Tami Winn Events: Makeup Tips & Tricks

Orange skin, lifting lashes and washed-out faces are only a few of the makeup faux pas that we see all-too-often in the wedding industry. And we get it; wedding-day makeup can be complicated. It's really no wonder that outside of basic, daily rituals such as sunscreen, mascara, blush and lip-gloss a woman feels overwhelmed when thinking about what other products an event like this requires. Thank goodness for magazines and websites that introduce us to an entourage of choices that we will proceed to research and sample. At first, trolling the aisles of an Ulta or consulting with someone at Neiman Marcus or Nordstrom will be fun, even adventurous. And that strategy will definitely make wading through a sea of trends less terrifying, but eventually the hunt will become cumbersome and even more confounding. Wouldn't it be miraculous if we could bypass all of the trial and error and still achieve an impeccable look? Cut to the professionals: makeup artists. Creative types like Jennifer Trotter with Lip Service Makeup consider makeup their life's passion. Not just a pair of signature red lips, Jennifer is a Fort Worth-based makeup artist with 22 years of experience and counting. She has graciously agreed to divulge some of her expert tips and tricks for our lovely readers.

Jennifer’s sentiments regarding DIY wedding-day makeup are very much in line with ours: “most people wouldn't dream of whipping up their own cake or florals. Likewise, your wedding day is not the time for every-day makeup.” Everyday makeup just won’t do for a grand occasion, such as a wedding. Additionally, experimenting with new products and techniques prior to your big day could prove to be stressful or unsuccessful. That is why we recommend approaching new products with proper guidance.

Professional makeup artists are trained to choose and apply makeup that will enhance your natural features to their fullest potential, all the while minimizing any flaws. Additionally, professional application is guaranteed to endure the sweat, tears and time that a day-to-night celebration requires. It is truly important that whether you are greeting your groom at the end of the aisle or your great aunt Agnes at the end of the evening, your makeup is set the same.

If you are a DIY bride or you're having a destination wedding and can't bring your pro with you, we recommend booking a lesson with an artist like Jennifer weeks before your big day in order to learn how to apply your new makeup effectively. Try to budget for high-quality brushes and products. This preparation will prove to be beneficial when you’re flipping through photographs in the years to come.

A SOLID FOUNDATION: Must-have products include IT Cosmetic's Bye Bye Redness. It is a color corrector/foundation that covers microscopic redness with a dollop of product.

LET’S GET CHEEKY: As far as colors are concerned, avoid browns at all cost. Instead, go for rose or peach-hued pinks or deep berry. Adjust according to your skin tone. Jennifer loves Revlon Cream Blush and Makeup Forever blush.

SLIGHT HIGHLIGHTS: MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in soft and gentle (a subtle gold shimmer) or MAC Powder in silver dusk (a silvery-pink blend of cool-toned loose powder). Dust one of these illuminators on the tops of the cheekbones, brow bones, on the inner corners of the eyes and even over the shoulders for a healthy glow. Beware: Do not go overboard, especially for a wedding.

BRONZE GODDESS: Another product that is easily and commonly overused is bronzer. The key to applying bronzer is to do so in moderation. We recommend that you consult with a professional to first choose the most accurate shade for your skin tone for a natural glow. Typical bronzer mistakes include: choosing a shade that is too dark, over application and skipping the blush.

*As far as spray-tanning is concerned, attend a salon with a technician. The results are infinitely more uniform, look much more natural and last longer. Be sure to try out spray-tanning products well before your wedding day. This offers peace-of-mind regarding unexpected skin reactions and offending scents.

ALLURING EYES: The eyes are the windows to the soul. Dress them up by applying a neutral eye color in taupe, camel, or gold followed by liquid black liner. Jennifer recommends trying Urban Decay eye shadows, which apply like silk and offer high pigmentation. Also, don’t forget false lashes; they offer instant glamour. Jennifer recommends lash extensions or false ones by Stardel, a professional lash line that Jennifer keeps stocked in 15 different styles to fit a range of eye shapes, or Eylure, an over-the-counter brand that is available at Ulta and most drug stores. Lashes add instant elevation and impact to your look. Ask your professional how to prep and apply them yourself. Jennifer suggests to trim the lashes to custom fit your own eyes. Also, try to use as little glue as possible. Complete the illusion by covering the lash band with black liner.

KISSABLE LIPS: Begin with Chapstick’s HydrationLock lip balm. It is the absolute best balm on the market and doubles as a primer. Next, choose a lip color that enhances your cheek color; be it rosy, peach, pink, berry, etc. Line, fill, blot and gloss the lips for a plump, luscious pout.

Finally, make sure to set your face with a powder such as MAC Prep-and-Prime. When dusted on with a soft, fluffy brush it gives an airbrushed appearance. Finish up with Model in a Bottle spray to preserve the perfection.