Your BFF (Beauty Find Friday): Makeup Tips for the Blushing Bride

Gorgeous bride on her wedding day via Shutterstock

If there’s ever a day you want your makeup to shine (we mean, of course, in a perfectly matte yet freshly glowing way), it’s your wedding. All eyes are on you, and Lori Contarino, owner of Indigo Salon & Day Spa in Lowell, has these timeless tips that will get you to full tilt blushing bride status.

The Eyes Have It: If your wedding is held during the day or outdoors, black or brown eyeliner might look too severe. Contarino opts for charcoal, navy, or mahogany because they appear softer in photos.

All Smiles: You’ll be all smiles on your wedding day, so white teeth are a must. Contarino also imparts the importance of the right lipstick. If you’re doing a red lip, she suggests deeper reds rather than orange-y ones. If you’re going for a more natural or pink tone, stick with cool undertones rather than coral or warmer tones.

Sparkle and Shine: Contarino loves using a clear gloss application for hair on a bride’s big day. It protects the hair from the heat and fly-aways, and keeps her looking perfectly coiffed all day long. It only takes about 25 to 30 minutes at a salon and will add luster and shine to your tresses.

In Broad Daylight: When getting your makeup done, Contarino says to find the natural light. If possible, have your makeup artist set up an application table near a window. If there’s no natural light available, use a super bright lamp—halogens work best.

Practice Makes Perfect: Make sure you have your makeup application trial at least three weeks beforehand, but no more than five weeks. If you plan on getting a spray tan for the big day, have a test run before your makeup trial, so that your artist can see what color your skin becomes with the tan.

What She Said: Contarino suggests bringing references (gather around, bridesmaids, we’re talking to you) to your makeup trial, as well as images of makeup that you really like. Try to identify what you like specifically about the makeup, but remember—what you like on others may not translate the same on you.

For Crying Out Loud: Waterproof mascara is the best for withstanding tears. If you don’t like the way it looks or feels, brush your lashes with a coat of regular mascara. Then follow up with a light coat of waterproof mascara.

Even Steven: Use a bronzer on your chest and neck if you want to even your skin tone, but Contarino warns against using too much on your décolleté. It could stain your dress.

It’s in the Bag: Don’t forget a small bag of makeup for touchups. After dinner and drinks, dancing, smooching your new hubby, and greeting all of your guests, chances are your lip color will have worn off.
 

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