Do You Really Need To Buy Ampoules From The Makeup Artist For Your Wedding?

Hello Ladies, Well, it's been a long time since I've done a wedding-specific post. I've been thinking about this issue for a long time, and I know that writing about it may incur lots of wrath from makeup artists who believe in selling their clients ampoules. But if you know me, I'm pretty much a straight talker who speaks my mind.

So here goes.. Let's get this straight from the beginning. I have never sold or provided any ampoules to my clients although I have had enquiries about them. And yes, I have bought ampoules before to try out on my skin, so I know how they feel and work.

So, what is this whole ampoule business about? Firstly, ampoules are little glass jars of serum / gels for the skin, sealed airtight and broken only upon application. They typically look like this:

The formula of the product is typically of a high concentration, for different skin types and concerns. You could get one for hydration, oil control, whitening, anti-aging etc..

# 1: Do ampoules work?
 - Yes, if you get one of a good quality, it works just as well as a high quality serum. However, ampoules work even better when coupled with a facial, when the skin is prepped to receive nutrients, and even better with a high-frequency machine where it encourages the product to be absorbed into the skin. To work is one, but you need the right time to have it work.

 # 2: Do ampoules really make my makeup last longer?
 - No. Honestly, if you expect a beautiful, radiant complexion with your makeup lasting the entire day on your face just because of a "miracle" ampoule, sorry girlfriend, it's not gonna happen. Simply slapping on the product and then the makeup will just be the same as applying your own serum and then makeup.

 # 3: What do you recommend instead?
 - Go for a makeup primer instead. I use Smashbox's Photo Finish Oil Free Makeup Primer

A makeup primer is specifically designed to reduce the appearance of pores and "set" your skin for the application of makeup, as well as help it to last longer and protecting it against environmental stresses. There are different makeup primers, ranging from those for oily skin, dry skin, even for colour correction(i.e. neutralising redness or brightening sallow skin).

# 4: Then why do so many bridal makeup artists sell ampoules?
 - It makes them extra cash. Simple as that.
 Just like all these hidden charges that some bridal shops charge you after you thought you got a good deal signing up for a $1888 all-in-one package, you end up having to top up for every single detail after. I know of a couple who topped up something like $90 for 3 ampoules, for both groom and bride. $90?! That's daylight robbery for ampoules. Ampoules are available at $5 or less each. Even Dr Hauschka's Rhythmic Night Conditioner Ampoules are £44.95 for 30 ampoules.

Question 5: What shall I do then? They are pushy and say my skin is "very bad and in dire need" of some ampoules?
 - Argh! I hate it when people in the beauty industry try to push products by criticising their clients. It just gives us such a bad rep.
Firstly, in the months leading up to your big day, you should start taking good care of your skin.
Monthly facials are a good way to relax and deep cleanse your skin.
Next, make sure you exfoliate! If you have a thick layer of old or peeling skin, not even a boxful of ampoules is going to help, and any makeup applied will always bring more attention to flakey skin. I use Dermalogica's Daily Microfoliant which is gentle but effective.
Battle extremes with the right skincare. Too dry and everything just looks powdery and doesn't apply smoothly. Too oily and makeup slides off. Using the right skincare regiment will ensure your skin is well prepped.

Of course, checking with your makeup artist about hidden costs (some charge for false eyelashes too! wtf) before you book them will help you make a more informed decision. For me, I don't believe in hiding any costs. What you see is what you get. I also never push products, although if I love something I genuinely recommend or rave about it! Any advice to my client is truthful, and I will give them the most easy way possible to solve any problems they may have.

 Till then!
 xoxo Jo

Her World Brides : Bridal Makeup & Hairstyle inspirations!

It's almost coming to the close of 2011, and this time it's turning out to truly be the wedding season of the year!

If you haven't decided on what style of makeup and hair you're going to have on that day, maybe you'll like some inspiration from these pages of Her World Brides

Makeup & Hairstyling by yours truly :) for Her World Brides September Issue
Assisted by Norah Salazar
Styled by Janice Seah


The model was blessed with full brows, which I paired with a full matte red lip, nude eyeshadow (The Naked Palatte!) , Creamy Eyeliner (24/7 in Zero & Perversion) falsies and lots of mascara. In case you think I'm off my rockers talking dirty, that's cos I'm using Urban Decay for this shoot! Loving their products!!

I curled her hair into tight ringlets and swept it all back into a full, low bun. No backcombing and teasing needed!





And from an earlier issue, the June 2011 Issue of Her World Brides...

Makeup by Joanna Koh
Hair by Sunny Kor

For this shoot I was partial to bareMinerals makeup, which is pretty much taking up more and more space in my kit and drawer. And that's cos I keep going to Sephora to stock up!

If you want a little glow in your skin, try the bareMinerals Original mineral foundation, and if you have oily skin (which so many of us do in this climate!), choose the Matte version.

Their eyeshadows go on beautifully and they have a great range of colours too.


Read on for the looks..


A glowy finish to the skin, with rose lips and a touch of shimmer to the eyelids, so pretty for everyone.

This is how you do a bold lip without having to choose red. A bright pink works, but keep your blusher natural. I've used a peachy blusher and paired it with silvery eyes.
Some might argue against that, citing the warm & cool makeup theories , but hey! We're in 2011, not 1989, so I don't buy that anymore!





A really beautiful bronzed eye and lip makeup look. Wear this to your sunset destination wedding with your tanned skin (remember the SPF while you're on the beach!)



I'll be more than happy to help you achieve these looks for your wedding day! Drop me an email if you would like to enquire more :) jo@joannakoh.com

Now I know why so many people take wedding pictures in Taiwan!

Last week I had one of the best times in my life in Taiwan, with 2 amazing girlfriends of mine.
We visited Pu Li, Sun Moon Lake, Yang Ming Shan, Wu Lai, and Taipei city :D

First time ever that I saw Cherry blossoms, and ate a Sakura Mochi!
The scenery is gorgeous and the weather was great (a little cold spell midweek), but when we were more south in Sun Moon Lake, weather was JUST PERFECT! for pictures.

Here are some pictures and recommendations where to go

Starting in Taipei:

Go to the many night markets to have your fill of delicious street food. We went to Shilin night market. I love these meat on sticks



Getting to Shilin night market: Take the MRT to Jiantan


From Taipei you can drive/ take a bus to Yang Ming Shan, which is a live volcano. Here are the pretty sights.. they have a spring flower festival, with lots of pretty Sakuras and other flowers. Now you don't have to go to Japan to view them!




Drive higher up the mountain and on a bad day (like when we were there), it's heavily shrouded in fog. On a good day you'll get a view.
And everyday, it'll smell like sulphur. Yuck.



On the plus side, you can hunt for a sulphuric hotspring. there are many hotsprings there and for about TWD150 ( SGD6.70), you get access to one. They usually have a few large shared pools, and some tiny cubicles with a small plunge pool for those who don't want to get naked in front of others.


North of Taiwan is a spot called Wu Lai. It has many hotsprings too (none with sulphur, thank goodness)
There are also lots of taiwanese aborigines living in this area and the streets are painted with their images.

Gorgeous scenery..waterfalls and rivers run through this area




You can either check into hotel with hotspring water, or go au natural like us, and many senior taiwanese folk, to the hotspring pools next to the river. Bring your own towel and a big smile to make friends with the oldies who come here everyday. Seriously, the old men here are SO FIT! I see some 70 year olds with abs!

Here are my friends enjoying the spring.. it's scalding hot, and after that you have to jump into the freezing river behind. And repeat for at least half an hour.



Getting to Wu Lai via public transport:
Take the MRT train to Dan Shui & change to bus


If you have time, you must go to Sun Moon Lake. Granted, it is a very tourist-y destination, but locals and tourist alike come here.

Lots of people do their wedding pictures here too..

Hijacking their shot :P



When you arrive at Shui She (the town on the north of the lake), drop by the Mochi shop. You can't miss it, there's only one there like this! She also serves delicious fresh Milk Tea in the front, you must try all!



My favourite flavours:
Sakura, Green Tea, Chocolate, Ume, Orange



If you have a couple of hours, take a walk or go cycling around the lake. The scenery is gorgeous, and on a spring day, great weather.
If you are too tired you can take the bus or boat instead.




Drop by the temple on the western side of the lake (about 20mins walk from shui she), the deity here is Yue Lao 月老 (thanks Joey!), he's the one who suppossedly "ties red strings" to join couples meant to be together.







Getting to Sun Moon Lake:
Take a bus from Taipei Bus Station Terminal B. There is a straight bus to Sun Moon Lake but they leave only a few times a day so buy your tickets in advance.
If not, you can take a bus from the same terminal to Tai Chung or Pu Li and transfer to another bus from those cities/ towns.
There is no direct train to Sun Moon Lake, your best option will be to take the train to Tai Chung and get a bus from there.



My best tip? Avoid weekends and public holidays and you can get shots of the lake without people in it :)

Behind the scenes: MAXX Brides (Indonesia) Photoshoot

Hello!! I know I've been terribly naughty, being missing for over 2 months ! :(

It's been a CRAAAAZY time, going from 2010 to 2011.
I had a fantastic ultra-extended festive season, partying more than I thought I'm currently capable of :P
I've met some really cool new friends from all over the world, and tomorrow I'm going to Taiwan for a week with two of my girlfriends from Boston! <3
I'm heading to Sun Moon Lake in Nantou, it seems to be really beautiful for wedding photoshoots ! I promise to take lots of location pics and upload them here.. :D


Anyway, yesterday I worked with a really great team from MAXX Brides from Jakarta. Their inaugural issue will be out this May, and the gowns from the Indonesian designers are simply exquisite!! I've worked with Indo designers before and I love the complexity of the detailing on their garments and their extreme dedication to their craft.

Here are some behind the scenes shots of the photoshoot that was done at InterContinental Singapore . The interior of the hotel was simply gorgeous.. It seems to be set in an era far forgotten, with alot of Chinese and Peranakan influences in its decor


Makeup & Hair: Joanna Koh
Model: Erica Denise Lee













Completely insane shoes complete the look!!!

See you guys in a week :D

My Eyeshadow Lasted Through The Rain! ... psst, here's the secret

Ok, let's all admit it. Singapore is SCORCHING hot, and brides here SWEAT like nobody's business. Also, it tends to POUR almost every other day (and at the present moment, it's the monsoon season, so, every day).

Add that to touching speeches and teary moms, most brides tend to shed a tear on their wedding day - Recipe for eye makeup disaster!

So, a few days ago, I put on some pretty makeup (eyeshadow, eyeliner and mascara) as I had a meeting. I confess I do not usually put on makeup otherwise - shock shock horror horror! But that's for a simple reason, read on.
I workout at the track 3 times a week. This time, when I got to the track, the coach said "You gotta hustle, it's gonna rain". So I zipped into the bathroom to get changed and forgot to wash my makeup off! And then the rain came. And we kept going. I trained in the rain for more than an hour, and then in the shelter for another half an hour.
And I was thinking, I look like CRAP! My mascara must be streaking down my face.
Understand me here, my entire class is made of boys.. and I didn't want to look like a wreck.

I only took a good look at myself when I got home and just before I showered. And I thought " OMG! That is like the most perfect end-of-day makeup EVER!!"
My eyes were still slightly smoky, my eyeliner was in place, and my mascara didn't run, it just flaked a little. And this was about 11 hours after I had applied it, gone into the rain and worked up a sweat!

OK, so I must must must share my secret. And then I am sure your makeup on your big day is going to be tear/sweat/rain resistant.. if not waterproof!


The Big Secret is....... Eyeshadow PRIMER !

It's not that big of a secret actually, because I use a primer on almost all my clients before applying eyeshadow. hahaha.

The main great benefits about using a primer are that it holds your eyeshadow to your lids for a longer duration without creasing, or dissolving into oily lids (so common in our climate right?). Also, the big effect you can see immediately is that eyeshadow looks really VIBRANT when applied on top of a primer. The colours pop and you wouldn't need to use as much colour to get the effect. Eyeshadow also blends much better when applied over a primer.

Easy test if you don't believe me? Go to a store, swab a little primer on your skin (back of the palm's good, really flat surface), smoothen it in. Afterwards, get any eyeshadow colour, or use one that you feel you have a hard time getting the colour to show up. Now apply the eyeshadow over the primer, and another time, over your bare skin.
Trust me, you'll see a world of difference.


The primer I used on myself was one from Red Earth. Esprit in Singapore used to carry it years ago, and then Sasa had it. Right now, I have no idea where they are. But I'm sure you can find Red Earth all around Australia.


Here are a few more options that I really do like:

Make Up Store Eyeprimer Tinted



This tinted formula (also comes in clear) goes on liquid smooth and is great for hydration and filling fine lines too. The eyeshadow, especially glittery ones, adhere firmly to your lids when applied on top of this primer.
Love it. It's a staple in my makeup bag.


Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion



This one, I've just tried using recently and really am liking it. No creases, all holding power. Goes on nude and then dries to invisible.
They also have it in a matte finish and champagne shimmer, very cool, but you should use complimenting eyeshadows with it. No point using a matte finish primer with a shimmery eyeshadow or vice versa.
The personal sized one is great 'cos it has the applicator wand, but I'm gonna get myself the SUPERSIZED Professional Sized one without the applicator, although I have no idea how I'm going to finish using all 25mls of it :P


While we are on the topic of eyeshadow primers, don't forget the rest of your face! A little smoothing primer before your foundation goes a loooong way in keeping your makeup fresh all day.


I love Shu Uemura's UV Under Base SPF 30



It's a mousse and goes on great under foundation to even out skin tone and texture. I use this on brides on their big day and on models before a photoshoot..


Also really worth trying is RMK's Makeup Base Mat




I find it really funny that they don't spell it correctly as MATTE, but shorten it to MAT. Maybe it's a Japanese thing?
Anyway, on days when I want to go really light on my makeup, I use this and finish off with powder, skipping the foundation step. As it's slightly tinted, that works well for me, almost like a tinted moisturiser, but mattifying.



So there you go.. one BIG tip which will help your makeup go a long way especially on your wedding day!

Enjoy!

Destination: Bali ( Part 1)

Everyone who knows me knows that I LOVE Bali. And I mean, seriously, LURVE BALI!

So if you're ever planning for a destination wedding, or honeymoon in South East Asia, heck, Asia, I'm the first one to scream "GO TO BALI!!!"

Why? I can give you more than a hundred good reasons.. but these you should hear:
- BEAUTIFUL beaches set the backdrop for a tropical beach wedding
- Fantastic 5* villas at reasonable prices
- You can book the entire property and all the villas in it to hosts all your guests
- World-class food at a snap of your fingers
- Spa, Massage, you ask for it, you get it. And you can get it cheap, or uber luxurious.
- Wedding planners, hairstylists, photographers, makeup artists, florists, catering, all accessable
- Direct flights to Bali from most Austra-Asian cities , and if you're coming from anywhere else, you can always transit comfortably in Singapore

Villas

Mu Bali
Location: Bingin (The Bukit, South)
Great for: Honeymoon, Wedding, Romantic Getaway

With only 11 individually designed Bungalows spread over a huge property on top of the cliff above Bingin beach, Mu Bali is a back-to-nature-while-keeping-it-luxurious destination. I personally love the Cliff Bungalow (well, it's not really a bungalow because it has no walls or doors!) , the most private and quiet room cut into the cliff, all you hear are the rolling waves, all you see is the infinite sea and the glorious sunset.

The view when you wake up (these are my snap shots!)






Imagine your wedding right here! (A shot from Mu's site)




The property is run by Jerome from France and his excellent team of Balinese women who cook some darn amazing french and indonesian food!

Contact: Endang / Jerome jbataillardbali@gmail.com



Shanti Residences
Location: Nusa Dua (South End of Bali, where all the fancy international hotels are)
Great for: Weddings, large family getaways

Shanti Residences is a gorgeous 5 bedroom Villa property, with your own private swimming pool, kitchen, gym, spa room, sitting room, garden, driveway and parking lot!
The five bedrooms are all different, from the largest Master Suite to the smallest twin room.
Three of the rooms have their own plunge pools and sitting rooms, while the twin rooms are located on the 2nd level and have spacious bathrooms (that's what I love most about Bali, HUGE bathroom spaces!)

Your own butler will take care of your every need, from planning your meals to grocery shopping, to arranging a picnic at the beach, or activities for kids, or picking up your guests. You also get a personal chef who can arrange a quiet romantic teppan dinner next to the pool, or whip up a storm for a large party.

They're extremely meticulous and experienced with weddings, so leave all your worries behind and place your trust in their good hands!

My snapshot of their garden!




Photography: Phil Date/ EastWest Imaging , with model Antonio chilling by the pool!




And if that's not enough for you, they have two more properties in Bali, Four@ Drupadi in Seminyak (if you wanna party with friends for your Stag/Hen's night), or Lotus Residences in Canggu for a quiet retreat near the paddy fields

Contact: info@shantiresidencesandresorts.com



Next post, (i promise I will post in the next 3 days or so)..... Part 2 of Destination: Bali

Her World Brides Editorial

Hi Everyone! I'm been really bad, not updating this page for a while. It's been hectic, with editorials, commercials & brides! The Christmas season is around the corner, I know you might be thinking, it's 3 months away, but in media calender, it's when everyone starts this mad rush to prepare their Christmas ads.
As I really don't want to disappoint anyone, please do book me in advance, as my schedule fills up pretty quick (besides, I give a 15% discount to all brides who book me 5 months in advance :D )

I've firmed up my travel schedule for the next couple of months, No Bali trips! I miss Bali! If you are doing a pre-wedding photoshoot in Bali, Melbourne or Sydney, I'll be more than happy to give you a super super discounted rate. :)

I'll be away from:
18 September - 24 September
10 November - 15 November

Anyways, enough of words, here are the PICTURES!








Photography: Aik Chen
Styling: Furqan Saini
Hair & Makeup: Joanna Koh using Redken & Clinique, assisted by Angeline Chan
Models: Yana & Sandra/ Upfront


The full series is available on my FACEBOOK page


And incase you're wondering, what's this lovely foundation for the model's skin, it's Clinique Superfit Makeup, which I also use on almost all my clients. It's one of my favourite foundations simply because it lasts 6-8 hours through your oil, sweat and tears (sounds familiar for your big day?), doesnt clog pores, and gives a beautiful buildable coverage.

Gardenasia Wedding Party 2010

Hello everyone!
The weekend is here and boy am I glad to finally get a break from the back-to-back shoots I've been doing this week.

I'll be the official makeup sponsor in an upcoming bridal show, Gardenasia Wedding Party 2010, on 19th June 2010.

If you've just gotten engaged or planning for your upcoming wedding, do drop by! Tickets are priced at $48 per couple. Drop me an email and I'll refer you to get your tickets at only $38 per couple :)


Here's what they have to say about me:


Model-turned-makeup artist Joanna Koh has been immersed in the world of Fashion & Beauty since the age of 17. To name a few, she has represented Singapore in international competitions such as Best Model of the World and Face of the Universe, and walked the runways during Singapore Fashion Week and Jakarta Fashion Festival. With skills picked up from the many top makeup artists & stylists she has met, Joanna finally decided to step off the runway to become a makeup artist 5 years ago.

With her rich experience in the local fashion industry, Joanna was soon invited to work with magazines such as Icon, Female and L'Officiel. Her makeup work quickly appeared on covers of both local and international magazines. Some of the celebrities Joanna has worked with are Shan Wee (98.7FM), Claire Jedrek, Nat Ho & Melody Chen (Channel 5), James Kim (Seoul Raiders, Korea), & Miss Canada Alice Panikian.
In 2009, she was named "Top 5 Up and Coming Makeup Artists" by Female Brides.

She believes makeup should never be overdone; it should bring out the best features in each individual. Joanna’s style enhances smooth, natural looking skin and then creates impactful features with the right dash of colors. Inspiration comes from her frequent travels, and the colours found in Nature and the City.

This 19th June, get a peek of her amazing portfolio and be dazzled by her masterpieces as they strut down the runway!


Exclusive show promotion:
15% discount off all services & packages for Brides.
Receive one free makeup Bridesmaid makeup or hairstyling service (worth $120) with every package booked.

---------------------------------------------


Yes you read it correctly - I AM giving away free Bridesmaid's Makeup/Hair. First time ever - was feeling very generous :P
This offer is only valid on 19th June at Gardenasia, I'll see you there!



Have a great weekend!


Jo

Welcome

Thanks for dropping by my blogsite

I decided to create this blog as many of my clients were asking me about the work I've done on brides, since my website is very fashion-focused.

I'll be sharing photos of my makeup & hairstyling work on brides, bridesmaids and their family, as well as ideas, tips, and up-to-date promotions.

Also, I'll be starting a series of workshops, where you can learn how to create beautiful looks for yourself, as well as pick up tips and tricks from demos.

If you do have any questions, or would like to book me for your wedding day, please drop me an email at





To kick of this site, here are some photos which have never been published on my website



Photo: Phil Date
Photo: Phil Date





Photo: Zhang Jingna
Photo: Zhang Jingna
Photo: Zhang Jingna





And the beautiful Veronica and Christopher, pre-wedding photography session in Singapore. Photographed by Jonathan Ho