Carolina Cupboard

A Journey of Southern Elegance with Carolina Cupboard

Ever since I was a little girl, I’d run downstairs to my mom’s bathroom, where I’d sit on the step of her whirlpool tub and watch her apply her makeup with flawless precision. Every single day, she transformed herself into a vision of poise and sophistication. My mom is always polished, always put together, and always dressed to impress. She is the epitome of Southern charm, and I knew from a young age that I wanted to be just like her when I grew up.

Momma taught me more than just how to blend eyeshadow or pick the perfect lipstick shade. She instilled in me true Southern class and pride. She taught me that Southern grace goes beyond appearances and sinks deep into the soul. Manners, elegance, and grace were her daily lessons, woven into every moment we spent together. She showed me how to carry myself with confidence, to put others first, how to speak with kindness, and how to always look good while doing it.

But my momma wasn’t the only influence in my beauty journey. Every day after school, I’d head to my grandmama’s house, where I’d find her never without her signature bright pink fuchsia lipstick. That vibrant hue was her trademark, a bold statement of her unapologetic spirit and zest for life. Grandmama taught me manners and respect, lessons that went hand in hand with her love for standing out. She’d sit me down at her vanity, share stories of her youth, and remind me that a lady always holds her head high and treats others with dignity. She taught me to always honor my roots and cherish the importance of my name, a legacy I carry with pride. She taught me core values and high principles that shape me to this very day. Although I may not mirror her exactly, I hope my actions reflect the grace and spirit she embodied. 

In loving memory of my sweet Grandmama, Caroline Rhame McCurry, who went to the Good Lord on June 6, 2024. I always thought I’d have a little girl named….as you might of guessed Caroline (which is also my momma’s name and Caro was my great grandmothers name!) Although I don’t have a little Caroline, my youngest boy proudly carries her maiden name, a heartfelt tribute to the deep love and admiration I truly hold for her. 

I owe so much of who I am to both of these incredible women, and this blog is a tribute to their lessons. Welcome to my first makeup blog post for Carolina Cupboard, where I’m thrilled to share my love for beauty, style, and all things Southern. Here, we’ll explore makeup recommendations, product reviews, and tutorials inspired by the timeless elegance of my mom and the bold confidence of my grandmama. Whether you’re a makeup novice or a seasoned pro, I hope to inspire you to embrace your own unique beauty and channel that Southern grace in every look. From Mom’s graceful precision to Grandmama’s bold, vibrant charm, they transformed every makeup routine into a celebration of confidence and identity.

Growing up, I learned that makeup isn’t just about covering flaws it’s about enhancing what makes you….you. It’s about feeling confident, radiant, and ready to take on the world, just like my momma did every morning and my grandmama did with her fuchsia lips. I’m here to carry forward their legacy, sharing looks that are bold, authentic, and uniquely Southern, just like the women who shaped me.

So, grab your favorite lipstick maybe even a bright pink fuchsia and let’s dive into this journey together! Check out my very first makeup video, where I’ll break down a classic Southern belle makeup look with a pop of bold color inspired by my dear sweet Grandmama. Here’s to celebrating beauty, heritage, and the lessons from my Momma and Grandmama that make us shine!

Ps. A Full step by step process vid is on the way! Keep on the look out!

With Southern charm,

Yours truly!!
Carolina Cupboard Beauty

My Must-Have Makeup Picks + Step-by-Step Routine

Hey, beauties! I’m so excited to share my go-to makeup products and the exact 10 Minute routine I use to create a flawless, long last all day look. As an Amazon Affiliate, I’ve included links to my favorite products below. If you shop through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you! From the bottom of my heart thank y’all for supporting my blog!

Shop My Favorites:

• Beauty Blender: Link – The ultimate tool for seamless blending.
• Primer: Link – Preps your skin for a smooth base.
• Estée Lauder Foundation: Link – Flawless coverage that lasts.
• MAC Product: Link – Perfect for setting your look.
• Powder Puffs: Link – Your makeup bag staple.
• Estée Lauder Foundation Pumps: Link – Mess free application.
• Sage The Day: Eyeshadow : Link – A versatile must have. *similar product*
• Estée Lauder Double Wear Eyeliner (Bottom): Link – Smudge-proof precision.
• Blush: Link – A similar shade to my fave Lizzie McGuire blush.
• NYX Liquid Eyeliner (Top): Link – Waterproof and workout-proof!
• Eyelash Primer: Link – Makes lashes pop without curling.
• Mascara: Link – Voluminous lashes that stay put.
• Brow Gel: Link – Defines brows with a natural finish.
• Lip Gloss: Link – Glossy, non-sticky shine.
• Chapstick: Link – Keeps lips hydrated.
• Lip Liner: Link – A close match to my signature shade.

My Everyday Step by Step Makeup Routine:
Here’s how I achieve my polished, every day ready look in just a few steps:

1. Prime the Canvas: Dab Primer onto a Beauty Blender (lightly dampened with water or used dry, your choice) to create a smooth base.
2. Foundation: Apply Estée Lauder Foundation with the Beauty Blender for even coverage. Pro tip: I sometimes use my fingers for a lighter finish.
3. Set It: Use Powder Puffs to apply powder and lock your foundation in place.
4. Eyes That Pop: I like the Allure eyeshadow palette (sadly I couldn’t link it, but this is a great alternative) for a natural glow.
5. Winged Liner: Swipe on NYX Liquid Eyeliner for a waterproof top wing that survives my workouts.
6. Lash Prep: Coat lashes with Eyelash Primer to amplify volume and extend mascara wear no curler needed!
7. Bottom Liner: Define the lower lash line with Estée Lauder Double Wear Eyeliner for a bold finish.
8. Cheeky Glow: Add a flush with Blush, a close match to my beloved Lizzie McGuire shade.
9. Brow Game: Tame and define brows with Brow Gel its darker tone complements my roots perfectly.
10. Lash Finale: Layer on Mascara for dramatic, clump-free lashes.
11. Lip Definition: Outline with Lip Liner for a sculpted pout (a near match to my go to shade).
12. Gloss It Up: Apply Lip Gloss for a juicy shine.
13. Hydrate: Finish with Chapstick to keep lips soft and moisturized. This allows me to keep my lipstick on the entire day!

This routine is my secret to a fresh, durable look that lasts through busy days and sweaty gym sessions. Try it out, and let me know your favorite products in the comments! Happy shopping, and thanks again for supporting my blog. 💖