The Ultimate Bridal Beauty Timeline: A Makeup Artist’s Guide to a Smooth Wedding Morning
Let’s be real—wedding mornings can get chaotic. Between popping champagne, tracking down lost earrings, and someone (always) forgetting their shoes, things can get a little hectic. But as a makeup artist, I’ve seen it all, and I’m here to make sure your beauty timeline is the least of your worries.
First Things First: The Timeline Matters!
A well-planned beauty schedule is the difference between a calm, glowing bride and a flustered, running-late, “where’s my bouquet?!” bride. Makeup and hair take time, and wedding mornings always move slower than expected. The last thing you want is to feel rushed when you’re supposed to be enjoying the moment.
So, let’s break it down—who goes first, who goes last, and where to put your chronically late bestie so they don’t accidentally derail the whole timeline (you know who I’m talking about).
Who Should Go First?
1. Moms, Sisters, & Maids of Honor
If you’re planning on taking getting-ready pictures (and you should, they’re adorable), your VIPs (like your mom, sister, or maid of honor) need to be ready before you. Otherwise, you’ll end up with photos of them in half-done makeup and a robe they weren’t planning to be photographed in.
So, I always recommend starting with them right after the first person of the day. This way, when it’s your turn in the chair, they’re already looking fabulous and can be available to help with last-minute details.
2. The Chronically Late Friend
We all have that friend. The one who always texts, “On my way!” while still in bed. Love them to death, but let’s be strategic. Never put them first in the lineup, it’ll throw off the entire schedule. Instead, schedule them for a middle time slot. That way, if (when) they show up late, someone else can hop in their place, and we don’t lose any time.
3. The Bride (That’s You!)
Your makeup should be done third to last, not too early and not too late. This way, your glam is fresh for photos, but you also have time to relax before slipping into your dress. I personally recommend the bride having this moment to herself. We’ll definitely do some final touch-ups right before you walk out the door, so rest assured you’ll look flawless in every shot.
4. Last in the Chair: Bridesmaids Who Can Roll With It
The final slots should go to your easygoing bridesmaids—preferably the ones who can be ready fast and won’t stress if things run a little behind. If someone is low-maintenance and flexible, they’re the perfect candidate for the last spot.
Sample Beauty Timeline (For a 6-Person Bridal Party)
Wedding ceremony at 5:00 PM
Photographer arrives: 2:00 PM
Bride should be done with glam by: 2:30 PM
First look or bridal portraits: 3:00 PM
Get dressed: 3:30 PM
Ready to head out: 4:30 PM
Makeup Schedule
9:00 AM – Person #1 (bridesmaid or mom)
10:00 AM – Person #2 (maid of honor or another VIP)
11:00 AM – Person #3 (the late friend – just in case)
12:00 PM – Person #4 (bridesmaid)
1:00 PM – Bride Yes, the bride always gets extra time. Even better if the bride can have the room while she’s getting ready.
2:30 PM – Person #5 (final bridesmaid, flexible friend)
3:30 PM – Quick touch-ups for everyone!
Pro Tips for a Stress-Free Wedding Morning
Have a playlist ready – Queue up the jams because we need to vibe and keep the day going,
Schedule Breakfast and snacks– Mimosas are cute! But your body needs fuel and nbody wants to be hangry walking down the aisle.
Keep essentials nearby –Pack all your essentials the day before and be sure you have a strong emergency kit. See my blog here for What to Pack in Your Wedding Emergency Kit. As your artist, I will provide you with a lip kit, blotting paper for oil control and Kleenex.
Trust the process – This might be your first wedding, but it is not mine. Breathe, relax, and enjoy your moment. Rely in the fact that you’ve hired experienced professionals to keep things flowing well.
Planning your getting-ready timeline with intention will make your morning smoother and stress-free. The goal? You, glowing, relaxed, and fully present, ready to walk down the aisle with no worries (except maybe holding back happy tears).
Need help perfecting your bridal beauty look? Let’s chat—I’d love to help you feel your most stunning on your big day!