I've been working with Glamour for many years now and when I found out they were writing about wedding beauty, I was keen to give my advice! Elle Turner, Glamour's Beauty Editor (and bride-to-be herself!) posed me some burning questions...
Whether you're attempting to do your own wedding makeup or want to know what to expect from a bridal trial with a makeup artist (and how to make the most of it), read on to find out all the details you need!
What mistakes do you often see people make with their wedding makeup? What should they be doing instead?
Most of the mistakes happen when too much makeup is applied. I have many brides come to me who say they’ve had their makeup done before but it was too heavy, felt cakey and generally they didn’t feel like themselves, often that they looked older too, not what you want! Bridal makeup should be natural looking as well as feeling light as air on the skin. We want it to last all day and into the evening, be sweat and tear-proof, have it photograph perfectly and make you feel your most beautiful and confident. My technique is all about light layering. With base for example; I never use a full coverage foundation, more light to medium, then where you need more coverage, use a creamy, well-pigmented concealer. Skin prep is key too, I like to do a facial massage to get the blood flowing (plus it’s lovely and relaxing), prime, foundation, concealer, powder and setting spray. It’s a process that takes time and skill but once complete, it’s built to last. Plus, it looks better with time; one hour later as you’re walking down the aisle and ten hours later when you’re on the dance floor.
What is your advice in terms of working with a makeup artist? Is there anything helpful they can bring to the trial? How many trials would you recommend? Are there questions brides should ask at their trial?
A trial is a really important part of the wedding prep process and often, a lovely girlie afternoon! I always ask my brides if they would like to send me reference images, it gives me an idea of what style we’re going for. I can then translate that to their face, or take elements from it to suit their colourings, face/eye shape and general vibe. I also like to see mood boards, colour themes of the wedding, bridesmaids dresses, flowers, accessories and most importantly, the dress. A swatch of it is often useful to take along too. It’s a good idea to wear a white top to your trial, whether that be a t-shirt, jumper or dress. Seeing makeup with white next to the face creates a much more realistic finish, brightens the complexion and naturally, it’s close to your wedding dress tone. One trial is enough really (allow a couple of hours, in the daylight) and often I’m doing a lot of the question asking! From initial makeup ideas and the client’s taste in beauty, through to the running order of the day and skincare advice. Also, don’t be afraid if you have no idea about makeup and haven't a clue what you want, that’s what a makeup artist is for; to offer guidance and expertise to create your ideal bridal look, I really feel that it’s a collaborative process. I show my clients in the mirror at various stages of the makeup application, have them sat in natural light (asking them to step outside to my garden to view it too) and I take before/after pictures to share with them later on. Perhaps book your trial on a day when you can go out that evening, wear it all afternoon and into the night. See how it feels, wears and take pictures yourself too; in natural light, artificial light, with and without flash.
What are your best tips for beautiful wedding day makeup?
Start with skincare. If you’re looking after your complexion with a suitable skincare routine, you’ll end up needing less makeup and what is applied will sit so much better on a smooth, healthy canvas. I ask all my clients what they’re currently using and then can suggest products to slot in. Avoid using any products with SPF on your wedding day as this can cause flashback with the photography. Take your time with application, allow plenty of room for doing your makeup at a relaxed pace. This will ensure a well blended base, perfected definition on the eyes and a long-lasting finish. Pack a pressed powder and lipstick into your clutch bag (or have a bridesmaid hold onto them) as these are the key things you’ll need to touch-up. Super oily? Take some blotting sheets too. Less is more; light layers last longer and improve with time. Blend more than you think you need to keep everything soft, cohesive and radiant.
What is your advice when it comes to prep?
Look at how your beauty routine is currently, do you need to switch it up? It doesn’t need to cost a fortune either. Save: cleansers and moisturisers. Splurge: serums and facials. I love an LED mask too, they give great results instantly and over time, ten minutes a day is all you need. If your budget allows, have a few facials in the run up too. An expert can assess your skin needs and deal with any stubborn issues. Then if you want to go down the injectables route, a little botox is often a nice way to soften things. Other ‘perfecting’ elements like brow and lash tinting, eyebrow lamination, lash extensions, spray tanning - might you want to try any of these? I advise all my clients on the above, having assessed their skin, any issues or concerns they may have and then recommending the best products and experts, to assist them be their best beautiful.
Thank you Glamour, read the full article here
