How to Prepare for Your Bridal Hair and Makeup Trial

I recently had a bride getting married at Micklefield Hall ask how to prepare for her bridal hair and makeup trial, so I thought I’d put together a simple guide to help.

A few small things beforehand can make a real difference to how your hair and makeup looks and lasts.

Your bridal hair and makeup trial usually takes around 3 hours, giving us plenty of time to create your look, make any adjustments, and ensure everything feels right before your wedding day.

What to Bring

Before your appointment, I recommend:

• Wearing a white or light-coloured top so you can better visualise your finished bridal look

• Avoiding hoodies, high necks, or anything bulky around the neckline

• Bringing any accessories you plan to wear on the wedding day, such as your veil, hairpiece, jewellery, or hair accessories

• Saving a few hair and makeup inspiration photos you love

• Bringing a photo of your wedding dress if you have one

Don’t worry if you’re not completely sure what you want. Part of my role is helping you refine your ideas and create a look that feels like you.

Skin Preparation

Please arrive with clean skin, using only your usual moisturiser and lip balm. Avoid wearing makeup and SPF where possible, and keep your skin well hydrated in the lead up to your appointment.

If you’re planning to have a spray tan for your wedding day, it’s helpful to have this done before your trial so we can match your makeup to your wedding day skin tone.

Hair Preparation

Hair should be clean, fully dry, and smooth, with no styling products or leftover conditioner.

Please avoid using straighteners before your appointment, as I like to see how your hair naturally behaves and holds a style. This helps me create a bridal look that will last beautifully throughout your wedding day.

Any hair colour appointments should also be done beforehand where possible.

Treatments to Avoid

I recommend avoiding waxing, threading, or facial treatments for 2 to 3 days before your trial.

Ideally, your brows should be groomed around a week before your appointment. If you normally have brow lamination, that’s absolutely fine to have done beforehand.

I also advise against lash extensions or lash lifts before your trial, as this gives me the flexibility to tailor lashes to your chosen look and allows us to see exactly how your wedding day makeup will look.

After Your Trial

After your trial, I’ll make detailed notes and take photographs so your chosen look can be recreated perfectly on your wedding morning.

Many brides also enjoy making the most of their trial by planning a date night, engagement shoot, or special occasion afterwards.

Bridal Hair and Makeup in Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire

I specialise in natural, timeless bridal hair and makeup across Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, and the surrounding areas. My aim is always to create a look that feels polished, elegant, and completely you, while lasting beautifully throughout your wedding day.

If you’re looking for an experienced bridal hair and makeup artist in Hertfordshire or Buckinghamshire, I’d love to hear more about your wedding plans.

Many thanks,

Jade