Understanding the significance of a wedding makeup trial or preview is crucial. This session allows your makeup artist to create a customized look that complements your complexion and features. They can also determine the appropriate preparation, products, and techniques for a long-lasting and stunning result. Perfect makeup makes you feel confident, beautiful, and relaxed on your special day. A bridal trial is important not only for the makeup artist but also for you, the bride. A trial allows you to discuss your vision, preferences, and any specific ideas you have for your bridal makeup. By sharing your expectations and desires, you can ensure that you and the makeup artist are on the same page. To make the most of your trial, being prepared is essential. Below, I am sharing some tips on what to expect and how to prepare for your trial.
Before your trial
Plan your outfit-
When attending your makeup trial, please plan to wear a solid white or cream-colored top to accurately represent how the makeup will look against your wedding attire.
Self-enhancements-
Any self-enhancements, such as tanning, lash extensions, etc., should also be done for the trial. Any change in appearance can cause colors to look different, or products may have to be switched out entirely.
Allergies or Skin Issues-
Inform your artist about any allergies or skin conditions you have so that they can use products that won't irritate you. I can't emphasize enough how important it is to start caring for your skin. I highly recommend seeing a board-certified dermatologist or esthetician for skincare routine recommendations. Your artist can also help you with skincare recommendations. You can see a list of my recommended products by clicking here. I always like to remind my brides that makeup can only enhance your skin's condition, so the better your skin, the better your makeup will look and last.
Inspirational Photos-
When a bride shows up to the trial without any idea what they want, it can be frustrating for the bride and the artist. Look for inspiration from your makeup artist's portfolio, Pinterest, or celebrity red-carpet images. For my bridal clients, I recommend bringing 2-3 reference photos that feature models with similar skin tone, eye color, and hair color as themselves. This approach ensures a more realistic representation of how the makeup will look on them. It's important to note that many makeup looks found online are often heavily photoshopped, so it's even better to find reference photos that haven't been extensively edited.
Know the difference between Natural vs. Neutral
Natural and Neutral mean two different things. Ensure that your understanding aligns with your artists. Neutral tones don't necessarily mean a natural look. While natural makeup aims for a minimal and effortless appearance, neutral makeup focuses on achieving a balanced and versatile look using colors in the middle of the color spectrum. For example, neutral lip colors include shades like mauve, dusty rose, or light brown, while neutral eyeshadows include beige, taupe, or soft grays. Both styles offer different options for enhancing your features while maintaining a subtle and elegant aesthetic.
During the trial:
Communication
It's important to be specific about your vision. By discussing your desired outcome beforehand, you can ensure that you're on the same page and clearly understand the look you're aiming for. Discuss all details, including colors, textures, placement, and shapes you prefer. Please use clear descriptions to avoid misinterpretation. Additionally, make sure to describe your complexion and preferred finish. Do you want a dewy or matte look? Considering your skin type, do you want a natural or a bold highlight?
Trust in Your Artist
It's important to trust your makeup artist's expertise. I like to wait to reveal the makeup look to the bride at the end of the trial. Constantly observing the makeup artist's work throughout the process can create unnecessary stress and anxiety for you and the artist. Makeup application involves layering products and building the look gradually. The final look may not be apparent until all the elements come together.
Providing Feedback after the Trial
-Be honest and specific:
When providing feedback, be honest about what you liked and didn't like about the makeup. Be specific in describing the areas or elements you want to be adjusted or changed. This clarity helps the makeup artist understand your preferences and make the necessary modifications.
-Focus on the Outcome
Instead of criticizing specific techniques or products, focus on the overall outcome you want to achieve. Describe the look you envisioned for your wedding day and how the trial makeup aligns with that vision. This approach allows the makeup artist to understand your expectations better and work towards achieving them.
-Use constructive language:
When expressing your feedback, use constructive language that is respectful and encouraging. Instead of saying something didn't look good, please explain how you would like it to be different or improved. For example, rather than saying, "I don't like the eyeshadow color," you can say, "I prefer a softer, more natural shade."
-Be open to suggestions:
While it's important to communicate your preferences, also be open to the professional expertise of the makeup artist. They may have insights and suggestions based on their experience to enhance the overall look. Collaboration and open communication can lead to the best outcome.
-Clear and Constructive
Remember, the purpose of providing feedback is to work with the makeup artist to create a look that makes you feel beautiful and confident on your wedding day. Clear and constructive feedback helps the makeup artist understand your vision and make necessary adjustments to achieve your desired outcome.
Follow Up
I have my brides wear their makeup throughout the day and will follow up with them to see how the makeup lasted and how comfortable it felt. If there are any issues or concerns in these practical aspects, it helps me know what I need to do differently. Sometimes it can be as simple as adding in a skin prep item.
After wearing your makeup out and about, if you believe the changes you want to the overall look are significant, scheduling a second trial is recommended. However, if it's a minor adjustment and you're comfortable with the artist improvising on the wedding day, inform them via email so they can be prepared.
Additional Information
-Touch-ups
As part of my bridal services, I provide a touch-up kit to all my clients. However, some brides prefer to have full-sized products on hand for essential touch-ups throughout their wedding day. I recommend having blotting sheets, finishing powder, and lip color on hand. To simplify things, you can entrust your lip color to your coordinator or maid of honor in advance, so you have one less thing to worry about when heading out for your first look or the ceremony.
Preparing for a bridal makeup trial can be nerve-wracking, but it doesn't have to be. You can have a positive and stress-free experience with the right information and mindset. I hope the tips I've shared in this post will help you feel confident and enjoy working with your makeup artist.
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