Top 5 tips from make-up artist Christine Lucignano and hair stylist David Cashman …
The Wedding Salon at The Merrion is an annual highlight in THE GLOSS calendar. At this year’s sold-out event, host and wedding planner extraordinaire Tara Fay provided expert advice for the big day, while make-up artist Christine Lucignano and hair stylist David Cashman showcased the best bridal looks and shared insider tips sure to inspire.
Tara Fay advised that you should work backwards from the time you need to leave your getting ready venue to establish what time you should start hair and make-up. But do not start any earlier than 8am, she says. “If you have a larger bridal party, consider hiring additional hair and make-up artists rather than starting too early.”
Christine and David emphasised making a well-timed plan for the wedding day, with bride and mother of the bride the priority. See all of their top tips below.
Christine Lucignano’s Top 5 Make-up Tips:
1. Don’t speed date make-up artists! Contact a make-up artist whose portfolio you like and have an initial call to see if you gel with them. Then have your trial – hair and make-up on the same day, where possible – two months before the wedding. Be sure to take pictures to note what you like and don’t like, and be aware of how it lasts throughout the day.
2. Have a look in mind and try not to be swayed by trends: “Don’t go for a look that you wouldn’t normally wear.”
3. If your photographer will be using flash photography, or providing your wedding photos in black and white, it’s worth taking some pictures on your phone with a ring light, and using a black and white filter to ensure you are still happy with your make-up.
4. On that note, beware red lips in black and white photos, which can make your lips look grey!
5. While Christine tends towards more neutral colour palettes (this season she says it’s all about latte make-up), if you prefer a smoky eye use deeper shades of brown rather than blacks and greys, which can look harsh. @cloochy
“The bridal suite is not a green room! Don’t have too many people with you while you get ready.”
David Cashman’s Top 5 Hair Tips:
1. Have some ideas of hair styles before your trial (and only once you have chosen your dress). He advises using red carpet looks for inspiration as they work well under bright light.
2. Brides often prefer one look for the ceremony and changing it up for the reception, which involves booking your glam team for additional hours, so factor this into your planning and budget.
3. Always apply hairspray to your hairbrush rather than directly onto your hair to avoid product build-up.
4. Whatever the style, consider how the veil will be positioned, with volume at the crown allowing the veil to sit neatly.
5. David says he often takes the bride aside for touch-ups and a few quiet moments before she puts on the dress, so that she can decompress before leaving for the venue. It should be as relaxed as possible for the special day! @cashmandjmc
The finished look modelled by Audrey.
Photographer: Conor Healy / Picture It Photography, @pictureitpix
