Everyone jokes that every family needs a lawyer and a doctor, but I’d like to add make up artist to that list. My cousin Erica is a fabulous professional makeup artist and the beauty blogger behind Pretty Pleased, her site featuring beauty tips and tricks, her insider advice. I thought she could bring a little of that beauty wisdom over to The Kitchy Kitchen, so she’ll be here blogging once a month. Stay tuned for all things pretty and lovely!

Makeup bags are one of the easiest things to make yourself.  If you ever made a pillow as a kid, think of this as the easier, grown up version.  You can pick your fabric, zipper, and thread color and can be personalized for a super affordable but great gift.  Since you only need about 1/2 yard of fabric, peruse the scrap bin at your local fabric store.  You can get some amazing pieces for a lot cheaper (even real leather!). I scored this pretty beige and gold fabric for $2.00.