The Ultimate Bridal Makeup Preparation Guide: Top Tips from Rachael Donnelly MakeUp Artist

When it comes to your wedding day, every detail matters, especially your makeup.

To ensure everything goes smoothly, it's crucial to be well prepared. I’ve teamed up with Rachael Donnelly (pictured left), a renowned makeup artist based in Co. Tyrone, to bring you some essential tips that will help you get the most out of your bridal makeup experience.

Whether you're a bride, bridesmaid or mother of the bride, these insights will make sure you’re looking your best on the big day.

1. Set Up the Perfect Makeup Space 💡

Your makeup artist needs a spacious area with plenty of natural light, table space for their kit and a nearby plug for their ring light. A well-lit, organised space is the first step to flawless makeup application.

2. Timing is Everything ⏰

When it comes to scheduling makeup, avoid having the bride go first or last. Rachael suggests starting with a bridesmaid and leaving the mother of the bride towards the end, especially if she prefers a more natural look. Also, ensure that your bridal party is up and ready to go as soon as your makeup artist and hairdresser arrive. Delays can snowball, pushing the entire morning off schedule.

✨ Pro Tip: Aim to have hair and makeup completed at least 90 minutes before the ceremony. This gives you ample time for photos, touch-ups and getting dressed without feeling rushed!

3. Skin Prep Do’s and Don’ts ✅❌

The morning of the wedding, your bridal party should cleanse their skin and apply moisturiser as usual. However, avoid using oils or SPF, as they can cause unwanted shine in photos. Similarly, steer clear of face masks or patches on the day, as they can leave residue on the skin.

✨ Advanced Preparation: Don’t drastically change your skincare routine right before the wedding. Any new treatments or products should be introduced at least a year in advance, ideally with advice from a skincare specialist. If you’re waxing, do so about a week before the wedding to avoid any irritation or stray hairs.

4. Stay Hydrated 💧

In the lead-up to your wedding, drink plenty of water. Hydration makes a noticeable difference in your skin’s appearance, giving you a natural, healthy glow.

5. Prepare for Any Skin Emergencies 🆘

Stress can cause cold sores, which are the last thing you want on your wedding day. If you’re prone to them, ask your doctor about taking a course of antiviral tablets leading up to the wedding. This can help keep them at bay.

6. Lipstick Touch-Ups 💄

Provide your bridesmaids with the lipstick you’ll be using on the day so they can top up as needed. Make sure they give it to the makeup artist in the morning to ensure a perfect match.

7. Relax and Enjoy the Morning 😌

Once all the preparations are in place, hand over control to your getting ready team. Trust them to handle the details, so you can sit back, relax and savour the excitement of your special day.

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and looking your best is crucial. By following these tips from Rachael Donnelly, you can ensure that your makeup is flawless and that your morning preparation runs smoothly. Remember, the key to a stress free wedding day is preparation, so start planning early and on the day itself, take a deep breath and enjoy every moment.