I am very pleased and honored to announce that I, along with all of M Famous Enterprises and Christopher Macken Concepts, are now joining forces with one of Atlanta’s TOP destinations for all things beauty.  As of today it is official that I am the Consulting Creative Director of…   …The Salon at BLUE; The salon division of BLUE MEDSPA in Atlanta.  This premier location boasts a state of the art, three story facility right in the heart of fabulous Midtown Atlanta.

As I am sure you all know by now, I don’t ever associate my name with anything less than perfection and BLUE MEDSPA is just that.  Offering everything from Facials and massage to Botox and cosmetic surgery… and now “Red BLUE Carpet Hair”, they are your final one stop shop to “flawless”.  A reputation for excellence and proudly serving many of the Atlanta Elite, BLUE MEDSPA was obviously the perfect place for Christopher Macken!  The actual spa is breath taking and allows you to get away without having to leave town as well as the price point will not break the bank.  BLUE MEDSPA and I believe that everyone should have the right to feel beautiful and are happy to be expanding the BLUE team of professionals.  I am currently seeking a few talented full-time and part-time stylists to join our team!  If you are interested, please feel free to contact me at cmacken@christophermacken.com .

Please take a moment and check out the web site www.bluemedspa.com

I can assure you that we are eager and happy to service all of your beauty needs!

Thank you again for being an “M Famous Member” and all of your love, encouragement, and support!  Without all of you, none of my dreams would be coming true!  Stay M Famous everyone!

Christopher Macken

Ok now that we have that covered, let’s dig in. It is that time of year again when I start getting skin health questions from people.  As the weather grows colder and the extreme humidity (for those of us SOUTHERNERS) travels south for the winter, our skin runs the risk of drying out.  You may notice that your makeup (ladies and some gents… wink) is not “wearing” the same or has a dull, less radiant appearance.  Some of you may actually notice dry, flakey or irritated skin especially on your face.  This irritation is due to your body not producing as much natural moisture to help keep you cool.  Also, if you are using an astringent to clean your face this may actually be making your skin worse.  With less natural moisture being produced, the astringent is robbing your skin of what little moisture it may have left.  Fine lines may be more obvious, and your face may seem a little “droopy.”

Fear not, there is an easy fix to this problem.  I suggest you slow down on the astringent (if not stop using it all together) and speed up on the moisture treatments and daily face lotion.  You don’t have to spend a fortune on the lotion either.  I for one do not break out when using the Publix Brand of lotion called “AFTER SUN” (yes it is intended to protect your skin after sunbathing), and it contains Aloe and many other vitamins that help improve skins elasticity.  Also,  a really great moisture treatment is actually probably in your kitchen as we speak…. PURE olive oil is an incredible moisturizing treatment, and its benefits have been documented for ages.   Give it a shot.  Your face will feel refreshed and more firm after just one treatment.  Apply a thin layer to your clean face in the evening before bed (one to two times a week).  Lay a towel over your pillow case and sleep with it on.  I can almost hear you now, “My skin will break out!” Nope!  Olive oil cannot be absorbed by the skin, only the minerals.  There is actually proof that olive oil, along with being a great moisturizer, may also help with acne prone skin due to the fact that it has natural anti-oxidants and also acts as a natural anti -inflammatory. Don’t believe me… Google it… or Bing it… or just click here.

If you go with the lotion option, be sure to apply a THIN layer… less is more… allow it to set and soak in completely before applying your makeup.  I assure you that you will start feeling and seeing a difference immediately if not over a few days.

Now, this is the part that I have to say… (cue background music) If you are pregnant or may become pregnant, have two eyes, breath, walk erect, were born or may be born… Just kidding! But in all seriousness, I am not a doctor and do not recommend going against your current doctors orders especially if you are on topical or oral medications for your skin.  Please consult a physician before changing any prescribed regiments.  Everyone’s skin is different and therefore predicting with 100% certainty how you will react is impossible. I am basing all my information of schooling, research, and personal/profession cosmetic experience…. And Christopher Macken and Christopher Macken Concepts are not liable….WOW that was boring !

If you have any great at-home tips, please feel free to share in the comment section.  I love hearing from all of you!

Be M Famous (and moisturized),

Christopher Macken AKA Mr. M Famous

Please - Tweet Me, Facebook Me or comment below

Obviously, there are plenty of topical and even surgical ways to get that quick fix, but for those who may be on a budget or not willing/in need of such drastic measures yet, I know some proven ways of fighting off Father Time for as long as possible. First, I would suggest you start this journey in your very own refrigerators!  Oh yes, you read correctly!  Many of the things we use in our kitchens to prepare our meals can help turn back the hands of time.  I personally do a PURE OLIVE OIL treatment one night a week.  I would advise you to place a towel over your pillow to keep the oil from getting on your linens, but olive oil HAS been known to improve skins elasticity and promote a healthy glow.  You will be able to see a difference quickly and your skin will feel moisturized and refreshed.

Another way to feel your skin tighten is to use egg whites.   I know what you are thinking, however you will agree with me if you try it.  Get a paintbrush and paint on a thin layer of egg whites on problem areas and feel the tightening as it dries.  I encourage you to be cautious around your eyes mainly because egg whites in your eye is just gross.

For those of you that would like to see an instant improvement, you can always use Preparation H.  Don’t laugh!  When I modeled in my younger days, the makeup artists would always start by applying Preparation H Cream (not ointment) around my eyes to eliminate the bags under my eyes (as a young model we partied a good bit and late nights never mixed with an early morning photo shoot).  Within minutes my eyes would look rested and refreshed.  I still use this trick to this day when my schedule is a little overloaded with appearances, and I am feeling tired.

Now for all of you that may want a topical cream to do the trick, I suggest visiting Blue Med Spa in Midtown Atlanta!  They have a friendly and helpful staff that will pair you and your mug up with a cream that will do exactly what you need.   While you are there, be sure to ask about their preventative injections!

Thank you all for following and sending in your questions!  Keep them coming, and I will do my best to send you in the right direction!  Leave your comments and feel free to share your own beauty secrets!  I love trying new things!  Thank you all again and remember…you are all beautiful just the way you are!

Live an M Famous Life,

Mr. M Famous, Christopher Macken

Of course people told me that I was crazy to walk away from everything I had going on at the time in order to plant my flag in a new city, but I felt this is where I was being told to go.  Here I am one year later, sitting at my desk and staring at this beautiful city with my balcony door open hearing the sounds of the city as it wakes up. It makes me feel like a part of something so much bigger than me.  And I know that I will hit that very city hard in a couple of hours continuing to ensure that my flag is firmly planted. Almost one year ago, I told my best friend and PR Manager “E” to make a list of things I wanted to accomplish in my first year: 1.TV 2. Print 3. Radio.

Well, I write for DIY Weddings Magazine as a style columnist, I have been back on the air for various radio stations and a couple of weeks ago, I filmed my small role in a show called Necessary Roughness on USA Network ( a TON of fun). In February I was even named the “Living Ken Doll of Atlanta,” and I feel like my life is coming together beautifully….My dreams are coming true…. And this is JUST THE BEGINNING!  My company is doing well, and my jewelry line is already getting some attention even though it is not “officially” on the market. One piece is on TV and another was worn by singer Tony Terry at an event with Hinton Battle.  I thank the Universe every day for my blessings and even for the hard work it took to get here.  I am far from done ATLANTA, so show me what you got! I have big projects in the works and am about to bust to tell you what they are!  The M Famous name will grow by leaps and bounds in the coming year.  If this is what I accomplished in one year, just wait to see what can I do in the next few.

I say all of this to say that there is no such thing as DREAMING TOO BIG!  Go ahead, reach for the stars.  As I sit here and reflect on the past year, I am so happy that I kept my head in the clouds.  Daydreaming has always served me well.

To all of my friends, family and followers, thank you so much.  I love you all and thank you for the support.  I could not have made it this far in just one year without you.

Love to you all,

Christopher Macken AKA Mr. M Famous

Please - Tweet Me, Facebook Me or comment below

I have been on a radio tour this morning, and now I am going to spend my afternoon and evening with old friends and family. I cannot wait to relax and unwind at the lake. I hope everyone has a beautiful weekend, and next week you can expect a full blog complete with photos of the pageant.

BTW, if you missed my radio show on Waking up the Lakes with Tony Taylor on Z-97, click the 2 links below. We had a ball!

chris macken 1

chris macken 2

Be M Famous,

CMC

I just wanted to take a moment and sit down to fill everyone in on the incredibly exciting things that are developing here in my world.  As many of you know, I have been in Atlanta for 9 months, and in that very short time, many things have taken off far faster than I could have ever hoped – I am so grateful!   Some of the most recent “happenings” include my affiliation with DIY Weddings Magazine as well as a partnership with a Music Artist Development company in which I oversee the image of the artist.  I am also meeting with “mega event” producer and clothing designer, Valery Knight, to potentially partner with her here in the Atlanta area.  I am truly having the time of my life watching my career unfold before my eyes.

Recently, I have had the privilege of meeting some of the neatest people. Just last night I was hanging out with Lil Scrappy’s mother, “Momma D” and some of the production team in town for the recording of a music video they are filming with P Diddy and Snoop Dogg. “Momma D” is a riot and always fun to be around.  Oh, and just so we are all clear, my father wanted me to explain, Lil Scrappy is a hip hop recording artist, and as he says, P Diddy is the guy from the Ciroc commercials.

I spent the day today scheduling meetings with people before I return to my hometown of Milledgeville, Georgia. I have been asked to be a guest judge for the Relay For Life Pageant that is being held in Gray. It is sponsored by Sassy and Classy Salon, and all proceeds go to the Jones County Relay for Life.  I am honored to be asked, and to be honest, I am very excited to be able to assist with such a noteworthy cause.   So, I am headed home early Friday morning to go live on WGUR 88.9FM at 7:30 and then over to WMGZ Z97.7FM at around 9 am with the hilarious D.J. Tony Taylor.  Some of you may recall that some years ago, I was a regular personality (Marcus Nieman) on the “Winning Wednesday” show with Philip and Tony.  I must say that I am excited to return and look forward to a good time in that same familiar studio.  If you can pick up the stations please be sure to tune in this Friday morning.

While I am in town, I plan on spending much needed quality time with my family as well as hitting up The Brick for their legendary wings and of course, Aubri Lanes for a glass of wine on Saturday evening – just a nostalgic walk down the streets where I grew up.  I hope all of you will be able to attend the pageant and support Relay for Life.  If you have ever been affected by cancer, you know they do so much.

Oh, and as for DIY Weddings Magazine…new and very exciting developments are already beginning to unfold, and I will be sure to keep you all posted as they do.

Thank you all for your support and encouragement, and I hope to see you this weekend.

Be M Famous,

Christopher Macken AKA Mr M Famous

The Head Case Report!  First Case File….Helmet Salon

Ladies and gentlemen, I must warn you that the time has come where pigs may be flying.  Hell may be a bit frigid, and Gary Busey is now sane!  All of these things happened at the same time around 1PM on Monday. Why you ask – I went to a salon and allowed someone to “trim” my hair!  Those of you who know me, know that I am very particular about my “mane,” and since I am a trained hair artist as well, I rarely trust anyone with my locks.  On top of that, I am in the middle of the process of growing my hair out AGAIN, so, of course, the anxiety was even higher.

Ok enough with the back ground story.   Monday, I went to take my daughter (standard poodle named Coco Chanel) to her grooming appointment at The Pet Set in Midtown. By the way, the Groomer there does a fabulous job, and the staff seems to be friendly and caring.  After dropping her off, I walked out the door and remembered that my hair also needed a small maintenance trim (kind of hard to do yourself) and there is a salon right next door.  Helmet Salon, located at 970 Piedmont Avenue, is a salon that I obviously have known about for quite some time, and I have heard both good and bad things (more good than bad).  So I took a deep breath and walked into the trendy midtown salon.  First of all, there was a guy there that recognized me and immediately struck up conversation as he was checking out.   His hair looked nice.  Clearly, I was looking for any reason at all to back out of the hair trim!  I started screaming on the inside… What if the cut too much?  What if they ruin my hair?  I know I sound a bit obsessive.  That song by India Arie, “I am Not My Hair,” is NOT my theme song.  Anyway, I digress…

…Back to the guy paying for his hair cut. The man’s hair was perfectly cut.  Now let’s just hope they can cut longer hair just as well.  When the receptionist, Lauren, finished up with the gentleman, she turned her focus to me.  “How can we help you?”  Ok, so she is cute and pleasant.  After I proceeded to explain to her what I wanted, I asked her to PLEASE be honest with me. I asked that she recommend someone who is not scissor-happy and would do a good job, and I told her that even if that certain person wasn’t there, I could and would come back another time.   She explained that I would be very pleased with the stylist Sonae.  I’ll be the judge of that I thought…

Finally after an hour of nervously window shopping, the time came for me to face the person that I was supposed to trust with my hair – my entire identity.  ME trust someone else with MY look?!?!  What was I thinking?   I thought for a second that I should cancel and leave.  I was directed to the waiting area where I made a cup of coffee from the complimentary beverage stand and was joined by Lauren as she struck up very friendly conversation with me.  I think she knew I was pretty nervous.  I must say that her level of customer service was great.  After a few moments Sonae rounded the corner and introduced herself, escorted me back to her station and sat me down in the chair.  This felt very strange….Being the one IN the chair.  Oh goodness!  She went through the consultation with me and told me she had already been “briefed” on what I wanted but wanted me to tell her in my own words.  Then she said the magic words that helped to put my mind at ease…“Is it ok if I cut your hair dry?”  AhhHA!  She sounds like she knows what she is doing.  Then she picked up her shears and her comb….my heart is racing and she made her first cut and then her second and before I knew it….. she actually gave me a SMALL trim.  She didn’t LOB it off.   She carefully went through the whole cut, explaining the whole time what she was doing.  Now of course when she finished, I asked if I could style it myself.   Baby steps Sonae…Baby steps. My hair cut was perfect!  She did EXACTLY what I asked her to do and nothing more.  I’m telling you, if you want me to recommend a good stylist, I would suggest you call 404-815-1629 and ask for an appointment with Sonae.  Her cuts are GREAT!  Thank you girl… I will be back when I need another maintenance trim.

This has been a “HEADCASE” report from the HOUSE OF M FAMOUS! Sonae at Helmet in Midtown is “M Famous Approved” for Cuts! (I would like to watch her color technique as well if I can get an invite hint, hint) I want to know if you have ever been. What did you think? Who did you see? Chime in on Helmet Salon or send me your idea for my next report. Comment on the blog, Tweet me or shoot me a Facebook message.

Be M Famous!

Christopher Macken

Judging by the responses, I think it is safe to say that everyone feels my concern for this young, beautiful, bright girl. It pains me to think that she feels like there are only two options.  True, none of the hands are easily played; however, all of them can play out and in drastically different ways.

I am NEVER in support of a parent forcing their child to get married.  In my opinion, it serves no one when you force them to wed.  At this age, the two of them should be getting to know each other AND themselves.  I can be certain that, if these 2 young people are forced to get married, they will more than likely wind up getting a divorce within 3 years – then what has been accomplished?  The child has been brought into an unhappy home; the parents are focused on why their marriage isn’t working; and in the end, everyone is right back where they were before they said “I Do.”

I did some research, and what I found was startling.  For Samantha, if she marries at her age, the likelihood that she will get divorced in 5 years is 30%, 10 years is 50% (which lands their child at a very crucial age to be caught in the middle), and by 15 years almost 70% of teen marriages have ended in divorce.  I got this information from The Center For Law and Social Policy.

I just want to look at her mother and say, “What are you thinking? Support her emotionally and maybe some financially.”  I do think that she should get a full time job and take care of her child if she chooses to keep it.  I will NOT be chiming in on the abortion issue here.  I am a firm believer that a woman has the right to choose what to do with her body, and as a man, it is not my place to even enter into that discussion.

In addition to the full time job, she should go to college.  She may have to miss out on a few things, but the child has to come first.  It is my thought that at this point she will no longer be continuing her education for herself but rather for her child.  Perhaps Reid can decide to go to the same college, and they can share responsibility.  There are so many options here for the two of them, and I would like for her to see that point.  This is not going to be an easy situation, however nothing worth having is ever easy! Show of hands for those who agree?!  I know she can do this.

To Samantha, who no doubt will read this, I do not pity you, but I do support you and know that this child can be a gift.  You are smart and outgoing, and this is something that you CAN handle.  You made an adult decision and now you have to make even more choices.  If you and Reid still want to get married after college, then I support you.   I want you to know one thing if nothing else sinks in…You don’t have to trade in your future for the baby and visa versa. You can have both! It will be hard, but it can be done! I know my views are a bit out of the norm, but hey, since when have I ever been the “NORM?” 

You can do it,

Christopher Macken

Samantha is 17. She is a striking young woman, and because of her looks and personality, she has been living the life of an active teenager – cheerleader, honor club, homecoming court, yearbook staff,…the list goes on. She is a responsible girl, and through her actions since earning her driver’s license, her parents have really come to trust her. She has a steady boyfriend, Reid, and her mom just loves him as well. I can tell you that in talking with her mom, their names roll of her tongue like they are one word – SamanthaandReid. I never hear one without the other. Well, to cut right to the chase, Samantha is pregnant.

Ok, let that sink in for a minute. This beautiful girl with huge hopes and big dreams is pregnant. Being the super responsible person that she is, Samantha went straight to her mother for help. She wanted to have an abortion. The way she sees it, her life is just beginning, and she is not ready to be a mother. Samantha could have never predicted how her mother would respond – “You and Reid have to get married!” Feeling like she has been hit by a bus, Samantha is petrified. She loves Reid, but marrying him has never been on her radar. They have even been discussing going to different colleges. But, being the stand-up guy that Reid is, Samantha knows that he would elope with her in a minute.

Samantha feels like she is in quick sand with no way out. She has considered lying about her age to “handle the situation,” falling in line with her mother’s orders or simply running away. Her ideas bounce back and forth from neurotic to responsible in mere minutes.

Neither one of us are expecting anyone to have the answers, but advice would certainly be helpful.

Thanks in advance,

CMC writing for Samantha

Comment on the blog, Tweet me or shoot me a Facebook message.

I went back and forth on this issue.  I have to tell you that, as usual, I can see both sides.  We are always told that you love someone for what’s on the inside.  I tend to “sort of agree with that.”  I say sort of because the whole reason you fall in love in the first place is because of some sort of physical attraction.  I doubt that anyone has ever walked into a bar and ordered a drink while thinking, “That guy over there is not attractive at all but I bet he’s nice….I’ll go see if I can get his number.”  I also agree that as your love develops you tend to not care as much about the superficial things.   Notice that I said “As Much!”  Attraction is very important – emphasis on the very.  I know plenty of couples that have the very blunt, very open agreement that if at any point the other needs to shape up, the spouse reserves the right to speak up.   I truly think that having a strong attraction keeps the relationship healthy.  My father still tells my mother that she is beautiful.

With the two of you entering into a marriage, I think this is something that you should express to him.  Let him know that you want to do all of things that you use to do together.  Tell him that you miss that time together.  Work out  or go running in the evenings.  If you truly fell in love with him for reasons outside of the way he looks then, yes, you should definitely “HITCH” but if not, I am sorry to say “Ditch.”  If you are finding that you are not in love with him because he has let himself go, then perhaps you have mistaken love for lust.  If that is the case, then it is time for you to rethink getting married.  Either way, the best way to find out is to talk with him.  I have said it before, and I will say it again, communication is key!  A strong marriage has to be built on more than rock solid abs!

Best of luck, and thank you for writing in!

Christopher Macken

AKA Mr M Famous

Email me,  Tweet Me, or Facebook Me