MAKEUP artist Kate Howard, 23, was brought up in Richmond, and lives in Hutton Magna. Three years ago, she set up her own business and now spends quite a bit of her time making brides look beautiful for their big day.
Have you always been interested in hair and makeup?
Surprisingly, I wasn’t always interested in hair and makeup and I still wouldn’t call myself a real girly girl. Like most teenagers, I didn’t really have a clue what I wanted to do when I was in school; I changed career choices as often as I changed outfits – interior designer, forensic scientist, banker, fashion designer…the list went on. But I have always been a very creative person and I was always interested in art. I always enjoyed making scrapbooks and being creative and never lost the passion for creating something beautiful. I think that is where my hair and makeup journey began.
Where did you train?
I did a course in beauty therapy at Darlington College. We just touched on makeup as our final topic and I absolutely loved it. I booked myself onto an intensive course at an academy in Bournemouth and was particularly drawn to bridal and editorial. When I finished, I decided to set up on my own and KH Make Up Artistry was born. Three years on, my passion for the business has grown – I love meeting so many new people all the time.
What is your routine in the run-up to a wedding?
It’s important to connect with a bride-to-be and get to know them, first by email or phone call, then for a full consultation and trial. I ask endless questions to get a good idea of the style of the wedding itself, the smaller details and their own makeup and skin routines. My aim is to give each bride a look that enhances their natural beauty and personality, but also one they feel comfortable, beautiful and feel like themselves in.
Most of the time, wedding mornings go smoothly although there have been a couple of occasions when the fiancé has messaged to ask what time the wedding is.
What are your go-to products for special occasions?
Oh gosh, it’s so difficult to choose? Special occasion staples would have to include a gorgeous blusher such as Charlotte Tilbury ‘Love Glow’, which gives a fantastic glow and brightens the entire face when applied to the apples of the cheeks with a quick swish up the cheekbone. Then a brown eyeliner, again Charlotte Tilbury’s ‘Classic’. For a defined and soft look, brown liner is so much more flattering than black. Finally, I wouldn’t be without a nude lipstick such as Bobbi Brown’s ‘Bare Pink’or ‘Pink Cloud’, and a good waterproof mascara for those tears of happiness.
What’s a must in your own makeup bag?
I couldn’t do without my "Sunshine Drops" by Drunk Elephant. I mix them in with my moisturiser or concealer and they give my face a little brightness even with no makeup. That and my "3D Brow Tones" by Benefit.
What’s your top makeup tip?
Using a light shimmery colour in the centre of the eyelid will really open your eyes up. Apply with fingers for best results.
Do you also style hair?
I do offer a styling service, but on a wedding morning there isn’t time for both so it is best to have separate hair and makeup stylists. "Undone" styles are on-trend, whether it’s up or down. The more relaxed and simple styles with less fuss give a very naturally beautiful look too, effortless chic. Celestial pins and combs are the accessories of the moment. I think they look enchanting. Larger headbands and statement pieces are becoming more popular too.
Away from work, what do you love to do?
My partner Adam and I are currently renovating a chapel in Langthwaite, in the Yorkshire Dales, and will be moving there from Hutton Magna. I love living in the countryside, something that probably comes from spending a lot of time in the great outdoors when I was younger with my family.
I love to be outside, whether it’s walking or sitting in the garden with a good book and a glass of wine. Adam and I also love skiing, visiting new places and exploring, trips to the beach, and shopping expeditions with the girls.
Other things I love in my life are fresh flowers and the smell of newly-washed bedding.
khmakeupartistry.com; 07858-970259
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