Brides in all cultures want to look beautiful, respect tradition
and keep up with the times.

Number one for a glowing complexion on the special day is a consistent skin care regime. And we mustn't ignore the value of lots of water, nutritious food, exercise and plenty of rest as part of a healthy lifestyle that shows up in glowing skin, strong nails and shiny hair.

Next is to make sure skin tone is even and that foundation matches exactly. As the décolleté is visible with many bridal dress styles, make sure there is a smooth look to the face, chest and shoulders in colour and tone.

Black and dark skins look best when there is a golden rather than ashy tone to their foundation. Young Asians desire their natural skin colour contrary to the misconception they prefer a pale version of themselves. Indian brides are enhanced with tasteful gold iridescence on the eyes or very slightly on the lower lip to compliment their elaborate jewelry. Mediterranean gals prefer everything from minimal to intense makeup - balance is key, whereas in the Scandinavian, British Isles or cooler countries, complexions are extremely pale to ruddy requiring neutralizing the undertone.

A great warm-red lipstick goes well with the Chinese Tea Ceremony dress. Traditional Indian dress can be complimented with an array of rich blue-reds. And of course, with the traditional white wedding dress, the bride is best complimented with a lip colour that harmonizes with their attendants' dresses and flowers.

Tip: Avoid bright or too light lipstick on pale complexions. Two tones are best to give depth for those photos that last a lifetime.

Tip: Eyes in any ethnicity are the focus. The darker the skin tone and intense the eyebrow hair and lashes, the more attention should be placed on shaping the hair than using excess product.

Tip: Only black skin and hair warrants black eyeliner and even then it should be the darkest brown rather than black if you want a timeless, natural look. A matte finish is also more graceful and refined. Its about the bride's charm, not her makeup - in any language.

Tip: Avoid an unnatural crease with Asian eyes - it draws attention to the makeup rather than the incredible beauty of their natural eye shape.

Tip: Clear mascara is a wonderful product to keep eyebrows swept up and held in place. Apply up and outward and then hold down for about 10 seconds to lock in place.

Tip: Whatever the ethnicity, unless a bride has amazingly thick lashes, then false ones properly trimmed and specific to her face and eye shape, are one of the best ways to achieve intensity for the camera and head table yet not be overdone for the receiving line.

Brides are Beautiful in All Cultures, Age Ranges and Abilities.

It's been my privilege to serve so many Beautiful Brides and their families.
In our kitchens we are all the same.

“I love my new eyebrows…that part alone was worth it for me! I loved the rest of the makeup, especially the eyes. I didn't want to take those lashes off! The hair was perfect, too.” Katherine Abrams, Bride – 2004