Nadine Grant Makeup
Meet Nadine, she’s a master at creating glowing skin and Hollywood glam looks.
Say ‘hi’ to Nadine Grant Makeup
What made you become a makeup artist?
As a keen dancer, I started using makeup at a very young age. I was always obsessed with how important it was to have the right makeup to make me feel perfect in my dance costumes ready for competitions, it just gave me so much confidence! That feeling never left, so after attempting to be an office worker, the natural progression was to move back into what I was passionate about and loved.
Is there anything you think you’ve learnt so far from being on the job?
I have learnt so many things over the years. I think one of the most important things on a wedding morning is keeping everyone on schedule and organised, I don’t like my brides to be worried or panicking about time, so I organise my morning for a very smooth running, so there is lots of time to get dressed, take pictures, do any touch-ups and maybe even have a sneaky glass of champagne!!
If you weren’t doing this, what would you be doing instead?
I think if I wasn’t a makeup artist, I would have been a paramedic which is completely different. I am a very calm person under pressure and I have a natural empathy for people. I have so much respect for our emergency services so I think I would have been drawn to that role.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
I get most of my inspiration from Hollywood red carpet events. The flawless, natural glowing make up that the celebrities wear are my favourite looks to re-create on my brides.
What do you love most about wedding makeup?
I love the fact that everyone is different and want different looks from their makeup. The best bit is seeing the hair and makeup complete, the bride putting her dress on and then she totally understands it all. Her shoulders go back, her head goes up, beaming with happiness and confidence to face all the guests and the day ahead.
How long will it take to do each makeup application on the morning of the wedding?
Anything from 30 mins to an hour, depending on skin type and the look required. Even natural makeup look can take some time to achieve, there is more to it than you would think…Plus, I am a self-confessed perfectionist, and perfection takes time!
What would be your best tip to give future Brides on choosing a makeup artist for their wedding?
Look at their work and pictures, make sure the images they are showing are their own work and they are not edited and also read their reviews. Make sure that they do different styles as your wedding party may all want different looks. Also, it’s important that they are qualified and have insurance and experience.
What should I do first on my wedding day – hair or makeup?
It makes no difference to me what you do first. You will find that experienced professional hair and makeup artists will work well together to make sure your morning goes smoothly.
What type of preparation should the Bride make either the night before or the morning of the wedding?
I always suggest that you start weeks/months before your wedding. If the bride has booked a trial, I usually discuss what to do, if required, with their skin type in the run up to the wedding. The night before the wedding it’s good to drink water and get to bed early, which rarely happens! The morning of the wedding a nice tissue mask to re-hydrate the skin and then leave the rest to me.
How far in advance do I need to book my hair & makeup artist?
As soon as you can. I have brides that have booked 2-3 years in advance. If you know the suppliers that you want then don’t hesitate to book.
Do you offer a trial? Is this complimentary or a separate package?
I have my trials as a separate cost and not included in the original costs. The reason for this is that lots of my brides stay far away from where I am based or have looked at my work and don’t want a trial. On the morning of the wedding we have a little consultation to discuss the perfect look for the day ahead.
Should I bring pictures of looks/style I’d like for myself to the trial?
Yes, this a brilliant idea, but also be aware the face shape in the picture maybe a completely different style to your own eye and face shape, but I think it’s a great start. Also take advice from the Artist on what would suit you best.
Are there any special touches you add or a signature look you go for?
I am all about skin, glowing skin, flawless skin. I have spent years perfecting bridal skin without the make up being cakey or too heavy as that’s not my style. The special touch that I also add is that I stay with you until you are dressed, to top up makeup and also deal with any happy tears that sometimes like to appear.
