IN the past, as full-time beauty editor, I took on hair and makeup jobs on the side to supplement my magazine income. I worked on advertising shoots, music videos and weddings during my free time.
Weddings proved to be the most challenging of them all. I never knew what to expect. But at the same time, working the bridal circuit taught me many things, and the experience is currently helping me put together my own nuptials.
I caught up with two other makeup artist friends to exchange ideas on the dos and don’ts when it comes to one’s big day, and essentially gather tips on how to look one’s best (and most photogenic) on the event that took months to prepare.
Their answers were both hilarious and helpful. I am only too happy to share them with you.
10. “Do not sleep later than 12 midnight even if your wedding is after lunch,” says Barbi Chan, chief makeup artist at Maybelline New York, who has worked with more than 300 brides. “Trust me, it shows, [and] it’s so hard to conceal swollen and tired eyes!”
9. Steer clear of foundation that contains titanium dioxide (a common sunscreen ingredient), as it turns white in pictures. This only emphasizes the importance of making it to your trial makeup session and reviewing the photographs. On that note, “Do not be late or miss your appointment,” says Mayone Bakunawa, a former Estée Lauder guest makeup artist who has been doing makeup for five years now. “If you have to [cancel], inform way ahead of time [as a] courtesy to the makeup artist and her other clients.”
8. Avoid any medical or dermatological treatments like facials, waxing or threading at least a week before the wedding, and never ever the day before. “No amount of makeup can cover burnt skin or an infected pimple,” explains Chan.
7. “Do not drastically change your hair color,” warns Bakunawa. “Asian hair has a lot of copper undertones so if you’re going for a light brown shade, you’d have to bleach first.” Bakunawa recommends going to a reputable salon or a professional stylist. “It will be worth it, otherwise you might end up with orange hair.”
6. Don’t treat your suppliers like hired help. Your makeup artist, hair stylist, photographer and everybody else are there to make sure you look your best, and they deserve to be treated with respect. Treat them right and you’ll be rewarded with a well-made-up face, great hair and amazing pictures (even, possibly, lasting friendships).
5. Avoid unrealistic expectations, at least from the hair and makeup team. “Do not expect us to be magicians or surgeons,” says Bakunawa. “Granted, we will do everything we can in our power to make you the most beautiful you, but you’ll still look like yourself.” So brides, take note: no asking for ‘nose lines’ please!
4. “Do not neglect skin care and ‘leave it up to the makeup artist,’” shares Bakunawa. Chan agrees, having advised many women in the past to take care of their complexions. “Clear, blemish-free skin is the perfect canvas for makeup to go on,” she says. Besides, if your skin is in great shape, you won’t need that much makeup.
3. Try not to stress about the small things. “Brides should learn the art of letting go,” says Chan. “As long as you have your photographer, makeup, gown, and of course, groom, then everything else can fall apart and you will still be the most beautiful bride. Let go and everything will be alright.”
Says Bakunawa: “Stress will manifest in different ways, such as hair loss, dry skin, breakouts, rashes, you name it. And it shows in pictures.”
2. “Your wedding day is just one day, do not expend all your energy and be drained afterwards,” urges Chan. She also encourages couples to focus on the pending marriage itself, and not just get caught up in the preparations. “Planning a wedding is easy, getting married is not. So make sure that you are sure about it—no doubts, no hesitations, because we are talking about spending the rest of your life with this person.”
1. Don’t forget to feed your suppliers. “Do not assume that while we work in the fashion and beauty industry, we do not eat,” expresses Bakunawa. And Chan shares the same sentiment: “Even if it’s just a simple mamon [small butter cake], it really helps a lot!”
Feeling sexy.... :P
