I had heard SO much about this hair/make-up studio that I had to meet the owner, Vivian Tran. As soon as I greeted her at the coffee shop, I was completely wowed by how dazzling this lady is. She made an amazing first impression and made me a big fan by the end of our interview.
Introducing, the All Made Up Team:
how did you get into hair/make-up artistry?
Ever since high school, I helped others with make-up. While I was in college at CalState Long Beach for my MIS major, I pursued my license for hair and make-up at a beauty school during the summer and winter breaks.
how did you start the All Made Up Team?
10 years ago I started working weddings as a part-time job. It was SO exciting and fun. It just got busier and busier and soon I had to hire on more to the team.
how does the All Made Up Team differ from other hair/make-up artists?
We’re different in a lot of ways. I actually have photographed weddings and, with my background in Hollywood make-up, I’ve learned how to enhance features to really make someone look beautiful.
All the senior girls have had at least 5 years of experience and do BOTH hair and make-up. We work hard to learn the best skills, including being very knowledgeable at using extensions. 3-4x/year I holed a team building shoot to learn the newest techniques.
We spend a LOT of time with the bride at our studio with before/after make-up shoots, complete with mock wedding dress and accessories to complete the look.
what is All Made Up Team up to now-a-days?
Now, the All Made Up Team is comprised of 13 stylists, my senior girls, all state board licensed and full-time hair/make-up artists. We have two studios, one in Irvine and one in Westminster that we share with a photographer and videographer.
We’ve recently been holding half day workshops to demonstrate, learn, and practice the art of make-up. It’s a girl’s night out, complete with food at a private room in a fine dining restaurant. It is for anyone that wants to learn.
what are popular mistakes you see brides make when getting their hair or makeup done?
- Taking out the trial run | It is so important to get a good understanding. The wedding day can be so chaotic. It is good to do a trial to make sure you and your hair/make-up artist is on the same page and it can make your day go that much smoother.
- Not applying photo-ready make-up | Make-up needs to be enhanced for the camera. Natural is a nice look on a person but your features just won’t pop in the photos. The right make-up can reduce a lot of unnecessary touch-ups.
how should a bride select her hair/make-up artist for her wedding?
Pick someone who is:
- Experienced
- Professional
- Gives lots of suggestions | Cares about your overall look, theme, and the features that will enhance your beauty. You need to have a professional who is not afraid of giving you recommendations if you need it.
- Communicates well | Find someone who will reply and confirm right away.
what’s the difference between hiring a professional vs. having a friend do their hair/make-up?
Friends can have great make-up on themselves but it’s not necessarily what will look good for you. Professionals understand the importance of highlighting and contouring and how to make someone look slimmer, brighter, eyes wider/deeper/bigger, and transform the face to enhance its beauty.
last question: any advice on a healthy skincare routine for brides?
- See an Aesthetician | An aesthetician can revamp and clear your skin.
- Eat Correctly
- Wash Face Daily with Soap + Water | Don’t use body soap, but facial soap.
- Toner | Use a toner before putting on foundation.
- Time Your Facials Right | Have your facial 4-6 months prior to the wedding then 1-1.5 months prior. Your face needs 2-3 weeks to heal. It normally will break out a little right after having a facial done.
- Exfoliate | Exfoliate your nose and under your chin. Don’t rub hard on the cheeks since that is very sensitive and can be easily damaged.
- Mask | Mask your face 1x/month to keep it clean and clear.
- Moisturize!
Vivian, you rock! Thank you for all the amazing tips. I’ve heard so many raves from her past clients. Check out her work and the rest of the All Made Up Team here.
Artistically yours,
Drexelle
The Type A Bride
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Fantastic! Vivian is such a sweet and honest vendor with tons of experience in her field! Always comes highly recommend and her work proves it!
So true, Susie! Thanks for the comment and the added praise for Vivian (=