Bridal Beauty Tips | Wedding Planning Tips and Tricks | Danielle Harris Photography Bridal Guide
Your wedding day is one of the most photographed days of your life, and every bride wants to look and feel her absolute best. While your natural beauty is already breathtaking, a little preparation can go a long way in making sure you glow in every photo. As your photographer, I’ve captured countless brides and learned a few tips along the way to help you feel confident, radiant, and completely YOU. Let’s dive into some simple bridal beauty tips to help you shine on your big day!
1. No Sudden Moves
Don't make big changes to your beauty routine in the month leading up to the wedding. Trying new products or experimenting with facials can cause skin irritation.
2. Hydrate!
Stay hydrated leading up to the big day. It’s the easiest way to keep your skin looking fresh and dewy!
3. Don't spray tan!
I love a good spray tan, but even the best spray tans have a hint of orange when photographed, especially when you are standing next to the groom, family members, and the bridal party during photos who didn't spray tan. You don't want to be sticking out with an unnatural skin color.
4. Skincare
Your skin is the foundation for your bridal glow, so start a skincare routine early. Hydrating, exfoliating, hair removal, and regular moisturizing can make all the difference. If you’re considering facials or treatments, schedule them weeks ahead to avoid any unexpected reactions. And don’t forget sunscreen in the weeks leading up to your wedding!
Pro Tip: Stay hydrated leading up to the big day. It’s the easiest way to keep your skin looking fresh and dewy!
5. Rehearsal Dinner Don'ts
I've seen it too many times... you have family in town and you want to celebrate and have a fun time at the rehearsal dinner (and end up over doing it) Having too many cocktails can leave you feeling sick on the wedding day along with red eyes, dull skin, and dry chapped lips. You don't want to ruin the main event with the pre-party. Try to relax the night before, avoid salty foods (hello, no puffiness!), and get a full night’s sleep so you wake up refreshed and ready to glow.
6. Natural Light
Make sure the bridal prep space has lots of windows for beautiful natural light! The makeup artist can do their best work with proper lighting, and your photos will look exponentially better with a light and airy environment. We recommend getting a hotel suite with lots of windows. You can check out some of our hotel suggestions HERE.
7. Professional Hair & Makeup
Having a professional makeup artist is essential to looking your best on the wedding day. Bonus tip: Ask your makeup artist for a touch up kit.
8. Smile and Soak It All In
Your joy is your best accessory. The more you relax and enjoy your day, the more radiant you’ll look in your photos. Trust your team, savor every moment, and let your happiness shine — because that’s what will truly make your photos magical.
Your beauty on your wedding day isn’t just about how you look; it’s about how you feel. When you feel confident, happy, and loved, it shows in every photo. With these tips and a little prep, you’ll not only feel like the most beautiful bride in the world, but you’ll also have the pictures to prove it!
Indianapolis Wedding Photographer: Danielle Harris Photography