You want to look and feel as stunning as possible for your big day. Your makeup is one of the most important tasks to achieve this, and whether you’re doing the job yourself or you’re hiring a professional wedding makeup artist, these are some tips to keep in mind.

-Go Natural.

Depending on your style and typical makeup routine, a “natural” makeup look can mean many different things. The bottom line is that your groom wants to see you as the beautiful bride you are. You don’t need to be the most glamorous version of yourself under the sun. Your bridal makeup should be pristine and highlight your most naturally elegant features. Besides, the more makeup you wear on your wedding day- the more chance there is for smudging and smearing.

Focus on your skin, lips, and eyes. These are the most vital facial features for bridal makeup. You’re going to want your skin to look flawless, so seamless application of foundation, concealer, powders, etc is going to be the best way to make you look naturally radiant. The softest of blush colors should be used, giving a pop of color to the cheeks but not as to wash out the face. Don’t forget to highlight the cheekbones, inner eye corners, brow bone, cupid’s bow, and tip of the nose. These spots will give your face a glowing depth.

As for the lips, you’ll want something that will withstand the test of time. Avoid creamy lipsticks- you’re going to be doing a lot of kissing, eating, and drinking. A subtle colored lipgloss or heavy-duty, nude colored liquid lipstick will be best.

The eyes are the windows to the soul and everyone’s best feature. Emphasized lashes are going to be the best way to look naturally polished. Consider getting semi-permanent eyelash extensions a few days before the wedding. Don’t be afraid to wear false eyelashes. They can still look incredibly natural, feel comfortable, and make the face surprisingly alluring.

-Preventative Measures.

There’s going to be a lot going on for your special day, so don’t forget to take these steps to ensure that your wedding makeup will stay impeccable throughout the emotions and commemoration.

Wear sunscreen, especially if the wedding is outdoors. Waterproof mascara and smudge-proof eye liner are going to be your new best friends. A primer underneath all skin makeup will help it stay put. That also goes if you’re using eyeshadow; an eyeshadow primer underneath it is a must. Sealing gel for the eyebrows, and plenty of setting spray to top it all off.

-Keep the Dress in Mind.

A magical dress can easily be overthrown by a makeup that doesn’t match it! Don’t use bright colors when you’re wearing white. If your wedding gown is a starchy white, stay away from glitter on the face. However, if your dress has shiny accents, such as silvers, pearls, or golds, a little bit of the same colored shimmers on the eyes or as a highlighter will really bring together your look.

-Prepare.

You want to do everything in your power so as to make sure you look dazzling on your wedding. Its your special day- go ahead and splurge beforehand! Get professionals to wax your face, brows, (and body!), do a lip scrub, whiten your teeth, or get a rejuvenating facial. Even a massage the day before may help you de-stress and help keep you looking fabulous.