When I first contacted D’Shannon Llewellyn regarding her makeup services for my wedding day, I was feeling pretty discouraged. I’d already emailed numerous other makeup artists that either demanded monstrous fees to do my makeup on-location or else wouldn’t even bother following up to my questions and requests. So it truly was a breath of fresh air when I got a response from D’Shannon just as I was thinking I’d never find a personal makeup professional for my wedding photos. Would I end up having to do my own makeup, thereby looking like a clown on the most important day of my life?
“We can work something out! Don’t worry!” D’Shannon told me in our first e-mail conversation. I was impressed by her prompt reply to my inquiry and felt reassurance from her positive attitude. I wasted no time in calling her the very next day to find out whether we’d make a compatible team. My first impression when speaking to D’Shannon was how genuine and understanding she was. I also took note of her amazing confidence and professionalism as I asked questions like, “What’s your experience and background with makeup artistry?” and “What kind of makeup do you recommend for the setting of my wedding?” I found myself relating to D’Shannon as if she were an old friend and felt comfortable enough to ask her every question that no other makeup artist would answer for me. I was so glad I’d found her website by researching wedding vendors on the internet and I knew after speaking with her that she was the only makeup artist that I could trust with my wedding day.
During my wedding planning week in St. Louis I had the opportunity to meet with D’Shannon personally for a trial session. She arrived promptly on time and ready to perform magic on my bare and blemished face. She brought with her an enormous case of makeup goodies and you would almost think she’d raided a Sephora store with all the eye shadows and lipsticks and foundation shades in her makeup bag. D’Shannon went to work on her blank canvas and I was relieved to find how gently and carefully she applied the product to my face. As she worked she was very upbeat and enthusiastic which really made the experience that much more enjoyable and relaxed. D’Shannon was careful to make sure she applied the makeup in a way that still made me look like myself, just a better version. “How do you normally wear your eyeliner?” she asked. “What color lipstick do you typically feel comfortable wearing?” The result of her talent was a flawless appearance that looked glamorous and romantic, yet she still managed to make sure I looked like “myself”. I was so excited when I saw my reflection in the mirror and knew that I could expect to look my very best on the biggest day of my life!
