One of the joys of your wedding day is the pampering of your hair and makeup being done, before you slip into your dream gown. Our Expert today, Melbourne makeup artist Pollyanna of Pollyanna Bernhardt, has a vast knowledge of anything beauty having worked in the industry both locally and overseas for over 10 years. This has given Pollyanna a keen eye for current and classic trends so that she can tailor your look to your individual needs. Not only can Pollyanna provide a hair and makeup service to you, on your wedding day, she can also provide wedding styling and vendor sourcing, event planning and a makeup masterclass for your hen’s party. All of this, and she is inspired by David Attenborough and our clean Australian environment and we’d have to agree wholeheartedly with her! So read on for some great wedding makeup tips and wisdom.
How did you start in the beauty industry?
My first real introduction was a shoot for my modeling portfolio when I was 14. I found myself to be far more interested in the makeup than posing for shots.
How long have you been involved in the beauty industry?
Officially behind the camera since the year 2000.
Image by Ben Swinnerton
What formal training did you undertake?
My first course was a short course in Everyday makeup and Bridal. I then went on to do a Certificate 3 in Makeup, followed by skin science, facials and hair styling.
Who most inspires you?
I know its cliché but my two children and my husband. Followed by David Attenborough! I also like to look to nature for colour and shape inspirations.
What do you most love about your profession?
I love that I’m not stuck in one place and I get to Travel to different locations and meet a vast array of people.
How does your experience in the fashion industry allow you bring out the best in brides when doing their makeup?
I was exposed to the fashion industry at a very young age as my mum was a designer with 2 shops on Chapel St. I grew up surrounded by quirky fashion types and artists. I understand how fashion can shape an era and form a lifestyle. I feel its important to know how to identify key looks and mold them into a style that will suit the client at hand whilst not dating too much at the same time.
Image by Xiss Photography
When doing the makeup for a bride what are the steps/process you go through?
After the initial trial period and consultation I begin with a quick cleanse and skin conditioner followed by a moisturizer suited to the clients skin type.
I then begin the makeup application of SPF (if required) primer, foundation and camouflage. From here I highlight cheekbones, nose and jaw followed by a light dusting of powder especially over the eye area.
Eyes, cheeks and brows then follow in no particular order as this can change depending on the look I’m doing. Lips usually come last as they require more maintenance.
Once the client is dressed I then finalise with touch ups and body highlighting to tie the face into the body. This in turn will prevent the camera flash from bouncing and making the face ghostly.
Although I have a general routine I still try to give each one of my clients a bespoke and unique experience to suit their needs.
Image by Omar Barcenas
What steps should a bride take to make sure her skin is radiant for her wedding day?
Take silica and zinc for optimum skin and hair.
Drink lots of water in the lead up to the wedding. This too will prevent bloating.
Get facials for 6 months prior to wedding.
Sleep well.
I actually have more details on this on my blog
Image by Omar Barcenas
Do you have any tips for ‘emergencies’ such as a pimple or a rash that might appear in the week before the wedding day?
Mario Badescu healing cream and Mario Badescu drying cream are two of my favorites.
What are the products and tools you recommend we have in our makeup kits?
Your kit doesn’t need to be huge to be great. Decent brushes are important. YSL touche eclat is fantastic. Bojouris mascara’s are also fantastic and a good red lipstick such as Nars Velvet Matte lip pencil in Red square.
Image by Fresh Photography
In my makeup kit you will find……..
An assortment of brands including NARS, Jane Iredale, Stilla, Shu Uemera and even Topshop and Bojouris.
My favourite beauty secret for brides is…..
Go for a Blue Black eyelash tint over eyelash extensions before your wedding to brighten your eyes. This will define your eyes and will mean less maintenance generally and make your honeymoon that much easier.
My most treasured item is…..
Not so much an item but I absolutely treasure clean beaches and the environment. I recently spent a few months in Bali and was overwhelmed by the pollution and devastation. I lived there for 6 years when I was younger and I have extended family there. This time it really upset me to see how quickly a place can decline. I honestly believe Bali is heading for an environmental disaster. It’s only a small island that can sustain so much. Tourism is at 6 million a year and the government is aiming for 10 million. It’s absurd and very upsetting.
Anyway on returning to Australia I was that much more thankful for our environmental laws and education. Having said that we could still be doing so much more for the future.
When not working I love to……
Potter about in my garden and if the weather permits, explore pretty beaches..
Thank you Pollyanna for sharing your story with us. It’s always interesting to find out what an expert uses in her own kit, and recommends. To find out more about Pollyanna Bernhardt visit her website and blog
Headshot by thetrendspotter.net
