Hi everyone, I announced on my social media this week that I am no longer going to be offering mobile wedding makeup.  After over 20 years working on hundreds of weddings all over the U.K, working with hundreds of Brides, Mums, Grand mums and Bridesmaids, I feel the time is right for me to focus on my studio work.

Eco bridal shoot with Sanyukta Shrestha. Makeup by Tina Brocklebank. Photo by Kev Elkins, Flowers - Limewood flowers.

My make-up studio is currently being refurbished and I am excited to be focusing on Make-up artist training, one to one/joint/group makeup lessons, online makeup lessons and special occasion makeup, (in my studio).  If you are getting married abroad or away from the area and would like a Bridal/wedding makeup lesson, then I can help with that too.

I have loved working and travelling over the years and I have met so many amazing people and worked with many talented wedding businesses, it really has been a pleasure for me. I am very grateful to have had the opportunity and to help so many people and provide the best service.  I am very proud of my achievements and reputation to date.

Tina applying makeup at Aswarby rectory. Hair by Mon Amie wedding hair.

I will be posting updates every now and again on my social media, but I really want to focus my energy into another direction now, mainly in makeup education.

I shall still be honouring 2/3 weddings next year, so if you have not heard from me, then please don't worry, I will still be working with you.

My new studio should be ready in the New Year and I am already taking bookings for makeup lessons.  Here is the info - https://www.tinabrocklebank.co.uk/make-up-lessons/

I have already been very busy with Online makeup lessons and this is something that I am very much enjoying.

The Online lessons start with a basic questionnaire where I find out a little bit about you and what you like and what you don't like, plus any skincare regimes and issues.  I then offer a complimentary 30 minute initial consultation via Zoom and we go through everything and discuss any key points.  You will have already sent me a photo of yourself too, wearing no makeup and with your usual makeup on.

I will give you the opportunity to purchase my Makeup brush set.  These brushes are an investment and ensure your makeup is easier to apply and to ensure a natural, flawless finish.

Tina Brocklebank Make-up artist brushes and bag.

I then go away and design your makeup for you and perhaps a new skincare regime, ready for your 2 hour makeup lesson.  I then send you a product list and face chart, together with a Makeup step guide and any other information which I think may be useful for you.

Every lesson is bespoke and I really enjoying treating each person as an individual and looking into any concerns and coming to a solution with advising the best skincare and makeup for you.

On the lesson you will have your items to hand that you may have bought from the product list I sent to you, (I am not affiliated with any brands so do not work on commission if you buy anything. I just know what works for you from my 30+ years in the industry).

The lesson begins which checking you have everything and sat in good, (natural if possible) lighting and I start guiding you with your skincare application. I then talk you through your makeup steps. I try and make it as fun and easy as I can for you. It can be quite daunting and overwhelming trying something new, but after a few times I have found my clients to really enjoy applying their makeup and understand what to use, where and why.

Natural makeup by Tina Brocklebank.

Time permitting, I can advise on another look for you and we can also discuss anything you find difficult or want to go over.

After the session you will have the opportunity for a follow-up makeup lesson at a discounted price.

If you are interested in this please email me - tina@tinabrocklebank.co.uk and I will send you some information.  I also offer Gift vouchers too.  Something a little different for that person who you never know what to buy for at Christmas!! and it will be a skill for life for them.

I have yet to finalise the Makeup artist training information yet, but already had quite a lot of interest. Just to confirm, this will be a taster day course for any aspiring Makeup artist/or a Makeup artist who feels they would like to expand their knowledge and skills and learn from me and my 30+ experience.

Tina Brocklebank Makeup artist. STALF shoot.

They will be able to come to my makeup studio for the day and work/learn with me, experiencing working on real people.   The training will be bespoke to each individual's needs, background and requirements.

I will still be offering special occasion makeup in my studio, so if you would still like to look amazing for that special occasion I can still provide that service for you, but just not mobile.

All of the lessons will be fun, factual, educational and there will even be nibbles and fizz provided! I can't wait to share with you, photos of my new makeup studio!

As a loyal email subscriber you will receive 10% off any service, (excluding a Makeup artist training workshop). This is for a limited time only and will be given to clients on a first come first served basis. This offer will end January 31st 2023.

Anyway, bye for now, thank you to everyone who I have worked with over the years, (if I have worked with you on your wedding in the past, please do get in touch and send me a wedding photo! I would love to see!!)  Keep in touch!

I hope you all have a lovely Christmas and a very Happy new year.  I hope to see you in 2023!!

Tina x

Tina Brocklebank Make-up artist.

Hi everyone, just a quick update as I haven't managed to post to my blog since January!! (eek!!)

Bridal makeup using one of my lip brushes.
Photo by James Green studio.

I've had a busy old year with lots of wedding work and makeup lessons, and I have really been enjoying meeting lots of new clients, some I met 10 years ago! so its really lovely to see you/them again and to hear they loved my work so much they insisted on coming back for their special day or a makeup lesson, and that they were still using what I had advised for them when I first met them.

Elizabeth, (Elizabeth first visited me about 10 years ago and just recently got married and it was so lovely to see her again!

Liz with her daughters.

Bridal makeup by me.

I've received lots of lovely thank you cards this year and I treasure every single one. It really does mean a lot to me, just a simple thank you card...or even a text! it really does spur me on.

Thank you card

Since losing my Mum last year it's been a rollercoaster, but my work and clients have really been fundamental to my healing and journey through grief, so thank you. It hasn't been easy and still isn't at times. Makeup is a form of therapy for me, applying it to myself and also to others.

Bridal makeup.

My makeup brushes and Re-touch kits have been very popular, so just a heads up, with Christmas (sorry for mentioning that word!) only 3 months away, please let me know if you are interested in purchasing either the brush set or re-touch kit, as these are limited availability and I need to take deposits now when ordering them. If you order now I can get them with you in time for Christmas. I also offer Gift vouchers too, these can be for any denomination.

Tina Brocklebank Luxury makeup brush set, (£112)

Re-touch kit, (£153)

Gift vouchers. Please get in touch if you would like to purchase one.

This is me.

I have been really focusing on looking after myself more these days. I am really into going to the gym and yoga, (above t-shirt is from Eden Ashram).

Here are my current skincare and makeup faves -

The Body shop Camomile cleansing butter

Paula's choice Resist Anti-Aging 5% AHA Exfoliant.

Paula's choice Resist Anti-Aging serum

Paula's choice Defense SPF 30

Tan Luxe The Gradual Illuminating tan lotion

Embryolisse Lait creme concentre moisturiser

Make-up -

Bobbi Brown Foundation stick (I use Beige).

Bobbi Brown Instant full cover concealer (I use Warm Ivory and Sand).

Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow pomade and brow gel (I use Ash brown).

NARS eye primer.

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow talk eyeshadow palette, (the cream eyeshadow is lovely too in the same shade).

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide on eye pencil in Demolition.

Max Factor Curl addict mascara in Black.

Honest Beauty cream blush in Peony or Bobbi Brown in Apricot, (powder).

Lisa Eldridge Highlighter in Pink Moon

Urban Decay lip pencil in Naked.

Charlotte Tilbury Lip colour in Penelope Pink mixed with Huda Beauty in Prom night, (I am still on the hunt for the perfect Nude pink!)

My makeup lessons are still proving popular, and as you can see, I focus on makeup that enhances the person, not mask them. I think it is often what you don't apply to the face not what you do. All too often these days I see makeup that is far too heavy and unflattering.  It is reassuring that my clients visit me for my natural makeup, as they still want to look like themselves...just a little better. To me, makeup is about enhancing that person...

Bridesmaid makeup by Tina Brocklebank using Charlotte Tilbury.

Makeup lesson.

I am nearly booked up now for 2023 with limited availability for 2024 for wedding work.

Please do get in touch if you would like to book a lesson or to book in for your wedding.

Thank you for reading my blog and I look forward to maybe seeing you soon!

Tina x

Happy New Year!  hope you all had a great Christmas!...

I thought I would do a post about my skincare as I have just started using Tretinoin, as I have been getting quite a few blemishes on my chin, plus I wanted to see for myself what all the hype was about! (I've heard that it's the best product for fighting signs of ageing so thought it was time to give it a whirl!)  I also wanted to stop using foundation and really focus on my skin, now I am in my 50's... "skin is the foundation"!

I first read about Tretinoin via reading skincare guru, *Caroline Hirons Skincare book.  I had heard of it before but didn't really understand what all the rave was about. I kept seeing on skincare forums and such.

Caroline Hirons Skincare book.

Unfortunately, you can't get it on the NHS without a prescription but I think you can obtain it privately or from Skin and Me/Dermatica.

I have used an over the counter Retinol before and this is in the Vitamin A family, but I hadn't really seen any difference or improvement in my skin. I have tried various brands.

Originally discovered as having beneficial side effects when treating acne, Vitamin A is widely considered to be the gold standard of skincare because it is scientifically proven not only to reverse the signs of ageing, but also shown to prevent them.

There can be side effects using it, but with correct usage it is said, "there is nothing on the market that gives the same results on the skin".

How to use -

After cleansing, and make sure your skin is dry before you start.

You can use an acid toner after, (although not if you are using a high-percentage retinoid).

Spritz and leave until touch-dry, then apply the retinoid. (If you are using a prescription strength retinoid, cleanse and then apply it, leave it for 20-30 mins by itself, then follow with a soothing moisturiser or oil).

Use in the evening.

Always use SPF (in your morning routine).

Start with a mild percentage and work your way up.

Use one full cycle, (one tube) to build up enough resistance and move up to the next strength.

Less is more. A pea size amount of the prescription strength.  If you are using an over the counter formula you can use a little more.

Avoid the eyes, nostrils, corners of the mouth and neck.

Avoid foaming products as they will be too drying.

Avoid heavy foundations/powders.

You can use other products but use after the vitamin A.

If you are in your 30's use 3 times a week, 40's 4 times a week, 50's 5 times a week, and so on.

*"Vitamin A is designed to resurface the skin, stimulate collagen production and reverse the signs of ageing. It does not happen overnight".

What to expect when you start -

Redness, dryness and flaky skin...niiiice!!

It is wise to "buffer" the product when you first start using it. This will "weaken" the product by adding in a layer of moisturiser, (Embryolisse Lait creme concentre works really well for this as it has a mineral oil base and it stops your skin from taking the water from your foundation and going flaky and patchy).  I am using The Ordinary 100% plant derived Squalene oil.

Oils are your best friend - Squalene and jojoba oils are very light and won't stop the product from working. You can use throughout the day if needed.

Once your skin acclimatises you can expect smoother, more glowing skin, fewer visible lines, better skin tone and elasticity, plumper skin and a more hydrated skin.

How quickly you will see results will vary. It depends how much there is to repair, but in my case I have only been using it for about 3 weeks so apparently for over 40's it can take about a month or so, (I am 52).

If your skin starts to feel sore, you have used too much. If this happens use a lot of nourishing products while your skin recovers and give it a couple of weeks or longer for your skin to return to normal, then try it again and buffer it and go slowly.

Tret is available as prescription strength products only, (I tried obtaining it from my GP but was sadly refused!)  I have a wonderful friend in Spain and he kindly sends me it over, as they can just get it over the counter apparently, (not fair!!)

There are 3 strengths, 0.025% to 0.05% and 0.1% It is suitable for most skin types. I have started on the lowest strength.

There are different products and forms of Vitamin A, (just to confuse us even more!!) - Tretinoin, (retinoid acid) or "Tret". Retinaldehyde is the next level down from this but it can be irritating. It is clinically proven to work up to 11 times faster than retinol. It is suitable for older skins that want quick results. Retinyl retinoate  is a new addition and has been shown to be more stable and more active than retinol, causing less irritation so suitable for sensitive skins. Hydroxypincolone retinoate is more of a cousin to its stronger relative. It is oil based and therefore more gentle, so suitable for sensitive skin. Retinol is the most widely available vitamin A in over the counter products. It is generally available in 0.3%, 0.5% and 1%. It works in the same way as the stronger ingredients, above, so it just takes you longer to get the results. Suitable for all skin types. Adapalene, (Differin) is available over the counter in the USA and is mainly used for acne but has proven benefits on signs of ageing on the skin. Especially useful for acne or breakouts. Great for sensitive skin too.

Brands to try out - Medik8, SkinCeuticals, Paula's choice, Murad, Beauty Pie and Indeed Labs.

Here is a selection of what I am using at the moment...

A selection of my skincare.

As you can see, I use CeraVe Hydrating cleanser as this is very hydrating and has ceramides in. It also contains hyaluronic acid to strengthen and restore the natural barrier function for long lasting hydration. Suitable for normal to dry skins, free from soap and fragrance. I also love using my Bobbi Brown cleansing balm, (it smells pretty good too!!)

I only use the Pixi clarity tonic every now and again in the morning, as it has AHA and BHA in it, but I don't want to cause any irritation whilst using Tret so I have to use this as and when.

I will apply the Tret at night after applying The Ordinary Squalene oil then a Pixi Rose ceramides moisturiser.  I am also using a Lilash eyelash serum to strengthen and lengthen my lashes.

For morning skincare - I cleanse with the CeraVe cleanser, (I always use a soft flannel), with warm water. Next, I do sometimes use the Pixi clarity tonic, (as a toner) or just splash with cold water instead. Next I will apply a little bit of the Squalene oil then a Bobbi Brown Intensive serum, (I might mix in a bit of my Tan Luxe The Gradual tan if I am a little pale). I then apply a Hado Labo Hyaluronic acid then apply a dollop of La Roche Posay SPF 50.

So...I will keep you updated on my Tret journey! I have just put in my order for the next 2 strengths, so you may see me walking around Tesco looking like Thing from Fantastic 4!!

Here are my current favourite other products that I regularly use on my own face -

Tina Brocklebank.

Lacura Cleansing balm, (from Aldi). A lovely balmy cleanser, which melts away makeup and doesn't strip the skin.

Lacura Cleansing balm.

Bobbi Brown foundation stick in Beige and their Instant full cover concealer.  I have been fan of the foundation stick ever since I worked for Bobbi Brown in the late 90's! in Nottingham.  It is a staple in my pro kit too. It is very economical and easy to use.

Anastasia Beverley Hills Dipbrow pomade in Ash brown for my eyebrows, applied with a Rae Morris slanted brow brush. A very natural pomade that stays put.

NYX brow glue - keeps my (sparse) brow hairs in check.

Max Factor Curl addict, 2000 calorie mascara. I have used this for years! I don't see the point in buying an expensive mascara because they only lasts about 3 months anyway and this one thickens, lengthens and stays on very well.

Charlotte Tilbury Flawless filter - Great as a highlighter or use alone, (if you are having a good skin day), to add a lovely, dewy finish to the skin.

Apricot blush from Bobbi Brown - just the right shade and makes me look more alive!

Lisa Eldridge Velvet Intrique and Velvet fawn lipstick, lip liner in Muse. I sometimes mix the 2 as the Fawn shade can be a bit too brown.

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide on eye pencil in Demolition, (waterproof). Stays put and easy to work with.

I am expecting a busy year with wedding bookings and makeup lessons.  I am currently working 2 years in advance. I have been really enjoying getting back into my work and meeting people of all ages and helping them with their makeup dilemmas.

Here are a few photos -

Bridal makeup trial.

Makeup lesson.

Bridesmaid makeup.

Mother of the Bride.

If you would like to purchase one of my luxury makeup brush sets, please get in touch, there is limited availability now.

Tina Brocklebank Luxury makeup brush set, (£112).

My makeup brush set and bag. Wrapped in a luxury box.

I also provide a very handy Re-touch kit, exclusive to my clients, (which also includes tissues, cotton buds and a paper straw!) -

Tina's Re-touch kit. (£155).

With Valentines day approaching I also offer Gift vouchers -

Gift vouchers, (for any denomination from £50).

Tina Brocklebank Makeup studio.

Review for Tina Brocklebank Make-up artist.

Thank you for subscribing to my emails.  Please let me know if there is anything in particular you would like me to write about/research for you.

Tina Brocklebank x 

Just thought I would touch in with you all and let you know that my Brush set will be available again in the next week or so.  I totally sold out of all of my previous ones and they were so successful I decided to reorder another batch!

There are 11 brushes in total and each is carefully picked by me.  All are vegan and cruelty-free and come beautifully packaged.  These are limited availability as I won't be reordering now until well into the New Year, so first come first served! These come with a handy makeup bag, (£112)

Tina Brocklebank Luxury makeup brush set.

I also have my Re-touch kits which come with 3 makeup brushes, a compact mirror, makeup bag and (optional and extra) 3 makeup items of your choice, (£75).

Tina's Re-touch kit.

I also have my new Gift vouchers and you can buy these for any amount from £50.  These are only to be used towards a Makeup lesson at my studio.  A lesson with me is £150.

Gift vouchers

Please let me know if you would like to secure yours by emailing me - tina@tinabrocklebank.co.uk or text me on 07866138537.

Tina Brocklebank Makeup studio.

So, if you are looking to support a local business and looking for something different and high quality, then this will be the gift you are looking for to give to a loved one...just remember, not to keep it for yourself!!!

Lots of love,

Tina xxx

Happy Halloween!

Hope you like my new Halloween makeup!!

I haven't done one of these for a while, due to one thing or another...

I think this look pretty much sums up what grieving feels like. Up one minute and down the next   Early days…

Products used -
@illamasqua Skin base 01
@makeupforever Ultra HD finishing powder and Black and White Wet paint
@kryolan Supracolour palette
@maccosmeticsuk eyeshadows in Cork, Greystone and Vex
Shading @bobbibrownuk eyeshadow in Camel and Slate outlined with Black ink Long wear pencil
Eyelashes @shuuemura and @welovelashesRed Cherry in Lottie

I really enjoyed doing this and I didn't feel cringey posting it either! It was very therapeutic doing it and I hope to do more, when I find time...

Just an update to those of you who read my Menopause and HRT blog.  I don't know if you have heard or seen on the TV that the Menopause and support services bill has been passed in the House of commons on Friday!! MP Carolyn Harris was the wonderful lady who made it all happen, (together with lots of amazing other ladies), such as Diane Danzebrink, who I have had the pleasure of speaking with on numerous occasions, Dr Louise Newson, who is my Menopause specialist, Davina McColl, Daniella Frostrop, Liz Earle, Penny Lancaster, and not to mention all of the amazing ladies, and others who had shared the petition to Make menopause matter!!

So, the first part has been passed in England and what has happened is HRT is now free for the WHOLE YEAR! in England, (apart for paying just the once, so just a single charge for a full year HRT!)

The task force is also going to look into GP training and workplace and education.  This is such wonderful news and its long overdue. The revolution has started!

Here is my blog if you didn't read it -

https://www.tinabrocklebank.co.uk/my-experience-with-surgical-menopause-and-hrt/

Bookings for 2022 and 2023 are coming in thick and fast! It's been a very busy year, and I am very proud to have been able to work on all but one of my weddings this year, due to my Mum passing away in July.

Thank you for all of your kind words of support and encouragement, they really do mean a lot to me.  Thank you to those of you that have been especially kind, compassionate and understanding.  I really do have the best clients, I am very lucky. You all spur me on, you really do!

2022 is now nearly fully booked with wedding work.  I am also going to be busy with my studio work - so makeup lessons are going to be something I am going to be focusing on next year and I am going to be changing them a bit, so watch this space!..

I am just awaiting another batch of my very popular makeup brushes, so if you would like a set, then please contact me as soon as possible as I won't be putting another order in until Jan/Feb time now.

Tina Brocklebank Luxury makeup brush set.

They come beautifully packaged...

Gift wrapped with love

I will also be still selling my Re-touch kits when my Brides/makeup guests/clients for makeup lessons come for their makeup trials.

Tina's Re-touch kit.

I also have some shiny new Gift vouchers available and I think they look great!...

Gift vouchers

Gift vouchers can be purchased in any value from £50.  If you would like one, please contact me - tina@tinabrocklebank.co.uk

Heres a few clients I have worked with recently on makeup lessons and wedding work...

Lynda - 50th birthday makeup

Bridesmaid makeup

Bridesmaid makeup

Bridal makeup

Bridesmaid makeup

Mother of the Bride makeup

Bridal makeup

Mother of the Bride makeup

I am very much looking forward to meeting my new clients next year, and indeed, some of you will have met me before and booked me so I will of course be looking forward to meeting you again!!

Hope you are all keeping well.

For now, take care and keep warm!!

Tina x x x