I met make up artist ‘Rachael Claire’ at a wedding I was photographing last year at Warwick house and I was blown away by her talent. The amount of detail and time she put’s into her bridal make up, well.. it’s amazing!
Rachael has been kind enough to write a blog with some bridal make up tips! As I am always getting asked about wedding make-up!
Check out Rachael Claire’s website here and free index reviews here.
And here’s the tips! (Photography by me! – see Ross and Christina’s wedding blog here )
Every bride wants to look amazing on her wedding day and not only do you have to look good in person but you also need to look fabulous in the photographs.
The best way to achieve a polished makeup look is to hire a makeup artist. This way you get the chance to have fresh eyes look at your face and see how they can make the most of your look. Good makeup is an art and can cover a multitude of sins, from scars and acne to tattoos so if you have any worries at all its good to get a professional in. It’s an idea to discuss any concerns you have with your artist and make them aware of any problems. This way they can order any specialist products.
It’s a good idea to start looking for a makeup artist about 6 months before the wedding. If you are unsure of where to start then ask the venue or friends who they can recommend. You may also find that your hairdresser or photographer can suggest someone they have worked with before. Websites are also a good port of call so have a look on some wedding sites to see who is listed or maybe even the yellow pages. When you do find the right person do make sure that you ask to see portfolios and testimonials.
Of course the best indication is to have a trial, this way you can make sure they are the right makeup artist for you. A good makeup artist will work with your ideas and listen to what you want. They won’t take over but will offer advice and tips about what works best. They should be able to offer tips about skincare so that you can be sure to look amazing for the big day.
If they have a background in beauty then they may be able to do manicures and pedicures the day before. Make sure that the other members of the wedding party also have trials. It can be a nice touch to book makeup for the two moms, it’s a luxury and it will make them feel extra special. It is very important to discuss the numbers with your chosen artist so that they know how much time to allocate, as a rough guide this will be 45 minutes for you and 30 minutes per extra person.
When you go for a trial it’s good to take some pictures with you. Have a look through magazines/online and make a scrapbook/Pinterest page of any styles that you like. Make sure you wear your normal day makeup as this will give a good indication of what you are used to wearing. It can also be a good idea to take along any pictures that reflect the theme of the wedding, so the dress, the flowers, the hairstyles, these will all help when choosing a makeup style.
If you want to get real value for money book a trial for when you are going out or maybe for a hen night. It’s better than wearing it to do the washing up looking all glam! Or if you can co-ordinate the timing with the day of your hair trial then all the better. If you really feel like being spoilt then why not book it as a ‘pamper party’ and get the bridesmaids round?
Question to ask your makeup artist
Who covers if they are sick?
What’s included in the price? Will they leave you with the lipstick/powder for touch ups?
Where will the makeup be done on the day?
What are the timings?
What makeup products do they use or can they use your own?
Are they insured?
Are there any extra charges for lashes/ travel?
How much are trials?
How long will they stay for and will they be on hand for touch ups if required?
Hope this helps when it comes to your big day!