Choosing the right hair and makeup combination for your wedding day (and bridal portraits) is one of the most important decisions of the entire event. You want to strike that balance between creating a look everyone will remember, while still looking like yourself. Stephanie Fitch with Merle Norman Studio, Salon & MediSpa and Annie Bonaventure with Blush Studio are both experts in the world of bridal beauty. They shared their favorite bridal trick and tips with us!

 Merle Norman Studio, Salon & MediSpa

337-364-5535

Makeup: Stephanie Fitch

Hair: Allison DeRouen Smith

Bride: Alyce Borne

Break this looks down for us:

Hair: Alyce wanted to add volume & length so Allison started out by adding clip-in extensions. To create soft waves, use a curling iron with a larger barrel. Be sure to allow your hair to cool and set before you softly run your fingers through it to soften the look. We also recommend using a Thermal Styling Spray, we love Aquage, as well as a medium hold hair spray – our current favorite is by My Amazing!

Makeup: I love when a Bride wants to do a fresh, classic, earth tone! For Alyce, we used our most popular Perfecting Foundation to achieve that airbrushed look, Knockout Nudes Eye Shadow Palette, Lip Pencil Plus in Guava and locked it all down with our Finishing Spray!

What is your general advice to brides about their bridal look?  

I definitely recommend that they stay away from doing anything too trendy. These pictures are capturing such a beautiful time in your life and you want to be able to look back and treasure the memories instead of cringing at your chosen look!

Is there anything you tell brides to avoid?

Facial waxing the week of your appointment! Makeup does not adhere to freshly waxed skin! It’s also not a great time to start using self tanner or get a spray tan for the first time. Always test drive new products well before your big day.

What should brides do to make sure their hair and skin are ready for their wedding day?

We suggest taking care of your skin leading up to the wedding with a good daily skin care routine and having regular facials to keep that healthy glow! We offer a special spa service discount for facials, laser services, etc. to our brides leading up to the wedding to help them stay on track! For hair prep, it is very important to not make any drastic changes in color or length. Make sure you are using professional products that help to keep your hair hydrated, strong and healthy.

Annie Bonaventure 

Blush Studio

Anniebhairandmakeup@gmail.com

337-849-3125

Bride- Holly Boustany Meaux

Break this look down for us:

Hair: Holly has beautiful natural curls and we wanted to stay true to her signature look. To accentuate her curls I wrapped pieces at random around a quarter inch barrel curling iron in alternating directions to give definition. To finish off I pinned up her sides towards the back for an easy and effortless look.

Makeup: With Holly’s porcelain complexion not much had to be done skin wise. I do always stress using a primer to ensure the staying power of your makeup application.  For foundation, I used Laura Mercier to give her a nice veil of coverage. We finished it off with natural pinkish brown tones of her eyes, cheeks and lips. 

Do you recommend brides do a trial hair and makeup run?

Absolutely! Trial runs will eliminate unforeseen problems in the wedding day and will also help the bride make any changes in a less stressful environment. 

What’s the benefit of having the same person (or team) do styling for the entire wedding party?

Having the same person or a team can ensure the bridal party has a cohesive look. 

How long does it take to complete a look?

To complete one bridal look can take me anywhere from 40 minutes to a full hour.  With brides, I normally always schedule out an hour just for them.  This will give room for veil attachment and any minor adjustments to the look that need to be made.

Is there anything you tell brides to avoid?

As far as wedding prep, I always suggest not making any major changes to hair or skin a month out from the wedding.