Planning your wedding? In a fluster about where to start with booking a wedding makeup artist?

Don’t panic! I’ve got award winning make-up artist Stacey Kilpatrick from SAK Designs to share her knowledge and help you with your planning.

WELCOME, STACEY! THANKS FOR JOINING US. WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND AND HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A MAKEUP ARTIST?

I have been working as a professional makeup artist for over 10 years.

I always wanted to become a makeup artist however my path was a little bit of an adventure. Twenty something years ago when I was asking for careers advice, makeup artistry wasn’t a known career and unfortunately, I didn’t exactly receive the advice I needed however my passion to become a makeup artist only grew stronger as a result. I studied a degree in fashion design and event management which indirectly was invaluable to my career through the contacts I made and skills I acquired. Through my degree I made contact with the makeup artist I then went on to study with and have completed many, many courses and masterclasses with worldwide artists since. A desire to learn and continuous personal development is key in such a fast-paced industry.

 

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE?

My style of makeup artist is best known as natural, timeless makeup. I love to enhance a person’s natural beauty, to bring out their best features and give them confidence without creating a mask. I love creating flawless skin, which can also have coverage if desired, but still looks like the best version of you.

HOW FAR IN ADVANCE DO YOU NEED TO BOOK A MAKEUP ARTIST?

Popular makeup artists book on average 1-2 years in advance, especially for weekends and bank holidays. I have a one wedding per day policy, therefore I would advise booking as soon as you know we’re a good match, a £50 booking fee secures your date. My advice to 2021 brides is that with our current situation and the coronavirus pandemic many 2020 brides are needing to reschedule to 2021 and therefore dates are becoming very limited so do get in touch with your preferred suppliers as soon as possible.

HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO GET A MAKEUP TRIAL BEFORE THE WEDDING?

All my brides have an intensive trial approx. 4-6 weeks prior to their wedding. I work with a lot of brides also planning their weddings from afar, such as Australia, America and Canada, therefore trials can take place a little sooner or in the last few weeks leading up to your wedding. A trial is our chance to fully plan your bridal look. I email my brides in advance to help them prep for their trials and give advice on what to bring, wear etc. The main thing with a trial is to be honest with your artist as we want you to feel incredible with your look so it is very much a two way process.

 

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU HAVE SENSITIVE SKIN?

Professional makeup artists will carry a wide range of professional products to accommodate all skin types and skin tones. Sensitive skin should not pose a problem however we can discuss this fully at your trial. I also cater for brides who opt for vegan only makeup brands.

 

SHOULD THE BRIDE-TO-BE BE DOING ANY SKIN PREP BEFORE THE TRIAL/ WEDDING DAY?

Absolutely, great makeup starts with great skin. I can certainly advise on this as can your beauty therapist or skincare specialist. If time is on your side do start planning your skincare regime at least 12 months prior to your wedding. At your trial I can also advise on any last-minute tips to ensure your skin is amazing on your wedding day.

 

ANY TIPS FOR BRIDES TO AVOID A STRESSFUL MORNING OF GETTING READY BEFORE THE WEDDING?

Book professionals and sit back and enjoy your day. On the wedding day you have already done all the hard work so let your pro team guide you through your day. I have worked with hundreds of brides and am known for my calming influence on a wedding household. I have a one wedding per day policy and stay with you all morning completing touch ups and lips before you leave. I’m also on hand to help with the little details and will ensure you have lots of giggles, leave on time and are stress free in the process.

 

TO TAN OR NOT TO TAN YOUR FACE FOR YOUR WEDDING?

This is a tricky one. I would advise on a very light application on your face but cannot emphasise enough you must follow all guidelines from your beauty therapist on how best to prep your skin for this. Word of mouth advice on where to have your spray tan is also a great tip and I can recommend local salons for local brides. I do advise on a tan trial, not only in the salon where you plan to book but also with the exact therapist you plan to use. Wearing a tan to your makeup trial can also be really beneficial.

WHAT ONE PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A BRIDE CHOOSING HER MAKEUP ARTIST?

Choose a professional makeup artist who is experienced in bridal makeup. Look at real life reviews from brides! Research your artist, ask your other wedding suppliers who they can recommend. Make sure their style of makeup artistry matches yours. Also, be aware that some artists may use photos that are edited with filters, please ensure their work online matches your expectations in real life. (I do not edit my photos on my social media channels or add filters, what you see is what you can expect in reality. Professional photographers will professionally edit photos.)

 

Stacey, thank you so much for taking the time to chat to us about booking a wedding makeup artist! Can you come and do my makeup for me everyday?! Pretty please!

If you want to find out more about Stacey, here are her details:

Website: https://www.sakdesigns.co.uk

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sakdesigns/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/S.A.K.DESIGNS/