Alex Penton is a Canadian born, kiwi-bred hair and makeup artist specializing in bridal beauty that not only looks glamorous, but exudes a fresh, and natural aesthetic. With a focus on uncomplicated, clean and seemingly effortless looks, Alex enhances a bride’s natural beauty, through glowing skin and relaxed hairstyling. We speak to Alex about her advice on getting wedding ready and her ability to enhance the unique beauty on every bride she works with….
Tell us a bit about you?
Hi, I’m Alex! I’m Canadian born and Kiwi bred and have been living in Sydney, Australia for the past 15 years. For over 20 years I’ve been passionately crafting the art of both Hair styling and Makeup and I absolutely love what I do. I’m also a Mum to two little ladies and along with my delightful English hubby we are all making the move back home to Auckland at the end of 2023. I’m so excited to return to Aotearoa and show my girls how to be true kiwi kids!
Biggest beauty myth…
Primers! While I don’t mind the ones that add a lit from within glow, I genuinely believe that the key to a flawless makeup base lies in skin prep, the choice of foundation, and expert application. I carry an array of finishes and textures in my professional kit, catering to every skin type and concern, ensuring that your makeup is going to last all day.
What is your favourite beauty product?
Oh this is hard how can I pick just one!? I’m going to go with… foundation. It really is the foundation of the rest of your makeup and determines the result of your entire look! My current favourites are Giorgio Armani luminous silk, Dior Backstage Face and Body, Nars Sheer glow and for everyday wear (not a wedding day!) IT cosmetics CC cream.
What beauty advice would you give brides-to-be leading up to the wedding day?
Prioritise your skin. Give your Makeup artist a head start by arriving with a canvas that is ready to go! Your makeup will only look as good as the skin underneath, so at a minimum, exfoliate and hydrate before your day. I personally recommend an enzyme exfoliant to remove those dead skin cells that get in the way of your foundation becoming one with your skin.
Let’s talk costs?
My prices and packages are all clearly laid out on on my website – I like to be as transparent as possible, it saves us all valuable time! When planning your wedding, some examples of things that can lead to additional costs from our team are an early ceremony time, a first look, getting ready away from your ceremony site and the numbers in your Bridal party. These elements can sometimes require an earlier start or the need to include additional artists. Lots to think about but always happy to answer any questions any time!
Most commonly asked question?
“Will the makeup last when I cry?” The answer is an emphatic yes! I’ve perfected my techniques and product selection over the years to ensure your makeup holds up through any emotional moments on your big day. It’s one of the most frequent compliments I receive – that everything stays flawless well into the night. Plus, I have a few clever tips to help you hold back those tears, like doing math in your head!
What bridal trends are you expecting to see this season?
Classic and clean. I’m seeing a lot of Brides moving away from accessories and trending makeup looks into timeless silhouettes and fresh faces. I’m getting more requests for sleek low buns and makeup looks that are more natural and don’t transform you, but let your own face and personality shine through.
Should brides try a few different looks?
Yes they absolutely can if they want to! I’m very accomodating and never lose sight of the fact that it’s a special day for each and every Bride. Making decisions about your hair and makeup can be challenging, which is why I offer extended trial sessions for those who want to explore multiple hairstyles or are feeling a bit indecisive. I do recommend doing your Bridal hair and makeup trial closer to your date however so you have a clearer idea of your style for the day and you’re less likely to keep changing your mind!
How far out from the big day should the brides book?
I accept bookings up to two years in advance and books are already filling fast for 2025! If you have your eye on your favourite vendors I say get in while you can. Rest assured, I only book one wedding per day, so once you’ve locked in your date with me, it’s exclusively yours.
Guide us through the initial process couples can expect when working with you?
The initial process varies for each bride. I typically begin by sending out quotes, which can lead to a back-and-forth conversation where I answer all your questions and discuss various options before you’re ready to book. Once you decide to proceed, you may email me throughout the year with queries regarding timing, hairstyling and makeup style ideas, and accessories – my inbox is always open! For others, they receive a quote, book, pay the deposit to secure their date, and then we re-connect four months before the wedding to book in your trial session.
Describe your current contents of your handbag?
I always remember my mum’s handbag when I was growing up and wondering why she had so many random items in the depths of that bag… Now it’s my turn! I now understand… gosh I have no idea what’s in there. There’s definitely always a lip balm of some kind (probably one of my many pots of the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask), some sunglasses (which probably should be in their case), mints, car snacks for those long drives to wedding venues, and possibly some rocks that my daughter insisted I hold onto for her.
What’s next for you in 2023 and beyond…
I’m really excited to arrive in NZ at the end of 2023 and start meeting all my 2024 NZ Brides! I’m looking forward to the road trips up and down the North Island and seeing some of that beautiful NZ scenery again. Moving into 2024 I’ll be expanding and taking on more artists onto my team so we can look after more and more beautiful brides on their special day! It’s going to be an exciting journey ahead!
For more visit Alex Penton Hair Stylist + Makeup Artist over on the Wild Hearts Vendor Collection here
