how to prepare for your makeup trial: a professional guide

Proper preparation for your appointment can truly make or break your experience during your trial. In a time where prices are high & weddings are expensive, let’s make sure that you’re getting the most out of your trial by being fully prepared.

1.) Brows & Facial Hair

  • Facial hair is absolutely normal, and there is no need to remove it by any means.

  • Makeup does, however, apply the best on clean skin that has had a dermaplane treatment prior. This process removes any facial hair & dead skin cells, leaving the smoothest result. I highly recommend checking with your local esthetician for treatment plans & scheduling for your individual needs.

  • In the case of waxing or threading, I would recommend having that service done 3-7 days prior to your appointment. The skin in the treated areas may be a little sensitive to makeup, so you want to ensure you have enough time to heal before applying products.

    2.) Skincare

  • Makeup applies the best to clean, hydrated skin. Having said that, please avoid using any retinol products the week leading up to your appointment. Gentle exfoliation the night before is fine, but please avoid the day of.

  • Make sure you’re keeping your skin hydrated & drinking a lot of water leading up to your appointment!

3.) What to Wear

  • Aim to wear a color & neckline similar to what you’ll be wearing to your event. This will help you get the full vision of how the colors play together & how much (if any) body makeup you’ll be wearing for the day-of.

4.) Inspiration

  • Try to find 2-4 inspiration pictures/videos to help your artist really zone in on what aspects of the makeup are catching your eye.

  • When looking for inspiration, be sure to look for models/clients with similar coloring and features to your own. Keep in mind that makeup translates differently on each individual!

5.) Who to Bring?

  • Who is your best friend? Your most trusted friend or family member? The most honest? Bring that person.

  • For most people, having your makeup professionally done is a fairly new process, therefore can leave you feeling a little shy. I always encourage brides to bring someone that they can rely on to help them communicate what they’re looking for.

6.) What’s next?

  • After your makeup trial, go out! It’s important to see yourself in different lighting.

  • I highly encourage you to go out & take a lot of photos; whether you’re having your bridal shower, having your dress fitting, or just going out for drinks with your fiance, please take a lot of pictures!

7.) Important Reminders & Tips

  • Make sure that your artist is fully aware of any allergies/sensitivities you have prior to your appointment to avoid any last minute inconveniences or cross-contamination.

  • If you have a product you truly love & wear everyday, such as a specific lip color, feel free to bring it! Your wedding day makeup should be the most elevated representation of you.

  • If possible, try booking your hair trial and/or dress fitting for the same day as your makeup trial. This will help you get a full sneak peak of how everything will look together on the day of.

  • If you’re looking to have a large tattoo covered, make sure your artist is aware ahead of time so they can ensure they’re stocked with enough of the correct products to avoid any transfer.

  • Most importantly: have fun & trust your artist! Be open to their suggestions as a professional and enjoy the process!

Have any additional questions? Feel free to reach out directly!