Should You Do Your Own Wedding Makeup?

The question comes up all the time, should I do my own wedding makeup or do I hire a makeup artist?

The truth is more nuanced than the industry makes it.

Some people feel most like themselves and enjoy the process of applying their makeup, it’s therapy and a chance to create something that is within their control on a day where you have to put your trust in so many strangers. Doing your own makeup can be the calmest part of getting ready if you truly love makeup.

Others don’t wear makeup often, don’t own many products, or don’t want the pressure of getting it right on the day. For them, outsourcing makes sense. A makeup artist removes the stress so they can focus on everything else or nothing at all. Makeup can an hour to switch off. I am often told that I am the calmest part of a wedding morning.

There’s also a middle group: people who wear makeup daily, have the products, but don’t really feel confident. They know their own face, they just need guidance to translate it into a wedding version. That’s where a lesson is invaluable. I can guide you through the techniques and help you with timings so everything runs smoothly on the day. Sometimes a lesson, even just an hour can give you confidence to go it alone.

If you’re unsure, consider your budget, the kind of morning you want, how many people you’re getting ready with and whether you’re travelling abroad. These small details often decide it for you.

Here’s what matters - either option is valid.

Choose the version that lets you be the most happy and relaxed.

If you’d like to learn how to do your own wedding makeup, I teach 1:1 lessons where we build your exact look, work with products you already own and plan your timings. No stress no drama.