Carnival Connections….

Your eyes meet across the crowded bar at a fete, you smile, he smiles backs. She steals a wine, you oblige before she escapes yet again to turn up at another fete, another time. It must be serendipity that you both are playing mas in the same band… same section. Yet somehow you let the person slip away without a name, a phone number or even an email address… blame it on the alcohol!

If any of you have seen my Facebook status the past few days you must be thinking I have gone insane; yes folks I am looking for a man! Not for myself, of course, but for a Carnival lover who happened to run into a guy she met in 2008; he was blessed then by a sweet wine in a fete, and a memory was created. Fast forward to 2009, she again sees him at various fetes and even on the road for 2009 yet though they chat, dance and keep running into each other, they part ways not even establishing a follow up connection. The hunt is on to find this mystery guy, feel free to “macco” my Facebook profile and check out his photo.

While pursuing this matter on behalf of my friend I was encouraged to write today’s post by others who are also seeking out a Carnival sweetie…..much like the “I SEE YOU” segment in some City Newspapers!

If you will like to make a Carnival Connection send in a photo of the person you would like to get in contact with via email : trinidadcarnivaldiary@gmail.com. Please use "Carnival Connection" as the subject of the email.

I will publish the photo in a subsequent post on the blog. Do not worry your identity will be safe with me and will not be revealed on the blog. If there is a connection all correspondence will be done via email.

So if you are seeking THAT special someone who you just cannot get off your mind now that Carnival is over, don’t be shy send in their photo! Hopefully someone somewhere will see the person and send out the S.O.S. that they are being sought!

*please note that photo used is for illustrative purposes only and masqueraders pictured are NOT looking for a Carnival Connection!

Trinidad and Tobago Carnival 2009 Photos - Updated.

Carnivalscene has a Gallery up with TRIBE Monday pics and have started individual section galleries, Brazilian Macaw, Caged Canary,Blue Tanager, Kiskadee, Pheasant, Ruby Topaz and Spangled Cotinga. They also have a Harts gallery as well.

Trinisoca has photos from Carnival Tuesday.

Izatrini has a Flickr Gallery of photos on the road with TRIBE.

Toronto Lime has photos up from Carnival Monday and Tuesday (two sets of galleries) and also a VERY nice video compilation of the bands crossing the Savannah stage in their Carnival 360. The video can be downloaded by clicking HERE.

I think I saw EVERYONE I know in that video!!

I stumbled upon some photographs of Harts on Carnival Power as well as various Carnival photos on Mayaro Beach. Watever.com has lots of photos of Spice. Also someone sent me photos of TRIBE after party in Jenny's Car Park, check it out here.

Several Carnival Bands Facebook groups also have photos up:

Pulse 8

Elements

Mc Farlane

Another Facebook Group dedicated to Carnival Faces has some great shots as well.

Triniscene has photos from TRIBE, Island People and Pulse 8 Monday and also Tuesday photos of Spice, TRIBE, Pulse 8, Elements and Island People.

NY Caribbean Vibes has photos of TRIBE Monday and Tuesday.

Zorce has Carnival Monday and Tuesday photos of TRIBE.

Wee Ting has galleries of TRIBE, Evolution and Legacy.

Island Box has photos of Carnival Monday and Tuesday.

Trinicrew has Monday and Tuesday photos of Island People.

Mr Grind has Monday and Tuesday photos.

Lizzard Blizzard has TRIBE Monday and Island People Tuesday photos.

Trini Stars features galleries of several bands.

Soca News also has Carnival Photos.

Trinipulse has loaded their Carnival Monday and Tuesday Photos.

Digital Photo Center has Carnival Monday and Tuesday Photos.

TRIBE "Individual Masquerader" Feedback

The following is feedback sent to TRIBE by the masquerader who played the Snowy Owl Individual:

Dear Tribe,
Let me firstly say thank you for the experience, considering it was my second time around playing mass and first time stunting as an Individual.

Feb 16: Pick up Day
As I drove up to the destination to pay off my balance, have my fitting done and to finally meet the people I’ve been having countless conversations with via phone and email. I was excited; I got to the hotel a bit early and had to wait outside with my Dad and his friend who was also visiting for carnival. At around 5pm I was invited in by the designer of my costume to talk about the costume and do my fitting this took about 20 minutes and then I was asked to sit and wait for someone to take me down to walk me through the process of paying and getting my ID bands etc. That wait was for about an hour and a half then I was taken to the area where I had to make my final payment which I calculated to be let say $630.00US. with money in hand I handed over my id to the rep when then informed me that I was not on their system it took about five minutes and a few call checks to figure out my name was not spelled correctly.

I was told then after my “info” was up then my balance was now $730.00 it was at that point I lost it, I was pissed I informed the rep that the payment of $130.00US was made on the 16th of Jan etc. I was sent back upstairs to wait until things were figured out. I waited for an hour and some and then I decided to use my dads phone to go on-line to show my payment receipt that confirms my claim of payment. Long story short I was not able to log into Sendvia I then asked if I could use one of their computers to access my account to which I was granted permission to. As I looked at the time on the laptop it said 7:45pm my dad was pissed he had to go get his sleep so he could go feet later, I was pissed and tiered and wanted to cry. After I got the information I it was taken to someone I was again sent to wait for another thirty minutes, during this time I met with the individual doing my makeup and also talked more with the designer of the costume, we went over a few details of what I should expect on the road etc.

I asked about a handler and I was then informed that there would not be one and I would just have to ask someone to put the backpack on a truck. I was assured that the staff provided would help me with this. At around 8pm I was taken back to the room to make my payment of 630.00 I received my receipt that said paid in full and I was told that an investigation into my payment would be made with sendvia and when I return on the 18th, everything would be set. My dad expressed how pissed he was when I got to the car he said cockroach going to a cock party I did not know what he meant by that but I was like whatever I just want to go home.

Feb 18th Drama Day:
I got to the spot at 5:30 I was instructed by the designer to give him a call when I get there to which I did he came down and took me up to the room where my costume was and I was so happy that everything turned out so beautiful my boots was banging, I forgave Tribe for the bull shit they put me through on Monday. I was taken to Danielle who informed me that sendvia returned my payment for whatever reason and hence I had to pay the balance off $130.00 I did I was then taken through the process of receiving my ID bands and bag and my beautiful costume and I left and hour and forty-five minutes later.

Carnival Monday:
I got to the band late but it was cool I went against wearing my costume even though I was told I could wear it if I wanted but I had to be careful not to get it dirty. I left the band right after lunch because the beach was a better spot for me to hit on Monday.

Carnival Tuesday:
I got to the camp at 6am to get my makeup done, by the time the artist got there not only did he have to do the makeup but the designer had to do some fixing of my boots the glue cam off, small thing. I got to the band late so I ended up to the back of the band, my backpack was so bulky that I found it a task to try to go up-front so I stayed to the back until I had enough of DJ Dane and his crap called music. I made it up to the first stage everything cool up until it was time for me to cross the stage security wanted to put me out the band because I was not in my section I told them some things I would not repeat but long story short I crossed the stage and it was fab. It was about then I had enough of the backpack and wanted it off.

Need I say NO ONE WANTED TO HELP ME. Finally I met my husband who helped me take the backpack off and I placed it on a truck with the help of some dude that took the time out of jumping to HEAVY T. At lunch time I was spent and I was having a good time thanks to the H and redbull. I met a few people from the blog who expressed how nice I looked and one in particular express how pissed she was that the service I received was not what was paid for. But regardless I was happy with my costume and I had a good time. I did take lots of pictures with lots of people I don’t even know and I was even asked for my headpiece by a kid to which I replied sorry I am taking it home with me, lol. I was pleased with the security, the food was ok. In the end I really did enjoy myself and I did learn a lot form the experience and in 2010 I will have a handler and I am not going to use sendvia I will use western union. Lol

Boots By Afro Chic Has a New Look!

Boots By Afro Chic has a new layout with photographs of all the boots she worked on for Carnival 2009, a sample of which are featured below:

Word is that for 2010 Afro Chic is scaling back on the number of boots that she will be doing so best to get your orders in early!

International Carnival Calender 2009

Though nothing can come close to the experience of Trinidad Carnival, one way to ease the "tabanca" of having to wait another 11 months for Trinidad Carnival 2010 might be planning for another Carnival which takes place sooner.

I know several people have already booked airfare for Jamaica Carnival, Cropover and Miami so take a look at the listing and see if there is a Carnival happening close to you....

April 18-20, 2009
Jamaica

April 5-25, 2009
St. Thomas (V.I)

April 26, 2009
Tampa, FL

April 16 - May 2, 2009
St. Maarten

April 26-May 2, 2009
Cayman Islands

May 2, 2009
Pt. Fortin Borough Day

May 16 - 23, 2009
Georgia Carnival (Dekalb)

May 16, 2009
Honduras

May 17-19, 2009
Oakland, CA

May 22-24, 2009
Atlanta, GA

May 22-24, 2009
Orlando, FL

May 22-24, 2009
San Francisco, CA

June 1-July 21, 2009
St. Lucia

June 7, 2009
Hartford, CT

June 13, 2009
West Palm Beach, FL

June 13, 2009
Philadelphia, PA

June 13-14, 2009
Tampa Bay, FL

June 27-28, 2009
Washington DC

Jun 27-Jul 7, 2009
St. Vincent & The Grenadines

July, 2009
St. John (V.I)

July 3-5, 2009
Houston, TX (Caribfest)

July 4, 2009
Montreal, Canada (Carifest)

July 19, 2009
Jersey City, NJ

July 25, 2009
Rotterdam (Zomer Carnival)

August , 2009
Nevis (Culturama)

August 1, 2009
Toronto (Caribana)

August 3, 2009
Barbados (Crop Over)

August 3-4, 2009
Antigua

August 7-9, 2009
Hamilton, Canada

August 7-9, 2009
Edmonton (Cariwest)

August 7-9, 2009
Detroit, MI

August 10-11, 2009
Grenada (Spice Mas)

August 14-15, 2009
Norfolk, Virginia

August 14-16, 2009
Chicago, IL (Carifete)

August 9-16, 2009
Ottawa (Caribe-Expo)

August 16-23, 2009
Boston, MA

August 30th -31st, 2009
Notting Hill (London, UK)

September 7, 2009
New York (Labor Day)

October 7-11, 2009
Miami Carnival, FL

October 7-11, 2009
Broward Carnival, FL

October 24-26, 2009
Jacksonville, FL

November 12-22, 2009
Cayman Pirates Week

Refund for Missing Island People Headpieces

This appeared in the Trinidad Express Action Line today:

click to enlarge

While I commend the refund and 15% future discount given to the two masqueraders by Penny Gomez (Island People Mas PRO) why wasn't the refund automatic if the headpieces were never delivered?

Especially since the same Ms Gomez said this in an article from the Trinidad Guardian's preview of Heaven on Earth:

Quality matters

Gomez said assuring all masqueraders get quality for money is always high on the band’s agenda. “When you think of IPM mas, you don’t only think of jumping up. We offer a quality mas experience.

Lewis asserted: “The masquerader playing with us can expect an all inclusive band, exceptionally good catering services, high security, among other amenities. We want our masqueraders to have a true heavenly experience.

You can read the full article below:

Kudos to Action Line for following through on the story and publishing it as well. I suggest that all of you Island People masqueraders who did not receive you headpieces and did not get a refund for the item to write to Action Line as well or to Ms Penny Gomez of Island People mas.

It is a shame that a reputable organization would cheat customers for what they already PAID for and should have been given with no recourse or accountability until the media gets on their case!

Post Carnival DJ Private Ryan Mix

This is for all of you guys still suffering Carnival Tabanca and withdrawal! A new mix from DJ Private Ryan:

Hey Saucy the Post carnival 2009 Megamix is now available. Only includes the biggest songs and riddims from Carnival 2009 with all the road mixes and remixes. Hope you all had a lot of fun if you came to Carnival. Thanks to all who rolled with Tribe and supported the Red 96.7 truck on the road.

Remember you can join the facebook group at:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=8386917788 to get any other mixes.

Instructions

Go to http://djprivateryan.libsyn.com/

Then left click to stream the mix

For Safari Users Right click the link and selct download linked file

For Internet Explorer users Right Click and select save target/ link as

There are also other mixes available on the site. More will be uploaded soon.

Enjoy and leave feedback

This is the last soca mix for a while as i will now be featuring other genres of music so feel free to leave suggestions on what you want to hear next!!!!!

1. Wont Stop – Machel Montano
2. Floor on Fire – Machel Montano
3. Floor on Fire Precision Rd mix – Machel Montano
4. Ole – Ricky T
5. Get on Bad - Skinny Fabulous
6. Head Bad – Skinny Fabulous
7. Haed Bad Scratch Master Rd Mix – Skinny Fabulous
8. Ready SMJ Rd Mix – Iwer George
9. Living Water – KMC
10. Clear the Road – Bunji Garlin
11. Traffic – Berbice
12. Stabby Guard – Stabby
13. Ravin – Machel Montano
14. Sway in the Mas – Patrice Roberts
15. Meet Super Scratch Master – Rd Mix – Fay Ann Lyons
16. Meet Super – Fay Ann lyons
17. Bacchanal – Destra
18. Bacchanal Razorsharp Rd Mix – Destra
19. Wild Antz – Machel Monano
20. Wild Antz Precision Rd Mix – Machel Montano
21. Tusty – Blaxx
22. Tusty Hit Lab Rd Mix – Blaxx
23. Radica - Kenneth Salick
24. Break up to make up – Ziggy Ranks
25. Fly Away – Machel & Collie Budz
26. Make it yours – Shurwayne Wincehester
27. Slip Away – Zan
28. Hold you Down – Zan
29. Rum and Roti Rd Mix – Patch & Mastamind
30. Tight – Peter Ram
31. Head Bad Remix – Skinny Fabulous
32. Bashment Winers – Lil Rick
33. Drop It – Alison Hinds
34. We Like It -Iwer George & Ziggy Ranks
35. Jep Sting Rd Mix – Hunter & Kes
36. 2 Days Remix – Kerwin Dubois & Baba Shanta
37. Bumpers – Devon & Ziggy Ranks
38. Bumpers Rd Mix – Devon & Ziggy
39. Push Bumper Remix– Machel Montano & Busy Signal
40. Look Hot – Patrice Roberts
41. Bum Bum Ville Rd mix – Shal marshall
42. Wuk Me Rd Mix – Tizzy feat Richard Trumpet
43. Block to Block – Umi Marcano feat Machel Montano
44. Sweetness – Shayne Bailey
45. This Sweetness – Kes the Band
46. Thunder Illusion Mix – Kes the Band
47. Drunk Again – Benjai
48. Tante Say – Benjai
49. We Done Dey – Bunji Garlin
50. Give it up – 3 Suns
51. Bum Bum – JW & Blaze
52. Wine Faster – Fay Ann & Bunji Garlin
53. Heavy T – Fay Ann Lyons
54. Banana – Buni Garlin
55. Yeast Refix – KMC
56. Bumpers Rule Refix – Nadia Batson
57. Plenty Gal Refix – Bunji & Beenie Man
58. Obsessive Winers – Destra feat. Alison Hinds & Denise Belfon
59. Minis Pumps – Kerwin Dubois

Harts Behind the Scenes

Shots of costumes in production at Harts Mas Camp; taken by blogger Squeezle:

Band, Makeup and Boots Review

The reviews keep coming in! This one for TRIBE, Makeup by Natasha and boots by Daryl:

Hi Saucy

Thought I'd leave you with some of my feedback/experience.


FEED BACK FROM A FIRST TIMER WITH TRIBE
Last year I played with Island People and I must say of the 2 bands Tribe were better organised on the road.


Positives:
1. Food and drink. Good variety. Great lunch. . The lunch time stop (although a bit too long) provided everyone with a chance to meet fellow friends, freshen up (I was impressed with the mirrors and hygiene, body products provided)

2. Security. Excellent

3. Cool down zone. Loved it

4. Las lap in Jenny’s. Great!


Negatives:
1. 6 hours to collect a costume. It took a friend 6 long, ridiculous hours to pay the remaining balance and collect his costume. By the time he collected the costume, he couldn’t get any amendments done, because that section had closed! Imagine close to 11 pm people who had arrived during the day were still trying to collect costumes and were then told to come back tomorrow.

2. Super glue. I was happy with the end result of my costume (pheasant) as it did not stray too far from the prototype (although I agree with a previous blogger that natural light is needed when taking photographs) HOWEVER, Tribe need to invest in super glue, as the beading and embellishments were falling off my costume within hours of collection. By the end of day 2 my bra was just plain gold!

3. Velcro. Tribe need to be alerted to the fact that Velcro on arm bands is not practical. They do not securely fasten and do not accommodate different arm sizes. Ribbon would be a better option.

4. Accessories are needed. No earrings, not even a bangle! Island people do well for their masqueraders on this front. Tribe need to catch up. I don’t think a TT$30 bangle would break the budget (given the amount spent on the costume)

5. Social. I observed (& I am very much generalising) that some Tribers seemed way to social. Too many small wines not enough bacchanal on d road! That said I enjoyed my time

6. Wee Trucks. Why at the back? Why only one? The band is so BIG. Have one in the middle & one at the back.


FEEDBACK ON MAKEUP BY NATASHA ERDOS
No offense, personally, I was not impressed with the service and makeup.

Although I wasn’t expecting it, snacks/refreshments were not provided nor available.

The makeup artist was not vocal with regards to what they were doing, the options available or what they thought would look great.

I felt as though I had asked a friend to take time out of their busy schedule to do my makeup.

I did not find the application of makeup precise nor flawless. In short, not enough attention to detail.

I was however happy with the jewels.

From my experience, I will not be using this makeup artist again.


FEEDBACK ON BOOT BY DARYL (FROM ISLANDPRIDE FAMILY)
Excellent. Daryl worked his magic on my old, broken into boots.

He was reliable, friendly and done a very good job.

As I was arriving in Trinidad quite late, I was apprehensive as to whether he would (a) find time to do my boots (b) actually do them. BUT Daryl was EXCELLENT in fitting me around his holiday (which I was and I am appreciative for). I dropped my boots off and within a day they were complete – No messing around. That’s what I call a good service.

I’d definitely recommend him. (oh gosh please don’t all rush him…there goes my space for next year..!)

Attached are pics of

(a) My boots in their sorry state (I had tried spraying them gold).

(b) The finished product (please bear in mind the gold ribbon was something I had to use as my boots only secure with Velcro and it only dawned on me the day before carnival that velcro would not be secure enough for 2 days on the road. So I purchased ribbon to secure the boot (spoiling the design somewhat)

Island People Feedback

Dear Island People Mas

I am a three time masquerader with your mas band and therefore was triply disappointed at the service that was meted to me by your organization. There is a need to personalize this because it was I who made the conscious decision to fork out a mammoth $2,695.00 in the hope of having IP mas deliver to me nothing but a surreal experience on the road. Many things contributed to this and I believe it is incumbent on the management of IP mas to unequivocally apologize to all its loyal masqueraders for the multiplicity of issues faced on the road.

SECURITY
It is my honest opinion that a CEPEP gang could have done a much better job than the Security Sweep team IP boasted of having. Stormers infiltrated the band on both days and will even go on to say that it was evident that some of these illegal masqueraders were associated with some of our “illustrious” security detail. Additionally, even some of our masqueraders took the liberty to bring their sisters, brothers, man, woman and cousins six times removed illegally into the band. Personally, I do not care who you love or don’t…once you do not have a legal band on your hand you should be ejected forthwith from the band.

I had first hand experience being harassed by these “wining space bandits” as I was chipping to the Victoria Square stands on Monday.

Two stormers were permitted to be within the confines of the useless ropes. One later on proceeded to attempt to befriend me by taking my waving bandana out of my hand and wiping his dirty sweaty face with it; and with a smile returned it to me. I would not go into the details of what transpired in between but only because one of my crew alerted security were these miscreants removed. I am sure many other masqueraders can relate to you’re their litany of security woes.

It makes absolute no sense having a robust looking team of security officials who are more concerned about wining and getting drinks, and not concerned about the safety and security of the masqueraders who make IP management millionaires.

LUNCH
As far as I am aware, the name of our 2009 Presentation was “Heaven on Earth” and not “Dogs in Pound”. I would like to know if the food you presented to us on Monday and Tuesday is the quality of food you eat within the confines of your homes. I even saw with my own two eyes a senior member of IP management discard his box of food after a few bites. If that is your idea of “lean, healthy meals”, please in the future provide us with fattening tasty food. I did go to the gym prior to Carnival and will burn off the fat and calories in wining. Additionally, I do not like to feel like I am waiting for food in a Somali refugee camp. The lines and hassle for food were beyond ridiculous.

MUSIC
I was particularly disturbed this year at the fact that the soca Mafia obviously became a major shareholder within IP mas this year. Why it is Island people had to be the ONLY band in which ALL its trucks played that Wild Ants song when crossing the judging points? Obviously, you were not privy to the plethora of Road March contenders who had songs which were better loved than the one your Deejays FORCED us to jump to. We all love Machel’s music- don’t get me wrong. But this year, that song was not road march- you knew it and he knew it- and it was unfair that you subjected us to multiple repeats of that soca infestation.

Additionally, can you please tell your road management and your truck drivers that every section needs music? The trucks were labeled with where they should be positioned but obviously some level of illiteracy and/or ignorance pervaded the band, and deprived some masqueraders of their just share of sweet soca.

Every masquerader had a different experience but I believe these were the three main problems I had, and masqueraders in general. I will not go on to mention the empty goodie BMOBILE SPONSORED bag, the water and other drinks running out on Monday, and the food truck way in the back of the band; I am sure someone else will.

POSITIVES
1. Costumes – I had no problems at all with costume collection or the costume itself. The costume was exactly like the replica in the mas camp and was a bit overwhelmed at this fact. Pleased was an understatement to describe how I felt when I collected my costume.
2. Masqueraders- ISLAND PEOPLE MASQUERADERS ARE THE BEST MASQUERADERS EVER!!! The camaraderie and spirit and vibes in this band are really out of this world. Despite the mess IP management did, the masqueraders all came out to have a great time. Once you had a hand band you had license to dance with any masquerader. THIS IS THE ONLY REASON I WOULD CONSIDER PLAYING MAS WITH IP again.

So my dear sirs- it is incumbent of you to do a serious post mortem on your presentation. I am sure your must have heard the wide ranging complaints posted on many a website by both locals and foreigners. The negative PR is not doing your band any good. Once my crew agrees, and finances are there, and because of the quality of masquerader IP attracts, I am willing to give you just one more chance. There are many other options that treat their masqueraders like customers and not dirt.

Just remember, mighty conglomerates have fallen and therefore IP is not immune to collapse. Shape up or ship out!!!


Sincerely Yours

Jason Wickham
Slightly….just slightly disgruntled masquerader

Pulse 8 Review - 3

Hi Saucy,

Here's my review on Pulse8 2k9.



COSTUME COLLECTION:

I collected my costume on Carnival Wednesday, since I paid for my costume in the allotted due date, which was no problem. The lady at the front desk informed to go around at the back which I gladly did. Another lady handed me my costume, informing me of the pieces and the good bag. Thanked her and went on my merry way. When I got home I tried on my bra, low and behold the bag is too big, which is a first for me, since I am a 42D. This bra had to be a 42DDD or 44DD. I immediately called Pulse8, informing them on my problem, the lady said just come and they will make the necessary adjustment. Return to the Mas camp met with the section leader of my section, and she informed me that she will make the necessary adjustment.

The only thing I didn't like about my costume is that only half of bra was only decorated. I raised this problem to the attention of the section leader, and she informed me that due to the size of the bra only half is decorated, I find that odd since I paid extra for a tankini, and if I wanted whole bra to be decorated I would have to pay extra. I continue to asked the section leader, why didn't Pulse8 email me on this problem. "No reply from the section leader".

I receive my bra and it fit somewhat OK, I was not going to let this get into my way. My only problem is that the way the bra is decorated anytime my arm rub again the bra, it irritated my skin alot, which I hated.


CARNIVAL MONDAY.

Met with the band around 12:10pm. The music was nice, met up with Saneman, VM, and Island Soul. Everyone was enjoyed themselves. I made my way to the bar. The bartenders were very nice and friendly. I always said my "please and thank you". We stop at Woodford Square for lunch. Lunch consists of; Vegetable Rice, Lentils, Green salad and three (3) pieces of chicken. The meal was very tasty, Alt of food I must say I couldn't eat all of it.

Later on during the day we stop for snack which consists of: Accra and Potato pie, quite tasty. The drinks were flowing the music was good, everyone was friendly and nice. Even if you came alone Pulse8 will welcome you with open arms they will take care of you. Security was very good.I had a wonderful Carnival Monday.


CARNIVAL TUESDAY.

Played in the Hot Ice section.

Got up early since I had a makeup appointment at 5:30am, got there late lucky for me no one was there as yet. Makeup done by Natasha Erdos, I did airbrush makeup, Natasha was very good, my makeup look fabulous even got compliments. the the costume look real nice. it rain quite a bit, I've notice my costume was unsticking, the braids and beads were falling out. Not a good sign. I'm beginning to wonder what kind of glue they were using. My friend who was playing mas with me sated that maybe its the rain that cause it to unstuck hm mm. I wonder. Please not that using 1'4" ribbon to tie and hold up a heavily decorated belt would not work. Maybe they should use: Velcro, ring or a heavier sequin corded would of work better.I have notice alot of masqueraders were trying to tie their belts, some were even asking for pins.

Even my armband just unstuck with the touch. I was not to please. The Wee-wee truck was clean, amply supply of feminine supply. There were ladies there to make sure the portables were clean at all time. Ample supply or running water to wash our hands.Good choice of breakfast consists of: sandwiches: ham, saltfish, tuna, cheese, doubles, fruits etc.

There were ladies going around the band offering shots of different drinks, fruits, even salt prunes soaked in tequila, had a couple of those taste real good.We crossed the Savannah late, stopped at a park in Woodbrook for lunch.Lunch consists of: Soul Food, BBQ, and Vegetarian. I had the BBQ consists of: Macaroni pie, lentils, BBQ, salad. Again another good lunch every tasty, alot of food. Even got a package of tamarind and paw-paw balls as a snack was a nice touch. Later on in the evening we stopped for a break. Snack consist of: Boneless geera chicken tasted delicious. A nice gesture of Pulse8 was that of a touch-up tents, for us to reapply our makeup, glitter, a variety of hair supplies for us to beautify ourselves.My hats off to the Security Team for a job well done.The band made it way through St.Clair then back to the Oval between 7:00-7:30pm. The band disburse around that time.I must say it was quite an enjoyable day. Had lots of fun. Even made a stop at the week knees bus,


ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENTS:

The rest stop, please provide blankets for us to sit on.
More table and chairs.

Please provide garbage bags for us to put the empty containers, cutlery, bottles etc were left all over the place.

Have a shuttle bus for the latecomers, some of us had to walk all over town looking for the band.
A working phone number with a person informing us the location of the band .

The costume belt keep falling apart, the belt was not holding up, using 1/4" ribbon to tie and hold up a belt will not work. I've notice alot of masqueraders tying their belts, using pins to hold it in place.

Overall had a good time playing mas with Pulse8.
Next time I would choose my costume more carefully.
Thank you.
Elsa.

Spice Review - 3

Hi Saucy as Rene already done a review I have not done mine in so much detail

My costume collection for Paprika was relatively smooth. I went to collect my costume on Saturday afternoon, now the only beef I have is if you say camp opens at 2pm then let it start at 2pm not before for "friends/family" only. I understand they may have preferential treatment, but lord don't make it so obviously and when asked why there are ppl already and paying point, you avoiding de question and telling me to sit down and wait.

Anyway 2pm come, the "queue" for payment wasn't very orderly in the sense that it had chairs line up against the wall, and if yuh wasn't careful to watch where u were in the queue people would end up being served before you get to the desk (maybe 20 mins wait) the lady could not serve me because I was an overseas masqueraders and I had no receipt, so she handed me over to another person, who was very helpful, she got my details up on the computer, and paid my balance and went to the collection point.

I was met by a very nice gentleman, who took my receipt got my costumes went thru the contents of my costume. He advised me to try on the bra, now i have been overly blessed in that department so I was worried that the bra would not fit.......... no complaints the cup was a perfect fit, the back was a lil big, but that's small ting. Collected headpiece, collected goodie bag, and I was out of the building, maybe an hour no more than an hour and a half, my friends who went much later on were in there for 3 hours!!!!! so I'm glad I went early.I didn't go on the road on Monday was limin with my god daughter, looked for Spice but couldn't find them.

Tuesday as Rene said meeting point was 6.30AM, well i was still getting my make up done and i reach about 7.30 only to find that the band didn't leave til around 9am. I know they were havin issues with "where" they could serve breakfast. they tried on 2 occasions, each time getting moved on... eventually for those who didn't get, they had to wait til the truck joined us on the road. The drinks truck was a lil high ... no sorry very high, even me at 5ft 11 had problems to reach comfortably.Wee wee truck was on point until it decided to leave de band (around Fredrick street) without a word of warning!!!

Shuttle bus was good, but only held about 25 ppl so a good few ppl were told no they cant get on. Stopping for lunch was ok..... needed a lot more tables and chairs, food was ok could have been a lot warmer.I don't recall lollies and aloo pie on de road, but that could be because I was slightly intoxicated!!!!!As it got darker security became more lax (as seems to be the norm with any band I play with), I left the band before it got back to camp, as I saw my ride home!!!!

Overall Spice performed well for their first attempt, just a few lil snags that they need to fix up for next year, my friends have already said that they are playing with them next year, which is a good sign from them because before hand IP could do no wrong.

I think for Spice, it was a year for them to be so fussy as to who tot tots too big for a section and how you not taking extra money for a more decorated bra because in the end they done it....... I am a 38F so yuh know big cups, I sent down a bra to a friend to pass on so that they knew the actual sizing and I paid an extra 200 dollars for it to be decorated.

Overall marks out of 10 hmmmmm 6.5 I think is good!

Harts Review - 2

This year I decided to "jump ship" and play an individual in Harts' presentation "Persian Empire".

Most of my friends playing this year were going to be in the band, therefore I will follow.
Now I was told beforehand that Harts takes care of the regular masqueraders before even thinking of the individuals/section leaders. I have to honestly say that the experience with Harts was far and beyond what I expected.

I arrived in Trinidad the Wednesday before and drove by the mas camp. There were so many people out there waiting to pick up costumes as well as asking if anything was still available. Upon entering the gates to the mas camp, a guy told me right away "no female costumes available, sold out", I was like "damn" and he doh even know what I come there for. The place was so crowded that I decided that I did not want to even entertain the thought of entering this super busy hub.
I stayed in contact with a representative of the band for a couple of days thereafter and soon was asked to come in for a fitting the Friday before.

I entered what seemed to be a converted garage alive with excitement and workers on various tables, as well as section leaders toiling away on their own costumes, males and females alike.
ALL OF THE COSTUMES BEING WORKED ON WERE FANTASTIC!!! IT WAS AN OVERDOSE OF VARIOUS TYPES OF FEATHERS, BEADS, WINGS, SEQUINS ETC. I did not know where to look first.

I met a group of 3-4 employees that were working on various parts of my costume. One was working on the headpiece, another the beading of the swimsuit, another one on the boots. As i arrived I was shown all of the various parts of the costume which seemed to be endless. I was also given a Monday costumes also fitted with arm pieces, leg pieces, a small headpiece as well as earrings and necklace to match. I FELL IN LOVE, THIS WAS THE BEST COSTUME THAT I HAVE EVER WORE!!

I was taken into a room to try on the swimsuits and anything that needed to be fixed was adjusted right there and then. I had lost weight, however they made the adjustments without batting an eye.

I was asked to leave my boots and they told me what they had planned to do with them. My headpiece was on a table with a million feathers still to be added and I swear the girl that was working on it looked like she needed a drink! Lol!!

Carnival Tuesday all the section leaders met at the mas camp for between 4:30am-5:30am. I thought that they were joking but everyone was very serious. Being the "new member" of the Harts crew I was welcomed with open arms and on the road if so much as a bead got hooked into my boots, Gerard Hart came out of no where to set it right.
This band gets 4 stars from me and most of all it was $$$$ well spent, they will definitely get my dinero again.

MOST OF ALL THIS BAND RESPECTS THE INDIVIDUAL AND GIVES THEM SPACE TO SHOW THE COSTUME. ALSO BEFORE THE BAND PARADES, ALL OF THE INDIVIDUALS GET TO GO A LITTLE "JUST UP" BEFORE THE REST OF THE BAND FOLLOWS. YOU ARE ALSO GIVEN TIME TO GO JOIN YOUR SECTION TO "JUMP UP" ONCE AGAIN. IT WAS A JOY

Kaotic Review - 2

Sent in by a reader:

This year was Kaotic's first ever presentation in carnival and the theme was 'Life Unleashed'. I have attended Trinidad carnival on several occasions but never played mas, so naturally I was very intrigued to see how it all goes down. My section was called 'Aqua Abyss' and the colours used were blue and green. I totally loved my costume as it was very bling and had so many jewels on it. As soon as I saw the costume on the website I knew that was the one for me and I had no complaints about the way my costume looked or fitted. It was very comforting to know that Kaotic were willing to give you a bigger or smaller bra, belt, bikini bottoms if you required it.

I thought that the band had really good vibes, everyone socializing well with each other. The music was really good and everyone was well entertained. Kaotic staff seemed very friendly and helpful, particularly for someone like me who came from England and had no mas experience in Trinidad. Whoever organized the band's schedule for the carnival Tuesday did a good job and I think they selected a good location for us to rest and have lunch. During lunchtime I had an opportunity to speak with other masqueraders and they all had positive things to say. For instance, they liked the fact that the prices of the costumes were reasonable considering the current economic difficulties. I people I spoke to said that they definitely got value for their money and would look to join the band again next year.

My criticisms:-

One: The lack of experienced security. Please provide more security in the band next year as they seemed a bit sparse.

Two:Tell the djs to be clearer when they are giving instructions to masqueraders about keeping away from the trucks when they turn corners. People were a bit confused prior to facing the judging point at the Savannah.

Finally I wish to state that Kaotic have made an encouraging start this year and that I believe that they will achieve great things in the future.

Island People Reviews - 2

Dear Saucy

I know that already there exist a review of IP Mas but I want to share my experience with you.

COLLECTION
The collection was the worst that I have seen. Imagine IP put an Ad in the newspapers for collection of costume- My collection date was for Natural Mystic this was from Friday to Saturday.

I arrived at the stadium on Saturday at about 11.00 am only to witness a line snaking around the stadium (I was warned early by my sister who was trying to hold a space for me). I spent 45 minutes waiting to proceed to the cashier to complete transaction! I had to make noise and complain about the wait. One of the Lewis brothers approached me and I told him about my grievances. I told him that they should hand out water and make the wait a bit more comfortable.

The transaction to pay and to proceed to the collection area took another 20-30 mins. It was totally disgusting. I had another friend stand in line for me and I then proceeded to the front of the line to collect three costumes only to be told, that a bra was missing and that there were no head pieces and the attitude from the CSR was " WE DON'T KNOW WHEN WE GETTING THE MISSING PIECES".

By that time sauce I felt the hair on my head grow back because a rage took me! I got annoyed and started to make real noise! Picture this I on one end acting like real GHETTO and another masquerader making noise about her frontline costumes! ALL STOOD STILL! I was so angry that I started to pound on the counter demanding that I get all parts of my costume.

The security came to me and told me that I should stop pounding the counter! We got into a heated argument where I told her, "that if it was she, she would have behaved worst than I". My girls had to hold me back because we would have gotten into a real bad fight.

My friend was very upset because they were missing her bra and she had tears in her eyes! She demanded a refund and got it! On the other hand the refund was not an option because "I WANT TO PLAY AH MAS"! I was taken aside and told that they would deliver my costume!

I told the CSR that I aint sitting at home like no "A*S. Mine u! It had a whole set of people who were waiting around for pieces for that section and was just plain hoping! I was not settling for that! They took my number and by the time we had driven out of the stadium, I got two calls one to tell me that I was missing a security band and another to say to come quickly because they got a few headpieces and had kept two specially for me!. That was around 4.00 pm

The costume looked like the prototype Sauce! It was gorgeous! I ended up with two bands though and gave it to someone who was deserving!

I ended up there Sunday in the chaos again because my sister hated her Ray of Light costume. We got it exchanged after waiting for another three (3) hours.

It seems that u have to misbehave to get service.

CARNIVAL MONDAY
The food was nasty! The fish was cold and tasteless and the peas in the pelau tasted as though they did not cook it properly! I ended up with a mighty headache and bad sunburn. My girl friend had to climb to the top of the truck to get us food! (See attached pic). Imagine shelling out that type of money and having to run behind a truck for food.


CARNIVAL TUESDAY
The band left on time and we got wet by the time we reached Green Corner. The vibes was great though! I could not understand that for a band with 13 sections why the food truck was almost last! That ain't make no sense.

The vibes was good up until we reached by the Twin Towers and the heavens opened! I got shelter from a cute guy running a stall so that saved the headpiece. I ended up using my foot band as a headpiece! (see pic)

We ended up chipping across the downtown stage with no music because the trucks had driven off. WTF! It was utter madness and the nerve of the IP Manager trying to get people into sections! "You all did no have any order in the first place, so how all yuh expect to get order after the rain fall and it ain have no music"

FOOD
The food was worst on Tuesday! I had to stop the police and show him the rubbish that they gave me! I told the police "If I was to get on real bad, all yuh see why"! The food was cold, the fish looked rotten and unappetizing.


MUSIC
The DJ kept playing Island People like Antz and I am sure the other masqueraders wanted to hear other sounds!.

By the time the band reached the Savannah it was chaos! Utter Chaos!. People were storming left right and center! By that time I just wanted to use the bathroom and rest.

The rest of the afternoon the band ended up splitting and stormers galore was flocking left, right and center! I saw one girl in a thong costume being harassed and pulled at by a stormer! Lord have mercy IP you really disappoint.

POINTERS
I think that IP should introduce a system like Tribe to keep the numbers in check.

They need to readdress the catering and security features of the band

Get a proper rest area for lunch and relaxation on both days LIKE THE OTHER BANDS.

Play the Road March contenders and not one song over and over!

Get a bigger area and a more efficient system for payments and collection of costumes.

Start the collection process two weeks before Carnival so that what happened this year would never happen again.

Fire and Hire new production companies that did not produce costumes on time.

I am seriously thinking about switching to another band! They failed big time! The service was the best when they were Galvanize Entertainment in the band Poison.

Regards

trina

Hi Saucy,

I know you had a lot of reviews about IP for 2009, I just wanted to give
my 2 cents as well as offer some recommendations.

Dear Island People Mas,

After reading Saucy's review and others on Trinidad Carnival Diary I feel inclined to give you feedback on my 2009 Carnival experience with you. This was my first year playing with Island People and I was a bit apprehensive after reading all the negative comments and reviews that people made about your customer service of years gone by. I must say that they were correct. Being an overseas masquerader we don't have the luxury of walking into the mas camp and speaking to someone face to face or even viewing the costumes up close and personal. I purchased my costume from another masquerader.

I called IP to make the final payment on the costume and at the same time provided them with my email address so that they can email my receipt to me. It took about 5days before I got the confirmation email and that was only after calling IP numerous
times and explaining to them that my credit card info jumping up all over the place. However, I did encounter a pleasant lady who was kind enough to apologize and who sent me my confirmation email. IP needs to send their employees to some customer service school or they need to reinforce that the workers are dealing with customers, people who paying their salary. As much as I am living overseas and try to be diplomatic I would not hesitate to throw some expletives in the mix.

Collection and Costume
IP also needs to have designated days for overseas masqueraders. I decided to pick up my costume, Caramel, Carnival Friday as I only got into the country late Carnival Thursday. Jean Pierre Complex was a mad house. I couldn't understand if I paid for my costume before the fast track date why I had to stand in a line for over 2 hrs to collect my costume. I must say thank you for the water and the bmobile lollies which you passed out when we were waiting. It was a nice atmosphere as masqueraders decided to make a lime out of it and make new friends but it was still unacceptable.

The Chocolate costume was much closer to the prototype but that really didn't bother me. I loved my costume nonetheless. One thing though, I don't know how you people decide on how to measure the belt but my belt was way too big for me. Check yuh size chart again. Kudos to the accessories that you provided with the costumes, they were really nice and a nice touch at uniformity.

On the road
The band was big. A nice manageable big. Loved that. Security worked from the Stadium until we crossed the Savannah. After that was every man for themselves. I wasn't feeling this too much. Didn't have any guntas but anything could have happened. Although I did feel safe when they broke up a fight at Green Corner I didn't like the idea that they gave us the ghost after we crossed the stage. I paid my money for this service and I expect to get it for the whole day. The drinks flowed like water but the water didn't flow like water. Many times I went to the bar for water and had to come back 30 mins later because they didn't have any water. Fix that!!! Now onto the wee wee trucks.

Firstly, I cannot understand why that truck was so far in the back, truck number 17. If I wanted to use that truck I had to start walking to the back before I even felt to wee wee. IP yuh need to find some other place to put that truck or get two trucks, one in the middle and one in the back. Secondly, the truck itself has much left to be desired. I don't think that it is so hard to provide at least a mirror and get the sponsors to provide some smell sweet in the toilet. Also, please hire people to clean those things during the day. After awhile it was very nasty.

Oh when will I rest to eat!!! IP didn't take a lunch break. On Monday after crossing the Savannah after 4:30pm and missing out on lunch IP stood around St. Mary's grounds for over an hour. No announcement was made as to whether this was a lunch break or anything. Next yr IP please break for lunch. I didn't eat lunch on Monday because I had a late breakfast and only needed snacks to carry me through the day. But on Tuesday it wasn't nice to walk and eat. Finally, the after party, what is that? Maybe IP was trying something new this year and people correct me if I'm wrong but I'm sure IP use to have an after jump up to the jump up. Well this didn't happen this year and I know many people were looking forward to this. IP fix that.

Conclusion
To reiterate my earlier points:
* Improve customer service
* Have designated days for overseas masqueraders to collect
costume
* Better size chart
* Security works for the entire day
* More water
* Cleaner and better line up of the wee wee truck/trucks.
* Lunch Stop, get one!!!

All in all I thoroughly enjoyed my IP Carnival experience. My friends and I have agreed that we will be playing with them again next yr. Hopefully you get your act together and listen to your masqueraders.

TRIBE Feedback

Dear TRIBE,

Thank you for a great Carnival 2009. I absolutely loved my costume, best one I have ever worn to date and my time on the road was quite enjoyable. Although my Carnival experience ranks pretty high compared to other years I do have a few comments and suggestions to make in areas that I believe can be improved upon for 2010.

TLC Card:
This system simply needs to be scrapped and redone! One blog reader had a good suggestion to an alternative which I will share with you:

Tribe needing to revise there Loyalty card process.

The fact that some people have had their cards since day one, but have not played with the band since does not work and cheats the real masqueraders who are on the road every year. I know of people that buy their costume every year and sell it again for a profit. This practice will never end and will only get worse as the band gets older and more popular (if TRIBE getting more popular then they already are is even possible).

I’m not against the loyalty system at all as I think it’s a great way of rewarding masqueraders that join every year I just think it needs to be revised

I think TRIBE should formulate a points system that would reward the actual people that play mas on the road. The following is a potential example:

Play mas on Monday 0.5 pt
Play mas on Tuesday 1 pt
Front line 1 extra pts
Individual Costume 3 pt extra pts
Pay costume in full in advance 0.25 pt

Registration will then be set up in a tier system. People with 10-15 points register first. People with 5-10 pts register second, then 4 pts, 3 pts, 2 pts and so on. This tier system will be changed every year as some loyal Tribers get more and more points. Although this won’t eliminate people buying and reselling there costume completely, it will greatly reduce it because I guarantee the people with higher points are not the ones reselling there costume because they are the ones playing each year. This system will eventually weed out the people that have not played in years and are only looking to make a dollar on the true masqueraders each year.

This also makes it fair for those that do play every year and for some reason can’t make it one year, if they have banked 10 pts, they don’t have to worry about missing one year because there previous loyalty will still be seen with there number of points.

I know this will upset a lot of TLC card holders, but I think the true loyal customers (those that play year after year with or without a TLC card) will appreciate it and really benefit from it.

This is just ONE idea for revamping the TLC but whatever you do the system has never worked and loyal masqueraders need some REAL rewards and priority in getting registered.

Photographer for booklet and website:
The best years for photographs were 2005 and 2006 when the costumes were shot outdoors with natural light and masqueraders could actually see the costume properly. This year the photographs were photoshopped to death which resulted in masqueraders expecting the section Pheasant to be BRONZE when it was actually gold, not to mention the back of Spangled Cotinga was never shown on the website. Please forgo the fancy photographers, this is not a high fashion magazine spread, and just give us the costume photographed to show the true colours and from all angles.

Costume Construction:
Overall I was pleased with my costume but I had to do too many repairs to it myself. For instance I had to come up with a solution to fix the tail which was supposed to be worn tied to the body. If I could figure out that something more secure as Velcro could be used then there is no excuse for someone in production not realizing the fact that the tail was not secure with just ribbon. Also, the construction on the tail was not up to par, again I had to reinforce where feathers were joined because the workmanship was sloppy and rushed. Also I received two LEFT side foot pieces, an error which simply should not have occurred if someone had ensured that the costumes were ready for distribution properly.

The Bra Issue:
Every year I complain about the GRANNY bras that are given to size D cups and over and once again I am complaining again even though I solved that issue myself and supplied you with my own bra. Freya swimsuits are for size D cups and up I suggest taking a pattern from a balconet bikini top and advise the local bra manufacturer that they can experiment with some new shapes to get rid of that dreaded ugly GRANNY bra. Short of that I suggest sending your bras to be decorated in China like African Love Bird which did not have any issues with ugly granny bras! As a matter of fact, that entire costume was well constructed so as much as I do not like the idea of China production it might also help you with the aforementioned issue of costume construction as well.

Band Size:
2009 was supposed to be the year that the band was reduced to a more “intimate” size… that simply did not happen. The band was as big as 2008. I commend you on handling the number of people better than last year but in certain areas the crowd was just too overwhelming. Adding to the problem was the fact that all three of your hot DJ trucks were all congested in the center of the band causing a crush of masqueraders/DJ groupies to crowd the area. Please, please, please reduce the size of the band for 2010! If this means raising costume prices for 2010 so that the band will have less people sad to say I will vote for that as well, anything to keep the band to an enjoyable and comfortable size.

Music:
An idea to get the DJ groupies away from the popular trucks is to synchronize the music throughout the band so each truck will be playing the same thing all day. Therefore there will be no “hot truck” and no need for masqueraders to crowd one area of the band.

Alternately you can also consider linking the top three DJs like JW/Blaze 96.7, Hypa Hoppa and Xcaliber, two trucks each, so that’s 6 music trucks all with the “hot DJS”.

Get the faces of those sound systems (JW, Hoppy and whoever is the man for Xcaliber) to share face time at the different trucks to satisfy the groupies hoping the DJS will notice them .So if all six trucks play the right music and the hype men do some roaming spending a little time on each truck, then the crowd will be roaming happily too, and the groupies will follow Jason and Hoppy and make some room for the music lovers too!


Lunch Stop:
More blankets, more mats, more umbrellas and more tents are needed PLEASE; so many conflicts arose over masqueraders hoarding blankets it was ridiculous! Others complained about the lunch stop being too small however if the band is smaller next year this will not be an issue as I actually like the location of the lunch stop and I arrived early so securing a space was not a problem personally. We absolutely need more toilets at the lunch stop as well

Theme for 2010:
I know at this point it is a toss up between Space or doing an Asian theme which was the original idea until you heard another band will be doing a similar sounding theme. Listen, Space is ok and all but I just cannot see cute costumes from a Space theme. I absolutely vote in favour of the Asian theme and think the costumes will be awesome if you decide to take that road. Remember that this year was the BEST in terms of costumes; TRIBE blew all other bands out the water when it comes to presentation on the road, and the costumes were spectacular. Therefore the quality of costume design has to remain the same or get better for 2010 as your masqueraders have now come to love the feathers and beads; the costume is no longer complimentary! So please reconsider Space and definitely go with the Asian theme.

*Vote on the poll (under the countdown clock) for the theme you want!

Once again thanks for a great Carnival 2009 and I am looking forward to 2010 and an even better experience with TRIBE.

And for those of you who want to send your feedback to TRIBE email: info@carnivaltribe.com or visit the website and use the "CONTACT US" form.

Trudy Young of Carnival Faces Make-up Review

The following review is from one of the bloggers who used Carnival Faces:

I made my foray into professional carnival make up for the first time this year, and I chose Trudy Young and crew of Carnival Faces. The makeup cost $250.00TT which included lashes.

I arrived at 5:30am at a house on Murray Street in Woodbrooke. There were breakfast snacks set up which included finger foods like baked quiche and an assortment of fresh fruits, complete with an array of breakfast cocktails, that people seemed to be enjoying at the wee hours of the morning.

We were all seated in the initial waiting room to wait our turn to be called down to the make up area. One suggestion I would like to make is that they should have a number system. Although it was by appointment, it was still a first come, first serve thing, and we could not always remember who has shown up in what order. Thank goodness, all of the ladies who were waiting were very gracious, and we organized ourselves into what order we had arrived to make sure no one got overlooked.

Once called down into the make up area, I was taken to one side where a lady decided on which foundation was the best match for my face. Once this was decided, an assistant painted my entire face with the foundation, and then sprayed my face with something that I think would make the foundation stick.

It was then on to the next available make up artist. A beautiful young lady with a smooth chocolate complexion, medium length two strand twists, and a silver chain with an "Allah" pendent on it written in Arabic, did my make up. (Whoever you are… THANK YOU!)

Since this was my first go round with carnival makeup, and not being much of a daily make up wearer, I did not know exactly what looked I was going for, so I just sat quietly and prayed for the best. While she applied my make up, I observed the work of the other artists who were also working in the room. The styles of make ranged greatly from the dramatic and sultry with complimentary shades, to the colorful and theatrical with face swirlies and an explosion of face gems and glitter. What ever was being done by the individual artists, Trudy was right on the scene adding her suggestions or requesting corrections. She was very involved.

Once my make up was finished, since I am not used to seeing myself in so much make up, I was a bit concerned that I was looking like a drag queen. One of the workers told me that I am "SUPPOSE" to look like a drag queen for carnival. LOL. Since she is the professional, I took her advice, collected my goodie bag which was filled with all kinds of nice treats including lip gloss, and off I went to meet my band.

I am a big girl, so not one that Triniscene or Trinisoca photographers typically run after for a picture. I actually got stopped in the road several times on Tuesday, in the middle of my jammishness, to be complimented on my fabulous make up and to have my picture snapped.

At 5pm on Tuesday, one American lady walked up to me and said,

"DAYUM!! Who did YOUR make up?"

I said, “Trudy's crew from Carnival Faces”.

She replied with, "I WANT HER... A BEOTCH IS LOOKING FRESH!!! LIKE YOU AINT BEEN RAINED ON OR SWEATED ALL DAY!!!"

Needless to say, my husband and cracked up, but she was right. My make up stayed intact all day.

I wrote down the website for the American lady on a napkin. Next year, I would suggest Trudy print up cards that can be given to clients, so as we get stopped and complimented, we can pass the contact information along more easily.

I did have one friend who was not at all pleased with her make up job by Carnival Faces. She equated her looked to a clown made up for a children’s birthday party. She got one of the swirlie and explosive gems looks. I think this had a lot to do with the luck of the draw, and which artist she got assigned. That could have very easily been me.

So I think this is a lesson for all of us who are foraying into the professional make up arena. Go in knowing what look you want, and requesting that specific look. Also, maybe communicating with Trudy beforehand about what artist would be best for the look you are trying to achieve and maybe they can make your appointment so that particular artist can accommodate you.

My husband also has a suggestion for Trudy. Since many women were leaving straight from their makeup appointment to meet their band, the husbands came with them. My hubby suggests a husband waiting area. Apparently a very nice little lime had formed amongst the husbands and boyfriends who were waiting outside, but with a day of chipping on the road ahead of them, and many still tired fetes, jouvert, and carnival Monday, he says some chairs outside for them would have been nice. Especially since many were “man bags” and had to stand up waiting for an hour holding everything from purses, to head pieces.

Based on my personal make up job, I give Trudy Young and Carnival Faces two thumbs up for great customer service and a job well done.
To contact Trudy

Trinidad booking agent is Niki – 868- 473 8747.

If you are in the United States - 561- 445-7966.

Website - http://www.thebutterflybeauty.zoomshare.com/7.html

Makeup Portfolio - http://www.smugmug.com/gallery/3260844#P-1-15

TRIBE Carnival Magazine

124 pages, 5th Anniversary edition.. .Out tomorrow folks!

Price - TT$60.00

TRIBE Mas Camp Hours: Monday-Friday 12pm - 5pm. Closed on weekends & Public Holidays.

Available at the following branches of HI-LO Food Stores:
West Mall
Glencoe
St. Anns
Maraval
St. Augustine
Arima (Windsor)
Chagaunas
Gulf City
Overseas Masqueraders: Keep posted to the website for further information.

Makeup Artistry By Kirk Thomas - The Review

Getting my makeup done professionally for Carnival is a relatively new venture. In the past I have always done my face myself, I just could not fathom getting up in the wee hours of the morning on Carnival Tuesday to get to a makeup artist to do, what I thought, something I could do myself. However I decided to go the professional route in 2008. I chose Carnival Faces with Trudy Young last year because my hairdresser recommended her and I liked the work she had done; when I saw my hairdresser late in the evening on Carnival Tuesday 2007 her makeup was still going strong. And while I was pleased with the job that was done I did not like having to wait even though my friends and I had an appointment which eventually caused us to be late in meeting the band and having to race to South Quay from Woodbrook ON FOOT! Also, Trudy is not guaranteed to do your face, she has team of makeup artist and it is luck of the draw who you get.

This year I was looking in earnest for a makeup artist that did house calls since we had a group of about 5 or 6 girls wanting their makeup done and I did not want to be late in meeting the band again if the appointment system simply fell through. During my search I came upon Kirk Thomas and even though I had read his column in the Trinidad Express numerous times (even featured some of his tips on the blog) I never considered him as a possibility since I was not sure he did makeup for Carnival. Eventually I contacted him after viewing his portfolio on Facebook, and receiving very good reviews from other people that attest to the fact that he is one of the best.

I hit it off with Kirk from the first email I sent; he was out of the country but assured me that he was indeed doing makeup for Carnival. He asked for my number and promised to call me upon his return. A few days later I did indeed receive a call from him and I expressed to him what my friends and I wanted done for Carnival. I was quite pleased when Kirk was not only able to book us for the times we wanted but emphasized that he went strictly by appointment and that he himself would be the one doing our faces. Subsequent emails were sent with detailed instructions on the different looks each girl wanted along with the section they were in. I was pretty impressed by his professionalism even though his price was more than the other makeup artists were charging; $400.00 for makeup services without lashes, $450.00 with. (all prices in TT dollars).

I arrived at the Corner Bar (Kirk’s base for Carnival) for my appointment promptly at 5:00AM on Carnival Tuesday ; Kirk and his team (one other makeup artist) were already there and setting up their tools and a wide array of MAC cosmetics. In a few minutes he got to work on my face. I told him exactly what I wanted, the problem areas I had with my skin and just sat back and let him get to work. What I liked was that he explained what he was doing at various steps and also gave me pointers on skin care and also makeup application. The rapport was great and by the end of it I felt like I was chatting with a friend.

What I also liked was that Kirk was extremely professional, he had all our names, sections as well as the looks and colours he planned on using cataloged in a little diary. So all we had to do was say our names and he was like "oh, Nikki, plums and purples!" You did not even have to repeat your section. And best of all, in addition to the personal attention, he stuck to the appoitment giving me ample time to get dressed and find parking to meet the band on time.

The end result was amazing, I absolutely LOVED what he did with my eyes and also the face gems; I did not look like my regular pedestrian self and that was a great thing! Kirk totally transformed my look and his application was so precise and flawless! My skin looked great and the makeup did not look caked on. Instead of using gold and bronze to match my costume he went with contrasting colours on my lids and for the gems and it worked very well with my costume. Let me say again that I LOVED the look! I also loved what he did on the other faces, dramatic eyes and soft lips, they all looked stunning and I told him right there that I was booking him on the spot for the following year, which I did!

Dream - Island People

African Love Bird - TRIBE


Ruby Topaz - TRIBE

As for how well the makeup held up, mine lasted all day with only reapplication of lip gloss. The other girls who had their faces done also held up very well as you can see by the photograph of one of them below which was taken at around 6 or 7PM with all gems and makeup intact!

Only the Island People masquerader did not fare as well since she was drenched in the downpours that caught them downtown and her makeup did not survive!

Kirk Thomas can be contacted via email: beautymakeupart@hotmail.com or through his Facebook group Kirk Thomas Makeup Artistry or via telephone: 868-743-4211.

Some tips for you when getting your makeup professionally done:

*Select a makeup artist whose work and style appeals to you, I think it is best to match the artist with the masquerader as not everyone's styles will appeal to you or be the look you are going for.

*Walk with your headpiece so that the makeup artist can get an idea of how it falls on your face. Also wearing a piece of your cosutme (bra) or having a photograph will help them get ideas of the colours to use.

*Be vocal and let the makeup artist know the look you have in mind or just how dramatic you want your makeup to be.

*If you do not like the end result please say, it’s makeup, it can be washed off and redone.

* Allow about 30 to 45 minutes for makeup, so when you book your appointment keep the time in mind and also estimate how much time you will need to finish getting dressed, get parked and meeting the band.

* Get partially dressed before getting your makeup done and ask the makeup artist if there are facilities on the premises where you can finish getting dressed to save on time in meeting the band when you are done.

I hope you all were pleased with whomever you chose to do your faces this year; I saw some lovely, well made up ladies on the road. Feel free to send in reviews or leave a comment on the makeup artist you used for Carnival 2009.