Below are a few beauty tips for those who are having their makeup professionally applied for any occasion or event. When paying for a makeup artist it is important for you to prepare your ideas and your skin, so they can create the perfect look for you.

Preparation for a Wedding Trial or Makeover Session

1. Moisturise your skin before your trial for easy makeup application.

2. Moisturise your lips so they are soft and smooth for lipstick application.

3. Have a look at magazines and think about the colours and the look you would like.

4. Let the makeup artist know of any special skin conditions.

5. Arrange a trial in the day light so you can see the true colours.

6. Wear something of similar colour to your wedding dress or outfit.

7. Use a camera to take photos of different looks to reflect on later.

Skincare Preparation

It is important that you have a skincare regime suited to your complexion, the time of the year, and the occasion etc.

For weddings and special occasions, particularly if photography is involved, it is important to limit shine on the skin. A mattifying, oil-free moisturiser is ideal for this, as it absorbs grease, acting like a sponge to maintain a shine-free complexion throughout the day. It is important that the cream is suited to your skin type, be it sensitive, oily, dry or combination.

Skin conditions also change with the season, and the type and intensity of a day or night cream may vary during the year. If you are unsure as to what you should use, please ask me or a cosmetic adviser in a department store.

Lips are best smooth and soft for lipstick application, so regular moisturising is essential. If you worried about your lips being too fine, you could also invest in a lip plumper which should be applied up to three months before the special day.

Daily cleansing and toning is important to reduce the risks of pimples and blackheads. Concealer can work wonders, but preventative measures can be taken to reduce the chance of spots on the day, so make sure you cleanse!

Let me know if you are planning to change your skin colour before the event i.e. fake tan, as this will make a difference to the products that we use. It may be best to have the same skin colour for your trial if possible!

If you would like some product recommendations then please email me for advice.

Makeup Application

Makeup is designed for different skin types and it can to be applied to suit you and the look you want be it glamorous, sexy, classic, natural etc. Makeup needs to be applied more heavily for photography work than for everyday wear as cameras tend to washout colours. If you don't wear alot of makeup, don't worry it doesn't mean your makeup has really bright, there are techniques for applying makeup that can still make you look like you have nothing on.

For long lasting makeup which stay's fresh all day, there are a number of essential items you will need........Powder, Lipstick, Waterproof Mascara!

Foundation is created for all skin types but it is important that foundation is matt for photography work. Powder is often an essential item to keep with you to combat any shiny patches that arise.

Concealer and corrector are essential to hide dark circles and blemishes, which will stand out on photos.

It is important to top up your lipstick throughout the day. Applying a lip liner all over your lips will create a good base to hold your lipstick on for much longer. The lipliner should be the same colour as your own lips and it is good to use a lip wax pencil to prevent bleeding throughout the day.

It is often the eyes or the lips that you want to emphasise, depending on which is your defining feature. Eyeliner, eyeshadows and mascara can be applied to define your eyes in a whole range of different ways.

Colours can be mixed and blended to create the perfect colour, with a range of matt and shimmering shades for both. Never be afraid to experiment as you can always remove it! I always recommend waterproof mascara or tinted eyelashes at weddings as it can often be very emotional, and these have good staying power. False lashes aren't the greatest idea as they can cause shadows under your eyes in photographs.

If you would like to know more about different makeup products and a range of ways to use and apply them, I also offer makeup lessons. If you have any specific questions please don't hesitate to ask me.