Photo by: Santiago Almada Photography (www.salmada.com)
If you are a bride-to-be, this might be something that hasn’t even crossed your mind. Delays do happen, and with over 15 years of experience as a bridal makeup artist, I have seen this many times, so I thought to share. Here are some common wedding day time traps that you could avoid and stay on schedule.
1. Not sharing your wedding timeline with vendors
If you have a professional wedding planner or photographer, you should receive from them a detailed wedding day timeline. Share it with your entire bridal party and vendors, especially your makeup artist and hairstylist. Since we are the first ones to start your day, any delays on our end can push everything back. Hire a beauty professional who understands the importance of time management and even bring this up when you connect.
2. Misunderstanding the ‘Ready By’ time
When working with me, I always clarify what “ready by” really means. If you need to be ready by a certain time, that doesn’t mean your makeup should just be finishing up at that moment. I do ask many questions and create a well planned makeup timeline, making sure that you have enough buffer time before pictures or ceremony.
3. Not allowing extra time for the unexpected
No wedding day is perfect, and little hiccups are inevitable. Having a time cushion is always a good idea. Make sure everyone arrives at the getting ready location on time so makeup and hair can start promptly.
4. Kids in the getting ready area
Children, especially little girls, are usually fascinated by makeup, and their curiosity can become a distraction. I have seen kids rummage through makeup kits, ask endless questions and even attempt to touch products – something that, for hygiene reasons, we professionals cannot allow. If possible, keep young children away from the makeup station.
5. Phone distractions
On your wedding day, put your phone away while having your makeup done. Assign one person to handle your calls and messages. No one should be calling the bride on her wedding day for last minute information that could have been arranged earlier.
6. Emotional moments during makeup application
If you know you’re an emotional person, request a quiet moment with just you and your makeup artist to prevent tears that can interfere with the makeup process. If you cry before your makeup is set can make it difficult for products to adhere properly, as a result delay your schedule.
7. Searching for items at the last minute
Have everything ready for your photographer before they arrive. This will save you from scrambling to find items like shoes, accessories, invitations and rings while they wait.
8. Gift exchanges not taken into consideration into the timeline
If you plan on exchanging gifts with your bridal party, family or soon to be husband, let your makeup artist know ahead of time. We can adjust the schedule so this special moment doesn’t cause delays.
9. Too many people around the makeup chair
Bridesmaids, family members and friends love to watch you getting your makeup done. However, too much chatter and interruptions will slow down the process. Keep distractions to a minimum so your artist can focus on creating your look.
10. Dress placement and accidents
Keep your dress in a safe place to avoid accidents. I once had a bride who hung her dress on a rack, only for her friend’s puppy to nearly pee on it! Spilled champagne, food mishaps and other unexpected accidents can also happen, so be mindful of where your dress is stored.
11. Talking too much during the makeup application
As much as I love chatting with my brides, I am more focused and quiet on the wedding day so everything stays on track. Asking for makeup advice on your wedding day can also slow us down. If you want to learn more about makeup techniques, consider booking a separate makeup lesson ahead of time.
12. Last minute makeup requests from your bridal party
If someone in your bridal party is very particular about their makeup or has a specific look in mind, have them communicate this ahead of time by sharing inspiration photos before the wedding. The same applies to bridesmaids. Having reference images beforehand prevents last-minute changes and delays.
Follow these simple tips to minimize delays and be ready on time for your big day.
Need a professional makeup artist who understands timing and efficiency? Contact me today!
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