How to Love Yourself and Feel 100% Beautiful

September 18th, 2012

Hi beautiful makeup geeks!

This blog post is a different one for me- a very personal message to each of my women viewers out there. Hopefully I don’t come across fake or cheezy, because I truly mean every word I say and feel a burden to share some encouragement to us women (myself included as I struggle with this just like many of you!)

There’s not a single woman I know that doesn’t tell herself on a regular basis “I hate my thighs” or “My stomach looks so fat” or “I wish my boobs were bigger”. Why do we put ourselves down so much? Not even the prettiest celebrity is perfect- I’m sure even Halle Berry wakes up some mornings complaining about something.

EVERY single woman has something to offer- maybe you have gorgeous thick hair, or model length legs, or a beautiful nose. Focus on that instead of the one thing you don’t like about yourself. Personally, I’ve always hated my thighs. Even looking at kid pictures, I think “Look at those thunder thighs!” That’s how God created me. I can’t help it. So, I need to embrace it and love ALL of me 100%- imperfections and all. I can strive every day to be perfect, but even if I lose more weight, grow my hair out longer, or whiten my teeth more , I’m still going to age! I’ll then have to deal with wrinkles and a sagging butt. Oh well, at least I’ll still have nice eyes and big ta’tas! LOL. That’s what my attitude needs to be: I’ll never be perfect, but neither will anyone else. Quit comparing myself to others and be happy with what God gave me- regardless of my weight, age, or anything else for that matter.

It’s time for each of us to focus on our good points, and accentuate that. If you have amazing legs, then wear a looser top but wear shorts or a mini skirt- show off your assets! If you have a nice rack, then wear a v neck sweater. If you have amazing lips, then wear a beautiful pink lipgloss that makes them stand out. For me, I like my chest and my eyes- I think that’s why I love doing makeup so much. It accentuates what I feel is a good feature for me- my eyes.

If we start embracing our good qualities and don’t focus so much on the “bad”, then we’ll walk out the door a little more confident. Everyone else will start to notice too. Trust me, guys are too busy looking at my nice eyes or chest to pay attention to my thunder thighs. And you know what? I’m ok with that and so are they

What’s YOUR best feature? How can you play that up?

Stay happy and healthy and beautiful!

Much love,
Marlena

This is a picture of me and my dad when I was little. You could tell even back then I have a curvy bottom- haha

http://demiurgiclust.net shelly

*giggles* Mini!you is adorbs!

I think my best features are my face, developing crow’s feet and all. (Early 30s, have never had Botox, don’t really want it!) I particularly like my lashes. *nods*
- http://twitter.com/MakeupGeek Marlena
  
  Then pile on the mascara! I’m glad you’re mentioning what you love about yourself- is so important
Maitri

Lovely post and even lovelier photo, you are such a lovely person Marlena
- http://twitter.com/MakeupGeek Marlena
  
  Thanks Maitri!! xoxo
azadeh

i love this post!
my body look like your body… I have a curvy bottom… yes i am curvy girl!
i have big hips and big thighs…they makes me always feeling shame for 11years
i forget my good points as my beautiful cheeks and smile
but i began love them cause i cant change my body but i can change my mind and when i accept myself people accept me too

my english is not so good i hope type this comment properly
love you marlena
- http://twitter.com/MakeupGeek Marlena
  
  What a great comment! I’m sure your beautiful cheeks are amazing
- Debbie
  
  Hi Marlena, I have been watching you since you went shopping in my store and bought some rings from me (Debbie) I Thought you were beautiful then and I think you are still Just as Beautiful now. Yes you are very beautiful on the outside, but looks –they are just a first impression, a first glance. A wow statement! But Marlena Your Beauty, your REAL Beauty, your Lasting beauty is your HEART. You are one of the sweetest women I have had the privilege of getting to know, (only by watching your videos and a few emails) That is the beauty I see when I watch your video
  Take care
mgvlez

Thank you so much for the encouraging words. You are an inspiration to me and my weight loss journey.
- http://twitter.com/MakeupGeek Marlena
  
  Good luck to you! I’m still on mine- 25 more to go (I swear the last 25 is a *&$#@ to get off! haha)
jenmcp84

You are so right… I focus on what is great about myself and fix/prevent what I can. I use SPF and moisturizer to prevent premature aging, eat healthy, and exercise to lose the weight that drags me down and makes me start pointing out all of my flaws in the first place. What you see to be flaws other people see as beautiful because it’s a part of you.
- http://twitter.com/MakeupGeek Marlena
  
  I totally agree!!
http://www.facebook.com/liz.godinez.77 Liz Godinez

Marlena you are amazing, you words are very inspiring to me and I’ve learned so much from you in the past two years that I’ve been following you. Than you for helping me and alot of other women out there to love ourselves and to accept ourselves just the way we are.
- http://twitter.com/MakeupGeek Marlena
  
  Thanks for the comment Liz! Have a great week
Anemonej

Nay…perfection. It is indeed a struggle. If only…this or that…ughhhh. I really started loving myself more quite recently. But there are certain times of the month its just hard. Those few lbs…coming off…will not be my answer to all my problems…i am sure. I just have to love what I have now regardless. My big thighs, hips, chest…i really do love it… (wait here it comes)….if only my belly was flatter. I do love myself! I do! I think you are a very nice person Marlena. Thank you for this post.
- http://twitter.com/MakeupGeek Marlena
  
  Forget about your stomach, and focus on your big “ladies” And I’ll forget about my thunder thighs xoxo
Christina Parada

this is a great message – i’ve heard similar philosophies and usually i flip flop between loving myself and hating myself. I think my favorite part of my body is just as you said it – my big tata’s and gorgeous eyes. Makeup is a great expression of showing off my best assets and yet covering what i dont like as well as bringing the attention away from everything else. I think you should keep doing what you’ve been doing. You’re a great person and you don’t have thunder thighs I have thunder thighs. lol
- http://twitter.com/MakeupGeek Marlena
  
  I know- i do the same! I’ll love myself one day, then the next “my skin’s so bad” or some load of crap I tell myself. Geez, it’s hard being a woman sometimes! haha
  - Christina Parada
    
    i know this makes me a total nerd but i’m so excited you actually responded to me – i’ve been watching you for a while and love your stuff and the variety of videos you do – keep it up
Michelle

your such a inspiration Marlena!!!!!! I love your videos, and your blog. It is so true we put ourselves down…I do it all the time. We have to remember we are all beautiful and have something to offer. Smile on Marelna!!!!!!!
http://www.facebook.com/JessC1985 Jess Thewholepackage C

Love the positive message Marlena and for those muggies who are subscribed to your channel we know you come from the heart and mean them your message can never be to corny when it’s sincere and comes from the heart.
Agnibanya Das Poddar

omg, you look so beautiful Marlena..even as a child..
And thank you for such an inspiring post..yes, we all have our insecurities and drawbacks, but we all also have a strong feature or point that we can play with like you said…I’m very short, just about 5 ft …but I think I have nice lips and eyes so I try to play with them….and since in my culture ,we can’t show off much of other assets (My mum will probably disown me!), I try to wear well fitting clothes that make me look slimmer and taller
Simone

I was having the worst day today because I was flipping through magazines and was seeing all these beautiful skinny models that I felt have so much more to offer in the world then a girl of my size, but this literally changed my mindset. Thanks you so much for the positive message. Such inspiration!
Angela

I have nice legs. I call them my olive oil legs because they are so straight up and down, but they look great in a skirt or a dress Nice post! Btw, some men really loooove curvy thighs, Marlena. I guess one other thing to remember is that what we think is unattractive about out bodies, others don’t even take notice to.
http://twitter.com/PeaceLoveGlittr Kayla

FYI: My bff and I watch your tutorials all the time, and when we try to recreate them we’re always saying, “It didn’t look like this on Marlena’s big beautiful eyes!!”
Relating to the post- I had a photo shoot a couple of weeks ago (for a new head shot) and as soon as I got them back I immediately started criticizing every single one (as most women do). “What am I doing? What’s wrong with my eyes? You can see my arm fat.” Just as I was about to close my picture program on my computer, my boyfriend came into the room and caught a glimpse of one of my pics. He said, “You look… stunning.” I had to step back and look at the photo, focusing on the picture as a whole, and realized… he was right, that was a great photo. While I know I (and most other women) will never stop criticizing ourselves, sometimes we need an outsiders point of view to help us out
belen A

Serious thunder thighs right here! And a booty too! I was over weight most of my child hood and after highschool I lost 20lbs! I’ve maintained that weight since then. I wish to lose more but I’m happy. for now. Maybe one day. Congrats on all your success Marlena. You’re a beauty inside and out.
http://www.facebook.com/sueda.akin.1 Sueda Akin

You’re truly amazing
Suchitra

This reminds of the recent book I read of Miranda Kerr Treasure yourself, this blog is a good reminder of that. I know there are many pretty and gorgeous features of me that I can focus and be grateful for it. But sometime I do forget and think only about the features I don’t like. Thank you for reminding that we all have something best given to us by GOD.
Maryam

Your seriously one of the prettiest makeup gurus out there, and you just keep getting prettier and prettier no joke, Idk how your single! Thankyou for the great encouragement, many of us tend to just focus on the negative rather than the positive things, Muah! xo
http://twitter.com/laurieverlove lauri everlove

great post and very timely for me… Thanks… I am so glad I found out about you…
Angelica

Thanks for this beautiful message. Honestly my self esteem has been sooo low these last few years because after having my babies it’s been really hard loosing the weight, especially if your spouse is constantly telling you your too big. After reading your message it just made me feel that much better about myself and the body I have. I have about 40lbs over what my ideal weight is and thanks to you I know I can loose them and be the sexy momma I want to be. Thanks once again.
fairyha

just when im feeling bleah with myself… bham…. a great read! thank you for bringing light to me! muahz
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1066985704 Rocio Azucena Mendoza

You never cease to amaze me Marlena! You’re a person with a great heart & I’m glad you take the time to encourage & motivate us to love ourself regardless of our flaws thank you for always being here to inspire us. Thank you <3
Elzara

Such a cute baby you were!

Today I went out for shopping. Something happened and it’s three days as we have no water. So, I have greasy hair, several pimples and feel gross. But I collected my hair in high messy bum and went out with model walk. Few guys even whistled after me.))) So it’s definitely about being self-confident and loving yourself.
- http://twitter.com/MakeupGeek Marlena
  
  Look at you!!! Good for you- I’m glad you went out with confidence sometimes, that’s all it takes
yesy

Thumbs up!!!! love what you wrote..keep it going..besitos
Lainie

Love u girl….
http://www.facebook.com/marcela.cardona.58 Marcela Cardona

Thank you for this post Marlena!! You are such a sweet and caring person! And I hope that you realize that you inspire so many of us every day. I don’t think you ever come off as fake, only as a person, like the rest of us, trying to have a good life. You’re amazing, thank you for sharing something like this with us. And FYI, you were an adorable baby!!! XOXO
Federica

you are beautiful: so elegant and woman!!!!
Nicole

Marlena, thank you for the kind words. And it’s so true, about how we can pick about how we look. Even when we looked one way for so long, and then changed, do to having babies or just age is catching up with us. Thanks once again, I enjoyed reading this..xoxoxoxoxo
dtnj06YT

HI Marlena, Your point of self acceptance is a good one. Even better , is knowing we are made in the image of Almighty God, and God don’t make no junk, as the saying goes! ;0) God bless you! Love your friend, Darlene Taylor
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=828705354 Nichelle Perneel

Well, honestly, I can’t think of one thing that I am 100% happy with. I am at my heaviest weight. My whole life I was thin with a super flat stomach and big boobs. Now after having kids I am over weight with even bigger boobs that aren’t perky anymore. I don’t think I’m ugly or necessarily unattractive, but my different body is hard to deal with at times. I think I have a very womanly body with an hourglass shape, but with my cottage cheese thighs and pregnancy pooch, I don’t feel attractive outside of my own house. Gosh, I sound so negative, but here’s what sucks. I am pregnant again, it wasn’t planned, and I’m only going to get bigger. I guess I have my nice skin going for me, and my pretty face.
- http://twitter.com/MakeupGeek Marlena
  
  Focus on your face for now then Pull up your hair and wear your favorite makeup look! Don’t worry about the weight- after you have your baby, you can focus on loosing it. That’s the great thing about weight, it can always go away. (sure it’s hard as heck to lose, but it WILL come off in time ) BIG hugs and congratulations on your pregnancy!!
http://www.facebook.com/elena.aue Elena Aue

It’s really hard for me to look at the parts of my body that i really love without noticing my flaws..especially ugly strecmarks..im 21 and i dont have any kids..i wish i could make them go away. i feel so insecure..
- http://twitter.com/MakeupGeek Marlena
  
  I have stretch marks too, but most women do! No worries sweetie
  - http://www.facebook.com/elena.aue Elena Aue
    
    Thank you Marlena..Thank you for all your advice on youtube and here. Your my rolemodel. cheesy but true.
    - Jbritt
      
      I just tattooed over my very large stretch mark… It is now a beautiful dragonfly
shamaila

i hve a kid who is 6 year old , i hve been married for 7 n half year now…. all ths time i to used think im not good looking any more tht i used to be… . i felt really bad but didnt say to any one!!!! i hve really big big eye….. i use to think tht ” why do i hve this cow like eyes & wth lot of under eye dark circles !!!!! & not to for get im fat as well…..& dark in my family….. but now a days i feel lot of ladies dosent hve cow like eyes …which i hve lol.. & my frnds keep telling me tht i hve the most attractive eyes & smile.

but about 3 month ago my mother got breast cancer….. she is hveing her 3rd chemo, she lost her hair,she has dark patch on her face but still she looked so beautiful i cant explain…beauty comes frm inside … not frm out side. she has a good soul , im not saying tht coz she is m mother but really she is a good soul.i pray everyday for her better health. after watching her i dont think it really matters anymore how fat i m or my dark circles ….. i feel like every moment is a blessing for me to be in ths world. just love ur self ,respect ur self ,respect others & do something for ur love ones & try to be a better person. if u thing tht u r a better person then try more & more to be a better person. there is no limit to be a better person.no one will remember ur face but if u do something good …people will remember u as a good soul. how great person u where. tht is my take on beauty…. but still i love make up & still i wait for marlena’s tutorial thts how i keep my self clam during ths tension time. love u girl … u r awesome & beautiful.
- http://twitter.com/MakeupGeek Marlena
  
  What a great comment- thank you so much for sharing! I wish your mom the best and will pray for her today
  - shamaila
    
    you most welcome dear……& i know you do pray for her better health….coz u r a very sweet person… it shows on yor face
Marlizette De Kock

Thanks so much for your inspirational words and sharing this with us. I have the same self-consciousness about my thighs and usually hate the way I look in pants. So I’ve decided to concentrate on wearing more A-line skirts and dresses that are much more flattering. My arms and shoulders are actually quite toned so in future I will put more emphasis on that and also strive to keep my make up as beautiful as yours always is! You truly are a role model to women all over the world
- http://twitter.com/MakeupGeek Marlena
  
  I hear you! I’m doing the same. I just bought some great a line dresses from Old Navy and TJMAxx last week
Ally

So true Marlena! I love your attitude about all of this. If you don’t like something, then change it. But if you can’t, then live with it and concentrate on the good things. Life is entirely too short to be putting ourselves down. And guys HATE it when we do that! My sister has a new boyfriend who tells her how cute she is ALL the time and it feels weird to her to take a compliment like that. I know my husband has told me “Women just need to learn to say thanks when a guy tells them they’re beautiful or cute. We don’t say it if we don’t mean it.” I’m working on toning my thighs and tummy, although I don’t think I’ll ever be all the way there, but I like my butt and boobs, lol. Keep it up girl!
- Kimberley Z
  
  Great comment !! Gals … we gotta learn to take compliments from our fellahs oxox
Aysha

Oh yeah very rite Marlena! I’m highly impressed by ur such a great thought n thanks so much for sharing it with us..I also feel same as my bottom is also like urs but I hav nice curved back..so from now on I will focus on that n my pretty face..thanks so much for everything u teach us
http://www.facebook.com/manon.deloye Manon Deloye

Thank you so much Marlena for this post, it trully helps, even though it may seems obvious and cheezy ! We always complain about what we think is bad in us, but we forget what’s good and what we have to enhance ! I’m gonna concentrate on good points instead of bad ones, but still try to reduce the bad points !
Take care Marlena and thanks again
http://www.facebook.com/PoohsKitten Lindsay S. Dunn

Thank you so much for this, Marlena. It could not have come at a better time for me. I often times focus on what I don’t like about myself instead of what I do. Hmm, what are my best features? My hair! I have long, dark hair that I’m really proud of. I take really good care of it and am honestly quite proud of it. Also, my eye color is nice, too. As my good friend and MAC artist described it, it’s concrete gray Unique, eh? Lastly, I love my lips! They are naturally very full and I can rock a mean lip. I will never have to have anything injected in them, that’s for sure.

I could write a HUUUUUUUUUUGE blog about things I don’t like about myself, but after reading this I certainly won’t. Thank you for sharing this, Marlena. You ARE a beauty, inside and out! I know we all consider you a friend. God bless you, darlin’!
- http://twitter.com/MakeupGeek Marlena
  
  Girl, style up that hair and wear a sexy lipgloss tonight! And do a plumish colored eyeliner or shadow to make those eyes stand out. Then go out on a hot date, because I’m sure you earned it
http://twitter.com/rhealisms Rhea

This is so inspiring Marlena! Thank you! Greetings from your Filipino fan.
http://www.facebook.com/leesa.radja Leesa Radja

Marlena, as a 50-something I can’t agree more. One of the bennies of aging is that you (hopefully) get to a point where you know it’s just not that deep re: looks and you move on. And let’s not forget what we offer to the world other than looks! You are a beautiful woman who is incredibly inspiring. (And I notice you had those gorgeous eyes even as a child!)

@Ally – I agree! In fact, I remember reading an article on how to receive compliments. They made a very good point – when we demure from a compliment we are actually insulting the person giving it by saying their judgment is not very good! I had never thought of it that way but now graciously say “thank you!”
I love my eyes and my lips but when I’m down on myself I remember that those legs have carried me many miles, and those stretch marks are the badges of courage given me by my children.
- http://twitter.com/MakeupGeek Marlena
  
  what a great comment!!
- dragonfly
  
  My sister has given birth months ago and when I tried to find her ways to minimise her stretchmarks she replied that there is no need because she love them!
Cintia

Thank you for your nice words Marlena!!It came in a perfect time for me!

L u
jls1885

Thank you so much for this blog post. A few years ago, I lost 42 lbs, and I was getting compliments left and right. Since then, a bunch of stuff happened to me, and I’ve gained 90 lbs in about 2 1/2 years. I feel like crap all of the time. I never really had a big belly before, but I have one now, complete with stretch marks, and I’ve never had any kids. The only time that I have an urge to try to look pretty is when I watch your videos, and it makes me want to get out of the house and go shopping at Sephora! The weight gain combined with rosacea really has me down, but watching your videos really helps me (almost) get motivated to do something about it. lol. Thank you so much. <3
- http://twitter.com/MakeupGeek Marlena
  
  Don’t give up! You’ll lose it in time OH, and for rosacea, use a green tinted concealer or primer under your foundation. It will hide it right up! xoxo
olívia

Hi, I’m Portuguese and I follow your blog and the make up geek one too.
I think you’re a wonderful person, you have an excellent attitude towards life in general and admire you so much.
I work in a place where, unfortunately, people judge you only for your appearance and talk on your back if you’re fatter or thinner, they have always something to say, it’s very sad.
I had a baby a year ago and i haven’t lost all the weight i gain during pregnancy and so i’m teased because i’m still “fat” .
It’s so sad, because i’m a very insecure person because of my physique and those things don’t help.
Anyway, I just wanted to tell you that even in Portugal you are read with love and enthusiasm.
Thank you
- http://twitter.com/MakeupGeek Marlena
  
  Don’t let those people get you down. People who hate on others are unhappy themselves and have to put others down in efforts to make them feel better. Just remember that BIG hugs
  - Kimberley Z
    
    Amen Marlena ! ALWAYS remember that Olivia !
- dragonfly
  
  I would say to them: I am a bit overweight cause I had a baby. Now, what is your excuse for being a b*? Sometimes you have to speak out especially to neanderthals!
http://twitter.com/MyIcing Irresistible Media

Thanks for this message Marlena! xoxo ~Mimi
http://www.facebook.com/meredith.renfroe Meredith Renfroe

Thanks Marlena! I have been watching you since you lived in Michigan, that’s where I live:) I am truly proud of you and wish you much love and happiness. You are an inspiration to all of us Muggies;)
- http://twitter.com/MakeupGeek Marlena
  
  Thanks so much Meredith! I’ll be in Michigan next month- can’t wait to see the leaves change as I LOVE fall there
Adriana

Thank you Marlena, something we have to remember to focus on the good stuff! I have small “ta-tas” but a great bubble butt! To this day my husband says that’s what attracted him to me!! So it may be hard to find a good fitting pair of jeans, but I don’t care I love my bubble butt!
- http://twitter.com/MakeupGeek Marlena
  
  hahahaha! That made me laugh out loud! My BF says the same thing- my butt is what caught his attention. See, you never know what your man will like
http://www.facebook.com/natasha.bhatt Natasha Bhatt

The problem tht u mentioned is universal Marlena… we always want to be appreciated now a days esp when it comes to weight and looks… sometimes u are so worried abt the world tht u really forget to appreciate ur beauty,,,, Thanks fr sharing this… i m already on a weight loss mantra… Thank u fr this article its truly inspiring…. so i guess i shud wear make up now…
Love from ur Indian fan xoxo
kathy bayarea

Thank you so much Marlena!! you just made my day i woke up this morning feeling exactly like this i looked in the mirror and felt awful but your right i have great eyes and a nice rack as well so i will learn to embrace that thank you once again
Nita

I have the same blessing as you. Thick hips and thighs but a nice big booty to match. Lol I love all of me and everyday I remind myself that I am uniquely beautiful but beautiful
Non the less.
Daisy F

thanks Marlena that makes me feel a lot better…
sandy

over the past 4 years i have put on some weight im uncomfortable in my own skin. and it doesnt help that im still dealing with my ugly duckling syndrome. i dont take pictures very often and when i do i usually end up deleting them. however with that being said i have been trying to come to terms with this is my body, i will never get another one and i should learn to love it. recently i was venting about how i just cant seem to budge these stuborn pounds off, when my friend says to me “you have a beautiful body. even if you are a little thick, your body is well proportioned” ( i have big tatas and booty). And you know what i have great hair, i used to hate it but i found a look that works for me and now i love it. I hav actually had people come up to me and touch my hair! So ive been dressing for my curvy coke bottle figure and wearing my hear like every night is date night.lol.
ricki vi

You’re so amazing Marlena! one beautiful, sweet, and caring woman. And sooooo inspirational!!
christina

So glad you made this video…I am going to vegas on Monday and I was just thinking about how I didn’t want to lay by the pool because I hate my thighs…. I have an hour glass figure yet I focus on my chunky, untoned thighs…so thanks putting it in perspective….I will wear a bikini and not be such coward…lol xoxoxo
http://twitter.com/GreySkySaturday Jamie

I love this post! Thanks for writing it. I’m going through a period where I’m trying to love my body more but at the same time toning and getting fit for me
Orela

Hi Marlena,
I’m an old(er) MUG (45) and have been following you from Kent, UK for about 6 months now….your message couldn’t have come at a better time for me..I’m losing my hair and have been feeling very sorry for myself but I read this and I thought “This is why God made wig/weave makers”! I’m off to the hair shop today…THANKYOU and God Bless ya xx
Orela xx
Marida

Marlena, yesterday my status update on facebook was “I feel pretty” so your post realy spoke to my heart. For the past 2years I have given my all for my little boy. I have a 18month old boy who was born with a cleft palate. So my entire life revolved around keeping him alive. The cleft was repaired in February. About a month ago I could eventually start to look after myself again. I had to find myself again. You have played such an important role in this and I am forever grateful to you. You have helped me to get my passion back. You see, I am a Health and Skincare therapist, and I own a skincare salon. Make-up has always been one of my passions, but with all the drama with my baby I had to close my salon for 6months and lost my fire for the industry. A few months ago I saw one of your tutorials on youtube and BOOM! My fire and my passion was back! End of last month my salon moved into a very nice new spot in the middle of our small town and I started to do make-up lessons and bridal make-up again (as well as facials, massages, manis and pedis). I also started to look after my own body. I grew my hair for the first time in 7years and I went to the dietitian and started to lose some weight. I still have a looooong road ahead of me, but for the first time in years I am excited about the changes in my body! Yes I have a BIG ass and heavy legs and tiny boobs, but who cares! I am working my but off to improve what I have! At least I know how to make my eyes POP with a gorgeous purple smokey eye, lol. And I bought the sexyest NYX lipgloss from MUGs to show off my Angelina Jolie lips! Thank you Marlena for being such an inspiration to me personally as well as my business. I owe you so much! May God truly bless you and your company.

Lots of love
Marida
http://twitter.com/Asheyna Chelle

Thank you SO much for this Marlena. Was very needed today. Your videos and lbogs are so inspirational, as are you. Your makeup videos have really helped me come out of my shell and rock it

Wore your “Professional Glamour” to a party last night and got a few compliments on it
http://www.facebook.com/tpochat Toni Pochat

Love following your makeup adventures in life. you have really gave me the confidence to try new products ( makeup wise) you gave me a new out look on how i see my self, got the makeup thing down thanks to you and now its the weight issue. thank you for being who you are. and allowig us into a tiny part of your life.
Emily <3

hey marlena i just wanted to say u make me realise how beutiful i can feel with just the simplest little makeup tricks so thnx and you really are an inspiration for many girls like myself and i just think you are AWSOME! lol i wana send you best wishes from the beutiful city Long Beach California whoot whoot! lol
-makeup geek- <3
Heather

As a full-figured woman that has had trouble losing weight, this entry was just the shot in the arm I needed. I’m so tired of pointing out everything that’s wrong with me instead of rocking what God gave me, which, according to my husband, is a lot (he loves my curves)! I love watching you on YouTube, and I hope you will continue to be an inspiration to women everywhere. You definitely inspire me!
shamaila

hay im frm bangladesh, i want to by ur eyeshadows … but i hve a question … do u guys ship to bangladesh??? plzzz let me knw asap
Nik_Letta

Thank you for your advice Marlena. You have helped me with my confidence greatly since I stumbled onto your youtube videos (& now blog, of course). I feel more confident in the way that I apply my makeup which makes me feel more beautiful and of course I feel better about my body seeing how absolutely gorgeous you look and realizing that we are about the same size. You are a true inspiration. Keep doing what you are doing, because you do it well. – <3 a true Makeup Geek supporter
http://www.facebook.com/PrincessDanielle.Spoto Danielle Spoto

Omg! You were beautiful even back then! Thanks for the encouraging words. I had gastric bypass 9 months ago and lost over 100 pounds. I still find flaws in my body. I may not be overweight bu now my skin sags. But I do have amazing thick long hair and everyone tells me I’m beautiful. Now I just need to see it. Thanks again !
Tiffany

Marlena,
Thank you so much for the post. Sometimes a gentle reminder to stop being your own biggest bully is all we women need. We really are the meanest, harshest critics to ourselves and we don’t deserve it. No one does. Also thank you for being so sweet as to reply to some of your fans comments. I know it can really make them feel special, and best of all, heard.
Wishing you all the best!
Bonnie

Even at age 45 I enjoy your web site and it is because you do seem authentic about what you do and the sharing with others to help us feel better and look better, at any age! I have found the book “Eat to Live” and it has done WONDERS for me loosing weight, which in turn provides the foundation for feeling in control, confident and attractive to others but mostly to oneself:) Best wishes to all who read my post.
Lisa

I recently gained a lot of weight (50 lbs) due to a medical condition. Even when we fix the problem, the weight isn’t going to go away. That’s not the point, I eat … okay, but I don’t really work out. I’ve been following you for years and you have been a huge inspiration to me to get fit, as a way to feel better about myself, not to “lose weight.”
Brooke

This was a really great post Marlena! I too have a very similar body type as you do. I’ve always hated my legs and wondered why I couldn’t be model thin like a lot of other women out there. God made me this way and I have learned to appreciate and love my curves too. It’s ironic how so many of us dwell on our bad parts because looking back I have never had any guy say that I am fat or my legs are thick or anything. They have always admired my curves. So we all need to stop wasting our time putting ourselves down….Including myself! Thanks Marlena! love the site btw!
Albita

OMG you were adorable as a baby!!!! That picture is precious of you and your father!!! Awe, he’s still with you! God bless. You’re such a sweet and wonderful person, thanks for sharing all that you do!
Kimberley Z.

great post !! You ARE beautiful !! My most beautiful feature is my smile I say that b/c being an “older gal” middle-aged now………. I know that my laugh lines and wrinkles are there b/c I’m blessed with so much to laugh and smile about! Your posts are NEVER cheezy or fake …KEEP INSPIRING b/c it is ANOTHER gorgeous feature you have – sharing and shining your LIGHT from the inside out. Vaya con Dios ! God bless……….
http://www.facebook.com/melissa.valdez.54 Melissa Valdez

What an amazing inspiration you are! To some of these women, you may be the only voice of encouragement they ever encounter. Thank you for being so heart felt and genuine. This post has been a “second wind” for me. Simply, THANK YOU!
Brittney

Marlena,
I’m a recent highschool graduate and your makeup tutorials have gotten me through two proms and graduation. you inspire me to make myself better. I recently lost my job and have gained weight, so instead of feeling sorry for myself I’m going to take your advice and love myself and become more healthy. <3 Thank you so much and God bless!
Irina Long

You were such a cute toddler! You still had the same gorgeous eyes, too
Coral

Hi Marlena. Congratulations and thank you so much for the inspiration! I am currently wearing a 44 DD bra. I have been measured but cannot seem to find a long lasting comfortable bra. I am not a big fan of bras with underwire either. Where do you buy your bras? Any suggestions would e greatly appreciated. Thanks Coral
Larissa Grady

Hi Marlena, I go by hrhgeek or hrhpony on your site. The “hrh” stands for Her Royal Highness, because my husband and i have this running joke about tiaras. If you really want to hear it, just ask.

I started following you about six months ago, in chronic pain and depressed. You always made me smile with your videos on YouTube! Then I figurd I could learn about makeup application. I will never forget the day I conquered the smoky eye….I was So EXCITED?

I believe you are genuine. I look forward to new Make Up Geek products!
Okay. My purse tag is:
A black pebble grained leather Coach that looks likecit has belt loops to adjust the straps. The zippers are kinda edgy and i guess it is in the bucket style.
Black smooth leather Coach wallet to match w/ pebble grain accents.
Make up bag w/ Mary Kay mini compact w/powder.
Oil blotter sheets
Band Aid blister blocker
Lip balm
And, a red lipstick shade that matches my mood: I have 4 and one gloss
Pony tail holder
Coach bag & Coach Sunglasses w/ case
Pill box
Feminine products
Too many keys
A comb
my reading glasses in red
A reusable bag that looks like a bunch of grapes (it expands)
Notepad & pens
A purse holder to keep it off the floor
my phone
Sunscreen
A card holder
Whew! Then I wonder why it is so heavy!

Please just keep doing what you are doing. Your message just remindec me I have amazing lips, gorgeous eyes and tatas!

Take care of you,
Larissa
Spongebob

Oh my gosh i love it you are such an amazing writer, I hope you do more of these articles.
Thea

I totally agree with you:) And btw I think curvy bottom is so beautiful! And your eyes; OMG!
virginia10490

Hi just wanted to say thank u for all ur inspiration. I absolutely love ur message that u send out to the world. U are my fitness inspiration, my make up guru and even my skin care recommender. Since I’ve started following u I’m working out, my complexion is clearing up, I’m trying new things with make up and clothes , I even tried one of the hair styles u did a quck tutorial of on YouTube. MY FIANCE LOOOOVED IT. That Made me very happy thank you my dear video friend. U truley are helping women out!!! With love, Virginia
Ashley

Hi Marlena
you are so right! us women get down on ourselves for all our flaws, its time we look at things differently. Im the same as you, i LOVE my eyes, and i get complimentd almost daily on them, they are a beautigul aqua/greyish color, very hypnotizing as people say, i also love my arms (i wrestled and played hockey as a kit) and now i swim 4X a week so thy are very strong and tones as well as my upper back so I wear tops to show them off:) we need to learn to love ourselves everyday and life will look better too.
Ashley

Hi Marlena
you are so right! us women get down on ourselves for all our flaws, its time we look at things differently. Im the same as you, i LOVE my eyes, and i get complimented almost daily on them, they are a beautiful aqua/greyish color, very hypnotizing as people say, i also love my arms (i wrestled and played hockey as a kid) and now i swim 4X a week so they are very strong and toned as well as my upper back so I wear tops to show them off:) we need to learn to love ourselves everyday and life will look better too
jamila

hy mariena. i love ur vidoe and i folow u on youtube but here in african it hard to get makeup and i love them how can u advice me
Laurie S.

Hi Marlena!

I just found you via Pinterest and I’m so glad I did! What an inspiration you are! Thank you for sharing your wisdom, beauty tips, and your journey with us. I recently turned 48 (ouch), I am a wife, and mom of 2. I’ve felt “lost” for the past 13 years having battled depression/anxiety, and idiopathic cardiomyopathy that almost took my life at 42. I need to loose 40 lbs. and have had no desire to do it. Hearing from you about your weight loss journey, and how you’ve been doing it has been so good for me! I used to be a “hottie” and now I’m …. not! Getting older doesn’t help either! I miss being a hottie! You have inspired me today, and given me ideas on how to get started. Thank you for being so open and honest about your life. You cannot imagine the lives you touch! Please keep posting, and I know I will keep watching and reading! God bless you!
Laurie <3
Donna

Hi Marlena, I’m new to youtube beauty channels and am finding more and more channels as I go along. You are one I found and just realized you also have a blog. Love your message here and know you are telling the truth. I’ve realized all the same things and have come to know that at age 56 things are going south regardless. I also realize short of spending thousands and thousands of dollars that I don’t have anyway on surgery, the most I can do is treat what I do have the best I can and be happy with the outcome. But my hubby and I have also realized the quality of our life is more important than the quantity of life. So I just ordered a juicer for us and we are committed to eating healthier and taking better care of the inside and the rest will follow. My role model is my mother in law who will be 91 this July and there’s not a feeble thing about her. She does not look her age at all and is as healthy as a horse. She takes care of her son who is 65 and was born with downs syndrome and will never be older than around 5 mentally. He recently became bedridden and still she does everything for him besides everything else in her home. What a woman. I aspire to be more like her.
Bree

I LOVE this!! I grew up with, and still have a very critical mother. She is always pointing out thing I should change or could make better about myself. She should be the one person that should make me feel beautiful right? Lol. So ever since I could remember, I’ve always picked myself apart and am so self conscious. I’ve been really trying to work on it and have more confidence. It’s so hard. Reading this was awesome and made me laugh and feel happy! I’m going to remember your words and be confident and tell myself I’m good lookin! Lol
Katie

Marlena! You’re so beautiful and I like how you share pictures of yourself when you were little. I use to be very insecure and broke up with my boyfriend of 3 years 10 months ago. I believe I needed to let him go because when I did I started working on myself. I feel better about myself, I like my lips, hair, legs and as for my personality I’m very sweet and funny.I hate my stomach, butt and thighs. They’re my trouble spots that I’m trying to fix. So far I lost 20 lbs and I hope to lose 15-25 more. Thank you for your inspirational words and good luck on your journey:)
Ano Ny Mus

What in this world are tatas??????????????????
Majo

Thank you Marlena i feel very inspire by you
Majo

Hi Marlena, your message is so true i didn’t like my body so i use to hate wearing swiming suit and for that reason i use to avoid going to the beach and so i missed a lot of fun with friends and family but then i realize im not getting any younger and no one is so if dont go to beach now i wont go 10 years later so now im trying to embrace my body as it is and all of your positive messages help me a lot God bless you. (sorry for my english ) xoxo

How to Love Yourself and Feel 100% Beautiful

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