Makeup by Kim Porter’s Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Kim Porter your real name?
Where did you get your training? Did you go to school?
How do you always know what colors will look good together?
Have you considered working at a makeup counter like MAC or Sephora?
Do you wear makeup everyday. If so, what are your go-to products?
You have great looking skin! What does your skincare routine consist of?
What foundation do you recommend that works best?
What brands of makeup do you use?
Do you airbrush makeup?
Do you do hair?
As an artist, if you could give only one makeup tip, what would it be?
I always try to copy the smoky eye look I see in magazines, but can’t seem to get it right. What am I doing wrong?
Do you have a lot of experience with people who don’t wear a lot of makeup?
My wedding is coming up, and although I’d like to look nice in my pictures, I don’t typically wear a lot of make-up. I’m a little afraid that by hiring a make-up artist, I won’t end up recognizing myself when they’re done with me any advice?
I usually apply my own makeup. Why should I hire a professional?
What are your rates?
Why are your prices different for certain occasions?
Are deposits required?
How long does a makeup application usually take?
How long will my makeup last?
Should I get my hair or my makeup done first?
How far in advance should I book my makeup artist?
Is a trial run really necessary?
What should I do to prepare for my wedding day?
What kind of makeup shall I, as the bride have on my wedding day?
What if I do not know the look I am trying to achieve for my special day?
Do you do makeup for other special events & occasions?
Where are you located?
Do you travel to my location on the wedding day?

Is Kim Porter your real name?

Yes, it is. People never believe me most of the time.

Where did you get your training? Did you go to school?

Everything I know is self-taught. Applying makeup is like learning a musical instrument – practice makes perfect. Videos from seasoned makeup artists like Sam Fine and Danessa Myricks. I’ve read Face Forward and Making Faces by Kevyn Aucoin, The Beauty of Color by Iman, and more. The internet; youtube, beauty forums, and blogs have been a great help. Also, watching and assisting other seasoned makeup artists work is great too. I have taken different Master’s Classes offered at The Makeup Show, The Powder Group, Make Up For Ever, and Bridal Hair & Makeup classes with MG Hair & Makeup. There are many things that I would love to learn, and perfect my craft.

How do you always know what colors will look good together?

Two words, color theory. In all honesty, I don’t always know what colors will go good together. Invest in a color wheel it really helps.

Have you considered working at a makeup counter like MAC or Sephora?

Working at a makeup counter provides you with the advantage of working with a myriad of personalities, skin types, skin tones etc. It’s the perfect place to begin your makeup artistry career. Honestly, I would rather work in a relaxed, quiet, non-crowded environment providing my client(s) my undivided attention, which they deserve.

Do you wear makeup everyday. If so, what are your go-to products?

I do not wear makeup everyday. I do not believe makeup should be worn on a daily basis; it’s my personal preference, and I’m comfortable in my own skin. At most, I wear mascara and lipgloss or lipstick. I use a tinted moisturizer daily. Currently, I’m loving AJ Crimson’s BB Cream as well as Stila’s Natural Finish Oil-Free Makeup.

You have great looking skin! What does your skincare routine consist of?

Thank you! I invested in a Clarisonic MIA. I love it! With it I use Cerave Foaming Cleanser. I give myself a facial at least twice a week using Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask or Belle Butters Neutralizing Butter for Oily Skin. You can view my current routine here. I’ve also added Reviva Labs products to my skincare arsenal, which you can read about here.

What foundation do you recommend that works best?

I can only state what works best for my skin. I normally use MAC Face & Body, Make Up For Ever HD , Face Atelier or Graftobian foundations, and after using them on clients, they end up loving those as well. Right now, I’m LOVING the Stila Natural Finish Oil-Free foundation. I would add it to my kit, but, they’re phasing it out.

What brands of makeup do you use?

I work mainly with many different professional cosmetic brands such as Face Atelier, Stila, Ben Nye, MAC, Make Up For Ever, Graftobian, Smashbox, Eve Pearl, NARS, Temptu Pro etc. If you have a specific brand that you love using, I have no problem picking it up for you (additional cost) or you can bring it to your session.

Do you do airbrush makeup?

I’ve invested in a Temptu Pro SB-One Airbrush system. I will offer airbrushing services in the near future. Currently, I use traditional foundation, powder, eye shadow, blush, and lip color. The makeup I use has great staying power and I ensure its longevity by using products that seal the makeup application, such as the Model in a Bottle Makup Setting Spray.

Do you do hair?

No, I do not do hair, but can recommend a hair stylist upon request.

As an artist, if you could give only one makeup tip, what would it be?

Less is more, seriously. Of course, it’s fun to glam it up every once in awhile for special occasions, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Have fun with your look! But for everyday application, the fewer products you use, the better. Use make-up to enhance that beautiful face of yours, not to cover it up!

I always try to copy the smoky eye look I see in magazines, but can’t seem to get it right. What am I doing wrong?

Since I’m not there to actually watch your application or to see the colors you’re choosing from, my best guess is that you need to focus on product application and blending. When it comes to the smoky eye (and most other looks), blending is key. When you’re using dark colors, make sure to use a light hand, and build the color, and not add too much at once. Start on your lid and then add to the crease. Use a rounded brush blending brush to blend upwards from the crease in a circular motion, bring the color up and outward slightly for a well blended, smoky look.

Do you have a lot of experience with people who don’t wear a lot of makeup?

Yes! Many of my clients do not wear makeup on a regular basis or at all. I am sure to be very thorough with all the products I use and explain what they are and why I am using them.

My wedding is coming up, and although I’d like to look nice in my pictures, I don’t typically wear a lot of make-up. I’m a little afraid that by hiring a make-up artist, I won’t end up recognizing myself when they’re done with me any advice?

Many women have this same concern. I would too. Any professional artist should always speak with a bride or do a consultation prior to her big day to get a very clear idea of what she wants to look like on her day. As an artist, it’s my job to make sure your makeup is going to look good behind the camera – and if front of the mirror. If you’re really concerned, sometimes it helps to show your makeup artist some example of looks that you like, and those that you don’t. This way, everyone’s on the same page!

I usually apply my own makeup. Why should I hire a professional?

Different settings and situations require different makeup and formulations. A professional will know what will be best suited for the occasion.

What are your rates?

A list of my services and their rates can be found HERE. Rates are subject to change, so always email me for the most up-to-date information

Why are your prices different for certain occasions?

I charge the most for weddings because it’s the most important occasion of all to most women. I have to take my time to make the bride look perfectly flawless! It’s a once in a lifetime experience, so I really have to make your experience special! I will not rush when working on the bride.

Are deposits required?

Yes, deposits are required especially for bridal parties, large groups, and out of town events. The non-refundable deposit is based on the service you’re getting and can range from 20-50% of the cost of the service.

How long will my makeup last?

Since I apply a makeup setting powder after your makeup is applied it should last all day and night long. You will probably need to re-apply your lips, and powder if you’re oily. I suggest investing in blotter sheets so that you’re not re-applying product over old product, which will reduce the chance of your makeup looking cakey.

Should I get my hair or my makeup done first?

I usually say to get your hair done first. This way your makeup can be applied right before you put on your dress, ensuring that it looks fresh.

How far in advance should I book my makeup artist?

I recommend booking as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Choosing your makeup artist should be considered at least 12- 15 months prior to the event, as many sought after artists will be booked well in advance. When choosing your makeup artist it is important to enquire about their experience and view examples of their work. Choose someone who you feel confident can create your ideal look and with whom you can build a rapport.

Is a trial run really necessary?

I do recommend a trial run. It’s a great way to communicate your wants and needs with your makeup artist in a relaxed setting. This way on your wedding day the makeup goes very smoothly and quickly, giving yourself more time and less worry.

What should I do to prepare for my wedding day?

Be sure not to do anything dramatic the week before your wedding. Get all your waxing, facials and tanning at least a week before the day of. Eye cream and moisturizing is a must. Drink lots of water and take your vitamins!

Read: How to prepare for your bridal makeup trial

What kind of makeup shall I, as the bride have on my wedding day?

I understand your need and desire to have the spotlight on your special day, and will attend to your particular details after private consultations with you. As general rules of thumb, if your ceremony is in the morning, you will most likely need to go with thinner makeup, while you can use more stylish makeup for the evening banquet. Also, you will need to coordinate your style with the overall theme and look of your wedding celebration.

Having said all of that, I encourage you to be yourself and choose the style which best enhances your natural beauty and character.

What if I do not know the look I am trying to achieve for my special day?

It is best to do your research (internet, magazines etc) and find looks you like, which oyu should bring with you. I will be able to get an idea of what you want, and go from there. During your trial, I can try 2-3 of the looks you like on you, so that you will be able to decide what you like best for your face. Please keep in mind that after 1 hour overage charges apply. It’s best to do a little homework before you come in and search for inspiration photos. This will better help us create your perfect wedding day look.

Do you do makeup for other special events & occasions?

Yes, I am available to makeup for debutantes, school formals, anniversaries, engagement parties- any occasion you can think of. I also provide one on one makeup consultation, where you can learn basic techniques to apply your own makeup like a professional.