Supplier Spotlight… Samantha Melanie Makeup

Todays ‘Supplier Spotlight’ features the lovely Samantha, a talented wedding hair & makeup artist based in Finchampstead in Wokingham. For some fab tips & tricks, and how to prepare your skin for the ‘Big Day’ read on…

Hi Sam! Thanks for taking part in our ‘Supplier Spotlight’, how did you get into the wedding beauty industry?

Thanks for asking me to feature! I used to do some modelling and over the years, I learned loads from makeup/hair artists and was always fascinated to watch how they could transform me. I decided on a career change – to go behind the lens rather than in front of it! I began to assist my favourite celebrity makeup artist, Lisa Harris-Boys, on both photoshoots and weddings. As my experience grew, friends and family began asking me to do their makeup for their weddings, which I thoroughly enjoyed. From there, word of mouth spread, and I am now enjoying a busy schedule filled with weddings – I thoroughly enjoy working within the wedding industry, and as such, knew this is what I would specialise in. I simply adore being part of such a special time in a bride’s life, and making their visions come to life!

What are your favourite make-up brands that you use? Do you have any cult products you use time & time again?

I love Urban Decay, MAC, Charlotte Tilbury, Bare Minerals, Giorgio Armani, Anastasia Beverly Hills, Bobbi Brown and many more! I use high street brands too- I judge products on their efficiency and performance – top brands aren’t always the best. I am a huge fan of Armani’s Luminous Silk Foundation and Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer. A flawless base is a must for any bride, and these two power products rise to the challenge.

What is the best way a bride can be prepare herself to be her most radiant on the lead up to her big day?

The easiest way is through diet and lifestyle! Lots of water, sleep, leafy greens and cut down on processed foods/sugar/alcohol. Combine this with a course of tailored facials (my favourite is Dermalogica) will really help the skin look its best. Please note – start the facials around 8 weeks prior to wedding day as sometimes breakouts happen after the initial session.

Can you share any industry tips and tricks with us?

Drink more! (Water of course!)

Clean your brushes at least once a week to keep them performing at their best.

What does an average day for you entail?

Dealing with wedding bookings, advertising and arranging/carrying out trials or weddings themselves! I am going to be doing a beauty course very soon after the imminent birth of my Son, to increase my repertoire and be able to offer more to my brides to be.

What is your favourite wedding beauty look?

A subtle to medium smokey eye with a focus on luscious thick lashes, perfectly arched brows, and plenty of subtle contouring/highlighting, topped off with a sheer nude lip.