What is Bridal Makeup?

What is Bridal Makeup?

By Lisa Johnson, owner of Brides by Lisa

There are many things to consider when planning your wedding, and your makeup is no exception. Below, I have outlined some distinctions between bridal makeup and evening makeup; and have even added some healthy skin tips to assist you in looking radiant on your big day!

Unlike your evening makeup, BRIDAL MAKEUP is measured first and foremost by the level of durability; therefore, it may be applied on a clean face – sometimes with a primer, a light moisturizer or no moisturizer at all. A trial makeup consultation should have you prepared for what the makeup artist will be doing and what is advised for optimum skincare. Keep in mind that both your face shape and skin type are important considerations for your makeup. Classic and understated is what I recommend for most bridal makeup applications — most brides look back and regret not following this advice.

EVENING MAKEUP is more about changing fashion styles, more experimental color choices and seasonal trends. And while evening makeup does not have to agree with print photography, everything about bridal makeup is calculated (or should be) by photographic flash; all the while creating points of light on the lips, eyelids and cheeks. 

As a professional makeup artist, I am trained in technique for face structure, color theory and am constantly testing new product for my professional kit. It is imperative to find a makeup artist who is trained in PRINT makeup application. For instance, your everyday retail cosmetics may be very couture and trendy, but using foundation and product with SPF interferes with all print photography. SPF sends the flash back to the camera, which in turn comes across in the image as glow, sheen, and oil and also has a tendency to distort the face structure as well as add years. Who wants THAT?

Weeks before the big day, LESS is definitely MORE, unless it’s water…
Paving the way for healthy skin is a MUST when preparing your face for your big bridal look. Follow these tips and say hello to glowing, happy skin. 

Consider your face an artist’s canvas. Refrain from having a cosmetic facial or facial hair removal at least two weeks before the wedding to avoid any irritation, allergies, puffiness or redness. Also keep in mind that waxing temporarily changes the skin’s texture and causes it to appear shiny — making your makeup more difficult to unify. 

The brows frame the eye and it’s important not to OVERPLUCK the area. Your makeup artist can offer you brow grooming at your consultation. If stray hairs appear on your big day, plucking one or two shouldn’t be a problem.

Drink lots of water in the final days before the wedding to give your face a healthy and vibrant appearance.Drinking water also flushes out toxins and can  reduce bloating.

Most of all – relax, relax, relax! Try to relax the night before the wedding as much as possible. You will want to be rested and ready on your wedding day. Have a warm bath with your favorite bath products nearby, light some fragrant candles, have some sleepy tea or a glass of wine – enjoy your last night as a single girl! Remember, the more relaxed you are, the better you will photograph. And your bridal images last forever. ENJOY!

Lisa Johnson is a professional makeup artist specializing in editorial, fashion, runway and bridal makeup. She is published in Brides, Wedding Style, and the international trade publication 2007 LE BOOK LA CREATIVE. You can see her work on her website at www.bridesbylisa.com as well as on www.myspace.com/bridesbylisa. Contact her today for all your makeup artistry needs.

Photographs by David Wright Photography