%20-%20all%20Ver_pn.png)
BY CATHERINE STRONG
HAIR & MAKE-UP
I highly recommend all my brides-to-be have a trial. It’s an invaluable experience where we brush and blush our way to perfecting your bridal look.
Plus it’s an opportunity to get to know each other, after all I will be spending one of the most significant mornings of your life with you.
Your trial should be an enjoyable experience but I know first-hand it can feel a little overwhelming so here are some of my pro-tips on how to prepare and get the most from your bridal trial.
From Instagram to Pinterest the internet is full of breath-taking make-up & hair inspiration. Although it is tempting to pin every beautiful bridal image you see, try to be selective with your choices. Look for images with similar characteristics to your own. Think about your colourings, your hair colour and dress for example. An updo on blonde hair will look very different to one on dark hair.
Send over your inspiration in advance of your trial so that I can see the look you are wishing to create. You can include a photo you like of yourself so that I can see the level of make-up you are comfortable wearing.
I ask my brides to fill in a very quick questionnaire before we meet, as this gives me a little head start and saves time at the trial.
Don't panic if you don't know exactly what you want. I can guide you further by assessing your face shape, colours that flatter you and your hair type.
When it comes to looking at inspiration on the internet it's important to have realistic expectations but don't be disheartened if you need a little extra length or volume to achieve your dream look. There are plenty of pro-tricks that can be used, like extensions and padding so don't be afraid to ask.
Come with a clean, make-up free face and dry, clean hair. Unless otherwise advised, I suggest you wash your hair the day before your trial. Hair washed the morning of the trial can actually make it harder to style. Prep your skin as normal, don't try any new products before your trial.
Make sure you have made me aware of any sensitivities or allergies before the day of your trial.
Your dress plays an important part in deciding key aspects of your overall bridal look so make sure you have lots of photos of your gorgeous gown to hand.
For example, hair up would best compliment a dress with a high neckline.
Bring your veil with you. Veil attachments vary and some have combs that aren’t very hairstyle friendly so it’s good to know this in advance of the wedding morning. It’s important to know where the veil can be placed and secured in the style.
If you can't bring your veil with you try to get some clear photos of the comb/attachment.
If you've already fallen in love with a hair accessory then make sure you bring it along with you. It can be a good idea to decide on your hair accessory after your hair trial as you will know what will work best with your chosen style.
I am a Brand Ambassador for Make Me Bridal Accessories so you will have the opportunity to try out some of their beautiful pieces at your hair trial with me. You can also take advantage of my ambassador's discount if you find the perfect hair accessory for you.
Wear something you feel comfortable in but opt for a plain top, ideally white or ivory so we can see how the make-up will look next to a colour similar to your wedding dress. It's even better if you can find a white or ivory top with a similar neckline to your wedding dress.
If you aren't sure what to wear bring a few options with you.
Avoid bold colours and patterns.
Your hair and make-up needs to look as fantastic in photos as it does it real life so taking some snaps at your trial is a must for me. I also use the photos as a reference when recreating your bridal look on the wedding morning.
As a make-up artist I love to see what's inside other people's make-up bags (I’m nosey) but it can be really helpful to know what products you like and use day to day. I can get an idea of the brands you use (very important if you have sensitive skin), if you prefer a dewy or matte finish and how bold you are with colour.
If you have any favourite products that you can't be without make sure you bring these along with you too, including any skin care.
It's important you give honest feedback both during your trial and after. Good communication is key to achieving your bridal vision. Remember it doesn't have to be perfect straightaway, testing different looks is what your trial is for.
Make sure you feedback after your trial.
How well did the make-up last? How did the hair hold?
Some helpful tips on the logistics...
I suggest having your trial approx. 3 months before your wedding date. By then you will have your venue, colour scheme, flowers and dress all in place. These are all important factors to know and consider when perfecting your bridal look.
It's a good idea to have your trial earlier in the day so you can see the final look in natural daylight and how the hair and make-up lasts throughout the day.
I allow 2 and half hours for a make-up or hair trial and 4 hours for both, so make sure you have booked out enough time from your day.
If other members of your bridal party would like a trial I suggest they have theirs at a later date. That way I can fully focus on you and only you at your trial.
Time is very valuable during a trial so you don’t want to be late. Double check you know where you are going and how long it will take to get there.
My bridal trials are held in at my home studio in Solihull.
If you would like to book a trial with me you can contact me here www.catherinestrong.co.uk/contactme
I can't wait to meet all my brides-to-be who have already booked a trial with me.
Thanks for reading.
