A makeup trial is the perfect way to test out your makeup look before the big day, also to test out your artist, to make sure they fit with your vision of how you would like to look on your wedding day. Here I share some of my top tips for preparing for your makeup trial and how to make the most out of your appointment.
1) Do some research and pull together some images of makeup styles you love. Tear out pages of magazines, screenshot some Instagram posts of makeup looks or getting pinning on Pinterest. Having some inspiration will help your artist bring to life what you envision. But do be realistic, some of these images are often edited and skin types/shapes/skin tones will be different to yours. So, recreating the exact look to the image you show your artist may be unachievable. We do our best though! For some beautiful bridal makeup inspiration check out my Pinterest page and get pinning!
2) If you plan on getting a fake tan, lashes or eyebrows done for your big day, having these done a few days prior to your trial is a good way to see how it all fits together with your makeup.
3) Plan to book in your makeup trial for around 3-4 months before your wedding date. Or once you have found your dress. But of course, if you want to do a trial earlier, then of course it’s not a problem, likewise if you haven’t yet found your dress then it doesn’t matter too much either. Having your trial around the 3–4-month mark still leaves you with enough time for any changes, and you will likely know what your dress is like.
4) Amp up your skincare routine ahead of your trial, to prepare your skin, giving you a flawless base for your makeup. Try exfoliating twice a week in the lead up to your trial and do a mask the night before the trial.
5) Do your normal skincare routine on the day of the trial, your artist will probably refresh your skin with a mini cleanse, tone & moisturise. But its always a good idea to prepare your skin in the morning still.
6) Arrive at your trial with little to no makeup. This avoids having to remove the makeup, which will take up precious trial minutes. It also avoids unnecessarily aggravating your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin and your makeup may not sit or perform quite as well. Come with a clean, moisturised face!
7) If you know how you are planning to have your hair on the day, come with your hair roughly styled in the same way i.e., if you are wearing your down with curls, come with tonged hair or if you are wearing it up in a loose bun, plan to wear it up. This will give you a better idea of the final look. Try to wear something white, or a similar colour to your dress. Again, to give you an idea of how your look will come together on the day.
8) If you prefer to do an element of your makeup, such as your mascara, brows etc. then do let us know, we won’t be offended and realise makeup is extremely personal, we will prefer you to feel comfortable. Also feel free to bring along any makeup of your own you would like us to use on the day. This is always a great idea, especially if you have a lipstick or powder you love, meaning you will have it on hand for touch ups on the day.
9) At your trial if you are not happy with something, please don’t be afraid to speak up! This is your chance to nail your look and that is what we are here for. This will also save you time and money on other trials. So, make sure you use your trial time wisely and leave happy. Although we can work makeup magic, we are not mind readers!
10) Although having your girl squad with you at your trial may sound like a blast, it is advisable to keep others at your trial to a minimum or to just go solo. This saves too many opinions which may overshadow or influence how you really feel in the makeup. Of course, if you want company, I always welcome my bridal clients to bring someone if they wish. Remember it is how you feel that is important!
11) Finally, why not try and schedule in your trial prior to your hen’s night, a night out or something special. I also often have clients that fit their appointment in around their hair or dress fittings. This a great way to test out the makeup and its longevity.
I hope this little guide helps you to prepare for your bridal makeup trial and if you would like to book in for a trial with me don’t hesitate to get in touch via email or my contact form.
Louise x