Q – Should I do my own make-up or have it done for me? What are the potential pitfalls of each option?

A – This is really a big consideration. A professional make-up artist can show you new ideas and products that you might not have considered. Having done on the day also allows you to sit back relax, get pampered and really enjoy the day. If you are using a professional make-up artist on the Big Day have a trial run well in advance so you feel confident and comfortable with your look. This is the time for any fine tuning.
If you decide to do it yourself, why not take advantage of the many cosmetic companies who offer free bridal makeovers. That way you can pick and choose what’s best for you. Take your time applying your make-up.

Q – Should I go for my usual daytime make-up on the big day?

A – The best tip I could and do give any bride is ‘look like you’, just more polished.
If you try to go heavier or softer than your regular make-up then you’ll only feel uncomfortable on the day. And worst, you’ll look back at the photos and dislike them. If you want to try out different looks then 2 or 3 months before your wedding is the time to start experimenting. You definitely don’t want to leave it to your Wedding Day and don’t do it any earlier unless you are certain your skin tone won’t change.

You should look like you only better. So, if you don’t wear much make-up don’t be tempted to pile it on and if you like your make-up strong don’t opt for a soft natural look, you won’t feel right.

You should take into consideration your dress (the style), the time of day you are getting married, the flowers, any accessories and time of year.

Q – I am having 4 bridesmaids with different skin tones and I want them all to look great. What colours tend to look best on pale skin / olive-toned and black skins?

A – These days there are no hard and fast rules. If you want them all to look similar then you should stick to neutral shades. By that I don’t just mean the colours from the brown family. These days shades purple, charcoal and navy are considered neutral tones as well because they flatter all skin tones and don’t overpower. Be guided by the colours you have chosen for your wedding theme. You shouldn’t try to match but toning in with the colours looks great. You can choose different hues of the same colour depending on your bridesmaids’ complexion. Remember the paler the skin tone the lighter the shade and the deeper the skin tone the darker the colour. You can experiment with different looks. Sometimes what you think won’t work actually looks fantastic.

Q – How far do you think my wedding dress style should dictate my choice of make-up?

A – The wedding dress style does play quite a big role in how your make-up should look. For example if your dress is soft and floaty and your make-up heavy with strong colours it would look wrong. Other things you must take into consideration are the time of year, the time of day and location. A dramatic smoky evening make-up will look too heavy if you are getting married in a tropical country on the beach.

Q – What do I do if I discover a big blemish on the morning of my big day?

A – First don’t worry it can be hidden. Here is my easy guide.

1) You only need to apply a small amount of concealer in order to cover spots and blemishes effectively. Start by applying an oil free foundation or a tinted moisturiser.

2) Next, using a concealer brush or cotton bud, dot concealer on to the blemish. The yellow toned concealers in my Conceal & Contour Palette will neutralise any redness.

3) Finish by patting gently with the Universal Yellow Powder.

Q – How can I make sure my make-up stays put all day?

A – To make your make-up last primers are a must. Primers come in different types according to your requirements. If you have an oily complexion or an oily t-zone you will want to use an Anti-Shine Primer to stop shine and keep your make-up on longer. If you want to lessen the appearance of fine lines, open pores and keep your make-up on longer then you need my Foundation Primer. Don’t be put off by the word Foundation you can still benefit from its skin perfecting, even if you only wear tinted moisturizer or just concealer. Eye shadow primers or bases will help keep your shadow looking great and crease free. You could try long lasting products (foundation, eye shadow and lipstick). Or you could try layering. This is what I do when making up any of my brides. First I apply a primer appropriate for their skin type. Then Crystal Taupe Eye Shine as a base followed by eye shadow. Waterproof mascara is a must. Next I apply 2 types of blush, a cream or cream to powder blush with sweep a powder blush in a matching colour over the top. I then either use a lip stain or fill in the lips with a lip pencil and add a pop of gloss to the centre of the lips. But most importantly of all, whether you use long-lasting or regular products, take your time applying your make-up.