Planning your wedding can feel like juggling a million details, but one exciting part is getting glammed up for your big day. A bridal makeup preview also known as the bridal makeup trial is a crucial step in ensuring you walk down the aisle looking and feeling your best. Think of it as a rehearsal and not just for your makeup artist, but for you, too. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your bridal makeup trial.

1. Schedule It at the Right Time

Most likely your personal style is refined especially if you booked me a year prior, your makeup inspiration can change. Avoid doing your trial too far in advance—you want your skin tone and hair length to closely match what they’ll be on your wedding day. By scheduling your preview within 3 months of wedding day, this ensures:

• Skin tone is usually most accurate to wedding day (most of us change with the season)
• Hair color is usually most accurate to wedding day (imagine inquiring when you’re a brunette and doing a preview a year out, and now you are a blonde for your wedding day. This can completely change the look).

2. Prep Your Skin Properly

Your makeup is only as good as the canvas underneath. In the days leading up to your trial:

• Stop the use of retinol or actives to avoid product pilling at least 5-7 days prior to your appointment
• Avoid trying new skincare products to prevent reactions
• Consider facial hair removal – eyebrow shaping, upper lip, dermaplane, etc. at least a week before your appointment
• Get a spray tan if you plan on having one for your wedding day
• Stay hydrated and get plenty of rest

If you have specific skin concerns (acne, dryness, etc.), let your makeup artist know in advance so they can tailor their approach.

3. Come With a Vision (and Be Open-Minded)

Bring inspiration photos that reflect the style you’re going for—think soft glam, bold lips, or natural radiance. Pinterest boards and Instagram saves are your best friends here. Try to:

• Choose photos of people with similar skin tones and features
• Narrow down to 3–5 favorites – most should be from your own makeup artist’s portfolio (beware of A.I. photos on pinterest and other platforms).
• Consider your wedding theme and dress style

But also stay open to suggestions. Your artist knows what photographs well, lasts long, and suits your unique features.

4. Wear White (or Something Similar to Wedding Day Attire)

Wearing a white or light-colored top can help you visualize how your makeup will look against your wedding dress. It gives a more accurate preview of the final look than a casual T-shirt or dark colors.

• Style hair up or down to complete the look – try to schedule hair preview on the same day
• Wear jewelry especially if they’re statement earrings and/or necklace since this can change the makeup
• Schedule something fun to maximize makeup-wear time: Book a dinner reservation, Bridal Shower, Engagement Photos etc!

5. Arrive With a Clean Face

Come with a clean, moisturized face—no foundation, no mascara, no leftover lipstick. This allows the artist to start fresh and see your skin’s natural texture and tone.

6. Bring Your Wedding Day Details

To help your makeup artist match your look to the rest of your wedding, bring:

• A photo of your wedding dress
• Images of your hairstyle (or bring your hair trial on the same day if possible)
• Your wedding color palette
• Accessories like your veil or earrings, if you have them

These small details can influence makeup choices like lip color, highlight placement, and eyeshadow tones.

7. Communicate Clearly and Honestly

During the trial, speak up. If you don’t like a certain foundation texture or feel a lip color is too bold, let your artist know. This is your time to make adjustments without pressure. A great makeup artist will appreciate your honesty and work with you to perfect your look.

Share your feedback with your artist so they can tweak the technique or products for the big day.

8. Confirm the Final Details

Once you’re happy with your look, confirm the final details with your Makeup Artist

• Confirm Location – Maybe you thought you would be in the bridal suite but discovered they don’t give you access until later in the day and now you are at an airbnb or hotel.
• Confirm Makeup Timeline – discuss if specific people need to be ready before others
• Additional Services – would you like to add touch-up services, this is the time not on wedding day

---

Your bridal makeup trial is more than just a beauty appointment—it’s a confidence boost. It’s your chance to see yourself as a bride and feel empowered knowing your glam squad has your back. With a little preparation and open communication, you’ll leave your trial glowing—not just on the outside, but from the inside out.

Beauty services are available for all weddings, elopements, special events, engagements, etc. – please book us through the website here.

Stay connected with all things beauty on social media!