Merlene Joy Make-up Artist

Bianca Busch - 26 November 2011

2012-01-27T07:20:00.000-08:00

Bianca is a medical doctor and I can see why. She has such a gentle and caring personality, it's difficult to not smile when you are around her - I can imagine that she has that effect on her patients too. She married the love of her life at Haute Cabriere on 26 November 2011 - an INCREDIBLY windy day! But these pictures show that she took it in her stride.

Bianca is so pretty and I love that you can see the genuine happiness in her eyes :) Oh, I really do adore weddings and everything that they represent...

Photographed by the super-talented Lizelle Lotter.

Natasha Bevan - 28 October 2011 (Part 2)

2012-01-25T22:27:00.000-08:00

Natasha is a lady whom I have a tremendous amount of respect for. She has overcome so many obstacles in her life, yet she has the most vibrant and up-beat personality I have ever had the pleasure to encounter. Her zest for life and pure, unadulterated approach to most things makes you want to be around her ALL THE TIME!

She is another one of my sister’s best friends (see Chenelle and Cornel’s weddings) and it feels like I’ve known her my whole life. Which is why this wedding was exceptionally dear to my heart. I will never forget her face (at her make-up trial), when she told me that she never knew she could look this beautiful.

Well Natasha, I have news for you – you are magnificent! I wish her and David a lifetime of love and happiness together.

See another one of my favourite pictures of Natasha here.

Lauren Seaward - 10 December 2011

2012-01-02T02:50:00.000-08:00

I simply loved doing Lauren's make-up for her special day! Apart from her obvious beauty (big, piercing blue eyes and full, luscious lips), she has a vibrant and fun personality and heaps of energy. During our trial she mentioned a piece of advice her mother had given her when she was younger and to which she still lives by, "Always spend money on quality skincare rather than clothes". This happens to be my mantra too (!) ...and Lauren's skin is proof that it works!

June Joubert took these gorgeous photographs, I would love to know what you think.

Nichola Southern - 10 September 2011

2011-12-27T08:22:00.000-08:00

10 September 2011 was the wedding day of Nichola Southern to her (very lucky!) fiancee. The wedding was at Die Strandkombuis in Yzerfontein and it was a typical west coast day, weather wise - coldish and windy, perfect for dramatic wedding photos!

Nichola has gorgeous big brown eyes which I had played up with hues of purple and brown as well as loads of individual false lashes. She was a beautiful bride with her thick hair done up in gorgeous curly locks and an off-white dress that flattered her model-like figure.

These photos were taken by Annelize Langeveldt Photography.

Cornel Solomon - 25 September 2010

2011-12-20T00:24:00.000-08:00

This post is way overdue, but I am so excited about it as Cornel was an absolute blessing to have as a client. Apart from her obvious loveliness, she has the biggest heart and kindest soul which just shone from within. I just had to share this email she had sent me after they returned from honeymoon:

"Hallo Merlene!

Ek kyk nog gereeld op jou blog na die bruide wat jy so pragtig grimeer en dan verlang ek terug na die 25ste September toe dit my beurt was! Ek stuur met liefde vir jou die foto's ♥

Ek dink nie ek sal ooit vir jou genoeg dankie kan sê vir wat jy vir my beteken het op die dag nie, nie net vir die stunning grimering nie, maar ook vir jou vriendelikheid en kalmte wat jy oor my gebring het... Adele, ons fotograaf, het so paar weke gelede vir my laat weet dat een van haar toekomstige bruide 'n foto van my op haar blog gesien het, dit laat uit druk het en wil hê haar grimering moet presies soos myne lyk op haar troudag! Is dit nou nie die "ultimate" kompliment vir jou nie!? Ek dink werklik so...☺

Wel, sterkte met al die troues wat voorlê. Ek is seker jy is tjok en blok vol bespreek en gaan baie besig wees hierdie volgende paar maande.

Liefde groete
Cornél"

Natasha Bevan - 28 October 2011

2011-12-01T02:10:00.001-08:00

I just couldn't wait to share this photo by Greg Lumley of the totally gorgeous Natasha...more photos to follow shortly!

Lene Odendaal - 9 July 2011

2011-11-19T09:00:00.000-08:00

Lene got married to her University sweetheart in April earlier this year, but decided to collaborate with Maree Louw from Natural Light Photography to also do a "day-after" wedding photo shoot. The venue was Riebeek Kasteel and these images are truly reflective of the newlywed love that was clearly visible between Lene and Henk.

I decided to do a smokey eye with shades of purple and black accents and thickly packed individual false lashes. I then combined her strong eyes with a soft pink lip, and even softer cheeks and LOVED the end result! Lene reminds me so much of Catherine Zeta-Jones, a strong and sultry woman.

Elana Schnetler - 23 April 2011

2011-11-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

An absolutely beautiful couple; inside and out! Elana and Charl grew up with me in my home town of Lambert's Bay; Charl was in my grade and Elana my sister's best friend. They started dating it just made sense that they should spend the rest of their lives together - the love, respect, support, friendship and adoration they have for each other is unrivalled and an inspiration to all who know them.

I had the best time doing Elana's make-up for her wedding as she is a timeless beauty; she can switch from being totally goofy and funny the one second to being ethereal and elegant the next. Her eyes are one of her best features as is her soft and flawless skin - what a breeze!

I would love to hear from you, as always! Photos taken by Coba Engelbrecht Photography.

Rene Potgieter - 14 May 2011

2011-10-16T00:30:00.000-07:00

The 14th of May 2011 was a cold and rainy day, but Rene looked every bit the gorgeous bride on her special day. I used a pallet of soft pinks and the result was beautifully bridal - I absolutely love these pictures by Jani B photography.

Marna Meyer - 30 April 2011

2011-08-22T09:31:00.000-07:00

On 30 April 2011 my UNBELIEVABLY BEAUTIFUL friend, Marna, got married to her best friend and love of her life Anthon at Euphoria Estate in the Limpopo Province. The wedding was absolutely magical, and Marna, being a brilliant graphic designer, left no stone unturned.

During the trial we had decided to play up her green eyes with a smokey look created with hues of purple and brown, and did so with striking effect! I firmly believe that no bride should have completely nude lips (it has a drastically draining effect) and was thrilled that Marna gave me free reign when it came to choosing her pink lip colour :)

With her absolutely knock-them-dead body and undeniably gorgeous face, she could never not look absolutely perfect on her wedding day. I wish her and Anthon a lifetime of happiness together and look forward to sharing more special moments with them in future.

Danielle Meyer - 20 March 2011

2011-08-19T02:05:00.000-07:00

Classic. Beauty. This is Danielle Meyer. Danielle is unassumingly striking and I was so excited upon meeting her - she has the most luscious hair and her skin is flawless. Her wedding was in Yzerfontein and she got dressed at a quaint little guesthouse called Inglenook.

Danielle wanted a classic English Rose-type look and the result was incredible. Her beautiful eyes were the focus of her look with thick black liquid eyeliner, rounded off with softly contoured, rosy cheeks and light pink lips.

Danielle wrote me this letter after returning from honeymoon:

"Hi Merlene, Hoop dit gaan goed jou kant. Ek wou net weer vreeslik baie dankie se vir die ongelooflike hare en make up wat julle gedoen het. Ek was mal daaroor!! Dit het beslis al my verwagtinge oortref, julle is net amazing :).

Groete Danielle"

These pictures were taken by Peartree Photography.

Lauren Costa - 2 April 2011

2011-07-10T00:32:00.000-07:00

The gorgeous Lauren Costa got married to her Brazilian fiancee at the Twelve Apostles Hotel on the 2nd of April 2011. Lauren is incredibly sweet and totally unaware of her beauty! I loved getting to know her at her trial and she also has the most elegant mom :) I wish her and her husband a lifetime of happiness together.

Adene Photography took these exquisite photos.

Here is the message Lauren had sent me after returning from honeymoon:

"Dear Merlene,

We have just gotten back from a lovely long honeymoon in Thailand and Bali. It was fantastic!
I just want to take this opportunity to say a HUGE thank you from myself and my bridesmaids for the amazing job you did on our make-up! Both my bridesmaids commented on how professional you were and how good you are at what you do! I couldn't agree more and was thrilled with my make-up!

I will be sure to recommend you to any friends getting married soon.

Thank you again,

Lauren and Bridesmaids"

Tiffany Burnham - Trash the Dress shoot, 6 March 2011

2011-07-10T00:18:00.000-07:00

Tiffany is without a doubt one of THE most wonderful people I have ever met. She lives her life with so much joy, passion and exuberance, it's almost to good to be true. She got married to her high school sweetheart, Ross Burnham on the 11th of April 2010 and asked me to be her make-up artist for her wedding. You can click here to see her wedding post.

Seeing how adventurous she is, it was no surprise when she told me about her plans for a Trash-the-dress photo shoot with Warren Williams. They had to be in Cape Town at 06:00am; needless to say, we started with make-up at 04:30am that morning! And these photos made it SO worth it! Isn't she incredibly beautiful!? Let me know what you think.

Rentia Smal - 19 December 2010

2011-05-30T07:21:00.000-07:00

Rentia was my second last bride for December 2010 and her personality was so refreshing that I didn't even consider my swollen legs at the end of a very busy season :) Jokes aside, on the evening of her trial we chatted like sisters; openly and honestly and it was almost surreal how alike we were.

In terms of Rentia's features, her piercing blue eyes are exquisite and I am absolutely thrilled with the result! She knew that she wanted a darkish smokey eye and my husband even joined us with his input, such fun. See below the most beautiful message Rentia had sent me after returning from honeymoon.

"Merlene,

As ek terugdink aan my troudag, onthou ek jou en jou ondersteuning.
Van die begin was ek super opgewonde dat jy my grimering gaan doen.
Daardie aand wat ons die oefenlopie gedoen het, was vir my siel baie nodig en dit staan regtigwaar uit as een van die hoogtepunte!
En ek onthou jou man wat so mooi raad gegee het - hy het toe nogal 'n oog!

Op die dag self was die feit dat jy en Ida daar was om my hare en grimering te doen so 'n gerusstelling.
Jy is ongelooflik talentvol en dit was 'n eer dat jy my grimering kon doen.
Ek is tot vandag toe steeds baie gelukkig met wat jy gedoen het - Pierre het gevra wanneer ek dan nou weer 'n draai by jou gaan maak!

Rentia (& Pierre)"

These pictures were taken by Lauren Kriedemann - enjoy!

Elonah O'Neil - 17 December 2010

2011-03-29T11:49:00.000-07:00

Elonah is a brilliant and forward-thinking interior architect and she married her British fiance on 17 December 2010 in Stellenbosch. Having done ballet all her life, she moves like a swan with elegant steps and graceful movements. Her mom made her exquisite silk taffeta dress and, paired with a classic hair style and soft yet striking make-up, the end result was picture perfect.

Lizelle Lotter, who is without a doubt one of my favourite photographers, took these brilliant photos.

Cornel Wessels - 4 December 2010

2011-03-29T11:42:00.000-07:00

Cornel and my sister, Chenelle, have been best friends since 1992, so when she asked me to do her make-up for her wedding day, I was flattered to say the least! After completing their degrees at varsity, a big group of friends went to London to work and that is where Cornel met her husband, Phil. He proposed to her while they were in Turkey on holiday and they had a beautiful West Coast wedding in our home town, Lambert's Bay. With her peaches and cream complexion, Cornel looked beautiful and radiant. Phil is a lucky man!

Nicky Kirk-Martin - 22 December 2010

2011-03-29T11:39:00.000-07:00

My last wedding of 2010 was that of Nicky Kirk-Martin (nee Senekal) at Nooitgedacht Estate, Stellenbosch. How beautiful she looked! My assistant and I had a blast doing her and her bridesmaids' make-up and everything was just perfect. One of Nicky's bridesmaids, Abi, (bridesmaid far right) has also recently booked us for her wedding in December 2011 and I am really excited.

Greg Lumley was the photographer on this glorious day.

Angelique de Villiers - 26 November 2010

2011-03-29T11:32:00.000-07:00

Because Angy's eyes are so striking, we decided to really make them pop by doing a smokey eye with intense MAC corner lashes. The result was exactly what I had in mind! Angy,s skin was glowing from within, thanks to drinking 8 glasses of water every day for a year :) It really does work ladies!

Please let me know what you think of her look. Photos taken by photographer Herman Agenbag.

Suzanne Burger - 3 December 2010

2011-02-02T11:14:00.000-08:00

I met Suzanne in 2008 when she started her career at my husband's interior design company. Everybody that knows her will tell you that she is one of the most energetic and fun-loving people they've ever met. Being around her just makes you feel good about life!

I love these photos taken by June Joubert - Suzanne looked spectacular! Enjoy!

Krista Lazzari - 13 November 2010

2011-02-02T09:47:00.000-08:00

Krista married her handsome Italian husband at the exquisite Le Franschhoek Country Hotel and Spa on a typically sunny 13 November 2010. She is naturally beautiful and made our jobs so easy. - it was an absolute pleasure to work with her. I thought she looked perfect and this beautiful message from her just confirmed it:

"I just wanted to send you a quick note to tell you that YOU ROCK!!! My wedding make-up and hair was absolutely gorgeous - exactly what I wanted. Thank you so much for everything that you did to make my wedding day one of the most perfect days ever."

Let me know what you think?

Kim du Toit - 17 September 2010

2010-11-22T08:44:00.000-08:00

I did Kim's make-up for her wedding to her beloved Francois at Shelley Point on 17 September 2010. Kim was really adventurous with her make-up looks and pushed me to extend my creative boundaries which I totally loved.

After her first consultation, it was decided that we do an extended eye in dove grey, charcoal and purple colours to complement her wedding theme (and Francois' fabulous grey suit). My favourite MAC corner lashes added to the effect; and a peachy cheek and lip combination completed the beautiful picture. Kim is extremely photogenic and, in the words of her photographer Lizelle Lotter ,"...has a perfectly oval face - any make-up artist, hair stylist and photographer's dream".

Thank you Kim for choosing us to share in your special day, you are beautiful!

Leana Rossouw - 11 September 2010

2010-10-18T09:36:00.000-07:00

Leana is without a doubt one of the most beautiful and funny people I have ever met. From the moment she entered the door she had me in stitches; I was laughing so much that I actually had to pause to catch my breath!

She has flawless skin and doing her make-up was an absolute dream. On her eyes I used soft browns interspersed with golden and bronze highlights and placed MAC corner lashes close to her own lashes for extra oomph! I rounded off her look with a pinkish brown lipstick, beautiful for photos.

Let me know what you think!

Tiffany Burnham - 11 April 2010

2010-07-28T06:14:00.000-07:00

Tiffany wanted to meet Carl (the hair stylist) and I before she made her final decision and we hit if off immediately. She has such a bubbly personality and we chatted non-stop for over a hour. She booked us for her and her four bridesmaids' hair and make-up and it was such a lovely environment to work in. Tiffany was super calm on the day and her presence permeated through to all of us.

About a month after the wedding, Tiffany sent me this message:

"Hi Merlene,

I hope that you have had a beautiful week :) I thought I'd let you know that Judy (from Just Judy Photography) has put up some of our wedding pictures, have attached the link below for you :) Your make-up artistry is SO beautiful, I'm so glad I have it captured on film forever :) Have a lovely weekend,

Love

Tiffany"

This was definitely one of my favourite weddings, and Tiffany looked every bit the beautiful woman that she is. I wish her and Ross all the happiness in the world.

Sarah Glenday - 20 March 2010

2010-07-01T22:59:00.000-07:00

Sarah was an unbelievably fun bride to work with and booked me to do her make-up, her mother's and her seven bridesmaids' make-up (I took my fabulous assistant Anneen along!). I just LOVE these photos by photographer Ian Mitchinson.

Sarah gave me carte blanche in developing a look for her for her wedding, and she looked so beautiful. She has the darkest brown eyes so I decided to place emphasis on them by doing an "extended eye" application in shades of gold, brown and purple. Her cheekbones are to die for and by contouring them slightly they resembled those of supermodels like Iman and Nadia Auermann.

I wish Sarah and Matthew all the happiness in the world and feel privileged to have played a small part in their magical day.

Liezl Burger - 15 May 2010

2010-06-24T08:01:00.000-07:00

One of my favourite pictures of Liezl and her Maid of Honour, Lauren.

I've known Liezl since I was five years old. We met when my parents moved to Lambert's Bay in 1988 and we became friends instantly. She was the most beautiful little girl and, being one grade ahead of me, was someone I've always looked up to. We've shared so many primary school memories; high school dramas and boarding school laughs that I feel deeply connected to her. When she got engaged to the love of her life, Wouter, I was elated and even more so because she asked me to do her and her three bridesmaids' make-up on her special day.

Liezl wanted dark and striking eyes and therefore I decided to do a muted and nude lip. I used a MAC green eyeshadow for the smokey look and added definition with dark brown shadow and black eyeliner. Subtle contouring of her cheek bones added drama and a soft peach blush was used on the apples.

I love love love these photos and they are the work of hugely talented fashion photographer Natasja Maria Fourie. Let me know what you think of her look?

Shelly Orth - 10 April 2010

2010-05-18T09:01:00.000-07:00

Shelly's mom Bev phoned me early in January to ask if I was available to do Shelley's make-up as her booked make-up artist had other commitments. Luckily I was available and am so happy with the result, looking at these photos (taken by photographer, Lauren Kriedemann). Shelly was such a delightful bride to work with and had definite ideas of what she liked in terms of hair and make-up. We used corner lashes to complement the vintage theme and a nudish lip colour to bring the focus to the eyes.

Shelly sent us the following message a couple of weeks after her wedding:

"Hi Merlene and Sounene

Just wanted to thank you both again for the fantastic job you did on our hair and make-up. My bridesmaids looked absolutely stunning and I was so pleased with mine as well. My dress maker liked my look so much that she has asked my photographer for one of the full length pictures to use at a bridal expo in a few weeks time.

Thanks again to you both.

Regards

Shelly"

After reading her email, I can't help but feel blessed. I've had the privilege to work with so many beautiful women.

Stef Warner - 6 March 2010

2010-04-26T00:17:00.001-07:00

Stef didn't have hair or make-up trials due to only arriving in Cape Town on the day before her wedding! But when we met her on the morning of her wedding, we were delighted. She was an absolute pleasure to work with and as she LOVES make-up she briefed me to "not hold back" :) What fun!

I used a set of glam false lashes on her beautiful eyes and it looked incredible! Her long hair was loosely curled and the final picture was just perfect. I wish Stef and her husband a wonderful life together.

Melissa Botha - 27 February 2010

2010-04-10T01:27:00.000-07:00

Classic and understated. This was Melissa Botha's wedding. With her beautiful eyes and delicate features, Melissa exuded radiance on their big day in Noordhoek. I wish her and her husband, Serge a wonderful future ahead.

Leigh Mason - 9 January 2010

2010-02-15T08:01:00.000-08:00

Leigh told me that she is an extremely shy person, so much so that she would rather take a 0% mark for orals at school than stand up in front of the class and give a presentation. That is why I was absolutely blown away when I saw these pictures, taken by Lizelle Lotter Photography. She looks in control and beautiful in a "Sophia Loren-Old School-Hollywood Glamour" kind of way.

We did corner lashes and because she has green/blue eyes I decided to use a combination of grey, purple and brown eye shadows on her eyes to make them pop. Lips were kept more neutral with a gorgeous pink-brown shade, which is my favourite at the moment :)

Leigh sent me this message recently which absolutely made my day...

"Hi Merlene, I just wanted to say thank you so much for doing my make-up! You're the best! I have recommended you to so many people already! You really did such a great job!"

It was unbelievably hot on the day of the wedding, but Leigh, with the help of her wonderful bridesmaids and mother, took everything in her stride, as these images clearly show. I hope you like them as much as I do!

Karolina Beyers - 30 January 2010

2010-02-15T07:43:00.000-08:00

From the first time I met her I really liked Karolina a lot, as she has a wonderful sense of humour. She is from Poland and met her South African fiance in London, UK. Karolina's make-up regime takes her about 5 minutes each morning, so I think it's safe to say that she is a "no-mess, no-fuss" type of girl when it comes to make-up. This and also the fact that it was a morning beach wedding, made us decide to only use a clear gloss on her lips and focus somewhat more on her cheeks and eyes. She looked unbelievable!

What I find particularly touching was that her father doesn't speak a word of English, but when he saw her in her dress the first time the morning of her wedding, his eyes expressed how he felt - unbelievably proud of his beautiful daughter (after which he told her something to that extent in Polish of course!). It was such a joy to be part of her big day.

She sent me these photos along with the following message and it made my day:

"Hi Merlene,

I hope that you are well.

I thought that you may want to see how amazing your make up looked on our photos.

Thanks once again,

Karolina"

Ilze Schlebusch - 19 December 2009 (part 2)

2010-01-13T01:52:00.000-08:00

If you've followed my blog recently you will recall that I wrote about Ilze's make-up (part 1) in December of last year and I couldn't wait to see her professional photos. That's why I was so excited when Ilze emailed me last night to say that Nikki Meyer, her wedding photographer, has published their wedding photos to her website. Ilze definitely rocked her photo shoot. I just love her look because it epitomises her style so brilliantly: a classic and serene beauty. The keys to this look are individual false lashes, subtle contouring and creating the extended eye shape by using a combination of browns and golds on the lids (to modernise the vintage look).

I hope you love these as much as I do. As always, please let me know what you think. xx

Beauty Photoshoot December 2009

2010-01-06T00:25:00.000-08:00

I can't remember when last I had this much fun! I've known the unbelievably beautiful and lovely Engelbrecht sisters since I was five years old (Lize is my best friend). Lize, Adriana and Coba have all done professional modeling so when Lize suggested I do their make-up during the holidays I leapt at the opportunity.

Their bone structure is that which dreams are made of and I tried two different looks on each of them, one more natural and the other somewhat off-beat. I think the results are amazing. We started at 13:00 and when I arrived home at 19:30 I felt exhilarated and satisfied with an incredible day's work.

Most of these photos were taken by Coba, a very talented photographer, and I am looking forward to working with her again soon! View more of her work here Coba E Photography.

Marlize Malan van Rooyen wedding - 16 December 2009

2010-01-05T01:26:00.000-08:00

Marlize and Gerhard got married at Die Strandkombuis in Yzerfontein on the 16th of December 2009. I think you would have been hard pressed to find a more doting husband-to-be than Gerhard. During the trial, Marlize, both her bridesmaids, Gerhard and his best man came to our house and he literally could not take his eyes off her. The bridesmaids later told me that while they were driving to Yzerfontein later that afternoon, he struggled to keep his eyes on the road.

Marlize epitomises the concept of natural beauty, so I just enhanced what was already there. Her dark brown eyes were the focus as she didn't want too much colour on her lips and the soft curls that framed her face made her look ethereal.

It was a privelage to share in Marlize and Gerhard's big day and I am so glad to have met them. Photos taken by Sybrand Cillie of Pro Photography.

Colleen Hiscock - 5 December 2009 (part 2)

2010-01-03T00:18:00.000-08:00

Colleen is one of the sweetest brides I've had in my make-up chair so far. She was unbelievably complimentary and took everything in her stride - not a small feat considering that she is a medical doctor practically working 24/7. She is such a beautiful person, inside and out, and I feel blessed to have met her.

I've blogged about Colleen (part 1) last year and here are a couple of her professional pictures, taken by Sarah Wood Photography.

Ilze Schlebusch - 19 December 2009 (part 1)

2009-12-20T07:38:00.000-08:00

Before After

This weekend's wedding was that of Ilze and David, who got married in Paarl on the 19th of December 2009. Ilze, who went to school with my sister, got hold of me through Facebook and I felt honored when she asked me to do her make-up for her wedding. She was a perfect Vintage Bride, complete from her peaches and cream complection to her typical 1920's veil.

We decided to enhance her features by placing a lot of emphasis on her eyes, yet still have a gorgeous pinky-brown colour on her beautiful lips to play on the era. After she put on her dress I asked Ilze how she's feeling and her response was: "Everything is just perfect." It was such an amazing feeling to hear her say that, and even more incredible to know that I could share that with her.

I can hardly wait for the photographer, Nikki Meyer's photos and will post part 2 shortly.

Colleen Hiscock - 5 December 2009 (part 1)

2009-12-07T03:06:00.000-08:00

Before After

Colleen and Pieter got married this weekend at Buitenverwachting in Constantia. Both her sisters live in Joburg and her parents live in Qatar, so admirably Colleen single-handedly organised her wedding. Despite that, she was the picture of calmness and patiently answered all her sisters' questions about where, who, why and what while she was having her make-up done.

During the trial we decided on a colour palette of bronzes, golds, browns and soft pinks to compliment her complection. I also accentuated her striking blue eyes by adding individual lashes in different lengths to the corners. She looked like a princess in a traditional wedding dress with flowing soft curls framing her beautiful face. Colleen's hair was done by Helga Bridal.

As always, I will post the professional photographs shortly...

Tara Taberer - 2 November 2009

2009-11-26T05:44:00.000-08:00

Tara and her "just-as-beautiful" sister, Jocelyn.

Tara and her gorgeous bridesmaids, Jocelyn, Rachel and Angela.

This was really interesting...four days before her wedding, Tara phoned me to say that she won't have time for a trial, that she trusts us and we must just work our magic on her big day. At first my hair stylist Lizel and I couldn't believe it. I mean I know how I felt before my wedding, everything had to be just perfect and there was no way that I would go without a trial... However, when I met Tara, who is Canadian, it all fell into place and made sense. She was the picture of calmness and serenity and I have never seen a more relaxed bride.

I did her mom and bridesmaids' make-up first - for the bridesmaids I placed individual eye lashes in the corners of their eyes which really gave them a glamorous look. By the time Tara came to sit in my make-up chair, she didn't even have a single request, she was just too excited! Her skin was absolutely flawless and it was any make-up artist's dream to work on her face, an unbelievably beautiful canvas. She looked like a grecian goddess and I know that she and Michael will love each other forever. ps. Seeing that he is really handsome, I can't wait to see their children :)

These pictures were taken by Lauren Kriedemann, a very talented photographer with whom I love to work.

Bridesmaids at Carolise Botha's wedding - 20 November 2009

2009-11-26T01:05:00.000-08:00

Carolise's hair and make-up were done by Helga Bridal Hair and Make-up.

Carolise contacted me earlier in the year to ask if I would do her two bridesmaids', her mom's and mom-in-law's make-up for her wedding at Nooitgedacht. It was such a lovely day in Stellenbosch and the weather was perfect for a summer wedding. Lucea and Luzanne, Carolise's new sisters-in law, were so helpful and did everything they could to make the day as special and carefree as possible for Carolise. Both of them have dewy and glowing skin and doing their make-up was a breeze.

I really enjoyed playing a part in this wedding, as everyone involved was so sincere and friendly. Carolise's mom Nelia even went so far as to buy me yummy chocolates from Woolies to say thank you! Below is a fax I received from Nelia the following Monday morning:

"Beste Merlene,

Baie, baie dankie dat jy vir my en die ma van die bruidegom na iets laat lyk het. Jy was fantasties

en het vir Helga (van Helga Bridal) baie beindruk! Jyself is beautiful! Sterkte met jou besigheid en

nogmaals baie dankie. Carolise se ook weereens dankie!

Groete,

Nelia Botha "

It's messages such as these that just solidify my passion and love for what I do! The professional photos were taken by a wonderfully professional husband-and-wife team Ig and Esther Nothnagel of Ig Nothnagel Photography.

Talita la Cock - Boudoir photo shoot

2009-11-09T23:37:00.000-08:00

Talita la Cock booked me to do her make-up for her Boudoir Photo shoot with Vladia a few months ago. Boudoir Photography has become very fashionable to create a set of sensual images for all ladies in the "boudoir style". Talita has the most beautiful eyes and I had so much fun expressing myself during this application. The final product was a very sultry-looking Talita and the photos of her are gorgeous!

Lize van Wyk - 18 April 2009

2009-08-15T23:42:00.000-07:00

Lize and Adam had a fairytale wedding on the 18th of April in Somerset West, South Africa. Lize is a professional model, so doing her make-up was absolutely effortless. She has the most beautiful features and gorgeous sky-blue eyes. This wedding reminding me yet again of why I love what I do. All brides are so unbelievably beautiful on their wedding days and it is an honour to share in that joy and beauty.

You can also watch a taster of their wedding video by following the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3q5IMPo8sY

Marie Mangiagalli - 31 October 2009

2009-08-14T04:24:00.000-07:00

I've known Marie since I was 15 and it was such an honour when she asked me to do her and her bridesmaid, Liezl's make-up for her wedding. Marie and Jonathan got married in my hometown, Lambert's Bay, a small town on the West Coast. Marie chose to not go the traditional route with a white dress, but instead opted for a flowing black gown in empire style. The weather was perfect for a summer wedding and Marie and Liezl (also a friend of mine) looked truly beautiful. These pictures were taken by Funky Pixel.

Liezl has asked me to do her make-up for her wedding next year on 15 May 2010. I am so excited for her!

Helena Wynmaalen - 1 August 2009

2009-08-13T00:09:00.000-07:00

Helena and Rikus got married in Camps Bay, Cape Town on the 1st of August 2009. Helena is such a lady, perfectly demure and with a wonderful sense of humour. She wanted her make-up soft and understated and I believe the result was a beautifully blushing bride.

This photo was taken by her sister, Coba E Photography. You can view more of their pictures by Expressions Photography by clicking on the following link http://www.expphoto.co.za/detail.php?stocknr=65

Chenelle van der Vyver - 20 December 2008

2009-02-04T22:55:00.000-08:00

My sister, Chenelle, and Matthys tied the knot on the 20th of December last year after dating for almost 7 years. They flew down from London and had the most beautiful wedding at Rusticana in Wellington. Chenelle is a no-fuss type of person and wanted her make-up to be natural, yet striking! It was such a wonderful day full of girlie pampering - I did her make up, my own and my mother's.

I used the wonderful Lancome Adaptive foundation on Chenelle's face, which literally blends in with your skin tone to give a flawless finish without looking cakey.

On her cheekbones I blended a cream highlighter for a subtle glow and sheen and on the apples of her cheeks I used a cream blush and set it with powder blush in the same colour. Her brows are perfect and didn't need much filling in, so I could concentrate on her beautiful eyes.

The day was full of love, Chenelle looked beautiful and I wish her and Matthys a lifetime full of peace, happiness and wonderful memories.

One of my favourite websites...

2009-02-03T03:56:00.000-08:00

One of my favourite websites to visit for inspiration is MAC Cosmetics ». An absolute must-have product is their strobe cream - it makes the light bounce off and the effect is magical. Here's what they have to say:

The ultimate quick fix for the skin. Super-powered with potent botanicals; de-snoozes, de-stresses, moistens, freshens and boosts the look of dull, flat or tired-looking skin with a fully loaded vitamin zap and a mega dose of green tea. Brightens and clarifies with iridescent particles and antioxidants. Enhances the effects of light on all skin and in all different lighting conditions from sunlight to spotlight.

I insist on having this product in my kit AT ALL TIMES as my brides just love the effect it gives. Oh, I really love my job!

My Wedding at Hidden Valley

2009-02-02T06:55:00.000-08:00

We knew we had found our wedding venue the second we saw it. Finally we had found it - Hidden Valley! We booked immediately and on the 10th of January 2009 Albert and I had a wedding that surpassed every dream we ever had about our day. Soon after we got engaged I bought a dress at a well known designer. It was beautiful but there was just one tiny little detail that bothered me as the big day drew closer - it was off-white and I always had this vision of myself wearing a white dress as I walk down the isle to meet my husband-to-be. So, I found the best kept secret in Cape Town, called Magdalena Catharina.

My wedding dress was made in 4 days and it was unbelievably beautiful! I chose a white raw silk and the ruffled train was layered crushed organza, raw silk and chiffon.

Our photographer, the phenomenal Ryan Graham captured the mood of our wedding perfectly, I will forever be thankful for his brilliance and talent. Ryan and his team were the epitome of professionalism and added to the wonder and perfection of our day!

The theme of our wedding was Modern Chic, with hot pink and black as accent colours interspersed with lots of crystal chandeliers. We got married in a hot pink nomadic tent with the Stellenbosch Mountains as a backdrop, I have never seen anything like it!

Everything about my style and look was sleek and SO hot! I decided to have my hair out of my face with lots of height at the crown. This, coupled with the long drop earrings I had selected (with rounded edges) softened my square jawline for an elegant effect. My make-up was modern and sleek with the focus on my eyes - individual lashes were used and the effect was doe-eyed and I loved it!

Shoes to me are as important as the rest of the outfit (if not more!) as they can pull a look together. So to find the perfect shoe was something I was really looking forward to. I couldn't believe my good fortune when the first pair I tried on made me feel like a princess - I bought it on the spot! It was bridal satin peep toes with a silver heel and little cute bows at the back, absolutely gorgeous, and SO comfortable. I could dance the whole night without any blisters...

I bought the most perfect pink dresses for my two lovely bridesmaids and had black, silver and crystal jewellery custom-made. The result was that they looked more beautiful than ever.

Inge Thompson - 5 July 2008

2009-02-01T05:01:00.000-08:00

Inge is one of the loveliest people I have ever met. She married the love of her life, Mikhail on the 5th of July in Somerset West. She was my first bride and we had so much fun creating her look and I absolutely loved the result. She reminds me so much of Cathering Zeta-Jones with her effortless poise and elegance.

Photos were taken by the brilliant photographer Lauren Kriedemann.

Welcome to my Blog!

2009-01-26T04:31:00.000-08:00

My name is Merlene Joy and I would like to welcome you to my blog. I am a Professional Make-up Artist and passionate about all things beautiful and stylish and I love making women look and feel gorgeous. I specialise in bridal make-up because being a part of a bride's most amazing day is such a blessing to me.

I live in Somerset West, South Africa and am available for bridal make-up in the Cape Town area and surrounds. I got married on the 10th of January 2009 and enjoyed every second of it, from the planning stages to the final culmination on the big day. I designed my own dress, and created my look based on our wedding theme "MODERN CHIC". Read more here »

Every bride I have had the pleasure of meeting has added something special to my life and for that I am truly thankful.