Your Guide to Gorgeous Bridesmaids—Without Stealing the Spotlight

1. Start With Your Own Bridal Look

Before choosing your bridesmaids' styles, lock in your own hair and makeup look. This becomes the foundation for everything else. Whether you're going for romantic curls, a classic updo, or a natural glam makeup look—your beauty choices will guide the tone for the bridal party.

Pro tip: Once your look is locked in, share inspiration photos with your bridal party so they can get excited about the overall vibe!

2. Set a Colour Palette or Makeup Theme

Just like your wedding décor has a colour palette, your bridesmaids’ makeup should feel unified—even if it’s not identical. Maybe everyone wears a soft neutral eye with a hint of shimmer, or rosy tones with dewy skin. This doesn't mean every bridesmaid looks the same—it simply creates a cohesive feel in person and in your photos.

Ideas for coordinated makeup:

• Soft glam neutrals with glowing skin
  
  

• Monochromatic mauves with matching blush + lip
  
  

• Peachy nudes for a fresh, radiant vibe
  
  

3. Let Their Personal Style Shine—Within a Framework

Everyone has a different comfort level with makeup and hair. One bridesmaid may love bold lashes, while another prefers a fresh-faced glow. As the bride, give them some creative freedom—but within boundaries.

Try this:

• Allow bridesmaids to choose between two hairstyles (e.g. low bun or soft curls)
  
  

• Keep lip colour in a similar family (e.g. pinks or nudes)
  
  

• Allow lashes to be optional—but ensure base makeup is consistent (flawless and long-wearing)
  
  

4. Consider Their Dresses and Necklines

The dress style can affect how a hairstyle looks overall. For example:

• Strapless or off-the-shoulder dresses pair beautifully with loose curls or half-up styles
  
  

• High-neck or detailed collars might suit a sleek updo or ponytail to show off the neckline
  
  

During the consultation, we’ll take all of this into account to match hairstyles to both the dress and the wedding aesthetic.

5. Think About How It Will Look in Photos

You want your bridal party to look like a team—not like a mix of guests at a glam event. Matching or coordinating hair and makeup helps bring unity to your photos, especially in group shots.

A few beauty elements that photograph well when consistent:

• Glowing skin finishes
  
  

• Similar lash styles
  
  

• Hair texture (e.g. all sleek or all soft waves)
  
  

6. Do a Group Trial or Beauty Prep Party

Make it fun! Book a group trial session where your bridesmaids can try out different looks, give input, and enjoy some pre-wedding pampering. It builds excitement—and avoids any surprises on the big day.

It’s also a lovely way to treat your girls and say “thank you” for standing by your side.

7. Remember: The Bride Sets the Tone

At the end of the day, your bridal party is there to support you. So don’t feel bad about setting boundaries or guiding the beauty direction—just do it with kindness.

With our expert team by your side, we’ll help you create flawless, fuss-free looks for every member of your bridal squad. From soft romantic waves to timeless makeup looks, we ensure everyone looks and feels their best—especially you, gorgeous bride!

Let’s Create the Bridal Look of Your Dreams

Ready to start planning your bridal party beauty? Get in touch with us at It's Beauty by Shana for trials, bookings, or questions—we’re here to help you shine on your big day (and make your bridesmaids feel stunning too).

Contact us below to secure your wedding date!