The morning of your wedding is a special and memorable part of the day – it’s when the excitement really sets in. You have your closest friends and family with you, the anticipation builds with every moment, and before you know it, it’s time to finally get into your dress! As a bridal makeup artist, I have been a part of some beautiful wedding mornings here in Queenstown, and I have come to learn that the little details can really make all the difference in creating a calm, enjoyable start to the day.
One of the most important parts is setting the right environment. A bright space with plenty of natural light makes the world of difference not only for your makeup artist and photographer, but also for the mood of the room. Your favourite playlist, candles, or even just having the space tidy and organised helps create a relaxed, happy energy, so you can enjoy your preparation time. Gather all of your bridal details together including items such as your shoes, perfume, jewellery, florals and anything else you would like to be photographed – this is one of the photographers first favourite shots to take! Steam and hang your dress up the night beforehand so it is ready to step in to at the final moment.
Your skin prep also plays a huge role in how your makeup will look and last. Keep it simple in the week leading up to your wedding with your usual skincare routine, hydrate well, and prioritise sleep. On the morning itself, all you need is a cleanse and a well moisturised base – leave the rest to me.
When it comes to your getting ready attire, comfort is key, but it’s also a moment worth making a little bit special. A silky robe, pyjama set, or even a crisp oversized shirt works perfectly – they are not only easy to remove without disturbing your hair and makeup, but they also look gorgeous in those ‘getting ready’ photos you’ll look back on for years.
Wedding mornings can move quickly, so a draft timeline helps everything run smoothly. I will always work with you and your hair stylist to create a schedule so you never feel rushed. That being said, it’s also normal for timings to shift slightly – what matters most is that we will always make sure you are ready in plenty of time to step into your dress and take that first deep breath before walking down the aisle.
With all the excitement, don’t forget to eat and drink plenty of water. It sounds very simple, but having a light breakfast and a few nibbles on hand will keep your energy up and help your skin look fresh all day long.
Most of all, trust the team you’ve chosen to look after you. Your wedding morning should feel like a pampering, memorable experience, not a stressful one. This is your moment to sit back, sip your coffee or mimosa, laugh with your friends, and let yourself be taken care of.
The way you begin your wedding day sets the tone for everything that follows. My goal as your bridal makeup artist isn’t just to create a look you feel beautiful in, but to make sure your morning feels calm, special, and full of joy. Because when you finally step into your gown and walk towards the love of your life, you won’t just look radiant – you’ll feel it too.
