10 Questions with Mandi Dempster

Wedding Diaries interviewed one of the most experienced and a highly sought-after wedding hair and makeup artist from Victoria, Mandi Dempster of MD.Makeupartist. Lara, VIC based Mandi is the founder and lead makeup artist at MD.Makeupartist.

Wedding Hair and Makeup Artists - Mandi Dempster

Business: MD.Makeupartist
Location: Geelong, VIC
Experience: 8 Years
Profile: MD.Makeupartist
Website: www.mdmakeupartist.com.au

1. Introduction: What's your story?

Hi, I’m Mandi Dempster, founder and lead makeup artist at MD.Makeupartist, based in Lara, Victoria. My love for makeup began long before it became my career — I was always drawn to the way beauty can enhance confidence and help people feel their absolute best.

After studying Screen and Media Specialist Makeup Services at The Gordon, where I graduated with honours and received multiple awards including Student of the Year and the Hair & Beauty Excellence Award, I knew I’d found my calling.

Since then, I’ve built a full-time business specialising in bridal and special occasion makeup, working with hundreds of women across Geelong and surrounding regions. I’m known for my natural glam style — timeless, radiant, and beautifully wearable.

Becoming a bridal makeup artist has been such a rewarding journey. I love creating looks that make my brides feel calm, confident, and camera-ready while bringing a relaxed, positive energy to every wedding morning.

For me, it’s not just about makeup — it’s about helping you feel like the most beautiful version of yourself on one of the most unforgettable days of your life.

2. What's your experience as a bridal hair & makeup artist? How many brides are in there in your portfolio?

I first started doing bridal work while I was employed in a salon and quickly realised how much I loved being part of a wedding day. There’s something so special about the energy — the excitement, the laughter, and the little moments leading up to “I do.” I was instantly hooked.

Since then, I’ve built a thriving business as a full-time makeup artist and have had the privilege of glamming up more than 50 brides (and countless bridesmaids, mums, and guests) across Geelong and surrounding regions.

Over the years, I’ve learned that bridal makeup is about so much more than just creating a beautiful look — it’s about helping each person feel calm, confident, and radiant while being part of such an emotional, joy-filled morning.

3. What are the different packages that you offer and which one is your most popular package?

I offer a range of options to suit every bridal party, from the bride-only experience through to full bridal party packages. My most popular option is the Bridal Party Package, which includes makeup for the bride, bridesmaids, and mother of the bride or groom — perfect for creating a consistent, seamless look across the whole group.

Each booking includes a full skin prep, professional makeup application with high-end products, individual or strip lashes, and a touch-up kit to keep you fresh all day long.

For brides wanting both hair and makeup, I also work alongside a trusted hairstylist so we can take care of your entire glam team on the day.

Whether it’s an intimate elopement or a big bridal party, I tailor each package to suit your timeline, location, and overall vision for the day.

4. Do you have a team of assistants or will you be the only artist that day? What will happen if you're sick or have an emergency on the wedding day?

I personally look after all of my bridal bookings, so you’ll always know exactly who will be there on your wedding day. For larger groups, I have a couple of trusted hairstylists and assistants who I can bring along to ensure everything runs smoothly and on schedule.

Thankfully, I’ve never had to cancel a booking due to illness or emergency, but I’m well-prepared just in case. I’m part of a strong network of professional makeup artists in Geelong, and we all support one another when needed. If anything unexpected were to happen, I would arrange a trusted replacement artist to take care of you so you’re never left without coverage.

5. Do you charge a travel fee? For what distance? What does that cover?

Yes, a travel fee applies for mobile bookings outside of my home studio in Lara. This fee simply covers the time, fuel, and costs involved in travelling to and from your location, as well as the safe transport of my professional makeup kit and lighting equipment.

Travel fees vary depending on the distance, but I’m always happy to provide an exact quote when you enquire. I regularly travel throughout Geelong, the Surf Coast, the Bellarine Peninsula, and surrounding regions, and can also travel further afield for larger bridal parties or destination weddings.

6. Can the bride book a wedding makeup trial appointment and will you also do a trial before the wedding?

Absolutely! I always recommend a bridal makeup trial before the wedding day. It’s the perfect opportunity for us to meet, discuss your vision, and create a look that complements your features, dress, and overall wedding style.

During the trial, we’ll go through everything from skin prep to final touches, so you know exactly what to expect on the big day. It also gives you the chance to wear the makeup for a few hours to see how it feels and photographs in natural light.

Trials are held at my home studio in Lara and can be booked once your wedding date is secured with a deposit.

7. What beauty products do you use and would you be open to the bride using her own make-up?

I use a carefully curated mix of high-end, professional products that I’ve tested and trusted over years of experience. My kit includes brands such as Charlotte Tilbury, MAC, Napoleon Perdis, YSL, and Runway Room Cosmetics, all chosen for their quality, longevity, and flawless photo finish.

That said, I completely understand that some brides have favourite or sensitive-skin products they love — I’m always happy to incorporate those into the look if they suit the desired finish and wearability. My goal is to ensure you feel comfortable, confident, and absolutely beautiful on your big day.

8. How can you make the bride's wedding makeup last and look good in photos?

Long-lasting makeup is all about great prep, quality products, and a few smart habits on the day! I use professional primers, setting techniques, and long-wear formulas so your makeup stays flawless from “I do” to the final dance.

That said — I always tell my brides there are a few danger zones for makeup wear: too many cheek kisses and a little too much pashing with the groom! Try to save the face-touching for the photos and the smooching for later — your makeup artist will thank you!

9. How long will makeup take on the day and how long will you be staying for on the day?

On the wedding day, I allow up to one hour per makeup application, and a little extra time for the bride to ensure every detail is perfect. I always build a detailed schedule in advance so the morning runs smoothly and stress-free.

Once everyone’s makeup is complete, I stay for final touch-ups — usually just before you step into your dress or head off to the ceremony. This way, you and your bridal party are fresh, flawless, and camera-ready when it matters most.

10. What is your cancellation and/or refund policy?

A $100 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your wedding date. This amount is deducted from your total balance but is not refundable in the event of cancellation, as it covers administrative time and holds your date exclusively.

If you need to cancel or make changes, I kindly ask for a minimum of 8 weeks’ notice. Cancellations made within that time may incur additional fees depending on the circumstances.

In the unlikely event that I need to cancel due to illness or emergency, I will arrange a trusted, professional replacement artist from my network or issue a full refund of any payments made.