Every bride envisions her perfect wedding day looking and feeling like a princess! With so much information floating around, choosing your look can be a bit stressful. As someone who frequently travels for bridal work, I cannot stress enough how important it is for you to schedule your hair and makeup trial. You cannot have enough hair and makeup trials before your big day!
The best way to begin your search is by selecting ten of your top picks from the hair and makeup artists in your surrounding area. I recommend no more than ten because more than that can be a little overwhelming. Another great resource of information would be referrals! You're more likely to find your ideal bridal team through brides who recently worked with them for their own wedding preparations.
Once you've narrowed your list down, you can begin the interview process. Whether you're looking for something more natural and boho, or Hollywood glamor, be sure to have your stylist/makeup artist take pictures of the finished look. Photos help you decide if that look is best for you or if you want to change anything. If you choose to change anything with your hair or makeup, the best time to experiment with a different style would be while you are sitting in the chair. Stylists and makeup artists usually allow anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour-in-a-half for any styling/bridal makeup during a trial. So, it's essential to keep track of time as well! The goal is for you to love your look and feel confident knowing you've made the right choice!
Inspirational photos are recommended before seeing your stylist/makeup artist. Pictures, however, can be tricky, so to ensure the styles "jive with your vibe," select photos with similar features. Doing this will give you a more realistic picture of what you'll look like during your bridal trial! Bring any embellishments, your veil, hair piece, etc., if you have them! Nothing says bride more than accessories! There are a few things to remember before you see your stylist on the day of your trial:
Wear Light Colors to Your Bridal Trial
Before your trial appointment, wear something light or, even better, something white. This will give you a glimpse of your appearance when your hair and makeup are done. And remember, don't forget to bring your accessories!
Plan Ahead
I recommend scheduling your bridal trial at least three to five months before your wedding. Consider scheduling your bridal trial on a day you have an event, such as your engagement photos, your dress fitting, or perhaps your bridal shower! After all, you don't just want to sit around looking all glammed up for nothing, "work it, girl!"
Have Inspirational Photos
Have photos ready to show your stylist. Your trial will go much smoother if you have an idea of what you're looking to achieve. When the stylist/makeup artist has finished, take pictures, so you have something to reference from your wedding day! Take note of what you like and don't like about the photos you chose. If there is anything you don't like, the trial would be the perfect opportunity to express those concerns. I suggest pulling inspiration from publications such as Bride Magazine, The Knot, The Bridal Guide, and Style Me Pretty. Saving images and videos from Pinterest and other bridal Instagram accounts will also help!
Clean Dry Hair is a Must
Be sure to have clean, dry hair before your trial. Usually, stylists recommend that you wash and blow dry your hair the night before (the same routine goes for your wedding day, too!). The goal is to have your hair as natural as possible. This is extremely important, as it gives your hairstylist a clean canvas to work with.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
A clean, moisturized face is recommended before your makeup application. Make sure your face moisturizer is free of anything heavy such as oils or SPF. Certain ingredients found in some moisturizers can reflect light when photographed or cause unflattering patchiness on your skin. Plus, a clean face will hold your makeup much better and longer!
When planning the wedding of your dreams, savor every moment of the planning process and ask for help when needed! After all, it is a celebration of love and what better way than to spend it with your closest friends and family! Therefore, your bridal trial should be a glimpse of your perfect day! Remember, have realistic expectations when you schedule your hair and makeup trial, but most importantly, have fun, relax and enjoy the ride!