Ask a Pro: Seattle Wedding Beauty Advice with Angie Rodriguez
MakeupArtistAngela.com | @makeupartist.angela
There’s a reason we recommend Angie Rodriguez to so many of our clients—she’s a total pro, but not in the intimidating way. Angie is fun, easy to connect with, and incredibly kind. She carries no ego and approaches every wedding with empathy, creativity, and an energy that’s both calming and affirming. Whether you’re the kind of bride who wants a full glam moment or someone who feels best with barely-there makeup, Angie knows how to help you look and feel like you. She’s also a licensed esthetician, so her skincare recommendations are the real deal.
We asked Angie to answer some of the most common questions we hear from couples planning their look—and she didn’t hold back. Here’s what she had to say:
Q: I’m a no-makeup bride. Can I really go makeup-free on my wedding day?
Angie: I am all for authenticity on your wedding day—but yes, there’s some validity to needing something on your skin for professional photography. Cameras can highlight discoloration or flatten your features in ways you wouldn’t notice in the mirror. I always recommend hiring a makeup artist who specializes in natural looks—not just someone who says they can do it, but someone who regularly does. Look through their portfolio. You should see minimal, fresh looks as part of their everyday work.
Q: What’s the best skincare prep for a makeup-free or low-makeup look?
Angie: Hydration and exfoliation are your best friends. I recommend a basic skincare routine with a great cleanser, moisturizer, and exfoliant. An oxygen facial a week or so before your wedding can give you that subtle glow. Dermaplaning, lash lifts, and brow grooming are also fantastic low-effort, high-impact treatments.
Q: What should I be doing a year out to prep my skin?
Angie: A year gives us so much room to work! Get on a simple routine: cleanser, toner, moisturizer, and a serum with AHAs or BHAs for gentle exfoliation. I also love SkinBetter Science’s AlphaRet Overnight Cream and the Zo Skin Health Growth Factor Eye Serum. You can grab them from my friend Erin Beal at Advanced Skin & Body.
Q: What beauty inspiration should I gather before my trial?
Angie: I love when clients bring a small, curated Pinterest board with 6–10 hair and makeup looks. It’s helpful if the models have a similar skin tone or hair texture, but not necessary. Bonus points if you include the overall wedding aesthetic—colors, dress, vibe. I want to know what the day feels like, not just how it looks.
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Q: What should I send to my beauty artist before the trial?
Angie: Let me know about allergies, your hair texture, and your end goals. If you want a sleek style but have curly hair, I’ll ask you to show up to the trial with a blowout, for example. A little prep goes a long way in helping me show up for you fully.
Q: Any skincare or grooming tips for grooms?
Angie: Yes! Even a simple routine makes a difference. I suggest a gentle cleanser (keep it in the shower!), an exfoliating toner, and a moisturizer. Bonus: book a facial together. A hydrating facial or exfoliating treatment can make both of you feel refreshed and ready.
Q: Any Seattle-area recs for beauty services?
Angie: Absolutely. I send so many clients to Erin Beal at Advanced Skin & Body in Bellevue. She’s amazing for facials and skincare prep and totally gets the natural bride aesthetic. In Seattle, Kim at Lullaby Lady Spa in Greenwood is also fantastic for a calming, holistic approach.
If you’re a Seattle bride or planning a wedding anywhere in the PNW and looking for a beauty experience that feels personal, gentle, and grounded, Angie Rodriguez is one of our go-to collaborators for a reason.
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