By Sonja Schwarz, bridal stylist and hair & make-up artist since 2010 ·
I have worked as a make-up artist for brides, TV and campaigns since 2010. On the wedding day both worlds meet: the make-up has to look beautiful in real life, up close when hugging, and in photos with flash and daylight. Here I explain what matters with bridal make-up.
Natural bridal make-up
Most brides want a natural bridal make-up. But natural does not mean little: the skin looks fresh and even, the eyes open, the lips cared for. That takes a good base that never looks mask-like, and targeted contouring you do not see but feel in the photos.
- Light, long-wearing foundation instead of heavy layers
- Creamy blush and subtle highlight for freshness
- Brows shaped, not too dark
- Waterproof mascara and eyeliner
Simple or glamorous?
A simple bridal make-up suits civil ceremonies, garden and beach weddings. For an evening party, a large venue or an opulent dress it can be more: a smoky eye in brown or rosé tones, lashes and a stronger lip. Both can be combined, for example with a touch-up for the evening.
Bridal make-up by eye colour
- Brown eyes: warm bronze, copper and gold tones, plus plum for depth
- Blue eyes: peach, champagne and taupe, a brown rather than black liner
- Green eyes: burgundy, mauve and bronze make the green glow
What does bridal make-up have to withstand?
A wedding day often lasts 12 hours or more. That is why I only work with luxury brands such as Sisley, Dior, Armani and Lancôme, which last and are kind to the skin. Primer, setting spray and waterproof products around the eyes make sure happy tears leave no traces. With the touch-up package I come back up to two hours later.
Bridal make-up for photos
Cameras swallow colour and contour. What looks strong in the mirror often looks natural in photos. At the same time, flash and close-ups reveal too much shine and the wrong products, such as white casts from some powders. From my work on TV sets I know which products work in front of the camera.
Preparing your skin
- Four weeks before: no new skincare products or treatments
- Two weeks before: last facial at your beautician
- The evening before: lots of water, little alcohol, a hydrating mask
- In the morning: wash your face and apply a light moisturiser, nothing else
Doing your bridal make-up yourself?
If you are confident with make-up, you can do your bridal make-up yourself. Practise the full look at least twice, photograph yourself in daylight and with flash, and plan an hour. If you want to improve, a make-up class teaches you the technique for your skin type.
With bridal styling we test your make-up at the trial together with your bridal hairstyle. On the wedding day I come to your home or hotel.
Your bridal styling with Sonja
Make-up and hair from one artist, with a trial. In the studio in Mettmann or at your place in Düsseldorf, Cologne and all of NRW.
