Describe your style in 5 adjectives.
Sophisticated, natural, elegant, glowy, and modern.
What about your business are you most proud of?
One year into my business, I was awarded 'Outstanding Beauty Professional of the Year 2019' by the Midlands Beauty Industry Awards. This was all because my previous clients voted for me to be a finalist (thank you so much) and the judges looked further into my business.
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
Book your venue, the big parts first! But I can't stress how important it is to not forget about your hair and makeup as we get booked up very quickly.
What is your favourite personal touch you have seen at a wedding?
One of my brides back in October 2018 had a black and red themed wedding as they were a gothic couple - so cool! They did pretty much EVERYTHING themselves: the reception was at their home, the DJ was a friend, they decorated their home for the event, their dog was in a little dress and the cake was decorated by the bride. It was so creative and close to their hearts!
Describe your typical process with a couple.
I highly recommend a pre-wedding trial to ensure that you are happy with your bridal look and that the makeup wears perfectly on your skin. I suggest the trials take place 6-8 weeks before the wedding. The trial is an opportunity for me to get to know you as an individual and for us to discuss wedding themes, timings for the day and, of course the dress. Please feel free to tell me as much about your wedding as you want to, as this will help me to build an idea of how you want to look on your special day. On the day of your wedding, I will arrive at the venue earlier than the discussed time in order to set up. The brides makeup will be done second to last so that it remains as fresh as possible before the 'I do's'. I will stay with you up until the moment you leave, for any last minute touch-ups if needed.
What do you love most about your job?
Meeting brides who can't wait to tell me their wedding plans and being able to work with them to create the perfect bridal look that will suit them as an individual. The best part is seeing the finished look of hair, makeup and their dress.
What is your No. 1 beauty tip for a bride?
I recommend getting a good skincare routine in place, even before the trial as it will give a nice base for the makeup. Do not try any new products before your wedding day just in case you react to it! Makeup By Mary brides receive a digital book to help you curate your own skincare regime.
How do you keep the bride feeling calm on her wedding day?
Honestly, I just keep chatting with them! I'm a pretty chilled person myself and I really think that helps. One week before the wedding, I like to send through a schedule so that the bride can rest assured that timings have been carefully planned out. Once everybody has had their makeup done, I like to see how I can help with anything else.
What advice would you give to brides to stay looking great throughout their wedding day?
I always provide the bride and their party with a pot of lipstick and powder for the bride for any touch-ups that they feel they may need during the day.