Wedding Guide: When to Book, Prep & Perfect Your Wedding Makeup

Photo by Keila Marie Photography

When planning a wedding, makeup is often overlooked or left until the last minute—but it shouldn’t be! Some brides inquire 18 months in advance, while others scramble just two months before, hoping to find an available artist. You’re investing in a photographer, videographer, and a stunning dress—so why not ensure your makeup enhances it all for those timeless photos and videos?

If you have a dream makeup artist in mind, inquire as soon as you’ve secured your venue! And don’t forget to check your inbox—missing an email or waiting too long could mean losing out on your perfect artist.

To help you stay ahead, here’s a guide to prep you for wedding makeup booking process:

As Soon as You Get Engaged: Start Researching

It might seem early, but researching makeup artists ASAP will help you find the perfect fit. While Google is useful, Instagram is where you’ll discover real-time portfolios—search hashtags like #softglambridal or #naturalweddingmakeup for inspiration. If an artist’s style speaks to you but they’re not in your area, look for similar artists locally. Ask recently married friends for recommendations—they can provide honest feedback and firsthand experiences.

Once you find artists you love, stalk their social media, check out their websites, and ask yourself:

• Do I love their artistry? Similar to tattoo artists, all makeup artists have a style that they love doing and specialize in. If you want full glam, don't book with someone who only does natural makeup. It doesn't mean they can't/won't do it, it's just not what they love.

• Does their energy align with my wedding morning vibe? If you want a calm, grounding presence, a high-energy artist might not be the best fit (and vice versa).

Start thinking about your budget and what you value in an artist. Professional makeup often comes with a higher price point, but it also means better communication, luxury service, and top-tier sanitation standards.

Pro Tip: Some artists don’t offer trials before booking, but you can always book them for another event to see if they’re the right fit!

12-16 Months Before: Time to Inquire

If you’re considering multiple artists, inquire with all of them—you’ll find that some may already be booked, while others align with your budget and style. If you’re getting married on a long weekend or popular date, book ASAP! Already less than 12 months out? Don’t stress! Other artists may still have availability, but the sooner you reach out, the better.

When inquiring:

• Use their preferred method (most have an inquiry form—avoid Instagram DMs, as messages can get lost).

• Check your spam folder for responses.

• Reply in a timely manner—artists receive multiple inquiries and can’t hold dates indefinitely!

Once you book, your artist will likely provide their own guidelines for trial scheduling, morning prep, and wedding-day logistics.

8-12 Months Before: Skincare Prep

Your makeup will only look as good as your skin! Think of it like painting a wall—you wouldn’t just slap paint on without priming and prepping first.

If you deal with acne, eczema, or textured skin, makeup can only do so much. Investing in a personalized skincare routine (and possibly professional treatments like facials, microneedling, or chemical peels) will make a world of difference. Consider this a lifetime investment, not just a pre-wedding expense! I highly recommend The A'esthetic Skin Studio for all things skin.

3-6 Months Before: Schedule a Trial

Most artists recommend trials 3-4 months before the wedding—this ensures your final look reflects your latest preferences. Book earlier if your artist’s schedule fills up quickly.

Trial Tips:

• Bring inspiration photos (or send them in advance). Find inspiration photos of people with similar features as you.

• Treat it as a test run—be open to adjustments!

• Take notes on how the makeup wears throughout the day.

• Give your artist honest feedback—this ensures your wedding-day look is flawless.

Remember: Trials are not a “free makeup look” for another event. If you align it with an engagement shoot or shower, great—but the priority is perfecting your wedding-day look.

1 Month Before: Finalizing Numbers & Timeline

Check your contract for specifics, but typically, now’s the time to:

• Confirm the number of people getting makeup done.

• Provide allergies/inspo photos.

• Finalize a loose timeline—makeup should be finished 45-60 minutes before departure time to allow for final touch-ups and outfit changes.

1-2 Weeks Before: Last-Minute Prep

• Final Facials: Schedule your last facial 6-10 days before (4 days for dermaplaning).

• Hair Removal: Waxing, threading, and dermaplaning should be done 3-4 days before to allow the skin to settle.

• Lash Extensions/Lift: Get these done 3-4 days before—but don’t try them for the first time right before the wedding!

• Spray Tan: 1-2 days before, with a trial session months before.

Night Before: Skin Prep

Exfoliate, apply a hydrating mask or rich moisturizer, and don’t forget your lips! Drinking plenty of water also helps.

Day of the Wedding: What to Expect

Your morning will be busy! Here are some key tips:

• Decide on your vibe—create a calm or high-energy environment with music and ambiance.

• Follow your artist’s instructions—some prefer a clean face with no skincare products to prevent pilling.

• Open emotional gifts before makeup to avoid tear streaks.

• Wear a button-up or robe to avoid ruining your makeup when changing.

• Have easy-to-eat, bite-sized food available—you’ll need energy!

The wedding morning is one of the most special parts of the day—enjoy the pampering, embrace the excitement, and take it all in.

And remember: if you’re considering doing your own makeup or skipping it altogether, think about how you’ll feel looking back at your photos and videos. Investing in an artist allows you to relax and be present—because you deserve to feel your absolute best.