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Kelli Thomsen Beauty

Kelli Thomsen Beauty

Portland, Oregon l Makeup & Hair Team specializing in clean beauty.

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the conscious blog

Understanding Skin Rejuvenation Before Your Wedding Day

Skin Care, Wedding Beauty Team, Wedding Inspiration, Wedding Prep

Wedding Makeup and Hair in Portland Oregon

Don’t hide behind your skin. Bringing out your natural beauty takes a little consistency and understanding, but once you know why and how to use the correct products for your skin type, you’ll be in harmony with creating your best skin ever. It all starts with listening to your skin. If it feels tight, dry, oily or itchy, then it isn’t in balance. Once you know how to listen to what your skin needs and you have a skin rejuvenation regimen in place to support a balanced complexion, then you are ready for gorgeous makeup application.

My Goal:

To help you feel your most radiant for your wedding day is number one! My favorite pre-wedding recommendation is a custom facial, because I want to work with healthy, exfoliated and hydrated skin that already glows. I know in my 20 years of studying and working with different skin types, that skin homeostasis translates into incredible makeup application and photos!

People often ask me what my favorite treatment is and without hesitation it’s the chemical peel series! Peels are so versatile, work on many skin types & conditions and finding the best customization for each of my clients skin types & concerns is why I LOVE DOING THEM SO MUCH – it’s a way for me to use my knowledge of science and real life problem solving with the goal of helping someone feel refreshed and rejuvenated. Peels reveal the healthiest skin, performed in-clinic by me or one of my colleagues, and the results are clear, vibrant skin with minimal to no downtime.

You asked, I’m answering:

Will your MAKEUP look natural on your wedding day?

It all comes down to how you prepare your skin and how I prep & finish the skin on the wedding/elopement day.

There is an over-load of beauty information out there and with the rise of Pinterest boards and word of mouth selling, it can be confusing and challenging when it comes to knowing what is best for ourselves!

Wedding portraits for post on skin rejuvenation

I encourage every couple to:

  • do their research
  • find a licensed esthetician
  • hire a professional makeup artist
  • reach out to your top 3 artists and make sure they get right back to you
  • make sure the artist has a brochure of services and contract system in place
  • check the artists portfolio and reviews
  • make sure the artists philosophies align with yours
  • share your beauty inspiration and don’t be afraid to ask questions and have expectations

A professional makeup artist wants to hear exactly what you want, with room for changes if necessary. Setting those expectations over a trial run is going to be important. These key elements at the beginning of the booking process are ideal to connect with the right artist.

Believe it or not, it’s not the makeup products I use that encourages the makeup to last – it’s what I do before and after makeup application that gives it the real vibrancy and longevity. I also provide everyone with a lip touch-up kit that adds to peace of mind.

Recently, I teamed up with the talented film & fine art wedding photographer to share all of my favorite go to products for keeping wedding day beauty flawless all day.

Bride and groom wedding portrait

My Top Skin Rejuvenation Tips:

  1. Pre-wedding & Wedding Day – Keeping skin clear with oil cleansing (oil attracts oil and this cleansing method controls oil, by lifting impurities and leaving skin soft, not dry).
  2. Pre-wedding >>> Exfoliating weekly to keep the pores clear and any dead skin from accumulating.
  3. Pre-wedding & Wedding Day – Skin Mists will keep the skin extra hydrated and encourage serums and moisturizers to deliver deeper into the skin as well as boost results.
  4. Pre-wedding – Serums, Vitamin C & Peptides and a life-changing Om Beauty Oil packed with healthy nutrients are all great for repairing the skin and rejuvenating in the weeks leading up to the wedding. Makeup looks smoother when these ingredients are used weekly within a skin regimen.
  5. Wedding Day – Makeup setting spray to lock in the thinly layered makeup, powder, creams and additional products used to create the look.

PS – I typically don’t use a primer, because the foundation options I use have a primer built-in or the skin type doesn’t call for it.

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917 NW Overton St. Portland, OR 97209
kellithomsen.com/ | 503-890-5355

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SIERRA & WILL’S FOREST FAIRYTALE✨ When Sierra SIERRA & WILL’S FOREST FAIRYTALE✨

When Sierra told me she wanted makeup that could withstand happy tears beneath the forest canopy, I knew exactly what she needed. We created a luminous look for her fair skin (no cakey orange bronzer here!) and those soft waves she dreamed of for her curls by the talented @hairstyling_by_tay

And let’s not forget Will—because grooms deserve that moment of presence too. Hand massage, cuticle care, and subtle skin perfecting had him relaxed and radiant for their joyful, inclusive celebration with a slightly structured vibe.

This is why I do what I do. Not just applying makeup and perfecting skin, but creating moments of calm in the cabin while you prepare to celebrate with your community. 

Camp Colton magic with these two was everything—moody spring forest vibes, then Katie capturing the glowy evening light, and makeup that lasted from “I do” to the afterparty.

Your wedding day beauty should feel as authentic as your love story. Oregon couples—ready to glow on your day? The calendar for 2025 is almost full and 2026 is filling up fast! 

✨ THE DREAM TEAM ✨
📸 Photography: @katyweaverphotography
📍 Venue: @camp.colton
📋 Coordinator: @slayyourdayevents 
💄Beauty @kellithomsen 
👗 Dress: @truesociety_thewhitedress @missstellayork
👔 Suit: @sewgenerouslybespoke
💐 Hair flower: @dinag_headpieces_studio.ca
🍽️ Caterer: @tcrcateringbbq
🍰 Cake: @hereforthecakes
🪑 Rentals: @powerofloverentals
🚌 Transport: @ecoshuttle

Special thanks to Sierra & Will for trusting me with your wedding day glow! Your love story was as beautiful as the forest that surrounded us. ✨

#pacificnorthwestbeauty #campcoltonwedding #weddingbeauty #bridalbeautyoregon #groomingforguys #forestwedding​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ #oregonmakeupartist
The most powerful skincare ingredient? Presence. The most powerful skincare ingredient? Presence. 

This morning, as I was applying my facial oil, I caught myself going through the motions while my mind raced ahead to today's priorities.

I stopped. Closed my eyes. Took a deep breath. And started again—this time feeling the oil warm between my fingertips, noticing how my skin drank it in, appreciating the subtle scent of Argan & Palma Rosa.

Those 90 seconds of genuine presence changed everything about the rest of my day.

After 25 years in beauty, I've realized something profound: these rituals aren't just about the products or even the results—they're rare moments when we have permission to truly connect with ourselves.

We live in a world that constantly pulls our attention outward. Your beauty ritual might be the only time today where you're fully allowed to focus inward.

You deserve those moments of self-connection.
Not because they'll make your skin glow (though they will). Not because they're efficient (they often aren't). But because in those quiet moments of presence, you remember who you are beneath all the roles you play and expectations you carry.

How can you transform one of your daily beauty rituals into a moment of genuine presence today? I'd love to hear in the comments below. 
 
#BeautyRitual #SelfConnection #PresentBeauty #cleanbeauty #skincare #skinprep
I don't just apply makeup—I create transformativ I don't just apply makeup—I create transformative beauty experiences by blending cutting-edge Western science with ancient Eastern wisdom.

My journey has taken me beyond standard beauty training into the depths of skin physiology, advanced formulation chemistry, AND the time-honored Eastern principles that view beauty as a reflection of inner harmony.

This unique perspective allows me to see what others miss: the connections between your skin's needs, your personal energy, and the perfect techniques to enhance YOUR natural radiance.

Whether you're preparing for your wedding day, updating your professional image, or seeking a skincare revamp—I bring a level of expertise that addresses both the visible AND invisible aspects of beauty.

Curious about how this integrated approach could transform YOUR beauty routine? Let's connect👇🏼

kellithomsen.com

Vendor Team:
Photography @taylorstuck
Videography @fireside.media
Beauty @kellithomsen
Hair @artistrybymai
Florals @songbirdfloristry
Dress @_houseofflora_@thedresstheory
@lovelybride
Men's Suit @bananrepublic
Venue @graygablesestate
Shoes @manoloblahnik
Rings @tiffanyandco
Earrings@@ameliegeorgebridal
Cake@jacivabakery
DJ @paradox_productions

#HolisticBeauty #CleanBeautyAdvocate #weddingglow #skinprep #bridalglow #weddingmakeup #skincare #skintips #SkincareTechnology #MakeupArtistry #BeautyExpert #IntegrativeBeauty
Our couple went above and beyond with this thought Our couple went above and beyond with this thoughtful Sunscreen Bar to keep guests glowing and protected during their outdoor celebration in the PNW! 

✨ Skin Prep for a Healthy Glow:
1. Hydrate Inside & Out: Drink plenty of water and use moisturizers to keep your skin plump and radiant.
2. Protect Your Skin: Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply every 3 hours during peak sun exposure.
3. Incorporate Anti-Inflammatory Herbs: Chamomile, spearmint, turmeric, calendula, and basil can help reduce skin inflammation, calm redness, and promote a balanced complexion. Sip on herbal teas or add these to your meals for an extra glow boost!

As we celebrate the start of spring today on the Spring Equinox, let’s remember that healthy skin is the best accessory! 

Planner
@yourperfectbridesmaid @ashley_wittwer 
Getting ready location @atticushotel
Venue @stollerwine
Photography @laurynkayphotography 
Videographer @portlandweddingvideographer
Florals @blumpdx
Beauty @kellithomsen & @hairstyling_by_tay
Rentals @ardenteventcollective
Photo Booth @smirkphotoboothco
Invitations & Signage@cravedesign
Dress @aandbe_portland
Transportation @bluestarpdx

#SpringEquinox #WeddingGoals #HealthySkin #SPFProtection #SkinPrep #CleanBeauty #Happy Spring
BEHIND HANNAH'S GLOW ✨- Swipe through to see the BEHIND HANNAH'S GLOW ✨- Swipe through to see the magical celebration at @cedarvaleevents, managed by the incredible team at @hostedby.co 

At Kelli Thomsen Beauty, we don't panic about skin issues—we solve them! Whether you're dealing with stress breakouts, unexpected redness, or just want to feel confident without heavy makeup, our proactive approach ensures your natural beauty shines through for your entire event.

Those pips original doughnuts weren't just a sweet treat for the reception—they represent something we can all understand: the balance between wedding indulgences and skin health! Real talk: enjoyment & stress can both trigger skin inflammation, breakouts, and sensitivity before your big day.

That's where our skincare journey began - Hannah and I worked through 3 Custom Dermaplane Facials w/ LED light therapy and my signature trifecta treatment. We addressed active breakouts, calmed inflammation, and created a customized routine that allowed her skin to THRIVE despite pre-wedding stress.

After 2 detailed trials addressing her specific concerns, Hannah's complexion was absolutely radiant come July—ready for the minimal, airbrush application that Yolianna executed perfectly. Her gorgeous updo by Marissa was elegant and captured so beautifully by @indwellweddings.

Remember: skin concerns are normal, especially during high-stress planning periods. Instead of covering them up, let's work together to address them at the source so you can enjoy BOTH the doughnuts AND flawless skin!

Our team collaborates seamlessly with your entire vendor squad (see this dream team tagged below!) to create a relaxed timeline dedicated entirely to YOUR vision as a couple.

💍 Now booking 2025/2026 couples for customized skincare solutions
🌿 Clean beauty advocates
✨ Creating confident, radiant couples through holistic skin care

Incredible Vendor Team:
Photo & Video: @indwellweddings
Event Management: @hostedby.co
Personal Florals: @indwellfloral
Beauty: @kellithomsen
Venue: @cedarvaleevents
Catering: @whitepepperpdx
Dessert: @pipsoriginal
DJ: @highergroundentertainment
#SkincareSolutions #AirbrushBeauty #WeddingMakeup  #OregonWedding #WeddingSkincare
Some moments take your breath away. Lane + Mason’s wedding day was one of those days where everything felt like it was meant to be. The Columbia River Gorge provided the perfect backdrop—crisp October air, golden light filtering through the trees, and that magical feeling of fall wrapping everyone in its embrace.

Their first look? Absolutely unforgettable. I couldn’t help myself—I snuck into the trees to witness the moment Mason turned around to see Lane for the first time. His face lit up with pure joy, and Lane’s excitement was written all over her glowing smile (which, yes, we made sure stayed flawless with a natural, radiant look!). It was one of those moments where time seemed to stand still, and I felt so honored to be part of it.

This day came together thanks to an incredible team of vendors who poured their hearts into every detail:
@hostedby.co - planning and design
@calebgaskinsphoto - photographer 
@foraged_blooms florals 
@kellithomsen - beauty 
@bluewaveband -  music 
@whitepepperpdx - catering 
@blossom.baking’s - cake 
@ardeneventcollective - rentals
@bbjlatavola - linens 
@thegriffinhouse - wedding venue 

When it comes to makeup and hair, my goal is always simple: I want you to feel like YOU—radiant, confident, and ready for every moment of your day. For Lane, we focused on enhancing her natural beauty with clean products that ensured her look stayed fresh from their emotional first look to dancing the night away.

If you’re planning your wedding and dreaming of a day where every detail feels intentional, let’s talk about how we can create a look that makes you feel beautiful inside and out. Your love story deserves nothing less than magic. 

#OctoberWedding #FirstLook  #OregonWedding #ColumbiaRiverGorge #PNWWedding #NaturalBeauty #WeddingInspo

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    4751 SW Seymour Ct.
    PORTLAND, OREGON 97221
    503.890.5355
    KELLI@KELLITHOMSEN.COM


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