Wedding Makeup: Dramatic or Simple?

I am torn between a natural or dramatic makeup look for my wedding. What do you recommend?

Over the past 10 years, I have been lucky enough to do something I love and am passionate about everyday. I get to play a role in one of the most special days in a bride’s life, and nearly each one asks this pressing question.



My answer always begins with a few questions in return. First, what does your daily makeup look consist of? Are you a gloss-and-go type of girl or do you like a full face of makeup? If you do not typically wear much makeup, it’s going to feel caked on no matter what type of application you have, so I like to get a feel for what your accustomed to before we get started.



Secondly, what is the theme of your look? It best to have a visual of the dress and color theme for the day so it is easier for me to make suggestions. For example, some brides will wear an ethereal dress and want that clean, angelic glow for their makeup. Brides who have elaborate beaded dresses may call for a stand-out lip color or classy smoked-out eye. Keeping these factors in mind will get you closer to a final decision on your bridal look.



Magazine pictures are a great way for me to grasp an idea of what the bride may like, but I’m there to make sure she’s true to her coloring, face structure and comfort level with makeup. Each bride’s idea of natural and dramatic makeup can differ vastly. Taking all of those thoughts into account we can begin to design her wedding day look.



If a natural look is the way you would like to go, it is important to choose soft tones that suit your personal coloring and that enhance all of your best features. For example, if you have green or hazel eyes, using peach tones can make that gorgeous color stand out. If you have a great Cupid’s Bow on your lip, make sure to choose a stunning lip color that enhances that feature like a great red or pink lipstick.

If a dramatic look is more your style, go back to the thought that everyone’s idea of dramatic is different; it is important to start out toned down and add more to create a darker and more dramatic effect. Sometimes just a touch more eyeliner or a stronger cheek color may enhance your look enough to create the drama you are going for. Have you ever done a smoky eye before? Trying something completely out of your comfort zone on your big day can be risky. Doing a few trials and trying out different looks is good way to ensure you’ll find the one for you.



Lastly, don’t forget that makeup looks very different in pictures. Even dramatic makeup can end up looking somewhat natural in pictures. When choosing colors that you like, think about the way they will show up in person and in pictures. In the end, it is all personal preference when it comes to makeup, and I always remember to remind my bride that it is her day, and not mine. It is important that she likes the makeup, is comfortable in her own skin and loves the way she looks! After all, it’s your wedding, your day to feel magnificent.

Click through the gallery below to see pictures of some of Jennifer's clients.

Tagged as: wedding makeup and beauty