“Jess enjoys using makeup to capture natural beauty rather than masking it so healthy, glowing skin is the key to her style”
Long before training as a makeup artist I sold oil portraits on commission and enjoyed bringing out the personality of the subjects in my work. I spent most of my spare time at school in the art department where a brilliantly discerning art teacher advised me to look into prosthetics and special effects makeup in the TV and film industry. After leaving school (and a couple of years of failing to conform to an office environment) I eventually took his advice and in 2006 enrolled at Delamar Academy of Makeup at Ealing Studios. This gave me a fantastic platform into the the world of makeup artistry and I have never looked back.
I amnow a professionally trained makeup artist with a history of experience in the TV & Film industry, as well as in fashion and editorial makeup, and have had the privilege of working with many prestigious clients and celebrities over the past twelve years. More recently I have found a passion specialising in bridal makeup. I am based in Sevenoaks in Kent and am available for bookings in London and across the South East and I am very happy to travel further upon request.
During my years spent in the media industry I gained popularity with some actors as being one of few who really looked after their skin during filming and I pride myself in using only the very best of makeup and skincare products. Since broadening my experience from the media industry into weddings and special occasion makeup I have kept my focus on addressing skincare concerns and continue to use luxury brands and product houses. In 2013 I qualified as an NVQ Level 3 Beauty Therapist to further enhance my knowledge of skincare and to complement my makeup services. As a result, I am very happy to be able to offer my brides (and their bridal party) facials, spray tans, manicures, lash extensions, tinting and threading before their big day.
I am a great believer that makeup can only look as good as the skin beneath, for the same reason that I wouldn't paint an oil portrait on a less-than-perfect canvas. I find this especially true for my brides, as they will be wanting to look their best both on and off the camera on their big day and do not typically have their photos professionally retouched. I routinely prepare my clients' skin with a deep cleanse, exfoliation and hydrating mask before beginning makeup application and find this very beneficial to the finished product. Where necessary, I am also happy to give unbiased advice on the best skincare products for their needs - I have tried a lot!
I use only my most reliable 'tried-and-tested' products for my brides so you can have confidence that your makeup will last you through any tearful ceremony, hot and sunny reception, kissing every wedding guest you greet, drunken photobooth and even more drunken dancefloor!
My favourite brands include Hourglass, Chanel, Tom Ford, Nars, Bobbi Brown, Charlotte Tilbury and Kevyn Aucoin.