Want to know more about who’s behind Helena Victoria?

Our head Makeup Artist Helena talks all things makeup and shares her top tips, favourite products and more in this blog. Read on to find out more…

What made you become an MUA?

Life is too short! I was made redundant from the day job and was left feeling out of sorts. My VA business was supporting some wedding related businesses and, at the time, 3 MUAs.  I trained with one in particular and realised how much I loved being around happy people, and makeup!

When did you first discover a love of makeup?

Makeup has always been around in my world, from the days of ‘borrowing’ my mum’s 70’s blue green eyeshadow (I know, I know!!) through to spending hours in my bedroom experimenting with the latest trends from Avon.

What was the first makeup item you bought, when and why?

In my early teens, my first makeup purchase was an electric blue eyeliner from the Avon mag, which was THE go-to makeup bible back in the mid-80s. Why? Because the colour was amazing!!

What’s your personal must-have makeup item?

Heck! I’m torn on this… I have three! Arbonne Calm moisturiser, AngelFace mineral foundation and the Charlotte Tilbury contour kit.

What item in your kit do you rely on most?

My brushes! Love getting new brushes and I’ve always followed the advice I was given in my training about investing in good quality brushes from day one.

What’s the best makeup tip you’ve been given?

Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise.

What’s the best skincare tip you’ve been given?

As above and always take your make off before going to bed. Oldies but goodies.

What piece of skincare advice would you give to brides-to-be?

The previous two tips plus drink plenty of water, at least two litres per day.

What’s your favourite makeup era and why?

Has to be the Roaring 20’s, it’s just gorgeous, decadent and such a strong, glamourous look.

You’ve only got five minutes for makeup in the morning – what do you suggest?

Moisturiser, primer and mascara or tinted moisturiser and mascara. Always mascara – it transforms your whole face and makes your eyes pop.

What do you love most about being an MUA?

I love building confidence in those that don’t have much: enhancing someone’s natural beauty, highlighting their best features to transform their face and then seeing their inner glow shine through. Just magical and beautiful.

Which must have makeup items are on your wishlist?

The entire product range from Charlotte Tilbury because everything about it is just gorgeous: the colours, formulations, textures, packaging. I can’t help it, I’m addicted!

If you could only have one makeup item for the rest of your days, what would it be?

Definitely the Arbonne primer: the finish it gives to the skin is just amazing and it creates THE perfect base for makeup.

What’s your favourite makeup brand and why?

It’s so hard to choose a whole favourite brand. I love different products from Arbonne, AngelFace, Urban Decay, Smashbox, Charlotte Tilbury, Illamasque and Mac, all for different reasons. These are the brands I always come back to time and again, because of the quality, the finish and the results they give. I’m also discovering some great new products from Younique and Tarte, so I’m sure I’ll be adding more to my ever-growing kit soon!

What made you choose the brands you use in your kit?

I wanted to use good quality products that last, and the ones I use always do. I know I can rely on them to give great results on every client, no matter their skin tone, type and colouring.

What’s the one thing you always get asked for by brides?

It varies, but mostly it’s “make me look younger”, “make me look thinner”, “give me cheekbones” or “get rid of my wrinkles”! I always do my best to accommodate what the client wants but my ultimate aim is to enhance their natural beauty, not mask it. I always tell them they should enjoy their day: ultimately, your partner knows all the lumps and bumps and it doesn’t matter a jot. There’s love in the air and your shining smile will light up the room!

If you’re looking for bridal makeup services, makeup for a special occasion or just tips and tricks for your current makeup routine, we can help. Simply get in touch for an informal chat or make an appointment to meet our head MUA.