The Best Wedding Venues in the North West (and What Makeup Works at Each)

by Maya Walczuk

From breathtaking countryside estates to chic city spaces, the North West of England offers some of the most iconic wedding venues in the UK. But while you’re searching for the perfect setting, don’t forget - your makeup should match the mood, lighting, and feel of your venue.

As a luxury bridal makeup artist based in the North West, I’ve worked with countless brides in every style of setting. Here’s how to pair five of the region’s most celebrated venues with the perfect bridal makeup look.

1. Thornton Manor, Cheshire – Grand Elegance Deserves Timeless Beauty

Set in the heart of Cheshire, Thornton Manor is a Grade II listed Elizabethan estate with dramatic staircases, historic detail, and lush gardens. This venue calls for a bridal look that’s just as refined.

Makeup Match: Think classic glamour. Flawless, matte or satin skin with softly contoured cheeks. Neutral smoky eyes with defined lashes, paired with a timeless nude-pink lip. This look photographs beautifully under both natural and indoor lighting.

Pro Tip: Opt for airbrush foundation or HD techniques to ensure a picture-perfect finish for every angle.

2. The Lake District – Romantic Nature Meets Radiant Glow

Whether you're exchanging vows at a lakeside lodge or a rustic barn near Windermere, the Lake District’s natural backdrop is unbeatable. This tranquil setting pairs best with soft, glowing makeup that enhances your features without overpowering the environment.

Makeup Match: Fresh, dewy skin with a subtle highlight. Earth-toned eyeshadows (think soft golds, taupes, or rose hues), brushed-up brows, and a tinted balm or peachy lip stain. The goal is effortless radiance.

Humidity- and weather-resistant products are a must here. I’ll tailor your prep to the local climate and lighting.

3. Dorfold Hall, Nantwich – Historic Charm with a Luxe Edge

Dorfold Hall is a refined yet contemporary country house that mixes old-world charm with modern luxury - a dream setting for a fashion-forward yet timeless bride.

Makeup Match: Opt for sculpted elegance. A velvet matte complexion with warm undertones, a softly smoked liner, and a bold-but-balanced lip (like rosewood or soft berry). This look bridges tradition and trend.

Consider adding a second look for the evening - a smoky eye or statement lip can elevate your reception glam.

4. The Midland, Manchester – City Chic Calls for Modern Sophistication

For the bride hosting a sleek, stylish wedding in Manchester city centre, The Midland is a five-star favourite. Grand ballrooms and urban energy create the perfect backdrop for contemporary elegance.

Makeup Match: Clean lines and polished features. Defined brows, a contoured eye using cool taupes or greys, luminous skin with strategic highlights, and a mauve or deep nude lipstick. This style is perfect for brides who want to look modern and confident.

Urban lighting can be harsh - skin prep and light-reflective finishes are key for a flawless effect.

5. Colshaw Hall, Knutsford – Countryside Luxury Meets Soft Romance

This private estate in Cheshire is known for its mix of countryside serenity and high-end styling. With its white barn, manicured grounds, and orangery, Colshaw Hall creates a storybook setting.

Makeup Match: A soft, romantic bridal look with glowing, peach-toned cheeks, soft shimmer on the lids, fluttery lashes, and a pinky-nude lip. Feminine, fresh, and effortlessly elegant.

This style is universally flattering and suits both day and golden hour photography beautifully.

Bridal Beauty that Matches the Moment

Your wedding day makeup should feel just as intentional as your venue, your dress, and your flowers. Whether you're planning a countryside escape or a glamorous city celebration, I’ll help you find the perfect look to complement it all - while making you feel like the most elevated version of yourself.

Ready to Begin?

If you're getting married at one of these stunning venues - or anywhere in the North West - I'd love to hear about your vision. Let's create a bridal makeup look that’s as unforgettable as your setting.

From Trial to Aisle: What to Expect from Your Bridal Makeup Experience

by Maya Walczuk

Planning your wedding is exciting—but let’s be honest, it can also feel a little overwhelming. When it comes to your bridal makeup, the last thing you want is uncertainty. That’s where a well-planned, personalised experience comes in.

Whether you're newly engaged or finalising the details, here's exactly what to expect from your bridal makeup journey -from the very first brushstroke to your walk down the aisle.

Step 1: The Initial Enquiry

Your journey starts with a simple message. You reach out, and I respond promptly with availability, pricing, and answers to any early questions you might have. You’ll get a feel for my style and how I work -and from there, we pencil in your date.

Pro Tip: Enquire early, especially for peak summer weddings in the North West -dates book fast!

Step 2: The Bridal Trial

Think of your trial as the dress rehearsal for your look. Held a few months before your wedding, this is where we test your vision: skin prep, foundation finish, eyes, lips -every detail tailored to you.

We'll talk about:

• Your skin type and prep

• Your wedding dress and colour palette

• What you love (and don’t love) in makeup

• Your venue and lighting (yes, that matters!)

By the end of the session, you’ll feel confident, comfortable, and most importantly -like you, only elevated.

Step 3: The Countdown

In the weeks before your big day, we’ll finalise timings and logistics. You’ll receive a full schedule for your makeup, including bridal party if booked, so everything runs smoothly on the day.

You can also reach out with any updates, questions, or even skincare changes. I’m here for you throughout -not just on the day.

Step 4: The Wedding Day

When the day arrives, I’ll be there -early, calm, and ready. I’ll recreate your chosen look with precision, ensuring it’s flawless for both real life and the camera. I stay on-hand until the final touch-up before you leave for the ceremony.

This isn’t just makeup -it’s a full beauty experience, tailored to make you feel your most radiant, relaxed, and confident self.

Optional: On-Hand Makeup Support

Want a luxury touch? I offer on-hand service throughout your wedding -from touch-ups before photos to a refresh before your evening look. It's like having your personal artist by your side for every moment.

Ready to Begin?

If you're thinking about booking your bridal makeup, let's chat. I work with brides across the North West -from Lancashire to the Lake District -and I’d love to be part of your story.

Enquire now to secure your date -and let’s create something beautiful.

Bridal Makeup Trends 2025: What North West Brides Are Loving Right Now

by Maya Walczuk

As we step into the 2025 wedding season, bridal makeup is all about enhancing natural beauty with a luxurious edge. Whether you're planning an elegant celebration in the Lake District or a chic city wedding in Manchester, these modern yet timeless makeup trends are capturing the hearts of brides across the North West.

Let’s explore the top bridal beauty looks dominating the year - and how to make them your own.

TREND BREAKDOWN

1. The Soft Sculpt Look - Natural Definition Without the Drama

Contouring has evolved. In 2025, it's all about soft, diffused sculpting that enhances bone structure without harsh lines.

Perfect For: Brides who want to look naturally lifted and defined in photos, without looking overdone.

Works Best With: Outdoor venues, editorial shoots, or modern city weddings like those at The Midland Manchester.

2. Skin-First Beauty - Flawless, Luminous, Undetectable

Dewy, fresh skin remains the gold standard. Brides are leaning into skincare and asking for makeup that enhances rather than hides.

Application Tip: I use skin-prep rituals combined with lightweight foundations that offer coverage without cakiness - perfect for HD cameras and real life.

3. Glossed Lips & Blush Tints - The Return of the Romantic Bride

Say goodbye to matte for the ceremony. In 2025, sheer tinted balms, liquid blushes, and soft glosses are back, adding a youthful flush and luminous lip.

Ideal For: Garden weddings in Cheshire or romantic halls like Colshaw Hall.

4. Bold Liner, Bridal Edition - Subtle Wings and Smoky Flicks

Think less graphic, more graceful. Brides are asking for softly extended eyeliner or smudged-out winged liner to define the eyes while maintaining softness.

Make It Yours: Pair with taupe or rose-gold shadows and individual lashes for a wide-eyed, classic effect.

5. Second Look Glam - A Glow-Up for the Evening

Why settle for one look? Brides are increasingly opting for a second makeup look before the reception: maybe a bolder lip, glowing highlight, or intensified liner.

On-Hand Makeup Services: I offer optional evening transformations to elevate your look and match the shift in lighting, dress, and vibe.

Which 2025 Makeup Trend Suits Your Style?

Every bride deserves to feel confident, radiant, and completely herself on her wedding day. At Maykana, I help you choose makeup that complements your venue, dress, lighting - and most importantly, your personality.

Whether you’re drawn to soft minimalism or modern drama, I’ll create a look that feels uniquely yours.

Ready to Try Your Look?

Booking now for 2025 bridal trials and wedding dates across the North West. Let’s find your perfect look - tailored, timeless, and trend-aware.