Make-up counters

Hi,

I would maybe start off with the product. I am not really into make-up but I know of people who love Mac. Also my MUA is using YSL products on me. Bobbi Brown is meant to be good, and at the Wedding Exhibition Show I went to, the sponsor was Bare Minerals (free make-overs provided to all attendees).

I did exactly this on Saturday! I had a trial with a MUA but I didn't like how much make-up she applied (I wear very little normally) so I went to the Bare Minerals counter at John Lewis. I had done my research in advance that they do very naturally-looking make-up, and I chose a lovely lady who looked really pretty and you couldn't tell until you got close up to her that she was even wearing any make-up. I came away with some new concealer and eye shadow to practice with at home and I have a follow-up appointment with her next weekend in case I've run into any problems (my wedding in less than 2 weeks away)!

I would recommend doing a lap of the beauty area before you settle on one. I saw several counters where the ladies working there were orange or had far too much eyeliner on or whatever, and I wouldn't have trusted them to look after me! Also, be clear about what you want. Do you want a full makeover or are you perhaps happy with your usual foundation but you want some eye make-up tips and a new lippie, or whatever? I think that will also help you ensure you get what you want out of it.

Am a makeup artist and am very into the natural look for wedding. I've been to most makeup counters and feel I can tell you who A. Knows their stuff and isn't all about the Sell, Sell, Sell! and B. Who will give you the more natural look and products aimed at that.

I'd finish recommend Chanel, pricey but usually get quite a lot of product in the items. Most of their products are designed for camera so have no flashback. The foundations are beautiful for brides and lightweight (Not sure if your getting married in a hot climate but if so this is a must, nice light and nothing to oily).

Don't be afraid to mix it up as well don't feel you have to buy everything from one counter. Most counters will give you a full makeover for free as long as you buy one product as that way they may persuade you to buy more.

Bobbi Brown are also very good and natural looking, nice eyeshadow quads that are straight forward to use and can be toned down or up for evening.

Laura Mercier on the same lines as Chanel and beautiful light weight products.

Bare Minerals as others mentioned perfect for a wedding abroad very breathable products.

If you want to splash the cash and have a Charlotte Tilbury Counter nearby i'd highly recommend that. Its designed so that customers can achieve a look at home easily . Products are stunning and quite a lot of celebs use her products and her for their wedding day. Think Kate Moss and Sienna Miller so on. I know this is where am going for my wedding makeup.

Good luck and am sure end result with look amazing. Just remember start lightly and add more if needed. It's always easier to add than it is to take away. Plus layers mean the makeup last so much longer.

I'm going with lancome, I've had trials with them before. If you ask they will show you how to do it, I've had them do one half of my face and I've done the other side. They have never been pushy with me either, which I appreciate

They also have a range of longer wear foundation, with different coverage levels. One of which Kate Middleton wore for her wedding.

I usually wear their makeup anyway which also helps