Being a bridesmaid is such an exciting time, from planning the shower to helping the bride pick out the outfit, shoes, and accessories you’ll wear. But don’t forget to factor bridesmaid makeup and hair into the equation! It’s an integral part of ensuring a cohesive look for the bridal party and that each girl looks and feels fantastic.
Elevate Your Bridesmaid Makeup Look With Our 8 Wedding Day Tips
Whether you have a professional makeup artist for both bride and bridesmaids or the girls will be DIY-ing their beauty, the bride and her squad must be on the same page about which look they’ll be rocking on the big day. Read on for our top bridesmaid makeup tips and some stunning bridesmaid makeup inspiration and ideas from the Make Me Bridal Pro Artists!
Make Me Bridal Pro: Stephanie Graham Vegan & Cruelty-Free Makeup Artist
1. Be Clear About Who Will Pay for the Bridemaids Makeup
It’s a lovely treat for the bride to pay for a professional hair and makeup artist for her bridesmaids (and possibly her mum and mother-in-law too). However, it’s not essential wedding etiquette to do so. Especially if budget is a factor, the bride may prefer to have a pro to do her own hair and makeup. However, if the bride does hire a professional (or a team), it’s important to communicate expectations clearly with the bridesmaids to avoid a nasty surprise on the day.
Give them the choice of opting in or doing their own makeup. If you’re a bridesmaid on the fence about paying for professional makeup application, consider that not only will they be using professional products and tools, ensuring you look great all day, but they can also help to make the whole experience less stressful and more relaxing and fun. And who doesn’t deserve to be pampered once in a while?
Make Me Bridal Pro: I Love It Laura
2. Choose Bridesmaid Makeup that Works with the Wedding Theme, Palette and Season
In the same way as you’ll choose bridesmaid dresses and accessories that work with the venue and theme, you should consider the wedding as a whole when choosing bridesmaid makeup. For example, if it’s an extravagant black tie affair, bridesmaid makeup should be heavier and more glamorous than for a pared-back boho bash. The colours of the dresses will also play a factor, but don’t try to be too matchy-matchy. Think complementary shades and pops of colour instead.
3. As a Bridesmaid, Never Outshine the Bride!
The bridesmaids should look fabulous, but there’s no question that the bride should be the star of the show. So take your queue from her choices. Opting for soft, natural makeup is one of the best ways to ensure your makeup doesn’t compete for attention. So unless you have a fashionista bride who has specified a bold on-trend (or vintage) look, when in doubt, opt for something understated.
4. Match the Bridesmaid's Makeup to Their Individual Features and Skin Tone
While it’s important for the bridal party to look cohesive, their makeup absolutely does not need to match exactly. It’s almost impossible to find a single look or lipstick, for example, that will suit a range of skin tones. Instead, trust your professional makeup artist to style each of the girls slightly differently so that they each look amazing as an individual and as part of the group.
5. Plan Your Getting-Ready Outfits Carefully!
One of the reasons that many brides choose to gift their squad with pretty robes (apart from the fact that they look adorable in photos) is that it’s easy to take them off without smudging your makeup. If you’re choosing your own outfit for the wedding morning, wear one that you don’t have to pull over your head.
6. Make Sure There is Enough Time and Space for Bridesmaids’ Makeup
Whether you’re using a pro for bridesmaid makeup or not, it’s important to factor enough time into the wedding day schedule for everyone to get ready. It’s also important to ensure that there’s enough space in the bridal suite (or wherever you’re getting ready), including mirror space and areas with good natural light.
7. Use Long-Lasting Makeup Formulas
It’s not just the bride who tends to shed a few happy tears! You’ll want bridesmaid makeup that lasts all the way through from ceremony to dance floor, and looks amazing in lots and lots of photographs. So be sure to opt for makeup formulas that last and to prep skin properly before application. Primers and setting sprays will also help to maintain a look.
Make Me Bridal Pro: Makeup by Fi Farrelly
8. Bring Along a Photo Reference or Two
Whether you’re working with a pro or doing it yourself, it’s a good idea to have a picture or two to use as a reference for the makeup look you want to achieve. You’ll find lots more in our gallery!
Make Me Bridal Pro: Joanne Lucas Makeup Artistry
Still looking for a bridesmaid hair and makeup artist near you? Browse our hair and makeup artist directory to find the perfect match!
