What to Expect at Your Bridal Makeup and Hair Trial

A Guide for Brides of All Ages

Whether you’re newly engaged or deep into wedding planning, one of the most exciting steps in your beauty journey is the bridal makeup and hair trial. It’s not just about trying on a look — it’s about discovering what makes you feel confident, elegant, and radiant on your wedding day.

As a London-based professional makeup and hair artist, I’ve worked with brides of all ages — from stylish 20-something city brides to sophisticated second-time brides in their 40s and 50s. And one thing is always true: a great trial is the foundation of a flawless wedding-day makeup and hair look.

The Purpose of a Makeup and Hair Trial

Your bridal trial is a collaborative session between you and your bridal artist. It’s where you should:

• Discuss your wedding vision, dress and theme

• Assess your skin tone and texture, with product recommendations for the ultimate skin-glow look on your wedding day

• Try out a few different styles to see what suits you best

• Test product longevity and tweak color choices

• Ensure your final look feels authentic, timeless and true to you

By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of how your bridal makeup and hair will look and feel — with no surprises on the big day.

 

How to Prepare for Your Trial

A little preparation goes a long way:

• Skincare: Come with clean, well-moisturized skin. Avoid harsh peels or new products at least 48 hours before.

• Reference Photos: Bring inspiration images that realistically match your features (skin tone, age, eye shape). Pinterest can be helpful, but many photos are heavily filtered or AI-generated.

• Wear a White or Light Top: This helps mimic your dress neckline for an accurate preview.

• Be Honest: Let your artist know your likes, dislikes, or concerns — this is the time to test and tweak.

What Happens During the Trial

The trial usually lasts up to 3 hours (with me) and includes:

• Discussing wedding details, aesthetic preferences and skin needs

• Choosing flattering tones and textures for your face shape, style and dress

• Testing 1–2 variations (e.g., soft glam vs natural)

• Styling your hair and adding extensions if needed

• Taking photos in natural and artificial light to check how it photographs

You’ll wear the makeup and hair for the rest of the day — a great way to see how it lasts and feels. Your feedback is key, and small changes can always be made on the big day.

Key Tips (Especially If You’re Unsure What You Want)

• Keep skincare simple; don’t experiment with new routines right before your trial

• Let brows grow out naturally or have them shaped 2–3 days before

• I always go light with foundation to let your skin breathe; heavy coverage can age the face

• Soft liner, lifted corners and individual lashes can completely transform your look in photos

Trials Are About Connection, Too

Your bridal artist will be with you during some of the most intimate and emotional parts of your day. Beyond creating your bridal makeup and hair, your trial is a chance to:

• See how your artist communicates and listens

• Get a feel for their energy, professionalism and creativity

• Build comfort and trust — which makes all the difference on the wedding morning

No matter your age, skin type, or style — your wedding makeup should reflect you at your most radiant. A bridal trial helps ensure that everything aligns: your look, your comfort, and your confidence.

If you’re a bride in Chelsea, Notting Hill, Marylebone, or West London, I’d love to invite you to book a complimentary 15-minute video call — no obligation to book. Let’s talk about your vision, your skin, and how we can make your wedding beauty experience effortless and luxurious.

Visit MakeupStudio42.com
Or contact me directly to schedule your call.

 Bonus: Need help getting your skin glowing before the big day? Use code GUIDE10 to grab my Ultimate Bridal Skin Prep Guide for just £17 — packed with pro skincare timelines and product suggestions tailored for brides!