The first stirrings of the orchestra barely start, yet those in the crowd eagerly turn their heads to catch a glimpse of the blushing bride, emanating radiance as she enters the church doors. Indeed, all eyes are on the bride during her wedding, and every woman wants to look and feel beautiful on her special day.
Brides only want the best for their wedding. Isabel Arches Makeup Artistry ensures that when it comes to beauty, optimum standards are met. "Brides must look fabulous both in person and in flash photography," Isabel firmly shares. "The hair and makeup should last through all sorts of weather (especially the humidity), and through the tears that usually come with the emotions of the wedding."
Isabel started in 2008, catching her big break with a multi-awarded Cinemalaya film. Since then, Isabel has worked in different industries--TV, film, print and television commercials, magazine editorials, and fashion shows. Her childhood dream became a reality as she proceeded to attract satisfied clients, including some of Manila's finest and freshest. She has worked on the faces of local celebrities such as Jean Garcia, Carla Abellana, and Venus Raj, to name a few.
Despite her intensive industry experience, Isabel opts to focus on weddings. "Weddings are always a happy and special time, where everyone is laughing and enjoying the experience, and you really do feel the positivity and love in the air," Isabel reasons. "When my clients are happy with my work, I continue to love and enjoy what I do." Indeed, Isabel's clients are more than satisfied. A believer of truly personal service, Isabel goes out of her way to get to know her brides personally, drawing inspiration from each of them. "I believe in making my bride still look like her unique self," she shares. "Through the makeup I do, I encourage them to glow with confidence because they are able to still see themselves, essentially at their very best."
As a strong contender in a thriving industry, Isabel stays on top of the game by constantly perfecting her craft. "I keep my skills refreshed and updated by regularly attending professional workshops and talks both locally and internationally," Isabel shares. "I always ask for feedback from clients--not just from my brides, because I believe that I can improve by listening to constructive criticism." She also carves her own niche by doing away with templates. "I avoid doing a standard bridal look," Isabel reveals. "My philosophy is really to make people--especially her groom--notice the bride, and not how the makeup is piled on her face. That is, for people to say to her, 'You really are so pretty!' instead of 'Your makeup is so nice!'".
Amongst the throng of makeup professionals in the wedding industry, how does a bride make her choice? Simple: look for an individual who encompasses the meaning of personal service, and who sees her work not only as service, but as an art. "I consider myself an artist first and foremost," Isabel says. "Makeup is merely my medium."