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Ibiza weddings

The art of looking natural

Creating elegant wedding looks is something of an art form, and here in Ibiza there's no greater artist than award-winning hair and make-up stylist Louise Maxwell.

Creating elegant wedding looks is something of an art form, and here in Ibiza there's no greater artist than award-winning hair and make-up stylist Louise Maxwell.

A favourite with models, A-listers and international publications, Louise translates her editorial experience into effortlessly beautiful bridal looks. “It’s about making brides feel relaxed, and look naturally radiant,” says Louise. “I love helping them to create their individual style – whether that’s Hollywood glamour or a sun-kissed golden glow. And whatever look they choose, I work with their bone structure to give subtle contour to the face, focusing on flawless skin and eyes that shine.” Producing these naturally beautiful looks requires skill. “Even ‘undone’ styles need to be carefully crafted,” says Louise. “It takes time to achieve these subtle effects, while giving them the necessary refinement for a wedding.” In line with her less-is-more philosophy, she uses expert techniques and high-end products to create polished results that don’t require large amounts of make-up. Each style is also specially adapted for Ibiza’s climate, with products designed to perform in the heat and humidity.

Having spent many years working on photo shoots, where the model has her look touched up between every photo, Louise knows what is needed to keep these styles looking fresh throughout the day. She’s renowned within the industry for her meticulous attention to detail – and now brides can enjoy this same professional treatment, with the option to choose an extended service that includes touch-ups after the ceremony, and also throughout the portraits, should you seek the full red-carpet experience. “Rather than piling on lots of products to try to keep a style in place all day, which can look stiff and unnatural, it’s far better to have your stylist on hand to add product or layers when you need them for photos,” explains Louise. “That way you stay fresh, and can relax knowing that someone is on hand to keep you looking your best.” She will take care of every element, tidying skin, hair and make-up to keep brides looking flawless for the camera, and she can also ensure the groom is perfectly kempt too. Investing in quality styling in this way is an investment in your future – after all, you’ll be looking back at those photos for many years to come.

Louise believes the secret to creating chic wedding styles lies in the preparation. Brides need to spend time researching the looks they like, ensuring their chosen hair and make-up style works with their dress, and then having a trial with their stylist to ensure their look is suitable for their skin type and tone, plus their haircut and colour. As part of this preparation, Louise is passionate about the importance of a good haircut. A two-time winner of the British Hairdressing Awards, she understands that the right cut can make all the difference when it comes to achieving the look you desire on the big day. “I can show people how to bring out their natural curl, or to create waves in the fringe without having to use tools,” she says. “To see how someone’s hair behaves in a trial is so important and the right cut really helps. Sometimes a look you’ve seen on someone else just isn’t going to work on your hair type or face shape, and it’s important to know this before the wedding day.”

Louise is happy to work to any given brief, although many of her clients rely on her honest professional guidance when deciding on their wedding look. Working with leading fashion brands and publications, she can provide expert advice on current trends, which in 2018 includes loose plaits, bohemian waves and long, glamorous locks rather than ‘big’ hair. Bright lipstick is also strong for this year, but excessive highlighting is (finally) out. The extended wedding package with Louise Maxwell includes a trial, hair and make-up for the bride plus four others (bridesmaids or mothers), hair extensions if needed, and a manicure and pedicure, plus the essential after-ceremony touch-ups. For additional members of the bridal party, Louise has an experienced team of assistants, who ensure the entire process runs smoothly – from start to high-quality finish.