Booked my first makeover, with Amanda Rich: Advice Please!

[StacyPump]

I have booked a makeover and photo shoot with Amanda Rich at True Colors (http://www.truecolorsmakeup.com/)

I have never done this before, and I am VERY, VERY excited (and a bit nervous!). Also, I have never been out in public before, but I am thinking about going out for a little while after my session, to enjoy the feeling for a little while longer.

I am hoping to gather some advice on a few different fronts:

1. I would love to hear comments/advice/feedback/reflections, from anyone who has indulged in a makeover before (especially with Amanda), regarding the process and what it was like. What did you do in advance to prepare for the session? Were you happy with the wardrobe selection or did you bring some of your own clothes? etc. (Please PM me, if that is a more comfortable way to share your thoughts and experiences.)

2. Can anyone familiar with the Bethlehem, PA area recommend a trans-friendly salon to get a manicure before the session?

3. Can anyone recommend a restaurant in the area that might be a safe place to enjoy a meal?

4. Does anyone know of any Trans or CD support groups in the area?

Thanks all for any advice or assistance you can give!

Regards,
StacyP

[michelleddg]

Hey Stacy,

Amanda Richards' reputation is pure gold. You have chosen well and will have the experience of a lifetime.

As far as your questions go, I'm sure she's been asked these by 100's of clients over the years, I would recommend you address them to her.

Good luck, have fun! Hugs, Michelle

[alwayshave]

When I went in December 2012 I stayed at the Sands Casino which is pretty close by. It has plenty of restaurants and a mall as well as the hotel. Should be a pretty safe place.

[MonctonGirl]

My only advice is to take a video camera and a still camera ( learn how to use the timer ) ... and a small cheap (Dollar Store ) tripod.
Take photo and video at every opportunity.
If possible, ask her if she'd mind being recorded and talking you through what she's doing and naming the products she's using
so you maybe can buy the same if you lie the look.

[JamieG]

Amanda Richards is the best. I've had three photoshoots with her, one makeover lesson, and one plain makeover. If you search for my photo threads, you'll find evidence of the amazing work she can do (my avatar is one of those shots). Note, Amanda typically works en drab, so don't be surprised when you meet her.She has a large wardrobe of clothes to choose from in various sizes. However, if you have a particular look you are angling before, it might be best to ask her beforehand and bring your own if she doesn't have it. My best recommendation is to try to relax and enjoy it. Make sure to smile, it results in much better pictures. Amanda can coach you on posing, but it helps if you've tried a few things out in front of the mirror and already know what makes you look best. If you don't normally shave, you might want to consider it; it gives you a lot more flexibility with outfit choices, although legs can always be covered by one or more lairs of tights. One final thing, when woman go to salons, they typically tip their stylist. I don't know how many of Amanda's customers tip her, but I know she appreciates it when I do. If you really enjoyed the experience, a tip is a nice way to show it.

I can't help you much with what to do afterwards. I know that the Lehigh Valley chapter of Renaissance (a TG support group) meets in neighboring Allentown the second Saturday of every month. Some of them go out to the local LGBT bars (Stonewall in Allentown and Diamonz in Bethlehem) afterwards. Those would probably be good places to go on other nights too, although I've never been to either so I can't really say.

Most of all have fun!

Jamie

[Beverley Sims]

You should always ask advice "before" you take the high jump. :)

Do enjoy it for all it's worth.

[Kate Simmons]

Amanda is fantastic. She and I used to be in Renaissance together. She has shown me portfolios of her makeovers. Also fantastic. She is dedicated to her work for sure. :battingeyelashes::)

[Vickie_CDTV]

Amanda Richards is a real sweetheart, I got to know her a bit at various conventions. Some of my friends have had makeovers by her at conventions and they were stunning (I wanted to do one with her during a convention but had to work, drat!) There is the Ren chapter in Allentown, and I am sure she knows of all the "safe" places to go dressed.

[StacyPump]

Thank you all so much for your support, input and warm wishes! Many thanks also to those who sent me PM's. You have all given me a LOT of information to learn from, which really, really helps. I am so grateful for this community!

I am still hoping to find someone familiar with the Bethlehem/Allentown area who can make some suggestions about going out on the town. I'm having trouble finding current information about the Renaissance chapter, but I will keep digging!

If anyone else would like to offer ideas or suggestions, I sure do appreciate it!

Thanks again!

[Christie ann]

Advice? Enjoy!

[Badwolf]

It looks incredible! Post pictures when you're done.

I'm doing my first makeover this weekend too but with a person with a lot less of a reputation.

[Nancie64]

I was out that way last June and had a pretty full week planned and ended up with some spare time but I couldn't arrange it to get together with her. I had contacted her before going and she told me to just call and she could find time to do a makeover but when I called, I could not get a hold of her. She called me back about 2 hours later but we where headed down the road. Have fun and enjoy.