The Professionals

To ensure that the bride looks her best, it is advisable to hire a professional make-up artist for the day. They must be booked well in advance; check prices and terms - some will do both wedding hair and make-up.

A trial run is advisable. The bride should wear a top that is similar in style to the top of the wedding dress.

The make-up artist will need to know what style of hair and accessories have been decided upon and the bride must talk through exactly what she wants with her make-up advisor. A photograph should be taken as soon as it is done (and then again a few hours later) as a reminder. A professional can also make up the mother of the bride and adult bridesmaids.

Non-Professional

Many brides like to do their own wedding make-up to ensure they control how they look on the day; make-up counters in department stores offer trials and lessons. Alternatively, the bride may have a talented friend who can help with their make-up on the day.

The Bridal Look

Never try something new or experiment on the day itself. Most brides choose to look as natural as possible. Wearing a lot of make-up won't make it stay on; it will just look too heavy. Make-up should always be applied in natural daylight. Waterproof mascara is a good idea for emotional brides.

Making it Last

Brides may wish to restore their make-up as the day goes on; this is a duty for the chief bridesmaid - she must not make drastic changes but just keep the bride looking fresh-faced. Ensure that the make-up she carries is the same brand and colours as those already applied.

See also The Mothers of the Bride and Groom

See also The Bridesmaids: Hair & Make-Up

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