5 Things Brides Forget to Do Before Their Makeup Appointment (But You Won’t!)💍

You’ve planned every detail of your wedding — the venue, the dress, the guest list, even the napkins. But the morning of your big day? That’s when things can feel a little chaotic. Even the most organized bride can forget small but important steps that help make your makeup application smoother and more enjoyable.

As a professional bridal makeup artist, I’ve worked with many brides across NYC and beyond, and I can tell you: the way you prep your skin and space before I arrive can make a world of difference in how your morning flows — and how your makeup lasts through the hugs, tears, kisses, and dancing.

Here are 5 simple things that brides often forget to do before their makeup appointment — and how you can show up glowing, relaxed, and ready for the most photographed day of your life.

1. Cleanse and Moisturize Your Skin — Yes, Even If I’m Doing Skin Prep

One of the things my clients love most is that I include a full, pampering skin prep in every bridal application. This means I’ll take time to prep your skin with toner, serums, eye patches, moisturizer, and a relaxing facial massage using my mini roller — all to ensure your makeup looks fresh, smooth, and radiant all day.

But! Starting your morning with a gentle cleanse and lightweight moisturizer before I arrive helps keep your skin hydrated and balanced, especially if you’ve had champagne the night before or didn’t get much sleep. Think of it like brushing your teeth before a dental cleaning — it sets the tone for a smoother, more seamless experience.

If you have an eye cream, tap a little under your eyes to help with hydration and prevent creasing. And if you have a lip scrub, feel free to gently exfoliate your lips in the morning for an extra smooth lipstick finish.

But don’t worry if you don’t have those — I bring my own eye masks and a gentle lip scrub in my kit, so you’ll still get the full pre-glam treatment.

Just remember: avoid any new or strong skincare products — stick to what your skin knows and loves. Do not sleep with makeup on night before ( or ever!).

The goal is to arrive with skin that feels calm, refreshed, and ready to glow.

2. Wear a Robe or Button-Down (Trust Me on This One)

Your outfit while getting ready matters more than you might think. Many brides wear tank tops or tees in the morning and realize too late that they’ll need to pull it over their freshly done face and styled hair.

Instead, opt for a silk robe, zip-up hoodie, or button-down shirt. Bonus points if it’s photogenic — those “getting ready” shots are some of the most loved in your wedding album. You want to look and feel your best even before the dress goes on.

Makeup is usually done early in the morning, so wear something that makes the transition into your gown smooth, easy, and mess-free.

3. Eat Something Light — Please Don’t Skip This!

Between nerves, butterflies, and the excitement of the day, many brides forget to eat. But sitting through a 2-hour makeup session (plus hair, photos, dressing, etc.) with no fuel? That’s a recipe for lightheadedness — and no one wants that on their wedding morning.

I always recommend a light, protein-rich breakfast like eggs with toast, a smoothie with protein powder, or even Greek yogurt with berries and honey. Keep it balanced, and avoid anything too greasy or sugary.

And of course — hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Not only will you feel better, but your skin will thank you. Hydrated skin wears makeup beautifully and stays glowing for hours.

4. Reflect on Your Trial — and Be Ready to Share Any Final Changes

If we’ve done your bridal trial, you’re already ahead of the game — but keep in mind, the wedding day look doesn’t have to be identical unless you want it to be.

This is your moment to let me know if there’s anything you’d like to tweak:

• Want a softer brow?

• Thinking of switching your lip color?

• Wish we added more glow last time?

Even small changes can make a big difference in how you feel. Be honest, be specific, and don’t be shy — this is your day, and I want you to feel 100% confident.

If we didn’t have a trial, no worries — feel free to bring 2–3 reference photos with the vibe you love, and I’ll customize the look to suit your features and style.

5. Set Up a Calm, Bright Space for Your Appointment

Here’s one detail that’s often forgotten: your makeup setup space. I always come with my fully stocked, sanitized kit and lighting, but the space you provide can make everything more comfortable and efficient.

Here’s what works best:

• A clean, clutter-free table or counter

• A regular-height chair or barstools with back support (no beds please!)

• Natural light if possible — near a window is ideal

• A calm corner where you won’t be interrupted every 30 seconds

Creating a peaceful environment helps you relax and fully enjoy the experience. This is your quiet moment before the whirlwind, and I want you to feel pampered, not rushed.

Your Wedding Morning Should Feel Like You

I always tell my brides: your makeup session isn’t just about how you’ll look — it’s about how you’ll feel. It’s your time to breathe, sit back, and let someone take care of you before the rest of the day begins.

With just a little preparation, you can enjoy every second of that experience. I’ll bring the calm, the glow, and the glam — you just bring your robe, your smile, and your trust.

And if you ever have a question — before the wedding, during, or after — I’m always just a message away.

With love,

Kristina