What type of makeup do I use for my South East Queensland brides?
One of the questions I get asked most often as a professional makeup artist is, "What type of makeup do you use?" It's a great one because it gets right to the heart of what makes my work special. The truth is, my kit isn't loyal to any single brand or style—it's a curated collection built on real-world testing, trust, and performance. Let me break it down for you and give you a behind-the-scenes look at how I choose what ends up in my arsenal.
My makeup philosophy: Tried, Tested, and Trusted
First things first: nothing earns a permanent spot in my kit without passing my personal trial run. I believe that to recommend or apply something on a client, I need to know it inside and out. That's why every product—from foundations to lipsticks—gets tested on myself first. I want to experience how it looks under different lighting, how it feels on the skin (no one wants something that tugs or feels heavy), and most importantly, how it lasts through a long day or night. Does it hold up against sweat, humidity, or that unexpected rain shower? If it doesn't perform, it doesn't stay.
This hands-on approach ensures that everything I use is reliable and versatile, whether I'm prepping a bride for her big day, glamming up a model for a photoshoot, or creating an everyday look for a client who wants to feel confident. It's all about results, not hype.
A wide range of makeup brands for every need
My kit is stocked with a diverse array of brands, spanning high-end favorites and hidden gems that just work. While the majority of my products lean toward luxury because they often deliver on quality and innovation, I'm not one to discriminate based on a label or price tag. If a drugstore find outperforms a designer counterpart, it absolutely deserves a place in my bag.
Here are some of the standout brands you'll find in my rotation:
Dior: For those flawless, luminous complexions—think their Backstage Face & Body Foundation that's lightweight yet buildable.
MAC: A classic for good reason; so many staples, from primers, lipsticks, liners, powders, foundations - reliable and trusted.
Estee Lauder: Reliable for skincare-infused makeup, like the Double Wear Foundation that offers incredible coverage without feeling cakey.
Hourglass: All about that ethereal glow—their Ambient Lighting Powders, Bronzers and Blushes are magic for adding dimension.
Rare Beauty: Selena Gomez's line brings inclusivity and ease; the Soft Pinch Liquid Blushes are a personal favourite.
Makeup by Mario: Masterful Mattes - a staple for almost every eye look.
Natasha Denona: Eyeshadow palettes that are pigment-packed and blendable; perfect for creating bold or subtle looks.
And that's just scratching the surface! I also pull from brands like NARS, Makeup Forever, and even some affordable heroes from MECCA MAX or Maybelline when they nail the formula. The key is variety—I mix and match to suit different skin types, tones, and occasions. Whether you're oily, dry, sensitive, or somewhere in between, I've got options that perform.
Why quality over quantity (or labels) when it comes to bridal makeup?
In a world flooded with new launches every week, it's tempting to chase trends. But I've learned that sticking to what truly works saves time, money, and frustration. High-end products often dominate my kit because they tend to have superior ingredients, longer wear, and better payoff. That said, if a budget-friendly alternative delivers the same (or better) results, it's in. No snobbery here—makeup should empower everyone, regardless of the price point.
Ultimately, my choices are driven by you, my clients. I want you to walk away with a look that not only turns heads but also feels authentic and enduring. If you're curious about using a specific product or brand…
I'm always happy to share more details or even recommendations tailored to your needs.
