A couple of weeks ago I walked into my local MAC store for the first time. I wasn't expecting to buy anything because I don't have that kind of money, but a few things caught my attention!
NOTE: I don't want this to seem like I am braging in any way. I have recently started getting makeup and when I would wear drugstore foundations and such I would break out. I have very sensitve skin and have to be careful with what I use.
I have recently become more interested in doing my makeup and watching beauty videos, and although it's a fairly expensive hobby, I love the way it makes me feel. *Disclaimer however that I don't wear makeup every day and I don't think I need to enhance myself in anyway. Through the years I have struggled with self-esteem issues, but am finally starting to become happy with myself.
Okay so just to touch on my experience at the store, it was pretty great. It was a fairly small store with quite a few customers there, but I was still greeted upon entering. I was so overwhelmed with all of the products and how it worked I almost left. But I was so interested in learning that I decided to do something I rarely do - I asked for help. I told the woman it was my first experience with MAC and that I was just starting to get into makeup, so she took me through the basics. I told her I was interested in eyeshadow that brought out my green eyes, highlighting because I have a rounder face, and setting spray because I work in a hot store - and she knew exactly what I needed.
I'm going to include some pictures of the items I got along with swatches, but I love everything I got. She didn't push me into buying extra things, but I did mention an interest in lipstick briefly and she showed me a really nice natural one for beginners.
Products purchased:
* Mineralize Skin Finish - shade: Global GlowI use this almost every day to brighten up my face and I am obsessed with it! I think soon I am going to purchase Cheeky Bronze and Lightscapade!
Again something I use almost daily. This is so refreshing and hydrating on my skin, and the cucumber scent helps wake me up. Before reading reviews and trying it out myself, I had never seen the purpose of setting spray. To lock in your makeup? Isn't that what primer is for? NO! Primer actual just preps your face! I have noticed a complete difference in how long my makeup lasts with just a few sprits!
I did not know (until my MAC visit) that purple eyeshadow brought out green eyes! When she first told me purple I was very scared and apprehensive. But she sat me down and showed me how to apply the different shades, and now I am in love with it.
Side Note: There were too many colours to swatch, but believe me when I say they are exactly as they seem!
* Mineralize Eye Shadow x4 - A Waft of GreyThese shades are so well pigmented and blend so well together. I love using this compact for nights out because it is so smokey and makes my eyes pop!
* Viva Glam Lipstick - shade: A45This colour, oh my goodness. Whenever I look at it I fall in love all over again. It is such a beautiful colour that goes on so smooth, and feels natural. If you need it to last longer however I recommend starting with a lip liner!
Did I mention 100% of the proceeds go to charity? Sold.
I felt the need to write this post because I have seen a lot of videos on YouTube of people having bad experiences with MAC's customer service. Considering I work in retail myself and have seen some terrible things and been treated disgustingly, I have no complaints about my personal experience. Maybe the Canadian stores are better? JOKING! But seriously, I am so grateful to the employee that helped me and took the time to show me how to use the different products before purchasing.
When I was at the register we got to talking, and I mentioned I go to school in New Brunswick, so I was considering stocking up on makeup. Even though the store was busy with customers, she went and got this big book of all the MAC stores in Canada, and went through it with me to find the closet one to where I'll be staying. She already had my money but was continuing to help.
Please don't let the videos you see on YouTube deter you from experiencing it yourself! I am very sad for the women that had terrible customer service but if you live in Kitchener-Waterloo like myself, I recommend Fairview Mall!
I love you and will talk to you in a week! Have a great weekend - unless you work in retail like I do, then good luck.
~ Kristina
