Tips for Achieving a Natural Bridal Makeup Look
Here at Elite, we want every one of our brides to feel like themselves on their wedding day. That’s why we specialize in creating natural, effortless-looking bridal makeup looks! The key to that natural-chic bridal makeup look is simple: enhance your best features so you look like the best version of yourself. In this blog, we’ll be discussing all of our best steps to achieve that!
But before we get into that, let’s define what “natural” really means, as everyone can have a different perspective of that term, especially when it comes to beauty. Let’s get into it!
What does "natural" mean to you?
We understand that the term “natural” can mean different levels of makeup to everyone. So to get down to what it really means to YOU, we start with an in-depth consultation. We want to know everything from your daily makeup routine to your favorite skincare products.
Before your consultation, compile photos of looks you love so you can discuss them with your makeup artist. We’ll also want you to think about what features you’d like to highlight for your bridal beauty look. Even if you haven’t settled on a specific makeup look, having reference photos will help your makeup artist make a plan for the day of! This is why your trial is so important - so you can make sure your vision looks perfect on you.
The perfect recipe for natural bridal makeup
Skin Prep
Skin preparation is so important for a natural makeup look. “Cakey” is a word that is often used to describe makeup that sits built up on the skin - which is a technique that we don’t subscribe to here at Elite. When you have dead skin cells, makeup loves to cling to them, which can give your makeup that cakey look. To avoid this, skin preparation like exfoliation and regular facials is essential!
At Elite, we believe skin prep is one of the most important steps, which is why we work with you to determine the best products to use on your skin.
When you’re building your skincare routine, keep in mind that not all ingredients mix well together. For example, you shouldn’t apply a water-based product before an oil-based product as those two bases don’t mix! The ingredients in your skincare products can affect how makeup sits on the skin, so it’s important to give your makeup artist a list of all your products.
Starting with clean, fresh skin will allow our products to sit beautifully on the surface. If you have applied your skincare previously, our team will still do a full skin prep to ensure the products we use are mixing well. As we prep the skin, a lightweight toner will help strip any residue build-up and create the smooth canvas we want.
Setting a foundation
Instead of using something heavy or full-coverage off the bat, we use light layers of foundation or tinted moisturizer to achieve an even complexion. Based on the desired look, we may spot conceal, applying concealer only where needed to take away redness and dark circles.
If you have imperfections to cover, the best approach is to do a light layer of foundation all over, then go in with the concealer to target areas of concern with fuller coverage. There’s no need to apply full coverage all over the face and hide areas of the skin that should be breathing through. Hello, freckles! We love to see it.
Blend, Blend, Blend
If you want a soft, natural look, the key is blending out any harsh lines. That means no dramatic contour or cut crease eyeshadows. Focusing on soft hues for the face that blend well will make you look fresh and ready for photos. Our team members have had countless years of education and experience to learn how to make you look like yourself and be photo-ready through our application techniques and the products we use!
Tips to keep that natural bridal makeup look all day long
There are a few things you and your makeup artist can do to keep your makeup fresh and lasting throughout all your wedding day festivities. Primers, light setting powders, and setting sprays are essential products to ensure the least amount of touch-ups required. We also use waterproof eye makeup to ensure it holds up through all the emotions of the day (and dance floor sweating).
At Elite, we offer extended touch-ups as a premium service for brides who want a professional by their side all day. But if you don’t hire a team, here are some go-to products we recommend having on hand for touch-ups:
Setting Powder: Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish is a great touch-up powder, and it even comes in a mini size! It’s super lightweight and doesn’t make you look “powdery,” which is super important for flawless photos.
Blush: Jane Iredale PurePressed Blush is the perfect small compact to keep on hand in case you need to add a touch of color.
Lipstick: Your team will guide you with the right shade of lipstick to pick up for the evening. Our go-to? We love the Kosas Weightless, Long-Lasting Lipstick in Rosewater!
Our favorite products for natural bridal makeup
To purchase our go-to products for wedding day all in one place, check out our Amazon storefront!
Still need an expert opinion?
We’re happy to help! Elite’s makeup artists are skilled in creating flawless, natural bridal makeup looks. To have us by your side on your wedding day, contact us here to set up a consultation!
