Many brides feel like they are able to complete their wedding day makeup and hair on their own. Now while we believe that you will be a stunning bride, we know that everyday makeup and wedding day makeup are not the same. Consider how long your makeup will need to last and how your makeup will look in professional photos. And the hair…do you really want to trust that you will do your hair perfectly on your wedding day? Sometimes seen as a luxury add-on, a professional makeup and hair (HMUA) specialist is money well spent. We have collected advice, insight, and tips to assist you in your bridal beauty explorations with the help of one of our most fabulous pros, Ashley McNabb of Ashley McNabb Artistry.
Types of Bridal Hair + Makeup. Not all wedding makeup is the same and there are actually a range of styles to choose from. Depending on your style of gown, hairpiece, and length of your hair, you will have a variety of hairstyles to play with as well. We have listed a few for you to explore below.
- MAKEUP
- Classic
- Glam
- Beachy
- Sophisticated
- Old Hollywood
- Glowy
- “No Makeup” Natural
- HAIRSTYLES
- Loose, wavy curl
- Sleek
- Full body curl
- Pinned curl
- Half-up/Half-down
- Chignon
- Ballerina bun
- Messy bun
- Braids
- Side Sweep
- Ponytail
- Twisted updo
- Top knot
- French twist
Before the Consultation. With so many choices to discuss with your hair & makeup artist, it is important to have certain information gathered before your consultation to ensure an accurate quote. Check out the artist’s portfolio on Instagram and to see their body of work. Know that each professional offers different pricing, inclusions, and style. Gather the following information before your consult:
- Estimated number of wedding party needing makeup and/or hair.
- Venue location and wedding date.
- Your theme, style, or color scheme.
- If your dress is high or low in the back.
- Your comfort level of wearing makeup.
- What shade of lipstick you wear on a night out. (Helps determine style).
- How you like to style your brows.
- Features that you would like to highlight.
- Makeup/Hair inspiration photos.
Tips + Tricks. When it comes to wedding makeup and hair, there are a few tricks of the trade that will help you plan and design out your wedding day.
TIP ONE. Schedule a trial! Even if you love the artist’s portfolio, take the time to make sure you like your look before your wedding day. It’s very important to be on the same page with your vendor to execute your perfect vision of what you want forever.
TIP TWO. Don’t be overly influenced by outside voices. It is your face on your day! You know what looks best and a professional will accentuate your natural beauty.
TIP THREE. Hire a pro! A friend who is “good at makeup” or headed to a local makeup counter may save you some money, but will most likely cost you in the long run. A photo is forever.
TIP FOUR. Set a look for your bridesmaids. A quality artist will know how to apply a look on a variety of faces. Avoid having multiple different styles for your wedding party. Take control of the look so there is some uniformity in the HMUA styling. At the very least, select a range of lipstick colors to avoid someone “coloring” outside the lines.
TIP FIVE. Be vocal. If you don’t like something, let your artist know. They will not take it personally! They want you to be pleased with your look and feel as amazing as possible. Another good reason to have a trial.
TIP SIX. Orchestrate with your HMUA vendor to have your perfect shade of wedding day lipstick available for touch ups later. Keep it in a clutch or have a bridesmaid keep it handy for you. Also consider a small powder compact to stay brilliant and beautiful for when you’re done doing the Cupid Shuffle.
Happy Planning!
Contributing Photographer: Matt Allen Photo