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How To Be Prepared For Your Makeup Preview

NARS-concealer
Photo: Victoria Beddoes Photography

Planning your wedding day is both exciting and overwhelming. To look and feel beautiful on your special day, preparation for your makeup preview is essential. This guide will provide you with a clear checklist tailored for brides preparing for their makeup trials.


Gather Inspiration For Your Makeup Preview


Having a well-defined vision can enhance your makeup trial.


Collecting photos from Pinterest is helpful and you still can, but sometimes its easy to forget that these images are highly edited giving us unrealistic expectations. I highly recommend browsing your chosen makeup artists instagram account and either saving or screenshotting looks that you like from there. Not only does this help your makeup artist understand your goal but it also helps you to rest assured that your chosen MUA can achieve that look. The more photos, the better so that we can analyse the style that shows the most. through them Focus on specific elements such as lip colours, eyeshadow shades and overall aesthetics. For instance, if you love a soft, natural look bring those pictures to showcase your style. If there is a specific eye look you like, bring that.


Showing Photos Of You


This one is so important to me as a makeup artist. Put it this way, if I have never met you before your trial and you are sitting in my chair with a bare face (recommended), then I don't know how much makeup you are comfortable with wearing and what your style is. Gather some images of you wearing makeup such as when you last attended a wedding as a guest, when you last went 'out out' or even when you have had makeup done in the past and liked it. Nobody likes it when I ask for these, but they really really help! If you usually wear a winged liner, you're probably going to feel odd if I don't do one for your bridal look.


Gather Images Of Your Dress


I'm nosy and want to see your dress but I also need to see your dress so I know what kind of neckline it is, what colour it is, if it is plain or embellished and what the overall vibe is: romantic, figure-hugging, flowy etc. If you have your bridal parties outfits saved, show these as well!


Skin Prep Essentials


Your skin's health impacts how your makeup looks and wears throughout the day. Good makeup starts with good skin.


Upon booking me as your makeup artist, you'll receive a 13-page PDF of my 'Glowing Bride Skincare Guide' full of tips, tricks and recommended products. Months before your weddings, try to establish a skincare routine you can stick to and don't introduce anything new close to your trial date OR wedding date in case of sensitivities or reactions.


On the day of the preview, arrive with a clean and hydrated face. If you're dealing with common skin concerns, like oily areas or dry patches, share these with your makeup artist.


Choose Your Clothing Wisely


While it may seem silly, but what you wear to your trial can influence the overall effect of your makeup.


Wear a top/dress similar to the neckline and colour of your wedding dress. This will help you envision how your makeup compliments your complete look. Try to avoid outfits with heavy prints on them.


As well as this, style your hair similar to how it will be for your wedding if you couldn't schedule your hair trial on the same day. It doesn't have to look pro! If you're wearing your hair scraped back for your trial but then wearing it down for the wedding, you might not feel your best self.


Fave product? Bring it.


If you have favorite beauty product, consider bringing them along.


We don't get offended if you have something you particularly love and would like to incorporate it into the look.


Whether it's a specific lipstick shade or a trusted foundation, sharing your preferences aids your makeup artist in customising a look that feels authentic to you. For example, if you love a particular shade of blush, request that they incorporate it for a personalised touch. The only thing we say is just to be open for suggestions.


Prepare for Testing


Your bridal makeup must last all day.


I use layering techniques such as cream products underneath powder products to help with longevity of the makeup.


I recommend wearing the makeup as long as you possibly can to see its lasting power. If you find that you are dry or going oily/creasing in certain areas, tell your makeup artist EVERYTHING so that they can make notes for things to change on the day (these won't be major things). I personally like a really in-depth feedback email from my clients!


Oh, and I recommend getting your partner to take you out for a meal or go out with your friends to make the most of it...


Seek Professional Advice


Don't hesitate to lean on your makeup artist's expertise.


Ask about what looks best for your skin type, eye shape, hair colours and features in general. For instance, if you have blue eyes, they might suggest certain eyeshadow shades that make your eyes pop. Their insights can help create a beautiful and balanced look tailored to your features.


Notes


After your trial, your makeup artist should make notes on the products and the techniques used to create your look including any changes you have agreed on at that time.


They will take photos in different lighting conditions but we also advise that you do this as the bride. This reference will come in handy when making final adjustments in the weeks leading up to your wedding.


By following this checklist, you ensure clarity and confidence for your trial. Each step brings you closer to the bridal look you've dreamed of. Work closely with your makeup artist, don't be afraid to discuss things you are unsure of, and embrace the joy of preparing for your big day!


 

Makeup-artist-at-work

Hey! I'm Mary, bridal makeup artist of 6.5 years, specialising in soft and natural looks personal to you.


If you are still looking for your wedding makeup artist, get in touch for my bridal brochure and availability!



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