2024 Brides...listen up!

Wedding makeup in 2024 is not coming to play. Whether you're a to-be-wed, a bridesmaid, a mother-of-the-bride or a guest, there are plenty of makeup trends to get excited about. Think: food-inspired monochromatic accents, ombré pouts and even balletcore beauty, which is the 2024 makeup trend that has lately been living in my head rent-free ever since I first saw it on Hailey Bieber. In short, brides still love minimalistic makeup that focuses on pre-wedding beauty and glowing skin but adds little twists and unique spins to take it to the next level.

1. Glowy But Natural Face Makeup

Where you've seen it: One thing's for sure in 2024: glowy makeup is not going anywhere. "I think brides want to see themselves when they look in the mirror and look back on photos so that glam will have a more natural glow rather than a cakey, overdone look," says Maria Marzullo, content creator and entrepreneur. "We have seen this on celebs such as Sofia Richie Grainge and Barbara (Palvin) Sprouse and I know I will personally be channeling that same natural look for my wedding look next summer in Italy."

Who it's perfect for: As Marzullo mentions, natural, glowy looks are perfect for the destination or summer bride and can easily be achieved with good skin prep and the right foundation. It's a "less is more" approach that can be achieved with skin prep before the big day, according to Patricia LeJeune of LeJeune Hair & Makeup Artistry in Orlando, Florida. "A good exfoliating and moisturizing routine will go a long way toward achieving this look," she says.

2. Pops of Red

Where you've seen it: You may have heard that the Red Nail Theory has recently blown up on TikTok, and for good reason. "The color red isn't going anywhere for 2024 brides; from the bottom of their shoes to the tips of their fingernails, I think we are going to see more red weaved into bridal beauty," says Marzullo. If you're worried that red might be too bold for your bridal look, you can incorporate it by blurring it out or softening it to create the perfect flush of color.

Who it's perfect for: This timeless hue symbolizes love, passion and sensuality, so it makes sense for those to-be-weds who want to lean into a bold makeup look. Another way to paint the town red on your wedding day? Your nails! "While the French manicure is beautiful, I think brides are being more true to themselves and will lean into colors more, even as daring as red. Kourtney Kardashian did a gorgeous red French tip look for her wedding and I loved it."

3. Balletcore Beauty

Where you've seen it: You heard it here first: balletcore beauty is going to be one of the hottest bridal makeup trends of 2024. The aesthetic has been seen all over social media recently on influencers and stars like Sofia Richie and Hailey Beiber, and it's the perfect "soft girl" look for weddings. "Place the blush on the apples of the cheeks and perhaps a little on the bridge of the nose to give a youthful look," says Nicole Iyer of Santa Barbara-based Samara Beauty. "Use creams instead of powders. We love a good cream blush, bronzer and highlighter for a more natural look that melts into the skin."

Who it's perfect for: This whimsical trend is perfect for the bride who wants to give off feminine prima ballerina vibes, radiating charm and elegance as she walks down the aisle. Adding a peach or rosy blush, cool-toned shadows and a delicate pink glossy lip can help you easily achieve this effortlessly pretty style. Oh, and don't forget to complete the look with a sleek ballerina bun.

4. Ombré Lips

Where you've seen it: In 2024, we can expect to see plenty of ombré pouts as lustrous, two-tone lip colors come to the forefront (think: a modernized version of the 90's look with a more gradient finish). Iconic celebrities like Rihanna, Megan Thee Stallion, Beyoncé and Priyanka Chopra have flaunted this bold style, combining a soft neutral lipstick shade at the center of the lips and gradually fading it into a vibrant pop of color at the edges.

Who it's perfect for: If you want a supermodel-worthy pout on your wedding day, then ombré lips are for you. This wedding makeup trend is created by taking a darker lip color and blending it with a more neutral color near the center of your lips. And don't forget to finish the look with a little bit of gloss!

5. Monochromatic Moments

Where you've seen it: Move over, bold and vibrant colors—monochromatic looks are here to steal the spotlight, according to Iyer. Kendall Jenner and Emma Watson have been spotted sporting the latte makeup trend, which entails using warm, earthy tones seamlessly blended across the eyes, lips, and cheeks, while Hailey Beiber and Sabrina Carpenter often sport Strawberry Girl Summer makeup. The result? A harmonious and effortlessly stunning appearance that enhances your natural beauty.

Who it's perfect for: This trend is perfect for the to-be-wed who appreciates simplicity and timeless elegance and wants to embrace her unique features on their big day. "To achieve this look, try using your bronzer on your eyes as well as your skin," says Iyer. Top it off with a smudged-in brown liner, nude brown lip liner and gloss to complete the look."

Written by Lauren Whalley

7 Wedding Make-Up Trends for 2023

When you think of bridal makeup inspiration, terms like "subtle," "effortless," and "classic" come to mind. Basically, looks that are timeless. But with a new year comes a new wave of makeup trends. And this year is no exception. We're calling it now: 2023 will be all about going bold.

Nothing is off limits: candlelit skin, sparkle, and color are all trending. We're talking rhinestone-studded eyelids, delicate face jewels, and different variations of the red lip. And if you're a traditionalist at heart, there is no need to worry. Those mainstay looks — a bold lip, neutral palettes, and long lashes — will still be huge through the 2023 wedding season.

So if you're looking for some wedding inspo, see what the experts predict will be the biggest bridal makeup trends of the year. Scroll down to see which of the seven looks speaks to you.

Sparkly lids

"I’m really surprised that more brides aren’t wearing more reflective makeup, because it looks so good in photos and videos, especially in lower lighting," says celebrity makeup artist and the genius behind Euphoria's iconic makeup looks, Donni Davy.

"There’s nothing more magical (in makeup) than a light-reflecting sparkly detail that literally twinkles with you as you move in and out of direct lighting."

Red lips

You can never go wrong with a classic red lip. Celebrity makeup artist Neil Scibilli says that red lips and minimal makeup have been trending for a while and will continue to be big this year and beyond. "It's a timeless way to wear a pop of color without having to wear too much makeup," he says. "I've personally loved creating looks featuring a red lip for weddings which can be worn in all seasons. You can also find your red with variations of orangey reds, deep reds, and classic reds."

Rhinestone lids

Davy is also a huge fan of adding some special sparkle to your eyes with tiny rhinestones on the eyelids. "Tiny rhinies (as I call them) are actually super dainty and understated," she says.

Statement lashes

Scibelli confirms that lashes are always a statement trend for weddings. They can give the eyes more depth and add volume to your natural lashes. For either false lashes or extensions, he recommends going for a medium-style lash that it's not too overpowering yet still full enough to pop in photos.

For false lashes especially, he says you'll want to make sure you're going with something that is lightweight and has a flexible band so that it stays on all night.

Neutral palettes

If minimal makeup is your vibe, Pimentel says to go for a neutral palette that brings out your natural features. "This can be achieved with a simple nude-toned smoky eye and a glossy [bare] lip," she says.

Candlelit skin

Having a natural glow is one of the most-requested looks Scibelli gets when he's working with brides. "Bridal makeup should enhance one's existing, natural features without feeling overpowering. So, glowing skin is always trending," he says. "It's important to feel and look like yourself on your big day."

He recommends prepping your skin with hydrating and brightening skincare to create the ideal canvas for makeup. When looking at base makeup, he says to go for foundations that offer a "candlelit effect," which he says is a romantic, lit-from-within finish.

Face jewels

"Face crystals are a fun way to dress up a makeup look on a wedding day...for that extra spark," says Scibelli. "It's also a fun party look for the evening." He especially likes jewels along the brow bone and the inner and outer corners of the eyes.

• Instyle by Audrey Noble

2021 Make Up Trends

On the heels of the rollercoaster that was 2020, it should come as no surprise that 2021’s biggest makeup trends tend toward the extraordinary. Whether you’re the type to embrace high-octane glamour at every chance or habitually keep things glowy and natural, 2021’s prettiest beauty trends have something to offer every bride-to-be with an extra-special, wedding-day touch.

“I’ve noticed that because of COVID, when it comes to wedding beauty, people are ready to glam it up. Everyone is so over not being social and staying inside that they want to have the biggest celebration while feeling the most glamorous on their special day.”

On the opposite end of the spectrum, some soon-to-be-wed women are more accustomed to the au natural effect that lockdown has spurred. “Brides are leaning toward more natural, lived-in looks.” “Spending the better part of a year embracing your natural hair texture and wearing less makeup than ever has done a bit of reprogramming on all of us. It has forced us into a sort of minimalist place, and swinging to the other end of the spectrum doesn’t feel natural quite yet.”

Gorgeous skin is another huge focus to serve as the perfect base for wedding day makeup. “This begins long before the wedding day, but people are putting in the time now. Simple beauty is what women want to feel ‘effortless,’ and that always begins and ends with great skin,” she says. Adding, “Brides are aspiring to stand out without feeling over the top.”

For those craving unique wedding day beauty without too much effort make up artists predict an ease-in effect with a “bring it” sensibility. “The last thing a bride will want to do is be stressed on her special day. However, she’s going to want to show up and show out for what may arguably be one of the first big events that they and their guests have attended since the pandemic has started.” The prediction: a rise in not-too-fussy wedding day beauty with a singular bold statement so that brides look and feel like themselves, but in a memorable way that suits one of the most important days of their lives.

- Laura Lajiness Brides

20 Great Bridal Beauty Makeup Tips

Waterproof It

Choose a mascara that's waterproof; it lasts longer and withstands tears. If you really don't like the look or feel, use one coat of regular mascara, then follow up with a light coat of waterproof mascara.

On the Line

Charcoal, navy, or mahogany are your best options for eyeliner. Black or brown may look too severe, especially if your wedding will be held during the daytime and/or outdoors.

Lighten Up

Use a white shadow as a highlighter on your brow bone if you have light skin; a warmer light peach or vanilla shade will suit deeper complexions.

Give Them Shape

Do contour your eyes, but avoid using color that's too dense (it can detract from your eyes themselves).

Shade Your Brows

Define your brows with a pencil or shadow that matches your hair color.

Get the Red Out

Pop an eye drop if your eyes look red or tired, but stick with a brand you've used before to avoid unwelcome surprises (irritation or worse!).

Sweet Cheeks

Don't forget your blush! A pop of color on your cheeks is like an instant face lift. For fairer skin, a pink tone will work; those with deeper skin tones can choose a rosier hue.

Zap a Zit

If you have a blemish or breakout just before your wedding day, keep your hands away from your face -- the spot will heal more neatly if you leave it alone. In the case of a sudden monstrous pimple, see your dermatologist and ask for an cortisone injection that will shrink it instantly.

Blend, Blend, Blend

Blend well all over, especially at the corners of your eyes, since cameras pick up visible makeup lines.

Get a Good View

For your makeup application, natural light is best. If possible, set up an application table near a window. If there's no natural light available, use a super bright lamp -- halogens work best.

Sit Up

If you're getting ready at a hotel, ask for a high bar stool so you can be at eye level with your make up artist. If you can't get a stool, simply prop yourself up on pillows.

Even It Out

Use bronzing powder on your chest and neck if you need to even out your skin tone -- it will make your skin more luminous and ensure that your face doesn't look too different from your body.

Watch That Gown

Don't, however, use foundation on your decolletage -- it can stain your dress.

Carry Protection

Use a moisturizer that includes SPF 30 or higher, especially if you are getting married outdoors! You may be getting more sun than you think you are, and you will definitely look pinker in pictures.

Brighten Up

Choose a lip color that's a bit bright. Pale nude or brown lip hues can make you appear washed out in photos, particularly since you'll be wearing white. If you normally wear a neutral hue, wear it as your base with a pink or rose color on top. If you normally wear dark lipstick, use that as your base and apply a lighter sheer pink on top to give you a lift.

Keep It With You

Even if you mix various lip colors when applying your makeup, be sure to have one great lipstick to carry with you for touch ups.

Greet 'Em With a Grin

You can have the softest lips and the perfect lipstick, but if your teeth are yellow, you won't want to flash a smile. There are lots of safe, reliable over-the-counter teeth-whitening systems, which all whiten teeth by a few shades.

Prepare the Area

When you're getting your hair styled, a low counter with a mirror -- like a vanity table -- will work best. Check to see that your chair has a low back, so your wedding hair stylist will have easy access to your head. And make sure there are electrical outlets nearby for appliances such as hair dryers, curling irons, and electric rollers. For extra insurance, bring a few extension cords.

Turn On the Heat

If your wedding is early, or if time is of the essence, plug in your rollers, curling iron, or straightening iron before your stylist arrives to save time.

Refresh Your Tresses

Head to a local spa and have a professional scalp massage (which not only feels good, but stimulates the hair follicles and adds body) and deep conditioning treatment the week before your wedding.

• The Knot

The Edit feature on Saffanic Bridal

So as you all know I love to support local and started a segment where we could share, learn and inspire! It is so important to support local and share your findings with others.

During lock down, we are going to do a whole lot of these to highlight these businesses – many of which are taking HUGE strain during this time – and shed some awareness and love to all.

Today’s feature is on an incredible #girlboss! Not only is she a make up artist but she also hand makes the most stunning bridal accessories! Please can I introduce you to the creative and talented Nicole Grant.

If anyone is looking for a make up artist for weddings or events in Cape Town, here is her website! And her bridal accessories, wow! Intricate, elegant and can be customized to your very own taste and uniqueness – this is a incredible local business to support!

Please check out Saffanic Bridal Accessories, here is their website. From veils, garters, jewellery, hair accessories, sashes – all fit for a princess on her special day. Check out her Instagram page for more, and please follow and share the love!

We chatted to the lovely Nicole and she had this to say to us!

How does it feel to be a business owner that loves what they do?

As a hair and make up artist, I have seasonal work so for years in winter I would sit around watching tv and get bogged down by not having any purpose. I one day decided that that was going to change. I was going to start a secondary business that would coincide with what I was already doing. Weddings! I noticed that a lot of my brides were struggling to find one of a kind wedding accessories and had to resort to buying something cheap and imported from Asia. Many would say there were some bespoke items out there but that they were too expensive. So I thought bugger that, I’ll make them myself! It was great for my creativity which usually dwindled in winter and now I had something fun to do each day. And so my business began.

What are the top 3 learnings you have had to find out the hard way since starting your own business?

It takes money to start a business. Not only did I spend a small fortune on getting materials to make the products but also the website and marketing costs are higher than I first thought.

It’s not going to be successful straight off the bat. You have to work at your craft and learn what works and what doesn’t. Believe me, my first hair pieces were anything but wedding worthy!

You have to put in the time, starting a business isn’t something you can half arse. Surround yourself with people who inspire you and support your dream. And find service providers that work as hard as you do! I made that mistake with my courier company that was utterly useless and in turn made me look bad. Do your homework.

What is your advice to individuals out there wanting to start their own businesses but are too scared?

Listen, I’m no entrepreneur but sometimes you just have to try! If it doesn’t work out, it doesn’t work out but at least you aren’t going to regret the fact you never even bothered giving it a whirl!

Tell us 2 things that are the BEST part about owning your own business and make it all worthwhile?

When that first item sold. When someone else thinks that what you have made is worth spending their hard earned cash on, there’s nothing better! Support local and small businesses.

Being your own boss. Oh you want to go out for lunch with friends? No problem! Oh you want to go on a holiday? No problem! You have no one to answer to except yourself so as long as you make up the work when you need to, you can pick your work hours.

How has lock down affected you?

Lock down has been hard for me. Since the wedding industry has been shut down I haven’t had work since March. People have been postponing or cancelling their weddings and spending less on luxury items. I have felt very uninspired. I usually got inspiration for my products from weddings I worked on, from lunch dates with friends, from outings around Cape Town. But now that I’m stuck at home all day, I’ve been a couch potato and Netflix fiend. I’ve only recently started feeling inspired again after getting a custom order in which I had to use my creativity again. Now I’m back in action and hoping weddings will start up again sooner rather than later! 2020 you can end already! 😉

- The Edit by Maughin Lord

Wedding make up trends for 2020

Brides are going to focus on enhancing their natural beauty in 2020, which includes pre-wedding procedures like micro-needling to ensure they're looking their best.

"This year, to-be-weds will embrace beauty and makeup in ways that enhance their natural beauty," Shelley Brown, The Knot’s senior fashion and beauty expert, told Insider.

For many brides, that enhancement will start in the weeks leading up to the wedding through an intense daily skin regimen.

Brown also said that some brides will take an extra step, undergoing procedures like micro-needling, in which small needles are poked into the skin to promote a youthful look, before their big days.

Brown also predicts that brides' makeup choices will embody a minimalist, natural look.

For instance, Brown said "barely there" foundations will be a popular choice for brides on their wedding days.

Many brides will choose a soft blush to complement their natural foundations in 2020.

You'll still see a rosy glow on brides' cheeks on their wedding days, but it won't be over the top like it has been in the past.

Bold lips are on their way out in 2020.

Instead, brides will opt for subtle lip stains or glosses, according to Brown.

"Wedding beauty in 2020 will continue to build on minimalistic trends," she said.

"While natural hairstyles aren't necessarily new, they'll continue to be popular among to-be-weds in the upcoming year," Brown said of bridal hair.

Beach waves are the epitome of a natural-looking hairstyle, so don't be surprised if you see a lot of brides with effortlessly perfect curls in 2020.

Brown also said that "unfussy updos are among the most popular looks" for 2020 brides.

A casual updo like a messy bun or half-up hairstyle works well with or without a veil.

Although minimalism is popular overall, Brown told Insider that metallic and white eyeliner is a bold beauty trend to watch out for at weddings in 2020.

"One beauty trend we've taken notice of, that doesn't necessarily fall in line with the increasingly popular minimalist beauty look, is the use of metallic and white eyeliner," Brown said.

Face jewels are another potential over-the-top trend that could become mainstream in 2020.

"We started to see these more fashion-forward looks appear on the runway this past Bridal Fashion Week," Brown told Insider of face jewels and metallic eyeliner.

"As to-be-weds are increasingly using their beauty and fashion choices to showcase their unique style preferences, this bold trend may also gain momentum in 2020," she added.

And as for accessories, barrettes and combs might replace tiaras for many brides in 2020.

"Veils aren't going anywhere, but tiaras have given way to the latest in hair jewelry — barrettes and combs," Brown said.

"We're also seeing more over-the-top headbands in wedding fashion," she added. "These accessories are often embellished with pearls, rhinestones, and colorful enamels."

"Remember your wedding look is a perfect opportunity to embrace and showcase your personal style," Brown advised brides.

"The only look or beauty routine we would advise against is one that doesn't make you feel beautiful and like your true self," Brown said on behalf of The Knot.

"We recommend choosing a look that suits you and makes you feel confident because ultimately it's your day, and you should feel like the best version of yourself."

• Insider Wedding Trends

Do's and Dont's of wedding day make up

Simply say ‘I do’ to the following bridal make-up rules and prepare to wow…

Do:

‘Take care of your skin‘ Having a thorough day and night skincare routine is so important at least 3-6 months before the wedding to ensure your skin is ready for the big day! It will help with how makeup looks and stays onto the skin throughout the day,’ urges Zara Findlay, Bobbi Brown Pro Artist.

‘Have your trial 3-6 weeks before your wedding‘ Make sure you have your trial at least three weeks, but no more than 6 weeks, before your wedding. If you plan on using fake tan for the big day, have a test run before your make-up trial so that your artist can see what colour your skin becomes with the tan,’ says M·A·C Senior Artist, Rebecca Butterworth.

‘Be your best self on trial day. Make sure that your hair is done and you are wearing jewellery so that you can see how the total look will come together on the day,’ adds Zara.

Wear a t-shirt in a similar colour to your dress

‘… if you’re having your make-up test in a store, so that you can see how the make-up looks against it and take a picture of yourself in day light (with no flash) to see how it looks before you purchase anything,’ says celebrity make-up maestro Caroline Barnes.

Emphasise your eyes

‘Brighten any darkness under them with corrector and concealer,’ says Bobbi Brown.

‘It’s all about choosing the right tone to compliment your eye colour. You want the make sure the stand-out feature is your eyes and not the makeup. Another technique for making your eyes pop, is to keep the intensity and depth of the colour closest to your lash line,’ adds Zara.

Bring references to your trial

‘Start looking for images of make-up that you really like and bring them with you on the day. Try to identify what it is you like about the make-up in the image and take into account that if you have the skin colour of Dita Von Teese, then the make-up of Kim Kardashian won’t necessarily translate on to you,’ says Rebecca from M·A·C.

Consider colour

‘Remember that bridal make-up needs to have enough colour to compensate for the whiteness of the dress. There’s a big difference between everyday clothes and a wedding dress, so there should be difference in your make-up, too. Start by making sure your skin looks even and smooth, and then add colour to your cheeks and lips to give them a glow,’ says Bobbi Brown.

Use individual false lashes

‘They’re a brilliant way to make your eyes stand out and look far more subtle than a full strip. Go for differing lengths to create a really natural fluttery look and nestle them in between your natural lashes rather than fixing them on top,’ says Rebecca.

Don’t skip the basics

‘Focus on the most important elements of your look, such as beautifully natural-looking skin, softly groomed brows and feathery lashes. If you get these basic factors right the rest of your make-up will fall into place,’ says Caroline Barnes.

Research application methods

‘They might differ slightly from your everyday make-up routine. For example, if you prefer to line with a shadow, make it last longer by applying it with a slightly damp eyeliner brush,’ says Bobbi.

Go pro

‘The best wedding make-up should last as long as you do so I love M·A·C’s Prolongwear range which includes foundations, concealers, lip and eye products that provide superior wear that will see you through your wedding day and night,’ says Rebecca.

Highlight the brow bone

‘Finish your make-up off with a highlighter shade on the brow bone to make the eyes really pop. Go for a light matte shade, and pat onto the outer corner of the brow bone so subtly draw attention to this area of your face,’ says Bobbi.

Do bring a few products in your bag

‘Make sure you or a bridesmaid carries a powder, lipstick, concealer & small buffing brush or sponge in your bag. These are quick touch up products to ensure you are looking your most confident all day,’ says Zara.

Don’t:

Have your make-up test done anywhere with overhead fluorescent lighting

‘If you have a professional make-up artist coming to your home, arrange a time when it’s still daylight outside,’ says Caroline Barnes.

Let a make-up artist hijack your look

‘For a lot of people, their wedding is a time when they can really take pleasure in having someone else do their make-up, but I think there can be a temptation to just indulge in the experience and take on all sorts of suggestions from the make-up artist – someone who may not know you or how you like to look particularly well. I’d advise real caution here; you don’t want to surprise your intended at the altar by turning up looking like someone else. Whether you’re hiring a make-up artist or doing your own, I generally think that the best bridal make-up is simply the most exquisitely polished version of how the bride usually looks – after all, you want to look beautiful rather than your make-up,” says make-up artist and Lancôme UK Make-up Artist Ambassador, Alex Babsky.

Don’t wear an SPF

‘If you are having any flash photography, it is recommended not to wear an SPF as the flash will bounce off the skin making you look washed out. Be sure to test at your trial by taking a photo with your flash on.’

Trowel it on

‘It’s a total myth that your make-up has to be plastered on for the photographs. Lots of wedding photography is done in natural light, and if you choose a heavy base the make-up will look obvious. In terms of flash, you just need to ensure that your T-zone is matte, which can be achieved with fine translucent powders and blotting powders, not layers of make-up,’ says Caroline.

Go for anything too trend-led

‘It’s worth bearing in mind that you’ll have to live with photos from your wedding for the rest of your life, so it’s best to avoid statement looks and opt for something more classic; that glittery eyeliner you saw on a Parisian catwalk might look super pretty and modern now, but chances are it’ll look tired and dated in twenty years’ time. This isn’t to say that you’ll have to make yourself up in a symphony of beiges though if you’re used to a more punchy make-up – vintage wedding dresses in particular can look breathtaking with a classic old Hollywood lipstick colour,’ says Alex Babsky.

Be scared of going a bit brighter

‘Neutral, brown, and pale lip colours can look washed out in photographs, so choose a lipstick that’s one or two shades brighter than what you would normally wear. If you usually wear a neutral hue, it should be worn as a base, with a pink or rose colour on top. If you typically wear dark lipstick, use that as the base, and apply a brighter pink on top to give the colour a lift. Pinks, roses and plums are all great, classic choices for brides,’ says Bobbi.

Just apply make-up to your face

‘Instead, extend down your neck and over your shoulders if necessary, this will ensure you face is not a different colour or even texture to your body. Everything should look uniform to create the most natural look possible. An easy way to blend uneven skin tones together is to use a light fake tan. Do this the day before your wedding not the night and beware of darkening your skin tone too much as the effect it actually the deaden the look of your complexion,’ says Caroline.

Forget to decide what kind of maintenance you’d prefer for the day

‘Are you happy to check you’re looking OK throughout the day, or do you want to just forget about your make-up once it’s on? Waterproof mascara is an obvious requisite, but it’s also worth considering cream eyeshadows that really set; you can be sure they’ll stay where you put them,’ says Alex.

Go too dark on the eyes

Define your eyes by applying colour in the crease, but avoid using a shade that’s too dense, as it can detract from the eyes themselves,’ says Bobbi.

Too glossy or too matte

‘It’s best to avoid lipsticks at either end of the texture scale; too glossy and they’ll only last five minutes whilst too matte and they may leave your lips dry and cakey by the time it’s the moment to kiss your groom. A moisturising, satin-y finish lipstick is best for a wedding – this kind of formula will keep your lips looking their best and will wear off the most evenly and naturally; several thin layers, blotted between applications will give the most long-lasting finish,’ says Alex.

Rush

‘Allow at least 45 minutes to an hour for make-up application on the wedding day,’ says Bobbi.

- Marie Claire Wedding tips

Tips on picking your wedding day make-up artist

Everyone wants their big day to go smoothly. Gorgeous hair, beautiful skin and physique, captivating dress, and a classy setup. But just how do resourceful brides select their makeup artist for their special day? We spoke with numerous brides and came up with a list of common considerations. These 10 tips will help you make the right choice, and we're not talking about your other half.

1. Start early

About eight months prior to your wedding, start taking note of makeup artists and their works. If you've recently attended a wedding and you liked the makeup style on the bride, ask for the name of the makeup artist and do some research on their portfolio to assess whether you like what they do. Also useful is creating a mood board that depicts the looks that you like. This can serve as a source of inspiration for your to-be makeup artist.

2. Reviews matter

Every makeup artist has a track record, and it pays to read reviews given by past clients. Participate and read comments posted on bridal forums to get a sense of who's who in the bridal makeup industry. From there, you can shortlist the top few makeup artists that you'd like to speak more with or even select for your big day.

3. Try it out

The same way car buyers request a test run before laying down their down-payments, ask if the makeup artist can do a trial session. After all, your skin is just as important as your big day and you would want to be in the care of those who know their stuff.

During the trial, bring photos of the makeup looks you like and share the mood board and all your preferences so that the makeup artist can get a sense of what you want. Schedule a whole day shoot, both indoors and outdoors such as an engagement shoot if you’d like. This way, not only will you see how well the makeup lasts in real life, you'd have it on print as reference.

4. Examine their products

Some makeup artists like to stick to a particular brand of makeup. If you dislike the smell or consistency of the product, it helps to discuss swapping them for some other products that you prefer. If you have specific skin concerns and can only use a limited number of products, remember to consider this in your short list as well.

5. Don't forget about your hair

Your wedding look is incomplete without styled hair, and here's a valuable tip a bride shared with us: it helps when your makeup artist and hairstylist can work well together or do both themselves. Remember that weddings can sometimes be high-pressure work environments, and when big families or wedding entourages come into play, it really helps to know you've got people who've got your back no matter what.

On the other hand, if your makeup artist is doubling up as your hairstylist, it will be a good idea to check out his or her hair portfolio too, to make sure you like the hairstyling as much as you like the makeup style.

6. Remember your entourage

Factor in makeup for your bridesmaids, family members, and special guests. Speak to your makeup artist and ensure that they have it included in the cost. Let your makeup artist know exactly how many other people will be needing her services, so she can decide whether she needs to bring along assistants. This is especially important if you have a huge entourage. Say, if you have a family of twelve, you might definitely need to get a supporting makeup artist or two to help your guests look good. Usually your key artist can book those people for you.

7. Inform them about your venue

One bride shared how she brought her makeup artist to the actual wedding location, so they could decide the required tools to bring. Granted, she had planned for a beach wedding and things do get messy with a bit of sand and sea. However, it is always better to let your to-be makeup artist know what they are working with, and that includes their surroundings. Some makeup artists have been known to politely turn down outdoor weddings as they prefer working in more controlled environments such as a hotel ballroom or a fancy restaurant.

8. Prepare the budget and plan B

Always work out a budget before meeting your makeup artist. A good starting point would be to aim for quality. Ask your makeup artist to help you understand what products they will be using, and what essentially you will be paying for. Some brides go as far as to engage standby makeup artists in the unlikely event that their key makeup artist cannot turn up on the actual day. While costly, this will give the bride peace of mind and the confidence to know that she has a contingency plan in place.

9. Get to know them personally

Ultimately, you'd want a makeup artist who has a good attitude. Therefore, it's important to select someone you feel comfortable with and well taken care of by. It is one thing to have a creative flair that helps you look good on your big day and another when that streak runs its own course. Speak honestly with your makeup artist, and let them know if you are uncomfortable with any aspect of the agreement. It is your big day, and apart from looking good, it is crucial that you feel positive and happy throughout the day.

10. Prepare your skin

No matter how professional or seasoned your makeup artist is, you have to do the necessary things to look the part. Prepare in advance for last-minute emergencies such as sudden and unwanted red eyes or swollen lips. Use only linen that your skin is used to in the days leading up to the wedding. Eat simple and cut salt from your diet to reduce the appearance of bloating. Avoid new food or drinks, and do not test out new facial or skincare products two weeks before the big day.

• Bridestory Blog

Tips of wearing your hair down for your wedding

Come rain or shine, some of us want to keep our hair down on the wedding day. Loose hair can easily turn into a messy and greasy mess, however, so there are several things that should be considered. Here are some tips on managing your luscious locks and pulling off the laid-back, down-do style.

1. Pull all your hair back

This is actually one of the best styles to choose from, as having less hair framing your face will reduce the problem of greasy hair. You can add simple braids or hair clips on the sides to keep stray hair in the right place.

2. Use dry shampoo

Dry shampoo is a wonderful invention. This product is a sure solution for a greasy scalp. If you don't have one in an emergency situation, you can use a plain corn starch solution. Just rub it to the roots of your hair and remember to brush off the powdery white residue, which can be unsightly for those with dark hair.

3. Add texture

The rule of thumb is to not fight your natural hair texture. If you have curly hair, it lightly with with a curling iron to make neat waves. If you want to stick to your naturally straight hair, spray on products that add texture and polish your hair with a straightening iron.

4. Voluminous hair

To ensure maximum volume, you can always use a volumizing mousse products before you your hair. Another way is by using a textured professional flat iron for your interior hair layers to keep your hair looking full. Just remember, you need to section your hair into at least three parts and start from the deepest layer of your hair.

5. Don't forget to use hairspray

Just like dry shampoo, hairspray is a must-have on your big day. Hairspray will help your hair stay in position against any wind or veil movements. Don't overuse it though, because your hair might end up looking unnaturally crisp and stiff.

6. Pick a style

Just because you chose a natural-looking do, it doesn't mean that you should look boring. Don't hesitate to play around with braids or twists if you want to keep the look simple and effortless. For more impact, accessorise your hair with embellished combs or vines, delicate ribbons, a bohemian head-band, or organic flowers and leaves.