Bridal Makeup Timeline: When to Book, When to Preview & What to Expect

Diana Gilanyi
Jan 10, 2024
2 min read

Updated: Jul 22

Booking your makeup artist isn’t just another box to check - it’s an essential part of your wedding experience, and the earlier you plan, the smoother it all goes.

Here’s everything you need to know about bridal beauty timing, from inquiry to “I do.”

1. When to Inquire + Book

If makeup is a top priority for you (and it should be!), aim to book your artist 9 - 15 months out, especially if your wedding falls during peak season (May - October). Many bridal artists, including myself, only book one wedding per day - so early booking ensures your date is yours.

2. When to Schedule Your Bridal Preview

Your bridal preview is best scheduled 2 - 3 months before the wedding. By then, your dress, hair, and overall vision are usually set, giving us a full picture to work from. This is your time to collaborate, refine, and create a look that feels like you - elevated.

3. What Happens After You Book

With me, the experience begins well before the wedding morning.

Once you’re officially booked, you’ll receive a detailed bridal onboarding questionnaire - a thoughtfully designed form that helps me get to know you, your vision, and your wedding vibe before we even sit down for your preview. It also gives me insight into your skin concerns and current routine, so I can recommend the right skincare products, treatments, or trusted professionals to support your glow from the inside out.

You’ll also receive a Wedding Morning Questionnaire - a behind-the-scenes tool that helps me build a day-of timeline tailored to your party size, energy, and photographer’s needs. It’s all designed to create flow, not friction.

But my support doesn’t stop there. Throughout your journey to “I do,” I’m here as a trusted expert you can lean on - whether you need vendor recommendations or just a second opinion on something beauty-related.

And after the big day? You’ll receive a personalized Bridal Beauty Edit via ShopMy - a curated list of the products used on your wedding day, plus custom recommendations based on your taste, lifestyle, and ongoing needs. Because the care shouldn’t end when the makeup is wiped away.

4. Building Your Morning Timeline

Makeup for the bride typically takes 90 minutes, and bridal party members take around 45 minutes each. I help create a beauty timeline that aligns with your photography schedule, first look, and overall flow. We plan for plenty of breathing room - not chaos.

5. Final Touches & VIB Hours

For brides who want continued support after the initial application, I offer VIB Hours (Very Important Bride) - so I can stay through photos, touch-ups, and emotional moments. It’s a service many brides don’t know they need until they have it.