5 things every bride needs to know when planning their wedding make-up
With the spotlight on summer brides, you might be wondering how to get the perfect beauty look for your big day.
Whether you’ve gone for a Bridgerton-inspired wedding gown, rented a lovely little lacy number or chosen a contemporary two-piece bridal suit, you want the very best make-up for the happiest of occasions.
Here’s what you need to consider, according to the pros…
1. The lasting power of primer
“A wedding is a long marathon of a day, so to keep the make-up in place use a primer or long-wear base,” says Gia Mills, celebrity make-up artist and founder of Skin In Motion (skininmotion.com). “Same for the eyes – an eye primer will ensure any shadow doesn’t shift.
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion, £19.50, Boots
When it comes to applying make-up, the right lighting is everything. “Hotel rooms can be terrible for natural light, so make sure you check your make-up in natural light” before heading to the event, advises Mills.
Mii Cosmetics Flawless Face Base Foundation, £19.95
Mii Cosmetics Absolute Face Base Foundation, £26.50
3. Focus on your eyes
Melanie Barrese, head of content for Illamasqua (illamasqua.com) and Eyeko (eyeko.co.uk), says: “Most brides like to focus on their eyes, and often this can involve soft brown or warm pink washes of colour – nothing too harsh, like black.”
Barrese also recommends wearing fake lashes, “As this will really open up your eyes and pay off in the photos”. She continues: “If this intimidates you slightly, don’t worry, there are so many beautiful, soft, natural false lashes on the market now.”
Eyeko Limitless Eyeshadow Palette 2, £25
4. Touch-ups will keep your make-up flawless
Small bags might be on-trend right now, but don’t go too tiny – you might want space for a few products, to tackle any skin issues and maintain your make-up.
“Keep a concealer in your bag for quick touch-ups,” advises Mills. “Ideally choose a sweat-proof formula that will last the duration of the wedding, taking you from day to the night – especially if you’re enjoying a workout on the dance floor.”
Barrese adds: “I would recommend making sure you have a pressed powder and lip product with you throughout the day, as these are must-haves for touch-ups.”
Mii Cosmetics HydraBoost Lip Lover Lipstick in Summer Lovin,’ £17.50
While it’s not available to everyone, if you have the budget, Mills recommends hiring a professional make-up artist. Having that moment “to sit, pause and let someone take over to make you feel and look amazing, really is a godsend”, she says.
“As most make-up artists suggest doing a trial before the big day, you know the look you want is road-tested and agreed, so you feel super confident. A pro can ensure the make-up stays for the day, and creates a look that enhances your face in a way you may not know, or have tried before.”