Alison Sweeney, from soap opera and reality-TV fame, has not only been shaping herself up recently – she wants to inspire others. As the co-host of The Biggest Loser she showed viewers around the world how to improve their nutrition and workout habits. Now she is adding author to her resume. A book launch celebration sponsored by IT Brushes for Ulta, gave us the opportunity to talk to Alison about her newest project “Opportunity Knocks,” a fun read and fictitious guide for taking on the Hollywood make-up world. We’ve been watching Alison grow up on TV before our very eyes, and her sweet and engaging manner put everyone at the event at ease.
So Alison, what Inspired your book?
ALISON SWEENEY: I was inspired by friends who are makeup artists. Some of the makeup artists have become my best friends. They have the best stories since they hear everything on set. This book was a collaboration of all of those stories – into one story.
And where did the title come from?
Take risks and seize the opportunities that are in front of us. I want my kids to grow up, and to live their lives taking risks for success. The title has to do with wanting to inspire others.
What inspired the character Alex in your book?
Alex represents a few of my best friends who have made it in the makeup artist business. Her story is much like theirs. So in the book; Alex Cleary has careened from one dead-end position to another. She has faced many obstacles and setbacks but she keeps on looking for opportunity. When the once in a lifetime opportunity strikes to work in daytime television she’s determined not to screw it up. I have watched my friends succeed. I have heard the stories they tell in the makeup chair. I have laughed, and cried with them. And this book was inspired by true events.
Is the story of Alex related to itCosmetics, most notably how itCosmetics came to be?
No, I just happen to like itCosmetics. They are a company that values quality, high end ingredients, as well as integrity and purpose. I have enjoyed using and partnering with them. They have many products that when they are purchased, a portion of each sale goes to women fighting cancer. It’s nice to partner with such a great company.
What beauty product can you not leave home without?
itCosmetics lip gloss. Even if I don’t wear anything else, if I have a pop of color on my lips, it makes all the difference. I also love itCosmetics brushes. They are the softest I have ever felt.
We’ve been asking our readers, with Mother’s Day around the corner, what they really want and wish for on Mother’s Day. What do you wish for?
Well, I really love homemade cards and gifts. The thoughtful little things they think of. Having 2 kids I look forward to when one day they can pull the cards out and say look at what I made Mom when I was seven. Last year my daughter, who is seven, gave me a pampering session. She painted my toes different colors. It was so precious. I can’t put a price tag on those things.
That’s IT LA Contributor Jessica Jurado with Author Alison Sweeney.
Thanks to Alison for speaking with us!
