If you’ve been reading my blog or following me on Instagram, you might have seen that I was recently a bridesmaid in my friend Tracy’s wedding. The bachelorette party was fab and I loved the bridesmaid dress, but I don’t think I ever told you guys what I got her for her bridal shower. I should have shared this very significant detail earlier because it’s a great idea for a bridal shower gift or even a bachelorette party favor.
I wanted to get her something fun and original. So I opted for an off registry gift – a Black Sequin and Pom Custom Floppy Sun Hat from the HatsByOlivia store on Etsy. Here she is sporting her custom “Just Married” sun hat on her honeymoon in Riviera Maya, Mexico. Her husband (who is also her Instagram husband) snapped this photo of her and of course I had to share it.
When it comes to weddings and bridal showers, I personally like to get an off registry gift for the shower and give something from the registry or cash at the wedding. This custom sun hat was an unexpected, yet welcome surprise and like love, I like my bridal shower gifts to be unexpected. It was so great to see her wear it on her honeymoon. If you’re planning on surprising a bride-to-be, a birthday girl or whoever, a custom floppy hat just might be the way to go!
You’ve always dreamed of your wedding day. So when it comes to the biggest day of your life, your makeup better be perfect. Follow these simple rules straight from a bridal makeup artist and your wedding day makeup is sure to be stunning.
DO have pictures to inspire your artist
Time and time again I get asked for a “smokey eye” or have people say “you’re the professional – you do what you think.” Everyone is so different, and rightly so (my job would be very boring if that weren’t so) but go Google “Smokey Eyes” and you will see my point – there are so many variations. So, get some inspiration pictures for your artist of looks you like. Even photos of something you don’t like can be helpful too.
DON’T use tons of under eye concealer
Some under eye concealer buffed out will be invisible and then a small amount of a slightly warmer than normal concealer applied to the very blue line under the eyes can help to hide those dark circles. You want it to be light though. Applying lots won’t hide dark circles, it will just make them more prominent.
DO use a mirror in good light
When checking your look do make sure you are in good light. Have a wander around your house and check your makeup in different rooms.
DON’T be afraid to say what you think
Your wedding artist will be used to tweaking looks and adapting them to suit each client. So speak up if you don’t like something . You are paying for her to be there and it’s better to do the fine tuning now than have you hate it later.
DO Be Yourself
If you are used to a strong makeup or a natural no makeup look on a day to day basis then be yourself and go with how you will feel comfortable. There are no rules to what you have to be. This is your day. So be yourself only better.
DON’T go all one color
A little color works in pictures and the last thing you want is your face to have disappeared when you get your photos back. Add in a hint of pink or peach lipstick or blush because once you are head to toe in a wedding gown the color can drain from you.
DO take your time
Once you’ve had your trial, be sure to take your makeup for a test drive before making the commitment for the wedding. Go out with your girlfriends or to dinner with your fiance (if you don’t mind him seeing it). Anything to get out and make sure you love it.
DON’T go crazy topping up
If you’ve picked a good artist, your makeup will last. Lipstick should be the only thing you really need to top up. Unnecessary touch ups will only ruin your look.
This guest post is by Clare Ardern of Harry Jon, a leading hair and makeup artist with over 10 years experience. As a specialist in wedding hair and makeup, Clare prides herself on her diverse skill and portfolio to suit every style.
New York Bridal Week has once again arrived! So it’s no wonder that my boyfriend is freaking out a little with every bridal market show I attend. In October, I ventured over to Penthouse 45 for the first ever presentation of the new Isabelle Armstrong bridal line. After such a gorgeous introduction, I couldn’t wait to see the next collection. With modern twists on classic ball gowns including pink accents and contemporary beading, the latest bridal couture collection by Isabelle Armstrong did not disappoint. This lovely collection was once again shown at Penthouse 45 overlooking the always breathtaking Midtown skyline.
Last week, I had the privilege of attending the Pronovias Atelier 2014 Fashion Show hosted by Petra Nemcova. The collection was not only incredibly modern, but also incredibly epic with hints of ancient Grecian and cyborg influences. To put it simply, this Pronovias collection was Greek Goddess meets Grace Kelly. The ornate headpieces were especially incredible and the background of St. James’ Church mirrored that of an authentic wedding.
