In January 2016, through a referral, I was contacted by beautiful NYC, Russian bride to be, Zara, for her summer wedding makeup at the Essex House in NYC. What I appreciated immediately about Zara, aside from her warm personality, was her genuine desire to understand the process of booking a professional wedding makeup artist for one of the most important and photographed days of her life. Zara asked various questions about hiring a professional makeup artist in order to understand what the investment involved, and what she could expect from my services. This open communication created a wonderful relationship of trust for Zara that she was in the best hands for her wedding day makeup.
Zara and husband, Bennett, married on August 13th, 2016 at the Essex House Central Park. Zara opted to book my day rate package, a full day pampering experience through the ceremony. She had no idea how grateful she would be with that decision come her wedding day. August 13th, 2016 was without doubt, one of the hottest days of the summer with a heat index of 105 degrees. With the Essex House situated across from Central Park, it was important to Zara and Bennett to take some first look outdoor photos. Given the extreme heat, that wasn’t ideal, but amazing and lovely photographer, Amy Rizzuto and I, assured the couple that we would make it work.
I, along with the photography and videography team, joined Zara and Bennett in Central Park to capture the couple’s first look photos. With no shade during the photos, perspiration was on overload, but we were a trooper of a team and we made it work. At one point, after overhearing Zara mention her legs were perspiring, I maneuvered myself up under her dress to cool down her legs with a towel. If that isn’t full service by a makeup artist, then I do not know what is!
After an hour in Central Park, we ventured back to the Essex House for photos with the bridal party and family. Before this could happen, with the help of Zara’s amazing bridesmaids, hair stylist, Laureen of Styles on B, and myself, we worked as a team to cool Zara down and revive her hair and makeup. As you can see from the photos, it was all worth it and that is what matters most. My brides are all important to me and no one is just another bride. For me, it is more than applying beautiful makeup. I offer a full service experience in that I go above and beyond what is expected. This is all evidenced from Zara’s glowing review below of her experience with me. Congratulations Zara and Bennett! You were truly both amazing to work with and share in the special day! I will always be grateful for you kindness and generosity! You are a lovely couple and both deserve the best!
Wedding Makeup at The Essex House Central Park,NYC- Vendors
Photographer: Amy Rizzuto Photography
Video: Kiss the Bride Films
Venue: Essex House
Florist: Ariston Flowers
Hair: Laureen of Styles on B
Makeup: Anabelle LaGuardia Makeup Artistry
Bride’s dress: Kleinfeld Bridal
Bride’s shoes: Jimmy Choo
Bride’s Jewelry: Earrings by Poetry Jewelry, bracelet by Ben Amum from Rent the Runway, engagement and wedding rings from Jangmi Jewelry
Bride’s Veil: Basia Custom Headdresses & Accessories
Bridesmaid dresses: Dessy from The Wedding Library
Bride and bridesmaid robes: Designs by Celia on Etsy
Maltipoo’s Tuxedo: Yvettes Little Shop on Etsy
Invitations: Bella Figura from Sincerely Staci
Cake: JW Marriott Essex House Pastry Chef
WEDDING MAKEUP AT THE ESSEX HOUSE CENTRAL PARK, NYC-Photos
