Testimonials

 Bridal Clients

“Dear Peta-Gai, Thank you for the lovely time today. Love both your hair styling and the makeup was magic! You made me feel special and pretty. You are such a positive person and a great confidence booster! I can’t wait to have you be a part of my wedding day.”
Yuki Kojima, Bridal Client, July 2013

“Thank you for making me beautiful on my wedding day. You were amazing! We love you, PG!”
Ashlee McGill, Bridal Client, March 2013

“I would like to take the opportunity to THANK YOU PG and Iridis for the wonderful experience I had with you while getting my makeup done for my wedding in April this year. Firstly there was the trial, where my only request was to not look like a hooker or a transvestite on my wedding day… Thankfully you took this on board in the way it was intended… THE DAY ARRIVED…not that I was stressed, okay maybe just a little. But that was quickly forgotten when I sat down in the chair and the work began. Not only was it a fun experience, I was super happy with the end result, so was my husband when I entered the church. He said to me “You look amazing!” My entire bridal party (including my mum) all looked amazing, I was so happy, and I still am when I look back at the photos. I can say nothing except GREAT things about how professional you were, and continue to be. When I use my Iridis products (a gift from my Maid of Honour), I have a smile on my face. Thank you again PG and Iridis, you are totally AWESOME and I absolutely plan to use you again.”
Tara Jarvis, Project Manager, April 2013

“Peta-Gai was my make-up artist for a wedding that I was a part of and she was fantastic! She has a bubbly personality and she puts you at ease, and it was just like catching up with a long time friend. Being a person that has sensitive skin that is allergic to suntan lotion, I was concerned about whether I’d react to the Iridis makeup. But the makeup she used was fantastic, it did not even feel like I had makeup on, and most importantly, there was NO allergic reaction. The makeup lasted all day, and it still looked as fresh at the end of the night as it was when she’d originally applied it. If I ever need a makeup artist, there would be no other choice other than Peta-Gai. Thank you.”
Tania Chalmers, March 2013

“Thank you for a truly awesome piece of art on Saturday! I was just so happy with my makeup, with the natural yet very polished look. Thanks for listening to me and providing me with the ultimate makeup for my wedding! After 2 attempts at other makeup artists you were the stand out!”
Sasha Gradnig, Accountant, Bridal Makeup December 2012

“I’m really happy that my sister-in-law recommended you to me. You’re such a beautiful person inside and out, and it’s great to have that type of energy around me on my wedding day! It was also a massive relief for me to know that you’d be doing my makeup for my second reception the following day – less stress for me knowing that you’d take care of me and knew exactly what I wanted Plus your makeup skills are amazing – you really listened to me when I explained what I wanted in the initial consultation and every step of the way, you made sure that I was happy with the look. I think it was great when you went a bit further by adding a bit more pizazz to my look. You really do know how to bring out the most beautiful me, and I feel encouraged to continuously bring out the best I have to offer in every respect of my life (business and fun!)”
Renee Barachina, Renee Rose Events, Bridal Makeup, December 2012

“Dear Peta-Gai, Thank-you for making me and my bridesmaids look and feel so special on my wedding day. You helped to make the morning of my special day enjoyable and of course we were thrilled with the final product! As I don’t wear makeup most days, I’d warned Brian that I might look like I was wearing a lot. However he said that whilst I looked different, it didn’t look like as much as he expected, he was very impressed with it. I think that’s a sign of good makeup. More isn’t always better. You’re so good at what you do and I’m looking forward to booking in a party and learning some of your tricks. Thank-you so much!” Christie Boucher, Professional Risk & Development Executive, Bridal Makeup, October 2012

“Iridis did the makeup for my sister’s wedding, (Bride & all bridesmaids). We all looked wonderful, plus Peta-Gai made the whole experience heaps of fun. She tailored makeup to each person’s preferences; I asked for a natural look and was really delighted at the result. Looked natural but a million times better! She is a perfectionist and an artist who cares deeply about each client and puts her passion and focus into the job to ensure every person’s innate beauty is drawn out. Total pro!”
Liz Boulton, Researcher at Australian National University, September 2012

Special Occasion & Makeup Lesson Clients

“Well I can’t thank you enough for your massive effort yesterday – you were amazing. The girls had a fantastic day, as I’m sure you could see by the chatter and laughter and ooos and ohhs! You are very talented and you made each one of the girls look and feel like a million dollars. THANKS. I think the whole day was great for them getting ready together and seeing each other morph from “slob” to “sophisticated lady” by the end of the day. Thanks heaps and we’ll keep you in mind for next year, when they have their massive Year 12 Formal. THANKS AGAIN PG – we really appreciated everything and you are brilliant!” Wendy Barton, Director, engaged Iridis for her daughter’s Year 11 Formal – 8 clients, July, 2013

“Thank you so much PG – we had so much fun yesterday at our makeup lesson – can’t wait to get to work on my new look! You are truly talented – love the whole concept!”
Voula Andritsos, Learning & Development Officer, April 2013

“Hi PG, just wanted to say a massive thank you for our lovely makeup on Saturday. We all felt like a million dollars! Thanks so much & it was so great to catch up again!”
Rochelle Hudson, Insurance Account Manager, February 2013

“Peta-Gai has the fantastic ability to take a blank canvas (my face) and transform it into a work of art! Each time she has applied my makeup she has made me look and feel like a megastar! I highly recommend her professionalism, creativity and fun style.” January 10, 2013
Nancy Francis, Environmental Chemist, January 2013

“I employed Peta-Gai to give me a makeover. Her skills and techniques were outstanding. But more importantly, her teaching style is wonderfully engaging. I learned a great deal about applying my own makeup and about what suits me and what doesn’t. I recommend Peta-Gai and Iridis wholeheartedly and unreservedly.” Michelle Austin, Executive Director, October 12, 2012

“I’ve seen Peta-Gai and Iridis at work several times and have been inspired, warmed and encouraged by their professionalism and style of client interaction. I can definitely recommend their workshops and other services, I can honestly say I wouldn’t go anywhere else for makeup and beauty related services!”
Joanna Sherwell, owner of Model Success, Model Bonanza, and Industry Portfolio Building Events, October 2012

“A friend had used Peta-Gai’s services as a makeup artist for a special occasion and she looked so great I had to ask who did her makeup. I have since relied on Peta-Gai’s work when a special occasion is on and you want to look your best. She’s very creative, on-time and easy to deal with as well!”
Louise du Pre-Alba, Hired Peta-Gai as a makeup artist in 2010, September 2012

“As a photographer, I cannot recommend Peta-Gai and Iridis Cosmetics highly enough. They have products to suit every occasion, whether formal, informal or high fashion and Peta-Gai is a highly skilled makeup artist with an eye for detail and is incredibly generous with her teaching and mentoring. I love using Iridis products on my own face and always recommend Iridis to my clients.”
Suzanne Symon, Suzanne Symon Photography, September 2012

“I have known Peta-Gai for over 10 years, and in all that time, I have never seen Peta-Gai in any state but glamorous, and always “fantabulous”. Her hair, skin and nails are always in a perfect state. She is an inspiration to working women and she has inspired me to adopt some of her fantabulous-ness to my beauty routine. Above all, she is a consummate professional in whatever she does, and her attention to detail is faultless.”
Rena Tjio, Compliance & Risk Professional, September 2012

“PG is an enthusiastic and talented Makeup Artist. Her attention to detail is second to none and the final look was amazing. I learnt so much about application, quality of products and ‘the look’ that really suited me. I truly felt very special and would highly recommend PG’s work and talents to future customers.”
Kerrie Howard, Investment Executive, September 2012

“PG is a very special person. She sees beauty in everyone. She is able to make others feel that they are the special one. And that is a true gift.”
Kris Reynolds, Organizational Development Executive, ‘Let’s Talk Career’, September 2012

“Peta-Gai was referred to me by a friend.  I needed a glamorous vampire look for my 40th Birthday.  I was having a Halloween Party!  I was able to talk to Peta-Gai before the event and go through various styles of makeup to get the effect that I wanted.  I think I changed my mind at least 3 times but this didn’t bother PG in the slightest. She gave me advice and sent me plenty of photos before I finally found ‘the look’ I wanted and sent it to her.  She actually trialled ‘the look’ on herself and sent me photos. She was dedicated and it was obvious she wanted me to look exactly like I had asked.  When she came to apply the makeup, she was professional, easy to get along with and I was completely spoilt and pampered. Needless to say, my makeup came out exactly how I had dreamed and with great instructions on how to remove it so I wouldn’t stress after my party. I highly recommend Peta-Gai.  You will get that dream look you want!”
Alfina, Accountant, Speciality Makeup Client (Vampire) August 2012

“Dear Peta-Gai & Kel, Thank-you so much for the most amazing Saturday. Peta-Gai, I loved the makeup and the jokes. Kel I loved you being a panda, it was so funny. So thank-you so much for making dreams come true. I am sure to never forget any of this from the photo shoot.”
Eloise, “Teenage Best Friends” Makeup Shoot October 2012

“As a mum to three small children, I rarely have time to focus on myself, so when I won a makeover competition through Iridis Cosmetics, I was beyond excited! I knew of Peta-Gai’s reputation for making her clients look and feel beautiful and had seen many examples of her amazing work, but when I met her, she far exceeded my expectations. PG ‘s beautiful personality ensured that I instantly felt at ease. I loved the way she took the time to get to know me and understand the particular “look” I had in mind. Her extensive product knowledge and attention to every detail ensured that I looked and felt incredible. The endless compliments I received as a result of her work, were a testament to her passion, professionalism and natural flair for make-up artistry. I will definitely be beating down her door for my next big occasion and have already recommended her to all my friends!”
Natalie Scira, Teacher, Special Occasion Makeup, January 2012

Commercial Clients (Photo Shoots)

“I wanted to share with you how much I LOVE your beautiful makeup. My experience within the industry has had me working with many brands of makeup both highly priced and budget.Being a makeup artist and hairdresser in the past has given me a keen interest in makeup and every woman wants to look her very best. Your foundation is exquisite and my skin looks flawless. Your wonderful range of eye shadows and mascara have proved favourites, not forgetting your lipsticks. Great colours and again your makeup stays on! These days busy women have very little time to check if they still look good so this is a big plus again with your products.After a recent photo shoot with you for new photos for my website , your way of applying makeup to suit your model is a flair and a gift. My photos Look amazing and you and your photographer have a way of making the shoot fun.”
Judy Browne, Spiritual Healer, Balance Your Health, March 2013

“I had the pleasure of working with Peta-Gai when I was operating a small wedding hire business – Vintage Bridal. PG assisted me with a photographic shoot for Vintage Bridal by providing the makeup required for the chosen model. PG was responsible for the provision of all makeup products and the application to suit and complement the desired look and feel of the garments worn and the setting in which the photographs were to be taken. PG managed the complete makeup process from beginning to end in a professional, well organised and cheerful manner. Her makeup artistry was perfect for the occasion and the products she provided were of high quality. Since then PG has gone on to develop her own makeup line – Iridis. I have no doubt that PG’s dedication to developing Iridis has resulted in a high quality, wearable and affordable product. I highly recommend PG in capacity as makeup artistry and also Iridis.
Julia Grainger, Owner/Operator, Whitby Grainger, October 2012

Product Testimonials

“I just wanted to let you know how much I adore your primer. I wear this as a base under the application of my eyeshadow, lip gloss and lip stick. I absolutely love the fact that it actually works 🙂 I have used many primers in the past and this honestly is the best one I have used. I applied eye shadow this morning at 6am and only just washed off my make-up and it still looked fresh… ♥ Iridis Cosmetics!”
Tima Elhajj, Tima Designs, July 2013

“People need to know about your amazing product rage, I just LOVE my lippy!”
Stephy Marshall, Freelance Model, March 2013

“The Iridis range is very carefully selected and it shows. I particularly like the makeup brushes – they have made a world of difference in how professional my makeup looks now. The makeup in my profile photo is Iridis, applied by Peta-Gai.”
Michelle Austin, Psychologist, October 2012

“If you are looking for that fabulous make over, I highly recommend Peta-Gai McLaughlin of Iridis Cosmetics. Her talent and passion shows in her results and you walk away feeling and looking fabulous. Behind every great artist are great tools and her make up range is just beautiful. If you are in need of a makeover for that special occasion or to just spoil yourself and feel fabulous, don’t look too much further. Great work Peta-Gai.”
Dora Capetanakis, Corporate Superannuation Consultant, BT Financial Group, October 2012

“Iridis Cosmetics – great product, fabulous people! You can even have a one-on-one demonstration in your own home.”
Isabel Nalato, Executive Assistant, October 2012

“Peta-Gai is an inspiring woman, who is driven, innovative and her positive outlook has led to many successes. I have known Peta-Gai for many years; she has been an incredible mentor to me who is always willing to offer guidance and support. I highly recommend Peta-Gai. Iridis Cosmetics is an amazing product and partnered with Peta-Gai’s professionalism and enthusiasm I look forward to watching it grow.”
Tiani Bradilovic, Professional Development & Events Officer, September 2012

“Iridis makeup is awesome! I’ve been using makeup for 18 years now and nothing came as close. The fact that you can have someone as great as PG come do your makeup for a function with good quality products is also a bonus. Highly recommended ! Love it!”
Cristina Bozinis, Investment Compliance Consultant, September 2012

“Iridis has a really fabulous, high quality make up range, and it’s wonderful to be able to support a local business! No more need to buy those overseas brands. Peta-Gai has boundless energy, passion and great artistic flair which she applies flawlessly with her make up. And she made this tired mum look like I’d had a really good night’s sleep!”
Janina Loch, Senior Recruitment Consultant, September 2012

“An absolute quality product that ticks all the boxes! With an amazing artist so energetic and Enthusiastic, PG will soon make you realise YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL and with a little ‘PG education’ you’ll soon be glowing everyday with beautiful makeup! I recommend Iridis products and personal service to everyone! Finally an honest, genuine, makeup artist with very high quality but affordable product!”
Iona Bird, Financial Controller, September 2012

“I have used and will continue to use Peta-Gai and Iridis Cosmetics every time I attend a formal event. I have had a different look every time and Peta-Gai always manages to do stunning make up. To top it all off Peta-Gai comes to my house, talks me through the techniques she is using and it all washes off quickly and easily. I couldn’t recommend Peta-Gai and Iridis Cosmetics more thoroughly! Not only is Iridis Cosmetics a fantastic product, but the fact that you can have a one-on-one in your own home, demonstrating different kinds of looks is fantastic.”
Samantha Roberts, Executive Assistant, September 2012

Industry Professionals Testimonials – Photographers, other Makeup Artists & Models

“Thanks PG for an awsome makeup refresher workshop yesterday! So excited to learn some new tips and techniques as well as regain some confidence and inspiration on old ones. Loving my new products and rocking my Glamour Puss lippy!” Fiona Gledden, Qualified Makeup Artist & Hairdresser, September 2013

“As a Photographer, I had the pleasure of having a make-up lesson with PG to assist me in applying makeup and styling hair for my own photo shoots. PG is a professional who is very dedicated, creative, patient and a skilled make-up artist and teacher. PG gave me the confidence and skills to move forward in the art of Make-up. I loved that the workshop was dedicated to my needs and I was able to ask questions specific to what I wanted to learn. I would definitely recommend PG for anyone wanting to learn or improve their skills.” Sharlene Annesley, Photographer, August 2013

“I know PG both personally and professionally, and she is an amazing woman with a beautiful heart, which is presented in her work and in the way she treats others with kindness and respect. Her enthusiasm and friendliness is inviting and makes you feel at home. She makes each and everyone feel special and one of a kind. PG’s work is absolutely amazing and I would highly recommend her to anyone, she is a pleasure to work beside. Your day is filled with fun and laughter with the end result a masterpiece, making you feel beautiful both inside and out. I have witnessed a large amount of PG’s work and she knows how to work those brushes to complement each individual and let their beauty shine through.
Sheree Smith, Freelance Hair Stylist, Qualified Hair Dresser and Event Manger, July 2013

“Peta-Gai is exceptional at what she does! Not only does she make her clients look amazing but also feel amazing! I have never worked with anyone as passionate, genuine, selfless and talented. A true artist in the field and won’t stop until both you and her are satisfied with the way you look and feel. I often look at the mirror in disbelief after working with her simply because i can’t believe that’s me staring back! A true makeover from the inside out!!”
Stephanie Jeannot, Freelance Model, June 2013

“As a freelance model, I’ve had the pleasure of working together with Peta-Gai of Iridis Cosmetics on a number of occasions. Peta-Gai, equipped with her fashion-forward range of Iridis Cosmetics, is an amazing make-up artist (she knows exactly how to bring out the best features in anybody no matter their face-structure, complexion, or skin-type); as well as an incredibly vibrant, positive and bubbly personality; she livens up the set (Iridis brush roll in hand!) at the same time as motivating and reassuring her models/ clients. What makes her even more of an asset is Peta-Gai never hesitates to share her expertise or help with mentoring other artists newer to the industry. Among the fashion industry I have to say that PG is truly one of the most genuinely lovely artists out there! Would recommend her in a heartbeat!” Heidi M, Freelance Model, June 2013

“I love working with PG, she has allowed me to be a part of many of her photo shoots as a hair stylist, and I’m so grateful for the experience to work with such an inspiring person. On top of that, she is always teaching me all the makeup tricks! She has such a welcoming nature and she makes everyone around her happy just being in her presence. She is blessed with exceptional make up skills and I highly recommend Iridis products and services to everyone!” Kimmy Tran, Hair Stylist, June 2013

“I have worked with PG numerous times, particularly on photo shoots, and I’m always impressed by her professionalism and her makeup talents. She is great to be around, and have on a photo shoot, because she keeps everyone’s energy up. I enjoy working with her, because she provides great direction to the models, and comes up with fun and clever ideas on creating the perfect image. Her makeup work means less retouching for me – which is always a good thing.”
David Thompson of Tacitic Photography, June 2013

“PG, working with you was probably my happiest moment at the Model Bonanza – Portfolio Building Event. It wasn’t just because you did a wonderful job with the make-up you applied, it was also because you were a friend throughout the photo-shoot. You gave me encouragement with each pose I made and reminded me that I can do this. You are not only a wonderful make-up artist, but a great mentor and friend. I appreciate that so much.”
Rebecca Herft, Freelance Model, June 2013

“Thank you PG, you’re just one of the most kindest, helpful and giving women I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. Thank you for everything and for always making me feel so comfortable. Very lucky to have met you.”
Mallysa D, Freelance Makeup Artist, May 2013

“I recently worked with Peta-Gai at a Model Success ‘Model Bonanza’ portfolio building photo shoot. Peta-Gai is engaging, warm, highly motivated and a joy to be around. As Head Makeup Artist at the Bonanza, she warmly took other artists under her wing, guiding, instructing and offering the best mentoring possible. I would have no hesitation in recommending Peta-Gai for her amazing makeup talents, and would love any opportunity to work with her again and receive her wonderful mentoring skills.”
Amity McGuiness, Director/Makeup Artist, Amity Makeup Artistry, November 2012

“I cannot recommend Peta-Gai and Iridis Cosmetics highly enough. We have worked together on photo shoots and with brides since 2011 and Peta-Gai is always my preferred makeup artist. Peta-Gai is a highly skilled makeup artist with an eye for detail and is incredibly generous with her teaching and mentoring. She is a highly creative and personable artist who has genuine passion for her chosen craft. She is the only makeup artist I would ever allow to work on my face and I trust her implicitly. Iridis cosmetics have products to suit every skin type and occasion, and their classes are comprehensive, relevant, well-structured and informative.”
Suzanne Symon, Executive Assistant, hired Peta-Gai as a makeup artist in 2011, 2012 & 2013

“As an important member of my business network, I approached Peta-Gai to be part of a fund raising exercise for the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. Peta-Gai has kindly donated a professional makeup class to my fundraising event. In doing this Peta-Gai has demonstrated outstanding community spirit. Working in a highly corporate environment, I would not have approached Peta-Gai if I did not have complete and total confidence in her ability, professionalism and product. My reputation in my business is of paramount importance and I could not afford to engage a business that would not be able to enhance this reputation. With her help we will reach our goal and help provide important research dollars to infinitely important work to help find a cure for cancer. Thank you Peta-Gai.”
Michael Symon, GE Money, September 2012

“PG is a brilliant makeup artist and more importantly a fantastic communicator. She’s a pleasure to work with, does a flawless makeup job time, after time, and I would highly recommend her and Iridis Cosmetics in both a hands on, and teaching capacity.”
Daniel Fisher, Photographer at Daniel Fisher Photography, May 10, 2012