Weddingbee Blog

I did my own make-up for my SIL’s wedding because I’m a little picky when it comes to my make-up. Every time I’ve had my make-up done at a department store counter, I end up looking like a clown or just weird. I think Asian and Black make-up is usually a lot harder to get right.

So I thought I’d share my best tips in case you’re planning on doing your own make-up as a bridesmaid or a bride.

1) Exfoliate! Exfoliating regularly will give you a smooth, clean canvas to work with. I personally like Dermalogica’s Skin Prep Scrub, but some people find it a little harsh.

2) Use a primer - it’ll give your skin a good base for your foundation. I use Nars Makeup Primer which is great, but I’ve heard excellent things about Smashbox’ Photo Finish.

3) Use foundation sponges. The cheap ones from drugstores are fine. This was the first time I’d actually used them - they really allow for more even and precise coverage.

4) Don’t forget the concealer. Apply concealer after you’ve applied foundation. I use Prescriptives Camouflage Cream which provides a nice sheer coverage, but I’ve heard good things about Yves Saint Laurent’s Touche Eclat, Laura Mercier’s Secret Camouflage, and Cle de Peau Concealer. Concealer is also great as an eyeshadow base to keep it from creasing.

4) Have a good loose powder. I like Shu Uemura’s Sheer Face Powder because it’s very fine. I also love Laura Mercier’s Setting Powder in Transluscent. Indispensable for setting make-up as you apply it. You can put a generous amount under your eyes to catch eye shadow particles - then simply brush it away.

5) Long lasting foundation and oil blotting paper. I have dry skin so I don’t really need touch-ups throughout the day, but if you have oily skin, I’d recommend using a long-lasting foundation like Revlon’s Colorstay. It really lasts all day and won’t rub off. It’s not just for oily skin of course - this was used on me by my make-up artist at my brother’s wedding.

Don’t forget oil blotting papers to absorb any shine throughout the day. Clean ‘n Clear’s Oil Absorbing Sheets are some of the best around - plus they’re super afforadble!

6) False Eyelashes. These take a little practice but they have a dramatic effect on your eyes. You can really tell the difference in photographs! The ones I wanted from Shu Uemura were sold out when I went to the store. So I bought Style 108 (too short - same length as my lashes) and 128 (too long) from Ardell. I ended up using Ardell’s Duralash flare short length lashes which I use all the time anyway.

7) Waterproof mascara. If you cry at weddings, be sure to wear waterproof mascara so it doesn’t run.

One thing I wanted to do but just didn’t have the time for, was to go get my eyebrows shaped. I suck at shaping my eyebrows. When you get it done by a pro, they’re a lot easier to maintain. I’m gonna go get it done anyway (because I need it!) and I’ll blog about the experience. Hope these tips help!