What to Expect During a Bridal Preview
You've found your artist. You've signed a contract. You've officially booked your first trial run. Now what?
Here's what to expect for your first bridal preview and how you can prepare for it.
What is the purpose of a bridal preview?
A bridal preview is an appointment where you decide on the makeup look you want for your wedding day. By this point, you should already have a feel for your artist’s style and be ready to collaborate with them to explore what look will suit you best for your special day.
What should I do to prepare for a bridal preview?
One of the best ways to prepare for a bridal preview is to gather inspiration for the makeup look you want. If you pull photos from Pinterest or Instagram, choose images of models with similar eye shapes, facial features, and skin tones to yours. I especially love when clients bring photos from my own portfolio because I can walk you through exactly what I did and how we can tailor it to you.
It also helps to experiment with your own makeup beforehand. Try out different lipstick or eyeshadow colors to see which shades flatter your complexion and which do not. Play with different finishes such as matte, dewy, or glossy to figure out what you like and what you want to avoid. The more you narrow down your preferences, the easier it will be to communicate them to your artist.
On the day of your bridal preview, wear white or a neutral color so the tones in your outfit do not influence how you see the makeup. Ideally, wear the color of your wedding dress or outfit. Arrive with your face cleansed, exfoliated, and bare. If you do not have an exfoliant, that is not a problem because I can take care of that during your appointment.
The first thing you can expect from a bridal preview with me is a consultation. I ask plenty of questions to get a clear sense of your comfort level with makeup, which colors will complement your wedding theme, your likes and dislikes, and your overall vision. I may not be a mind reader, but I do my best to truly listen and translate your vision into reality.
You can also expect me to check in with you regularly throughout the process. At every step, I make sure we are on the right track for your desired look. I ask questions like, “Do you want your eyeshadow darker? Would you like more coverage? Is this the lip color you pictured?” This way, when you see the final result, there are no surprises, only a look you feel great about.
The last thing you can expect is making adjustments. I always encourage you to speak up if there is something you are unsure about or do not love. Maybe you choose a berry lip and realize it is not quite what you envisioned. Tell me, and I am happy to switch it during your bridal preview. Everyone’s skin reacts differently to products, so if you notice something like excess oiliness while wearing your preview makeup, that is important to share with me. While adjustments like this are not common, they can happen, and the sooner I know, the sooner I can make sure it is perfect for your wedding day. You never have to worry about hurting my feelings because my priority is making you feel comfortable, confident, and beautiful for one of the most memorable days of your life.
What happens after the bridal preview?
This part varies by artist, but here is what I do. I follow up with an email to ask how your makeup wore. If you need any tweaks for the wedding day, I will make note of them. I also have you give me your final headcount, the time you need to be ready, and any other key wedding details. To officially secure your date, you sign a new contract and send over your deposit.
From there, you can shift your focus to the rest of your wedding planning while I take care of the beauty logistics. I create a getting-ready timeline, arrange for a second artist if necessary, and coordinate with your wedding planner. A few days before your wedding, I will confirm our start time and remind you to share your hotel room number if that is where you will be getting ready.
I hope this gives you a clear picture of what to expect from your bridal preview. Booking a makeup artist is a big investment, and I am fully invested in making sure everything is flawless for your special day.
Have any questions or a blog topic suggestion? Email me at jtanartistry@gmail.com
I’m Jessica - A beauty lover and creative soul from Northern Virginia with Khmer roots
My journey with makeup began as a creative outlet, a way to express myself through art. Today, it’s not just about creativity—it’s about empowering my clients, bringing them confidence and joy for their special moments. Seeing their smiles, their excitement, and their happiness is what I live for.
