Most of us can throw on a face of makeup (concealer, mascara, lip gloss. DONE. Oh and blend, coz blending is our cardio), but there are certain local treasures who can work actual miracles on our faces, and now we have your attention. With the ability to transform the young, old and anyone in between into red carpet-ready beauties, brides to be or formal fashionistas, we’re shining the spotlight on our local makeup magicians. Commit the following names to memory coz girls, we all need a fabulous MUA in our corner….preferably every time we have a big event. And every Friday and Saturday. And every other day….

Here are seven makeup artists based here on the Gold Coast to keep on speed dial whenever you need an extreme makeover – minus the extreme part.

Nikki Mitchell
With numerous celebs as clients (Miranda Kerr. Need we say more..) and her own brow and tan range (the a-la natural 15 minute tan is a game-changer), award-winning brow lamination specialist and makeup artist Nikki Mitchell is always #trending. She’s the gal you want styling you and your squad on your big day, and her caring and honest nature makes her the full package.
Find out more: https://www.nikkimitchell.com.au/

Mia Connor
If you haven’t heard Mia’s name, umm are you even breathing? This GC icon is well, an icon. With 183k followers on Instagram, ‘nuff said. Offering more than hair and makeup, Mia is a force to be reckoned with, adding online courses, masterclasses attracting thousands of makeup artists worldwide, and her very own eyeliner to her arsenal. She contours like a boss and her signature eye looks are pure wing goals. Don’t even get us started on her brows…

Natalie Lucas Makeup
Natalie is another bride’s best friend. With over 15 years’ experience making us ladies look like we’re straight outta Hollywood, she has recruited a handpicked team of equally talented wonder women to help keep up with demand. Whether the brief is natural or glam, this Gold Coast gal and her tribe have got you covered…literally covered, in the most beautiful cosmetics to accentuate your natural beauty.

Isabella Jane Hair & Makeup
Isabella is a household hairstylist name on the GC, but over the last five years has also made her mark on the local makeup artistry scene. In addition to working her curling wand wizardry on some famous locks (Tammy Hembrow for starters), the lovely Bella has been busy wearing both hats for formals, weddings and on commercial gigs for some well-known brands. Yet another local girl kicking goals. We likey!

JM Makeup Artistry
Embarking on her sixth year in the beauty industry as a makeup artist, JM Makeup Artistry founder Jazmyn Mia Asmar knows how to bring her clients’ vision to reality. When you book with Jazmyn, you’ll transform into an effortlessly glamorous goddess with just the right amount of ‘you’ shining through. Her bread and butter is bridal parties, and she goes above and beyond to make you and your maids look and feel truly spesh.

Makeup by Bronte
Bronte knows her craft, with experience in event makeup, bridal, photoshoots, editorial and film and TV. Since starting her business, this boss lady has worked alongside big brands such as Showpo, Sky Lani, Jagger & Stone and Le Salty (yeah, we’re impressed), and is known for her keen eye for detail and perfectionism…just the way we like our MUA’s.

Bek Kemp Makeup Artistry
With five years’ experience in this highly competitive space, Bek has already earned a name for herself as a go-to MUA. Specialising in bridal makeup, formal makeup, fashion and photographic makeup, she believes that cosmetics should enhance natural beauty (same). If you’re a bride-to-be wanting a classic look, or something with a little more drama, check out Bek’s portfolio – and lock her in Eddie!

Words by Bianca Trathen.

If you’re planning on getting hitched in the future, the Gold Coast is certainly a good place to do so. With many a delightful location on offer, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to your big day.

From the beach to the hinterland, or the hinterland with views of the beach, the Coast is your oyster.

Here’s a few we think might tickle your fancy, probably get in quite early though because they seem to tickle everyone’s fancy.

The Bower Estate
The newest of the bunch, The Bower Estate is set upon 120 acres of stunning land in the Gold Coast hinterland. Surrounded by national parks, the full-service wedding venue offers onsite catering, event coordination and accommodation and as a family-owned business, you can expect the utmost care to go into your big day. It’s a mind-blowing venue and one that would be absolutely perfect for any style of wedding.
Where: 3165 Nerang Murwillumbah Road, Natural Bridge

*Mavis’s Kitchen
There aren’t enough words in the world to describe the magic of Mavis’s Kitchen. Technically it’s in Northern NSW but that’s never stopped us before. There are mountain views for days, from the hinterland to Mt Warning and food direct from the organic garden and the perfect spot to marry your love. It’s an intimate space but if stunning outdoor scenery is your thing, this one is a must-see.
Where: 64 Mount Warning Road, Uki

Heritage Wines
Another hinterland gem, Heritage Wines is, you guessed it a wedding venue at a winery and those are the perfect combination if you ask us. The rustic style venue boasts some absolutely magical views and there’s a separate little section for the actual getting married part. Guests can mingle on the greenest lawn in the world whilst enjoying wines from their cellar door. The food is a delight there too.
Where: Bartle Road, Tamborine Mountain 

*Summergrove Estate
Greenery abounds at Summergrove Estate, making it the perfect place for a spectacular wedding day no one will ever forget. Having won many awards in the past few years, it’s no wonder this place is much-loved by everyone who has ever laid eyes on it. Found in the hinterland, they boast a little weatherboard chapel, and the option of a reception either indoors or outside under the stars.
Where: 363 Carool Road, Carool

Ancora
Found riverside in Tweed Heads, Ancora is an absolutely stunning venue offering garden ceremonies and a perfect reception space with 180 degree water views plus a balcony boasting salty breezes and the perfect viewing platform for one of the those magical Gold Coast sunsets. We’ve been to many a ceremony here and each has been more beautiful than the last. Good vibes too. Make sure you check Ancora out.
Where: 118 Wharf Street, Tweed Heads

Cowbell Creek
With three ceremony areas, Cowbell Creek will have you spoilt for choice on your big day. There’s a retracting roof pergola, giant hilltop fig tree and an creekside verandah and each offers magical views of the surrounding property including 200 acres of rolling hills, creeks, lookouts and fields along with Clydesdales, friendly dairy cows, Alpacas and cheeky chooks. How good. It’s just 15 minutes from Robina Town Centre so practically on your doorstep.
Where: 390 Austinville Road, Austinville

Boomerang Farm
Getting hitched in a 100 year old barn seems like a good time. Even better when it’s surrounded by lush green lawns, big old trees and an actual rainforest chapel. You’ll no doubt spy a local wallaby or two and with the babbling Mudgeeraba Creek running through the property, what’s not to love. We highly recommend including lawn games on the agenda and a wheelbarrow full of beverages to set the mood. Plus, its just 10 minutes from Robina Town Centre.
Where: 55 Johns Road, Mudgeeraba 

Crystal Blue Yacht Cruises
If an intimate wedding on the water is more your style, why not gather the gang and go all out on a Crystal Blue yacht. It’s quite the romantic experience to be cruising along with the sun setting in the distance, a glass of champagne in hand having just wed your beloved (or so we hear). And imagine the incredible photos you’ll get! Definitely get on board with this idea for something quite unique but also very lovely.
Where: Marina Mirage, 74 Sea World Drive, Main Beach

Words by Kirra Smith

Summer is almost over and it’s safe to say that we have spent way too much time in the sun (as usual). Which means our skin has taken a bit of a battering and it’s time to give it some love.

In honour of that, we’ve found six of the best natural treatments from around the Gold Coast to help you get your glow after all that summer salt, sand and sunshine.

An Earth and Skin Experience
Ideal for newcomers to organic skincare, the Earth and Skin Experience consists of a Mini Earth Massage to ease the (no doubt ever-present) tension in your back, neck and shoulders followed by a customised Refresh Facial using organic skincare and a Jade stone facial massage. If you’re an old hand at the organic skincare thing, there are MANY incredible treatments available, including some for the fellas.
Where: Earth and Skin, 2 Regency Place, Mudgeeraba

Acupuncture at Nüwa Natural Health
A traditionally eastern medicine treatment, acupuncture has taken the western world by storm. It works by balancing the energy systems within the body, enhancing relaxation and increasing energy. The name Nüwa is derived from the goddess of ancient Chinese Mythology best known for creating mankind and repairing the pillars of heaven. Put simply, it’s a necessary personal investment.
Where: Nüwa Natural Health, 4/784 Pacific Parade, Currumbin

Manicure and Pedicure at ERVA
Is there anything more relaxing than a manicure slash pedicure complete with a luxe massage and the prettiest nails at the end? We think not. At ERVA you can expect exactly that without the use of toxic products and with the addition of experiencing one of the most beautiful, love-infused treatments of your life. The team at ERVA are the best there is and no matter which treatment you choose, you’ll walk out feeling like you’re floating on a cloud.
Where: ERVA Nail Spa, 3 Park Avenue, Burleigh Heads

Organic Infusion at endota spa
endota is an oldie but a goodie with several locations across the Coast. They have a few standout treatments but the Organic Infusion is their signature facial created to relax and rejuvenate. Using certified organic skincare, containing powerful botanicals and antioxidants infused using jade rollers to give you a clear complexion and restore calm. Skin is nourished. Mind is nurtured. The end.
Where: endota spa, Shop 1, Oracle South 17 Elizabeth Ave, Broadbeach

A head spa treatment at éva organic hair and beauty salon
This beautiful little salon in Palm Beach is turning heads for all the right reasons. Using only natural, organic, cruelty free and vegan friendly products éva organic hear and beauty salon came about after owner Indre starting looking into the cause of reactions to common hair products. On top of your regular cut and colour try the Head Spa Treatment which includes the main reason everyone goes to the hairdresser, a heavenly head massage.
Where: éva organic, Suite 2 / 1154 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Reiki at Earth Energy Medicine
You may not have heard of this one but Reiki is becoming popular amongst those willing to try something a little bit different. The ancient Japanese technique is used for stress reduction and relaxation while healing the body on all levels; physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. It’s known as the art of gentle hands on healing and it’s actually quite an interesting experience if you keep an open mind. Give it a try, you only live once right?
Where: Earth Energy Medicine, 7 Correa Court, Elanora

Words by Kirra Smith