Learn How to Create a Flawless Complexion

One of my most requested areas of focus for makeup lessons is how to create a flawless complexion. I completely understand why this is so important when wearing makeup but also why it can be so confusing and overwhelming. Join me for a private makeup lesson customized specifically for just for you.

JKo Beauty Flawless Complexion Makeup Lesson

Achieving a flawless-looking complexion involves a combination of skincare, product selection, and makeup application techniques. A flawless base not only boosts confidence but also enhances your natural beauty. In your makeup lesson, I'll guide you through the process of selecting the right foundation that complements your skin type and tone and help you achieve your desired overall look. Tips and techniques of where and how to conceal or brighten, which tools to use and how to set your products for a longer wear are all key to a flawless complexion. Learn quick and easy ways to sculpt and highlight your skin and features to help you feel your best. You’ll learn ways to go from a daytime work or errands look to a special night out. How to help your makeup look better in photos is a common request we cover as well.

Connect with me HERE to learn more about booking a lesson with me, pricing and availability!

7 Reasons to Book a Makeup Lesson with Award-winning Makeup Artist + Educator Jennifer Kochenour of JKo Beauty

Makeup lessons have become a very popular and often searched for service. My mission has always been to celebrate, empower, inspire and educate others through makeup artistry. This is not about why you should book one but rather what to expect when working with me!

1) I’ve worked within the beauty industry for over 27 years and have extensive experience working with people of all ages and skin tones. Very importantly for my make lessons, I also have a background in makeup education.  Yes, that’s right - professional experience teaching others but also formal education of HOW to teach others.

2) As a licensed cosmetologist, I’m able to continue my personal professional education on a deeper level to share the most with my clients.

3) One of the top reasons people choose to book a makeup lesson is to learn new techniques, current style trends or update their look. I have a modern approach to beauty while maintaining a sense of timelessness. I teach my clients how to incorporate current trends while staying true to their own personal style.

4) Every JKo Beauty makeup lesson is completely personalized to best suit your own skill level. I have taught everyone from young girls learning the basics to fellow makeup artists seeking to expand their application skills as well as knowledge and understanding of makeup artistry. 

5) You will learn through demonstration by me as well as have the opportunity to apply each step yourself. In-person and live training allows for confidence and a significantly better understanding of how to apply your makeup when you’re on your own.

6) Makeup shopping tends to be overwhelming and confusing for a variety of reasons. I will teach you how to shop on your own with confidence as well as provide you with product recommendations.

7) If your goal is to learn how to do your makeup for special events or even your own wedding day, you want to learn from someone who fully understands the differences of everyday makeup and makeup for photography and more. I’ve worked with more than 1000 brides throughout my career and will help you feel prepared and ready for your next big event or wedding day.

I offer private 1:1 makeup lessons as well as for groups. Please use the makeup lesson inquiry form to connect with me about pricing, availability and more!

Destination Wedding Makeup Lessons with JKo Beauty

Did you know one of my most commonly booked makeup lessons is with destination wedding brides? As a professional makeup artist specializing in both bridal makeup artistry and customized makeup lessons, this is naturally a favorite of mine!

Top 5 reasons brides prefer to learn how to do their own makeup instead of hiring a local makeup artist.

1. They have already had their makeup done by a local artist where they’ll be getting married - and it didn’t go well. Unfortunately, this is often the situation. Trends and fashion or beauty styles can vary in different areas around the country or the world.

2. Many couples do all of their wedding planning with limited to possibly even no prior in-person visits to their destination. Entrusting their wedding day look to someone they’ve never met or worked with can create uneasiness for many brides.

3. Knowing there will be events before and after their wedding day, brides want to feel confident doing their makeup for all of the wedding-related events and possibly even the honeymoon afterward.

4. Some brides LOVE makeup and enjoy doing their own. Learning how to do their makeup for their Big Day is something exciting, fun, and meaningful to them.

5. Other brides may not wear makeup regularly, or they wear very little makeup. They want to feel and look like themselves on their wedding day. Learning to do their makeup is how they best accomplish this.

Top 3 reasons brides choose JKo Beauty for their destination bridal makeup lesson.

1. I specialize in bridal makeup artistry! As a pro who’s worked with over 1000 brides over many years, I can best prepare my brides-to-be for many other things beyond their makeup application.

2. As a seasoned professional, I can help design a makeup look that best complements their style, natural features, and overall wedding style and aesthetic.

3. I have advanced and ongoing training in makeup for myself and teaching others. I have over 25 years of experience teaching makeup and I continue to take classes to learn how to teach others. Just because you’re personally good at doing something doesn’t necessarily mean you are a good teacher. Learning how to teach others is the key!

You don’t have to be a destination wedding bride to also benefit from having a makeup lesson. Below are some of the others who book me for pre-wedding makeup lessons.

• Grooms who want to do their own styling and grooming.

• Mothers of the bride or groom who prefer to do their own makeup.

• Brides who have short engagements sometimes have trouble finding an available makeup artist that matches their style.

• Brides who either don’t have a bridal party or want to get ready alone or in a quiet space.

I schedule lessons regularly, both in-person and virtually. These days in-person is the more popular option. For a bridal makeup lesson, I believe a 1:1 makeup lesson is best for advanced learning and the most individualized attention, but I also offer small or large group lessons.

If you or someone you know is interested in a makeup lesson customized to you or their style, needs, preferences, and skill level - please, contact me for more information and availability!

JKo Beauty Makeup Lessons for the Holiday Season

I can’t believe it’s already that time of the year! Somehow the holiday season also sneaks up on so many of us, doesn’t it?!

This time of the year is always full with parties and get-togethers with friends, family and colleagues. It’s the perfect time to learn new techniques, makeup styles and refresh your makeup with a makeup lesson!

Client Testimonials

I completely customize each lesson, whether a private lesson, small group or large party. You’ll learn techniques based on your skill level and desired makeup styles. A few more common topics covered are what brushes or tools to use to achieve the desired look, how to highlight and contour to best compliment your facial shape and what colors to use and how to use them to make your eyes “pop.”

JKo Beauty Makeup Lesson Popular Topics + Techniques

 As a licensed cosmetologist with over 26 years in the beauty industry, I’m also able to help guide you with skincare recommendations, how to best prepare your skin for makeup and help make it last longer as well as which tools are most effective to care for your skin at home. I have extensive training and experience with brow shaping and absolutely love helping others learn how to best compliment their brows! Brows truly do frame your eyes and can have such an impact on your overall look. Learning techniques for best complimenting them along with which products to use can be a total game-changer.  

Popular JKo Beauty Makeup Lessons

Please contact me to schedule your own lesson, one with a friend or a group of friends! These lessons also make for the perfect gift this holiday season or for any special occasion!  

JKo Beauty Makeup Lessons

DIY Wedding Day Makeup Lesson

Are you having a destination wedding and considering doing your own makeup? Maybe you are getting married on a peak date in wedding season and are having a difficult time finding a makeup artist with availability. Have you considered doing your own makeup because you want to have a quiet time to yourself on the morning of your big day? Maybe you are similar to Kate Middleton when she married Prince William, she simply wanted to do her own makeup. There are so many reasons why someone may want to do their own makeup for their wedding day! Over the years, I have worked with both brides and grooms to help teach and prepare them for their big day skincare routine and makeup look. 

For many who choose to do their own makeup, they are already comfortable with the basics and maybe even more advanced makeup techniques. But creating and executing the look for your wedding day requires many extra steps or details that you do not typically need. One example is to be photo ready and have your makeup last for many hours – through tears, sweat, dancing, eating and drinking and so much more. I will teach you the pointers for looking beautiful in-person and in your photos. Photo ready tips and tricks are a must of course!

A few other examples that I teach my brides-to-be are how to properly prepare their skin prior as well as on the big day. I go through the steps to achieving a flawless complexion and making it last. I also help them determine the style the best suits their style and unique features and coloring. Eye makeup is always a key focus and learning how to do lashes is also a common request. Who doesn’t love lashes?! 

Throughout your lesson I will also make recommendations for products and tools to best achieve your preferred style or look. Taking notes and a face chart are also part of your lesson for future reference as you practice your look before the big day. An added bonus is that once you learn these techniques, you will feel so much more confident doing your own makeup for future events. 

JKo Beauty makeup lessons are available in-person as well as virtually. Lessons are always customized for each person. Please reach out to me to learn more and to schedule your personalized makeup lesson! 

The JKo Beauty Lip Collection

I am so very excited to announce the official launch of the

JKo Beauty Lip Collection! 

I began this special project over 4 years ago with the mission to create a luxurious lip collection specifically for brides. Creating a collection that is luxurious, made with integrity and of high-quality, professional-grade ingredients and of course in chic packaging, is the top priority for me. The entire collection is also hypo-allergenic, non-comedogenic, fragrance free and not tested on animals. After ongoing research and testing (then more testing) and so much more, my collection is complete and now available! This curated collection consists of lipsticks and glosses in a variety of textures and finishes, lip lacquers and two formulas of lip liners. The shade range is classic, romantic and timeless – perfect for a wedding day look as well as for after the Big Day. 

JKo Beauty Lip Collection

15 LIPSTICKS

•  Creamy, long lasting and non-drying

• Matte, cream, or high gloss textures

• Packed with antioxidant Vitamin E

• Contains natural vanillin extract 

• Paraben-free

 7 LIPGLOSSES

• Hydrating

• Available in super pigmented or sheer textures

• Long-wearing

• Paraben-free 

5 LIP LACQUERS

• High impact, staining pigments 

• Full coverage

• High Shine

• Fade Proof

• Long-wearing

• Non-drying

• Paraben-free

LIP PLUMPING GLOSS

• Vitamin-rich, silky texture with impeccable high-shine finish

• Universally flattering sheer nude pink 

• Aloe Vera

• Avocado oil 

• Jojoba oil

• Vitamin E

• Vitamin C

• Unique formula has a blend of peptides that hugs the lips making them appear instantly fuller, firmer and smoother 

• Paraben-free

KHOL LIP PENCILS

• Soft, creamy kohl formula 

• Long-wearing 

• Stops lipstick or gloss from feathering 

• Perfect formula for sensitive lips 

 MECHANICAL LIP PENCILS

• Creamy texture

• Smudge-proof, transfer-resistant and waterproof

• Pigment rich

JKo Beauty Lip Collection

Jennifer’s Bridal Beauty Tips

The one thing I always tell anyone getting their makeup done that they will need for touchups is their lip look. I often use the phrase “lip look” because almost always the ideal look is more than one product, it is often times three or more items to create the perfect look that we desire. This is one of the reasons that the collection consists of a variety of formulas, finishes, textures in all three categories. 

 A beauty tip that I share with every bride is to consider a different shade or texture for the reception. My recommendation is something a bit more fun and festive, after all it is the celebration party! A few good examples are a brighter or bolder lip, or a shiny or even sparkly finish.  

Another bridal beauty tip I share is to choose something that is new so that is special. This way every time you wear it you will have that warm, fuzzy feeling thinking back to your wedding day. If it’s your regular favorite – purchase a new one for your Big Day so that it feels special. A fresh, new product also looks great in your getting ready photos and video. 

Style Tips for Your Wedding After You’ve Postponed

Sadly so many couples who had planned to get married in 2020 have postponed their wedding day. Many of these couples have postponed to a date that is in a different season than originally planned. Whether your date has changed to a new season or if you are in the wedding planning stage, these style tips will help guide you. As a wedding industry professional, I always recommend working with professionals who specialize in weddings. For trusted, expert advice, I partnered with the very talented Andi Schilawski, owner and lead planner and designer of Forever Love Events, based in Philadelphia, PA. Andi’s couples’ weddings have been featured on The Perfect Palette, 100 Layer Cake, Martha Stewart Weddings, Philly In Love and more. 

Andi Schilawski

Owner | Lead Planner & Designer Forever Love Events

Andi shares, “So many changes have happened during the last few months. No one would have ever anticipated what 2020 had in store for us. As planners, we always prepare for bad weather and even terrorism. We have plans A, B, C and even D sometimes, but a pandemic is usually not within those plans. My heart breaks for those who have lost loved ones due to COVID-19, for those on the front lines risking their lives every single day to keep us safe and healthy but as a wedding planner, my heart also breaks for all of the couples that have had to reschedule their big day.” Andi adds,  “rescheduling is not as easy as just figuring out a new date that works for you and your vendors (even though that in itself sometimes is not easy at all!), you also need to take into consideration possible style adjustments.” 

Flowers & Decor: Are you rescheduling to a completely different season? If so, flowers and overall decor would be the most important thing to revisit as you probably had agreed with your florist on local/seasonal blooms that might not be available on your new date. Also, the decor in general, if you were having a winter wonderland wedding and now you have a spring event, you may want to update a few things on your design so everything is cohesive with the time of the year for the new date. 

Timeline: The timeline for the day might also need to be updated. If you were having a summer wedding and were planning on doing a first look, most likely the start time of your event would have been around 6:00pm or later so you had plenty of light to do pictures outdoor before heading to the venue. But if your date is now in late fall or winter, you would want to consider starting your event earlier so you get those beautiful outdoor shots before sunset.

Kristen + Pete - Real Wedding

Love Me Do Photography

Forever Love Events

Food, Signature Cocktails or other Reception Enhancements: Think of the season! You wouldn't want to offer that Mojito you had planned as a signature drink for your summer wedding if you are now getting married in the winter or do that ice cream bar at the end of the night, instead, you might want to replace those with a warmer/wintery drink or a hot chocolate station at the end of the night.

Kristen + Pete - Real Wedding

Love Me Do Photography

Forever Love Events

Bridal Party Attire: Just as important as the flowers, this should match the occasion as well as the season and weather, especially for the bridesmaids. If their dresses have already been ordered, you can easily update the look with accessories such as wraps for cooler months. 

Possibly Guests' Dress Code: If you moved your wedding from an evening event to a morning/early afternoon wedding, you might not want to ask your guests to wear formal or black-tie attire.

 “As you can see, there are many things to consider when you reschedule your wedding to a different season, your wedding planner should be able to provide a plan on how to move forward and see what (if any) of these points would affect you or anything else I might have not mentioned as each wedding is different.”

As a makeup artist, there are a few options I also recommend considering for your wedding day beauty style.

Makeup: If you will now be getting married in a fall or winter month rather than spring or summer, try deeper or richer shades. You can even make adjustments with texture. Since heat and humidity will be less of a factor, creamy or hydrating textures are much more comfortable. 

Hair: Often times brides consider wearing their hair up or back in some way due to heat and humidity in the warmer months. However, if you will now be getting married in the fall or winter you can consider wearing your hair down or only partially back. The humidity also affects the texture of our hair and how it holds, considering this may also help you decide on your day-of style. 

Skincare: Many of us tend to have drier skin in the fall and winter and are a bit more oily in the summer months. I always recommend working with an esthetician to best prepare for your skin for any season prior to your big day.  

Spray Tan: During the warmer months we tend to get a little extra natural color from the sun. A spray tan may be something you consider for an extra touch of warmth to your complexion for a fall or winter wedding. 

These are all simple adjustments you may consider. It is a great idea to reach out to your vendors and get their professional guidance. If you haven’t already chosen a wedding planner or coordinator, this is the perfect time to do so! A planner will assist you with all of these details and most importantly with the execution and so much more. Andi is not only very talented, she is incredibly kind and patient. Exactly what you want on your big day! 

 Congratulations to you on your upcoming wedding! What a celebration your wedding day will be! 

Kristen + Pete - Real Wedding

Love Me Do Photography

Forever Love Events

JKo Beauty

5 Relaxing Beauty Treatments

During this stressful and difficult time with so much uncertainty, I want to share something simple and light-hearted. I hope you find these tips useful and relaxing! Since I am seeing an abundance of funny posts and memes related to how we are all looking during this time with no visits to our beauty professionals, let’s start with 5 beauty treatments that help us feel good.

1. Deep Conditioning Hair Mask

   So often we are in a hurry to shower and get ready. Well you have no excuse now not to pamper and recharge your hair with a mask. One of my tips is to alternate deep conditioning with strengthening. Use each one on alternating weeks. Another tip is to be sure you thoroughly rinse so you don’t weigh down your hair.

2. Relaxing Bath

   Again, this is something we do not typically take the time to enjoy due to our busy schedules. A few tips to add to your relaxation are soft music and lighting, add an essential oil and something for your head. You can use a rolled towel if you do not have a bath pillow.

3. Facial Mask

   You can use a sheet mask or a more traditional mask applied like a cream. I like to first use a gentle yet thorough face wash and then follow with an undereye treatment before applying the facial mask. Finish with your favorite lip conditioner or lip mask. Once your time is up to remove the mask, use your fingers to gently massage the remaining treatments into your skin.

4. Hand Treatment

   So I don’t know about all of you, but with all of the handwashing and sanitizing I have done lately, my hands began to look and feel like they were going to crumble and fall off. I now have a tube of hand cream at every sink to apply after washing my hands each time. In addition, try a gentle and soft scrub to use once or twice a week. Follow the exfoliator with a softening cuticle oil. Be sure to massage the oil into your cuticles as well as the entire nail. Once you have done that, apply your hand cream focusing on the top of your hands not your palms. Don’t forget to also massage it into your fingers.

5. Foot Treatment

   You can follow the steps above for the hand treatment, adding a pumice stone or foot file to use as the first step. Once you have completed the entire treatment, put on a pair of thick cozy socks.

Ideally, you can try all of these treatments together. While relaxing in your bath, you can allow both your hair and facial treatments to go to work. I like to shower after taking a bath to wash as well as rinse my hair treatment. Prior to showering, use your foot file or pumice and exfoliators. Finish with your foot and hand treatments.

Our health and safety are always the top priority. Please do not forget to take a little time to relax and treat yourself for good mental health!

Why You Should Hire a Videographer for Your Wedding Day

As a bridal makeup artist, I have the pleasure of working with so many talented professionals also in the wedding industry. I met John Morgera, of PGP Wedding Films, in June 2019. John is fun, kind and personable – 3 qualities you definitely want in a professional who will be present on your Big Day. Couples have so many different vendors to choose as well as day-of options and ideas to consider while wedding planning. Having a videographer to capture special moments, live, is such a gift to cherish as time passes. I asked John a few questions and asked him to share insight to help couples make the best choice for their wedding day video. Here he shares some of his professional advice and insight. Please also visit his website to learn more about PGP Wedding Films. John also has a very helpful YouTube channel, Say Yes to the Best, featuring a variety of vendors who share their tips and insight into wedding planning.  A must-see for couples planning!

John and I had the pleasure of working together on Stephanie and Martin’s wedding day. Their day was full of so much love, joy, laughter and more. To see a glimpse into what John is sharing, below is a clip from their beautiful wedding day.

“I knew I was in for a good one when Stephanie said: "you have to show me how to cry". There were so many moments throughout the day where knowing how to cry was important - during their first look, during their beautiful ceremony, and during wonderful speeches by both of their fathers.”

What should couples look for when choosing a videographer for their wedding day?

“I think the number one thing you should look for in choosing your videographer is what is important to the videographer. Does it mesh with what is important to you about your day? Do you see three minutes of detail shots such as rings, invitations and cufflinks before you ever see a person? Who do you see other than the couple, and how much? How much do you see from the ceremony and reception versus the portrait session "beauty" shots? There's no right or wrong answer to these questions. If you love all the little details you planned for your wedding, you may love all those details shots, or may be disappointed if you don't have them all. At the same time, are you and your spouse, or your family & friends, what you want to see? When watching a videographer's work, know what's important to you, so you know if the films you see will fit what you want!”

If couples have a photographer what is the advantage of also having a videographer?

“I would LOVE, LOVE, LOVE if people played my films on a loop on their TVs all the time. Sadly, reality (and our electric bills) don't make that happen, so having a photo on your desk at work or on the mantle is so important! At the same time, photos capture your day in a completely different way than a film does. A photo may show you and your spouse smiling while a film can show the goofy thing that you did that made you smile. A photo can show you wiping away a tear, but a video can show you (and allow you to hear) the speech or vow that brought you to tears. Again, it's a different medium. For me, I think a photo is a great thing to give you a reminder of the day, but a video is a way to get immersed in your day all over again. I had one couple tell me one of our longer-form documentary films was like being a guest at our own wedding.”

What are some special moments your videographer is going to capture that you didn’t think of or consider how much you’ll cherish in the future?

“Any videographer is going to get your first kiss or your introduction - if not, get your money back! I think it is so important to get the little moments throughout the day. Dancing with grandparents. A little look during the ceremony or after you walked down the aisle. A prayer before starting the ceremony. So much goes on during a wedding day, and those little moments will mean so much because unlike the big moments, you didn't plan them, but they show what's important to you and the people you love in their element. Capturing those little moments that you aren't necessarily focusing on during the day is what makes your film your film - everyone has a first kiss, but not everyone has the moments with your loved ones.”

Don’t forget to visit and follow “Say Yes to the Best” for helpful wedding planning tips from a variety of wedding professionals. 

Say Yes to The Best TV with PGP Wedding Films

I recently had the pleasure of working with John, owner of PGP Wedding Films, and just loved his positive energy. Then I saw the film he created for our couple…it is truly outstanding. We even had a fun moment in the room when our bride asked me to teach her how to cry. (That’s another video and such a good one!) So when John asked me if I would share tips with couples for his Youtube channel, of course I said yes! Please check out this video for wedding day makeup tips and more. While you’re there, check out the other videos from various wedding vendors sharing insightful tips for your Big Day.

Click the link to watch here.

Tips for Your Engagement Photo Shoot...and Why You Should Have One

Many photographers include an engagement shoot in the couple’s wedding package. Whether it’s included or separate, the truth is - your photographer actually really wants to have this session with you. To provide some of the best tips from a professional wedding photographer’s perspective, I partnered with Celia Ragonese, owner of Celia Ragonese Wedding Photography. Not only is Celia incredibly kind and thoughtful, she is meticulous with her attention to details and so talented in her craft.

Jenny & Sean / Longwood Gardens / Photo: Celia Ragonese Photography / Makeup: JKo Beauty

When to schedule your engagement photo shoot…

According to Celia, “engagement photos can be done at any point before the wedding, but it’s great to get them done outside of peak wedding season, which can start in April with a short break during the summer and then starts up again for August through October. My favorite time of year for engagement photos is late October / early November because the foliage combined with golden hour is simply stunning. Having a late fall engagement session means you’re working with temperatures that won’t melt makeup and lower humidity for hair. Guys also like this time of year because they can be comfortable in jackets and jeans. And I love a cute jacket on a bride-to-be with her dress, too! I only recommend not waiting an entire year out, so your memory of how to be in front of the camera stays fresh. It’s so important to get comfortable in front of the camera BEFORE your wedding day.” Yes it’s true, you will most likely need a bit of practice in front of the camera. Celia adds, “When planning an engagement session, it’s best to think about Monday through Thursday because weekends are booked with weddings for wedding vendors. My recommendation for couples is to try to plan a day where work is less busy and leave a few hours early to get hair and makeup done before meeting with your photographer for golden hour photos. We know our clients’ schedules are busy and we appreciate weekday availability immensely! I also have clients who loved doing early morning sessions at popular places like Longwood Gardens during the weekday where we can beat the crowds, which is always helpful!”

Jenny & Sean / Longwood Gardens / Photo: Celia Ragonese Photography / Makeup: JKo Beauty

How to handle bad weather on your scheduled shoot date…

Celia tells her couples to stay positive and flexible – and to be mentally prepared for weather to not cooperate. “I’ll contact clients a few days in advance once their session is on the 10-day forecast if it looks like the weather will be crazy rainy, hot, or cold.” She adds that in 2018, there were many weekend rainstorms that started Thursday or Friday. As a result, she tried to get a lot sessions done earlier in the week. If you have a hair and makeup appointment scheduled for the day, Celia recommends not being shy about coordinating details with everyone via email.

Jenny & Sean / Longwood Gardens / Photo: Celia Ragonese Photography / Makeup: JKo Beauty

Jenny & Sean / Celia Ragonese Photography / Makeup by JKo Beauty

Scheduling professional hair and makeup services for your engagement shoot…

“Professional hair and make-up for an engagement session is such a gift! I love it when a bride-to-be can feel extra special and have hair and makeup taken care of so she is relaxed and confident for her engagement session. This confidence boost is a definite bonus – and really shows in photos.” The other bonus, Celia adds is, “seeing how the hair and makeup translates to photos. Many brides are surprised at how natural bridal makeup can look in photos versus in real life, and while makeup is a personal choice for each person, doing a little extra with hair and makeup can really elevate your photos. Make no mistake: professional hair and makeup make a difference!” Brides often inquire about scheduling their wedding day trial for their engagement photos. While I highly recommend having your hair and makeup done, I do not necessarily recommend using the session as a wedding day look preview. A few factors to consider are time, place and attire. Typically your engagement photos are outside, in a place that is more relaxed or less formal and your outfit choice suits your setting. Couples often coordinate their clothes, including denim, pops of color and a more casual, comfortable overall style. My advice is to choose a hair and makeup look to appropriately compliment your engagement shoot style. In addition, your trial should be relaxed with an opportunity to try different styles or options. You may ultimately make a few adjustments or leave your appointment wearing a style to consider for the wedding day. Your engagement shoot is the perfect opportunity to create a baseline to your Big Day look.

Jenny & Sean / Celia Ragonese Photography / Makeup by JKo Beauty

Just as you want to have a trial run of your hair and makeup, think of your shoot as a trial as well.

Celia feels that engagement sessions provide an opportunity to best to tell the story of the two of you and how you are together because there’s so much going on during the wedding day. She believes “it’s crucial to get to know your wedding photographer’s style with posing and cues, and for your photographer to learn what is most comfortable for you and how best to guide you. The goal is to make sure you’re both more relaxed on the wedding day.”

Jenny & Sean / Longwood Gardens / Photo: Celia Ragonese Photography / Makeup: JKo Beauty

To see more of Celia’s beautiful work, visit her website or follow her on instagram.

Jenny & Sean / Longwood Gardens / Photo: Celia Ragonese Photography / Makeup: JKo Beauty

Jenny & Sean / Celia Ragonese Photography / Makeup by JKo Beauty

JKo Beauty Feature in Philadelphia Wedding Magazine

I am so honored to have had the opportunity to contribute to Philadelphia Wedding Magazine. I am very passionate about providing helpful information and tips to brides and couples. So when one of the writers reached out to me to contribute, I was ecstatic! My feature is a short and sweet guide on how to prepare for your wedding day makeup trial. Thank you, again, to Philadelphia Wedding Magazine for the opportunity!

Check out the article here.

2018 JKo Beauty Highlights

After working as a freelance makeup artist for over 20 years, I started JKo Beauty in 2017. I am so happy to share how JKo Beauty has grown in 2 years. A very special thank you to so many amazing couples and clients who have and continue to support my small business.

Photo: Kimberly Kunda Photography

2018 started with a fabulous wedding on Saturday, January 6. It was the first Saturday of the year and I had the pleasure of working with a beautiful couple, Maya and Fred. Their wedding was featured in The Philadelphia Inquirer and philly.com. An interesting fun fact, not only does this couple resemble the Royal Couple, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, but Meghan’s style was very much like Maya’s bridal style.

Kimberly Kunda Photography

In March, I had the pleasure of working with Jamie and Rick for their awesome engagement photo shoot. They had actually won a shoot with an incredible list of vendors. The shoot was not only awesome but so is their story. Check it out here, where it was featured on Philly In Love.

Heart & Rae Photography

Heart & Rae Photography

I attended the celebration of the inaugural issue of Modern Luxury Weddings Philadelphia Magazine in June. The party was at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) - which is also an incredible place to have a wedding.

After having won the Philly A-List Best Wedding Hair & Makeup, which was announced in late December 2017, JKo Beauty finished as a Top 3 Finalist in the Philly Happening contest for Best On-Site Makeup which was announced in June. For the second year in a row, JKo Beauty also won The Knot Best of Weddings and Wedding Wire Couples’ Choice Awards.

I attended the launch of the Philadelphia Wedding Magazine at the Barnes Museum in June. I am so happy to be featured in this fun issue dedicated to parties.

In July, Philadelphia Style Magazine published their Best of Style issue and JKo Beauty was chosen as an editors’ choice for Best of Style, Best Makeup. We celebrated at the Kimmel Center for the Best of Style Party…such an awesome party!

I traveled to Las Vegas for a week in November to attend the Wedding MBA with over 5500 other wedding professionals from around the world. My goal was to gain insight and learn ways to better serve my brides and couples. And I certainly did!

In December, I attended the launch party for the latest Philadelphia Wedding Magazine at the new Terrain Gardens in Devon. This new venue is gorgeous and I am so excited to work with couples who have chosen it for their Big Day in 2019. In this special issue all about “What the Pros Know,” I had the opportunity of contributing to the magazine. My section is about how brides can be best prepared for their wedding day makeup trial.

Also in December, the second issue of Modern Luxury Weddings Philadelphia was released. And it is stunning! I am so excited to be featured in this issue as well.

2018 ended with a sweet and beautiful bride and her lovely bridal party on New Year’s Eve. These ladies were so much fun and we had a blast during our glam time. What a perfect way to finish a fabulous year!

Cheers to a new year full of all good things! Thank you so much to all of you who were a part of an incredible year for me and JKo Beauty! May your 2019 be full of joy, love, laughs and many blessings!

Styled Shoot

Styled shoots can be so much fun and this one definitely was! Sam from Asya Photography had actually just shot for Emma and Eric’s real wedding one month before. What a cool way to spend your one month anniversary?! The Kimmel Center in Philadelphia is a beautiful venue for weddings as well as capturing beautiful photos. Elegant, luxurious and romantic is how I would describe the style of this wedding shoot.

Vendor List:

Floral: Papertini

Photography: Asya Photography (Sam Shuma)

Bridal Gown: Unveiled

Makeup: JKo Beauty

Hair: Ariel Katrina

Garces Events / The Kimmel Center

Rentals: South Jersey Party Rental & BBJ

Invitations: Papertree

Beauty Breakdown:

The makeup I did for Emma is one that is timeless and classic, it is romantic with a touch of glamour. I kept her skin glowing and fresh and added soft touches of highlighting and contouring to define her bone structure. She has naturally full and beautifully shaped brows. I cleaned up their shape and only enhanced their natural beauty. Emma has such beautiful eyes so I added intensity to them so they would be the focus of her look.

Tips for Choosing Your Wedding Day Makeup Look

Choosing your wedding day makeup look can be exciting but also overwhelming. Where do you look for inspiration and ideas? Should you do something different from what you usually do? Do you need that much makeup? How will you look your best and not like someone else? These are just a few of the questions that I regularly hear from brides. At JKo Beauty, we specialize in bridal makeup. I personally have worked with brides for over 20 years and those on my team have years of experience as well. I have broken down a few very helpful tips to help you choose your wedding day makeup look.

Consider what you normally wear for special occasions or events. Often times brides wear little or light makeup everyday. This may be because of their lifestyle or their profession…maybe it’s just what makes them feel their best. However many of these ladies like to experiment or wear much more makeup for special events or occasions. If you like to wear a bold lip, this is a great time to wear a stylish red or a pretty pink or berry shade. These colors are timeless, glamorous and feminine. If you prefer smokey eyes, go for it! This look can be subtle yet stunning on a bride. If you prefer something more natural on your wedding day, keep in mind that the “no-makeup” makeup look is actually a full face of makeup.

Photo Credit: Carly Fuller Photography

Keep your overall wedding style in mind. For example, an outdoor ceremony in the afternoon or beach wedding is very different from a black-tie, evening ceremony. Your look should match the overall style. I always recommend choosing your venue or style of venue, then your gown and then your hair and makeup look. Everything should work together, in a harmonious and complimentary style.

Consider the season or time of year. Summer weddings, for instance, can be hot or humid and wearing a heavy eye makeup style with a heavier complexion look may not feel as good. Instead try a soft, glowing complexion with a bright or soft lip shade and subtle shimmer for your eyes. A winter wedding can be a perfect time for a bold lip or more dramatic eye look. These are only ideas, you should always stay true to your personal style and preference.

Try to stay away from trendy styles that will look dated in just a few short years. A stylish bride can always incorporate current trends in her look. The idea is to keep the trend somewhat subtle. We’ve all giggled at past wedding photos, but just remember, that was a fashion trend at that time! So when you are choosing your look, ask yourself if the style is a trend. A prime example is what is know as “Instaglam.” Bold brows, maybe even ombre brows, dramatic and transforming highlighting and contouring, as well as strong winged eyeliner are some of the elements to this trendy look. While this look can be fun (and I encourage you to have fun with your makeup,) incorporate these techniques into your look in a more understated or soft manner. Your makeup will look beautiful in person as well as your photos. Forever.

Photo Credit: Grace + Ardor Co.

Once you’ve considered these factors, discuss your ideas or preferences with your makeup artist. I always have a thorough consultation with my brides during their trial to discuss and determine a look created just for them to make them look and feel as beautiful they had hoped for on their big day.

The Best False Lash Style for Your Makeup Look

I always recommend false lashes to my clients to enhance their eyes and their makeup look. False lashes are important to any makeup look for a variety of reasons. They may be used to change or enhance the shape of the eyes, to fill in sparse lashes for a more polished look, to create more definition in photos or to completely change or enhance any makeup look. 

There are so many types of lashes to choose from and it can be a bit confusing which one is best for your look. These are the 3 most commonly used styles and why you should choose each one based on your desired look. 

Individual Lashes

Individual lashes can be a single lash or a small cluster of lashes. They are available in different lengths and can be used for a very natural look or a dramatic look. With this style, the lashes are completely customized and can be built up in volume or length based on your desired look. This can be the most time consuming style or the fastest to apply depending on the application. 

Half Lashes

Half Lashes are made to enhance only the outer half of the lash line. They can give a lightweight feeling and a more natural look. These are easy to apply and provide a more almond-like shape to your eyes. This style can also be considered more sultry. 

Strip Lashes

Strip Lashes are a full band of lashes that are applied to the entire length of your lash line. They are a fast and easy way to create different styles to your makeup look. They come in a variety of styles and lengths, and can be quite natural or dramatic. They even come in creative styles such as feathers, fun colors or may even have crystals on them. This type of false lash band typically requires trimming to properly fit your eye. 

So whether you are going to dinner, a concert or getting married, consider wearing false lashes and have fun choosing different styles!

5 Reasons to Book a High-End Professional Makeup Artist for Your Wedding Day

Your wedding day will be one of the very best days of your life. It certainly was my best day ever - at least so far! I wish I could do it every year! It's that one day when everyone you love comes together to celebrate the union of you and your other half. You will laugh and you will cry, you will dance, hug, kiss and you'll be photographed well over a thousand times.

For this big day, choose reputable professionals who specialize in weddings. As a makeup artist specializing in bridal makeup, I can share with you factors you should be looking for in a makeup artist. While there is a multitude of advantages of choosing a high-end professional makeup artist, here are 5 top examples.

Photo Credit: Grace & Ardor Photography 

1. Someone you can absolutely count on for your big day. I often hear stories of the artist canceling last minute on the bride. This does not happen with true professionals. In the very rare event of an emergency or unforeseen extreme circumstance, a professional will have a network of other artists to refer you to.

2. Hygiene and Sanitation. A well-educated professional understands proper procedure and precautions of both. This factor is not something to compromise. Please do not underestimate just how serious these are. 

3. Your makeup artist should understand lighting and how it affects your makeup. An experienced professional will prevent the unfortunate disappointment of makeup that looks harsh at your venue or mismatching your makeup causing a faux pas such as orange looking foundation.

4. A well-trained understanding for what is appropriate in bridal makeup. Yes, it is important to look amazing in your photos but it is equally important to look your best while spending the entire day face-to-face with your family and friends. A highly skilled makeup artist understands how to provide you with a look that will photograph beautifully while still looking fresh and complimentary in person.

5. Last but most definitely not least, a high-end professional has a thoroughly stocked kit for all skin types, skin tones, and ethnicities. It is equally important to have a comprehensive understanding of how to provide the best service using proper shade selections and application.

At JKo Beauty we provide professional makeup services for your big day as well as all of your other wedding related events. Contact us for more information, availability and pricing. 

Photo Credit: Grace & Ardor Photography

Philadelphia Style Magazine - Best of Style 2018

I am so honored and beyond excited to share this news!

JKo Beauty has been selected by the editors of Modern Luxury Philadelphia Style Magazine for Best Makeup Artistry, "Makeup Mavens," in their Best of Style 2018 issue. Philadelphia Style Magazine never disappoints with their coverage of style and beauty, culture, lifestyle, food and drinks, and so much more. 

JKo Beauty specializes in bridal makeup, providing a luxury experience to each and every bride. Please contact us about booking your wedding date with us. We are currently booking couples through 2019. JKo Beauty is also available for all of your wedding related events, such as your engagement photos, bachelorette night out, bridal shower and rehearsal dinner. 

Minimal Makeup vs. Natural Makeup

I often have the conversation of minimal makeup versus natural makeup. When I work with ladies who do not wear a lot of makeup on a daily basis, this is especially important. Let me explain...

Minimal Makeup is simple and fast. Minimal Makeup is most likely what you wear for light enhancing or for a quick pick-me-up. It doesn't have to be natural, it can actually be quite dramatic. An example of minimal and natural makeup is tinted moisturizer, blush or bronzer, mascara and a soft lip color. This will take you just a few short minutes. Or you could apply a full coverage foundation, setting powder, blush, eyeliner, mascara and a bold lip color, a total of 6 products, to create a dramatic look in about 5 minutes. 

Natural Makeup is meant to enhance natural beauty. It is choosing shades and textures that enhance your eye color, complexion products applied to look flawless but feel and look like your skin. It can be a bronzer that simply adds a touch of warmth, like a kiss from the sun...not a week in the tropics. Tricks like using lip liner and lipstick along with a lip gloss can ultimately make for a natural look that maximizes and enhances your lips and smile. 

One reason understanding this is so very important with bridal makeup is the overall wear of your look. Taking the time to properly prep your skin and layer the right products are key to your makeup staying in place throughout your big day. For your wedding day, if you want a natural look it is not a minimal makeup look. I believe in wearing a look, whether natural or dramatic that is enhancing to your natural and unique beauty and style on your wedding day. 

Getting Rid of Hair Static

Have you ever noticed how much worse hair static is during the winter months?  One of the main causes of static is dehydration. In the winter, the air lacks moisture and the heating systems make it even drier. Here are some tips to getting rid of the hair static. 

1) Regular conditioning treatments and a lightweight hair oil can help to replenish and maintain moisture in your strands. Try not to wash your hair too often, this also can be very drying. 

2) Try using an ionic hairdryer. It will not only help control static but also dry your hair faster and create less heat damage. 

3) Spray your hair with hairspray. This will help hold your style and control the static. 

4) You can use dryer sheets to calm your hair. You can even rub the dryer sheet on your pillowcase before going to bed. Try also wrapping your brush or comb in a dryer sheet as well. These may also be used while on the go for a quick fix.

5) Try to avoid plastic combs and brushes. 

6) Use a humidifier while sleeping. This will put moisture back into the air, helping your hair and skin.

7) In a pinch, you can always use a touch of water. Wet your hands and gently apply to your hair. 

Happy (Static-Free) Hairstyling!