Oscar-winning makeup artist based in the Blue Mountains
Hello, lovely!
If expressing your true self on your special day is important to you, I'm here to support you every step of the way.
There's no cookie-cutter approach here! When it comes to your makeup, the possibilities are endless.
I have great techniques to share, but there are no strict rules to follow! Whether you envision a minimalist, natural look, a glitter-enhanced ethereal princess vibe, or classic Hollywood glamour with bold red lips, I’m here to help bring your vision to life.
My approach is all about embracing your unique story.
By collaborating closely and conducting thorough research, I’ll provide a tailored experience that’s just for you.
A little bit about me...
I'm Elka! I have over twenty years of experience in makeup for film, television, theatre, and events and have worked on productions such as The Matrix, Moulin Rouge, Star Wars, The Great Gatsby, The Narnia Chronicles, Aquaman, and Mad Max.
A highlight of my career was spending eight months in Africa on the set of Mad Max: Fury Road, where all my sweat, tears and devotion to keeping makeup on in the desert (aka a 40-degree sandblaster) was rewarded with a surprise Oscar win and a trip to L.A. for the ceremony!
After all this film talk, you might wonder how I have come to bridal makeup. In 2019, my life took a different direction with the birth of my daughter. This new chapter has led me to pursue work close to home, allowing me to be present and available for my family. Belle Blue is more than a business; it represents my efforts to create a better work-life balance while using my skills to help brides realise their wedding vision.
I'm a hardworking Capricorn, I love dark chocolate, nature gazing and having adventures. I am a hippy at heart with a rebellious edge, and have been with my partner (now husband) for 27 years! People often tell me I don't look my age, but even if I do, I'm ok with it! Life's too short to worry about wrinkles.
"I want to use my skills to help women feel beautiful, confident and most importantly, like themselves on their wedding day."
My Bridal Makeup Style...
I am a seasoned makeup professional with a diverse portfolio that includes a wide range of styles, from aliens and mythical creatures to period glamour, fantasy characters, and everyday looks. My bridal makeup style varies based on your desired outcome, as I aim to bring your vision to life. I am particularly known for my 'soft-touch' approach, as there's no need to apply heavy makeup just because it's your wedding day. Alongside my credentials, what sets me apart in this field is my ability to accurately colour-match your skin tone to create a beautiful, natural-looking finish using targeted coverage. I invest a lot of time on your complexion, but I also love creating softly defined eyes and adding a touch of drama with individual lashes.
Kind Words
Elka took the time to understand what I wanted in terms of make up for my wedding. In a trial session she listened to my ideas, but also extended them and created an amazing look. I wanted to look gorgeous but still feel like myself and Elka definitely made me shine. Having Elka do my make up made me feel confident and polished. Elka emphasised my natural beauty rather than transforming me - I looked radiant and I still remember my husband's face as I walked down the aisle. It was important to me that amongst all the ceremony and fanciness he could recognise the woman he fell in love with. Elka's skills and attentiveness enhanced a most special moment in my life.
Bronwyn Mather
Elka, thank you so much for sharing in our wedding day…
The make-up looks you created for me, my mother, and my sisters, were just what we wanted. Being someone who rarely wears make-up, I didn’t want to look to “overdone”. The look you created was natural and soft, with a hint of glam and whimsy. From our first contact I felt listened to, and I loved the energy you brought to the trial and the big day. Not only did you nail the brief, but you truly helped to make me feel calm, confident, and absolutely beautiful. I am so glad we had you on our team.
Jenna Verhoeven
I had the pleasure of meeting Elka when she did my makeup when I was bridesmaid for a friend and I was thrilled with the result. As soon as I began planning my own wedding I knew I wanted Elka to do my makeup again. Not only does she put you at ease with her lovely, happy personality she is truly an amazing makeup artist. I was unsure of exactly what I was after and Elka spent a lot of time questioning me and coming up with a look that was perfect for me.
On the day I felt that Elka created a beautiful, natural and long lasting look that made me look like the best possible version of myself. She also did a great job for all of my bridesmaids and was very efficient. We were all ready on time!
I would recommend Elka to anyone who wants to look and feel amazing on their big day.
Julia Murphy
Fun Fact - The dress I wore to the Oscars was my wedding dress!