The worst time to discover that a foundation turns grey on your skin is an hour before you walk down the aisle. A makeup trial exists to prevent exactly that. Brides who skip it are trusting the most photographed face of the day to a guess.
When to book
Book your trial one to three months before the wedding, after you have chosen your dress and hairstyle. Some brides schedule the trial on the same day as another event, such as an engagement shoot or a bridal shower, so they can see how the makeup lasts through hours of activity.
Choosing the artist
Look at the artist’s portfolio, especially brides with skin tones close to yours. Many artists are skilled with lighter skin and struggle with deep brown skin, or the reverse. Ask to see unedited photos taken in natural light as well as the polished images on Instagram.
What to bring
Bring pictures of looks you like and looks you dislike. Bring your veil or headpiece if you can, and a photo of the dress. If you have a skincare routine or products you react badly to, tell the artist. Wear a top with a neckline similar to your dress so you can judge the overall look.
Test in different light
Look at the makeup in daylight, indoors and with a camera flash. Ask someone to take photos with flash. Some products reflect light and leave a white cast in flash photography, a common problem at evening receptions.
Check how it lasts
Keep the makeup on for several hours after the trial. Watch whether it melts in the heat, creases or fades. Ghanaian and Nigerian weddings often run from morning to night, and your makeup has to survive heat, tears and dancing.
Multiple looks
Many brides wear different looks for the traditional engagement, the church ceremony and the reception. Discuss whether the artist will do touch-ups or full changes during the day, and what each costs.
Contract and timing
Agree in writing on the date, time, location, number of people the artist will make up, touch-up services and fees. Ask how long the artist needs for each person, and plan your morning around it.
Speak up
The trial is your chance to say what you do not like. If the lashes are too heavy or the contour too strong, say so. A good artist will adjust without offence.
The trial costs money and time. On the wedding morning, it buys you calm, because you already know what you will see in the mirror.
