Your wedding day is one of the most photographed days of your life, and you want to look your best. But looking your best doesn’t mean you have to pile on the makeup. With the rise of the ‘less is more’ beauty ethos, many brides are opting for a natural glam bridal makeup look. It’s all about enhancing your natural features and looking like the best version of yourself, not a completely different person. Below are 14 essential tips to help you achieve that perfect balance of natural and glamorous on your big day.

1. Start with Skin Prep

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Great makeup begins with great skin. In the months leading up to your wedding, establish a skincare routine that includes cleansing, toning, and moisturizing. Regular exfoliation can help to remove dead skin cells and give you a bright, fresh complexion. On the day, ensure your skin is well hydrated before makeup application.

2. Choose a Lightweight Foundation

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A lightweight foundation will provide coverage without making you look overly made up. Opt for a foundation that matches your skin tone perfectly and blends seamlessly into your skin. The aim is for people to notice your radiant skin, not your makeup.

3. Use a Beauty Sponge for Application

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A beauty sponge can help you achieve a flawless, airbrushed finish. Dampen the sponge and use it to apply your foundation and concealer. The dampness helps to prevent the makeup from looking cakey.

4. Opt for Cream Products

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Cream blushes and bronzers blend into the skin more naturally than powders. They give a dewy finish that makes the skin look healthy and glowing, instead of matte and flat.

5. Go Easy on the Contour

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Excessive contouring can look harsh and unnatural. Instead, opt for light bronzing to add warmth and dimension to your face. Remember, the goal is to enhance your natural features, not to reshape them.

6. Embrace Your Brows

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Brows frame your face, so don’t neglect them. Use a brow pencil or powder that matches your brow color to fill in any sparse areas. But avoid creating a ‘drawn on’ look. Instead, aim for soft and natural-looking brows.

7. Opt for Neutral Eyeshadows

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Neutral eyeshadows enhance your eyes without making them look overly dramatic. Opt for shades that are a bit darker than your skin tone for the crease, and lighter, shimmery shades for the lids. This will give your eyes depth and definition, without looking too heavy.

8. Master the Art of Eyeliner

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A thin line of eyeliner can make your eyes pop without looking overdone. Opt for a brown or black liner, depending on your complexion and eye color. And remember to keep the line thin and close to your lash line.

9. Don’t Forget Mascara

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Mascara is a must for opening up your eyes and making them look brighter. Opt for a waterproof formula to avoid any smudges or tears on your big day. And remember, a couple of coats are usually enough.

10. Highlight Strategically

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Highlighter can give you that bridal glow, but remember to use it sparingly. Apply it to the high points of your face – your cheekbones, brow bone, the bridge of your nose, and your cupid’s bow. This will give you a natural-looking glow.

11. Choose a Lip Color that Enhances Your Natural Lip Color

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Choose a lip color that’s one or two shades darker than your natural lip color. This will give you a bit of color without looking too dramatic. Opt for a long-wearing formula to minimize the need for touch-ups throughout the day.

12. Set Your Makeup

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Setting your makeup is crucial for ensuring it lasts all day. Use a setting spray or powder to lock in your look. This will also help to reduce any excess shine and give your makeup a more natural finish.

13. Do a Trial Run

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A trial run is essential to ensure you’re happy with your look. It gives you the opportunity to tweak anything you’re not happy with and ensures there are no surprises on the day. Remember to take photos to see how the makeup looks on camera.

14. Remember, Less is More

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The key to natural glam makeup is to remember that less is more. You want to look like the best version of yourself, not like you’re wearing a mask. So keep it simple, enhance your natural features, and let your natural beauty shine through.