How to Nail Your Bridal Makeup Trial (And What to Do If You Don't)

Your bridal makeup trial doesn't have to be stressful. A makeup artist with 9+ years of wedding experience shares exactly how to prepare, and what to do if you're not happy with the results.

You've booked your makeup artist. The trial is on the calendar. And now you're wondering: What the heck am I supposed to do to prepare for this thing?

Good news: a little prep goes a long way. After 9+ years doing bridal makeup and countless trials, I can tell you the brides who walk away glowing are the ones who come prepared to collaborate.

Here's how to set yourself up for success—plus what to do if you leave the trial feeling "meh" instead of magical.

1. Bring Inspiration Photos (This Is Non-Negotiable)

If you take nothing else away from this blog post, it would be this: Bring. Visual. References.

Don't worry about looking "high maintenance" or worry that you're insulting your artist's creativity. Trust me: we want to see what you're envisioning. A picture (or whole Pinterest board!) is worth a thousand "I want something natural but glowy, but not too glowy." Save 3-5 photos that all have a similar vibe. This helps your artist identify the common thread.

2. Tell Your Artist What You Love About Those Photos

Here's where things get interesting: when you show me an inspiration photo, I might be noticing the bronzy contour while you're actually obsessed with the glossy lip.

Photos contain multiple artistic elements: skin finish, eye shape, lip color, lash style, and brow definition. Don't assume your artist knows which element you're responding to.

Say things like:

• "I love how natural her skin looks"

• "I want a bold lip like this"

• "I'm obsessed with how her eyes look so soft and romantic"

This simple conversation eliminates 90% of miscommunication.

3. Be Crystal Clear About Your "Absolutely Nots"

Not sure what you want? Start with what you don't want.

Some brides give me total creative freedom, which I love, but I still need to know your no-go zones. Will you be devastated if I apply lower lash liner? Uncomfortable with a bold lip? Hate shimmer on your eyelids?

These "don't wants" are just as valuable as the "do wants." They help me tailor the look to your comfort zone while still making you look incredible.

4. Show Photos of Your Dress, Florals, and Wedding Vibe

I'm not just creating makeup, I'm creating makeup that fits into your entire wedding aesthetic.

Seeing your dress, your bouquet, and your bridesmaids' dresses helps me:

• Choose lip colors that won't clash with your florals

• Match the formality level of your look to your venue

• Understand your overall style (boho? classic? modern?)

You don't need professional photos, screenshots from your vendors work perfectly.

5. Remember: A Trial Is Exactly That—A TRIAL

You've done everything right, and you still walk out feeling... unsure? That's completely normal.

Here's your homework: Take a million photos throughout the day in different lighting. Look in the mirror. A lot.

Why? Makeup looks different in natural light, indoor lighting, flash photography, and golden hour. You need to see how it performs in real-world conditions similar to your wedding day.

Also—and I cannot stress this enough—do not poll everyone you know for their opinion. You know the phrase about opinions and a$$holes? Everyone has one, and they will all be different. This is about what makes you feel beautiful.

Our beautiful bride on her wedding day. Photo by Ariel Dawn Photography

What If You're Still Not Happy?

Minor Tweaks (Totally Normal!)

If you want to adjust small details, speak up! These changes are expected and easy to handle on your wedding day:

• Lighter or darker brows

• Different lip color

• More (or less) blush or contour

• Adding or removing shimmer

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Major Changes (Less Common, But It Happens)

Sometimes the fundamental vibe just isn't right. Maybe you wanted soft and romantic, but got glam and dramatic. In this case:

Option 1: Request a second trial. Most artists will accommodate this (potentially for an additional fee).

Option 2: If it's truly not a match, it's okay to part ways professionally. Every artist has experienced a client mismatch. A good one will handle it gracefully and release your date without drama.

The Bottom Line

The best bridal makeup trials happen when both you and your artist show up ready to collaborate. Come prepared with visuals and clear communication, stay open to your artist's expertise, and give yourself time to adjust to your look. And remember: the goal isn't perfection at the trial, it's confidence on your wedding day!