Our guide to achieving that perfect bridal look
Welcome, brides-to-be! I’m Alicia Sandeman, and I’m here to share my top ten bridal makeup tips to help you look and feel flawless on your special day.
Achieving that perfect bridal look involves more than just a few swipes of mascara and lipstick.
Here’s a guide filled with tips, tricks, and trends to ensure you dazzle everyone with your beauty.
1. Skin Prep
Your skin is the canvas for your makeup, so it needs to be in its best condition. Hydrate by drinking plenty of water, and pamper yourself with facials, exfoliating treatments, and night-time face masks. Moisturized skin allows makeup to glide on smoothly and look radiant. Need recommendations for local facialists? I’m happy to help!
2. Foundation
Finding the right foundation is crucial for a flawless base. During your bridal makeup trial, we’ll discover what works best for your skin type and desired coverage. Some of my favorite long-lasting foundations include:
- Chanel Vitalumière Aqua: Sheer and lightweight, this foundation gives a healthy, luminous glow.
- IT Cosmetics CC Cream: Provides light coverage with SPF 50, perfect for a natural look.
- Dior Forever Matte: Offers 24-hour high perfection with a matte finish, evening out complexion and controlling shine.
3. Makeup Trial
Always schedule a makeup and hair trial before your wedding day. This ensures you’re completely happy with your look and feel comfortable with your stylist. Peace of mind is priceless on your big day.
4. Fake Tan
Many brides opt for a spray tan, but it’s essential to have a trial run to avoid any surprises. Make sure the shade complements your skin tone and doesn’t cause any allergic reactions. I can recommend the best suppliers for a natural-looking tan.
5. Lipstick
Choosing the perfect lipstick can be challenging. I often suggest hydrating lipsticks or lip stains that offer long-lasting color. We’ll spend time during your trial to find the shade that suits you best.
6. Use Waterproof Products
Tears are inevitable on your wedding day, so waterproof makeup is a must. Keep a beauty blender handy to blot tears without smudging. Affordable options like L’Oréal’s Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara and Bobbi Brown’s long-lasting eyeliner are excellent choices. We’ll also set your makeup with fixing powder and spray.
7. Keep Essential Products On-Hand
Throughout the day, keep your lipstick, blotting papers, and translucent powder within reach. I always provide my brides with a “touch-up kit” so you can maintain your flawless look.
8. Plan Ahead
Your makeup artist and hair stylist should create a schedule to ensure everything runs smoothly on your wedding day. We aim to have you dressed and ready for final touch-ups 15-30 minutes before the ceremony.
9. Skin Prep for Photos
To avoid unwanted marks in photos, remove all watches and jewelry that won’t be worn on the day. If you’re wearing a strapless dress, remove bras with straps 24 hours beforehand to prevent visible strap marks.
10. Smile and Enjoy the Day
Remember, the best accessory is your smile. Enjoy every moment of your wedding day, as it goes by quickly. Your happiness will shine through in your photos.
Follow these tips, and you’ll look stunning and feel confident as you walk down the aisle. Enjoy your journey to the perfect bridal look!
Alicia Sandeman Wedding Hair & Makeup, Sussex, Surrey, London & Kent
I, and my friendly, highly skilled team of makeup artists and hair stylists specialise in creating stunning bridal makeovers. With years of experience, we ensure that your special day will be exactly as you envisioned.
Our comprehensive bridal makeup services include thorough trials leading up to your wedding, providing you with the peace of mind that every detail will be perfect. We pride ourselves on offering a relaxing and personalised experience, working closely with you to explore and create your dream look. Get in touch to find out more.






