I couldn't begin to tell you guys how much fun I had at The Makeup Show Chicago this year. I have sooo many things to share from my trip to Chicago, I'll just divide these into separate posts.

So first, my experience at The Make Up Show Chicago. I had been invited to the preview blogger event the night before, but since I wasn't sure if I would arrive on time, I didn't want to RSVP. Which stinks because I knew the goodie bags would have been heaven! I would've loved to share swatches and what not from my favorite companies. Hopefully next time I'll be able to catch it.

"Over 3,500 Pro-artists, industry educators, press, and retailors packed the halls..." Per The Makeup Show Chicago site.

Just waiting outside you could see and overhear the attendees excitement for the products, keynotes, & workshops that were available. Many of the workshops sold out, and not surprisingly! I know the career fair was highly anticipated, as the first 100 people were given the opportunity of face to face interviews, and tips from industry experts.

 Serenity Scott Beauty had some gorgeous cosmetics available. They have these neat interchangeable palettes available. Loved visiting with them! Here's a link to their website if you'd like to check them out.



This had to be my top favorite new brands to try. Gleam was created by Melanie Mills, who "In 2007, Melanie was selected as the Makeup Department Head for ABC television’s global phenomenon “Dancing with the Stars,” where she defined the look of the series and won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Makeup Design in 2008."- Per her site.

I had the privilege of meeting her, and she took the time to show me some of her products. You guys wouldn't believe how gorgeous and shimmery her stuff was! She rubbed in some of her body radiance on my arm, and I swear it lasted ALL night. My arm looked bronzed and beautiful. I can only imagine how beautiful it would look on bare legs<3 Another product she showed me, was her radiant dust. It was this GORGEOUS loose shimmer they had in these pots. Looked stunning! For more info here's her Site .


Temptu was one of the sponsors for the event.<3 I purchased a few liners and glosses from Senna Cosmetics (Review in future posts<3.)




The girls at the Velour Lashes booth were *amazing*. I watched them give thorough explanations of their lashes & they were super sweet. I didn't get a chance to grab any, but seeing them first hand they were *so* soft and gorgeous! Just looking at their model you can see how full and beautiful they are. Check out their website here Velour Lashes .





You can check out her line of products here.

Have you guys bought your tickets to The Makeup Show Chicago yet? I'm so psyched. Only 5 days left, and counting down to some fun. If you're already going to be in Chicago, I'm sure you're trying to figure out where to go, what to do? As a former Chicagoan myself, I thought it would be fun to give a few fun places I think might be worth seeing while you're out there.

If you're going to Chicago, the #1 thing you need to try out is the FOOD.

1. Try a Polish Sausage at Jim's Original! Chicago is notorious for their Polish sausages. They used to be on Maxwell street when I lived there, but they moved. Try out their Bone in Pork Chop Sandwiches (with caramelized grilled onions) as well, my favorite.<3
2. Check out China Town! They have some of the cutest little shops FULL of culture and food. My favorite authentic restaurant is Three Happiness. (Make sure to bring your parking ticket to validate it!)
3. Want some bomb fried seafood? (I think I might forgo my diet for this one!) I recommend Lawrence's Fisheries on on Canal St. If you like seafood, I promise this will *not* disappoint.
4. Have you had Italian lemonade before? Mario's Italian Lemonade, is like lemonade on crack. You need some in your life.
5. I've heard a lot about Eataly, but I've never been! I'll be trying it for sure<3 (Italian)
6. Want good Mexican food, this one is hard one since there are SO many places to choose from. I recommend El Milagro Taqueria (Hole in the wall, My late grandfather's favorite), and Nuevo Leon.
7. Italian Beef Sandwiches at Portillos. Delicious! Awesome warm Italian Beef sandwiches drenched in their Au Jus sauce and melty provolone cheese & sweet peppers. To. Die. For.

I was trying to bust my head trying to think of an awesome pizza joint, but truth is, I don't like any of them in Down Town Chicago haha. I have yet to try a deep dish I love. I have some favorite places way in the suburbs up north, but that's like a 40 minute drive, and I doubt that will be on anyone's itinerary.

Shopping!

1.  If you're new to Chicago, the Magnificent mile is a must. Tons of upscale shopping (think Tiffany's), very nice to window shop and people watch.
2. Are you a Mean Girls fanatic? Visit the famous Old Orchard Mall in Skokie, and take a picture by the fountain :-)

Attractions!

1. Navy Pier
2. Lake Michigan Beaches
3. Wrigleyville (Bar hopping fun!)

Festivals!

1. Chicago Food Truck Fest
2. Fiesta Back of the Yards
3. Rib Fest Chicago

What's on your list of to do after The Makeup Show?