Bridal Preparation Guide
From Your Makeup Artist — Please Read Before the Big Day!
Your wedding makeup will photograph beautifully and last all night—but only if the canvas (your skin) is properly prepped. Makeup can only do so much… the rest starts with you.
Here’s how to get your skin (and yourself) ready for the big day:
1. Skincare Is Everything
Great makeup starts with healthy, hydrated skin. If your skin is dry, textured, or congested, makeup can cling, separate, or appear cakey.
Start now:
Gently exfoliate 2–3x per week to remove dead skin
Moisturize daily with products suited to your skin type
Stay hydrated—drink plenty of water
Facials:
Regular facials leading up to your wedding will improve texture, tone, and hydration. They will make your makeup look a million times better. I recommend starting 4–6 months out. Get at least 2 before the wedding to ensure you don’t react poorly to them.
Pro tip: Dermaplaning is a great add-on to remove peach fuzz and dead skin so makeup applies flawlessly.
✨ I offer 20% off facial services for all of my brides and clients. Message me for more info or book directly here (I recommend the dermaplaning + hydrofacial combo):
vagaro.com/looksandlashesbeauty
2. Don’t Skip Your Trial
Your bridal preview is where we bring your vision to life. We’ll test products, refine your look, and address any concerns ahead of time. I’ll also review your skincare routine and make personalized recommendations to ensure the best possible results on your wedding day.
Important note: Your trial is not the final look—it’s a starting point. It gives us a clear direction, but your bridal look can always be slightly refined and perfected on the wedding day itself based on skin, and overall vibe. Adjustments are completely normal and part of creating your ideal final look.
3. Spray Tan Tips
Thinking about a spray tan? Love it (and recommend it!)—just plan it right:
Schedule your tan 2–3 days before the wedding
Avoid tanning your face if possible (this helps prevent patchiness/clinging to dark spots)
Exfoliate and shave thoroughly the day before your tan
Keep your skin well moisturized after rinsing
I’ll match your face perfectly to your body using makeup.
4. Brows, Waxing & Beauty Appointments
Shape brows 5–7 days before the wedding
Avoid waxing or facial hair removal 2–3 days prior to prevent irritation
Test lash extensions or tinting ahead of time to avoid reactions
Botox/filler appointments should be done at least 1–2 months in advance
5. The Night Before + Morning Of
Cleanse, moisturize, and get a good night’s sleep
Avoid trying any new products or treatments
Arrive with a clean, makeup and skincare-free face (no SPF please!)
I’ll take care of everything from there 🤍
Have your bridal party bring inspiration photos of girls that have similar features to them so we can tailor each look while keeping everything cohesive.
6. Touch-Up Essentials
While your makeup is designed to last all day (and it will!), I always recommend having a few items on hand:
Your own lip products (for easy reapplication)
A small brush-on lash glue (just in case)
Pressed powder if you tend to get oily or sweat
Getting Ready Space & Setup
Request extra tables, chairs or setup space in your hotel room or suite the night before (not the morning of the wedding).
This small detail makes a big difference in keeping your morning organized and stress-free. Having surfaces ready ahead of time allows your beauty team to set up efficiently, keeps products off the floor, and helps everything run on schedule without last-minute scrambling.
Emotional Prep for the Morning
Open any sentimental gifts, cards, or letters before makeup begins.
This helps avoid tears after your makeup is finished so your look stays fresh, clean, and photo-ready for as long as possible.
If you’d prefer to open them later, we can plan timing together so you can enjoy those moments without affecting your makeup.
It’s also helpful to designate a “point person” from your bridal for vendors and questions (planner, photographer, coordinator, etc.), so you can stay fully present and relaxed while getting ready.
Final Thoughts
Makeup isn’t magic—healthy, glowing skin is what truly makes it look its best and last all day. When you take the time to properly prep, the results are effortless, radiant, and long-lasting.
We can’t wait to be part of your wedding day and glam you up ✨