Like every bride, you want to look spectacular. An important part of creating that red-carpet look is selecting a flattering hairstyle and appropriate makeup. Ideally, both should coordinate with your wedding gown and the tone of your wedding (formal, casual, day, evening).
While your hair and makeup should be extraordinary for this occasion, make selections you're comfortable with -- the idea for this singular celebration is to create an enhanced image of the beautiful woman you are every day.
But don't wait until the last minute to decide the details. In fact, the pros at Salon Blue in Mineola suggest beginning the process months before the wedding. Cut out magazine images of hairdos and makeup styles that are pleasing to your eye. Two months before the wedding, bring them to your salon and experiment with various looks.
Bride-to-be Heather West of Farmingville knows exactly what she wants for her June wedding at Villa Lombardi's in Holbrook. No updos for this blue-eyed blonde. Instead, the 31-year-old mom of two asked Salon Blue's artistic director, Leigh Anne Rodgers, to create a soft flow of cascading curls, which will match her romantic, traditional wedding. A simple tiara for this princess bride will complete the picture.
West has a fair skin tone. Since she doesn't wear much makeup, she wanted a very natural cosmetic application for her wedding day. To bring out her lovely features, makeup artist Erika Bechtle used a neutral color palette. Applying first a neutral eye shadow base to create a clean canvas, Bechtle then applied a cognac-colored eye shadow from lash to brow line. A champagne-toned shimmer was then applied in the center, for contour. Black eyeliner along the upper
lash line was followed by mascara on upper and lower lashes. A creamy concealer was dabbed under the eyes, followed by application of a light powder foundation. Tawny blush was brushed on the apples of the cheeks, giving the bride a healthy glow.
TIP: Bechtle suggests applying eye shadow first, so excess powder that scatters on the face can be wiped away before applying foundation and blush.
August bride Susan Urso, 29, of Floral Park, requested an updo for her long, curly, brown hair. This type of style is worry-free, regardless of the weather, she says, and will work well with her strapless gown. Susan's wedding at the Fox Hollow in Woodbury will feature splashes of vibrant color -- for instance, all the gowns include a turquoise band around the waist. The bride will sport a deep tan, so her makeup application will be bold, as well. To create a smoky
look on Urso's hazel eyes, Erika Bechtle used an eye shadow trio of brown tones, beginning with the lightest as an overall lid base. The middle shade was used in the center of the eye; the darkest just on the corners. The key is to blend it all, Bechtle says. Black eye liner added more drama. Once concealer was applied under the eyes, foundation called Golden Glow was applied to her skin, followed by blush. Mascara and a pink/ brown lip liner and lipstick completed the striking
effect.
TIP: Rodgers says for best results with any hairstyle, brides should have their hair blown out the day before the wedding -- it's a great time saver the day of.
