There are some Brides whose stories stay with you long after the wedding day. I first met Mariel Ilusorio, an accomplished classical pianist during a reunion of a high school dance event (popularly known as Velada) at our Alma Mater Assumption College. My team and I were entrusted with creating their stage makeup for a performance.
A few months later, she remembered that experience and reached out once again, this time —, not for stage, but for the aisle!
A dedicated classical pianist, she prepared for her wedding with the same intention and elegance she reserved for her fellow musician and life partner Abel Galang, a talented pianist as well. In an intimate setting, surrounded by a few close friends, colleagues, and loved ones, they exchanged heartfelt vows and created moments that felt genuinely authentic to their relationship.
The wedding was a symphony of music and elegance, a love story that transcended time, echoing the timeless beauty of the classical pieces they both cherished.
Here is what she shared with me in my bridal series, Behind the Veil with Mariel
1. What inspired the choice of your bridal makeup look, and how does it complement your overall wedding style?
“I just wanted something simple but elegant and classy.”
2. Can you describe the process of working with your makeup artist to create the perfect bridal look for your big day?
“Oh I put full trust in Acie as I don’t know much about make up. I have seen her work on Instagram and love how she brings out the beauty in everyone and still stick to their unique personalities.”
3. Are there any specific makeup products or brands that hold sentimental value for you and were incorporated into your wedding day routine?
“None, as I normally wear make up only when performing.”
4. How did you decide on the balance between classic and trendy elements for your bridal makeup?
“Again, I left it all up to Acie!”
5. Were there any special considerations or challenges when choosing makeup that would last throughout the day and night?
This is her daughter Anita who also wanted an understated elegance to match the theme of her mom that day.
“Of course, I wanted my make up that wouldn’t smear if I got emotional but I didn’t even have to tell Acie that since she has so much experience doing brides! I was so happy that I didn’t need to retouch and could just be myself and even forgot I had make up on throughout the reception! “
6. Can you share any beauty rituals or skincare routines you followed in the weeks leading up to your wedding for that extra bridal glow?
“I tried to do some face yoga though I don’t know if it made any difference. I tried to get enough sleep and avoid stress, and as Acie recommended, get a hydrating facial a few days before the wedding.”
7. What role did your makeup artist play in helping you feel confident and beautiful on your wedding day?
“Acie was extremely supportive, positive and patient. I normally don’t like being made up and having to sit for long. But she made it very pleasant and comfortable. I was a bit nervous that if I see myself all made up, I would feel too unnatural. But when I looked in the mirror after Acie was done, I felt confident and beautiful.”
8. Did you opt for a specific lip color or eyeshadow to convey a particular mood or theme for your wedding?
“Not really, just left it up to Acie!”
9. How did you ensure that your makeup reflected your personality while still aligning with the overall wedding aesthetic?
“I communicated as much as I could with Acie so she could get a sense of my personality and style. It also helped that she did my make up for velada so I wasn’t a total stranger. I wanted her to see and respect my personality and the simplicity and intimacy I was trying to achieve for my wedding.”
10. Looking back, is there any advice you would give to future brides about their wedding day makeup?
“I would advice them to look at the work of the make up artist, that the style fits their personality, and go with their gut feeling. Just be yourself and you will look as beautiful as your inner self!”
Gown : @katperezrubio
Hair: Susan Basaysay
Photos : From Bride and photographer Medal Elepaño