Find Your Downtime: An interview with natural makeup artist Michelle Geyer
How do you #FindYourDowntime? This is one of the many questions we’re asking talented and passionate women as we celebrate the launch of Boody Lounge – our first-ever range of women’s loungewear and sleepwear.
So far, we’ve caught up with lifestyle blogger Alex Cuthill, fashion writer and YouTuber Leonie Barlow, lifestyle Instagrammer Bernice Averion and eco and ethical living advocate, Molly Harris. Today, we’re speaking with Michelle Geyer, a certified makeup artist with a diploma in Organic Skincare Formulation.
From her online guide for all things organic and cruelty-free to her top picks from Boody Lounge and her bub on the way, read on to find out more about Sunshine Coast-based Michelle Geyer.
You run an online guide for all things organic and cruelty-free. Tell us a bit about this.
I run a blog and YouTube channel where I share natural makeup tutorials along with tried-and-tested makeup, skincare and lifestyle products that I believe will benefit my community. Sharing products that make you feel good, are good for you and actually work is my passion.
What inspired you to create your online guide?
I want to teach people how to use organic products to enhance their natural beauty, and to help people find their own version of beautiful. Organic products have come a long way in recent years and they not only perform as well as mainstream competitors but actually benefit your skin while you're using them. I love working with brands that are not only natural but cruelty-free and good for the environment.
What was it that led you to become a certified makeup artist?
After working in the corporate world for many years I was craving a creative outlet which eventually led to makeup/beauty and my blog.
How important is it for us all to consider the products we put on and into our bodies?
Our skin is our largest organ. It absorbs everything we apply to it so we should all be thinking of our skincare as "skin food". Similar to a diet, I also believe in balance and there are no rules when it comes to ingredients or products we personally choose to use on our skin.
Aside from the health benefits of regularly choosing natural beauty products and ingredients, I think it's important as consumers to take a moment to think about where our products come from, how they are made and how they are packaged.
I personally choose to avoid products with Palm Oil and always choose eco-friendly wherever possible. If we take a few moments to think about these things before we buy, we could make a huge impact on business changes for the better as consumers.
We're thrilled that you're part of our Boody Lounge launch. What are your thoughts on the capsule collection?
Thank you so much for inviting me to be a part of the launch, I love your brand and feel a lot of our ethos align. The capsule collection is incredible! The colours are beautiful and I cannot explain the softness of the materials without having people feel the fabric for themselves!
What are your top picks from the range?
The Downtime Lounge Pants couldn't have come at a better time. I'm over halfway through my pregnancy and pants are currently very uncomfortable or impossible to wear! The colour is gorgeous and I cannot get over the silkiness and softness of the material. The waistband stretches beautifully over my growing bump!
The Cosy Knit Wrap is the most beautiful soft blue and is light enough to be used through any season. It's the perfect addition to the couch or bed and again, I'm sure this will get a lot of use with a new baby on the way!
We're coming into summer so I haven't had a chance to really test out the Chunky Bed Socks but my goodness they are so soft, comfortable and really provide your feet with cushioning when standing on hard flooring.
The Downtime Lounge Top is super light, breathable and the fabric really moves with you so it's perfect to transition from lounge to bed.
What are your top ways to #FindYourDowntime?
My favourite ways to enjoy downtime include morning yoga/meditation, a cup of tea in the sunshine to get my antioxidant and vitamin D hit and snuggling with my Toy Poodle, Bella, on the couch.
How important is it for us all to find time to unwind in our hectic modern world?
Downtime for our mind and body is incredibly important. If you're anything like me, your mind never stops ticking over with ideas, plans and to-do lists. If I don't force myself to stop I never would! It's very easy to burn out with the amount of pressure we put on ourselves to live a certain lifestyle, so it's very important to block out those outside influences as often as we can and listen to what our minds and bodies need to be the healthiest version of ourselves. Mental and physical health must go hand in hand.
What are the top beauty trends we should keep an eye out for this summer?
To be honest, I don't really follow beauty trends as makeup is a form of creativity and expression, so it depends on each individual and how comfortable they are with expressing themselves through beauty and makeup. Getting your skincare right should always be on-trend and SPF is something I regret not taking more seriously from a younger age. Healthy skin is everything! If you don't have a good base to start with, it's hard to get creative.
However, out of all the seasons, I think you can really have some fun in the warmer weather with a popping eyeshadow or lipstick. If you're feeling bold enough, choose your favourite bright eyeshadow or lip colour (pinks and corals are always a good choice for summer) and keep the rest of your face minimal to really make a statement. A bright-winged liner is also a great option for something fun to try during summer.
What are your plans for the near future? Anything exciting in the pipeline?
Our baby is due early next year so I think all plans will go out the window! I'll continue to work on my blog as best as I can and look forward to seeing what 2020 brings!
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