Your East Anglian Wedding - Apr/May 2019 (Issue 36)

103 EXPERT ADVICE GET THE LOOK I have fair skin and don’t tan easily but want a healthy bridal glow for my big day. How can I achieve this without looking unnatural or over made-up? Stephanie says: The make-up look (pictured) is perfect for summer weddings, combining traditional bridal aspects such as a champagne eye colour, a natural complexion and a soft vintage pink lip. However, we took it to the next level by adding more texture and a smoky eyeliner to add subtle glam and really enhance the eye shape to make them pop for the camera. One of my favourite liners at the moment is Maybelline Lasting Drama Gel Liner which is waterproof; perfect for those teary big-day moments! To achieve a healthy, flawless look without it looking unnatural or heavy, we used Hoola Bronzer by Benefit Cosmetics to create definition and naturally enhance the cheekbones and nose. Next is where the best part comes in; giving the skin that all-important radiance. To create a dewy effect, I used Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter mixed with foundation (bareMinerals BAREPRO is one of my go-to products for brides) and finished the look by popping it along the high points of the face for that supermodel glow. Stephanie Alexandra | Make-up artist | stephaniealexandramua.co.uk emilytylerphotography.com HERE COMES THE SUN My bridesmaids have arrranged a week away in the sun for my hen party. I’m looking forward to getting a healthy tan but don’t want to get sunburnt or damage my skin. What would you advise to make sure I’m looking my big-day best? Sam says: It’s a common misconception that using a sunbed will prepare or protect your skin ‒ it won’t! It just increases cumulative damage and risk. Another long-standing myth that often baffles me is that you can’t get a good tan using sunscreen. Some of my most even tans have been from wearing factor 50 and sitting in the shade. Crispy shoulders and unsightly strap marks are not a good look for your wedding, so it’s best to control the way you tan and regularly apply the SPF. Prevention is better than cure, so slip something on to keep your shoulders covered if you’re out in it for long and use a sunscreen with SPF30 or above. Make sure it has a UVA symbol (ideally labelled minimum 4 star), store in a cool place and remember to check the expiry date. Don’t forget to protect your lips as well with a SPF 30+ lip balm. Wear a sun hat with a wide brim to shade your face, neck and ears. Solar UV radiation can be damaging to the eyes, so invest in some good quality sunglasses too. Overall protection depends on the quality of the lens as well as the design, so look for the European CE mark, which indicates a safe level of protection. As tempting as it is to lay out in the sun for ages, find some shade particularly during peak UV hours from 11am to 3pm. Never rely on shade alone though, always combine it with other protection measures. Samantha Eaton | Make-up artist and beauty therapist | samanthaeaton.co.uk CURLY LOCKS I love the on-trend braided look for brides, but I'm not sure it would work for my spring wedding with my thick curly hair. What would you advise? Lisa says: There’s no need to worry, in fact the natural texture of curly hair is well-suited for the on-trend big braided and twisted styles. Look after your locks in the lead up to your day by using a professional brand of curl-enhancing shampoo and detangling conditioner, and a moisturising curl cream for styling. Always comb through with your fingers or a really wide-toothed comb; to keep frizz under control and give thicker, healthy looking waves.  Loose curls can be easily transformed into beautiful braids or twists without too much prep. For tighter tendrils or afro hair getting a professional blow-dry on the morning of your wedding or the day before will help control frizz, add shine and make it easier to style. No matter how tempting it is don’t use straighteners! This will create lines and make the shorter hairs stand up at funny angles and look unnatural. I like to use a curling wand on a middle heat to carefully stroke stray strands to the desired shape.  If, at your trial, you feel your curls are making the braids look untidy or you’re worried they’ll spring back throughout the day, I’d suggest twists instead. This will allow your hair to behave more naturally. Your stylist should be able to manipulate your natural or blow-dried curls into the same direction of the twists. And they look just as stunning! Lisa Frost | Hair stylist | hairbylisa.co.uk Q&A Beauty Local experts advise on hot seasonal bridal looks the-wild-bride.com