Wedding season books up fast in Bristol, and as a hair and makeup artist who works with brides across Clifton and the wider Bristol area, I get a lot of the same questions from couples in the planning stages. So I figured it was worth pulling together everything I usually say in one place.

Book earlier than you think you need to

Seriously. If your wedding is in summer, I’d start looking at hair and makeup artists the previous autumn at the absolute latest. The good ones fill up quickly, and the last thing you want is to compromise on something this important because availability ran out.

Always do a trial

A trial appointment is non-negotiable in my opinion. It gives us the chance to try out your chosen look, make adjustments, and figure out timing for the morning itself. It also means you go into your wedding day feeling confident rather than crossing your fingers. I offer full trial appointments for both hair and makeup, and I’d really recommend booking yours around two to three months before the big day.

Think about the whole party, not just yourself

I work with brides and bridal parties, so if you want one person to take care of everyone, that’s something I can organise. It keeps the morning calmer, the timeline tighter, and the aesthetic consistent across the group.

Know your venue and your dress silhouette

These two things shape so much of what will work. A relaxed outdoor wedding in the Bristol countryside calls for something different from a formal city ceremony. Bring photos of your dress, your venue, and any inspo images when you come for your consultation, and we’ll build something from there.

Tell me about your skin

Bridal makeup starts with skin prep. If you have any concerns, whether that’s dryness, oiliness, redness, or anything else, tell me at the trial so I can choose products that work with your skin rather than against it. The goal is always a finish that looks and feels like you, just on a genuinely brilliant day.

If you’re getting married in Bristol or the surrounding area and you’re looking for a hair and makeup artist who handles both, I’d love to hear from you. Get in touch via the booking page or drop me a message on Instagram.