Share with us a little of your background in the beauty industry
I worked my way through college as a makeup artist. However, my actual love of makeup started at the age of eight. My Mom did not see well, so if my brother and I did not want her to look like Tammy Faye Baker - I needed to step in and learn to do her makeup! I began applying her makeup via standing on a dining room chair or bathroom commode. I truly learned to blend colors and apply makeup at 8 years old - thank goodness, it was the 60's and not as much makeup was worn then!
What prompted you to write a book about inexpensive beauty secrets?
After hearing my clients tell me why they could not come into the spa as much as they wanted due to cost, I decided to figure out a way that my clients could enjoy a spa experience at home inexpensively - so they could look great everyday - not just on spa day.

How have people responded to this book (The Thrifty Girl's Guide to Glamour)? What has been the biggest reward from writing it?
The Thrifty Girl's Guide to Glamour can help you get the look you crave.
Truly, for me, the biggest thrill has been hearing from ladies all over the world who have read the book, tried some of the tips, and have enjoyed the results. From New Zealand, Singapore, and Europe to South America - the questions are basically the same - how can I look more beautiful?! I love sharing the tips and hearing that my words has helped my readers feel more confident and beautiful.

What is your favorite budget-conscience beauty find?
Drug store finds such as powders, lip liners, eyeliners, blushes and lip colors. Without a doubt, mass cosmetics companies have discovered ways to make beautiful products that are easy to use, and even more beautiful on the skin - easy to afford and even easier to use. The one color product that I think should be a splurge is foundation. You can truly save a lot on all of the other color products - but foundation is the one product that touches the skin and protects it. Plus better brands contain anti-aging and skin loving vitamins to help keep the skin looking great! Spending a bit more on foundation is well worth the cost!

Are there any common products women spend money on that are unnecessary?
Body products. A true beauty bargain is body lotions, powders and body bronzing products. The drug store brands are every bit as good as the high-end department store brands. With the technology that has been made in the body care category - the drug store brands are flying off the shelves as women are discovering that this is one area that they can definitely save the big bucks on and still enjoy a beautiful skin!

What other tips do you have to help women on a shoestring budget?
Today, it is not about how much you spend - it is all about how much you save. Beauty bargains are chic! Look at the trends and decide how can I make it my own. Summer season is a great way to look chic on the cheap. Fabric shoes, handbags, and 'big box' shorts, shoes, and accessories are all the rage. As for makeup, drug stores are a great way to keep up with the latest - without breaking the bank. Shop for a couple of 'in the moment' colors so you can look the latest - but still have money for other splurges.

What are your favorite brands of makeup?
Physicians Formula is an innovative company who keeps up with the 'runway crowd' - and brings it to beautifully to the masses. L'Oreal and Revlon have always been on target for the trends.

It is obvious from your website that you're a woman of many talents. What are your true passions in regards to the beauty industry? What is your favorite way to spend your time?
I honestly enjoy helping women look as beautiful as they feel. I love speaking to groups of women about beauty and I also love creating new tips that will both enhance the lives of my clients as well as help them feel even more beautiful! And believe it or not, my downtime is spent researching the latest and greatest that the beauty industry has to offer. It is truly not 'work' to me!