Mumbai based bridal makeup artist Bhavna Dave learned all about beauty at an early age. Growing up, she would spend hours braiding her hair and trying out new hairstyles in front of the mirror. She believed she had a sense of style and fashion right since those developing years. Later, after her Std. X exams, she begged her parents to allow her to enroll in various beauty courses. “I never learned from the professionals- I just did whatever basic courses those were readily available in my neighbourhood. Most of what I am today is self-made.”
Having married early into a traditional family, she was not allowed to start her own salon. Instead, she got into a conventional 9-5 job but the yearning to start out on her own was always there. Then came a point in her life when their financial situation changed owing to difficulties at her husband’s job. “It was the turning point,” says Bhavana. “That was when I did the refresher courses and taught myself all over from magazines, books and videos”. Today, Bhavana Dave is a big name in professional wedding makeup industry. weddingsonline India puts the spotlight on Ms. Bhavana Dave. Here is the complete interview:
If you weren’t a bridal makeup artist, you would be…..
I would still do something in the allied fields-either fashion designing or anything else beauty related.
What is the biggest challenge you face as far as bridal makeup goes?
I get many brides having a dark skin tone and they all want a fairer look for their wedding. That can be challenging as you certainly do not want to go overboard.
What is your signature look?
I pride myself on retaining my brides’ innocence. Traditional Indian bridal makeup invariably makes brides look much older than they are. I ensure that that is not the case with my girls.
What products do you use?
MAC, Krylon and Bobbi Brown are my favourites.
What is trending these days in bridal makeup?
2017 is all about the minimalist bride: the “no-makeup” makeup is hot. Almost every bride wants that subtle look.
How do you find a balance between bridal makeup that is modern and,at the same time, ‘parent-friendly?’
Yes, that is always a huge challenge: brides want one thing while their moms and moms-in-law to be want something entirely different. Well, I usually go with what the bride wants. We also have a prior consultation so she can have bold eyes or lips or vice a versa. Then there are some trends which are timeless-the smoky eyes for example-they never go out of fashion –they are classic and modern at the same time.
What is your price range for bridal makeup?
Prices vary based on client’s skin condition. Basic party makeup starts at INR 9000 onward.
Do you offer free trial/consultation?
That depends. If a bride is booking me for 2-3 ceremonies, then we charge a bulk amount that might include a free trial.
Finally: any words of advice for our brides?
Be yourself; do not follow trends blindly. And always choose your MUA with great care. Also, do not stress-keep a big smile on your face and everything will fall into place. Where possible, go for a trial makeup session with your bridal makeup artist.
To book Bhavna Dave for your big day, click here.
