The Brides Guide to a Makeup Trial Run

On movie sets it is called a screen test, an actor never goes on the big screen without trying different makeup looks for that character...same thing in the wedding world, it is called a "trial run", both are extremely important when it comes to you looking your very best as you star in the biggest production of your life...your wedding day!

On this one day in your life, you get one shot (hopefully) to look the best you ever did and, this is not the day to experiment with new hairstyles, or makeup colors that you have never worn before.
This is the day you want to look like you...only a touch more glamorous!

Here are a few tips that every bride should think of when hiring a professional makeup artist:

Remember that you are interviewing the makeup artist, and hair stylist as well. You two will be working together very closely and it is very important that your personalities get along, especially the day of your wedding.

Most artists charge for trial runs, so make sure that fee is discussed ahead of time...after all, their time is valuable. Plan on at least 90 minutes.

Your artist should be prompt, professional and very calming to be around.

Never hire someone without seeing their work. Ask to see a portfolio or photos of their work, and ask how long they have been in business.

Experienced artists know the importance of working fast, following a schedule and being cordial to other vendors involved.

Ask for testimonials of former clients.

Get a trial run at least 3-4 months before your wedding.

Make sure you are done tanning when you go in for your makeup trial.

Mention any & all product allergies at your trial run, and if you are on any medications.

Bring along your current makeup so we can see what routine you are used to doing. It is okay to use your own products!

Never feel pressured into trying new colors or buying anything...this is your day!

Be open to new suggestions to enhance your features for your photos, sometimes your every day makeup, and colors, do not work well for photography.

Bring along "tear sheets" of some makeup looks that you like.

Make sure you have a waterproof mascara!

Do not get a facial close to your wedding date. Some facials are meant to draw out impurities in the skin which can cause breakouts.

Make sure your artist takes photos of your new look and writes down all the colors they used on you, so they can duplicate that exact look on your wedding day, so there will be no surprises!

Coordinate your makeup and hair time with your wedding planner- you never want your hairstyle or makeup application to be rushed the day of your wedding. Plan on at least an hour for both.

Check your finished application in 3 way mirrors, and outdoor lighting. You want to make sure you look good in all angles, and lighting!

Think about adding individual eyelashes or a strip lash for an elegant look. I've seen eyelashes make women look 10 years younger!

It is very nice to see the entire bridal party perfectly made up for your bridal photos, and don't forget the mothers of the bride & groom...it is their big day, too!

If you do like the artist and agree to hire them, ask for a contract, and discuss what it will take to reserve their services for you, many require a deposit, and some are non refundable.

And finally....makeup can always wash off, so if they don't get it right the first time, they try again, until YOU are happy...that's why it is called a trial! You try different looks until you get that picture perfect look that is just right for you!

Remember...that wedding photos last a lifetime and you want to make sure that the money invested in professional makeup artists and hairstyling is money well spent.

by: Patty Bell

owner On Location Hair and Makeup

6 Tips for Formal Accessorizing

Some people would argue, but I believe there are actually 4 main, visible areas to accessorize: neck, wrists, shoulders, and the waist. Think about all 4 areas while you contemplate your bridesmaid dress, evening gown, prom dress, or other special occasion outfit.
- Theoretically, you can accessorize one or all of these areas, if you do it properly. Do not forget to continue through all the accessorizing tips, to make sure you don’t overdo it.
 
Decide if your dress or outfit of choice is simple, elegant, fancy, flirtatious, embellished? Is it monochromatic or which colors make up your outfit? Where are you going? Take all of these mental notes to make sure you not only choose trendy accessories, but also appropriate accessories.
- Remember, even though feathers may be trendy, they may not be appropriate with your graduation dress.
 
Less is More.
-Once you have put on your matching tennis bracelet, your faux pearl necklace, your costume jewelry or faux gems, take a second and third overall look at your outfit and remember “Less is More”. If you’re not a seasoned accessory-user, you can be certain that removing one item will be beneficial to your overall look.
- I always like to look at myself in the mirror as if I am a stranger and I ask myself “what would I think of that person?” It takes practice, but it works!
 
If you are done with your bracelets, necklaces, and rings, you can move on to your shoes. Shoes should always be comfortable and they should always look elegant. Please leave your clear plastic platforms in the closet!
-If you are wearing stockings, choose neutral or skin-tones for a formal affair. They should be subtle- no fishnets!
-If you need an extra something, you can always create or buy some shoe clips. They are a cheaper alternative to buying new shoes, and really revamp your look.
 
Now we’re ready for a wrap or jacket. This is usually the hardest part for people to get right. If you purchase a bridesmaid dress with exposed shoulders, look for a company that offers a matching shawl. Shawls and wraps are my favorite because they are the most inexpensive and easiest to store. I tend to keep too many shawls because they don’t take up much room in my closet. Just make sure whatever you are using as a cover up, that it matches in texture and color. For example, if you are wearing a light, airy gown, you do not want to wear a leather or heavy satin jacket.
 
Carry a purse or small evening bag. This bag can be matching fabric or beaded and can be used to add a lot of interest to your overall look. Your purse or evening bag should be large enough to hold your keys, lip gloss, cash, and other small personals.

by Lizzette Brodsky
http://www.dresscodeformal.com

Wedding Day Beauty on Palacinka.com

Palacinka.com, a beauty website for women of color, invited brides from WedAlert.com to share their wedding day beauty concerns, and have their questions answered by celebrity makeup artist, Cheryl Williams Barnes.

Question: I will be tying the knot on May 18, 2008, and my biggest beauty concern for my wedding day is making sure I don't get any break outs, choose the right foundation for my skin tone that makes me look radiant, conceals any dark spots that I may have, and experimenting with hairstyles and styling products.

I have a West Indian background and it is not easy to find makeup for my skin tone. I have tried many brands..... Click here to read more..."