Kate Giddings, owner and founder of Warpaint Makeup Academy, shares a list of must-dos for your wedding day hair and makeup. Follow this pro’s tips, and say “I do” to relaxing and enjoyable wedding-day prep.
PERFECT YOUR PREP
Arrive with your skin clean, exfoliated and moisturized so that your makeup artist is able to apply your cosmetics flawlessly.
TUNE UP YOUR TIMING
You can expect hair and makeup to each take 30-45 minutes per bridesmaid and mother-of-the-bride, and you should anticipate each to take 60-90 minutes for the bride. Giddings suggests factoring in extra time if you have only one photographer documenting both partners’ getting-ready moments.
SELECT YOUR STYLE
To create the perfect look, consider your venue, gown and season. For example, a classic gown worn in a formal venue might coordinate best with an updo and a bold lip, while a boho gown in a more casual setting might pair best with loose curls and understated makeup. The most important factor here is your personal preference: it’s your wedding day, and you should look like you as much as possible.
SPEAK UP
It’s your day. If there’s something about your look that you want to change, let your makeup artist know. “I recommend having a trial run with your artist three to five weeks ahead of your wedding day, so that the big day itself can go off without a hitch,” says Giddings. “Start looking for images of makeup that you really like and bring them with you on the day of your trial run.”
Giddings’ Dos + Don’ts
• Do use individual false lashes. For a more natural look, skip the lash strip and go with individual false lashes.
• Do highlight your brow bone. Top off your makeup look with highlighter on your brow bone to make your eyes really pop.
• Do assign touch-up duty to a bridesmaid. Ask this trusted bridesmaid to carry a lipstick, concealer, powder and buffing brush or sponge in her bag. These quick touch-up products will ensure your makeup remains flawless all day long.
• Don’t wear SPF. If your photographers are using flash, avoid SPF, which will cause the flash to bounce off the skin and make you look washed out.
• Don’t pile it on. Wedding photos are often taken in natural light. If you choose a heavy base, the makeup will look obvious—or worse—cakey.
• Don’t go too trendy. The more faddish your look, the more dated your wedding photos will be in 20 years.
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