I am Cathryn Kerwin-Rawlinson Bridal Makeup Artist and I have been a professional bridal MUA for over 16 years and in that time I have operated my business with honesty and integrity at the forefront of all that I do.
Honesty and integrity are two pillars I hold dear in my work as a bridal makeup artist. They guide my interactions with clients and the way I present my craft. In an industry often surrounded by filtered and edited images, it can be easy to lose sight of what's real and authentic, but I believe that honesty is not only key to client satisfaction but to building lasting trust and relationships.
Honesty and Integrity in Business Practices
This year, I've encountered a few situations that have really reinforced my commitment to honesty and integrity, not just in makeup but across all aspects of the bridal industry. I've heard stories from brides about being let down by suppliers, sometimes at the last minute, and it's heart-breaking. One incident, in particular, stands out: a bride I worked with was devastated when her hairdresser cancelled on the morning of her wedding. It completely wrecked the beginning of what should have been the most special day of her life. She was left in tears, scrambling to find a replacement, and it cast a shadow over her entire morning.
These moments make it clear to me that some suppliers don't always operate with the level of professionalism and integrity I believe is absolutely essential in this industry. When brides place their trust in us—whether as makeup artists, hairdressers, florists, or any other kind of supplier—they're relying on us to help make their wedding day perfect. To let someone down, especially without warning or a backup plan, is unacceptable.
For me, running my business on honesty and integrity means that I would never knowingly let down a bride, especially on such a significant day. If anything were to happen that prevented me from doing a bride's makeup—whether due to an emergency or unforeseen circumstance—I would make sure to communicate immediately and arrange the best possible alternative. My priority is always ensuring that the brides I work with feel supported, taken care of, and confident that they're in good hands.
Running my business with integrity also means being transparent with clients from the start. I will never overpromise or guarantee something I can't deliver. If I feel that a certain look, product, or timeline isn't realistic, I'll be upfront about it. Brides deserve to know what to expect and have the confidence that their suppliers are working with their best interests at heart. It's not just about delivering beautiful makeup; it's about delivering peace of mind.
I know how much time, money, and emotional investment go into planning a wedding. That's why, in my business, I've made a promise to myself—and to my clients—that I will always do what I believe is right. Whether it's turning down work if I can't give it my full attention or making sure that my brides are never left in the lurch, I operate with integrity at every turn. In an industry where not everyone holds these values, I believe this is what sets me apart.
Why Honesty Matters in the creative process of Bridal Makeup
When working with brides, transparency is crucial. Whether it's managing expectations or discussing achievable results, being upfront about what makeup can and can't do is essential. Brides often come with images of flawless makeup they've seen online, but many of these looks are highly filtered or tailored for different skin types and features.
As a makeup artist, my responsibility is to communicate openly about what can realistically be achieved. This honesty might include gently explaining why certain looks won't work for a client's particular face shape, skin tone, or eye structure, and offering alternative suggestions that highlight their natural beauty. For example, older clients might bring photos of younger women as inspiration, or someone with hooded eyes may present images of makeup applied to a completely different eye shape.
By keeping it real, I ensure that each client feels like the most beautiful version of themselves rather than chasing unrealistic standards. Integrity means providing my clients with a look they will love—one that feels authentic and sustainable, not something that washes off and leaves disappointment behind.
The Impact of Integrity in Long-Term Relationships
For me, integrity goes beyond just delivering on the wedding day. It's about building a reputation for authenticity that lasts through referrals and return clients. Over the years, I've found that when brides and other clients trust me to tell them the truth about their makeup expectations, they return for other events, share my work, and recommend me to their friends and family.
Having integrity also means using the best products that I trust and have tested, ensuring longevity in makeup looks for the whole day. It means being on time, delivering more than what's promised, and holding myself to the highest standards of professionalism.
Integrity in the Bridal Industry
In the wedding industry, especially in bridal makeup, there's a pressure to conform to trends or deliver looks that will get attention on Instagram. While this can be fun, I focus on giving brides timeless beauty. As a makeup artist, it's my job to not only follow trends but also to ensure that they align with what's best for each bride.
Staying true to what works rather than what's "in" for the moment is another aspect of integrity that's sometimes overlooked. I've seen too many bridal trends that don't stand the test of time or don't translate well in real life. Sticking to techniques that enhance a bride's natural beauty, rather than chasing trends for the sake of clicks and likes, allows me to feel confident that my brides will look back at their wedding photos and still love their makeup.
Conclusion
Honesty and integrity aren't just words; they are the foundation of my business. They've helped me build a reputation that I'm proud of, and they keep me focused on what really matters—creating beauty that's authentic and timeless for every bride. In an era where filters and Photoshop dominate social media, I want my clients to feel empowered and beautiful without relying on digital enhancements. Through open communication, trust, and a commitment to being honest, I help brides feel radiant on their big day and beyond.
Also doing what is right and operating the business in a clear and honest way and when I walk away from this industry in years to come I will retire knowing I ran this business well and I am proud of all I have done and how I have handled myself.
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