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The Ultimate Guide to Hair and Makeup for Brides: 10 Secrets from the Pros
Drawing on a decade of experience as a bridal stylist, I’m thrilled to share the ultimate guide to hair and makeup for brides. These 10 secrets, refined through years of working with diverse brides, aim to make your bridal beauty journey seamless and unforgettable for your big day! For more info about me – check out my Instagram.
1. Trial Runs for Confidence
Every bride deserves to feel confident and comfortable with her bridal look. Schedule trial runs for both hair and makeup and pick a time in the morning to schedule your trials. Most trials take 1-2 hours per service. This not only helps you visualize the final look but also allows you to have the rest of the day to see how you feel with the styles you chose and to tell your stylist if you want to add or change anything to your look! I always recommend brides to schedule their trials 4 months before their wedding day. This way, they can still have their trial run fresh in their minds and it’s not too close to the wedding date.
Emily Kirsten Photography
2. Hair Extensions Can Work Wonders
For brides dreaming of voluminous locks, real human hair extensions can be a game-changer. Consult with your hairstylist to choose extensions that seamlessly blend with your natural hair, providing the desired length and thickness for a stunning bridal hairstyle. Just make sure they are real human hair extensions and not synthetic hair because synthetic hair will not style. My favorites are Luxy Hair & Bellami Hair.
3. Embrace Your Natural Beauty
Over the years, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of enhancing natural beauty. Embrace your unique features, whether it’s your radiant skin, expressive eyes, or a bright, captivating smile. The goal is to enhance, not mask, your individuality. Every bride is beautiful in their own way!
Emily Kirsten Photography
4. Keep a Few Products On-Hand Throughout the Day
If you’re not paying for your artist to stay throughout your wedding night, it is super important to keep a few makeup and hair products on hand throughout the event to touch up if needed. I always recommend asking your stylist what lip liner, lipstick and lipgloss they are using for your makeup application so you can purchase the same products. I also recommend these items; blotting paper, translucent powder and a powder puff, blush and a brush and a refreshing facial spray for makeup. I also would pack a mini hairspray, comb and a few bobby pins for hair touch ups.
5. Look at your Stylist Previous Work for Inspiration
My years in the industry have reinforced the importance of choosing your stylist based on their previous work and their style. When you choose the stylist you want for your big day, you must fall in love with not only their style but their vibe! Choose photos of their previous work for your inspirational photos. Make sure you consult with your stylist about specific hair and makeup needs you want from either one of their photos or different photos.
6. Stay True to Trends or Timelessness
Trends can be tempting, but it’s essential to strike a balance between trendy and timeless. While some trends may capture the current moment, classic styles endure. Consider incorporating subtle trends while maintaining an overall timeless appeal for a look that stands the test of time. There is nothing worse than looking back on your wedding photos and feeling regret towards how you looked!
Emily Kirsten Photography
7. Take your Wedding Season into Consideration
Normally, when brides go dress shopping, wedding dress boutiques ask what season the bride’s wedding is taking place so they know what style of dress to offer the bride to try on. This also goes towards choosing your hair and makeup! The hotter the season your wedding is in, it will be more likely you will want an updo versus glam curls; unless you will be inside for your ceremony and reception. In regards to makeup, if you have a spring/summer wedding, you are more likely to have soft pinks and peach toned blush, a nude pink lip and a glowy base versus a more satin matte base and a red/darker lipstick for the fall/winter season.
8. Prepping before your Trial and Wedding Day
A lot of brides have so much planning to do that they forget to be prepped for their trial as well as their wedding day. From teeth whitening, self tanning, waxing, & facials make sure you arrive at your trial the same as you will arrive on your wedding morning. This way your trial services will look exactly the same for your wedding day! Also, make sure to wear a white shirt to your trial, bring any hair accessories/hair extensions, your veil and photos of inspiration/of your wedding dress for your services!
9. Balance is Key
Strive for balance in your bridal look. If you’re going for a bold lip, consider a more subtle eye makeup, and vice versa. This ensures that no single element overpowers your entire look, creating a harmonious and elegant appearance.
Emily Kirsten Photography
10. Adapt to Cultural Diversity
Having worked with brides from diverse cultural backgrounds, I’ve learned the importance of cultural sensitivity. Each culture has its unique beauty standards and traditions. Collaborate with a stylist who respects and understands the significance of your cultural preferences, ensuring your bridal look aligns seamlessly with your heritage.
In conclusion, achieving the perfect bridal look involves meticulous planning and collaboration with experienced professionals. By following these 10 secrets from a pro, you’ll be well on your way to looking and feeling stunning on your wedding day. Remember, it’s not just about the makeup and hairstyle – it’s about capturing your unique beauty and radiance as you embark on this beautiful journey.
These are the wedding shoot vendors:
Event Decorator: @arielashtonevents
Venue: @willowsvillanova
