To help you make the most of your wedding hair & makeup trial, I’ve put together some tips from my own experience as a wedding hairstylist and makeup artist in the Riviera Maya, hoping it will help you. Lovely bride-to-be!
Do I Need a Wedding Hair & Makeup Trial?
If you are considering having your hair and makeup done professionally on your wedding day, a trial could be a good idea! It gives you the opportunity to meet your hair or makeup artist, work out the details and
timings of the day.
If you’re having a look that you’ve done before, or if hair and makeup aren’t your top priority, and you’re happy to leave your look to your glam squad, then you probably don’t need a hair and makeup trial.
But if you know what you want, have opinions about what you like or don’t like, or are trying out a new hairstyle or makeup for the first time, having a practice run will ensure you’re happy with the pro you’ve chosen, and the look you will be working on for your wedding day.
When should I plan to have my wedding hair and makeup trial?
Many hairstylists book well in advance, especially on weekends… So if you are planning to come for a trial a few days prior to your destination wedding trip, you can use this opportunity to get to know your professional beauty team. Let them know as soon as you book your flight!
Also, consider where you will be staying so we can think about when and where your trials should be scheduled… Some places will allow your hairstylist to come to you, but some resorts may charge a day pass or vendor fee to let us in. It’s better to plan ahead. Do know, that we also work with a beauty salon to receive you if needed.
If you don’t plan to visit the area for a scouting trip, you can book an appointment for your welcome party or rehearsal dinner and look your best for these parties!
Be Armed with Ideas (But, Not Too Many)
Wedding Hairstylists and Makeup Artists in Mexico love it when you have an idea of what you want, even better when you have pictures, but please consider only a handful of looks. Too many options create confusion.
Please don’t expect to try many different looks, as your stylist usually has 2 hours for your bridal trial look. Of course, your artist can make some changes or adjustments, but not many different looks. So just come prepped to try one or two of your absolute favorite looks.
You’ll find tons of inspiration on Instagram, Pinterest. So even if you can’t find the exact style you want, collecting a few pictures will give your stylist a “feel” for the look you’re going for. Don’t forget to include your color palette, theme, wedding dress & shoes.
The wedding dress you will be wearing and your accessories have a huge impact on what hairstyles and makeup look work best. Once you’ve found your wedding dress, you’ll have a better idea of what you really want for your Big Day. Feel free to send us photos of your dress or bring it with you so our team can help you decide on the best style for you (if needed).
Be realistic and communicate your desires during your hair and makeup trial.
When talking to your stylist, try to avoid using vague terms. Words like “boho”, “natural” or “natural waves”. They have somewhat lost all meaning. Some brides want “natural curls” but actually expect Hollywood Waves… Remember that your idea of ”natural beach waves” or “natural makeup” may be very different from your hairstylist or makeup artist’s idea…
Keep an open mind and don’t be afraid to deviate from your plan. For example, the humid or windy weather of the Mexican Caribbean may require us to adapt your look to a beach wedding.
Your Riviera Maya hairstylist and makeup artist will do their best to get you the perfect look, but don’t expect your look to be exactly the same as the photos. Every woman is different. Try to find an image that resembles your hair color and texture. Look for similar skin tones and face shapes for your makeup. Your stylist or makeup artist will use them as inspiration and adapt them to your own facial features and hair texture so you can be the best version of yourself!
Be honest about how you feel, good communication is the key to success…
Come Prepared!
If you have products that you love and know will work for you, bring them with you (especially any lip products you plan to use that day). Your stylist may decide not to use them. However, it is useful when it comes to choosing shades or figuring out which one works best for your hair or skin type.
Wash your hair the night and avoid any leave-in conditioners or products. The climate in the Riviera Maya is salty and humid. A good shampoo and treatment will prevent hair from becoming greasy during our trial. Wear your hair as you normally would, this will give your hairstylists a better idea of your natural look, hair texture and natural part, for example.
Avoid applying makeup, please… We only need your eyebrows done and your skin hydrated to get the most out of your makeup trial.
If are planning on getting a tan or if you are getting hair extensions on your wedding day, it’s a good idea to have the same skin tone on both days. Also, bring your hair extensions to try your dream hairstyle.
Use an outfit the same color as your wedding dress. It is easier, on your trial, to imagine what you will look like on your wedding day if there is not much difference between your hairstyle and your clothes.
Skin & Hair Prep, Prep, Prep!
Drink plenty of water, coconut water (if possible), etc. Get your hair trimmed and colored regularly before the wedding and get a few facials to keep your skin glowing and healthy. Let yourself be pampered!
Make Plans for the day
Relax and enjoy the pampering …. See how your makeup wears over a few hours. Take pictures to see how it photographs in daylight. You’ll look gorgeous so show it off!
