Bridal Planning & Beauty Tips

Planning a wedding is a huge undertaking, and our job is to make your makeup experience one less thing to stress about. Below is a breakdown of what you can do to make the lead-up and wedding day as seamless as possible.

1. Early Planning & Booking

  • Choose the date wisely: Once you’ve chosen a rough guest list and budget, start locking in key vendors. If your heart is set on a specific makeup artist, hair stylist, or venue, consider choosing your date based on their availability.

  • Consider off-season discounts: Many vendors offer reduced rates in winter or on weekdays.

  • Book early:

    • Summer weekends book the fastest, so aim to secure vendors 12 to 18 months out.

    • Two years ahead offers even more flexibility and peace of mind.

  • Read every contract: Thoroughly review terms and conditions before committing to any vendor. If anything seems unclear or concerning, ask. Most professionals are happy to clarify or adjust.

2. Hair & Makeup Trial Tips

  • Timing: Schedule your trial 3 to 6 weeks before the wedding.

  • Use it well: Align your trial with your hens night, bridal shower, or engagement shoot so you get full value out of it.

  • Speak up: It’s completely fine to express your preferences. If you want to control the look of your bridal party, we’re happy to deliver the message on your behalf.

  • Skin prep:

    • Don’t pick your skin in the week before your wedding. We can cover redness and bumps, but open wounds are much harder to conceal.

    • Avoid trying any new skincare or beauty treatments in the 6 weeks before your wedding.

    • Stop facials, peels, or injectables at least 3 weeks before the day.

    • Avoid Botox or filler within 4 weeks of the wedding date.

  • Spray tan: Trial your spray tan at least one month out. If happy with the result, get it done 3 days before the wedding and moisturise daily to maintain even colour.

3. Morning Prep Location Checklist

  • Natural light: Best for makeup. Avoid dark or yellow-lit rooms.

  • Surface space: Hair and makeup artists need a full-size dining table between them.

  • Chairs: Dining chairs work best. Avoid stools without backs if possible, as they can be uncomfortable.

  • Space to move: Each artist needs room to work from the front and both sides of the chair.

  • Comfort: Air conditioning is essential for summer weddings. Heat and humidity reduce the staying power of makeup and hair styling.

  • Wi-Fi and cell reception: If the location has no reception, check if Wi-Fi is available. Both you and your vendors need to be reachable.

  • Bluetooth speaker: Many venues don’t have one. Bringing one can lift the mood for the whole bridal party.

  • Toilets and changing areas: Know how many bathrooms are available and where you will get dressed. Also plan photo-friendly areas for your dress reveal.

  • Parking and access: Vendors need close access for gear. Lots of stairs, gravel, or distant parking can be a dealbreaker.

  • Children present? Set up entertainment for them in advance. It’s far easier than dealing with Wi-Fi issues or app requests at the last minute.

4. Day-of Wedding Tips

  • Sunblock: Apply to your body 30 minutes before putting on your dress. This allows it to soak in and prevents marks on fabric.

  • Clothing marks: Remove tight socks, watches, bras, and hair ties an hour before dressing to avoid pressure lines.

  • No scratching or rubbing: If you’re itchy, dab gently with a tissue. Scratching can ruin your base.

  • Weather precautions: Once hair and makeup are done, avoid:

    • Sun exposure

    • Wind

    • Humidity or rain
      These can all interfere with the final look.

5. Backup and Contingency Plans

  • Remote weddings:

    • Check for road closures and have an alternate route if needed.

    • Ask vendors about their policies for travel delays.

    • Plan for extra time if crossing areas like the Remutakas.

  • Emergency supplies: If you're far from home, have each bridal party member bring their own makeup and hair basics. In case of cancellations, this helps avoid panic.

  • Confirm bookings: Get vendor contact numbers and confirm arrival times during the week of your wedding.

6. Lashes, Touch-Ups, and Photos

  • Lashes: We’ll show you how to remove them safely and keep them for future use if desired.

  • Touch-up kit: Ask us to prepare a small kit or nominate a bridesmaid to carry essentials like lipstick and powder.

  • Photos: Set aside 5 to 10 minutes post-glam for solo portraits. It’s the best you’ll look all day.

7. Flawless Skin & Prep (3–12 Months Before)

  • Start a skincare routine early: Cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturise consistently starting 6 to 12 months out. Skin texture and brightness take time to improve.

  • Book facials or skin treatments early: If you want to address acne, pigmentation, or texture, start working with a skin therapist early so your skin has time to settle.

  • Avoid sunburns: Healing from sun damage takes time and peeling skin can’t be properly concealed with makeup.

  • Book other appointments ahead of time: This includes brows, laser hair removal, dental work, and any cosmetic consultations. Give yourself months, not weeks.

  • Stay hydrated and get sleep: Your skin reflects your internal health. Hydration and rest will help you glow without effort.