Brides dream of becoming prepped and primped and looking absolutely stunning for that ever so momentous walk down the aisle. When you envision yourself walking down the aisle, how do you look? Fresh? Young? Glowing? You can still achieve that look, but you definitely have to do a bit of research. All too many brides have hired on make up artists they thought were a good investment, only to remove the make up applied by the professional and redo it themselves because the make up job by the professional was inappropriate or just not what they wanted.

What you must first consider when planning your bridal make-over is where you are having your wedding. Is this going to be an outdoor wedding? Is the ceremony taking place in a venue that has florescent lighting (this type of lighting can make almost ANY sort of make over look atrocious, so beware!)?

Next you have to decide which features of yours you would like to enhance, and which ones may need a bit of helping with (i.e. if you have light eyebrows, thin eyebrows, pimples or acne). Once you have decided that, it’s time to start planning! Be sure to play up your best features, or advise a make up artist of what you want done rather than giving them free reign. This will ensure that you are happy with the end result.

Here are some simple steps every bride must take before walking down the aisle:

Shape and Trim your Eyebrows

Pluck, shape, trim and make sure your eyebrows have a wonderful arch before you pull that veil over your face. Well-shaped eyebrows that have been waxed, plucked or threaded nicely frame your face, open up your eyes and give you an overall polished look.

Lip gloss is a Must

Lip gloss will give your lips that light, shiny sheen, even if you are already wearing lipstick. Who doesn’t like the look of moist, kissable lips? Your groom will certainly be appreciative.

Highlight your Cheekbones

Using blush or a shimmer powder will definitely give you that bridal glow. Sweep the blush or shimmer lightly over your cheekbones so that you can notice a subtle – not strong – difference and set it with powder.

Use Eyeliner

You don’t need to apply a thick later of liquid liner to your eyes to have them “pop”. A thin line applied around your eyes will draw more attention to your beauty eyes while keeping it not overwhelmingly obvious that you have put eyeliner on.

Tinted Moisturizer rather than Foundation

Tinted moisturizers will both even out your skin tone as well as hydrate your skin. Foundation may make your face look chalky and “pancakey”, two things that a bride definitely does not need on her wedding day! If you have any blemishes on your face, cover it up with a liquid or stick-form of cover up. You can dab this gently over any blemishes and set it in place with a light dusting of powder.

Whether or not you plan to do your make up yourself or have a professional do it, have a few trial runs before your big day. That way, you know that you will be happy with your look and you will look absolutely stunning in those wedding photos you paid so much for!