Brides aspire to feel like the very best version of themselves on their wedding day, but this goes further than finding the right dress. Choosing a look that stands the test of time while reflecting your personality is essential but also daunting. But don’t worry. We’ve interviewed a professional MUA who specialises in bridal makeup so that you can perfect your final look.
We’ve worked with Kyra Valentina many times, including for our 2020 Enamour Collection showcase. We simply adore her polished artistry and deep understanding of a bride’s needs. From the must-haves in her cosmetic bag to the ultimate skincare advice, Kyra shares her tips and tricks for mastering your wedding day makeup. So, whether you’re hiring a professional or taking on the job yourself, this is the pro advice you need.
What’s the best piece of beauty advice you’ve ever received?
“Take care of your skin and feel confident with the skin you’re in.” I believe skin should always look natural and fresh, especially for your wedding day when you want that ‘bridal glow’. Beautiful skin starts with skincare, a good moisturiser is essential for keeping skin hydrated and ensuring that your makeup is applied seamlessly. One that I love and recommend is the Creme De La Mer’ The Moisturizing Soft Cream’.
How can you ensure your makeup lasts the whole day?
Some people think that piling on the makeup will help to make it last, but in terms of longevity sometimes less is more. Using high quality and long-lasting products will help keep the makeup looking fresh all day. One of my top tips is to set the makeup with a dusting of powder, like the Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder along with the Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray. These together will ensure your makeup lasts and stays in place for the entire day, allowing you to dance the night away.
In your opinion, what celebrity has had the most iconic wedding day look?
Kim Kardashian’s bridal makeup is an iconic look that I really love and continues to be a very popular look among brides. Her makeup was classic and soft, and her skin looked radiant and dewy with a timeless black line on the lids, luscious lashes and a nude lip. It’s a look that can suit anyone and enhances natural features.
How do you create a unique bridal look?
When creating my brides’ bespoke wedding day look, we’ll always run through different options beforehand. The style of dress, the theme for the wedding, ideas for their hairstyle; all these factors will shape the look we choose. I aim to enhance their natural features and make them feel beautiful.
What are the most common questions you receive from brides, and how do you answer them?
A lot of brides ask what they can do to prep their skin, so it looks healthy and glowing for their wedding day. Maintaining a strong skincare routine is essential to achieving this. I always recommend the Rodial Pink Diamond Masks as they tighten and brighten skin for a more youthful-looking, radiant complexion. Also, the Glam Glow Supermud Clearing Treatment is excellent if you have any breakouts and want to clear the skin of any impurities. Or you can always treat yourself to a course of skin care treatments at a spa or clinic!
Another popular question is if they will need to top up any makeup on the day. The only item I say is essential to have in your bridal handbag is a lipstick/gloss.
Three makeup tools you swear by?
- Eyelash curlers are an absolute essential for me, once you curl someone’s lashes it opens up the eye, even before mascara. My favourite is the Surrat Eyelash Curlers.
- Eyeliner brush – the eyeliner brushes I tend to use are from an art store, as these are the finest, thinnest brushes, allowing me to have more control with the eyeliner.
- MAC 217 Blending Brush – this brush is a ‘must-have’ for blending eyeshadows. It’s such a versatile brush, and I also use this for concealing and applying powder into more precise areas on the face like the nose and under the eyes. A fantastic all-round brush!
Three go-to makeup brands and why?
- Giorgio Armani Beauty – The products from GA are amazing, especially the Luminous Silk Foundation. I use this a lot for my brides as it gives that flawless natural-looking skin while keeping it luminous. Also, the colour range is so vast.
- Becca Cosmetics – One of my signature looks is creating that glowing, fresh looking skin. I love using the Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Liquid and Becca Pressed Highlighters to create that fresh glow on my clients.
- Dior – My first makeup job was working for Dior, so this brand has always been special to me. The products are of such high quality and offer that luxury for brides on their wedding day too.
Most used item in your makeup bag?
That’s so hard to answer, and there’s too many! But I’m obsessed with lip balm. My go-to is Dr.PawPaw Original Balm it’s full of natural ingredients which I love. It really softens the lip and is also a multi-use balm so is essential for me when I am out and about for shoots and clients.
What are the benefits of choosing an MUA for your wedding day?
A makeup artist will have the tools and techniques needed to create your perfect bridal look, making sure that your picture perfect on the day. They will also be able to offer professional advice on what will look good and fit in with all aspects of your wedding. Your wedding should be all about you having a fantastic experience as this is a very special day and you want to feel relaxed and pampered. When it comes to choosing your wedding makeup artist, find a style that you love. All makeup artists have a signature style, whether it’s glowing skin or stand out eyes, so meet with a makeup artist who creates the looks you love and reflects your style.
What’s the one piece of beauty advice you wish every bride would take on board?
Like with any makeup look, hydrated skin is the best starting point, so look after your skin and drink lots of water as this does help. Makeup is about enhancing your natural beauty and should reflect your individuality!
CONTACT KYRA VALENTINA:
Website: www.kyravalentina.com
Instagram: @kyra.valentinamua
Email: kyra@kyravalentina.com
2020 Enamour Collection
View AllWho is Sassi Holford?
Sassi Holford is a British fashion designer whose label has become synonymous with luxury fashion. Sassi herself is an icon of British style and is firmly established in the high-end market through her innovative design. As well as creating award-winning and highly acclaimed couture wedding dresses, Sassi has made an impact on the fashion world with her classic and versatile pieces – both bespoke and ready-to-wear – that are aimed at the discerning, stylish woman. Read more about Sassi’s story.