As most of you won’t have had a wedding makeup trial before, I wanted to run through what happens and give you some pointers to help you get the most out of the experience. Here’s what to expect at your wedding makeup trial…
Why is a Wedding Makeup Trial Important?
Your trial is an opportunity to discuss your options with your makeup artists and work out specific details. It gives you a chance to express any concerns and figure out which products and colours will work best for your desired makeup look. If you want to look and feel you best on your wedding day, it’s an essential part of the process.
When Should I Have my Makeup Trial?
6-8 weeks before your wedding day is usually the best time to schedule your trial.
Is There Anything I Should Do to Prepare?
Please bring some inspiration photos. Try to focus on images that feature the same skin tone and eye-shape as your own. AI is wild at the moment, so be mindful of photos that appear too flawless – they may not be real. More importantly, don’t compare yourself to others. Your partner is marrying YOU!
The right skincare can make a huge difference to how your makeup sits and lasts on your skin. If you don’t have a skincare regime currently, I highly recommend you start one in the run-up to your wedding. If you have problem skin (that’s not caused by a medical issue), you should consider visiting an experienced beauty therapist for advice.
I will always advocate treating yourself to a facial! My go-to is a HydraFacial which uses a patented device to deliver exfoliation, cleansing, extraction, and hydration to the face. The therapist will be able to diagnose your skin type and give you more in depth information on the best skincare regime. In the meantime, here are a few top tips:
- Cleanse, tone and moisturise daily. Exfoliate once a week.
- Don’t forget to gently exfoliate your lips. When your lips are feeling dry, use an old toothbrush and a lip balm of your choice to give them a gentle scrub. Alternatively, make a lip scrub using granulated sugar and lip balm. Use once a week.
- Always use sunscreen. Tan lines can really ruin your wedding photos, and makeup isn’t the best option to cover them as it could easily transfer on to your dress.
I’d also encourage you to give your eyebrows some TLC before your trial. If you’re an eyebrow shaping virgin, I recommend seeing a professional. Waxing and threading are the most common choice. Neither are particularly painless, but it’s worth it for perfect lines and a beautiful arch. HD Brows is another great option. Once your brows have been shaped, they’re carefully tinted to accentuate the new shape.
Finally, if you’re planning to fake tan, do this two days before your trial, so you can see how it reacts with your skin and we can match your makeup properly.
What Happens During the Trial Itself?
First, we’ll chat all things wedding! I want to see the dress and know who your bridesmaids are. I also want to hear about the person you’re marrying, how you met, and most importantly, what you’re having for your wedding breakfast! Then we’ll discuss your desired makeup look and run through any concerns, allergies or irritations.
I like to start by prepping and moisturising your skin with a little facial massage to get that blood flowin’! Then I move onto the eyes. Yes, eyes first before base! I am a huge advocate for false lashes. They make such an impact! I don’t use strip lashes, just individual ones placed where they are needed. You barely feel them, but you’ll notice the difference. And if you don’t like them, we don’t have to use them on the day. This is exactly what your trial is for – trying things out so we get it right when it counts.
Next up is your base. In recent years, I’ve moved away from full coverage foundations, opting for tinted moisturiser instead. I prefer to conceal, highlight and bronze. My go-to products are Beautiful Skin by Charlotte Tilbury, Glossier Stretch concealer (I use this myself) and Tarte Shape Tape. If full glam is what you’re after, I’m probably not the right makeup artist for you.
We’ll complete your makeup look with the perfect blush and lipstick combination. Did I mention I favour cruelty free brands?!
Anything Else I Should Know?
At your trial, it’s best if you can arrive makeup-free, but don’t worry if that’s not possible – I can remove any makeup you may be wearing. Wear a light-coloured top. Bright colours can reflect onto the face and distract from the makeup. I’d also recommend wearing an open collar or vest so you’re showing some skin. A roll neck jumper won’t give you a bridal feeling.
Do let me know of any known allergies before we start or if you have preferred products you use due to skin irritation. If you have a favourite lipstick you would like to wear, bring it along, but I’d also encourage you to remain open to suggestions so I can use my knowledge to recommend the best colours and tones for your skin. I also recommend buying the lipstick we’ve used so you can top it up throughout the day.
I always expect some changes, so please don’t shy away from giving feedback on the day or via email afterwards. This is your chance to work out exactly what you want. Your wedding is a day to look and feel like the best version of yourself. That means feeling confident and comfortable in your chosen look.
Find Out More
You can learn more about my services and browse my portfolio here. Please get in touch to request more information and check my availability. I can’t wait to hear from you!
Amelia x
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