I am very lucky to be a columnist for The Lincoln Journal and The Lincolnshire Journal magazines, (I also write columns for The Wedding Journal too.)

My most recent column in The Wedding Journal is talking about why you should book a Pro make-up artist on your wedding day.  Here's a snippet, "Weddings are a time of celebration and happiness and I am always honoured to be a part of someones' special day.  When choosing a Make-up artist, you can't beat a first hand recommendation or review.  Ask around and check out their social media accounts and portfolio too.  See how long they have been in the industry for, (I sang in the bathroom last night, it doesn't make me a singer, if you know what I mean.)  Getting your make-up applied professionally is a luxury, but with all things luxury there is a cost associated with it.  Yes, you could do your make-up yourself or get your friend, but would it look the same? and do you need that stress on your wedding day?  Price wise, a Pro make-up artist will charge what they are worth.  You are not just paying for their expertise, experience or application, but upkeep of their kit, time, travel, cleaning and sanitising their kit, answering e-mails, etc, etc.  Make-up artists work so hard, in and out of hours.  Basically, you do get what you pay for.  When you have chosen your make-up artist, book them...fast! A reputable make-up artist has a packed schedule and while that says great things about them and their work, it means you have to get a contract in place, (a professional will already have this in place as standard.)  I don't recommend not having a trial before the wedding day, and actually, I don't take Brides on without this anyway, it is far too important.  Not only should the makeup artist be amazing at make-up but you need someone who is going to be reliable, professional, keep you calm and also works well under pressure, you also need to have a good rapport with them.  I have lost count of the number of times I have given reassuring hugs, passed a tissue and wiped tears, or poured a glass of champers to a nervous Bride...but its all part of the job.  Make sure you wear waterproof products for obvious reasons! You don't want to have panda eyes or streaks ruining your look!  Lastly, embrace the whole experience of having a professional apply your make-up for you.  It is a most enjoyable experience and one which you will remember for the rest of your life."

My October Lincolnshire Journal "Tina Brocklebank Make-up artist knows good make-up..." talks about dark under eye circles, (something which I have myself.)  Products I recommend are a good eye cream, Bobbi Brown corrector and concealer, Laura Mercier secret camouflage palette, Louise Young cosmetics, Barry M concealers, Amazing Cosmetics concealers, YSL Touche Eclat, a Beauty Blender, Chanel powder, (if required) and Lancome Effacernes concealer.

There is no denying, that make-up can be our best friend, if applied correctly and use the correct products.  Make-up can enhance us and also play down the areas that we are not so comfortable with.  Don't be afraid of experimenting a little and investing in yourself.  Make-up is such a useful tool and a skill for life!  (I have been working with lots of lovely ladies recently, on make-up lessons, all ages.)  It always brings me such pleasure and is a real buzz when I make that person happy, just by applying a little bit of make-up, it can really boost someones' confidence and well being.  Make-up, to me, is so much more than applying it, it has such a positive effect on a person.  It really can make all the difference to your day.  Heres a few examples of some make-up lessons and reviews too...