Spring has longtime signified new beginnings and fresh starts. One of the things I look forward to most is helping my springtime brides look beautiful on their big day. One thing I’ve noticed (more often than not) is an impediment that surfaces: the immense pressure to look perfect. As a society, we tend to over-criticize our imperfections and conform to the unattainable beauty standards created for and by someone else. For your wedding, I have a few tips to encourage you to do things a little differently. The main focus? Embracing individuality.
#1 Be True to Yourself!
Most of us have had some type of negative experience getting our makeup done and it’s often times because the makeup artist isn’t in tune to who you are and what you want. Opening up to your artist and letting them get to know you will help to give them a better idea of how far to push the envelope with your makeup. Let your makeup artist know what makes you excited. Is it trying new foods or restaurants? Do you love to travel? Does a night in with a movie and takeout tickle your fancy? Whatever it is, don’t hesitate to share! This will help your makeup artist make more informed decisions about your makeup preferences. Additionally, this chatter opens the lines of communication between the two of you and creates a more positive atmosphere. As someone with lots of experience, I can say with no hesitation that communication is key.
#2 Take Pictures of Yourself (Often!)
I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not a huge fan of taking photos of myself. However, I will say that doing so is an extremely helpful tool for both you and your makeup artist. Analyzing your photos and creating a portfolio will allow your makeup artist to better understand your personal preferences. Furthermore, exercises like this - even though they’re sometimes uncomfortable - encourage you to get to know, love, and accept your uniqueness a little bit more.
#3 Go to Pinterest
I offer this recommendation with more than a grain of salt. Pinterest is a wonderful tool for inspiration. The ideas are seemingly endless. Ideas and inspiration are great but don’t confuse the latter with replicating. It is never a good idea to replicate makeup meant for someone else. Makeup could seem to be a one size fits all category but please, let me assure you, that it is not. When brides show me pictures (multiple inspo pictures work best) of makeup they like I look at them cumulatively. What features are the same or similar? How can I create this same mood on my bride?
Many people rely too heavily on guides to find the perfect bridal makeup, but it’s important to note that you don’t have to. Instead of conforming to beauty standards, I encourage you to create your own and base them on your unique features and taste. With some help from a professional and the tips above, you can create a spring bridal look that is uniquely your own! I’d love to see what you come up with.
Bonnie Thomas, Professional Makeup Artist and Esthetician of 17 years
Having spent some time as an Aesthetic Specialist at a world-renowned hospital, she specializes in corrective and camouflage makeup, skincare, and chemical peels. She has been trained by MAC Cosmetics, Jane Iredale, Colorescience and a host of Medical Grade Skincare companies. She has also consulted for different brands on improving and creating global colors. Education in her trade continues to be of the utmost importance to her, to the benefit of every person who sits in her chair. Bonnie is a 3rd generation beauty professional. Her grandparents owned and operated a successful salon and she is the daughter of a barber and a beautician - the beauty biz is literally in her veins! She finds inspiration from her clients as individuals. Hearing about their lives and future aspirations helps turn her canvas (your face) into a custom work of art. Check out Bonnie at