6 Reasons Why You Need A Pro Makeup Artist for Your Wedding

When talking to booked brides, prospective clients and other wedding vendors, I'm often asked "What's REALLY different about using a pro to do your makeup on wedding day?"  I thought to myself...GOOD QUESTION!

So, what IS different about having a pro artist apply your makeup on your wedding day?  A LOT!  In this age of DIY, many of you really want to know exactly what you're getting when you hire a pro versus doing your own or having a friend help out.  What are you paying for....what goes into it? When it comes to wedding day makeup, here are just a few reasons why you should hire a pro:

In My Kit.....

1. Quality Products  - Pro artists have tested products extensively and know what works and what doesn't, and it's definitely not about buying the most expensive or trendy cosmetics, either.  I test every potential new product on myself for a month...if it passes the test of no irritation, looks great, performs well,  has plenty of pigmentation, lasts all day....then I purchase another one for my kit....I don't care if it costs $5 or $50, it must pass the test.  Random  and untested stuff doesn't go into pro kits, we can't risk it!  Most bridal MUA's use a combination of prestige products, pro brands and drugstore finds that we know perform under pressure.

Set up and ready for wedding day!

 We have thousands and thousands of dollars worth of product, tools and brushes to accommodate any skin tone or situation and we know what's in our kit not only looks beautiful, but really works and lasts the way it's supposed to.  You'd spend far more than our wedding day fees to go out and purchase all of the products and tools we're gonna use to make you gorgeous, that's for sure! You can't create a beautiful look without the right products and tools....we've got 'em and know how to use 'em.

2. Knowledge - As Pros we know how to blend to get the perfect shade of lipstick, exactly what eye shadow will make your hazel eyes pop and which foundation will look best on your Mom's dry skin. Through education and years of experience, I can look at each woman and know how to enhance her features in the best way possible based on her style, bone structure and face shape....it's what artists do!  Your everyday makeup is probably just fine...for EVERYDAY.  This isn't just another day at the office...this is your wedding, it's vital that you look your absolute best!  You need makeup in the perfect shades for you that has been blended properly, with lashes the right length and shape for your eye shape....and all the

Vanja D Photography

other details that go into a flawless face.  We know how to take your inspiration photo and translate it into your dream wedding day look, but we'll also use the experience we have to steer you away from too much contour or convince you to try a brighter lip that fits your personality.  We know what works best...for YOU!


3. Technique - This goes along with knowledge, obviously, but it's more about HOW pros apply products versus how you do it at home.  You can have top notch products and still get crappy results if they aren't applied the right way!  Certain products require a degree of manipulation that few amateurs really understand....which primer to use with certain skin types, choosing brow powder or pomade, which foundation will cover a specific complexion issue, which shimmer powder will produce the look that you've pinned over and over on Pinterest.  When to use brushes, when to blend

Lightly Photography

with a sponge, what size brush to use to achieve a certain effect.....we've developed all of these techniques over the years.  Take that PLUS the great products? It results in the ultimate goal...flawless wedding day makeup that enhances your features in the best way possible.

4. Makeup that LASTS - how many times have you done makeup on yourself...just to look in the mirror at lunch and realize it totally disappeared?  This is a common complaint I hear from clients all the time!!  Yet another reason why you need to book a pro, because we use primers, sealers and application techniques that result in a long lasting and totally budge-proof look. Staying power like that is very difficult to accomplish on your own, especially when you're talking photos, ceremony, reception....it can be a long day.  Something many of us do?  When we get pics back from photographers, we skip to the last photos!  Personally, I love to see that the makeup still looks good and hasn't faded, and I always check (just like in the example below from Katherine's wedding last year!)  Wedding day makeup has to last a minimum of 12 hours,  a pro can create the perfect look that lasts from the first kiss to the last dance.

Tracy Autem Photography

5. Specialized Customer Service - We KNOW weddings, inside and out.  After 20 plus years, I have seen, heard and experienced nearly everything you can imagine on wedding day, and I know how to handle it.  Ice storm and bridesmaids are 3 hours late?  Been there, done that.  Bride getting stressed and needs someone to hand her a cocktail and remind her to breathe?  I'll be your bartender/counselor for a few minutes!  Bridesmaid needs to be talked into wearing more makeup than just Chapstick?

 I'll figure out how to get her just glam enough without pushing her too far out of her comfort zone.  Makeup artists who specialize in bridal makeup know all of this, and a whole lot more!  We know exactly how long it takes to do makeup for each person as well as take care of details so that all you and your girls have to do is sit back and get beautified.  Incidentally, do make sure the makeup artist you choose DOES have bridal experience.....this isn't the time to try out a newbie who's never dealt with a cranky bridesmaid who's hungover from the rehearsal dinner, a variety of skin tones and ages that all require different products or an anxious mother who's never had her makeup professionally done.  Pros who specialize in weddings will make your day easy and stress-free, just like you expect from all of the other vendors you've hired.

Jenny Martell Photography

6. Photos and Video You'll Love - Last, but definitely not least....photos and video.  You've spent thousands on choosing the perfect photographer and videographer....this is NOT the time to scrimp on makeup and hate the results of their hard work!!   Ask any wedding vendor, and they'll tell you....bad makeup can ruin the bride's day, but it will also ruin photos and video as well....and poof!  There go your memories.  It's not easy to craft a makeup look that is equally stunning in person AND in photographs, but a pro does exactly that.  You'll look fabulous as your new husband sees you up close, but you'll also look great in the photos and videos too...this is crucial. You'll be so glad you hired a makeup artist every single time you open your wedding album or watch your wedding video!


Well, there you have it....and honestly, there are even more reasons I'm not listing!  It's more fun, more luxurious, less stressful....on and on. I've covered a few more reasons to hire professional makeup for not just you, but your entire wedding party in this article , so be sure to check that out too! (Hint...a consistent look makes all the difference!) 
So...whether you want to book me or another DFW area artist, or even if you're reading this in

Lifestyle Portrait Photography

another city or country and are considering hiring an artist where you live....think about all of these reasons as you budget for wedding day beauty.  Sure, it's not cheap to hire a talented and reputable makeup artist, but it's a worthwhile investment, and a vital element that can make or break your wedding.  You've only got one shot to look amazing on your big day, so don't take chances.   My wish for all of you is to look as lovely and happy as these brides did on their wedding day...you DESERVE it!

(Makeup in all photos by Jennifer Trotter of  Lip Service Makeup)

Downton Abbey featured in Style Me Pretty!

So excited...just found out that a fun shoot from last year was featured in the prestigious wedding blog, Style Me Pretty!  This shoot was so much fun, and I love recreating that vintage vibe.  Several talented vendors came together to provide elements for a fully realized Edwardian era fantasy.....like Downton Abbey, but infinitely more glamorous!  Have your cup of proper British tea?  Ready to swoon?  Here are just a few images from the shoot....

 

The makeup for this look was a bit of a challenge, because proper society women of that era didn't wear makeup. Hmmm...a bit too bland! So....I had to create a look that was gorgeous, but yet very natural....easier said than done.  I used soft neutrals on the eyes for a bit of definition, created perfect, porcelain "British" skin, and just a slight flush to lips and cheeks with subtle, flirty lashes.  Like the look?  It's a classic look that would actually work for any bride!  (Note: Be sure to check back to see the same model made up for a totally different shoot...you'll be shocked at just how different she looks!) 

 



We had the most fabulous, talented and FUN group of vendors working on this project, I was thrilled to be a part of it!  We're all incredibly proud of this gorgeous shoot, we hope you enjoy the results.

 

The Creative Team

Photographer - Peyronet Photography

Planning and Styling -  Minted Artistry

Florals – Justine’s Flowers

Vintage Furniture and Accessories – Gold Dust Vintage Rentals

Makeup – Lip Service Professional Makeup Artistry

Hair – Renn Traylor

Gowns – Bridal Boutique of Lewisville

Linens – La Tavola

Cake – Romano’s Bakery

Sweets – Tart Bakery

Chairs and other accessories – May I Serve U

Venue – T&P Station

Model - Christina Conoly

Hire a Professional Makeup Artist? DIY? Tips for Both - (Featured on Tami Winn Events Blog)

When Tami Winn Events contacted me and asked for a blog interview, I was more than happy to help!  I LOVE tips and tricks myself, and I'm pretty sure most people love to learn a lil' something new themselves.  In case you're not familiar, Tami Winn and her staff are well known wedding and event specialists here in Fort Worth, TX....they create fantasy environments and lush florals for many exclusive weddings in the area!  They ROCK.  Attention to detail, amazing taste...these girls know what they're doing.  I have worked with Jamie and Tami on weddings, of course and I actually did Tami's own makeup for the 360West "Planners" Photo shoot for the Spring issue.The girl's got GREAT skin and a fabulous smile! (See pic at right....Photo courtesy of Tracy

Autem Photography...check out the article for full list of credits from this incredible "Vanity Fair" style shoot!)

For the interview, they wanted to share with their followers a discussion about hiring a professional vs. DIY makeup, and tips for both.  Wedding planners know all too well how great makeup can make....or break...your otherwise perfect wedding, that's for sure!

RULE #1 - BOOK A PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP ARTIST FOR YOUR WEDDING!
TWE agrees with me on this one...you should hire a professional makeup artist for your wedding!  Once we covered that topic, they wanted to know for brides who don't hire a professional, what are some basic tips (we'll get back to that in a minute).  Obviously, I'm pretty biased...I think professional makeup is crucial for weddings and special events!  Just ask someone who didn't hire a professional who wishes she had....and then ask your wedding professionals who can back this up.

Only a professional knows how to truly highlight your features to their best advantage, while applying makeup what will photograph well AND last. We know how to make you look like the most gorgeous version of yourself that you've ever seen....it's just not the same as everyday makeup, and it's worth it.  Period. As one bride recently told me "My friend who got married last didn't think makeup was important...her wedding makeup didn't look good and she doesn't like her photos...she really regrets skipping it.  I don't want that to happen, plus it's my wedding day...I want to look AMAZING in front of my new husband and all my friends and family!" That bride knew what she wanted and what was important, and on wedding day, she had zero concerns about how she'd look or if her makeup would last.  Beauty plus peace of mind!  Budget in professional hair and makeup, you won't regret it.

For total DIY brides who simply don't have the budget or insist upon doing their own?  Well, I've got advice for you as well.  First off, consider booking a LESSON with a local professional.  Not all artists teach lessons, but many do...I personally love to teach!  I am happy to book a session to go step by step with you through your makeup routine, what works, what doesn't and then show you how to do your own makeup.  Find a local artist who's work you really admire and is recommended by your other wedding professionals and start there.  Many destination brides will book me for this service if their budget doesn't allow them to take me with them.  (Insert frowny face...I'd rather go with you to Belize, but hey, we've got to be realistic...not everyone can swing that!)  Also, many, many brides will book a lesson in the months following their wedding so they can learn how to create a fab look anytime.

 If for some reason you must do your own makeup on wedding day, booking a lesson beforehand could make all the difference! If you're doing total DIY, invest in quality makeup and decent brushes....stick to rosy cheeks and lips (look good on everyone), and a classic overall look.  Learn how to apply lashes, and blend EVERYTHING.

Great products and tools are a must, plus PRACTICE.  Your makeup won't look good if you don't do run throughs to test your look.  Final tip?  Wear plenty of blush!  Blush never shows up well in photos, you need more than real life.

To read the full blog post from the interview I gave with even more tips and tricks, click here.....

Thanks again to Tami Winn Events for featuring me on their blog this week! 

A Real Life "Princess" Bride

Just got back some great photos from Taylor's wedding just a few weeks ago, she's stunning!  She looked exactly like how little girls imagine real princesses look...just dreamy. Might as well name this girl Buttercup! (She married, Jason...not Wesley...FYI)  I did a boudoir shoot for Taylor, and makeup for her shower, so we've been talking for months and have gotten to know each other....she's just as sweet as she is gorgeous.  Yes, really! 

 For the big day, L'Image salon in Mansfield took care of the hair and they were nice enough to create plenty of space for me to set up so we could do all hair/makeup onsite....10 faces for me!  I did the bridesmaids and Taylor's mom first, and then Taylor.....

 

And yep, I'm used to all the bridesmaids hanging out and watching me!  It doesn't bother me at all...I usually throw out some makeup tips and even answer makeup questions while I work.  At this point, everyone was getting really excited...Taylor was being transformed into a BRIDE....

 

I always try to get a few pics with the bride, thankfully the phographer (Beau Vaughn Photography) was right there and snapped a couple pics. Some brides I get to know pretty well, others not as much, but seriously...I'm so lucky!  They are all such nice girls and I love getting to play a part in one of the biggest days in their lives.  Cheesy, but true...#blessed! Taylor was off to Aristide Event Center in Mansfield, TX...a lovely wedding venue that resembles a castle...perfect for a real life "princess" about to get married!  Dress on...check, flowers in the hair...check....

What did I tell you?  What little girl (or grown girl) doesn't dream of looking this magical when she walks down the aisle?

 

 

 One last pic and a few notes about how I created her wedding day look.  She wanted whimsical, gorgeous and special, but not too over the top.  I used a combo of white, gold and bronze cream shadows (they are SUPER long lasting) from Maybelline, along with a few other shades in gold and bronze from other palettes.  This created drama on her eyes, but without any harsh lines or too much color.  I did a classic winged liner, which she knew she loved from the previous times I did her makeup....false lashes, berry cheeks (cream and powder...again long-lasting!), all set with micro-milled setting powder for a flawless, airbrush finish.  I added some subtle shine with a silver/pink and gold shimmer powders from MAC to give her an ethereal glow...not too much, a lot of sparkle doesn't photograph well. I've just gotta tell you...the moment when the bride looks in the mirror when I'm finished, beams back at me with the "Oh my gosh, I LOVE it"...is absolutely the best part of being an artist, and getting the huge hug and thank you is the bonus!  Knowing that I am able to create the look that makes each bride feel beautiful when it counts most is very rewarding and it flat out just makes me smile!  Here's one last pic of the lovely (inside and out!) bride.....

 

I hope she and Jason have an amazing life together!  I know their fairy tale celebration last month was a great way to kick things off with memories they'll never forget...including all the "kissing parts" and the happily ever after.......

 

 

Behind the Scenes - Film Noir/ Roaring 20s Shoot at A&M Gardens

Holy Great Gatsby!  I did a photo shoot Sunday night and all kinds of vintage fabulousness ensued.  I've done a Great Gatsby/20s style shoot before, but that one was light and feminine, with a  blond model.  This one had a totally different feel...a brunette model, much darker makeup, a handsome "groom", and amazing lighting that allowed the photographer to create an edgy/moody vibe.  But first, hair and makeup!  Here's what went down:

                                                            Our model, Jenny....

                                                      Creating a major smoky eye....

                                                      Almost done, did a quick test shot.....

                                                 And done!  Makeup is ready to go......

I used a TON of products to create this look, but basically I used a mix of black, gray, brown, taupe and burgundy/red shadows to create tons of depth and dimension in the 20's smoky eye, plus tons of black liner and the biggest lashes I had in stock to go with the extreme, over the top glamorous look.  I sculpted her cheeks with contour powder, defined and darkened her brows and added an oxblood/burgundy lip shade topped with a tiny bit of shadow for a plush look.  Love it! I get super excited when the image I have in my head is exactly how it turns out.  With makeup like this, it's 100% about the context, lighting and photography...I wanted to make it historically accurate, but yet push the boundaries a bit so it would photograph well.  With makeup done, I sent Jenny over to my #1 hair gal, Renn Traylor to create a flirty 20's look reminiscent of Clara Bow:

We also did hair and makeup for our handsome groom, Hunter and then we started shooting just as the sun went down.  Ian Miller of MVision Photography captured some GREAT shots.  The bulk of them will be published at a later date, but here are a few images to give you an idea.  I love everything...the models rocked it, the lighting, the mood even the vintage car....all of the elements really came together.  The old Hollywood glam headshot of Jenny that Ian captured (see below) may be one of my favorite images examples of my work...EVER.  Can't wait to see the rest of the photos...so exciting!

 

Check back for more photo shoot images in the coming weeks!

Photography - MVision Photography

Venue - A&M Gardens

Makeup - Jennifer Trotter, Lip Service Makeup

Hair - Renn Traylor, Renn Does Hair

Dress - Bliss Bridal

(Other elements not pictured are paper goods by Lauren Blake Paper, cake by Kakes by Kay)