Location: Collectivo Boutique
Today we are introducing you to Carmen Maria Montiel as our BethieLife Woman Crush. This former Miss Venezuela and Miss South America is the epitome of brains, beauty and compassion all in one! Check out her stunning photos and interesting interviews. Welcome, Carmen!
Carmen’s clothing/accessories and my purse from Collectivo
Photos/Assistance by Alicia Cody
Where did you grow up?
I was born in Venezuela. I grew up between Maracaibo and Caracas. I came to the USA to study and to Houston to work at Telemundo Houston.
If you were stranded on a desert island, what three beauty products would you like to have with you?
Body lotion, moisturizer and sun block.
Who or what has been the biggest influence on your personal style?
I learned from many women in my life, specially the women in my family. Outside from that it is Princess Diana. She was the best example of what I believe: Elegance is about dressing according to the place, time and occasion. Also, less is more.
What is your favorite indulgence?
Chocolate!
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Do not ever go to bed without cleaning your face.
What is your favorite Houston store and/or restaurant?
My favorite restaurants are: Emmaline, Toulouse, Willie G’s and Le Colonial.
To shop: Tootsies, Neiman Marcus and Collectiv0.
What’s on your plate? (Future projects, travel plans, etc.)
The summer for me is all about my children and the beach. I am looking forward to go to Cancun with my three children.
How do you spend your down time?
My down time is active. I love to run and keep myself in form. But the best is to spend time with my children.
Tell us one Houston Hidden Gem (places that aren’t necessarily well-known) that you recommend.
Sabor Venezolano Food Truck. I miss the food from Venezuela and Cheo has everything that there is to eat!
Tell us three of your favorite shopping/beauty/lifestyle websites.
This is something I do not do. I like to see and touch before I buy.
Tell us three of your health/beauty tips.
For me eating healthy is very important. Keeping a healthy eating habit allows me to eat, when needed, everything. However, eating little of it.
I exercises 4 to 6 times a week. These two have helped me not to gain weight. I still fit in my Pageant dress.
My third tip is: Creams, creams, creams.
What are three things you can’t live without? (Besides God, family, and friends.)
Creams, water and mascara.
Do you have any irrational fears?
No. Thank God. However, altitudes are not my favorite thing.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
The beach. I am from the Caribbean.
If you weren’t in your present occupation, what would you dream of doing?
To work for Fox News. I am a journalist and miss that very much.
What books or movies have you loved recently?
Just saw Ocean 8 and I think it is superior to the original male version.
Just read Hillary’s America.
Occupation
Real estate Agent at Carnan Properties and Insurance Agent for FEG
Care to Share
I am 53 years old! I cannot hide my age.. I have Wikipedia.
Tell us something humorous about yourself.
I can be distracted at times. The first time I went to the Opera in Houston I put my clutch on the hand of the gentleman that was seated next to me. I was so taken by “El Barbero de Sevilla” that I never realized what I did, until the intermission when I looked for it and this nice gentleman handed to me. He held it for the full first part of the Opera. I was embarrassed, but at the same time laughing at myself.
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