Makeup artist against MAC/ MAC pushing independant artists out of the industry

[Jude]

Quote:

Originally Posted by PrettyKitty

What's wrong with that if you have the money?

I am with you on this one; there is nothing wrong with it Kitty. There is nothing wrong with loving a particular brand and being excited about the release of new products. I don't understand what the actual point is of that statement actually. I mean, so what. Many people collect many things. Many people run to Best Buy every Tuesday to add to their DVD collection and there are more examples of collectors happy and anxious to acquire something new for their collection.

I am one of those unenlightened adults that look forward to seeing the new collections so shoot me...haha.

That being said, I got an awful Magrittes paint in the mail and sent the company an email about it. In return, I got a replacement and a free LG for my troubles. Guess it pays not to cry over spilled milk, or a defective paint, or even a melted lipstick for that matter...haha.

[lovemichelle]

Quote:

Originally Posted by PrettyKitty

What's wrong with that if you have the money?

What I said had nothing to do with money.

[martygreene]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Demosthenes

(as far as I know, no other brands accessible to me have a similar program for makeup artists)

Actually, lots of lines do. Most aren't advertised the way MACs is, and I kinda agree with that methodology myself. Here's some info.


The information required on your part varies from company to company. Some are very stringent in their requirements. Almost all companies require that purchases are made via fax or phone.

BeneFit-
Mail or fax copy of license & contact information to:
BeneFit Cosmetics
re: makeup artist program
685 Market St. 7th floor
San Francisco, CA 94105
fax: (415) 781-3930

Cinema Secrets-
10% discount. Call their number (818-846-0579) to ask for the makeup artist discount when ordering.

Lorac-
40% discount, provide union card, resume, certification, etc. Discount applicable to mail order only (800-845-0705). Fax information to 818-678-3930

Smashbox-
WE REQUIRE ONE OF THE FOLLOWING:
Agency card with photo id
Professional tear sheet with your name on it with photo id
Valid union card with your photo id
-OR-
WE REQUIRE TWO OF THE FOLLOWING:
Professional agency letter of reference with business card & photo id
Crew call list with press material & photo id
Valid makeup artistry certificate (within the last 5 years) & photo id
Please fax the requirements for verification and include the following:
Full name
Address, city, state & zip code
Home & Work/Cell phone numbers
E-mail address

Once approved, Smashbox cosmetics will issue a professional 40% discount authorization letter. You may place an order by calling 888.763.1361 or fax 310.558.1491.

Stila-
40% discount
Mail 2 credentials (bus. card, license, etc) plus a copy of a photo ID along with address & phone number to:
Stila Cosmetics, Inc.,
Corporate Headquarters
2801 Hyperion Avenue #102
Los Angeles, CA 90027

Sue Devitt Studio-
40% for professional makeup artists
888-870-1150

Vincent Longo Cosmetics-
30% for professional makeup artists
877-LONGO99

[Star]

Quote:

MAC has become an experience. There is a different feel when you go to the MAC store or counter. This experience is enhanced with the chic all black dress codes and the music pumping in the backround, the gorgeous MA's (male and female) who look larger than life.

Oh boy. You've never been to a counter around here! They have zits like everyone else (well, I don't but I guess I'm just lucky). They don't look super glamourous. Their makeup isn't always flawless or even great for that matter.

Quote:

It is even experienced with the haughty attitudes that you run into sometimes, as if these people are part of something special that you can only get a glimpse of.

Anyone's "haughty attitude" - be it manufactured or genuine - is NOT going to get me to loosen the purse strings. No way. No how. You are waiting on ME, you are trying to sell ME stuff, not the other way around, not "I hope the MAC salesgirl will like me enough to deign to sell me some makeup today!" And if they even TRIED that, they'd have their little attitude brought down a few notches and shoved down their throat in no time flat.

Now, seriously, they have to slow down the freakin' collections or (in my humble opinion) they will experience a backlash the likes of which they never anticipated. It's becoming a joke (Freshwater-slash-Belle-Azure, anyone?)

[JamericanDiva]

Quote:

Originally Posted by martygreene

I have a feeling we might be on the same page. I'll have to wait and see though.

Hmmm.... very eye opening. This is very thought provoking and I had no idea that it was going down like this. I am a freelancer, so I can identify with what was being said. It's not so much the product as it is the practices that they are mentioning.

[Jude]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Star

Oh boy. You've never been to a counter around here! They have zits like everyone else (well, I don't but I guess I'm just lucky). They don't look super glamourous. Their makeup isn't always flawless or even great for that matter.



Anyone's "haughty attitude" - be it manufactured or genuine - is NOT going to get me to loosen the purse strings. No way. No how. You are waiting on ME, you are trying to sell ME stuff, not the other way around, not "I hope the MAC salesgirl will like me enough to deign to sell me some makeup today!" And if they even TRIED that, they'd have their little attitude brought down a few notches and shoved down their throat in no time flat.

Now, seriously, they have to slow down the freakin' collections or (in my humble opinion) they will experience a backlash the likes of which they never anticipated. It's becoming a joke (Freshwater-slash-Belle-Azure, anyone?)

Okay Star.

[lah_knee]

hahaha wow sounds like MAC gets under some people's skin

ITS JUST MAKEUP! who cares if people fall into the trendy side to it... or waste their money on it... or wait to see the new lines. its just makeup. what they do doesnt effect you. unless you happen to work at another counter losing sales to mac haha but thats just how it goes. they know how to sell their product... "brainwashing" some might say, but hey its selling. more people surround the mac counter than any other counter i go to. and no not everyone loves it and not everyone is a raving fan and thats ok. i dont try to talk people into liking mac so people shouldnt talk people into disliking it. what happen to letting people make up their own mind? hmmm anyway my point is, its just makeup... and like prettykitty said, i wonder why people who dislike mac would be on here? not that you arent allowed on here but its just strange...

[lovemichelle]

I don't know about everyone else, but where I live people swarm the Clinique counter. The way some of you guys do make-up with all the colors, I can honestly say I've never seen someone like that in my real day-to-day life. I guess people around here stay to the natural look. That's my personal preference also, but I wouldn't feel like myself with 10 or so eyeshadows on me and all that other stuff. I'm not a movie star and don't need to look like one.

MAC to me shows off more out there kinda make-up and I don't need anything like that.

[Cruella]

I can understand some of the backlash even if I don't agree with it. When MAC was more exclusive and there were fewer counters, the buyers could feel as though they were part of a private club. A product loses some of its appeal when every 13 year old girl has it.

I love MAC stuff but I don't get as obsessive/compulsive over it as some do. I buy what I like and ignore what I don't. I find any addiction to be a little pathetic.

[PrettyKitty]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cruella

I love MAC stuff but I don't get as obsessive/compulsive over it as some do. I buy what I like and ignore what I don't. I find any addiction to be a little pathetic.

That's what some girls on Specktra do too... but the problem is that we love more things than you. So that's probably why we buy more... No worries, we never buy a color if it looks ugly in our opinion.

[so_siqqq]

Like Lah-Knee said it's just makeup.

Since when is it a big deal if it "sold out" on its ethics.
If it doesn't cater to you than say it but don't bash on other people like 13 yr. olds who buy MAC or any other brand.
Majority of us were stuck in that rut in our lives when we didn't know shit on how to apply makeup.

There's no need for this feeling of eliteness. Who cares if MAC is no longer for make up artists. Makeup is for everyone no matter if they are novice or expert. Makeup is art, self expression. It changes our mood. It doesn't matter if I use some drug store brand or high end brand. Makeup has one purpose and it's to express how we are inside through physical means (ie appearance).

[PrettyKitty]

Quote:

Originally Posted by lovemichelle

MAC to me shows off more out there kinda make-up and I don't need anything like that.

Ok... so if MAC isn't your style, why you're on Specktra??

[Jude]

Quote:

Originally Posted by lovemichelle

I don't know about everyone else, but where I live people swarm the Clinique counter. The way some of you guys do make-up with all the colors, I can honestly say I've never seen someone like that in my real day-to-day life. I guess people around here stay to the natural look. That's my personal preference also, but I wouldn't feel like myself with 10 or so eyeshadows on me and all that other stuff. I'm not a movie star and don't need to look like one.

MAC to me shows off more out there kinda make-up and I don't need anything like that.

Thank God that MAC is out there to show you what kind of makeup you don't need. Funny that you would hang out in a MAC forum though. Oh yeah... you must need constant reminder of what you don't need..haha.

[lovemichelle]

Exactly, it is just make-up, but people seem obsessed with it now. Honestly, if my skin was clear like it used to be I wouldn't even be wearing make-up. I have a boyfriend who loves me regardless if I have it on or not so I couldn't care less. I only wear it now because I hate how some spots of my skin look. I took all my make-up for the night and I kinda feel like I look better without it. I feel pure and just myself.

Some act like MAC is so much more superior to other things and I don't think so. Or they will be like "oh there goes all the money in my wallet cuz MAC has a new collection out." Please. A blow lipstick or Luella TLC isn't that important.

When I used MAC my friends were like what's that? I was like I guess it's good shit because people hype it, but it isn't all that.

[PrettyKitty]

Quote:

Originally Posted by lovemichelle

Honestly, if my skin was clear like it used to be I wouldn't even be wearing make-up. I have a boyfriend who loves me regardless if I have it on or not so I couldn't care less. I only wear it now because I hate how some spots of my skin look. I took all my make-up for the night and I kinda feel like I look better without it. I feel pure and just myself.

Oh... well... If you look better without makeup, why you still wear it??

By the way you're not alone; My boyfriend love it too when I don't wear makeup, but I love to apply my makeup.... so I don't care and do what *I* want...

[Jude]

Quote:

Originally Posted by lovemichelle

Exactly, it is just make-up, but people seem obsessed with it now. Honestly, if my skin was clear like it used to be I wouldn't even be wearing make-up. I have a boyfriend who loves me regardless if I have it on or not so I couldn't care less. I only wear it now because I hate how some spots of my skin look. I took all my make-up for the night and I kinda feel like I look better without it. I feel pure and just myself.

Some act like MAC is so much more superior to other things and I don't think so. Or they will be like "oh there goes all the money in my wallet cuz MAC has a new collection out." Please. A blow lipstick or Luella TLC isn't that important.

When I used MAC my friends were like what's that? I was like I guess it's good shit because people hype it, but it isn't all that.

Ok Michelle. We get it. Thank you for being around to remind us of how blah MAC is and how much more evolved you are because you manage to stay above the fray unlike the rest of us plebes. I would give your further accolades regarding all this but you have been doing a most excellent job of doing it yourself.

To each his own....

Peace!

[PrettyKitty]

AMEN sistah!

[lovemichelle]

Quote:

Originally Posted by DopeSickGirl

Thank God that MAC is out there to show you what kind of makeup you don't need. Funny that you would hang out in a MAC forum though. Oh yeah... you must need constant reminder of what you don't need..haha.

This is JUST a MAC forum? I didn't realize that. I thought it was for make-up in general. I am in the LJ MAC community because I used to use MAC, but I rarely even post there.

I didn't try to say anything bad about them, but I think some people take their make-up way too far.

[PrettyKitty]

Quote:

Originally Posted by lovemichelle

This is JUST a MAC forum? I didn't realize that. I thought it was for make-up in general. I am in the LJ MAC community because I used to use MAC, but I rarely even post there.

I didn't try to say anything bad about them, but I think some people take their make-up way too far.

Hum okay yeah... scroll up and you should see 'Your definitive MAC resource'.

[lovemichelle]

Quote:

Originally Posted by PrettyKitty

Hum okay yeah... scroll up and you should see 'Your definitive MAC resource'.

What does that mean?

[martygreene]

Yes, Specktra is largely about MAC, but we are not exclusive to MAC and we welcome all who have an interest in makeup to our site and our forums. We have folk here who favor Stila, Bobbi Brown, Biotherm, Perscriptives, Mineral Makeup, and many other brands as well as those who wear minimal makeup.

As for whether it matters if businesses have as some would call it "sold out" on their business ethics, that is a personal decision. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion.

As for the obsession issue, while I do not agree with the compulsive buying, collecting, and hoarding of cosmetics personally, if that is what you wish to do then I wish you luck with it. The only time I really have an issue with it is when people who choose to behave in this manner then blame MAC or Estee Lauder/Markham for their personal financial problems later down the line. I do not think that everyone who likes MAC is required to be obsessed or compulsive about it.

This has been a good thread full of discussion, open statement of opinion, and information sharing. Let's try and keep it as such. Remember, in a discussion or debate such as this, it is the points which are being hashed and re-hashed, personal experiance and anecdotal evidences are welcome, but personal attacks are not appropriate.

[Chelsea]

Specktra is, first and foremost a mac website. However, we welcome ALL people who appreciate makeup and beauty. Not just mac! I really hope that everyone feels welcome here and that all members are welcoming those who don't use mac as well.

As far as my thought on this issue ... mac has changed. Everything changes, unfortunately. It is a hugely popular globalized chain now rather than the specialized brand it used to be. It's inevitable and something that comes with success. There are things I loved about how mac used to be.. and things I love about how it is now.

And adding on to marty's earlier post about discounts.. NARS offers one as well at least here in Canada. $150 off every $500 spent.

[DoeEyedGirl]

I have been sitting back as a sort of voyeur to this debate, but I'd like to share my perspective on the subject. First, I'll tell you a little about me. I am a MAC artist and a professional freelancer (some runway, special fx and bridal for fun and extra $$$). I have also worked for Clinique and Chanel. MAC has some phenomenal products that are staples in my traincase...these "staples" really perform (I won't bother listing them because their are too many and I don't want to get onto another topic). I do agree that the new collections are coming out at lightning speed but part of that is not just attributed to EL but also customer demand. Many of our customers want new stuff constantly...I know firsthand....a collection will be out for a week and one of our diehards is already asking "What's next?" We cater to those customers as well our customers that just need a studio fix or a smolder eye kohl. We do our job...we sell...but no one is forcing anyone to buy into it. I have a ton of products because I have a ton of needs with my work...but I don't fall into the LE trap. Other lines do the same thing...they are just disguised as gifts or pwp. Come on? Clinique and Lancome always entice you to come in for an event or the next gift. Corporations have to make money. One thing I can say I am really proud about is our MAC AIDS fund...over 50 million dollars since its inception. Make doesn't make a penny on the Kids Helping Kids Cards or the Viva Glam lipsticks/gloss...every dollar spent goes to the fund not just the "profits". We also have helped our MAC brothers and sisters that were victims of Katrina with food a clothing drives. MAC is huge so there is good and bad. I have freelance friends who are hurting in NY but I also have friends that are thriving. I have my complaints about MAC but it has really educated me and opened a lot of doors for me also. I am a 24 yr old single mother of twins and a full-time student on top of everything...so soon I will be leaving the MAC world because retail hours don't mix with family...but MAC laid a good foundation for me as far as my freelance work goes. The networking is amazing...but like anything in this world you have to have accountability. If I am not a success it is not the fault of any corporation or the "man"....I have no one to blame but myself. I am grateful of the opportunities they have given me and as far as their shortcomings...I am resourceful and will be able to take it to the next level. There will always be obstacles in life. MAC has some great products and some talented artist...oh, and by the way...the pimply face no talent comments are harsh...you wouldn't want the MUA's ripping on our customers, would you?

[PrettyKitty]

Whatever...

If it's not just a 'MAC Resource', it shouldn't be the 'title' of each page! And here, we are on the 'MAC Chat' forum.

Anyway...

What's the point to be on a website if they mostly talk about a brand you don't like?

If I can't be myself and talk about MAC without being bashed because I buy too much or some others girls hate MAC..... Specktra isn't better than MUA!

[Janice]

Quote:

Originally Posted by PrettyKitty

If it's not just a 'MAC Resource', it shouldn't be the 'title' of each page! And here, we are on the 'MAC Chat' forum.

We are just a MAC resource, we do not compile, collect, and share information on the main site about any other line. Your right, it is MAC chat forum and people are here discussing MAC.. though not everyone is in favor of them.

Quote:

Originally Posted by PrettyKitty

What's the point to be on a website if they mostly talk about a brand you don't like?

Hrmm.. Well, I can't this answer for them. Hopefully it's because they came here and saw something they liked about the forum? Hopefully we offer them enough non-MAC alternative topics and forums for those people to feel like they have a reason to register and start participating.

Quote:

Originally Posted by PrettyKitty

If I can't be myself and talk about MAC without being bashed because I buy too much or some others girls hate MAC

I'm not sure where you are being bashed, or where anyone in this thread has directly insulted you about your MAC purchasing habits. Sure some people think we are silly to buy something from every collection, or purchase something simply because it's LE.. but who cares?

Some people who have posted in this thread might not care for MAC, but that's okay! There is no reason to make this topic personal. We don't have to answer to anyone for our purchasing habits but ourselves (and our SO's sometimes if we spend too much :giggle: ).

Quote:

Originally Posted by PrettyKitty

Specktra isn't better than MUA!

I'm not sure where anyone said this in this thread? I know I personally don't run around thinking Specktra is better than an estbliashed leading beauty discussion website with hundreds of thousands of members! Specktra is in no competition at al with MUA. We are just a little niche on the web for MAC and beauty chat.