Wedding make-up...

When planning a wedding, a lot of time will be spent thinking about what dress to wear, the shoes, the accessories, the guests and the venue.  But, one of the most important things that cannot be left until last is organising your beauty regime.
Looking your best on your big day  is a must and plenty of thought and planning into how you are going to wear your hair and style your make-up is required.  Although many brides feel comfortable doing their make-up themselves, its always a good idea to have an expert on hand.  Its the one day of your life when you will be the star attraction, there is a real pressure to look beautiful.  However, the rule of thumb is to be yourself and look like yourself...but better!Naturally enhance what you have got, without going overboard.
Like with everything else, planning is key, therefore book a trial-run through in about 2-3 months prior to the big day.  The aim being that the bride can get an idea of what she will look like,  aswell as pick up some ideas and tips along the way.
When it comes to bridal make-up, less is more.  You don't want to look too dramatically different for your wedding.  However, you don't wear such a special dress everyday, therefore, your make-up should reflect that too. Its all about balance, feeling confident and looking the best you can using the right products.
Its always best to do your make-up like you were going to a special occasion such as a black-tie event.  You don't want to look too natural but then you don't want to look heavily made up...but you do need to have slightly more make-up on than what you would normally wear.
Skin preparation is vital and  using the appropriate moisturiser for your skin type will help to ensure your make-up stays on a lot longer during the day.
Along other make-up must haves for the day, waterproof mascara is a must for obvious reasons! not only will it withstand tears on what is a very emotional day, but it generally lasts longer.  On the cheeks, its best to use a pretty shade of blush, a pink tone is good if you are fair and rose if you are darker.
White highlighter looks beautiful on the brow bone as a highlighter and also a gel eyeliner next to the lash-line always enhances the lashes and eyes.
You need to be careful when giving definition to the eyebrows, as you don't want them to be too overpowering, but then you don't want to not see them as defining them is a very important step as they frame the face, so never skip this step.
Many brides opt for fake tan - this is not to be ruled out, however, its very important to shop around and have a trial run first as you don't want to look too orange!  You can always even out skin colour using bronzing powder.
Yellow-based foundations and powders are best to achieve flawless, natural looking skin, Bobbi Brown do a great range for all skin types and shades.
For lips, pale or brown shades can make you look washed out so always add a bit of colour.

If you like to add a bit more glamour, then false eyelashes are a nice option and Shu Uemura, MAC and Eylure do a great selection.  These always enhance the eyes and you don't have to go for panto-length!  These will not damage your lashes, however, as always, give them a try beforehand to see if they look and feel alright...and finally, embrace your look! You don't get married everyday so enjoy the attention!