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So, are you getting ready for the big day? We asked Ria Gamboa, professional makeup artist for NARS, for some tips, tricks, and product recommendations!

1) Is there a trend when it comes to wedding makeup?
Wedding makeup is always simple and natural looking. As much as we want to experiment on something new and glam, most brides prefer to look like the freshest version of themselves. They usually opt for that radiant, natural glow that basically emphasizes their best facial features, but not changing them.

2) What are your recommended products for those brides-to-be that are on a budget and won't spend on a makeup artist?
Great skin is the most important base for great makeup so don't forget to hydrate with moisturizer WEEKS ahead of the big day. This way, you don't have to lather on too much makeup, which allows you to have the natural freshness that looks great even in the naked eye (remember that your groom will be standing one foot away from you the whole time).

You also have to choose a foundation with good coverage, yet feels light on the skin. Choose something oil free, so that your face won't get cakey throughout the day.

Get a lip and cheek tint for a natural looking blush that pretty much lasts the whole day. There’s no need for retouching, although keep a gloss handy to top off on your pouters. I recommend NARS blush in Orgasm or Sin. Not exactly very pure-sounding, but it works! These shades have just enough color to give you that blushing bride look.

For the eyes, you may use false eyelashes! Choose those that aren't too thick and preferably just attach some on the outer corners of your lashes. Since you won't go heavy on eye makeup, you might want to emphasize and brighten up your eyes with perfectly long and curled lashes.

I also recommend NARS eyeshadow in Bohemian Gold or Key Largo. These are earth-toned shades with a light metallic sheen, great for highlighting your eyes with just the perfect amount of glow.

3) What must a bride bring on her big day to prevent makeup mishaps (i.e. lipstick stains on gowns, mascara smudges, etc.)?
Bring face powder compact and lipstick/tint/gloss for your own retouching. Whether or not you have a makeup artist on standby to do your touch ups, it is always convenient for you to keep your own essentials handy…you'll never know when you might wanna sneak in a dab here and there. Also, don't forget your handy tissue and cotton buds, just in case anything smears!

Among the major decisions in preparing for a wedding, one of the most crucial choices to make is picking the right ring. After all, the wedding ring is the ultimate symbol of a couple’s pledge of eternal love.

When shopping for that perfect wedding ring, “Stick with your budget!” says Sandra Ventura, a jeweler for 30 years and owner of Sandra.

It's easy to overspend when you don't know what to buy. If you’re planning to impress your woman and want to get a diamond ring, do your research first!

The 4 C’s dictate how much a diamond would cost: clarity, color, cut and carat. Remember, the most valuable color is white or colorless. As for the number of carats, “Depending on the cut and material of the band, a less expensive 14k diamond would last. Yung iba kasi natatanggal,” according Mrs. Ventura. She also suggests picking a platinum band rather than the traditional yellow gold since it’s known for its durability. She adds, “When it comes to wedding rings, you’d want it to last forever just like your marriage.”

Now if your soon-to-be bride isn’t too keen on wearing an expensive ring, a little personalization would certainly provide an element of surprise. Some jewelry stores including Sandra not only offer a variety of rings, but you also have the option to tell them the design you want…maybe even the Lord of The Rings’ “The One Ring” if you’re both a fan. ;-)

Sandra is located at 3rd level West Lane, Robinsons Galleria, West Lane EDSA cor. Ortigas Ave. Quezon City.

“On her big day, a bride should feel comfortable and beautiful,” says Puey Quiñones, a local fashion designer recognized for his deconstruction expertise. Perhaps he also meant that a bride should feel comfortable, beautiful, and noticeable. Seeing his bridal gowns, one would think, “I won’t only forget this big day, but the rest of my guests won’t forget what I wore!”

 

His concept, Filipiniana transformed into a modern, non-traditional look, is clearly seen in his creations. Known as a risk-taker when it comes to designing, Puey’s designs are quite unconventional. Straying from the usual and the basics in designing, his designs can’t be described as costumey but rather somber, having no definite cuts and have unexpected twists; his designs would truly fascinate a bride-to-be (and not offend a priest at that).

Now for emergencies, you don't want to embarrass yourself or your groom if your gown doesn't fit and suddenly a “wardrobe malfunction” ensues - revealing body parts that should be concealed – just because we Pinoys conform to a certain pamahiin and don't want to fit gowns before the wedding. For this predicament, Puey's advises, "Bring a sewing kit and lots of pins!"

 

Contact Puey Quiñones at 0916-7763098.