Trials take place at my studio in Thatcham. We advise to have your trial 2-4 months before your wedding date but this is really up to you.

Please arrive without any trace of makeup on – especially mascara. Bring some images of how you normally wear your makeup during the day and for a special occasion as this will help me get an idea about how much makeup you feel comfortable with. Bring some inspiration photos and if you have a fave lippie then please bring that along too. If possible, wear a top similar in colour and neckline to mimic your wedding dress. Try to avoid dark colours and high necklines.

For the bride I like to set aside 1hr – 90 minutes to recreate your look. This is usually too much time but quite often there are a lot of distractions. The venue has updates, your groom may want to send presents over, the photographer wants to take photos and the florist will deliver your bouquet. So it is better to take it slowly for you so you can enjoy these lifetime moments.

For everyone else I allow 45mins – 1hr. It is worthwhile discussing colour schemes for the bridesmaids at your trial. From there it will be easy to personalise each bridesmaid’s makeup. If one loves liner we can add it in, if one doesn’t like highlighter we can leave it out. But to some degree it is important that they look like your bridal party. After all they’re your memories and pictures so as the bride you should always have the last say.

Lots of brides get ready at their wedding venue however some venues may not allow you into the suite until late morning. You may have to consider starting your hair and makeup elsewhere. It’s worth checking this with your venue that way we can make sure we have factored in enough time.

Your prep time is one of the most important parts of the day so it’s important we get it right so you can sit back and enjoy.

It can be beneficial to seek the expertise of a skincare professional. If you have time and can offord it then routine facials would be a great option. If you already have a good basic skincare routine of cleansing, toning and moisturising then there are products you can add to your routine to compliment it. I would highly recommend adding in a serum specific to your skincare needs i.e. to hydrate/minimise pores/ helps with acne. Always use serums before your moisturiser and spf. An eye cream would also be worth adding in if you don’t already use one. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet. 

If you are normally tanned or this is a look you prefer then yes go for it. There are just a couple of things I would advise. You should have a trial run with your beauty therapist beforehand. I would recommend co-ordinating your spray take 2 days before your makeup trial. This way you have a complete look and the perfect makeup colour already chosen before your wedding date. Have your spray tan done 2 days before your wedding so the tan has time to completely settle in and soften to ensure it is picture perfect. Lastly make sure you exfoliate and moisturise well beforehand so you don’t get any patchy areas.