Your Bridal Makeup Info Pack

Everything you need to know before your trial and wedding day makeup session with Mel England Makeup – serving Harrogate, Knaresborough, Ripon & surrounding North Yorkshire areas.

🕒 When Should I Book My Trial?

Ideally, you’ll want to book your makeup trial around 2 to 6 months before your wedding. This gives us time to perfect your look and allows for any tweaks, while keeping things close enough to your actual skin tone, hair colour, and final dress details.

If you’re planning an engagement shoot, hen party, or dress fitting around that time, we can also time your trial to coincide — so you get even more use out of your glam!

👯‍♀️ Can I Bring Someone With Me?

I totally understand wanting to share this moment — it’s such a special part of the build-up! But I gently recommend coming alone if possible.

The trial is all about tuning into your comfort, style, and preferences without outside opinions (even the kindest ones) getting in the way. You’re absolutely welcome to share selfies afterwards with friends or bridesmaids if you’d like their input — but while you’re here, this space is just for you. ✨

Preparing for Your Trial

To help me tailor your dream look, I’ll send you a pre-trial questionnaire. This gives me insight into your makeup style, skin needs, and wedding vision.

Also:

✦ Bring inspiration photos (Pinterest, Instagram, or makeup looks you love)
✦ Bring photo of your dress or similar styling
✦ Wear a white or ivory top and take selfies in natural light afterwards — it really helps you visualise the finished look.
✦ Wear your usual ‘going out’ makeup to the trial as this really helps me understand your makeup comfort zone
✦ List or bring skincare products if you have sensitivities

Optional Prep Tips

✓ Have a facial 7-14 days before your trial
✓ Exfoliate gently in the lead-up
✓ Trial your fake tan beforehand (if using on the wedding day)
✓ Get a professional to do your eyebrows before your wedding day

What Happens at the Trial

Your trial will take place in my calm and welcoming home environment in Harrogate — where we’ll have plenty of natural light and space to work comfortably.

We’ll sit down with a cuppa and chat through your wedding style, makeup comfort zone, and the look you’re dreaming of. I’ll create your full bridal look step-by-step, with your feedback throughout (this is important so you feel comfortable at each stage of the makeup).

I’ll also take notes and photos so I can recreate the look perfectly on your wedding day at the end of the trial.

🕒 Allow around 1.5 to 2 hours for the full experience.

What If It’s Not Quite Right?

If you’re unsure after the trial, we can tweak things or arrange a second session. It’s totally normal — my priority is making sure you feel 100% confident and seen. Clear communication helps us get there together.

On the Wedding Day

I’ll arrive on time (you’ll get a friendly text from me on the morning!). I’ll set up in a well-lit, calm area — ideally by a window with space for my chair and makeup kit.

Makeup schedule guideline:

✦ Bride: 1 hour
✦ Bridesmaids, mums or guests: 30–45 minutes each

Most brides go second to last or last so the look is freshest for photos. I’ll create a relaxed atmosphere so you can enjoy every moment.

What to Have On Hand for Touch-Ups

I’ll recommend a few products for you to keep nearby:

✓ Your lip colour or gloss
✓ Blotting papers or powder
✓ Cotton buds for any quick fixes

These are especially handy after kisses, food, or photos!

Quiet Time for You ✨

This is your moment to feel calm, pampered and looked after. If possible, delegate last-minute jobs to family or your bridal party, and put your phone aside while we do your makeup — it’s a chance to breathe before the big moments begin.

My Go-To Makeup Brands

I use a mix of luxury and high-performing favourites: Charlotte Tilbury, Lisa Eldridge, MAC, Trinny London, Laura Mercier, Bobbi Brown, Clinique,  and more — all chosen for their staying power, elegance, and skin-friendliness.

Questions? Let’s Chat!

I’m here to make your experience smooth and joyful.

📧 Email me: mel@melenglandmakeup.com
📍 Based in Harrogate — available for weddings across Knaresborough, Ripon, Wetherby, Ilkley, Boroughbridge, and surrounding North Yorkshire areas.

Want to check availability or book your trial?
Simply complete the form below.

Let’s create your perfect bridal look — one that feels like you, at your most beautiful.

— Mel x