Make up trial disaster really effected my confidence

Don't let badly applied makeup put you off all makeup. In my view, no one looks good in that very 'over made up' style - although it does seem to be getting very popular, especially among younger women.

Do you have any pictures of yourself wearing makeup that you like? Maybe have a look at them and remind yourself of what you did makeup-wise then and how good it looked.

Some big department stores sometimes offer free makeup consultations - maybe going for one of those might help? Explain beforehand that you are wanting something light and natural and hopefully they won't recommend that 'cakey' look!

Alternatively, you could just do what I did and not wear any makeup at all!

Whatever you decide, it's important that you trust your gut feeling. By all means ask a friend for their opinion on your wedding makeup if you want to, but remember that you were the one who realised the makeup trial didn't suit you, so there is no reason why you are not going to realise what does suit you instead.

Hello

It's completely natural to feel heightened emotions and insecurities leading up to your wedding—it's a big, important event, and you want everything to be perfect, especially how you feel and look. What you're experiencing happens to many brides, and it can feel overwhelming, but there are steps you can take to regain your confidence and feel beautiful on your big day.

1. Reflect on the Trial

It sounds like the makeup trial wasn't aligned with your personal style or comfort zone. That doesn't mean makeup "doesn't suit you"—it just means that particular approach didn't work.

Consider what you do like about your usual makeup routine. Perhaps the trial makeup was too heavy, emphasized areas you’re not used to, or used incompatible products. Stick with what makes you feel like the best version of yourself.

2. Give Your Skin Some Love

The breakout could be a reaction to the products used during the trial. Try a gentle, soothing skincare routine to calm your skin:

Cleanse with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser.

Hydrate with a lightweight moisturizer.

Use calming ingredients like aloe vera, niacinamide, or ceramides.

Avoid trying any new or heavy products before the wedding—your skin might need time to recover.

3. Practice Your Own Makeup

If you're doing your own makeup, start practicing now. Watch tutorials and try looks that match your usual aesthetic but are slightly elevated for the occasion.

Key tips for natural, bridal makeup:

Use a lightweight, hydrating foundation or tinted moisturizer to avoid a cakey look.

Focus on enhancing your features: soft brows, defined eyes, and a subtle flush of color on your cheeks and lips.

A good setting spray can help your makeup last while keeping it fresh-looking.

4. Manage Wedding Stress

Weddings come with a lot of pressure, and it’s easy to fixate on imperfections. Remember, most people won't notice the tiny things you’re worried about—they’ll see you glowing with happiness.

Take moments to de-stress: try mindfulness, yoga, or just taking a break to focus on what excites you about the day.

5. Consider a Different Makeup Artist

If you still want professional help, it might be worth having another trial with someone else. Be upfront about your preferences—share pictures of yourself with makeup you love, and explain what didn’t work last time. Meridian Smart Square

Look for artists who specialize in natural, skin-like makeup if that’s what you prefer.

6. Boost Your Confidence

Focus on self-care and doing things that make you feel good about yourself. Wear outfits you love, spend time with supportive friends, and remind yourself why your partner fell in love with you.

7. Perspective Matters

Wedding jitters can magnify insecurities, but trust that you'll look beautiful because you’ll be you—someone your partner adores and your loved ones are celebrating. Try to focus on the joy of the day rather than the little imperfections.