With career highlights that include working with international fashion magazines, and several of the world's best editorial photographers, Auckland-based make up artist Aimie Fiebig is at the top of her beauty game. We get the inside scoop on the life of a beauty expert, and solicit advice on how to achieve makeup that will reveal your most radiant, gorgeous self.
Where are you from and how did you first start doing makeup?
I'm from Auckland, and grew up living between New Zealand and South East Asia. I was inspired by my grandmother who was a makeup artist and after a brief stint at art school I decided to give it a go.
Are you exclusively a makeup artist for weddings? What other directions does your job take you in?
My job varies between working for TVNZ, along with creating individual makeup looks for magazine editorials, TV commercials, music videos and private clients. And of course lots of weddings!
What's an average work day like for you?
Being a freelancer means each week brings different schedules and surprises. It can range from 4am starts to afternoon shoots. That said, having no routine can have its advantages as well as disadvantages. I'm able to be flexible in most areas of my life.
What do you love most about wedding makeup?
After years of doing weddings I find brides really just want to be enhanced. Meeting with brides before the big day and talking about their vision is always different and exciting.
How do you keep your work interesting and fulfilling?
Research and inspiration comes from many areas, whether it's art, film or magazines. Keeping up with what's going on around the world keeps me interested and trying new techniques or looks. I also like to go through my makeup kit to be reminded of colours and textures.
Name and explain three essential items every bride should have on hand during their wedding day and night:
Brides should have their own lipstick hand picked for the day. Powder to keep the makeup polished and shine free, and tissues for the hopefully happy tears.
How do you define beauty?
Love and kindness is beauty. Without these beauty is lost.
Is there anything different or special about your own beauty routine?
My beauty routine consists of mixing things up depending on how my skin feels. Without fail I always use an oil from top to toe. At the moment, my favourite face oil is by Sunday Riley and for body you can't go past local brand Sans.
How does a bride best communicate her ideas to a makeup artist during the consultation?
I always tell brides to bring references for me to look at, whether it's clippings from magazines or images from their Pinterest board. A clear description is also vital: my idea of a smoky eye may be completely different from theirs. A trial makeup run is so important - brides should book this catch up only when they have a solid idea of the look and feel of the wedding and what the dress will look like. Being on the same page makes the day run smoother.
Do you have a favourite wedding moment or work experience?
Favourite wedding moments are always when working on family or friends. Being with them on their day is so special, it's a private peak into what is essentially the most exciting day of their lives!
How much time should the bride and bridal party allow for makeup and hair on the day?
Keeping an hour for the bride and 45 minutes for bridesmaids is ideal. I also recommend the bride go last. That way her makeup looks as fresh and relaxed as possible.
Do you have any words of wisdom for those aspiring to work with makeup?
After my makeup course I assisted a makeup artist for a year which was priceless. It was a huge learning experience and taught me that being enthusiastic and willing to do all sorts of jobs in a positive light is essential.
www.aimiefiebig.com
Photo credits: Aimie Fiebig,
Anna Kidman Photography
