Beauty and the bride (first of two parts)

CEBU, Philippines - It's the most memorable moment in a young lady's life, her dream wedding, and all seemed perfect. Her bridal gown, dreamy and princess-like. Her groom, dapper in a well tailored suit. She floated amidst a flower and soft tulle-lined aisle. And when the groom opened up her veil, everyone gasped in unison. Her make up was a nightmare!

A lesson well learned that is why it is vital to hire experts in the beauty department. Sure you can scrimp on the flowers and the entourage dresses, but it is de rigueur to have the best stylist on every bride-to-be's list. Unless of course you are marrying Dracula or perhaps Dr. Victor Frankenstein's hodge-podge creation.

Here are simple looks for a beaming and blushing bride to follow ---

Fresh and Fabulous. Perfect for morning weddings, this look is achieved by pale pinks on the eyes and warm beige tones to contour and makes porcelain skin look healthy and radiant. When it comes to highlighting the cheeks, delicate hues like peachy and rosy pinks complement perfectly with the matching lip shade. Dab lightly.

Berry Brights. For early afternoon weddings, beautiful berry hues like sheer strawberry and rich raspberry on the lips complement well with not so fair skintones. Try metallic shadows in gold and copper on eyelids which looks flattering in the afternoon sun. Same shade for the cheeks as with the lips so apply generously.

Pretty and Polished. Appropriate for late afternoon weddings, this “marry me” look highlights a sheer glow for a luminous complexion.  A light shimmering pink hue to the apple of your cheeks to enhance your cheekbones. For an enchanting pair of eyes, sweep deep bronzes and smudge all over the lids and finish with a blood red shade  for those puckers for stand-out lips.

Sun-kissed Corals. So you opted for a garden wedding? Right choice you have. Peachy pinks and warm apricot and juicy melon shades on your cheeks and lips look great outdoors while a slightly smudged eye color like terracotta mixed with golds for a fabulous look that lasts all day.

Best wishes!