Start with a clean, moisturized face. Don't forget a cream with SPF, especially if you'll be outside — which you probably will, at least for pictures. Then, slather on the pore-erasing, line-filling, makeup-smoothing wonder that is primer: This will let your makeup last through dancing, partying, eating, drinking and pictures. You'll also want to look into eye makeup primers, which are super beneficial when it comes to preventing smudges, creases, and other eyeliner disasters.
Pro tip: Wear a button-down shirt while you do your hair and makeup so nothing gets mussed up when you change into your dress.
Foundation is a must for an all-day affair like a wedding. Even if you don't usually wear it, it's a good idea. You'll need one that is a perfect match for your skin tone, so go somewhere that you can try them on, and bring a friend who will be honest. Look for "long wear" or "all day," and for finish, try for somewhere between dewy and matte. We recommend using a BeautyBlender (or similar makeup sponge) to make sure it is applied perfectly — it should look like your skin on its very best day.
Next comes the concealer, because everybody's got baggage — undereye bags (or dark circles), that is. For the undereye, choose a tone that's just a shade lighter than your skin. Pat the concealer on, then blend with your handy sponge.
It's time to get a little cheeky: You've got to add some sun-kissed depth and dimension to your cheeks. Choose a bronzer one to two shades darker than your skin tone. A good rule of thumb here is to find a bronzer with multiple shades, so you can build. Sweep the bronzer along the cheekbones and on the forehead just above your eyebrows — or, where the sun naturally hits.
Next, say cheese: See the two round spots that stick out on your cheeks? Those are your apples — and that's where you add blush, in a circular motion. Start light and build until you're happy with the color.
The eyes are the windows to your soul, and also one of the hardest makeup looks to master. As part of the wedding party, it's nice to have a neutral eye, and nothing too flashy. Do a darker waterproof liner along the lashline, then a soft, matte eyeshadow over the lid. Finish with a creamy white just under the outside of the brow for a natural lift.
