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Bright, Bold and Unapologetically You – Wedding Makeup Tips from Kate McCleary

25.03.25
Hair and Beauty Wisdom Wedding Planning Wisdom Wisdom
Bright, Bold and Unapologetically You – Wedding Makeup Tips from Kate McCleary
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BY
Kate McCleary
The Dopamine Issue

Dive into a celebration of happiness, bold colours, and pure joy.

From feel-good decor to mood-boosting wedding ideas, this issue is all about bringing personality and sparkle to your big day.

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Bold wedding makeup is back – and we are obsesse Bold wedding makeup is back – and we are obsessed! From pops of colour to glitter accents and statement lips, it’s all about self-expression on your wedding day. Sydney-based hair and makeup artist @katemcclearyhairandmakeup shares her pro tips on embracing fun, fearless beauty – whether you love a soft wash of pastel, a striking red lip, or a graphic liner moment.⁠ ⁠ 👁 Play with colour – think lavender liner, golden shimmer, or a blush that pops!⁠ 💋 Balance your look – match (or contrast) with your dress, florals, or accessories.⁠ ✨ Stay true to YOU – there are no rules, just what makes you feel amazing!⁠ ⁠ Want to embrace bold bridal beauty? Tap the link in bio to read Kate’s expert insights on Polka Dot Wisdom now!⁠ ⁠ Photography: @mirandastokkel⁠ / HMU: @katemcclearyhairandmakeup⁠ ⁠ [Image description: The image showcases a radiant bride in a modern, playful bridal look. She wears a white mini dress with dramatic puffed sleeves, exuding a bold and fashion-forward vibe. Her long, flowing veil adds a touch of bridal elegance, contrasting with the fun and carefree energy she displays. She accessorises with bright red statement earrings, matching red stiletto heels, and a striking bouquet of red roses with flowing red ribbons, creating a cohesive and visually stunning colour palette. Her bold red lipstick completes the look, reinforcing the theme of confident, unapologetic bridal style.]⁠ ⁠ #PolkaDotWedding #FeelGoodWeddings #AustralianWeddings #AustralianWedding #PolkaDotWisdom #WeddingPro #WeddingVendor #WeddingProfessional #WeddingInterview #TheDopamineIssue #DopamineWedding #DopamineWeddigs #BrightWedding #RainbowWedding #ColorfulWedding #ColourfulWedding #FunWedding
“We decided to get engaged together. I think it’s romantic to discuss and plan together rather than surprise someone with a life decision.” – @rubymackinnon & @andrewmcdowell⁠ ⁠ A garden, a handful of loved ones, and a celebration filled with personal touches – Ruby & Andrew’s intimate backyard wedding was as heartfelt as it was beautiful. From their side-by-side entrance to a confetti moment that now hangs proudly in their home, every detail reflected their love story. ⁠ ⁠ See all the dreamy moments from their wedding now on Polka Dot Featured – plus, stay tuned for part two, where we are excited to share more stunning details!⁠ ⁠ Photographer: @briarsatlas / Alterations: @alterationsbyemily.melb / Bride's Dress: @duchessboutiqueaustralia / Bride's Reception Dress: @duchessboutiqueaustralia / Ceremony Decor: @emilsomprintmaker / Bride's Shoes: @baredfootwear / Ceremony Officiant: @hestermarymarries / Dessert Table: @thekindnessechoes / Engagement Ring: @david_neale_jewelry / Wedding Ring: @david_neale_jewelry / Flowers: #DonnaMcDowell / Hairstylist: @thedistinctivedame / Makeup Artist: @melindawain_makeup / Wedding Cake: @thekindnessechoes / Restaurant: @radio_mexico⁠ ⁠ [Image one description: With a gorgeous manicured garden and the golden afternoon sun surrounding them, this pair of newlyweds are looking down at their feet. The groom is wearing a pair of dark blue slacks, a white shirt, an off-white jacket, and a bowtie. He's holding his arm out for the bride to hold onto. She's wearing an off-shoulder blue and grey tulle gown with gold detailing.⁠ ⁠ Image two description: Here, the bride embraces a little girl as a slightly older girl leans on the table in front of them to join in the intimate conversation. Behind the first girl is a redheaded woman smiling down at the young girl. A pink bouquet sits on the table.⁠ ⁠ Image three description: The couple are back in the gardens, arm-in-arm, smiling at each other.]⁠ ⁠ ⁠ #PolkaDotWedding #FeelGoodWeddings #AustralianWeddings #AustralianWedding #WeddingStory #WeddingStories #WeddingMemories #WeddingInspiration #WeddingInspo #RealWedding #BackyardWedding #GardenWedding #IntimateWedding #BlueWeddingDress
If modern, romantic wedding florals are your vibe, If modern, romantic wedding florals are your vibe, then let us introduce you to @grumpyflowers_– a Sydney and Blue Mountains-based floral studio creating breathtaking designs with seasonal, Australian-grown blooms!⁠ ⁠ Led by the talented Christina, who brings five years of floristry experience (plus a decade in events!), Grumpy Flowers offers more than just bouquets. From bespoke floral design to venue styling, specialty hire, and custom signage, their team is about making your wedding vision come to life—down to the very last petal.⁠ ⁠ And the best part? Christina and her team are as fun and creative as they are organised because dreamy flowers should come with a stress-free experience!⁠ ⁠ Ready to bring your floral dreams to life? Head to the link in our bio and learn more on the Polka Dot Directory!⁠ ⁠ psst! Wedding vendors! Take a look at our Polka Dot Membership to see if it’s the right fit for your business – link also in our bio.⁠ ⁠ Photographer: @rosephotosau⁠ ⁠ [Image one description: This shot focuses on a beautiful dog, with a pastel-toned floral collar. The couple are holding the lead, with the bride wearing a fitted white dress with a bouquet that matches the tones of the collar, and the groom wearing tan pants, brown leather shoes and a blue jacket.⁠ ⁠ Image two description: This is a close-up shot of the wooden arbour with bright orange, blue, pink and yellow florals.]⁠ ⁠ ⁠ #PolkaDotWedding #FeelGoodWeddings #AustralianWeddings #AustralianWedding #WeddingVendors #WeddingDirectory #WeddingWebsite #WeddingInspo #WeddingInspiration #WeddingBlogger #WeddingFlorals #WeddingFlorist
⁠ Hayley and Nari's intimate wedding was burstin ⁠ Hayley and Nari's intimate wedding was bursting at the seams with incredible pastel details, but the florals have to be our favourite! Elle from @marynormabotanicals created the perfect collection of flowers in a beautiful soft colour palette of peaches, lemony yellows and a hint of mauve. ⁠ ⁠ Find more of these stunning details in the full feature!⁠ ⁠ Photographer: @dreamcave__ / Bride's Dress: @luvbridal / Bride's Shoes: @baredfootwear / Flowers: @marynormabotanicals / Groom's Attire: @politixmenswear / Reception Venue: @farmviganoweddings / Wedding Cake: @sweetbakes_⁠ ⁠ [Image one description: A detail shot of the bride's white heels, silver jewellery and pink and purple bouquet wrapped in a peach ribbon, all sitting on a brown leather armchair.⁠ ⁠ Image two description: Standing outside on grass, this couple is popping a bottle of champagne. The groom is wearing a grey suit and botanical tie, while the bride is wearing a fitted one-shoulder dress and holding a pink bouquet.⁠ ⁠ Image three description: The groomsmen are holding the bouquet from the earlier photos, covering most of their faces. They're wearing a similar outfit to the groom but without the jacket, leaving their white shirts exposed.⁠ ⁠ Image four description: This is a shot of the cake sitting on a white stand. The two-tier white cake is covered in colourful icing creating floral designs across the tiers, with flowers poking out the top of each layer.]⁠ ⁠ #PolkaDotWedding #FeelGoodWeddings #AustralianWeddings #AustralianWedding #WeddingStory #WeddingStories #WeddingMemories #WeddingInspiration #WeddingInspo #RealWedding #IntimateWedding
With almost 4,000 wedding stories told, it’s fai With almost 4,000 wedding stories told, it’s fair to say we’ve seen a few walks down the aisle! So what better place to start to help you pick your own aisle-worthy song? Take your inspo from 10 of our real-life PDW couples who chose music that perfectly captured their moment. Classics, modern hits, unexpected choices - we’ve got them all! Which song will you choose? 1. Tiarne & Lachie captured by @jeanbremnerweddings 2. Nicole & Kieran captured by dennistancreative 3. Emma & Aidan captured by @k3.portrait 3. Jack & Zak captured by @kyraboyerweddings 4. Lucy & Andrew captured by @jeremybeckercreative 5. Jacinta & Mike captured by @westcreative 6. Christina @grumpyflowers and Jacob captured by @daniel_colla nichephoto_robyne 7. Emma & Darcy captured by @jacobjenningsphotography_ 8. Zoe & Jacob captured by @cloudcatcherstudio 9. Lauren & Alex captured by @weareallstardust_ 10. Andy & Olivia captured by @brettscapinphotography Intro video by Anastasia Shuraeva [Reel description: A dropped video of someone holding a bouquet and wearing a white lace dress walking plays with text that read ”Need inspo for your walk down the aisle?” a slideshow then begins of couples walking down their aisle with their song choices overlaid.] #PolkaDotWedding #FeelGoodWeddings #AisleMusic #WeddingInspo #WalkingDownTheAisle #WeddingSongs #RealWeddings #CeremonyMusic #WeddingDay #WeddingPlaylist
A fairy garden party wedding overflowing with incr A fairy garden party wedding overflowing with incredible details? Say no more – we’re obsessed!⁠ ⁠ Tara and Mitch’s big day was the perfect mix of whimsical romance and all-out fun. From handmade friendship bracelets to a dreamy floral veil, this wedding is packed with swoon-worthy details (and the groom rocking an emerald green suit!).⁠ ⁠ Dive into the full feature now on Polka Dot Featured!⁠ ⁠ Photographer: @charlottefraserphotography / Venue: @fitzroy_inn / Bride’s Dress: @bridesofbeecroft / Bride’s Veil/Hair Accessories: @lavoilerose / Catering: @thechefandicamden / Bridesmaid Dresses: @billy_j_boutique / Ceremony Officiant: @beccelebrant / Engagement Ring: @megmaskellfinejewllery / Flowers: @caloona_a / Groom’s Attire: @institchu / Groom’s Shoes: @rmwilliams / Guestbook: @papier / Hair & Makeup Artist: @emilyfaussetbridal / Cinematographer: @timothyblacketerfilms / Wedding Ring: @paradejewellers⁠ ⁠ [Video description: Shots from Mitch & Tara’s wedding play on the screen as Austin Millz “Love Like This” soundtracks the short video.] ⁠ #PolkaDotWedding #FeelGoodWeddings #AustralianWeddings #AustralianWedding #WeddingStory #WeddingStories #WeddingMemories #WeddingInspiration #WeddingInspo #RealWedding #FloralVeil #EmbroideredVeil #GardenWedding #GardenPartyWedding
Feeling a little low after your wedding? You’re Feeling a little low after your wedding? You’re not alone!⁠ ⁠ The post-wedding blues can sneak up on you after months of planning, celebrating, and soaking in every magical moment. But don’t worry – today's guide is here to help you easily navigate this transition.⁠ ⁠ Find the full guide at the link in our bio!⁠ ⁠ [Image one description: guests hold sparklers above a couple, with a dark blue text box on top reading "A Helpful Guide For The Post-Wedding Blue With Racquela Hill." ⁠ ⁠ Image two: a dark blue background reads: “Now hang on. Shouldn't I feel on top of the world with this married life? Why do I feel sadness, regret, frustration, anger, or confusion? You're entering the world of post-wedding blues, my married friends. Let's dive into how to help this mindset!⁠ The "Over Thinker"⁠ Every element of your wedding makes it SO unique because it was yours, and you chose it, so when you're in a rabbit hole of new ideas post-wedding, reflect on your day and think how it was special because it was yours.⁠ ⁠ Image three: text reads, "The "That Wasn't What We Planned"⁠ Whatever the weather, incident or event, you're going – 'that was definitely NOT planned'. You feel silly for dwelling on it. I know it is easier said than done, but look at your photos, find six things you loved about your day, and share this with your partner. You will relive those happy moments together and highlight the positive aspects of your day.⁠ ⁠ Image four: text continues "The "Can We Do It Again"?⁠ I'm not saying the post-wedding blues are necessarily positive, but if you find yourself feeling a bit gloomy because you want to relive your day again, you're in the best category because this means your day was that great and you're grieving that you won't get to enjoy it again in real time."]⁠ ⁠ ⁠ #PolkaDotWedding #FeelGoodWeddings #AustralianWeddings #AustralianWedding #PolkaDotWisdom #WeddingPro #WeddingVendor #WeddingProfessional #PostWeddingBlues #PostWedding #AfterWeddingBlues

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