Having worked with many brides, there is one thing I know for sure — ALL women want to look like themselves at their most beautiful on their wedding day. It’s my job as their makeup artist to help them feel confident, special and nothing less than stunning for their special day. Besides making sure that their makeup lasts throughout the tears and family kisses, the most important thing is that their fiancee is wowed and actually recognises the woman standing at the end of the aisle! lol
So being that we’re almost in wedding season, (thank god winter is almost over!!) and many future brides are in the thick of planning their special day, I wanted to put together a list of tips to help take the stress out of this part of your day.
1. CHOOSING A MAKEUP ARTIST
When choosing makeup artist for your special day, one of the first things to consider is if you are wanting someone to come to you, or are you happy to travel to a salon or store.
Specialising in bridal makeup, and having many friends who have tied the knot, I understand that it’s usually easier for the makeup artist to come to you because then you can be in your own environment, relax and not have to worry about rushing around anywhere.
Weddings are expensive and it’s ideal to cut costs where you can, but as with most trades, with a makeup artist you are paying for experience, professionalism and the quality of the product used. Cheaper isn’t always better, especially when it comes to wedding makeup. Try and look at the makeup artist’s previous work through Instagram or their website, find out what brands of product they use, and ALWAYS book in a trial so that you can meet, discuss ideas and try looks that you like.
After a trial, the most important thing is that you feel comfortable and happy. If you walk away and are unsure about that wing eyeliner or lip colour for example, talk to the makeup artist and let them know. I make sure my brides feel free to contact me at any time. We want to make you feel 100% happy, so feedback and direction is always helpful.
2. WHAT LOOK DO I WANT?
Your wedding day is not a time to try that bright red lipstick or super smokey eye, if it’s not something you’re used to. Your makeup should not be so natural that you look as though you’re not wearing anything in photos, but it also shouldn’t be so crazy that you look back in years to come and say, “What on earth was I thinking?!!”
Wedding makeup should be long lasting and timeless and not hugely different from what your usual style is. Make sure you use waterproof eyeliner and mascara as it will last all day and not run during any tears. I usually recommend using lip colours that aren’t too high maintenance.
3. PRE WEDDING TIPS
There are many things you can do before the big day to help you look and feel amazing. Here are few key tips to consider.
:: Drink lots of water to hydrate the skin and make sure you’re using good products to moisturise, especially eye cream! Check out my skincare swearbys for some great products.
:: Don’t tweeze or wax on the day of the wedding. Makeup never sits right on freshly waxed skin.
:: If you’re wanting a tan for the wedding, make sure you test the tan beforehand. Nobody likes the obvious look and smell of a fake-tan and there is nothing worse than being stuck with it on your wedding day! There are many great spray tans and self tanners out there that look natural and sun kissed so make sure you get it right to avoid looking like an Oompa Loompa!
4. WEDDING DAY MUST HAVES
Amongst all the chaos and excitement of the big day, there are a few things you can do to make sure you look and feel amazing.
:: Make sure your bridesmaids pack a small bag of essentials for touch ups throughout the day. Lip stick and lip liner/gloss is a must, some pressed powder to control shine and a concealer to help brighten up the under eye area. Blush is one of the first areas to fade and it’s so important for photos, so if it fits, throw some blush in too. Also include some cotton buds and tissues for emergencies.
:: Have a small bottle or sample size of perfume with you to spritz throughout the day.
:: Make sure you slow down and be present in the moment. The day will go by so fast, it’s important to take some time to yourself to appreciate what’s going on around you. Absorb as much as you can, this is one of the most important days of your life! Enjoy it!!
If you’re planning your special day, contact me for all your bridal makeup needs.
Stacey xx
