Beauty for Brides by Vicki Millar

Wedding Spotlight : Jennifer and Kevin's Wedding!

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Wed, 16 May 2012 19:55:00 +0000

On May 5, 2012 Jennifer and Kevin were married. Jennifer had hired me about a year in advance of her wedding. I had a really fabulous time getting this bridal party ready....along with lots of help from my trusted colleague Jessica Jean Myers. We managed to knock out 6 makeup applications (Jennifer was airbrushed) and 6 hairstyles. Jennifer sent me some pictures this week and I thought I would share them with you. What a great gang! Congratulations Jennifer and Kevin! Photographs are courtesy of Studio Solaris (a really talented wedding photographer - check his work out!)

The Knot Presents First-Ever Bridal Fitness Program: Bridalicious® Boot Camp

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Wed, 09 May 2012 14:15:00 +0000

Hi ladies....for all you ladies who are wanting to lose a few extra pounds and get in shape before your wedding...take a look at this article from one of my favourite wedding blogs. The Knot.
Go for it!

http://weddingmarketnews.com/profiles/blogs/the-knot-presents-first-ever-bridal-fitness-program-bridalicious-

Bridal Nail Colours for 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:43:00 +0000

Soft pastels, corals, creams, golds and beige's are hot for the 2012 spring/summer bridal season. Not that I don't love a little bold nail colour every now and then but there is something so classic and sophisticated about an understated nail colour. Perfect for any bride! See if any of these colours inspire you.

Pro Wedding Hair Kit Picks 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 16:30:00 +0000

It's that time of year again when I share with you my favourite hair kit picks for the new 2012 bridal season. These are some of my "cannot live without" items that I carry in my hair kit to every job.

Give one or all of them a try!

Brush Category

Boar Bristle Brush - smoothes hair, reduces frizz and is an overall awesome finishing brush for any "hairdo"

Dannyco Wood Teasing Brush with Boar Bristles - the ultimate teasing brush! LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this little miracle worker.

Hairspray Category

Moroccan Oil Luminous Hairspray - there isn't one of my client's yet who hasn't commented on the incredible smell of this product but even more important to ME is that it works. It sets hair well but also provides a light shine to the hair while I'm working on it. I use this product for almost all my updo's - it's a wonderful buildable product. A must have item!

Lamaur's Vita E Hairspray found at Sally's Beauty - under $6.00 (CDN) per bottle but watch for the sales of "Buy 1 Get 1 Free." I stock up on this hairspray everytime it goes on sale. Awesome hold yet still flexible to work with.

Sebastian Shine Define Hairspray - use as a finishing spray. It's has tremendous hold and incredible shine that lasts!

Pump up the Volume Category

Big Sexy Hair's Power Play - add this magical little powder to your roots, backcomb a little and voila! Mega volume! It also creates great texture to fine hair. A must have product for anyone who loves full looking hair or anyone doing regular bridal updo's!

Tools Category

Gold Series 1 inch curling iron - seriously hot tool! The best curling iron ever! I mean, EVER! Find it at
Sally's Beauty Stores.

The Croc Flat Iron - Up to 450 degree maximum adjustable heat setting, very lightweight and is one of the easiest flat irons I've ever used. I used to also carry a GHD flat iron but my CROC iron beats it hands down. This is my can't live without flat iron!

Bridal Makeup For The Mature Bride

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 16:09:00 +0000

The key to achieving a beautiful bridal glow no matter what your age is to understand how to bring out your best features with makeup and play down the features you aren't as keen on.

Tip 1: It's true when they say "less is more as you age." Not to say you can't rock a smoky eye or pop your lips with a bright colour but in general, the older we get, the less makeup we should be wearing. What you could get away with in your 20's, simply put, won't work for you when you're 40+.

Tip 2: When it comes to making skin look radiant and glowing, use liquid or lighter foundations that provide a light to medium coverage rather than heavy coverage foundations such as creams or foundation sticks. Try using tinted moisturizers or foundations that contain silicone. Think of silicone as you would a little bit of "topical filler for the skin." Silicone helps to diminish fine lines and provides your skin texture with a more smooth and even consistency.

Tip 3: Be purposeful with whatever makeup product you place on your face. For example, if you want a little sparkle on the eye, place the product directly on the eye lid area only. Frosted/sparkly products have a tendency to wander on the skin and really love to settle into fine line and wrinkles making you look older than you are! If you love a little glitter or frost on your eye be careful, use sparingly and be precise with the application.

Tip 4: Try using cream blushes rather than powder blushes and again stay away from anything too shimmery. Remember too much shimmer/frost/glitter is not going to make you look glowing and beautiful and it will not photograph well either. You're best to stick with matte products and use shimmery products in precise small amounts.

See the image of Catherine Zeta Jones below. As much as I normally love her makeup this is a perfect example of 40+ makeup gone very very BAD! Too much frost, shimmer and shine. Avoid this!

Tip 5: Experiment with some colour in one area of your face. For example, use neutral colours on your eyes and cheeks but pop your lips with some bright coral, red or burgundy coloured lipstick. The neutral colours will work to keep you looking fresh and photo ready while the pop of colour will add an element of glamour.

My final thoughts...

Embrace your looks no matter what your age is! Let's face it, you've earned those lines/wrinkles and you shouldn't be ashamed of the aging process. Instead of trying to look 20 years younger on your wedding day let people see you looking the best you possibly can with beautiful skin, gorgeous eyes and a sexy pout!

My 2012 Top Bridal Makeup Kit Picks

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 20:13:00 +0000

Every year I share my favourite bridal makeup kit picks and below are my 2012 "must have" picks! These are makeup products that I use regularly on many of my clients and products that just really work. They aren't necessarily new products but are products that I've been using more often with my 2012 bridal clients.

MAC Strobe Cream

MAC strobe cream is a moisture filled highlighting cream that gives any skin an instant glow. I often mix this magical little cream with my liquid foundations or use it on a well prepped face prior to adding foundation. It works well over moisturizer (my favourite is Embryolisse 24 Hour Miracle Cream) yet works great on its own too. It also looks amazing on the body giving brides skin a subtle, sexy glow! It doesn't glitter, it just makes skin look amazing.

A real keeper in my kit as it's become my 2012 bridal client's new best friend!

Yaby Liquid Foundation in Buff

Yaby products rule! When Liz Yu, the owner of Yaby Cosmetics designed her Yaby Liquid Foundation she meant business. This foundation is fantastic on so many of my clients of all ages and all ethnicities. It's a water based foundation that is a perfect alternative for those brides who don't tolerate silicone based products very well, yet the finish on the skin is similar to many silicone based products. It's a mystery how this works but it does! It also provides some serious longevity which is super important to all my bridal clients. Yaby liquid foundation's colour range is very good and the green colour corrector is a "must have" for those brides with mild Rosacea.

I use the colour "Buff" like it's going out of style! Liz can attest to this! :)

Face Atelier Facade in Arabesque

About 6 months ago the owner of Face Atelier convinced me to try her latest product "Facade." I have to admit, at first I was a little skeptical and it took me until the new year to even remember it was in my kit! I tried it on myself first and really fell in love with the results. I used it on my first January bride who had requested a smokey eye so I was really looking for a nice light touch of colour on her cheeks. This is when I reached for Facade in the Arabesque colour and wowzer, it worked like magic! Facade is a multi-purpose product (it can be used on cheeks, eyes and lips - I use it on cheeks and lips) and a little goes a long way. I blend it in with my favourite Alcone sponges and ta-dah! It gives the most glorious bridal glow. It has incredible staying power and contains a tiny bit of silicone so works really well to provide a light dewy effect on the cheek. It photographs like a dream and is awesome for MOB's too! A big favourite in my kit for 2012!

Make Up For Ever Metal Powder

I know....it's a strange kit addition for a bridal makeup artist who mainly gets hired for her clean natural makeup work! But this year I've been doing more and more Indian and Pakistani bridal makeup. For quite some time I was looking for a bold, long lasting gold shadow that would also work great with photography. It was a struggle to be honest as many of the shadows on the market didn't give me the pigmentation or longevity I wanted or they were far too glittery for my taste. I ended up trying many different products but nothing compared to these little babies! MUFE metal powders are easy to use (set well over primer) and the colour pay off has been extraordinary! I can create beautiful long lasting Indian eye makeup looks without piling on tons of creams and/or shadows. The longevity of this shadow is hard to beat as well. It looks great from morning until evening with no fear of flaking or creasing and works well with other eyeshadow brands that I carry, such as Ben Nye and Yaby. I carry 3 different variations of the gold colour in my kit now. (Sunflower Gold, Maize Gold and Olive Gold) "Must Have" products for Indian/Pakistani brides.

Mehron Lip Cream Palette in Day

Oh, how I love this little palette! Mehron lip colours are divine and perfect for almost all my bridal clients. The lipsticks are super moisturizing, offer great colour payoff and have very good staying power. My favourite and most used colour is Sunburst. It seems to look incredible on almost everyone!

Well, that's it for another year. Hope you've enjoyed it!

Engagement Spotlight - Andrea and Don's Engagement Shoot

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 20:52:00 +0000

Last October I worked with a lovely lady named Andrea in Brampton, Ontario. Her and Don were having an engagement photoshoot on a really damp rainy day. Both Andrea and Don are super nice people and I really enjoyed meeting them. I also really loved their dog - whose name I've forgotten now but won't forget how welcome he made me feel! : ) I got tons of kisses!!!

I thought I would share with you some of the images from their shoot. Andrea was kind enough to pass these over to me. Thanks Andrea! Even though the weather didn't really cooperate I think these images turned out beautifully! I'm so pleased because I'll also be working with Andrea at her wedding reception this October too!

Red Carpet Looks For Your Wedding Day - An Oscar Recap!

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 18:44:00 +0000

Emma Stone showing off her beautiful flawless skin and what an updo! Ooh, la, la! Imagine this hairstyle with a veil?
My heart be still...

It was another glitz and glam evening at the Oscar's! Every year I am glued to the TV watching all the stars strut in their gorgeous gowns, sparkly diamonds and beautiful makeup and hairstyles. Every year after the Oscar's have ended I also find many of my bridal clients look to emulate one of their favourite movie stars from Oscar night. It's no surprise to me as many of the starlets we see on the red carpet display beautiful makeup and hairstyles that most brides would die for!

So, as I sat and watched the Pre-Oscar party last evening I was thinking about which looks will be most popular with my brides this year and which looks will stand the test of time. In other words I'm looking for current trends that have a classic feel to them. Below are some my top picks from last's Oscar red carpet moments. See if any of these looks inspire you!

Penelope Cruz looks flawless here. Her makeup is gorgeous emphasizing her beautiful brown eyes. Her hair has a retro feel and look to it. A perfect look for an evening ceremony or a wedding that is held later in the afternoon.

Gwyneth Paltrow - Can I just say how much I love this makeup? It's perfect and probably one of the best examples of a beautiful wedding day makeup look. Her hair is short but swept to one side showing off a deep side part...very 2012 yet very classic too.

Is there ever a time when Angelina Jolie doesn't look gorgeous? Seriously...it's becoming annoying! : ) But on to a serious note here. Red lips are in this year and wow....she wears them well. Her skin glows. Her hair is kept down which you might think could make her look 'unfinished' but it doesn't. Her hair is her crown and she wore it well last night. If you're a bride who has great hair why not consider leaving it down and creating some fullness to show it off. It's such a sexy look. Plus, let's face it. Men love it when women wear their hair down!

Rooney Mara was simply stunning. Again, she rocked the red lip! And her brows framed her face. But let's talk about her hair. Very Audrey Hepburn! I love her bold bangs, her colour and most of all that her hair was off her shoulders showing off her beautiful skin tone. I especially loved that she had not fake tanned! I'm so sick of seeing everyone looking orange these days. : ) What a refreshing and gorgeous look this was.

I haven't forgotten about you mothers of the bride/groom! Meryl Streep is amazing. I love how effortlessly she looks here yet her makeup and hair are impeccable! I can see this look working on many MOB's.

Anna Kendrick looks gorgeous with her low loose chignon featuring some soft loose curls on the side of her face. This is a great hairstyle for any bride looking for elegance and effortless glamour.

Berenice Bejo looks gorgeous but I really wanted to show her hairstyle for you. Look at how gorgeous this is? A knotted low bun in the back with a side braid that incorporates into the look effortlessly. This was one of my favourite hairstyles from the evening. So very perfect for the bride who loves current fashion trends!

I was so impressed to see Viola Davis working her natural black hair! No weave, no extensions, just real and gorgeous natural hair. Her skin glowed and I loved her bronze makeup look. Gorgeous!!!

Celebrity Wedding Day Makeup Secrets From A Pro

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 18:50:00 +0000

Have you ever looked at a celebrity wedding and wondered if you could look like they do? Yes, you can!

Below are some of the top secret tips that pro makeup artists know about but rarely share!

Secret #1: How do celebrities look so good in photo's?

First and foremost, they hire pro makeup artists that understand how to apply makeup for the camera. That sentence should really be in bold!! Reality is, not all makeup artists are created equal - find those artists that have published work and you are more likely to find a makeup artist who understands makeup and the effects of makeup with photography.

This is what the celeb's do, this is their little secret.......now it's yours too.

Secret #2: Is it true that I need to wear more makeup for photograph's?

This isn't just a rumour, it's a fact. Another fact is, the camera absorbs colour therefore if you choose to wear your regular everyday makeup look on your wedding day you will appear washed out in photo's. If this is acceptable to you, great! If not, consider more colour.

Remember, celeb's hire the best because they can afford it. You should hire the best you can afford as well - listen to their advice and remember that your wedding photograph's will last a lifetime and is not something you should try and skimp on.

Secret #3: How do celebrities continue to look fresh for what seems like hours on TV and red carpet events?

Finishing/Setting Spray! Another little makeup artist's secret outta the bag!

You can be sure that many celebrities use a finishing/setting spray such as "Model in Bottle" (there are many on the market ... just Google it!) Top makeup artists use a makeup finishing spray just as you would use hairspray to finish a hairstyle. Makeup finishing/setting sprays are applied after your look is complete. They provide long lasting effects and the big bonus for brides.... setting sprays are also helpful in avoiding makeup being transferred to clothing.

One or two quick sprays and you're set. Boom. Just like that you're set!

Secret #4: Will makeup cover up my really bad skin?

Next time you're looking through magazines of celebrity weddings, look at their skin. It's unlikely you will find anyone with bad looking skin. When I say bad looking skin, I'm not just speaking of breakouts. I'm talking about skin evenness, texture and tone.

Now when it comes to celebrity photography, Photoshop does play a part in how incredible a celebrity will look in a magazine but it won't account for their appearance on TV. There is no question that celeb's take good care of their skin on a regular and long term basis. You need to as well. Give your skin the best treatments you can afford while planning your wedding so that when your day arrives you'll get that glowing bridal makeup look yourself. Remember, small imperfections are easy to deal with but really bad skin only looks like really bad skin with makeup on. This includes airbrush makeup as well!

Wedding Spotlight - Dilnaz and Jason's Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:12:00 +0000

This is the gown Dilnaz wore to her reception

Back in July I was hired to work on a fabulous wedding at the very hot (and super humid!) Casa Loma.

Dilnaz (the bride) is a physician living in Michigan and her wedding was a traditional Muslim ceremony/reception. Dilnaz hired me for airbrush makeup and hairstyling and then also brought me back for a return visit to the reception where I touched her up and some of her wedding party as well.

Dilnaz's gown was stunning!! This is the gown she wore to the ceremony

This particular day in July was so humid and hot!!! On top of that, Casa Loma is not air conditioned. (I know! Shocking to me too but the castle is just too old to add air con to it.) After the ceremony, the bridal room was crammed packed with Dilnaz, her mom, many of her bridesmaids and me with one tiny portable air conditioner that the nice people at Casa Loma brought in for us. (Bless them!) : ) As small as that air conditioner was, we were all grateful to have it - let me tell you!

Dilnaz is what I would call a very particular client. She had been through another trial before contacting me that she wasn't thrilled with and she was definitely a little gun shy. She was pretty specific on the look she wanted so we really took our time at her trial to ensure she was happy with the look and as time progressed and through our correspondence I really got to know her pretty well. (which I think is very important!) We still keep in touch today and I'm so pleased we do because she actually became one of my all time favourite clients! (something she likely doesn't even know!)

It's strange.....every so often you meet people in this business and you just click. Well, Dilnaz and I just clicked!

I'm attaching some images from Dilnaz and Jason's wedding day. As hot and humid as their wedding day was I think Dilnaz looked just fantastic! She really seemed to glow from within.

Dilnaz requested a natural look that would hold up during a hot day. :) Take a look!

2012 Bridal Beauty Trends

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 14:16:00 +0000

It's time to be inspired.....

Vera Wang never fails to impress! Her 2012 spring gown collection was filled with light and airy fabrics showing several coloured gowns, including some sexy black ones. Vera Wang's bridal runway makeup was fresh and clean using peaches and cream colours while the hair was left long and flowing with loose curls- a lovely modern twist that really works with her gowns.

Derek Lam's bridal runway makeup focused heavily on the eyes with a metallic finish. Yellows and bronze coppers were used on the eyes (great colour choice for those blue eyed brides out there!) while the lips were a glossy peachy/pink colour. The skin looked dewy and fresh! Love this look. It's a simple yet modern twist on traditional bridal makeup and perfect for those brides who have a flair for fashion! The hair was swept back into a low pony - very sleek and sexy.

Jason Wu's bridal makeup was all about bold and bright lips, clean matte skin and understated eyeshadow colours with a bold black liner on the top lashline. (very vintage in it's feel) His bridal hairstyles were very unique showing black feathers among classic bridal chignon's. Not for everyone but I like it! : )

Carolina Herrera bridal 2012 gown collection was truly traditional in it's feel and this feel continued through to the runway makeup and hair. These bridal makeup and hair looks are what most brides dream of.....romantic in feel, clean and fresh with a hint of drama. Hairstyles were kept traditional in their feel as well with long loose sexy curls and sleek updo's that included chignon's and french twists. So lovely....
My top pick for 2012!

Be A Bold Bride - Try a Red Lip

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 20:29:00 +0000

In November I wrote a blog entry on 2012 bridal lip colour trends. Keeping this in mind I thought I would share with you a makeup and hair trial I did recently with a bride who loves a little colour. Check out these bold and cheeky lips and look at how white her teeth looked with this colour on! I know a bold lip is not for everyone but for some, it's stunning!
(Photo taken on my iPhone before I left.)

Lip colour used was by Cinema Secret - Red Rose.

Brides By Vicki Millar Wins Weddingwire Bride's Choice Award 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 15:01:00 +0000

A Special Announcement!!

I'm very excited to announce that I won the Weddingwire Bride's Choice Award 2012. That's 2 years in a row! I want to thank all my wonderful and thoughtful brides for taking the time to write reviews on my services. I feel so grateful and blessed to have such wonderful client's.

Wedding Makeup and Hair - How To Avoid The 4 Biggest Mistakes

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 20:33:00 +0000

1. Vagueness = Disappointment. I cannot express this enough and I find myself repeating it in many of my blogs but it's worth saying again and again because it's so important. Put into plain words the look you want to achieve with your makeup artist and hair stylist. For example, if you want a smokey eye be sure you explain what type of smokey eye you really want. Everyone has different versions of a smokey eye so unless you have a good idea of what you like you'll get whatever version your makeup artist feels will suit you. If you're asking for some height in your hairstyle be clear on how high you want it to be. Explaining what look you want in a clear and concise way will help you achieve exactly the look you really want. Sureness = Delight!

2. Show images to your bridal makeup/hair artist of the look you want to achieve but be sure your images are of a consistent nature. For example, if you really want a natural look don't show an image like this.

Although the makeup is lovely it's not natural and you will confuse your artist.

Instead, show an image like this.

If you have 6 images be sure all the images are of a similar nature. Colours may vary but the style of the makeup you desire should be consistent in the images you show your makeup artist.

3. Book a makeup and hair trial before your wedding day and be certain you get to know your artist well. It's important that you're happy with your makeup and hair but it's also really important you like the person you're going to be spending time with on your wedding day. You need to trust this person 100% and be sure they understand and will appreciate you and the people in your wedding party. Meeting your artist at a trial before your wedding ensures you'll be happy with your wedding day makeup and hair.

4. Let your makeup artist and hair stylist do their job. I know there are all types of personalities out there. Some are "Type A" personalities and they like to know exactly what's going on and quiz the artist about their every move as they go along. Bad idea. All that does is create anxiety and you don't want your artist to be anything but relaxed while they are working on you. It's a good idea to ask your questions and be sure you're both on the same page BEFORE your makeup/hair artist starts to work on you. Once they have started their job, trust they know what they're doing and that they want you to look amazing and let them get on with making you look gorgeous.

Just sit back and relax and enjoy being pampered!

See you all soon!

Vendor Spotlight - 28 Delights Bakery

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 17:33:00 +0000

Tropical Delight Cupcakes from 28 Delights Bakery

It's been awhile since I've written a vendor spotlight review but I believe in only promoting those businesses that go above and beyond in my opinion....and have I found one to share with you!!

Now, this may seem unusual for a beauty blogger to spotlight a bakery but hold your fire......there is a method to my madness! I work in the bridal industry and I know which wedding trends are hot. Cupcake tables are unique, creative and very popular!

Seriously...who doesn't love a cupcake?

But wait.....28 Delights Bakery don't just make your average cupcake.
They make cupcakes for the Gods to eat! They also do amazing cakes and brownies too!

Personalize your own cake from 28 Delights Bakery

Devil in a white dress brownie from 28 Delights Bakery

Back in the summer I was on set for an advertising campaign with one of my regular client's. A lot of time when I'm on set there are tons of goodies to munch on and this day was no exception to that. Among all the food (and there was lots!) sat this gorgeous display of cupcakes. I was super busy getting my models ready so didn't get a chance to eat much but the talk around set was all about these cupcakes. I mean the hype was pretty unique. Especially for cupcakes! Everyone on the team was raving about them! So, when I had a minute between models I decided to give one a try. One of the models had her agent with her and he strongly suggested I try one of the Banana Bliss Cupcakes.

So, I did.

Banana Bliss Cupcakes from 28 Delights Bakery

Amazing doesn't do it justice! I'm not kidding when I say it was the best tasting cupcake I've ever had! The middle had some sort of filling that tasted like heaven! (if heaven was a cupcake that is)

It just so happens the owner and head baker (Debbie Walker) was on site that day. Debbie told me she was about to expand her cupcake business and I asked her to let me know the moment she had her site up and running and guess what, she did just that. She contacted me last week to let me know her business is online now and needless to say it's already booming! Up until now, word of mouth has kept Debbie's cupcake business busy but now the sky is the limit! No surprise really. She has only had her site up for a couple of weeks and she has already started taking bookings for 2012 weddings!

Jamrock Cupcakes

This blog is one big "shout out" for 28 Delights Bakery. For all you brides out there that are looking for something beautiful and unique, not to mention unbelievably yummy, please get in touch with Debbie Walker from 28 Delights Bakery. She is super talented and really nice! Tell her I sent you!

Contact Info...for Toronto and GTA.
http://www.twentyeightdelights.com/

For my followers who want more information please contact me for a brochure and pricing. For whatever reason I can't add the brochure and pricing page to this blog entry.

Bridal Hairstyle Trends for 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 19:42:00 +0000

Want to know what's hot in bridal hairstyles for 2012? Check these out!

The Ever Popular Side Chignon ... for 2012 add in some side curls

The Bridget Bardot half up / half down style

The Looped Under Ponytail

Side Hair Upswept With a Barrette

Long Loose Curls

The French Twist ... elegant and versatile

Be Beautiful On Your Honeymoon

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 15:27:00 +0000

When the wedding day is over.....what bride doesn't want to keep looking her best?

On your honeymoon, you definitely want your husband to realize how lucky he was to marry you! Below are some of my favourite practical makeup products to bring along with you on your honeymoon. Enjoy!

Wild and Chic - The Best of Make Up For Ever Kit

Wild and Chic - Aqua Cream Collection from Make Up For Ever

Smashbox - Try It Kit

MAC Strobe Cream

MAC strobe cream...for those days you want to go without makeup or use it under makeup.
It will light up your skin and give a warm glow!
An absolute must in your honeymoon kit!

Cover FX Acne Treat and Conceal Kit

If you suffer from acne breakouts this kit is a must! One of the best foundations on the market today for full natural looking coverage

Laura Mercier - Oil Free Flawless Face Kit

See you all soon!

Beautiful Bridal Makeup - Get The Look!

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 20:51:00 +0000

Beautiful bride Lora. Photography by Mark Fiddian, Cambridge, UK

Do you love Lora's wedding day makeup? I know many of you do so I thought I would share a step by step guide on how I achieved this beautiful wedding look.

First I moisturized Lora's skin using Embryolisse 24 hour miracle cream. Lora has good skin and this cream was the perfect base to start building her dream bridal look.

Next I applied Face Atelier Ultra Foundation in Ivory (a silicone based foundation) using my dampened Beauty Blender Sponge and blended seamlessly until Lora's skin looked fresh and dewy. I then followed with Keromask concealer in Light only where it was required.

Next I applied Graftobian Creme Blush in Raspberry and lightly buffed it into Lora's skin using an Alcone sponge.

To set the foundation and blush I used Ben Nye Visage Poudre Luxury Powder in Banana colour. It leaves a beautiful candle light glow to the skin and it really gave Lora's skin some extra oomph!

Photography by Mark Fiddian, Cambridge, UK

For Lora's eyes I used Paula Dorf all over the lid in Cherub followed by Yaby in Rosewood in the crease. I followed this up by blending the colours using a MAC blending brush #217. I then added Yaby antiqued frost bronze in the centre of her lid and blended again using #217 brush. Then I added little dap of vanilla pigment from MAC under the brow as a highlighter. Using a smudger brush I added Yaby Bark on Lora's lower lash line. Next I added the tiniest amount of Yaby White shadow to Lora's tear duct area and blended well. I finished her eyes off by using 2 coats of Waterproof Maybelline Great Lash mascara in Black.

Next I groomed Lora's eyebrows using Smashbox's Brow Tech in Brunette.

To give Lora a natural sexy bridal pout I applied Graftobian lip colour in Nude.

Photography by Mark Fiddian, Cambridge, UK

Come by next week when I'll share with you some beautiful bridal hair styles for 2012. See you soon!

Your Wedding Makeup and Hair FAQ's Answered

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 15:39:00 +0000

My most popular bride makeup and hair questions ... some food for thought when searching for your own bridal makeup and hair artist.

Do you charge for trials?

Yes I do charge for trials. I offer 2 hour makeup trials which include airbrush if requested, where your bridal look is created or a 3 hour trial that also includes hair styling. I prepare a detailed face chart which is used to ensure that you will look exactly the same on your wedding day as you do at your trial. I also offer invaluable hints and tips for skin and hair preparation to prepare you for your big day.

Do you provide any specialty services? (airbrushing, hair extensions, etc.)

For those brides who are looking for luxurious red carpet treatment, I offer speciality services such as airbrush makeup application. Feel free to bring clip-in hair extensions with you to your trial and/or wedding day. I regularly work with hair extensions and am very comfortable creating many hairstyles using them.

Do you travel to your client on the wedding day? If yes, is there a fee?

I am completely mobile and will come to you directly for your trial and wedding day at your convenience. I do not charge for travel within the Toronto and Greater Toronto Area including Barrie, Ontario. Outside of this area you will incur a small travel charge.

How many customers can you serve at one time if the bride were to book her entire bridal party?

I am able to accommodate wedding parties of any size. For larger wedding parties I work closely with valued and trusted assistants who work to my standards and timelines. My overriding priority is the level of customer service provided to my clients. To this end I only work with assistants who understand and agree with this ethic and who demonstrate the same degree of professionalism and quality as I strive to provide. Large wedding parties will incur a small additional fee which will be included in your initial quote.

How far in advance should I book your services?

Clients should book services a minimum of 6 - 9 months in advance of their wedding day. I am often booked up to a year in advance during high wedding season.

Do you specialize in textured hair?

I am very experienced working with all hair textures although I do not specialize in natural African American hair.

My makeup artist just cancelled on me - can you accommodate my last minute request.

Yes, I can accommodate your request provided I do not have a previous booking on the same day. I often refer brides who I am unable to accommodate (due to other bookings) to trusted colleagues that may be available to accomodate your request.

Do you cut and colour hair?

I do not cut or colour hair. I can style hair for your wedding including updo's, braids, french twists, styled down and more. I am able to refer you to some of the best colour specialists and salons in most major North American cities to accommodate you if you require a colour and/cut.

What is your cancellation policy?

If you cancel your booking your deposit is not refundable; if you cancel your booking after cleared funds are received, before and including a booking date. If I am obliged to cancel your booking every effort will be made to provide a replacement makeup artist of equivalent ability and cost. No guarantee is offered or implied as regards the ability or availability of a replacement makeup artist. If a replacement artist accepts the assignment, your deposit will be passed onto that artist. If a replacement makeup artist cannot be provided your deposit will be refunded in full.

Trash The Dress

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 17:06:00 +0000

Is your wedding day experience really over after the last piece of cake is eaten and the last glass of champagne is drunk? Not at all! I'm noticing a lot of my brides are hiring a professional photographer after their wedding, where they trash their wedding dress and capture amazing pictures while doing it!

The really amazing thing about a "trash the dress" photo shoot is that you can create whatever type of images you like. For instance, you could choose a very high fashion look, something you might see in Vogue or a sexy modern grungy look that you might see on the runways. Yes, you can get messy and dirty but you can also look sexy, dark and moody all incorporating high fashion hair and makeup. It can be a complete contrast to your engagement and wedding pictures. A sort of alter ego if you wish....

It could be your moment to play "top fashion model" for a day!

This might sound crazy or maybe not to some but when I was a little girl I was nuts about Barbie's. I used to dress them up and do crazy things with their hair and have them walk around as if they were on a runway! Even poor Ken was my victim for years. : ) (I know what you're thinking....but my talent did improve as I grew older!) I see a "trash the dress" photo shoot as a grown up version of playing Barbie's. : ) I also think bringing your own version of Ken (i.e. hubby of course!) along would make the shoot even more incredible!

From a recent editorial I did ~ in Ellements magazine right now. Look here for more images like this! http://www.vickimillar.com/
Photographer: Jason Brown

Consider a "trash the dress" photo shoot as an extension of your wedding event. It only makes sense to do something unique but at the same time very beautiful and very current. Consider all aspects of the shoot, make it special, create a theme, hire the best photographer you can find/afford (I know a lot of great photographers so please get in touch if you need some references) and don't forget about your hair and makeup! Choose an artist that can give you the fashion look you've dreamed of your whole life but most importantly, have a great time.

See you all soon!

Top 3 Wedding Makeup Blunders

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 20:53:00 +0000

Wedding Makeup Blunder # 1 ~ Being Unrealistic With Your Expectations

I'm a big believer in collecting images from magazines and websites of makeup and hair styles you love and want to emulate for your wedding day but it's important to remember that not all hair styles and makeup looks will suit you.

When considering styles of makeup and hair for your big day, be realistic - stay true to yourself.
Wedding Makeup Blunder # 2 ~ Attempting To Do It Alone

Are you one of those brides who thinks she can save money by doing her own makeup and hair? Consider the amount of money you've spent on your photographer and your gown. Now think about how important it is that your hair and makeup look flawless for all your pictures and how important it is that your makeup/hair style works well with your chosen gown.
On your wedding day, you want to be the bride that looks relaxed, polished and classic. When it comes to makeup and hair on your wedding day, leave it to the experts.

Wedding Makeup Blunder # 3 ~ Maintaining The Look

If you've hired a pro makeup artist you can rest assured that your makeup will last all day and evening. The only 2 things that should require attention throughout the day will be powder/blotting to control excess shine that develops on the skin over time and lip colour that will fade as the day progresses. All you need to do is check these 2 things every couple of hours and you'll always be picture perfect ready!

The Bride's Survival Kit

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 17:55:00 +0000

Beautiful bride Jessica on her big day

Happy Thanksgiving to all my American followers!

You don't want to be caught without a survival kit on your weddig day! Below are my top 10 bride survival kit picks.

1. Tissues (for all the teary eyed brides out there - dab, don't rub!) : )

2. Blotting Papers (you can alternate blotting with powder to help control face shine throughout the day)

3. Face Powder (most makeup artists will provide you this as part of your package)

4. Lip colour (again, most makeup artists will provide you this as part of your package)

5. Mints (to help keep your breath minty fresh all day long)

6. Bottled water or energy drink (dehydration shows on your completion - drink lots of water)

7. A small sewing kit (for those emergency moments)

8. Pain reliever (Tylenol or Advil)

9. Contact lense solution and/or eyedrops for redness and soreness (keep your eyes sparkling all day long - if you need to, bring your glasses along as well)

10. Nail polish that matches what you're wearing (incase you get a chip and need a quick fix)

Have a trusted friend keep these on hand for you and if need be, you'll be well prepared for anything!

Bridal Lips - Lip Colour Trends 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 20:42:00 +0000

The fall season is well upon us now and although I continue doing weekend weddings on a regular basis, my makeup and hair trial season has really picked up this month. I find I'm booking a lot of trials! Every new season that approaches brings new and interesting trends.

At my trials, I'm encouraging my 2012 brides to step outside their "comfort lip colour zone area" just a little... and try a different lip shade than they would normally wear. It's only lip colour and if you don't like it, it's pretty easy to change! I suggest trying something different because you just never know....sometimes change is good!

Need some serious lip colour inspiration? No problem. Check out some of the upcoming lip colour trends for 2012. See if any of them inspire you!

Add a punch of colour to your wedding day lips with a subtle 2 tone lip colour.

Gorgeous wine and tomato red coloured lips were big on the 2012 runways!

The many shades of red lips for 2012! I admit, I love them all!

Betsy Johnson shows off vibrant hot pink lips for 2012! Oh yeah!!

Orange is gorgeous and very big for 2012. Very few women try this colour but look how gorgeous it is!

Versace Spring 2012 barely there lip - sexy!

See you all soon!
Follow/Like me on facebook https://www.facebook.com/BridalMakeupHair

Same Sex Brides

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 17:15:00 +0000

I'm very excited because I've recently just booked another same sex wedding for June 2012!
In Ontario Canada, same sex partners can be married "legally." This is something I'm extremely proud we legalized here in Ontario and I am always happy to offer my services whenever they are requested. You might think that same sex brides might not want the traditional bridal looks but from my experience, they really do!

Because I'm from Toronto, it's becoming more common for me to get requests for same sex weddings as many couples travel to get married here. My very first same sex wedding party was done last August in Toronto. The couple (Natalie and Eileen) were from Australia and flew a great distance just to make their marriage legal. I loved how traditional they looked. Natalie was dressed very traditionally in a long white gown while Eileen was in a tuxedo - she looked amazing! Natalie wanted a very classic hair updo while Eileen wanted a half up/half down "do." Both wanted beautiful clean makeup looks.

I'll be sure and take some photo's of my June 2012 brides for you all to see.

For those of you looking for information on gay weddings, please see this link. There is a ton of information to be found on planning your wedding plus a list of "approved" wedding vendors. I happen to be included in their vendor approved listing and I can assure you they do their background search very thoroughly to ensure they recommend only those vendors who are gay positive!

See you all soon! xoxo

Bridesmaid's Gowns 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Millar Makeup Artist) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 14:42:00 +0000

Good morning all! As you all know or have probably figured out by now I love makeup and hair and anything beauty related. What you might not know is that I also love bridal gowns and wedding fashion and find myself searching through magazines and websites to keep myself ahead of bridal trends. So....

I did a little digging around and found some beautiful bridesmaid gown idea's for spring 2012. Lots of colour to choose from! Am already in love with the bridal colours for 2012. Be sure and look at the makeup/hair as well in these photo's. Very current looks! I hope this inspires you with your planning!

Love the vibrancy of this colour! http://www.priscillaofboston.com/

Perfect for a spring wedding! Light, airy and oh-so feminine!http://www.alvinavalenta.com/

My absolute favourite colour ~ purple! Gotta admit this gown is dynamite too! The one bare shoulder look is big for 2012 and any bridesmaid would be thrilled to wear something this gorgeous I'm sure! http://www.amsale.com/

This wine colour is a great alternative to red and photographs so well. Speaking of photographs....this gown was photographed by firstVIEW www.jlmcouture.com/Lazaro

NEWS! I now have a facebook page dedicated to bridal beauty. It's updated regularly and filled with little tidbits on my life as a bridal makeup/hair artist. I also post lots of photos of my brides and bridesmaids/MOB, etc... I also cover new bridal gown trends and new designer bridal looks. I'm always thinking ahead so you can plan ahead too! : ) I also have a discussion board and a recommended wedding vendors area! It's a lot of fun so be sure and "like" this page https://www.facebook.com/BridalMakeupHair and keep up with all the latest and greatest bridal/wedding information! Don't miss out. See you all soon!