How to Make the Most of Your Bridal Makeup Trial Appointment

Your bridal makeup trial is an important step in ensuring you look and feel your absolute best on your wedding day. It’s not just a chance to play with pretty makeup; it’s an opportunity to work with your makeup artist to craft the perfect look that complements your style, wedding theme, and personality. To help you prepare, I’ve put together a guide on what to expect during your makeup trial and how to get the most out of this experience.

Here are 5 important questions you'll want to ask your bridal makeup artist prior to booking your trial appointment:

1. "How many looks can we try during the makeup trial?"

   
   

   Your bridal makeup trial is your chance to experiment, so don’t be shy about trying out different styles! Most makeup artists are happy to accommodate a couple of different looks during your trial session. This might include a more natural look versus a glam one, or simply tweaking certain elements like lipstick shades or eye makeup intensity.

   
   

   However, it’s important to keep in mind that time is limited. You’ll typically have enough time to try out two distinct looks, so it’s helpful to have a clear idea of what you’d like to explore beforehand. Bring inspiration photos or a Pinterest board to show your artist what you’re envisioning. This will help streamline the process and ensure you leave the trial feeling confident about your final look.

   
   

2. "What happens if I want to makeup changes after the trial?"

   
   

   It’s completely normal to want to make tweaks after your makeup trial - nearly EVERY bride will want to make some adjustments. Maybe you decide you want a pinker lip color, a softer contour, or a different lash option. Whatever the case, don’t hesitate to communicate your thoughts with your makeup artist. I always encourage my brides to email me their adjustments to ensure I stay better organized in my documentation process.

   
   

   After the trial, your artist will have notes and photos of the look you created together, which they can use as a reference for any adjustments. The changes should be minor enough to simply adjust on wedding day! Just be sure to discuss any additional charges that might apply for further trials if an additional appointment is necessary to ensure there are no surprises.

   
   

3. "Will I have the same artist for both my trial and wedding date?"

   
   

   Having the same artist for both your trial and wedding day is ideal because they’ll be familiar with your preferences and the look you’ve chosen. Most reputable makeup artists will ensure that the person who conducts your trial will also be the one who does your makeup on the big day. However, it’s always a good idea to confirm this when booking your trial, especially if you’re working with a larger beauty team or agency.

   
   

   Ask about their policy on this and ensure it’s clearly stated in your contract. If there’s any chance of a different artist being assigned on your wedding day, request to meet them or at least have a detailed consultation beforehand.

   
   

4. "How long will the trial be booked for?"

   
   

   Makeup trials typically last between 1.5 to 2 hours. This allows enough time for a thorough consultation, application of one or two full looks, and any minor adjustments. The exact duration can vary depending on the complexity of the look you’re going for and how many looks you want to try, and of course the artist's personal timing preferences.

   
   

   During the trial, your artist will likely start by discussing your vision, examining your skin type, and recommending skincare prep for the big day. After that, they’ll apply the makeup, and you’ll have the opportunity to provide feedback as the look comes together.

   
   

5. "Do I need to bring anything to my makeup trial appointment?"

   
   

   Preparing a few things before your trial can make the experience smoother and more productive. Most artists will recommend you have the following:

   
   

   Inspiration Photos: Bring images of makeup looks you love. These can be from Pinterest, Instagram, or bridal magazines.

   
   

   Dress and Accessories: If you have your wedding dress or accessories like your veil, hairpieces, or jewelry, bring photos or the actual items. This will help your artist create a cohesive look.

   
   

   Skincare Products: If you have specific skincare products you use regularly, bring them along. This will help your artist understand your skin’s needs and avoid any potential reactions.

   
   

   Lipstick or Other Makeup: If you have a favorite lipstick or makeup product you absolutely want to include in your bridal look, bring it to the trial.

   
   

   Your Hair Down: Arrive with clean, dry hair. Even if you’re not having a hair trial at the same time, your artist may want to see your hair’s natural texture to plan your look accordingly.

Your bridal makeup trial is an exciting part of your wedding planning journey! It’s your time to shine, experiment, and collaborate with a professional who can bring your bridal beauty vision to life. By asking the right questions and coming prepared, you’ll ensure that your makeup on the big day is nothing short of perfection. Enjoy the process and trust in your artist’s expertise—they’re there to make you feel like the most beautiful version of yourself as you walk down the aisle!