Your Essential Wedding Hair & Makeup Guide Checklist
Expert tips to ensure smooth wedding morning preparations
Planning your bridal hair and makeup for your wedding is an exciting part of the journey! But it can also cause a lot of anxiety and stress for some brides-to-be.
As a bridal hair and makeup specialist, I understand the importance of looking and feeling your absolute best on your big day. Your wedding is a momentous occasion, and your bridal hair and makeup play a crucial role not only in making you look flawlessly beautiful, but also in ensuring you feel amazing and confident as you walk down the aisle.
With that in mind, I’ve put together a comprehensive pre-wedding checklist to help you navigate the world of bridal beauty and ensure you’re well prepared and confident for your upcoming wedding day, so you can relax and enjoy the morning!
Take note of these helpful tips to avoid unnecessary stress on your wedding day:
Start Early:
Begin planning your bridal hair and makeup well in advance of your wedding day. You don’t want to find the perfect stylist only to realise they’re already booked and therefore unavailable for your wedding date! Ideally, book a hair and makeup preview session around 3-6 months before your wedding date. This allows ample time to discuss your vision, try out your desired look, and make any necessary adjustments.
Research and Consultation:
Take the time to research and find the right makeup artist and hairstylist for you. Look for professionals with experience in the wedding industry and a portfolio that aligns with your desired style. Schedule a call to discuss your requirements and preferences and ensure you’re on the same page before booking.
Preview Session:
A preview (or trial) is essential to test out different hair and makeup looks and determine what suits you best. During your preview, communicate openly with your artist about your likes, dislikes, and any specific concerns you may have. Don’t be afraid to speak up and ask for adjustments until you’re completely satisfied with your bridal look. This will save time on the wedding day so you can relax, knowing exactly what to expect.
Skincare Preparation:
Beautiful makeup starts with healthy, radiant skin. In the months leading up to your wedding, prioritise skincare to ensure your complexion is in top condition. Consider booking facials, stay hydrated, and follow a consistent skincare routine recommended by your makeup artist - it will pay off big time!
Hair Prep:
On the day of your wedding, it’s essential to prep your hair properly to ensure your hairstyle lasts throughout the day. Wash your hair the night before with a lightweight, hydrating shampoo and conditioner and avoid heavy styling products that can weigh your hair down. Always follow the advice given by your hairstylist regarding how best to prep your hair for your desired bridal hairstyle.
Natural Makeup vs. Glamorous Look:
Decide whether you want a natural, understated makeup look or a more full-glam, statement style. Your makeup artist can help guide you based on your personal preferences, wedding theme, and venue. For a London wedding, a timeless and elegant look often complements the city’s chic and sophisticated vibe. Whereas a country barn or garden wedding might lend itself to a more natural and whimsical makeup style. Ultimately, it comes down to your individual style and the level of makeup you’re comfortable wearing.
Final Details:
Confirm all the details with your makeup artist and hairstylist, including timings, location, and any additional services you may require. Ensure to share the hair and makeup schedule with your bridal party, venue coordinator or wedding planner a couple of weeks before your big day, so that everyone knows what to expect.
Wedding Day Essentials
Prepare a small makeup touch-up kit for any last-minute adjustments throughout the day. Make a list of emergency items that might be needed during the wedding morning, such as scissors, plasters, straws, a needle and thread, safety pins, a steamer etc.
Prepare The Day Before
Take some time the day before your wedding to steam dresses and veils, cut out clothing labels, lay out wedding details for the photographer, and plan breakfast and snacks to fuel you throughout the morning. These thoughtful preparations will not only save you time but also allow you to fully immerse yourself in the joy of your wedding morning!
Relax and Enjoy:
On the morning of your wedding, take some time to relax and enjoy the moment. Trust in the expertise of your makeup artist and hairstylist to bring your vision to life, and focus on savouring every precious moment with your loved ones.
Remember, your wedding day is all about celebrating love, joy, and new beginnings. With the right hair and makeup team by your side, you can step into married life feeling confident, radiant, and ready to make unforgettable memories.
