Savanna Smullen, bridal makeup artist
Hello, I'm Sav
I've been a professional makeup artist for more than nine years and have done the makeup for more than 300 brides, at venues across South Africa. I'm based in Johannesburg and available for weddings worldwide.
Why brides trust me with their morning
Bridal makeup is where I've chosen to focus, because it asks for everything at once: technical skill, careful preparation and a steady presence on a morning that matters.
My style is modern soft glam. I care most about complexion: skin that looks luminous and real, with its texture left where it belongs. From there I shape the eyes, lashes and finish to suit the person in my chair, whether that means barely there or properly glamorous.
I understand faces, not just trends. I've worked with every age, skin tone, skin type and set of features, and I don't believe in one routine for everyone.
How I work
I listen first. I want to know how you feel about makeup, what you've loved and disliked before, and what you want to see in your photographs years from now.
Then I prepare: your timeline, your products, the order of the morning and a conversation with your planner. On the day I'm calm, quick when it counts, and paying attention to the small things.
Makeup is my craft. I also offer hairstyling, so your hair and makeup can be planned together.
The person in the room
Clients tell me they feel at ease with me quickly, and that matters to me more than almost anything. A wedding morning should feel like a good morning, with laughter in it.
I'm warm, a little bubbly, and very organised. I'll look after your mum as carefully as I look after you, and I'll notice when someone needs a quiet minute.
Working alongside your team
I've worked at venues across South Africa alongside planners, photographers and other beauty suppliers, and I'm comfortable leading a beauty team or joining one. Planners can expect clear timings, early communication and someone who keeps to the schedule.
I'm building my destination work too, with plans for Italy during the European summer of 2027. I speak English and some Italian, and I'm learning more. Destination weddings
At a glance
- Name
- Savanna Smullen, known as Sav
- Business
- Savanna Smullen Makeup Artistry
- Specialism
- Bridal makeup, with hairstyling available
- Also
- Engagements, matric dances, private functions and simchas, corporate and high-profile clients, photoshoots
- Experience
- More than nine years as a professional makeup artist, 300+ brides
- Based in
- Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
- Travel
- Venues across South Africa, and destination weddings worldwide
- Languages
- English, and basic Italian
- @savthemakeupartist
I'd love to hear about your wedding
Tell me your date and a little about your plans.
Check Your Date