prep talk

Take a look at the wedding album of your mom, aunt or eldest sister and it's likely that you'll see a shot with a gay beautician fussing over the bride. But the past few years saw a rise in number of female make-up artists. These women are not just pretty faces; they actually invested time and money to study the art and train with experts. For whatever reason, being a make-up artist nowadays suddenly became a glamour job for women, much like being a model or a flight attendant.

We have contacted four make-up divas--whose names we have been hearing from our member brides within the WeddingsAtWork.com community--and presented them with a challenge. We informed them that instead of bringing their own model, they'll have each other as models. We reserved an afternoon at the Pictures & Profiles studio in Shangri-La Mall and asked wedding photographer John Mateos Ong for the ladies' before-and-after pictorial. Turns out that make-up session looked less than a challenge among competitors in the same industry, but more like a female bonding session!

See how each of our four make-up divas looked sans makeup and after their makeover. We've also provided a bit of their backgrounds to help you decide which make-up artist would fit your taste, style and budget. Needless to say, the package rates mentioned below applies at the time of writing and is subject to change.

(right photo:make-up by Chichi Sotomil)

Studio/Salon Location: Marikina City
Contact Number: 0917.847.1019
E-mail: ara_fernando@yahoo.com
Website: www.arafernando.com
Training: Masters in Fashion, Beauty & Print at MKC Beauty Academy of Hollywood
Rate for bridal make-up: P15,000 (bride + 3 persons)       
Package rate & inclusions: Trial Make up included in the package
Signature bridal look: Natural / ‘No-Makeup’ look
Hairstyle ideas/accessories to go with that look: Loose bun with curls
Look for the grooms? Clean and fresh
What should brides look for in a makeup artist? Good rapport and a sense of beauty similar to yours
Your most important bridal beauty tip: Do not have facial two weeks prior to your wedding, avoid popping zits on your own, eat healthy, drink lots of water, have enough sleep and RELAX!

(right photo:make-up by Ara Fernando)

Studio/Salon Location: Greenhills West, San Juan
Contact Number: 0917.894.1975
E-mail: cherry@cherrypachecouy.com
Website: www.cherrypachecouy.com
Training: ICI  (2005)
Rate for bridal make-up: P10,000 package for 3 persons; P7,500 bride only; P 1,200 trial session    
Package rate & inclusions:  Includes touch up after church; Free grooming/make up for the groom; Free fashion/styling advice for the bride
Signature bridal look:  Clean & classic with pulled back hair, slightly dramatic eyes
Hairstyle ideas/accessories to go with that look:  Depends on shape of face, or how formal the wedding is and style of the gown. Usually gem/rhinestone pieces at the crown or back for formal; fresh flowers for garden or beach settings.
Look for the groom? Classic hair with black tie or Barong
What should brides look for in a makeup artist? Professionalism, experience and good work ethics
Your most important bridal beauty tip:  Enjoy your wedding day: SMILE!  Leave the worrying to the people you hired. Consider your own facial features, occasion etc. before insisting on a ‘trendy’ look.

(right photo:make-up by Lanie Acedillo)

Studio/Salon Location: Pilar Village, Las Piñas City
Contact Numbers: 801.3605; 0922.810.0120
E-mail: chichisotomil@gmail.com
Website: www.picturetrail.com/chichisotomil
Training: ICI Training Center; Wella Studio
Signature bridal look: I personally prefer putting emphasis on the eyes, but for every bride, I strive for a classic look that is a cross between what she wants and what I think will look best on her.
Hairstyle ideas/accessories to go with that look:  Any style as long as it’s clean.  Most brides go for up styles, but I’ve had a few who wore their hair down.
Look for the grooms? Just oil prevention and concealer
What should brides look for in a makeup artist? Brides should look for a make up artist who they can establish good rapport with.  The make up artist plays a very big role.  He or she will be the one with the bride during the last moments before the wedding.  Choose a makeup artist who not only can deliver the look she wants, but also who she feels most comfortable with.
Your most important bridal beauty tip: Choose a classic look -- a look that’s still you, just prettier!

(right photo:make-up by Cherry Pacheco-Uy)

Studio/Salon Location: Capelli Salon & Manila Polo Club Salon
Contact Numbers: 0917.848.6850; 893.9137
E-mail: lanieacedillo@yahoo.com
Website: www.makeupprolanie.com
Training: Clamar; ICI Institute; Wella Studio; L’Oreal Academy; Toni & Guy Singapore
Rate for bridal make-up: 6,000    
Package rate & inclusions: P12,000 – Hair & Make Up for the bride & groom plus 2 people
Signature bridal look: Classic, Fresh & Feminine
Hairstyle ideas/accessories to go with that look: Stud pearls or Diamonds; Tiara or fresh flowers
Look for the grooms? Classic neat cut
What should brides look for in a makeup artist? Knowledgeable, experienced, service-oriented, punctual
Your most important bridal beauty tip: Less is more!

= = = = = = = = = = =
prep talkback: Send comments and queries to P.O. Box 233, Greenhills, San Juan City 1502 or email: mail@WeddingsAtWork.com.

return to top return to home page