Style Tips for Your Wedding After You’ve Postponed

Sadly so many couples who had planned to get married in 2020 have postponed their wedding day. Many of these couples have postponed to a date that is in a different season than originally planned. Whether your date has changed to a new season or if you are in the wedding planning stage, these style tips will help guide you. As a wedding industry professional, I always recommend working with professionals who specialize in weddings. For trusted, expert advice, I partnered with the very talented Andi Schilawski, owner and lead planner and designer of Forever Love Events, based in Philadelphia, PA. Andi’s couples’ weddings have been featured on The Perfect Palette, 100 Layer Cake, Martha Stewart Weddings, Philly In Love and more. 

Andi Schilawski

Owner | Lead Planner & Designer Forever Love Events

Andi shares, “So many changes have happened during the last few months. No one would have ever anticipated what 2020 had in store for us. As planners, we always prepare for bad weather and even terrorism. We have plans A, B, C and even D sometimes, but a pandemic is usually not within those plans. My heart breaks for those who have lost loved ones due to COVID-19, for those on the front lines risking their lives every single day to keep us safe and healthy but as a wedding planner, my heart also breaks for all of the couples that have had to reschedule their big day.” Andi adds,  “rescheduling is not as easy as just figuring out a new date that works for you and your vendors (even though that in itself sometimes is not easy at all!), you also need to take into consideration possible style adjustments.” 

Flowers & Decor: Are you rescheduling to a completely different season? If so, flowers and overall decor would be the most important thing to revisit as you probably had agreed with your florist on local/seasonal blooms that might not be available on your new date. Also, the decor in general, if you were having a winter wonderland wedding and now you have a spring event, you may want to update a few things on your design so everything is cohesive with the time of the year for the new date. 

Timeline: The timeline for the day might also need to be updated. If you were having a summer wedding and were planning on doing a first look, most likely the start time of your event would have been around 6:00pm or later so you had plenty of light to do pictures outdoor before heading to the venue. But if your date is now in late fall or winter, you would want to consider starting your event earlier so you get those beautiful outdoor shots before sunset.

Kristen + Pete - Real Wedding

Love Me Do Photography

Forever Love Events

Food, Signature Cocktails or other Reception Enhancements: Think of the season! You wouldn't want to offer that Mojito you had planned as a signature drink for your summer wedding if you are now getting married in the winter or do that ice cream bar at the end of the night, instead, you might want to replace those with a warmer/wintery drink or a hot chocolate station at the end of the night.

Kristen + Pete - Real Wedding

Love Me Do Photography

Forever Love Events

Bridal Party Attire: Just as important as the flowers, this should match the occasion as well as the season and weather, especially for the bridesmaids. If their dresses have already been ordered, you can easily update the look with accessories such as wraps for cooler months. 

Possibly Guests' Dress Code: If you moved your wedding from an evening event to a morning/early afternoon wedding, you might not want to ask your guests to wear formal or black-tie attire.

 “As you can see, there are many things to consider when you reschedule your wedding to a different season, your wedding planner should be able to provide a plan on how to move forward and see what (if any) of these points would affect you or anything else I might have not mentioned as each wedding is different.”

As a makeup artist, there are a few options I also recommend considering for your wedding day beauty style.

Makeup: If you will now be getting married in a fall or winter month rather than spring or summer, try deeper or richer shades. You can even make adjustments with texture. Since heat and humidity will be less of a factor, creamy or hydrating textures are much more comfortable. 

Hair: Often times brides consider wearing their hair up or back in some way due to heat and humidity in the warmer months. However, if you will now be getting married in the fall or winter you can consider wearing your hair down or only partially back. The humidity also affects the texture of our hair and how it holds, considering this may also help you decide on your day-of style. 

Skincare: Many of us tend to have drier skin in the fall and winter and are a bit more oily in the summer months. I always recommend working with an esthetician to best prepare for your skin for any season prior to your big day.  

Spray Tan: During the warmer months we tend to get a little extra natural color from the sun. A spray tan may be something you consider for an extra touch of warmth to your complexion for a fall or winter wedding. 

These are all simple adjustments you may consider. It is a great idea to reach out to your vendors and get their professional guidance. If you haven’t already chosen a wedding planner or coordinator, this is the perfect time to do so! A planner will assist you with all of these details and most importantly with the execution and so much more. Andi is not only very talented, she is incredibly kind and patient. Exactly what you want on your big day! 

 Congratulations to you on your upcoming wedding! What a celebration your wedding day will be! 

Kristen + Pete - Real Wedding

Love Me Do Photography

Forever Love Events

JKo Beauty

Styled Shoot

Styled shoots can be so much fun and this one definitely was! Sam from Asya Photography had actually just shot for Emma and Eric’s real wedding one month before. What a cool way to spend your one month anniversary?! The Kimmel Center in Philadelphia is a beautiful venue for weddings as well as capturing beautiful photos. Elegant, luxurious and romantic is how I would describe the style of this wedding shoot.

Vendor List:

Floral: Papertini

Photography: Asya Photography (Sam Shuma)

Bridal Gown: Unveiled

Makeup: JKo Beauty

Hair: Ariel Katrina

Garces Events / The Kimmel Center

Rentals: South Jersey Party Rental & BBJ

Invitations: Papertree

Beauty Breakdown:

The makeup I did for Emma is one that is timeless and classic, it is romantic with a touch of glamour. I kept her skin glowing and fresh and added soft touches of highlighting and contouring to define her bone structure. She has naturally full and beautifully shaped brows. I cleaned up their shape and only enhanced their natural beauty. Emma has such beautiful eyes so I added intensity to them so they would be the focus of her look.

Why It's Worth Having Your Brows Professionally Shaped

Your brows frame your eyes and can change the look of your face. Throughout the years, styles have come and gone...and come back again. There are different methods of shaping your brows, such as tweezing, waxing and threading. Here are 5 great reasons to trust a professional for your most enhancing look. 

1) The proper brow shape can make you look younger or more refreshed. Your brows can, in a sense, have an expression. The idea is to have a positive expression, not surprised, angry or mean.

2) Have you ever heard the saying, "brows are like sisters, not twins." This means that they are not exactly alike, brows are not naturally completely symmetrical. A pro can see these subtle differences and make your brows appear more symmetrical. 

3) It is important to understand that the best brow shape is not the same for everyone. Your face shape, bone structure and individual features are all factors in creating your best shape. 

4) The proper brow shape can give you a more finished look. I always say, "Take care of your skin and your brows, they do not wash off at the end of the day." Even without makeup, great brows can enhance your look. 

5) Something I always tell my clients is how difficult it is to shape your own brows. It's really quite simple why. In order to see the hairs you want to remove, you must look closely in the mirror, most likely a magnifying mirror. By doing this, you ultimately lose perspective of both brows. This is how you end up with either over-tweezed or more asymmetrical brows, or even worse both. 

Before you trust just anyone with your brows, do some research. Read reviews, look for photos of the stylists' work online and ask for referrals (from people with good brows, of course!) 

New Year's Eve Makeup Ideas

The last party night of the year is quickly approaching. Deciding what to wear and how to pull your look together is probably one of your biggest tasks for this special night. Let's be honest, we not only want to spend the last night of the year with those that are most important to us, but we want to feel good and look amazing! 

Here are a few ideas to have fun with your makeup, this is the night for glitter, glow and glam!

1) Go for glitter on your eyes. You can try using a cream shadow first, then press a glitter eyeshadow over it. I recommend you look for a fine glitter versus a more chunky texture. 

2) Try a dramatic winged liner. Or even better yet, a dramatic winged liner...with glitter or metallic liquid liner. 

3) Metallic smokey eye makeup can be coordinated to your overall look. If you're wearing all black, it's a great way to add some color. Or go a bit bolder and more creative, use a complimentary color to what you are wearing. My go-to is the complimentary color to your eye color, making your eyes pop.

4) Wear false lashes. Depending on your overall look, you can choose a style that naturally enhances your lashes or try something more playful and dramatic. 

5) Try a bold lip color. I always think of pinks and reds as more party appropriate. But why not try a deep stain or burgundy for something more vampy or if it's your style, a bold orange. 

6) Go ahead and apply a more defined contour and glowing highlight. Now is the best time for this bone structure enhancing style.

Cheers to a Happy and Healthy New Year!! 

10 Foods for a Wedding Day Glow

As a bridal makeup artist, my goal is to enhance each of my bride's natural beauty and joyful glow on her wedding day. Of course there are many tricks and techniques with makeup and day-of skin prep that I am able to use for a glowing complexion. There are also many skin care tips I share along the way to prepare for skin that is in it's best condition. In addition, there are several healthy practices to enhance this beautiful, bridal glow. Here is my pick of top 10 foods to eat for a healthy, wedding day glow...

1) TOMATOES

Tomatoes help boost collagen, are rich in Vitamin A, C and K as well as lycopene, a powerful anti-oxidant. 

2) GREEN TEA

Green Tea is loaded with polyphenols, powerful anti-oxidants. Drinking green tea regularly is also known to help reverse sun damage. Be sure not to limit consumption, it also contains caffeine which can ultimately dehydrate your skin. 

3) BERRIES

Berries are rich in vitamin C and anti-oxidants. Anthrocyanin, an anti-oxidant that helps fight damage from free radicals and ellagic acid, which helps protect from sun damage and promotes collagen and elasticity are both present in berries. They also contain essential fatty acids which improve skin's hydration and reduce inflammation. 

4) AVOCADOS

Avocados are a great source of carotenoids which improve density, thickness, tone and overall general appearance. They also contain vitamins C and E and oleic acid which helps keep skin soft and hydrated. 

5) CARROTS

Carrots have vitamin C which helps plumpness and firmness of the skin. They are rich in beta-carotene which is converted to vitamin A and helps with blemishes, pigmentation and oiliness.   

6) LEAFY GREENS

Leafy Greens such as kale and swiss chard are high in beta-carotene, helping to repair and renew skin for a healthy glow. Arugula also contains sulfur which supports collagen production. Spinach is also high in folate which helps with DNA repair. Leafy greens are also rich in vitamins A and C.

7) EGGS 

Eggs help to soften, firm and hydrate your skin. They help to protect skin from UV damage with lutein and zeaxanthin. Eggs have amino acids that help in generation of new cells. 

8) ALMONDS

Almonds help to hydrate and soften the skin. They are high in vitamin E which helps prevent cell damage as well as damage from the sun. 

9) CITRUS FRUITS

Citrus Fruits help with sun spots, uneven skin tone and enhancing a radiant glow while rejuvenating your skin from within. These fruits are high in vitamin C and contain vitamin B6, folate, potassium, lycopene, niacin, magnesium, thiamin and phytonutrients. 

 10) PEPPERS

Peppers are high in vitamins A, C and K. They help with blood circulation and fighting blemishes as well as fighting oxidative stress. 

These 10 foods are just a starting point for a healthy glow for all of us, not just a bride. It is incredible what a healthy, clean and well-balanced diet can do for our overall health and well-being. Have fun and be creative with your food, it's truly one of life's simple pleasures.

How to Prep for Your Spray Tan

Whether getting a spray tan or applying self tanner yourself at home, these tips will help prepare you for a longer lasting, more even tan.

Before Your Tan

• For hair removal, shave the day before and wax 48 hours prior to your tan.

• The previous night, apply a body moisturizer all over my maximum hydration.

• Exfoliate to remove any dead skin for a more even color.

• Be sure to have completely clean skin, no perfumes, deodorant, makeup or lotions.

• Apply lip balm to prevent color to lips.

• Schedule your manicure or pedicure before your tanning session.

After Your Tan

• Wear loose fitting, dark clothes.

• Do not get wet or sweaty. Sorry, no swimming or gym time until after you've showered.

• Allow your tan to develop as directed. It is not recommended to exceed the time instructed.

• Use daily moisturizer or a tan extender lotion for a longer lasting tan.

• Avoid harsh soaps and body scrubs.

• After showering, pat dry with your towel.

Happy Safe Tanning!

10 Tips for a Polished Look in 5 Minutes

We all have those days that we want just a few more minutes of our beauty sleep.  Here is a list of 10 tips to look polished in 5 minutes.

1. TINTED MOISTURIZER

Choose a tinted moisturizer with a SPF 30 or higher.  It should match your skin to even out discoloration.  I prefer to use one that also has additional skincare benefits, such as NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer.

2. CONCEALER

This product is a quick pick-me-up.  Apply to any blemishes, lightly around your mouth, the corners of your nose, under your eyes and my favorite spot...under your eyebrows.  Applying here will disguise unwanted regrowth and give a lifted, defined look to your brows.  My go-to concealer is Cle de Peau, an award winning multi-use concealer.

3. GEL EYELINER 

Gel eyeliner is a staple for your makeup collection.  It can be used for so many looks.  For the 5 minute look, naturally, we are not going to try to attempt a winged eyeliner style.  This is the time for using your flat eyeliner brush and simply pushing a touch of the gel liner into your lash line.  Quickly, this gives you definition and the illusion of fuller lashes.  

4. MASCARA 

This is the time to reach for your black, full volume mascara.  A good coat or two on the top lashes is all you need.  Make sure you start from the base of your lashes, wiggle the wand slightly as you continue to apply in an upward motion to the tips of your lashes.  This motion will give you maximum volume and encourage a curl, opening up your eyes.  

5. BROW GEL

Brow gel is perfect for taming overgrown hairs for a more sculpted brow look.  It will hold your brows in place throughout the day easily giving them a more defined look.  If your brow hair does not match your hair or you have very fair brow hair, choose a tinted brow gel.  

6. BRONZER OR HIGHLIGHTER 

I know, I know...why "or"??  Because this is the 5 minute look!  My recommendation is to choose whichever feels right to you.  If you're feeling a bit washed out, go for the bronzer.  If you want a radiant glow, reach for your highlighter.  Keep it simple.  Bronzer applied lightly to your forehead and cheeks.  If your neck tends to be a bit lighter than your face, apply it there as well for a more even look.  If you opt for highlighter, apply to the inner corners of your eyes and on the top edge of your cheekbones, applying in an upward motion towards your hairline.  I love the options of the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Collection. 

7. BLUSH

Think a subtle pop of color.  Apply a small amount to the apples of your cheeks.  For a soft and easy-to-blend blush with a beautiful color range, try Chanel Joues Contraste Powder Blush.  

8. LIPSTICK

Remember this is 5 minutes, lipstick only.  So we can cheat a bit here and go for a fat lipstick pencil.  Choose for a creamy formula with a complimentary pop of color.  

9. DRY SHAMPOO

This product is such a time saver.  Dry shampoo is used to absorb oils in the hair, creating more volume.  

10. EARRINGS

This is a fun tip to complete your look.  Choose a pair of earrings to coordinate with your lip and cheek color or a pair that makes your eye color pop.  

I know it's only a few minutes, but how we feel when we walk out the door sets the tone for our day.  I hope you enjoy these tips and have a wonderful day!

Dream Weddings Featured Wedding

Amanda and Philip

I had the honor of working with Amanda on her very special big day.  She was absolutely a stunning bride and their beautiful wedding was featured in Dream Weddings.  You can certainly feel the love just looking at their photos.  

Photo Credits: Epic Photography

Choosing Your Wedding Day Makeup Look

Congratulations!  You are now engaged!  Your mind is probably spinning with so many ideas and questions about the details of your Big Day.  I have created a simple guide to help you with choosing your Wedding Day makeup look.  I regularly meet with brides-to-be for makeup consultations and trials.  I find that ladies sometimes know exactly what they want.  While others think they know, but need to see the look on themselves to be sure.  Then there are the ladies who have no idea where to start.  This guide is for everyone and is easy to follow.   

Photo Credit: AGP Collective

Where to begin...There are a few key factors to know first.

Where are you getting married?  The location of your wedding and the time of day is very important in choosing your makeup look.  Are you getting married in a garden at 1:00 pm or in a cathedral at 6:00 pm?  For instance, a garden-style wedding usually has a softer, more romantic overall theme.  Direct natural sunlight in a garden-style wedding also intensifies the look of your makeup.  While a cathedral wedding tends to lean towards a classic, more glamorous style theme.

The season in which you get married may also influence your makeup look.  The season may help determine the flowers you choose as well as the color of your bridesmaids' dresses.  You want your makeup to complement you personally as well as the hues, tones and textures in your wedding.

The next step is to consider the style of your dress.  There are so many gorgeous styles available.  It is important that your hair and makeup work with the style of your dress to complete your look on your Big Day.  

Next is to choose photo inspiration.  

I always ask ladies to show me photos of themselves.  It helps me understand what makeup styles they feel their best while wearing.  I also recommend choosing photos of inspiration you may find online.  Photos are imperative because they create a visual reference.   For example, your idea of a smoky eye could be quite different from my idea.  A photo provides that visual reference so you can properly communicate your preferences and ideas.  There are a few things to keep in mind while choosing your photos.  First, search for photos with similar coloring and facial features to your own.  Also, you want to remember that most photos have been "enhanced" with photo editing, lighting and filters.  It is important that you look beautiful in your photos and equally beautiful in person.  Keep true to your personal style and be careful of following trends.  This is going to be one the most special days of your entire life.  You should always be able to look at your photos and feel the joy and love all over again.  You don't want to later feel any disappointment for having worn a look that simply just wasn't you or is completely dated and out of style. 

Final Touches

I highly recommend you schedule a consultation and trial for your makeup look.  Of course, you want to see the finished look but also how it wears throughout the day or night, how your skin feels and reacts and how your look photographs.  

This whole process should be enjoyable, fun and exciting!