When it comes to wedding planning, every detail matters, and that includes the small details–like bridesmaid makeup. While the couple getting married is naturally the star of the show, bridesmaids play a crucial role in making the day unforgettable. That’s why their look should complement the overall wedding while making them feel amazing.
From classic elegance to simple glam that looks and feels natural, the right makeup can bring your bridesmaid looks to the next level. No matter what your style and preferences are, we’ve got bridesmaid makeup ideas that are easy to recreate. Whether you’re aiming for a soft, romantic glow or a bold, over-the-top look, there’s something for everyone.
A bridesmaid’s look doesn’t just end with the makeup. You have to think about your hair too. If you’re on the search for a hairstyle to wear while you support one of your best friends on their big day, check out these hairstyles to take to your stylist–think updos, vintage-inspired curls, and more!
Keep reading for everything you need to know the ace your wedding hair and makeup trial. Image by Adrian Steinbach.
All eyes are on you on your wedding day, so it’s important to look and feel your absolute best. And that all starts with the prep work before the big day–aka your wedding hair and makeup trial. Whether you’re going for a glamorous or more natural look, a test run is always a smart move. It helps you and your beauty experts get on the same page and allows you to see how your dream style holds up throughout the day.
This pivotal pre-wedding appointment is an exciting sneak peek at your bridal look and sets the tone for your overall beauty on the wedding day. So, when should you mark it on your calendar? Keep reading for all the answers to your questions, including booking tips, preparation advice, and insider tricks to ace your wedding hair and makeup trial.
Imagine your wedding hair and makeup trial as a practice run, like a dress rehearsal before the grand show. Skilled professionals will work their magic, transforming your locks and applying the makeup style of your choice. It’s all about giving you a sneak peek and seeing how your chosen look comes together. This way, you can avoid surprises on your wedding day.
How Much Does a Wedding Hair and Makeup Trial Cost?
The price of wedding hair and makeup trials can vary depending on the vendor, timeline, and number of trials you opt for. The cost can range anywhere from being completely free to equaling the amount you’d pay on your actual wedding day. More commonly, the trial cost is a fraction of what you’d pay for the wedding day services.
Some hair and makeup professionals follow a general guideline where the trial or preview is priced at around half of the cost of the actual wedding day beauty services. However, keep in mind that these prices can differ depending on your location and the experience level of the artist. It’s always a good idea to ask about their rates before you book the appointment to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
When Should You Book Your Wedding Hair and Makeup Trial?
To ensure you have plenty of time to try and perfect your dream look, it’s best to schedule your wedding hair and makeup trial three to six months before your big day. Usually, one trial is enough, but you can schedule more if you’re unsure about different looks or want to try new things. This helps calm your nerves and gives you more chances to get to know and trust your beauty experts.
Date, Venue, And Style Considerations Before Booking Your Trial
Before booking, there are a couple of essential steps to take. First, make sure you know the date and venue of your wedding. The location and season, like a summer beach or a winter ballroom, can influence the best looks for you. Also, choose your wedding dress and look at accessories like veils, headpieces, necklaces, and earrings. The style of your dress can help you decide how formal or relaxed your hair and makeup should be, and your accessories can determine if you should go for an updo, curls, braids, or a softer or more dramatic makeup look.
Call Ahead of Scheduling Your Wedding Hair and Makeup Trial and Ask About Pre-Trial Prep
Prepare for your hair and makeup trials by chatting with the beauty pros beforehand. Many are happy to hop on a call. Some even offer free preliminary consultations. This conversation serves two purposes: building a connection with you and understanding your vision to provide valuable insights for your planning process.
For a successful trial, follow the instructions from your stylist or artist. They may ask you to wash your hair or leave it for a day and have your skin untouched or moisturized. If you plan to have a spray tan or tinted brows on your wedding day, try to get them done before the trial. Also, keep your hair in a similar length and condition to what it will be on the big day. This way, you won’t surprise your hairstylist with sudden changes like new bangs or freshly colored hair.
Consider the weather when discussing your hair and makeup plans with your stylist. For example, warmer seasons may require more maintenance for down styles. If your hair doesn’t hold curls well, you may want to avoid them when the weather or season is unfavorable. For summer weddings, preventing makeup from melting is crucial. Prepare with sweat-proof makeup tips to ensure your bridal beauty lasts throughout the day without mishaps.
You can also have your hair and makeup team with you throughout the wedding day. This allows them to help with touch-ups and handle emergencies, ensuring that your hair and makeup stay beautiful and your look stays consistent throughout the event.
Research and Create an Inspiration Board
Deciding on your wedding hair and makeup look can be challenging, which is why we recommend creating an inspiration board of beauty looks you love. Label specific elements you admire, like bangs or a particular color. Share the private album or Pinterest board with your stylist, including snapshots of your dress and flowers. Keep an open mind during your appointment and be willing to change your initial plan based on the trial. Trust your stylist’s expertise and use the photos as inspiration.
Take Note of What You Didn’t Like About Past Looks
If you need help expressing what you want, describing what you don’t want can be just as helpful. Reflect on past experiences where you didn’t like your appearance, such as being part of a wedding party. Share these details with your stylists, explaining why you felt that way. This will make your trial more efficient as they’ll know what to avoid, saving you from waiting until each look is finished to figure out what you don’t like.
Come Alone (or With One to Two Trusted VIPs)
While bringing your entire wedding party to your beauty trial may be tempting, it’s best to keep it intimate. Instead, consider bringing along one or two trusted individuals who can offer their support. By keeping it small, you can focus on your thoughts and preferences, making confident decisions that reflect your style and vision. Opt for trusted individuals like a parent, sibling, or maid of honor to provide support and create a harmonious atmosphere.
Dress the Part: Replicate Your Dress Color and Neckline
Choosing the right outfit for your trial can make a big difference. Try to wear something similar in color to your wedding dress, as it helps you see how your makeup will look next to the white or off-white dress. Also, consider replicating the neckline when styling your hair. Whether it’s backless, strapless, or off-the-shoulder, matching your hairstyle to the dress neckline gives you a better idea of how everything will look on your big day.
To get ready for your hair and makeup trial, you can bring your own makeup bag with your favorite go-to products. This helps your artist understand your preferences and the specific items you like to use. They can then suggest similar alternatives that are better for long-lasting wear. Artists also consider your comfort level when making recommendations. Even if the artist has their own products, using what you’re familiar with will boost your confidence and make you feel more relaxed on your special day.
When getting your hair styled for your wedding day, remember to bring any accessories you plan to wear, like veils or combs. This helps the stylists understand what they’ll be working with. If you want long, thick hair but have shorter or thinner hair, you can consider using clip-in extensions. These extensions blend with your natural hair and make it look fuller and more voluminous. Another option is to try beautiful bridal headbands, which add elegance while keeping a relaxed feel. These accessories can be special keepsakes from your big day.
If you haven’t chosen your accessory yet, bringing something similar can give the stylists an idea of the look you want. During your trial, take photos of each hairstyle from different angles so you can make an informed decision. This way, you can carefully choose the hairstyle that compliments your overall look the best.
Have Realistic Expectations
When browsing social media and Pinterest for hair and makeup inspiration, it’s important to remember that many of these photos are staged to showcase hair from the best angles, with filters to hide imperfections. Comparing your natural hair to these images can lead to unrealistic expectations. Instead, bring pictures you like to your stylist and listen to their honest feedback on what can be achieved based on your hair’s length, fullness, and texture.
Similarly, when it comes to makeup, remember that real skin has texture, and that’s beautiful. Embrace your own unique features and trust your makeup artist to enhance your natural beauty. By having realistic expectations and working closely with your stylist and makeup artist, you can achieve a look that makes you feel confident on your special day.
Make the most of your hair and makeup trial by taking notes and asking plenty of questions. This is your chance to experiment and find the perfect look for your wedding day. Jot down the best products and techniques for you, and consider getting miniatures for your day-of kit. Don’t be shy to ask your stylist for tips, product recommendations, and advice on preparing your hair and skin. They can also suggest products to keep you looking fresh throughout the day.
Also, use the trial to talk about timing and logistics. Note how long your hair and makeup takes, and discuss the schedule with your stylist to ensure everyone gets ample time. Ask about space requirements, lighting preferences, payment methods, and how much time they will spend with you and your bridal party. Take this opportunity to ask any lingering questions so you’re well-prepared and don’t need to chase them down later. The more you communicate, the smoother and more enjoyable the experience will be.
Give Honest Feedback
Embrace the opportunity to share your thoughts during your beauty trial. Remember, it’s all about finding the perfect look for you. If there’s something you’re not completely satisfied with, politely express your preferences to your stylist. They are there to make you feel amazing. Open communication will ensure a positive outcome, whether minor adjustments or major concerns.
Make Plans After Your Wedding Makeup and Hair Trial
Don’t let cost hold you back from the trial. Instead, find the positives it brings. Schedule it when you have another special event, like an engagement shoot or bridal shower. This allows you to test the longevity of your look and capture it in photographs. You can make any necessary adjustments and ensure your hair and makeup stay flawless throughout your wedding day.
Now that you’re ready for your wedding makeup and hair trial, take a moment to explore the latest makeup and hair trends for inspiration. Find ideas that match your style and make you feel fabulous. And, of course, don’t forget to check out our official beauty timeline and skincare routine, packed with helpful tips to achieve a flawless look on your special day. Your wedding day is your chance to shine, and with the right inspiration and guidance, you can create a stunning bridal transformation that truly reflects your beautiful and unique self.
If there’s anyone we’re taking makeup advice from, it’s wedding day makeup artists. They’ve nailed the best products and practices for enhancing your natural beauty. They’ve also figured out the secret to ensuring their clients’ makeup stays in place all day, from the teary vows to the sweaty dance floor. Plus, they have experience working with every kind of skin type—finding a product that works for everyone. And that’s why we fully trust their recommendations.
So if you’re on the hunt for new makeup products to add to your collection, these professional makeup artists are sharing their tried and true makeup products that are a staple for wedding days.
1. One Size On ‘Til Dawn Setting Spray To Complete Wedding Day Makeup Look
“My name is Michelle, a makeup artist and the founder of Willow House Beauty. My staple wedding day product is the One Size On Til’ Dawn setting spray. The most important aspect of wedding day beauty is longevity, and this product is my first line of defense to ensure my client’s makeup stays. The setting spray keeps makeup shine-free and waterproof for 16 hours. It protects against tears, sweat, hugs, and all of the things that happen during a wedding day!”
2. Skindinavia Makeup Primer Spray Oil Control
This with oily skin, listen up. This TikTok wedding makeup artist is sharing her secret weapon for those who have extremely oily skin. She uses the Skindinavia Makeup Primer Spray Oil Control “before skincare and sometimes even after.” It’s for those that consider their skin to be excessively oily, eliminating shine and reducing breakouts. It’s a lightweight mist that clears pores and creates a flawless, long-lasting makeup look.
3. Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter
The Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter was recommended by not one but two professional wedding makeup artists. Caitie Kenzie from The Future Mrs uses this product on most of her clients as either a primer or an all-over base. It gives the skin an effortless lit-from-within glow and photographs beautifully—a double win.
Lyndsay Simon Beauty is a lover of this Charlotte Tilbury and says, “It’s my favorite makeup staple that I use on almost every client who sits in my chair. I use this as a primer before foundation to give the skin a lit-from-within look (think about the way your skin looks surrounded by candlelight). Your skin will have the perfect glow without looking too shiny.” After these glowing recommendations, we’re sold.
4. Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation
The number one question this TikTok wedding day makeup artist gets asked is “What is your go-to foundation?” And she’s giving us a little reminder that sticking with OG products isn’t a bad thing. As the saying goes: if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. That’s why she sticks with her favorite long-lasting foundation, Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation. Though she’s tried many different foundations, this is the one she will constantly go back to. She says “I feel like I can use this for almost all of my clients, depending on the skin prep. The finish is beautiful, it’s long-wearing, and the shade range is great. I just can’t say enough great things about it.”
5. Tom Ford Shade And Illuminate Cream Contour Duo
If you’re dreaming of creating a makeup look that’s long-lasting, has a soft glow, and has a bit of dimension, Katie Moore from The Future Mrs has found the contour duo that’ll give you just that. Tom Ford Shade And Illuminate Cream Contour Duo is her makeup must-have when it comes to wedding day makeup.
6. Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint
Having a versatile foundation in your makeup bag is crucial, and Vic Anderson from The Future Mrs has found the one. Her experience stretches from editorial to TV and film, and now bridal—and Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint has never failed her. This is a must-have item to have in your makeup bag because “it’s a sheer foundation that is buildable and creates a flawless base with a soft matte finish that requires less powder for a polished, minimalist look.”
7. Tigers Eye Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool
When it comes to creating a flawless makeup look, it’s all in the preparation. And Reanin Glah with The Future Mrs is switching it up and giving us her favorite skincare tool that’s a must-have in her makeup bag. She says that she uses her Tigers Eye Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool “during skin prep, and it completely changes how I’m able to work in skincare, which then enhances how beautifully makeup sits overtop. I also love that it’s a luxury experience for my brides.”
8. Wedding Day Makeup Must-Have: Laneige Glowy Makeup Serum
As we said, it’s all in the skin prep. And that’s true for this TikTok makeup artist’s must-have skincare product. Before applying any makeup to the face she always uses a hydrating serum, her favorite being the Laneige Glowy Makeup Serum. “It locks in moisture and controls oil throughout the day, creating a smooth more perfected-looking appearance.”
9. Dior BACKSTAGE Glow Face Palette
This next recommendation is coming right from TikTok. This professional wedding makeup artist swears by the Dior BACKSTAGE Glow Face Palette. She says it’s a must-have in her makeup bag because it’s stunning and versatile. You can use it as a highlight, blush, and even an eye shadow. It’s the perfect addition to your makeup bag, adding a glowy finish to any bridal makeup look.
10. Bobbi Brown Pot Rouges
Storme Makeup and Hair is going with the Bobbi Brown Pot Rouges. “Not only is the formula amazing and easy to blend, but it’s a multi-use product for both lips and chicks. It comes in a lovely compact small disc with a mirror so perfect for in your bag and touch-ups. I often find that blush settles into the skin, so adding a bit more and touching up the lips is brilliant to do and have on hand. I love that if you are using this product, your face is harmonious and fresh! I highly recommend them. Of course, I have all the colors in my kit!”
Now that you have the wedding day makeup products, it’s time to execute the look. Start by checking out some Junebug-approved makeup artists in our directory of wedding vendors from around the world. Then, check out these bridal makeup trends packed with classic makeup inspiration that’ll enhance your natural beauty and make you feel your absolute best on your big day.
New beauty trends come and go, but there are makeup looks that will never go out of style. With so much progress made by movements for body positivity and inclusion, we’re seeing many brides bring their best face forward with classic makeup looks that enhance their beauty rather than going for the “big transformation.” From soft glam to glowy and radiant, these are the bridal makeup trends we know are here to stay.
Dewy Luminous Look
Ditch the matte finish for a luminous and fresh look. With a focus on “your skin, but better,” you can achieve this dewy (or glass skin) look by starting with a brightening and hydrating serum followed by a blurring primer to conceal pores. You can also use a mattifying base if you have extra oily skin, then apply a luminous foundation in thin layers to build up coverage. This helps you pull off that bridal glow without looking too heavy or shiny.
Soft, feminine, and romantic blushed cheeks in rosy hues are here to stay. Creating a naturally flushed look—using products that melt on skin flawlessly—elevates the cheekbones and gives you a healthy glow. As a guide, brides with fair skin should opt for a light pink shade, brides with medium skin a peachy pink shade, brides with olive skin a deep pink, and brides with darker skin tones are well suited to bright blushes. Use a bronzer to create definition and get a sun-kissed look or a highlighter for that lit-from-within glow.
Now is the time for full, fluffy, and feathered brows. This involves brushing up the brow hairs with skin coming through and minimal use of pencils and powders for a more natural and less defined look. A go-to grooming technique preferred by makeup artists, soap eyebrows are easily recognized for their brushed-up appearance and resemble the effect of brow lamination. Start by filling in sparse areas with a brow definer pencil, dampen a spoolie with water or setting spray for extra hold, brush the bristles against a brow styling soap, and comb through the hairs in the shape you want them to set.
Earthy Smokey Eyes With Subtle Shimmer And Full Lashes
This style is perfect for brides who want glam beauty without overly bold or dramatic tones, combined with fluttery lashes and eyeliner for added depth. Instead of charcoal shades, it’s all about the earthy-toned smokey eye with a soft shimmer for subtle drama. For a prominent lush lash look, opt for extensions instead of a natural lash lift. This way, you also won’t have to worry about your mascara running and smudging.
Thanks to TikTok, the foxy eye has become widely popular and is a sexy and glamorous look. It’s created by winging out the upper liner, usually using tape, and carefully blending the eyeshadow outwards. It gives the appearance of an eye lift, and is one of the most flattering looks on everyone. It’s a fun look to try at your bridal makeup trial to see if you want to rock foxy eyes on your big day.
A pinkish nude lipstick is a must-have for an effortless, timeless look. It’s the perfect complement to your glowing complexion and subtle glam eye makeup. There’s a nude lipstick out there to suit every skin tone—whether that’s a dream shade of pinkish nude that doesn’t wash you out or one with a touch of plum, rose, or mauve.
Moving away from the trends of contouring and heavy makeup, more brides want to bring an elevated natural look to their wedding day. This look is all about minimal but intentional product usage. Want a soft, simple bridal style that brings out your inner glow? The key is using hues that work with your skin tone. After all, the basis of this look is being the best version of yourself.
Of course, we always recommend that your overall look should reflect your individual style and personality. And what’s great about these trends is that you can experiment and tailor each one to your liking. Whether you hire a professional makeup artist or do your own makeup, keep these bridal makeup trends in mind to ensure you get the perfect wedding day look!
Whether you’re a beauty junkie or just want to look your best on your big day, you’ve probably spent a little time thinking about your wedding makeup. All eyes are on you on your wedding day, not to mention the cameras following you around the capture the celebration, which means you’re going to want your makeup to be extra on point! Besides deciding whether to emphasize your eyes or lips, you may want to consider your overall bridal style when it comes to choosing your wedding makeup look. Lucky for you, we’ve rounded up some seriously pretty wedding makeup looks for any bridal style!
Edgy
Edgy makeup is all about the darker side of things. Whether you’ve planned a moody affair or simply want to add a little contrast to your sweet bridal style, either a dark lip or bold brows and fierce liner will complete the look!
Leaning towards the natural side of things, romantic makeup is subtle and intentional. A romantic bride wants to look like she’s just been kissed — slightly flushed cheeks, a pretty pout, and eyelashes ready to flutter!
Boho bridal makeup is similar to a romantic style while being both warmer and more saturated. Stick with a palette of rose gold, copper, and earthy browns to achieve this look.
Beachy makeup is all about pulling back on the eyes and lips to focus on glowing, sun-kissed skin. Bronzer is your friend, but be sure to leave it in the hands of a professional who will keep you looking beach ready and not over-done.
If you can’t imagine getting married in anything but a red lip, vintage bridal makeup is for you! Pair it with rosy cheeks, full lashes, and a vintage-inspired ‘do.
When deciding on a makeup look for your wedding day, a subdued, neutral color palette celebrates your natural beauty, and not to mention, photographs flawlessly. Whether you’re hiring a makeup artist or doing your own, here are some tips on achieving a barely-there beauty look.
Have a Youthful Glow– A fresh, natural face can be achieved with a dewy, light-weight foundation and a perfectly pink shade of blush.
From bold and daring, to soft and romantic, these brides embrace their personal style when they get all dolled up for the big day. Whether you’re going for natural or knock-out, be sure to bring some images of your favorite bridal beauty looks when you meet with your makeup artist to help share your vision. I hope you find what you’re looking for with these 15 wedding makeup ideas for the bride!
We hope you enjoyed Tuesday’s article on beauty advice for brides – we had so much fun putting it together with Los Angeles makeup artist Tammy Yi. Today, in part 2 of her guest post series, Tammy is sharing some of her all-time favorite, must-have bridal beauty products, not to mention more fabulous advice for getting a glowing complexion and a radiant wedding look.
Tammy‘s decade of experience in the bridal beauty realm prove one thing beyond a shadow of a doubt – she knows her beauty products! Let’s hear from her why she never leaves her brides without these beauty essentials…
In the Primer of Life:Hydration and skin balance is key to how your makeup is going to wear. If your skin is too dry, it will eat up your makeup and if your skin is too oily, it will break up your makeup. There are so many great primers and moisturizers out there, so find what works best with your skin type. My suggestion is if you are oily try Hourglass – Veil Mineral Primer from Barneys New York, and if you are dry try Laura Mercier ‘Hydrating’ Foundation Primer from Nordstrom.
A Solid Foundation:Your foundation is so crucial to the overall look of your makeup. To look flawless, yet not over done, foundation plays a big part. I love Dior ‘Diorskin Airflash’ Spray Foundation from Nordstrom.
Matters of Contour: For a light contour you can use powder bronzers, but for serious contour you will need to use foundation sticks or concealer sticks. Pick one that is at least three shades darker then your skin tone and one that is at least three shades lighter than your skin tone for highlighting. I suggest Bobbi Brown Foundation Stick from Nordstrom.
Hitting the Highlights:A highlighting concealer is your best friend in your makeup bag. Use one that is light weight so it doesn’t crease around the eyes. It works as an eraser around the eyes and lips. I suggest Yves Saint Laurent ‘Touche Éclat’ Radiant Touch from Nordstrom.
Walk the Tight Line:Tight lining the eye is one of my favorite eye tricks. Fill in the liner at the root of the lashes – it will give you a natural line and a full lash look. Laura Mercier ‘Tightline’ Cake Eyeliner from Nordstrom works great for this.
Boy, do we have a treat for you today! Top Los Angeles based makeup artist Tammy Yi is sharing her expert advice on how to use skin-care and makeup to help you feel like your most beautiful self. Whether you’re looking for flawless bridal makeup for your wedding day, or just wanting to feel more incredible every day, these tips are pure beauty genius!
Tammy Yi has been in the beauty game for 10 years, so when it comes to a bridal beauty regimen, she’s got a few tricks up her sleeve to ensure her brides are simply glowing come their wedding day.
Pre-wedding Pampering Dos and Don’ts
Treat your skin with care for the months leading up to your wedding – keep in mind that trying anything too drastic may cause an unwanted reaction.
Don’t tan your face right before your wedding. Dry, peeling, red skin is a makeup artist’s worst nightmare. Your makeup artist should be able to give you the sun kissed look that you want.
If you decide to get a facial with extractions or any sort of intense exfoliation, do so a couple of weeks before your wedding day. Give your skin some time to heal.
Get your brow waxed at least a week in advance. The delicate skin around the brows after a fresh brow wax is does not adhere with makeup.
When you are searching for your a makeup artist, I highly recommend a trial before the big day. You want to be absolutely certain that you and your artist are on the same page and he or she knows exactly how you would like to look on your big day.
Arrange with your artist to schedule yourself to be done with your makeup and hair closer to the time you need to be ready for photos. You do not want to be the first done out of your bridal party.
You want to make sure you have the proper touch up products to make sure you look fresh throughout your wedding day. Make sure you have setting powder, lipstick, lip liner, lip gloss, and highlighting concealer pen.
To make your blush last all day. Use a creme blush first and then set with a light blush to prolong the wear of your blush.
If you would like your lip color to wear all day. Buy a lip stain to wear under your lipstick.
A huge thank you to Tammy Yi for her infinite expertise and wonderful bridal beauty tips! Be sure to check back Thursday here on What Junebug Loves for Tammy’s favorite must-have beauty products!
Are you searching for your wedding day look? Check out our library of Bridal Style Features for inspirational looks!
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In honor of Valentine’s Day, I thought we could go all the way girly today and swoon over something beautiful, feminine and utterly obsession-inducing… the Perfect. Rosy. Lip. Whether you’re a gal that goes for an edgy hot pink, a rich raspberry, or a classic ruby red, finding your favorite lipstick can be a search akin to finding the holy grail. But, thank goodness, a heck of a lot more fun…
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