Milan Style

Julie Jackson says she was the most unlikely candidate imaginable for a career in fashion, even though the self-professed former “tomboy” is now a professional hair and makeup artist who has worked for major television networks including HGTV and Bravo (Real Housewives of Orange County, America’s Next Top Model, The Voice and Project Runway fans take note.)

Countless commercials and high fashion photo shoots later, Jackson says a lot of prayer and hard work led her to a career she never thought she would experience.

“I grew up very simply with no influence at all in fashion, hair, makeup or photography. My life was horses, volleyball and being outside as much as possible. I went to Erskine college as an art major and to play volleyball, before deciding to use people as my canvas by attending cosmetology school.”

Even though the education was invaluable, it was through working with other stylists Jackson says she learned her best techniques, and now that she has moved back to her home in Greenville, she uses her talents most weekends to make brides, moms and bridesmaids’ dreams come true.

“I love making people feel good about themselves and building them up. That’s the reason I do this job. I love seeing them grow confidence in my chair.”

A few dos and don’ts for brides and moms

Do stay true to yourself. You want to be the absolute best version of yourself, not try to be someone else. Stay true to your personal style don't stray too far from your comfort zone. This is not the day to try a dramatically different look, just a prettier and more polished one.

Do start hair and makeup in plenty of time on your big day. Photos will start sooner than you think and this is one day you want to be camera ready.

Do go for a hairstyle that won’t go out of style. Loose up-dos are always in fashion and the simpler the better whatever style you choose.

Do a trial run anywhere from 4-8 weeks before the big day. When you have a plan, and someone who you trust to make your vision come true, you’ll be able to relax on the wedding day knowing you’re in good hands.

Do take care of your skin before the big day: hydrate, moisturize and be happy, but don’t do facials or peels right before the wedding.

Do make some choices. If you’re doing strong eyes, for instance, choose lipstick in a nude shade.

Do try false lashes, but be sure they look better, not just bigger. The best ones should enhance your eyes and give them that extra pop. Be sure to have a trial run or two whether doing them yourself or having a stylist do them for you.

Do consider a spray tan. Sunless tanning is a wonderful thing, but it can also go terribly wrong should you rely on inexperienced hands or unreliable devices. If going the spray tan route, discuss the timing with your technician and make sure you get a practice round at least two months beforehand. This way, if you don’t like the results, you can choose to tweak the process and try again, with plenty of time to spare.Read more at:wedding dresses australia | bridesmaids dresses