Today I would like to introduce Patricia Nahikian of Rainbow Shades. Patricia began her makeup training at age 8 when she landed her first community theatre role and was taught to do her own makeup. By the time she was 14 she was a regular at the theater either doing her own makeup or someone else’s. More professional experience came at age 17 while working in Professional Summer Stock Theatre. In college she received traditional training as a Theatre Major and, among other things, worked with special effects, color theory and prosthetics. Since then she has kept busy working with specialty character makeup, commercial photography and film but her favorite remains teaching women of all ages how to look their very best. Now Patti is a single mother of two, a Reiki Master and owner of Rainbow Shades. She has combined her love of color, makeup and her concern for healthy skin and created her own line of healthy cosmetics. She can custom blend any color under the sun! At her Home Studio, she takes appointments for makeup, color analysis, and Reiki.
Q: Why do you think formal training specifically in makeup is important?
A: There are many people out there calling themselves makeup artists; from the home based cosmetic retail business owners to cosmetologists to department store makeup counter ladies. Most of them have been trained to sell makeup. Even those who have graduated from cosmetology school or facial specialty school have had very limited makeup training in their schooling. It is just not required for licensure and therefore considered unimportant; yet, they can call themselves makeup artists because it is not regulated by any state boards.
Formal makeup artistry training includes education in ingredients (and how they work with skin), color and lighting theory, special effects, camera ready techniques, camouflage theory, correction and specialty work. It also includes training in communicable diseases and sterilizing practices.
Because it is not regulated, it is imperative to NOT BE SHY when choosing an artist for a special occasion. ASK where they received their training. ASK about their experience. ASK to see their portfolio. ASK for references!
Q: Well, then, what about your training and experience?
A: I’m glad you asked. As it stated in my bio, I have been working with makeup all of my life! This is what I do, full time and it is my passion. Not only have I been trained formally but I continue to learn by taking specialty classes in everything from the chemistry of ingredients to the health benefits of essential oils and the energy of color! I am a perpetual student and I continually pass on my knowledge to my clients. As a Bridal Makeup Artist, I have worked on brides of all cultures and all skin conditions (including scleroderma, port wine stains, and vitiligo). It is my experience in this area that has led me to create a wedding package from which I rarely deviate. It is why my satisfaction rate is so high.
Q: Is wedding makeup really so different than other types of application.
A: It really is! Most importantly, it belongs to the bride. She has to feel at home in her face. It’s not the time to try new styles and fancy trends. It also has to have the elements of camera ready makeup combined with the staying power of theatre makeup and still be invisible to everyone attending the wedding.
Q: Do you have any beauty tips you can share with my blog readers right now?
A: Absolutely!
• LIPS. Lip moisturizer and vitamin enriched balm. Not only will you keep them kissable, you will keep them in perfect condition for lip color.
• DO NOT change your skin care routine, try new foods, or schedule hair removal or spa treatments (except for manicures and pedicures) the week preceding your wedding. Unknown allergies and/or irritations are bound to attack and leave red marks or blotchy skin and may not heal in time. By the same token, excess drinking of alcoholic beverages, especially the night before the wedding, can cause puffy and swollen skin and circles under the eyes that can’t be erased by makeup.
• DO NOT sunbathe or use a tanning bed during the 2 weeks preceding your wedding. Unintentional burning will cause unsightly peeling and there is a risk of uneven tanning. Also, the makeup you chose may not look the same if your skin is shades darker than when you tried it on the first time.
• SKIN. Keep it moisturized and in top shape. Don’t be afraid to splurge on a quality moisturizer. Besides makeup, it is the only other product in your routine that stays on your face all day. It serves as a barrier between your skin and the rest of the world and is there to protect it. Choose one with a sunscreen for the best anti-aging results.
Healthy, glowing skin is key to looking picture perfect on your wedding day. For a complexion that is radiant, the time to start the ideal routine is at least 3 months before wedding date. I always advise 6 months before.
As a licensed Aesthetician, I can determine the bride’s skin type and condition and can recommend the proper treatment to maintain healthy looking skin. I can advise her on how to prevent and/or correct any skin care concerns she may have.
When I got married this past October I had Patricia apply my makeup. It was flawless and stayed in place all day. I highly suggest her to anyone that is looking for a make up artist for any special event. And anyone that contacts her and mentions this blog posting will receive her $300 package for $225.
Patricia Nahikian :: Email // Patti@Rainbow-Shades.com Office // 616.881.3901
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