Your wedding day is one of the most photographed days of your life, making your makeup choice a crucial part of your overall bridal look. From natural elegance to full glam, selecting the right makeup style ensures you feel confident, beautiful, and timeless in your photos. We spoke with our amazing vendor partners and expert bridal makeup artists to gather their best advice for a guide to selecting your wedding makeup style.

Photo by Marta D. Weddings // Makeup by Bogart Beauty

Consider Your Personal Style and Comfort Level 

“Your wedding day isn’t the time to experiment with a look that doesn’t feel like you,” says Erica Bogart of Bogart Beauty. “If you rarely wear makeup, a soft, natural look might be your best fit. If you love a full beat and wear lashes daily, a more glam or bold style will feel authentic and effortless.”

Lauren Shea of Lauren Shea Artistry agrees, emphasizing the importance of choosing a look that aligns with who you are. “Brides should first and foremost choose a look in which they will feel the most comfortable, beautiful, and confident. Then, they can take into account the overall wedding vibe and setting. Always consider classic and timeless over trendiness.”

Karen S. Martinez of KSM Makeup adds, “One of the most common mistakes brides make is selecting a look purely based on current trends rather than their personal style. While trendy makeup can be beautiful and inspiring, it’s important to remember that bridal beauty should be timeless and, most importantly, a true reflection of the bride’s personality.”

Photo by Time Magazine // Makeup by Lauren Shea Artistry

Planning, Styling, & Design: AMV Weddings // BTS Photos: Thomas Audiffren // Makeup by Kayla Kollection

Understanding the Difference Between Natural and Neutral Looks 

Kayla Okpareke of Kayla Kollection explains a common misconception brides have: “A lot of brides confuse natural makeup with neutral makeup. Many inspirational photos feature full glam with neutral colors, leading brides to believe it’s a natural look. In reality, natural makeup—often referred to as ‘no makeup, makeup’—looks like there’s almost no makeup on at all.”

Lauren warns that “behind the lens, you photograph a couple of shades lighter. Wearing little to no makeup can make you look washed out. Trust your artist’s expertise when they recommend subtle enhancements.”

Photo by Always Us Photography // Makeup by Bogart Beauty

Choosing a Look That Photographs Well 

Karen reminds brides to think about how makeup translates on camera. “Your makeup should enhance your natural beauty while reflecting your personal style. Consider your wedding theme, setting, and how the makeup will appear under different lighting conditions.”

Photo by Sandra Aberg // Makeup by Lauren Shea Artistry

The Importance of Skin Prep 

A flawless finish starts with proper skincare. “It’s all in the skin prep! Choosing the proper products and customizing a routine for each bride’s skin ensures a flawless finish every time,” says Kayla.

Erica emphasizes skin preparation based on skin type. “For oily skin, I focus on mattifying primers and oil-free foundations. For dry skin, hydration is key—I use nourishing skincare and dewy foundations. Combination skin requires a balance of both.”

Photo by Always Us Photography // Makeup by Bogart Beauty

How to Ensure Your Makeup Lasts All Day 

Bridal makeup needs to withstand hours of emotions, dancing, and photography. Erica recommends the following techniques:

• Layering is Key – “Use thin, buildable layers of foundation, concealer, and powder to enhance longevity without heaviness.”
• Waterproof & Long-Wear Products – “Opt for smudge-proof formulas that won’t budge.”
• Set & Lock It In – “A finely milled powder in key areas prevents creasing, while a setting spray melts everything together for a natural, long-lasting finish.”
• Touch-Up Essentials – “Blotting papers, pressed powder, and a lipstick refresh keep everything flawless throughout the night.”

Photo by Ginger’s Eyes // Makeup by KSM Makeup

Kayla adds, “I use TWO setting sprays. The first is a mist formula that helps set the powder and blend the layers of makeup together. The second is a sealing spray that creates a water-resistant barrier against tears and the elements.”

Lauren reinforces the importance of layering and proper product selection. “Correct skin prep, application of products including skin prep sprays, primers, foundations, setting powders, and setting sprays all are key! Just like a house, you need a good foundation, walls, roof, siding, etc. in layers to form a whole house. Every step counts.”

Photo courtesy of & Makeup by Bogart Beauty

Why a Bridal Makeup Trial is Essential 

A bridal trial (or “preview session,” as Kayla prefers to call it) is an invaluable step in the makeup process. “You should feel VERY confident in your artist’s work before your trial. It’s not about trying them out but rather previewing what your wedding day look will be like. This two-hour session allows time for a full consultation, skin analysis, and adjustments so that by the end, we’re completely aligned on the vision.”

Erica adds, “A trial eliminates stress, giving brides peace of mind that their makeup will be flawless, photograph beautifully, and make them feel like the best version of themselves.”

Photo by Photography by Arianne // Makeup by Lauren Shea Artistry
Photo by Lindy Hickman // Makeup by Lauren Shea Artistry

Trust Your Artist and Enjoy the Process 

With proper planning, the right makeup artist, and a look that complements your personal style, you’ll radiate confidence and beauty on your big day. So, take a deep breath, enjoy the process, and let your wedding makeup reflect the most stunning version of you!

Photo by Didar Virdi Photography // Makeup by KSM Makeup