Hair & Makeup

Neil Donkin

"Vendor Tag Line Quote"

Phuket

After 20 odd years working for television in his native Australia, Neil moved to Phuket in 2013 and soon became a point of reference in the beauty community. Always up-to-date with the latest fashion trends, he is one of the most sought after stylists in the island. His mantra is never to hide natural beauty and use makeup just to enhance.

SERVICES

Bridal Hair & Makeup

Starting From: 9,000 THB

Includes

Hair & makeup for the bride on the wedding day
Hair only: 5,000 THB
Makeup only: 5,500 THB
Groom hair & light makeup: 2,000 THB

Notes

Travel fees will be added, depending on location
Use only high-end products, e.g. MAC, Dior, Nars, Bobbi Brown, Huda Beauty

Trial and Consultation

Starting From: 7,500 THB

Includes

Personalized consultation
Bridal hair & makeup

Notes

Travel fees will be added, depending on location
Use only high-end products, e.g. MAC, Dior, Nars, Bobbi Brown, Huda Beauty

Touchups

Starting From: 5,000 THB

Includes

Hair change
Light makeup touchup

Notes

No longer than 2 hours wait after ceremony

10 Questions

Could you tell us about your hometown and any other places that hold a place in your heart?

My hometown is Newcastle Australia, but I moved to Sydney after completing my hairdressing Apprenticeship to study Makeup. Sydney is such a vibrant city, I think the energy of the city plus its fashion scene is what drew me towards it.

When did you first move to Phuket and why?

I moved to Phuket 11 years ago. After spending 20 odd years working in television, I needed a new challenge. I had bought an apartment here in Phuket years before and used it for holidays, the lifestyle and the Thai hospitality made it an easy choice.

What inspired your choice of becoming a Hair & Makeup artist?

I had always had a love of fashion, hairdressing was my first choice and then makeup seemed to follow. This way I could complete a whole look with hair and makeup for my clients.

How would you describe your beauty philosophy in one sentence?

My philosophy is never hide natural beauty, makeup should enhance.

Are there any hair and makeup icons or artists who have influenced your style and approach?

I would say Kevyn Aucion for makeup, Herb Ritts for photography and Elle McPherson for natural beauty and style.

Can you describe one of your favorite bridal looks you've created?

There are too many bridal looks that I have loved, I cannot choose just one. Every bride is unique, and I collaborate with them to create a look that reflects both their personal style and the essence of their wedding dress.

What is the most challenging part of your work?

The most challenging part is timing, you are responsible for making sure your work is finished with enough time for the bride and bridesmaids to have photos prior to her ceremony and that no one feels rushed, also keeping a calm and positive energy for her.

How do you stay up-to-date with the latest fashion trends?

I keep up to date by attending seminars, product launches and reading current fashion magazines. I also travel overseas once or twice a year and visit as many makeup stores looking for new products.

Is there any new innovative technique or material that you have recently experimented with?

There are too many things I cannot do without, but Bobbi Brown Vitamin Face Base for prepping the skin and Huda Beauty Setting Spray to help hold the makeup in the humidity are definitely top of the list.

What advice do you give to brides when choosing their wedding day hair and makeup?

My advice to brides is to consider the complete look. Your hair should enhance your dress and not distract from it, if it has a beautiful neckline and back your hair is better to be up or away from your face. Your makeup should enhance your face, nothing is worse than having heavy makeup when your wedding is on the beach or in a Villa. Consider the humidity here, having your hair down can drop very quickly, and always keep an emergency pack for the evening such as a pressed powder and lipstick for touchups.

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