Thursday 27 December 2012

Beauty Advent: My Professional Tips.

If you missed any of my Professional Beauty and Make-up Christmas Advent tips! You can see them again here. Enjoy!

Dec’ 1st
Try something new I like using a fan shaped brush to apply bronzing powder instead of your usual dome shaped powder brush.
Apply to cheek bones and forehead for a natural defined finish this winter.
I like Laura Mercier's brush:
A little Christmas fun! My pro' make up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve. Enjoy!

Dec' 2nd
Nail polish chipping a day or two after applying can be really annoying. Try applying a thin coat of nail polish across the edge of the nail tips this will ensure your nail polish stays chip resistant for much longer.
Apply a base coat followed by two coats of nail colour. On the second coat apply across the nail tips and finish with a top coat. I like to apply this across the tips as well for a perfect finish.
My favourite nail care products can be found here http://www.mavala.co.uk/nails/

Dec' 3rd
Try using a flat eyeliner brush to press gel or crème eyeliner at the root of the top eye lashes. Begin at the outer corner of the eye pressing firmly from underneath the lashes at the root (not in the rim) working across to the inner corner. Press the index finger of the opposite hand onto the eye lid to gently push back the lid for ease of application. This method achieves beautifully natural defined eyes.

Dec' 4th
When applying mascara look straight ahead into a mirror ideally magnifying. Apply mascara beginning at the root of the lash using a zig zag technique through to the lash tip. This helps to separate, rid clumps and lengthen eyelashes.  I always suggest applying to the bottom lashes first. If you do apply to the top lashes first, in most cases this usually means you then look up to apply to the bottom lashes.  The top lashes will not yet be dry, resulting in black marks of mascara all over your carefully applied eye shadow.

Dec’ 5th
For a wide awake bright eyed look apply a whitening pencil into the bottom rim of the eye softly. I like to warm the pencil in my palm gently first. My favourite is the Benefit eye BRIGHT pencil; this is a very pale pink so not as stark as a white.  You can also add a little at the inner and outer corner of the eye alternatively you can use a white or similar tone of eye shadow to do this.


Dec' 6th
Apply body and separate face moisturiser immediately after washing while skin is still damp for better absorption and super soft skin.

Dec' 7th
For a youthful, healthy flush of colour apply powder blusher to the apples of the cheeks using a soft haired brush. Use circular motions to blend up and outwards towards the hairline. If blended well this will achieve a modern, fresh look unlike blusher placed along the cheekbones in stripes! The same method can be used for application of crème blusher, apply on the apples then blend with fingertips in circular motions.

Dec' 8th
To clean make-up brushes use a little shampoo and warm water. Wash each brush individually. If you want to give them a real pamper you can use conditioner too! After cleaning each brush lathering shampoo in the palm of your hand, rinse, squeezing out gently any excess water and shape so hairs are not splayed. It is important to dry on a towel/paper towel with the brush over the edge of a work surface so that air can circulate the entire brush head.

Dec' 9th
Always tap off excess powder from brushes before applying make-up products to the face. Follow this simple rule when applying any powder based product for example eye shadow, blusher, bronzer and face powder.
Gently tap the brush against the edge of the compact to achieve a natural finish. Repeat this process adding a little product to the face each time, rather than applying product directly to the face from the compact resulting in heavy application and often a messy finish!

Dec' 10th
When doing a Smokey or a dramatic eye do your eye make-up prior to your foundation as you will more than likely have some 'fall out'  from the dark colours during application.
Then you can easily and quickly clean under the eyes and along the sides of the nose with a wipe and apply foundation and concealer onto clean skin.

Dec 11th
Look after your hands and nails! Every time you wash them apply a hand moisturiser immediately afterwards whilst they are still damp to lock in moisture.  Moisturise cuticles daily using a massaging circular motion and a good cuticle cream. Exfoliate hands once a week using a hand scrub. File nails in one direction only, not back and forth this will avoid nail's splitting.  Always use a base coat and a top coat to achieve a long lasting manicure especially when using darker colours.
Here are some of my favorite's:  Aveda hand relief cream, Mavala cuticle cream, Champney's softening hand scrub, Seche VITE Top coat and OPI Basecoat.

Dec’ 12th
Invest in a set of good quality brushes they do most of the work for you and will last you years!
The eight brushes shown here are my essential recommended brushes you will need to create most make up looks.
1 Dome shaped soft brush to apply bronzing powder/powder blusher.
2 Base brush (synthetic hair) to apply foundation, to blend foundation or used to apply crème blusher.
3 Blending brush to blend eye shadow colours together.
4 Eye shadow brush to apply colours onto the eyelid.
5 Angled eye shadow brush to apply deeper colours into the eye socket to create definition.
6 Angled brush to apply powder through the brows for a natural defined brow.
7 Angled brush no.2 to apply gel, liquid or crème eyeliner
8 Synthetic hair brush to apply concealer as this will be easier to clean than a real hair brush.
My preferred brushes are by www.maccosmetics.com
I also highly recommend buying brushes from the following:
www.bobbibrown.co.uk
www.danielsandler.com
A little Christmas fun! My Pro' make up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve.  Enjoy!

Dec' 13th
Use a clear eyebrow gel after you have filled in brows with colour to define them.  Use the eyebrow gel to brush the brows in an upwards direction then smooth over the top edge of the brow hair with a fingertip.  This will set brows holding them in a neat and tidy shape and will add a subtle, healthy sheen to brow hair.  I like to use Boots No.7 Brow gel or MAC Brow set.

Dec’ 14th
Use a lip pencil to define lips, stop lipstick bleeding and ensure lipstick lasts.
Apply using light, feathering strokes to follow around the lip line as well as all over the lips.
Now you will have an overall base colour for lipstick to adhere to making it last longer. You will also not be left with a lip line when lipstick does eventually start to fade. You can also buy clear transparent lip liners these are particularly good to apply to the lip line if you suffer from lipstick bleeding.

Dec'15th
When using eye and lip pencils soften them before use in the warm palm of your hand.
This will ease application as pencils will glide on smoothly and will not drag the skin like a sharp, hard pencil tip will.

Dec' 16th
When using loose glitter within your eye make-up simply dab at skin with either a small piece of sellotape or masking tape to gently and easily lift off any glitter fall out.

Dec' 17th
"Layer" make-up products. This layering technique will help make-up last much longer.
For example after applying eyeliner set the liner with a similar shade of powder over the top.

Dec' 18th
To stop lipstick getting on your teeth this trick works every time. After applying lip colour place your index finger inside your mouth, close your lips around it then pull your finger out.  Any lipstick on the inside of your lips will transfer to your finger.

Dec' 19th
Never squeeze black heads, white heads and skin bumps.  Instead steam your face over a bowl of very hot water. You can also pour boiling water onto a flannel corner and hold closely over a stubborn white head.  You may need to do this a number of times but persistence pays off.  These steaming methods work without damaging the skin.




Dec' 20th
My concealer application tips include using a synthetic haired brush as this will be easy to keep clean.  Apply concealer after you have applied foundation enabling you to place product precisely where you need to.  Brush a little concealer onto the skin at a time, pat into the skin with fingertips. Brush on a little more and again warm into the skin with fingertips for a natural, even coverage. This layering technique helps concealer to last longer and blend into the skin better. Finish by setting with powder.

Dec’ 21st
***My favourite tip*** Do not apply concealer or foundation to the eyelids as these products often have oily formulations and can cause eye shadow to crease and wear off more quickly.  Instead opt for a skin toned eye base, specifically designed to add colour and give opaque coverage to even the skin tone of the eye lid as well as priming the lids so that eye make-up lasts.
A little product goes a long way make sure you do not apply too much to avoid creasing.  These are best applied using a synthetic haired concealer brush. Set the base with a neutral powder eye shadow before applying eye shadow colours on top.
***My favourites***
My preferred choice are MAC's Eyepaint's, these are AMAZING!
Laura Mercier Eye Basics are also a good choice with a good range of colours for all skin tones.
Urban Decay Primer Potion in shade 'Eden'

Dec' 22nd
Exfoliate at least once a week.  You can exfoliate daily if you choose a gentle exfoliator.
Exfoliating the skin is important to rid dead skin cells and help stop pores getting clogged which can lead to breakouts.  Exfoliating promotes healthy, glowing skin.

Dec' 23rd
Achieve an instant eye lift by applying a dab of highlighter under the arch of the brow. You will only need to use a little as highlighter's have a high sheen so a little goes a long way.
I like Benefit's High beam and Moon beam which both have a creamy formulation.  If you prefer a powder finish MAC's Nylon eye shadow is perfect.

Dec' 24th
I recommend never leaving your nails until last thing before you go out as you will inevitably be hurrying them to dry and end up with an irritating smudge or chip.  For super-fast drying nails apply fast drying nail oil over topcoat.
Nail oils add great shine and dry nails super-fast.
I love Mavala's new 'Oil seal dryer' or Leighton Denny's 'miracle drops'.

**Make up lessons and master classes are available at www.nikimakeup.co.uk
Mention ‘Advent Beauty Blog’ to save 10% on lessons, master classes and manicure/pedicure services throughout January 2013.




Monday 24 December 2012

Beauty Advent

A little Christmas fun!  My Pro' beauty and make-up tips, a final tip for Christmas Eve.

Wishing you all a very "Happy Christmas!"

Dec' 24th

I recommend never leaving your nails until last thing before you go out as you will inevitably be hurrying them to dry and end up with an irritating smudge or chip.

For super fast drying nails apply a fast drying nail oil over topcoat.

Nail oils add great shine and dry nails super fast.

I love Mavala's new 'Oil seal dryer' or Leighton Denny's 'miracle drops'.



New for 2013 I will also be offering manicure and pedicure services.  Mention 'Beauty Advent Blog' to receive 10% off manicures and pedicures throughout January 2013.

Sunday 23 December 2012

Beauty Advent

A little Christmas fun!  My Pro' beauty and make-up tips.  A new tip every day until Christmas Eve.  Enjoy!

Dec' 23rd

Achieve an instant eye lift by applying a dab of highlighter under the arch of the brow. You will only need to use a little as highlighter's have a high sheen so a little goes a long way.

I like Benefit's High beam and Moon beam which both have a creamy formulation.  If you prefer a powder finish MAC's Nylon eye shadow is perfect.



Make-up lessons available at www.nikimakeup.co.uk


Saturday 22 December 2012

Beauty Advent

A little Christmas fun!  My Pro' make-up and beauty tips. A new tip every day until Christmas Eve.  Enjoy!

Dec' 22nd

Exfoliate at least once a week.  You can exfoliate daily if you choose a gentle exfoliator.
Exfoliating the skin is important to rid dead skin cells and help stop pores getting clogged which can lead to breakouts.  Exfoliating promotes healthy, glowing skin.

I love Dermalogica's daily microfoliant.

Friday 21 December 2012

Beauty Advent

A little Christmas fun!  My Pro' make-up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve.  Enjoy!

Dec' 21st

***My favourite tip*** Do not apply concealer or foundation to the eyelids as these products often have oily formulations and can cause eye shadow to crease and wear off more quickly.  Instead opt for a skin toned eye base, specifically designed to add colour and give opaque coverage to even the skin tone of the eye lid as well as priming the lids so that eye make-up lasts.
A little product goes a long way make sure you do not apply too much to avoid creasing.  These are best applied using a synthetic haired concealer brush. Set the base with a neutral powder eye shadow before applying eye shadow colours on top.

***My favourites***

My preferred choice are MAC's Eyepaint's, these are AMAZING!

Laura Mercier Eye Basics are also a good choice with a good range of colours for all skin tones.

Urban Decay Primer Potion in shade 'Eden'

Make up lessons and Master classes now available at www.nikimakeup.co.uk




Thursday 20 December 2012

Beauty Advent

A little Christmas fun!  My Pro' make-up and beauty tips.  A new tip every day until Christmas Eve. Enjoy!

Dec' 20th

My concealer application tips include using a synthetic haired brush as this will be easy to keep clean.  Apply concealer after you have applied foundation enabling you to place product precisely where you need to.  Brush a little concealer onto the skin at a time, pat into the skin with fingertips. Brush on a little more and again warm into the skin with fingertips for a natural, even coverage. This layering technique helps concealer to last longer and blend into the skin better. Finish by setting with powder.

Make-up lessons available at www.nikimakeup.co.uk

Wednesday 19 December 2012

Beauty Advent

A little Christmas fun!  My Pro' make-up and beauty tips.  A new tip every day until Christmas Eve.  Enjoy!

Dec' 19th

Never squeeze black heads, white heads and skin bumps.  Instead steam your face over a bowl of very hot water. You can also pour boiling water onto a flannel corner and hold closely over a stubborn white head.  You may need to do this a number of times but persistence pays off.  These steaming methods work without damaging the skin.


Tuesday 18 December 2012

Beauty Advent

A little Christmas fun. My Pro' make-up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve.  Enjoy!

Dec' 18th

To stop lipstick getting on your teeth this trick works every time. After applying lip colour place your index finger inside your mouth, close your lips around it then pull your finger out.  Any lipstick on the inside of your lips will transfer to your finger.

Make-up lessons and master-classes are available at www.nikimakeup.co.uk

Monday 17 December 2012

Beauty Advent

A little Christmas fun!  My Pro' make-up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve.  Enjoy!

Dec' 17th

"Layer" make-up products. This layering technique will help make-up last much longer.
For example after applying eyeliner set the liner with a similar shade of powder over the top.


Make-up lessons are available at www.nikimakeup.co.uk

Sunday 16 December 2012

Beauty Advent

A little Christmas fun! My Pro' make up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve.  Enjoy!

Dec' 16th

When using loose glitter within your eye make up simply dab at skin with either a small piece of sellotape or masking tape to gently and easily lift off any glitter fall out.



Make-up lessons available at www.nikimakeup.co.uk


Saturday 15 December 2012

Beauty Advent

A little Christmas fun! My Pro' make-up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve.  Enjoy!

Dec'15th

When using eye and lip pencils soften them before use in the warm palm of your hand.
This will ease application as pencils will glide on smoothly and will not drag the skin like a sharp, hard pencil tip will.

Make up lessons and masterclasses are available at www.nikimakeup.co.uk

Friday 14 December 2012

Beauty Advent

A little Christmas fun! My Pro' make up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve.  Enjoy!

Dec ' 14th

Use a lip pencil to define lips, stop lipstick bleeding and ensure lipstick lasts.
Apply using light, feathering strokes to follow around the lip line as well as all over the lips.
Now you will have an overall base colour for lipstick to adhere to making it last longer. You will also not be left with a lip line when lipstick does eventually start to fade. You can also buy clear transparent lip liners these are particularly good to apply to the lip line if you suffer from lipstick bleeding.

Make up Lessons available at www.nikimakeup.co.uk



Thursday 13 December 2012

Beauty Advent

A little Christmas fun! My Pro' make up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve.  Enjoy!

Dec' 13th

Use a clear eyebrow gel after you have filled in brows with colour to define them.  Use the eyebrow gel to brush the brows in an upwards direction then smooth over the top edge of the brow hair with a finger tip.  This will set brows holding them in a neat and tidy shape and will add a subtle, healthy sheen to brow hair.

I like to use Boots No.7 Brow gel or MAC Brow set.


Make up lessons are available at www.nikimakeup.co.uk

Wednesday 12 December 2012

Beauty Advent

A little Christmas fun!  My Pro' beauty and make up tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve. Enjoy!

Dec 12th

Invest in a set of good quality brushes they do most of the work for you and will last you years!
The eight brushes shown here are my essential recommended brushes you will need to create most make up looks.
1 Dome shaped soft brush to apply bronzing powder/powder blusher.
2 Base brush(synthetic hair) to apply foundation, to blend foundation or used to apply crème blusher.
3 Blending brush to blend eye shadow colours together.
4 Eye shadow brush to apply colours onto the eyelid.
5 Angled eye shadow brush to apply deeper colours into the eye socket to create definition.
6 Angled brush to apply powder through the brows for a natural defined brow.
7 Angled brush no.2 to apply gel, liquid or crème eyeliner
8 Synthetic hair brush to apply concealer as this will be easier to clean than a real hair brush.

My preferred brushes are by www.maccosmetics.com

I also highly recommend to buy brushes from the following:
www.bobbibrown.co.uk
www.danielsandler.com
www.realtechniques.com

Tuesday 11 December 2012

Beauty Advent

A little Christmas fun! My Pro' make up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve.  Enjoy!

Dec 11th

Look after your hands and nails! Every time you wash them apply a hand moisturiser immediately afterwards whilst they are still damp to lock in moisture.  Moisturise cuticles daily using a massaging circular motion and a good cuticle cream. Exfoliate hands once a week using a hand scrub. File nails in one direction only, not back and forth this will avoid nail's splitting.  Always use a base coat and a top coat to achieve a long lasting manicure especially when using darker colours.

Here are some of my favorite's
Aveda hand relief cream
Mavala cuticle cream

Champney's softening hand scrub
Seche VITE Top coat

OPI Basecoat


Monday 10 December 2012

Beauty Advent

A little Christmas fun!  My Pro' make up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve.  Enjoy!

Dec' 10th

When doing a smokey or a dramatic eye do your eye make up prior to your foundation as you will more than likely have some 'fall out'  from the dark colours during application.
Then you can easily and quickly clean under the eyes and along the sides of the nose with a wipe and apply foundation and concealer onto clean skin.

Make up lessons available at www.nikimakeup.co.uk

Sunday 9 December 2012

Beauty Advent🎄🎅🎁

A little Christmas fun! My Pro' make up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve. Enjoy!

Dec' 9th

Always tap off excess powder from brushes before applying make up products to the face. Follow this simple rule when applying any powder based product for example eyeshadow, blusher, bronzer and face powder.
Gently tap the brush against the edge of the compact to achieve a natural finish. Repeat this process adding a little product to the face each time, rather than applying product directly to the face from the compact resulting in heavy application and often a messy finish!


Make up lessons are available at www.nikimakeup.co.uk

Saturday 8 December 2012

Beauty Advent🎄🎅🎁

A little Christmas fun! My Pro' make-up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve. Enjoy!

Dec' 8th

To clean make-up brushes use a little shampoo and warm water. Wash each brush individually. If you want to give them a real pamper you can use conditioner too! After cleaning each brush by lathering shampoo in the palm of your hand, rinse, squeezing out gently any excess water and shape so hairs are not splayed. It is important to dry on a towel/paper towel with the brush over the edge of a work surface so that air can circulate the entire brush head.



Friday 7 December 2012

Beauty Advent!

A little Christmas fun! My Pro' make-up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve. Enjoy!

Dec' 7th

For a youthful, healthy flush of colour apply powder blusher to the apples of the cheeks using a soft haired brush. Use circular motions to blend up and outwards towards the hairline. If blended well this will achieve a modern, fresh look unlike blusher placed along the cheekbones in stripes! The same method can be used for application of creme blusher, apply on the apples then blend with fingertips in circular motions.

Thursday 6 December 2012

Beauty Advent

A little Christmas fun!  My pro' make-up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve.  Enjoy!

Dec' 6th

Apply body and separate face moisturiser immediately after washing while skin is still damp for better absorption and super soft skin.


My all time favourite body moisturiser is The Body shop Cocoa butter and for face I love Dermalogica Skin smoothing crème.

Wednesday 5 December 2012

Beauty Advent

A little Christmas fun!  My Pro' make up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve.  Enjoy!

Dec 5th

For a wide awake bright eyed look apply a whitening pencil into the bottom rim of the eye softly. I like to warm the pencil in my palm gently first. My favourite is the Benefit eye BRIGHT pencil, this is a very pale pink so not as stark as a white.  You can also add a little at the inner and outer corner of the eye alternatively you can use a white or similar tone of eye shadow to do this.



Tuesday 4 December 2012

Beauty Advent

A little Christmas fun!  My Pro' make-up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve.  Enjoy!

Dec' 4th

When applying mascara look straight ahead into a mirror ideally magnifying. Apply mascara beginning at the root of the lash using a zig zag technique through to the lash tip. This helps to separate, rid clumps and lengthen eyelashes.  I always suggest applying to the bottom lashes first. If you do apply to the top lashes first, in most cases this usually means you then look up to apply to the bottom lashes.  The top lashes will not yet be dry, resulting in black marks of mascara all over your carefully applied eye shadow.

Make-up lessons are available at www.nikimakeup.co.uk

Monday 3 December 2012

Beauty Advent🎄🎅🎁

A little Christmas fun! My Pro' make-up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve. Enjoy!

Dec' 3rd🎄

Try using a flat eyeliner brush to press gel or creme eyeliner at the root of the top eye lashes. Begin at the outer corner of the eye pressing firmly from underneath the lashes at the root (not in the rim) working across to the inner corner. Press the index finger of the opposite hand onto the eye lid to gently push back the lid for ease of application. This method achieves beautifully natural defined eyes.



Sunday 2 December 2012

Beauty Advent🎄🎅🎁

A little Christmas fun! My pro' make up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve. Enjoy!

Dec' 2nd🎄

Nail polish chipping a day or two after applying can be really annoying. Try applying a thin coat of nail polish across the edge of the nail tips this will ensure your nail polish stays chip resistant for much longer.

Apply a base coat followed by two coats of nail colour. On the second coat apply across the nail tips and finish with a top coat. I like to apply this across the tips as well for a perfect finish.

My favourite nail care products can be found here http://www.mavala.co.uk/nails/

Saturday 1 December 2012

Beauty Advent🎄🎅🎁

A little Christmas advent fun! My pro' make up and beauty tips, a new tip every day until Christmas Eve. Enjoy!

Dec 1st🎄

Try something new I like using a fan shaped brush to apply bronzing powder instead of your usual dome shaped powder brush.

Apply to cheek bones and forehead for a natural defined finish this winter.

I like Laura Mercier's brush:

http://www.lauramercier.co.uk/store/shop/Brushes-for-Face_Fan-Powder-Brush_prod300018

Tuesday 30 October 2012

A recent Luton Hoo wedding

At the beginning of August I did  bridal make up for Huda, her mother and three bridesmaids at the stunning Luton Hoo in Bedfordshire (www.lutonhoo.co.uk).

Suzanne and Andre from Belle Momenti (www.bellemomenti.com) did the wonderful wedding photography documenting Huda's special day.

I kept Huda's make up very natural. Glowing skin was achieved using Chanel Vitalumiere foundation and complimented with a touch of Nars cream blush in 'Orgasm'.  Natural brown toned eye shadows all from MAC were used to define the eyes and a soft pink from MAC in shade 'Bare again' was applied to the lips. The addition of some individual lashes from Ardell completed this elegant bridal look.






"I am so very pleased that I asked Niki to do my make- up for my wedding. 
I had seen Niki's work on a bridal photo shoot and was really impressed with her talent; so I just had to book a trial with her! Niki's friendly manner during the trial made it very easy to talk to her about what I wanted (and what I didn't want!). She offered me expert advice and gave me the exact look I was aiming for on my big day. 
On the day of the wedding, she provided a great atmosphere of calm, which immediately settled my nerves. Niki worked quickly and with excellent skill, making us (bridesmaids, mother and myself) look (and feel) really fabulous! The make- up lasted the entire day, too. 
Niki is an amazing, talented artist and I will definitely be recommending her to any future brides. 
Thanks again, Niki."  Huda Al Haddad.

For further information on bridal make up please see www.nikimakeup.co.uk and for photography enquiries please see www.bellemomenti.com.



Thursday 11 October 2012

A wedding at South Farm

Recently I was at the gorgeous South Farm (www.south-farm.co.uk) in Royston for Angela's wedding. I applied make up and individual lashes to Angela plus her three bridesmaids and Jaydean at www.hairbyjaydean.com styled the hair into beautiful up do's.
It started off a beautiful sunny day but we did unfortunately have rain while we were getting the bridal party ready. It certainly did not dampen everyone's spirits for the day though as it is to be expected in the UK!

South Farm is such a quirky, different venue a great choice for any bride and groom currently searching for the perfect venue. Guests can even choose to stay in restored gypsy painted caravans for a real outdoors fun experience after the partying ends.
It is also a lovely journey to get there all through narrow country lanes with acres of stunning fields surrounding you South farm is set in what feels like the middle of nowhere and the drive into the farm itself along a tree lined long drive is stunning. This brings me to the bride Angela who looked gorgeous in her fitted lace fishtail dress complete with sparkly Jimmy Choo heels!
Angela's make up and hair was classic and timeless with soft smokey eyes and lots of individual lashes to add fullness to her natural lash. Jaydean effortlessly swept Angela's hair up cleanly into an elegant, smooth up do.
Angela made my job easy and it was lovely to be involved in her wedding day. X

Sunday 7 October 2012

Mavala MAVA-WHITE for yellow nails!

It is not very often I come across a really fabulous product that gives instant results so I had to share this one!

MAVA-WHITE Optical nail whitener by Mavala comes in a 10ml glass bottle complete with application brush.

It is recommended for yellow/discoloured nails, due to specific pigments that react to the UV light.

MAVA-WHITE can be worn alone to make nails appear whiter.  It  is also a great choice for men if they are concerned about the appearance of their nails ie. if they are stained due to nicotine as it has a matt finish.

It is perfect worn over base coat before applying a natural nail colour, a french manicure or simply a topcoat.

My nails looked instantly whiter this will be a staple item for me from now on that I highly recommend.

Available online at Amazon.

Friday 5 October 2012

My Exfoliation tips for healthy, radiant skin.

Exfoliation in simple steps to achieve healthy, glowing skin...

Set aside time for yourself, it maybe at the weekend or simply when you are in the shower.

Invest or make a scrub to exfoliate your skin, apply the product using a sponge, glove or cloth.

Try to opt for a natural scrub containing ingredients such as salt, sugar, apricot and oatmeal rather than chemical ones that include acids.

Start at your feet and work up the body in gentle circular motions, pay particular attention to heels, knees and elbows. Be cautious on sensitive areas such as the neck and use a separate exfoliator for the face as these are designed to be gentler.

After exfoliating always moisturise with your favourite moisturiser to achieve glowing and hydrated skin.

Exfoliate once or twice a week, preferably in the morning as skin re news itself at night.  If old skin cells are not removed pores can easily clog which can cause breakouts.

Products I Love to use include Dermalogica daily microfoliant, this is a unique rice based enzyme powder with no colour or fragrance and Aveda smoothing body polish which contains aloe, lavender, walnut shells and herbal extracts.

Wednesday 3 October 2012

Hippos have sensitive skin too!

Now I have your attention interestingly Hippos all over the world are actually very sensitive to sunburn so they secrete a slime(a natural sunscreen substance) that protects their skin against the suns rays. The secretion is both red and orange in colour eventually turning brown.

Tuesday 2 October 2012

My wedding make up.

I recently got married in sunny Spain, I thought I would share with you the skincare and make up brands I chose to wear on my wedding day.

My skincare regime included moisturising my face with Creme de la mer oil free moisturising lotion, a light lotion that I have favoured for many years now. I used the Creme de la mer eye balm in conjunction with this after I was converted many years ago after it miraculously rid my Eczema.

Before applying make up I applied Clarins beauty flash balm to instantly achieve glowing skin and make my make up last throughout the heat and a lot of dancing!

My foundation of choice was MAC Face and Body in shade C2, this feels very light and natural to wear especially in a hot climate and ultimately lasts the duration. Concealer was MAC Studio finish in shades NC20 and NC30 mixed together, a concealer I have used myself and in my kit for many, many years!  Under my eyes I used a little YSl touche eclat, to finish I set my base using MAC Blot powder in shade medium dark.

For my eyebrows I used Bobbi Brown shadow in shade Blonde brushed softly through my brows to define the shape and clear brow gel from NO.7 to set.  To achieve soft, bronzed smokey eyes I used Urban Decay primer potion in shade Eden as a base to even the skin tone on my eyelid and to ensure my eye make up would last. I next applied Benefit cream shadow in shade Birthday suit on the lower lid blended towards the crease with an urban decay powder eye colour on top. This colour was from an urban decay palette I have actually had for a while and never used but loved the colour when seeking the perfect champagne shade, which I can tell you even for a make up artist was incredibly hard! I spent many hours at make up counters testing colours to find the colour I really wanted. In the eye socket I blended two Nars shades from the Isolde duo and Mulch from MAC.  To define around the lash line I used MAC shadow in Bark and blended with MAC cork shadow to soften.  I finished with MAC Nylon shadow to highlight my brow bone.
I used Bobbi Brown Black gel eye liner to define my eyes which I applied under the eyelid as well as on top, I also applied a Lancome Kohl pencil into the rim of my eye as it was an evening wedding I felt this was acceptable.  I finished with a few coats of Lancome Defincils waterproof black mascara and a few clusters of Ardell individual lashes to make my lashes a little longer and fluttery at the outer corner of my eyes.

I used Dior Bronze compact powder bronzer in shade Honey tan to give a enhanced glow to my skin as well as Daniel Sandler watercolour creme bronzer in shade Riviera to subtly contour my cheekbones and nose.  For blusher I opted for Benefit Cha Cha tint as I knew this would last and is a great feel good summer colour.  I used YSL limited edition golden touch highlighter for the face to highlight my cheekbones, cupid bow and inner corners of my eyes.

I used a MAC lip pencil in shade subculture to define my lip shape and filled in with a brand new lipstick Rouge d'Armani sheers by Georgio Armani in shade 302, a beautiful sheer red. I used a Clarins colour quench lip balm on top which was a mini free sample and did not have a name on the tube but was a beautiful subtle peach tone.

All brushes used were by MAC, Bobbi Brown and real Techniques.

Photograph supplied by David Toms
http://www.davidtoms-weddings.com/



















For bridal make up services in Souhern Spain please see www.marbellamakeup.com
and for services in the UK www.nikimakeup.co.uk

Thursday 20 September 2012

Laura Mercier tinted moisture creme compact

I was at the Laura Mercier counter in Liberty today to see the new Laura Mercier tinted moisturiser in a compact. I am impressed as it is quick and easy to use with the natural dewy finish of their best selling tinted moisturiser. A great choice for those that favour a compact or to touch up throughout the day. I am interested now to see how the other brands will follow this.

SPF20, 12 shades available.RRP £33.

Tuesday 4 September 2012

Louise Gray for TOPSHOP

I have recently purchased three of the four new nail colours designed by Louise Grey, British-born designer who studied at Glasgow School of Art and Central Saint Martins. Colours include junkyard (glitter blue), hat trick (green glitter) and Dart (orange glitter). Altogether there is a twelve piece make up collection built around Louise's love of colour and texture. I love the bright and sparkly nail colours so if you get a chance pop in to your local TOPSHOP and take a look.

Tuesday 21 August 2012

Autumn/winter make up trends 2012

Wow!It is that time of year again and I find myself looking forward to the autumn/winter make up trends. If you want to know what to wear and how to wear it then read on...

The most important word to remember is 'colour', it really is in abundance from statement red lips to bright peacock coloured eyes. For serious eye emphasis opt for bright shades of blues, emerald greens, pinks and purples. Also look out for shades of coloured mascara's as these are also back on the fashionista scene. For bold statement lips opt for berry tones, burgundy reds, even purples. Make cheeks more pronounced this autumn/winter with spots of colour; try a rose, pale pink or terracotta.

So now you know what colours to look for just how do you wear them?The trick is to make the trends adapt to you and your style. Make bright eye colours more wearable by smudging them just around the lash line rather than over the entire eyelid. This will achieve a subtle and ultimately more desirable sultry effect. If coloured eyeshadow is still a daunting prospect opt for a flick of eyeliner and coloured mascara with no eyeshadow at all.

If a statement lip seems more appealing than making up your eyes but that burgandy red you have just purchased still looks too daring create a softer stain of the lip colour by patting on with your finger tip or mix a little of the colour with a gloss to create your very own sheer glossy version.

If all of this still seems like too much effort you could change just one simple step in your make up routine like blusher. Try applying it in a new way by adding a spot of colour on the cheeks then blending well, maybe try choosing a new shade aswell. It really is amazing how by making just one small change can update your look and make you feel great.

Tuesday 22 May 2012

Last week in pictures!

Last week I did make up and hair for a couple of film premieres in London. The first was Snow White and the huntsmen at the Royal courts of Justice on the strand. Between three of us we did make up for approximately 55 female waitresses who would be working at the after show party. The make up consisting of a red lip (MAC Russian red) and black kohl pencil (MAC Smoulder) smudged around the eyes. The hair was in a simple bun with a red rose to decorate.

I also did hair and make up for six dancers for the premier of Men in Black three at the Odeon, Leicester Square.
The girls wore sixties shift dresses so we did backcombed hair with high ponytails with a few different variations
The make up designed by my colleague Bethan consisted of a traditional sixties eye with false lashes and a nude pale lip (MAC Cherish).

This is a selection of pictures from the both events.