What 250+ Weddings Have Taught Me About Wedding Beauty Longevity

After being part of more than 250 wedding days at Aeternum Artistry, I've had the honor of witnessing first looks, tear jerking vows, and epic dance parties that last well into the night. I have gotten such invaluable experience about what truly works for wedding day beauty that stands the test of time – from the first photo to the final dance.

It Starts With a Foundation

The most important thing that I've learned after hundreds of weddings, and thousands of applications, it's that preparation is everything.

Skin Prep is Non-Negotiable

The perfect makeup application begins way before the wedding day. This is what we recommend to all of our clients:

• Start a consistent skincare routine with an esthetician 4-6 months before the wedding

• Schedule regular treatments and facials with your final facial at least 2-3 days before the wedding

• Focus on hydration both internally (water intake - especially here in Colorado!) and externally (moisturizers, masks, serums, etc.)

• Dermaplaning is one of my favorite things to recommend to make sure that your skin is super smooth

Morning of Timelines Matter

After 250+ weddings, I can confidently say that beauty mishaps often stem from rushed timelines. I've learned to:

• Add 15-30 minutes of buffer time to every wedding day schedule at the beginning of the morning and then end

• Schedule the bride or celebrants second-to-last or in the middle of the party (never first or last)

• Factor in time for touch-ups and final looks before the photographer arrives

• Create a custom timeline based on hair texture and complexity of styles (this is why I send out spreadsheets ahead of the wedding day!)

Techniques That Create Longevity

For Tear-Proof Makeup

• Waterproof mascara is essential, but the formula matters – we've tested dozens to find ones that resist tears without becoming impossible to remove

• Fixing sprays with alcohol denat high on the ingredient list provide the longest wear

• Cream/liquid products layered and set with powders and setting sprays to lock it all in

• Avoiding cream, gel, and liquid liners that are not water-proof or resistant

For Dance-Proof Styles

After seeing hundreds of updos and styles put to the ultimate test on the dance floor, I've refined my techniques:

• Strategic placement of pins, bands, and other styling aids to create styles that feel comfortable but stay secure

• Working with natural texture rather than fighting it leads to styles that hold up better through the night

• Using texture products before styling creates grip that last

• Layering of different kinds of hairsprays to create longevity for down styles

Specific Techniques for Colorado Weddings

Colorado really likes to keep us on our toes and creates unique challenges for wedding beauty – from high altitude dryness to unpredictable mountain weather. Here's what we've found works best::

• Hydrating primers and setting sprays are a must in our kit

• Light layers of product work better than heavy application that will look and feel cakey

• Skin prep that has a focus on your lips as well - dry mountain air almost always leads to cracked and dry lips

• Products that have SPF in them to protect your skin in your outdoor ceremony

My Top Five Kit Must Haves

After hundreds of weddings and even more applications, these are the game-changing products I swear by:

1. Bobbi Brown Hydrating Primer – This is such a game changer for dry skin

2. Natasha Denona Hy-Glam Concealer – For coverage that also makes your skin look hydrated

3. Charlotte Tilbury Collagen Lip Bath – These glosses have amazing pigment payoff and don’t make your lips feel parched

4. Davines Perfecting Hairspray – Allows for movement while maintaining structure

5. Davines This is a Moisturizing Hair Fluid – Provides moisture and glossiness without weighing your hair down

The Aeternum Difference

What truly sets my approach apart is my philosophy of:

• Authenticity Over Being Trendy – focusing on timeless approaches that enhance rather than mask

• Comfort Equals Confidence – ensuring clients feel physically comfortable in their look

• Personalization Is Everything – no two brides or celebrants are the same, so neither should their beauty be

• Sustainability Doesn't Compromise Quality – My Green Circle Salon practices ensure beauty doesn't harm our planet
  

At Aeternum Artistry, I am committed to creating lasting looks that feel authentically you – because when you look back at your wedding photos years from now, you want you to see yourself at your most radiant and confident.

I'd love to hear what questions you have about creating your own lasting wedding day beauty. Drop them in the comments below, or reach out for a consultation to start planning your personalized look.