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Written by Megin Potter  |  Photos Provided (Unless Noted)
 


Standing by your child’s side as they embark on this new journey, you want to look your best. Whether you are going full glam or are choosing something more subtle, here’s how the mother of the bride and mother of the groom can get a look that they’ll love on their child’s wedding day. 

Whether you want to experiment with something new or simply indulge (It’s a big day for you, too!) having your makeup done by a professional gives you a radiance that lasts the whole day through. 

“Mothers of the bride and mothers of the groom are typically getting their makeup done along with the bridal party,” said Fawn Vandenburg, an award-winning licensed cosmetologist with more than a decade of experience, and the former owner of The Beauty Bar in downtown Saratoga Springs.

Bewitching eyes, dazzling lips, classic elegance, whatever the look is that you’re going for, Fawn’s pricing is per person, so anyone at the wedding (moms, aunts, cousins, etc.) can experience the precision of a professional. 

Unfiltered Photos Only Please

Inspiration photos found on Instagram, Pinterest, and other online sources aren’t as helpful a guide as bringing a photo of your daily makeup look to your appointment, said Fawn. Filters and editing tools produce photos that lead to unrealistic expectations of perfection. 

In real life, we aren’t flawless. Our skin has wrinkles and imperfections, so instead of praying that make-up will take these away and make you look 20 years younger, embrace your age - and your intuition. 

“Moms get nervous that they won’t look like themselves, or that they’ll look too overdone, so I’ll do trials for moms, too. I’ll do trials for anyone,” said Fawn. “If they’re not having a trial done, that’s when I’ll really dig in and ask questions like ‘What are you normally doing for your makeup?’ ‘What colors do you gravitate toward?’ and ‘What’s your skincare routine?’”

Getting that Golden Glow

For women in their 50s, 60s, and 70s, less is more. In mature skin, makeup settles in the creases, looking cakey and actually enhancing imperfections rather than hiding them. 

Instead, Fawn only adds touches to these areas and advises moms to go for a nice, natural glow with spray tanning. Fawn, a certified technician, recommends experimenting early, if possible, to fine-tune your skin tone’s ideal shade. Because spray tans last up to 12 days, get your trial tan done early, then schedule another appointment two-to-three days before the wedding to ensure your skin is lustrous and lovely for the big day. 

Locking in the Look

Want to get rid of unruly peach fuzz while also diminishing fine lines? Dermaplaning gives you a rejuvenating, dewy appearance by exfoliating the top layer of skin and bringing a fresh, smooth layer to the surface, helping cosmetics adhere. 

Another pro secret – setting sprays. After experimenting for more than a decade with different waterproof products, Fawn has found a light misting is the final touch with real staying power, for all kinds of occasions, from weddings and events to photo shoots. 

Offering onsite makeup application and classes, in addition to personal “cosmetics shopping” Fawn makes sure you look phenomenal for every occasion. For more information, go to www.fawn-mua.com