER. Twilight took over for a bit, couple months back, but now that DEXTER’s new season is coming up this month, I’m right back to it. Haha. However that doesn’t mean I’m not counting down to the date of New Moon movie releasing in about 3 months!!! Also anything SATC and FRIENDS! With designers – anything Chanel =D

Q: Do you have any advice for someone who wants to start making YouTube beauty videos?
My advice is be yourself and do what you love to do. Your personality will naturally shine through and people will be able to see that. Even I sometimes get a bit stiff in front of the camera because let’s face it – you’re talking to an inanimate object that doesn’t talk back! Hehe. I interact much better with another person but sometimes you just have to imagine that there is someone on the other end of the camera who will be listening, watching and learning from you. Also don’t be afraid to try new things. You never know if it will work or not until you try it. If all fails, a video can be deleted and refilmed.

Q: What are some of your favorite channels to watch on YouTube?
I haven’t been watching a lot of videos lately but I most always click on Fuzkittie’s videos, because she’s so goofy and animated and you just can’t help but be drawn into watching her videos. I definitely thank YouTube for guiding me towards her videos because not only has she become a friend on-screen but also a great friend off-screen.

Other channels I most always click on are Fafinettex3, Julieg713, MakeupGeekTV, Misschievous, Bubzbeauty, MichellePhan, Stephienese, PincStuff and my most recent fave ManWomanFilm – those girls are such sweethearts and it has been a joy in getting to know them onscreen and even becoming friends with some of them. For that I’ll always cherish =)

Q: What got you started doing videos on YouTube?
I think this was probably before my close friend’s wedding in LA that I went on YouTube to search for updo ideas that I could do. Unfortunately at the time, there weren’t many great selections so I figure I would start up YouTube to document what I know and what I’ve learned and hopefully help others in the process. Then later I included more makeup tutorials as I grew confident in my skills after watching a million YouTube videos. Haha.

Q: How does it feel to have over 4,200 people care about you and your opinions?
It’s crazy how many people watch and actually take interest in my videos. You can’t imagine the biggest smile I have on my face whenever I read a comment that said I helped them in any way. That’s something that truly motivates me to continue to do what I do and for that I can’t thank enough of my subscribers for always being there, supporting and encouraging me. THANK YOU!

Q: What do you do to keep your channel a positive place despite all of the negativity constantly coming at YouTubers?
I think of myself as a pretty positive person, but even the most positive person can be bogged down by negativity. So far I’ve had a few but not a lot and I find that it’s so much easier to just click block, remove comment and move on. I’ve mentioned before in previous video that the person behind the computer doesn’t know me nor do I know him or her, so no emotional ties were invested, therefore makes it so much easier to block and forget about it. It would be a waste of your time to reflect upon negativity, but just focus on the positives such as the rest of the subscribers who leave all those lovely comments and appreciate you for who you are and what you give to them.

Q: We know you love your subscribers! But is there anything that you get sick of being told or asked?
I DO love my subscribers! Haha. I have an FAQ section on my YouTube profile and would love it that they go to it before asking questions that I may have answered numerous times. =P Other than that, I haven’t had any other problems that I know of or maybe it’s too soon to make that statement. =P

Q: Do you ever have buyers remorse for spending your hard earned money on beauty products?
I do sometimes get buyer’s remorse but not all the time because I do try to buy products that I’ve researched and read reviews about. However I know when to stop when I get a lipstick in almost the same color as the one I already have or having too many palettes! For that, I love the beauty of blog sales! It’s a lifesaver on more ways than one. =P haha.

Q: What draws you to buy a certain product or brand of makeup?
Currently I like to say that my collection is a pretty good size and now I’m just looking for something that’s different and intrigues me whether it be the packaging or the product itself. The quality of the product is a big thing for me and after that is the pricing. Packaging plays a part but not a big one only because packaging also adds to the cost of pricing which we all need to keep in mind.

This is probably the reason why I lean towards MAC more because it is reasonably-priced for the quality that it gives. I also love Urban Decay and MUFE. I haven’t even own one MUFE eye shadow only because of the price but we’ll see. Maybe the next Sephora’s F&F sale which I always love to take advantage whenever opportunities arise. =P

Q: Do you have any classic “go to” cosmetic items? What are a few of your favorites?
Biolage Conditioning Balm – whenever my hair feels dull or less shiny, this product never fails to deliver what I need. After washing my hair, I apply the conditioning balm and leave it in for 5 minutes then rinse it out; my hair feels silky smooth afterwards! Also do not buy this at retail because the cost is ridiculous. I got mine at Nordstrom Rack for much less than that. =P

I’m also loving my Shiseido mascara base – man, does that do wonders for my lashes. My pink hair velcros that you see in most of my makeup videos – this stuff pulls back your bangs without leaving kinks behind – lifesavers! And I most always carry a stash of bobby pins and hair ties with me because you never know when you will need to doll it up for the night.

Q: Do you have any beauty secrets or tips that you think most other people don’t know about?
I’m sure I’m not the only person who mentioned this but the best beauty tips out there is eat well, drink plenty of water, protect and prolong your youthful skin by staying out of the sun and exercise. I can’t stress these enough because all these will benefit you so much in due time. =) I don’t leave the house without my eye cream and Dior;s snow sunscreen on.
Just remember, the best makeup out there can’t hide premature wrinkles or sun spots.

Also no matter how tired you are from partying to all hours of the night, first things first before sleeping is REMOVE that makeup! Leaving it on overnight will just suffocate your skin, clogs it and will lead to more skin problem so prevent it right from the get-go.

Q: Can you tell us anything that we probably didn’t know about you?
My sister Lilly is going to kill me but when we were probably around 5 or 6, my other sister and I took scissors to her hair and after we were done, we told her to go out and ask our parents if it was pretty! Oh man, we got in trouble but to this day, it remains a fondest memory in my mind. What can I say, my love for hair started young. Haha.

Also Christmas is one of my favorite holidays, not because of the gifts, but because it has the most and best songs written for it to sing out of all the holidays combined. Haha.

Q: We want to play Pee Wee’s Playhouse. Will you slip a “secret word” into your next video for our readers? The secret word is “Luxurious”.
Sure! Sounds fun. =)